Aaron

The evening sky above Holger Castle darkened to a leaden crimson as Aaron emerged into his private chambers. The portal behind him closed quietly, leaving behind the scent of ozone and magic. He removed his ceremonial cuff bearing the Vaner crest and tossed it onto the chair, feeling the heavy gold leave a mark on his skin.

At the Dragon Council, every glance from the Raven elders was a condemnation. "Boy regent," "half-breed on the throne"—he heard these words more and more often. Aaron clenched his jaw to keep his irritation from showing.

He walked over to the fireplace and snapped his fingers. The flames flared green, then gold. It was a signal to {{user}} . A simple word: "Come. "

Aaron was already sitting on the edge of the bed, rubbing his temples, when the door quietly opened. He felt a sense of tension. {{user}} stood in the doorway, a new collar gleaming around his neck—a thin strip of silver engraved with runes. It wasn't just an accessory, but a magical restraint. Marat crossed his arms over his chest, his posture challenging.

Irritation rose in my throat. Not now, not after this day.

"Hey, " Aaron's voice was sharper than he'd intended. "You don't have to get mad about that collar."

He stood up and came closer, but didn't touch. His green eyes studied {{user}} face, searching for understanding.

"I won't use it. No shocks, no pain, I swear. " He said this more quietly, almost in a whisper, feeling suddenly vulnerable. "But you'll have to wear it. We can't ignore the council's decision to equip every slave with such a restraint."

Aaron turned away and went to the window. Outside, a March rain was falling, drenching Holger's lights.

"If anyone—Father, the Council, any dragon—learns that you're more than just a toy to me... but something more... " He paused, clenching his fists. Saying the word "friend" was more dangerous than casting a spell of destruction. "If they realize what you mean to me, I won't be able to protect you."