What if Red Riding Hood Was the Hero All Along?

Ruby Hood, A Twistedly True Tale

By Aspen Hite

“You are a Guardian,” Grams said, taking a step closer. “So am I. So was your father.”

Ruby stood firm, resisting the urge to retreat, “That sounds insane, Grams.”

“The Hood Family is part of a magical culture, known as Otherly Naturals. It spans throughout the world, but it’s underground and we keep it that way on purpose. Sometimes, we don’t even tell our own kin.”

“Like magic?” Ruby whispered as her mind bounced in a million different directions, flooded with thoughts of mystical animals and castles and fairy tales. Then her vision darkened and Kellan, Kayla and the Wolf showdown at Homecoming flashed. “The Wolf family?”

“Yes, they are also Otherly Naturals, in fact there are many other forms of Otherly Naturals,” Grams paused. “In fact, there are two general sides, and they are natural enemies. The protectors, like use, and the beasts, like…”

“Like the Wolfs?” Ruby finished the sentence. Deep within her, she knew the answer. Then why did she feel so safe with Kellan?

“Well yes, technically, but it’s not that simple here, Ruby. Our Woodsville Wood is a bit different. Sort of a special circumstance. Eventually everything will come to light, and we’ll be able to tell, but for now there is something here. Something dark and dangerous.”

“Grams, how can I help?”

“Time is of the essence,” Grams’ watery eyes darted around, “Again darling, I never wanted this for you, but the Wood needs a Guardian. Now. Right this second. And you’re the only one, Ruby, the only one who can save me and our Wood.”

 “Whoa…but…but…Grams…I can’t. I don’t know anything about being a Guardian or Otherly Naturals and you…you’re really good at…” she stuttered as her chest heaved. Sweat pooled in her armpits. If Grams was great at this and Kayla got to her, what chance did Ruby have? “And I know nothing…”

“Breathe, Ruby,” Grams said and calm surrounded them. For a moment, “Mayor Wolf will help you…”

“Mayor Wolf! He’s our enemy? And his daughter just…”

“Like I said, Woodsville is not like other Woods.  And the Wolfs have the same goals of keeping Woodsville safe as we do. I assure you we’ve been allies for a long time. Work with him, he’ll guide you, but follow your intuition. Once the Guardianship passes, you will know things, your instincts will heighten, listen to the Wood. It is your ultimate guide.”

“The Hunters?” Ruby held up her arm to block the rays of light shining through the fog. It was getting very warm. “What about them?”

“Listen to the Wood. Save us. Please Ruby. Promise me...” Grams' voice faded away.

“GRAMS! Don’t go!” Ruby cried, “I’m coming!”