13 Too Late

CHAPTER 13 TOO LATE? Worm began to glow green. Drake stood up. "Petra, hold my hand," Drake told her. "Then touch the hydra with your other hand." Petra nodded. Now Drake, Petra, and the hydra were all linked with Worm.

A green light flashed. Seconds later, they landed inside King Roland's bedroom. Queen Rose was sitting beside King Roland's bed. She jumped up when she saw Drake, Petra, Worm, and the hydra. "Guards!" she yelled. Drake stepped forward and bowed. "Please, Your Majesty. We know how to help the king. The hydra can heal him."

"Hmm," the queen said. "Griffith did say that the hydra might be the key to healing the king." Two guards ran in. They pointed spears at the dragons. Queen Rose held up her hand. "Lower your weapons," the queen said. "But stand your ground. If the dragons try to harm the king, take action."

Petra held the Dragon Stone in her hands. "You can do it," Drake told her, and she nodded. Petra closed her eyes tightly. "Please," she said to the hydra. "Please sing your song." The Dragon Stone began to glow. Then the hydra started to sing. Her beautiful song filled the room. Drake and Petra anxiously watched the king. He didn't look any better.

Griffith rushed into the room just as the song faded. "It didn't work," Petra told Griffith. Griffith put a hand on her shoulder. "Drake was only sick for a few minutes before the hydra healed him," he said. "Perhaps the king's healing will take longer." Queen Rose nodded. "His hand already feels cooler to my touch," she said. "That gives me hope. And before this, I had none at all. So thank you."

Griffith turned to Drake and Petra. "The king needs peace and quiet," he said. "Return the dragons to their caves. Then eat dinner and get to bed. I will stay here to watch over the king." "But what about the angry mob outside?" Drake asked. "The guards will keep order," Griffith said. "We must not worry." Drake nodded. He reached for Petra's hand. Drake touched Worm. A green light flashed. Then they landed back at the Dragon Caves.