Race Against Time was originally a roleplay, but now I'm making it into a fanfic. I still have to edit everything, to make it flow more into a story form, but I'll give you a sample. I'll give you the Prolouge, then the actual sample of the fanfic. Okay? Please comment on this!
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Prolouge:
It's the year 3000. Wolves have almost completely ceased to exist. But a prophecy that has been passed down for centuries, finally holds out hope for all. The prophecy states that "Six wolves shall travel to the four farthest, and darkest corners of the Earth. They shall recover four magical herbs. Anyone who dares stop them, shall face the wrath of their ancestors. Many perils will await them, but only by working together, will they save all wolves around the world. You will know these wolves, even if you have never seen them before in your life. Each will have a special marking, symbolizing their greatest strength. One shall have the mark of a lightning bolt, showing great speed and courage. Another shall have the mark of fire, showing loyalty and strength to endure anything at all odds. Another shall bear the marking of the moon, showing wisdom and persuasion. The others will have water, showing compassion and healing, earth, showing bravery and brains to think quickly during any situation, and lastly, one shall have the marking of the sun, showing hope and revealing the greatest strength of all, love."
Sample:
Lumina lay still as the night went on. By dawn, she had to be out of her den and waiting at the Big Oak beside Snakeye River. Nothing could make her sleep. Many perils will await them... This thought echoed in her head. " I must get through this, it has been foretold that I shall..."
It only seemed a moment later that Lumina found herself walking to the Big Oak. Her paws had moved seemingly by themselves, as if they had their own mind, out of the den. Dawn was approaching, and this was her moment. She sat down once she reached the trunk of the mighty tree. Lumina sat still, then howled to let the five other wolves that were in the prophecy, know, that dawn had arrived.
"I'll never be the same again.."
The night was cool and the sky was clear. Raya, the wolf of lightning darted through the forest chasing her late night meal. She lived on an island on a huge lake isolated from the land in which other wolves lived on.
Her speed made her kill successful, and she quickly gulped down the deer that she had been chasing. She had no words to speak, nor a howl to assure that she existed. Being along on a small isolated land in the middle of a huge lake seemed to make her life perfect. Almost...
Fuego had gone to the Big Oak three days in advance just to make sure he wouldn't be late. On the night before the scheduled meeting, he lay on one of the large branches of the tree, staring at the stars. Wonder who else I'll be working with... he thought to himself Just before he fell asleep. He had hardly slept for 4 hours when a howl beneath him startled him away and he plummeted down to the ground, hitting it hard and groaning slightly as he got to his feet.
Shaking his pelt off, Fuego looked up and saw a female wolf standing before him; the one whose howl and startled him awake. He cleared his throat and stared at her. "I was sleeping... but I guess that was my wake-up call..." he said, chuckling softly, "So, are you one of the five I was supposed to meet?" His Fire emblem was clearly seen on his forehead as he stared at her. She was cute, nah, to Fuego she seemed beautiful. Dang... Didn't expect this... he thought to himself as he smiled and stared at her.
Crescent was walking nearby. She saw two other wolves by the Big Oak and trotted over to the meeting area. Crescent looked up at the night sky. It was a full moon tonight. Crescent loved full moons. She could smell something stirring in the air, but didn't know what. Crescent then looked down at her paws. She had been walking all night and her feet kind of hurt. There was a slight breeze in the air and the wind was blowing through Crescent's fur. She stopped and then looked at the others. “Who are you guys and why are you here?”
Luke luckily wasn't asleep, and he heard the howl. The one who owned it was unknown, and sounded unfamiliar. He padded towards the source, seeing Lumina and Fuego. "Hi" he said awkwardly, not really knowing what was going on. He sat down in front of them, surprised by how amazing the fae wolf looked to him. "God she's beautiful...crap...I don't even know her!" his mind said
"Uh...I'm Luke" he said, smiling, trying to appear as approachable and as social as possible. "And you are...who?"
Tierra was lying in his den snoring. The other wolves had their paws over their ears groaning as his snores got louder. They all growled to each other asking if they could wake him. They didn't want to anger him, after all he was the next alpha of the pack and they wanted to stay on his book.
Finally one of the pups ran up to him and bit his ear. "OUCH!!!" he cried as he woke up straight away. "Who did that?" he growled looking around at them all. They all shrugged their shoulders before lying back down and going to sleep. The pup had run off to his mother and was now sleeping. Tierra rolled his eyes and growled to himself.
Then his ears perked up to the sound of a howl. He knew that howl and what it meant. He felt his neck and soon found the place where his fur was missing. Everyone told him it looked like a tree but he never knew since he couldn't see it.
He pulled himself to his paws and trotted out the den. He stretched and then howled back before running off into the woods looking for the source of the howl.
Lumina perked her ears and turned her left ear to the side as she noticed two males simultaneously talk to her. She smiled and puffed up her chest, showing the marking of the Sun. " Hello, I am Lumina, and my marking is the Sun. I assume you two are also wolves of the Prophecy." Lumina jumped as another voice piped in. This time it belonged to a fae. Gently, she nodded at the fae, then leaned forward to hear a howl in the distance. That must be the Earth wolf.
Lumina stood up, and coughed, clearing her throat before she addressed them. "Fellow wolves of the Prophecy, I am sure you are all aware of the Prophecy itself, and what are journey is about. Now, before I continue any further, I ask, where is the last wolf? The wolf of Lightning?" Without waiting for an answer, she scrambled clumsily up into the tree, and sat on the branch opposite of Fuego. I wonder what their names are...
