The Black Dragon of Etholia
Once upon a time, in the land of Etholia, a young girl named Annalise lived with her kind and gentle parents. They were simple folks, known throughout the village for their helpful nature. However, it wasn't their kindness that set them apart but the fascinating tales about their weeklong disappearance as a newlywed couple. The tales recounted their mysterious encounter with the Black Dragon of Etholia. The dragon had tormented the villagers for years before suddenly disappearing. Annalise grew up, deeply influenced by the story of the Black Dragon.
Every night before bed, her father would recount stories of the dragon - its mighty wings, dark as the stormy midnight sky, and its bellowing roar that shook mountains. The villagers said they had heard the dragon's roar on quiet nights, echoing from the mysterious Dark Forest.
Annalise was fascinated, and despite her parent's plea, she decided to find the Black Dragon. She had no weapons or training, just her wits and determination. She packed food and water in her small bag and started her journey towards the Dark Forest.
As Annalise ventured deeper into the forest, she found herself amidst the remnants of battle long forgotten. Cuirasses, helms, and riveted mail, they were strewn all over. She could sense a somber energy, a silent mourning of brave warriors lost to the dragon.
On the third day, she reached the heart of the forest. Suddenly, she could sense the air getting colder and denser. She felt the ground shiver, a sound so profound that the forest itself seemed to tremble. It was the dragon, larger than any beast she had ever seen, its scales shimmering with an ominous glow. Their eyes met, and Annalise saw a haunting sorrow in them.
Summoning her courage, she spoke, 'Why did you cause such terror?' The dragon regarded her carefully before answering, 'It wasn't out of free will. I was under the witch's curse and had no control over my actions.'
Annalise was taken aback but realized she had a task at hand - to free the Black Dragon from its centuries-old curse. She remembered her father, mentioning how every curse had a reversal spell hidden in the books of The Grand Etholian Library.
She returned to the village, this time with more determination. After weeks of studying ancient texts, she found the spell and returned to the Dark Forest. Performing the spell required immense courage and resolve, but Annalise was ready. As the last word left her lips, a blinding light wrapped around the Dragon. The entire forest shook, and when she opened her eyes, a beautiful black stallion stood where the dragon was.
Contrary to the villagers, the Black Dragon was not an embodiment of terror but a victim. Annalise's courage and resolution had not only freed the dragon but also eradicated the fear residing in the villagers' hearts.
The story of a young girl who tamed the Black Dragon became a legend in Etholia. It was told around the fireplaces and passed down generations. It served as a reminder that things aren't always what they seem, that courage could shed light even in the darkest moments, and the importance of having the heart to uncover the truth.