Hello, just to let you know I'm not a professional, just a writer like you.
Overall sense
Wonderful beginning, very strong POV. The characters came to life through the dialog. Was disappointed that this one was not left open to continue the story. I feel there is more to be told.
Areas of Improvement
A rightly deserved retirement if you will, never to be seen again by the local villagers. The cycle of death was at an end, all thanks to a brave, intelligent and in the end, a more humbled heroine. Instead of ending it hear, show Valerie going to the new land to see if all is going well, find some kind of conflict, either in the new land or back in her home, add some kind of repercussion to Ruby leaving.
Favorite line
W…wait! Why should a beautiful and grand dragon l… like y… you…” She needed more time to come up with a way to backpedal this conversation. This show your characters personality and quick wit. Great job

Thank you for writing and posting this for me to read. I will continue looking for your work. Mystic Angel