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Description
*THERE IS A STORY BELOW THE DESCRIPTION*

I do love monster girls and there was one missing in my menagerie/harem of OC's: a kobold.

Usually low-level encounters in many RPG's, be it tabletop or otherwise, I find them usually pretty interesting with their relationship with dragons. After seeing Gameboyred draw one of those gals, I decided I wanted one for myself and they obliged. The chains, her colors and her general design are pretty neat, inspiring a cool fantasy story that you can read just below.

If you like Gameboyred's work, you can commission them and here are their prices:

If you like my work and want to support me, you can check out my Patreon right here: www.patreon.com/incredibleintr…

Now just who is she? Read on and find out!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

KOBOLD AND DRAGON

Once upon a time, there was a dragon living inside a mountain.

Much like most of his kind, he had a massive hoard of treasure that came from all parts of the world. Coins, gems, fine art, artifacts and magical items of all sorts were collected there by various means, be it from raiding during the creature's young age, pilfering in other dragon's hoard as per battle for territories, but most usually it was gains from defeating adventurers who wanted what the dragon had earned over centuries of existence. This one was called Kyrxief and he was, for all intents and purpose, a rather splendid though cruel member of his species. Proud to a fault, conceited some would even say, he had high confidence in his might and abilities, with them indeed being well-reasoned for given his long life and his current success as the lord of a mountain. Within could be found a race of people whom some thought were descended from dragons themselves, though none knew if there was any truth to that statement: kobolds.

Diminutive beings, usually weak yet with light draconic traits, those who did live in the mountain were a most peaceful race, content to be left alone as they had been protected by a dragon in the past whom they revered...yet that was before Kyrxief came along and vanquished them, laying claim to their spot as the kobolds had nowhere else to go. The outside world was too cruel, too wild for them, with many of those in the profession of adventuring seeing them as pests and evil for worshipping dragons, thus they would get slain. Hoping for things to go along as they did, Kyrxief instead used them as slaves and servants, culling adventurers who'd dare try to reach him as the poor kobolds who knew not how to fight had to quickly learn...and the little who did survive saw their calm existence get shattered in a torrent of turmoil. Too afraid to leave and to rebel, those who live beneath the rock and hills had to adapt in order to survive...and so they did for many generations up to this day. Either they became warriors and tried to fend off invaders...or they became servants and polished the treasury, brought food to their master-god known as Kyrxief or tried to entertain him.

Xyfa was one of such, a pretty woman by kobold standards, the kind many would love to meet and perhaps get to know, alas her role was that of dancer to the great Kyrxief. As part of his harem, an honor that he himself told was grand beyond compare, he occasionally turned into a more humanoid shape, smaller though no-less powerful, and blessed them with his attention...if they were worthy. Kept apart from her people, from her family like all the others in the harem, she was but a concubine meant to compete yet without the drive to do so, for like a great many she hated Kyrxief and wished for him to go away forever. Yet to voice such desires was tantamount to suicide, much like trying to steal even a single gold coin from the hoard and while they were numerous...he far outclassed every single one of them combined. Ever locked in a private little room with golden chains attached to cuffs and a collar, they only unlocked due to an enchantment which meant that she was to perform...like her mother and grandmother did back in the old days.

Her magenta scales were polished, her horns embellished with gold as her purple bedlah had been washed and perfumed prior, all in preparation for when Kyrxief would deign give her a chance to impress him. Her heart was not in it, but even though seducing him was far from an objective in her long-term or short-term goals, surviving was and thus she needed to play the part. Her underbelly scales had been cleaned, made to glisten due to some special oil as she came in front of the colossal dragon, his black scales going on to look even more sinister beneath the light of torches and pyres. Most of her people were behind him, working to either clean him or his treasure as naught would observe her dance, for it was a privilege for the dragon himself.

“Ah, Xyfa. I do so hope you will be more impressive than the last one who tried to woo me. Such a shame her heart was not in it,” Kyrxief went on to say, a barely veiled threat and declaration that one of her companion in the harem was walking on thin ice. The terrible creature went on to look at the kobold, observing how she looked as the whole outfit had been an idea of his, his time in the desert certainly leaving an impression on him due to reasons unknown. “Something is missing in your ensemble, but let me arrange this for you. Take something from this satchel and lodge it in your midriff. I insist~”

Such cruel generosity was often seen from the one who ought be called master, lest his sour mood claim the life of one of their own. Gifts like these were meant to show that he could be kind, that their obedience would be rewarded, yet it was only ever for his own gain that he did this, like trying to embellish the one who'd try to titillate him...or else. Refusing was not an option, however, so Xyfa went on to approach the satchel which was tiny as far as the dragon's perception was...but huge for her own smaller hands. Within could be found amethysts aplenty, some perfectly spherical while others were showcasing either rough or polished facets. All were splendid, much to her dismay as it meant she hesitated and made the dragon wait, yet eventually one among them all truly caught her eye, in more ways than one.

