No Name's Story

No Name was tired and hungry. Her paws were also hurting from the day's long walk. She was still a cub and yet so, alone. She wasn't really suprised that she was left behind. If it weren't for her wing, then she probably would have actually been loved by her parents and actually have friends. The only thing that suprised her was her pack's manner of leaving. They left her alive, all alone, stranded in the forest, doomed to die, but she didn't die. She was still alive but no longer in the confines of the Acadia forest. She didn't know where she was... All she knew was that there was some blue berries in front of her. She bolted forward gulping down the berries barely even realizing that it was a trap.
Snap!
The noise brought No Name yelping as she was abruptly turned upside down. She was being hung by her back legs with some vines connected to a strong looking branch. If only she had two wings. If she did, then she probably would have been able to get out of this as easily as it was stepping into it. "Help! Someone help!" She howled out struggling to get free of the trap. If someone did hear her, then they easily see her hanging upside down. Her fur was green and brown striped, her eyes were purple, she had a green wing on her right side, and there was a pink flower on each side of her hindlegs.

Young Tiberius woke from a sleepy doze that comes naturally after a nice hearty meal. He realized he was not rationing his food he had taken from home very well, but he always reasoned there would be a lighter tomorrow. And by the sound of it, he would not even have to wait that long! He heard the sound of some poor creature that had actually managed to fall into his trap. What was it, a juicy deer, a flying fish, a bird of prey? Only the fish sounded appetizing, so maybe he could practice his throttle if it was just one of those lame deer. Their meat was way too lean for him, he didn't understand how anyone could palate it.

Revealing himself from his hiding spot a few meters from the trap at last, eager to see what he had caught, Tiberius had to admit he was a bit disappointed to see a wolf his size caught in his trap. "Your the one who actually ate those berries? Whoa, you musta been hungry." He looked over curiously, having not seen a wolf of his stature for several days around here. It was hard to get any particulars about her, for she was spinning around wildly as she hung there. He wondered if her parents were about, perhaps they would know which way his pack was. Not that he wanted to go back...it would just be nice knowing which way. He decided to ask her about her pack anyway, as he looked around for where he had placed the trap release.

It wasn't long after accepting the fact that Nova couldn't move that he had resolutely decided to try and fall asleep, hoping that a good rest rest may be the answer to all his problems, as unlikely as that sounds. He did not have any eventful dreams, especially to the degree of seeing his father again, though he did have an odd one where he was being stalked by a deer, instead of the other way around. His imagination stopped suddenly with a gag, as he felt something being put into his mouth. As it was already sliding down his throat without him swallowing, Nova involuntarily choked most of the fruity liquid out. Managing to open his eyes slightly, he felt a strangle tingling feeling at his extremities, followed by the occasional twitch, but nothing more. He numbly tried to turn his head, barely managing to see Cerise, before setting his head back on the ground. "What was that all about..." he mumbled to himself, delirious.

***

Tiberius was so preoccupied with his own thoughts that he hardly noticed that he was being ignored by his captive. He may as well been talking to a wall for all he cared. The young wolf had managed to find the sinew cord that he had used to set the trap, it was firmly lodged in the fork of a tree since he was not very apt at tying knots. Wanting to preserve the cord for another day, he decided not to dispose of the rope quickly with a bite, and instead he laboriously tried to work it out of the wedge he had so tightly put it in. "So do you have any food? Probably not, considerin you were tryin to eat those berries. Why would you eat somethin lyin on the ground? They coulda been poison. Maybe they were, the bush I found em on looked funny. Guess if you want food you want food. Do ya have food?" Tiberius rambled, as he often did while working. He didn't notice he was talking himself in a circle, and he occasionally turned around to assure himself he was being heard.

As Nova listened to the others, he retreated himself into his own thoughts. As he did so, he decided to do something productive and place BattleDemon onto the branch sled. At first her spastic movements made him nervous, but when he realized no harm was coming out of it, he let her be. He supposed that rolling her over onto the adjacent transport would be the best way to go. Dodging the flailing of her claws, Nova grunted as he pushed into her belly with his muzzle. She was solid, and fairly hard to move, but after a fair amount of exertion he managed to roll her body over. The deed being done, Nova stepped back, a bit woozy. He was lightheaded, as if he had stood up too fast, and for a moment he had to lean against a nearby tree, his vision blurring in and out. He took a deep breath. He really needed to get this toxin out of him.

***

Tiberius stopped his motor mouth long enough to hear his conversation partner say something. "Well, whaddya think I'm doing? Stringing you up to try and eat ya? I'm not that hungry." Tiberius mumbled, finally feeling the tension slacken in the rope. Before he could warn her, the rope slide all the way out of the branch and off the counterweight, sending the other wolf sailing into the ground. "Sorry 'bout that. I thought flyin wolves could land more gracefully though" Tiberius mentioned, matter-o-factually after seeing her wing.

