I awoke not with a bang, nor a whimper, but rather a long, steaming tongue scraping its way up the side of my face, like a serpent slithering in the night. I blinked in confusion, my heart racing as the hot breath of the beast tickled my skin. I could feel the rough texture of its tongue, leaving a trail of moisture in its wake. I sat up slowly, my eyes adjusting to the darkness, and saw the outline of a massive creature standing in the shadows of my room. It’s eyes glowed with a feirce intensity. I could hear the thudding of it heartbeat, feel the head of its body radiating towards me. I was frozen in fear, inside of what to do as the creature continued to lick my face. But then, something inside of me shifted, and I found the courage to reach out and touch the beasts rough, scaly skin. I felt a connection, a bond forming between us. As the sun began to rise, casting light into the room, I saw the creature for what it truly was - a majestic dragon, gaurdian of my dreams, protector of my soul. And as it nuzzled against me, purring softly, I knew that I was safe, that I was loved, and that no matter what challenges lay ahead, I would always have my dragon by my side.