Summanus's Story

Durandel
Durandel's ears perked up at the sound of mumbling taking the cue to speak. "Whatever you do don't draw attention but I'm here to warn you that we are being watched." Durandel spoke in a hushed tone. "Before you get wounded up, it's not from within the cave, I would have known if they busted the barricade behind me...these are different wolves." Durandel paused as he looked up the tree. He wasn't sure how to call Cerise without yelling up the tree. "Be on guard." Durandel spoke before he moved away from Nova as gained a better view of Cerise. He really wished to warn the Avira but being so high up...maybe they don't notice her, perhaps she could gain the element of surprise. Not thinking much on the subject Durandel decided to prepare himself. If they were to be in a fight, he was ready to give it.

Summanus
Summanus heard the wolves speak. "It's true, she-wolf, we are not alone." Summanus spoke in hushed tone to BattleDemon as he backed away a few paces to give the Alva her space. He saw Mishaa hide behind her, she too senses danger upon them. Summanus placed the hilt of his blade within biting range, not unsheathing it but loosening it up from it's strap. A fight could break out at any moment and he worried for the pup's safety. "Stranger!" Summanus called out to Drais. "You should be more careful with pups around." "If I were you I would guard them." Summanus spoke as he began to give a low growl towards Drais.

Summanus

Summanus watched as the events unfolded. He looked at the Strigoi who appeared from out of the brush. He liked his chops and spoke rather casually as he gave the wolves present an ultimatum. Summanus had no intention of willingly being led away but the response from BattleDemon made him reconsider. It is true, the pups would surely be harmed if it came down to open fighting. Summanus couldn't help but bear guilt if they were harmed. Summanus shot a glare at the Strigoi and then sighed. "I too shall submit only if the pups are spared from whatever fate, you and your masters have in mind for us." Summanus spoke as he brought his muzzle away from the hilt of the blade.

Durandel

Durandel growled at Kaveh and the Borack. Defiance was apparent in his eyes and he showed no signs of coming along quietly. Durandel is a Canicus, a proud wolf from the packs of fire and heat. Neither he nor a Tenneth would ever go down quietly, it isn't in their nature. Durandel would rather being beaten and killed than become some sort of slave. He heard the ultimatum brought forth by the Kamarian, he could hear the superiority in his voice, obviously this Kamarian is rather high up in the pecking order of the shadow packs. He heard the retort from Nova and Durandel snorted in concurrence.

Schemeko

Schemeko noticed these other wolves converging upon the others but surprisingly he was left out of the equation. Summanus and Battle were down by the river facing an enemy wolf, a Kamarian and a Borack were targeting Nova, Cerise, and the Canicus, and finally a Hemlock and some sort of wolf he hadn't seen before entered the cave. Schemeko could easily sneak away and allow the others to deal with the enemy while he escaped. Which he would have in such an intense situation but something didn't seem right to him. They have revealed themselves but instead of attacking they are talking. Schemeko easily overheard from within the cave that they do not wish to fight them, but if they do they would not only threaten their person, but also their powers? Does he mean their natural elemental abilities? This greatly intrigued Schemeko, normally he would slink away unnoticed but his curiosity was getting the best of him. He would love to observe this ability to take away another wolf's powers. Perhaps, even he could discover how to take such a power for himself if he decided to give himself up. This plan is rather risky, as he may end up having his own abilities disappear but the reward...could be so much greater. Pondering this, Schemeko revealed himself to the wolves from within the cave and spoke, "Well you got us!" Schemeko spoke in a whimsical manner. "I have no desire to fight myself, I find fighting a rather nasty business wouldn't you say?" Schemeko lightly spoke.

Summanus

Summanus gave a low growl at the Strigoi who dared to chain him up. Defiance was clear in his eyes but the situation called for him to be smarter but...in a way...this is punishment for what he has done. Being captured and chained like this reminded him of the Kitas that were so ruthlessly chained by Shimmer Doom's wolves. He had helped such a ruthless tyrant effectively occupy another pack's territory. Doom herself would say this was in the Borack Alpha's best interest but really she wanted to use of the Kita's light-speed. Using them to fly her forces across Nigerius on a wild goose chase for her father. While she had not told the Alpha of her intentions she made it rather apparent to those who were under her command. Those Boracks of course went with it, any thing to show off the pride of the Boracks was more than enough incentive to do such dastardly things. Now here he was a wanderer, a mercenary for hire, someone who has no business being here. Summanus should have wandered off, why should he get involved. Summanus felt regret in his desicion, he is a loner and that was for the best. Now he has to care about the lives of others because he knows it isn't right to let these wolves die here today. The only reason why he did help Shimmer Doom is because she promised not to harm them, she only wanted them for their abilities. Summanus felt sure that she wouldn't kill them but she did threaten them with the life of the Alpha's pup if the Kitas became unruly. Summanus also felt that agreeing to this was repentance for placing such a young one in danger, at least these pups will not be in chains as well.

The Strigoi was wise to chain him up to BattleDemon, even if Summanus tried to escape the electrical current would kill the she-wolf in the process. As of now Summanus weakened the current into a low wattage, the worse anyone would feel would be a static shock.

Schemeko

Schemeko merely chuckled at the bumbling attempts by the long-eared wolf to chain Schemeko. He noticed the poor job he did in covering his fur, he should have let the other Hemlock do his job. At least now Schemeko has some leverage on an escape plan, not to mention being chained to these other wolves. If he could escape perhaps it could work out in their favor as well. Having a Kamarian and an Aven could be useful but Schemeko must see this great power they talked about. He wondered if it will be at the place they are going to bring them too. He hoped that what they said wasn't a lie to intimidate or in Schemeko's case lure into being captured. "Well then my mismatched captors, take me to your leader." Schemeko chuckled as he gave a wily grin.

