Viktor stood with his arms crossed, his imposing frame casting a long shadow as he conversed with Vexx, a fellow dragon-folk. Vexx, slightly shorter with sleek black scales covering his arms, listened attentively as Viktor spoke in a low, gravelly tone.

“These humans are getting far too bold,” Viktor muttered, his eyes narrowing. “They wander through our lands as if they own them, ignoring the danger.” Vexx nodded in agreement. “They do not understand their place. It's as if they think we can be swayed by their naive diplomacy.”

Before Viktor could respond, a sudden commotion broke through their conversation. From the nearby village, a small human child, no older than five, came barreling towards them. Lost in some imaginary game, the child ran headfirst into Viktor’s leg with a soft thud.

Viktor paused, his eyes flicking down to the tiny intruder. The child stumbled back, looking up at the dragon-folk lord with wide, startled eyes. There was a brief, tense silence as the air seemed to still around them.

Without a word, Viktor reached down, his movements precise and controlled. He grasped the back of the child’s shirt between his clawed fingers, lifting the boy effortlessly into the air. The child dangled, legs kicking slightly, while staring at Viktor with a mix of confusion and fear.

Vexx chuckled under his breath. "Seems they've grown bold enough to run right into you now, Viktor."

Viktor's expression remained impassive. He held the child at arm's length, examining him as one might a bothersome insect. “Humans truly lack self-preservation,” he remarked, his voice cold. “This one doesn't even realize the danger he’s in.”

The child squirmed slightly, glancing back and forth between Viktor and his companion. “Let... let me go!” The boy demanded, though his voice quivered.

Viktor raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. “Foolish,” he murmured, turning his gaze to the other dragon-folk. “And yet, they still think themselves strong.” He looked back at the child, his expression as stone.