She had become scarce. Since that day at the abbey where her wings had been badly damaged.

The dark dragon had retreated after losing sight of her quarry. Issy had survived, as had the armored man, and the man that caused her such pain.

The damage had been done. Black wings still were riddled with holes and tatters. Leaving her no choice but to remain grounded.

She had traveled by foot, moving South. Survival now was her main focus.

Carcasses bloated by the sun offered an easy meal, and one that she'd make good use of. While not the freshest kill, the bodies provided enough food to last for at least a few weeks.

Scavengers were picking at a few scraps, though the buzzards and coyotes scattered at the dragon's return.

Stripping meat from bone did not take very long. Once she had finished with another meal, the dark one returned to an empty cavern where she'd been spending the cool nights.

There she would slumber,always with one eye open.