Fuego smiled at Lumina as she climbed into the tree next to him. Dang, she's more beautiful than anything... he thought, but kept his mind focused on his mission. "Hello Lumina, nice name... I'm Fuego and my marking is Fire..." he said, introducing himself, "Yeah, I'm part of the Prophecy... You're the leader, if I'm correct? Well, I follow my leader with pure loyalty, as my mark means." He gave a warm, casual smile to Lumina and looked around the horizon, watching the sun beginning to rise with his orange, fire-like eyes.
Raya felt as though she must be somewhere, but she had no clue. She placed a paw on her muzzle to try and remember where to be. Se then perked up with the answer. "The Big Oak! Oh, dang, I'm late!" She bounded off, as fast as her marking symbolizes.
A light roar sounded as she bounded over the water and onto the land of the other wolves. She passed many trees and boulders until The Big Oak was in sight. "Aw man...I seem so stupid as to forget..." Raya growled at herself until she skidded to a stop in the middle of the line of wolves in front of Lumina. "Sorry, Wolf of the Sun." She bowed her head respectfully with her eyes closed.
Crescent looked around. She was afraid that she would be late. Then Crescent sat up and asked “How do you know about the Prophecy?” Crescent looked up at the night sky again. It was getting colder and the stars were all out. She smiled up at the sky and then looked back at Lumina. She didn't know what this Prophecy meant, but it had to mean, that all of these wolves had to work together. Crescent stood up again and then looked at the other wolves around her.
Tierra was still running through the woods, his paws barely scratching the ground as he glided through the woods. He stopped suddenly to take a sniff for other wolves since this wasn't his territory. He sniffed the air and found a few different wolves scents coming from the left. He went that way jumping around the trees until he came to a few large fallen trees.
They were too tall and wide for him to jump. So instead he pulled out his claws and apologizing for hurting the trees, climbed to the top. Then quickly he jumped to each tree before hopping back on to the ground after thanking the trees for letting him climb them.
Finally he saw the other wolves ahead and stopped beside them panting. He nodded to them all in greeting.
Luke had no idea what to say. He knew his destiny would appear somewhere...but he never dreamed it would come so soon. He didn't know any of these wolves - and he was about to embark on one of the greatest journeys of all time with them. He couldn't stop staring at Lumina...she was so beautiful. But he had no idea what was on the inside - so he was going to take caution.
Fuego glanced down at the male staring at Lumina. He knew that he had competition now and was determined to win Lumina's heart, but over due time. He wasn't about to turn into a love-struck fool who forgets his mission. That could get them all killed. I'm gonna keep an eye on you... he thought to himself as he stared at the male. "You, Water Wolf... What's your name?" he asked from his perch next to Lumina.
Lumina sniffed the air and smiled, then laughed quietly. " Ah, finally, our Earth and Lightning wolves are here. Now, I will introduce myself once more." Gingerly, she hopped down from the tree and landed in front of Raya and Tierra. " I am Lumina, the Sun Wolf. As Fuego, the Fire Wolf, has said, I am the leader. I need to know each and every one of you. Who you are, and what you know of the Prophecy."
With the cool breeze of dawn blowing through her fur, she looked older than two years old. She was wise, but very loving and kind. Lumina sat in silence, awaiting the answers of Earth and Lightning. I hope I am able to find love on this journey, after all, I have to trust them with my life.
Raya pinned back her ears and stared at Lumina. "I am the Lightning Wolf, Raya. I know of the prophecy from the Lightning wolves before me. My parents, and their parents." A small smirk grew on her maw. She looked around to see many of the other wolves. Fire, Water, Earth, Moon, and of course, Sun.
Luke looked at the Fire Wolf. He noticed something unusual at how he looked at the Sun Wolf, and heard something strange in his tone. "My name's Luke" he said, with a warm smile. He realized that the wolf had noticed him looking at Lumina in a funny way, and looked at him as if he was a weirdo. "He thinks I'm in love with her...??? Okaaaay, like...why would I fall in love with someone I've just met???" he thought, puzzled. "What's your's?"
He stood tall and proud over the fae as she talked. He too thought she was very pretty but saw the way the others were staring at her and thought he could never win her. Although he could try.
"Tierra is my name," he answered her grinning, "I am Earth." He moved his neck to show her the tree marking on it. "I know nothing of our mission but I suppose you do?" he said looking at her.
He looked back at the other males and back at Lumina. Even if he did win her heart his pack would never accept her. They already disliked him because they thought he was weird and no doubt they'd think she was weird too.
“My name is Crescent. I am Moon.” Crescent said, introducing herself. She looked around at the other wolves. Crescent looked at the night sky and then said, “I have only learned about the prophecy from my sister.” Crescent stayed where she was and then gave a sigh. Crescent waited for the others to introduce themselves. She looked at Luke for only a second and then looked back at Lumina, wondering what she knew about the prophecy. “Excuse me, but what do you know about the prophecy?” Crescent asked. She waited for an answer. Crescent tried hard to be polite and nice to wolves that she didn't know.
Lumina tensed for a few moments as she noticed that Fuego and Luke were fighting a silent battle over her. Turning her head back to Crescent and Tierra, she spoke in a serious tone. " The Prophecy? I expected that all of you would know it by heart, since you were the ones chosen for this mission, but it seems only I am fully prepared. Never mind that, I shall speak the Prophecy to you." She stopped, reluctant to speak again.
What in the world were my ancestors thinking? Sending unprepared wolves, oh well, guess I'll have to train them myself. Lumina paused, then started to state the Prophecy. " "Six wolves shall travel to the four farthest, and darkest corners of the Earth. They shall recover four magical herbs. Anyone who dares stop them, shall face the wrath of their ancestors. Many perils will await them, but only by working together, will they save all wolves around the world. You will know these wolves, even if you have never seen them before in your life. Each will have a special marking, symbolizing their greatest strength. One shall have the mark of a lightning bolt, showing great speed and courage. Another shall have the mark of fire, showing loyalty and strength to endure anything at all odds. Another shall bear the marking of the moon, showing wisdom and persuasion. The others will have water, showing compassion and healing, earth, showing bravery and brains to think quickly during any situation, and lastly, one shall have the marking of the sun, showing hope and revealing the greatest strength of all, love."