Durandel

Durandel watched the others being chained as he saw Nova and Cerise being wrapped by the metallic material. Durandel gave a growl as he spoke. "Hmph!" "Try and chain me up, I will not give so easily." Durandel scoffed at the two wolves. "You two will burn before you touch me!" Durandel threatened the two.

Summanus and Schemeko

Summanus saw Drais take the pups and leave and gave a sigh of relief. As he turned his attention back to the Strigoi Al inaappeared and knocked him back. She spoke words of encouragement, something to boost morale and such. She and the pup are both correct but forces outside of Summanus' control is what is forcing him to surrender. Summanus hadn't given up on life, at least not yet, he often thought of disappearing from this world. What would Nigerius need another stray for? Still being with these wolves have given him a new reason to remain or at least this war has. Summanus isn't a war monger but if this conflict were to end, then the wolves in need of some extra assistance would diminish. No mercenary jobs, no contracts, no chores...nothing. Summanus though would fight against the tyrants that seek to oppress him now if it weren't for the others. Summanus isn't injured or tired like the rest of the wolves here but that's the problem most of them were. Summanus isn't a weakling but even he can't handle a multitude of enemies. He could kill the Strigoi but then one of his associates would back him up and Summanus would have very little back up. BattleDemon was here but she is in a worse shape, not fit for any combat. There was Alina but despite her boldheartedness she isn't a match for the wolves present. He knows Kitas aren't warriors like most of the packs are. Case in point, When Shimmer Doom invaded the Sakura Ruins the Kitas there submitted as soon as Doom showed hostilities. He was there, he saw how the entire pack lost their liberty as soon as a militaristic group like Doom's Boracks appeared. They didn't have the heart to shed blood while Doom had no trouble shedding there's.

The others that came with BattleDemon were no worse for wear, except maybe the Hemlock. He didn't trust the Hemlock to secure anything so all he had to rely on was Mydnyte, Fox, and Durandel. Considering the numbers game they are outnumbered able wolf for able wolf. Summanus was dragged along with Battle as they met the rest of the group. As he figured the other able body wolves were quickly secured, except for Durandel and Alina, which also isn't a surprise to him. Durandel is just as bold and foolhardy like Alina is.

Schemeko watched as Alina dove in. Foolish she-wolf! She's going to get us all killed. Schemeko snickered to himself. Schemeko watched as the leader apparent pushed Alina close to Durandel as he told his lackeys to drag us away. Schemeko for one was excited, he hoped to see this power for himself and he assumed he would see it at wherever they are taking them too. A name was thrown out there, "Rashid" he had heard of someone with that name but it was merely a rumor, a tall tale to scare pups at night, well at least he thought it was. Schemeko was dragged off with the others through the brush as he tried to overhear what the Kamarian was going to do with the lava wolf and the light wolf. They were making a considerable pace and it was hard to hear what was going on but he caught the first words the Kamarian spoke,

"The Aonghus Crystals. Forged from the very prison we are taking you to now..."

Schemeko had never heard of an Aonghus Crystal but it sounded interesting. Schemeko wished to hear more but they were being dragged too far out of earshot. They only thing he noticed were strange lights followed by an electrical storm. Not fully aware of the details he assumed the red was from Durandel and he was fighting the Borack, who probably killed them both. Schemeko turned his attention forward as he saw their captors dragging them towards the mountains.


Durandel

Durandel growled at Kaveh when he had the Hemlock bit Fox. "You think your going to get away with this!?" Durandel barked. "Your arrogance betrays you!" Durandel shouted as he prepared to attack but before he could a Deon appeared. The metal wolf stood menacingly clad in armor. "Heh, you think that armor will protect you!?" "We Canicus have melted through your kind's defenses before!" Durandel stopped short of a breath as he saw an eerie glow come from it's mouth. Kaveh explained to them what it was and Durandel could hardly believe it. "Are you mad!?" "There is no such crystal!" Durandel argued but the red was coming close and Durandel made a few steps back. He wasn't sure what the hell this was but before he could do anything the Borack created an electrical dome. It was closing in and Kaveh presented them an ultimatum, submit or die. It isn't in a Cancius' pride to submit, die with with the flame still burning in your heart as the saying goes. To go out in a Blaze of Glory, is the dream for any warrior not just the Fire Packs. Yet, he worried about Alina. While Durandel would proudly die a free wolf he didn't wish for the Kita to share the same fate. Durandel looked over to her and ask, "What do you wish?" If her answer is submission then he will submit with her but if she chooses not to, then Durandel would stand by her in the end, defiance still in his eyes before he fades.

Summanus

Summanus noticed BattleDemon growling at him and he wasn't sure why but he assumed it was their quick movements. He knew these wolves are injured and wouldn't be able to keep up with someone as healthy as Summanus. Naturally he would have slow down to be courteous but their captors wouldn't allow it. At this point they must be dragging them along. Summanus looked over to her and spoke, "I apologize for the rush but I would slow down if it weren't for our captors." Summanus spoke. Summanus looked at the she-wolf and saw that she was staring down at the ground. There was nothing there but dirt and her shadow. He wondered why she was staring so intently at her shadow. Summanus didn't see anything out of the ordinary and decided to keep on walking.

Durandel

Durandel was pushed along with Alina as they made the cover ground quickly. They wanted them there by morning as he saw the night creep around them. It will be dark soon and Durandel was a bit worried that some of the others wouldn't make it. He has seen once before if an injured wolf pushed himself further, they end up worse than they once was. Durandel's face was apparent with discomfort and anger. Anyone who saw him, would know he absolutely is hating every second of this. It's a wonder why he hasn't exploded just yet. Durandel did his best to keep his outrage in check as he knew they would have to reach Rashid before anything can be done.

Schemeko

Schemeko has been unusually quiet, except for the occasional chuckle. No Schemeko was deep in thought at them moment as he walked along etching closer to their destination. Schemeko was actually eager to meet this Rashid and find out more about the crystals. Thoughts twist and turned in his mind as they approached closer, thinking of their first meeting with this wolf. Schemeko couldn't wait.

