AUTHOR'S POV
Scott had frequent visions every time he shuts his eyes. Some of his rouge nightmares include more deaths and new beginnings. Bound tightly on a rock, he did everything he could to release himself while Ofir just laid back comfortably as he hum a tune with his eyes closed.
The Alpha didn't even noticed how time passed by. Tamara didn't showed herself after the early morning conversation they had. Day turned to night as he desperately thought of ways to escape. Kicking the ground, hitting his head back and using his powers, nothing ever works. Everytime he rests his mind, he deeply hoped the pack would find him as soon as possible, and that Diana should be in safety for he had awful dreams about her.
Every now and then, he experiences throbbing pains through his heart that increases the uneasiness he feels inside. Enduring the unbearable agony, his agitation fluctuates, and it's driving him insane, especially now that he has suspicions that Roman could be another Tamara's puppet. "Luna..", he whispered.
When the light disappeared completely in the sky, his anger started to heighten once again. No food was supplied, and only the drizzle of the light rain dampen his dry mouth. He looked at Ofir who was still resting peacefully as if his current situation doesn't bother him. "Ofir!!! Wakeup!! Ofir!!", he said with much irritation.
The lythari elf groaned as he opened his eyes. "Do not shout Lycan King! You're disturbing the songs of the owls", Ofir said as the owls hoot in the dark.
"Why don't you to use your powers to take us out of here", he asked.
"My what?", Ofir asked.
"You heard me", Scot replied with a glare.
"I'm so glad that the Lycan King has finally admitted he needs my help", Ofir smiled ear to ear at the helpless Alpha. "But… even if I wanted to, I can't", he said.
"Now is not the right time to make jokes", Scott really hoped it was a joke.
"Lycan King", Ofir said with a nervous smile. "You might have forgotten.. I contained my powers in.. in the marbles. And I gave them to the Luna" he said.
"So you don't have powers at all?", Scott then realized why the moonstone near Ofir doesn't glow at all ever since he was hooked on the rock.
"Not a single magic", Ofir said. "Don't worry.. help is on the way", he said as he lifted his hands and placed them at the back of his head.
Scott stared at Ofir in such amusement. "How did you do that?", he asked how the lythari was able to move his hands.
"Do what?", Ofir squinted his eyes wondering what he did that amazed the Alpha.
"You can move your hands!!", Scott realized that he might have said it too loud. "You can move your hands", he whispered.
Ofir stared at his free hands, and then he stepped down of the rock like he wasn't bound at all. "I can, can't you?", he wondered.
"Will I be hanging around here if I want to? Get me out of here!", he gritted his teeth as he start to get more impatient.
"Lycan King, this is a runestone. It attracts power and then, connects the energies of two bodies through the moonstone. The more power you use, the more power it gets, and the more stuck you will be in that rock until it suck all the remaining energy you have.", Ofir explained. Scott was able to understand why Ofir didn't stick on the rock. He has no power left to be bound on the runestone.
"So how can I get out from here..", Scott sadly asked as he started to radiate his power, thinking that maybe, draining his powers would release him from the stone.
Widening his eyes, Ofir waved his hands stopping Scott from using so much of his powers. "No no Alpha! It doesn't work that way", Ofir worriedly said knowing that draining his powers would make things worst.
"Help me get out of here", Scott said. He turned his head when he heard someone coming. Worried it might be Tamara, she mouthed to Ofir to go back to his runestone.
Ofir smiled. "It's alright. I told you.. help is on the way.", he said as he face the part of the bushes where he sees something glowing.
Then, a man in a dark cloak appeared holding Ofir's marbles. "Who's there?", he asked as he put down his hand with the marbles stuck on it.
"I've been waiting for you. Do you mind giving me my marbles back?", Ofir said with his hands in his back. Scott squinted his eyes on the tall man.
"How did you get here?", Scott asked without removing his gaze on the man's face. He could see his untimely resemblance with Diana and he could tell easily that this man is no other than Daniel Woodsworth.
"The marbles led me here. They knew their way to the lythari.. as always", Daniel said.
"So much powers are in there, like they have a mind of their own. They will go back to where they rightfully belong", Ofir said. "Long time no see, old friend", he smiled at Daniel.
"Yours?"
"How did you knew my daughter? Is she here?", Daniel asked as he look around.
"She's not here", he said. "We've known each other for quite a while", Ofir added.
