Ophis Nyx's Story

Ophis followed far behind the others, making sure no one was catching up to the pride. It would be easy for her to escape if they did catch up, seeing how she was a cheetah, one of the fastest felines in the world. Or so she believes.

Stepping near her leader, she looked around for any sign, anything that may help them. Food would be the best sign of them all. Her stomach growls quietly at the thought, whimpering for food or water. ‘Below, in the forest, we might be able to find food. I know some of us haven’t eaten since the incident. Food is essential and since they are gone for the while we can quickly eat and get going. Plus, where there is prey, there is water. C’mon' Ophis nods, her ears twitching a bit at the slightest noise. She turns gracefully, her steps even and spaced, normal thing for a cat. Scanning the area, she saw the bushes shift, as something moved within the branches and leaves. Lowering herself down beneath the high grass, she stared waiting...

Suddenly Her sharp, yellow eyes darted to the right, as a large hare raced from bushes, hoping to hide and escape the dangerous beast. Which wouldn't be possible. Ophis's legs kicked off, and darted after the rodent. Within seconds, She easily caught up, and with a snap of her jaw, she caught the hare with ease, breaking its fragile bones.
Tasting the familiar taste of iron, she pawed her way back to the group, pleased with her catch.
‘We’ll wait here. The wolves don’t matter. If it becomes a problem,’ Her ears twitched, and she frowns. 'Wolves...?' She snarls quietly, dropping her prize to the ground with out a care. She didnt like that word, defiantly when they were on the run. They had so many problems already... ‘Yeah, but my pride is first.’ Ophis could feel her eyes soften, and she smiles a bit, which was hardly noticeable. Nudging the large hare towards her, she smiles. "This is why you're an excellent leader..." She said. "Ill follow you every step of the way!"

--
Ulrica combed her sleek fingers through her long, ivory colored hair, and stepped out of her room.
She stretched and yawns quietly. It has been a couple of hours, and she finally rose from the dead. Its actually been awhile since she was up so early, so she wanted to get back into that routine, before it become a habit of hers to sleep in. "....." Yawning once more, she wanders around wondering if anyone rose awake as well. Obviously the alpha, Anvar, but who else- "What IS that stuff!? Bleck" Her keen ears, turned to the noise, and the corner of her mouth tilted upwards. Maybe she wasn't the only one awake after all. 'The young ones are lively...' The female wolf thought knowingly, Peeking into the study, she steps in quietly, and saw the interaction between the pup and the others. Honestly, it was very cute...
Resisting the urge to laugh, she bows her head respectfully towards the alpha, and waved kindly to the others.

It wasent like her to talk, and say "good morning" but she meant no harm. Luckily for her, the pack should have known that by now. Or so she hoped. She never was a talker, and was always so mute, well most of the time. Looking around, she glanced at the blank gun and looked at both Cyra and Anvar. 'Don't get why you are drinking in the morning, anyway.' Hearing the girl's mumble, she smiles softly. "Well this is Anvar we're talking about..." She spoke quietly, emphasizing on the word "Is". "Besides he is the alpha..." She finished, leaning against the wall.

Larissa followed behind her sister and the troop quietly, the tension in the air putting her on edge. At every small noise, her ears flicked and her body tensed. She stayed towards the back of the group, her head low and her eyes bright. Although she hadn't really thought about it, her stomach rumbled and her throat was dry with thirst. There were more important things on her mind, like not allowing the troop (especially her sister) to get killed. In the back of her mind she hoped that if the group hunting them saw her first, they would confuse her for Astrid and kill her instead, leaving the others alone. But she knew this was unlikely. ‘Come on, we still need to get across the state. The pride won’t stop hunting us. We need to stay a step ahead.’ Astrid's voice pulled her from her thoughts, bringing her attention back to her sister.

She stood with the others, pausing to take in her surroundings. The rising sun warmed her pelt while the dew stuck to her paws, but she was too wound up to be comforted by the sensation. In the distance she could faintly smell a deer off to the distance, and smaller prey closer to them. Her stomach growled in response to the smell. ‘Below, in the forest, we might be able to find food. I know some of us haven’t eaten since the incident. Food is essential and since they are gone for the while we can quickly eat and get going. Plus, where there is prey, there is water. C’mon' Astrid spoke again, standing tall.

Astrid ordered Dante to find water, and for the rest of them to hunt and meet back in the clearing. Lari padded off alone as the rest of the troop did the same. Her small, agile build didn't make for great fighting, but it made for excellent hunting. She could smell a doe off to the distance, but she decided to go for something smaller. A large white rabbit caught her attention, and she lowered herself close to the ground, watching the white rabbit very carefully. Very slowly, she made her way towards the rabbit, keeping her body low to the ground and keeping silent. Just as the rabbit noticed her, she pounced and snapped his neck in one swift motion.

Larissa padded towards Dante and Astrid just Dahlia came up to them carrying two rabbits in her mouth. She caught the end of their conversation. "-wolves don't matter. If it becomes a problem," she paused for a moment. "We'll pass through with force if we have to." Astrid was telling Dante.
Lari dropped the larger rabbit in front of Dante. Astrid had already given him something, but he was much larger then her and probably was more hungry. "If we're careful, they may be able to help us."

Astrid Vellamo & Dante Selantine

Astrid glanced up at the arrival of Ophis, hare held within her jaws. The female cheetah gracefully moved into the clearing, setting the hare down near the pile. A grumbling purr crawled out of Astrid’s chest at Ophis, as she declared her loyalty. As a leader, she never tired of hearing those words. She wanted them to depend on her and in return, to do her best to keep them safe and provided for. Astrid rose up to her haunches and flicked her right ear in amusement, the white spot on the back of her ears flashing briefly. “Thank you.”