"One wing? All da better for flyin in circles" Tiberius commented, ignoring her remark about his tendency to talk in excess and instead looking at her curiously. He looked over the rest of her physique, now that she was not spinning. He of course had never seen a wolf like her before, his pack had been rather isolated from the recent war. The Arlyne wolves were relatively pacifist, preferring to allow the war to go on around them instead of getting directly involved. He walked in a crescent shape around her, just to be sure she didn't have a second wing. Remarkable, before he had thought all wolf anatomy came in pairs, a pair of eyes, a pair of ears, two pairs of paws. She seemed to be doing fine with a pair-less wing! Surprisingly, he didn't feel like stating the obvious. Right now at least. "So whattya doin out here? Foraging for food for your pack? Your pack likes berries dat much? Never really liked 'em myself. I'm Tiberius by the way" the young wolf curiously rambled.

Nova's regular vigor returned after a moment or two, and not too soon, as he saw preparations were being made to move out. Perhaps it would be better if they split up, with BattleDemon, himself, and Schemeko going to the the Hemlock's domain for poison control and bandaging, with the others going to get help from the Avens for advanced medicine as Cerise had suggested. Though would it be such a good idea to be alone with Schemeko? Not necessarily that Nova expected the Hemlock to harm them, but two incapacitated wolves traveling with a single fit wolf would be a tempting target for rival packs. Not to mention an odd one, who ever saw an Ausi, and Alva, and a Hemlock travel together? Perhaps traveling as a group would be best after all, even if it would be slower. In any case, he decided to share is opinion anyway. "Perhaps we should send a pair of runners to go get advanced medical help, or find improved shelter, and meet the rest of the group at Schemeko's destination. However that would require knowledge of where we are going." he suggested, fishing for the answer, his gaze ending up on Schemeko.

***

Young Tiberius thought that this was a very interesting wolf, if not a bit short on patience. Well, young wolves were not known for their infinite attention spans, he supposed. Was that a bird he saw fly by? It had pretty feathers. Shaking his head, he ruffled his fur and returned to the matter at hand. He formulated a reply ahead of time. Since he was not longer filled to the brim with excitement over finding someone, his required words per minute began to decrease, and he began to put more quality into his words. "Neat, sounds like you guys are a doe to land like the Arlyne are a fish to water. So why you out here then? Hide and seek with your mates? Can I play?" he responded, looking into her colorful eyes. They reminded him of water, but only when the sun hit that water just right at sunset. That was the best time to swim, when each little droplet of water had its own color and character as he sent it away splashing.

He wondered if there was any water near by, it would be nice to cool off, maybe this wolf...what had she said her name was? He forgot. Would be rude to ask again. Maybe she swam too. Or maybe she preferred keeping her paws dry. Dry paws were easier to manage after all. Didn't get all muddy when you walked on them. Yucky leaves and branches always stick to mud too. Then they eventually fall off, leaving tracks. Then her tracks would be everywhere! If she didn't leave tracks everywhere, there is less chance that someone would find him. Tiberius didn't really want to be found yet, he had just started he journey! So maybe he wouldn't take...her, swimming.

Drais and No Name
Drais jumped to paws when something small rammed into him. His eyes wide and his nostrils flaring he looked around searching for any signs of an enemy or two. He saw no one. Nothing, but the shadows that always followed him. They were his only companions and whenever he seemed to leave them, they always tried to bring him back into their embrace. He snorted, shook himself and looked down at No Name who was peering out from under him at the shadows with wide frightened eyes. "They won't hurt you. They're just... Friends."

No Name stared at the shadows and seemed to make herself look smaller. "B-but... Th-t-they don't look r-right." As she finished her sentence, on of the shadows on the ground grew, and reshaped itself so it looked like the shadow of a wolf cub. No Name blinked and seemed to smile a little.

Drais glared at the shadow that changed shape. What was wrong with one of his companions? Of all the times he spent with them, they've never appeared in front of a stranger, unless they were going to kill or something. He looked at the pup beneath him and growled as he moved to the other side of the fire, leaving No Name alone on the ground. She watched him retreat and settled down away from her.

No Name sighed and refocused on the shadow in the form of a pup move and disappear. She sighed again, and glanced back over at Drais. His eyes were already closed and his breathing was normal. He was already asleep. She went into a crouch and silently but quickly, made her way over to him and curled up beside him, falling into a deep sleep.

Well of course, Nova was rather shocked at being attacked from behind, and now that his face was being pressed down onto cobblestone, it was hard not to be angry. No wonder that Arlyne had been so eager to leave Nova alone, he probably knew there was an ambush coming! Without even testing his muscles he knew he couldn't fight back against this brute on top of him, Nova was in an awkward position to retaliate and the Tenneth was much too heavy anyway. It was surprising how quickly SkyDancer's attitude had changed, she had gone from rolling out the welcome wagon to executions at first light. Even with WarriorDemon's warning, he didn't expect SkyDancer to be so, well, blatant. She had struck him as one more clever and conniving, not brash.

Other than a soft grunt after being tackled initially, up until this point Nova had not spoken a word. He didn't know what to say. A question? A jest? Something snarky? Something about how her plan will never work, yadda yadda yadda? In the end, Nova decided not to give her the pleasure of hearing him beg, and decided to let her speak first. He could only hope that the others were not already apprehended, and would pay more heed to WarriorDemon's warning then he had.

