The Dragon Slayer

   I was paralyzed with fear when  I heard it. A sound louder and more mysterious than I have ever heard before. Unsheathing my sword, I moved deeper into the ever ominous cave, engulfing me in almost absolute darkness. The smell of blood, sweat, and mildew fills my nostrils as water drips quietly down stalagmites. Then I see it. 

Huge, jet-black and covered in gold spines, this is the dragon I have been looking for. I brush my dark red hair out of my face and move slowly towards the gargantuan lizard. It appears to be asleep; the ominous sound its snoring. Now finally, I will be able to prove myself. People will look up to me as a hero. My stepsister, my schoolmates, even Sam. No. I can’t think of him right now. I have a dragon to slay.

“Avalon!” I hear someone cry behind me. No! Sam can’t stop me – not when I’ve come so close. I have to do this.

I start running towards the dragon. It wakes from the sound of my footsteps, revealing bright yellow, snake-like eyes. It exhales a jet of flames that nearly burns my arm off. Raising my sword higher, I skirt along the side of the cave wall, the flames licking my boots.

“Avalon!” He cries again, “Don’t do this!”

“I have to!” I yell with desperation, dodging another wall of fire.

“I won’t let you.” He says, beside me now. I look deep into his eyes, and see my own scared reflection in them. Those light green eyes that mimic mine. And our mothers’ eyes. My mother. I see her in those eyes. In that auburn hair. This is my brother. He’s the only blood-relative I have left. I’m the only one left who cares for him.

“Okay,” I whisper, “But just for you.”