Dante raised his head and nodded at Ophis. “Agreed. Nice catch, Ophis.” He adjusted himself, laying down on his side now. He peeped at Astrid lazily, the sunshine was getting to him but he briefly wondered if she was going to tell the pride about the wolves. He figured she would when they all gathered together. However, James stepped in almost on Ophis’s heels and spoke up. ‘Wolves? I found these two... If you want I can try to go find more?' Dante sniffed daintily, gazing at Astrid.

Astrid straightened, gazing at James in speculation. She wouldn’t put it past them to have found out or overheard. They were her squadron after all. Astrid flicked her tail, then began to chuckle. “No, James. You did well. As long as everyone can at least get a bite. I don’t need any if there isn’t enough. As for the wolves, well…” She turned, feeling Dante’s stare. She tilted her head slightly then shrugged at his glare of disdain. “We’ll talk about that when everyone has returned.”

Astrid seemed to enter her own thoughts, thinking about something deeply, her gaze darkened slightly. Dante perked when he heard Astrid’s sister pad into the clearing. Larissa walked up with a white hare and set it in front of him but he shook his head and gestured towards Astrid who had placed herself away from the pile. He stretched up nonchalantly, “She won’t eat, says she wants everybody full and whatnot. You’re her sister, so maybe..” He trailed off, his whisper lost on the humid breeze that started up. He shrugged, and then nudged the rabbit back at her. “You should eat it though. You caught it.” He grinned gently then got to his paws and leaned down to dig into the shrew Astrid had given him. It was juicy enough. He settled down quietly.

Astrid blinked, seeing Larissa and finally registering her words. "If we're careful, they may be able to help us." Astrid nodded silently then stood and paced in a circle before pausing. “ “That could work. Its chance of working though is slim. They might not be too happy with us since we took some of their land as well as fighting them before about it.” She raised her voice, letting it flow over the small crowd. “ “Just be prepared to fight if they start it. No aggressive moves until they attack first. Although, for right now we eat and rejoice that we are safe. Dante has also found water, after we rest and hydrate ourselves we will move on.” She beamed, simply pleased that they were safe for now. The idea gave her hope, for now.

James nodded and his tail flicked back and forth again as he was laying down on the ground, he watched Astrid during her speech and nodded understanding everything, he looked at everyone else they were safe for now and that was reasurring enough for him. He however frowned as Astrid moved herself away from the pile. He was abit smaller as a cat then her and wouldn't need as much food. He stood back up on his four legs and picked up the larger Hare he found and dropped it infront of her. "You need to eat too." he glanced up his blue eye's seeming to shine lightly in the suns rays that were staring to rise. "I can go catch more for myself or anyone else...And we can't have our fearless leader starve can we." he said smiling weakly as he turning around and going back to get his own hare.

Astrid Vellamo & Dante Selantine

Astrid stared at James with exasperation and amusement. First Dante and then James nagging her about eating. Of course, she thought, entertained by their antics. Her tail wavered before she opened her jaws, baring her fangs but just playfully. “Yeah, okay. How about I eat you then?” She hissed before dragging the rabbit Larissa had set in front of her towards her body reluctantly. She pawed it gently, her expression strangely thoughtful.

Dante chortled, his large body making the sound perfect and deep. He rolled his eyes and licked the meaty debris off his whiskers, eying James and Astrid before standing up slowly and circling back to stand near the bush patiently.

Astrid sighed and leaned down to press her nose to the spot between Larissa’s ear and scruff affectionately. Almost like a comforting motion, before she straightened and shook out her own pelt with a small quiver. Larissa spoke up after a while though, "Maybe if the smallest, least threatening of us approaches them in their human form as submissively as possible they'll probably see no threat." Astrid’s stance stiffened visibly, and her gaze turned on Larissa, the sharpness would have cut if it had been physical. Astrid watched her and noticed the familiar look in her eyes. However she remained silent, jaw tightened uncomfortably.

"If we all approach them at once, they might see us as a threat and attack. If we go about this just right, they might help hide us from the group hunting us." Larissa's voice was pleading making Astrid even tenser. "You guys can be right behind just in case something goes wrong." She glanced at the rabbit in front of her sister. "But we can't do anything until our strong leader eats something." Larissa smile was bright, and warming but Astrid shook her head.

“No.” Astrid bristled, ears flicking down stubbornly. “I know what your thinking and I refuse. That’s not going to help even if it is the most submissive way, but look here, our favorite cheetah could get away faster. Larissa, I’m not sending my sister in as bait and that’s final. This isn’t even about family because if I felt this was the only way, I would agree.” She took a breath and relaxed a fraction. “I think we should go as a pride. Larissa’s idea isn’t bad but too risky if they decide a single cat is worth disposing of. We should be strong force not to be messed with,” She paused, tilting her head with a feline gracefulness. “However two of us will be unchanged.” Astrid dug her claws into the earth unwilling to put even one member of the pride in danger but they had a message to convey. “I will be unchanged, as I am supposed to be considered the strongest and my lieutenant will also be unchanged. The rest can take flank and remain ready but keep your ears up, tail down, fur flat, and claws in.” She glanced to Larissa before shaking off the feeling of guilt for turning her idea down.

She quickly went to eat the rabbit and was finished within a minute or two, her forest sounds filling her silence easily enough. Once done, she moved over to where Dante stood and smiled grimly. “Are we ready?”

