Post by Vulcan on Jun 8, 2015 14:59:47 GMT
Morning. Even with blinds shut to block out the coming sun, those stubborn rays would find their way through the cracks. Slipping through with ease to rest upon my face, I should have known better than to try and sleep in. The GE set up my room to ensure the sun is always there to wake me, even on cloudy days. And it's not fun having to wake up so early just because there was such promise early in my life. "Vulcan!" I hear an angered below from downstairs, a habitual growl resonates in my chest and even brings my pillow to vibrate. "Quiet!" A much gentler tone hisses. They all knew I could hear them, it wasn't rocket science, because we all were the same. Our senses were the best of the best because even though I currently will stand on two legs, house one of the most advanced brains of this world, and go to school-- It's only a matter of hours until that changes for the better.
But that also means I need to get up and I honestly can't be bothered to.
Footfalls gently tap the stairs as they make their way toward me. A scent comes to my nose, I mentally groan because someone was about to shatter my resolve without doing anything and win this mini battle. I hate losing, but I never hint to it, so none are aware. I come off as too humble and laid-back for that trait, I do have some pride but when it comes to her it's just gone. "I'm up, Mom." I call gently, her steps instantly come to a halt. I hear her giggle and my heart melts, she is not the woman whom birthed me but she is my mother all the same. She's been stressing so much as of late, I'll do anything to make her giggle. Much like another female in my life that is so dear to me. "You'll be late." She calls, and I literally fall out of bed. I'm a crazy sleeper, I hate sleeping almost as much as I hate waking up early, and it seems last night was another terrible nightmare. My left bicep has left the top half of my bed soaked in blood, and my tossing and turning as I fight off my assailant has left my bed broken in half. Pop's gonna be pissed but I don't have time to dwell on that. If I'm ever late to anything the GE will tan my ass then rip me a new one. I begin to panic as I get ready for school.
My morning had been pretty bad until I head downstairs. Our house is massive; three stories high, at least five bedrooms on each floor, not counting living rooms, kitchens, play/spar rooms. We have five solid acres of land here and about another ten in a more isolated patch of woods. I live comfortably insofar that I don't go to bed hungry nor needing anything. But that's just because I'm one of the Chosen; there's a chance I might one day lead. And that scares me more than anything. Coming down to the main kitchen, which is big enough to comfortably seat fifty, my gaze befalls the ending of another meeting. Our tribe is united unlike any other, via our Grand Elder-- our GE, the many Chiefs will hear of any news that need to be shared. Because I showed such promise so young the GE has taken up refuge with my small family and took me under his wing. He's serious and stern, constantly suffocating me with the ways of being a fantastic leader. It's all stuff I respect but I want nothing to do with, there's another literally born to lead and I'd much rather follow her than command her. "You're late." He'd grumble out to me, his gaze fierce and globes blackened with fury. My heart palpitates and I quickly look to my father, he stands regal and intimidating at the same time, his nothing-but-muscle arms crossed in disgust over his chest. Pops only acts like this when I've done something wrong, and that's when I realize I didn't hide my new self-inflicted wound on my bicep. "Early bird." I respond with a soft murmur. Everyone was staring at me, my hands feel clammy and I feel my legs wanting to shake. I want to run, to be free, to feel like me and not like this.
My words spare me, the GE smiles and nods, as does my adoptive mother and my pops. Though the others of the council still are stern and questioning if I should lead one day, and so they do not smile. Figures. I politely wave and hurry out the door, slinging my small back pack over my right shoulder. A smirk I rarely show is now out for the world to see, I know why the council was so stern. /It's decided/. I hear the GE in my mind, and I pause before I decide on doing what I normally do or to behave. /You may meet today/. His voice rings in my mind and my smirk grows. Tightening the bag on my shoulder, I race to the next three blocks, where the city buildings begin to clutter together, and I rush to a back alley. My legs may be human but inside there was a feral beast that refused to be tamed by society. I will not take the bus like others, I will not ride my bike, I will not walk. I free-run three strides up the side of a building and snatch the catwalk in my left hand. My shoulder pops and my wound pulses but I pull myself up. Running at inhuman speeds, I leap from rooftop to rooftop.
I will be free.
To be continued.