"Must be a long time for you to give my daughter your marbles.", Daniel said. "What caught you up this time?", he asked.
"This guy over here needs help,"Ofir nodded at Scott as he hop down a rock. "You arrived perfectly on time", he said.
"Who's this guy?", Daniel gazed at Scott trying to remember where did he saw those ash gray eyes.
"I.. I am..", Scott couldn't even introduce himself. This is the man who he knew killed his father, who tortured him every night and the one who persuaded his father to deal with a nagua. He thought he have wholeheartedly accepted Daniel, yet here he is, he doesn't even know what to say.
"Cat got your tongue?", Daniel asked as he lifted his brows at Scott. "Look Ofir, here's your marbles.", he said.
Daniel was about to hand over the marbles, when he sensed a nagual nearby
as he said as he kept himself hidden behind Scott's runestone. Ofir went back to his rock and waited for Tamara to finally show up.
*************
"A nagual's coming", as he said as he kept himself hidden behind Scott's runestone. Ofir went back to his rock and waited for Tamara to finally show up.
Then, in between the large boulders, Tamara appeared as she walked slowly towards her prisoners. Surprised, Daniel, who wanted to give the marbles and leave, gritted his teeth after seeing the nagua whom he wanted dead long ago. Realizing that the man stuck on the runestone might be Viktor Lockwood's boy, he kept himself hidden and decided to stay to save Scott from the hands of the nagua.
"The vampire is on its way. While waiting, why don't we start the ceremony?", Tamara said as she stared at the lythari elf. "Let's save the best for last", she gave Scott a wink as she approach Ofir.
"Will you do the honors?", she smirked at the lythari and then swiftly lifted her both hands towards Ofir as she chanted a few spells.
Ofir gave a side eye to Daniel, who's hiding in a safe spot in the rocks behind Scott. Looking back to Tamara who have repetitively chanted a few more spells, Ofir knew that no matter how loud or clear Tamara's chants are, nothing will happen to him since he doesn't have ang powers.
After a couple of more chants, still, nothing happened. "Okay!", Tamara exhaled sharply as tiny droplets of sweat come out of her skin. "It seems like the lythari is not yet ready", she said as she took a glance at the dead moonstone. Just in time, Claudia's restrained body have arrived as she was carried by two Yuxas.
"Talk about perfect timing!!", Tamara clapped happily seeing the unconscious original vampire restrained with thorns and fatally wounded on its chest. She followed with her eyes while Claudia was being turned in and placed on the third runestone. Scott's restless eyes searched and waited in anticipation whether the human serpents have brought Diana along with them too. However, no Luna appeared.
"And.. Diana?", Tamara asked.
"She's in the care of two wolfmen..Sssss..", one Yuxa said. "As ssssooon asss she sssstabbed the vampire.. Two wolfmen arrived to ssssave her", he added while his purple snake tongue sticks out every once in a while. "Your vessssel issss heavily wounded. She may no longer be fit to be claimed", he hissed.
Scott could feel his tension rising and his chest about to rip apart from anger. Hearing what happened, he could hear his teeth grit feeling an outpouring rage in his heart. He couldn't deny himself that the feeling of his attachment from Diana have weakened, and he couldn't be more afraid for his Luna when there's nothing he could do to save her at the moment.
"Poor thing. I hope she survives. I'm sure she'd make a wonderful mother. Those tiny pups in her belly swims just fine", Tamara replied with sarcasm. Daniel thought he went deaf when he heard Diana is pregnant. At the moment he wanted to show himself and kill the nagua with his bare hands. He was about to reveal himself when Scott uttered something.
"What did you just say?", Scott kept his intense eye contact on Tamara. He couldn't hide his shock as he clench his jaw hearing that Diana is in a state he didn't expected.
"Oh you don't know?", Tamara's round eyes were enhanced as she lifted her brows. Then she glanced at Ofir without even tilting or moving her head.
"You didn't tell him?", Tamara pouted her lips at Ofir who was apologizing with his tender face for keeping it all along.
"It's not something for me to reveal. The Luna doesn't even know herself", Ofir said as he confirm the Luna's pregnancy. He couldn't even look at Scott's eyes which were blazing with so much anger.
"My.. my.." she walked towards Scott. "Your Luna is pregnant.. with twins. Twin boys", the nagua said as she enjoys the pain in Scott's eyes.
