Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf? [Complete!]

Chapter 22: Caught

Chapter 22, Caught

Jessica couldn't tell how much time went by. With adrenaline still running through her, it was impossible to tell. She could feel each breath John took. His breath was coming in short pants, and she knew he was nearly exhausted. The woods seemed to be closing in on them, as the sounds of battle dimmed. Without the blaze of fire from the battle, the world was dark and cold. How far could they have gotten? How are we going to find them? How will we stop them if we find them? Her questions remained unanswered.

A soft whine broke her train of thought.

It's alright Jessica; I've got your back. No matter what happens, I won't let them hurt you.

Carefully, Jessica reached down and patted John's head, "I know..." she said, but didn't add out loud, and that's what worries me most...

Jessica felt John's shoulders tense, as he slowed to a stop under some foliage.

Don't make a sound, and if I tell you to run, you have to promise me you will... no questions asked.

"I'm not going to run, John," she whispered.

Then I'm leaving you here, and going in myself.

"I'll just follow you."

If I tell you to run, you better damn run.

"No."

Then you wait here while I go deal with Blackdeath and my brother.

"I'll just run in after you," she hissed.

Why do you have to be stubborn!?

"Why do you?"

Quit arguing with me. If it gets bad, I want you to run. Do not look back, no matter what you hear. You just get the heck out of there, understand?

"And leave you all alone?"

Yes! I don't care what happens to me, don't you get it? I've been through hell thinking you were going to die because of me, and now I won't lose you again! Got it!?

"I'm still not running," she said as she slid off his back.

Abruptly, John released a low growl, and pinned her with his paws, slowly transforming into his human form.

His green eyes looked like liquid fire, and when he spoke his voice was rough.

"I can't lose you a second time."

Then he kissed her, and helped her up.

"John..."

"Please Jess..."

"Oh alright; but I'll still come back with the others," she pouted.

John grinned and transformed back into his wolf form.

Follow me, but be careful.

Slowly they advanced, Jessica had an arrow drawn, and almost let fire accidentally when they heard voices.

"It's almost complete, Gary."

"Yes, it's magnificent."

"You will be rewarded handsomely once we get to the human world, I can assure you of that. Now, my stone?"

There was a sound of shuffling, and then a horrible fizzing sound.

"Only a few more minutes... and then I shall continue the work I started so long ago," said a menacing cold voice.

"How much longer until the star-shaped pendant is corrupt?"

"I'd say another ten minutes at best, Gary," the cool voice responded.