Humans have reason to hate us dragons. If one dragon turns against humankind, he is a great and terrible foe.

Keegan opened his eyes and gasped in awe when he saw his gift. In his hand was a beautiful silver ring. It had a bright, shining ruby embedded in the center, and two golden dragons on either side of the ruby seemed to be caressing it, making it the most stunning ring Keegan had ever seen.

He looked up at the waterfall and saw an enormous, beautiful, golden dragon standing part way in the cave and part way out, bathing in the cool, blue, falling water. His back was toward Keegan, his large tail swayed gracefully back and forth, and his giant leather wings were spread as far as the cave mouth would allow, letting the cool water run down them and into the pool.

The dragon raised his head and snorted repulsively, “Keep you as a slave? Never! I could do more for myself in a moment than you could for me in a lifetime...

May I help you?” Keegan asked, placing his hand on the hilt of his sword. “You may or you may not, as it is your decision. However, I would like some information, unless you should not give it to me,” the elder stated quickly and in a kind voice.

He looked back at Keegan and waved his hand dismissively. “We shall meet again, young Keegan. Though not as soon as you think.” He turned away and again began to shuffle down the street. “However, it will be sooner than you would like!” And with those final words, he continued to chuckle to himself until he disappeared into the darkness of the tiny street, leaving Keegan and Ardor standing alone in the middle of the tiny town square.