Something within that crafted gemstone spoke to her, quite literally, yet in thoughts and impressions rather than any spoken language. The kobold felt it in her bones, in her horns and on her scales that this was the one she was meant to wear, a powerful sentiment that pushed her to pick it up as she inserted it in her navel almost by automatism. The moment it lodged in, she felt a certain tingle invade her, making her shiver for a moment as Xyfa sensed the gemstone somewhat fusing with her underbelly scales. Yet as she pondered just what had happened, Kyrxief placed the satchel away and then tapped on the ground with one of his claws, a sign that she wasn't meant to make him wait too long, unless she wished to draw his ire upon her. This moment of distraction became brief as Xyfa knew very well that this tyrant was impatient and prone to punishment for others as he then made it so an enchantment meant to produce music, magical self-playing instruments, were activated so as to procure her a rhythm and pace for her steps and sways.

She had done so many times prior, ever holding herself back so that she wouldn't impress him too much. She wished not to spend time with him, trying to cut it short to the barest minimum whenever she was able. Thus she never went all-in with her dancing, herself and others aware that she was among the very best performers. Nevertheless this time was different, an innate feeling that she needed to be splendid as she went on to spin, gyrate and undulate in a way that could woo even those with disgust for her race. The diminutive draconic beast went on to get lost in her own dance, the music acting as if it was prodding her on gently, caressing her entire body as she responded in kind with a sensuality that went beyond what she she thought herself capable of. She knew not how nor why, but in this instant she felt light and joyful.

“It seems like I had a gem in my harem all this time...” Kyrxief went on to say, never one to let an artist work without interruption, with no commentary overlapping. The kobold was indeed magnificent, far more than he could expect as her magenta scales were akin to little gemstones, glistening in a way that almost turned her ethereal, as if she were a part of his treasury that had come to life. He watched her intently, smirking and breathing heavily and yet as it went on, a rare occurrence was to be witnessed as the mighty and terrible dragon did something that he hadn't before in such circumstances: he fell silent. Xyfa did not even realize it, too caught up in her own steps as she took charge of the space she was allowed, this cursed stage where she risked her life and dignity upon, yet for now it was out of her mind as she then went for a final flourish, taking a pose of strength and allure as she looked up and realized a particularly troubling development had popped up: spirals in the eyes of Kyrxief.

They were of amethyst and magenta, focused solely on her as she knew now what they meant, not what it could do. Was it a spell that the dragon was preparing? Had she angered him in some way? She felt afraid, falling on her knees as she pleaded for her life. “Please, master. I did not mean to anger you, lay your wrath away and let me live, I implore you!” she said and it barely seemed to register for the dragon, as if absent-minded. Terrifying silence followed as her heart went on to pound incredibly fast, her lips trembled and yet he finally responded.

“Of...course...” Kyrxief answered slowly, in a tone that felt lifeless and devoid of any barb, intellect or even consciousness. Xyfa knew not what this meant, if he had been bored by her own dancing, if he was sleepy. The unknown scared her to no end, ever expecting for the dragon to swallow her in one bite, a shallow and cruel end for anyone to suffer through. Yet he was barely responsive, almost as if he was expecting her to talk instead of the opposite. She felt faint, downright on the verge of collapsing as she tried her best to formulate a query without sounding arrogant, while reminding herself of her place.

“Please, oh great master. This dance...it drew much from me. I would be a poor mate for the night, far less than what you deserve if you were to grant me the immense favor of your attention,” Xyfa began to ask, weighing in if this was too bold of her, too great a request for someone who had just come by. “I would need some rest, so that I may study how best to please you, to tantalize you as is your right and my duty. Can I...can I retire for the night, divine Kyrxief?”

“You...may...” he answered and without waiting one instant she bowed in respect and then went away slowly and serenely at first...only to flee as fast as she could. Tears in her eyes, the dread she felt making her want to almost hurl as she figured that she had come close to death, to a horrible fate. She came back to the quarters that were granted to her, needing time to breathe and to recenter herself. She sat down, splashing some water on her face and looking at herself in the mirror as she calmed down little by little, panic settling down as she tried to understand what had happened, why Kyrxief was acting in such a way and how come she felt so unafraid and happy when she danced as opposed to past occasions. No answers came as she went on to collapse on her bed, dozing off as all of this had drained her completely. She fell asleep and regained some of her strength as she woke up and walked around the next day as she noticed something of immense importance: her own chains hadn't been reconnected.