Fast forward twenty minutes and I'm surrounded by peers. A sea of 'nobodies' trying to find their place-- trying too hard to stand out in a society that demand we all fit in. Such nonsense fills my ears, gossip, who is dating who, who has hook ups to drugs and parties, who might become teen parents. I try to drone them all out, of course, by focusing on the words of the GE. Today was to be a good day. ...At least, only at the end. When I step into a particular hallway, I'm shoved against the wall, my peers jump and scurry out of the way, leaving me surrounded by four others. I'm tall, even for my young-ish age I tower over most of my peers. But these four have strength in numbers, something my other half understands all too well, so I won't fight back. Besides, I stood up for the usual bullied nerd a few months ago, and I've been getting bullied for him ever since. A fist collides with my gut, as I dub over and groan a knee meets my face. But I never fight back, the GE would slaughter me as would Pops, and I'd be severely punished. No, I only fight to defend, it's our motto-- our law. And -she- would be very upset if I ever threw a punch, everyone under the rule of the GE knew first hand of my temper courtesy of his ability to penetrate everyone's mind. And -she- wants to protect me from me, however she can, and one way was asking I never throw a punch and that I only fight to defend someone else. Not myself, that was my doing, my compromise to listen to her. I don't feel I'm worth much, I'm here to suffer, I'm not here to lead or be anything great. As I fall to the floor I tense, ready for more beatings I feel I deserve. But I get a scent that brings about a being of peace, and as I look up, one fellow teen stands between me and my foes. It only takes one glare like this to make the crowd disperse and my adversaries walk away with scoffs. He'd walk away too, without a single glance in my direction, and I silently nod my thanks to him. I envy him, he doesn't know. The way he carries himself, that aura of pride that isn't anything close to arrogant, but more like a blanket that could stop even a nuke from blowing you to bits. You just feel so -safe- around him and one day, I'll do that to everyone too.
But I have to act like I don't know him while at school-- Laws of the GE.
As I stand and wipe the blood from my nose, a tissue is thrusted at my face. That's when I knew how hurt I truly was, I wasn't even able to -scent- her approach but there she stands in all her beauty. Stunning green eyes full of so much life like an endless forest, lips pulled into a sympathetic smile, exuding nothing less of empathy toward my state. God she melts my heart with just one -anything- from her. Cazatella. Though I call her Caza. She was risking it again, for me, upsetting the GE because she can't stand by and act like she doesn't know me. Not when I do stuff like this for those less fortunate. "Please?" She piratically begs of me before I can argue, because she knows me best and she knew I was about to. I huff, and her smile grows, because she knew she won this. "Only if you stop..." I grumble in defeat, and she'd actually giggle at me. My heart does a back flip, she is the only other girl I try to make giggle like my mother. I can't even take the tissue, so she reaches over to swipe the blood away. She's shorter than I am but considerably tall, so doing this isn't hard for her. "You're not supposed to lie." She comments, and I slightly roll my eyes. She knew I was lying, I was a hopeless sap when it comes to her. I'll do anything because she's done almost anything to help me with my issues. The GE states I was just destined to overcome my issues and become leader, and that by overcoming a few I proved him right. He refuses to believe it was her patience that spared me. "Sorry." I add, and she'd sigh in defeat. "What am I gonna do with you..?" She'd ask, mostly to herself, but with that she has to go. Even she is at the mercy of the GE's law. It always hurts to watch her go, when she's around it's like she's my warrior, fighting off those demons that none are aware slumber inside me. And as she goes, they claw their way to my mind, trying to take over. I find myself focusing on when I first met Caza years ago, when we were very young. The GE felt a shift in the air, he knew the next BH-- the next Branch Heir, was ascending. Every few years members of the tribe will have the chance to prove themselves worthy of leading their own branch of the family tribe, it's considered an incredible honor for only a BH can rise to be the GE after many, many years. Caza and I were destined to meet when my 'aura' or whatever the hell it is, brought the GE to me.
Caza doesn't have the 'aura', she has the blood, and is the daughter of a truly fierce pair. Her father had risen to the challenge to be the BH, but it was her mother's incredibly tough and authoritative ways that sealed the deal for Caza. Momster is how we refer to her mother, and if you knew how strict she was, you wouldn't frown at such a nickname. Caza hated me when we first met-- My mother was not of the tribe nor is she of special blood like the rest of us, so I never truly knew her. I'm half blood, tainted blood, a freak. Caza is pure. Her momster filled her with such ugly traits and mean words, Caza absolutely hated me when we first met. She'd glare at me and not even pay attention to me. But I saw through the act, I saw the fake. I didn't know at the time that it was momster's doing but I knew it wasn't Caza. And I killed her with kindess, in return, over these past few years Caza has killed a few of my demons with kindness. Still, it remains to be seen if I am to be the leader of our branch, or if she will be. She's much more fit to be a leader, I'm much happier following because I just don't feel like I'm anything worth following. She has charisma, she understands the world better than I ever will, she can make friends. It just makes sense for her to lead-- not me.
