The Soldier's Journal
This is a request from DecafJava. Its my first request I've gotten and kind of a shock to me. I hope I lived up to your expectations Decaf. Enjoy and comment.
_ February 17th 1730 hours: _ The Civil War still rages on. The rebels were gaining ground with surprising speed, strength, and strategic movements. The Republic of Wysteria was slowly losing the war they started. The government wanted too much from the people, increased taxes, unfair wages, and other stuff I didn't know about. Soon, a rebellion started and began to grow with increasing speed. Half of the army that was with the government, sided with the rebels cause of the promise to the end the tyranny. The Wysteria government, so desperate to win the war, started using kids as soldiers. That's where I was, ten years old and trained to be a sniper.
"Hey kid, writing to your mommy?"
My green eyes looked up from my notebook to see three kids around my bunk.
"I'm improving my vocabulary. Why don't you try it?"
The brown haired kid in the middle balled his as his two friends chuckled. He reached down and snatched my notebook away.
"Give it back."
"Why should I? I think I can use this to start a fire in case I get cold."
He tore a page out and crumbled it up before tossing it at me. This enraged me as I got up and tackled him to the ground. The bunker gathered around us chanting 'Fight' 'Fight'. A whistle caught everybody's attention making them get into a line. A tall man wearing army fatigues and a Sergeant insignia walked in.
"What is going on in here?"
He walked over to us and looked the two of us.
"What are your names cadets?"
"Cai Dinadin sir." I said.
"Daniel Schwinn."
"What are you fighting about and it better be good?"
"He started it sir." Daniel said, pointing at me.
"Liar!!" I snapped, almost ready to jump on him.
"ATTENTION!!"
We held our heads down but I was cursing him under my breath.
"There is a war going on. A war we might lose. This is not the time to be fighting amongst ourselves."
"Yes sir. Sorry sir." we both said.
"Everybody get your gear together. We move out at 1830."
"Yes sir!" we all said.
_ February 17th 1830: _ Our platoon, Zeta Company, moved out towards Deidon Hold. It was a strategic stand place, almost like a castle, with large brick walls and an iron gate that blocked the entrance and exit. This place allowed the Wysteria government to get and send supplies the needed. If this place was to fall, Wysteria would suffer a severe blow. They've already lost Caliban Cove and wanted to keep this place under their control as long as possible. We were stationed there for the night to receive our next orders. The tents were cold as well as the ground as most of the platoon were either sleeping or talking. I stayed up most of the day walking around the hold, looking at possible routes the rebels could take to overrun this place. Nighttime came quickly as I retired to my tent.
_ February 18th 0600: _ We had our orders. Intel said there was a camp of rebels hiding in the mountains to the northwest. Orders were to invade the camp and steal any kind of Intel they had on their movement so we could stay one step ahead of them. Staff sergeant Tosh McDaniel took about twenty of us on the raid since its suppose to be a small camp. I was assigned look out to make sure nobody came and went. My spotter, Mark, was with me.
"So, Cai was it?" Mark asked.
"Yeah, my name is Cai. Why?"
"Whoa, easy man. I mean no harm. I just wanted to say that was cool what you did to Daniel. He's always picking on people."
I adjusted my body on the ground, still looking through the scope of my gun.
"I didn't do it to impress you. I wanted my notebook back. That's all."
"Wow, can't even take a compliment. Excuse me," Mark said, with a huff of annoyance.
Mark brought his binoculars up and took a look through them. The small rebel camp was inside a series of caves inside the mountains. A couple of guards were posted at some of the entrances.
"When is Staff sergeant beginning?" I asked.
Mark looked at his watch for a brief second.
"In about three minutes."
I kept looking through my scope until something dashed out of the cave. I tried to follow it, but it was too quick. The only glimpse I got appeared to look like a long bushy tail.
"What was that?" I said to myself.
"Cai, pay attention. The sergeant is moving in," Mark said, snapping me out of my thoughts.
I looked back as I saw the sergeant move closer to the target caves, heading in the clump of trees.
"Cadet Cai, take out the lookout to the west of our position." Tosh said through the radio.
Mark guided my aim as I saw a lone guard standing there. I took careful aim, taking in the wind condition before firing, dropping the guard with a well aimed shot to the head. Tosh and our platoon moved in swiftly right after. I watched them enter the cave as Mark scanned the perimeter. Soon, gunfire was heard inside the cave as chaos broke out.
"Crap, they must've been spotted." Mark said, still looking around. "Quick Cai, there's a guard trying to use the radio five meters to the northeast."
I took a look quickly, locating the guard. But in my haste, I missed wide left.
"Wide left, try again." Mark said.
"Dammit." I growled, aiming again.
Soon, we were being fired on. But thanks to our well concealed spot, they were firing blind but could pick us up soon.
"Sergeant Tosh, the enemy might have called for back up. We tried to stop him but missed wide left." Mark spoke into the radio.
"Understood cadet. We're almost at the target. Try and buy us some time."
"Yes sir."
A bullet hit the ground near my leg as it kicked up dirt.
"They are starting to find the range Mark. We have to move." I said.
"We can't. By the time we do, backup might come and trap Sergeant Tosh and our troops."
I let out a grunt of frustration as another bullet lodged itself in the dirt by my arm as I felt the small pebbles hit my shirt.
"Fine. Start spotting." I said, taking aim.
Mark directed my aim as I took out a couple of rebels before the sound of a motor caught our ears. A truck was turning the corner, holding several more rebels soldiers in the back. It stopped on a dime as the soldiers hopped out and came out shooting.
"Sergeant Tosh, reinforcements have arrived and we're taking heavy fire." Mark shouted.
"Understood cadet. We're pulling out now." Tosh said over the radio.
I took out another rebel just as Tosh came running out the cave the way he went in. Soon as he got cleared, the cave exploded from the inside as the mountain came down on the remaining troops crushing them underneath the rock pile and rubble. We stood up as Tosh came up the hill with the remaining troops. I took a head counted and saw that six were killed.
"Good job cadets." Tosh said.
"Thank you sir." we said, saluting.
"We got what we came for. Lets head back."
I shouldered my gun before looking back at what remained of the mountain. Off in the horizon amidst the dust, I saw a shadow standing there. I quickly looked through the scope and saw it. It stood on four legs and looked at me before disappearing.
"Was that a wolf?"
"Cadet Cai Dinadin, move your ass.!" Tosh shouted.
"Sir, yes sir."
_ February 19th 1345 hours: _ I still couldn't get that shadow out my mind. What was a wolf doing in those mountains? It didn't make sense. Anyway, with the Intel we took from the siege, we found a couple of sneak attacks planned and quickly countered them with ease. Other then that, pretty boring.
_ February 21st 1900 hours: _ We heard of a siege coming to take over Deidon Hold. They planned on capturing this place tonight. Zeta Company only had fifty of us while the rest of the soldiers stood at about hundred. This place will fall if we didn't hold off the first wave. I was stationed in the tower with Mark. The sun was setting in the northeast which means seeing the enemy would become difficult.
"So Cai," Mark said, breaking the silence while looking at the sunset. "How is your family? You have any brothers or sisters?"
"No. My parents died during the fight at Sunder city."
"Geez. I'm sorry to hear that."
I looked at him for a brief second before back into the horizon.
"Thanks," I said softly.
"I lost my dad during this stupid war also. I want it to be over so I can go back to my mom. She makes a sweet apple pie. I'll invite you over one day."
"I'll look forward to it."
"Shake on it," Mark said, extending his hand out.
I looked at him before shaking his hand with a smile. We shared some idle chatter before something caught my eye. I looked through my scope into the rocky plains.
"What's up?" Mark asked.
I kept looking, scanning the area for anything out of the ordinary. That was when I saw a trial of smoke heading straight for the wall.
"INCOMING!!" I shouted.
The rocket hit the wall with a loud boom shaking the tower we were in.
"The rebels are attacking. Take up your position." Tosh yelled.
I looked through the scope again as I saw them come down the trail in waves, like a bunch of army ants at a picnic.
"Damn, here they come." I said, taking aim and firing rapidly.
It seemed like for every one I killed, ten more took their place. I heard the click of my gun and cursed.
"I'm out."
"I got you" Mark said, handing me a full magazine.
I reloaded in time to see another trail of smoke heading right for us.
"Mark, JUMP!" I shouted.
