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Post by Sivoncé™ on May 28, 2009 17:59:47 GMT -5
Fireflight loped into camp, a bit winded from the fight, but not seriously injured or even physically exhauted. It was more the mental exhaustion that was weighing down on her. The copper-colored alphess padded towards the herb healer's den, peeking in to check on her beta, Toss. "Toss, are you all right?" she woofed to him. I think he's the only one who was majorly injured....and that's more his age speaking up than anything serious. All the same, she would feel better knowing he was still chattering away about his days of prime. I'll go to my den after, I think...there's a lot to plan out, and the pack needs strength now more than ever. We're weaker than we should be....and we're out of the loop. We need a Moonless Meeting soon, but we also need to appear strong at it...
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Post by .Rabid Lycan. on May 28, 2009 19:02:26 GMT -5
Twisting an ear in response to a voice, Toss immediately shifted from his crouch, concealing all evidence that he was in pain. Too proud to admit it, even walking and moving was becoming a difficult task. His joints had stiffened with age, and his old eyes were not what they used to be. Not fit to be a fighter, but a fighter nonetheless.
Recognizing Fireflight, Toss nodded dismissively, ignoring the pain in his limbs. "I'll be just fine. A few cuts and scratches never hurt anyone..." He glanced down at his chest, which had been layered with cobwebs to stop the bleeding. Never a good place to get injured, but he wasn't about to make a fuss over his wounds.
"...I'll be up and about in no time. Give them wolves some more scratches to remember me by..."
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Post by Sivoncé™ on May 29, 2009 17:43:39 GMT -5
She dipped her head to Toss, smiling at her beta's spunk, then carried on towards her den. Her mind felt a mess and tangled with briars. Before she entered the familiar cave, she looked back for the wolf she needed to speak to most -- Euphrates. I need to know what that wolf meant about his mother.....it may be the key to figuring out what kind of wolves we're dealing with, here. Could he really be keeping things from her? An uncomfortable wave of doubt washed over the alphess. Why wouldn't he tell me if things were going on with old spirits and foes? And they're all dead....what could that even mean?
She halted, an idea forming in her mind. She padded back to Toss, one of the oldest wolves in the pack, and sat down beside him. I don't know what kind of storyteller he is, but if he doesn't know....nobody does.
"Toss.....can you tell me about the old forest? In particular....the tales of Blood Mist. What were they like, how did they first come about, what did they do to the packs?" Of course she knew the general story -- every wolf had a vague idea. Death led Blood Mist against the Packs, Flame defeated him, prophecy fulfilled. Then Verlust brought them back and forced the packs out. Huge fight on the mountains, Siv challenges Verlust, they both die, but Siv won. Pack settle here....Blood Mist was annihilated. Why did the rogue mention them?
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Post by .Rabid Lycan. on May 29, 2009 21:25:44 GMT -5
Shaking off the stinging of wounds, Euphrates padded into the clearing and slipped into the shadows as soon as possible. Although he had not sustained serious injury—which was to be expected when the Destinians arrived late—Euphrates remained at war with his conscience. Even before the battle, he had known that the Hellfirians had returned. His own mother tried to steal his brother from him, for Lupus’ sakes. He had kept it concealed, mostly because of his brother, but now it was becoming more serious. War. Bloodshed. What if we hadn’t gotten there late? What if… what if Fireflight…?
He shook his head, exhaling forcefully and attempting to clear away such thoughts. I need to tell her…
He followed her scent to the Healer’s den, but paused at the entry way, seeing that she was facing away from him and listening to Toss. Silently, he sat down, and waited for his turn to speak. I am so going to Hell for not speaking up sooner… and I’m sure Mom will be proud.
Twitching an ear, Toss lifted his head, delightfully surprised by her question. Now, he was a kind old wolf, but his many children and grandchildren had long passed the stage of ‘can you tell me a story?’, and the opportunity to shed his wisdom was too rare to ignore.
“Well, I can tell you what I remember,” Toss woofed, shifting into a more comfortable position. “I was a lot younger then, when all the packs had those old names. WhiteMist, SilverMist, BlackMist, and GreyMist. Peaceful, at first. Then, one day, the sky stayed dark. You know, the endless night that everyone knows about. Soon after, the BloodMist wolves came around. At first, they were a really weird bunch—mostly about worshipping Lupus through rituals and such. You know, sacrificing and whatnot. I remember—my mom was scared for us when it happened—that there was a Moonless Meeting going on one time, and a Sheeran had wandered off. Got his throat ripped out, and his body was left in their camp, just to spite them. Gave me nightmares, that story.” The old wolf shook himself uncomfortably at the memory. “Then Death came, and things started to change. They were more about power and control, then. They came, all angry at us, and wanted to take it all. The whole lot of them had hearts like Verlust, really. Became less about ritual, and more about winning. Disappeared after Death’s tumble off the cliff… or so we thought at the time.
