A dragon has landed on the beach, creating a barrier between the characters and their ship. There is a sense of fear and helplessness, as traditional weapons like arrows are ineffective against such a formidable creature. The dragon's indifference to fire only heightens the danger they face.
Reepicheep, known for his bravery, seeks permission from the King to confront the dragon alone. However, the King decisively refuses, indicating that this is not a fight to be taken lightly. The situation underscores the gravity of dealing with a dragon and emphasizes the need for unity and caution in the face of peril.