***

Tiberius' eyes snapped open at the sound of a growl, and light flooded into his eyes. Looking frantically around for a warrior wolf with bared teeth, he was by contrast overjoyed to see a familiar face not too far in front of him. Springing up so fast that he tripped over the log that he had been hiding behind, he rebounded and chased after the pair of wolves leaving the camp. "Feathas! I knew I'd see you again Feathas! Did ya see that fire? Where have ya been! Why are ya with 'im still?" Tiberius exclaimed, practically galloping up to No Name. His spontaneous nick-naming of his companion was based off of her very distinguishing characteristic, her feathered wing no less. Tiberius glanced upward at the imposing Drais every now and then, but the most thought he had given to the big wolf was if he had anything to eat.

Drais and No Name

Drais snarled as he whipped around as fast as he could with a wounded leg. His snarl stopped when he saw Tiberius the one with spine fin thing. He blinked and snorted, "Oh. It's you." He looked behind him to see what No Name would do but he didn't see her. She wasn't behind him.

No Name whimpered as she hid under Drais. The wolf had gotten mad about something and she didn't know if that something was dangerous, so she had taken to hiding under Drais. It seemed didn't that either, until he heard her whimpered. His eyes widened as he jumped back revealing No Name with her closed eyes. "Well..." He didn't know if he should be angry or freaked out. Not wanting to confuse himself, he just went with being angry. "What are you doing?"

No Name opened her eyes and looked up at Drais. She looked guilty, but then turned to see Tiberius trotting over. Grinning like nothing was wrong she jumped up and barked at him.


Blue Team

Blue-One snarled down at Nova again as he harshly jostled the smaller wolf. "Tell her she's going to lose her precious gems soon if she doesn't come to where the traitors say their goodbyes." His words were smooth and as hard as granite. Blue-Two growled as she stepped forward and buffeted Nova with her wings. Blue-Three jumped forward and bit into Nova's flanks, letting a growl claw it's way out of his throat. Blue-Five did the same as Blue-Two and buffeted the ice wolf with his wings.

Blue-One looked up when Blue-Four didn't make a move. Blue-Four was the smallest out of all them, and her red eye didn't glow as much as the others. She watched her team beat Nova, until Blue-One growled menacingly at her. She pretended to snarl at Nova, until Blue-One raked his front claws down Nova's right shoulder, leaving deep glashes there. "Blue Team retreat." He commanded as they jumped up and quickly flew up toward the darkness, leaving no trail of their arrival.

((Sorry forgot to mention, SkyDancer and Blue Team were up on one of the bridges at the top of the cavern.))

Nova almost wished he had been left in that fire, rather than enduring this inquisition. As he tried to watch where they flew away to, a trickle of blood flowed into his eye and blocked his vision with a murky red mist. Wiping his paw across his face, he heaved his aching body upwards and leaned against the fountain. They seemed to have done a good job at causing plenty of pain without any real damage. Almost as if they had done it before. After all, they apparently wanted him alive to deliver a message to...her? Of course, there was one "her" in particular that Nova was sure they were talking about, but he didn't think it would be wise to jump to conclusions.

Glancing into the cool waters of the fountain he was leaning against, he was tempted to jump in and rinse off the blood before it matted his fur. However, Nova didn't know how many wolves were actually innocent here, and he didn't want to poison their only water supply. Instead, he made due with just splashing some water onto his wounds with his paw, the hard water stinging his wounds. Fearing that staying out in the open would provoke another incident, Nova decided to make haste back to the others. Luckily, his legs were left uninjured, allowing the Ausi to make a pained limp back to the guest's quarters.

***

"Whaddya think I'm doin? I came ta see Feathas! Do ya guys have any food? I hope its fish." Tiberius grinned, looking around for something to start his day off right. Where had he left his stash of rations he had taken from home? In some tree, he guessed. Ah well, he was getting tired of dried out food, it would be nice to have something fresh for once, and of course, Drais would be the one to provide it, right?

No Name and Drais

No Name looked at Tiberius then glanced back at Drais as if wondering what he was thinking. She was just focusing on her friend but then something strange happened. Tiberius called her Feathas. She cocked her head to the left, making her ears flop a little toward the left. "What is... Feathas?" She had to play it in her head for a minute but she finally spoke and pronouced the word correctly.

Drais rolled his eyes at the two pups. "I guess I now have two pups to care for. Yippy!" He spoke the last word with mock happiness as he glared both of the scrawny little wolves in front of him. The little fish smelling wolf was talking of food and of course, food was vital to them. He groaned then shook his head before turning around, careful with his wounded leg. "Well, come on the both of you before the hawks see you as weasels."

To say the truth Nova was more than a little bit surprised about how the "fight" proceeded. Though he preferred not to watch the majority of it, he had taken enough occasional glances to get the gist of it. In fact when the lumbering bear hefted its bulk away, there wasn't a doubt in the Ausi's mind that the Alva was nothing more than a body, to say nothing of the two souls that apparently dwelled inside. Nevertheless, the night, or day, or whatever it was by now, was full of surprises, and WarriorDemon managed to display at least the fact that she was alive with a howl.

