Mournful howls slice the night’s stillness. I huddle against my King’s robe, shivering in the spring air. My gaze darts back and forth, searching for gleaming green eyes.

“They won’t attack me,” he states. “As long as you stay with me, you’re perfectly safe.”

Hundred of phantom beetles crawl down my spine. My stomach churns like a stormy sea. Snap! A branch cracks.

I whirl towards the sound. Another twig snaps, then a third, till the night is filled with thunderous echoes.

The King raises his torch. In its light I can see dozens of low, shaggy forms. Undaunted by exposure, they circle us, weaving a tightening knot. Strings of yellowed saliva drip from their jaws, sliding down broken teeth. Stray tufts of fur blow against my legs.

My heart crashes against my ribs. I tear away and run at them, trying to break through to the distant safety of the tower.

“Daughter, wait!” he cries. Knotted pelts scratch my bare legs, but I am through. Soon the tower rises in my vision, a patch of deeper black against the starless sky. I pound on the door, but no one answers.

Wolves step out of the woods, circling the tower. I fumble with the door. Locked. The wolves advance.

Closer.

Closer.

Rotten breath blows in my eyes. I see dried blood caked on their muzzles. “Help!”

“Leave her alone.” My King’s voice freezes the blowing trees.

One shaggy beast turns, snaps at him.

The King stands firm. “Let her go.”

They tuck their tails between their legs and slink off into the night.

I stumble forward, burying my face in his chest. “I’m sorry…I didn’t mean to…I was just frightened.”

“That’s why you need to stay by my side. Otherwise fear will take control.”

I nod through my tears.