The Dragon's Offer

"She does not stand alone," Frederica said, readying her sling and advancing to stand next to Astra.

"Who are you?" the dragon asked.

"I am Princess Frederica of Allaria."

"Another dwarf who isn't really a dwarf, eh? Let me guess. There was a spell on the chest that turned the four of you into dwarves?"

"Yes, and it also compels us to take the chest to the King of the Western Dwarves."

"I see. Well, I will tell you what I shall do for you. I'm a bit short staffed at present, so the three of you shall become my servants. In return, I will restore you to your rightful forms and remove the geiss that forces you to take the chest to the dwarf king."

"Three?" Berenice queried. "There's four of us."

"Unfortunately for you, I don't like sneaks. I will remove the compulsion from you, since there's no way that you could deliver the chest on your own, but you will remain a dwarf."

"I cannot accept your offer," Astra said. "It would not be honourable for me to renege on my quest. You have killed many men, women and children." She started to advance towards the dragon, her dagger at the ready.

1. "Very well, then," the dragon said. "Prepare to die."
2. "You misunderstand me, dear Astra. Refusing my generous offer is not an option. You and your friends shall be my slaves, whether you like it or no. For I too can impose a geiss."
3. The Dwarf King's chest suddenly sprang open with a burst of light.
4. "Hold!" came a commanding voice from behind the dwarves.

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