Summanus's Story

Durandel didn't hesitate to stand into the shadows, he knew he would have to fight many of his fellow kin but if he can avoid that then why not? No need to get seriously hurt before they even reach the cities! As he entered he noticed that not all of them had enter the cloak and that was Vesta. "Vesta! What are you doing!?" He said in an hushed but agitated tone. "What the!?" Mydnyte spat as he saw her walk out into the road. "She's going to get us all spotted!" Mydnyte quietly barked. Durandel shook his head at the fact, does she not think that these Wolves would not turn on another of their Pack? They are loyal to Prometheus, not the Tenneth! Durandel was about to charge out when he was stopped by Summanus who shook his head.

"Summanus!? But why!?" He asked. "She made her own decision to do this and although stupid, we could take advantage of this." Summanus spoke. "How?" Durandel inquired. "Vesta could provide for us, a distraction, with the enemy focused on her we can outflank them and take them by surprise. They won't understand what's about to happen to them until too late." Summanus explained. Durandel didn't like the idea of using one of their own as bait, it seemed a callous thing to do. Still, they are up against superior numbers and a force that isn't afraid to use underhanded tactics. Yet it was dishonorable and it didn't sit well with Durandel in his mind.

"Summanus isn't wrong." Mydnyte spoke up. "If we do get the drop on them, perhaps we could take one of them hostage and use him as a means to enter the Vulcans." Myndyte contemplated. "And what makes you think one of Prometheus's goons would lead us safely into the Vulcans?" Durandel questioned. "He will, if he doesn't wish to die that is." Mydnyte gruffly answered. Maybe their plan could work and if it does, it would be safer than trying to scale over these mountains, carrying on the way that they have been. Durandel decided to bide his time then but he couldn't help but worry about Vesta. "Well, whatever you two plan to do, best do it quick before something bad happens to Vesta."

A stranger's voice was soon heard. "I smell Wolves, don't you?" A Wolf spoke. Sniffing another Wolf raises his nose to the air. "Yes, I believe you are right." "I told you! It must be the Resistance?! Right?" The Wolf spoke again. "Has to be! No one else would dare be on these roads!" A new voice rang out. "Look! Over there!" A group of four, no, five Tenneth Wolves where coming down the path when they spotted Vesta in the middle of the road. They howled as they began to rush her. "YOU STOP!! YOU ARE UNDER ARREST IN THE NAME OF THE ALHPA!!!" The one leading the charge shouted.

"Fang, can you hold the barrier by yourself for a bit? Summanus and I will out flank them." Mydnyte asked. Fang nodded. "Summanus, stand atop that boulder and when I capture one of them from the shadows, I want you to rain lightning down upon them. Got it?" Summanus nodded. "Let's go." Mydnyte finished. It was then Durandel shouted, "NO! WAIT!" Mydnyte and Summanus stopped in their tracks when suddenly another howl came from over the next horizon. "FOR THE RESISTANCE!!!" All of a sudden fireballs rained down upon the road as the Tenneths were ambushed! "MORE RESISTANCE!!! KILL THEM ALL!!" The Promethean barked as the Tenneth returned fire. Before she knew it, Vesta was in the middle of an attack! With all of the excitement going on, they barely noticed that Blue was having problems of her own.

Blue hasn't been paying much attention when the flames of battle were suddenly fanned into existence right before. It was the sounds of it all that struck a chord within her and it felt like she was going to lose her stomach contents. She had never taken a life, and she had no desire to see them taken before her, for War really was a gruesome thing. It never solved anything, nor would it help anyone.

And in her mind, something broke and the monsters inside her head, escaped. They fractured her reality, making her feel out of control and so afraid that she thought she was shaking all over. She thought, that surely the other wolves of the group had noticed now, that they saw how she trembled and whined. Or that the ground was shaking like giant demonic shadow wolves were trying to escape from beneath the earth.

But in reality, she was not shaking at all, nor was she whining. In fact, she was so still, that one could even think she stopped breathing.

A minute passed, in which Blue finally moved. And a part of her noticed how everyone's attention was on the battle before them, so without thinking, she backed away, out of the cloak and turned to run.

The heat of this place was unbearable for a wolf of non-Tenneth descent, and now she now she was running it. Not the easiest nor safest thing to do for her, but she had allowed her fears to control her, and safety was of no concern to her. She didn't notice anything at all, not even the sudden electricity building up in the pendant the further, it's power increasing with every step... until like a volcano, it burst out a high dosage of power. It was enough to bring Blue to the ground in a tumble, but this time, it did not knock her out.

Her body became numb, while her heart was desperatly pumping to keep up with her increased activity as well as a deal with the dangerous side effects of the pendant. She stayed lying on the ground, panting with her tongue and teeth fully exposed. Her core temperature was rising too high and too fast since her body was not able to dispel heat properly in this environment. I should stay like this and just give up...

Blue was at the end of her rope....

"Get up."

A chill ran along Blue's spine.

"And go back."

She whined, shutting her mouth and lifted her head. Golden eyes with a portrait of black fur darker than even a shadow, stared down at her. Her teeth began to clack from a new type of fear.

She looked away for his gaze, was not something you returned unless you wanted to lose your sanity.

A nod from her was all it took for the dark wolf of fear and death to go back to the shadows, where he would watch over her just as he had done from the very first day She had taken away her own memories.

She got back up, and walked back to group. Surely no one had noticed her absence.

Nova was more distraught then the other's about the implication of Vesta causing a fight to get started. If a scuffle broke out, he wouldn't be able to fight. He could scarcely see straight in this environment, much less keep his balance to defend himself properly. He was all the more anguished when Summanus had the idea of exposing the rest of the group just to make up for Vesta's folly. Why throw all your hopes down the well just because one fell down? This wasn't going to be good. All the less so because he was going to feel like a dirty coward for watching his mates take the hits. Who was the shield now?

As the rebellion burst from the hillside, plunging this small skirmish into a proper battle, the Ausi fearfully squirmed his way to the back of Fang's barrier to put some distance between him and the heat. He hadn't been this shaken since the Elemental Battles. At least there he could fight back. Here, his element was a good for nothing, other than a pitiful attempt at keeping him cool.

Nova continued to shrink away from the battle, until he realized he was at the back of the barrier. Wait, hadn't Blue retreated to this spot earlier? Where had that shewolf gone? She hadn't seemed up to action just moments before, from the little he had been paying attention to her, so he doubted she had run off and joined the ambush. Blast, why did she have to be so unpredictable? At least everyone could rely on him being a cynic. Now she was going to get herself captured or killed!

Feeling worse than useless, Nova did what little he could to stay out of the way of the others.

"YOU STOP!! YOU ARE UNDER ARREST IN THE NAME OF THE ALPHA!!!" Vesta stopped with a smile on her face. "This works. They will take me in giving the group time to move and gets me closer to Prometheus." She thought, but before her plan could go in to more detail. "FOR THE RESISTANCE!!!" She closed her eyes letting out a sigh. "Great." she whispered. Opening her eyes in time to see fireballs rain from the hills. "Who ever this resistance is just blow my chance at reaching Prometheus without the group. And since when is there a Tenneth resistance. That's not our style. We challenge the Alpha and to the victor goes the spoils. Now who to choose. Help the patrol and possibly have to fight my group. Or help the resistance and fight my people. Well as the old saying goes, Know thy enemy then burn them from within." She thought before nodding to herself. She aimed for the leader of the patrol and unleashed a cylindrical blast of fire at him. In an effort to draw as much attention towards her and away from the group she built up some of her rage and let loss a cone of fire focused on the patrol hopping to avoid hitting anyone else. She held the cone for a few seconds then dropped in to an aggressive posture.

Amarok hearing the wolves yelling turned away just for a moment, log enough for Blue to sneak away. "Blue? Maybe she is getting into position to attack who ever is ye..." Her thoughts interrupted by the sounds of combat. Turning back to around, Amarok made Vesta's shadow a little bigger and a lot darker before wrapping herself in a ball of darkness. She sprinted out of the void Fang was maintaining and slide on the loss rock under Vesta. Standing up on the other side still concealed in her shadow ball that now also covered Vesta.