Before much else could be done, a nearby howl returned the gesture. Snapping his head to the left, expecting to see Cerise as the owner of the remark, he was nonetheless shocked to see Mishaa speaking. Not just talking, but orating an entire lecture to this strange society of wolves. He knew that her vocabulary had been expanding exponentially, but this display was certainly enlightened. As Nova had no desire to do anything but listen, he did so, and yet, he began to feel a strange sense of relaxation pass over him. His sense were becoming more collected, his muscles slowly becoming less tense. He realized then that the room was cooling, in a way that was almost imperceptible, granting much relief to the heat sensitive Ausi.

How was this young wolf mastering such a feat? The cooling of an entire atmosphere was remarkable to say the least, an was only practiced by the Ausis most adept at their elemental abilities. Nova himself was not particularly proficient, but he could get by. But lowering the temperature of an entire area was far beyond his abilities.

Awkwardly glancing around, he noticed for the first time in the nearest groups of audience members the Arlyne wolf that had been drawing water from the well. He had been the wolf that Nova had talked to about the crystal cave clock, and the last person Nova saw before he was ambushed. Catching the older wolf's gaze, the other wolf quickly turned away, pretending something else had caught his attention. Nova scowled. Was everyone in here in on this plot?

***

As matter of factually as a wolf who had been asked the color of the sky, Tiberius responded "You of course! Do ya see any otha wolf around here with feathas?" Returning his attention to the larger wolf who seemed incredibly pleased to lead them to a bite to eat, the young Arlyne followed him as he turned around. He watched the large wolf, imagining those wolves he had seen fighting earlier. Once you grew up, did you have to fight? If so, he would much rather remain young and out of the fray. No use being physically mature, if it only means you will have to start taking lives.

As pandemonium erupted into the arena, Nova was lost in the fray. Sand was everywhere, and the particles stung every inch of exposed flesh it could grapple onto. His nose, his eyes, and his open wound all pained him, but even as the cloud of dust was threatening to choke him, he realized that this was their chance to take the initiative. He couldn't put his faith in SkyDancer's promise, he would have to take his fate into his own hands. If home was his destiny, he would have to earn it himself.

Apparently, there seemed to be only two ways out the arena. One was the way they had come in, swarming with disorientated guards. The other was the door that the bear had disappeared into, lazily swing on its hinges as if someone had forgotten to close the door all the way. Every other route out was up in the stands, where they would have to push through the audience in order to get out. He explained his observations to Schemeko, who seemed to be the only competent wolf left that he could communicate with. "If we are willing to chance that bear, we may be able to get through that door on the other side of the stadium. With any luck there would be a way to the surface from there." he suggested, having to yell over the roar of the sandstorm. The bear had to drink, and get sunlight every now and then didn't he? Nova didn't think they would bring the bear up through the city just for his daily needs, they would have a more convenient way out for that. They had to.

"If you can find and grab Mishaa, I'll try and escort BattleDemon." Nova offered, knowing that the Hemlock would know how to better deal with Mishaa's possibly poisonous defenses. He had suspected she was at least part Hemlock from her coloration, but her recent activities confirmed that. Where had she gotten to anyway? They had been losing companions ever since they had entered this confounded tunnel.

***

Even over the sound of his own chattering, Tiberius' ears swiveled to the sound of something nearby. It was a low sound, fairly consistent, but very hard to discern what it was. Suddenly a cry broke out through the trees, and the young wolf naturally recoiled. Was it another one of those wolves from that fight? He made a big deal about getting around Drais so that the big wolf was between him and the source of the noise. "Whaddya think that is?" he stuttered nervously.

Almost falling over himself as BattleDemon bolted up, Nova was astonished to see her moving again with such grace. She had just been mauled by a bear after all, and he was sure that at least one of her legs was more than superficially injured. Gauging her trajectory, he was relieved that she was at least heading in the correct general direction. If Schemeko had managed to get some ground, perhaps he could help guide her. In any case, all view he had of her quickly faded away into the whirling sands.

Realizing that he was alone, he began to look around for some sense of bearing. The sand seemed to be staying put if not getting worse, and not having anyone else around as reference points didn't help his disorientation. Shifting his gaze downwards to avoid the angry sands that stung like bees anywhere they could find exposed flesh, Nova recalled the direction BattleDemon had gone to the best of his abilities, and set off limping.

***

The sounds that Tiberius had heard had long since faded away, but as they did so, he thought that he could hear other voices muddled into the mix. Whoever was out there, they were not alone. But what did that matter, as long as they stayed quiet, the others would stay away. He was sure that there was nothing that Drais couldn't handle in any case, even if it meant more bloodshed. "So uh...whenda we eat?" Tiberius probed curiously, the possibility of food dampening his nerves. It was so much easier to be an intrepid adventurer when you weren't hungry.