The chill of the cave was nothing that Nova couldn't handle, it was the moisture. Every single surface capable of holding dew was doing so, and the dampness seemed to sink into his fur. Coupled with the smell of must and blood and the eerie sounds that only a cave could make, the whole experience was thoroughly more unpleasant than it had been at SkyDancer's. At least she put up a facade of kindness that they could exploit for a while. And while it was plain here that Rashid didn't care for pleasantries, their situation is no less unclear than it had been in their previous cave encounter.

One thing Nova certainly couldn't figure out was why they were all placed in one cage. There were, after all, many vacant cages lining the walls of the cave in plain sight, so why didn't they go through the effort of splitting them up? Having such a diverse portfolio of talents and ideas in one place seemed like a recipe for disaster on Rashid's part, unless of course their captor was planning on executing his plans for them immediately. Would it hurt when his element was forcibly ripped from his soul?

"If we are going to try something, shouldn't we do it now while we all still have some semblance of strength?" Nova muttered quietly. He knew it was a shallow suggestions, as he had no idea what that something was that they should try. At least if they did manage to escape, they should only have a eighty five percent casualties. Probably the best chance they would ever have.

Schemeko watched Rashid as he walked about triumphantly. He is obviously impressed with himself and his set up but he supposes he has reasons to be. Schemeko could see nothing but other wolves imprisoned, used as slaves, heck the whole cave reeks of despair. Well certainly is impressive but Schemeko was only interested in knowing one and thing and he decided to get Rashid talking. "I must say, it certainly has gloom and doom!" Schemeko spoke with pep. "Yes a great evil hideout!" Schemeko grinned, "but there is one part of the decor I must ask about." Schemeko paused as gave a devious smile. "The crystals...the Aonghus Crystals I think it's called...yeah that's an interesting style choice," Schemeko paused as he slunk and paced a bit like Rashid as he chuckled, "...I would like to learn a little bit more about that myself." Schemeko spoke charmingly.

Summanus stayed quiet as Durandel was shooting the most vicious glares at Rashid, snorting every time their jailor spoke.

Nova wondered if it would be a good idea to trip BattleDemon. Perhaps her fury would result in a much quicker death than what Rashid had planned for him. His little pitch about his cave did nothing to help Nova's perception of him, he didn't like predators who toyed with their prey.

Nova wondered what it would be like when he was brainwashed. He had once hear a story of a she wolf whose lover tried to hypnotize her to get her to fall in love with him. Knowing of the lover's treachery, the she wolf's brother gave her a magical stone that, so long as she kept it in her mouth, she would not loose herself to this wolf. Whenever the lover came to court her, the she wolf would frantically suck on the stone. As disgusting as it tasted, she failed to fall under his spell, and yet pretended to be deeply enamored by him. When the moment of truth came for the couple, the she wolf revealed the lover's treachery, and he was banished from the pack. When asking about the magical properties of the rock to her brother, the brother in turn confessed that the stone was nothing more than a mere river rock that he had happened upon. It was her belief that it was magical was what made it so. It had simply been enough of a distraction that the allure of the lovers eyes and the charm of his voice could not break her mental defenses. It was her faith and hope that liberated her.

It was a lovely story, no doubt. But in stories the ending was always happy, and the hero stayed free. Nova knew his life was no fantasy, it had no rainbows at the end of every trail, no light at the end of the tunnel. Ever since he had left home, his life had been stuck in a mire, slogging through darkness eternally, with no hope of salvation. He was no hero.

Obviously cheered up by these thoughts, Nova though he might as well hurry their jailor along in his deliberation. Curtly speaking, Nova said "If we are as tired and annoyed as you say we are, you would know that we despise any word that comes from your mouth that is unproductive. Please save your pleasantries until after we are happily enslaved."

Rashid

"I must say, it certainly has gloom and doom!""Yes a great evil hideout!""but there is one part of the decor I must ask about." "The crystals...the Aonghus Crystals I think it's called...yeah that's an interesting style choice,""...I would like to learn a little bit more about that myself." Definitely pleased with the Hemlocks response, Rashid answers kindly, "Why thank you. Now the Aonghus Crystals..." He pauses to think a moment. "They are forged here in this prison. In fact, it was a complete accident that we found them. You see, one of my wolves stumbled upon them. Unfortunately, he lost his powers and his ability to speak. He became...A normal wolf, if I must put it that way. Anyways, it did give us a direct route to the crystals...However, I'm not entirely sure what to do with them...It seemed everything was flowing smoothly until they came along. Now Kaveh wants to include them in my plan." He sighs. "Its all business with that guy..." He states dully. Rashid's eyes scanned the group and he noticed Battles odd behavior. Her sudden tensing up. The way her eyes shifted from one of her friends to another. The burning fire in her eyes that seemed almost too recognizable for Rashid. It was the fire to kill.

Rashid cleared his throat. "Uh, Lestat! Put BattleDemon in a separate cage before she eats her friends!" Rashid barks at the Strigoi as he opens the cage just enough to let the Strigoi's slim body through the door. Lestat bares his teeth at the Alva before sinking his two long fangs into the back of her neck. The teeth acted as hooks as he dragged the Alva out of the cell and into the one across her friends. Rashid watched, and once the two were out of his field of vision, he switched to hearing. His ears swiveled back, facing the back cells until Nova spoke.