Lumina took a deep breath, and lay down at the base of the Big Oak. " Any more questions?" Silently, she awaited the gaping mouths and shocked stares to face her.
He felt proud of himself when she mentioned him being brave and smart. He grinned widely sticking his muzzle in the air.
But he had never heard about the so called Prophecy. His parents had never mentioned it but he now knew he was one of them and they had to save the world . And he thought being an Alpha would be hard..."No questions from me," he said.
Luke... Good name..." he said to Luke, "I'm Fuego..." He glanced at Lumina as she asked her question. "Nope, none from me..." Fuego said coolly, laying his head down on the branch he was on, "I've known this since my father abandoned me two years ago... Heh, not exactly the best way to learn about your destiny, huh?" Fuego chuckled softly and looked down at the others. He was ready for whatever may come his and/or their way. He'd fight till the death for his team if necessary. Anything for their safety.
Crescent didn't say anything. She looked up at the stars and smiled. She looked back at the other wolves. “When do we head out?” Crescent asked. That was the only thing she was unsure of. She knew about the dangers that lied ahead to fulfill this prophecy. The sooner they head out the better for all of them. Crescent's tail moved slightly and then she sat back down. Her paws hurt from running all the way here, but she wasn't tired yet, so that was good. She looked in Lumina's direction, waiting for some answers.
Luke loved the story. "Wow...incredible!" he exclaimed when Lumina had finished. "What a crackin' story! Heh...compassion and healing...? I like the sound of that!" he smiled at his allies, never going to let them down no matter what. But he smiled mostly at Lumina. She was the most beautiful wolf he had ever seen. He was greatly looking forward to spend time with her, and possibly develop feelings for her. But he also noticed Fuego looking at her in the same way, and grew worried that they might end up fighting over her, damaging their friendship.
Fuego smiled and rolled onto his back, staring up at the dawn sky from his perch. "Loyalty and strength... Yep, that sounds like me..." he replied, smiling to Lumina, then looking back up at the sky, "So, when do we move out? The suspense is killing me..." He chuckled softly and glanced at Luke from the corner of his eye. Alright Luke... We're both after Lumina... Let's see what happens... he thought to himself. He didn't want any fights to erupt in their group, but he wouldn't back down from Lumina, but if it did come to a fight, his two sides would collide with one another and then who knows what would happen?
Luke chuckled at Fuego, then looked back at Lumina, smiling at her for a moment. Even though it was clear she had no interest in romance yet, he would hopefully change that. He had no interest either until he met her. But he was wise, and remembered not to just go running after her when he had no idea what was on the outside. "Just take it slow...she could be an absolute jerk. Remember, looks aren't everything" he said in his mind, and was content to get to know her better. But he also knew that his relationships with his team were far more important, and was still worried Fuego would end up hating him, and he would hate him back. Besides; Lumina would probably be more interested in a Fire Wolf then a Water Wolf.
Fuego sighed heavily, the suspense feeling like it was crushing his mind inside of his head. His head was filled with thoughts of their quest and his teammates, but mainly Lumina. He wondered every question about her that he could think of... then thought back to Luke. She'll probably be more interested in Luke than me... After all, he's the compassionate one... I'm loyal, but I also have to control my temper better... he thought to himself, But that won't stop me from trying... Just hope it doesn't end in violence...
Luke was getting bored. He knew he couldn't just sit here all day, day-dreaming about Lumina. He saw no reason why she would be interested in him anyway. So, he stood up and walked over to Fuego, sitting next to him, wagging his tail in greeting. "Hey Fuego..." he said in a greeting manner. He then thought desperately of something to talk about, for he wanted them to be friends. "...so...must be pretty neat being a Fire Wolf. Fire's an awesome element...I've always had great respect and admiration for it. Of course I know of the destruction it causes. But I still think it's awesome."
Fuego looked at Luke and smiled to him. "Hello Luke," he replied, then chuckled slightly, "Eh, it's alright being a Fire Wolf... I mean, I'm as strong and loyal as anything, but because of that strength I have a reduced temper when it comes to enemies or something that irritates me... Don't worry, you'll never bug me... That's the loyal side of me saying that... But I suppose it also depends on how you're raised... Take me, for example: my father was afraid of the prophecy, so he abandoned me when I was a pup and another pack took me in and trained me..." He sighed softly, staring off at the horizon before looking back at Luke with his orange eyes. "What about you? I think you're lucky to be a Water Wolf... I mean, you don't have to deal with an unrelenting rage when you get mad... You probably make friends in an instant, right?"
Luke looked at the ground. "Well...it's okay, I guess, but... I don't actually have any friends. All the wolves I knew teased me because of my wave markings. Sicko’s, huh? I'm very pleased with the Prophecy, and the allies I'm traveling with. All of us have unusual markings - so all of us are the same! I know we'll all become good friends in no time" he said, smiling.
Fuego nodded and smiled slightly. "Yeah, we all have things in common..." he replied coolly, "I agree... I'm sure we'll all become friends and great allies in no time... And I swear on my life, if anyone tries to harm any of us, I'm gonna tear them apart..." He smirked and sighed, settling down a bit. He looked at Luke and stared at him. "So, have you ever done any fighting before?" he asked.
Luke nodded. "Oh yeah, I know! But I'm devoting my life to each of my allies - no matter what! And about the fighting; ah-ha, I've fought quite a lot of times before, and I'd have to say, despite my compassion, I am a pretty good fighter. Not to boast - no way! Just to let you know that I'm not afraid to fight," he said, with a cool wink.
