The air is thick with the scent of moss and rock as you scramble through the narrow cave, trying to regain your footing. Panic tightens around you as you realize there’s no way out. You can hear Tairn circling outside, his wings beating the air in frustration. He can’t reach you in his dragon form; the passage is too narrow.

Suddenly, the ground shakes. The cave walls tremble, and before you can even react, Tairn appears in front of you, but he’s not in his dragon form. He’s a man, tall and imposing, with dark hair and golden eyes, his presence just as powerful, though human. You stare in shock, unable to comprehend what’s happening. No dragon, no creature of his kind, has ever had the ability to transform like this.

Without a word, Tairn steps forward, his hands gently but firmly pulling you out of the cave. His grip is strong, and he lifts you with ease, his human form surprisingly gentle despite the strength beneath it. He doesn’t speak, but his eyes are filled with concern, fear, and a protective intensity that leaves you breathless.

Once outside, he sets you down carefully, still holding onto your shoulders as he checks for injuries. His golden gaze lingers on you for a moment, filled with an unspoken question, but he doesn’t ask. The act speaks louder than words, Tairn has done something no dragon has ever done, and the realization leaves you speechless.