"If we are as tired and annoyed as you say we are, you would know that we despise any word that comes from your mouth that is unproductive. Please save your pleasantries until after we are happily enslaved." "Well, someone's a bit snappy this morning..." Rashid mutters. These wolves reminded him of small pups who skipped out on a few hours of sleep. He begins to chuckle. "Hehe, trust me Nova. There is nothing 'happily' about being enslaved..." He chuckles. His overall facial expression droops as another silence drones on. "Er...I've been meaning to ask a small, tiny, favor from you all...Uh...You see, I have come up with an idea that involves some wolves such as you all..." Rashid says slowly. "Now I know you all might not be listening, or even care to hear but...I've come up with a small game called Elemental Battles. I was just wondering if you might want to participate. But I know you and your friends have been through so much, you might not want to partake in these games. I don't know...I just thought I might as well share with you my idea."

"The objective of the game is to knock out the other opponent using only your elemental abilities. The rules are simple really...No killing. No escaping the arena and no using 'regular' attacks...." Another silence. "Hmm...Well, I've been told that I'm a very negotiable guy. If you participate and make it 'entertaining', I might consider sparing your lives...If you participate of course." Rashids ears flick as he gets up from his sitting position. "I guess I'll be going. I'll give you all some time to think about it. In the meantime, the Oreja and Strigoi will be watching over you...Howl once you've made your decision." He says with a crazed grin before he trots out of the room.

Kaveh

Kaveh paced outside of the cell hallway. He had heard every single word the older wolf and the prisoners uttered. He was completely outraged that the wolf would even consider letting these wolves go. Didn't he say he wanted to torture them? Make them wish they were never born? Kaveh stops moving once he hears the sound of Rashid coming. As the Zalika passes by the Kamarian, Kaveh jumps out of the shadows and grabs the wolfs scruff, pulling him into the field of darkness. "Are you crazy. This move could risk your entire prison! Have you seen what this small group of wolves are capable of!?" Kaveh growls. Rashid appears to be a bit surprised. "Oh come on Kaveh. Look at them. They are exhausted and hungry. They couldn't even work up the strength to fight back my wolves...Seriously Kaveh. Don't you know a little thing called sympathy?" Kaveh huffs. "A true villain has no sympathy. And from the stories it seemed that you were an insane cold blooded murderer." Rashid sighs. "Well they did get the insane part right, but those are just stories Kaveh...Tell me, did either one of those stories tell the reason of why I actually became the Brain Washer?" Kaveh stayed silent. "I thought so..." Rashid states before he walks out of the field and toward his chambers.

The shadows around Kaveh disappeared and he looked through the hall. Any wolves that stood in his way would die and those wolves and Rashid were one of them. His eyes fixated on the shadows of the guards. "I promise wolves to make your lives misery." Kavehs ears flattened against his head as his eyes shifted from the cell hallway to Rashid. "And I promise to take over this prison...as soon as you are killed..."

Schemeko

Schemeko listened intently on what Rashid spoke of. These crystals exceeded his own expectations. Judging by what he said they really are worth something! Perhaps he could persuade Rashid to part with his precious crystals. Schemeko tried to devise a plot to obtain Rashid's trust and posses as crystal. From what he gathered Rashid is very egotistical which works grandly for Schemeko. He's good at persuading others who are a lot more stoic and stubborn but his ego would prove to be his undoing. Schemeko's best plan of attack would be to keep on feeding that ego, to complement and appease him in any way. Eventually he could see him as a potential ally and from there all he would have to do is show some loyalty. What could he do to prove himself however? He could be made to defeat one of his "friends" in the games Rashid proposed, that could be easy enough. Perhaps he would like him to take the life of another or be willing to submit himself to brain washing if he turns traitorous? Many ideas but they were interrupted when Alina called out to him.

"Hm?" Schemeko's ears perked up as he walked over to her. "You called?" "Hm?" Schemeko melodiously spoke. "What's on your mind?" Schemeko asked as he was some what curious to hear what she had planned.

Summanus and Durandel

Summanus really had no intention of joining any game. He wasn't going to be instrumental to a mad wolf's entertainment. If he wants a fight he could come inside this cage, Summanus is certain anyone of these wolves would take him on. Still he did offer them away out. If they do participate they could be let free. Summanus contemplated a moment. While he is healthy and be one of the few to succeed besides those that were with him above ground. He did worry about the others. Like Nova, Cerise, and BattleDemon. They were in no shape to compete and one can call it foolishness but it wouldn't seem right to beat the weak. Perhaps if Summanus paired with one of them he will concede and allow them freedom.

Durandel was obviously outraged with this situation. "HOW DARE HE!?" "MAKE US FIGHT LIKE, LIKE, SLAVES!?" "BRING HIM TO ME!" "I'LL SHOW'EM A BATTLE!" Durandel barked but his anger would do little good. Summanus spoke up. "Please Durandel do not get so flustered, you could burn us all if your not careful." "YEAH BUT-!" Durandel huffed and puffed but brought his temper down but he still paced. "We have to get out of here and I'll be damned if it is through any of you." "I'd rather burn myself before anyone else!" Even though he knows you can't exactly burn a Canicus.

Well Nova was certainly disappointed to find out that their current captor is just as insane as their last one. This Rashid seems, to simply be SkyDancer with a gender switch, though perhaps with a little less direct hatred for BattleDemon. As he thought, he watched BattleDemon in her own cage across the way, wondering what he would have to do to get his own private cage.

As Nova listened patiently to the reactions of others, namely the rather verbose reply of Durandel, Nova did a little bit of mirror gazing to check his own situation. Physically, he was dog tired and wounded. However, this "Elemental Battles" as it were called, was promised to be without physical violence, which meant he could rely on his more proficient mental strength, even if his mind was overdue for sleep. Nova wondered what exactly Rashid had meant when he had said "entertaining". Did he expect them to run around and tell jokes and pull gags? Or was his form of entertainment more in the realm of SkyDancers, namely the more blood, the better?