Suddenly the bell rings. I had daydreamed off so much, I did so for the rest of school. I jump out of my chair and literally run for the exit. Being allowed to meet was a great thing, it's been a week since the last time we were allowed to do so. I continue to run at max speed, not even breaking a sweat, fueling that feral part of me to awaken. The city life fades to a blur of green, the scent of pollution shifts to air tasty and fresh. My senses come to life, I notice every leaf of a tree, hear the wings of birds above, scent life forms as far as five miles away. I feel nature around me coming together to make this moment one to remember. I feel safe. I feel free.
I feel -him- break free.
The people of my tribe aren't just people-- we're wolves as well. My strides become longer, stronger, faster but more fluid as well. My spine and muscles sound bone-cracking snaps that'd make the weak of heart hurl, my tanned skin and muscles rise and fall like a wave passes over them, leaving in its wake a sea of crimson with two-hued stripes over it. I begin to run on all four, my speed much more impressive, my run all the more powerful. My fellow nature companions now find curiosity at my presence instead of fear, I am not the one that destroys nature anymore, I am one with nature. My run is undisturbed, I'm heading toward the ten acres that are guarantee safe from people to meet the others, my heart is an acrobat that won't quit, the excitement builds up and I feel like I might burst. Though, I slide to a stop when such a beautiful, soul-wrenching howl rings out over the lands. It was Caza, of course she and the others heard the words of the GE, they, too, were just as eager to see me as I was to see them. For now, because I humbly stood down, Caza has taken up temporary Chief, she rules our little troupe. We won't be an official branch-- our own true pack, until the GE makes his decision on whom is to lead. But even now Caza wears on her shoulders the true power of an Alpha, none of us can defy her and if she needed to her voice alone could stop us from whatever we were about to do or think about doing. She's never used it against us though, one reason I respect her so. I feel I'd need that to get anything done but to take away another's will-- I can't have such power on my shoulders. It's not for me. I shake my skull and make a mad dash toward our spot, my fur bristles as a few other howls ring out. I recognize them all, of course, because I often come here on my own, my mind is impressive and I remember things faster/easier than most.
I happen upon the middle of our meeting grounds when something small slams into my side. I grunt out and relax, falling over, exaggerating my actions. On top of my side stands Anji, the Small One who slowly made her way into my heart. She stands tall, feeling a sensation of accomplishment, her paws on my ribs and head held high. Ever since I first got comfortable to let myself out and really be me, I've been notorious for starting up play within this troupe. I snort at her and roll, pinning her easily, she squeaks out and tries to nip at my face. I simply hold my head high- one of the few times I'm willing to, and keep her firmly under my paws. She has not yet lost this battle because all too soon, I'm tag-teamed. A blur of silver, a dark shade of gray-- And I soon feel more fangs at my flank and tail. I know the footfalls that came at me with playful fury, I know the scents. I turn in time to watch Kalis and Vayal team up against my rear, I need to release Anji to fend for myself. Three against one, my Chicks as I call them, they're a blast to play with. I rise up to the challenge, flicking my tail only hard enough to make Vayal stumble, Kalis is thrown off balance and I leap upon her. She squeaks out as well, signaling to the other two that she needs help. I feel Anji on my back, Vayal is being an ankle biter and relentlessly nipping at my heels. But Kalis is not spared, I get one of her limbs in my jaws and vibrate them, chuckling as her squeals of delight shatter the calm ambiance. This goes on undisturbed until I know Kalis needs to breathe. I was foolish though, I had dropped my guard in this play. Vayal and Anji back off right before I lift my fangs from Kalis, and then like a truck, a sea of tawny pelt knocks me to my ass. Not even, I tumble and fall to my back, the brown standing above me with a smirk of her own. I'm a bit dazed and my pride is hurt, Caza quirks a brow and snickers. "Leave my girls alone." She coos, enticing me to continue playing. Rarely do we get to play, her momster still works hard to keep her away from me. So moments like this mean the absolute world to me, even if I'm slightly peeved that I allowed myself to be pinned so easily. "Make me." I challenge her, these words make Vayal shiver, and that's almost like a green light. The four pounce, quickly joined by Niluva, trying to get me to cave, nipping and pushing me around. Our laughter fills the air, I just might lose, until footfalls much louder than Caza's nears us. The females stop, Caza ducking out of the way as Daren and Enpato enter the fray. En is the only one who has my back, he tries to fend off My Chicks alone while Daren turns to stop Lydia from even entering the play. I'm left alone to 'fight off' Niluva and Caza. My tail wags furiously, we all simply throw ourselves into the fray, males vs. females though we do not have even numbers.
