Linda K. Froise

“precious stones –the villagers didn’t complain too loudly, despite their fears of a grisly death. After all, the payments always exceeded the worth of the animal. But the villagers remained convinced that it was just a matter of time before the dragon set the village alight and snatched the village girls. “Come on, Keira.” Anna’s words broke through Keira’s thoughts, reminding her that her parents shared the same fears as the other villagers. “Mother’ll be furious if we don’t return”
― Linda K. Hopkins, Bound by a Dragon

“Yes.” “Don’t you have servants to take care of such trivialities?” “I do,” he said. “My steward is quite capable of handling such matters, but since I’m here, there’s no reason for me to not tend to it myself.” A moment’s silence filled the air as Keira considered his response. “And where have you taken up residence?” she finally asked. “I wasn’t aware of anyone moving into the village.”
― Linda K. Hopkins, Bound by a Dragon