The Greyback lay on its side in the far corner of the training ground when Beorn arrived. Its two working forelegs were tucked under its chest, while the rear part extended outward, one leg twisted at a way that was biologically wrong. There were chains running from wall bolts in two directions, holding the body away from the stone.
It was still breathing. Each breath followed an uneven pattern, with a long exhale, then a delay that lasted too long, then the chest drawing air again from deep within. The monster had been drugged to remain docile.
Godric stood at the gate. "It didn't test the chains again during the night," he said. "The watch reported long periods where it stayed completely still."
"What did they make of it?"
Godric paused, choosing a precise description. "They said it felt wrong. Couldn't explain why."
Beorn approached the monster that vaguely reminded him of a boar.
Only up close he realized how big it was.