Ophis frowned slightly and laid her head against her paws. Her ears flickering at the conversation which was held between the little group. The words went back and forth, and she just hummed, trying to take in some of the words. Calculating carefully. Though When Astrid's voice entered the conversation, strong and determined, she made sure to pay attention. She was her leader after all.
“No.” Astrid bristled, ears flicking down stubbornly. “I know what your thinking and I refuse. That’s not going to help even if it is the most submissive way, but look here, our favorite cheetah could get away faster. Larissa, I’m not sending my sister in as bait and that’s final. Ophis couldn't help but smile to herself, despite on where it was going. When she was compliment on her speed, and was described to be "favorite" it just got her a bit happier then she should be. This isn’t even about family because if I felt this was the only way, I would agree.” She took a breath and relaxed a fraction. “I think we should go as a pride. Larissa’s idea isn’t bad but too risky if they decide a single cat is worth disposing of. We should be strong force not to be messed with,” She paused, tilting her head with a feline gracefulness. “However two of us will be unchanged.” Astrid dug her claws into the earth unwilling to put even one member of the pride in danger but they had a message to convey. “I will be unchanged, as I am supposed to be considered the strongest and my lieutenant will also be unchanged. The rest can take flank and remain ready but keep your ears up, tail down, fur flat, and claws in.” Ophis peered briefly at the little sister. It may have been harsh, Astrid's little speech, but she knew what kind of person Astrid was. Always protecting the group, despite the circumstances, and to protect Larissa was a defiant. Getting up slowly, she stretched her long legs, a popping noise resounding in the air. "I'm Ready.." Ophis made her way towards Astrid's side, but noticed Larissa's glances. Chuckling to herself, she made sure to make a little room beside Astrid. She gave Larissa a knowing look, but it was only for a quick minute. Looking ahead, she focused only on Dante and Astrid, her ears open for any commands or information she should know. Leaning in, she spoke in a hush voice. "You're not only an awesome leader..but a sister as well... I'm envious..." She let it linger for a bit, before backing off from her leader's ear. She knew that Astrid need all her support, well not need, but she felt the need to give her all of her support.

Astrid Vellamo & Dante Selantine

Astrid was watching the cats gather behind her and she nodded before taking a deep breath and pulling on her human side, willing it to take control and soon an audible pop was heard. She unfurled from where she crouched and stood, dauntless and confident. “Now then.” She moved forward in long strides, her tall human figure pale in the light of dawn. It was beginning to get higher up and the time had to have been around eight in the morning. Her silver hair glistened as it lifted every now and then as she moved to keep in front of her squad.

She abruptly stopped as a red figure streaked out of the brush and towards whatever settlement in the distance. James spoke up behind her and her human mind struggled for only seconds to understand. “Oh so not good” Astrid bristled as her upper lip curled in response. “Well said.” Her gaze narrowed on the moving figure before it disappeared in the expanse of land in front of them. Her hands clenched, knuckles turning white as Dante spoke up from the back of the squad.

“This might not mean anything.” Astrid glanced at him and shook her head. “Dante, we all know this means a lot. Stealth is not on our side.” Astrid was glad that he had optimism but right now was not the time and cheer everybody up. They were in danger. She tilted her head and Dante shifted on his paws uneasily. “It couldn’t have been a wolf though.” Astrid murmured and reigned in her cat as it strained to get to the surface for a few brief seconds. “That must be why I didn’t think about it.” She opened her mouth slightly, tasting the air. “However, I should have known.” She started forward again more slowly. Dante stirred, his hackles still raised. “It’s okay, not your fault.” Dante pinned his ears and snorted. “That just means a face-off and there is nothing to worry about. Not with us.”

Astrid kept the pace slow but eventually another red streak, this one of a larger size, was head towards them. She raised a hand and tensed. “Wolves.” Astrid was very still and quiet, prepared to fight for her squad. Dante pitched in though as he noticed something peculiar. “Is there just one?” Dante blinked confused and Astrid hissed.

Astrid Vellamo & Dante Selantine

Astrid held her stance as the wolf approached in a hostile manner. It paused before them, growling and carrying on but she held her silence, hoping that it would maybe think about the consequences of attacking the pride. Past that, she was confident that she could handle him and she wasn’t concerned with hurting herself. She knew how to kill a wolf and much more, how to fight. Astrid stood still, watching the wolf stalk her but a disturbance caused her to glance away and the wolf decided to strike. She hissed but held the wolf at bay, feeling her cat rise to the forefront ready to draw blood but she carefully kept her hands on the wolf’s upper throat right below the jaw to hold him off. "Don't!" Astrid screamed at her squad, telling them not to attack, just yet.

Dante streaked past the squad, heading for the wolf but the sharp command from Astrid stopped him just short from ripping this mutt’s ears off. His claws sank into the soft ground and his own hiss-growl could be heard over most of the field. He turned and glared at the other wolf accusingly, stepping to protect Astrid as she fought off the red wolf. His hulking figure blocked the wolf’s view and it only continued to get bigger as his fur fluffed out and seemed to make him a larger opponent. His focus wavered between turning to help Astrid and protecting her from further harm.

Astrid felt the weight lift and she was on her feet instantly, crouched low as her own growl rose to meet Dante’s who had himself braced to her side. She felt him rather than saw him take a step back towards her. His fur had fluffed up and he looked rattled but dangerous. She stared at the red wolf as several thoughts ran through her head. She had expected a more civil approach but now that it was out the window and splattered on a taxi’s window, well things weren’t looking good if backup came. “We came in peace. We only meant to pass through.” She raised her voice although; she felt her words were lost on this red wolf so she directed it to the white wolf, the female who seemed to have more common sense.

“So back off,” Her voice was authoritative and adamant. “Or face consequences that you will wish you had chosen my first option.” Her voice lowered a pitch, fading into a quick growl that sounded human but animalistic. This time she wouldn't hold off her squad.