Tierra smiled at her them looked over at the other guys. He straightened up and thought, Well better to make friends than enemies right? He nodded to himself and started over to the Fire and Water wolves. "Hey there fella's," he said grinning at them. "What’s everybody talking about over here? Ya'll seem awful talkative."
Crescent walked over to Tierra, Luke and Fuego. She then sat down next to Tierra and said to everyone, “Hi, How are you guys?” Crescent sat down and looked up at the sky again. She was waiting for answers. Crescent looked at the biggest star and thought of her sister. Her sister had passed away just before she had told Crescent about the prophecy. That's why most of the time she always looked towards the stars for answers instead of other wolves. Crescent looked at the others and smiled.
Luke smiled at Crescent and Tierra. "Hey" he barked in playful greeting. "We're not talking about much. This and that" he said, winking. He looked at the stars, feeling great pride and warmth flood through his body. He was with wolves that finally accepted him as who he was. They were his allies. His friends. He would die for them, if the need arose.
"That’s good," he said looking down at them all. He was a very tall lean wolf so he looked down on most wolves even some older than him. That was another reason why people thought he was weird. He grew like a tree. One day he would be one size and the next day he'd be twice that size. Hopefully his stretching had stopped.
He smiled down at Crescent and said, "I'm good. What about you?"
“I'm Fine. I was just looking for friends, people to talk to.” Crescent's tail wagged a little. She smiled at them all and her gaze fell on Luke so she quickly looked at the biggest star up there. Since it was out, she knew her sister was watching over her. Crescent then looked back at the others waiting for answers. Crescent had always loved adventures, so this one would be the biggest adventure yet. Crescent looked around. It was hard for her to open up to new wolves, since the only one close to her passed away the day before she had to head out to the Big Oak.
Reaper watched the six wolves for the whole time. Futile, thought he, you can't cheat me.
He sighed. He saw a lot of deaths in his life. To be honest, he saw everyone’s death. But death of the whole wolfkind, that was something big. And it was unavoidable despite that Prophecy. Death was stronger than prophecies, love, legends. He smiled darkly. They will die... they will all die.
Lumina nodded her head at every one of her fellow wolves. A breeze ruffled her soft fur, and she looked up into the sky, and a star twinkled at her. It was one of her ancestors signaling it was time to head on. She nodded reluctantly at it, and cleared her throat to speak. "It is time to move on. Our ancestors have signaled to me by way of starlight, and we are now to journey westward, to our first magical item. If you have any questions, or you would just like to talk, I will always be leading at the front."
Nodding once again, Lumina raised her head and howled, then turned to the left. Oh ancestors, please help me to lead this prophecy pack safely, and help me to learn their ways, and help them. I am afraid, as any sane wolf should be, but I will need your guidance if I am to succeed.
Fuego heard Lumina and smiled at her. And thusly, our adventure is set forth... he thought in a narrative-way to himself. He chuckled at his thoughts and ran up beside Lumina, but slightly behind her so she may lead. "Excuse me, Miss Lumina... But I figured I should stay behind you... You are the leader, after all, and it's my duty to protect you and the rest of the wolves..." he said, keeping a pace with her, "Could you tell me a bit about yourself? I'd like to get to know you better, as well as everyone else..."
Tierra nodded and followed behind the two wolves. He took long strides with his large legs and had to walk slower so not to bump into Fuego. He yawned as he walked forward. He was tired after the pack had woken him up many times that night before because of his snoring.
Lumina chuckled softly as she heard Fuego's thoughts echo in her mind. An eager Fire wolf, this will be interesting.. She motioned to him with her head to come beside her, so that they could talk. " Well, it might help to know a little of my history first. Unlike your father, my parents adored the idea of their eldest daughter to be part of a prophecy. They started training me when I was old enough to run with falling. I was worked hard, and had little time to play with my friends, but I got on okay. When I turned 1 year old, my ancestors sent a sign to my father, letting him know I had to leave and travel around the forest, so that I could test my skills, and be prepared when I turned age 2. Only a few moons ago did I turn 2 years, but I knew instantly, as well as my ancestors, that I was ready.
A few weeks ago I received a message within a dream, that I was to arrive at dawn and send the howl from the Big Oak by Snakeye River. Now, here I am, beginning my journey at long last." Lumina took a long breath and paused a few moments before speaking to Fuego again. Her voice faded into a soft whisper, directed to Fuego. " As the prophecy states, my greatest strength is love. I do not know who my love will be yet, but I know, because it came to me in a dream, that many battles will be fought because of it. Amongst our own. But you mustn’t forget, along with every other wolf in this pack, that there are other caring females here." She took another breath, then shifted her icy blue gaze in front of her, but still acknowledging Fuego's flank against hers.
Fuego stared in amazement at Lumina. She can read my thoughts as well? Oh dang, my secret's out! Ah jeez, she's probably heard that as well! Aah, stop thinking! he thought, almost driving himself crazy. "Yeah, you're lucky to have parents who accepted you for who you were..." he replied softly, "And I hope that those battles amongst ourselves don't get too out of hand... While my greatest attribute is strength, loyalty is also my strongest and I won't bring harm to my allies..." But I'm not just gonna back down from a challenge... And I know there are other females, but there's only one you, Lumina... And I know you can hear this... he thought, smirking at her.
Lumina started to laugh, but stopped shortly when she heard his thoughts of her. "Oh, what am I going to do?" Lumina thought nervously. " Part of what makes a Fire Wolf so strong is the fact that they endure challenges that no one else has to face. Like your father's fear of you is one to start with. Don't see it as a bad thing, see it as a way to channel your anger in battle." Sighing softly she dismissed Fuego with a flick of her tail and walked a few paces ahead of the group.