As mad as the idea was, Nova knew that this would be one of his only chances to escape this hole in the grand, granted that Rashid would keep his word. If he did, he could probably pull himself over to the nearest Ausi outpost and alert the troops. That was only a couple a klicks away, for Nova did know where he was on the mountain. There was only one thing that stood in his way, however. He would have to fight one of his companions. Companions. Did it make it easier for him to call them that? Probably. He doubted most of them thought of him as a friend. More like a depressed introvert of a spy who in his current state could not pull his own weight. Maybe that would ease their conscious when they tried to fight him. Right before they received a rain of ice shards.

"So Cerise. This may be our last trial before one of us finally gets to go home." Nova mumbled whimsically to the Avira sitting nearby.

***

Tiberius splashed about in the river. It felt good to have water in his fur again, even if had been just minutes before that he had been hiding in its depths. The young Arlyne grinned as he watched fun little specks of water released from the main body create fabulous miniature light shows with the sunlight they refracted. They were like little drops of rainbow. How could anyone not be happy around water, he wondered.

As he waited for Feathers to catch up, Tiberius decided to a bit of fishing for himself. It was a bit like hunting on land with Drais, only the movements had to be quicker and everything now moved in three dimensions. The most common frustration for younger Arlynes is that they don't realize that their prey can also escape by swimming up and down, as well as the usual forward and back and left and right.

Spotting a rather large trout, Tiberius locked up his movements. As stiff as a board, Tiberius allowed the river current to carry him beneath the waves until he was directly above the fish. Luck would not be on his side today, however, and he missed the slippery critter completely. Frustrated, Tiberius swam to the opposite bank than he came in on to get his bearings straight.

"Well, I must admit I think this whole idea that we have a choice in the matter is a ruse. Sooner or later we will all end up playing Rashid's little game" Nova explained, the words dripping with gloom. He had meant to address Cerise, but he realized that they really did apply to everyone. In fact the whole reason that Rashid was giving them a choice was probably so that he could watch them stew for a little bit, simmering from an even longer period of sleep deprivation and nerves rubbed raw.

Although for whatever reason he felt fairly confident that Rashid would keep his word about letting the survivors live, Nova realized that such an offer was so open to interpretation. Although the Ausi had been hoping that that meant the survivors would be released unmolested from the captivity, that could simply mean that he would let them live as slaves under his control. And how many survivors did Rashid expect to have? Half of them, as winners of one time duels? Or only one of them, as a winner of an entire tournament? Would Nova have to systematically kill all of his companions, and make it entertaining at that, all for a remote chance at once again regaining his liberty? That thought, as well as a gnawing hunger, made him want to chew his own paw off.

Schemeko

Schemeko listened to Alina's plan. It seemed logical enough but there is still a problem, a problem that cannot be avoided. In a hushed tone Schemeko spoke, "Well your plan seems all well and good but if you want me sow the seed of doubt that's no problem," Schemeko paused as he looked over his shoulder to the others then back at Alina, "but how do you propose I do it?" "From what it sounds like your asking me, you want me to undermine them without getting too close." "If you want this plan to succeed I am going to have to be buddy-buddy with Rashid." "Because if you see, if I was him, I would trust Kaveh over some new prisoner." "I'm going to have to let him trust me before I could have him turn against his subordinates." "You see what I'm saying?" Schemeko spoke explaining to Alina.

Summanus

Summanus could hear Nova and Cerise speaking about the "Elemental Battles", and he was surprised they are even considering it. Well, perhaps he shouldn't be. All of them are wolves, despite their packs and backgrounds. Wolves are natural fighters and our instinct is to survive. Summanus understands this best and although he would wish it different he must place aside any feelings. If they are seriously considering this then so is he. While Summanus would have been fine with losing, seeing as he has no purpose in the outside world, but if they are willing to hurt one another based on an untrustworthy source then so will he. Summanus may have been kind up to this point, but they will see that he is very dangerous when need be. Summanus then began to plan out courses of action and studied each of these wolves strengths and weaknesses.

Durandel

Durandel was a bit too inflamed at the moment to consider any battle plans. While it may be smart to consider how to beat one another, Durandel still believes that they are going to resist anyway. He has seen these wolves fight and if they are anything they are resilient and undaunting. But perhaps he overestimates them. Durandel does remember they are in war time and a soldier never suspects the enemy will be lenient. Perhaps he shouldn't be too quick to judge them, after all he was taught not to trust anyone outside of the pack. He admits being with these wolves have been one strange journey and while they have impressed him with their cooperation, their generosity may have reached it's limits. Maybe they have given up on each other and now find the only way they can survive is to fight each other. Should he trust Rashid? Regardless, Rashid is nothing but a gutless coward and yet they are planning to play his game.

Rashid

Rashid studied the arena. The Dimitrios had cleared some of the rubble and now here was a refurbished arena at his paw steps. The whole idea of the games was getting him excited. He walked out to the middle of the clearing and looked up at the dark ceiling. Nothing but rock, metal bars, and chains dangling loosely. He frowns. Those wolves...The bad part of him. The half that wanted revenge on all the wolf packs hated them. Hated them for intruding. Hating them for delaying his plans...But the, good part. The half that has been wanting to forgive the packs, admired them. Admiring them for their teamwork. Admiring them for their friendship and strength. They weren't even supposed to like each other. But they did. Rashid looks down at his paws and smiles. Maybe...There was hope for Nigerius after all. His thoughts were interrupted by an Avira flying across the top of the cave, rattling the chains. Rashid gains his dark demeanor almost instantly and shakes off the thoughts in his head before he flies off toward his chambers.

Kaveh

Kaveh wandered around the hallways until he reached the cell hall. He growls and walks up to the prisoners cell. "Well well well...Looks like Miss alpha got her own little cage hmm...To weak to fight back Alva?" Kaveh taunts. His eyes rest on the others. "Hahaha...I'm surprised our little heroes haven't tried to escape yet..." Kaveh mutters audibly."Have you all made up your mind yet? I'm getting impatient with all the waiting..." Kaveh growls. He paces on the outside of the cell and growls at the ground. Kaveh had already come up with the perfect plan for getting rid of Rashid. Now all he had to do was wait and see what the gang of wolves chose. But waiting was never really the Kamarians' game.