With the sudden intrusion of the Resistance, it gave Vesta the crucial opportunity to unleash her attack without interference! The cone of fire enveloped the leader of the attack and the few with him leading the charge. This caused those in the back to retreat from the sudden firestorm. The Resistance, although surprised by Vesta's attack, no less took advantage of the confusion it had caused. The retreating Prometheans were out of luck that day as the Resistance pelted them with fireballs, blasting them off their paws and unto the loose, and rocky soil. It wasn't long before the survivors were detained but more pressing to them was the matter of this third party.

They didn't recognize Vesta by sight or scent and wondered who she was and what she was doing here. Though more curiously was her sudden disappearance into a ball of shadows. Those shadows were not formed naturally, it had to have been created but that would suggest that a Kamarian is involved. Of course this conclusion did not make any sense to the Resistance, what could a Shadow Wolf be possibly doing all the way out here? Let alone in the company of one of their fellow Tenneth. Then came a howl and to those that can hear it, would know that those who have remained hidden are now known to the Resistance.

The Cloak of Darkness is an impressive technique to be sure and make use of the natural shadows to create an even darker one that obscures the vision of any who looks towards it. Yet, the Cloak was invented by the Kamaria to hide, not themselves, but to hide others instead. Because of this, the Cloak suffers from a major weakness that other Kamarian techniques do not. It cannot mask another Wolf's scent. With the air stirred from the sudden heat of the attack it carried the scent of the others as it reached the noses of those Resistance members hiding downwind from the ambush. Their howl alerted those on that road to their presence and soon who, one could only assume to be the leader of this ambush, turned and dressed the ball of shadows in the road.

"Alright, come on out of hiding! You're little tricks aren't fooling anyone anymore. We have no intention of fighting you, we only wish to talk, but be warned, if you do attack us, then we won't be holding back. Now show yourselves." He spoke aloud. This caused Mydnyte to pause and think about their current situation. Now they could fight back, not knowing who they are or what they are holds a distinct advantage, but the numbers are not in their favor. It would be a foolish move to attack without knowing how many foes stand in their way. They could do as the Wolf suggested, so far they haven't show any aggression towards the group. And if they are against Prometheus that could make them potential allies, which they so desperately need.

"Well, what do you guys think? Should we go and talk to them?" Fang asked. "Could be risky." Summanus spoke next. "True but we haven't much time to discuss this. The longer we take, the more we risk a more violent response, and if we are to fight then I'd rather it be us who strike first." Mydnyte responded. "I'll go first." Durandel spoke up. The others looked at him. "If we can avoid a fight then I'd rather we do, I mean just look at the others. Nova is dying up here and Blue, she looks out of it, besides the rest of you don't seem to be tolerating the heat that much more better. You and Fang have been panting a lot, we need to be smart about this. Since I'm a Canicus, they might open up to me before any of you, if I can secure our safety with this lot then I think our odds at actually pulling this off would look a lot better, don't you think?" Durandel finished.

His logic was pretty sound, it was hard to argue against. "It seems worth a shot to me and besides, he's right, the heat is killing me...I don't think I can hold this barrier any longer anyways." Fang said with a panted chuckle. It was then Durandel stepped from out of the shadows and onto the road. "Hello, my name is Durandel. If what you say is true then we too, don't want to fight you as well." Durandel spoke. The Resistance Wolf turned his head in shock as his eyes widened. "Wait...what was your name again?" He asked, almost choked up on his own words. "Durandel, why?" He asked. "Durandel!? You can't mean the traitor whose name is posted on every street corner!" Another Resistance Wolf said aghast. "Indeed, he did say that name and his face matches the description on those wanted posters. He is that traitor Prometheus is after, then that means only one thing." The Wolf paused, "That he is an enemy to Prometheus. Well any enemy of Prometheus is a friend of mine." He said with a smirk.

"What?! Really, I have wanted posters?!" Durandel gasped. "So, I assume that Tenneth who attacked those Prometheans is a friend of yours along with whatever other Wolves are with you?" The Wolf asked. "Uh, well yeah, of course." The Resistance Wolf then laughed, "Splendid! More friends of the Cause! And good thing to, we were beginning to think we were all alone in this fight. You and your friends should come with us, there will be more patrols out looking for these lowlifes once they realized they haven't returned. And you don't want to be on the receiving end of their wrath when they do find you." The Wolf suggested. The other Wolves howled to let the other Resistance members know that they are not enemies. "So, what do you say?" The Wolf asked.

Blue trudged onward, hating herself for being an idiot and running so far. Now she had to walk the same distance again! How bothersome for her paws.

She did occasionally stop since there was a battle going on at the place where she left her 'friends' and it would be bad to get back while it was still going on. Yes, better to make it back when the battle was over since Blue was not one for blood and guts. So, she took her time walking back, and in fact she diverted from the straightaway route to take one where she would appear further along the road Durandel and the others had taken.

Of course, Blue did this so that she had an excuse for when they noticed her disappearance. She could claim to have scouted further ahead to make sure no more hostiles would appear. It was second nature to her for her to think such things. Perhaps it was in her blood - with BattleDemon being her mother and all. But once she thought about it all the evidence pointed to the opposite. Her mother sounded like an honestly strong wolf who stated her pleasure and displeasure clearly for all to hear. A complete opposite from me - the spying daughter and soon-to-be-traitor.

And possible killer.

Blue jumped, and winced at stepping on a sharp rock that did not help her sore paws at all. Her ears dropped and her shoulders became hunched as she tried to stifle... this secret from ever coming forward. It was one secret she would have to take to her grave, and unfortunately, it looked like within a few assignments, she would do exactly that.

A sigh of total sadness left her, and she continued forward, but this she stepped through the bushes to find herself on the road, further up ahead from Nova and the others. Wow, I guess I walked too fast. The thought was once of dry humor as she gazed upon the stand-off between Durandel and the possible Enemy. She was going to raise a paw to wave and call out when she found herself surrounded by a few scary Tenneth. Not a word had even escape her lips and now she was suddenly surrounded with glares full of distrust and hate.

Her eyes went wide with shock and her ears went straight up, and her tail went low. It was a comical look, one filled with surprise and chagrin. She immediately sat and let out a small whine of doubt and attempted to smile, albeit nervously. "Uh, K-Kh-Khan." The name came out a small whisper, before Blue cleared her throat and let her mask of the clueless Blue fall back into place. "Agheem! Khan, can you, uh, do something about these, intimidating fellows."

Blue wagged the tip of her tail embarrassingly, and ducked her head a little bit, perhaps a bit nervous since the wolves surrounding her were all taller then her. It was truly strange, and she took notes in their appearances because other then Durandel, had never been around Tenneth's and other strange Cancius. One thing she took from their look is that they obviously shared the same heritage as Durandel since they were all tough, burly looking wolves with battle scars to prove it. It was unnerving. Especially since they were focused on her like she was a bug that needed squishing.

Nova forced himself to stand. Now that there was no shadow to conceal his cowering his embarrassment got the better of him, and he tried look stoic. Perhaps he did, but if anything it was a soggy type of stoic. The rebels seemed eager to extend a paw of friendship to them, and since it seemed like they were all fighting the same bad guy, Nova couldn't see any problem allying the two groups. For despite his normally cautious nature, he was excited at the prospect of not having to fight this fight alone. Their odds of defeating Rashid through Promotheus seemed like impossibly long odds, why not accept help if it makes those odds appear just a bit shorter? In any case, he wasn't about to suggest they fought these new wolves; they seemed to outnumber them.

"So long as they can stomach having an Ausi around, I say we go with them," Nova said as the group deliberated.

Leaving the negotiating to the fire wolves, Nova decided to stay on the fringes of the conversation with Summanus and Amarok. Both of them seemed to be as bent out about the heat as he was, though perhaps not as extreme of an angle. He had to wonder what the confrontation was going to be like when it came down to it. Was having wolves of different talents and elements superior to simply fighting fire with fire? It was a shame they did not have an Arlyne with them, but those reclusive wolves seemed to have dived deep into their lakes to hold their breath through this war. Hopefully it worked for them. It certainly hadn't worked for his home.

