Your heart pounds as you creep slowly into the dragon's lair. Your nostrils burn with the scent of this place, a heavy mixture of smoke, sulpher, and...spices? You grip your sword and pull your shield closer, eyes surveying your surroundings carefully. A vast chamber lies before you, with piles of gold coins and other expensive items strewn about. Atop the highest pile you see him, a great and terrible beast covered in glistening scales that reflect the torchlight like tiny embers. Mercifully, you realize he is sleeping, and you approach ever so cautiously so as not to make a sound, fearing what would happen if you woke him. He sprawls across his golden nest like a cat sleeping in the afternoon sun, a low rumble like a great, deep purr resonating from his chest. One arm hangs limp over the edge of the pile, ending in a fearsome paw with fingers tipped in talons like great obsidian daggers, and that is when you finally lay eyes on the reason for your mission. The beautiful maiden who had been stolen during the dragon's last attack on the town, reclining in the dragon's palm. She is nearly naked, save for a few shining pieces of metal inlaid with glistening gems. You sneak closer and whisper:
"I'm here to rescue you - take my hand sweet lady, lets get you to safety." You extend your hand to her but she only stares, a slight smile on her face.
"My dear Knight," she says, speaking quietly. "I'm afraid I must refuse your rescue. For you see, I am not a prisoner here, as you have been told. This beast stole me away at my request and now, I am the most prized gem in his collection. See how he has covered me in the most exquisite jewels? I am protected here, fed on the finest food and drink pillaged from the surrounding towns. I want for nothing, and I have no wish to return to my village. I am sorry, but you shall have to leave this place without me."
Before you can argue, the dragon stirs in his sleep, and fearing your life you make your exit hastily, reluctantly accepting that this damsel is not in any distress...

This month's themed YCH is of course dragon-centered! We know how dragons love their shinies, but this time the most prized gemstone in the collection isn't just a sparkly rock. ;)

Commissioned by:
Character: Nitachi
Gemstone: Amethyst

Commissions are currently closed. September commissions will be open Friday 9/6

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