Chapter 69

Bahamut extended his hand slowly toward Aithusa, who appeared slightly apprehensive in his presence. On the sidelines, Sapphire observed the little one, recognizing the budding strength emanating from the hatchling.

With cautious movements, Bahamut gently lifted Aithusa into his hand, and to his surprise, the small dragon extended her own tiny hand, reaching out to touch Sapphire in return. Sapphire, acknowledging the gesture, lowered her head to the baby dragon, a silent exchange of acceptance and connection.

As they emerged from the depths of Dragonmont, Bahamut noticed a distinct confusion in Diaval's eyes as he beheld the baby dragon now cradled in Bahamut's hand. Diaval, sensing Bahamut's essence within the hatchling along with his, also perceived that this little one held a superiority over him. Lowering his head, Diaval observed the baby dragon with a mix of curiosity and a sense of respect, realizing that the hatchling carried the essence of Bahamut not sure why.

Bahamut watched this interaction unfold with a smile, witnessing the bond forming between the newborn and the adult dragons. After a while, sensing that Aithusa was neither hostile nor in any distress, Bahamut bid farewell to the adult dragons, taking Aithusa with him. He believed that the baby dragon would only be truly safe in his presence.

Upon their arrival at Dragonstone, Bahamut promptly requested the servants to prepare a small portion of meat for Aithusa in his room. The sight of a baby dragon, distinctly different from the dragons they were accustomed to, surprised and enchanted the servants, who couldn't resist the allure of the creature's undeniable cuteness.

Aithusa, in turn, found herself curious about the humans and their peculiar behaviors. Her eyes traced the contours of the castle, sensing the essence of dragon magic woven into its very structure. Meanwhile, Bahamut, amused by the baby dragon's antics, strolled alongside her as they made their way to his room.

The servants exchanged glances, expressing their astonishment and delight at the unprecedented sight. Aithusa's every movement, every chirp, seemed to captivate their attention.

In his interactions with Aithusa, Bahamut discovered a certain joy in spoiling her—a stark contrast to the strict demeanor he adopted with other dragons he had raised. Perhaps it was because she was the first of his kind, carrying a small fragment of his essence. Whenever the little dragon extended her clawed hand toward something, Bahamut would bring her closer, allowing her to inspect whatever had caught her interest.

Upon entering his room, Bahamut gently placed the baby dragon on the bed, thinking she might want to take a nap. However, Aithusa, displaying boundless energy and curiosity, began to play around the bed, finding every nook and cranny intriguing.

Bahamut, reveling in the joy of the moment, decided to play along with Aithusa. He rolled around on the bed, inviting the baby dragon to join in the playful act. Aithusa, eager to emulate Bahamut, attempted to roll as well, but her efforts were hindered by the presence of her wings. Despite her best attempts, she couldn't quite match the Bahamut's rolling, and a hint of puppy-like frustration crept into her expressive eyes.

Observing her struggle, Bahamut couldn't help but smile at the endearing sight. Aithusa, not one to give up easily, continued to roll around, her wings adding a charming clumsiness to the whole endeavor. However, her determination waned, and soon she gazed up at Bahamut with puppy eyes, silently seeking assistance.

In response, Bahamut gently scooped her up into his hand and carried her towards the window. With a sense of excitement, he aimed to show her the vast expanse of the sea outside her room. As they reached the window, Aithusa's attention was immediately captured by the moonlit beauty of the sea. The gentle waves shimmered in the moonlight, creating a mesmerizing dance of reflection and shadow.

To enhance her experience and make the moment even more delightful, Bahamut contemplated revealing his true form to her outside of Dragonstone. However, his thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a sudden knock on the door. Servants entered, bearing a portion of meat specially prepared for Aithusa's nourishment.

Despite Bahamut's request for a modest portion of meat, the servants arrived bearing not just the anticipated meal but also a selection of wine and fruits. Their gesture, perhaps driven by a belief in Bahamut's gentlemanly demeanor, did not go unnoticed. Bahamut appreciated their thoughtfulness and, with a nod, allowed the servants to leave.

As the servants departed, their fleeting glances toward Aithusa did not escape Bahamut's notice. The baby dragon, however, was entirely preoccupied with the tantalizing scent of the meat they had brought. Her eyes gleamed with curiosity as she focused on the culinary delights laid out before her.

Bahamut, satisfied that everything was in order, decided to let Aithusa enjoy her meal. The aroma of the cooked meat wafted through the air, and Aithusa, with a delicate sniff, sought Bahamut's permission to partake. He responded by pushing the plate of meat gently toward her.

Eagerly, Aithusa wasted no time sinking her teeth into the savory offering. The cooked meat, prepared by the skilled hands of the servants, met her approval, and she proceeded to devour the contents of the plate with undisguised enthusiasm. Bahamut observed her with a warm smile, appreciating the simple joy and excitement she derived from her meal.