It wasn't like their cruel master to forget, for even those with his favor ought never forget their status, his very own words, yet she had been free this whole time and hadn't realized. The collar and cuffs were still on her, yet the golden chains were merely roaming around, sliding on the ground occasionally as she wondered just why it was so. Time wasn't on her side to solve this enigma, however, as practice was about to begin, the sound of quarters and cells opened up in order for those in the harem to train. They were all supposed to lift each other up...so that they could please their master more efficiently. Camaraderie in slavery, used against them as Xyfa went along with it, knowing not what else to do. It was ever a delicate balance between supporting one another and actually trying to improve, stalling being usually a sin as far as their master was concerned. Xyfa herself being one of the more talented dancer, she went on to demonstrate her own skills as she performed and tried to show off what she came up with, yet as she did so she realized two things: her navel gem was still there and everyone looking at her seemed to be impossibly fascinated with every moves she showed off.

“You...are you all alright?” she asked, unable not to connect this with what had happened to Kyrxief yesterday as they all nodded in an eerily synchronized fashion. Amethyst and magenta swirls in their eyes, a limp body, following any and all of her motions, listening intendedly...something was going on that had never happened before, with Xyfa certainly bright enough to put two and two together, as the newest element was definitely this gem that had been offered to her, the one which caught her gaze perhaps a little too much yesterday. Curious, she tried one thing, both dreading and hoping for a certain result. “Stand on one leg, each one of you.”

The fact that they obeyed without question, maintaining balance and still observing her made everything click together as Xyfa figured that she had somewhat charmed, mesmerized or hypnotized Kyrxief. He had been too cooperative, less demanding than usual and those eyes couldn't entirely lie as it also explained why she hadn't been chained yesterday: he forgot. He had been trapped in his mind, which meant that if she played her cards right...she might be able to change everything. It was a lot to take in and, unfortunately, she didn't have the time to ponder more seriously upon it as eunuch guards went on to appear, looking exactly at her. Kyrxief was demanding for her especially as her heart skipped a beat. The dragon was wise and savvy, observant too, which meant that perhaps he had realized what had happened and he'd punish her. Yet there was no occasion to do anything as she was escorted toward him, fully expecting to perish now as she made her way to him, wishing to flee, yet this would be a bad move and she knew it. Disobedience leading to harm or demise was perhaps the first thing they were taught.

“Aaaah, Xyfa. I had no idea you hid such talent, such spunk. Or perhaps it bloomed while thinking of your master, due to your hard work?” the dragon went on to say, his tone pleased as he eyed her, massively towering over her as the kobold wondered if he was teasing, making her drop her guard in order to better punish her, granting her a false sense of security. “Very tense, are we? I need not tell you that I have high expectations of you, especially since yesterday. You may become a favorite of mine quickly if you proceed on~”

This was meant to be encouraging, to be suave, yet while Xyfa was indeed still scared, this whole lack of harm, revenge or menacing words did revealed a truth that was game-changing: he did not remember his own lethargy and compliance. Thus did a decision need to be taken, a choice that could alter everything as she was on the edge of becoming a hero to her people. This was a lot of pressure, too much for a kobold whose skill was solely dancing, at least as far as the dragon was concerned, but she needed to be brave.

“I am overjoyed to hear this, great master. May this dance prove as worthy of your gaze as the previous one~” she said, feigning delight upon hearing his praise and the promise of further courtship as the kobold went on to dance. She wanted to test this out, to figure out just how far she could take this as she performed, going for an over-emphasis on her midriff as her clawed fingers rubbed close to the gem, her underbelly somewhat animated as if simulating a raging sea, waves of scales and flesh tantalizing the dragon. “Just look and let me take care of everything, master. Let yourself drift away in my performance~”

Telling him what to do, even in a suggestive and sensual fashion, could be courting with death for some, but the swirls in his eyes reappeared as whatever this gem was...it was strong enough to influence the mind of an elder dragon. Kyrxief nodded, did as he was told as there was even the hint of drool escaping from his jaw, creating a puddle nearby. This told her everything she needed to know as he was not of sound mind, vulnerable and suggestible as the gem held power beyond her comprehension...and it was just as well.