Astrid Vellamo & Dante Selantine

Astrid snapped her gaze to the next kin that ran up, and she realized that the other red streak must have been this one. She narrowed her eyes feeling her feline swirling within the amber irises. "None of us want a fight. Except for maybe the one that attacked you. He's just a bloodthirsty maniac." Astrid checked her throat as she waved towards it and nodded but still wondered exactly what place she had in the pack. "But I’m sure you understand our alarm. You not only intruded on our territory, but you where hunting as well."

Astrid snorted with disdain and let her attention fall on her pride around her. She felt James on her right side and Larissa seemed safe enough. Ophis also seemed to be doing well. A leader was only as good as their people. She took in the rest of the scene, the cats being riled around her human form with the two wolves on the other side, while the fox had arrived a minute before. Astrid sighed briskly and turned to James, not changing her stance but craning her head towards him so that she could look him in the eye. “I’m completely fine.” Her voice was edged with a slight hint of mocking anger towards the wolf but she eased her tone and murmured, “Nothing to worry about.” Now she turned to Dante who had taken a step back and was testing the air with a low growl. She adjusted; just barely brushing his hind leg and he glanced at her, communication going between them.

Dante indicated at the blade in front of him as he moved back for Astrid to see. Astrid nodded and sent her gaze over the field before huffing and leaving the silent communication at that. She directed her gaze back to the fox kin and after a few seconds spoke up. “I do understand. Yet we only mean to pass through.” She paused meaningfully then decided on a tactful approach. “We have been traveling for days without food or water and did not know if your pack still occupied this area. We hunted just outside your borders. So, surely, your prey was not lessened.” Astrid thought back to their plans and what her sister had mentioned. She glanced back at her sister and smiled. “I also wish to speak with your alpha now that we know you’re here. It would benefit us both.”

Dante growled again but subsided as he noticed the cattish smile on Astrid's face. The knife had been centimeters from his paw and he couldn’t find a scent but he was sure they were close. He pinned his ears flat and glared at the wolf kin in front of them. The fox kin had proposed peace. Would they follow? Dante somehow doubted that and now he was getting an even stronger scent that didn’t bode well. It smelled like an Alpha. He stiffened and brushed right up against Astrid, keeping close and closing in the space that could provide vulnerabilities. James on the other side seemed to have it handled. He leaned down and pressed his nose into her shoulder with a deep rumble that was close to a growl. ‘Danger on the way’ Astrid didn’t show any indication that she had understood him but he was sure that she had been paying attention. He then furthered his intent with a small hiss at James and flicked his ears towards the general direction of the scent, past the fox.

Astrid didn’t move as Dante closed the distance between them, overshadowing her like a big kitten. His cold nose pressed to her shoulder and she snapped a quick glance towards the fox, sniffing quietly. The scent came to her but she remained silent, refraining from the snarl that rose in her throat. She had no problem being respectful; she just didn’t like other dominants around her sometimes. At least, not when she was angry. Astrid rose from her crouch, deciding upon looking more civil to represent her pack.

Ulrica followed quickly, and her eyes narrowed towards the felines in suspicion. 'What are they doing in these parts...' She wonders, before noticing the alpha. She came close, and noticed the others as well. 'I guess most of the pack is here... good thing too...' Her ears drooped a bit, she hadn't been able to help... but next time she will. She was sure of it.
Listening to the conversation's around her, she felt her ears flicker at Anvar's words. She sighs a bit. 'Same ol'.... flirt...'
Ulrica always wondered how he became alpha, but she found out a long time ago. She saw his strong spirit and his leadership when hard times blew in. The pack would probably be in shambles if they didn't have him... and if he wasnt her now, a war probably would have started. She smiles a bit, but quickly noticed and droped it. She stepped closer, right behind the alpha and near the beta, watching the feline's movements and expressions with sharp eyes. the felines didnt seem to mean any trouble, but still... Why were they here. There must be a reason. But of course, Anvar began to offer their home to the felines. Was this a good idea..? She asked herself, but dropped it quickly.
-
Ophis lurched forward, beside Astrid and began to check for any wounds... Nothing. She sighed with relief, and smiled a bit. How can she doubt her leaders strength... strong, fast, smart...but still. Ophis turned to look at the wolves.
She felt her throat rumble with anger, but she remained inaudible. Her leader didn't want to start a fight...so she will beckon to her wishes. Stepping closer To Astrid, she checked her leader's little sister and the rest. Everyone seemed ready... and if something were to happen, it should be alright. Though even with the reassurance, she still felt her claws threatening to come out... and felt her legs pulse, with the need to lurch forward at that red head wolf. 'The damn brat...' She stared at Brandin, before scanning the others, 2 female betas...gammas, and finally the alpha. 'Not bad...' She compliment mentally. The alpha appeared to be strong both inside and out, and seemed to have a good leadership. 'But a total flirt...' She took a step forward, eying the alpha and everyone around them. Ophis had to be careful, even if they were on somehow "okay" terms, anything can happen. 'Remain calm Ophis...' she told herself, her eyes going to normal, expression turning neutral and her body relaxing. "So what do you say beautiful wanna come sleep in the big bad wolve's house?" She rolled her eyes, before peering at Astrid briefly.

[sorry for the absence!]

Astrid Vellamo & Dante Selantine

Astrid watched the male approach, squaring her shoulders unconsciously. His stench reeked of dominance and it was like a challenge calling her senses. She wondered briefly how the alpha males of the wolf species would have felt upon seeing another dominant. They were the same species but she could resist it since they were felines. The flash of a muzzle caused her to grimace. She wasn’t a strong advocate of the gun and even then blades were rare. If it came down to kin versus kin, she thought it was fair to use true strength and skill. "I'm the alpha of this pack and I apologize for the hostility of my gammas." [i] Astrid nodded, acknowledging his word politely.[i] "And think nothing of trespassing and hunting, most of these wolves forget they had once been in similar dispositions you lot are in."[i] She cast her glance over the other wolves curiously wondering how they ever would have been in the same position but dismissed it.

