Upon returning home, Beowulf would soon be made King of the Geats. For another 50 years, he would lead his people to prosperity. However, a greedy thief awakened an ancient dragon. It sought to destroy the kingdom in revenge and attacked the people.
Beowulf seeking one last shot to maintain his fame and glory gathered his men and went to the lair of the Dragon. With a shield forged to withstand the fire, and his trusted sword, he attacked the beast. However in the first strike, the sword broke, and his men deserted him seeing him start to lose, except for one. Wiglaf had remained and he jumped in to help his king. Together they outmatched the dragon, but before the dragon afflicted Beowulf with a mortal wound.
Wiglaf stood beside Beowulf as he died, showing him the treasure he had died for. Beowulf named Wiglaf his successor to the kingdom. Instructing him to build a large tower by the shore so he may still guide others and watch the sea. His people mourned his death and buried the great treasure horde beneath the tower. With soldiers posted near it to recount his heroic tale.