|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Posted: Sun Jan 18, 2009 7:17 pm
Her face was serene as she laid down on her bed, white hair fanning out in a stark contrast to the dark sheets. The link between she and Ember was silent, but she could feel his comfort as he settled into the adjoining den. The steady improvement of her Seer ability was making her link with Ember all the stronger - now, it was almost hard to distinguish the difference in thoughts sometimes. At first, Kael found it frightening...but not anymore. She knew who she was, and who he was, even if their two destinies were the same.
It was odd, though, feeling as if something was going just as it should be...but, at the same time, knowing something was off.
Something was definitely off. Kael couldn't quite point out what it was, but....there was something. There were times, like now - when everything was quiet and calm and just how it should be - where she thought about it. And then, there were other times, when it was the furthest thing from her mind. What did it matter, anyway? "Hmmm, let's sit and think about something that, clearly, I'll never just 'figure out'"...not very productive. That being said, maybe she shouldn't be lying here in the few moments she actually had to do so.
The Apprentice sat up abruptly, her prismatic eyes opening to look down at her hands. She studied her arm for a moment, the marred one, before standing and moving to the kitchen. With all the noise that accompanied opening and shutting cabinets and readying a meal (something Ember was prodding her mind about - what was she cooking? Could he have some? Did it involve meat?), she barely noticed the noise of a paper sliding under her door. Her eyes shifted to look at it, but she kept working. Only when everything was either cooking or being allowed to sit did she move fluidly to the door. Since when did they resort to letters to dispatch orders? Or was this some weird "Pass this along!" chain letter sort of deal. A little incredulous, she let her eyes move over the page. It was handwritten, but semi-formal.
Kael,
I would have found you in person, but I know how difficult it can be to find you at times.-
That would be a valid point, except...knocking on the door would have rendered the letter superfluous.
I wanted to inform you that you will no longer be under my charge. The Captain will be contacting you soon to inform you of why, but I think you will be pleased by the news. You have been a pleasure. Please find me if you need any assistance in the future. Take care.
Then, it was signed by her Patron. Hmm. Well, this was different. An eyebrow arched in slight confusion, Kael felt Ember's deep, calm voice rumble in her head.
Maybe we're getting fired. he commented, more amusing to himself than to Kael. She merely 'hmph'ed in response. Pleased with himself, Ember attempted to sooth Kael's confusion as he lazily stretched out on his large bed of pillows and blankets. A note wasn't a big deal, regardless of the message...of course, nothing was a big deal to Ember, so whatever. He felt Kael agree. His adolescent curiosity wasn't really kicking in right now. Honestly, it hadn't been kicking in much lately. It usually kicked in around Stardust. Cause he was dead sexy, and from what he could tell, she thought he was dead sexy. And, he thought SHE was dead sexy.
Your hormones are worse than a teenage human male. Could we please focus?
On?
On this note. Did you do something?
Not since I ate those Recruits last week, no
Ember!
I was just kidding!
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 1:25 am
Message delivered.
Karayan paused in his eating, sandwich but a few centimeters from his wide open mouth. He had quickly forgotten about his previous (awkward) conversation with one of his wolfriders in favor of eating, but now his wolf had once again reminded him of his duties. His stomach had been neglected for far too long and it was a rare occurence that he actually had time to make himself a tasty sandwich for lunch. Honestly, he thought he was done with all the Patroning and whatnot - it was time for him to retire! Why couldn't Riya and Stardust handle things?
Because they are still young and inexperienced, the Alpha explained calmly for the tenth time. His rider was a bit stubborn and it took several times of emphasizing to get the point across, maybe even an occasional swipe to the head. SnowySky sat patiently outside their barracks, watching as his pack walked alongside their humans or romped with each other in the snow. It always pleased an Alpha to see his pack doing well after such a disastrous time, especially after the loss of their matron. Pack morale had been low the first few weeks, but they seemed to be picking up again. The white wolf glanced back towards the doorway. Now are you coming or not?
Yes, master, Karayan thought glumly as he set down the remaining half of his lunch. He took one last regretful glance at the sandwich and with a heavy sigh, walked away from the delectable food. Stomping across the room, he swung the door open and found himself hit with a blast of cold air. With a slight shiver, Karayan pulled his winter coat off the hanger and slipped it over his uniform, also pulling on a pair of gloves - no need to get frostbite. Stepping outside, he looked at his wolf with a slight scowl. "Couldn't have waited until after I finished my lunch, could you?"
