More than Gold

"What are you worth?" the question echoes in the cavernous room. The scent of ash and fire licking my nostrils. The sound of clattering coins and precious artifacts are nearly drowned by the deafening growl coming from the massive monstrosity now recoiled atop the golden spoils and plunder.

The icy chill running down my spine leaves my legs weak as I realize I've slunk to the floor. My heart beating furiously in my ears leaves a well of dread in my chest.

There's no escape.

I've met my end.

"Nothing. No more and no less than any other human. My life's worth is for you to decide" my words falter as I struggle to breathe.

The illuminated amber red eyes glowering down upon my face are unamused. It's large serpentine neck and enormous skull reaches out to close the distance between us. The iron stench of fresh blood is nauseating, flashes of what I just witnessed appear before my eyes. I dare not close them.

The sound of it's wet maw opening to reveal hundreds of razor sharp teeth and the low hiss from the back of it's throat leave me frozen.

"Not even a desire to scream, no tears streak your face, lacking the will to fight" it huffs blistering heat into my face as it speaks, but I am too cold to be bothered.

"I accept the challenge", it finishes.

It cranes it's neck away leaving me speechless.

Death could never have been more certain in that moment.

Why do I yet live?

I suppose there is nothing more that I can do but to find out why for myself, and at the ebony dragon's benevolence.