"You think that we have much further to do with these lot?" Nova asked idly to those near him. It would say a lot about the strength of the rebellion on how near they were the city. A tiny band of brigands would have to stick to the countryside, a mighty revolution would be able to roar in the cities.

It seemed to Durandel that everyone was tired and quite hopeful at having an ally in the coming battle. He looked towards his haggered companions, who had neither the strength or pride to rebuttal such an alliance. The Tenneth looked towards Vesta and smiled, "Good to see another sister out here." Durandel turned to her, "Friends, I'm hoping." He responded. He could see that confused look of Blue mixed in with all of that weariness. "Well, they might just be our friends...it would seem they need help as much as we need help." He spoke. He looked over to Nova who seemed to be on board with the whole teaming up idea. If anyone would object to just trusting a group of wolves we've never met, it be him. "I think in this case they might." He respond to the Ausi.

Mydnyte stood forth, "Well, it seems you have the general consent of the group, we can give these rebels a chance...providing they help our lot of course." The Kamarian spoke. "If you can show my group somewhere they can rest...the Vulcans are never kind to strangers." Durandel said to their leader. "I know all to well, the heat is unforgiving, I suppose that is were the Fire Pack gets such a rough reputation from. Born in these conditions, condition us to become nothing less than that. But there was a time that Tenneth hospitality did mean something. We shall take you through the tunnels, back in the day when visitors came to our lands, especially honored guests, tunnels were built to shield them from the heat. Until they reached the boarding homes where they could rest, in relative comfort." The Tenneth spoke.

"Are you certain these tunnels are safe?" Summanus asked. "Normally they wouldn't be, but as you can tell, we don't get many visitors anymore...new management around here kind of has a discrimination towards Wolves of other Elements. So these tunnels are not tended to like they were used to. At least, not the direct tunnel lanes. We will have to take the abandoned ones, and I know how that sounds but, it's the best we got, especially with the Borak around." He finished. Summanus perked up, "Borak? What do you mean?" The Tenneth shook his head, "Here isn't the best place to discuss it, we should enter the tunnels and take you to our base...it's the best thing to do right now. Now, if you're ready we should move, the entrance isn't too far off." The Tenneth spoke as he turned to lead them.

Without much more coaxing Durandel followed, along with all who decided to take the shelter of the rebels. Soon they were lead at the foot of a nearby cliff. The Tenneth pushed aside a large boulder that was concealing the entrance to the tunnels. "Though here." The Leader spoke. Soon the group would find themselves in a dimly lit tunnel and it led deep, deep enough to avoid the heat of the outside world. The tunnels were built through access points that circumvented any nearby lava beds and streams. There were rebels patrolling up and down the abandoned network as they looked on in surprise to see such a gaggle of different Wolves. "Don't mind the others, they aren't used to getting visitors." He chuckled. "Sorry, just my attempt at a joke." The Tenneth said feeling more than a little silly. "Are all of you alright back there? I'm hoping being out of the heat will give you some of your energy back." "We would all feel a lot better if we had some water." Mydnyte spoke up.

"There will be water at the base were nearly there." Soon enough, they reached this so-called base of the Tenneth Resistance. There wasn't much, they seemed to be holed up in an out-of-the-way boarding house that's obviously seen better days, as they came in the back through the tunnel exit. "To the left are the beds, you can make your rest in there. So if you would, make yourselves comfortable while I go and inform our leader of your arrival. We don't have the best amenities I'm afraid, the beds are little more than cots, and we have only dried foods, but there is plenty of water. I will have some of the Wolves fetch you all some much needed nourishment. Excuse me." He spoke as he walked off leaving the group to their own devices.

From what you can see, the house wasn't that large of a space, it certainly wouldn't be the type of place that distinguished guests would be sent to live in. Yet it had a couple of floors and rooms, the whole structure was built right into a mountain side. The place was lit with candles and torches as the windows and doors were all boarded up, shutting out all but little slivers of light. The place was kept cool, obviously the house was built for other wolves in mind, as vents were made to redirect the heat outside while moving the cool air in. There were quite a bit of rebels holed up here, but even so, it seems the group is rather ragged and beaten up. The rebel faction doesn't seem to be doing all too well in the fight as one might have previously thought. Still, no sign of defeat could be seen, they are prepared to hold out as long as they can. Whoever is leading them, must be quite the inspiration, otherwise moral would seem a lot more strained. Of course their presence here could be the key thing they need, unless, of course there involvement leads to their downfall. Only time will tell.

Blue didn't disagree with the joining of forces but the amount of doubt she initially had about this journey so far stayed the same. Gaining allies did nothing for this band of doomed Wolves. That, she was sure of but she went along with them anyways. This was her... lesson afterall.

"Through here." Blue had not been paying attention so far but.... once they got to the tunnel entrance, a shiver went down her spine and it was a good thing no one was watching her for her face was frozen. Her eyes were glassy and wide with fear, the internal conflict of her irrational fear of the dark fighting with her logic made her frame shake for a mere second. She swallowed loudly before moving forward, back into the embrace of the dark, every step leading her closer and closer to a terrible end. She needed to get this job done.

The entombing tunnels were familiar in that they played tricks on her mind, leaving her to questioning her sanity again and again. Every time they turned a corner or stayed silent, she was see dark shadows flitting by at the edge of her peripherals. And the voices. The demonic voices. The hallucinations as well as her fear of the dark all weighed on her, bending her within breaking point and it showed.

Her eyes had darkened, while her tail dropped entirely while her ears would constantly twitch and swivel about to listen for approaching monsters. This was mostly neutral body language, since she could not allow herself to show her fear as it could possibly hinder her in her... spying. So, all in all, these things would not catch anyone here as red flag behavior. If anything, they probably thought she was just tired and unable to cope well with the current environment.

Finally, with a noticeable change in temperature and light, Blue was able to get some relief but her tension would not leave for she didn't like being here underground. It kept her from making observations of the rebel camp, and her depressive mood only plummeted further. It got to the point that once they got to the safe house, Blue couldn't relax.

Her muzzle was clamped shut for she was afraid that if she talked, she'd breakdown. So, she stayed silent, and found a place to sit where she could look like she was listening to the others.... when really, Blue was not there at all for she was already giving up, slowly but surely.

"Well, it's not a fabulous palace, or even a nice hotel like the one back in the Aven territory, but...it sure beats the heat!" Fang spoke as he turned and looked around. It was the most pleasant of sights and heck, these Wolves look like they've seen some better days. "I just want some water, hey, you two over there, do you know how long it takes to get some water around here?" Mydnyte asked. The Wolves just shrugged. "Thanks for the info." The Kamarian grumbled. "I'm sure it won't be long, after all, we are like honored guests or something right? The wolf they sent will be back with some cold water in no time! For now, lets just rest easy for once yeah?" Fang suggested as he went into the next room looking for a place to sit.

"Hmph." And with that Mydnyte just nodded and followed his friend's lead. The rest of the company decided that would be best as well. In the next few moments, a couple of Resistance fighters came with bowls of cold water. "Here you are, it's mineral water from a nearby spring. So it's fresh." The Wolf spoke as they turned to leave them to their privacy. "Good." Mydnyte spoke as he readily drank his bowl. The group felt some relief, having been able to quench their partched tongues. As they continued to lounge, or at least seem somewhat at ease, a rage of thoughts swirled within Durandel.

He thought he would feel comfort being back home, even in it's current state, but all he's felt was a growing unease. It was quite unsettling but he couldn't help but feel that something bad is going to happen. Of course it's ridiculous to think that a feeling can tell the future but a wolf's sense of danger is hardly wrong. Yet, Durandel is not alone, the mentality of the whole group could be summarized as unsettled.

It was then some Wolves showed up as they asked the group to come along with them. Their momentary reprieve was about to end, for our most, weary and troubled heroes, they were about to meet the leaders of the Resistance, and with it, learn of a whole world of troubles.