This is more important than your "yummy" sandwich.
"Couldn't have waited until they were actually here to call me out?" Karayan continued as he leaned against his closed door. The old Alpha had decided to inform him only last night of the sudden change in 'plans,' so to speak. Karayan wasn't exactly sure himself how or when the wolves knew, but it couldn't occur overnight, could it? Not like it was a light bulb you could turn on like a switch.
No, but we weren't certain until yesterday, Sky answered, reading his rider's thoughts. Then as an afterthought, he added, I will call them when you've made yourself look more presentable.
"We?" Karayan echoed, ignoring the insult even as he checked himself over. He thought he looked quite imposing at the moment.
Stardust, of course, the wolf answered matter-of-factly - as if there were any other Alphas in the pack he could discuss such important matters with. We had been suspicious for quite some time, but it became much more apparent only recently.
So it was a gradual process - good to know, he supposed. Karayan finally focused on their surroundings as the wolf came to a stop, noting they were in front of the apprentice's barracks now. "Now are you absolutely sure about this?"
Sky growled irritably. They had been through the questions and answers a hundred times already last night - did the Captain really want to start all over again? Yes, we are.
"But there's never been-"
I know.
"So you know why I don't think-"
I know.
"Even Shizuka was surprised when we told her-"
I know.
"As long as you know how crazy you-"
A shoulded pushed itself into the human and Karayan promptly fell into the snow. Sky stared down at his rider with annoyance etched clearly into his wolfish features. I know.
Karayan picked himself up and dusted the snow off his coat, grumbling under his breath about mean bullying wolves. Clearing his throat, he managed to make himself look as Captain-ish as possible before nodding to the Alpha. "Fine, let's do this."
Ember and Kael, my rider and I require your presence at the Alpha barracks, Sky commanded to the young pair, knowing very well the young apprentice could hear him as well as the adolescent wolf. What would be revealed today would hopefully benefit his pack, but it would definitely leave a great impact on all the wolfriders.
|
|
|
|
|
|
tiredchipmunk Vice Captain
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 10:30 am
......
.......what?
What did you DO?
I didn't do anything this time! Ember exclaimed, barely hiding a smirk as he covered his face with his paws. He really -hadn't- done anything! Heh, nevertheless, this was terribly amusing to him, and made even more so by the fact that it wasn't terribly amusing to Kael. The red Adolescent peeked a glance at the disgruntled rider, who only looked mildly annoyed as she stood in the threshold of Ember's den. Ember's tail swished merrily side to side as he uncovered his face, confident that he wasn't going to get slapped for this 'offense'. Really, why was she so concerned? What could happen? Certainly more things couldn't happen than could happen, and that should be a comforting thought. He reached out, mentally, to attempt soothing her, and met with only mild resistance.
Kael sighed heavily, covering her face with one hand for a moment....before removing it to reveal a calmer attitude. Maybe Ember hadn't done anything (or maybe he had), and she was concerned for nothing. The Seer heard the Alpha just as clearly as Ember did, and he didn't sound terribly angry or upset, or as if anything was wrong...but he did sound serious. This was no light matter. Ember commented lightly that the Captain's wolf could always sound like that, since neither of them had heard him any more than one time in the past, and Kael had to concede to that. Whatever this was...God, she just hoped it didn't ruin any chances for she and her wolf.
Well, I suppose we shouldn't keep them waiting Kael said, accompanying Ember as he rose and made his way out of the Den. She wasn't apprehensive, just...a little concerned, and unsure of how to react to being summoned to the Alpha's quarters out of nowhere. Once quickly making sure her hair and clothes and everything else was in order the Seer mounted her wolf. He took off at a leisurely pace t'wards the location of the Alpha and she moved flawlessly with him, her blue and purple eyes reflecting little of the inner turmoil that the voice of Sky had caused. The link between she and Ember stayed comfortably quiet, but they were both wondering exactly what was happening. Perhaps the situation was neither inherently good or bad, and this would simply be an opportunity to leave a good impression on the Captain. Kael was all about leaving good impressions, especially with those in authority.