He looked up in time, eyes wide as we both jumped out the tower and rolled to the ground in time to see it explode as chunks of rocks fell on us. Another explosion was heard as the brick wall started to crumble behind us.
"Cai! Mark! Fall back," Tosh shouted, firing into the other holes as the rebels tried to come in.
We hurried over to one the barricades where Tosh was, keeping our heads down as bullets whizzed by our heads and impacted the ground by our feet.
"Are you two okay?" Tosh asked.
"Yes sir." we both said.
"They are coming in heavy. If this keeps up, we'll have to fall back to the capital. For now, try to thin the herd so we can help the wounded."
"Yes sir."
The fire fight seemed to last for hours. We held our ground pretty good, until they brought out the heavy guns. I felt the ground start to shake, slowly at first, then start to pick up more. The wall seemed to explode inward as a tank crashed through it like it was not even there.
"TANK!!" I shouted.
The main turret aimed to the barricade we were behind.
"MOVE!!" Tosh shouted.
We hurried out in time as the explosion sent us flying to ground. My head was spinning and my ears were ringing. My vision was blurry as I tried to get my bearing and my senses back. I felt my body being lifted and somebody shouting which I couldn't make out, except for the last bit.
"............back. Retreat through the tunnel. Fall back now."
Tosh carried me through the tunnel, providing covering fire for the troops as they hurried through the tunnel. Before exiting, tosh threw a couple of grenades into the tunnel, causing it to collapse and let us escape without being followed. Doing that, we retreated into the forest and towards the capital city.
_ February 24th 2115 hours: _ Its been three days since we lost Deidon Hold. I recovered from my slight concussion after that tank blast. Out of the hundred and twenty troops stationed at Deidon Hold, only fifty made it back. Me and Mark were the only members from Zeta Company to survive that assault. All that was left of Zeta Company was a total of twenty troops. This war looked like it will be ending soon.
_ February 25 __ th 1400 hours: _ We received word that the rebels plan to take the capital city. They are assembling their troops for an all out assault. Sergeant Tosh told our unit to prepare for the fight our lives. Captain Anthony assembled what was left of the Wysteria army, which was only about three hundred strong. Since Deidon Hold was lost, our ammo would run out and we would be overwhelmed.
_ February 27th 1000hours: _ We managed to finish making the capital city into a defensive fort. The streets were lined with mines, ambushes were around every corner, and snipers were on every rooftop and other hidden spots throughout the city. This would be the final stand for the Wysteria government.
"Do you think we'll win?" Mark asked me.
"Not really." I said bluntly.
"I wish we didn't have to fight in this stupid war."
I looked at him before out onto the street. Tosh had us positioned on top of an abandoned store, almost near the city limits. This gave us a clear view of the streets below.
"I don't want to fight, but I don't want to die either. So I have no choice but to fight."
"I guess you make a good point." Mark said.
We sat there is silence, waiting for the assault that will decide everything. The whole city was dead quiet, almost like it was deserted. Not even a bird was singing in the sky. It was as if they knew that soon this place will be filled with smoke and the yells of people breathing their last breath. After a tense couple of minutes, a flare was shot in the air, signaling the start of the fight.
"Here they come," I said, taking aim with my rifle.
They came in waves, some by foot, some by trucks. Bullets flew in the air and explosions shook the ground. Buildings started to crumble as the rebels brought them down to the ground. Mark and I fired non stop, downing rebels left and right.
"I'm out!" Mark shouted. "Cover me."
I fired non stop into the waves of rebels as they took cover and fired back. Thankfully we were at a high angle and had a better vantage point. I heard a click as my gun ran out of bullets. I let out a curse and ducked the incoming fire, trying to reload. I managed to reload and take up my position, when two grenades were tossed onto the roof.
"Oh crap!!" we both said.
We ran as fast as we could to the door before they exploded, leaving a hole in the roof.
"Cai!! You okay?" Mark shouted, coughing as the dust covered the area.
"Yeah. You?"
"Could be better. I got shrapnel in my leg."
I got my senses together and hurried over to Mark. He was clutching his left leg as a piece of metal was lodged in his calf.
"I need to pull this out. You ready?" I asked.
"Just do it."
I grabbed the foreign object and pulled quick making him yell in pain. I reached into my pocket and pulled out a bandana, quickly tying it around the wound.
"We have to get out of here." I said.
"Go without me. I'll only slow you down."
"If I thought that, I wouldn't be here still. So shut up and stand up."
I threw his arm around my neck and helped him up. He let out a grunt of pain as we walked to the roof door. I opened it slowly and peeked down to see shadows heading for the stairs.
"Stay here," I said to Mark quietly, leaning him against the wall.
I hurried over to the hole and peeked down. There were at least four of them heading for the roof. I reached into my jacket and pulled out the pistol I kept with me. With a deep breath, I jumped down and fired off a couple of shots, luckily it took out one of them.
"Over there," one of the shouted.
Bullets whizzed past me as they splintered the wooden shelves around me. I ducked under one and fired back blindly.
"Your surrounded. Just give up and we'll go easy on you."
I let out a small chuckle at that. Easy to them would mean a quiet death. I reached towards my belt looking for that little metal ball. Grabbing it, I pulled the pin, counted to three and tossed it over my head before taking cover. The grenade exploded, making a hole in the wall. I waited a couple of minutes before looking through a hole in the shelf.
"I think I got them all" I said to myself.
I headed to the wall slowly, gun at the ready. Reaching it, I saw what was left of the rebels as I lowered my gun. That was a mistake, cause I soon as I did, I heard and felt the gun shot that struck my arm. I let out a yell, tripping over the rubble and falling to the ground.
"You just killed three of my best friends. Its only fitting that you join them."
I closed my eyes waiting for death to take me as I heard the gun shot. Strangely, I didn't feel no pain besides the one in my arm as I opened my eyes. I saw Mark with a smile on his face leaning on one of the unbroken shelves for support.
"You owe me one."
"Put it on my tab," I said, smiling back.
The fight lasted for a day. Many people died from each side. The once tall capital, turned into a rubble and wasteland. Building were torn down and the streets were full of holes from explosions and bodies lined the sidewalk. The war finally ended with the Wysteria government finally surrendering. It was a losing battle from the start and everybody knew it. But the government didn't care about that. They only cared about themselves. The rebels took over the capital, executing all the heads of government before starting their own. Thus a new era began.
_ March 5th: _ The new government was established and put in place. The remaining soldiers from the Wysteria government had two choices: either surrender or be killed. Those that surrendered, were forced to clean up the capital, burning their dead friends along with the other bodies. They worked day and night to get the capital to the way it was before. It was a long, hard process, but eventually, we managed to do it.
_ March 10th: _ Mark and I were lucky enough to be given a pardon for our participation in the war cause we were children. We were put to work in one of the local corner shops. We were the only remaining people from the Zeta Company still alive. It was tough cause they still treated us like crap for the stuff we did against them. We were working in the store today, cleaning the shelves when a bottle fell to the floor and shattered, sending its contents to the floor. The owner came out and started yelling at Mark.
"Hey you stupid idiot. Watch what your doing."
"Sorry sir," Mark said.
"Your lucky we didn't kill you along with the rest of your pitiful excuse of an army."
Mark balled his fists angrily at that comment.
"I lost my family in that war cause of you."
"Good riddance then."
Mark let out a yell of anger and charged him, but was struck down quickly to the floor. I hurried over to Mark and held him down.
"Calm down Mark. What's done is done."
"Yeah Mark. Listen to your friend. One more screw up, and I'll send you to jail with the rest of the scum." the owner spat out before walking back to the counter.
I looked at Mark as he had a few tears in his eyes.
"I'll make them pay. I'll make them all pay."
"Let it go Mark. There's nothing we can do. We're lucky we're still alive." I said, helping him up.
"Your wrong. You'll see. This isn't over yet."
_ March 12th: _ I didn't know what Mark meant when he said that, but it soon became clear. Him and a few remaining soldiers tried a coup. They managed to kill the acting head official causing turmoil in the capital. They almost made it to the city limits but were caught. They were badly tortured before tied to a post for a public execution. I watched the execution with sad eyes. Mark had a proud smile on his face at what he did. Maybe he thought what he did would somehow bring a little bit of peace to his family in heaven. I heard the clicks of the guns as the officers took aim, then fired.
