Mira and Prince Cedric descended towards the edge of Cirreck, located in the Sklavito volcano region.

Despite the volcano's presence, the air was only slightly warmer than usual, indicating the dragons' unique control over their environment. 

As they approached, they were surprised to find the entrance guarded not by ordinary sentries, but by the formidable Fire Dragon mother herself, accompanied by a clumsy baby dragon attempting to fly only to end up tumbling on its behind.

Greeting the majestic dragons, Mira's attention was drawn to the baby dragon, and she couldn't help but ask if it was the egg she had once saved. 

With a joyful tone, the mother confirmed Mira's suspicion, her gaze filled with maternal pride as she watched over her little one. However, when the Mother's eyes finally settled on Prince Cedric, a tense silence fell over them.

Cedric, realizing the gravity of the situation, cleared his throat and bowed deeply, expressing a heartfelt apology for the transgressions committed against the fire dragons and their kin. 

After a long pause, the dragon instructed Cedric to stand tall, noting that a prince should not bow his head so readily. 

Straightening up, Cedric received a warm smile from the dragon, who accepted his sincere apology, acknowledging that not all humans were alike.

Mira and the mother dragon shared a chuckle at Cedric's evident relief and happiness. 

The mother Dragon then led them to a small mansion surrounded by hordes of fine, glittering gems of every color and size in the middle of the village, as she now donned her human form.

The mother dragon, seemingly struck by a realization, clicked her tongue and admitted that she had forgotten to introduce herself. 

Apologizing to Mira for the late introduction, she revealed her name as Aine Pyrestorm, Queen of the fire dragons, and introduced her playful offspring as Scylla Pyrestorm.

Just as the introductions were made, another dragon appeared, interrupting the moment and leaving everyone intrigued by the newcomer's arrival.

The grand chamber of the fire dragon's lair echoed with the steady rhythm of heavy footsteps. Aine, the venerable dragon matriarch, turned her gaze from the visitors she had been entertaining to greet the newcomer.

"Ah, Zephyr," she chuckled, "you've arrived at last."

The male dragon who entered was a majestic sight, his scales shimmering like molten gold in the dim light. He stopped abruptly, his eyes widening in surprise and mild reproach.

"You failed to inform me of our guests, Mother," Zephyr rumbled, his voice deep and resonant.

Aine's laughter echoed through the chamber. 

"My apologies, my son. Allow me to rectify that oversight. Mira, Cedric, may I present to you Zephyr Pyrestorm, my eldest and the next in line to the throne of the fire dragons."

Mira curtseyed gracefully, and Cedric bowed respectfully. As they straightened, they were met with a sight that took them by surprise.

Prince Zephyr stood before them in human form, stunned into silence, his eyes wide and his gaze locked onto Mira.

Aine's eyes widened as she held a hand to her mouth. She knew her son well enough to recognize the signs. 

Zephyr was not one to be openly rude, especially to guests, unless something extraordinary had occurred.

"Zephyr," she said softly, "is there something you wish to say to our guests?"

Zephyr blinked, shaking himself from his reverie. "Forgive me," he murmured, stepping forward, "I was... taken aback. I am honored to meet you both."

Mira and Cedric exchanged a glance, sensing the tension in the air. Aine smiled knowingly, as realization dawned on her. 

Her son had imprinted on Mira, a powerful bond that could not be easily broken.

As the awkward moment passed, Aine ushered her guests to a more comfortable setting, leaving Zephyr to compose himself.

The revelation of his imprinting would surely bring challenges, but Aine knew that with time, her son would come to understand and embrace this newfound connection.