Either she had thought so much that time went by quickly, or the trip was a relatively short one, because before she knew it Ember was slowing to a walk as they neared the Alpha's den.
Once close enough, Ember lowered himself to his belly in order to show submission to the much older Alpha (his mind remaining a quiet cacophony of both amusement and curiosity), and stayed there even after Kael dismounted and saluted the Captain. She studied him and the wolf very discreetly, choosing to speak first after a little weighing of the pros and cons. Why not?
"Hello, Captain...you summoned me?" she asked quietly, but with a confidence that probably wasn't entirely genuine.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 11:18 am
Karayan squinted his eyes as the small figures of the apprentice pair appeared several meters down the road. The confusion and uncertainty never left his mind, but he carefully kept his inner turmoil hidden away from the public eye, his face a mask of strong confidence that befitted one of his rank. As the young pair neared, he had to ask quietly one last time... "Are you absolutely sure about this?"
Yes, Sky responded with the utmost conviction in his voice, for he was an Alpha and such things were beyond contestation for him. The elderly wolf watched with a wise eye as the adolescent crouched submissively before him - he had heard about the pup's encounter with Feral, a good lesson to be sure. Sky tilted his head slightly to his rider, allowing the Captain to be the one to speak.
Keeping his mouth shut, Karayan carefully weighed the consequences of what was to be revealed. His silence prompted the apprentice to speak first, and he quickly cleared his throat and nodded in acknowledgement. "Yes, we did summon you..." he trailed off slightly, thinking about the best way to go about such news.
The white wolf's tail flicked in annoyance, tempted push his rider to the ground for acting with so little confidence. Sky couldn't understand why humans were so stuck on the fact that all past Alpha wolves have happened to bond with a same gender human - they simply chose the most suitable mind. Great impression you're making.
Squaring his shoulders at the comment from his wolf, Karayan looked Kael straight in the eye. "We would like to inform you that Ember is an Alpha." Then he glanced over at the young wolf with a meaningful look, tinged with a touch of suspiscion and curiousity, before averting his eyes back to the young woman. "Consequently, the two of you will now be riding under SnowySky's and my patronage."
Allowing the pair a moment to digest the information, Sky then gave a regal nod to Ember as if in confirmation. The pup must have known on some level that he was born a leader, and now despite his youth, Sky expected him rise to his rank. Not the ideal situation to allow two young Alphas to lead a pack, but they had no choice - and perhaps the new leading pair would prove to be just what they needed to pull through this disaster.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SilverStarrSapphire Vice Captain
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 12:18 pm
Kael immediately stiffened, feeling the rush of a strange mix of adrenaline and emotion suddenly fill her body. This was...not the news she expected. It was the news she dreamed of to be sure, but there had always been reasons for it not to be so. Her arm was one big factor, as was the fact - or supposed fact - that Alphas only bonded to humans of the same gender. The latter obstacle had been accepted as truth for as long as she could remember, and it wasn't exactly a fact that had come about just in her lifetime. And yet, here they were, standing before the Captain as their fate was spelled out to them....
Both she and Ember had suspected it, but the idea of it actually being true had been furthest from her mind. It was...unbelievable.
Ember lifted himself from the ground, and Kael could feel the coming explosion of...whatever he was about to do. She asked him to restrain himself for now, as she opened her mouth to respond to the Captain, eyes alive with the revelation that came with such sudden news. "Thank you, Sir. It is truly an honor. Forgive me, though, as I must ask...I was under the impression that Alphas only bonded to Riders of the same gender? I am by no means questioning your word or the word of the Alpha himself, I am merely....surprised. Pleasantly surprised, but surprised nonetheless."
How she managed to just keep from saying "HOW?!", the Seer had no idea.
Kael would not normally explain why she was asking, but...this was the Captain, and this was a very serious topic. It was difficult to keep Ember's excitement spilling over into her mind - she was nearly smiling just from his jubilation alone. A quick glance to her side showed her how he was now standing - his head held high and proud..and his muscles nearly twitching in the energy that yearned to get out. Are you going to be ok?
I KNEW IT!! I mean, I didn't know it...but I knew it!! We knew it!! You didn't want to say it, but we knew it!
