The wolf puppy was nestled peacefully in my arms, its tiny chest rising and falling with each soft breath. It was hard to believe that this innocent creature had been a menacing beast only moments ago.
Its soft fur brushed against my skin, and I carried it over to a spot a few meters away from Han Yihong, lowering myself onto the cold ground. I was not exactly sure why I sat so far, but the water dragon made it clear—it was not about to let me get any closer.
I glanced in Han Yihong's direction, his still form surrounded by the protective coils of the dragon. As I tried to inch forward, the dragon made a deep, rumbling sound that vibrated through the air. It was something between a low growl and a gurgling hiss, like "rrrrrhaaaa." The noise was unmistakably a warning, and I quickly backed off.
"Alright, alright! I get it," I muttered, holding up my hands in surrender. "You're not the cuddly type. Got it, no closer."