The Apprentice and the Mystic Dragon
Once upon a time in the kingdom of Ghalàn, nestled between the luminescent elven woodlands and majestic mountains, lived a humble blacksmith, Bertilak. Blessing Bertilak was his equally humble, sprightly apprentice named Gavin.
In Ghalàn, darkness and light cohabited. Mystic Dragon, Baneclaw- a wearer of immaculate white scales contrasted with his jet-black aura, ominously ruled the surrounding mountains. Despite its usually benevolent nature, Baneclaw had caused an unceasing turmoil on the kingdom, thanks to a cursed artifact, the Obsidian Amulet, that had taken control of his mind.
Having suffered long, the natives beseech Bertilak - the most revered man in Ghalàn, to use his high craftsmanship to forge a sword of power able to stand against the Obsidian Amulet's curse. Deeply perturbed, Bertilak nodded in agreement, embarking on the most perilous journey of his life.
Gavin also yearned to participate, to prove his worth as a blacksmith and save his home. Watching Bertilak prepare for his journey, Gavin fervently asked permission to accompany him. The blacksmith hesitated but conceded seeing the determination in his apprentice's eyes. And so, the duo set off towards the mountains, steered by courage yet driven by fear.
They trekked for days, battling harsh winds and treacherous terrains. They marveled at the sight of nature's unwithering beauty and grieved at its devastating fury, but never did their determination falter.
On the fifth sunrise, they reached the sacred Iron Bell Mine, the only place housing the Godsend Metal - a sacred metal alloy with the potential to counteract baneful magic. Delving into the ancient mine, they encountered deadly horned serpents and lethal falling stalactites but never ceased their quest. Finally, their hunt bore fruit when they excavated a huge chunk of the legendary Godsend Metal, gleaming with potential.
Excitement and relief flooded their hearts as they began their journey back to Ghalàn, carrying not just Godsend Metal but the hopes of their kingdom. Upon return, they wasted no time fashioning a magnificent sword pulsating with raw power. Bertilak bestowed Gavin with the honor of naming the masterpiece. With due reverence and a hopeful smile, Gavin christened it 'Dragonson', pledging to sever Baneclaw's chain to the cursed amulet.
With Dragonson ready and the prophecy soon to be realized, Bertilak and Gavin set forth to the dragon's lair one last time. Baneclaw, anticipating their arrival, ferociously challenged the duo. A fierce battle ensued, chaos and bravery tangled together like an age-old folklore under the crimson dusk.
In a final clash, just as Bertilak swung Dragonson, Baneclaw's stoic wing flung him across the rocky terrain. All watched in horror as the old warrior lay at death's door. Then, something incredible happened. Gavin, bolstered by a surge of courage, snatched Dragonson and faced Baneclaw.
Drawing from all his strength, Gavin plunged Dragonson into the cursed amulet, shattering it into glittering shards. In those moments, the black aura around Baneclaw dissipated, leaving the dragon free of the bewitchment. The kingdom of Ghalàn heaved a great sigh of relief as they celebrated their victory and Gavin's valor.
Bertilak, who had survived the battle, was exceedingly proud of his apprentice for his dauntless courage. Gavin was no longer just an apprentice; he had become a saviour, a hero, a man of worth. He had indeed saved the day and the dragon, proving that even humble beginnings can give rise to heroes. This tale of the apprentice and the Mystic Dragon passed on to become a legend, a saga of courage, and friendship. The bard's favourite ballad to be sung in every corner of Ghalàn till the end of time.