----

The group was lead down darkened hallways with only torchlight and their Wolf host to guide them. Before long, guards started to show themselves, tense looking wolves who seemed to be quite on edge. Perhaps not the stuff real guardians are made of but there was quite a bit of them along the way. They must be nearing. "Alright, were here." The Wolf spoke as he opened the door, it was an old conference room, used by the managerial staff to hold their meetings. It's now a war room for the Resistance as a table with the map of the Tenneth territories are laid bare. Gathered around this table are the Resistance leaders but one in particularly astonished Durandel. "You! I-I recognize you! You're...You're...CASTOR!!!" He said aloud.

Castor raised his head to see Durandel and then smiled, "Didn't believe the reports at first, never thought I'd be seeing your muzzle again." Castor chuckled. "You know this Wolf?" Mydnyte asked. "Know him!? We both worked on the Council together! Though, I'd never believe he would be apart of the Resistance! I figured he'd be working for Prometheus right now." Durandel explained. "Well, technically, I am, but in truth, I'm working in secret for the Resistance to provide them with any information I can get." Castor explained. "It's true, without Castor's help, we wouldn't have an eye on Prometheus's government like we do now." An older voice spoke from within the shadows. Soon an old Wolf stepped forth, an introduced himself as, "Ezekiel, I'd say it be a pleasure to meet you all but this isn't some pleasant social call now is it?" He spoke as he walked up to the head of the table.

"Sir Ezekiel and I, formed this Resistance after Prometheus took the power of Alpha for himself and transformed our once, great country into a police state!" Castor barked. "Yes, it was...horrible, what happened." Ezekiel muttered. "Sir Ezekiel was at Alpha Cendrillion's home the night it happened." Castor spoke up. "The Night what happened?" Fang asked. "The Night the coup occurred." Ezekiel spoke. "Prometheus did not acquire the role of Alpha, the honorable, Tenneth way! He betrayed Cendrillion, by suddenly attacking him in his own home. Without warning and without mercy, he and his goons killed the Alpha, his family and then proceeded to desecrate his memory by destroying everything they ever owned!!!" Ezekiel barked, followed by a sudden coughing fit.

"Sir!" Castor gasped but Ezekiel waved it off. "To make matters worse they then disposed of anyone who continued to support Cendrillion including...including...my OWN SON!!!" Ezekiel's cough grew even worse. "Please sir you need to calm down, it's not good for the cough to be over-excited." Castor pressed. "I know, I know, I'm sorry for losing my composure, a leader should always remain rock steady, but we are here to change the state of things. And with you all here to support us, we might just pull it off, assuming you'll help us?" Ezekiel posed.

"Well, we haven't come here for a vacation, we also have our business with Prometheus we wish to settle." Mydnyte spoke. "Good, perhaps our goals are aligned after all." Ezekiel responded. "Well if you are to be of any help, you'll need to know of our plans, right now we are discussing how best to hit a certain refinery that's underneath Prometheus's control." Castor said as he drew his paw over the map. "It's deep in the industrial sector of Hephaestus City, problem is it's such a densely populated area, it will be difficult to move in a sizable force without drawing attention." Castor continued. "So, I suggest we send in small groups in waves, that way constant stream will be there to reinforce each attack." Ezekiel added. "Thanks to the majority of the Tenneth Army being sent to invade the Cliffs, there defenses should be at their weakest."

"What's so important about this refinery that you would risk lives to destroy?" Fang asked. "As you will come to know, the Tenneth army uses alot of metalwork in it's arms and defenses and since we have a natural source of heat strong enough to melt metal, we've built alot of them. Of course what makes this one important is what they're creating inside." Castor explained. "Our Intel has been inconclusive as to what they're building inside but one thing is clear that it is a weapon, a weapon capable of conquering Stonehold." Castor revealed. A hush fell over the room. "Wait...that doesn't make sense." Summanus spoke up. "You just said the majority of the Tenneth forces went to invade the Cliffs. Why would they do that and leave behind the very weapon that would garner them victory?" Summanus asked. It was an excellent question poised but not without response.

"I would agree that does seem rather irresponsible on their part, but, we have suspected that misinformation is being passed around in replace of the fact. We do not know who is responsible but we have launched discreet investigations into our ranks. What I do know, from our most trust source, that whatever is being built in that factory, is extremely important. Round the clock surveillance, restricted information, passwords, codes, and the factory never seems to close. They are up to something and I do not like it. Regardless if it's a weapon or not, they are keeping it closely guarded and if we take out that operation, we can derail them from further tyranny." Ezekiel finished.

"Right now the Boraks have taken up guarding the factory, since many Tenneth have gone to attack the Dimitrios. So, we've had to adjust our plans some but I think we might be able to go with our original strategy if, you Kamarians wouldn't mind lending a paw?" Castor asked. Mydnyte eyed the Tenneth and with a raised brow, "What do you need?" He asked. "To put it simply we need cover, cover that can move. The Borak element has better range than a Tenneth fireball could cover. Not to mention they are using some, odd light that's powered by their lightning rather than our traditional oil and fire lamps. It seems to be brighter and it makes it difficult for us to get a large number of us close without raising their notice. But if you could create an impressive shadow then we could move in and catch them unaware." Castor then brought out a blueprint of the factory in question. "We've marked were all of the guards are and their patrol routes." Castor said as he placed his paw over various parts.

"We've noticed this, this here is their weakest point. If we can move in our Wolves here, then we can get in close and take out the guards before they could raise an alarm. Then inside we will overwhelm the soldiers there, and remove the workers and then we destroy whatever is inside." Castor finished. "Well, that's all well and good, but even though we can make a large shadow, this building is quite big, judging from the measurements here on the side. You must need alot of wolves to take it, and well, I'm not sure we can give enough cover to enough Wolves for this operation." Fang spoke up. "Yeah, and I'm sure from up above seeing a large shadow that's only in one spot moving would seem weird." Mydnyte added. "What if I could provide more darkness?" Summanus asked.

"What do you mean?" Ezekiel asked. "I know of the lights you speak. There powered by electricity running through wires from a generator. It's all technical but the Boraks must not have been here for that long, so I'm sure there lighting set up was a bit rushed. "If you could just get me inside, I can find the generator and shut it down. It will give them less vision and more room to work your element." Summanus suggested. "Hm, if it can be done, then we can have more of our wolves enter other points of interest." Castor said. "And our shadow will look a lot less conspicuous." Mydnyte added. "Alright but you can expect us to let you go in alone do you?" Ezekiel asked. "I would prefer it that way." Summanus answered. "Out of the question! This not the time for the lone wolf act. Going in alone without any support is just reckless!" Ezekiel objected. "Besides what would happen if you got captured or killed? It would put us at a severe disadvantage, they would know we are coming!" Castor added.

"I understand all of your concerns, but, I am asking you to have faith in me...I know what I am doing." Summanus said with dead seriousness. "The only thing I ask, is for you to wait until I'm finished shutting down the lights to enter. I don't need Wolves getting antsy and thinking they need to be some kind of hero." The room fell quiet after Summanus's request. "But what if the worst does happen? Wouldn't you want someone to come in after you?" Castor asked. "Yes, I'm not so sure about this either." Fang spoke up. "Look, if the worst does come to pass, then if I do not have the lights down in thirty minutes, then proceed with entering the factory. As for now, I only ask that you'd let me in your storeroom? I need some things first." He asked. Ezekiel nodded. Summanus was then led to the storeroom where he disappeared for a few minutes before coming back. Afterwards the plan was set into motion.

Summanus would be snuck in first to disable to lights. After that, the Kamarians would create a shadow, to further provide cover to the invading Resistance. Then their perimeter guards would be dealt with before the Wolves inside are dispatched. Then when the danger is passed whatever Prometheus was working on would be destroyed. Hopefully, this could be the victory that helps push their cause towards toppling Prometheus's regime. Ezekiel then proceeded to ask the group who would join in this mission. if they do not wish to, then they may stay here. As for the heat, well it dies down significantly at night, which is when they will enact their plan. To those that join, you will find yourselves underneath the cover of dark, in the back alleys of the Tenneth city. The Resistance members made good use of the back streets, that seemed to twist and curve into some sort of wolf-made labyrinth.

