38. The Antidote

The Antidote

Fish hid beneath the surface of the river, and butterflies resting on flower petals didn’t dare flutter their wings; even the leaves were holding back their quiet and even breathing. A powerful squad was moving quickly among the needled forests. Six wolves led three black stallions, jumping over rushing brooks, sleek rocks, and stretching, flowered banks.

Finally, they arrived a glade surrounded by tall trees and dense briers. A wolf running beside the werewolf prince let out a long howl into the air, declaring their return. More wolves, all seemingly strong and powerful, emerged from the woods at his call. The six wolves shifted back into their human forms. Thorn, Hugo and Serlon dismounted.

“Hiding here, in the dragon kingdom, all along?” Hugo said, cheekily, “You sure are discreet about trespassing on our land.”

“Watch your tongue, dragon boy,” the werewolf who made the howl warned, “We could easily rip off your head and cook up your dragon meat as a snack tonight.”