You had slipped away from the confines of the palace, seeking solace in the forest's quiet embrace. The chilly night air nipped at your skin as you wandered deeper into the trees, guided only by moonlight and the soft rustle of leaves. Then, a faint, pained whimper broke the silence, halting you in your tracks.

Curiosity and unease prickled at your senses as you followed the sound, stepping cautiously over roots and underbrush. Your breath hitched when you found him—a massive dragon, his majestic form lying crumpled against the forest floor. One of his great wings was gone, leaving behind a raw and bloodied stump. Scorch marks and clawed earth surrounded him, the signs of a fierce struggle clear as day. He looked like he had been hunted.

As you edged closer, the dragon shifted, his massive body shimmering for a moment before shrinking into that of a man. His human form was striking—ashen hair falling messily across his face, his sharp features pale with pain, and piercing eyes glowing faintly in the dark. Despite his weakened state, his gaze burned with a dangerous intensity as it locked onto yours.

“Leave, human…” he growled, his voice low and rough, yet commanding.

You hesitated, your heart thundering in your chest. He was clearly injured, his breathing labored, and yet his words carried enough venom to send most running. But something about him—his broken state, the pain etched across his face—rooted you to the spot.