_ August 16th: _ Seven years have passed and I turned seventeen as my birthday was today. I visited the make shift grave I made for Mark in a small clearing in the forest. I kind of figure it would be good seeing as though those idiots wouldn't like it if I put a tombstone in their graveyard. Besides, this place was just as good as it was serene and beautiful. If only he would've let things just be, he wouldn't be dead. I know losing his parents was hard, but his parents would have wanted him to live. After saying a quick prayer, I headed back to town. I got about halfway down trail before I heard shouting.
"Don't let it get away!"
"It went that way!"
Curiosity got the best of me, so I followed the voices towards the forest again.
"There it goes!"
"Shoot it!"
I rounded another tree before something big and solid collided with me, knocking my breath away as we both tumbled to the ground. I got my senses back as I heard three other sets of footprints.
"Good job boy. We've been after this one."
I stood up shakily as two other men held down a very large wolf. Its grey fur had mud on it as well as spots of blood. It let out snarls before a yelp as one man hit it hard in the back of the head knocking it out.
"What is that?" I asked.
"A wolf you dummy," the man said looking at me. "This one and a couple others have been killing out livestock. We managed to get the other two but this one got away. All right boys, lets bring this torphy back home."
They carried it back towards town as I stood there, still kind of in shock to see a wolf as large as that. It was then I remembered the shadow I saw at the mountains.
"Was that the wolf I saw?"
August 18th: News of the captured wolf spread quickly as people came to see the wolf that was killing their live stock. I managed to go down and have a look for myself. In the middle of the town square stood a tall metal cage. The wolf was cowering in the corner as people threw rocks and any other objects at it while laughing. Its amazing how brave people are when something is behind bars. I couldn't get close to it cause there was a hoard of people there yelling and cursing at it. I figured I'd come back later tonight.
I waited til around eleven or so, laying in bed looking at the ceiling. With a nod of my head, I stood up and put on some light clothes and my shoes. I was staying in the store on the second floor seeing how I was obedient to the owner and he grew to like me. I went to the window and opened it. It wasn't that far of a drop as I landed with a roll before hiding in the shadows. Nobody should be out at this time of night but I was always the careful one.
I moved swiftly and quickly to the center of town. To my dismay, the cage was gone. I let out a mental curse and tried to think where they would keep a captured wolf that size. Luck happened to be on my side as I saw two men exiting a large warehouse. I waited until they were far enough away before heading to the back. The window was unlocked and wasn't high off the ground as I was able to slip in. The inside was dark but a light further in gave me shadows of all the boxes and junk. I moved through the maze of stuff before seeing the cage. Inside was the wolf, curled up in a ball and whimpering. Its ears perked up and looked in my direction. I froze in place as it stared at me.
"Umm....hello," I said, nervously.
It let out a growl and got on all fours before going back to the floor with a whine. I went slowly to the cage, hands out to show I had nothing to hurt it with. It seemed to relax, but not by much as its hackles were raised. I sat down in front of the cage, looking at it. The first thing I noticed was its eyes. The left one was a crimson red, while the right one was a deep ocean blue.
"Such beautiful eyes." I thought.
The other thing I noticed was the coat of grey fur that covered its body. It looked soft and fluffy, but that was hard to see cause of the mud and blood that covered it. Some of the cuts on its body look bad too.
"I better get those tended too before they get infected." I said, getting up slowly as the wolf watched me carefully. "I'll be right back."
I hurried out the way I came, coming back with a first aid kit and sitting back in front of the cage.
"Come here," I said softly.
It let out a whine and shrunk back into the corner.
"Its okay. I won't hurt you. I just want to help."
I held out my hand slowly towards the inside of the cage. It let out another whine before sniffing the air. Sensing no danger, it stood up weakly and slowly inched towards my hand. It gave me a couple of sniffs before licking it. I let a smile cross my face as I slowly petted her muzzle. It leaned into my petting with a whine.
"Your not so mean I see. Lets clean you up a bit."
It sat down on it hunches and got another surprise.
"Your a female," I said, staring at the large, round mounds on her chest.
I blushed heavily as it looked at me curiously. I opened the kit and took out some ointment to help with the infection.
"Let me see your paw."
She nodded her head and held her injured left paw towards me. I took it softly, feeling her soft fur and pads. I thought silk was soft, but compared to her fur, it was way softer.
"This may sting a little, but you have to trust me."
I applied some ointment on her wound which made her yelp and scratch my arm which bleed instantly. I grimaced and covered the claw marks as blood dripped to the floor. She was growling angrily at me.
"Man, that smarts."
I looked at her, then my arm. Maybe if I did it to myself first, she would let me do it to her. So I applied the ointment to the marks she made, feeling it sting as the ingredients inside the ointment worked its magic before wrapping it up tight with gauze included. Her growl stopped as she sniffed the air. She approached me again slowly, holding her paw out again. I held it softly before applying the ointment. She let out a whine as it burnt her a little before stopping.
"See, its not so bad is it?" I said with a smile.
I finished applying the ointment to all the bad wounds without wrapping her up cause people would ask questions and the first person they would come see is me. She leaned over and gave me a lick on the cheek.
"Thank you," she said.
This time it was me who let out a yell of surprise and backed away. I think I backed up to much as I ran into some boxes stacked up, causing them to fall to the floor with a crash.
"What was that?" a voice said from outside.
"It came from the warehouse."
"Crap," I said, getting up and hurrying to the window.
I stopped and looked back at her, as she did the same.
"I'll be back tomorrow okay?"
"Okay," she said.
I smiled before hopping out the window in time as the lights clicked on.
_ August 20th: _ I visited the wolf again that night, since I was kept busy the other night. She was cowering in the corner again whining. Her ears perked up when she heard my footsteps approach.
"Hey," I said softly, sitting in front of the cage.
"Hi," she replied, getting up and sitting next to the bars.
I reached my hand up and slowly scratched her behind the ear making her murr. I thought she was going to bite me again cause of that sound as I pulled away. Seeing my confusion, she licked my hand and nuzzled into it. I smiled before continuing my scratching, much to her delight.
"Why are you so nice to me while everybody else throws stuff at me?"
"Cause those people aren't civilized. They are only brave when somebody or something like you are behind bars. What's your name if you have one?"
"Luna."
"Luna. Such a nice name. My name is Cai."
Her tail wagged behind her happily when I said that.
"How did you get into this situation?"
Her tail stopped wagging and her ears folded back and she whined softly.
"My hunting mates were hunting in the woods near the small meadow when we caught wind of something that smelt good. We followed it to a farm where a human was doing something to the cows. Ghar wanted to strike and take one of the cows but I was against it cause we might get caught but Kazin was with Ghar. They waited til the human went into the large den and struck. They didn't have time to bring it back cause the human came back out with two more."
I felt her shiver a little recalling what happened.
"They brought out something that made a loud bang. I heard a yelp as Ghar fell to the ground, not moving. Kazin ran towards me but didn't get far as another loud bang made Kazin fall. They saw me and gave chase. I tried to lose them through the pond but I never wen that way before. That's when I ran into you."
"I'm sorry. Where do you live?"
"Our tribe use to live in the mountains east of here but it got destroyed by humans fighting."
I looked shocked when she said that cause I remembered seeing a wolf before we left.
"Now we live in the forest far east from the mountains so we wouldn't get caught up in the humans fighting."
"Is your tribe looking for you?"
"They were. But since I've been gone for a while, they think I've been killed by humans in the forest."
I was going to ask another question when the door opened. I got up quickly and hid behind a stack of boxes.
"So what are we going to do now? People are getting scared that the other wolves will come and save this one."
"Simple. We kill this one and drag its corpse out into the woods."
"Not a bad plan. Should we kill it now?"
"Nah. We'll kill it in a couple of days. People still like to abuse it and make fun of it."
I balled my fists angrily and started to head for the window when my foot hit some boxes.
"Who's there? Come out!"
I came out from behind the boxes with my head down.
"What are you doing here boy?" one of the rough men said to me.
"I....I just wanted.....to see the wolf sir."
"Don't you work at the store boy?" the other one said.
"Yes sir."
"Well get back to bed before I have you punished."
"Yes sir," I said, hastily exiting the door, but not before giving another glance at Luna.
_ August 23rd: _ I really enjoyed talking to Luna, but since I was caught that day, they locked the windows. I couldn't go through the front cause that was locked too. It was then I heard that they were indeed going to kill her. I didn't want that to happen so I decided to get her out. But I know in doing this, I would be in trouble, deep trouble. Instead of second guessing myself, I packed a bag of food and what little clothes I had and decided on the only sensible thing to do, leave town.