The play lasts for an hour before Caza suddenly rushes off, her aura of play joined with that authority that none can ignore. One by one we all take off after her, we mind the pace of the smaller ones to help them keep up. But they're fast in their own right, En, Daren, and myself struggle to keep our pace with their own. Caza doesn't stop our run until we come across the lake, this makes me stop dead in my tracks, but the others leap in. They do not know the fears I house nor the difficulty of my past, they simply think I have a distaste of water. Niluva sits next to me, nuzzling my fur as if to give me comfort, and it does help. The pack takes turns, when Niluva leaps into the water, Anji is quick to come to my side. Next is Vayal, then En. You get the picture. I watch them all have fun, keeping my senses alert for any danger. It's beautiful today, the sun is high, not a cloud in the sky, and because the GE gave us permission, Caza's momster can't take her away from us. They all frolic in the water until tired, then they all come out to sun bathe. I lay with them, listening idly to their chit-chat. They know I'm not one to speak much, but I do politely respond when able. "Whose hungry?" Lydia suddenly asks. We all flick our ears to her words, much like pet dogs who came to understand the word, and this makes us all laugh. I swear, this is my family, my life, my everything. I rise up, a silent but obvious offer to help hunt. The rest of the pack follows in suit, though I grunt when I notice My Chicks have come to stand as well. They know I'm just being protective, everyone does, but still they're allowed to join in. There isn't much to hunt 'round these woods, just the occasional bull moose when they're in rut, otherwise the game is easy and boring. We hunt the rest of the sunlight away, simply working as a unit, satisfying that inner us that will never be tamed. Under the stars we'd all sit huddled together, My Chicks nestled between the legs of us taller folk. When the GE first gave Caza the permission to have her own troupe, I wouldn't allow anyone close to me, nor would I near anyone else. Yet here I am, close to the middle, Caza on one side and Niluva on my other, En next to her. Lydia is next to Caza, Daren seated behind her in a loving nuzzle. Vayal is between my legs, Anji between Caza, and Kalis between En. We all stare, watching the moon rise high, as do our hopes of one day being the most infamous, successful Branch of the Tribe that brought us all together. This moment is peaceful and I wouldn't give it up for the world, I want it to last. But all too soon, we all cringe, for we hear the GE's law that we return home. When we will see each other like this again, free from the world of the humans, and free from the laws of staying hidden, we are not aware, and that is where the utter joy of being allowed to meet comes from-- That is where this utter despair of being separated comes from. We all frown, even Daren and Lydia are to act like strangers when we are not free like this. I feel My Chicks quivering with their sadness, I feel the hopelessness of everyone, and I'm at a loss of what to do.
When suddenly Caza howls out her beautiful, unique tune. And this is just another reasoning as to why I want her to lead, not me. She always knows what to do and is just so empathetic of others, she may be humble and say she doesn't know what to do. But she does, it comes natural to her. As easy as the breath you just took, that's how easy it is for her to put others at ease. One by one my closest of friends throw their heads back to howl with her, adding their own tunes to make this magical song come to be. Nature itself would pause to bear witness to such a mighty, but gentle and calming moment, it moves me in ways I've never experienced. They know I fear loud noises and they know I will not howl with them, but in their song, I hear something. As they all slowly quiet down to no longer howl, I'd stand and step back, using this to get their attention. I hate having all eyes on me, but what what I heard must be said to all. "Intrepidus." I murmur without stuttering, and at once all their ears perk. "Intrepidus?" Niluva inquires of me, and slowly smiles form. "Intrepidus." They all repeat, one by one, as if testing how it felt to say such things. And Caza would hold her head high, a big grin on her face. "Yes." She'd say with the slightest of giggles. "Yes, we are Intrepidus."
It's funny how things like that can go. How you can go about life, waiting for something amazing to happen, doing your best to survive for that moment, then it hits you. That moment comes to bring about greatness like never before, you truly enjoy it and think 'This is what I've been waiting for'. But then it's gone. I replay over and over again the 'battle' we had today, of how amazing the sun felt instead of hot and overbearing, of how free I was with my friends and how the chaos of who would lead was left in the dark. I was free. But as my human feet bring me through the doorway of my house, I'm instantly chained again. The GE gives me another lesson on how to lead, Pops bears down my throat on every little thing I do. I'm sent to my bedroom at two am and expected to rise and get to school on time. I'm expected to act like I do not know Caza, Daren, Niluva, Lydia, Anji, Vayal, Kalis, and En, I'm supposed to act like we didn't play or hunt together today. I'm never supposed to stand up to the bullies who continue to make my human life miserable, I'm supposed to act like the next official Chief to In-the troupe. I'm supposed to act like we didn't finally pick our name.
