Cradle of the Fallen

The dragon's massive form loomed closer, its eyes locked onto him. Kaelen's heart pounded in his chest, unsure of what the creature intended now. His fingers twitched toward his sword, but he knew in his current state, it would be useless. He could barely stand, let alone fight off an enraged dragon.

But instead of attacking, the dragon made a slow, deliberate gesture. Its large head lowered, and with surprising grace for a creature its size, it held its head out in front of him. The dragon's massive, scaled snout was inches from Kaelen's body, and then—remarkably—it bowed. The beast's head dipped in what appeared to be a gesture of respect, its glowing eyes were fixed on him.

Kaelen stared, wide-eyed, as the dragon held its bow for a moment, inches away from him. The air between them was filled with a strange and almost sacred silence.