Chapter 3: The Mountain’s Shared Magic

A hush lingered after the tremor faded, broken only by the dragon’s sheepish cough. Mila’s hand still trembled in Elsa’s, but she stepped forward with a steadiness born of newfound courage.

“Mr. Dragon,” Mila said, her voice gentle but clear, “we know you love glittery things. But treasures mean most when they’re shared. In our castle, everyone can enjoy them—together.”

Elsa nodded, brushing a stray curl from her cheek. “It’s not just ours. The treasure brings smiles to everyone who visits. Wouldn’t you like to see that?”

The dragon’s golden eyes darted between the sisters. For a moment, he looked uncertain, tail curling around his feet. The phoenix, perched on a mossy stone, tilted its head and let out a soft, encouraging trill.

With a deep sigh, the dragon reached behind a boulder, pulling forth the missing treasure—a chest brimming with shimmering stones and delicate trinkets. He nudged it toward Mila and Elsa, scales flushing a bashful rose. "I’m sorry," he rumbled. "I never meant for anyone to be sad. I just wanted to feel like I belonged."

Mila’s heart softened. She exchanged a glance with Elsa, who smiled, sunlight glinting in her eyes. "You do belong," Elsa assured, her tone warm. "Why don’t you come to the castle with us? Join our feast."

The dragon’s face lit up, and even the mountain seemed to glow brighter. With laughter echoing around the stony cavern, the group—sisters, dragon, and phoenix—carried the treasure homeward. The path was easier now, as if the mountain itself approved, and the air shimmered with fresh possibility.

Back at the castle, the feast sparkled with more than jewels. The dragon marveled at every shared story, the phoenix dazzled with flickers of flame, and laughter threaded through the halls. Mila and Elsa watched their new friend fit right in, the treasure at the heart of it all—belonging, shining, shared.

Later, as dusk painted the mountain peaks in gold and lavender, Mila leaned against Elsa on the balcony. "Bravery helped us climb the mountain," she mused quietly. "But kindness brought the treasure home."

Elsa squeezed her hand. "And teamwork made a friend of a dragon."

As the last light faded, the sisters knew the real magic was the one they’d found together: open hearts, and a home big enough for everyone.