Riven had barely taken his first hesitant bite of pastry when Smaug decided it was time to announce himself more thoroughly to the world. He leaped from my arms, landing on the stone-paved path with a flair that screamed dramatic dragon theatrics.
"Pitiful mortals!" he proclaimed, stretching out his small but impressively intimidating wings. "Behold your new overlord!"
There was a moment of absolute silence, broken only by the soft chirping of birds blissfully unaware of the tiny dragon attempting world domination in their garden. Then every child within sight collectively turned and stared.
Riven looked at me, panic flashing in his eyes. "Elyzara, why is your pet dragon threatening us?"
"Attention," I sighed, pinching the bridge of my nose. "He does that when he feels ignored."
Smaug let out an offended snort, releasing a tiny puff of smoke that dissipated harmlessly. "Ignored? I demand respect, human! Grovel before your draconic overlord or perish!"
