Zippy

Hidden before any one knew it was there.

Zippy lit the lantern and lifted it high. He took great pride in the task because his Master had told him it was important. Tonight there was no moon. Dark, menacing clouds smothered the sky. If those clouds could speak, they would tell of the tragedies that had befallen travelers foolish enough to enter the magical forest without permission.
A sudden gust tore a giant leaf from a tree and slapped it across Zippy’s face.
“Ahhh!”
He flailed wildly, finally swatting the leaf away.
His Master chuckled. “Steady now. Don’t lose your nerve. We’re only getting started.”
Zippy swallowed hard.
“Stay alert,” his Master continued. “We’re approaching the Troll Bridge. Remember, don’t look down. Trolls hate being stared at.”
Zippy walked as softly as he could. Every creak of the bridge sounded like a warning. When he finally reached the other side, he released a shaky breath.
“Look, Master! Fireflies!”
“Those aren’t fireflies. They’re fairies. Stay on the path. We don’t want a repeat of last time.”
Zippy winced. Accidentally stepping on a fairy had been an unforgettable mistake.
“Yes, Master. I’ll be careful.”
Holding his breath, he hurried past the glowing swarm.
At last they neared their destination. They had never made it this far before.
Without warning, an elf stepped onto the path.
“Who is this I find in my forest?” he asked coldly. “You don’t belong here.”
Fear gripped Zippy.
His Master bowed respectfully. “We only wish to witness the wonders of your world.”
The elf laughed.
“I know exactly why you’re here.”
He scattered rainbow-colored dust into the air.
Zippy awoke at dawn in a field beyond the forest. His Master was gone.
Smiling, Zippy left a pouch of coins at the forest entrance with a note:
“Thank you for setting me free, Mister Elf.”