[i]"You say you were just passing through?” Astrid didn’t respond, hoping the conversation was heading the way she needed it too. “Well you seem to be heading towards the human settlement in that direction the way you want is that way." Astrid followed his hand, then huffed to show her attention. "That way leads you towards more wilderness but also our home, if you are still hungry and tired I would like to administer an informal invitation to stay for the night to rest and fuel up before you set off again." Astrid let her expression relax into appreciation, and lowered her hackles visibly albeit her amusement as she felt his gaze travel over her body. "So what do you say beautiful want to come sleep in the big bad wolve's house?" Astrid responded to the smile by chuckling. “I think we would be most appreciative to accept your humble invitation.” However, the next few seconds didn’t go over well.

Astrid looked to the red wolf in alarm when he moved closer to the gun, and openly challenged the Alpha. Her lips curled up, thinning to show her blunt human fangs. The gesture could be understood though. Even if she wasn’t a part of their pack or related in any way, that wolf was out of line.

She took a step back, bending her knees and preparing for the hit as the wolf leapt but his trajectory wasn't aiming at her, but at the fox kin who had been very cordial to them. Astrid froze, watching the ensuing horror as the wolf’s fangs sank into human skin and blood welled from the new wound. The bloodlust displayed made her insides harden and her throat feel swollen because she couldn’t seem to swallow correctly.

Dante had eased, watching the newly peaceful atmosphere arrive on a wave of relief. At least, until the red wolf decided he hadn’t had enough. The wolf seemed to leap for the closest person saving the Alpha and the fox kin paid for it. Dante surged forward only to freeze as he saw the bloodlust. It wasn’t good to mess with a wolf in bloodlust. Only the Alpha could dispatch a wolf like that because it was their job to tame and keep the wolves civilized; to keep them from getting violent or becoming rogue. If they weren’t kept in line by the Alpha, it became a bounty hunters job to kill the rogue or dispatch the trouble because after that point it also became a problem for the human world too. It was the same for felines and that’s probably why Astrid hadn’t jumped to help.

Astrid watched the fox kin fly towards the Alpha as the wolf turned and stalked away. Her eyes narrowed but she relaxed with a sharp grumble. Her gaze then fell on the Alpha and she tilted her head in question but didn’t comment on what he was going to do, nor did she offer help. Offering help would have meant that she thought they were incapable of handling it.

The alpha recieved a chuckle off the female causing him to relax his armed hand hanging loosely by his sides as he took in the sound of her laughter. "The name's Anvar by the way what's your's..." Before he got an answer he felt something collide into his back knocking him to the floor, winding him as he fell to his hands and knees. He didn't even bother too look behind him, he knew who it was that threw the object and as soon as that thought came into his mind causing a cold rage spreading through out his body and before he knew what he was doing his arm had swung around to where the red mongrel had been standing and fired all of the rounds in a matter of seconds. His picked up the sound of bullets hitting dirt which made him turn his head and to his actual horror he saw what hit him, a wounded Rose, her right shoulder a bloody mess... he turned his attention to Brandin although he didn't say a word his eyes said it all, Don't forget who you're dealing with, shaking uncontrollably with a white hot rage burning inside of him ignoring his need to breath he hauled himself up, emptying his gun of the empty cartriages and loading it, not caring whether the rounds were the same or not he only cared for one thing. Killing the bastard.

The gamma was walking away and had placed something down next to a tree but the alpha simply ignored this fact his sole intention was him. "Brandin turn around!" He yelled out to him, fury ringing as loud as bell at a funeral, to which the gamma obliged that cocky spark in his eyes still present. Hand still trembling with rage pointed the magnum at the red haired wolf, the sights going on and off the target while his face was as hard and cold as marble. He pulled the trigger thrice, the recoil of the gun throwing his already unstable arm all over the place, the first two groups of shots were way off target hitting various places around Brandin but the last couple were at least somewhat on target, one bullet, glinting that of his custom silver rounds while the other was just a plain one. The custom round took a small chunk out his left ear with the plain bullet grazing his left cheek. A disgusted sneer spread across Anvar's face at the sight of the minor injuries he had inflicted but he didn't get another chance as the gamma had simply turned around and left.

His bloodlust faded as it quickly as it came and he soon ran to the aid of the wounded fox, he knelt beside the wounded girl everyone else was blocked out, a wounded pack member came before any other matter. Without saying anything to Rose he was checking the bite, prodding it to see how deep, wide, if Brandin had merely pierced the sking or had he tore/ripped it and whether the dog had pierced any organs or large blood vessels. He heard a moan of pain escape her lips and his face scrunched up into an apologetic face. "I'm sorry Rose I know it hurts but it's not as bad as it seems, simple multiple puncture wounds, nothing else to complicate things." He gripped her hand and pressed it down on the wound causing her to grimace. "Keep the pressure on it, we're going to head back to the ranch now and I know you hate it when I moddle coddle you but I do it to everyone when they're hurt don't forget." He then proceded to place his right arm under her knees and then placed the other around her back with his hand gripping her good shoulder. "You've just been upgraded to first class on the Anvar express." He chuckled at loud the incident still fresh in his mind but surpressed.

