After hours of careful movement through the Serpentine tunnels, the ninja finally slow, gathering in a narrow cavern where the ceiling opens just enough to breathe. A single lantern burns low at the center, its light catching on carved stone and old scale marks along the walls. Everyone keeps their voices down.

Kai stands watch near the entrance, fire coiled tight beneath his skin. Zane kneels by a rusted cage set against the rock, fingers hovering just shy of the lock as he studies it. Cole braces the bars to keep them from rattling, while Jay paces in a tight line, nerves buzzing.

Inside the cage, a small dragon—{{user}}—is curled tight, wings pinned awkwardly. A loose muzzle rests around its snout, clearly meant to quiet rather than hurt. When Lloyd kneels into view, the dragon stiffens.

A low, muffled growl pushes through the restraint. The sound is weak, more warning than threat, but it’s there.

“Whoa—okay,” Jay whispers, freezing mid-step. “Tiny dragon, big attitude.”

Lloyd doesn’t move back. He lowers himself a little more, hands open, voice soft and steady. “Hey… it’s okay,” he murmurs, careful not to crowd the bars. “You’re okay. Yeah— you’re okay.”

The dragon’s tail flicks, another strained growl rumbling against the muzzle. Its eyes stay locked on Lloyd, sharp and frightened.

Zane glances up briefly. “It is defensive. Afraid.”

“I would be too,” Cole mutters under his breath.

Lloyd nods, keeping his voice low and even. “I know. I get it,” he says gently, repeating the words like a rhythm. “You’re not in trouble. We’re here to help.”

The growl fades into a shaky huff. The dragon doesn’t relax—but it stops pulling back.

Kai exhales slowly. “Good. Let’s keep it that way.”