We had our suspicions, but there was good reason not to believe them - this has never happened before. Never. Kael responded calmly, hoping Ember was planning on keeping his cool at least until he was out of the presence of the Captain.
Well it's HAPPENING NOW!! Ember responded, completely oblivious to Kael's difficulty at accepting the news. Oh, she knew it was true, why was she even asking? So what if it had never happened before. Lots of things had never happened before. The wolves had never said that it couldn't happen, to his knowledge...so now it had happened, and he was EXCITED! Beyond excited. The normally calm Ember was about ready to burst. Maybe he should ask if he was allowed to burst.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 1:53 pm
Karayan had to admit he was very impressed by the young woman's composure. When he had been given the news, he had literally launched himself at the former Captain for a hug, which had been quite embarassing to his wolf. But given her circumstance, she should be shocked and maybe even allow her jaw to drop a few inches - after all, she was the first case of an opposite gender bonding to an Alpha. Then again, there was so much about the wolf (and human) minds that they didn't understand, anyone should've know that anything was possible. Clearly Snowy wasn't very surprised by the news...
Wolves choose which human they want to bond to by mental compatibility. Gender has no bearing on our choices, the white wolf explained loudly and clearly, to both humans present. He still couldn't understand why the two-legged creatures were always in disbelief just because something happened out of the norm. Sometimes humans were just so arrogant and narrow-minded, no wonder they nearly destroyed the world. Simply because all past Alphas have found compatibility with the same-gender human does not mean it is written in stone. A coincidence, as I believe you humans call it.
Karayan nodded thoughtfully as he listened to the explanation. In truth, it really was their own fault for making assumptions and not having a more open mind - perhaps that was why humans (with the rare exceptions) could not obtain the telepathy that was available to wolves. Maybe that was why only a select few were Seers, the rare individuals who allowed themselves to think outside the realms of reality. Glancing at Kael, he shrugged in acceptance of the Alpha's words. "I only found out last night."
Did we miss all the fun?
Glancing to the side, Sky watched quietly as the young female Alpha and her rider came into view, the light blue wolf trotting excitedly up to the group. I suppose.
You didn't wait for me to tell him? Stardust whined regretfully, having wanted to be present when the news was revealed. I told you to dress faster!
Riya shrugged as they came to a stop besides the group, sliding off her wolf and giving the Captain a salute. Her eyebrows were furrowed in confusion as she looked between Karayan and Kael, though she was mildly conscious of the fact that she didn't look presentable - uniform was clean enough, hair was somewhat straight, but she probably looked like she had just gotten out of bed (which she had). Hyperactive wolf of hers had nagged until she'd tumbled out, yet Stardust wouldn't say a word of where they were going. And now that she was here, Riya realized that she probably should've groomed herself better.
"I don't know why I'm here," the young Lieutenant admitted as she nodded to Stardust. "She's been bouncing off the walls since yesterday, but she wouldn't tell me anything... just that I was in for a pleasant surprise."
"Well, I'll let Kael tell you the good news herself," Karayan offered as he nodded to the apprentice with a reassuring smile.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SilverStarrSapphire Vice Captain
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 2:17 pm
"Ah...I should have assumed as much. It crossed my mind, but I did not think such a thing possible." Kael responded to both Sky and Karayan, smiling lightly. That's what she got for assuming something, she supposed. She took a deep breath as the news finally started to settle in. Alpha. Wow.
Her head swiveled to the side just as Ember's did, catching sight of Riya and Starduct coming into view. Ember was still struggling to control himself when Kael nodded and saluted Riya, rather amused by the unkempt manner in which Riya seemed to be held. Stardust seemed almost as excited as Ember was, only she was displaying it and he was trying to wait until Kael gave the go-ahead. Oh, pleasant surprise was an understatement. Riya would likely be as shocked as Kael.....at least, that's what the Seer figured. She could be completely wrong, but in this case, wrong wasn't so bad.
First giving one brief glance to Karayan and then to Ember, Kael settled her eyes on Riya. "Ember is an Alpha."
No sooner had the words left her mouth, the floodgate that was holding Ember's composure exploded into 13572935832 pieces.