“Master, oh beloved Kyrxief, I have an idea to better things for you, to improve upon your life, for your time is invaluable,” Xyfa began to say, understanding that she did not need to take unnecessary chances in her formulation, his pride still being larger than he was. She came close, placed one hand on his lower jaw as if he were a lover as she tenderly brushed her digits against his scales. “Too many adventurers are trying to reach you and we are ill-equipped to deal with them. If they could actually fend them off with stronger weapons and tougher armors, you might never be disturbed ever again...and we could spend more time together~”

This was a trial, a test that could be either disastrous or miraculous, yet thankfully it was the latter as while Xyfa asked to be let away, a demand that was met positively, their warriors and guards were thus invited to the hoard and, while extremely wary at first, they each managed to land either a magically-enhanced weapon, stronger armor or both as this would massively improve their chances of survival. None knew who had managed to convince Kyrxief who was known for his greed and his nonchalance for their well-being, but eventually it made it indeed that the kobold fared better against invaders. This could be a great thing, yet Xyfa was not satisfied for it was short-term thinking, the kind of thought belonging to a slave and not a free and proud being. As such she began to ponder just how to best do things from here on out.

The first thing she abolished was both symbolic and practical, with chains being left alone now and forever. “Oh great Kyrxief, black-scaled wonder, our people could do so much for you if they were left free to walk, to work for your benefits. Imagine what splendor they could conjure and produce without restraints?” she said the day after and thus did the chains, collars and cuffs disappear, including hers. Cells were left open, which meant that families, lovers and friends could finally see each other again, much to the rejoicement of her people. Those in the harem itself were free to wander, with Kyrxief unaware of it all as Xyfa went on to make certain things would be okay...yet some of her companions began to talk of her, of the magenta-scaled heroine.

The second change she did in her plan was to reinforce the structure of their tunnels, something that would be costly for they were no artisans nor stonesmith. “Mighty Kyrxief, we want to improve not only our defense, but our places of worship devoted to you. We sing your name, yet want your effigies to be eternally set in stone not just for us, but for future generations. Let us employ experts and specialists, then sacrifice them to you in order for your secret to never spill out of this mountain,” Xyfa suggested, touching his treasury, especially for something he wouldn't benefit from or even see, would have never landed positively, yet her dance and his trance made it so he agreed as a good part of his gold was indeed used in the employment of dwarven stonesmiths, miners and so forth. While there was no love between kobold and dwarves, the latter had a love for gold which supplanted their dislike of the former as they went to work. It took them long, yet they came in numbers and took care of the mountain within to create something new and meant to be long-lasting: a sprawling city. Streets, boulevards, paved stone, fountains, everything for it to be perfect not just for kobolds, but for anyone who'd actually try to come within. All the while did Xyfa go on to dance for Kyrxief, making him fall for her looks and her spell as this made it so no matter the cost...he agreed.

Conversations and rumors went on to spread out of the mountain, dwarves coming in and out, as well as adventurers going in and actually going out unharmed, but also rich. This was due to Xyfa finding that it was easier to buy them out than risk the lives of their own to fend them off as soon their lives were not only left unthreatened...but they proliferated. Without chains, restraints and the strict minimum, children were had and went on to play outside, aware that a dragon was within and that he was terrible...yet that a dancing heroine was taking care of him. Tales of her exploits went on to spread further, of Xyfa the dancing kobold and of her deeds as soon 1/10th of Kyrxief's hoard was spent...and yet he wasn't even aware of it. No kobold worked on polishing each coins anymore, tending to his needs for his own trance was empowered through many, many sessions and inductions. Not quite harmless yet, but certainly tamed, Xyfa kept him in check as eventually there came the time for vengeance to be had and for things to proceed along. Thus did she ask for her companions and those helping her to take a great many sacks of coins and gems...and hire heroes to take care of Kyrxief once and for all. They needed professionals, as much like their city was built by knowledgeable experts, so did they need the same to destroy a dangerous dragon. The sacks came back, however, still full as much to her surprise, the heroes had heard of their plea and, as heroes did, went on to take care of the case. A dwarven berserker, a half-orc thief, a drow ranger, an elven mage, a cleric, a cat-girl monk and many more accompanied by some kind of...lamp lady? Those were the Golden Lamp Company and they took care of it.

Xyfa helped in the battle, pacifying the elder dragon as they landed blows that could fell mountains, launched spells that could alter reality and then the deed was done as the kobolds were free. Ceremonies were held, parades in the streets, festivities galore as they celebrated their heroes, but one name which was chanted above all was that of Xyfa, for they knew what she had done and how all of this came to be. Thus did the dancer become their queen, gaining herself a legendary reputation as she herself took both a husband and a spouse. The city in the mountain named Xyfalis in her honor, she lived long and prospered, forming a family and using the hoard of the cruel Kyrxief to create an economy which lasted for centuries, built on commerce and good relationships with other races. Her legacy would endure, dancing becoming sacred for her people as her gem would be passed on from generation to generation...and it would lead to a great many other adventures.

But this is another tale entirely.

