The Dragon of Linhythe Bay
The Dragon
The dragon on the Linhian crest has long been a major character in many of its folk tales, though its role as either good or evil varies depending on the story. Regardless, all stories typically agree that it eventually retired to a deep slumber under the ocean, and that rough waters around the pier can be attributed to the dragon shifting in its sleep or snoring violently.
The Greedy Dragon
Popularized in a children's rhyme, most Linhians who believe the dragon is real think it is a greedy beast who will destroy the city if it is not paid regularly. Long standing tradition dictates that all ships setting sail should toss a coin in the ocean - but while most consider the origin of this rite to be an offering to Mareus for safe passage, those who believe in the dragon think that it will continue to sleep peacefully so long as it's treasure trove continues to grow.
The Guardian of the Bay
The other popular version was told as a legend that the dragon was a protector of the city, and that it would awaken to defend Linhythe in it's time of need. This belief declined over the years due to the other version being told more often to deter children from playing in deep water. Now, very few people openly believe in this version of the legend, as those who think of the dragon as good are generally thought to be foolish and are met with scorn after it failed to appear during the events of Mutiny in 8291.
In Modernity
As the study of dragons continues to advance, fewer modern minds believe in a dragon that is big enough or intelligent enough (speaking common tongue, striking deals) to fulfill the criteria of the popular legends. More pragmatic city dwellers may think that the dragon is simply a metaphor for the city's underworld, hidden beneath the surface of the more presentable sailing industry.
The Greedy Dragon
There are many versions of this tale, each with their own artistic spins. One of the more common ones, regularly sung at taverns or as sailing ditties, goes like this:
Long long ago, a dragon lived in the sea
And all of the quay belonged to he.
Those who dared sail were struck down and lost
Yet people needed the ocean at all cost.
Then lo, "I know," spoke a clever beau,
"There is one way to conquer our foe!"
In the midst of the great commotion
He tossed a gold coin to the ocean.
The dragon opened his great amber eye
As the shine on the seafloor he did spy
And down he stayed! So while at bay
At last the ships could sail away.
But soon he returned to the surface
Intent now on a single purpose:
"Have you more gold in your purses?"
"There is more," said the beau from afore,
"If you would only let us leave shore."
"Then," said the dragon, "We share a goal."
"I will take this gold now as your toll."
Before the dragon sank back to the sea
He left the people with one last decree:
"But should this deal you ever forget,"
"Your neglect you will most sorely regret."
So now the mighty dragon, he slumbers
Surrounded with treasures of great numbers
And all ships must pay the promised fee,
To he, the dragon who lives in the sea.
Children's Rhyme
The most well-known song of The Greedy Dragon is still, however, the children's rhyme. Many Linhians learn it as children as it is often sung during games - for example, as the 'countdown' to a game of tag, with the last line shouted to announce the searcher (also called the 'dragon') is ready to start looking for their friends.
Have you heard
How greedy is he,
That big green dragon
Asleep in the sea?
Yes, I've heard
Such teeth has he!
That big green dragon
Asleep in the sea
He'll eat, eat, eat
His favorite treat
Of coins stacked neat
With children's meat!