Ember reared up and used both front paws to pounce on Kael, who let out a half-cry as she was pushed to the ground and given one large lick from the tongue of a very excited Adolescent. He bounded off of her and then romped around Stardust, nipping at her tail before doing to Riya exactly what he did to Kael - big lick included. He bounced off of Riya and bounced in front of the Captain and the Alpha...and paused. Maybe it would be a bad idea to pounce or n** at the Alpha. So, instead, he pushed his head "into" Karayan's arms until he -almost- fell over....
....then whirled around and half-tackled Stardust, yipping and twitching like a puppy.
DID YOU HEAR THAT?! he exclaimed to Stardust, oblivious to Kael's light chuckles behind him as she sat in the snow. There was no point in trying to calm him down or reprimand him, so he was glad she didn't even try. ALPHA. DID YOU HEAR IT?! I HEARD IT. WOOOOHOOOOO! he exclaimed, bouncing off of Stardust and jumping up and down in the snow, purposefully throwing as much as he could in the air. He was making a fool of himself, but he really didn't care. The humans (and Stardust...and Sky) would get over it
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 3:25 pm
Riya stood and stared at the younger woman for a few seconds, trying to comprehend what had just been told to her. Her ears heard it, but her mind refused to process the information. Until Stardust forced an image of Ember standing at the front of the pack into her mind, and Riya looked towards the Captain and his wolf. This wasn't some huge joke the older Alpha pair was pulling, was it? Was her wolf in on it too? Stardust had mentioned the possibility of Ember being an Alpha, but Riya always brushed it off as a joke or wishful thinking. But now... glancing quietly back at Kael, she had no idea what to think or even say.
"...congratulations?" came out awkwardly as the first surges of emotion hit her. At the forefront was envy, for Kael already had the advantage on her for being a Seer and now... an Alpha too? The fact that they were the first opposite-gender Alpha bonding didn't even cross her mind. To be honest, Riya was quite competitive (and somewhat arrogant), and she had honestly thought as the older and more experienced she would be the one to become Captain in the end. But now that possibility was threatened by the fact that Kael was a Seer. Feelings of insecurity hit her all at once as she was reluctantly remind of Damien, always left in his shadow and her true capabilities never allowed to shine...
Or you can think about it as you'll now have a strong and capable partner to help you lead the pack, Stardust offered her rider, sensing the conflict within the young woman's mind. The female wolf held off showing her excitement to soothe Riya's insecurities, a problem they had been working on for the last month. Stardust knew that her rider had been unsure of herself ever since her appointment, for it was a heavy burden to be placed on one so young and inexperienced. Besides, I think you're better than her. I wouldn't have chosen anyone else.
Riya had to hide a smile, for she knew her wolf spoke the truth - not to be mean, but Stardust simply looked down upon humankind, save for herself and perhaps her fellow Alpha's humans. Reassured, she looked over to offer a more proper congratulations to Kael only to see the apprentice be rundown by her wolf. A split second of thought as Riya felt a horrible feeling that she was about to receive the same treatment, and true to her guess, Ember turned and knocked her down as well. Her first reaction was to be offended, but then the big wet tongue came out and she couldn't help the laughter that bubbled out.
"How long has he been holding that in?" she asked with a soft chuckle and understanding smile towards Kael, slowly pulling herself back up as the adolescent wolf finally bounded after his next victim. Riya watched in amusement as Ember stopped (rather smartly) in front of SnowySky before deciding only to attack the Captain. The white Alpha might not be as ferocious as Feral, but he didn't appreciate the antics of the young pups either.
Turning to Kael with a genuine look of appreciation, Riya offered her hand out to the apprentice. "So, Alpha-rider, when does your official training begin?"
Stardust watched with growing excitement as the young male bounced around, though she vaguely wondered why they were excited. All of them had known on some subconscious level that he had always been destined to become Alpha, though Kael's uncertainty might have passed onto Ember. But now that it had been confirmed, she allowed herself to slip into the playful moment and took his romp with good humor.
Tail wagging with reflected happiness, Stardust yipped back and snipped at his nose playfully. Yes, I'm sure the entire pack can hear you right now, she responded as she pawed at his shoulder, all in fun. She twitched slightly at the snow being thrown onto her, before deciding to join in the fun. With a quiet bark, she rushed forward and slid against the snow, sending a wave towards Ember and the two girls.