Itzal

Itzal wandered around the lonely forests. The trees around him looked...weak. To others the trees would appear the same. A tree. But someone who has lived on Nigerius for an eternity knows the great changes that have occurred. Cold air drifted through his hollow skull as he surveyed the small area. He stopped abruptly at the sound of splashing. His ears flicked toward the brush and he walked on toward the small noise. Once he was through the brush his head pointed toward the noise. To his amusement, he spots a rather unusual Arlyne pup who had just missed a small fish. Seemingly frustrated, he began to swim on the opposite bank. Itzal chuckled at the pups minor attempt. It was amusing to think that he of all gods would stumble upon such a sight. Oh just his luck. A chat with the young up is all he needs to brighten up his day. His nose however, detected the scent of another adult wolf nearby so he decided to keep the chat a little snappy before he would be heading off again.

"Hmm... Young Arlyne! I'm well impressed with your swimming abilities and I'm quite famished from my long trip. You see...An Alvan like me has no experience whatsoever with fishing so I was wondering if you could maybe catch me a fish or two...." He speaks over the soft current of the river.

Schemeko

Schemeko nodded at Alina as he noticed Kaveh at the cage. He was restless and wanted us out into the arena and although he acted as if furthering Rashid's plans, he wanted to further his own. Schemeko walked up to the front of the cage to see Kaveh and he spoke to him. "I apologize for the rather curt reply from my associate great Kaveh." Schemeko spoke in an appeasing manner. "I can tell your excited to see us hurt each other, all in some grand game for your personal entertainment." "Or at least Rashid is." Schemeko spoke. "Speaking of Rashid...I've noticed out of all of the wolves here your not brain-washed it seems in any way." "I wonder why that is hm?" "What are you exactly to Rashid?" "You can't possibly be the leader in all of this, so if your not the boss then you must be a lackey." Schemeko spoke as he gave a grin.

Summanus

Summanus wasn't sure what Schemeko was up to. It seemed to him he was only going to get Kaveh upset. Schemeko and Nova's words are probably going to get them all killed. Summanus was about to say something until he noticed Schemeko with a certain gleam in his eyes. He seemed very confident in all of this. Summanus wasn't sure to be relived or worried. Summanus then turned his attention to Durandel who was obviously giving of a low growl. Summanus assumed Durandel was prepared to fight and well he supposes he's ready to.

Summanus

Summanus entered his cell. The room had the mountainous features of the Arjunas from where his pack hails from. There was even singes upon the dry grass from lightning strikes to give it an even similar feel. Summanus really didn't much care for this cell compared to the other. In fact it really didn't make much difference if there are features in this room, a cell is still a cell. Summanus felt no feelings of nostalgia or homesickness, there was nothing for him in the Arjunas when he left it. Nothing but loneliness. Summanus could feel a slight static twinge, for some reason electricity ran through this room. This gave Summanus some ideas. If energy is being pumped into this room, even if it is slowly, there must be a source. Perhaps Summanus could overload the currents from which the electricity is flowing from? What this would accomplish he was unsure of. The doors were sealed by the Dimitrios under Rashid's control it can't be from the way he came. It must be in the ceiling for if it was in the cells next to him they would feel it also. How is Rashid getting electricity in here? It's not from Summanus himself, he has kept his wattage rather low since being imprisoned.

Summanus pondered this for a moment then pondered about the others. Maybe if Summanus used this power to escape what of the others? He has no sense of entitlement to them but it wouldn't be in right conscience to leave them either. Can there be some way Summanus can escape while assisting them as well? Perhaps he could blow up the walls as well as the door to escape. Summanus wouldn't be able to free everyone but those he did free could cause distractions and allow for more to free others. Perhaps Summanus could charge up a death strike. There is the possibility of Rashid having one of his men open the cells for some reason. One strike from him and Rashid's heart will stop. Of course Summanus would not give his hopes up, the next time a door opens it would most likely be for him to fight one of these wolves. Perhaps Summanus could appeal to his competitor and figure out a plan when they are out in the open. If they chose a time to strike being in the arena would seem the most opportune. Rashid would be expecting for them to fight each other, not attack him. Perhaps the element of surprise could prove useful.

Durandel

Durandel grudgingly entered the cell to see lava flowed about the molten rock of the cell. Sure was an apt replication of inside a volcano. Durandel decided to at least enjoy himself a bit and took a dip inside the lava bed. While most would burn lava was pretty much a warm bath to a Canicus. Sure the Arlynes have their pools of water but they had their lava beds and it was always nice to take a quick dip. Others would joke that Canicus are just Arlynes that like fire. That would make him a bit upset. A Canicus is nothing like an Arlyne. It was funny Durandel was thinking about stuff like this instead of escaping or battle plans. Durandel wasn't content with doing any of this but what choice does he have? All he could hope for that it wouldn't come down to killing. The only wolf he wants to kill is Rashid or Kaveh could do. The root of the problem is still Rashid, as long as he lives Alina said this will happen again.

Schemeko

Schemeko entered his cell and could see it exhibits the marshy atmosphere of the Nazar Swamps. "Home, sweet, Home." Schemeko spoke with sarcasm. Schemeko turned to see his cell close and now felt that his plans are hitting a slight detour. He was just beginning to ease himself in by manipulating Kaveh and then Rashid had us move. Schemeko began to plot some more about grabbing Rashid's attention. Schemeko can't just fight one of his traveling companions or should he? Perhaps if Schemeko shows exceptional talent to Rashid it could gain an audience with him. Perhaps instead of using freedom Schemeko would ask to see him and appeal to his nature. What could Schemeko appeal him with? What does Rashid want besides us killing each other? He needs to figure out how to get in there first but Schemeko knows how to earn his trust. Schemeko will have to expose Kaveh but how cane he gain evidence? Schemeko needs to considered his fight and how he can appeal to Rashid and how to expose Kaveh.