Soon enough the smell of smoke and metal seemed to permeate the air, more so than usual. It would seem they have found themselves in the industrial district. At this time of night, most of the factories are closed or closing. Yet one, shines brightly as if a lit torch in the middle of a dark cave. There the light was not like of fire and the sounds of industry roared into the night. Smoke and fire bellowed from the chimneys as Wolves seemed to patrol it's grounds every which way. The Resistance quietly encircles the factory waiting for their moment to strike. The group that did decide to join looked on from afar, as the Resistance member leading this operation spoke, "Well, we shall wait here, I suggest you take this time to prepare yourselves, once the operation begins, there is no turning back." With that you are left to your thoughts.

The arrival of the water improved Nova's mood several degrees, and his usual caution was forewent as he lapped greedily at the bowl. It had an interesting taste, not exactly bad, but not quite like that of a crisp spring either. Perhaps it was sulfur? It didn't matter. Hunger always made the best spice, and the Ausi was pretty sure that the same applied to thirst and drinking. Though he would have to find a way to fix his fur. During the brief moment he had allowed the water to stand still he had seen his reflection, and the work of several ice-steam treatments certainly didn't leave him looking pretty.

Nova tried to pay attention between relieved laps as the meeting progressed. Ever the spy, he spent part of his brainpower trying to size up the rebel leaders, and silently assessed the position of himself and the group. There were no clear escape routes, which was never a good sign, but as of yet the Ausi didn't suspect foul play. The whole idea of a super weapon was hard to wrap the mind around, but the plan seemed like a genuine one. Nova couldn't fathom the audacity of attacking the Dimitrios head on, especially when they were in their home cliffs. In the battle that he had witnessed around the time he met Cerise, it was rock wolf settlements out in the woods that had been attacked and routed. But in the cliffs, the Dimitrios would be in their element. It was like trying to attack an Aven in the woods, or a Kamarian in the dark. Or an Ausi in their own capitol city.

Steadied by his recent drink it was enough for Nova to say "I'm in," when the time came to choose. He had come too far to turn back now.

The promised reprieve in the heat was surprisingly effective. It was still plenty warm, but at least it no longer felt like they were standing in an oven. Rather disorientated in the urban setting, Nova kept on the heels of Amarok as they moved through the alleys. The was no mindpower to waste on scouting now, all was needed to focus through the fumes on the task ahead.

Eventually settling himself on the ridge overlooking the factory, the Ausi settled in to wait for the signal. He looked to his left and discovered that he had ended up by Vesta and Amarok, the latter pulling a face that looked like she had just licked a lemon. As he had heard feint chatter among the other rebels in the ring, Nova felt he could risk a quiet comment to steady his nerves and theirs.

"You don't know how long I've waited for this. To do something that matters in ending this war."

Blue had her mission. That was all that mattered to her and once out of the tunnels, her whole body relaxed. Whereas her mind, was not so relaxed. She hadn't said anything since they entered the tunnels, and even here, in the heart of Tenneth territory, her mouth stayed shut despite the unbearable heat.




Meanwhile, several distances away, Blossom tripped. "Oww, I tripped...Tiberius watch out for that thing there." She stretched her wing out, and using it like a third arm, pushed herself back onto her paws just in time to motion at what tripped her. It was a stump. "Oh, it's... its a broken tree..." But.... if it was a tree... I would have felt it.... but... Perplexed, that she hadn't felt it or properly seen it, she couldn't understand that what she was looking at was the stump of a tree that had been burnt.

Tired and sleep, she hadn't been watching where she was going, but now... She was wide awake. Wide awake enough to realize there were many more trees like the one that tripped her. This place had been scorched. It filled her with a sense of dread.

"Tiberius, I think we should hurry."




Blue was not like Nova, nor anyone else here in the mere idea that taking out one warlord would stop a war, between so many. Besides, she was more concerned about messing up due to the monsters in her head corrupting her sight.

Don't mess up.

A low growl made her step forward and wondered what would happen if Summanus died.

Everything was going according to the plan.

The time had come, the plan was to be enacted and whatever good or bad may come, there was no turning back now. As previously discussed, Mydnyte used the Factory's perceived blind spot to sneak Summanus inside. "Summanus." The scowled faced Kamarian spoke. "You're not about to tell me to be careful, now are you?" Summanus poked at the Shadow Wolf. "Bah! Of course not! I was just going to say don't screw this up." He said with a growl under his breath. "Good, I was beginning to worry you were getting soft on us in your old age." Summanus chuckled. Then the Lightning Wolf entered leaving a stunned Mydnyte behind, questioning himself on what he had just heard. "Did Summanus just crack a joke? He never did that...what's going on with him?" Either way there was hardly anytime to question the thought further. He turned back and returned to the others.

"Well, he's inside...it's up to him now." Mydnyte reported with uneasiness. "What's wrong?" asked Fang. "I don't know...lets just get this thing over with. The sooner we can get to Prometheus, the sooner we get to Rashid." He responded. "What was that all about?" Fang thought to himself. The situation was tense to say the least but now everything hinges upon Summanus's success. Not quite the best feeling in the world knowing that and it must feel even worse for the rebels, who placed their hopes in them. Summanus isn't known for failure but the odds are indeed against all of them. Can he do it?


****


Inside, Summanus stayed low and kept to the shadows. He had to watch his anxiety, otherwise he may begin to spark and that would be bad. He kept an ear to the ground and listened for pawsteps that moved in close and further away. It seemed there were some guards inside but not as many as he thought that should be wandering the halls. Curious, but it mattered not, he needed to follow the wires to the generator. The Borak stealthily made his way deeper and deeper in the factory, avoiding as many wolves as he could. He couldn't risk a fight, not yet. Yet, he did not know that a fight would find him. His infiltration left him close to the main workshop.

He could hear intense labor from behind two big, swinging doors. It sounded like something was being built, as the sounds of hammering, welding, and smelting dominated the hallways. It seemed the wires were leading into the workshop, the generator room must be close by. Of course it will be risky to sneak past both the workers and the guards, but he will have to manage. Summanus entered the workshop via the catwalks that hung above the large workshop. There he saw some sort of mechanized device, but what it was, he wasn't sure. It was big though, what could it be for? It seemed to come to a point, must be some sort of penetration device if he was to wager a guess.

Summanus couldn't dawdle over speculations, he just needed to kill the power so the rebels can halt Prometheus's wolves. Thankfully he managed to cross the workshop into the next room. There he came down a darkly lit hallway as the wires seemed to coverage behind one last door. Must be the generator room. Summanus walked inside and pecularily enough, the generator room was quite dark. He'd figured there would be more light in such a place. No, something seemed off but before he could react a bright light shown over head. "Well, well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes." A voice cooed. Summanus looked around as he saw Boraks jump off overhead platforms as they went to cover the exit and the generator. "I see, so it was a trap." Summanus spoke under his breath. "Too little, too late to realize that one Manny, but that is your greatest flaw. Your mind always seems to wander...I can't believe you've survived this long as a merc." The voice jeered. "Manny? Only one Wolf calls me that...hello, Atalanta." He spoke.

As if on cue Atalanta appeared before Summanus with a cocksure smile she strode up to the Two-Tailed Borak. "I would say it's a pleasure, but that would be a lie." Summanus spoke as the She-Wolf began to circle him. "Oh, Manny, even when you're clearly over your head, you still find the time to say something stupid." She chuckled. "How many times does this make it now? Ten, Twenty? Frankly, I've lost count on just how many times I've gotten the drop on you." She chuckled again. "Are you sure I'm not just letting you think you've tricked me all of those times?" Summanus jabbed. "Hehehe Manny, Manny, always sharp with your responses but dull with everything else. You're really are quite a cinch once someone figures you out." "Why are you here?" Summanus asked. "I can ask you the same thing! But I have my secrets as I'm sure you have yours. OH! I got it! How about we trade secrets, huh?" She asked. Summanus was silent.

