Here gold, silver, diamond, jewels from far land and fair prince. Here crown from long-dead king, shining silver corselet of brave knight, swollen bags of golden coins and jewel-rimmed goblets.

The great worm swung his head, ragged wisps of smoke escaping as he snuffled at his treasure.

“Mine,” he rumbled, deep within his throat. “Mine.”

With a groan, he dragged himself forward, belly sliding stickily. Red stained the spilling hoard and ran in channels down its sides. With a last effort, he unfolded his bat-like wings and spread them over his treasure. Lovingly, he rubbed his snout against it.

“Mine.”