Schemeko began to think about how he sent Kaveh to capture them. Kaveh must be second in charge and you don't send in a high position unless you want something really badly. What could it be that he wanted from them so badly? It can't be this fight could it? No, Rashid could capture any random wolf and through him in the grinder no something else. Maybe it's because they are diverse and would make for better entertainment than complete strangers. If that's so then Schemeko couldn't offer him anything better than this. Then Schemeko thought about the Kamarians he's seen. There are way too many to just have been caught by Rashid alone even with other mind-washed wolves. There has to been at least an entire pack of them or close to that amount. Besides Kaveh sounds like a familiar name, he has heard it before. It was in conversation with the Hemlock Alpha with his higher ups. While the Hemlocks don't place themselves as high as the Tenneths or Dimitrios in this conflict they have had dealings with all sides. Hemlocks have been used as hirelings for this war for awhile now. His pack isn't all that large to be a huge army like Tenneths or the Dimirtrios or the Boracks. He has heard of the Kamarians. There numbers would be a force to be reckoned with, if they weren't so fragmented. There are a number of faction leaders and Schemeko believes Kaveh is one of them.

That could explain the decent amount of Kamarians here. Perhaps Kaveh is working with Rashid using his Kamarians. Kaveh must have used his wolves to use as some sort of deal to keep himself from being mind controlled. Otherwise Kaveh would have been as much of a puppet as they are. That's when Schemeko gained the idea to use, what he hopes is the same tactic. Schemeko will sell out his own pack to appeal to Rashid, which he hopes is what Kaveh did. Schemeko is sure someone like Rashid would like more Hemlocks to his ranks. So should Schemeko injure or perhaps more effectively kill one of his companions to gain an audience and relinquish his pack? Then Schemeko gained a devious idea. He could also use this to expose Kaveh. Perhaps allowing him to be used in his ranks would allow him more friendly access to Kaveh. Perhaps he could appeal to Kaveh about overthrowing Rashid together. Once he gets Kaveh to work with him, he will betray Kaveh to Rashid at the point before the coup d' état. That way Kaveh was caught in the act, exposing him, and Schemeko will save Rashid's life earning him more trust. The plan seems perfect except for the actual fight. Schemeko must ponder whether he should kill his opponent or incapacitate them.

Durandel

Durandel continued to swim about the lava bed but soon it lost it's allure. The walls of the prison began to creep back in his mind and once again he became disturbed. Durandel jumped out of the lava and shook himself dry as if any wolf was found itself wet. Durandel looked around the room, despite the molten rock and lava this was still a cell. The time Durandel has spent waiting was beginning to agitate him. "Oh come on now?!" "What's going on here!?" Durandel barked his frustrations of waiting this whole time. Durandel longed to escape this prison but it seems the only way out is through his, well, he wasn't sure if he can call them friends, to tell the truth he hardly knows anything about them. Say except names perhaps. Otherwise Durandel really hasn't a clue what everyone is like. So far they all seem dependable wolves and he knows Alina is kind but what of the others? The wolves that he knows are with them are very capable fighters, which makes the competition very dangerous if they do decide to fight. Durandel was conflicted, he should feel no remorse if he harms them considering he really isn't attacthed but this is different from war. In war you don't know any of your enemies and it makes it easy to kill them. Not to mention others' safety rests on your shoulders. In this situation however only he can rely on his own safety and yet he is some what is familiar with these wolves. What should he do?

Summanus

Summanus could hear one of the wolves howl and Durandel shouting again. Summanus sighed as he was slowly storing electricity for the coming battle. Summanus wasn't ready to be forcefully bend to someone's will, he was going to fight but not with the others. If he could convince his opponent not to attack they could team together and release the others and fight back. Even with a plan in mind Summanus wasn't sure if it would work. He wished he knew what the arena looked like but he was speculating their was a viewing area for the event. Otherwise why would Rashid make them fight if he couldn't watch it himself? Summanus hoped he could create enough of a distraction for his plan to work. Depending on who he is paired with he hopes they will comply.

Schemeko

Schemeko soon started to become fidgety and restless. What in the world is going on here? Schemeko wondered if they were even going to fight at all. Have they been lying and just wanted to place us in more comfortable a setting? Nah, that is too fanciful a thought. We're prisoners being forced to be entertainment for our jailer, well at least that's what he thought. Had the battles already begun? Could the walls be thick enough he couldn't have heard the skirmish? No, that too is unlikely. Schemeko could hear the others meaning these walls are not as thick as that. Schemeko became bored looking at the psuedo-marsh of a cell and began to remember why he left Nazar. Schemeko groans as he looks up at the ceiling. "Come one now Rashid..anytime now." Schemeko thought to himself.

Durandel

Durandel began to growl as time lingered onward. "What the hell is going on!? Are we going to fight or rot to death!?" Durandel bitterly thought to himself. Durandel paced the cell in anticipation. He hated all of this waiting and almost wished for Rashid to get it over with. Maybe that's why he's having them wait around, get worked up enough to provide better sport. Durandel merely snarled at the thought and continued to pace.

Summanus

Summanus wasn't quite sure what to expect. He thought they would be fighting but the waiting...he just wasn't sure. There must be more to this, there just has to be. Summanus silently waited preparing himself for the worse. If Rashid expected to get the drop on him, then he has another thing coming. Summanus half-wishes he never intervened in that battle but, if he didn't then a lot of good wolves would have died. Still, Summanus wishes he left when he could. There has been nothing but trouble it would seem with these wolves. They are a magnet for chaos and Summanus doesn't want to be apart of it. Oh well, no sense in longing for unattainable hopes, Summanus has to escape, there is no other way.

