LUKA'S POV

Is it wrong of me to take an avid interest from the worship I receive from the opposite sex? It's not as if I thrive on it because that would be ridiculous, but I do like it.

Take for instance Aria, she is human and has no idea about who or what I am but she likes me all the same. Aria is Greek, with a creamy olive skin tone, light brown hair that is natural wavy and deep blue eyes... I think I have a thing for girls with blue eyes. All during seventh grade we, as the teens on T.V. call it, "flirted" a lot. I didn't fully comprehend what flirting was until I watched some movie called High School Musical. The singing was so annoying but I liked watching the interactions between the characters and they all flirted really well. To me seeing the reaction that flirting can cause to girls and even guys is... exhilarating.

It's not like I am a ladies man, actually I am far from it. Besides who knows if they're a ladies man at the age of 13 anyway? When I was younger I always loved the prospect of girls adoring me because I was to be Alpha and with that came people loving me, but as I grew up I began to take an interest in human interactions.

There isn't much of a big difference between wolves and humans really, other than the obvious things. I just never took much care for wolf girls, not that their not attractive either. I guess what I'm saying is, in the pack I have an obligation to my family and my people. I have to train, learn and grow to become the next Alpha of the Dark Moon pack. It's not an easy thing to do, as Thomas so believes it is. Just learning all about Pack Law was mind-numbing enough, but learning about the families in the pack and all of their responsibilities and jobs... in a sense we are our own little town and so we must pay our taxes to the government and supply jobs for our people. We do have some wolves in the government that specialize in wolf towns and what not which is helpful, but it's not like we are automatically rich. My great-grandfather had to build this up.

A werewolf, turned business man, turned Alpha. With a mere handful of companions he built this woodland into the pack it is now. He had to oversee the construction of this town and the progression till he could pass it on to the next generation. Of course over time we had to allow humans to interact with us as well, so we secluded the majority of our pack to the woods. Now we have schools and jobs where humans and wolves attend. Each Alpha has a responsibility to maintain the territory and with that comes paying off humans to keep quiet, paying taxes, organizing job fairs, getting jobs in the human world so they believe we are just that... humans. There's just so much to do. All of that... that is the Alpha side of me but when I'm at school, I can be normal. I can act like I'm not an Alpha and I can interact with people normally. It's fun and freeing and necessary for my sanity.

Words have a powerful effect on people, girls in particular. My father knows just what to say to make my mom happy and not happiness in the form of just being content, but in the form of pure joy. He can say small things like "I don't know what kind of man I would be without you" or "No one else can make me laugh the way you do," it's those little things that make her light up and in turn it makes the pack feel happier as well. That love and bliss is something I want to be able to bestow on my own mate one day and the only way to be able to do that is to practice and learn. So I wanted to test out the technique.

At school I find I really like the way flattery looks on a girl. On a woman flattery leads to a... different look. A look that I don't want to think about because then I would be thinking about my mom and dad... eww. Anyways no matter the skin tone of the girl the effects are easy to see.

There is this girl name Mei Ling Su and she has amazing black hair. She never cuts it and doesn't curl it or put stuff in it like the other girls. It's always straight, flowing down her back in a braid, a ponytail or falling on her shoulders. I once told her during lunch that her hair remind me of "a midnight swim because flowed like a waterfall of onyx coloured hair." I wasn't lying to her or trying to tease her, I was just being honest. While the girls at her table "awed" Mei just looked at me for a few seconds and I watched her dark brown eyes widen in surprise. She thanked me before turning back to her food. She didn't blush like other girls or giggle; no it was all in her almond-shaped eyes. That was the first time I learned that when girls are flattered their pupils widen.

