Uncrowned (Cradle, #7)

by Will Wight

[I can think of many ways this could go wrong,] Dross said. [So many ways. In fact, I'm having trouble imagining a way in which this goes right

To this day, the King of Dragons walks the desert in the form of a human boy, hair dark and skin tanned by the sun, wrapped in a cloak against the harsh wind. He admires humans, but hates human civilization, that collection of unnatural rules under which the weak are favored above the strong.

[It’s interesting how humans decide whether or not to panic by watching others,] Dross noted. [What if all of you are wrong together?]

"If you knew..." The Sage’s voice shook. "If I traveled there to avenge him, I would be as vulnerable as he was. Vengeance is a poor reason to allow myself to be killed by ignorant barbarians. And what good would it do? Would slaughtering Jades and Irons bring him back?"

But wishes weren't productive, so he merely acknowledged the desire and refocused.

Give it a try. The only thing to lose is the entire competition.]

Lindon's spirit shivered as a massive spiritual scan passed through the whole building. Fury tilted his face up. “Yeah, I'm talking about you. No need to show off.” The scan passed.

“He was higher than an Underlord when he did this. You have time.” “Tell me the last time you listened to someone who told you to take your time.” That struck home.