"I'm gonna fucking kill you with my claws!", Scott said as he radiate his rage aura on his hands. The runestone cracked a little as the ground shook violently, while the moonstone glowed spontaneously.
"I'm waiting", Tamara gazed at Scott as she laughed wickedly. She couldn't contain her delight with so much power Scott can send off, making the moonstone complete the connection she needed to harvest his powers and transfer it all to her. On the other hand, Daniel couldn't believe that Scott Lockwood is the man in front of him, Viktor's boy whom he thought he owe a life he destroyed, and now, the man who fathered his daughter's unborn cubs.
"While you're at it.. I'll deal with my vampire first", worried that Claudia might die from her fatal wound. Suddenly, they all heard wolves howling not too far from where they are. "Get Roman and deal with that. I don't want to be disturbed", she ordered the Yuxas as they fled.
Ofir thought that's it was hope howling for them, that would help them escape. Given that Tamara still has a hold on his physical body, as soon as he retrieve his powers from the marbles, Tamara would trap him again on the runestone and eventually, transfer his powers unto her. He waited anxiously until he could find a chance to run out and ask for help.
Tamara then walked her way slowly to Claudia, as she chanted a few words, spells that would forcefully suck out the powers from the unconscious original vampire.
Scott continued releasing more powers for he thought only him could break himself free. Adamant in using his strenght, Scott grunted until the veins from his neck came out, and his eyes ball out from great tension. The runic inscriptions forbid him to shapeshift, keeping the wolf trapped inside of him. His tears started to flow, as he endure the pain in his heart for his Luna. Ofir watched the Alpha deal with his anguish, however it is not very wise to exhaust his body with his powers, moreso, give the nagua what she wants.
Daniel snuck closely and tried to stop Scott. "Hey!! Hey!! Relax your mind, don't do anything stupid, you won't get out from there if you use your powers". he said while Scott still continued releasing even more of his powers. "Do it for Diana", he said. The moment Daniel spoke of Diana's name, Scott calmed down. "I have a plan, just hang in there", he said.
Meanwhile, Tamara have started to recite her incantations. After a few repetitions, the moonstone glowed brightly until Claudia's body started to shake violently. Her eyes perked up as it gradually turned from bright red to coal black. In a matter of seconds, Claudia breathe out white smoke, and her skin slowly wrinkled like a dried prune. Her beautiful hair turned gray and she wilted like a sick flower. Scott watched in horror, he tilted his head to his side as he whispered to Daniel. "I think you should be working with that damn good plan of yours", he whispered.
Then, Tamara's eyes shimmered in two bright colors, bright yellow and deep crimson. Her fangs grew longer and her brown skin looked more tight and smoother. "It feels good", she breathlessly whispered with her eyes closed. "So.. this is how it's like to be an original vampire.. so much hunger for blood.. And the wolf's stench..", she crinkled her nose as she directed her gaze at Scott. "You're next", she said.
Scott clenched his fists while Tamara approached her. Ofir slowly walked out from the runestone, keeping it low and quiet. While Tamara was so focused on Ofir, the lythari took the chance to finally escape and look for some wolves in their aid.
Tamara started to speak the incantations for Scott. The Alpha instantly felt gravity pulling him down, as if his soul is being sucked out from his body. The longer she speaks the spells, the more he feels harder to breathe. The moonstone flickered as Tamara repeatedly voiced out her incantations until blood came out from her nose. Her pupils doubled and her hair became longer and thicker. Scott swallowed a lump as he start to feel dizzy. Then, suddenly, the runestones from where Scott was attached broke in half with a hard punch coming from behind. Released after the inscriptioned rock was broken, the Alpha dropped down on his knees gasping for breath as he feel weaker.
Tamara stopped and gasped in shock seeing what have happened. Daniel appeared as he leaped to the moonstone, stomping on it aggresively breaking it into bits and pieces. "NOOOOO!!!", The nagual shouted in exasperation as she attack Daniel with her newly sharpen claws.
AUTHOR'S POV
With the help of Ofir's marbles, Daniel doubled his speed as he dodge Tamara's attack. Then, he landed and broke another pair of runestone and moonstone while he run around. Tamara couldn't be more rageful, as she followed Daniel like a lightning bolt before he could destroy the last pair of spell stones. Just when Daniel reached the last moonstone, Tamara caught his foot and slammed him to the rocks. "I'm not going to let you break my precious stones!", she exclaimed as she jumped back at Daniel. When she checked the rocks, Daniel was no longer there. She searched over and then sniffed the air to locate the wolf. Surprisingly, Tamara caught Daniel's fist from behind and strongfully twisted it breaking his arm. He screamed in so much pain and tried let lose from Tamara's grip.
