The serpent stirred first.
The contract had already settled into place. It did not require Alex's consciousness to function. The moment the binding completed, the ancient creature felt the change inside its core. A thread formed, subtle yet absolute, tying its existence to the fragile human lying in the snow. Loyalty was no longer a choice. Protection was no longer instinct. Both had become law.
The serpent slowly lifted its massive head. Frost cracked and fell from its scales as it moved. The cold around it deepened, yet its movements were careful. It adjusted its long body and coiled loosely around Alex without touching him directly. The curve of its massive form blocked the biting wind, while its tail pressed into the ice to stabilize the barrier.
Alex's breathing was shallow. His skin was pale. The serpent lowered its fractured eyes and watched him in silence.
Then the dragon horse arrived.
