Dark Star

Dark Star rushed with extreme caution to the den. Picking up the sow's scent on the wind, he followed it until he reached a trail of prints. He followed it until he reached what was undoubtably the menace he sought after. He lept onto the top of a hill, and snarled menacingly "ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A MEAL TICKET? YOU ARE LOOKING IN THE WRONG PLACE." He stood, hackles raised, ivories barred, auds pinned, and body in defensive postion. He growled so loud it echoed. "MY PUPS ARE NOT YOUR LUNCH! AND THEY NEVER WILL BE. YOU WANT THEM, YOU HAVE TO GET THROUGH ME, MY MATE, TRI-TUNDRA, NYSCEE, JAIS, PEREGRINE, NIGHT, THE LIST GOES ON AND ON!" He stared maliciously right into the eyes of the bear, his multi-colored orbs glinting. "My pack has already slain one of your worhtless kind. I would let you see his carcass at my den, but your not getting that far. Know why? Because you are either turning back, or I will become your worst nightmare. MY MATE! MY PUPS! MY PACK! YOUR WORST NIGHTMARE!" He moved a bit back and forth as he spoke, doing a half circle low to the ground. He growled low, his voice quieting down. He teased "Ah, come now, you do want to kill me, now don't you? Go ahead, try. See how far you get before my pack tears you and all the other bears here limb from limb. You really want to risk your life as well as all the others?" He then spoke softly, so it was hardly hearable. "You don't mess with Dark Star. Let that name be spread through the forest. You leave now to tell them of this 'menace who will kill all', or they will get the busy signal. I don't give warnings twice." He was quite used to being the speech preforming type, but this out of the ordinary. He truly hated this beast, as well as the others. But why?

*Bear*

The sow had nearly made it to the den when Dark Star confronted her by the hill. Not tolerating him at a higher level than herself, she reared up on her hind legs, listening to his malicful speech. "You don't possibly think you can beat me! Why, a black bear is no match against me, let along a single wolf. Alpha as you may be." The sow stated, figuring by his nature and size that he was the alpha. She was a bit swayed by his words though and stopped to wonder whether going for the pups was worth the trouble of fending off the wolf, and perhaps his pack. I might as well find out if he's bluffing. the bear thought. "As for your threat against my kind, you'll have quite a task. I don't think you relize just how many of us there are here? Unless your pack is tougher than some of the others I've seen around here, you're in some trouble." Narrowing her eyes, she began to amble slowly towards the den, not yet knowing that the pups had been removed. She was very atuned to Dark Star, and ready for any attack he may throw at her.

Dark Star

"Ah but you miss the very point I have made. I am not a single wolf. I and my pack are much, much more.. " He snarled as she made for the den, and lept from the hill about ten feet in front of her, just anough to be able to easily dodge her attacks. "I realize how tough the task of killing off your kind may be, but, once we kill enough to make our point, we will watch your bears leave, or allies will be involved. You, however wont be around to see this happen if you don't leave NOW." He was quiet angered now, and began to relize he needed to demonstrate. "You truly want your bones added to our pile? If your sure, I will be glad to demonstrate our power to you." With that he let out a deaf-defying howl, that signaled the enrty of his members."Just to warn you, if we do find it nesccessary to kill you,, I will not easily retreat the attack. It will be to the death, beast."

*Sow Bear*

"I'm calling your bluff." she snorted, stepping boldly forward closer to the den. Again she was ready to swipe him out of the way or defend herself from an attack if he didn't get out of her way. "Go ahead and let your pack come, and we'll see if your words hold any truth!" she wasn't satisfied of yet. Scent told her there was a large pack that lived in this terra, but perhaps they weren't around, she thought. She was certainly wrong, but wouldn't back down until she was proven this. Until the pack showed, the odds were most definatly in her favor and she didn't hold fear for this alpha, brave and valiant as he may be.

Dark Star

His mutli-orbs shot her a glance of malice as he snapped at her vicously. He didn't touch her yet, waiting for his pack to come. He backed up, but stayed low to the ground about 15 feet away so she would most likely have to charge, giving him enough time to dodge. He snarled at her as a last warning and waited until suddenly...

A brown fae lept from the brush and came up beside him, her amber eyes glaring with a violent intetion. She, of course, only being one, might make the bear even more sure that he was bluffing. She snarled at the sow "You really want to test Dark Star's word? See how you feel when the rest show up. I have no mercy." She got low to the ground.

Peregrine

The large brute came charging in shortly after Nyscee. His hackles and lips were up and a deep, rolling snarl came from his throat. No wonder Kana had risked moving all the pups to the Central lands! Peregrine moved towards Dark Star and whispered a quick thought to him, "If we must attack, I think it would be best to lure her from the den. A dead bear will attracked unwated guests, I fear." he kept his dark eyes on the sow as he spoke and once again took up the deep snarl when he was finished speaking to his alpha. He was ready to attack.

Dark Star

Dark Star did a sort of half-nod, and spoke in a low growl. "It appears one of the unwanted guests has arrived already." He too, let out a deep snarl that was enhanced by a growl concealed deep in his throat. "You will not leave my terra alive. I can assure you." With that, he nodded to the others and ran to the left, just as Nyscee ran to the right. Without warning, Dark Star looped back around and lept on the bearsback, like he had done before. Nyscee darted around, low to the ground as well as raised up, lashing with her fangs and moving to another spot. She taunted from behind, to try to get the bear to move backward, giving Peregrine a good launch from many sides. She stayed a bit back from the bear now, so she would have to come forward to reach her, giving her an advantage. She thought about the bear that had killed Tri-Tundra's mate, and wondered if this was her. Surely not, though with far migration it could be possible. Dark Star had aimed for the neck, and with his canines barred, tore viciously into what ever he had gotten into. He too, thought about the bear that had killed survivor. Wondering what Tri-Tundra would do if this was her, he decided to slow down on his relentless attack on the tissue. He stayed on her back, but did quick merciless snaps to try and find veins and vital cords. If this wasn't the bear that had killed survivor, maybe one out there was.