"Whadda bout fish? Have any of those in dat tree?" Tiberius asked hopefully, but nevertheless biting into the food that was graciously given to him. His fears long passed, he delighted in the wonderful variety of food he was given. It wasn't often he had more than one foodstuff in a meal at once, and the bread complimented the meat nicely. If he had only he had a nice trout lathered across the top of all this, then his meal would be complete.

Talking between mouthfuls, Tiberius' curiosity was indeed never ending. "So where are ya...mrmph....taking us? Someplace with...mmf...water? I like swimming. Almost as much as fishing. So...mm...about dat fish in dat tree?" he continued, shoveling in food mid-sentence. His ears twitched as he leaned his head back to look at the sky. Strange how the sky seemed all the same here as it did at home. Neutral and impassive, it didn't seem to care about what was going on beneath it. All it wanted to do was decorate the landscape with the same old clouds it always does. Even the sun never seemed to alter its lazy course across the sky.

As would be expected, Tiberius was noticeably shaken when the stranger lurked out from the shadows to oversee the pup that he was investigating. Trembling slightly at the thought of what the warrior wolf could potentially do to him, her sudden threat made him let out a small yelp, easily drowned out by Drais' growl. Sometimes it payed off not to have the loudest voice in the room. But only sometimes.

Inching out of his observation post and back towards Drais, Tiberius found himself next to his only equal. Even in a time as tense as this, Tiberius felt the need to hear his own voice. It was a comfort to him, as it seemed to be the only thing in this little adventure that seemed familiar to him. "Whaddya think that pup's mum wants, Feathas?" he whispered quietly, consciously trying to keep his voice low enough that it would not travel to the other bank. Regardless of how threatening the wolf on the other side was, Tiberius was inwardly confident that Drais would prevail if she attacked. After all, he had no excuse to doubt the old wolfs heroics thus far. And if all went down hill anyway? He could just jump in the river and disappear forever. He only hoped his companions had a similarly convenient escape route.

Durandel, Summanus, and Schemeko

Summanus walked up to Schemeko with a serious scowl. While Summanus maybe many things he wouldn't say such hurtful things to a pup. Summanus spoke out to Schemeko, "You know you did have to be so mean," Schemeko looked at Summanus, "Even if it was the truth you didn't have to say it so callously." "And above all, you don't even seem to care." Summanus spoke disappointingly. "Hah! As if I care what you say." "Listen to me, I have my reasons as does anybody but I have absolutely no problem telling the hard facts." "In fact I find rather funny how people react to words...as if they ever made a difference." Schemeko sneered. "To think us wolves could be so easily manipulated by anyone's choice of words." "Why do they bear so much weight on our minds?" "If people cared less then there wouldn't be any trouble." "So someone made a snide comment, laugh at it!." "If someone threatened you, laugh at it!" "I figured any situation is laughable." "So place on a smile and forget you worries." Schemeko chuckled. "Not eveything can be laughed off, what if someone you cared about died or what if they were lost or sick?" "Is that something laugh at?" Summanus argued. "Pfft!" "As if my words would make a difference...wolves die every day...why should it matter if it's someone I know...heh they should be smiling that there leaving this wretched world!" Schemeko chuckled as he turned away from Summanus. Summanus sighed as he shook his head.

Durandel was disgusted with the Hemlock. If anyone thinks like that they should leave, in his opinion. He watched everyone from the mouth of the cave as his mind drifted back to the tunnel. He hoped the barricade would hold, he didn't like this lying around when the enemy could come at any moment. Durandel looked on and decided he would give the others time to rest and then he would have to convince them to leave. He took a deep breath and then something alerted his senses. Durandel sniffed and he could smell the scent of other wolves besides their own. Durandel went on the defensive and walked up to Summanus. "Don't panic but...we're not alone." Durandel spoke in a hushed tone to Summanus. Summanus discreetly sniffed the air and could tell that Durandel was right. "We should warn the others." Summanus spoke. "Yes but don't try to be too conspicuous as of now they don't know we're on to them." Durandel spoke as he moved away from Summanus. Durandel took it upon himself to tell the wolves by the trees. Durandel walked up to Nova and spoke to him calmly as to not arouse suspicion. "Asui." Durandel nudged Nova with his paw trying to wake him up. "I need to speak with you."

Summanus thought it best to warn Schemeko, despite his displeasure with him. "Hey Hemlock." Summanus called out to Schemeko who halted and turned to him. "Now what, another lecture?" Schemeko mockingly responded. "Why yes, it is." Summanus nonchalantly spoke. As he got up closed to him he whispered. "There are other wolves here, be on guard." Summanus warned Schemeko. Schemeko quickly sniffed and caught the scent of another wolf. "This is why I am leaving...nothing but trouble." Schemeko mumbled as Summanus left his side. Summanus was worried about the wolves down by the river and decided to walk down there. Before he could speak to BattleDemon another wolf was there and immediately Summanus ran to Battle's side. "Stay back!" Summanus barked at Drais, believing he was one of the ambushers. Summanus noticed the pups and was taken aback by their appearance. "What in the?" Summanus said to himself obviously confused.