He turned to the felines again, smile fading a bit but still remained on his lips. "Before we set off to the ranch I'll have to ask that you all revert to your human forms please and we shall as well, just a precaution." He signalled all the wolves he could see to do as he had said. "Also I will have to ask for you to lead, as I have said the ranch is in that direction, again another precaution." His voice was calm and relaxed, the way it should always be in his eyes. Everyone seemed to comply with this as soon he was surrounded by humans of different sizes, all rather naked of course but this didn't faze him a bit, they were naked as animals what did it matter if they were naked as an ape? As the felines began to move out he gave a serious glance at his betas, he didn't want to say out loud since it should be clear that they had to do something about Brandin. As they were heading off, Anvar saw what the gamma had place and it was two knives, Renmy's in fact. He glanced around at first and then finally into the tree and he thought he saw a foot dangling but when he had a closer look he couldn't see the foot or the owner, he shook his head at this thinking the gamma would have made herself known to him maybe by falling out of the tree or something. He glanced back to the girl in his arms, she looked a little pale but didn't seemed too fazed. "Hey Rose not a good day for you is it?" He joked with a hint of seriousness in it.

Ulrica stared at the felines. Her eyes gleaming an unknown emotion. She peered at Anvar, confused but none of doubt. "There must be a reason why there here...." She muttered to herself. Changing into her human form, she ran her slender fingers through her hair in thought. "Well Cyra..." She nudged the beta and gave her a look, trying to reassure her. "Shall we..?" Ulrica nodded her head towards Brandin's trail. 'Alpha's orders are a defiant.' She thought, and began to take a step forward. 'Bradin shouldn't be so far... but what to do with him.' She tilted her head, and stared off into nothingness. Swirls of conclusions filled her mind, but just got her irritated. First the feline problem and now Bradin. 'There is always a reason.' She reminded herself. "For everything..." Rubbing her tired neck, she looked at the others trying to find some answer. Shifting her body toward Cyra, she gave her a curious look. It sent a message of slight concern. 'Will you be alright..?' Her eyes appeared to be one of a mother, but also one of a friend. Well thats what it should be. A pack should love one another, but then again, there were some expectations.

-
Ophis glared at the back of the red head. What the hell was wrong with him. She felt her lips curl, hating the act of defiance. Even if it wasn't in her group. Shifting a bit, she inhaled and changed to her human form. Brown locks fell lifelessly, and her brown eyes grew human like. Wide and round. Her fangs dissipated and was replaced by ones of a human girl. She rolled her head around and sighed with every crack. It been awhile since she transformed back, and it was a bit painful. But this was a pinch to what she been through.
With a huff, Ophis stood proudly, waiting for her leader to follow the alpha. But she was reluctant. This pack seemed out of order. A gamma attacking one of its one. That was not right. Was the alpha not in charge. 'He seems to be...' She didnt finish the thought. It was obvious that he was strong, it literally swirled in the air around them. But she would never declare another to be strong. Her leader was always stronger in her eyes. The strongest. Ophis merely mumbles a oath and tried to hold back any sarcastic dripping comments. A bad habit of hers. Defiantly when she was surrounded by something she didnt like. Making she to position herself near the younger sibling of the leader, she eyed the others. One wrong move and she will strike.

Astrid Vellamo & Dante Selantine

Astrid quietly watched Anvar treat to his wounded pack member. The fox kin’s pained moan was unsettling but Astrid kept her posture straight, reminding herself that it wasn’t her problem and she had no business trying to take over the situation. After all, she had enough to worry about with her own pride now that she knew one of the wolves was a little rough around the edges.

Astrid straightened as he turned to the felines again; smile fading a bit but still remained on his lips. She gazed at his smile, absently wondering how he could still manage to do so but dismissed the thought upon his comment. "Before we set off to the ranch I'll have to ask that you all revert to your human forms please and we shall as well, just a precaution." Astrid hesitantly nodded, and looked back at her pride to check to make sure everyone was doing so. After everyone came into his or her human form she looked to Anvar in confirmation. “Done.”

"Also I will have to ask for you to lead, as I have said the ranch is in that direction, again another precaution." Astrid shrugged, pleased with this request. “That’s completely fine.”Astrid commented confidently. She loped to the head of the group, waving her felines to follow but she made sure to motion to Dante to take the back, as the cushion between the groups. She didn’t want any surprises and she knew that the great hulking man would be plenty enough to ward off surprise attacks. Once she was comfortable with the pride’s position she led on towards the settlement in the distance, following the scent of wolf to keep her on track.

Dante stuck close to Astrid, uncomfortable with how things were developing. After the bloodbath and violence, he felt disturbed that they would be staying in close quarters with these wolves. They obviously had problems of their own, and even though he could see that Astrid wanted no part of it, it was still way too close to the pride. As Anvar set his requirements, Dante gazed at Astrid watching her agree. The first, she seemed hesitant about and he couldn’t doubt why. They would lose a lot of power if they were all in human form. Although, the wolves were all in human form too but the next order provided them with a surprise attack which deepened his unease. He noticed Astrid’s signal for him to take the back and he nodded. He would be the defense, and somehow he understood why. Dante knew what he looked like. He looked like an oversized German man, with ultra muscles. Anyone looking at him would wonder if he had been on a protein shake binge for five years while he had been going through puberty. He let the other felines follow and kept his posture straight, albeit tense, as he kept the rear of the formation.

Astrid led the pride and the wolves to a ranch house that was expansive and extremely gorgeous. She almost wished they had the same accommodations back at Central Pride. The thought was lost when she stopped beside the two houses and turned to Anvar with a curious expression. “Where would you like us to go? I’m guessing the guesthouse but since this is your home, I’ll not make any assumptions, hm? I’m sure you wouldn’t want us in your bedroom, shedding cat fur everywhere.” She grinned, and hitched one hip up while her hand rested on it. It was a typical challenging pose that didn’t show any menacing qualities and was actually a bit playful. Many of the females did that back in her pride whenever they teased the men. She needed to be in good graces with these wolves if what she had planned would go well.