Jais

As he came charging in, Jais continued to think about the story Dark Star had told. He felt badly for Tri-Trunda, figuring it must be tough to have to deal with the second bear now in such a short time. And for Dark Star too, perhaps, who had to worry for his mate and young ones. Now he putting on his most malignant, deadly-intent face and uttered such a wrathful snarl that he half surprised himself. The white wolf charged at the bear, head on, then veered suddenly to the side and ran around her. He had to pause a moment to clear his dizzy head, since his body was still recovering from so much blood loss. In a moment's time his senses were restored and as he turned to harass the bear with quick snaps to her flank and a never ceasing string of snarls and growls.

Untouchable

He arrived a little late, but just in time for attack. When he saw Nyscee he hessitated for a moment then lowered himself to the ground. He let out a snarl then leaped onto the bears back. He bit into the spine of the bear and clawed at her. He leaped off the bear and made his way towards her back left leg. He latched onto it, trying to drag her backwards.

Peregrine

Seeing his opportunity, the large wolf burst forward with his jaws agape and eyes glistening in with held fury. Peregrine propelled his strong form through the air, launching towards the sow's side where he tried to latch on with his fangs.

*Sow Bear*

She slammed down on her front legs once more, twirling around to try and strike Dark Star a deadly blow. For her size, this bear was amazingly fast. But not as fast as a wolf. Her strike, which could have easily killed the alpha, missed by a few inches. "I've killed wolves before, and I'll do it again!" she warned in a roaring tone, whirling around now to strike at Nyscee. Then there was another wolf rushing straight at her. She reared back, preparing to take him on, but he veered off to the side before ripping at her leg. Again she roared, feeling the fangs of three wolves. Then came two more. Untouchable first, her also dug into her hind limb. As strong as he may be, no wolf could pull her anywhere. She swiped at him with her massive paws. The fifth attacker hit her side while she was turned, making her roar in anger and the sudden pain. Her muzzle came down, snapping at Peregrine. And all the time she thrashed about, making it terribly difficult for any wolf to keep their hold. Thick layers of fat and dense fur saved her from serious injury. It would be quite a task to kill this sow.

Untouchable

He was quick, but not quick enough. The pawslammed into his face and knocked him off of her leg. He landed a few feet from the bear. He couldnt see out of his left eye, but he still could see out of his right eye. He lowered himself and growled. The bear was distracted by all the others, so he took a chance. He crept underneath the bear. He started ripping and tearing at her soft stomach. Then, when he had the chance he latched onto the stomach and sank his teeth into her. He held onto her for dear life and was ready for anything to happen.

Dark Star and Nyscee

He saw the sow prepare to snap at Peregrine, and propelled himself from her upper back to her shoulders, and lept, burying his fangs into her muzzle as hard as he could. He would not let Peregrine be hit unprepared. He shook his head back and forth, tearing at whatever he had, but knew that the sow had open paws that could easily crush his defenseless body.

Nyscee lept at the bear's left paw, and dug as hard as she could with deadly canines into the flesh. She pulled with all her might to the left, and then began to pull backwards to the right. Dark Star lept off, swiveling around he lept onto her chest, going for her upper neck, right beneath the jaw. If he hit, it would be hard for her to bite at him, and could result in a fatal blow. But one massive paw was still open. Blood dripped from his maw as he crushed whatever his jaw had grasped, growling with deadly intent. "You should have thought twice about getting yourself into this, it's a shame you don't have enough room for a brain in that thick head of yours!" He let out a half choked-by fur-snarl, realizing if she had killed wolves before, it might have been Survivor. Dark Star wondered if the bear would remember the scents Survivor had on him. Dark Star and him had been doing battles for fun before the walk, maybe the sow recognized D.S's scent..... he couldn't be sure until the sow commented.

Tri-Tundra

Tri-Tundra entered the chaotic scene, and halted about ten feet away. She had left Kana in the care of their good friend Night, and knew she would be safe. She saw the sow had a paw open, and fearing for Dark Star's life, she lept over and grabbed hit, tearing it backwards. She had a sense of fear leaking from her mind, but she hid it with her malice filled facial expression. She dug into the arm of the bear, ripping to shreds whatever whas in her clutch. She had an odd sensation about her, her mind was streaked with images of Survivor, and this very sow. She couldn't be certain of anything yet. Not quite...

*Sow Bear*

The enraged sow and struck out at Untouchable who was easily within her paw's range. The wolf was hurled to the ground, but left a hefty wound on the bear. Her fangs nearly reached Peregrine, but Dark Star had gotten to her first, tearing through flesh and hitting the bones in the face. Roaring with agony, the bear tried to lift a paw to strike him away, but Nyscee caught one arm. The other was then aimed for the alpha, yet the one free paw was now caught up by Tri-Tundra. And now Dark Star was at her throat, but had just missed hitting a vital spot. It was again her thick flesh and fur as well as her thrashing moves that fooled his fangs. Then it came to her; a strangely familiar scent! Dark Star was very near her muzzle and his scent came strong to her, sparking a vauge memory. "I've killed one of yours before!" Her words came out in a low, hissing growl as her dark eyes narrowed. "And now..." she paused in her speech to yank her paw up, pulling it from Nyscee's grasp and striking down at Dark Star, "I will add to the list!" Encumbered by wolves, the sow fell purposely to her side, crushing Peregrie and Nyscee if they didn't move. Such force from the fall would make it hard to hold on for the other wolves.