Schemeko looked around and saw the Canicus trying to wake Nova and Summanus went down to the river where BattleDemon, or whatever she goes by, is. He noticed that the Kamarian was no where in sight. Schemeko figured him to be in the cave. While warning him would be in good nature, Schemeko thought where he is, is actually safer considering him being in the darkness and all. Instead Schemeko prepared his defenses. The best part about being a hemlock is, unless you have inner knowledge about them, it's hard to tell when they are secreting toxin. Well at least those advanced enough to discreetly secrete it.

As much as he hated to leave the fantasy world that only dreams provided, Nova willingly left his light sleep as he listened to the familiar voice of Durandel. As it was, Nova had not gone through any of the usual waking rituals that most wolves perform, standing, stretching, and yawning, for he expected to go right back to sleep after hearing a quick comment or question. Thus, to an outside observer, it would appear that Nova was still asleep. Curious as to why he was woken, Nova mumbled the phrase "What is it?", before flicking his ears to see if he could just hear the answer for himself. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. There was a cool breeze and the occasional song of a cricket. All he could smell was the dirt he was laying on, but perhaps that was because he had slept with his snout in the mud. Not wanting crack open his eyes, Nova resigned himself to wait for an answer.

***

Tiberius could only make out trace bits of the conversation coming from the other bank over the sound of the river current. From the facial expressions of the dark wolf on the other bank she seemed to be threatening something harsh. As frightening as the wolf was, she really wasn't all that interesting to the mind of the young Arlyne, nor was her mate that appeared. He was more interested on the things that were more his scale, namely the strange pup that he had first observed. She did try to approach them once, but before she even got to the bank of the river she ran back and huddled behind her mother, saying something he couldn't hear.

Tiberius was not totally blind to what was happening around him forever. He had duefully noted that the warrior wolf's mate was one that Tiberius had seen before, during that battle in front of that faraway cave. He could tell there was something amiss in the forest, even though his sense of smell and hearing were not yet fully developed. Tiberius decided to ask Feathers if she felt that way as well, not altogether sure what her response should be.

Durandel
Durandel's ears perked up at the sound of mumbling taking the cue to speak. "Whatever you do don't draw attention but I'm here to warn you that we are being watched." Durandel spoke in a hushed tone. "Before you get wounded up, it's not from within the cave, I would have known if they busted the barricade behind me...these are different wolves." Durandel paused as he looked up the tree. He wasn't sure how to call Cerise without yelling up the tree. "Be on guard." Durandel spoke before he moved away from Nova as gained a better view of Cerise. He really wished to warn the Avira but being so high up...maybe they don't notice her, perhaps she could gain the element of surprise. Not thinking much on the subject Durandel decided to prepare himself. If they were to be in a fight, he was ready to give it.

Summanus
Summanus heard the wolves speak. "It's true, she-wolf, we are not alone." Summanus spoke in hushed tone to BattleDemon as he backed away a few paces to give the Alva her space. He saw Mishaa hide behind her, she too senses danger upon them. Summanus placed the hilt of his blade within biting range, not unsheathing it but loosening it up from it's strap. A fight could break out at any moment and he worried for the pup's safety. "Stranger!" Summanus called out to Drais. "You should be more careful with pups around." "If I were you I would guard them." Summanus spoke as he began to give a low growl towards Drais.

Having been awake for a while now, it was a simple transition for Nova from laying on the ground to standing on his paws. Having heard the Kaveh's orders, Nova took a chance and looked around the surrounding area. There was no sudden skirmishes like he expected, rather, these strangers were giving them a chance to settle this civilly. As civil as being led away in chains can be, anyway. Not wanting to be the spark that started the inevitable fight, Nova made no move to either accept or reject the new wolves demands. His features displayed no fear, only a twinge of annoyance and a hint of frustration. Even if his nerves were instinctively on edge at the prospect of being thrown into slavery in some unknown land, there was no use letting his captors know that. And what did he mean that his powers would be at risk? Did he seriously think he could threaten a wolf's element? Arrogance at its finest, Nova inwardly scoffed.

"You are making some fine demands. Mind telling us why? Surely you must be more than a bully" Nova responded, in an attempt to buy a little time.

***

Tiberius was compliant in following Drais over the river and to the woods on the other side, shaken by the appearance of yet another wolf. There seemed to be only one, why didn't Drais and the other wolf just beat him up? Wasn't that what all adults instinctively did? Upon hearing the other wolf's proposition to be willingly led off, the young Arlyne's mind wandered at what would happen to him and Feathers if they were left alone out here. Tiberius stepped back into the water, having been standing on the bank. Laying down so that only his head was above the water, Tiberius' reflexes told him to bolt down the river if things went wrong. At least he would have some self determination in this adult ruled world.

Summanus

Summanus watched as the events unfolded. He looked at the Strigoi who appeared from out of the brush. He liked his chops and spoke rather casually as he gave the wolves present an ultimatum. Summanus had no intention of willingly being led away but the response from BattleDemon made him reconsider. It is true, the pups would surely be harmed if it came down to open fighting. Summanus couldn't help but bear guilt if they were harmed. Summanus shot a glare at the Strigoi and then sighed. "I too shall submit only if the pups are spared from whatever fate, you and your masters have in mind for us." Summanus spoke as he brought his muzzle away from the hilt of the blade.

