Chapter 45: May the best man win!

ITHRA “Stand back,” Zadok said in a low voice. His eyes focused on the sleeping Boar while mine remained on the book.  “I need to get the book. I’ll be quiet.” I said, and without waiting for a reply, walked towards the beast with steady steps.  Before I could take one step, Zadok dragged me back by the arm.  “Are you stupid?!” he whisper-yelled. “Or are you trying to get yourself killed?” “Leave me alone,” I replied in a hushed tone. “It’s asleep. I’ll just get the book, and we will be off.” I made to move, and he held me back, much to my frustration.  “You know what?” He said, holding his forehead in an exasperated manner. “Just stay back. I will get it myself.” It was my turn to hold him back.  “What do you mean?” I asked in a hushed tone, picking offence. “I am more than capable of handling it.” “We don’t have time for this, Ithra,” Zadok said in a slightly raised voice. “I’ll quickly get it, and we will be on our way.” I didn’t hear what he was saying. My eyes widened to the size