"Hmph, didn't think so. If you're not willing to open up to me, Manny, then what makes you think I'm going to open up to you?" She questioned. "I don't know, maybe it's because your the kind of the wolf that likes to talk too much?" "Hah! Maybe but at least I'm not an open book like you are!" She said as she stuck out her tongue at Summanus. "I know you're just stalling for time, so how about we just cut to the chase?" She laughed as she backed up. It was then three of her Borak minions jumped overhead, fangs and claws bared as they closed in on Summanus. "Damn." He thought as his maw gripped the handle of his blade. Waiting for them to get closer, Summanus expertly draws his sword as the blade slashes it's way through all three of them. With a death cry blood spews forth as the wolves' bodies splattered across the floor. "Fire!" Atalanta ordered as her lackeys fired lightning bolts at the Stray. Summanus ducked and dodged the assault as he charged straight for Atalanta.

She smirked. Summanus came in for a quick swing of his sword only for Atalanta to jump up and over his head. In a sudden move, Atalanta bit down on the scruff of his neck and with a whip of her body, flung Summanus hard to the ground. "Oof!" He grunted as he dropped his blade. As he attempted to stand, four Boraks at once fired a stream of lightning at the poor Stray. "ARGH!" He cried as lightning shoots throughout his system. Summanus then collapses to the ground as steam rises off of his shaking body. "Zapped you a good one didn't they? But don't worry Manny, we aren't planning to electrocute you just yet. After all we have some questions that need answering. Bring him to Lady Doom, I'm sure she can talk some sense into that thick skull of his!" Atalanta ordered as her wolves moved in.

His vision was starting to glaze but that's just the initial shock. Soon the numbness will wear off and, these Boraks will be done for. He doubts Atalanta has let them in on his ability to absorb electricity and redistribute it for his own use. Besides, she probably thinks he's taken in more than he can handle. They haven't seen each other in a long while, and Summanus isn't the same wolf he used to be. He's grown. Not only has he increased the amount of electricity he can hold but the electricity he'll discharge, will be twice as powerful. "Alright, Manny, it's time for you to come with us to see the boss!" A Borak spoke as he and the others chuckle with wicked glee. Then the tips of his fur began to glow with energy as Summanus smirked, "Sorry boys but I'm afraid I'm going to have to disappoint you all." Atalanta perked up. "Oh no...YOU IDIOTS BACK AWAY NOW!!!" She yelled but it was too late. Summanus discharges the electricity as a barrier of lightning explodes forth and envelopes the Boraks. "GWAAAAH!!" They shouted as the barrier electrocutes them. Atalanta backs away before the barrier could reach her.

Summanus shouts as he then breaks the barrier as a shockwave sends the wolves flying back. Summanus pants heavily as he stands shakily before Atalanta. "Hmph! Even I have to admit...you can be...impressive, but I'm sure that little trick has drained you. And I know, that you're not foolish enough to face me when you're not at full strength. So, I'm just going to knock your ass out right here and now, don't worry, I won't make it too painful." She said with a smile. Summanus looked around, he's got enough reserves to fire one more bolt of lightning but he can't strike Atalanta, she's too fast. He can hit the generator from here but he knows Atalanta will be looking out for that. He needs to be smart about it but what can he use-wait...that's it!! Then a sudden swift kick came to the side of his head as it sent Summanus tumbling to the ground. "There you go, mind wandering again! I swear you can never keep your head in the moment even when certain death is staring you down." She sighed. "Oh well I guess I'll just have to drag your daydreaming ass back to Lady Doom myself." She chuckled. "That's where you're wrong, Atalanta, in fact you just gave me a clear shot." He thought to himself as he winced in pain.

He then fired a bolt of lightning at one of the downed Boraks, his body twitched and then, like a knee-jerk reaction, the unconscious Borak fired a bolt of lightning as it struck the generator causing it to overload. "WHAT THE HELL!?!?" Atalanta cried when suddenly the building went black. "Hehe, my planned worked...didn't think it would." Summanus wheezed. "Why you! YOU CHEEKY BASTARD!!!" Atalanta shouted as she swiped her paw down upon Summanus knocking him out. "Grrr, I'd kill you right now if you weren't of interest to Lady Doom. C'mon." She growled as she bit down on Summanus and dragged him away.


*****


On the outside our heroes and the rebellion saw the lights flicker out and die leaving the place a dark as the nighttime sky. "By the Gods! That crazy bastard did it!" The Resistance Squad Leader barked. "He really did it?" Fang spoke flabbergasted. "All right everyone, let's storm that factory now!" Mydnyte commanded. The Rebels then began to file in underneath the cover of dark as the guards stumble around questioning about what's going on. Soon our heroes would find themselves inside a dark factory as the sound of shuffling guards barking curses down the hall. What happens now, is up to our brave souls.

It was time. As the Tenneth insurgents entered the factory, the first wave had already begun their initial skirmishes against the factory guards. The guards stumbling in the dark were taken by surprise as the Resistance assaulted those loyal to the Alpha. "What!? invaders you say!?" The Guard Captain shouted at a shaken subordinate. "Exactly what I said sir!! The Resistance is here!! Not only that but I think they hired Mercs!!!" The Guard shrieked. "WHAT!?" The Captain shouted exasperated. "Don't tell me the Trade is involved in this!? That's not possible!? How can third rate rebels afford any Trade Mercenary, no, they don't have those kind of resources! Any they have, they've stolen from us!!" He thought to himself.

"No, it must be free agents that they've somehow convinced to join their fight. Fools, they will perish along with the Resistance!" He concluded as he then spoke to his subordinate, "You! Gather the rest of the guards! We will mount a counter offensive! Will even have those Borak slouches involved in this fight too!!" He ordered. "R-Right sir!" The Wolf barked as he went to gather the others. While the first wave was feeling sure of their fight, it was about to take a drastic turn.

Meanwhile outside the Raid Leader spoke to the second wave captain. "Alright, you know your role, be sure that none of those Wolves intercept our bombers. They need to be able to deliver the payloads to each point of weakness. We are going to send this building crumbling to the ground!" He barked. "Yes sir. The carts with the kegs of blasting powder have just arrived. Soon we will unload and send them in." The captain responded. Soon he saw blasts of flames coming from the railing outside of the building. The fighting along the outside walls of the factory began. He could even see some bodies falling off the side of the railing.

"Good."

Back inside the Rebels continued their ferocious attack as Durandel found himself in the middle of a fire fight. "Flames!" He barked. "Of all the hallways, we come across the one with the most freaking guards!" He cursed to himself. The Resistance and the Guards traded fireballs as Durandel stood behind a wall. "How did we even get separated!? I thought we all went in at the same time!? I don't see Vesta, Amarok, Blue, or Nova!" He thought to himself. "Where ever they are, I hope they're doing better than we are!"

Luck seemed to be with the others. Nova and Blue haven't encountered more guards besides the ones whose paws where shredded by Nova's shards. As for Vesta, she wasn't drawing anymore attention to herself than any of the rebels were. Of course her brutal fight did draw some guards closer to her but they haven't realized yet where she was. Amarok was safely hidden for the moment. As for Summanus....

****

"Lady Doom, I've brought to you our little saboteur." She proudly proclaimed as she dropped an unconscious Summanus before the Borak General. "Good, Wolves! Tie him up!" She ordered. Moments passed as Summanus awoke to find himself in tied up to a nearby pillar. "Where am I?" He asked. "You're in the control room." Shimmer spoke. "Whose there!?" He barked. It was then his face was hit with a swipe from Atalanta, causing his face to bleed a little. "Show some respect!" She growled. "It's alright Atalanta, I'll forgive him of his little slight." She spoke. "Of course Lady Doom." Atalanta bowed. "Doom!? Shimmer Doom is here!?" He shouted as the initial shock settled in.

"Glad you remembered me, Wolfsbane. It's nice to know that my name garners such a reaction, and I didn't have to use some silly nickname either." She spoke. Atalanta giggled. "Hm, I should have known you'd be the one overseeing this little operation, though I didn't think you would be in the same building as the workers." Summanus spoke. "Normally, I wouldn't but this little operation, as you put it, has some significance to our partners. They would like to see it's construction finished and they asked me to make sure it's completed on schedule." She responded. Summanus gritted his teeth together, this attack is going to be more costly than he thought. Not only is Atalanta one of the most dangerous Mercs he's ever had the displeasure of working with, Shimmer Doom is said to be an extremely capable fighter. She would have to be to have Atalanta so willingly follow her orders, not just follow them, but to have such a zeal about her. She's definitely not the same rebellious She-Wolf he once knew.