Scott could hardly open his eyes. He have used so much power that made him exhaust every bit of himself. His eyes squinted as he support his body with his hands on the ground. He groaned as he try to lift his body finding a way how to help the man who set him free. However, he was so weak to even lift a finger. All he could do was just watch the gruesome fight between the wolf and the nagua.
Daniel finally shapeshifted to his wolf form as he growl at Tamara. He couldn't stand on his four legs, as his front leg was severely injured. "I hope you still know what I'm capable of, Daniel Woodsworth", she said as she spoke a spell that made the small rocks jiggle. With the flick of her hand, the rocks floated in the air and were thrown directly at Daniel. The wolf dodged and leaped as he swerve from the rocks, until it hit his body making him drop down on the ground. Tamara smirked as she approach carefully, yet Daniel stood again on his fully healed leg because of the protection of Ofir's marble. Then, he swiftly attacked the nagua as he bit Tamara's shoulder throwing her off. He then ran on the other moonstone and slightly cracked it as he stomp on it heavily.
However, Tamara swiftly came back at him and then locked him on a tight embrace from the back, crushing his ribs. The nagua felt electrocuted when she tightened her embrace more, which made her release him. Feeling burned, she squinted her eyes at Daniel who's seems like healing quickly than usual. "So.. the lythari's powers are with you.", she noticed the glowing marbles embedded on his fur. "Those marbles are mine", she said. Tamara spoke of a spell that made the vines on the rocks move, aiming towards the legs of the wolf. After a few swings, Daniel's pair of legs were caught. More and more vines held him down to keep him from escaping.
Trapped and unable to move his legs, Daniel immediately went back to his human form, realizing that it would be hard for the wolves to kill the nagua if she gets the lythari's powers. One by one, he took out the marbles and pitched them out in the dark woods. "Try finding them first", he said while pinned down on the rocks, catching his breath and hoping Tamara won't find the marbles.
Tamara widened her eyes as she sees the marbles being tossed in the air. With so much rage, she ran to Daniel, and lifted him up by grabbing his hair. "Say hello to Viktor for me", she said as she sink her sharp fangs on his neck injecting a loadful of venom to his bloodstream. Then, she pulled away biting off a chunk of flesh from his neck instantly killing Daniel.
Once done feeding on her first taste of blood, Tamara threw the lifeless body of Daniel as she lick her bloody mouth. "That was.. splendid", she said as her two tone eyes shined even more under the moonlight. Then, she looked around to find Scott who have already escaped.
Meanwhile
++++++++
Meanwhile, the wolves have finally reached the rainforest by nightfall. Combing the field tall grasses, the wolfmen trudge on the sharp long slender stalks led by Roman.
"WHY ARE WE SAVING SCOTT AGAIN?", Troy said while he push the grasses away.
"You can go back if you're scared", Flynn said as he walk carefully on the muddy ground.
"Scared? Pfft", Troy squinted his eyes at the derisive
"Like.. why didn't we just go with the Luna instead?", he said as he glance at Roman. Roman remained quite while his pack exchanged loud questions. He never explained why he chose to let the Luna went to Claudia alone. Lucas and Cory stared at each other while the Grayback pack make their reasonable assumption on Roman's nonchalance on Diana.
"How did you know where to go anyway? I mean, nagualli don't show themselves that easy right?", Matt asked as he looked back at Roman. Hearing each other's perceptions, they only have come to realize that Roman may not be himself. With nothing but grunts from the terribly long journey, they all waited for Roman's response as they all shifted their eyes on the suspicious Alpha.
Roman stood by on the tall grass with his hands resting on his waist. Trying to catch his breath, he had this twinkle in his eyes and smile playing in the corners of his mouth that got the Grayback pack ooze with cautious distrust.
"Care to explain that, Alpha?", Lucas asked as he gritted his teeth on the superior name. "Your boy just asked you a damn good question", he said as he frown at Roman.
