The girl was obviously lying. Such famous legends of people wouldn't bother with a child, a girl no less.

But, Erik considered, the Fourth Kingdom was know for it's wealth and swordsmanship. Those two combined might just produce a princess known for her blade.

But surely she wouldn't be better then him.

"I challenge you to a friendly duel then," Erik announced. He stood and unsheathed his sword.

"What's the prize?" The girl questioned, a sassy eyebrow raised.

"No prize."

"Now where's the fun in that? If I win, I get your sword."

"No deal." Erik scowled. "If you win you get Sheo's sword."

"My lord-" Sheo started to protest.

"Fine," Annabelle agreed. She stood as well and brandished her daggers.

"Oh no, not those. Swords only."

"I don't have a sword," Annabelle explained.

"Use Sheo's."

"My lord and lady, I don't believe this is a good idea-"

"Thank you Sheo," Annabelle said brightly, grabbing Sheo's sword.

"You're welcome," Sheo groaned.

"On guard," Erik called, raising his blade.

"Touché!" Annabelle yelled, sword clashing against Erik's. She swung the weapon lightening fast down at Erik's legs, then jumped to the side as he parried. Upper cut, side jab, diagonal slice - nearly decapitating him. Erik stumbled backward, breathing heavily. It was difficult defending against this girl.

Annabelle smiled, her sword raised. Erik glared back. Why was she so infuriatingly annoying?

"Give up?" the girl mocked.

"Not that easily," Erik snapped. He lunged forward and the tip of the deadly blade grazed the girl's cheek. Barely noticing, she used his distraction to her advantage and kneed him in the gut. Erik doubled over with a groan.

Why hadn't he put his armor on? Why was she so good?

Erik straightened, his pale blue eyes growing darker with rage. Sheo gulped and scooted back. Annabelle's crazed grin grew wider.

"I'm not losing this duel," she promised.

"Neither am I," Erik growled, sword coming up once again.

"Unless you want to get eaten, I suggest a truce!" Sheo yelped, pointing to the sky.

A shadow bigger then whole mountains sliced the air, darkened the sky, and blocked the sun. A terrible roar echoed across the land, and made our three companions drop to their knees in terror. Unconsciously, they scooted closer and huddled together in fear. The trees quavered, but sheltered the three from view.

"Who? Who!" The dragon screamed. The beast hissed and heat scorched the ground from it's breath. It's massive tail whipped the trees and a hundred were felled in that single flick. The gigantic wings flattened houses and crumbled hills just from the wind beating down.

The creature circled; then, finding nothing, it let out one final roar before soaring away again, back to it's lair in the far mountains.