The rough and cracking voice echoed in the silence and Dover, still disoriented from his missed attack, couldn't immediately locate its source. Preparing himself for anything as he tried to clear his vision, he drew his axe and rose into a defensive crouch. After blinking several times the spots faded and allowed his eyes to search through the dust for the one who spoke. Eventually they fell upon the figure of a naked man sprawled nearby on the ground. That man's body was battered and bloody, the skin on his side torn and bleeding. Despite his injured state, his piercing silver eyes blazed with life as they met Dover's own.

Muttering to himself between coughs, the man’s words could barely be heard. “How did he do it... None of my spells... Brutal... Monster...” Composing himself, he struggled to his knees, raised his hands to his head, rumpled his thick black hair, and shouted to the sky “DAMN IT! I’m a lover, not a fighter!” Then sat back down and faced the very confused woodsman.

When Dover didn’t react he threw his hands up in exasperation. He sighed before resuming his grumbling. “Now he gets confused. You’d think a roaring dragon would at least cause him to pause.” Massaging his temple with his hand, he shook his head. Looking towards Dover expectantly he asked, “Well, what do you want?” He glared at him and waited.

Stolen novel; please report.

Dover blinked and stared back, unable to process what had just happened. It wasn’t a trick, the man had the injuries he inflicted on the dragon, though they were already healing. It was strangely enthralling seeing the skin slowly knitting itself together. As the stranger coughed again, a mix of impatience and pain, Dover broke out of his reverie and answered, his words as much a question as a statement. “The abducted women.”

“Oh, is that all?” The man laughed before breaking down coughing. After regaining his breath he absently gestured towards the cave’s entrance. “Go on in and say hello.”

Dover stared at him.

“Ok, fine. Help me up. I’ll bring you to them.” The man said while reaching out a hand.

Pausing suspiciously, Dover appraised the man. He was unarmed, heavily wounded despite his rapid healing, and had already surrendered. Dover shrugged, sheathed his axe, and grabbed his hand.

“Nice to meet you, traveler,” the man said as Dover pulled him to his feet. “You’d probably have trouble saying my real name, so feel free to call me Driks.” Releasing Dover’s hand he started slowly walking towards the cave. “Come along now, we’ll have a party...” His voice trailing off as he quietly chuckled.

Watching him closely, Dover cautiously followed behind.