Schemeko

Schemeko was the kind of wolf that was hard to impress but what followed next, even he couldn't help but be impressed. When Schemeko entered the large arena, he caught a quick glimpse of Rashid before the arena turned into a dense forest. It seemed there was more to this game than met the eye. While Schemeko finished his impressions he decided to enter the forest. Now Schemeko's plans have changed some what. It seems he could still continue, all he had to do was to be the winner, correct? With the forestry, Schemeko could use more subtle tactics, much preferable over the one on one duel he had considered to happen. Schemeko hugged the trees and dense foliage, which easily concealed him thanks to the green coloration of his fur. He could sneak in unnoticed and poison each of his foes, and allow time to finish the job. He might even get lucky enough to only do this once or twice, allowing the others to do the bulk of the work. Of course Schemeko did consider an even more fiendish option. Perhaps he should form an alliance with the more powerful competitors. Allow them to take out the others and when it comes down to them Schemeko will back stab them and take victory. Schemeko considered this option as he slinked about the arena.

Summanus

Summanus waited for this opportunity and when he saw Rashid a tree blocked his path, followed by another and another. Summanus growled at this development. It seemed Rashid planned ahead for that contingency and now they are forced to play his games. Or are they? Summanus didn't want to give up hope on still disobeying their captor and escaping but this seemed to be more and more unlikely. Summanus wondered if he really should defeat them? Rashid did say don't die but will they fight to kill or fight to incapacitate? Summanus will be on the defensive but he is not going to resort to killing them unless no other option can be used to avoid it. Summanus has no idea how these wolves truly act. They could be real scum for all he knew and he was a fool for believing otherwise. Summanus was not going to die here, he has yet to find his purpose in life, but he is sure it isn't to die as a play thing.

Durandel

Durandel growled defensively as he entered the arena. As the room changed from what he expected to an entire forest, Durandel immediately hated the unexpectedness of the game. An enemy could attack from anywhere and Durandel absolutely hates the feeling of being watched. Durandel knows not to be cornered in battle. So his tactic is to have as much ground as possible. Durandel even considered burning this forest, but then worried about the others. They don't wish to kill him, well at least the Kita wouldn't. He didn't want to accidentally harm her or anyone for that matter. Still Durandel wasn't going to be foolish, if these so-called companions want to be hostile, then he will have no problem burning them.

Schemeko

Keeping close consideration of his environments, he quietly sneaked about, hiding amongst the greenery. Schemeko thus far hasn't encountered anyone and felt some what bored, he thought he would hear the sounds of struggle by now. Then almost as if by que he heard a howl. Yet, that wasn't a howl of agony, no it was more like a calling. To draw attention to themselves. Schemeko thought that strategy seemed rather foolish, perhaps some one was impatient and prefers to attack head on. Whatever the case, Schemeko isn't going to answer the call. Schemeko continued to move about ignoring the howl, he has some strategies and he's sticking to them. As he continued to move in the cover of grass, he heard a barely audible chunk. Schemeko stood still and going prone, he crawled behind a tree and hid himself. Schemeko took a peak and saw a piece of ice stuck in the trunk some ways away. "It must be Nova." Schemeko thought. Schemeko considered lying in wait for the Asui, perhaps he is unlucky enough to suffer his toxin yet again. While he suffered a small dosage, a larger dose is much more deadlier. Perhaps the wolf will fill confident enough he could survive. That will be his undoing. He hasn't suffered from what the toxin will do to his body.

Consider this course of action, Schemeko felt more comfortable gaining more visual confirmation of his target. Schemeko suspects Nova would hope that someone would investigate, he isn't going to give him the opportunity to take him out. Schemeko quietly stepped away from his hiding spot moving even farther away from the ice blade. Schemeko judged from where the ice could have originated and figured, flanking him would be the best move. Schemeko keep a good amount of distance away moved towards the right from where the ice blade is. He he hid himself between the grass and trees and continued to keep a low profile. Soon he would either see Nova, or see someone else.

Summanus

Summanus heard the howl and considered going to investigate. While it might be dangerous, Summanus held on to the hope that they may not attack. Then again, it seemed unlikely. Summanus wasn't sure if he these wolves would defy the game and not attack. Summanus decided to keep his distance in the end. Doubt surfacing in his mind. Summanus felt his trust severely wavering. He doesn't know much about them and seeing how they appeared to be battle weary, isn't going to test their combat skills. They're tough and will probably take him down if his guard is down. In light of this Summanus decided to use the electricity he was storing and now created a static field of the tips of his fur. Anyone foolish enough to get near him, will be electrocuted. And if they are smart enough to keep their distance, then Summanus will take them down with a lightning bolt. He had a great defense and offense set up, it will be difficult for these wolves to take him down. Summanus continued to move with discretion, just because he has a plan, doesn't mean he should get comfortable. Being a mercenary has taught him that much.

Durandel

Durandel, not exactly moving with much grace, just moved about the trees. He hasn't much fear of a close corners fight. They will just be burned by the lava he will summon. As for long range, well, Durandel isn't going to keep his distance, he will close it and unleash the lava. Very aggressive and subtlety isn't required. Then he heard a howl. It sounded as if they wanted to be found. Being stuck in this game, it reminds him of the war and his old feelings of distrust for other packs is resurfacing. Durandel was already taught as a guard not to trust anyone outside of the Vulcan Mountains. Why should he trust them? Yet, this game...it's not right. This isn't war...it's some sort of sport for Rashid! They need to end this and not by ending it they way he wants. Growling in frustration, Durandel decided to head towards the howl. Even if it is someone trying to draw competitors out of hiding, Durandel wasn't even trying to hide in the first place. He much prefers open confrontation anyway. So in essence he's going to use their strategy against them. He's going to make their hopes of drawing out a wolf be their mistake. He's going to bring them a fight instead of a unsuspecting target.