high upon a rock. It is quite large, weighing approximately 170 pounds. The animals’ smooth grey coat and crystal eyes captivate me. As I approach the majestic beast it snarls and then grunts with a strange smile like grimace. The large animal continues to mesmerize me. Then with fear of confrontation, I slowly turn and walk away. As I quietly leave; I begin to move quickly until I find myself running. I run until my breath hurts inside my chest. I run as far away from my home in Nicosta, the cave and all that I have ever known. I run until I stumble and fall; as I fall I hit my head on a rock. I watch as the blue sky above spins out of control. Then as if all the events that have led me to this place disappear, I find myself at home again with my family. I am laughing as my little sister Amelia dances and mother sings, while father claps his hands. My home is warm and secure, and I am happy.

Time has no meaning when all you know and love is lost. I want to stay in this place forever, but alas this can not be; then darkness fades and gives way to the light. As I open my eyes a large creature is standing above me. She is licking my face and the wound on the side of my head. As my mind clears, I focus upon the beast. I realize that this is the same majestic animal that sat perched upon the rock. This time my fear subsides. I realize the beast is a large dog. The largest of all the dogs and it is these animals that are used by armies to hunt Morshmen. I had often heard stories of these great hunters; they are Cane Corso Mastiffs, bread to protect Kings!

I sit up and gaze intently into the eyes of the animal. The huge dog simply licks my face and then nuzzles me with her head. She patiently sits by my side until my legs are strong enough to support me. At this moment, I know that this animal is here to protect and guide me. I stand up and begin to look around; I am not sure which direction

to pursue. But with a nudge from the dog, my new friend, I follow and together we will find the answers and a place to protect the stone.

This lordly creature needs a name. I walk for some time until her name manifest in my thoughts as if spoken to me; “My name is Lavinia” she replies. I am surprised to hear her name so clearly and it is at this moment that I realize she has the ability to communicate with me. I stop and stare at this great animal before speaking the words “Lavinia” with a convincing nod, I am sure that I found a companion. I am grateful to have another beside me, so much has changed so quickly. Together we walk and I dare utter a word when my stomach begins to growl; I hadn’t eaten for several days and hunger consumes me. Therefore I must ask, “Lavinia are you hungry?” Without wavering Lavinia breaks free of my grasp and with speed and grace she runs from my site. Sadness once again consumes me; I thought that I had lost the only friend with whom I could trust. Alone again, I continue moving forward; then in the distance I see Lavinia, prancing proudly toward me. In her mouth is a small deer, it is a feast to my eyes. With kindness and care my new friend has become my protector. Lavinia stops and waits for me to reach her, and together we walk until we come across a small clearing, completely surrounded by trees; here we set up camp. After we eat, we will rest and regain our strength. Tomorrow is a new day and we will embark upon this journey together.

The morning air is biting and I am not prepared for the cold mountain air. I use the deerskin as a cloak to keep warm. With renewed strength I begin to consider which direction we should pursue. There are so many unanswered questions. Am I capable of safeguarding my stone and how will I protect it from the evil King Mord and his army of Morshmen? For weeks we travel the mountain; making sure to stay ahead of the