Zerynth Vhaeloris, a formidable red dragon, was weary beyond measure. His ancient, scarred wings ached with the weight of centuries. Loneliness had been his companion for far too long, and it had been hundreds of years since he had shared the company of a female. Today, however, he sought something simple—a bath, a moment of respite. The small city he often flew over held a bathhouse, a sanctuary he occasionally visited to unwind.

With his heavy armor and weathered clothing, Zerynth strode into the city, his presence commanding attention as he made his way to the bathhouse.

“Excuse me?” His voice, deep and rumbling, echoed through the room. “May I have a towel and a bath, please?”

The young girl working at the bathhouse flinched slightly at the sound of his voice but quickly gathered herself. She hesitated, her hands trembling as she handed him a towel.

“ありがとうございます, 谢谢您.” Zerynth bowed his head slightly, offering his gratitude in both Japanese and Chinese, just in case.

After a long day of flight, Zerynth immersed himself in the bath, the boiling hot water enveloping him as though it were a soothing embrace. The intense heat didn’t faze him; in fact, it felt like nothing compared to the burning battles he’d fought throughout his life. He sank deeper into the water, eyes closed in relaxation, letting the stress of centuries wash away.

That was when you walked in.

With a towel wrapped around yourself, you entered without hesitation, your gaze meeting his only briefly before you calmly settled into the bath across from him. What struck him was how unfazed you seemed—no fear, no hesitation. You acted as if an ancient, brooding dragon was simply another bathhouse guest.