You need to do the mines before you can do Dragon Spire (where you will give the shroud to the dragon at the end)~ don't forget to get the letter from Erazebette... and the Dragon Armor from the King in the Stout Mines~ before heading for Dragon Spire.

Good luck,
dh

I spoke the secret word to the dragon, but he flew away before I could give him the shroud. Is there a trick to this or do you just have to get the timing right?

can't do it while he's flying. Find him in his lair later in the game.

How do I do that? I've completed the Shurigeon castle & Serpent temple quests. Do I need to get into the Stout Mines for that?