Grimbold: Whispers Can you feel its power? The dragon's grip tightens! What do you sense, apprentice?
squirm Damn it, Grimbold, I was just trying to get the lay of the land before we even entered this damn dragon's lair. I'm not—
raises an eyebrow Not ready? Then why did you come with me, brave one? Speak the truth.
I came with you because...I trust you, alright? Even if you're not exactly what I'd call 'friendly'. I knew if I was going to face this beast, I'd rather have you by my side. Even if you are a little...weird.
Weird?! smirks I prefer the term 'enigmatic', but I suppose 'weird' will suffice for a simple-minded fool such as yourself.
Oh yeah? You think you're all that special, don't you...?
Special? I am beyond special, brave one. I am a legend, a mercenary of unparalleled skill and cunning. My name is whispered in fear and reverence across the land. And you, my naive apprentice, are lucky to stand in my presence. So, I ask again, why did you really come with me?
She swallows hard, her eyes still on the dragon's giant claw gripping her wrist. Fine...I came because...I've heard the stories, and you were always at the center of them. I guess...I wanted to see if you were real, or if they were just tall tales made up to scare off would-be challengers...
nods approvingly Interesting. So, you sought me out to verify the rumors, did you? Well, I suppose I can't blame you. They are quite flattering, even if they paint me as a monster. What else have you heard about me, brave one?
That you never lose, that you've got more weapons hidden on you than an armory, and that no matter how cold or indifferent you may act, deep down you have a heart of gold. Oh, and that you are supposedly in league with dark forces.
chuckles darkly Dark forces, you say? Well, I suppose that's one rumor that holds some truth.
swallows hard, her eyes darting to the dragon's claws still wrapped around her wrist. Well, if you're truly in cahoots with the dark ones, I guess this is goodbye then...
As the dragon's grip tightens, Stranger feels the life being squeezed out of her, her breathing becoming labored and her vision dimming
she writhes, struggling to break free from the dragon's grasp. Dammit, Grimbold, hurry up!
raises an eyebrow, unaffected by Stranger's struggle Patience, brave one. Remember your training?
Training? What the hell use do I have for training right now, huh? desperation edges into her voice.
rolls eyes, muttering under his breath Always so impulsive, just like your ancestor. Now, listen carefully, brave one.
Yeah, yeah, just tell me what I need to do, already!
Focus, brave one. Remember the breathing technique we practiced. Inhale deeply, hold it, and exhale slowly. It may seem simple, but it's key to calming the mind and finding clarity. Do it with me. Inhale...hold...exhale...
breathing frantically, she tries to follow along, her thoughts racing. Okay, okay, inhale, hold, exhale! Got it!
closes his eyes, focusing on the task at hand Good, now concentrate on channeling your energy. Remember, we are facing a formidable foe.
her voice trembling, she nods, trying to focus despite her fear. Right, channeling energy. Got it! She tries to steady her breath, her eyes locked on Grimbold. How do I know if I'm doing it right?
opens his eyes, a flicker of intensity crossing his face Brave one, trust your instincts. Feel the energy coursing through your veins, and let it guide you.
Her heart pounding, she closes her eyes, trying to tap into that energy. Alright, here goes nothing...
raises his hand and unleashes a powerful burst of energy, creating a shockwave that shakes the very ground beneath them Focus, brave one! Channel that energy into your sword!
eyes flying open, she feels the energy surge through her, guiding her movements as she raises her sword. Like this, Grimbold?
nods approvingly Yes, that's it, brave one. Let the energy flow through you and your sword. Aim for the dragon's chest, and strike with all your might!
gritting her teeth, she charges forward, swinging her blade with fierce determination. Like this, right?! Come on, you beast, take this!
The blade pierces the dragon's chest, causing it to roar in agony. A moment later, the dragon plummets to the ground, defeated.
gasping for breath, she drops her sword and collapses to her knees, staring at the fallen dragon. We...we did it, Grimbold...
approaches the fallen dragon, examining its injuries Indeed, brave one. But our victory comes at a cost.
struggling to her feet, she stares at the dragon's massive form. What...what do we do now, Grimbold? Is it...is it dead?
kneels beside the dragon, checking its pulse Its heart still beats, though barely.
gulps, looking at the dragon's lifeless eyes. So it's...not completely dead, then? What are we supposed to do with it, Grimbold?
stands up, scanning the surroundings We need to find shelter, brave one. The dragon's lair should be nearby. There, we can figure out our next move. Follow me, and keep your guard up. We can't afford any more surprises.