Peregrine

He saw the large jaws coming for him at the last second but Dark Star had diverted the beast's attention and saved him from certain injury. The wold dug his fangs in, seeking to tear at the muscles in her side that went to work for her arm. He did all the damage he could before the sow suddenly fell to her side. Instantly releasing his hold, Peregrine sprung back just in the knick of time as he felt the rush of wind blow harshly against his fur. Whirling around to face the fallen sow, he lunged for her face, trying to go for a locking hold on her muzzle. He hoped to crush the bones there and make it impossible to breath from her nose. While he had his hold it would also keep her from trying for a hold on Dark Star or anyone else.

Untouchable

As the sow fell over he stayed with her, still digging his jaws into her stomach muscles. When she completely fell over he released his hold and leaped for the bears throat. He latched onto the neck and ripped and teared at her throat.

Jais

This is it! he thought, still tearing mercilously at the leg and keeping with her as she thrashed about. He released as she fell and instantly sprung on her massive form and went for her underarm. There she could only strike him wither her opposite paw, and there he knew was the large vein of the arm, and that's what he strove for.

Tri-Tundra, Nyscee & Dark Star

The bears massive paw hit Dark Star directly across his side before the massive creature fell to the ground. Dark Star was flung directly into a tree, and fell onto the ground in a large slump. He laid motionless in a cluster of twigs, making it impossible to tell if he was breathing unless you were right beside him.

Tri-Tundra gasped, and began to shake with rage. She spoke softly at first, but then her voice grew loud as she spoke. "You are the one...you killed Survivor." She snarled, her entire form shaking with fury. She snarled at Untouchable and Peregrine. "STAND ASIDE!" She wanted to finish this herself. She hoped they would take a new position. She hadn't meant to sound like she was angered with them, but there was no way to keep her rage from spilling out when she had waited so long. Nyscee grabbed onto the other arm, also searching for the vital vein. She had a good hold, making the sow pinned with a great force.

Tri-Tundra stepped up to the torn up figure, and snarled vicously as she barred her ivories, dug them into her muzzle, and thrashed as she spoke. "You ruined everything. All I ever had was destroyed because of YOU. I have searched and searched for years for him. I lost the only thing I ever loved. I suffered for years." She let her thrashing cease, and released her grip, now staring directly down at the sow. She spoke with a deep vengence in her voice. "Now, I will return the favor." With that, she dug at the same spot Dark Star had went for, but with the possibility of a better accuracy since the bear was pinned to the ground. She thrashed her canines into the spot she thought was the vital area, and dug, crushing whatever bones in the throat she could. She ripped at what appeared to be the veins, and then continued thrashing as she hoped everyone else was giving this bear as much pain as possible. Her intentions were to get even with the bear that had killed her mate, and she hoped the others would understand.

Peregrine

Peregrine was undoubtedly startled by Tri-Tundra's tone but he backed off without questioned. He dropped to the ground after relinquishing his hold and glanced in the direction Dark Star had been hurled. Seeing no movement, he began to fear. Yet he couldn't waste time at the moment and had to help restrain and slay their enemy. The large wolf took up a new hold at the bear's back, near her shoulders. Again he attmepted to tear the muscles there.

Untouchable

When Tri-Tundra said to get away from the bear he lept from his spot wear he latched onto the neck a few feet away from the bear. He went where his right eye could see. His left was bruised badly, and it was bleeding. It caused him much pain. He would be blind in that eye.

*Sow Bear*

The sow roared again in the increasing agony of the pack's fury. But she wasn't quite down for the count yet. She was large enough, even with the pack raging at her, to stand once more. Tri-Tundra had caused a serious wound to her throat, causing blood to stream out down her fur. A muffled crunch was heard when the wolf's teeth broke part of the trachea(sp?). Both arms were in pain now and bleeding sufficiently where the wolves clung on. She brought up both arms, quaking with the effort, and dragged them down either of Tri-Tundra's sides. If she didn't let go, she have broken ribs and long patches of flesh missing. "This isn't over yet!" she growled out, finding it hard to speak now that her neck was so damaged. She would die from Tri-Tundra's injuries, and her time to live was fleeting, yet she still had energy and would cause as much damage as she could to the pack before she gave in to death's calling.

Untouchable

He saw Dark Star in the brush. He couldnt tell if he was breathing or not. He rushed over to him and nudged his face, hoping he would wake up.

Tri-Tundra, Nyscee & Dark Star

Dark Star lifted his head slightly, a jolt of pain coursing down his spine. He groaned and his head fell down once more. Luckily, he was breathing.

Tri-Tundra released her grip, and lept back, now snarling with pain as 4 or 5 deep gashes bled freely from both sides. She let out a deep snarl as she spoke. "IT WILL BE!" With that she dodged to the right, Nyscee yanking on the bear with all her extreme force. Just now she noticed Dark Star and began to fret, but her grip on the bear's arm only became stronger. At this angle, if would be hard to shake her off. She pulled again and again howling to attract the bear's attention.

Meanwhile, Tri-Tundra had rushed behind the bear, and leapt at the back of the already deadly wounded spot. She now pulled backwards, blood gushing into her mouth. Wounded or not, she would never give up this fight. As blood surged from her mangled form, she dug into the flesh once again, whether she had aimed correctly or not, she knew she was producing pain. That, and only that, was important.

Untouchable

He smiled when Dark Star moved then frowned again when his head plopped down. "Dark Star, i'd go get help. But I dont know who to get." He would go get Kana, but she's got the pups. He couldn't howl for help, because she would probably come. He picked him up gently by the scruff of his neck, he would try to drag him, but he didnt want to cause his alpha more pain than he was in.

