Evening Watch Beside Fred

Returning inside from the balcony as the cold dark deepened, I glided down across the floorboards to Fred the Fox's quiet corner on the rug. The balcony winds had left my scales chilled, but down here the realm was peaceful. I tucked my wings close, nestling right against Fred's soft flank to share the evening rest. Before closing my eyes for sentry repose, I gathered a slow, gentle ember of warmth in my throat and exhaled a quiet puff of heat across his plush ears. Our realm is safe, and the night watch is quiet.