A few hours later....
Night fall was approaching rapidly and Lumina knew she would have to find a place for them to all rest for the night. Quickly gazing around their position the forest, a hole caught her eye. I was a cave, big enough for a bear, and definitely providing enough room for six wolves. She sprinted over to it and slowly stepped inside to make sure nothing was living there. "No animal scent, except for a stale bear scent." Lumina barked back to the rest of the pack, "It's clear! We will rest here for the night. Tomorrow morning before we depart, we will hunt. Now, before you go to sleep, I know you've all had a long day, we need to discuss the daily routine, and possibly some battle strategies. Quickly, follow me." Lumina disappeared into the cave, and found a mossy, soft bedding close to the front of the cave, and lay down, waiting for the others.
Tierra had noticed the two wolves talking and was a bit suspicious of them.
He entered the cave and found a spot near the entrance so he could keep a look out. Bravery, he thought smiling to himself. He watched the dark sky which sadly didn't show any stars that night.
Fuego cautiously looked about before walking into the cave. He lay down a bit closer to the entrance, but on the other side of the cave from Lumina. He didn't want to seem like he was making any moves on her, but he did want to guard the entrance and that's precisely what he was doing. Lying down, his orange eyes never left the entrance for a moment, his fixed steely-eyes gaze dead-set on anyone coming or going out.
Reaper didn't know what to do exactly, so he decided to watch them. Yeah, he knew the prophecy, but he also knew it was never coming true. He laughed at their so-called powers and might.
He stood near Fuego, but unseen.
'Well well well... our brave little wolves...' They were so interesting. It seemed they thought they would change something which couldn't be changed.
But they didn't know their enemy. Their mortal enemy. And the most interesting thing was that their enemy wasn't even their enemy actually. Yes, he could take their lives without saying a word, but he couldn't. Everything must be in order.
He smirked, decided to show himself in one of appearances that he thought was quite normal, and talk with them. But not yet.
Luke was grateful for a sleep, after walking for a while. He lay down beside Lumina, but not too close, and slightly behind her to show respect. "Oh god she's beautiful..." he thought, and smiled at her. He wanted to get to know her better, but had no idea what to say. He felt so foolish and embarrassed in front of her, and luckily he didn't say anything, for it would all have come out jumbled. He cursed himself in his mind, so desperate to speak to Lumina. "Hi..." he said
You dumb butt! Now she's gonna think you're a total idiot... he thought angrily, scolding himself in his mind. Say something...ANYTHING!!! NOW!
"Tell me a bit about yourself," he said quickly. "I mean...seeing as you're the leader and you told me about this whole prophecy thing...I'm trying to get to know everyone" he said, smiling, feeling proud that he didn't say anything totally dumb and retarded.
Fuego continued to keep his watch. He could feel a slight sense of cold and unease due to Death's invisible presence, but just shrugged it off. He turned around to look at Lumina and saw Luke beside her. His facial expression remained neutral as his insides were growling fiercely, but those were his natural instincts. He kept them in check however, since he couldn't jeopardize their partnership.
Reaper watched. He knew Fuego's thoughts. He knew his feelings. He knew his fate. And it was the fate that the six wolves were about to change. 'But your fate can't be changed' Reaper thought, 'nor the fate of the wolves.'
'It's cold here...' he sat down.
'Yes, I can tell them it's futile... but they won't listen.'
He looked at Lumina and Luke and then he realized how lonely he was.
'No... I will wait.'
Lumina sighed when she heard Luke's thoughts. Yet another one.. Oh what am I going to do with these males? She stirred silently as she felt the breath of Death on her shoulders. Oh it's nothing Lumina... Reassuring herself, she shrugged and turned around to face Luke. "Well, it might help to know a little of my history first. My parents adored the idea of their eldest daughter to be part of a prophecy. They started training me when I was old enough to run with falling. I was worked hard, and had little time to play with my friends, but I got on okay. When I turned 1 year old, my ancestors sent a sign to my father, letting him know I had to leave and travel around the forest, so that I could test my skills, and be prepared when I turned age 2. Only a few moons ago did I turn 2 years, but I knew instantly, as well as my ancestors, that I was ready.
A few weeks ago I received a message within a dream, that I was to arrive at dawn and send the howl from the Big Oak by Snakeye River. Now, here I am, resting for the night, and when dawn comes, beginning to fulfill my destiny, along with you all."
Sighing, Lumina curled up and closed her eyes for a moment. Now I need to let on how dangerous this is, before they fall into an unexpected trap somewhere during this journey... She raised her head and sat up on her haunches and barked to them all. "Gather round! I need to discuss with you of some things, and then ask you your opinions on some of my ideas. We need to form a circle, that way our ancestors can sit by us, and listen as well."
Luke listened with great interest at Lumina's history. But he also saw the annoyance in her eye, and was happy to give him time to figure out his feelings. He was fond of her, and with all the wolves he was traveling with. He gathered round to listen what she had to say.
Tierra looked over at Lumina and hesitated before leaving his post by the entrance to sit in the circle with the others. He kept his eye on the entrance as his body was facing the inside of the circle. "Is there any problems Lumina?" he asked her, "Because if not I'd like to get back to my lookout post." He said this in a kind way but urgent. He wanted to be brave just like the Prophecy had stated.
Fuego heard Lumina call for everyone and stood up. Sighing softly, he walked over and sat beside Lumina, not because he liked her, but because it was his duty to protect everyone, especially the leader. His orange eyes traveled from Lumina, to Luke, to everyone else. He felt uneasy for some reason, as if there was someone else in there with them. Keep your wits about you, Fuego... You'll need them now more than ever... he thought to himself. "You summoned, Lumina?" he asked, "Is this about the dangers? You need not repeat them to me... I was told of them and my attributes by the pack that actually accepted me..." He said the last sentence with a little disdain targeted toward his heartless father.
