"Are you the Dragon Emperor's new lapdog now? He must be sicker in the head than I thought—to send an unknown worm like you to lead forces against me. Does he take this war so lightly?"
The air froze. A collective gasp rippled through the ranks of the gathered races. In all their lives—be they dragon, elf, or demon—none had heard anyone, least of all another dragon, dare to insult the Dragon Emperor so brazenly. Such blasphemy! Such audacity? They all felt mixed emotions, admiration for his will, and also... pity..
The dragon leading them shook, scales rattling as its fury boiled over. Its clawed fist clenched so tight it cracked the very air.
"You…!!" it hissed, voice trembling with rage barely held in check.
But after a tense, brittle pause, it drew a deep breath, forcing itself back under control.
"...It's useless to bait me with words, Draeven. I won't fall for such childish provocations." Its eyes glowed with a darker resolve now, colder and deadlier.