“Verlust assumed control. Seven of our own vanished. Eventually returned to us, thank GoldenWolf, but that’s when we really realized the danger we were in. We tore at each other, basically. You know, in answer to ‘what they did to the packs’, they basically killed our friends and family. Terrible days… and then the time we raided their ranks? Babylonia was killed brutally, that time… unborn children and all.”
Toss suddenly hesitated, a flood of emotion similar to embarrassment washing over him. He had finally noticed Euphrates’ presence in the doorway, and cleared his throat uncomfortably at the realization. “…of course, if you want to learn more about what BloodMist was like, our good friend over there would be the best one to ask.” Toss nodded at the outline of a wolf, who was listening at the entrance of the den.
Euphrates’ eyes had darkened at the mention of his mother. He hated her—or at least, he told himself and everyone in existence that he did—but the idea of his mother dying such a gruesome death… besides, he had loved her back then. I left the day she died for Sumer… if Sumer hadn’t been there, I’d still be tearing at packwolf throats. And now, he wants to go back…
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Post by Sivoncé™ on May 29, 2009 22:52:44 GMT -5
The story was more than a legend, a tale for pups -- as Fireflight settled into the den, across from Toss, she became absolutely fascinated with every word that came out of the old warrior's mouth. There are so few who remember anything like this....sure, we know what happened, but we don't know what it was like, to live in fear every day -- to have every day be night. To feel the world's cold in the midst of summer....to be afraid always. No one knows that kind of fear anymore....the most we worry about is boundaries and vendettas. This runs so much deeper than that....
She swallowed hard when her attention was drawn to Euphrates, lingering outside of the den. She knew she should feel embarressed, but she knew deep down, she didn't believe she'd wronged Euphrates. She could ask him about it, but it would be hard for him....or she could ask Toss and have the old wolf feel more accomplished with his duties to his pack. And he didn't tell me anything like this before, why would he now! Her stomach twisted in uncomfortable knots, but she knew she'd have to speak with Euphrates sooner or later. "Thank you for your help, Toss." She dipped her head respectfully to Toss, then padded out of the den. She stopped in front of Euphrates, uncertainty in her eyes. "Maybe we should talk in my den....unless you're hurt? Then we can do this another time," she woofed. Her voice was rough, though she didn't mind Euphrates knowing her confusion....or her upset.
I don't want him to think I just care about finding out about Blood Mist, I do.....but I care about him as a wolf, too!
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Post by .Rabid Lycan. on May 29, 2009 23:25:26 GMT -5
Although secretly wishing she would stay longer, Toss offered one of his kind old smiles in response to her gratitude. “Anytime, Fireflight. Anytime.” Resting his head on the floor of the den, the ancient lupine quickly decided against eavesdropping on Fireflight and Euphrates, and tuned out all other sounds. Whatever’s going on between them isn’t my business… besides, I really feel like a nap right about now.
All thoughts of BloodMist were replaced by the comfortable rhythm of soft snoring, and Toss lapsed into a brief slumber.
Euphrates, on the other hand, couldn’t be more awake. His stomach squirmed, but he forced himself onward. Just be straight with her. “Err, no, no… I’m fine. Let’s go to your den—I’ve been wanting to speak with you anyways.” He took a small step back, nodding in the direction of her den. “Ladies first.”
She doesn't sound all that comfortable... but, hey, neither do I.
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Post by Sivoncé™ on May 30, 2009 15:30:36 GMT -5
Fireflight felt her skin grow hot underneath her pelt -- blushing even at a time like this at Euphrates' gesture. She smiled at him, this time it was genuine, and she padded into her den, settling down once she was inside the cool haven and waiting for him to enter after her. She watched him with mild curiosity in her eyes. She was still upset that he hadn't spoken to her sooner, as his alpha.....but she was wondering, also, why, as his mate, he didn't speak to her before this. I'm sure he has a good reason. He must be upset about all of these Blood Mist allusions, he probably didn't want to talk about it with anybody. I'm sure he wouldn't do this intentionally -- it isn't his fault. But It's time for the truth to come out....it would've eventually. I just hope he's okay...
