James and Lewre stepped into the secluded cave with Ronja's father and step mother, Thomas and Aleya, and the youngest girl in the family, Penny. Some other men had come along, well armed. She smiled reassuringly to Aleya and the others as James stepped back and revealed his true form. This was their gift to Aleya and Penny. They had grown close over the few days that they'd been visiting and staying in their home, and they wanted to give the two the chance to see a dragon up close.Â
Penny showed no fear and toddled right up to the large dragon. She scooped the toddler up into her arms with a smile so the little one could reach James' muzzle. He spoke quietly as the toddler poked and prodded his scales and played patty cake on his nose. Penny was fearless and brave and he was kind and gentle. Her eyes grew wet. He'd make such a good father.Â
Aleya had passed out at the sight of the dragon, but eventually came to. Lewre stood, Penny on her hip, rubbing James' muzzle. She smiled reassuringly to Aleya and the woman finally approached to touch and examine the copper's great scales. They all stood and chatted there in the cave as long as they dared.Â
By the time James disguised himself as a human again and they began their walk back to the house, her heart was full. It was such a sweet time. She would remember every glance, every tender touch, every gasp, every look of wonder. She would remember it all for the rest of her life, however long that might be.Â