dragonfyre, part 1

there was a time when the world was inhabited by men and dragons. together they forged an alliance, based upon mutual trust and respect. the dragons ruled the skies, soaring, playing, searching for caves. they would go on man's land to feed, but only took what man himnself did not need.
man, ruled the earth. he planted, he hunted for food, clothing, shelter. he never lay bare a species of plant or animal, always leaving enough for his winged brethren. he looked to the skies with wonder; dragons flying, birds gliding effortlessly. he did not aim any weaponry at that domain. the sky was not his.

men had settlements scattered everywhere. dragons picked caves close enough to keep a watchful eye, but far enough away for privacy. this alliance was a sound one, but maintained by a sense of sleeping with one eye open. this co-existence proved beneficial to both parties.

the dragons would breathe enough fire to clear land for man to build. the humans would not hunt any wildlife, so the dragons had an ample supply of food. water was bountiful and both species peacefully shared. the earth was green, lush and plentiful, trees growing where trees were meant to grow, hot desert sands in their place, warm languid rainforests flourished.

the dragons surveyed all on this planet. it is said that men would not go anywhere that the dragons had not gone to first. it is also said that the dragons would only take man to places he could live safely, and in harmony, with.

for centuries, the planet and all its inhabitants thrived under this well forged partnership. the garden was never depleted, by man, dragon or mother earth. the earth mother was pleased with her children, and regalled them gentle weather. storms teased but were never torrential.