Braze gave Colette a goofy grin as they approached the three dragons once more.
"That's okay... You have time to learn," he said simply. "I dunno if I would consider it a replacement. I don't think anyone is really replaceable.... That's why I don't call Jasper my dad... I already have a dad... I call him .... something else.... usually, since he's like... my second dad. No one ever said I had to have just one."
As they neared the dragons, Braze held out the delicate flower they had retrieved. The three dragons exchanged glances, clearly impressed by their success.
Tempest, the Stormclaw, eyed them with a gleam of mischief in his eyes. Without a word, he inhaled deeply, his chest expanding as the air around them seemed to electrify. He huffed out a powerful breath toward the sky, and almost instantly, the atmosphere responded. Dark clouds began to gather, swirling and churning as they merged above the group.
Lightning flickered within the rapidly forming storm, and with a final crack of thunder, the clouds opened up, releasing a torrent of rain. It wasn't a fierce, howling storm, but rather a steady, relentless downpour, the kind that soaked through to the bone in seconds. Cold water cascaded down, drenching them in an instant, and Tempest gave them a cheeky, almost playful look, his eyes alight with amusement. It was clear that he was enjoying this little display, showing off his power while making their return just a bit more memorable.
Despite the sudden deluge, the winds remained calm, as if Tempest was intentionally holding back the full fury of his storm, allowing them to experience the rain without being battered by the elements. His expression suggested he found the whole situation rather entertaining, as if this was his way of welcoming them back and acknowledging their efforts with a bit of playful fun.
"Impressive," Tempest, the Stormclaw, rumbled, his voice filled with approval.
"You've shown resilience, resourcefulness, and a bit of wit. It seems we underestimated you."
Wildfire, the Pyroclast, stepped forward next, her eyes glowing with fiery intensity. With a graceful yet deliberate motion, she extended a claw toward Braze, her sharp talons surprisingly gentle as she took the flower from his hand.
"Not bad for such small creatures," she teased, though there was respect in her tone.
"You faced the elements, solved the riddle, and retrieved a treasure. You've earned our attention."
Mistral, the Galecrest, smiled gently, her voice as soothing as the rain around them.
"You've proven yourselves worthy of our stories and our secrets," she said warmly.
"But remember, with knowledge comes responsibility. We will share with you what we know, but it is up to you to use it wisely."
Braze