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Post by .Rabid Lycan. on May 30, 2009 18:59:10 GMT -5
Returning Fireflight’s smile out of reflex, Euphrates trailed behind her, nervous wings pounding in his stomach. They entered the den, and Euphrates sat down across from her, eyeing their surroundings. Now or never… just say it. You know you’ll feel better when you do.
Sighing softly, Euphrates forced himself to shift his gaze onto Fireflight’s eyes, and began. “I… I’m sorry. I should have spoken sooner, I know it, but… okay, those wolves we just faced? They’re not new… they’re the same BloodMist that we faced a long time ago. They have some new members, sure, but all the same…” After exhaling sharply, he forced himself to continue. “I while back, I… I ran into my mother, Babylonia. At first I thought I was crazy, but it wasn’t just me. Sumer, too. And it wasn’t the first time. Do you remember that tornado, where you followed me out into the woods? I told you that I was looking for Sumer… and I was. But when I found him, he had her scent on her, and I was afraid…
“I left BloodMist for him. I loved my family, but they were going to get us killed—my mother died the night I joined the Destinians. And it worked, he was safe. I just w-wanted him to be safe… Mom—no. Babylonia is back now, and wants him back. I couldn’t lose him again, after all that. I can’t let him die with them! He’s gone off to her so many times… we were both always so careful to earn the trust of the packs, and now… he’s gone right now! I haven’t seen him for days, and… oh, dear Lupus, I’m a terrible brother… and a terrible mate, and a terrible packwolf. I should have told you about my mother, I’m sorry… and now look what happened! War, blood, misery…”
Shaking his head back and forth, Euphrates allowed his tail to droop in an expression of shame. …at least I don’t have to hide anything anymore he reminded himself, somehow not all that cheered up by the fact.
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Post by Sivoncé™ on May 30, 2009 20:20:48 GMT -5
Fireflight listened as calm as she could, but in her, a panic fear was starting to rise. She had her suspicions that this involved the old legends, maybe a group of rogues trying to come together to remake their oldest enemy, but not this....no, this was out of the question! Back? But how?! When did this happen? How could the Twilight wolves allow this to be?!...more importantly, how can we fix this? The packs are scattered, torn apart by vendettas against each other.The Destinians are weak, we should be strong, the Siverians have broken leadership, the Yozorans as well, and they have no healer! The Sheerans, from what I saw, have enough inter-pack treachery to last as long as wolven kind intself! The packs were nearly annihilated the first time, but they managed to unite to face their threat -- it was the only way they could face them. The second time.....they ceased their quarrel after Blood Mist was rediscovered, but they ran away.....they were stronger because they new they had to stick together....but this is all so...so crazy. No wolf could listen to this and take this seriously unless they had definitive proof, unless a wolf they trusted had been invovled....
Fireflight raised her eyes to meet Euphrates', watching him swim in shame, regret, and fear for his brother. She stepped close to him, lightly resting her tail against his shoulder.
"We'll get through this, I promise you. And I'll never be ashamed of you, Euphrates. You know that....I love you," she woofed softly, voice gentle, but certain. "We need to talk to the entire pack....we need to strive towards strength again. Thank you for telling me this -- I know it must have been hard for you."
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Post by .Rabid Lycan. on May 31, 2009 16:33:52 GMT -5
Should have spoken up, should have protected my brother more, should have—
His thoughts skidded to a halt, Fireflight’s gentle touch removing him from his inner tirade. Her words served to somewhat soothe him, but the guilt and regret still remained, and his heart was heavy. Nodding slowly at her words, Euphrates managed to lift his head. “Love you too,” he murmured softly, a semi-smile crossing his lips for the briefest of moments. “And if you need any information on BloodMist—if you need anything at all—you can ask me. I won’t mind.”
In truth, it always pained Euphrates to discuss his pack of birth. But if she or the pack needs to know, I’ll tell them what I can… I owe them that much.
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Post by Sivoncé™ on May 31, 2009 16:46:53 GMT -5
Fireflight smiled -- a smile she hoped was reassuring for Euphrates. She knew she had plenty of things to speak with the pack about, important, iconic things....but her gut was telling her now was not the time. Wolves were recovering from the recent battle and needed some time to collect their thoughts and rest. We'll address them tomorrow, then....tonight.... She blinked up at Euphrates, still smiling. "You want to get outta here for a bit, get some air? The tension here is clogging up my airways, it would be nice to breathe a little bit." She stood, rolling her shoulders and arching her back in a stretch. She'd yet to have her cuts checks by a healer, but she had only a few scratches, and none were very serious that they needed immediate help. "Or do you need healer help...?"
