A Baker’s Friend

“Hey, sleepy head, time to light the fire, you lazy dragon,” teased Mystique, the village baker.

Trogi was found abandoned in the forest after a torrential rain washed her nest down from the mountains. Fearing the beastie would die, the baker took the baby home.

A year later, Trogi acts like she’s always been a family member, sneaking cookies and sleeping where she will.

Waking slowly with an enormous stretch, the little dragon hopped down and then ambled to the oven. “Make haste. These pretzels are almost ready for the oven,” said Mystique.

With a deep breath and a tremendous puff of flame, the oven’s firebox glowed bright red. “I honestly don’t know how I ever got along without you,” the baker remarked.

Once the dough was rolled and placed on the baking tray, Mystique carefully placed it in the oven and sealed the door. “Now it’s time for tea and cakes, little one,” said Mystique.

Trogi’s eyes popped open at the mention of cake, and she scrambled back up on the table to find a slice of German chocolate cake waiting for her.

“Tomorrow is market day, and rumor has it the Duke of Wellington will be stopping by to sample the local food. It would be wonderful if he came to our booth, but it’s okay if he doesn’t. I don’t need any more orders before the holidays,” remarked the baker.

After the pretzels were finished, the two friends closed the shop, ate a light meal of bean soup and rye bread, and then retired for the evening.

“What should I read you tonight? Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, or perhaps the three billy goats gruff?” asked Mystique.

The dragon bowed his head to show the goat’s ramming position. “Billy Goats Gruff it is,” replied the baker.

“Once there lived three billy goats named Gruff,” read Mystique, and by the time she had finished the second page, Trogi was fast asleep.

“Sweet dreams, and don’t let the bed bugs bite little dragon,” whispered Mystique. Then she blew out the candle and soon joined the dragon in the land of dreams.