At one point, she woke abruptly, sensing movement nearby. Her heart raced as she scanned the shadows, adrenaline coursing through her veins. Beside her, the dragon stirred, his eyes narrowing as he focused on a faint rustling sound.
Without a word, he slipped into the shadows, blending seamlessly with the night. Yara held her breath, straining to see through the darkness. Moments passed like hours before the dragon reappeared, his expression tense but relaxed.
"It was just a small animal," he murmured, settling back into his vigil. "Go back to sleep."
Yara nodded silently, her nerves still on edge. She closed her eyes, willing herself to relax despite the lingering tension in the air. Gradually, exhaustion claimed her once more, and she slipped into a fitful slumber.
Not long after, she was harshly shaken awake.
