*Saoirse*

My mind was buzzing.

Moments before, I had been fighting a headache and felt exhausted, but the news of Axureon's return had awakened me.

I knew he would come through.

The door swung open. I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding as Axureon stepped into the room. As always, his ancient dragon aura could be felt almost instantaneously, and it brought me a sense of comfort.

That was until I saw his face.

His expression was ...