I waited til night time again and headed for the warehouse holding Luna. I headed for the window, which I knew was locked. Grabbing a rock, I smashed it through the top panel. Reaching in, I unlocked it and raised it. Climbing in, I saw Luna looking at me, her tail wagging happily.
"Hi," she said.
"Hey," I replied.
"I haven't seen you in a while."
"They locked the window so I couldn't get back in. But I need to get you out of here. They are going to kill you, and I won't let that happen."
I heard her whine sadly, ears dropping back against her head. I looked at the cage bar which had a padlock on it. Looking around the room, I saw an ace in the corner. Grabbing it, I held it tight with both hands.
"Stand back."
She nodded her head and went into the corner. I lifted the ax and came down hard on the lock cause a small spark to appear. Each hit sent a tingle through my hands as I swung with all my might. At about the eighth hit, the lock broke and fell to the ground with a clang.
"All right," I said, taking a couple of breath.
"Thank you," she said, exiting the cage.
Another shock hit me as she stood up on her hind legs and hugged me. I was speechless until she released me.
"You can....stand and walk?"
"All my tribe can walk but we prefer all fours. It helps us get around faster."
We both heard voices coming closer.
"The window's broke. Somebody's trying to vandalize my warehouse."
"Well let's see who it is."
"Damn, we have to go," I said, rushing to the window.
I helped her out and was about to jump when the door opened.
"The wolf is gone."
"Look, somebody's jumping through the window."
I landed on the ground next to Luna as we hid in the shadows.
"We have to get out this town. They'll kill us both if they find us." I said.
"I can get us to the forest." Luna said.
"Okay, I'll follow you."
I followed Luna as we went from building to building, hiding in the shadows as a search party was looking for us. I don't know why I did what I did, but there was something about Luna.
"Damn, they are everywhere," I said, peeking around the corner of the building we were behind.
"The forest is right behind them," Luna said. "What do we do?"
"I'll distract them for you. Then I'll meet you in the forest."
"Are you sure?"
"Not really. But there is no other option."
Luna let out a whine but nodded her head. I smiled before taking a deep breath, then rushing out towards them, pretending to be out of breath. They had their guns aimed at me before lowering.
"What are you doing out here boy? We almost shot you."
"Sorry sir. But I was helping to look for the wolf, and it almost got me."
"Where did you see it?"
"It was over by the store, hiding in the darkness."
"Good work boy. Come on fellas, lets shoot this wolf and make a coat."
I watched them leave before waving a hand over. Luna rushed over as I smiled.
"That went better then I hoped."
She nodded her head with a smile. Just as we were about to leave the town, we heard shouting our way.
"There it is! Shoot it and the boy!"
"Come on," I shouted, keeping my head down as the shots echoed into the night sky.
We dashed into the forest, keeping a zigzag Once we got a good ways in, we hid behind a large bush, holding our breath as out pursuers drew near.
"They have to be around here somewhere. They can't have gone far."
"What do we do about boy?"
"Shoot him and sat the wolf killed him."
Damn, they would make a lie like that but what else did I expect. We stood in our place for about ten minutes as my muscles started to fall asleep.
"You can't hide forever boy. You have to come back sooner or later. And when you do, you'll be punished to the limit."
The footsteps started to fade away. We stayed an extra couple of minutes until Luna took a couple of sniffs in the air.
"They're gone."
We got out of our hiding place as I stretched my stiff muscles.
"What will you do now Cai?" she asked.
I looked back at the town before shrugging my shoulders.
"I don't know. I don't have no real family there since my parents died. Maybe I'll just find a new place to settle down in."
"You could come live with me and my tribe. I'm sure you would fit right in."
"Are you sure about that? I mean, us humans did destroy your home in the mountains."
She thought about it before smiling.
"It'll work out. Trust me."
I didn't have any other option at the moment, so I nodded as her tail wagged happily.
_ August 25th: _ We walked for a couple of days, taking time to rest and eat what food I managed to take with me from the store. During the night, Luna huddled close to me to keep us both warm which felt weird but good. We passed the remains of Deidon Hold and the mountains which was her home at one time before it was destroyed during our raid. During our walk, I managed to learn a little more about her. She was the alpha's daughter and was learning to hunt.
"So how many are in your tribe?" I asked, leaning against a tree.
We were walking for a while and decided to take a rest.
"Our tribe was seventy five, but during the fighting we lost about fifty, not including the ones that were hunted by humans," Luna replied, laying down next to me.
"Geez. I'm really sorry about that."
"Its all in the past. Don't worry about it."
I scratched between her ears getting a happy murr from her as I looked into the sky. The fall weather was perfect as the wind was just right, blowing the leaves in the trees and on the ground around, making a colorful display in the sky. The sun was out but was blocked from the trees around us. I let out a yawn and closed my eyes, listening to the birds chirp away. I must have dozed off cause I was shaken awake by a loud bark. When I opened my eyes, I was surrounded by at least five other wolves, with Luna stand in front of me.
"Move Luna. All humans must die for what they did to us."
"I won't. He is different. He is not like the other ones."
"It doesn't matter. They destroyed our homes and hunted us down. All humans are the same no matter what they do."
"Kill the human for out fallen brethren."
They started to advance on me slowly, even though Luna was growling angrily. I managed to get to my feet before a loud growling bark was heard.
"Enough."
Another wolf came out through the bushes, making all the other wolves, even Luna, go quiet. I watched him walk over to Luna before nuzzling her.
"Good to see you again little one. I thought we lost you forever."
"Thank you," she said, licking his neck.
He turned his head towards me as those hazel eyes looked at me.
"Thank you for returning our brethren to us human."
"Umm....it was no problem. They would've killed her if I didn't do anything."
"Gunther, can he stay with us? He has nowhere else to go. If he goes back to the human town, they'll kill him." Luna said.
"Luna what are you saying?" a wolf barked out.
"Have you gone mad?" another one said.
Gunther gave another bark making everybody go quiet again. He looked at me again before standing up. When he stood up, I wanted to run right there as he towered over me. I saw his muscles ripple with every step he took. He circled around me, giving me a couple of sniffs before dropping to all fours. Even on all fours, he was up to my shoulders.
"That decision is not for me to make. It's for the alpha. For Luna's sake, I will take you to him."
All the wolves let out a startled gasp together.
"Gu......Gunther! Surely you can't be serious?"
"This is a human your talking about."
"I've made my decision. Does anybody want to challenge that?" he growled angrily, looking at all of them.
None of the wolves spoke up as he nodded.
"Come along human."
I nodded my head before lifting my bag over my should and following them deeper into the forest. As we were walking, I couldn't shake the feeling I was being watched by the forest itself as every little movement caused me to tense and look around. The forest ended after walking about ten minutes and opened up into a lush meadow with hills. Flower beds were around them varying from roses to sunflowers making it look almost like a painting. I noticed tons of wolves and cubs playing in the field of just talking to one another.
"What a beautiful place." I said.
"Its the perfect place for us cause it provides everything we need. There's a stream not far from here which lots of caribou go to." Luna said.
As we entered the meadow, all the chattering stop and all attention was on me. I started to tremble as many of them bared their teeth while others hurried their cubs inside of on the many holes in the hill side.
"Luna!!!"
Luna's ears perked up as a brown wolf ran towards her.
"Claude!!"
She met him half way as they hugged and nuzzled each other.
"Are you okay? When I heard about what happened, I wanted to go find you but father wouldn't let me."
"I'm okay brother. Cai saved me."
His green eyes looked at me before a growl left his throat.
"A HUMAN saved you? How do you know this is not a trick to kill us all?"
"He's not like that brother. He's different."
I started to think this was a bad idea as I got surrounded by very angry wolves.
"Stop!" a deep voice said in the background.
The wolves made a hole for another one that padded forward. This one was pure white like snow with piercing opal eyes. It had a nasty scar across its muzzle as well as a few small ones around his arms. It towered over me as I looked up at him. His claws flexed as he extended them before drawing them back.
"Alpha Alexei," Luna said, bowing her head along with everybody else.
I didn't know what to do at first cause his presence just terrified me. I came to my sense and went to one knee, bowing my head. This caused a smile to form on his muzzle as he looked down at me.
"So, humans do have manners and respect?"
"Alpha Alexei, he's-" Luna started before stopping as he raised his hand up.