Lumina grinned as everyone gathered round her in circle formation. She smiled warmly at Tierra as he asked about guarding the den. "Tierra, you many keep guard right now if you wish, but when I will really need you to guard, is when we all are to rest, then after a few hours or so, I will replace you." Lumina nodded at him, then turned back around to the circle.
"Fellow wolves of the prophecy, what this journey lays in store for us, is great, and the rewards are unimaginable. But I must warn you, incase you didn't hear the prophecy correctly, that MANY perils await us. Battles will be fought, blood will be shed, and only teamwork will allow us to survive. You say you've heard of these dangers Fuego? Well, you may have heard, but you cannot possibly comprehend what it will feel like at the time of danger. Now, on to duties. Each night, when we all lay down to rest, two wolves will either both keep guard together the whole night, or take shifts. Tonight, Tierra will take first shift, and I will take second shift. It will be at your own discretion to decide who will keep watch every night, but there must be two wolves, only two wolves.
For hunting duties, two to three wolves will be required to hunt for the rest of us. It can NOT be only three certain wolves every single day. We must rotate, so that all of us pay our service to this pack. Yes, this is a pack whether you like it or not. I'm not being harsh, it is just the plain truth. Now, we will hunt two to three times a day, and I can't promise you about water. During summer, the water gets very dry in certain places we will travel to. Alright, now I need opinions and suggestions on battle strategies. Who wants to volunteer first?" Lumina's gaze rippled across the whole cave, setting her eyes for a few moments on each wolf, then moving to the next one. I hope ancestors, you will not allow any of these wolves to betray this pack. It's all I have to live for...
Reaper smirked once again. He heard their conversation. Their so-called enemy was nearer than they thought. And the prophecy was wrong. You can't cheat Death. And even if they did succeed, Death would get them. Get everyone. Now or later.
He decided to show himself. He turned into a tall, black wolf. His eyes were blue like... no, there wasn’t any description for the color.
"Um... good day. I am terribly sorry to interrupt, but it seems I am lost..."
Yeah, that was his style. To emerge when least expected and wanted.
He smiled at her and nodded. "I will take my duties with seriousness," he said bowing his head slightly. He shook his fur as she kept talking. He was about to speak when he heard a voice. He turned around to see a stray wolf. He got up and turned around snarling at the wolf. "Lost?" he growled at the wolf. He bravely walked up to the black wolf and stared right in his eyes glaring at him.
"Yeah... lost..." he stepped back in fake awe. "I am sorry if I disturbed you..."
Of course, he could destroy this one. But he didn't want to.. and he couldn't... yet. He gazed into his eyes. Reaper's eyes were nothing but two never ending, blue gorges. Like, you could see your entire life in them.
"I thought ... well... I thought... since that Prophecy... we are going to become extinct... and..." He stopped. Reaper tried to look very scared and lost. Bait was thrown. So, how were they going to handle it?
He grunted as her glared at him. "How would you know about a prophecy?" he snarled, "Have you been spying on us?" He pulled himself up to his full height now towering over the wolf. "What’s your name and where did you come from?" he growled down at him.
Fuego nodded to Lumina. "I'd like to take the next night-watch and the first hunt duty..." he volunteered willingly, "Anything to help our group out..." He heard a soft growl come from the entrance and turned to face it. "I'll be right back..." he muttered and walked out to see Tierra and a new wolf. Not wasting any time or taking any chances, Fuego walked up beside Tierra and glared at the new wolf. "Who are you?" he asked seriously, scanning the wolf with his deep orange eyes, "Why are you here?"
Lumina's anger was triggered. Only rarely did this emotion sow in her. Being the wolf of the Sun, she was loving, and kind. But when something ticked her, she wouldn't back down. "How dare you come in here?! You are NOT a wolf of the prophecy, and no wolf should dare interrupt a sacred meeting, except a wolf of the prophecy himself/herself!" As Tierra had done, Lumina raised herself up to her full height; she was surprisingly tall for a fae wolf.
"My name... I have a lot of names, but you can call me Reaper." he smiled.
"And how do I know about that prophecy? Let's say..." he came near him and whispered into his ear: "I know about many other things... you would be surprised, but you can be sure I am not deaf. Since I am a wolf, I know about it... And I came from the place you will visit, too..."
Ah... such drama. He loved that. Since he was Death, there was only a little amusement in his life. And riddles were perfect for amusement.
Tierra growled deep in his throat at the wolf. "You should do nothing of the sort," he snarled at the wolf. His claws came out his paws as he growled. He was ready to fight if he had to. The fur on his back began to stand up as he stared at the wolf.
Fuego didn't trust this newcomer one bit. He could easily take down the strange wolf in a fight, or so it seemed. Fuego was built a little bulkier and stronger than most other wolves due to his Fire attribute. He turned to Lumina and stared seriously at her. "Lumina, do you want me to get rid of this wolf?" he asked neutrally. He'd have no qualms of getting rid of the new wolf one way or another, but he wouldn't attack an innocent without Lumina's go-ahead to do so.
"I don't want to fight you... why are you so aggressive?" the wolf wondered.
But in his look was written: "You don't understand me... I know everything... I am the best spy. I am your worst enemy. I am the end... so you don't want to fight me."
He looked at others waiting an explanation for all of this.
"I don't want to fight... I am just lost..."