Then Stardust pounced after Ember with all intentions of tackling him down and wrestling with him in the snow.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SilverStarrSapphire Vice Captain
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
tiredchipmunk Vice Captain
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 3:33 pm
Karayan glanced at the young wolf suspiciously, wondering if he actually had the courage to tackle Sky. But the new Alpha seemed to consider his options and discovered that knocking the larger wolf down wasn't smart. Unfortunately, he didn't think the same of butting into Karayan, who found himself nearly unbalanced as he flailed his arms and tumbled backwards. His door managed to keep him propped up, but he was still in slight shock that Ember had actually tackled him.
But the wolf was still young and deserved to enjoy the moment, so Karayan simply shook his head and chuckled.
SnowySky, on the other hand, was less amused and had lifted his lip slightly as Ember came at him. Fortunately the young wolf was smart enough not to touch him and Sky settled back down to watch the frivolities with little interest. He vaguely wondered why they were still standing around when the news had already been delivered.
Your training will begin tomorrow, Sky announced to Ember and Kael as he turned to leave the scene. Standing around here would cause him to lose all sense of formality, and he wasn't in the mood to play around. Then again, he hadn't been in the mood since Moonstride's passing. A stern glance at the young male Alpha, I will call for you in the morning, and he walked back into his lonely den.
"You'll have to excuse Snowy's rude behavior, he's still in mourning," Karayan apologized although he was very serious. But with a quick smile to the two young woman (and a subtle wink), he decided that he wanted to get back to his sandwich as well. "Continue with your fun, but I suggest going elsewhere or Snowy might get annoyed."
With one last nod, Karayan walked back into his barracks as well.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 4:42 pm
Kael nodded and watched Karayan leave, before turning back to Riya and finally taking her hand and pulling herself from the snow. "I suppose it begins tomorrow. And he's been holding that in since the words first dropped from the Captain's mouth."
She had caught that momentary shift in Riya's demeanor, a movement into a less-than-excited mindset that the Seer neither commented on nor openly acknowledged. The white-haired apprentice had not expected such a shift, but it did not exactly surprise her. Neither did she blame Riya for it. However...the most subtle of expressions can reveal a lot about what's really occurring - that's why Kael was normally so evenly-faced. Was that jealousy the Lieutenant just displayed? Hmm. Kael had no intentions of taking anything away from Riya intentionally, not in the least, but she would not refuse an advancement if it was offered to her. T'was her nature. She would note this; if Riya planned on turning it into a competition, then Kael was prepared for the challenge. The Seer could be every bit as good of a leader as Riya....if nothing else, that much she was confident in. Hell, she had made it this far on her own, right?
Of course, she was assuming a lot of things on a very limited amount of information. There was no sense in wondering about it now; the future will occur as it will, and she will react accordingly when the time comes. If the time comes. Until then, she would not take the chance in falsely accusing Riya of something.
...and suddenly, she was covered in snow. Neat. Thanks, Stardust.
Haha! You should have ducked! Ember laughed, watching Kael stand there covered in snow. Actually, now she just looked like she had a cone shaped head, since her hair was the same tone as the snow! Conehead! Kael Conehead, Alpha rider! he yipped playfully, with Kael only chuckling in response to his uncharacteristic antics. Normally, she would not allow such actions...but today was different!
Hey, Stardust! Wanna race?! I think the two ALPHAS should race! Ember called out suddenly, bounding around in the snow they just upturned. He had quite a bit piled on top of him thanks to Stardust's most recent skid in the snow...and, for that matter, so did the two riders standing there. Oh well. If they raced, they'd get away from the Barracks and not make Sky angry and Ember could still be hyper!
Wow. Being hyper was fun. Why wasn't he hyper more often?
Because soon you're gonna realize how annoying you are when you're hyper.