"Stand human."
I stood up but kept my head down.
"Why did you save one of my kind?"
"Cause I didn't like the way they were treating her. People are only brave when somebody is behind bars."
"Why should I believe you are any different?"
I thought about my answer before looking straight into his eyes causing all the wolves to growl.
"You don't have to believe me. If you think I'm lying, then kill me where I stand. I have nothing else to lose."
He looked deep into my eyes, almost like he was reading my soul and heart.
"What do you hope to gain by staying with my tribe?"
"To be honest, all I want is a place to call home and forget about my past. If I can do that by staying with your tribe, I would be honored alpha. If not, I'll move on to another town and you'll never have to worry about me again."
Silence was golden as all the wolves looked at Alexei.
"Very well. Gunther."
Gunther walked up and bowed his head.
"Yes my alpha?"
"Let the human have the one of the dens. I want to see for myself that some humans can change."
"As you wish alpha. Follow me human."
I nodded my head and followed Gunther to a secluded hole in the hole a good ways away from the rest of the tribe
.
"This den was used by one of our brethren that is no longer with us. It may be small, but it'll keep you warm."
"I'm use to small spaces," I said, putting my bag down.
Gunther turned to leave before I stopped him.
"Thank you for giving me a chance."
"Don't thank me," he said, looking back over his shoulder. His dark brown eyes looking at me. "If you didn't have Luna there with you, I would've killed you myself."
That sent a shiver up my spine caused he said it so easily. I watched him leave before I settled down in my temporary home.
_ September 1st: _ I spent my first week in the wolf tribe. It was hard, very hard. Most them avoided me. Others let out vicious snarls and growls when they saw me. I thought I was going to be attacked in my sleep but Alexei said to do me no harm. The den kept me warm as night time could be a bit cold. Luna would come by everyday and talked to me. That was probably the only good thing about staying there.
"I was wondering something Luna?" I said, watching the wolves go about their business.
"Yes, what is it?"
"How come everybody walks around nude? Don't you have like a small cloth to wrap around your bodies?"
"Nope. Clothes constrict our hunting movements so we don't wear any. You should try it." Luna said with a smile, he tail wagging back and forth.
I blushed at the thought and shook my head.
"Umm, I'll pass at that."
"Why? You'll feel so much better with the wind flowing freely on your body."
My blush deepened as blood flowed to another part of my body.
"Luna!!"
We looked in the distance to see Claude walking up.
"Mother is looking for you."
"Okay. Think about what I said Cai. You'll feel so much better."
She gave me a quick lick on the cheek before walking away with Claude. I felt my cheek as her saliva cooled on my cheek from the wind.
"What am I thinking? Its only natural for them to be walking around nude. They are wolves after all."
I leaned back on my hands, looking into the blue skies. Clouds were in there vast blue blanket, but that didn't stop the sun from shining down onto the earth. I looked at the wolves as they played in the meadow. I couldn't remember my childhood since it was filled with war and bloodshed.
"They have a better life in a place like this. Void of war and free of rules and government."
My daydream was broken up as I heard a small whine. I looked over to see a small brown cub licking at its paw. I got up and walked slowly over to it.
"Hey there little one, what's wrong?" I asked softly.
It let out a yelp when it saw me and tried to run but let out another yip and fell to the ground. I walked slowly closer as it let out a growl, baring its teeth. Other wolves looked on, ready to attack in case I did anything to it.
"Its okay, I won't hurt you."
"Your a bad human," she growled.
"I'm not like the other humans. You can trust me."
I sat down and held my hand out. She growled and bite me making me grimace but I didn't strike back. I just kept my smile as she let go and looked at me.
"Why didn't you attack me?" she asked confused.
"I told you, I'm not like the other humans."
She gave my hand a sniff before licking it. I let out a chuckle before scratching behind her ear getting a murr in response as her tail wagged happily. She tried to stand before letting out another yelp as I caught her before she hit the ground.
"My paw hurts."
"Here, let me see it."
She lifted her left rear leg as I looked at it. Embedded in her paw pad was a medium size thorn.
"Its just a splinter. Hang on, I'll make it better."
I walked back to my bag and took out a pair of pliers. She let out a whine when she saw the strange object in my hand.
"Its okay. It won't hurt you see," I said, pulling my own skin with it.
She sniffed it a little before nodding her head. She lifted her paw again as I gently held it.
"Are you ready?"
She nodded her head as I smiled. I reached down slowly and grasped the object carefully as so not to move it deeper. Having a firm grip, I pulled it out slowly, getting a yip from her.
"There we go," I said, tossing the thorn away. "How does that feel?"
She stood up slowly and walked around. When she didn't feel any pain, she let out a happy bark.
"Thank you."
"Your quite welcomed."
She tackled me to the ground and started licking me making me laugh.
"Hey.....stop......that tickles." I laughed.
Soon other cubs joined in as I was barraged by pink tongues. Alexei watched from afar with Luna.
"I told you father he was different."
"So you did my daughter." he chuckled.
Night time came quick as I played with the little ones. They were so full of energy and life. It almost made me feel like a kid again. I let a smile cross my face as I looked into the starry night sky.
"I made some progress at least."
"May I join you?" a voice said behind me.
I looked to see Alexei behind me. I let out a gasp and went to one knee and bowed my head.
"Alpha Alexei? What can I do for you?"
"Relax human. Be yourself." he smiled.
I nodded my head before sitting back down, Alexei sitting next to me.
"How do you like it here so far?" he asked.
"Its like a paradise. I can't thank you enough for giving me a chance."
Without thinking, I lifted my hand and scratched his ear. His tail started wagging as he murred. I realized what I was doing and stopped. I could've sworn I heard a small whine come from him.
"I'm sorry. I was out of line when I did that," I said, bowing my head.
"Don't be. That was kind of relaxing really. Would you mind continuing?"
"Are you sure?"
"If you don't, I'll banish you."
I saw a playfully grin on his muzzle making me smile as I resumed my scratching behind his ear making his tail wagged again.
"My tribe is starting to warm up to you."
"I'm happy for them giving me a chance to prove my trust."
"We've lost many of our brethren to your wars and your hunting. I thought we were going to die during the attack on the mountains."
I stopped my scratching and held my head down. He looked at me, head to the side.
"I'm......I'm sorry about losing your home."
"Why do you say that?"
"Because it my fault. Our unit was the one that planted the bombs that destroyed your home. I'm sorry."
I don't know why, but a single tear fell from my eye. Alexei bent down and licked it off, startling me.
"You need to learn to let the past go human. The pain and remorse you feel for my fallen brothers is good enough for me."
"I just wish I knew."
I let out a yell of pain as he bite into my arm.
"Your still alive as well as the rest of us. What's done is done. Move on from the past."
I smiled and nodded my head. I reached up and resumed my scratching much to his delight as we listened to the night life.
"Have you ever gone hunting before?" Alexei asked.
"No, never."
"Good. You can join us tomorrow then," he said getting up.
I watched him walk off before I spoke up.
"Thank you again alpha Alexei."
He stopped and looked back.
"What is your name if I may asked?"
"Cai Dinadin."
"Cai Dinadin huh? A very strong name your parents gave you. Have a good night."
"Thank you alpha."
He smiled and walked back to his den. I looked back into the night sky.
"Maybe I've found my home after all."
_ September 2nd: _ Hunting with alpha Alexei and Gunther was a very.......unique experience. Wolves are truly a wonder to watch when they are hunting. They move with such grace and beauty after their prey. I watched them take down two full grown caribou. The killing blow was swift as they sank their teeth into their necks, making the caribou chock on their own blood. Its amazing how we rely on guns to kill when they did just fine with their sharp claws. I had my chance at a small caribou but failed horribly making them laugh.
"You make too much noise. You need to get rid of those clothes."
"But then I'll be naked."
"Nothing wrong with that. It'll help with your mobility and allow you you move freely."
I blushed and looked at the ground making them laugh.
"Don't tell me your ashamed of being naked?" Gunther asked.
"Its not that. Its just...."
"Your use to wearing clothes all your life so its only natural. I have an idea. How about you take off only what you want?" Alexei asked.
I thought about it before nodding my head. I took off my shirt, shoes, socks, and pants, leaving my boxers on. I felt the wind blow on my body making me shiver a little.
"Feel better?" Alexei asked.
"A little."
