"Are you certain?" the beast asked. "You will suffer your family's torments no longer. Once you know the truth, you will understand your purpose."
"Purpose…" I whispered. "I'd rather get my leg back. And safe passage out of these tunnels if you don't mind."
Abrath roared once more. I would learn, many years later, that the roar meant laughter for this beast. "Such a shame," he said. "When I heard your grandfather had traveled to hunt you down, I made a lair out of these caves. I knew your path would lead you here, so I waited. Of all Stalwart traits, I didn't expect you to inherit their stubbornness."
"Can we get this over with, please?" I asked. I held the crimson drop high enough for the beast to divert its attention toward it.
"You do realize," Abrath said, ignoring my clear show of impatience, "that I can kill you and take it from you."