Morning. Even with blinds shut to block out the coming sun, those stubborn rays would find their way through the cracks. And I realize, this will continue until we break free. This will happen until we rally together and stand up for what's right. Morning. Even with the blinds shut to block out the coming sun, those stubborn rays would find their way through the cracks. Morning.
And I discovered I am those stubborn rays.
Did you like it? Any questions/comments please post them below! Thanks for reading, guys!
But that also means I need to get up and I honestly can't be bothered to.
Footfalls gently tap the stairs as they make their way toward me. A scent comes to my nose, I mentally groan because someone was about to shatter my resolve without doing anything and win this mini battle. I hate losing, but I never hint to it, so none are aware. I come off as too humble and laid-back for that trait, I do have some pride but when it comes to her it's just gone. "I'm up, Mom." I call gently, her steps instantly come to a halt. I hear her giggle and my heart melts, she is not the woman whom birthed me but she is my mother all the same. She's been stressing so much as of late, I'll do anything to make her giggle. Much like another female in my life that is so dear to me. "You'll be late." She calls, and I literally fall out of bed. I'm a crazy sleeper, I hate sleeping almost as much as I hate waking up early, and it seems last night was another terrible nightmare. My left bicep has left the top half of my bed soaked in blood, and my tossing and turning as I fight off my assailant has left my bed broken in half. Pop's gonna be pissed but I don't have time to dwell on that. If I'm ever late to anything the GE will tan my ass then rip me a new one. I begin to panic as I get ready for school.
My morning had been pretty bad until I head downstairs. Our house is massive; three stories high, at least five bedrooms on each floor, not counting living rooms, kitchens, play/spar rooms. We have five solid acres of land here and about another ten in a more isolated patch of woods. I live comfortably insofar that I don't go to bed hungry nor needing anything. But that's just because I'm one of the Chosen; there's a chance I might one day lead. And that scares me more than anything. Coming down to the main kitchen, which is big enough to comfortably seat fifty, my gaze befalls the ending of another meeting. Our tribe is united unlike any other, via our Grand Elder-- our GE, the many Chiefs will hear of any news that need to be shared. Because I showed such promise so young the GE has taken up refuge with my small family and took me under his wing. He's serious and stern, constantly suffocating me with the ways of being a fantastic leader. It's all stuff I respect but I want nothing to do with, there's another literally born to lead and I'd much rather follow her than command her. "You're late." He'd grumble out to me, his gaze fierce and globes blackened with fury. My heart palpitates and I quickly look to my father, he stands regal and intimidating at the same time, his nothing-but-muscle arms crossed in disgust over his chest. Pops only acts like this when I've done something wrong, and that's when I realize I didn't hide my new self-inflicted wound on my bicep. "Early bird." I respond with a soft murmur. Everyone was staring at me, my hands feel clammy and I feel my legs wanting to shake. I want to run, to be free, to feel like me and not like this.
My words spare me, the GE smiles and nods, as does my adoptive mother and my pops. Though the others of the council still are stern and questioning if I should lead one day, and so they do not smile. Figures. I politely wave and hurry out the door, slinging my small back pack over my right shoulder. A smirk I rarely show is now out for the world to see, I know why the council was so stern. /It's decided/. I hear the GE in my mind, and I pause before I decide on doing what I normally do or to behave. /You may meet today/. His voice rings in my mind and my smirk grows. Tightening the bag on my shoulder, I race to the next three blocks, where the city buildings begin to clutter together, and I rush to a back alley. My legs may be human but inside there was a feral beast that refused to be tamed by society. I will not take the bus like others, I will not ride my bike, I will not walk. I free-run three strides up the side of a building and snatch the catwalk in my left hand. My shoulder pops and my wound pulses but I pull myself up. Running at inhuman speeds, I leap from rooftop to rooftop.
I will be free.