"Not really, no." The injuired fox laughed lightly, causing Anvar's mood to raise a fraction. The pride's leader had agreed to his terms causing his mood to raise a little bit more but he could still feel that anger bubbling within him, ready to explode upon the next person to anger him. I'm going to curb stomp that mangy mutt when he returns, the thought was sour and felt like poison to his mind but he still held it within his head, he meant every word of it and planned on making it a reality. He noticed as they all walked to the ranch the dissaproving glare coming from his beta and gave a threatening glance back, he wasn't in the mood to be judged, he had never lead them to harm before and the odd time that danger did find them he had made sure that he was the one to come to harm not his "family". He looked down on Rose who looked small and helpless in his arms but also quite cute despite the blood seeping from her bite mark. "Now this is the second time I've carried you to our home you know." He paused for a second as he corrected himself. "Actually you wouldn't know you were completely out of it but you obviously remember giving me this scar under my eye, you always have been a lousy aim." He allowed himself a chuckle despite his crappy mood even if it was only half hearted.

They had reached the house with no more incidents, much to Anvar's relief although the dissaproving eyes he could feel on him were starting to put him down again and he began to go into thought about his decision but was interrupted. "Where would you like us to go? I'm guessing the guest house but since this is your home I'll not make any assumption, hm? I'm sure you wouldn't want us in your bedroom, shedding cat fur everywhere." He hand went to an elevated hip, the alpha wasn't quite sure if she was flirting or not, he had very limited experience with werecats, he had read the countless books in the study about the war of the ghilles and knew that they shouldn't be treated lightly but if they had came here aggressively they would have slaughtered Brandin there and then, not remain diplomatic as they had. He returned her gaze with a smile, strained but not noticeably so, not to someone who didn't know him anyway. "You assumed right but I'll warn you you're already standing in my bedroom, I prefer to sleep under the stars." He wasn't kidding the only time he slept in the house was when it rained and when the winters cold became too much for him otherwise he'd sleep by the campfire, the roaring flames keeping him warm while a bottle or two of whiskey kept him company.

"Head inside the only thing the guesthouse doesn't have is somewhere to cook food but if you're desperate for some cooked meat, I'll be happy to have some company by the campfire." He pointed to it. "But I'm afraid you'll have to wait a while before that happens I have to tend to my wounded friend here and have a word with the rest of the pack here." He gave a glance to all the present members and gestured with his head to go to the study before turning around to Astrid ine more time. "I'll drop by to see if you're all doing ok." And with that he headed into the house to which his pack members had already entered. "Now I'm going to fix you up and make you that pretty fox lass I know." He chimed to Rose, laying her down gently on the couch before heading into the kitchen to fetch the first aid box, and a bottle of emergency sipping whiskey (Renmy had used up all the anti-septics it seemed.) He pulled a rilled bandage out of the box and soaked it in the whiskey, it was lucky he loved everyone of his pack members, Brandin excluded otherwise he might not have wasted the one liquid he held more sacred than blood. "Now this is going to sting like an absolute bitch." He warned her before pressing it down firmly onto the wound to which he quickly priceede to bandage up, not a single bit embarrassed or shamed with where his hands where touching, he was helping her out after all.

After checking he had done a good job, gave her a light kiss on her injuired shoulder. LNow that will make your boo boo all better, now I don't have a lollipop but how about somethimg a little bit stronger?" He held out the whiskey to her and was surprised by her reaponse before suddenly becoming serious as he realised tha the rest of the pack was waiting for him in the study, sighing rather sadly he asked Rose. "Do you think I made a bad call? I was only showing a bit of human compassion for god's sake." He nodded solemly at her answer before heading to the study. He opened the door and as soon as those judging eyes hit him his anger bubbled up again, not exploding but spilling over a bit. "I know what you all are thinking and I have one thing to say, how fucking dare you." He was surprised as anyone else at his choice of words but he had little power over himself at the present time. "How fucking dare you that you don't trust me enough with this decision, not once have I lead this pack into danger, not once and when it has come knocking on our doors have I not shown you how much I love each one of you that stands before me." He was almost close to tears as he ranted on. "I think just by looking at me should remind you of all the sacrifices I have made to keep you safe." He gestured to his scars at this statement, not one had come from his own mistake, all of them had been from him helping them whether it be sparring, protecting them in a fight or simply from scrapes and burns when helping with their duties. "If they really wanted to mean us harm they would have slaughtered that bastard of a wolf that attacked one of his own pack and believes he can get away with it." He shook his head and glared at everyone, keeping eye contact until they broke it. "Now just piss off, I'm heading to the campfire if anyone needs me." The anger was now gone for good and he regretted yelling at his pack like that but saying sorry wasn't going ro help.

He grabbed a bottle from the cabinet and the already opened whiskey and headed to the campfire, passing by Rose to which he gave her a weak smile the best he could muster. He had completely forgotten about checking up in the cats and began to build a fire. Only when it had finished had he began to drink visiously, not giving damn who saw him but feeling lonely despite his best efforts and began to go deep in thought. on hsr in

Astrid Vellamo

Astrid purred a chuckle at Anvar’s unexpected answer. "You assumed right but I'll warn you you're already standing in my bedroom, I prefer to sleep under the stars." She had expected something more sarcastic in the least. “Ah, well that’s interesting.” She kept her comment at that, leaving the rest out. ‘Interesting because dogs also have a habit of sleeping outside too. Isn’t that cute?’

