The Dragon's Enchantment page 9

out a doorway that led into the castle. Luca walked around the room then returned to look out the window. He cranked his head out and looked south where he saw a large meadow with a forest beyond. He looked up at the golden tower walls above him. Then he faced north and saw a great flower garden surrounding a fountain. Beyond that was the great Northern gate out of the Kingdom. He heard a noise behind him and saw the King standing in the doorway.

“This is your new home, Luca. While you are young, you will have plenty of room to fly in here. As you become bigger, you can fly outside,” said the King, “When you are a little older, I will take you on trips with me to see Golden World.”

Luca’s stomach made a funny sound. He put his claws on it then looked up at the King.

“You’re hungry,” said King Omni, “Let me show you the kitchen so you can eat. It will be easier for you to fly down to the front doors than to walk down the hall. The ceiling is too low for you to fly. I will meet you in a few moments back in the foyer. Knock on the door when you get to the ground, and the guards will open them for you.” The King turned and walked out of the room.

Luca took to the sky, flew down to the doors, and knocked as the King instructed. The doors opened and Luca walked in. Luca saw the King descending the stairs.

“Come with me, Luca. We will go into the dining hall,” said King Omni.

Luca followed, eagerly smelling something wonderful.  A bowl of cereal was set on table’s edge, and the little dragon didn’t bother to sit down. He just dug right in.

King Omni sat beside him. As the dragon ate, King Omni talked to him. “Luca, you are going to be my right hand around the castle. You will be my companion, friend, and protector of the palace. I hope you will enjoy your role.”

Luca listened as he ate his dinner.

“You are too young to know what this means right now. But know that you are special and that I delight in you.”

Luca finished his food and looked at the King licking his lips. He saw a serious look on the King’s face.

“Luca I have one more special gift for you that none of the servants have. I have given you the ability to make choices. The other servants work by command, but you may choose.”  The King drew a slow breath. “It is a wonderful gift, but let me warn you: you should know this great gift may bring you joy but it may be your greatest pain, so know that your choices have consequences. If you want to know what is best, just ask me.” The King softened and said, “Let’s take a walk around the gardens.”