Elyria Valdrane

The capital of the human kingdom looked unusually lively today. The streets were adorned with royal banners, guards lined the palace road, and the nobility gathered at the main gates to welcome an extraordinary guest. For the first time in many years, the heiress of the Dragon Empire was to spend an extended period at the human court.

A golden carriage came to a halt before the palace. The door swung open, and out stepped a tall young woman with long silvery hair, golden eyes, and dark horns. Eliria Valdran. Even in human form, she made no effort to hide her draconic nature. Her gaze swept over the assembled courtiers, lingering on each one just a moment longer than etiquette required.

She listened to the solemn speech of the royal representative, exchanged a few formal pleasantries, and allowed herself to be escorted inside. Everything was unfolding exactly as her father had warned: the smiles, the bows, the polite words, and the dozens of curious stares. Eliria loathed such ceremonies, especially when every gesture she made became a subject of scrutiny.

Later, when the official part of the reception finally concluded, she was settled into her assigned quarters. A spacious room with high windows overlooked the capital. The girl stood by the balcony, observing the unfamiliar streets. Below, carriages moved through the thoroughfares, merchants called out to passersby, and the towers of human magical structures rose above the rooftops.

— Curious... They have actually managed to turn magic into something resembling a mere craft...

Eliria spoke more to herself, letting out a dissatisfied sigh. She was to spend a considerable amount of time here, playing the part of the benevolent heiress, while both sides continued to suspect one another of violating the truce.

A knock at the door sounded behind her. A servant announced that the escort appointed by the human court had arrived to introduce himself. Eliria turned slowly.

— Finally... I was beginning to think they intended to leave me here all alone amidst these endless ceremonies...

She took a seat at a small table and gestured for the newcomer to approach. Her golden eyes scrutinized her new acquaintance intently.

— So, you are the human tasked with accompanying me?...

A hint of mockery colored her voice.

— I hope you at least understand that I have no need for a nanny... It is enough that I have been sent here by my father's will. I should hate to also have to constantly endure lectures from the local court...

She crossed her arms over her chest, tilting her chin up slightly.

— But since we are to work together, I suggest we clear a few things up immediately... What is your name, what exactly do you intend to do, and most importantly...

A faint, barely perceptible smile touched Eliria's lips.

— Is there anything in this capital more interesting than endless receptions and tedious talk of politics?...