He nodded. “I didn’t want to be King of the Dragons. I wasn’t sure I would be strong enough. I also didn’t want the responsibility,” he confessed.
“What-what happened? What changed?” she asked.
“It was when I realized that I didn’t have to do it alone.” He turned and stared deep into her eyes. “You won’t be alone either. You’ll have your parents, your sister, your friends, and… us. I’ve been told by someone very knowledgeable that if you are a Guardian Protector, you were born for the task, just like those before you. While it may be a burden, like being a king, it is also a gift. You’re not alone, Phoenix. You never were and never will be.”
Drago’s words sank deep, lodging somewhere in the hollow ache inside her chest as a shiver ran down her spine. Memories of past adventures, times with her parents, and the knowledge that she was never truly alone filled her heart. Her dragon stirred, moved by his words as much as she was. Deep down, they both needed to hear what he was telling them.
She lifted her face, tilting it toward the stars as she searched them for Valdier. A light caress brushed against her skin as the wind shifted, carrying the faintest whisper—like a voice she almost knew but couldn’t hear. For the briefest moment, she felt as if gentle fingers brushed her cheek. A soft smile curved her lips as she felt the warmth of a Goddess nearby.
“As for your sister and the others, I think it will be fun to take a little trip to see if we can find them. We’ll start with the Isle of the Sea Serpent. DJ, Stone, and Roo love going to see Orion and Jenny’s kids.”
“Thank you… for everything. I’m sorry for all the trouble I’ve caused. We… just wanted to have some fun during school break,” she said, turning to look at him and feeling calmer.
Drago laughed, stood, and scooped a sleeping Roo out of her arms. “Trust me, my trio cause a lot more trouble, especially when all the kids from the different kingdoms get together. Let’s get you settled. You have a long flight tomorrow, and if I know my kids, you’ll be up early.”
Phoenix giggled and rose. For the first time since the portal shattered, she let herself believe everything would be okay.
This is just another adventure. I just need to embrace it.
Chapter Nine
The scent of something sweet and spicy drifted through the air, tickling Phoenix’s nose and dragging her out of sleep. For a moment, she didn’t know where she was. The bed beneath her was too soft, the sheets smelled faintly of wildflowers, and the low hum of magic vibrated through the air.
Then a small, determined voice broke the quiet.
“Phoenix! Get up! Daddy says breakfast’s ready, and Grandpa brought pastries. Real ones with the sugar on top!”
A weight landed on the bed, tiny but fierce. Phoenix groaned as Roo scrambled up and flopped on top of her. Warm little hands patted her cheeks.
“I’m awake,” Phoenix rasped, cracking one eye open. Roo grinned, her golden eyes bright with mischief.
“Come on! I saved you a seat next to me. But if you don’t hurry, DJ’s gonna steal all the good stuff.”
That did it. Phoenix forced herself up, rubbing sleep from her eyes. She wasn’t ready—emotionally or mentally—but Roo was having none of that.
She barely had time to refresh herself and dress before the little girl dragged her through the winding halls until the scent of fresh bread, honeyed fruit, and something rich and savory wrapped around her like a warm blanket. Laughter echoed ahead, light and teasing.
Phoenix paused at the entrance to what could only be described as a royal family’s kitchen—grand but lived-in. The stone hearth burned low and sunlight streamed through massive windows. The table was a beautiful mess of platters, steaming mugs, and half-eaten pastries.
Seated at the head was an older man—silver hair, sharp eyes, and the kind of strength that didn’t need words. He was an older version of Drago. Next to him, a stunning woman with long silver-white hair braided down her back laughed as she flicked a berry at the boys across from her.
“Grandma! Grandpa! Look who finally woke up!” Roo announced with a huge grin, dragging Phoenix forward.
Valyndra’s gaze lifted, warm and appraising. “Ah, our firebird joins us. Come, child. Sit. Eat. I’m Valyndra. That handsome dragon is my mate, Draegor.”
Before Phoenix could protest, Roo shoved her into a seat. Phoenix laughed when DJ held out a platter full of pastries. She took a couple and placed them on her plate as Carly placed a glass of juice in front of her with a wink and a murmured apology.
“She snuck off before we could stop her,” Carly said.
“It’s okay,” she said with an amused grin, watching Draegor trying to get a morning hug from Roo. Roo stood, hands on her hips, shaking her head and wiggling her fingers.
“Okay, Grandpa. Hugs and kisses aren’t free. Three gold coins.”
Draegor arched a brow. “Three! Yesterday it was two.”
“I’m growing,” Roo shot back. “Inflation. Plus, I’ve got to think of my future.”
Phoenix snorted, quickly covering her mouth. Valyndra laughed outright, her musical voice ringing through the air.
