The Obelisk

-Chapter 18-

“Never!” Spark yelled. Forest looked from the Kapro to Spark.

“Why would you want to come with US?” Rust asked with a puzzled expression.

“There were a few cons,” the Kapro hissed, lashing her tail, “but… I’ve been alone for so long. Nobody cares about one another in the swamp. And I’ve always wanted to get out into the world… you’re all my ticket.”

Forest could imagine this Kaprosuchus’s life filled with other Kapros, but none ever caring less about the other. Living her life as an ambush predator with no one to talk to—plus a grouchy personality—of course she’d risk going with her enemies to try out another life.

“You tried to murder Rust!” Spark yelled at the Kapro. “We’d never let you come!”

That’s a good point, Forest thought.

“Hmm,” Rust said.

The Kapro looked lost. “I know,” she said. “But I hadn’t known he was with others. I thought he was just another thieving deinonychus, no worth to living.”

That’s also a good point, Forest thought. “Spark,” he said. “Isn’t that exactly what you thought about Rust when he first showed up?”

The Carnotaur blinked, her breathing slowing down. “He—“ she stopped, shaking her head. “Yeah, I guess I did.”

“So doesn’t this predator deserve a second chance?”

Spark turned to Rust, who nodded. She looked to the Kapro, who’s eyes were furious yet filled with hope. “OK. Sure, alright, fine.”

“Thank you,” the Kapro sighed.

“You’re welcome,” Forest said, nudging her.

“So where are we going?” She asked.

“To the Dark Forest,” he answered. “I’m Forest. What’s your name?”

“Crimson. And the others are Spark, and Rust?”

“Yes,” Said Forest, surprised by her intent listening. He checked to make sure they were pointed for the horizon, then gestured for Crimson to follow. “We have a big destiny to get to, if you’re interested.”

“I sure hope this isn’t a wild dodo chase,” Crimson said wryly.

“Me too,” Forest breathed. “But it’s gone great so far, so, wanna learn about it?”

“Sure,” Crimson said, smiling.