Bobby sits at a desk between Zatch and Mikey while Max stands before the classroom, talking about animals. Beyond the window, the old creepy tree presses against the glass, its branches unnaturally still.
Max
Animals remember paths, families, dangers. Even a small creature knows when something is wrong.
A pale vapor leaks from the tree's bark and creeps through the window seam. It spreads low across the floor, curling around bare ankles before anyone seems to notice.
Zatch
Why does it smell like wet dirt in here?
The vapor thickens around Bobby's feet. His toes press against the floor as they begin to broaden, while Zatch and Mikey shift uneasily in their seats.
Max
A fox is clever because it knows what it is. It knows its name.
Max's voice falters. He stares at the lesson notes as if the words have become unfamiliar, and one bare foot drags heavily beneath the desk at the front.
✓ Quest Accepted
Save Max’s memories
Gas enters the classroom.
Max becomes younger physically and mentally, with huge adult feet; the change may progress toward his five-year-old form.
Bobby, Zatch, and Mikey's feet grow bigger.