Oh please, like you're not hyper and annoying around-
Don't you dare. Kael responded, her eyes taking on a gentle warning look. Ember simply barked and bounded around Stardust...wise move, wolf. Wise move.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SilverStarrSapphire Vice Captain
|
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2009 11:10 pm
"Might have been interesting to see Stardust bounce off the walls when Moonstride approached her," Riya commented thoughtfully as she looked between the two wolves, not too bothered by the fact she was half-covered in snow. She hadn't seen her wolf act as playful as Ember since adolescence, so it was refreshing to see the Alpha loosen up. Even before her sudden rise in rank, Stardust wasn't so much hyperactive as she was indifferent to everything (and very narcissistic in attitude). But in a way, Riya was glad to see her wolf rise to the occasion and prove to be such a formidable leader - she could only hope to do the same. "The last time Stardust pounced one someone was when she was still a pup."
It is unbecoming of an adult, especially an Alpha, to 'pounce' on others, the sky blue wolf explained regally, holding her head high with pride. Nevermind the fact she had just sent a wave of snow over everyone, but she had an excuse! She was simply joining in on the fun, participating in the celebration and all that fun. And really, aside from Snowy, nobody could really reprimand her since she outranked everyone else. The benefits of being a leading Alpha.
Nipping playfully at Ember's tail as the young male pranced around her, Stardust considered his suggestion. She had to agree with him, she wasn't too keen on sticking around the Alpha barracks and waiting for Snowy to come out and chase her away. The thought had her glancing towards the large building, know that she (and possibly Ember) would be the ones residing in there one day. For now, she'd have to deal with their smaller domicile.
I think we should bring our humans along, see which one of them can hold on longer, Stardust remarked cheekily as she moved to stand beside her rider, crouching to allow the woman to mount.
Riya narrowed her eyes suspiciously at her wolf's implicative suggestion. She had a feeling that when Stardust said that, the wolf was going to try everything short of rolling to throw the rider off. But in the end, Riya decided it was better to fall off Stardust than to anger Snowy by allowing the two wolves to continue their rambunctions behavior right outside the Captain's office.
Grabbing a maneful of fur, Riya pulled herself onto the wolf's back, again glad that the Alpha wasn't as large as others of her rank. Settling herself comfortably, she glanced over at Kael with a challenging grin. "Coming?"
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2009 9:46 pm
Ember's attention moved from individual to individual as they spoke, recalling vaguely that this was one of the few times where he actually pounced anyone. It was one of the few times he had ANY major outpouring of one emotion or another, actually. Despite common belief, it didn't happen often. The only reason it happened at all was because he was still young, and there was one thing that always came with being young: energy. Normally he was the calmest, most laid-back creature on earth. Very few things could get him truly excited or upset. This was not 'normal'.
So, he would take advantage of it while he could.
I believe that is a great idea! Ember responded, trotting over to Kael and lowering himself to the ground. He felt her light reluctance at the idea of her ability to hold on being tested (because it sounded an awful lot like an excuse to throw her off, and that was unacceptable), but was pleased when she climbed aboard anyway. He wouldn't do anything too crazy. Probably.
Kael sighed and brushed the snow from her head and shoulders once she was settled onto Ember's back, giving Riya a very small smile and a nod. Hopefully Ember realized that the likelihood of him winning wasn't very high...hopefully, he wasn't so excited as to actually care. His enthusiasm was amusing, but it wasn't the Ember she was used to. She wasn't used to such loud thoughts echoing into her head. It would pass soon enough...but she would have to feign acceptance until it was over. Not too difficult when it came to Riya, but Ember was another story.
You seriously think that would bother me? Tsk tsk
No, I just don't want to rain on your parade. Come on now, let's have that race she said gently, smiling a little as she felt his muscles tense for take-off. Surely this wouldn't be that bad, right?...
GO! Ember exclaimed in his low voice, suddenly propelling himself forward. Chaaaarge!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SilverStarrSapphire Vice Captain
|
Posted: Thu Jan 22, 2009 12:00 am
Stardust tensed every muscle fiber within her slender frame as she prepared herself for the run, heart pumping faster as the rush of adrenaline began to takeover her veins. One ear folded back to keep track of her rider, while the other flickered towards Ember as his human mounted. Only a few moments passed before his voice resounded deeply in her mind, and she pushed her hindlegs into the snowy ground as she burst forward in one leap of bundled energy. The cold air rushed against her face, and her eyes narrowed to adjust to the sharp bites and her paws pounded beneath her in long strides. Her breathing enhanced as more air filled her lungs with each heavy breath, allowing a better flow of blood that heightened her muscular strength.
