I am the fiery dragon’s most prized possession. I hold the names of all the men he has captured. It looks like he’ll have to erase the last three entries, though. Those soldiers have learned the answers to his riddles, and they’re about to become free men.

I envy them. What is better? To be treasured and possessed, or to be unwanted and free?

The Dragon’s Book in The Dragon and His Grandmother, Yellow Fairy Book. Illustration by Albert Weisgerber.