Durandel

Durandel growled at Kaveh and the Borack. Defiance was apparent in his eyes and he showed no signs of coming along quietly. Durandel is a Canicus, a proud wolf from the packs of fire and heat. Neither he nor a Tenneth would ever go down quietly, it isn't in their nature. Durandel would rather being beaten and killed than become some sort of slave. He heard the ultimatum brought forth by the Kamarian, he could hear the superiority in his voice, obviously this Kamarian is rather high up in the pecking order of the shadow packs. He heard the retort from Nova and Durandel snorted in concurrence.

Schemeko

Schemeko noticed these other wolves converging upon the others but surprisingly he was left out of the equation. Summanus and Battle were down by the river facing an enemy wolf, a Kamarian and a Borack were targeting Nova, Cerise, and the Canicus, and finally a Hemlock and some sort of wolf he hadn't seen before entered the cave. Schemeko could easily sneak away and allow the others to deal with the enemy while he escaped. Which he would have in such an intense situation but something didn't seem right to him. They have revealed themselves but instead of attacking they are talking. Schemeko easily overheard from within the cave that they do not wish to fight them, but if they do they would not only threaten their person, but also their powers? Does he mean their natural elemental abilities? This greatly intrigued Schemeko, normally he would slink away unnoticed but his curiosity was getting the best of him. He would love to observe this ability to take away another wolf's powers. Perhaps, even he could discover how to take such a power for himself if he decided to give himself up. This plan is rather risky, as he may end up having his own abilities disappear but the reward...could be so much greater. Pondering this, Schemeko revealed himself to the wolves from within the cave and spoke, "Well you got us!" Schemeko spoke in a whimsical manner. "I have no desire to fight myself, I find fighting a rather nasty business wouldn't you say?" Schemeko lightly spoke.

Summanus

Summanus gave a low growl at the Strigoi who dared to chain him up. Defiance was clear in his eyes but the situation called for him to be smarter but...in a way...this is punishment for what he has done. Being captured and chained like this reminded him of the Kitas that were so ruthlessly chained by Shimmer Doom's wolves. He had helped such a ruthless tyrant effectively occupy another pack's territory. Doom herself would say this was in the Borack Alpha's best interest but really she wanted to use of the Kita's light-speed. Using them to fly her forces across Nigerius on a wild goose chase for her father. While she had not told the Alpha of her intentions she made it rather apparent to those who were under her command. Those Boracks of course went with it, any thing to show off the pride of the Boracks was more than enough incentive to do such dastardly things. Now here he was a wanderer, a mercenary for hire, someone who has no business being here. Summanus should have wandered off, why should he get involved. Summanus felt regret in his desicion, he is a loner and that was for the best. Now he has to care about the lives of others because he knows it isn't right to let these wolves die here today. The only reason why he did help Shimmer Doom is because she promised not to harm them, she only wanted them for their abilities. Summanus felt sure that she wouldn't kill them but she did threaten them with the life of the Alpha's pup if the Kitas became unruly. Summanus also felt that agreeing to this was repentance for placing such a young one in danger, at least these pups will not be in chains as well.

The Strigoi was wise to chain him up to BattleDemon, even if Summanus tried to escape the electrical current would kill the she-wolf in the process. As of now Summanus weakened the current into a low wattage, the worse anyone would feel would be a static shock.

Schemeko

Schemeko merely chuckled at the bumbling attempts by the long-eared wolf to chain Schemeko. He noticed the poor job he did in covering his fur, he should have let the other Hemlock do his job. At least now Schemeko has some leverage on an escape plan, not to mention being chained to these other wolves. If he could escape perhaps it could work out in their favor as well. Having a Kamarian and an Aven could be useful but Schemeko must see this great power they talked about. He wondered if it will be at the place they are going to bring them too. He hoped that what they said wasn't a lie to intimidate or in Schemeko's case lure into being captured. "Well then my mismatched captors, take me to your leader." Schemeko chuckled as he gave a wily grin.

Durandel

Durandel watched the others being chained as he saw Nova and Cerise being wrapped by the metallic material. Durandel gave a growl as he spoke. "Hmph!" "Try and chain me up, I will not give so easily." Durandel scoffed at the two wolves. "You two will burn before you touch me!" Durandel threatened the two.

Summanus and Schemeko

Summanus saw Drais take the pups and leave and gave a sigh of relief. As he turned his attention back to the Strigoi Al inaappeared and knocked him back. She spoke words of encouragement, something to boost morale and such. She and the pup are both correct but forces outside of Summanus' control is what is forcing him to surrender. Summanus hadn't given up on life, at least not yet, he often thought of disappearing from this world. What would Nigerius need another stray for? Still being with these wolves have given him a new reason to remain or at least this war has. Summanus isn't a war monger but if this conflict were to end, then the wolves in need of some extra assistance would diminish. No mercenary jobs, no contracts, no chores...nothing. Summanus though would fight against the tyrants that seek to oppress him now if it weren't for the others. Summanus isn't injured or tired like the rest of the wolves here but that's the problem most of them were. Summanus isn't a weakling but even he can't handle a multitude of enemies. He could kill the Strigoi but then one of his associates would back him up and Summanus would have very little back up. BattleDemon was here but she is in a worse shape, not fit for any combat. There was Alina but despite her boldheartedness she isn't a match for the wolves present. He knows Kitas aren't warriors like most of the packs are. Case in point, When Shimmer Doom invaded the Sakura Ruins the Kitas there submitted as soon as Doom showed hostilities. He was there, he saw how the entire pack lost their liberty as soon as a militaristic group like Doom's Boracks appeared. They didn't have the heart to shed blood while Doom had no trouble shedding there's.