Peregrine

He dropped down from the hold he had and danced mockingly infront of the bear. He gnashed his jaws at her, growling and giving sharp barks. He took a few steps backward, trying to lead the sow further away where he rank body wouldn't pollute the fresh creek or foul the air for the pups. Peregrin would dash in and out of her reach, trying to entise her to follow.

*Sow Bear*

Her attention was at first focused on killing Tri-Tundra. She tried to bring her paws back to tear at the wolf on her back, but her arms were too weakened and burdened by wolfish bodies. She snapped at Nyscee and Jais then lurched forward, slashing and snapping at Peregrine. She staggered forward several yards while snapping alertnately at the wolves on her arms and at Peregrine. She tried to shake Tri-Tundra off and reach back to bite her, but couldn't. Finally enough blood had drained from her massive form to bring her to the ground. She growled softly, shaking with effort to bring her self back up. "I'm not the only one with the taste for wolf..." she rumbled in a hushed, strained voice. "My kin ...lives on!" Those were the last words to be uttered from her great jaws before her life fled.

Untouchable

He laid Dark Star down gently, he couldnt pull him. When the bear was dead he sat on his haunches, lift his head to the sky, and howled.

Peregrine

Peregrine easily evaded the enraged bear and kept up the taunting until she collapsed. There he fell upon her with his fangs and tore at her flesh as she uttered her dyeing words. When she was dead, he took a step back and added his voice to Untouchable's howl, celebrating the pack's victory in defeating the enemy. It was also a defiant howl against the bear who might hear it. "Is everyone alright?" he questioned, knowing there were injured ones. What he really meant was 'is anyone in critical need of help from their injuries'. Remembering that Dark Star had been flung into a tree, Peregrine hurried over to him, "Can you stand?"

Tri-Tundra, Nyscee & Dark Star

Tri-Tundra remained silent during the victory howl, her blood cold with vengence. She gapsed for breath, her blood stained maw twisted in a small and akward smile. Her injuries stung painfully, but luckily, the gashes bleeding had slowed down. She pushed away the searing pain, absorbing the victory in her mind. She whispered to herself. "For you, and only you. My Survivor." She sighed, auds perked she lifted her crania to Peregrine as he asked the question. "The bleeding has slowed, I will be fine." She turned, each movement made her wince, but she walked slowly to Dark Star.

He was drifting in and out of consiousness, and responded in a clouded mumble. "I'm okay.....just a little winded." He staggered to his feet, swaying back and forth. He spoke in a sarcastic voice. "I am a little light headed too, but other than that, a concusion, and a painfully sore side, I am okay." He smiled a bit, and turned to Peregrine. "How about you?"

Nyscee, leaving the battle with little to no wounds other than a few bruises and a large cut, walked over to untouchable. "Are you okay? Your eye looks terrible. I don't know how that will get fixed." She shook her head doubtfully.

Tri-Tundra stood, deep in thought, brushing off her pain, and thinking of how much this would change her. She looked to Jais and smiled. A new life had begun.

Untouchable

He turned his head to Nyscee where he could see out of his right eye. "I think I'm blind in the left eye, but it doesnt hurt anymore." He looked at her, "are you ok?" he stood up. Blood stained his cream colored coat. His jaw hurt, but he wasnt going to tell anybody.

yscee, Dark Star & Tri-Tundra

Nyscee smiled. "I am okay. I hope you truly aren't blind, but at least you feel no pain." Her smile faded, she noted that she would have to be careful to watch that she stayed on his left side, so that she could make sure he didn't run into anything.

Dark Star stood, head searing, a drowsy look on his face. His right side throbbed just as badly as his head. His back, he thought, was the worse. The impact of the slam on the tree had definately bruised something, but rest and relaxation with the pups would heal that. He didn't want to wait though, for he was impatient. He was sort of spaced out now, also deep in thought.

Tri-Tundra stood, staring at the ground with an odd look on her face. She panted heavily.

Untouchable

"Good". He smiled at her, he really though she was the right one for her. He would ask her when they were in the Central Packlands.

Jais

He had jumped down to avoid the bites and leapt back on to resume his hold on the bear until she had fallen and was finally slain. He had recieved no injuries, although some of his previous ones were irritated and bleeding. They were nothing serious. Once more blinking away the blinding colors in his eyes and the whirling dizzyness, Jais spotted Tri-Tundra and his heart leaped. The white wolf hurried over to her, standing close, "Are you alright? Maybe you should lie down?" he was deeply concerned about her, as he was with anyone he really cared about. Jais had watched his whole family be ravaged by death in countless ways, and he wasn't going to watch it happen to his new family. Especially not to Tri-Tundra if he could help it.

Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

Nyscee smiled at untouchable.

Tri-Tundra shook her head. "I will be fine, but thank you Jais. Are you okay?" She smiled again at him.

Untouchable

He started to gaze at her. But when he realized what he was doing he stopped, embarrased. "ummmm, should we go?"

Dark Star, Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

During his gaze at her she also had been captivated in a deep fervent stare. She hardly knew this wolf, yet, she seemed so close to him. She looked the other way, also embarrased for staring, but then looked back and answered his question. "Let's wait a moment to make sure the others are going to get along okay..." She trailed off, a smile appearing on her face. She then looked to the others, her eyes reluctant to be pulled away from his capivating glance. She looked to Dark Star, and looked as if she were going to go over and help him, but he saw her and shook his head, so she stayed to the left of Untouchable.