"Good," he said, taking a few sniffs in the air. "The caribou is back. Here's your chance. Remember to stay down wind.
I nodded my head and carefully made my way to where the caribou was grazing on the grass. I kept low, using the somewhat tall weeds in the grass as my cover. The wind blew softly as the caribou raised its head, looking around. I had my combat knife in my teeth as I crept closer.
"Now's my chance."
With as much speed and ability I had, I leaped in the air and by some miracle, landed on its back. It let out a cry of surprise and started to buck wildly. I held onto it as it tried to throw me off.
"Damn, hold still."
I struggled to hold on as I gripped my knife. Waiting for an opening, I struck it in the neck. It let out a yelp before dropping to the ground. Making sure it was dead, I twisted the knife deeper as its legs stopped kicking. I let out a sigh before I heard clapping.
"Well done Cai. Well done," Alexei said.
"Thank you alpha." I said, breathing hard before wiping the sweat off my head, smearing some of the blood on my forehead.
"We'll make a wolf out of you yet."
I blushed at that making them smile.
"Lets head back. This should be enough for a couple of days."
I actually felt proud of myself as we headed back. A sense of worth built up inside me me making me smile. So this is what it felt like to have a family. The whole tribe ate hearty that night by the fire along with me. I couldn't eat much due to the random nuzzling and licks I got from the cubs making me laugh. Luna watched from her den next her brother and mother.
"I still don't trust that human," Claude growled. "He may turn on us."
"Claude, he's proven even to father that he's trust worthy." Luna said.
"She's right Claude," the black wolf said with a smile.
"Mother, not you too."
She chuckled before giving him a lick on the cheek.
"He's proven himself trustworthy of your father, that alpha. Plus, he's also captured the heart of a certain female."
Luna blushed heavily making Claude snarl angrily.
"If he touches you, I'll rip his throat out."
"Claude-"
"I've heard enough. He may have you under his spell be he won't fool me."
Claude walked off angrily as Luna watched him.
"Leave him be dear. He lost his friend when you got captured."
"I'm sorry for that. I never thought we would get caught," she said, ears down.
Her mother nuzzled her softly making her murr and nuzzle back.
"How did you know-"
"About you falling for the human? I'm your mother silly girl. It was quite obvious the way you look at him all day."
"Do you........think he feels the same way I do?"
"I can't tell you that for I'm not a mind reader. Your best option is to ask him."
Luna let out a whine and looked at the ground.
"But what if he doesn't?"
"Then there are plenty of suitors for you to choose from."
"But none of them are Cai. There's something about him that pulls me towards him."
"Then the only answer I can give you my dear daughter, is to tell him how you feel."
Luna's tail wagged happily before she cuddled under her mother's chin.
"Thanks mom."
I let out a small burp and rubbed my stomach.
"Good stuff."
I had on my pants which I cut the legs off of making them into shorts as I sat in front of my den. The fire was being put out as the tribe retired for the night.
"This place is perfect for me. I feel right at home."
I heard footsteps approach as Luna appeared.
"Hi Cai."
"Hey Luna."
She sat next to me, looking straight ahead. She kept shifting her weight on her paws as if she was nervous about something.
"I just wanted to thank you again for bringing me out here. I feel like I'm home."
She kept quiet as her ears were down before looking at the ground.
"What's wrong?" I asked softly.
"Cai.......do you......like me?"
"Of course I do. I like everybody here."
"But do you like me?"
I thought about the question before it hit me.
"Well I umm....."
"I like you Cai, a lot. There's something about you that drives me to you. I don't know what it is and I don't care. Ever since the first day we met, you were the only person to show me kindness and compassion. That compassion grew in me everyday. I was scared cause if I told you how I really felt, you would leave me."
"Tell me what Luna?" I asked, even though I knew the answer.
"I love you Cai. I know you must think its wrong and sick for a human and a wolf-"
She couldn't finish as I turned her head and kissed her. She let out a meep but melted in the kiss. I felt her tongue probing my lips, wanting access to mine. I allowed it as our tongues mixed together. I reluctantly broke the kiss as we panted for air, a small trial of our saliva glistened between our lips.
"Does that answer your question?" I asked with a smile.
"Yes, it does."
"I don't care that your a wolf. I love you for you."
Tears went down her different colored eyes as I wiped them away.
"Thank you Cai. You don't know how happy this makes me."
"Would you care to sleep with me tonight?"
"I would love to," she said, stealing another kiss.
She went into my den as I followed her. We fell asleep fast, smiles on both our faces as I held her close. Claude watched in the distance, a snarl on his muzzle.
"You will not corrupt my sister human. I'll kill you before I let that happen."
_ September 16th: _ My days in the tribe couldn't be happier. Luna and I confessed out love to Alexei. He was a little shocked except her mother who smiled. Luna let out a happy bark as he allowed it. Hunting was fun of course cause I was getting better and better about keeping down wind and using stleath to my advantage. I owed it all to Gunther really, cause he trained me good. He made me hunt him in the woods. He showed me how to use my eyes and ears since I didn't the keen senses they possessed.
"Thanks for everything Gunther," I said, walking back to the dens.
"You are improving Cai. I'm actually surprised at how fast." Gunther replied.
"Well I had a good teacher."
Gunther smiled as we entered the tribe village.
"I'll see you tomorrow for more training." Gunther said.
"Okay."
"Also, be kind to Luna. I've heard you both confessed to the alpha. I'm surprised he allowed it but you proved to be trustworthy."
I blushed a little before looking at the ground.
"I promise to take good care of her."
"You better. Otherwise, I will be the one to hunt you when the time comes."
I swallowed heavily. Gunther was the best hunter the tribe had and could very well hunt me down if I ran. I walked back to my den and was surprised to see the alpha's mate, Naomi, sitting there waiting for me. Even from afar, I could tell see was a vision of beauty. Midnight dark fur that look smooth as silk. Her yellow eyes were soft but behind them was a sense of pride and honor. I walked over and did a bow which made her smile.
"Beta Naomi, to what do I owe the honor?"
"I never got the chance to talk to you."
"I apologize for that."
"Don't be. I'm glad to see you have been accepted as part of our tribe."
"I need to wash up. Would you care to accompany to the stream and talk?"
"Certainly," she said, standing up.
We walked together on the small trail towards the stream. The leaves and twigs crunching underneath our footsteps. The weather was getting cooler, but was still warm.
"So what did you want to talk to me about?" I asked.
"I wanted to talk about Luna. Do you really love her like you say you do?"
"I do love her. Since I first met her in that cage, there was something about her that drew me towards her. I can't really explain it."
"She said the same thing about you. And from what I'm seeing, she's right about you being different from the other humans."
I balled my fists remembering how they treated her in that cage.
"Those people are idiots. They don't understand anything but war."
"You really hate them don't you?"
"I lost my parents to this war, as well as a good friend. When I saw Luna in that cage, I saw myself, trapped in a world of people that don't understand anything but to kill the weak."
"Strong words. I can see why she fell for you." she chuckled.
I blushed at that as we stopped at the rushing stream. It was a serene sight as birds landed on rocks sticking up and taking a quick drink of the clear blue water. I went to my knees before dipping my hands in. The water was slightly cold but it didn't bother me as I washed my hands and face.
"Do you like it here with us?" she asked, taking a drink of water.
"I couldn't be happier. It feels like I'm actually home where I belong, even though I'm not a wolf."
"The way you act around us, you could've fooled me."
I finished washing my face and hair before shaking the excess water off making her laugh.
"See, turning into us little by little."
"I guess that's not a bad thing."
I got up and followed her back to the village.
"Oh yes, one more thing I forgot to mention. Our heat cycle will begin in a couple of days and it will be Luna's first."
"Heat cycle?"
"Its a time when all females are ready to be mated by their mates."
"Mated? As in-"
She nodded her head as I blushed heavily.
"I consider you a part of the tribe, but when you mate with my daughter, I will consider you family as well."
"I....um....don't know what to say."
"Don't worry. There will be hardly any talking involved. Just the joining of two mates in love. And from the looks of it, somebody is eager to start."
I looked down and noticed that painful erection. I placed my hands over it, blushing harder then I ever thought possible. Naomi laughed before heading to her den.
"Relax Cai. Consider mating like marriage. Once you mate with her, no other male can claim her. She will be forever yours."
That thought made me smile as I headed for my den and sat down. I didn't think anything in my life could go wrong.
