Willow

Taran

I carry Tru in my arms as I follow the hydra. She passed out after asking what happened. Our clothes are soaked, even the ones in the bag, so I left them hanging in a tree to dry. I took the backpack to easily carry Tru, Willow’s gift, and supplies to take care of Tru when she wakes.

It took some convincing, but the hydra agreed to take me to Willow. They take me deeper into the woods, and I wonder if bringing Tru was a bad idea. She’s fragile and could easily get hurt. If it came down to a fight, Tru would only slow me down. Like with the griffins, if she weren’t with me, the fight would’ve taken half the time.

The forest clears, and a large willow tree sits in the middle of the clearing. I watch her face appear, “Well, look who it is? To what do I owe the honor, former crown prince? I already told your mother everything I know. You’re wasting my….” Willow looks with interest at Tru. Instinctively, I press Tru closer to me.

“You’ve spoken with