“There is a legend in these woods about a white wolf. A wolf who has lived here for hundreds of years; a wolf that most men cannot see. Who will wait on high ground and observe all that happens in the forest. The story says that he can divine the courage of all those who pass through the forest.
“This wolf will attack only the bravest of the brave to impart a vicious bite, then retreat, like smoke, back into the trees.
“Those bitten will suffer with a fever for three days, or they will die. Most die. If they survive; they will carry the courage, the strength, the endurance, the power, and the wisdom of the wolf. They will rise to be leaders of their people. All others will treat them with deference and respect.”
“That’s a lovely story, John, but it’s just a story. I’m certain you don’t…”
Pulling back his sleeve and uncoiling the makeshift bandage he showed her the wound on his arm.
“Will you cool my brow and fetch me water for the next few days, Sarah. I’d be most grateful. I have nowhere else to go.”
Oh, no way do you get to leave a delicious amuse bouc
LikeLiked by 1 person
(AACK PHONES!)…amuse bouche lying on the table like that. Com’mon tnkerr, (she said as she wrapped herself up in a blanket in front of the campfire) tell us a story
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like this one even better than the first!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s cause its a complete comment (phones ought to revert to original purpose) 😉
LikeLike
Very neatly done, a story inside a story, and a dramatic cliffhanger.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Tish.
LikeLike
Good luck, John!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nice! Looks like John will be a leader of the people. At least we know he has courage. Great idea. Loved the story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like John’s optimism! And what an interesting legend, too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You do those big reveals at the end sometimes, where the needle sort of skids off the record. I have trouble doing that – I tend to barrel forward at one speed.
I’m going to have to try two gears in one piece sometime. It works for readers, obviously.
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂 I’m a huge fan of your writing. By all means experiment. Have fun.
LikeLike
Nicely done! And in so few words. Love the mix of mythology and reality. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person