Chapter 11.

The Alliance of the Desperate

Dandara, now free of her shackles, walked more easily alongside her new allies. The giant barrow lumbered along, but the hope of finding the spring and the possibility of returning home gave them the strength to continue.

The beach castle of the silver-masked prince was several leagues away, and they knew they must move cautiously to avoid discovery.

The pig-faced creature, who called himself Gorn, whispered to Dandara as they advanced: We must be careful. The grumpy dragons are always vigilant. Any false move and we will be discovered.

The reptile, known as Zarek, nodded his scaly head. Our only chance is to act under the cover of night. The spring is hidden within a cave, but it is guarded by an ancient dragon. It will take all our cunning to reach it.

Dandara nodded, sensing the gravity of the situation. And ¿how will we find Lucia in the midst of all this? We don't know where in the castle they're holding her.

Gorn smiled weakly. We know some secret passages that will lead us directly to the dungeons. If Lucia is being held there, we'll find her.

Night began to fall, and darkness enveloped the landscape. Under the moonlight, the trio advanced silently, avoiding the dragon patrols that circled overhead. Every step they took brought them closer to their destination, but also increased the risk of discovery.

Finally, they reached the entrance to the cave where the spring was located. A heavy, mystical atmosphere enveloped them, and the echoes of their footsteps resonated off the stone walls. They knew the ancient dragon was near.

Zarek, with his reptilian strength, moved aside the rocks blocking the entrance to a secret passage. This way. We must proceed with caution.

Dandara and Gorn followed, feeling that each step brought them closer to the truth and to danger. The air grew thicker as they descended, and a deafening roar filled the space, shaking the walls.

The ancient dragon is awake, Gorn whispered, his voice trembling slightly. We must be quick.

The passageway led them to a hidden chamber where a faint glow illuminated a crystal-clear spring. At its center, the towering figure of a dragon was reflected in the water. Its eyes shone with a golden light, and its scales gleamed with an ethereal glow.

¿Who dares disturb my sanctuary? roared the ancient dragon, its voice echoing like thunder.

Dandara, summoning all her courage, took a step forward. I am Dandara, and we have come in search of the spring that will allow us to return home. We seek only freedom and justice.

The dragon watched Dandara with interest. Bravery and honesty are rare qualities these days. But the path to freedom is not easy. You must pass a test to prove your worth.

The cave shook, and a series of challenges appeared before them. From suspension bridges over chasms to puzzles they had to solve to open hidden doors. Each step was a test of ingenuity and courage.

With time running out, Dandara, Gorn, and Zarek worked together to overcome the challenges. Teamwork and determination led them to overcome each obstacle, until they finally reached the spring.

The ancient dragon nodded, satisfied. They have proven themselves worthy. The spring will allow them to open a window to different realities. Use your wisdom and do not stray from your true purpose.

With the dragon's instructions, Dandara and her allies knew their mission was not yet over. They had to find Lucia, who must be being tortured and suffering greatly.