I froze

The wind blew harder, pushing me back, shoving me away from the creature.

The huge animal tossed back its head and sent a long howl up to the dark sky. I could see Nicky and Tara gripped in its talons, squirming and thrashing, struggling to free themselves.

“Help us! Max!”

“Max! Help!”

What could I do?

I gaped at the horrifying creature—like a monstrous black panther, bounding on its hind legs. As it turned away from me, I saw its tail, curled up on its back like a long black snake!

“Help us! Max—do something!”

My whole body trembled, violent shudder after shudder. The flashlight nearly slid from my hand.

The flashlight!

An idea burst into my mind. A desperate idea. But maybe … just maybe …

I gripped the flashlight tightly. I raised it to my waist and pointed it at the howling creature.

I remembered the evil ghost Phears, who had wanted to destroy Nicky and Tara.

I remembered the first time Phears came after me.

Bright car headlights had scared him away.

Phears couldn't stand bright light. It made him helpless. It burned his ghostly skin like fire.

Would the light from this flashlight have the same effect on this creature?

Could I surprise the big animal long enough for Nicky and Tara to escape?

My hand shook so hard, the flashlight again started to slide out. I gripped it in both hands.

The creature leaped over a hedge and disappeared into the darkness on the other side.

“No!” I cried out.

I couldn't let it get away. Lowering my head, I ran full force into the hedge. Its prickly branches scratched my hands and face. But I pushed straight through to the other side.

The creature had its back to me. Its snakelike tail curled and uncurled on its furry back.

Ducking against the onrushing wind, I ran hard to catch up with the monster. Holding my friends tightly in front of itself. Tilting its head back, howling into the rush of wind.

Well, I'm going to give you something to howl about! I thought.

I raised the flashlight. Aimed it at the creature's broad back.

And clicked it on. Clicked it hard.

Nothing happened.

Nothing.

No light. No light at all.

Дата добавления: 2014-12-23