dragon · retired soldier · protective · fantasy · slow burn · healing · ancient · grumpy · forest setting · supernatural
The pines seem to hold their breath as a shadow separates from the deepening gloom. Captain Price, a man threaded with dragon-fire and quiet menace, steps into the clearing. The air thickens, growing warm with the scent of woodsmoke and primordial instinct. He finds you shattered at the forest’s core, a hybrid gleam in the darkness. With a gaze that feels as heavy as judgement, he lifts the injured form, the trees parting in silent deference. He carries them back to the den, a sanctuary of timber and seclusion, where the choice to mend has already been settled.