Description
*THERE IS A STORY BELOW THE DESCRIPTION*

I do love monster girls and there was one missing in my menagerie/harem of OC's: a kobold.

Usually low-level encounters in many RPG's, be it tabletop or otherwise, I find them usually pretty interesting with their relationship with dragons. After seeing Gameboyred draw one of those gals, I decided I wanted one for myself and they obliged. The chains, her colors and her general design are pretty neat, inspiring a cool fantasy story that you can read just below.

If you like Gameboyred's work, you can commission them and here are their prices:

If you like my work and want to support me, you can check out my Patreon right here: www.patreon.com/incredibleintr…

Now just who is she? Read on and find out!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

KOBOLD AND DRAGON

Once upon a time, there was a dragon living inside a mountain.

Much like most of his kind, he had a massive hoard of treasure that came from all parts of the world. Coins, gems, fine art, artifacts and magical items of all sorts were collected there by various means, be it from raiding during the creature's young age, pilfering in other dragon's hoard as per battle for territories, but most usually it was gains from defeating adventurers who wanted what the dragon had earned over centuries of existence. This one was called Kyrxief and he was, for all intents and purpose, a rather splendid though cruel member of his species. Proud to a fault, conceited some would even say, he had high confidence in his might and abilities, with them indeed being well-reasoned for given his long life and his current success as the lord of a mountain. Within could be found a race of people whom some thought were descended from dragons themselves, though none knew if there was any truth to that statement: kobolds.

Diminutive beings, usually weak yet with light draconic traits, those who did live in the mountain were a most peaceful race, content to be left alone as they had been protected by a dragon in the past whom they revered...yet that was before Kyrxief came along and vanquished them, laying claim to their spot as the kobolds had nowhere else to go. The outside world was too cruel, too wild for them, with many of those in the profession of adventuring seeing them as pests and evil for worshipping dragons, thus they would get slain. Hoping for things to go along as they did, Kyrxief instead used them as slaves and servants, culling adventurers who'd dare try to reach him as the poor kobolds who knew not how to fight had to quickly learn...and the little who did survive saw their calm existence get shattered in a torrent of turmoil. Too afraid to leave and to rebel, those who live beneath the rock and hills had to adapt in order to survive...and so they did for many generations up to this day. Either they became warriors and tried to fend off invaders...or they became servants and polished the treasury, brought food to their master-god known as Kyrxief or tried to entertain him.

Xyfa was one of such, a pretty woman by kobold standards, the kind many would love to meet and perhaps get to know, alas her role was that of dancer to the great Kyrxief. As part of his harem, an honor that he himself told was grand beyond compare, he occasionally turned into a more humanoid shape, smaller though no-less powerful, and blessed them with his attention...if they were worthy. Kept apart from her people, from her family like all the others in the harem, she was but a concubine meant to compete yet without the drive to do so, for like a great many she hated Kyrxief and wished for him to go away forever. Yet to voice such desires was tantamount to suicide, much like trying to steal even a single gold coin from the hoard and while they were numerous...he far outclassed every single one of them combined. Ever locked in a private little room with golden chains attached to cuffs and a collar, they only unlocked due to an enchantment which meant that she was to perform...like her mother and grandmother did back in the old days.

Her magenta scales were polished, her horns embellished with gold as her purple bedlah had been washed and perfumed prior, all in preparation for when Kyrxief would deign give her a chance to impress him. Her heart was not in it, but even though seducing him was far from an objective in her long-term or short-term goals, surviving was and thus she needed to play the part. Her underbelly scales had been cleaned, made to glisten due to some special oil as she came in front of the colossal dragon, his black scales going on to look even more sinister beneath the light of torches and pyres. Most of her people were behind him, working to either clean him or his treasure as naught would observe her dance, for it was a privilege for the dragon himself.

“Ah, Xyfa. I do so hope you will be more impressive than the last one who tried to woo me. Such a shame her heart was not in it,” Kyrxief went on to say, a barely veiled threat and declaration that one of her companion in the harem was walking on thin ice. The terrible creature went on to look at the kobold, observing how she looked as the whole outfit had been an idea of his, his time in the desert certainly leaving an impression on him due to reasons unknown. “Something is missing in your ensemble, but let me arrange this for you. Take something from this satchel and lodge it in your midriff. I insist~”

Such cruel generosity was often seen from the one who ought be called master, lest his sour mood claim the life of one of their own. Gifts like these were meant to show that he could be kind, that their obedience would be rewarded, yet it was only ever for his own gain that he did this, like trying to embellish the one who'd try to titillate him...or else. Refusing was not an option, however, so Xyfa went on to approach the satchel which was tiny as far as the dragon's perception was...but huge for her own smaller hands. Within could be found amethysts aplenty, some perfectly spherical while others were showcasing either rough or polished facets. All were splendid, much to her dismay as it meant she hesitated and made the dragon wait, yet eventually one among them all truly caught her eye, in more ways than one.