Roman exhaled sharply as look into the eyes of the marveled pack. "I have trust in Diana, as simple as that.. like how all of you chose Scott over her.", he said confidently. Then he pointed to the mountains as he explained, "It has been known that the rocky mountain ranges on the borders of Valley of the Falls and the Mystic Forest is the home of the nagualli.. all wolves know that".
"Alone? I wouldn't even try to do that to my mate", Troy mumbled wondering how could Roman put so much trust to the Luna to face an original vampire when she couldn't even use her maximum strength as a wolf. It's a good thing that Gunner took the initiative to follow Diana. However, the young wolf thought that Gunner wouldn't be enough to single-handedly win a fight over the most invulnerable vampire.
"I didn't know that", Austin whispered to David who seemed unconvinced with Roman's reasoning. Nagualli do not let themselves be tracked and so they never stay in one area, much more leave signs of where they dwell. But since, Roman is unequivocal on the path to the nagual, with high hopes and caution, they followed his lead.
"Diana didn't go alone, one of us looked after her. We wouldn't want to let our Luna end up dead when Scott comes back", Lucas replied. Scott's pack decided to make it look like Diana will be going alone. This is to make Claudia believe that the Luna will be appearing unprotected by the wolves, as per the original vampire's condition in exchange for Kate's safety. Besides, they were certain that there's nothing Sebastian couldn't handle, not even an original vampire who's the ultimate foe of the wolves. As for Roman, they couldn't put into light what his intentions are. Especially now, he's acting strange and different.
"So that's the plan? Then, I don't need to be more worried for my Luna", Roman gave a sigh of relief as he nod.
"If you say so", Cory replied refusing to believe Roman. As a matter of fact, the pack of the Grayback Clan doesn't trust him at all. If there's a wolf that would want Scott dead to keep the Luna for himself, that's Roman. Despite their hesitations to let Roman come along, they needed him to lead the way through the valley. On top of that, they needed an Alpha to fight the spells of a nagua.
The Grayback pack just nodded in agreement as Roman tried to make sense. They fully trust their Alpha, knowing he'd never break their trust or put them into harm. However, it's hard for Troy to believe Roman's words as he force a smile at their Alpha.
"Let's go. We'll rest when we reach the falls", Roman walked further into the grasslands followed by the wolfmen who clamoured their way out.
After half an hour of walking through the woods and climbing down cliffs, the pack have finally arrived in the series of short steep drops lined up beautifully at the side of the mountain. Roman eagerly roasted a meal for the pack after he hunted a wild gazelle. Camping by the falls, the wolf men took their time to catch their breaths and rest for a bit before they continue their exhausting journey.
Once cooked, Matt, Flyn, and Aaron nonarguably ate their share of meat. Troy, who does not have any appetite for meat, just watched them enjoy their meal. Allen, Austin and David refused a bite, but eventually, they gave in with the sumptuous aroma of roast meat. They all happily shared the healthy roasted gazelle while Roman watch them eat the meat to the bone.
Suspicious and with no appetite as well, Lucas and Cory decided to roam around. They couldn't hide their annoyance at Roman, so instead of hanging out with him and his pack, the two wolfmen preferred to wander. "This place is usually filled with werewolves", Lucas sensed the dry air as he lift his chin up. "There's just nothing", he said.
"Hey, ya hungry?" Cory asked as he sees a butt of a boar sticking out of the bushes. "Got a boar here", he whispered as he grab it with his two large hands.
"Watch it, perv!", the creature shouted angrily as he wriggle his body out of Cory's grasp. Cory didn't let him go as he squinted his eyes staring at the two-feet creature with a human upper body and a pair of goat's legs.
"That's no boar.. that's a satyr", Lucas chuckled as he sees how confused Cory was. After hours of travelling, this is the first time that they will be encountering a mythical creature.
"Put me down this instant!", the satyr demanded
"Okay okay", Cory said
"Hey", the satyr stared at Lucas and Cory. "You're wolves", he said.
"Uhh yes?", Lucas replied assuming the satyr seemed like he's expecting them.
"You're here to save the Alpha wolf and the lythari?",
"I knew more wolves will be coming over. And war has come upon us.", he whispered with caution with fear seen in his eyes.
"Is that why everyone went into hiding?", Cory asked.
"No", the satyr said. "Most creatures are afraid of becoming the nagual's marionette. I'm actually on my way out, I just got stuck from the bushes", he added.
