h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

*despite the hissed warnings of other manticores, the almost-adult one approaches closer*

manticore: [is it dangerous?]

an older manticore: [of course young one! it's an attack by the dark folk...but you will not go with him.]

manticore: [but...he said, if they succeed...]

older one: [they will not hurt us. We are strong!]

*shakes his head*

No, 5000 is the scouting force only... more will come if Kalsho falls

I doubt you could kill them all, even if you use all your strength they will enslave you and burn the woods

I can't let the woods be burned, I can't let my pack die again

< I knew you couldn't forget>

< thanks >

*the manticores argue vociferously for a few minutes before the older one 'hmpfs' in exasperation*

older one: [fine then child, go...you will bring only shame.]

*the manticore approaches Lycan, seemingly too ashamed to say anything*

you are very brave, most men would fear at the prospect

*starts to walk out of the hole*

Can you fly and support the weight of a grown man yet?

manticore: [I...I don't know]

*it follows him hesitantly*

there is only one way to find out, thats to try and carry me

*the manticore moves slowly over to him and lowers itself in assent*

Thank you *bows to the manticore before climbing onto its back*

do you know the way the Kalsho?

*the manticore straightens awkwardly, it's obvious that he's nervous as anything and starting to panic*

manticore: [y-yes...]

*strokes the Manticore* there is nothing to worry about, trust me

*the manticore trembles and slowly beats its wings, lifting off the ground...before dropping down the few feet again and landing*

Its alright *strokes the Manticore*

*whispers a few words and he shares his strength with the Manticore*

try again trust me, you can do it

*it strains a little and beats its wings again, rising into the air unsteadily but staying airborne*

*pats the Manticore* see I told you that you could

the more we fly the stronger you should get...

now we muct make haste to Kalsho

manticore: [as you wish...where in the outpost should I go?]

*it rises into the air higher and makes its way to the outpost*

It depends if you want to fight...

but right now, we better go to the stable so you can rest and I can get the other magicians ready

manticore: [I want to fight...but I will go to the stables...]