Lumina gathered her thoughts, and came to a decision. " You may fight Fuego, as well as Tierra. I will jump in, if things get too serious." She nodded hesitantly, and stepped back a few feet. Her feet stopped beside Luke, and she whispered into his ear. "I'll need you to gather some yarrow, mossthain, and redleaf. As a Water wolf, it is your job to heal other wolves after they battle. I sense some wounds that will need urgent tending to. Go, hurry and find them!" Lumina nudged him and shifted her eyes back to the battle that was about to begin. "Let no wolf die, ancestors. I will need all of them in this journey." She silently prayed...
Reaper laughed when he heard her, came near her and whispered.
"You knew I would come. Or do you think I would want to miss a thing like this?
And you know it's pointless, because I will win anyway." he smiled darkly.
Then he turned to others. "Fight me, bold heroes. Kill me. But before you do so... I am not your enemy..." He didn't tell them who he really was.
Heh... they will be surprised when they rip my throat off...
Fuego nodded to Lumina and growled fiercely, rearing up to his fullest size. He glared at the wolf and read his expression carefully, not afraid of him at all. "As you wish, Lumina..." he replied, slowly advancing on the wolf, "I don't trust you... Your look is one of malice and deceit... You have hidden agendas... You're not lost, you're a foe..." Fuego continued his advance, determined to defeat his enemy for his friends' sake and safety. As soon as the wolf got close to Lumina, Fuego's orange eyes turned a fiery red. "Get away from her!" he shouted and ran forward, tackling the wolf to the ground.
He also nodded to her and glared at the wolf that was now with Lumina. When he saw Fuego run, Tierra ran over to help. He stood back to let Fuego get the first tackle then he'd jump in to take him down even further. "Take him down Fuego!" he barked.
Reaper fell down. Not because of the power of Fuego's attack. Just because he wanted to. He didn't feel any pain. Fuego’s attack hadn’t left a trace on his body. He stood up. "Dear Fuego. I have no hidden agendas. I am not your foe. And malice and deceit? Then your observation skills are poor."
He smiled again. "You can hit me again... but it won't make any difference."
Reaper had a great temptation to tell him his dark secret. But not yet...
"Or... why do you think I am bad? Just because you think my look is evil?"
Lumina noticed the fire flash in Fuego's eyes as the black wolf came up to her. She shuddered at the wolf's words and suddenly realized who he was. He, the Death Wolf, had come in disguise, and she had not been prepared. With the Sun burning in her eyes, she viciously jumped onto Reaper, and began gnawing away at his fur. I know I'll discover what's underneath, only to confirm my assumptions, but the others have to see him for what he truly is. This is one of the perils, or is he an ally..? Lumina slowly backed away from Reaper, and spoke firmly. " Tierra! Fuego! Back away from this wolf. Let him go on his way. It isn't worth it." She raised a paw to motion to them to back away as she had spoken.
Fuego was surprised by Lumina's order to back down, but nodded resentfully. He took a few steps back and glared at the wolf. "I'll be seeing you again..." he muttered viciously to the wolf, his eyes still a bright red, "I need to go for a bit... I'll be back soon..." Without waiting for the ok to do so, Fuego turned and walked a short distance into the forest. He was known to have a shorter temper than most wolves and it took him a little bit to cool down after that, but having friends with him helped. Once he was a short way away from the cave, he growled and sliced at a tree, tearing into the bark. "I know there's something wrong with him..." Fuego muttered to himself, "Lumina knows it too... But what?" Just stay calm... What would Lumina think if she saw you like this? he thought to himself, forcing himself to try and calm down
Reaper didn't move when Lumina was tearing him. He just smiled. "So, honey... do you think others are prepared to know?" whispered he.
"Of course I am worth of this all... let me explain."
In a single quick flash, he turned into his skeletal form. A dog skeleton in a dark robe, which the skull was almost hidden in a pitch dark cape with two flaming blue pits instead of eyes. Then he changed back, making sure only Fuego and Lumina saw him. But this was just one of his forms. Nobody knew how he looked exactly. His appearance depended just on your imagination. Or in his own decision.
"Now... do you understand me?"
Crescent came forward and then walked towards Lumina. She whispered, “We have to let him make the first attack and then we move in.” Crescent then watched every move Reaper made. Her eyes followed his moves and the way he walked and the way he attacked. Crescent then looked back to Lumina and then back to the others.
Lumina gasped in horror as she saw Reaper's skeletal form. A beam of sunlight flashed through her eyes and onto of him, covering him up, making him look like a regular black wolf again. She stalked towards him, and whispered into his ear, " If you wish to be our ally, I wouldn't scare my pack off. " Lumina pointed to Fuego as he dashed off. A wave of weariness washed over Lumina, and she started breathing shallowly.
The young fae wolf started to fall back, and hit the ground with a thud. Her last words before she faded into consciousness were, "Someone.. help me.." When Lumina fainted, she found herself in the dream world. " Ancestors? Am I dead?" One voice came to her and it whispered into her ear, "Lumina, you are a strong fae. Do not leave your pack when the journey has only just begun. You aren't dead. But unless you are kind and persuasive with Reaper, he will kill you in due time. Remember, he is Death. "
Crescent couldn't stand it anymore. Reaper was about to go in for the kill. Crescent jumped forth and tackled Reaper, pinning him down. She knew it wouldn't last long, but she had to try. “Fuego! Go help Lumina!” Crescent then turned her attention back to Reaper. She growled and snarled, but knew he would have the upper hand. Then she saw Luke from the corner of her eyes. She needed help, but so far, that wasn't happening.
Luke gasped, looking down at Lumina's limp form. He sat down by her, resting his cheek to her chest, hearing her heart rate natural, and her breathing normal. He looked at her face, and slapped her cheeks with a paw. "C'mon...wake up..." he murmured desperately. He looked at the other wolves. "Someone go get me some water! And quick!" he said, then looked back down at Lumina.
