The rebels came to a stop, staring in fear at the growling dog before them. Its build was that of a guard or attack dog, with sleek, dark red fur over its entire body. Jasper, who had become the dog, was thrilled. Not only would he be able to dispose of the rebels easily in this form, he could travel swiftly without needing a horse. One of the rebels stepped forward. Jasper's growling increased in volume.
"What are you doing?" the other rebel hissed. The one that stepped forward smiled at Jasper.
"Klatz," he said. It was as though a switch had been flipped in Jasper's brain. He sat down obediently, his new body recognizing the command and eager to do as his master bid him.
"How did you..." the other rebel asked. Jasper's master walked up to him and petted him. Jasper wagged his tail happily.
"I recognize the breed. This creature is a Witch's Hound."
"Witch?!"
"Relax. They have no magic. The name comes from what legend says is the breed's origin. Supposedly, the breed came from a human that a witch had turned into a dog. According to the story, that is why the breed is so intelligent." Jasper's master scratched him behind the ear. Jasper leaned in, enjoying the attention. "My family breeds and trains Witch's Hounds. In fact, we send a lot of dogs here to the Palace. I wonder if this creature is one of ours. Let me check the tag..."
Jasper's master began to inspect his golden collar, which was what the amulet had turned into when he changed. Jasper held his breath. He didn't know if the man would find any sort of tag on his collar, and if he did, what it would say.