The autumn came with its golden beauty and dressed the trees into red, yellow, brown robes. The evenings got longer and colder. Kaira was gathering wood in the forest when she saw a familiar shadow in the darkening sky, far away. Her heart twisted in longing. The night fell and covered the ground with frost. Tiny crystals of ice glowed blue under the myriad of stars. Kaira knew she had to hurry if she wanted to be in time. The journey would be long and dangerous.
The dragon woke up from his sleep. The approaching winter disposed to sleeping in. He puffed some fire to warm up the cave and yawned widely. He glimpsed at the corner where Kaira used to keep her supplies of smoked meat. Her smell still lingered there. He remembered their cozy evenings together. Somewhere deep in his mind, he dreamt of her soft touch over his hard scales.
The morning mist had covered the ground and filled up the entrance. The dragon gazed lazily through the gloomy opening. It was time to leave for the day hunting. He stretched his wings and was about to rush out when he heard footsteps. No one would dare to approach the dragon's den. He stood up, his steel stare drilling the intruder. The blue eyes met the amber eyes for a long slow minute.