An aerodynamic form that boasted speed, Stardust knew that she could easily outrun the smaller wolf - at least today. Once he filled into his full size, it would be hard to tell who would be the faster runner. But for now, she maintained a steady pace that kept up with his shorter strides, ears flickering to him then her rider as she kept her eyes trained solely in front of her. They were still running through the barracks area and she was wary of any humans or wolves that could potentially walk in front of her at anytime.
A door opened to her left and Stardust darted to the right smoothly, nearly brushing into Ember. But as soon as she cleared the obstacle, she quickly veered back to her original path, vaguely noting that her rider had anticipated the maneuver and still clung onto her neck tightly. And she continued to run at one of her quicker speeds, simply to test Ember's limits before deciding whether or not she needed to pick up her pace.
Riya sat deep into the wolf's back, legs pressed closely along the thick fur that covered the ribcage, both hands gripping onto either side of the fur tightly. She had leaned forward to minimize resistance, feeling her loose hair whipping violently behind her. The cold wind that rushed by her from the speed stung her eyes and she squinted them until she could see but a slit. Stardust had one of the smoothest lopes of any wolves, but even so, an unexpected swerve could easily throw a rider off.
But she saw the door open and Riya leaned with the wolf's slight swerve, feeling her body rocked to the right for a split second. But years of running with this wolf had taught her to read every muscle movement by sight as much as by feel, and she could feel the slightest shifts as her legs twisted to change directions. Riya wasn't too fond of racing through the cold streets in casual wear and untied hair, but this proved to be good training. And she also realized how well she understood her wolf, feeling as comfortable on Stardust as she would simply running on her own two feet.
Turning her head slightly, Riya glanced at Kael to see how her rival was fairing. The younger woman may not have as much experience as her in riding a wolf, but most wolfriders proved to be naturals. And given that the apprentice was a Seer, she also had the advantage to reading Ember's every move. An ability that would surely have saved more than one rider had they had it.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted: Mon Jan 26, 2009 9:23 pm
Young though he may be, Ember was well acquainted with how to handle his body....not perfect by any means, or exemplary, but he could handle himself well enough. It helped that he only had to keep a minimal tab on Kael, since she could see into his thoughts just as well as he could into hers. Such a clear, two-way connection made non-verbal communication simple, and he felt her adjust almost simultaneously to his movements without having to be warned. All that being said, Ember was doing fairly well in keeping up with Stardust....
The only problem was, he had a feeling that she wasn't really trying.
Heh, neither was he!
Now, he was by no means a lazy creature. Kael liked to tell him that he was, but - in all reality - he knew that he simply liked to go with the flow. Competition was fun, but not necessary. He was perfectly fine not winning something so long as he knew his own strengths in that area. However...at the moment, he was hyperEmber, and hyperEmber liked competition. So, with the two sides battling amongst themselves over whether to try and show off or whether to stay comfortably neck-and-neck, his concentration was slipping. The newly-ordained Alpha was snapped back into reality when he felt Kael's concentration shift ever so lightly to the left as Stardust veered to avoid the door. Hmmm....maybe he should take this opportunity to ask her opinion.
If you want to show off, go for it. Though it may not do you a great deal of good in the end. Kael responded before the question was asked, smirking a little at the idea. Of course, Stardust would most likely win - she had the experience and the build for it, whereas Ember WOULD HAVE the build and experience...he just did not have it yet. And though he had always been good at handling his movements, she doubted he could handle them with enough precision to counter Stardust's currently superior form. Ember's bursts of speed were such a rush, though. It would not break her heart if he attempted one.
He felt Kael adjust her position again, preparing for what he had pretty much already decided to do. The wolf lowered himself slightly, altering his body movement for a more optimum aerodynamic form, as Kael had already done. Stardust would likely recall something similar to this that he had done before, only this time he was better at it. Abruptly, the red and white wolf shot forward with an extra burst of speed, overtaking Stardust's lead and quickly expanding his own as he sprinted over the ground. He knew it would not last for long...but he did so love doing this. Running as fast as he possibly could for as long as he possibly could was worth the defeat in the end.
...or, maybe, he could pull off a win like this! Maybe she would trip and fall in the wake of his awesome awesomeness!
Noooot likely.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reply
