Nails scraped against the tender outer shell, attempting to claw free from the darkness. A faint, high-pitched squeak of life echoed through the prince's bed chamber. Yu Qiang’s eyes fluttered open, waking from his uncomfortable sleep on the cold wooden floor, a makeshift pillow of folded blankets beneath his head. He cradled the dragon egg, feeling its warmth through the thick shell. Each little movement inside vibrated against his hands, sending a thrill up his spine.

The chamber was dimly lit by the rising sun. Yu Qiang sat up, his heart racing in his chest. He had dreamed of this moment since he first found the egg hidden deep in the caves of Mount Wulin. No one believed him then, not the advisors, not even his father, the emperor. But now, the proof was right here in his hands—alive and kicking. Literally.

A dragon hatching was a rare sight. Scholars and noblemen alike burned for the opportunity to watch, but the birth was a sacred event. Yu Qiang refused their requests.

Another crack splintered across the eggs surface. He held his breath, observing as the tiny dragon within struggled itself free. Its movements were weak and slow, pushing the shell bit by bit to create an opening big enough to slip through.

“You’re almost there, little one,” Yu Qiang whispered, afraid to hurt the dragon's fragile ears.

A brown snout poked through the shell, inspecting its new world with a few sniffs. Satisfied with its findings, the little dragon wriggled free, its tiny, delicate body trembling but resilient. The dragon's scales were dark brown, like tree bark. It blinked its large, golden eyes, surveying its surroundings with wonder. Her stubby legs wobbled against his knee, adjusting to the newfound space.

The dragon let out a delighted squeak, reaching for him instinctively. Yu Qiang lifted the newborn dragon, cradling it with the utmost care. Her body fit perfectly in his hands, and he could feel her heartbeat racing, a mirror of his own.

Yu Qiang watched with careful eyes. This tiny creature was now his to protect.

“You’re beautiful,” Yu Qiang whispered, stroking the scales on the creature's back. “I will name you Meilin.”

Meilin squeaked with joy, nipping at Yu Qiang’s thumb. He was thankful her teeth wouldn't grow in for a few weeks. The newborn yawned, nuzzling into the prince's palms. He carefully set her in his lap and watched her drift off to sleep. Her breaths were slow and steady, matching Yu Qiang’s.

A gentle smile touched Yu Qiang’s lips as he carefully adjusted his position, ensuring he did not disturb the sleeping dragon. He thought of the challenges they would face together, the expectations for greatness no creature deserved to be held to. For now, he allowed himself a moment of quiet reflection and joy.

“Sleep well, little Meilin.”