Fast forward twenty minutes and I'm surrounded by peers. A sea of 'nobodies' trying to find their place-- trying too hard to stand out in a society that demand we all fit in. Such nonsense fills my ears, gossip, who is dating who, who has hook ups to drugs and parties, who might become teen parents. I try to drone them all out, of course, by focusing on the words of the GE. Today was to be a good day. ...At least, only at the end. When I step into a particular hallway, I'm shoved against the wall, my peers jump and scurry out of the way, leaving me surrounded by four others. I'm tall, even for my young-ish age I tower over most of my peers. But these four have strength in numbers, something my other half understands all too well, so I won't fight back. Besides, I stood up for the usual bullied nerd a few months ago, and I've been getting bullied for him ever since. A fist collides with my gut, as I dub over and groan a knee meets my face. But I never fight back, the GE would slaughter me as would Pops, and I'd be severely punished. No, I only fight to defend, it's our motto-- our law. And -she- would be very upset if I ever threw a punch, everyone under the rule of the GE knew first hand of my temper courtesy of his ability to penetrate everyone's mind. And -she- wants to protect me from me, however she can, and one way was asking I never throw a punch and that I only fight to defend someone else. Not myself, that was my doing, my compromise to listen to her. I don't feel I'm worth much, I'm here to suffer, I'm not here to lead or be anything great. As I fall to the floor I tense, ready for more beatings I feel I deserve. But I get a scent that brings about a being of peace, and as I look up, one fellow teen stands between me and my foes. It only takes one glare like this to make the crowd disperse and my adversaries walk away with scoffs. He'd walk away too, without a single glance in my direction, and I silently nod my thanks to him. I envy him, he doesn't know. The way he carries himself, that aura of pride that isn't anything close to arrogant, but more like a blanket that could stop even a nuke from blowing you to bits. You just feel so -safe- around him and one day, I'll do that to everyone too.
But I have to act like I don't know him while at school-- Laws of the GE.
As I stand and wipe the blood from my nose, a tissue is thrusted at my face. That's when I knew how hurt I truly was, I wasn't even able to -scent- her approach but there she stands in all her beauty. Stunning green eyes full of so much life like an endless forest, lips pulled into a sympathetic smile, exuding nothing less of empathy toward my state. God she melts my heart with just one -anything- from her. Cazatella. Though I call her Caza. She was risking it again, for me, upsetting the GE because she can't stand by and act like she doesn't know me. Not when I do stuff like this for those less fortunate. "Please?" She piratically begs of me before I can argue, because she knows me best and she knew I was about to. I huff, and her smile grows, because she knew she won this. "Only if you stop..." I grumble in defeat, and she'd actually giggle at me. My heart does a back flip, she is the only other girl I try to make giggle like my mother. I can't even take the tissue, so she reaches over to swipe the blood away. She's shorter than I am but considerably tall, so doing this isn't hard for her. "You're not supposed to lie." She comments, and I slightly roll my eyes. She knew I was lying, I was a hopeless sap when it comes to her. I'll do anything because she's done almost anything to help me with my issues. The GE states I was just destined to overcome my issues and become leader, and that by overcoming a few I proved him right. He refuses to believe it was her patience that spared me. "Sorry." I add, and she'd sigh in defeat. "What am I gonna do with you..?" She'd ask, mostly to herself, but with that she has to go. Even she is at the mercy of the GE's law. It always hurts to watch her go, when she's around it's like she's my warrior, fighting off those demons that none are aware slumber inside me. And as she goes, they claw their way to my mind, trying to take over. I find myself focusing on when I first met Caza years ago, when we were very young. The GE felt a shift in the air, he knew the next BH-- the next Branch Heir, was ascending. Every few years members of the tribe will have the chance to prove themselves worthy of leading their own branch of the family tribe, it's considered an incredible honor for only a BH can rise to be the GE after many, many years. Caza and I were destined to meet when my 'aura' or whatever the hell it is, brought the GE to me.
Caza doesn't have the 'aura', she has the blood, and is the daughter of a truly fierce pair. Her father had risen to the challenge to be the BH, but it was her mother's incredibly tough and authoritative ways that sealed the deal for Caza. Momster is how we refer to her mother, and if you knew how strict she was, you wouldn't frown at such a nickname. Caza hated me when we first met-- My mother was not of the tribe nor is she of special blood like the rest of us, so I never truly knew her. I'm half blood, tainted blood, a freak. Caza is pure. Her momster filled her with such ugly traits and mean words, Caza absolutely hated me when we first met. She'd glare at me and not even pay attention to me. But I saw through the act, I saw the fake. I didn't know at the time that it was momster's doing but I knew it wasn't Caza. And I killed her with kindess, in return, over these past few years Caza has killed a few of my demons with kindness. Still, it remains to be seen if I am to be the leader of our branch, or if she will be. She's much more fit to be a leader, I'm much happier following because I just don't feel like I'm anything worth following. She has charisma, she understands the world better than I ever will, she can make friends. It just makes sense for her to lead-- not me.
Suddenly the bell rings. I had daydreamed off so much, I did so for the rest of school. I jump out of my chair and literally run for the exit. Being allowed to meet was a great thing, it's been a week since the last time we were allowed to do so. I continue to run at max speed, not even breaking a sweat, fueling that feral part of me to awaken. The city life fades to a blur of green, the scent of pollution shifts to air tasty and fresh. My senses come to life, I notice every leaf of a tree, hear the wings of birds above, scent life forms as far as five miles away. I feel nature around me coming together to make this moment one to remember. I feel safe. I feel free.