Something within that crafted gemstone spoke to her, quite literally, yet in thoughts and impressions rather than any spoken language. The kobold felt it in her bones, in her horns and on her scales that this was the one she was meant to wear, a powerful sentiment that pushed her to pick it up as she inserted it in her navel almost by automatism. The moment it lodged in, she felt a certain tingle invade her, making her shiver for a moment as Xyfa sensed the gemstone somewhat fusing with her underbelly scales. Yet as she pondered just what had happened, Kyrxief placed the satchel away and then tapped on the ground with one of his claws, a sign that she wasn't meant to make him wait too long, unless she wished to draw his ire upon her. This moment of distraction became brief as Xyfa knew very well that this tyrant was impatient and prone to punishment for others as he then made it so an enchantment meant to produce music, magical self-playing instruments, were activated so as to procure her a rhythm and pace for her steps and sways.

She had done so many times prior, ever holding herself back so that she wouldn't impress him too much. She wished not to spend time with him, trying to cut it short to the barest minimum whenever she was able. Thus she never went all-in with her dancing, herself and others aware that she was among the very best performers. Nevertheless this time was different, an innate feeling that she needed to be splendid as she went on to spin, gyrate and undulate in a way that could woo even those with disgust for her race. The diminutive draconic beast went on to get lost in her own dance, the music acting as if it was prodding her on gently, caressing her entire body as she responded in kind with a sensuality that went beyond what she she thought herself capable of. She knew not how nor why, but in this instant she felt light and joyful.

“It seems like I had a gem in my harem all this time...” Kyrxief went on to say, never one to let an artist work without interruption, with no commentary overlapping. The kobold was indeed magnificent, far more than he could expect as her magenta scales were akin to little gemstones, glistening in a way that almost turned her ethereal, as if she were a part of his treasury that had come to life. He watched her intently, smirking and breathing heavily and yet as it went on, a rare occurrence was to be witnessed as the mighty and terrible dragon did something that he hadn't before in such circumstances: he fell silent. Xyfa did not even realize it, too caught up in her own steps as she took charge of the space she was allowed, this cursed stage where she risked her life and dignity upon, yet for now it was out of her mind as she then went for a final flourish, taking a pose of strength and allure as she looked up and realized a particularly troubling development had popped up: spirals in the eyes of Kyrxief.

They were of amethyst and magenta, focused solely on her as she knew now what they meant, not what it could do. Was it a spell that the dragon was preparing? Had she angered him in some way? She felt afraid, falling on her knees as she pleaded for her life. “Please, master. I did not mean to anger you, lay your wrath away and let me live, I implore you!” she said and it barely seemed to register for the dragon, as if absent-minded. Terrifying silence followed as her heart went on to pound incredibly fast, her lips trembled and yet he finally responded.

“Of...course...” Kyrxief answered slowly, in a tone that felt lifeless and devoid of any barb, intellect or even consciousness. Xyfa knew not what this meant, if he had been bored by her own dancing, if he was sleepy. The unknown scared her to no end, ever expecting for the dragon to swallow her in one bite, a shallow and cruel end for anyone to suffer through. Yet he was barely responsive, almost as if he was expecting her to talk instead of the opposite. She felt faint, downright on the verge of collapsing as she tried her best to formulate a query without sounding arrogant, while reminding herself of her place.

“Please, oh great master. This dance...it drew much from me. I would be a poor mate for the night, far less than what you deserve if you were to grant me the immense favor of your attention,” Xyfa began to ask, weighing in if this was too bold of her, too great a request for someone who had just come by. “I would need some rest, so that I may study how best to please you, to tantalize you as is your right and my duty. Can I...can I retire for the night, divine Kyrxief?”

“You...may...” he answered and without waiting one instant she bowed in respect and then went away slowly and serenely at first...only to flee as fast as she could. Tears in her eyes, the dread she felt making her want to almost hurl as she figured that she had come close to death, to a horrible fate. She came back to the quarters that were granted to her, needing time to breathe and to recenter herself. She sat down, splashing some water on her face and looking at herself in the mirror as she calmed down little by little, panic settling down as she tried to understand what had happened, why Kyrxief was acting in such a way and how come she felt so unafraid and happy when she danced as opposed to past occasions. No answers came as she went on to collapse on her bed, dozing off as all of this had drained her completely. She fell asleep and regained some of her strength as she woke up and walked around the next day as she noticed something of immense importance: her own chains hadn't been reconnected.

