The Shrunken Quest

    By Nick Dylan

    The Shrunken Quest cover image

    21 Sep, 2023

    Deep within the forest, a wolf named Kiba found an ancient artifact. It was an orb, glistening under the moonlight, emanating an eerie yet fascinating aura.

    Kiba's younger brother Hige, always the more cautious one, watched as Kiba approached the orb, his tail wagging with curiosity.

    As Kiba touched the orb, an ancient, whispering voice filled his mind, explaining its power to shrink others.

    A wicked grin spread across Kiba's face as he thought of the possibilities. He turned to Hige, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

    Kiba activated the orb and Hige started shrinking. He became the size of a mouse within seconds, looking up at his older brother in alarm.

    Kiba laughed at the sight of tiny Hige. He playfully nudged him with his paw, making Hige tumble backwards.

    Kiba then began to march in place, his large paws trampling around Hige. Hige dodged, avoiding Kiba's paws as best as he could.

    Despite the danger, Hige felt no pain. He realized that this was part of the artifact's power too.

    Kiba, immersed in his fun, failed to notice the orb glowing again, pulsating with an ominous energy.

    Suddenly, Kiba found himself shrinking too. A moment of confusion flashed across his face before he turned as small as Hige.

    Now both brothers were tiny, lost amid the towering blades of grass. Their game had taken an unexpected turn.

    Hige, always the smarter one, quickly realized what had happened. He decided they needed to reverse their size.

    They embarked on a journey back to the artifact, facing numerous challenges due to their minuscule size.

    They evaded larger animals, crossed treacherous terrains, and navigated through dense underbrush, all the while sticking together.

    Despite their predicament, the brothers found moments of joy. They played in the dew drops and rode on the backs of friendly insects.

    Eventually, they reached the artifact, standing tall and glowing amidst a patch of moss. They approached it cautiously.

    Unsure of how to reverse the effect, Hige suggested they touch the orb together. They did, and waited with bated breath.

    Instantly, they felt a rush of energy and their bodies began to grow. They were soon back to their original sizes, standing in the forest clearing.

    The brothers looked at each other, relief washing over them. They had survived their shrunken quest and learned a valuable lesson.

    Kiba realized his earlier actions were wrong. He apologized to Hige, promising never to misuse the artifact again.

    Hige, being the forgiving brother, accepted Kiba's apology. They decided to hide the artifact, ensuring it won't cause any more trouble.

    They buried the artifact deep in the forest, marking the spot with a large stone. It was their secret, a memory of their incredible adventure.

    The brothers returned to their pack, their bond stronger than ever. Their adventure had brought them closer, teaching them the importance of respect and responsibility.

    And so, the artifact remained hidden, its power waiting silently beneath the earth. The forest returned to its peaceful rhythm, harboring the secret of the shrunken quest.

    Kiba and Hige continued their lives, older and wiser. They often looked back at their adventure, a reminder of the strange and magical journey they had embarked upon.