I feel -him- break free.
The people of my tribe aren't just people-- we're wolves as well. My strides become longer, stronger, faster but more fluid as well. My spine and muscles sound bone-cracking snaps that'd make the weak of heart hurl, my tanned skin and muscles rise and fall like a wave passes over them, leaving in its wake a sea of crimson with two-hued stripes over it. I begin to run on all four, my speed much more impressive, my run all the more powerful. My fellow nature companions now find curiosity at my presence instead of fear, I am not the one that destroys nature anymore, I am one with nature. My run is undisturbed, I'm heading toward the ten acres that are guarantee safe from people to meet the others, my heart is an acrobat that won't quit, the excitement builds up and I feel like I might burst. Though, I slide to a stop when such a beautiful, soul-wrenching howl rings out over the lands. It was Caza, of course she and the others heard the words of the GE, they, too, were just as eager to see me as I was to see them. For now, because I humbly stood down, Caza has taken up temporary Chief, she rules our little troupe. We won't be an official branch-- our own true pack, until the GE makes his decision on whom is to lead. But even now Caza wears on her shoulders the true power of an Alpha, none of us can defy her and if she needed to her voice alone could stop us from whatever we were about to do or think about doing. She's never used it against us though, one reason I respect her so. I feel I'd need that to get anything done but to take away another's will-- I can't have such power on my shoulders. It's not for me. I shake my skull and make a mad dash toward our spot, my fur bristles as a few other howls ring out. I recognize them all, of course, because I often come here on my own, my mind is impressive and I remember things faster/easier than most.
I happen upon the middle of our meeting grounds when something small slams into my side. I grunt out and relax, falling over, exaggerating my actions. On top of my side stands Anji, the Small One who slowly made her way into my heart. She stands tall, feeling a sensation of accomplishment, her paws on my ribs and head held high. Ever since I first got comfortable to let myself out and really be me, I've been notorious for starting up play within this troupe. I snort at her and roll, pinning her easily, she squeaks out and tries to nip at my face. I simply hold my head high- one of the few times I'm willing to, and keep her firmly under my paws. She has not yet lost this battle because all too soon, I'm tag-teamed. A blur of silver, a dark shade of gray-- And I soon feel more fangs at my flank and tail. I know the footfalls that came at me with playful fury, I know the scents. I turn in time to watch Kalis and Vayal team up against my rear, I need to release Anji to fend for myself. Three against one, my Chicks as I call them, they're a blast to play with. I rise up to the challenge, flicking my tail only hard enough to make Vayal stumble, Kalis is thrown off balance and I leap upon her. She squeaks out as well, signaling to the other two that she needs help. I feel Anji on my back, Vayal is being an ankle biter and relentlessly nipping at my heels. But Kalis is not spared, I get one of her limbs in my jaws and vibrate them, chuckling as her squeals of delight shatter the calm ambiance. This goes on undisturbed until I know Kalis needs to breathe. I was foolish though, I had dropped my guard in this play. Vayal and Anji back off right before I lift my fangs from Kalis, and then like a truck, a sea of tawny pelt knocks me to my ass. Not even, I tumble and fall to my back, the brown standing above me with a smirk of her own. I'm a bit dazed and my pride is hurt, Caza quirks a brow and snickers. "Leave my girls alone." She coos, enticing me to continue playing. Rarely do we get to play, her momster still works hard to keep her away from me. So moments like this mean the absolute world to me, even if I'm slightly peeved that I allowed myself to be pinned so easily. "Make me." I challenge her, these words make Vayal shiver, and that's almost like a green light. The four pounce, quickly joined by Niluva, trying to get me to cave, nipping and pushing me around. Our laughter fills the air, I just might lose, until footfalls much louder than Caza's nears us. The females stop, Caza ducking out of the way as Daren and Enpato enter the fray. En is the only one who has my back, he tries to fend off My Chicks alone while Daren turns to stop Lydia from even entering the play. I'm left alone to 'fight off' Niluva and Caza. My tail wags furiously, we all simply throw ourselves into the fray, males vs. females though we do not have even numbers.