It wasn't like their cruel master to forget, for even those with his favor ought never forget their status, his very own words, yet she had been free this whole time and hadn't realized. The collar and cuffs were still on her, yet the golden chains were merely roaming around, sliding on the ground occasionally as she wondered just why it was so. Time wasn't on her side to solve this enigma, however, as practice was about to begin, the sound of quarters and cells opened up in order for those in the harem to train. They were all supposed to lift each other up...so that they could please their master more efficiently. Camaraderie in slavery, used against them as Xyfa went along with it, knowing not what else to do. It was ever a delicate balance between supporting one another and actually trying to improve, stalling being usually a sin as far as their master was concerned. Xyfa herself being one of the more talented dancer, she went on to demonstrate her own skills as she performed and tried to show off what she came up with, yet as she did so she realized two things: her navel gem was still there and everyone looking at her seemed to be impossibly fascinated with every moves she showed off.

“You...are you all alright?” she asked, unable not to connect this with what had happened to Kyrxief yesterday as they all nodded in an eerily synchronized fashion. Amethyst and magenta swirls in their eyes, a limp body, following any and all of her motions, listening intendedly...something was going on that had never happened before, with Xyfa certainly bright enough to put two and two together, as the newest element was definitely this gem that had been offered to her, the one which caught her gaze perhaps a little too much yesterday. Curious, she tried one thing, both dreading and hoping for a certain result. “Stand on one leg, each one of you.”

The fact that they obeyed without question, maintaining balance and still observing her made everything click together as Xyfa figured that she had somewhat charmed, mesmerized or hypnotized Kyrxief. He had been too cooperative, less demanding than usual and those eyes couldn't entirely lie as it also explained why she hadn't been chained yesterday: he forgot. He had been trapped in his mind, which meant that if she played her cards right...she might be able to change everything. It was a lot to take in and, unfortunately, she didn't have the time to ponder more seriously upon it as eunuch guards went on to appear, looking exactly at her. Kyrxief was demanding for her especially as her heart skipped a beat. The dragon was wise and savvy, observant too, which meant that perhaps he had realized what had happened and he'd punish her. Yet there was no occasion to do anything as she was escorted toward him, fully expecting to perish now as she made her way to him, wishing to flee, yet this would be a bad move and she knew it. Disobedience leading to harm or demise was perhaps the first thing they were taught.

“Aaaah, Xyfa. I had no idea you hid such talent, such spunk. Or perhaps it bloomed while thinking of your master, due to your hard work?” the dragon went on to say, his tone pleased as he eyed her, massively towering over her as the kobold wondered if he was teasing, making her drop her guard in order to better punish her, granting her a false sense of security. “Very tense, are we? I need not tell you that I have high expectations of you, especially since yesterday. You may become a favorite of mine quickly if you proceed on~”

This was meant to be encouraging, to be suave, yet while Xyfa was indeed still scared, this whole lack of harm, revenge or menacing words did revealed a truth that was game-changing: he did not remember his own lethargy and compliance. Thus did a decision need to be taken, a choice that could alter everything as she was on the edge of becoming a hero to her people. This was a lot of pressure, too much for a kobold whose skill was solely dancing, at least as far as the dragon was concerned, but she needed to be brave.

“I am overjoyed to hear this, great master. May this dance prove as worthy of your gaze as the previous one~” she said, feigning delight upon hearing his praise and the promise of further courtship as the kobold went on to dance. She wanted to test this out, to figure out just how far she could take this as she performed, going for an over-emphasis on her midriff as her clawed fingers rubbed close to the gem, her underbelly somewhat animated as if simulating a raging sea, waves of scales and flesh tantalizing the dragon. “Just look and let me take care of everything, master. Let yourself drift away in my performance~”

Telling him what to do, even in a suggestive and sensual fashion, could be courting with death for some, but the swirls in his eyes reappeared as whatever this gem was...it was strong enough to influence the mind of an elder dragon. Kyrxief nodded, did as he was told as there was even the hint of drool escaping from his jaw, creating a puddle nearby. This told her everything she needed to know as he was not of sound mind, vulnerable and suggestible as the gem held power beyond her comprehension...and it was just as well.

