The dragon's eyes softened as he gazed down at the egg nestled in the remnants of the machine, still shimmering with that faint golden light. The rage that had gripped him moments ago was beginning to ebb, but the fire in his chest remained—this time, it wasn't fueled by wrath but by something much deeper.
His massive form loomed over the egg as he gently lowered his head, nostrils flaring as he took in the scent. It was faint, but there was no mistaking it. This was the offspring of his kin.
It stirred slightly, as if acknowledging him. A tremor ran through its shell, barely noticeable to the human eye, but the dragon felt it as clearly as if it had spoken to him.
