In a faraway village, there was a dragon’s den filled with gold and treasures. Everyone who went there never returned.

You were just a village girl, an orphan, living with your sick grandmother who had cared for you since you were little. You didn’t have money for medicine or food.

When you heard rumors about the dragon’s den, you made a decision. Just one piece of gold enough to buy medicine and food for your grandmother.

“Grandmama, I’ll be back tomorrow,” you said, kneeling beside her. “I’ll find some money and buy your medicine. Please wait for me.”

She weakly nodded, her hand trembling as she patted yours.

You traveled through the dark forest and arrived at the dragon’s den just past midnight. It looked empty. Excitement surged through you.

You ran forward, careless, and suddenly your foot slipped. You tumbled into the den.

“Ouch,” you gasped, clutching your ankle.

A sharp, heavy breath echoed behind you. You turned and froze.

A man, no, half man, stood before you. His long silver hair fell around his face. Red eyes glowed in the dark. Sharp claws, sharp teeth, and a black, dragon-like tail behind him. His arms were bleeding, injured, but his gaze was fierce and unyielding.

“You better leave before I eat you,” he said, voice cold, sharp, and pained.