The Drakon struck first.
Astrid barely had time to leap as massive claws came crashing down, shattering the stone beneath her. The impact sent a shockwave through the ruins, dust and debris flying in every direction.
"You are fast. But not fast enough."
Astrid smirked as she landed on her feet, rolling her shoulders. "That was slow. Are you holding back?"
The Drakon let out a deep growl. "Foolish human. I have not even begun."
With a flick of its tail, a torrent of fire erupted from its maw, engulfing the battlefield in an inferno of orange and gold. The heat was overwhelming, turning the air thick with smoke.
Astrid dashed to the side, barely avoiding the flames. She could feel the heat licking at her skin, singeing the edges of her cloak.
She couldn't fight this thing head-on.
Her mind raced. Drakons were creatures of power, but also of pride. If she couldn't win by force, she had to win by wit.
She sheathed her swords and raised her hands in mock surrender. "Alright, you win."
The Drakon paused, narrowing its glowing golden eyes. "You surrender? Just like that?"
Astrid tilted her head. "No. I just realized something."
"And what is that?"
She smirked. "You haven't killed me yet."
The beast's tail twitched. It knew she was right.
"You are an unusual human," the Drakon admitted.
Astrid stepped forward, slowly. "If you wanted me dead, I would be ash by now. But instead, you're testing me. Why?"
The Drakon let out a low rumble, staring at her intently. "Because I smell something on you. Something... ancient."
A strange energy pulsed in Astrid's veins. A warmth that wasn't just from the fire.
She took another step. "Then let's make a deal."
The Drakon let out a short laugh, a sound like rolling thunder. "A deal? With a human?"
She folded her arms. "Fight me to your heart's content. But if I win, you serve me."
A long silence followed. Then—
"And if you lose?"
Astrid smirked. "Then you eat me. Fair?"
The Drakon's eyes gleamed with amusement. Then, it lowered its stance, claws digging into the earth.
"Very well, warrior. Prove your worth."
And with that, the real battle began.