The play lasts for an hour before Caza suddenly rushes off, her aura of play joined with that authority that none can ignore. One by one we all take off after her, we mind the pace of the smaller ones to help them keep up. But they're fast in their own right, En, Daren, and myself struggle to keep our pace with their own. Caza doesn't stop our run until we come across the lake, this makes me stop dead in my tracks, but the others leap in. They do not know the fears I house nor the difficulty of my past, they simply think I have a distaste of water. Niluva sits next to me, nuzzling my fur as if to give me comfort, and it does help. The pack takes turns, when Niluva leaps into the water, Anji is quick to come to my side. Next is Vayal, then En. You get the picture. I watch them all have fun, keeping my senses alert for any danger. It's beautiful today, the sun is high, not a cloud in the sky, and because the GE gave us permission, Caza's momster can't take her away from us. They all frolic in the water until tired, then they all come out to sun bathe. I lay with them, listening idly to their chit-chat. They know I'm not one to speak much, but I do politely respond when able. "Whose hungry?" Lydia suddenly asks. We all flick our ears to her words, much like pet dogs who came to understand the word, and this makes us all laugh. I swear, this is my family, my life, my everything. I rise up, a silent but obvious offer to help hunt. The rest of the pack follows in suit, though I grunt when I notice My Chicks have come to stand as well. They know I'm just being protective, everyone does, but still they're allowed to join in. There isn't much to hunt 'round these woods, just the occasional bull moose when they're in rut, otherwise the game is easy and boring. We hunt the rest of the sunlight away, simply working as a unit, satisfying that inner us that will never be tamed. Under the stars we'd all sit huddled together, My Chicks nestled between the legs of us taller folk. When the GE first gave Caza the permission to have her own troupe, I wouldn't allow anyone close to me, nor would I near anyone else. Yet here I am, close to the middle, Caza on one side and Niluva on my other, En next to her. Lydia is next to Caza, Daren seated behind her in a loving nuzzle. Vayal is between my legs, Anji between Caza, and Kalis between En. We all stare, watching the moon rise high, as do our hopes of one day being the most infamous, successful Branch of the Tribe that brought us all together. This moment is peaceful and I wouldn't give it up for the world, I want it to last. But all too soon, we all cringe, for we hear the GE's law that we return home. When we will see each other like this again, free from the world of the humans, and free from the laws of staying hidden, we are not aware, and that is where the utter joy of being allowed to meet comes from-- That is where this utter despair of being separated comes from. We all frown, even Daren and Lydia are to act like strangers when we are not free like this. I feel My Chicks quivering with their sadness, I feel the hopelessness of everyone, and I'm at a loss of what to do.
When suddenly Caza howls out her beautiful, unique tune. And this is just another reasoning as to why I want her to lead, not me. She always knows what to do and is just so empathetic of others, she may be humble and say she doesn't know what to do. But she does, it comes natural to her. As easy as the breath you just took, that's how easy it is for her to put others at ease. One by one my closest of friends throw their heads back to howl with her, adding their own tunes to make this magical song come to be. Nature itself would pause to bear witness to such a mighty, but gentle and calming moment, it moves me in ways I've never experienced. They know I fear loud noises and they know I will not howl with them, but in their song, I hear something. As they all slowly quiet down to no longer howl, I'd stand and step back, using this to get their attention. I hate having all eyes on me, but what what I heard must be said to all. "Intrepidus." I murmur without stuttering, and at once all their ears perk. "Intrepidus?" Niluva inquires of me, and slowly smiles form. "Intrepidus." They all repeat, one by one, as if testing how it felt to say such things. And Caza would hold her head high, a big grin on her face. "Yes." She'd say with the slightest of giggles. "Yes, we are Intrepidus."
It's funny how things like that can go. How you can go about life, waiting for something amazing to happen, doing your best to survive for that moment, then it hits you. That moment comes to bring about greatness like never before, you truly enjoy it and think 'This is what I've been waiting for'. But then it's gone. I replay over and over again the 'battle' we had today, of how amazing the sun felt instead of hot and overbearing, of how free I was with my friends and how the chaos of who would lead was left in the dark. I was free. But as my human feet bring me through the doorway of my house, I'm instantly chained again. The GE gives me another lesson on how to lead, Pops bears down my throat on every little thing I do. I'm sent to my bedroom at two am and expected to rise and get to school on time. I'm expected to act like I do not know Caza, Daren, Niluva, Lydia, Anji, Vayal, Kalis, and En, I'm supposed to act like we didn't play or hunt together today. I'm never supposed to stand up to the bullies who continue to make my human life miserable, I'm supposed to act like the next official Chief to In-the troupe. I'm supposed to act like we didn't finally pick our name.
Morning. Even with blinds shut to block out the coming sun, those stubborn rays would find their way through the cracks. And I realize, this will continue until we break free. This will happen until we rally together and stand up for what's right. Morning. Even with the blinds shut to block out the coming sun, those stubborn rays would find their way through the cracks. Morning.
And I discovered I am those stubborn rays.
Did you like it? Any questions/comments please post them below! Thanks for reading, guys!