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Post by .Rabid Lycan. on May 31, 2009 17:05:56 GMT -5
Sighing gratefully at his mate, Euphrates offered an eager nod. “Getting out of here sounds perfect right now.” Listening to her additional comment, he immediately shook his head, a mock-frown on his visage. “You kidding? Toss is still in the Healer’s den. If I walk in, I’ll wind up getting lectured on the proper technique to attack a bear, and whatever else seems to pop into his head!” After breaking into a smile to reveal his sarcasm, he gentle woofed, “I’m fine. A few bites and scratches aren’t anything to worry about.”
Although he still felt terrible, a great burden had been lifted off his chest, and the prospect of stepping out with Fireflight was too appealing to ignore.
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Post by Sivoncé™ on May 31, 2009 19:49:17 GMT -5
She beamed, eyes glowing with mischeif, and relief that they could get away, if only for a few hours. We need a load off -- too much serious stuff going on right now. "Sounds like a date," she giggled, padding out of the den and into the camp once more. She swept her gaze around the camp -- everything seemed under control as far as she could tell. And if anything goes wrong, I'll be able to hear Toss howling about his ninja skills anywhere in the terras. She glanced back at Euphrates, then loped towards the exit, breathing in the fresh scent of pine as she entered the woodlands. It felt good to be out and about. The grass was laced with dew, and crickets chirruped rythmically. Without warning, she broke into a light run, relishing in the feel of the night breeze on her pelt. It's been to long since I've had a nice run.
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Post by .Rabid Lycan. on Jun 1, 2009 20:03:31 GMT -5
A spring returning to his step, Euphrates bounded after Fireflight, gratefully leaving the Destinian camp behind. The night was theirs, and they could either spend it worrying about Hellfirians or fussing over wounds, or they could enjoy the calming lullabies of crickets and the company of one another. Although the latter was the less intelligent choice, Euphrates tired bones yearned for a release from the tension, and this was a way out. And I wouldn’t want to spend a night on the territory with anyone else…
Racing after her, he chuckled openly. “Running through the night during Spring, almost Summer? This seems familiar…” He was grinning, alluding to the first time they had really talked to each other. Seems like so long ago, but good memories. A mischievous glint to his eyes, Euphrates raced forward, tagging her softly on the shoulder with his nose before pulling away into a sprint. “Tag, you’re it!”
I’ll never outrun her! he secretly knew, but wasn’t about to say it aloud. As far as he was concerned, a childish game of tag was just what they needed, regardless of who was more likely to win.
Back at the camp, after Euphrates and Fireflight had left, Toss snapped one eye open. The sound of the duo racing off into the night had roused him from his sleep, and a determined thought was on his mind. I’ll go check the borders real quick, just in case the Hellfirians are about. They’re probably still injured, but best to make sure. Don’t want anyone getting hurt just ‘cause I’m too lazy to scan the borders—I’m the Beta, for GoldenWolf’s sake!
Heaving himself to his tired old paws, Toss slipped out of the den, gliding along the shadows of the clearing to the entrance. Once there, he slipped out without a sound, and disappeared without a trace.
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Post by Sivoncé™ on Jun 2, 2009 18:11:41 GMT -5
A light tap on her shoulder narrowed Fireflight's eyes to playful slits. She bent low, tail high in the air, then lunged forward in pursuit. Her paws flew across the ground merrily, a light, happy buzz marking her prance. The mood was contaigious, or maybe it was this time, this place, this pairing that caused the golden feeling rising underneath her pelt. She pelted forward, catching up with Euphrates and flying at him in a play tackle, cackling with her victory.
"Oh yes, of course, that was when I met you....or did you meet me?" she raised a brow mysteriously, snickering at her abusurdism. "It was a really lovely night....a really lovely spring...." She sighed, eyes dazzled with days of the past, she swiped her tongue across Euphrates' nose, then backed away to let him up. "So much has changed," she woofed, blinking as she saw pale outlines of the two figures rushing through the dark, two carefree warriors living life simply. But here we are, warrior and alpha, still simple, still blissful, still in love. She gazed at Euphrates, eyes euphoric. "Well...maybe not all that different," she woofed softly.
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"My name is Percy Jackson, and I am INVINCIBLE!!"