Cory had more questions, yet he was interrupted when they heard the bushes rustled. The two wolfmen stood on guard, while the satyr fearfully hid behind Lucas. Walking out quietly, the satyr decided to get away before something evil happens. "I'm out", he said.
In a moment, Troy suddenly jumped out from the bushes and said, "GUYS, RUN!".
In a moment, Troy suddenly jumped out from the bushes and said, "GUYS RUN!!!". Without even thinking, Lucas and Cory shapeshifted to their wolf forms as they follow Troy. Running as fast as they can, they went in no specific direction following the frightened young wolf who spoke no more words after leading them out. After a few miles where the sound of the falls could no longer be heard, Lucas started to wonder where is the young wolf taking them.
"Hold up! Hey!!", Lucas mindtalked Troy as he slow down.
"Yea, what are we running from?", Cory said as he trudge slowly behind, confused why they were running.
The three wolves stopped in the foggy and marshy part of the forest as they shapeshift to their human forms. Catching their breaths from the quick run, Lucas and Cory gazed at Troy with their knitted brows while the young wolf walk back and forth with fear drawn on his face. Lucas then looked back from where they run from. "What happened back there?", he asked.
Distraught in fear and anxiety, Troy breathe heavily as he anxiously scratch his hair trying to figure out how to explain. "What is it?", Lucas wondered as he could tell something bad have happened. "We should go back", worried that his brothers from the pack might be hurt.
"No no no no", Troy panicked as he disagreed. "Don't go back!!", he widened his eyes in fear.
"Why? We can't just leave our brothers there. You have your pack left in there too", Cory said.
"Don't you get it!", Troy shouted as he face Cory and Lucas. "Something really bad happened and if we don't leave now, we'll end up like all of them", Troy
"What the fuck do you mean? I'm getting tired of this", Cory started to lose his patience as he clicked his tongue.
Dubious with Troy's behavior, Lucas thought he might be possessed. "Cory, check him for marks", Lucas nodded as Cory approached Troy with caution.
Cory checked Troy all over for marks of possession, and yet, he found nothing. "No marks", he confirmed.
"I am perfectly fine!!!" Troy said. "The.. the.. the pack!! They're not them anymore!" he stuttered as he bite his nails. Troy have tremendously feared what he saw in his Alpha and the pack. "Roman… He fed the pack with the meat he cooked then one by one, they all just went down.", he explained
"Down?", Lucas asked in confusion.
"As in head on the ground, eyes shut.. DOWN!" Troy sniffled as he rub his neck. "When they woke up, they all acted strange like it's not them anymore. They were chanting something.. When I noticed Roman saw me, I sprinted out", he said. Then they all heard some strange voices nearby.
"Shhhh", Lucas said as he placed his finger in his mouth. "What's that?", he thought he heard men chanting 'KILL' repeatitively.
"That's them!! We better get out of here! He's an Alpha, we cannot win over an Alpha", Troy frantically said as he was about to leave.
"We don't just leave our brothers, Troy. We're a pack", Lucas said.
"Yea, we can't just let them get in the neck. We can either die from saving them, or die winning this", Cory said with sharp exhale.
Losing confidence to fight, Troy stared at the two wolves who seemed decided to start a holy war between wolves. Then, in one turn, Troy left Lucas and Cory as he run out of the marsh lands.
===========
"Are you sure you still want to do this? Our Alpha and the pack can definitely make the job done", Gunner said as held Diana by her arm for they couldn't bring flashlight as it draws attention. Worried that the Luna might be very exhausted after her encounter with Claudia in the graveyard, he's unsure if she can keep up with the long journey and the fight with the nagual.
He made sure the journey wouldn't be very tiring for her as he assist her with walking, climbing and running.
Despite tired and hurt, the Luna insisted on making their way to find Scott. Travelling on foot didn't bothered, even if the wound on her arm is killing her. "You're hurt too, you should've rested instead", Gunner said hoping that the Luna would change her mind.
Diana smiled and tapped Gunner on his arm. Then, she pulled away from him as she start to climb up the wall of rocks following Sebastian. She groaned and winced in pain and discomfort as she tried her best to climb up. The two wolfmen guided and helped her climb up everytime she took missteps or slide back down.
When they reach top, Diana exhaled sharply and noticed her arm bleeding through the piece of cloth tied on it. 'I don't think the wound on her arm is healing', Sebastian mindtalked Gunner as he noticed her wound which have been left unhealed for hours now. 'Are you thinking what I'm thinking?', Sebastian asked.
