The kingdom of Viflandia had known peace for centuries until the dragon Guddri emerged. This malevolent beast seized power and imposed taxes upon all. Naturally, the people resolved to rid themselves of the cursed usurper…
The Stern Ruler
Many years ago, the kingdom of Viflandia was ruled by the dragon Guddri. He was an extraordinarily greedy creature, concerned with nothing but gold and precious gems. The formidable sovereign of Viflandia commanded the construction of a temple adorned with numerous chambers for offerings.
The dragon imposed exorbitant taxes on every city, village, and settlement. At times, he would leave his temple to survey Viflandia far and wide, ensuring that all paid their due tribute. The ruler was well aware of the cunning nature of his subjects—they were capable of erecting entire towns or villages without informing him of their existence.
There are no More Brave Knights Left
The most valiant warriors of Viflandia repeatedly endeavoured to vanquish Guddri. However, on one particularly bleak day, their courage was exhausted.
The people no longer wished to perish amid the torrents of hellish flame spouting from the dragon’s jaws. The inhabitants of Viflandia, from the northernmost reaches to the southern borders, and from east to west, resigned themselves to the reign of their immortal sovereign.
Taxes Above All
Aside from the exorbitant taxes, Guddri was a relatively tolerable ruler. He would not harm anyone without cause, except those who refused to pay. In such cases, the dragon would descend upon a city, village, or settlement and incinerate all its defiant residents along with their homes.
Nevertheless, such occurrences were exceedingly rare. Every individual, from the illiterate peasant to the highest-ranking lord, understood the necessity of paying tribute. One might sacrifice food, clothing, a home—indeed anything at all—but Guddri’s due was absolute. Failing this meant that he would return to reduce all to ashes, scattered to the winds.
The Dragons Appetites Grow
The henchmen appointed by the dragon extorted the commoners to their very last gold coin. The ruler of Viflandia was pleased with their efforts. Each year, his wealth grew exponentially as an endless procession of carts and wagons, laden with gold, diamonds, and precious gems, arrived at his temple.
Over time, Guddrí yearned for greater power. He increased taxes to such an extent that the existence of the people became utterly unbearable. The henchmen, who acted as the dragon’s eyes and hands, convened a clandestine council where they unanimously resolved to eliminate the malevolent creature, which had become utterly mad with greed.
The Courageous Have Vanished but the Wizards Still Exist
Certainly, no one dared to confront Guddrí in honest combat. It was universally understood that even the bravest and most formidable knight, a master of the sword, stood no chance whatsoever—once the dragon parted its jaws, the valiant warrior would be consumed in a torrent of flames, along with his armour, steed, and ambitions. Only smouldering embers would remain.
The cospirators sought out the most skilled wizards of Viflandia. Naturally, they agreed to aid in their quest to eradicate the cursed dragon. The conspiring bunch provided them with all of the necessary conditions for their experiments—gold, rare ingredients, and willing test subjects.
The Power of Magic
As a result, the wizards crafted a powerful spell of magical barrier. Under the cover of night, they infiltrated Guddrí’s temple and sealed the gates with enchantments.
Later, the dragon was livid with rage upon realising what had transpired. It tore and raged, desperately attempting to break free from its own sanctuary, which had been constructed within the mountain of Gemza. Fortunately for the inhabitants of Viflandia, its efforts were in vain.
Dragon’s Treasure
Since then, adventurers have endeavoured to lift the enchantment, aiming to breach Guddrí’s temple and seize as much gold as they can carry. They believe that the dragon has long since perished.
But who can say for certain? The only way to find out and to amass great wealth is to unlock the door sealed by magic…
