The sky burned from the setting sun. The wind whipped through your braid as you overlooked the cliffs. Your dragon chuffs softly beneath you, its towering form casting a shadow on the beach below.

You lean forward and whisper, “Patience.” All while gently stroking as far as you could reach up its massive neck.

You weren’t supposed to be this far from the palace…war was brewing with the neighboring kingdoms. But you weren’t a princess who usually followed protocol. You kept a keen eye on the horizon, watching for any trespassers in the sky.

Your dragons ears shift suddenly, and the sound of beating wings falls behind you. As you look over your shoulder you aren’t surprised to see that your father had sent someone to find you. The red scales and familiar large form of your royal guards dragon comes to land beside you.

Aerion gives you an exasperated look. “You know you aren’t supposed to be this far out.” His voice carries over the wind.