It started with a calling whistle and a strong voice. “Here, Wolf! Let’s go, Wolf!” I stepped forward with the full intent of killing the intruder, cold grass crumpling under my paw.
My… paw?
I am indeed, a wolf. As I carefully examined the large dark grey bitch I had unknowingly become, the voice came closer and stopped a few yards from me. “When you’re ready, Wolf. There’s work to do.”
I looked up at Esse. His patient smile was marred with barely hidden leering. I sat down. His smile collapsed. “Don’t you do this. Not now. Let’s go.”
I crossed my front paws as I laid down. He grabbed his face in an effort to supress a sudden surge of anger. “You’re aware. Pokker!” I knew I was under his influence and could not shift form until he released me. He knew the one word that would convince me to follow his plan.
He hates that word.
Rather, he hates saying it.
And he really hates having to say it to a human.
“Let’s go, Wolf!” I decided to take a nap and closed my eyes. “Argh! Fine! PLEASE!”
I opened one eye. He was… ‘quite distressed’ and nearly hopping. I arched an eyebrow in question. The humor in my expression reminded him of his appearance, I think. He suddenly stood up, straightened his hunting clothes, smoothed back his hair, and cleared his throat with excessive display.
“There’s work to be done, Wolf. Let’s go. Please.” I knew the tone was true thespian bullshit from him, but I also knew he will never mean it sincerely. But I’ll take any chance to remind this Player that he too is subject to the wearing of masks.
I got up and trotted to him, walked around him, and sat down at his feet.
“Bitch.” Ah, there’s the poison. I only gruffed in reply. “No more games from here on. I need you to be Wolf.” I nodded in assent.
Esse turned back to the thick forest. I followed closely in his wake.