D – Discovered

If you are just starting to read this, you might first want to go back to the beginning of this story – A – The Adventure Begins. https://www.hdhstory.net/Storyblog/?p=4967

When last we met. Druin had captured the unicorn and had taken it to his hideaway in the forest. The 8 folk seekers were on his trail.

(Part 4 of 5 of The Unicorn and the Lion)

D – Discovered

The lion started to lead the team through the woods. It was evident from the blood trail that there was an injured individual. Was it the unicorn or its captor? That was the question. 

Gretel, who was used to leaving trails to find her way through woods, albeit not always successfully, did notice some wagon tracks that led in the same direction.  

It wasn’t long before they found a not-so-well-hidden cave. An empty wagon stood in front of the opening, and there appeared to be movement within the cave. 

“We can’t just charge in there,” said the Little Goat Gruff, “We don’t know what’s in there, nor how many, or what the situation is with the unicorn.”

Jack and Pinocchio agreed.

”What about me?” called out the Teeny-tiny Woman. I’m small enough, they may not even see me.”

”It would be too dangerous,” the Medium Billy Goat Gruff said, “You might get hurt. Who would protect you?”

I’ll go right in just to the entrance,” responded Pinocchio, “I’m sure they won’t hurt me.” As he said that, his nose began to grow a little again. 

Jack spoke up, “Here’s what I think we should do. Let the Teeny-tiny Woman go in as she said, she can look around and try to find out what’s happening. Pinocchio, you stay just inside the entrance. Any sign of trouble or if the Teeny-tiny Woman feels we should be involved, say something and let your nose signal us. 

Big Billy Goat Gruff said, “Then me and my brothers can rush in with horns lowered and at the ready, to toss out anyone holding the unicorn captive. 

Lion added, “I, too, will rush in roaring my battle roar. That should be enough to frighten anyone into submission or flight,”

Jack said, “With any luck, that will chase out whoever is holding the unicorn captive. While that’s taking place, Gretel and I will sneak in and try to free the unicorn if it is still alive.” 

They all agreed. It sounded like a workable plan, but would it work? 

Did Druin anticipate this? Was the wagon set there as a trap? Or, could Druin have just overheard their plan from inside the cave and had some contingent plans of his own? 

To be Continued in: E – Escape?