"Head inside. The only thing the guesthouse doesn't have is somewhere to cook food but if you're desperate for some cooked meat, I'll be happy to have some company by the campfire." He pointed to it and Astrid sniffed unhappily. "But I'm afraid you'll have to wait a while before that happens. I have to tend to my wounded friend here and have a word with the rest of the pack here.” Astrid tensed and nodded. He probably meant something like a dominance meeting or lecture. Her father used to do that when his members doubted him. It assured their positions as the Alphas although she didn’t know the wolf and might be wrong. She scowled. John would have just had the feline killed. "I'll drop by to see if you're all doing ok." Astrid huffed. “Take your time.” Astrid murmured as he began walking towards what appeared to be the main house

Astrid led the felines up into the house and as soon as they were behind closed doors she sighed. “Alright. Let’s get down to business.” She sat down on the couch, glancing around at the furniture.“Not bad taste, eh? Anyways we’ll go with Larissa’s plan but tweak it. I say we use them. They seemed threatened by us and that’s probably because we took some of their territory a while back. They probably want it back and we can give it to them. Sic them on our enemy and we both win. We get to go free and they get a piece of land back. If not, we’ll be running for a while. John won’t stop to get his grubby hands on our heads whether they be attached or not.”

She inhaled slowly, and then hissed out her breath. “So for now, scout out what you can about the wolves. Find out the dangerous ones, and the ones who will support us. Be on your best behavior.” She cast her gaze around her pride. “Also, be back for dinner.”

Dante Selantine

Dante hid his grin as Astrid teased the alpha of the wolf pack. By the look she was returned, he had no idea what she meant. It was unusual for Astrid to be so playful but he figured she had something in mind. ‘Something grand by the look in her eye.’ He thought to himself as he shifted his muscular weight from foot to foot. After the conversation, Dante followed Astrid and the others into the house with relief. He was glad to get out of sight for a while.

Once inside the house, he took his place standing next to the half-kitchen. He briefly thought about dinner but let the thought fade as he had just eaten a while ago. He perked as Astrid began speaking. She sounded excited and relaxed while she gave the pride new instructions. It had been a while since he had felt comfortable and she seemed to feel the same way. Dante looked to the others, noticing how they also seemed to get strength from having a new directive instead of just running away. This was a good development and he added a note to thank Larissa later.

Dante ducked his head when Larissa asked about pairing up. He had something to do, and even if he would have wanted her company, he wasn’t willing to put her in danger. James was the first to decline and he patted Dante on the shoulder on the way out. Dante flushed pink and scratched the spot behind his right ear. “I have, uh, something to do.” He shuffled away and out the door guiltily before murmuring, “Sorry…” As he left. The tall German stopped outside of the guesthouse and inhaled contently. “Feels good not to have to worry about everything. I think I need to solve that mystery though.” He thought out loud before beginning a slow jog back the way they came avoiding the campfire and open areas.

Dante stopped by the area where the scent of coppery blood laid on the grass that was drying as the sun rose. It was about evening now and the heat shone down on him without mercy. Dante raised his human nose to the air, testing for anyone around him before lowering himself to the ground and shifting into his tiger form. His pained mewling lasted for brief minutes and when he quieted, he was fully animal.

Dante lowered his muzzled to the ground and growled. The fight earlier aroused anger in him but his goal wasn’t to relive his memories. No. He had to find his own attacker. If whomever it was that threw the dagger was that proficient in knife work then he needed to make sure it wasn’t a threat. ‘I won’t allow a threat to my pride. Not to Astrid. Not to Larissa. Not to anyone.’ He snarled but realizing he was getting too worked up, quelled his rage. The large white tiger took his spot where he had been standing when he saw the knife and pictured the angle. From the angle it had come from, it would have come from.. ‘There! That way!’ He loped in the direction of the trees with a cattish grin.

Dante slowed as he picked up a scent near the base of a tall tree that seemed to have some years on it. The first scent was wolf with a sort of sweetness making whomever the scent belonged to probably female. He also smelled the tang of blood here too. Dante circled the tree searching for a blood trail but upon finding none, searched for a deeper scent. A faint scent came to mind but it was fading and fast. He leapt to follow the scent hoping that he would reach it in time.

After getting lost so many times that he couldn’t even count them all, he finally stumbled upon the small girl. She looked injured by the way her walk seemed staggered and frail. Worry blossomed in his chest but he pushed it down and slid through the underbrush towards her noticing the blades on her thighs. He had been right but he had no desire to hurt the girl. She looked very young and killing a young child was disgusting. Dante grunted, alerting her to his presence and began his shift into human form.

Once in human form he hurried up too her carefully. He didn’t want to scare her off and he knew he looked barbaric with the leaves in his hair and whatnot. “H-hello.” He spoke up nervously then shook his head, trying not to seem weak. “I mean, Hey. You look like your in pain… Do you need help? I can help you. I won’t hurt you. Promise.” Dante smiled happily then frowned, realizing he was being too friendly. This is harder than I thought. What should I do?

Astrid Vellamo

Astrid leaned back on the couch and grinned pleasantly. “Larissa. Can you do something? You’re the best one to do this so can Ophis and you go find some nice clothes. Two options: Raid the wolves, or go on a shopping trip. Town shouldn’t be too far, hm?” Astrid stretched with a long yawn before rolling up onto her feet. “Although, you should find some clothes first anyways. Probably need to raid the females. Get to know them while you’re at it.” She purred slightly and her grin was menacingly like a predator getting ready to find something fun.

She sobered up as she took a few steps towards Larissa and wrapped her arms around her, happy to be safe and have her pride close. “I love you all though so be careful on this special mission. And whatever you decide to do afterwards, be extra careful.” She smiled before releasing her sister.

Astrid gently pushed Larissa towards the door and waved Ophis to join Larissa. “I trust you girls will do your best so be good. Particularly good!” She stressed their behavior with a stern glance to both of them before shambling back to the couch and laying down with a long sigh. “I’ll stay here in case the Alpha decides to ‘check’ on us.” She huffed, rolling her eyes with amused sarcasm.