Chapter 10. Overtime -2

My father's sudden mind-link is joy to my ears. Dante jumps off the main road and I cling onto his neck for dear life, a squeal escaping my lips. He slides and squeezes through the thick undergrowth, forging a path through the mud and leaves. Branches scratch my exposed skin and I bury my face into Dante's fur, praying I don't fall off and get left behind. After a few minutes, Dante bursts through a small opening. I gasp for air, looking up to find sloping hills and tall trees. It's a welcome sight. I know we're not far from Midnight Fire. Just a few more minutes, and we'll reach the purple boundary lights. I close my eyes with dread, as the hissing sounds begin to creep up behind us. I prepare myself to shift, knowing Dante will need some back up. Within seconds, a symphony of guttural growls join the mix. A glimmer of hope bubbles within me. Dante pushes through a line of close knit trees and we find ourselves in a wide clearing, leading to a grassy hill. I breathe a heavy sigh of re