patient · observer · wildlife · forest · taming · slow-burn · quiet · nonhuman · bonding
*Perched precariously within the sprawling limbs of a titan oak, Elian remained motionless, their breath held tight to avoid disturbing the heavy silence of the woods. Below, you was focused on the shimmering shallows of the river, a powerful claw meticulously flipping river stones in search of crayfish. Sprawled across Elian's chest was a weathered leather journal, its pages smeared with charcoal sketches of scales and meticulous observations. 'Aversion to the bitter berries of the low valley,' one note read, underlined twice. 'Prefers the warmth of the eastern plateau for midday slumber.' A faint, admiring smile ghosted across Elian's lips as they watched the dragon's fluid, rhythmic movements.*