Thread: Whispers From Wolves (Raziel99 & darkangel76)

Carys felt her eyes widen as she watched the snow wolf transform before her very eyes. She knew something had been different, off. But never had she expected him to be a shapeshifter. It fully explained why only Luke could understand him and not Orrin. Why Luke had conceded power so readily. She sat there still and silent as he dressed himself and then proceeded to admonish both Luke and Orrin for having both left her alone. Though she understood why this man was scolding them, she hardly faulted them either. They were animals of the wild. They might be intelligent, but their instincts were primal and their driving force. However, with this man giving the orders, she knew both would listen now. That was, unless they seriously disagreed Slowly, Carys stood up, her staff clutched tightly in her small hands. Shivering, she pulled her cloak tighter about her slim body trying to stave off the chill. Tucking a dark strand behind an ear, she then reached for her hood and pulled it up over her head. The snow was falling harder now and the wind blowing stronger. Eleni had said the storm would be short lived, but she was beginning to wonder now. Second guessing both herself and the giant bird of prey. Walking a bit closer to the shifter, Carys reached out a hand to gently stroke Orrins back. The great cat had moved close to her as Luke had moved toward the man standing before them all. Both the man and Luke conversed with each other and she understood every word they both uttered. This shifter was indeed Alpha and, both in understanding this as well as wanting her safety ensured, he acknowledged and accepted the demands made of him. The walk through the snowy woods seemed endless to Carys, her small body growing colder by the minute as the winds howled about them and the Calder Mountains. But soon enough, they all made it to a cave. Just as they entered, she heard Eleni cry out with a screech. The great reptilian-like bird was nearby, she would take her rest high upon a mountain perch. Shed found a nook large enough to both shelter and support her. She was aware of what was going on and would let them be. Her task now to scour the mountainside for scouts from Eirys or any other neighboring village who might have gotten word of Carys bounty. Carys followed the shifter inside the cave. Luke and Orrin flanked her as best they could, wanting to stay close. She sensed their slight unease. They werent afraid nor did they feel threatened. And she could tell that they felt secure, for the time being, that she was safe where they were. But neither was used to relinquishing power. For the past year, both predators had dictated things, made the demands. For the past year, she obeyed only them. Now they had to watch her obey another. One who, they both could tell, surpassed them. She knew theyd get used to things eventually while under this shifters care. But she also knew it wouldnt be easy on either of them. Wanting to ease her companions feelings, Carys gave both Luke and Orrin several affectionate pets each. Both responded with low and approving growls, their bodies nuzzling against her as they made their way deeper into the cave. Finally, they reached a large clearing where several fires had been set up. Carys smiled at the sight of the warm and inviting fires. She was so very cold and now very tired. She heard the shifter speak to the other wolves and she couldnt help but smile a bit. He praised them for their findings on their hunt, making them beam in having been able to help out the pack. He then turned to her and introduced himself, gesturing and offering that she and her companions join them in their meal. Thank you, sir, Carys replied. Finding a place near one of the fires, she slipped off her heavy cloak and gently laid it down. She then placed her staff upon it along with her pouch, which had been strapped about her waist. Feeling lighter and warmer, she made her way over to the fresh kills the wolves had brought in. Not wanting to take too much, Carys cut off just enough for herself and both Luke and Orrin. She went back to her place and gave her animal companions some of the raw meat. Both gnawed and ate contentedly as she began to cook her own portion. Once ready, she ate her share hungrily, her tummy rumbling as she swallowed down the tender and delicious meat. This is wonderful, sir, Carys spoke, directing her words at Rylai. Yet again, I owe you. She gave him a smile as her cheeks went red and almost immediately, she turned her gaze away. Luke and Orrin let out low rumbling growls and moved to be closer to Carys. Luke rested his head upon her lap, while Orrin stretched out beside her, his body curving around her own. We will stay close, Rys, Luke thought toward Carys. He seems honorable, but we wont give you up so easily. Yes, Orrin added with a snarl. The wolf has it right. We arent leaving you. He paused a moment. He may be Alpha, but we are still your protectors. Luke looked over at Rylai just then. And we always will be your protectors. Even if we have to share you. Carys felt her cheeks burn hotter than they already were. It was clear that both Luke and Orrin were a bit jealous of having to concede their power. But she knew they wouldnt be too much trouble, not when her safety was on the line. Regardless, she couldnt help but be a bit embarrassed by their actions, their thoughts. Just then, mustering up her courage, curious if hed listened in, she glanced back over at Rylai, her eyes seeking out his.