Tri-Tundra now began to realize her extreme pain. The gashes were pretty deep on her oneside, but the other side had only been what seemed like a scrape compared to her other gashes. The right side had stopped bleeding, but her left side, the more severely injured side, continued to stain her rose grey coat with oozing blood. She tried to hide the pain, and change the subject she knew Jais had on mind, but it was hard to keep from wincing. She asked him with a slightly strained voice "I do think now that everyone has proved worthy, so we should all be able to sleep in the den tonight." She sighed, but only slightly to keep from making herself wincing again.

"Indeed." Dark Star's low voice replied to Tri-Tundra's comment. "If, of course it is okay with Kana." He spoke softly, as to not use as much air, for he was still slightly winded. He then realized, it would be getting colder since it was now later in the day, Kana and the pups must get inside. He let out a loud howl to let them know it was safe and they could return to the den.

Jais

He nodded faintly to the new subject she brought up but there was an evident frown upon his face. "You are hurt worse than you let on." he stated softly with a tinge of concern in his voice. His slightly narrowed eyes further showed his worries, "You need to rest, please." Jais stepped closer to her in a sign of his desire to protect and comfort her. A small smile formed on his muzzle as his tail waved a bit conveying his good will and hinting at his deep liking for Tri-Tundra.

Untouchable

He stood there and nodded to Nyscee.He went back into the stare, of course with just his right I, his left I floated off. He wanted to ask her now, but he decided he would wait.

Peregrine

The large wolf, confident that their pack members would heal well with time, put his mind to other matters. Something had been on his mind the moment he escaped from the Wolf Center. Peregrine padded over to Dark Star, "My son, Tornado, lives in the Parnassian Meadows. Would it be alright if I visited with him and his family? I also wanted to seek an alliance between both packs." He knew his son wouldn't decline such an offer, but wasn't sure if Dark Star wanted to do that alpha to alpha. In any case, Peregrine just wanted to see his son again. He only wished his mate and daughter were still here.

Dark Star, Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

Tri-Tundra frowned and her eyes let down as Jais spoke, but she lifted them up again, tired of denying the obvious. "Rest seems good right about now. This injury," She motioned to the gashes, "is not the worst I have had. It will heal with time." She smiled, gladly taking Jais' hint. She sighed, and with that over she began to walk with him to the den.

Dark Star listened to Peregrine as he watched Nyscee and Tri-Tundra, at first concerned, but then realizing not only was it their choice, but good ones. He jolted back to Peregrine's glance and nodded. "It sounds like a plan Peregrine. Take some time off and relax with them a while. I am sure he will be surprised. If we need you, we are but a howl away. Give them my hello, and give the alphas my invitation to come meet with us soon." He nodded to Peregrine, and left for Kana.

Nyscee motioned for Untouchable and herself to make way to the den, and began to leisurley pad up to the comfort of their warm resting place.

Untouchable

He folloewed her into the warm cave. He layed down first and thought, I'll ask her in the morning. He lay down with his right eye towards the mouth of the cave. He still couldnt see out of his left.

Peregrine

Peregrine flashed a grateful smile to his alpha. He was more anxious than he realized about meeting up with his son again. It had been so long ago! "Thank you, I will relay your message." The large wolf turned swiftly and headed for his son's terra.

Dark Star, Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

Nyscee laid down a bit further into the den, behind Untouchable, she rested her head on her paws and smiled, closing her eyes and falling asleep.

Tri-Tundra slowly padded up, a light limp tracing her steps. She laid down on her better side, and looked at her coat. Her matted pelt glistened with blood, she gently licked it clean. About 20 min. after that, she finally rested her head. Her pelt now clean except for the blood that continued to ooze, she smiled at Peregrine and said 'goodbye' as he left to visit his son. She then turned to Jais, smile broadening as she turned his way. She nodded a silent goodnight to him, not wanting to ruin the moment. She then laid and fell asleep.

Dark Star was already in the den, and he had laid down beside Kana with Azreos and Lost Star nestled in his fur.

Untouchable

He woke up at about 6:43 am in the morning. The question had been biting at him all of the night. He wanted to ask her, but what if she said no, what if she didnt like him enough. He got up and headed toward Nyscee since she was a few feet away from him, he was very quiet. He laid down next to her, not too far away, yet not too close. He then laid his head down on the cool ground, and went to sleep.

Kana, Roselin, Aris, Viggo

Kana went into the den and set down Aris and Roselin and snuggled up next to her pups and mate. Sleeping peacefully.

Dark Star, Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

In the middle of the night, Dark Star had sunk out and returned with the other wolf. He then manuvered around the other sleeping wolves and laid down next to his mate again. Azeros had blindly made his way to Kana and began to nurse, while Lost Star lay right between his mother and father

Nyscee slept peacfully all throughout the night, and awoke at aboutan hour after Untouchable had moved. Head on her paws, she opened her eyes, and silently jumped, startled that Untouchable was right in front of her. She then relaxed, smiled, and mouthed 'good morning."

Tri-Tundra had strechted out during the night. Her limbs twitched now and then, signaling that she was dreaming. Her eyes were narrowed, but still closed, and all of the sudden she gasped, her eyes shot open and she jumped strait up. Her eyes dashed around a bit, and then she realized where she was. She calmed down, breathing a little hard, and sighed, laying back a bit. Her gasp haden't startled the two pups A. and L.S, luckily, nor the sleeping Alpha male.

Nyscee hadn't noticed her gasp at first, but then turned around and whispered. "Are you okay? What is wrong?"

Tri-Tundra shook her head. "I am fine. It was just a dream..." She trailed off and looked away.

Kana, Roselin, Aris, Viggo

Kana slept peacefully near her mate, with Roselin snuggled next to her and Viggo and Aris nurseing.