Crescent didn't have time for this. She jumped off of Reaper and ran over to Luke and Lumina. Crescent started to hoist Lumina onto her back when she said to Luke, “We need to get Lumina and then others out of here.” Once Crescent got Lumina onto her back, she tried to stand up straighter. She looked to Luke and then looked at the others. Then she added, “I don't think Lumina should wake up until she and the other wolves are safe and out of view of Reaper.” Then Crescent looked to the ground. She hated fighting with friends and she didn't like it when her friends fought with friends. Lumina was getting heavier by the second and they needed to find somewhere to hide.
Lumina's breaths were wheezy and she struggled to speak. "Crescent, Luke,... get.. Tierra and Fuego.. take them back... into the cave.. and let's all.. rest. Reaper.. will not hurt... us.. Leave him.. be.." She blinked a few times, and realized that Crescent had hoisted her onto her back. Ancestors, I am very grateful for such a loyal pack. Thank you. Please help me to become strong and able quickly.
Her silent prayer seemed to echo all throughout her mind. Even if she couldn't speak clearly, she could still think perfectly. Her mind was of a leader's, though her body seemed frail and weak, when compared to the other wolves in her pack at this moment.
He nodded to her hearing what she had said and growled at Reaper as he entered the cave at Lumina's wishes. Then, not turning his back on him, he sat down outside of the entrance and stared at him growling. "Come in this cave and I'll rip you apart," he snarled at Reaper watching his every move. His teeth bared as he glared.
Fuego sighed and walked back to the others. As soon as he saw Lumina on the ground, his senses snapped to high alert. He ran up beside Crescent and looked at Lumina. "What happened here?" he asked furiously, his eyes turning a vicious red again as he glanced back at Death, "Did he do this? I swear, immortal or not ,I'll tear him apart if he did! Let's get her inside now..." Fuego walked into the cave, waiting for the others to come inside.
“It was Reaper, but Lumina said to not go after him, he is the least of our worries right now.” Crescent replied. Crescent started to slowly crouch down. Then she asked, “Fuego, can you help me put Lumina on the ground?” They were already inside the cave, where it was safe. Crescent looked up at Fuego and then to Luke and Tierra. Lumina was heavy and Crescent's back was giving way, but only a little bit.
Raya had been with everyone this whole time, but was a ways behind the pack, making sure nothing was following them. She had no clue anything had happened, and no one even bothered to come and tell her. Who did she care? None. Her bright yellow eyes matching her symbol in the skies and her amulet.
Her ears heard everything that was said, but she didn't bother talking or catching up to the group. She was more comfortable being alone, as she'd always been.
Fuego nodded to Crescent. He grabbed Lumina's scruff gently and easily lifted her off of Crescent's back. He then carefully and gently lay her down on the ground of the cave. Without wasting a moment's time, he lay beside Lumina and curled up around her. Although he would not deny he liked this, it wasn't intended for his own pleasure but to keep Lumina warm. "Crescent, could you take someone else and go get some food? Lumina could use all the energy she could get..." he said softly.
Lumina coughed and looked up at Fuego, and smiled faintly at him, then coughed yet again, and started to drift off into sleep. " It's dark outside.. you.. need.. to rest.. as well.. as.. everyone.. else.." She relaxed when she felt Fuego's warm flanks against hers. This carried her into a deep sleep, and she breathed lightly, peaceful as ever.
Luke turned and ran into the forest, searching for a good food source for him and his allies. He luckily spotted a doe, stooping low to graze. Luke relaxed, and bent low, pinning his ears flat against his head. He slowly approached the doe, and with a ferocious snarl, he leapt at her, gripping her with his claws, sinking his teeth into her neck, tasting blood pour into his mouth. He leaned all his weight against her back, and felt her weaken, and she gave up, collapsing to the ground. Luke stood before his kill, panting. He grabbed her neck, and began dragging her back towards the cave.
Crescent nodded and then went to catch up with Luke. She was walking by his side when she said, “We need to get Lumina food. She barely has the energy to talk. Will you help me get her some food? Crescent then looked down at the floor. She was worried for Lumina and the danger the other wolves could be put in. She started to sniff the air. Crescent looked up at the sky and felt the night breeze, flow through her fur. She smiled a little and then looked ahead of her.
Fuego glanced down at Lumina and smiled back at her. His eyes had turned from their usual orange color to a soft goldenrod color. "Shh, sleep Lumina... I'll protect you... We'll get you back to your former strength..." he whispered softly as Lumina fell asleep. He heard her cough and placed a paw across her to keep her as warm as possible. Fuego then set his eyes dead-focused on the entrance as he waited for someone to return with food for Lumina.
Luke entered the cave, dragging the large doe behind him. He placed the carcass in front of Lumina and Fuego, then sat down, panting heavily, but feeling glad he was back with his friends. "Phew...that was tiring..." he gasped. "...but I brought dinner! Enough to last us all for a few days!" he said, feeling proud of himself.
Fuego looked up at Luke and smiled in satisfaction. "Ah, excellent work Luke! This'll be very helpful!" he said, gently shaking Lumina to wake her up, "Lumina... Wake up... Luke brought food..." He knew that Lumina needed her sleep, but she had to eat something first before going back to sleep. He got up, tore off a chunk of meat, and placed it right in front of Lumina before curling up around her once more.
"Thanks mate." Luke said, biting off a chunk of meat, then lying on the other side of Lumina, also curling around her, wanting her to be as warm as possible. He placed the meat on the ground and began eating, for he was famished.
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Well, there it is! Remember, I haven't edited it to make it flow yet, so no criticism on that. Just give me comments on what you think of the plotline, and about the characters, you know, stuff like that.
Sorry it's long, I just had to share it with you!
