Chapter 21: What watches from afar

The elderberry bushes rustled, dropping the first of the tiny spring flowers, but Sol didn't fear what was there the way the others did. They could sense its size and strength, he could sense its character.

"It's not a demon," Sol said to calm them. "But it's strong whatever it is."

Apparently responding to Sol, a lone wolf sauntered out into the opening and sniffed him with a monstrous furry muzzle. The others took a step towards it, all still in their animal forms, but he put a hand up. He could tell this creature – not really a wolf by sheer size – meant him no harm.

"Please show us your real form, friend," Sol said, nodding his head.