OTTER'S RETURN

  As the Sun rose, Otter's eyes remained closed. But Prairie Dog was up and alert. He would remain the look out until Otter began to rouse out of peaceful trance. "Otter, you look different! You are more beautiful than you were before! How can that be?" A loving smile formed across Otter's face. "Come here, little one, I have something to give you. Touch me and you will see. "Ok Otter but I must tell you I am feeling afraid. I don't want to change into something I don't know. "It's ok Prairie Dog, I will give you a drop of golden essence to keep you aware and safe." "I'm sorry for my moment of doubt, Otter," he said, as he scampered into Otter's arms. "Prairie Dog, we must make some plans, that is, if you have the courage, the desire to help me through to the very end. Prairie Dog was a worrisome fellow, being so small and all. But that didn't matter now.

He would do anything to make Otter proud. He knew Otter would soon depart. This caused him to worry again. Otter, you too, must take refuge from this dried up land. Where will you hurry back to?"

"No worries, little Prairie Dog! See that line of trees over there? I will dash right into the forest! I'll go back to the same creek that Beaver and I share." Prairie Dog had never travelled that far. his place was on the prairie. He started to shake with the thought of entering the dark forest. "But, but, but," he stammered. "What about the cougars and bears? How will you escape the fox's lair? I must tell you, Otter, I am scared!" "No need to be!" Otter declared. "My little friend, I'm bigger than you I am an Otter through and through." "I'll make it back home and once I'm there, I will sincerely plan for our battle ahead. Please stay here, don't go anywhere. You are safe here and your task is important. You must not tell anything about the treasure." I hold this to you as I leave from here. I'll be back, so do not despair. Whatever you do, try to stay underground. Lie still and sleep, don't make a sound. You are protected now, the snakes will slither right on by, as long you will by me abide. Go back to sleep and hold the treasure tight. I'll be back after you've missed me for four nights. Fear is frightful, and I know you are scared. You'll be safe, I promise, as you dream in your den. "I love you Otter, I'll do what I'm told." He didn't wait for a reply as he went down his hole. Otter was amazed. He'd never heard the word 'love' before, but it made him smile and he felt the word's power.

Otter turned and headed off on his own, to the forest entry, brave and alone.