"It's been hours, and yet, no one has came back yet. I'm sure you're worried than I am", she said.
"She got a point", Sebastian replied. "Let's go, the silence in the woods is bothering me", he worriedly said.
They walked slowly on the path of rocks guided by the light of the moon. Sebastian and Gunner placed Diana in between them as they took each step quickly. Then, they heard howling of wolves, like a call of attention. Gunner pulled them out of the pathway and hid under the bushes.
"Stay down", he whispered.
Wincing and gasping silently, Diana felt pain near her shoulders as she held her arm tightly. Sebastian couldn't help but get worried about Diana. "Are you okay?" Sebastian mouthed. Diana nodded and smiled.
Waiting under the bushes, they heard someone approach. When it's near, Gunner jumped on the creature which seemed to be very smelly and dirty. He was about to punch him on the face when suddenly, Sebastian stopped Gunner.
"Stop!! It's Cory!", Sebastian shouted making Gunner stop in an instant.
"What the!" Cory exclaimed as he shield himself with his arms.
"Cory!", Diana ran to Cory and hugged him out of happiness. She crinkled her nose after smelling him, as she stared at him from head to foot. He was covered in dirt and mud, with only his eyes and teeth showed in the dark.
"Boy, am I glad to see you!!" Cory said as he hug each of them. "You don't look so good", he said.
"Speak for yourself", Gunner clapped back
"What happened to to you?", Sebastian asked with a frown
"You don't want to know" Cory sighed in relief. "Have you guys seen Lucas?" He asked
"Uh.. no. We haven't seen a single soul around here. You're the first one we found in the forest", Gunner said
"We have to go, we have to find Lucas", Cory worriedly said. "Wait, I have to make sure not one of you is possessed", he added.
Cory didn't hesitated to check everyone for marks. Gunner refused at first, but Sebastian insisted because Cory seemed to be very unsecured and anxious about not having everyone checked for signs of possession. After being almost chased and beaten by the pack who cannot recognize him, he doesn't want to trust someone who'd deliver him to Roman and become one of his minions.
Despite Gunner's objections, he just agreed as per Sebastian's persistence. Diana observed how Gunner obeys Sebastian and how tamed he becomes in every stare Sebastian makes. With Cory around, the two became more careful compared earlier where they hold hands whennever they have the chance. She understand that it couldn't be the imprint that placed their hearts together, but the Luna is more than happy for her friend who have found love and acceptance apart from Sebastian's wolf clan.
"Don't you think we should check you too?", Gunner asked
"I was almost killed by your fucking Alpha and you want to check me for marks?", Cory met Gunner's gaze with annoyance
"Roman won't do that, plus.. who knows you just might be playing us", Gunner replied without moving his fixed gaze
"You didn't see what my eyes saw", Cory clenched his jaw as he stood back down. "Feel free to check", he said
"Gunner, don't skip the part that Roman gave Diana that hawthorn wood stake.", Sebastian said knowing that this type of stake may not kill an original vampire but it has power to control over the dead. Gunner swallowed a lump and couldn't find more words to speak for Roman, especially when he can no longer understand what he's really up to and what he have become.
"You were saying?" Cory hissed hearing how they knew Roman was posessed too.
"Done with your discussions? We should move fast", Diana said as she clear Cory from the markings. After checking everyone for marks, they covered their skin with mud and dirt to conceal their scents, just what Cory did. Diana, being the only one without scent, didn't had to do as they did.
They followed Cory through the woods, as quietly as possible. Walking on dried fallen leaves was such a difficulty to stay noiseless. They were almost caught by Austin and Allen who were making rounds nearby. The group followed the sound of the stream, for the nature's music would cover the sound of their stomps. While walking hastily, Diana noticed something glowing by the stream. Curious about the familiar orb, she strayed from the group as she come near the flowing waters. She picked it up and realized it was Ofir's blue marble, the one that holds the power to protect the holder like a shield.
Noticing Diana weren't following anymore, Sebastian trailed back and looked for Diana. Seeing her crouching by the stream, he immediately sprinted closer until he sees Diana's face glowing in blue."What is it Diana?", Sebastian whispered.
"It's Ofir's marble" she answered with a frown.