_ September17th: _ I thought nothing could go wrong with my life. Boy, was I wrong on that account. Claude wanted to talk to me about something important which confused me. He told me he would be waiting in front of the giant oak tree. I was about to head out to meet him when Luna stopped me.
"Where are you going Cai?"
"Your brother wants to speak to me about something. He says it's important."
I saw the worry in her eyes.
"Cai, I don't think you should go."
"Why?"
"I have a bad feeling something will happen."
I knelt down and gave her a soft kiss and a scratch between her ears.
"Don't worry Luna. I'll be back before you know it."
She let out a whine watching me disappear into the trees. I never did actually get to speak to her brother every since I been here. Maybe he wanted to get to know me better. The giant oak was almost near the city, maybe a mile or two away. As I approached, I saw him sitting in front of it.
"Hey Claude, you wanted to speak to me?"
"Yes I did," he said, a slight growl in his throat.
He stood up on his hind legs and bared his teeth.
"I want you to go back to where you came from. You don't belong in our tribe."
"What are you talking about?"
"You may have everybody under your spell, but I know your kind. All you humans are the same."
"I'm nothing like them Claude," I said angrily.
"Liar," he snarled. "Your influence has even tainted my sister. I will not let you hurt her."
"I would never hurt Luna."
"More lies. I heard enough."
He launched himself towards me in fury. I knew I had no chance against him but I wouldn't let him talk about me like that. I ducked under his lunge attack and rolled on the ground. He recovered faster then me and lunged at me again, his sharp claws catching me on my arm making me yell in pain.
"I lost my best friend to you humans. I refuse to lose my sister as well."
I stood up holding me arm as blood flowed down it, dripping to the forest ground from my fingertips.
"Claude listen, I'm not like them. I would never hurt any of your tribe."
"All your tongue does is spit out lies. I will remedy that by removing it from your head."
"If you killing me solves all of your problems, then go ahead. I won't try and stop you."
He let out a growl and charged me as I stood there. He was about to strike when something tackled him form the side. A lot of growls were heard before the mass separated.
"Luna?" I said, shock on my face.
"Claude, what are you doing?" she snarled.
"I'm freeing you from this human sister. Stand aside."
"I will not. He's the reason I'm still alive. He's also the person I've fallen in love with. So if you want to kill him, you'll have to kill me too."
Claude let out a whine before growling angrily.
"He's tainted you by the illusion of love. So sad. But don't worry Luna. Once I kill him, you will be set free."
He was about to charge again when something large and white jumped in front of him. We all gasped as Alexei stood tall, gazing angrily at Claude.
"Claude, what did I say about hurting Cai?" he snarled viciously.
Claude whined, ears down and tail between his legs.
"I....I was.....just protecting....my tribe." he whimpered.
"In all this time, have you seen Cai act maliciously towards anybody?"
"No father."
"Then what does that mean?"
"That he's trustworthy. But father, he's a human. They killed our brethren."
"I understand that. I also understand that he's repent what he did and wants nothing more then to move on with his life. Something you need to do."
Claude sat down, head bowed as he sniffed. Alexei went to all fours and walked over to him before nuzzling him.
"I'm sorry father. I was just scared for everybody."
"I know son."
I watched with a smile before something flashed in the background. A yelp came out of Alexei as he fell to the ground.
"Father!!" Luna and Claude yelp.
"Alexei!" I said, rushing up.
I looked at his side and saw a dart sticking out. I pulled it out and let out a growl of anger.
"A tranquilizer dart? Hunters are near."
"Cai, take my son and daughter away from here." Alexei said.
"Father, I won't leave you," Claude said angrily.
"You.....have.....no choice," Alexei said, the effect of the drug starting to take effect of his speech slurred.
"But father...." Luna whined.
"Do.....as.....I....said. GO!" he snarled weakly, before his eyes got heavy and passed out.
I didn't want to go but I nodded my head and grabbed them both and went into the forest and hid. It wasn't long until I heard voices.
"Wow, you got a big one."
"No shit. His fur will make a great coat."
"Lets hurry and take him back. That dart wont last long seeing how big he his."
"Okay."
I watched them leave, dragging Alexei's body on the ground. I heard Claude and Luna crying as I held Luna close.
"They're going to kill dad." Luna whimpered.
"I won't let them," I said angrily. "I will save your father."
"How?"
"Its time I put my training to good use."
"I'm coming with you." Claude said.
"I wouldn't have it any other way."
Luna wanted to go with us, but I told her to trust me. After I took care of the injury Claude gave me, we waited until midnight and made our way quickly towards the town. I never thought I would come back to one of these towns again but this time, I had a reason. We hid in the cover of darkness and looked around. A couple of street lamps lit the roads and a few people were heading home. House lights were dark except for the few that were one, waiting for somebody to turn them off.
"Can you pick up the alpha's scent?" I asked Claude.
Claude took a couple of sniffs in the air before picking it up.
"Its faint, but I have it.
"Okay, I'll follow you."
We moved in and around houses staying in the cover of darkness. The scent led to a garage of some sort as the lights were on. Voices could be heard as well as growling.
"You ever see a wolf this big? Maybe we could sell it to the circus?"
"Maybe, but I prefer making it into a coat."
"Your not thinking big. The circus would pay top dollar for something like this."
"So will its coat."
"What ever man. I'm going to get some sleep. I'll catch you later."
The door opened as a short, pudgy man walked down the road. We snuck closer as I peeked into the window. There was Alexei changed to the wall, his teeth bared in a snarl. Standing in front of him, was a tall man wearing nothing but a pair of sweat pants exposing his upper body. Even though he looked thin, I could see his muscles.
"You wolves killed my best friend. Anthony wants to sell you to the circus, but I want to kill you now."
He reached for something out of my view and lifted up a shotgun, pointing it at Alexei.
"No matter how many of you disease ridden fleabags we kill, you just keep popping up like flies."
A yelp escaped Alexei as the man drove the butt into his side like a bat.
"I'm not going to kill you quick though. I'm going to make you suffer. Maybe I'll pull your claws out one by one? Or maybe your teeth?" he smiled, before driving the gun into his side again.
Claude let out a snarl as I tried to control him.
"I'll kill him."
"Claude calm down." I whispered.
"Who's out there?"
I let out a mental curse and peeked into the window as I saw the man heading for the door.
"Hide yourself. When I give the word, jump him."
Claude nodded his head and ducked behind a nearby tree.
"Come out now who ever you are. I don't like asking three times nicely."
I swallowed and walked towards him from behind the garage, hands in the air.
"What are you doing out here at this time of night boy?" he asked, studying me. I only had on a pair of shorts and no shoes, which would make anybody question me.
"I.....I...wanted to see....the wolf....sir."
He looked at me, gun still trained at me.
"Why can't you wait til morning?"
"Cause I'm leaving tomorrow with my family and this was the only chance I had."
"Well.....I guess one look couldn't hurt," he said, lowering the gun.
"Thank you sir."
He led me inside as I followed him, making sure to keep the door opened. Alexei looked at me with wide eyes.
"Isn't he a beauty? Largest wolf I ever seen or caught."
"He's very impressive sir."
"I'm going to make a lot of money selling his coat. Ain't that right big guy?" he laughed, delivering another blow.
"There's just one small problem with that," I said, walking in front of Alexei, making sure the man's back was to the door as I saw Claude waiting to pounce.
"And what problem is that?"
"I won't let you."
He laughed at that before pointing the gun at me.
"And how are you going to stop me?"
"Not me, him."
He heard a viscous growl behind him. He turned around only to get tackled to the ground. Claude had his teeth around his neck and was about to end it when I stopped him.
"Claude don't."
He looked at me angrily and almost didn't listen but the stern look Alexei gave him made him obey. I reached down and grabbed his shotgun as he watched me take it apart with ease.
"Where are the key to the chains?"
"In my pocket, right hand side."
I reached down and dug out the keys with a smile. I unlocked Alexei from his binds and hugged him.
"You okay?"
He nodded his head with a smile.
"Okay big guy, up against the wall."
Claude let him up as he stood against the wall while I chained him up.
"I don't what your deal is kid, but your making a mistake. Wolves are the devil's pet."
"As far as I'm concerned, these wolves are more human then you."
"You think your going to get away with this?"
I looked at him with a smile.
"Who's going to believe you got chained to the wall by a kid and a couple of wolves?"
His eyes narrowed as I chuckled.
