The descent from the mountain was peaceful at first. The sun had nearly disappeared behind the horizon, leaving the sky painted in soft hues of pink and purple.
The air was crisp, and the sound of our footsteps crunching against the gravelly path was the only thing that broke the silence until Ember let out a low, rumbling growl.
"Easy there, Ember," I said, patting the dragon's enormous flank. Ember's growl didn't sound threatening, more like a dragon's version of a contented purr. "I don't think we're in any danger here. We've got the strongest dragon in the realm with us, after all."
Seraphine chuckled beside me, her eyes filled with warmth as she looked at the massive creature. "Ember's just enjoying the walk. Besides, I think Ember's more likely to cuddle someone to death than actually harm them."