The others that came with BattleDemon were no worse for wear, except maybe the Hemlock. He didn't trust the Hemlock to secure anything so all he had to rely on was Mydnyte, Fox, and Durandel. Considering the numbers game they are outnumbered able wolf for able wolf. Summanus was dragged along with Battle as they met the rest of the group. As he figured the other able body wolves were quickly secured, except for Durandel and Alina, which also isn't a surprise to him. Durandel is just as bold and foolhardy like Alina is.

Schemeko watched as Alina dove in. Foolish she-wolf! She's going to get us all killed. Schemeko snickered to himself. Schemeko watched as the leader apparent pushed Alina close to Durandel as he told his lackeys to drag us away. Schemeko for one was excited, he hoped to see this power for himself and he assumed he would see it at wherever they are taking them too. A name was thrown out there, "Rashid" he had heard of someone with that name but it was merely a rumor, a tall tale to scare pups at night, well at least he thought it was. Schemeko was dragged off with the others through the brush as he tried to overhear what the Kamarian was going to do with the lava wolf and the light wolf. They were making a considerable pace and it was hard to hear what was going on but he caught the first words the Kamarian spoke,

"The Aonghus Crystals. Forged from the very prison we are taking you to now..."

Schemeko had never heard of an Aonghus Crystal but it sounded interesting. Schemeko wished to hear more but they were being dragged too far out of earshot. They only thing he noticed were strange lights followed by an electrical storm. Not fully aware of the details he assumed the red was from Durandel and he was fighting the Borack, who probably killed them both. Schemeko turned his attention forward as he saw their captors dragging them towards the mountains.


Durandel

Durandel growled at Kaveh when he had the Hemlock bit Fox. "You think your going to get away with this!?" Durandel barked. "Your arrogance betrays you!" Durandel shouted as he prepared to attack but before he could a Deon appeared. The metal wolf stood menacingly clad in armor. "Heh, you think that armor will protect you!?" "We Canicus have melted through your kind's defenses before!" Durandel stopped short of a breath as he saw an eerie glow come from it's mouth. Kaveh explained to them what it was and Durandel could hardly believe it. "Are you mad!?" "There is no such crystal!" Durandel argued but the red was coming close and Durandel made a few steps back. He wasn't sure what the hell this was but before he could do anything the Borack created an electrical dome. It was closing in and Kaveh presented them an ultimatum, submit or die. It isn't in a Cancius' pride to submit, die with with the flame still burning in your heart as the saying goes. To go out in a Blaze of Glory, is the dream for any warrior not just the Fire Packs. Yet, he worried about Alina. While Durandel would proudly die a free wolf he didn't wish for the Kita to share the same fate. Durandel looked over to her and ask, "What do you wish?" If her answer is submission then he will submit with her but if she chooses not to, then Durandel would stand by her in the end, defiance still in his eyes before he fades.

Tiberius was still at the naive stage of his life that he couldn't keep himself from grinning at No Name's mistake, nor stopping himself from saying a teasing comment or two. Turning his attention back to himself, he felt a swelling of pride in the fact that he was learning how to fend for himself out in the wild. He had always wanted to be self sufficient, and he had rather hoped that he would be able to learn how to hunt before his provision from home ran out. Of course, his meeting of Feathers and Drais complicated things, but still he had the opportunity now.

Scanning the grass in a way that closely mimicked his mentor, Tiberius spotting a movement that looked unnatural, as the grass was swaying inward towards the wind. In one hyperactive leap forward, Tiberius' spring landed him right on target, perhaps even a little too much so. From landing on whatever creature that was his prey, Tiberius was sent off balance, and his momentum caused him to roll a few paces. Unphased, Tiberius righted himself quickly and bounded over to the spot of his victim. It appeared to be some sort of small weasel, and though it was not killed from the impact, it was stunned, and Tiberius stamped a paw down on it to keep it from getting away.

Here was where the problem was. Drais had made it look so simple gulping down the mouse, since he was in proportion so much bigger than the insignificant creature. But for a pup whose meat had largely been separated far enough from the creature that its original form was indistinguishable, seeing prey a third of his size starting to squirm about made the young pup a bit squeamish. He realized he would actually have to watch himself kill the poor creature, and looked uneasily towards Drais. "Does this uh, hurt the creature? It seems so much more alive then da fish I am used to catching" he spoke truthfully, considering how different it was killing a creature with fur like him than one with scales.