Return to the Dragon’s Homeland

Letitia held Lily with satisfaction.

Lily, exhausted from the journey, leaned into her embrace.

Though the trip had been harsh, Lily endured.

She made no sound of complaint, nor did she show any signs of weakness.

“Now that it’s over, help me fix my gear quickly!” Lily said.

“You’re truly remarkable,” Letitia replied, fastening Lily’s cloak and buttons.

“Funny, you’re so cute when asleep, but awake you’re full of determination.”

“Why should I… be gentle?” Lily muttered.

“Still, you have great endurance.

When we started, you were full of energy and excitement.

Now, you manage to remain composed,” Letitia observed.

“Who… would lose their composure around you?” Lily asked, flustered.

“No need to explain—I already know,” Letitia whispered.

“Because earlier, I gave you a proper challenge, so now you can remain steady.”

“That… that’s ridiculous!” Lily said, still flustered.

In truth, Letitia’s firm guidance during the trip had tested Lily’s limits, strengthening her resolve.

“Rest a little. You’re very cute when asleep,” Letitia said softly.

“Who… would sleep in your arms?” Lily protested.

Letitia didn’t respond, only adjusting the reins with a practiced hand.

Lily noticed faint marks on Letitia’s hands, and her face turned bright red.

The journey had been tiring, and combined with the day’s exertions, Lily’s strength was waning.

Her head swayed gently, consciousness dimming, until she eventually fell asleep peacefully in Letitia’s arms.

Watching Lily’s sleeping face, Letitia smiled faintly.

She looked so peaceful, her cheeks lightly flushed, calm and serene.

Even asleep, Lily’s gentle reactions and subtle movements fascinated Letitia.

Once a serious and disciplined dragon, Letitia found herself behaving oddly around Lily.

She longed to be close, to share warmth and trust.

Speaking of which, the Dragon God’s homeland was said to have hot springs.

Perhaps there, they could enjoy relaxation and care—massages, back scrubs, and other innocent diversions.

Lily stirred softly in her sleep, murmuring Letitia’s name.

“Hm?” Letitia asked with a gentle smile.

“Why… are you… calling me?”

Seeing the tears at the corner of Lily’s eyes, Letitia’s heart softened.

She remembered the first moment they had met.

At that time, Letitia had been in her dragon form, curled up in a cave for a midday rest.

Suddenly, the cave entrance was filled with commotion.

Several soldiers had carried a rolled bundle.

Inside was a pale, unconscious girl with silver hair.

From Letitia’s perspective, the girl’s shoulders were exposed.

Letitia raised her head, radiating authority.

The soldiers, frightened by her presence, fled in panic.

Only the girl, wrapped in the blanket, remained.

With careful claws, Letitia unrolled the blanket.

She marveled quietly, “How delicate and small…”

Soon, the girl would awaken, and Letitia’s protective instincts would remain strong.

Even a short span of time was enough to transport her safely using magic.

But Letitia had been captivated, unwilling to move the girl away hastily.

Even without magic, she might have acted instinctively to ensure the girl’s safety.

Letitia shook off lingering thoughts of doubt.

Her pride would not allow her to falter.

If only Lily would speak first, apologize perhaps, their bond could be repaired.

The gryphon descended slowly, landing smoothly outside the Dragon God’s homeland.

Lily awoke, realizing she had been resting against Letitia.

Indignant, she pushed away, only to be scooped up playfully.

“Stop fussing in front of Mother Monet,” Letitia teased.

“I’m not fussing!” Lily protested, red-faced.

She noticed Letitia’s strong, steady arms.

Even her struggles seemed almost playful.

Letitia leapt down from the gryphon’s back, holding Lily carefully.

Lily quickly set her feet on the ground, amazed at the scenery before her.

She had expected a simple village, perhaps a few thatched houses, where dragon elders lived quietly.

Instead, she saw a grand palace.

High red walls surrounded magnificent structures.

From the main gate, countless impressive buildings rose, each ornate and regal.

It was like stepping into a living painting, each detail telling a story of ancient grandeur.

Lily couldn’t help but marvel.

“Lily, Mom!” A voice called.

She turned to see Emilia running toward her.

“Emi, aren’t you tired?” Lily asked.

“No! I’m happy!” Emilia beamed.

“Grandmother Karina was so kind. She held me and told me stories.”

“Well, then be sure to thank her properly,” Lily said.

“I know!” Emilia curtsied, smiling brightly.

“Such a sweet granddaughter,” Karina said warmly, lifting Emilia and stroking her hair.

“Lily, let’s go home,” Karina said to her, eyes soft and reassuring.

“Don’t worry. Here in the Dragon God’s homeland, no one will dare trouble you.

You are part of our family now.”