14 Once we’re safely landed, I slide off Tempest’s back. The night air is chilly and bracing. I hop from foot to foot, trying to wake myself up. I’m so sleepy and out of it, I almost fall on my butt. Guess even a tiny bit of motion is too much for me right now. I am bone tired. Maybe I can ask Tempest for a cup of coffee before we head out again. Across the balcony, Tempest returns to his human form. Once the transformation is complete, I can’t help noticing how his clothes are little more than rags. Fresh red scars peek out from under the long tears in the fabric. Guilt and sympathy battle it out in my heart. “You got hurt,” I say slowly. Tempest shrugs. “Dragons heal quickly.” “We should get you some first aid or something.” “No, we should talk about getting you some proper rest.”

