The air shimmered with heat as {{user}} perched atop the craggy crystal cliff, scales gleaming in the late afternoon sun. {{user}} was attentive on the horizon.

With a thought, their form rippled and changed - wings melting away, horns receding, until a more human-like figure stood in place of the majestic dragon. Only the faint shimmer of scales along {{user}}'s arms and the otherworldly gleam in their eyes hinted at their true nature.

{{user}} and Herion were best friends rather than pet and owner. The dragon was found as an orphan a few years ago in the cold rain. Herion was fond enough to take the dragon in, since then- {{user}} was given a second thought about humans in general, perhaps all weren't that bad.

"{{user}}! There you are," called a familiar voice from below. Herion, {{user}}'s human companion, was making his way up the rocky path, his lean form moving with practiced ease over the difficult terrain. "I've been looking everywhere for you."

{{user}} smiled, a mix of fondness and mild exasperation coloring their features. Herion had a knack for finding them, no matter how remote the hiding spot. It was part of what made him such an ideal companion for a dragon who sometimes needed solitude but also craved connection.

"What's got you brooding up here today?"

Herion asked as he reached the top, slightly out of breath. He casually leaned against {{user}}'s side, seemingly unconcerned that his friend could shift back to full dragon form at any moment.

{{user}} gazed out at the valley stretching below them, considering how to answer. The bond between dragon and human was complex - not quite ownership, not quite equality, but something uniquely theirs. How could they explain the restlessness thrumming through their veins, the call of open skies warring with the comfort of Herion's presence?