Untouchable

He really hadnt been sleeping, but he was watching Nyscee. When she mouthed good morning he smiled and whispered it back. He heard the gasp too. He turned his right eye toward Tri-Tundra and made sure everything was ok before he went back to watching Nyscee.

Jais

He had slept next to Tri-Tundra, ever worried about her recent injuries. Often he woke up and opened his eyes to check and make sure she was alright. The white wolf slept easily most of the night, besides drifting in and out of sleep to check Tri-Tundra. Half out of a dream, he was jolted to reality when she gasped. Silently he lifted his head and whispered to her, "Was it about the bear...?" he didn't want to be intrusive, so he trailed off his question at the end. Jais had no idea what her dream might have been, but only assumed it might be about the bear.

Dark Star, Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

Tri-Tundra's head turned to Jais, auds perked, staring directly into his eyes. They had a look as if she were about to say something, and then suddenly forgot, somwhat trance-like. She seemed suprised at his question and startled, apparently still soaking in the experience. If Jais knew what the dream was about, he would understand why her glance was such. Her eyes quickly darted to the ground and back up as she said "Well.....yes.....um...no. Well....it was sort of about it....but not.....if...you know...what I mean." Internally she shook her head, already knowing that he didn't understand. She was avoiding the happenings of the events in the dream, but not in a solemn manner, more of a bashful one. She seemed to be still captivated by the dream.

Dark Star 'slept.'

Nyscee stared into Untouchable's eyes.

Jais

He gave a small smile in understanding, although he didn't understand. By her response he thought he may have struck upon a nerve. Don't bring that topic up again! he chastised himself, guiltily aware of her past. Change the subject. The wolf watched her for a moment in her trance-like gaze while he thought. Then he tentively spoke up again, "I see." his words were very quite and light and followed quickly by more words, "...I think today will be a good day." he had no proof or evidence to support this, but it was the next thing that pop in his head. The air was actually colder now, but certainly not winter-cold.

*Ravens* & Fox*

A large flock of ravens perched in bare tree limbs around the carcass of the sow bear. They could hear traces of noise from within the wolf den nearby, but their hearing wasn't good enough to decifer much of it. Many of the sleek ebony birds began to feed on the bear's carcass while a few flew over to the den to listen to the wolves.

A lithe young fox scurried over to the huge bear, sniffing the rank form with a wrinkled nose. It wasn't the best meat, but it was better than nothing. Hungrily, the vulpin began to feed as well. Often he paused to peer over at the den and watch alertly for any of his larger 'cousins' to come forth.

Untouchable

He was about to say something when out of the corner of his good eye something caught his attentions. He turned his right eye fully toward the entrance of the cave and watched the ravens and the fox, "Are they allowed to do that?" He asked Nyscee.

Dark Star, Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

Tri-Tundra sighed silently, relieved to change the subject that unknowingly revolved about him, and responded a quick "Yes, cold, but it will be a wonderous day with a winter coat." She slipped a small grin, and then looked out as her ears picked up the brustle of wings against branches.

Nyscee shrugged, peeking out at the ravens and other beings. "Should we wake Dark Star up?"

Amazingly, Dark Star had not really slept the entire night. Instead, he had laid in front of Kana and his pups, staying alert of the movements of the den. This precaution had only been made to ensure that not only the new wolves did not try anything (although he thought them all worthy of trust) but so he could make sure no more bears or such invaded. He whispered to kana, his eyes still closed. No one but her could hear "Kana, you must and i mean MUST stay in the den at all times with the pups. We cannot risk your scent and the pups' being smelled by another bear so early in the winter. The pups must be safe from the cold and the predators. I must make an anouncement later on." With that, he suddenly stood up with his eyes wide open, not a drop of exaustion in them, obviously already awake, and padded out of the den with not a word or anything to the others.

He made his way to the place where the ravens and fox buried their beaks and muzzles in sour meat, partially frozen from the cold of the night. He stayed close enough so that he could be heard by those at the bear, but far enough away not to scare them. He spoke to the fox and the ravens. "Please, eat to your content. It is all yours, for a price." His last statement made it obvious there was a catch. "Do your best, fox, as well as those here in the trees" he nodded to the fox first and then the ravens "to spread word through the land of my pack and the deadly outcome of those who challenge us. Warn those that dwell here that if you step on my terra, you are either on my side or dead. I will not tolerate those that threaten me, or my pack and family." He glanced at all of them, a faint grin on his face. He padded a bit closer and sat down. His eyes made it easy to tell he meant no harm. "Simply spread this word for me. I have no time, so may I entrust this task to you? Do this when you can and throughout the winter, any carcass we dispose of is yours." He knew how tough this winter would be, so this seemed like a fair bargain. He didn't care if more bears came, it would be easier to back up his word that way. He was sure that not too many of the bears in the area bond together, making it easier to defeat them. He had knew his pack would keep Kana and the pups safe.

*Ravens & Fox*

The ravens moved in boldly closer when Dark Star emerged. They knew he was alpha; they were very clever with the ways of wolves and other animals.

The fox on the other hand was very skittish and moved swiftly around the other side of the bear, keeping the huge carcass between him and Dark Star. He knew his kind could more likely find death at the jaws of wolves instead of words of an alliance. But hunger and an interest held him to his spot to listen to Dark Star. Timid and meek, the fox clambered ontop of the bear to get a better look at Dark Star. "I would trust one of my Cousins before these stinking creatures." he spoke up, calling the wolves 'Cousins', as he was apt to doing with any canid; even though his species was branched out a bit far. His dark and thoughtful eyes turned to the bear, impressed with its size and the fact this wolf pack killed it. "I will spread word." the fox jumped down, still keeping the bear between him and Dark Star. He struggled to tear a large chunk of half-frozed flesh from the bear before scampering off to where his mate was hidden some distance away.