"See you around. Then again, maybe not."
We hurried out the garage into the cover of darkness as the curses of the man echoed. We stopped in the forest making sure we weren't followed as Claude hugged his father.
"I'm so gald your okay dad," he whined softly.
"That was a reckless thing you did Cai," he said, looking at me as I put my head down. "But, I thank you."
"I couldn't let them do anything to you alpha."
Claude let his dad go before looking at me. He dropped his ears and tail before speaking.
"Thank you Cai. I'm sorry I ever doubted you."
I smiled before scratching his ear making him murr as his tail wagged.
"Its okay Claude. I'm just glad we're on the same page now."
"Come on, Luna is probably worried sick about us," Alexei said with a smile.
_ September 18th: _ Life went back to normal after the scare of Alexei being captured by the humans. All the tribe loved me for that and I was even made an honorary omega by Alexei. There was a big celebration that lasted all day and well into the night. It was loads of fun until a strange odor started to fill the air. I didn't know what it was until I saw all the males start growling and nipping at the females necks.
"What's going on?" I asked Gunther, who was sitting next to me.
"The females are coming into heat. Which means that are ready to be mated."
I blushed, looking at the ground remembering what Naomi said to me as I saw his sheath expand and a little bit of pink was exposed. A cute brown wolf walked over and nuzzled under Gunther's chin making him murr.
"Tonight is a joyous occasion Cai. Find Luna and celebrated together."
I watched him, as well as the other wolves head back to their dens. I decided to follow suit and head back to mine. the moon was full tonight as I looked up into it. It glowed brightly in the night sky, as if it wanted to make the world anew. The wind was soft as it breezed over my bare skin. I felt a small lick on my neck making me jump. Looking back, I saw Luna standing there, her eyes were half closed and was panting softly.
"I take it your in heat too?"
She didn't answer as she kissed me, driving her tongue into my mouth with a murr.
"Take me Cai. I need you so bad," she said, in between kisses.
I was hesitant at first, but her licks on my neck was slowly melting away any tension I had. She let out a murr as I rubbed her neck, making my way slowly down her chest. Her fur flowed through my hands like water. I reached her breasts which shook with each breath she took. I laid her down on the soft grass before burying my face in her chest.
"I hope I know what I'm doing." I said to myself, before slowly lashing my tongue out across her pink nipple.
She let out a gasp before moaning softly as I sucked her nipple. I could tell I was doing a good job because they got hard from the attention and her moans intensified.
"So.....good," she whined softly, as I switched to the other one.
My mind was getting hazy due to the smell of her heat, causing it to fill with lust and want. Now I know my male wolves go crazy during this time of year. I finally detached myself from her breasts, her nipples shining in the moonlight from my saliva as I leaned up and kissed her softly. She returned it with fire before flipping over as she stood on top.
"Your driving me mad. Take me now," she growled.
I was a little shocked at first, but the kiss she gave me melted the shock away. Breaking off, she licked my nose before padding off a short way. She lowered her chest to the ground, keeping her rear in the air presenting herself to me. I was at a lost of words as I saw her needy vagina glistening in the moonlight. Drops of her nectar fell to the grass below as her tail was raised high. She looked over her shoulder, eyes half closed.
"Claim me Cai."
My hands were shaking as I removed my shorts and boxers. My erection throbbed in the cool air making me gasp lightly as I scooted over to her. I could feel the heat radiating from her vagina as I lined myself up.
"Are......are you ready?" I asked nervously.
"Yes."
With a deep breath, I held her hips and pushed in. I couldn't even describe the feeling of entering her. The heat of her passage overwhelmed my senses to the point I almost blacked out from pleasure. I heard a yip come from her as she folded her ears.
"You okay?" I asked softly.
"I'm fine. Just.....my first time."
"Mine too. But I'm glad its with you."
I felt her constrict tightly around me making me cry out in pleasure as I wrapped my arms around her waist.
"Take me, my love."
I nodded my head and pulled out slowly, feeling her body shiver in my arms. I pushed into her, getting a moan in response and a tightening of her tunnel. I continued the slow motion of pushing in and pulling out as we both got use to it. She let out whines and dug her claws into the ground. Her tail wrapped around my back as I sped up the tempo.
"You feel so good Luna." I moaned.
She couldn't response as she panted heavily, pushing back into my thrusts. I leaned my chest on her back which made my angle of thrusting go deeper into her. This caused her to let out a bark and tighten even more around me
.
"I....I can't....hold it...Cai," she moaned.
"Don't try. Let it go."
I buried my face into her neck before biting it softly. Luna's body acted almost immediately as she let out a howl, her fluids running down her leg and onto my waist. This made her passage become slicker as I went faster into her. Her whines were like a drug to me as each one I did pushed me closer to the point of no return. My hands roamed her body which shivered from my touch before I placed them both on her nipples and pinched them.
"Oh god Cai," she growled, clawing the ground as pleasure warped her mind.
I couldn't even speak, let alone think as I continued to pound into this beautiful creature in front of me like a wild animal. My balls churned in my body as my seed began to boil. I let go of her neck and panted hotly in her ear.
"I'm......I'm going to cum."
Hearing this spurned her on as her muscles rippled around my penis, coaxing me to full her with my seed. It was all to much as my mind blank and I doubled my speed.
"Oh god Luna." I moaned, feeling it coming hard.
I gave a couple more thrusts before locking hips with her and came hard. White dots seemed to fill my vision as I felt the spurt shoot out of me. I tilted my head back and let out something between a cry and a yell into the the sky. Luna joined me with a howl of her own as well as the rest of the tribe. Her muscles milked me for everything I had before I collapsed on my side taking her with me.
"Wow," I said, breathing hard, trying to come down form the rush.
"Wow indeed," she replied.
I held her close as I spooned her, rubbing her stomach softly before going up to her breasts. She murred happily in content as her tail tickled me.
"Is it like this every year?" I asked.
"Oh yeah." she chuckled.
"Can't wait til next year then."
"Why wait?" she growled playfully before turning around and straddling my hips. "The night is still young lover."
I chuckled before pulling her close and kissing her.
"Then I guess we should stop wasting time."
_ October 19th: _ Its been a month since Luna and the females heat cycle. We mated all through the night and almost into the day. I thought I was going to die from pleasure. That was probably the best night of my life. Another shock that I got, was somehow I got Luna pregnant with pups. I didn't think it was possible for different species to copulate, but it looks like I was wrong. I was going to be a father. I was sitting at the stream just thinking about it.
"Wow. A father? Me?"
It was a big change in my life. I didn't know the first thing about being a father. Millions of thoughts wan through my head that I didn't hear the person next to me.
"You okay Cai?"
I turned to see Luna standing there. Her features were still perfect, except for the sight of her belly becoming larger
.
"I was just thinking," I said, a weak smile on my face.
"Your worried about being a father?"
"Guilty."
She sat down next to me and rested her head on my shoulder as I put my arm around her.
"You'll be fine love."
"I know, its just......a little overwhelming."
"You'll have plenty of support from my dad and mom. You'll be okay."
She licked my cheek before kissing me softly.
"I guess your right."
"Of course I'm right. Now come on. We have to get our den ready for our cubs."
She turned to leave, but not before tracing her tail under my chin making goose bumps appear. I watched her leave before standing up and stretching, enjoying the suns rays beaming down on me. Who knew my life would turnout like this. From a child solider, to a father.
"Cai, are coming?" Luna shouted.
"Yes love."
I gave another smile before following my mate to our den.
-
"Daddy!!"
I turned only to be tackled by three hyper cubs as they nuzzled and licked me.
"Hey kids, how are you today?"
"Great daddy. Can you play with us?"
"Sure. Let daddy finish this first then I'll play with you."
They let out yips before heading into the meadow and tackling each other. Luna came out our den and gave me a kiss before sitting next to me.
"What is that your doing?"
"Just making a journal of my life. Gives me something to remember."
"I thought you wanted to forget the past?"
"I do. But I don't want to forget that my past help me find my true love."
Her eyes seem to sparkle before tackling me to the ground and kissing me.
"Maybe I'll give you a little reward for that remark."
"Any reward coming from you is always good. But right now, our pups are rowdy. So in order for us to have our fun, I need to tire them out before you tire me out."
"Your lucky," she whispered in my ear before standing up.
I gave a chuckle before kissing her and scratching her ear before heading off to play with my pups. Yes, my life could not be any better.