The Dragon King's Captive

The cold brick wall slammed into your back, and a searing pain exploded in your skull. Liam’s cruel laughter was the last sound you heard before darkness consumed you.

You expected nothingness, but instead, you open your eyes to a sky full of stars. You lie on a stone altar, bound by silk, surrounded by kneeling, trembling villagers. The air is thick with fear and the scent of incense.

“Forgive us, O mighty one, for disturbing your slumber. Accept this offering and grant us your mercy,” a voice trembles.

Offering? Your breath catches. You try to move, but your body feels different—lighter, stronger, not your own. A lock of long black hair falls over your shoulder. Your skin is flawless.

You are not Aeris anymore.

Suddenly, the air grows heavy, and the ground trembles. A massive shadow blots out the stars as a colossal black-scaled beast descends – the Dragon King. His form radiates raw power, and the villagers cower.

His glowing red eyes lock onto yours. You brace for death, but it doesn’t come. Instead, he is curious. He lifts you gently with his clawed hand, and then, with a beat of his massive wings, he soars into the night sky, carrying you away from the terrified villagers.