"So...just what is being built that the great Shimmer Doom had to grace everyone with her presence for?" He asked rather sarcastically. Atalanta growled something fierce but Shimmer told her to simmer down. "I could explain it to you but I don't feel like sharing any such valuable info with a saboteur...really, you've downgraded yourself quite a bit Summanus. Why are you working for such a disparate group like the one you're involved with? You were quite a legend in the Trade, Atalanta has told me so much about you and when I hired you to help conquer the Kitas, well, I clearly saw why. Yet, to this day, I cannot fathom for the life of me why you did not decide to join us? Your skills are sorely going to waste working with these fools that think they can just simply stop other wolves from killing each other." She spoke.

"Hmph, like you would know anything?" Summanus retorted. "I know quite a bit Summanus, I know that you've been traveling with three Kamarians, an Ausi, and a Canicus." She revealed. "What!?" Summanus gasped. "It's too bad that Alvan and that Avira aren't with you anymore, I know a certain someone who would like to have his property reclaimed." She smirked. "So it is true! You are working with Rashid!" He shouted. "Regardless of whom I'm working with, you and your friends little rebellion is about to come to an end. I'll admit, having you shut off our lights was the smart thing to do, but we are smarter, Wolfsbane. We anticipated this and in about a few minutes the back-up generator will be operational. Soon we will see all your little friends and we will swiftly have them eliminated! For you see, Atalanta has personally trained a group of assassins that serve as my personal guard. Once the order is given, they will systematically kill all hostiles in the building. I doubt untrained, low class Tenneths can stack up well against a squad of elite warriors." She laughed.

Summanus growled. "Damn, if only I could get away and warn the others but with both Shimmer Doom and Atalanta in the same room I won't be able to. If I was being detained by some grunts it wouldn't be a problem, but they were smart. They knew not to underestimate me and decided to lock me in a room with the two most deadliest fighters in the factory. If I even try something clever they'll catch on and fighting them both head on would be a bad idea. No, I'll have to sit and wait for an opportunity to escape." He thought to himself.

"I can see by the tense expression you're thinking of a way out of this. Hmph, you're not going anywhere you know? But, I didn't become a General by being cocksure. I pride myself on being thorough and I'm not about to have everything ruined just because I have the upper hand. No, your time here is over, you're not going to be present for the death of your silly little friends!" She barked as electricity began to swell around her. Static sparked off her rising fur as Shimmer prepared to launch a might bolt of lightning. "Don't worry Wolfsbane. I don't plan to kill you, no, you will suffer much before then." She chuckled. "Oh and if you plan to use my lightning against me, I'm afraid Atalanta tipped me off about your skills. I'll make sure I shock you long and hard enough that you'll be the one to pass out!" She shouted as she then fired the bolt at Summanus. "Damn." He thought to himself as he was struck.

Summanus shouted in pain as the electricity surged throughout his body. He felt his energy rising but it was too fast! Her elemental control is indeed powerful! A few more minutes of this and he'll be overcharged! If that happens then the excess energy will be released against his will! Causing him to pass out from the pain! And before he knew it, it happened. He exploded a barrier of electricity as Atalanta fled, not wishing to pass out from a severe shock. The field came closer and closer to Shimmer but boldly she stood, keeping the pressure up and before it could reach, the former Merc passed out. Shimmer then stumbled a bit. "Lady Doom!?" Atalanta spoke concerned. "He's a tough one, that's for sure. Most wolves would have died from that attack, but I suppose I shouldn't expect less from the one they call, Wolfsbane. I even a feel a little lightheaded...Atalanta!" She barked. "Keep the factory safe! Repel all intruders! I'm leaving!" Shimmer ordered.

"Were are you going, if I may ask Lady Doom?" Shimmer then looked over to her faithful subordinate. "I'll be personally escorting Summanus to the Palace. I'm sure Rashid will love to have such a warrior in his service." She said with an evil grin. "Guards!" she barked. A pair of Boraks came rushing in. "Yes, General!?" "Pack this one up, we're leaving through the hidden exit!" She ordered. "Right away!" They responded in unison. It was then the back-up generator powered on. Soon the lights returned, illuminating the factory once more. "Excellent, I leave the rest to you Atalanta." She spoke as she walked out. "You can rely on me, Lady Doom." Atalanta said with a bow.

****

The Resistance was stunned, to say the least, when they noticed the power returning to the building. "FLAMES!!" The Raid Leader barked. "Sir?" A worried Rebel spoke. "Keep the kegs coming!! We must continue with the offensive!!! This building must be destroyed!!" He barked. "YES SIR!!!" The Rebels then accelerated the pace of placing the bombs throughout the building, but is it already too late?

Mydnyte suddenly felt scared once those lights returned. So far sneaking the rebels in was a piece of cake, even with those barrels. But now the lights have returned and the shadows retreated. It was then he noticed that Amarok was not with them. "DAMMIT!! Did she go in!?" Mydnyte thought to himself. "FANG!!!" He called. "Yes!?" He answered. "Amarok! You need to find her now!!" He ordered. "Uh, okay but what about the rebels!? The lights are back on!!" He cried. "Just leave it to me!! NOW GO!!" He barked. Fang then ran inside as he hoped he could find the young Kamarian before something terrible happens.

It's amazing how quickly things can turn. Here he was muzzled and bound being hand delivered by Atalanta and Shimmer Doom to the big bad wolf himself, Prometheus. He never intended to meet the reigning Alpha this way but he supposes that's his luck in life. Summanus shifted his gaze over to Atalanta, his haughty rival, she was definitely enjoying this. He could tell by that smirk of smug satisfaction. She truly believes she's finally bested him, and while he'll admit she's hasn't been slouching around, if it weren't for Shimmer being there, he might've won. He looked over to Shimmer who hasn't made eye contact with him since capturing him back at the Factory. Apparently she seems focus on the task ahead.

Of course her accomplice is different, Atalanta has already taken jabs at him while on the road to the palace. She likes to get underneath a Wolf's pelt but Summanus has never been one to react to such childish antics. He supposes that's why she targets him ruthlessly, she wants to get a rise out of him. The trip to the palace gates were rather uneventful, it would seem the Factory raid has drawn most of the attention of the present military. He hoped his comrades had brought that metal abomination down root and stem. He wasn't quite sure what Prometheus had planned to do with that device but whatever it was, it wasn't good. He was more worried however if his capturing jeopardized their mission. He would have to make his escape soon to be certain.

Unfortunately, he was sure his opportunity wouldn't come until he was taken out of Shimmer and Atalanta's care. That would probably mean he would have to wait until he is thrown into Prometheus's dungeons to get a chance. It was then Atalanta's voice jarred him from his plotting. "Hey wake up lazy ass! We're here!" She jeered. Summanus looked up to see the wide gates of the palace open for Shimmer and her cronies to enter. They pushed Summanus along as they walked in. The Two-Tailed Borak looked around him as he saw the Tenneth growl and stare maliciously at him. One could smell the aire of murderous intent on these Wolves. These are obviously the most fanatical Tenneth he's seen as he could see iconography of Prometheus everywhere. "Well aren't you mister popular all of a sudden? Bet you never had so many Wolves stop and stare at you, huh?" Atalanta giggled. Summanus didn't care, they could stare and growl and bare their fangs, he's seen it all before. Soon they headed deeper into the Palace until they came upon the Alpha's Hall.

Soon the group was stopped by two, rather, menacing looking Wolves. They appeared to be identical, the same size, face, scent, except one's fur was mostly red and while the other's was mostly blue. An odd fur color for a Tenneth but not many Wolves are born with two tails either, so who's he to judge? "Hold it." The Red one spoke. "Bero, Borvo." Shimmer spoke to the twin Wolves. "Where is Prometheus?" She asked. "Prometheus is in his chambers right now, he asked not to be disturbed." Bero answered. "Oh? Not even for me?" Shimmer replied. "Well, if you tell us what brings you here, we might be inclined to reach him." Bero responded. "I've brought him a choice prisoner." Shimmer said as she stepped aside to reveal Summanus. "Why brother, would you look at this? He's a rather serious looking Wolf ain't he?" Borvo chuckled as she circled around Summanus. "What's so special about this one?" Bero asked. "Hey brother look! He's got two tails!! What a freak!" Borvo laughed.