The ravens weren't nearly so timid and fearful. They and wolves had a long history of a strange and close bond that was unique in the animal word. One raven flew down and hopped near Dark Star, "It's good to have wolves on our side again. It's been long since we've encountered a pack that has a renewed kinship with us; we were begining to wonder if your kind was going the way of the two leggers." the sleek, intelligent bird narrowed his glistening eyes, showing a good-hearted grin where his hard beak could not. "We are always on the side of the wolves. And with your pack reigning over this land, we will be friends of you and hold loyalty to no one else." Other members of his flock began to murmur excitedly to each other. The leader went on, loving to chat with the wolf, "I know bears are not your friends. What about other creatures? What should the wolverines be told? The coytotes? Catamounts?" One raven perched a good ways back spoke up, "And of the magpies?" The entire flock set up to laughter at this comment; it was a well known but inside joke to ravens and crows. The leader shook his head, holding in his own laughter. He turned to Dark Star for his response.

Kana, Roselin, Aris, Viggo

Kana had just woke up when Dark Star spoke to her. She nodded in agreement, she had been thinking about the same idea. She new she had to stay in the den with the pups; it wasn't safe for her to leave. She smiled kindly at the other wolves around her, "good morning" she said cheerfully.

Viggo had crawled over to her side and began to nurse hungrily, grunting in pleasure at the sweet milk.

Aris had snuggled up next to her mother's stomach; there she was still asleep.

Roselin was trying to stand up on her shaky legs, her eyes had just started to open and she could see a bit. Falling over she yelped in surprise and looked around for her mom. Kana smiled and leaned forward, nuzzling her daughter, "shh, love, it's fine" she said, picking her up by the scruff and sitting her down beside her.

Dark Star, Tri-Tundra and Nyscee

Dark Star's multi colored eyes trailed the fox as he left, then turned his head to the bold raven in front of him. He grimaced at the thought of humans. "We would never be on their side. Not including the lady that helps us, of course. I was captured not so long ago, as well as others in my pack." He then nodded to the ravens last inquiry. "Tell them the same. They all will abide or die, as I see it. They don't have to agree exactly, just stay away from my den and my pack if they feel otherwise. They will not threaten my friends, I can't express that enough." He then stood up, bowing his head. "It is good to know that we have allies in the sky. Warnings are always good ahead of time." He smiled, but it was somewhat empty as his mind was on other things.

Jais

He stretched a bit, as much as he could in the confines of the den. "Are you ready to get up yet?" he questioned with a light tone. "Kana may want her privacy." Jais sort of shrugged at his suggestion, not knowing what Kana might feel about it.

Tri-Tundra and Nyscee, and pups

Tri-Tundra nodded, she had seen Dark Star leave and figured they were permitted to leave. She too, stretched, but padded into the clearing in front of the den, where the sun shined on her pale rose grey pelt, the wind whipping her fur to and fro. As the wind ceased, she stood up, nose held high in the air to catch the scents of the wind. She smelled nothing unusual. She nodded to herself, sure that it was now safe outside, and flashed a pearly white grin to Tri-Tundra. This happened often now, and to absorb this smile and the warmth it brought was indeed a spirit lifter. She barked at Jais, banner waving. "Shall we take a walk?" She was still smiling now. She had waited forever for this time of year. It was her favorite. Embracing, yet bright and vivid all at once. She backed up and spun around in circles, her excitement growing. Her feelings for Jais were certainly stronger than the norm, but she didn't want to say that yet.....not, at least, with words.

Nyscee laid still, at her spot, wanting to wait for Tri-Tundra and Jais to leave before she ventured out.

Azeros had finnaly open his eyes, and the glassy yellow eyes brought much character to his face. Lost Star had also opened his eyes, but it appeared he still couldn't see.

Kana, Roselin, Aris, Viggo

Kana smiled at them as they left, "be careful" she said to them. Turning to her pups she smiled at Azeros, "hello love" she whispered. She then turned to look at Aris, she caught her breath when she saw the pups eyes, one blue and one green, just like her father. She smiled warmly and nuzzled each of the pups.

Roselin looked up with her blue eyes and yipped, crawling over to her mom she slept.

Viggo was sitting next to Lost Star, his eyes hadn't opened yet, but it wouldn't be long.

Pups

The little black pup's fierce, deep yellow eyes rolled up to gaze at his mother as he nosed about the confounds of the nest. Although his other senses weak, he wobbled about for a couple minutes and then swaggered over to his mother to nurse, climbing on top of Lost Star to do it. It was obvious he would be the pushy one of the bunch.

Lost Star pulled out from under Azeros,the weight was too much for him. Azeros was much larger that Lost Star, and he seemed to be the biggest of the male pups, as well as possibly the females. Lost Star's cloud blue eyes had finnally set themselves and he too, started in motion. He, unlike Azeros, had a soft, 'what's out there?', curious and playful gaze. He stopped sniffing through the dried grasses, and wobbled over to give her the first puppy kiss. He then weakly wagged his little tail, and nuzzled deep in her fur to rest.

Jais

A bright smile beamed on his muzzle when he saw Tri-Tundra was in a good mood. His light eyes glistened with joy as he watched her enjoy and embrace the new day. Life was good! "A walk sounds wonderful. Where should we go?" he questioned lightly. He felt the same growing feeling for Tri-Tundra, but was too afraid to speak of them yet. Like her, he was content with letting his attitude and actions show his feelings before his words did. That way, he thought, neither one was put in an akward place to say something they weren't ready for.

