The next day, Shawn could not forget what he felt near the forest. Even as he guided the sheep across the grassy hills, his eyes kept drifting toward the dark trees. Luna stayed unusually close to him, as if she sensed the same danger.
By afternoon, clouds gathered in the sky, covering the sun. The valley grew quiet, almost too quiet. Then, a sudden rustling sound came from the forest edge. The sheep panicked, running in every direction. Shawn's heart pounded as he searched for Luna.
Through the shadows, he saw glowing eyes staring at the flock. It was a wolf—thin, hungry, and silent. Fear gripped him, but he remembered his father's words: "A shepherd must be brave, even when afraid."
Shawn grabbed a long wooden stick and shouted as loudly as he could. He waved his arms and stepped forward instead of back. The wolf hesitated, surprised by the boy's courage. For a long moment, they stared at each other.
Then, with a low growl, the wolf disappeared into the trees.
The sheep slowly calmed down. Shawn found Luna trembling behind a rock. He knelt beside her, gently holding her close.
That day, Shawn understood that bravery is not the absence of fear—it is standing strong despite it.