Thread: An Omen From Above (Greeneyed23 & darkangel76)

The path down the mountain was difficult and, more than a few times, Carys found herself stumbling over snowdrifts and rock as she tried her best to press onward toward the billowing smoke she saw in the distance. She could hear Eleni's screeching cries, warning her of the more treacherous paths to avoid and for that she was grateful. The bird of prey had proven her worth and loyalty more than once and, yet again, she was showing just how invaluable an ally she truly was. Orrin let out a low purr while Luke growled and nodded in acknowledgment, both beasts urging Carys continue moving forward. Carys knew that her guardians didn't want to delay. All too soon the dual moons would set and the sun would risethat white dwarf star bringing light upon the lands, upon Eire down below. As it was, the villagers were surely awakened by the quakes and rockslides caused by the crash of whatever it was that seemed to be scarring the side of the mountain. She could only hope that the darkness of night would deter them from venturing too far from their homes, from the safety of their walls. Carys knew full well just as both Luke and Orrin did that it was the darkness alone that was primarily saving them all this night. Of course, the bitter cold and the fear of an unknown helped matters. She could almost envision her people below huddled together in the town hall, women chattering, babes crying, men talking. Talking as if they were the only ones who could provide anything and everything for those living in Eire. Funny how at one time she truly believed that... until that fateful day not too long ago when they cast her out, turning on her and wanting her dead. A chill ran along Carys' spine. Immediately Luke snarled, his large, muscled body moving close to hers as he nuzzled her. Put it behind you, Rys, he growled. Carys reached a hand down and petted his darkened fur, her fingers getting lost in the soft streaked tufts before tugging on them gently. Luke turned his head to nip gently at her fingers in an approving manner causing her to smile, her cheeks reddening slightly. Orrin growled, his own lithe body moving against Carys' in a protective manner. She has, he rumbled, he amber eyes narrowing as he glared at the wolf. Luke growled louder, Carys still moving ever forward toward what began to look like a wreckage. Her heart began to beat faster the closer they got, her breaths coming quicker and quicker with every step. No, she hasn't. I can smell it. The scales on Orrin's back flared while Luke's eyes began to glow even brighter. Orrin, it's all right, she said. Luke is right though. I haven't and I must. Luke growled approvingly at Carys' words, his body rubbing against her legs. She pushed at her dark hair as the wind blew a few tendrils across her face. The companions walked in silence most of the way, but Carys could feel the tension between the wolf and cat ever growing. The coming of the snows was more than likely affecting them, she figured, making them both agitated. Or so it seemed. At least Eleni didn't seem affected by things. She was a wise creature, free and able to come and go as she pleased. Perhaps that helped keep her at ease. Carys couldn't be certain. After a while, Carys and her guardians finally reached the smoky wreckage. It appeared shiny and she found herself having the urge to touch it. But both Luke and Orrin barred the way, almost forbidding the girl to move any closer to whatever it was that had struck the mountain's side. It had fallen from the sky. It was a sign, an omen, perhaps something sent by Eirys or... Oh, her imagination was getting the better of her. Biting down on her lip, Carys dared to know what it was they were looking at, if anything in particular. H-hello? she called out. Luke snarled, his luminous blue eyes locking onto Carys'. He stared hard at her, his expression almost one of admonishment. Carys felt her cheeks grow hot. Sensing her discomfort, Orrin rubbed his body against her legs, purring loudly as he did so. When she looked down at him, he gave her a reassuring nod. Hello? Is anyone there? Carys asked again much to Luke's chagrin.