“Master, oh beloved Kyrxief, I have an idea to better things for you, to improve upon your life, for your time is invaluable,” Xyfa began to say, understanding that she did not need to take unnecessary chances in her formulation, his pride still being larger than he was. She came close, placed one hand on his lower jaw as if he were a lover as she tenderly brushed her digits against his scales. “Too many adventurers are trying to reach you and we are ill-equipped to deal with them. If they could actually fend them off with stronger weapons and tougher armors, you might never be disturbed ever again...and we could spend more time together~”

This was a trial, a test that could be either disastrous or miraculous, yet thankfully it was the latter as while Xyfa asked to be let away, a demand that was met positively, their warriors and guards were thus invited to the hoard and, while extremely wary at first, they each managed to land either a magically-enhanced weapon, stronger armor or both as this would massively improve their chances of survival. None knew who had managed to convince Kyrxief who was known for his greed and his nonchalance for their well-being, but eventually it made it indeed that the kobold fared better against invaders. This could be a great thing, yet Xyfa was not satisfied for it was short-term thinking, the kind of thought belonging to a slave and not a free and proud being. As such she began to ponder just how to best do things from here on out.

The first thing she abolished was both symbolic and practical, with chains being left alone now and forever. “Oh great Kyrxief, black-scaled wonder, our people could do so much for you if they were left free to walk, to work for your benefits. Imagine what splendor they could conjure and produce without restraints?” she said the day after and thus did the chains, collars and cuffs disappear, including hers. Cells were left open, which meant that families, lovers and friends could finally see each other again, much to the rejoicement of her people. Those in the harem itself were free to wander, with Kyrxief unaware of it all as Xyfa went on to make certain things would be okay...yet some of her companions began to talk of her, of the magenta-scaled heroine.

The second change she did in her plan was to reinforce the structure of their tunnels, something that would be costly for they were no artisans nor stonesmith. “Mighty Kyrxief, we want to improve not only our defense, but our places of worship devoted to you. We sing your name, yet want your effigies to be eternally set in stone not just for us, but for future generations. Let us employ experts and specialists, then sacrifice them to you in order for your secret to never spill out of this mountain,” Xyfa suggested, touching his treasury, especially for something he wouldn't benefit from or even see, would have never landed positively, yet her dance and his trance made it so he agreed as a good part of his gold was indeed used in the employment of dwarven stonesmiths, miners and so forth. While there was no love between kobold and dwarves, the latter had a love for gold which supplanted their dislike of the former as they went to work. It took them long, yet they came in numbers and took care of the mountain within to create something new and meant to be long-lasting: a sprawling city. Streets, boulevards, paved stone, fountains, everything for it to be perfect not just for kobolds, but for anyone who'd actually try to come within. All the while did Xyfa go on to dance for Kyrxief, making him fall for her looks and her spell as this made it so no matter the cost...he agreed.

Conversations and rumors went on to spread out of the mountain, dwarves coming in and out, as well as adventurers going in and actually going out unharmed, but also rich. This was due to Xyfa finding that it was easier to buy them out than risk the lives of their own to fend them off as soon their lives were not only left unthreatened...but they proliferated. Without chains, restraints and the strict minimum, children were had and went on to play outside, aware that a dragon was within and that he was terrible...yet that a dancing heroine was taking care of him. Tales of her exploits went on to spread further, of Xyfa the dancing kobold and of her deeds as soon 1/10th of Kyrxief's hoard was spent...and yet he wasn't even aware of it. No kobold worked on polishing each coins anymore, tending to his needs for his own trance was empowered through many, many sessions and inductions. Not quite harmless yet, but certainly tamed, Xyfa kept him in check as eventually there came the time for vengeance to be had and for things to proceed along. Thus did she ask for her companions and those helping her to take a great many sacks of coins and gems...and hire heroes to take care of Kyrxief once and for all. They needed professionals, as much like their city was built by knowledgeable experts, so did they need the same to destroy a dangerous dragon. The sacks came back, however, still full as much to her surprise, the heroes had heard of their plea and, as heroes did, went on to take care of the case. A dwarven berserker, a half-orc thief, a drow ranger, an elven mage, a cleric, a cat-girl monk and many more accompanied by some kind of...lamp lady? Those were the Golden Lamp Company and they took care of it.

Xyfa helped in the battle, pacifying the elder dragon as they landed blows that could fell mountains, launched spells that could alter reality and then the deed was done as the kobolds were free. Ceremonies were held, parades in the streets, festivities galore as they celebrated their heroes, but one name which was chanted above all was that of Xyfa, for they knew what she had done and how all of this came to be. Thus did the dancer become their queen, gaining herself a legendary reputation as she herself took both a husband and a spouse. The city in the mountain named Xyfalis in her honor, she lived long and prospered, forming a family and using the hoard of the cruel Kyrxief to create an economy which lasted for centuries, built on commerce and good relationships with other races. Her legacy would endure, dancing becoming sacred for her people as her gem would be passed on from generation to generation...and it would lead to a great many other adventures.

But this is another tale entirely.