"What's wrong Luna?", Gunner asked
"It's weird.. how did these get here?", Diana thought her Dad survived the fight against the werewolves after all. However, she wondered in grief how he lost them, thinking he might be in danger. "I gave these to my dad. There's actually three of them. It has Ofir's powers that protects the bearer ..", she explained
"Hey! What's the hold up?", Cory ran up to them as he whispered
"Nothing, let's go", Diana said as she held the marble in her hand
"Hey", Cory squinted his eyes on the glowing marble Diana was holding. "I have one of those, I found it under a bush", he looked for the marble in his pocket.
"Really?! Is it Yellow?", Diana hoped that it'd be the yellow marble that replenishes health, something that she desperately needs before Claudia's venom reaches her heart.
"No, I think it's red. Here Luna", Cory handed it over to Diana. "You can keep it with you", he said
"Thanks Cory", Diana thought the marbles fit perfectly on the stake she brought with her.
"Fits so well in there", Sebastian said. "Keep it with you all the time", he said
"I hate to interrupt, but we got to go", Gunner said as if he sensed someone coming. As when they all agreed, they all sprinted out as fast as they could until they go beyond foggy dark woods. On their way through the large trees, they caught a glimpse of a man laying at the roots of a large old tree. As they try to see at a certain distance, they realized it was Lucas who was heavily wounded with blood all over.
"Lucas!! ", Cory shouted as he ran to his friend. Gunner refused to go after Lucas, and held onto Diana keeping her with him. "Let's wait for them here, Luna", he said and Diana agreed.
"Hey Bud" Sebastian reached Lucas first as he checked his wounds. He noticed some have started to healed. However, how wondered why his supeficial wounds are healing just now? He thought, it could be done recently.
"Don't… come here… ", Lucas said weakly.
"What? ", Sebastian observed how Lucas was placed at the foot of the tree. His wrists were firmly restrained with vines, as he cut them effortlessly.
"It's.. a.. " Lucas stuttered as he try to say something
"It's a what?", Cory asked. But then, he felt a loud thump on his chest as he read the warning in Lucas' eyes.
"A.. trap", Lucas said then Roman and his pack leaped down from the tree and attacked Cory and Sebastian.
"Welcome to my lair", Roman said as they all shapeshifted to their wolf forms growling at Cory and Sebastian.
Sebastian turned around and looked fixedly at Gunner. "Gunner, RUN!!", he shouted as he shapeshifted to his wolf form.
Gunner grabbed Diana and ran as fast as he could. He then shapeshifted to his wolf form and let the Luna rode on his back so he can run even faster. A few moments later, they noticed they are already being followed. Running at a speed of sound, Gunner could tell Roman is chasing him and the Luna. When he reached the rocky mountain, Roman have already caught up to them, as he wait on the rocks.
"Alpha", Gunner mindtalked Roman as he shapeshifted to his human form. "Your Luna is here.. do you remember her?", he said
"Of course.", Roman said. "Why did you runaway?", he asked.
"Uhh.. hmm", Gunner didn't know what to say. Seeing the dullness in his eyes, it made him realize he is not the Alpha he grew up with, and that Diana isn't safe with him.
"I told him to run", Diana said. "Who wouldn't if someone attacks you?" She asked
"I will never hurt my Luna", Roman said. "Come, let's go back", he offered his hand to Diana as walk closer.
Diana stepped back as she refuse Roman's hand. "I'm not going back. I need to find Scott", she said.
"No one's finding Scott. No one is climibing up the rocky mountain", Roman said as he forcefully grabbed Diana by the wrist.
"You're hurting me!", she said as she push Roman away. He was about to grab Diana again when Gunner stood in between them.
"Alpha, let her go", he said as he secured Diana behind him.
"Feeling tough now?", Roman asked with a smirk. "You think you can handle your Alpha?", he added as push Gunner on the chest.
"Luna, go! I'll hold him up", Gunner said as face Roman with the hope he'll wake up to his senses.
Diana ran away without looking back. She climbed the rocks the best she could, despite the increasing pain she feels in her arm. She gasped for air everytime she feels the cold breeze kiss her wet palms, until she's high above ground. Then, she felt the rock wall vibrate, thinking it was Roman's power radiating on the surroundings. Worried about Gunner, she rushed back down and decided to return for him. Diana took large steps down, even slid slowly whenever possible. When she reached the ground, she hurriedly looked for Gunner, who was already knocked out unconscious on the ground.