"He's Summanus the Stray. I'm sure you've heard tales of that mercenary before, have you not?" Shimmer asked. "A merc?" Bero spat at Summanus. "We had to kill quite a few of you bastards, haven't we Borvo?" "Oh yes, before we met Prometheus we were just common criminals, though we did make quite a name for ourselves." Borvo responded. "Yeah, the old government hired some mercs from the Trade to take care of us since we killed every Tenneth they sent our way. They too fell." Bero smirked. "It's too bad they didn't hire this one, he looks like a worthy opponent." Borvo commented. "Compared to you two idiots, I'm sure he does." Atalanta spoke. "What was that?!" Borvo sneered. "I'm just saying, you two are overlooking the most deadliest mercenary out there...me!" She bragged. "Atalanta!" Shimmer scolded. Atalanta grew silent. "Not only is he Summanus, he is also working for the Rebels and I'm sure he knows where they are hiding." Shimmer said as the brothers looked at each other. "If that's the case then Lord Prometheus should be quite pleased." Bero spoke. "Borvo, entertain our guests while I summon our Alpha." Bero spoke as he walked off towards the Alpha's Chambers. "Would you ladies like some water? Perhaps some wine or ale?" Borvo asked.

***

After a few moments of Borvo being a host Bero had returned with their precious leader, Prometheus. It would seem the legends didn't lie, he was a big Wolf, even compared with himself. He was at least three to four inches taller and had a good sixty pounds over him. Prometheus walked up to Shimmer as she bowed her head. "Greetings Lord Prometheus." "And you, General." Prometheus said as he nodded. Prometheus then looked over the general to view Summanus as his blazing blue eyes pierced the Borak, Summanus felt somewhat uneasy. Those eyes were striking as they stood out from his ash white fur with the only other thing more distracting are his facial scars. "So this is the rebel you've brought me?" Prometheus spoke as he walked up to Summanus. Imposing, Prometheus seemed to tower above Summanus, yet the Borak did not look away from the Tenneth Alpha. Prometheus snorted in Summanus's face before turning his tail to him. "So then, Summanus, I'll offer you a chance to redeem yourself. Why don't you come and work for me?" Atalanta along with the Twins left their maws agape. "Whatever the Resistance is paying you I can more than triple what they offered you. Not only that but I will pardon your transgression against the Tenneth Pack and after the war is over and done with you may retire on any Tenneth land we hold along with a generous severance." Prometheus spoke furthering the surprise from those present. Prometheus then turned back to face Summanus. "How about it? Wealth, land, and a place for the Stray to call home, not a bad offer is it?" Prometheus finished.

The tyrant then turned to Shimmer, "Now General, could you be so kind as to remove the muzzle? So I can hear his answer." Prometheus asked. Atalanta looked to Shimmer, "Wait you can't! What if he attacks?!" She proclaimed. Shimmer did not heed her subordinate's plea and removed the muzzle. The iron bindings then dropped to the ground as Summanus snorted. The Borak looked to the Alpha and yes, striking him down with a bolt of lightning sounded like a good idea. But he knew that wouldn't end well and there wasn't a guarantee he could summon a bolt strong enough to down someone of Prometheus's build before he's killed by Atalanta's blade. "What's the catch?" He asked. "No catch...of course if you agree then you would have to out your former employers, but as a merc, money is worth more than honor." Prometheus spoke. "Then I'm afraid you don't know Mercs very well. We may fight for money but when everything is said and done, honor is what makes a Merc truly valuable." Summanus answered. "I had an inkling you would say that, muzzle him." Prometheus ordered as Atalanta and Shimmer fasten the muzzle back on him. "I guess we will have to do this the hard way then. Take him to the dungeons and prepare the torture chamber! I want to know where those rebels are before they relocate, now hurry! Time is of the essence!" Prometheus ordered as Bero and Borvo took Summanus and herded him to the dungeons. "Get a move on merc trash!" Borvo spat. "You're going to regret your answer very shortly." Bero said in Summanus's ear.

***

Summanus was quite, unceremoniously tossed into a cell. "Tell our Alpha no eh!?" Borvo spat as he slashed Summanus's haunches. Summanus winced as he shoved off his attacker. "Why you!" Borvo bit down on Summanus's ear as ringed it about. After words Borvo knocked Summanus down to the ground and began to kick at him. "Don't get too ahead of yourself brother, we have some torturing to do." Bero spoke. "Of course, just a little warm up." He said as he kicked him once more. "I'll save the rest for later." Borvo mocked as the brothers walked out and closed the cell behind them. The Twins then disappeared down the hall leaving Summanus alone with his thoughts. Immediately the Borak surveyed the cell, looking for any imperfections that he could exploit. Unfortunately the cell was rather immaculate, it would seem the Tenneth Alphas spared no expense when crafting their dungeons. It would take considerable time to claw at the walls to create an exit, time he most certainly did not have. The bars were made of high quality iron, he's not going to be able to just bust right through them. Besides he was still chained and muzzle, leaving the poor Borak defenseless...well not entirely. His static disperse is his only attack and defense but he needs to be smart, he can't just whip that move out when he feels like it. It will trip anyone up but only once, so he's going to have to make it count.

"Damn, it would seem I will be tortured before I can make it out of here." The Wolf thought to himself. "Unless a miracle happens...I might have to wait for a rescue...except, I do hope they aren't foolish enough to try something so drastic as to raid the pala-," Summanus then stopped in mid thought ,"Actually they probably are." It wasn't long before Summanus's new friends showed up to have their fun. "It's time, Merc." Bero spoke sinisterly.


***

What seemed like days, was but an hour or two, but one loses sense of time when constantly subjected to pain. Of course the Borak was resilient enough to endure the pain. No matter what those two did, he did not budge, he did not speak, not a word. That didn't stop the two from trying but their game was about to come to a sudden halt. One of the Prometheans informed the Twins that the factory housing the drill project was in fact destroyed along with a good portion of the industrial sector. This of course displeased his captors but they didn't seem much to concern. "You must think this some victory Merc? But you'd be wrong. You see, I'll let you in on a secret," Bero leaned in close, " We have another drill that's being worked on, right below us right now. It's the Alpha's personal forgeworks! Soon the project will be completed on time. I'll leave you with that for now, the Alpha is summoning us. Let's go." Bero finished as he and his brother left Summanus strapped to a table. This wasn't good, all of that effort for nothing?

No, not for nothing, that's one drill left for Prometheus to use. Yet what Bero said did bug him, on time, that sounds like their plans aren't delayed in the slightest. So whatever it is, it apparently doesn't need two drills, Prometheus must have been cautious and asked for two to be made. Being left alone, all he could think of where the others rather than his own pain. After awhile only Borvo returned. "Oh boy, aren't you a lucky Wolf!" Borvo snickered. "You were about to get it! Prometheus was in quite a mood and I'm pretty sure he would've taken it out on you! Then he received some good news and decided to just let me handle it. Isn't that great? It's just you and me buddy! HAHAHAHAHA!" Borvo laughed. Summanus then sensed his chance was closer than he thought.

___________

The message was received. As soon as the words were heard by his ears himself, Prometheus had asked for the Wolf where he got the message from. He was told the message came from a wolf in the barracks near the industrial sector. Knowing this Prometheus sends Bero out to fetch this wolf, quickly and carefully. Handed with this task Bero quickly headed out. It wasn't before long when Bero appeared at the barracks asking around for the mystery wolf. It was then the commanding officer at the barracks led him to Vesta.

"This is the one?" Bero asked. "That she is." The Officer responded. Bero then walked up to Vesta, "Hello, the Alpha requests your presence and I've been ordered to escort you there, personally." Bero spoke. "When you're ready please come with me, Lord Prometheus is anxious to speak with you." He said.