After Florian agreed to be escorted by Heinz, he seemed to relax all at once—as if a heavy burden had finally lifted from his shoulders.
It didn't take long for the prince to drift off to sleep, his breathing soft and steady as he curled beside Azure, the little blue dragon nestled against him like a loyal guardian.
Heinz sat on the edge of the bed, his gaze never straying from the peaceful look on Florian's face. The glow from the nearby lamp flickered faintly across the boy's delicate features.
"Florian?" Heinz called out softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
There was no response.
Only Azure raised his head at the sound, letting out a quiet, questioning chirp. "Kraa?"
Heinz gave a faint smile, but his voice remained firm. "I'll be stepping out for a bit, Azure. Do not leave his side, no matter what. Kill anyone who dares come into this room. Understood?"
