Fenrir's breaths were still labored from the change, but his wagging tail betrayed his excitement. His gleaming eyes fixed on Noah, and it was clear he couldn't contain his budding joy over his new powers. In his own way, he was eager to express his gratitude to Noah, and Noah could practically feel the anticipation building in his oversized, fiery companion.
"Oh no, you don't!" Noah barked, holding out a hand to ward off the overenthusiastic beast. He knew his giant, clumsy canine too well. Every haggard breath Fenrir released sent out a puff of ashen smoke, with the occasional spark of ember drifting from his open maw. If Fenrir was anything like he'd always been, Noah knew he'd try to smother him with sloppy, affectionate licks, completely oblivious to the trail of singed fur and lingering smoke cloud that would follow. Just the thought of the enormous, flame-riddled mutt barreling toward him was enough to make Noah sigh in resignation.