Kana, Roselin, Aris, Viggo

Kana smiled warmly at her son and kissed him back, watching him snuggle next to her to sleep. She then watched the others, they all had there eyes open and it wouldn't be long before they started speaking.

Aris stood slowly and looked around with her blue and green eyes. She the moved over to her mother's side and started to nurse beside Azeros.

Viggo sat down and looked at his siblings and mom. He then yipped to Kana and tried to run over to her but he fell over. He stood up and shook his head and whined a little, walking over and snuggleing next to his brother.

Roselin was nursing before any of the others. And when Azeros came over and pushed Lost Star out of the way she looked over at him wondering why he had done that. She couldn't speak but if she could she would have told him to stop picking on there brother.

Tri-Tundra & Pups

Azeros gave a odd look back at Roselin. If he could speak also, he would have told her that she had her nose in his buisness, and she needed to put her nose in the dirt instead of being liek that. Of course he would appologize later, but, that didn't change how mean it was at the time. However, no words left his maw but a small grunt. Lost Star perked his ears up at Roselin, but then closed his eyes and let his ears flop as if to say 'I can fight my own battles! But, of course, I will do that after a nap.'

Tri-Tundra beamed brightly. "We can go anywhere you wish. Perhaps we should go hunting before food is scarce. It is always good to keep some in the caches." She stood up straight, proud and happy, eyes bright and cheery. She had calmed down now, but still had a light airy happiness wafting around her.

Jais

He contained his bright attitude into a more calm one as well. The prospect of hunting once more lifted his spirit still further, and he tilted his head to the side in thought. "We might find deer in the Marshes or the Priarie." he pointed out, "This time of year the bucks are busy fighting and should make easier prey."

Tri-Tundra

She beamed brightly looking down, nodding as she smiled, thinking hard about where to go. "Yes, well..." Her head shot up. "Yes. Let us go to the Marshes. If we ask Galar, he could watch for hunters while we are hunting. We can give him some of the meat in return. I wouldn't want to go to the Prarie on the account of humans." She frowned a moment, humans acted as if they owned the world. They never try to preserve the land for the other things that live on this world. Such a shame...She stopped her thoughts from drifting, and looked directly at Jais. "We should inform Kana and Dark Star before we go, they may have plans to change." She spoke confidently, as if no one was to change their plan of hunting. She only hoped it was so.

Nyscee, Tri-Tundra and Dark Star

Bored, awake, and prepared to adventure, Nyscee thought about visiting Bandit. She had no true strong ties with them, but was a friend none-the-less. She had heard a desparate howl not so long ago, and was a little worried. She bowed to Kana and left the den, loping down to Dark Star at the creek outside the den. She pranced about anxiously. "Dark Star, I am afraid something is happening at Breve Ridges, and I don't want them to get hurt. Would you mind if I went up to check?" She padded feverishly, she could feel something was wrong, and although it was not apparent, recieving this news made Dark Star nervous to. He nodded briskly. "Certainly, be off right away. Howl if your preminition of catasrophe is true." He had a solemn face as he spoke, tail upright but slightly cricked.

Tri-Tundra watched Nyscee bolt off in a blur. She shook her head solemnly "Perhaps it would be better to...wait. They could really need our help up there." She had a sad face, losing the tenacious excitment was not always easy, but it happened rapidly as her tail drooped a bit and her muscles relaxed. She hung her head a second, but lifted it up. Her spirit was back on track again, she had become the serious, bold, hard willed wolf Dark Star knew once again.

Jais

He was about to agree with Tri-Tundra's proposal for the Marshes, but then Nyscee had left in a rush. He dipped his head a bit, "Should we follow along at a distance and make sure all is well? Or... maybe it's not best for us to go to the leopards." He wasn't sure; he had never met them, but knew they were somehow friends or allies of the pack. At least to Dark Star, Kana, and Nyscee.

Kana, Roselin, Aris, Viggo

Kana smiled at her pups and barked softly for Dark Star, she wanted him to come see the pups, now that they could see him! Smiling she nuzzled each of them lovingly.

Roselin stirred in her sleep but didn't wake up.

Aris was awake and looked around with her beautiful eyes.

Viggo slept softly next to Lost Star...

Dark Star

Dark Star had already been on his way to the den when he heard her bark. Anxious to see what she wanted, he adressed the pack members in the vacinity abrubtly and quickly. "Listen up. My orders are that you are all to stay within close calling distance incase we here a howl from Nyscee. She may need our help soon, and I don't want to be unprepared." He then padded into the den, and softly gasped when he saw the open eyes of the little ones! Azeros was wide awake, and he wobbled over to Dark Star. Dark Star sat down, and seeing the chance, the playful Azeros grabbed onto Dark Star's ear. He laughed gently as the little one tugged as hard as he could with his tiny teeth.

Tri-Tundra nodded to Dark Star's order and sat down beside Jais. "Perhaps once the orders have either been taken out or subsided we may get a chance to hunt."

Kana, Aris, Roselin, Viggo

Kana smiled at him and nodded watched Azeros play with his father.

Roselin smiled softly and fallowed her brother, she yipped playfully at her daddy.

Viggo was asleep at Kana's side, barking ever so often in his dreams.

Aris sat up and watched her father, thinking before she done anything.

Kana smiled at Aris and spoke to Dark Star, "Look at her eyes, there like yours" she said with a smile.

Dark Star and pups

He gently nudged Azeros and the little one fell on his side. He got up and let out a tiny, ferocious little growl, and grabbed onto his ear again. He smiled at Roselin and looked to Kana as she spoke of Aris. He stared in awe as he glanced down at the multi-orbed pup. "Yes, they are aren't they?" He continued smiling.