‘W’ with Ethaniel:
Ethaniel, the main character in my novel, Fidelyon, has taken it upon himself to introduce you to his world by going through an alphabet of terms and names.
Wolves, of course. Not the nasty savage ones I’ve heard rumors about in other worlds; these are real wolves. I mean, I suppose they can be savage enough if let loose. But tamed, they make swift mounts and great beasts of war. Standing with their shoulders as high as a man’s chest, they are strong and can cover a distance two or three times the speed of a horse. Their gait is much smoother as well, I might add. And don’t look at me like that. Just because I’m Elentisaren doesn’t mean the Volandums get to keep all the cool things.
It took me a bit to get used to the idea of riding a wolf. Well… okay, so it took me five minutes. But they are well worth the strange looks others will give you, no matter Jagger’s protests. They can be quite amusing too, with personalities of their own. Each wolf has a secret password, given to it at birth. Any man who speaks it can command him—at least that is what I’ve been told. I’m sure there are exceptions. There are always exceptions. In my case, the password worked well enough though. And, quite often, the connection between rider and wolf will deepen until each would defend the other with their lives.
Wolves can live nearly twenty years. The oldest wolf on record was twenty-nine when he died. They grow slowly, taking five years before they begin being ridden (by men, at least. Lads sometimes slip on them earlier, in secret) and reach full maturity at seven years.
I could continue on because they are fascinating creatures. But for now, all you need to know is that if you are ever given a chance to ride a wolf, take it. You won’t regret it.
Anything else you’d like to ask, either from me or my chronicler? Comment below. However that works.
