DIAVAL IS JUST DIAVAL

Valtor soared through the evening sky, his massive black dragon form cutting a majestic figure against the fading light.

His body was a blend of raw power and grace, muscles rippling beneath his gleaming scales.

Four imposing horns crowned his head, curving backward with an air of ancient authority.

His wings, vast and leathery, flapped with an intensity that stirred the air, each beat resonating like thunder. A thick black mane flowed from his neck down his spine, adding to his fearsome visage.

As he approached the mansion, he angled his wings to descend, landing with a mighty thud that sent tremors through the ground.

He steadied his wings, folding them gracefully against his back, his sharp eyes catching sight of his wife, Jade, standing at the entrance.

With a final powerful flap, he shifted form, his dragon features melting away to reveal his human guise.

Valtor now stood as a tall, imposing man with long black hair tied back in a ponytail.

His blue eyes sparkled with a mix of wisdom and mischief, and the four black dragon horns remained, a testament to his true nature.

He wore royal black clothes that suited his status as the House Master and Noble Dragon King of the Province of Claire. His suit was meticulously tailored, exuding both elegance and power.

"Jade," he greeted, striding forward. He pulled her into a strong embrace, his lips finding hers in a passionate kiss.

The world seemed to blur around them, the intensity of their connection palpable.

Jade melted into the kiss, her arms wrapping around his neck as she savored the moment.

When they finally broke apart, Jade looked up at him with a smile.

"Where is Eldric?" she asked, a hint of curiosity in her voice.

Valtor chuckled, a deep, resonant sound.

"Are you worried something has gone wrong in the house?" he teased.

"What's the worst that could happen? A dragon maid setting the curtains on fire? Or perhaps the cook turning our dinner into a culinary disaster?"

Jade laughed, swatting his arm playfully. "Oh, stop it. You know Eldric keeps things in order."

Valtor nodded, still smiling.

"Eldric left the meeting early. Said he was meeting up with Diaval to discuss some things."

Jade raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued.

"Diaval? He's been... different lately. More composed. Not lazing around and sleeping in his room like he used to while his brothers trained their butts off."

"Diaval is... well... Diaval," Valtor said, a hint of fondness in his tone.

"He's always marched to the beat of his own drum. A bit of change isn't concerning. As the firstborn, he might be realizing his duties even though he discarded his role for so long."

Jade nodded, still thoughtful. "It's just strange to see him so involved."

Valtor placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"He's growing up. Maybe he's finally seeing the bigger picture."

They turned and walked inside, the grand entrance of the mansion opening up to a beautifully adorned hallway.

The sumptuous decor reflected their noble status, with rich tapestries, intricate chandeliers, and polished marble floors.

As they made their way to the dining room, Jade couldn't shake the feeling of change in the air.

They arrived at the grand dining table, set for an intimate meal for two. The others hadn't arrived yet, leaving them to enjoy a quiet dinner together.

Valtor pulled out a chair for Jade, then took his seat across from her.

"Let's enjoy this time together," he said, his eyes twinkling with affection.

"The world can wait."

Jade smiled, the warmth of his words easing her mind. They began their meal, sharing stories and laughter, the bond between them as strong as ever.

Outside, the night deepened, but within the walls of the mansion, a sense of peace and unity reigned.

***

Later that night, Diaval and Eldric arrived back at the mansion.

The journey back had been filled with conversations about the plans for the bakery and the progress they had made.

Diaval felt a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that he hadn't felt in a long time.

"Thank you, Eldric," Diaval said sincerely as they approached the mansion's entrance.

"For everything you've done. I really appreciate it.

"Eldric smiled warmly, placing a hand on Diaval's shoulder.

"It's my pleasure, Diaval. Seeing you take an interest and responsibility in something meaningful is rewarding in itself. If you ever need anything, just let me know."

Diaval nodded, watching as Eldric walked away into the night.

He took a deep breath and headed toward his room, his mind swirling with thoughts and reflections.

As he walked through the grand hallways, passing by ornate tapestries and gilded chandeliers, Diaval couldn't help but talk to himself.

"I'm exhausted," he muttered, feeling the weight of the day's labor on his shoulders.

"Who would have thought that helping out at a construction site would be so tiring?"He paused for a moment, leaning against the wall, his thoughts drifting back to his previous life.

"My life now... it's so different," he whispered, a sense of wonder in his voice.

"Back then, I could never have imagined anything like this. I appreciate every bit of it, even the hard work."

Reaching his room, he pushed open the door and flicked on the lights.

The sudden brightness revealed a surprising sight: his mother, Lady Jade, seated elegantly on a red royal chair with her legs crossed.

Her presence exuded authority and grace, and her piercing gaze was fixed on him.

"I've been expecting your arrival, Diaval," she said, her voice calm but carrying a hint of curiosity.