Another time a girl named Fatima joined our class. For a period of time she was made fun of because her name has the word "fat" in it and she was a little big, but what those stupid boys didn't know was that she was an amazing dancer. Fatima wasn't fat at all she was just a little bigger than the other girls. One day I saw her dancing in the far corner of the gym. No one paid her any attention but I did. She was on her tiptoes and spinning around in circles and each time she stopped her hands would rise in the air and she would freeze. It was the coolest thing I had ever seen and I thought she should know it. So I went over to her and told her she "had the grace of a prim ballerina and maybe one day she could become one." Like Mei her hazel pupils widen and a faint blush touched her tanned skin. The wrap on her head, I think she called it a "Hijab", showed no hair at all but it was gold and made her eyes seem brighter. Her heart raced a little and she lowered her hands slowly. She looked around the gym and saw some kids watching us, most likely thinking I was making fun of her but we knew better. When she didn't respond I asked her to show me the spin again and she did. She taught me all about ballet and the hard work it takes. She told me not all ballerinas are skinny and it takes muscle and strength to be able to do half of the moves they perform. Her flattery was shown through her actions and not only her reaction. It's a fun theory to test.

***

"So where are you going to go?" Naal asks me as I get ready for my "date" with Aria. I had asked her out just like I saw in that movie and she went beet red before saying yes. I didn't want to test my flattery theory on her because I liked her and I didn't want to over analyze her. I had asked her to the movies on the last day of school so it wouldn't cause too much drama. It was more nerve-wracking than I thought it would be.

"I was going to have Dave drive us to the movies. I have more than enough allowance to pay for the tickets and popcorn." Lying on my bed with a PSP glued to his face Naal nods before asking another question.

"That's cool, are you gonna kiss her?" My heart jumps at that comment and I know he hears it. "Oh come on are you really that nervous?"

"Of course not!" I lie. I am a wreck just thinking about this kiss. What will it feel like? What will she taste like? Will it be like it is in that movie? Will a song start playing in the background and fireworks explode behind us? Do I have to hold her in a certain position? Am I even a good kisser in the first place? It was so much easier being young and naive.

"Sure whatever. If it happens let me know. Then I'll know if I did it right." My head turns on its own accord as I stare at my best friend.

"What did you just say?" Naal gives me a toothy grin as he sits up on the bed.

"Oh you didn't know? Lucy and I kissed the last day of school."

"But I asked Aria to the movies that day and you didn't tell me? It's been like a week already! I've been freaking out about this stupid kiss and you've already done it? You traitor!" He bursts into laughter, effectively dropping my PSP on the floor.

"I knew you were nervous, you liar!" Naal sits back up and gives me another grin.

"Wait a minute, you didn't kiss Lucy?" He shakes his head and I sigh, instantly feeling gullible.

"Admit it I'm the best." He winks at me while hopping off my bed and stretching.

"Yeah yeah you're the best." I mutter. "I can't believe you got that out of me. I really thought you kissed her." Naal goes quiet and I stare at him intently. My eyes go wide as he turns away blushing.

"No!" I say, as he growls and walks to the window.

"Trust me when I say I didn't want to do it." I pull on his shoulder to look at me and he does so reluctantly.

"When did it happen?" His cheeks go redder and I feel like such a child in comparison.

"It was the day after Raelynn came back. I was so..." His eyes begin to switch between green and black again and I can feel him struggling against his wolf.

"What's up man?" He turns back to the window and pounds his hand against the wall.

"I was mad alright? I was pissed and didn't want to feel it anymore so I went up to Lucy, took her by the hand and led her to the portables. She asked me what was wrong and I told her I wanted to test something. I did everything you see in the movies, putting her hair behind her ear, holding her waist lightly and looking in her eyes and then I kissed her. And it felt..." I'm on the edge of my seat as he describes this to me but he still seems troubled.

"And it felt what?" I yell at him.

"Dull." I stand back from him confused and I can see in his eyes as they transition into a muddy green colour that he feels the same.

"Dull? I thought you liked her?" He hesitates before speaking.

"I did... I mean I do... I think. I don't know anymore." He takes a deep breath and his eyes slowly return to green.

"Oh... Is there someone else?" And that's when I see it, that look from three years ago at Willow's preschool. I still remember it as if it engraved itself into my mind. It's clear as day on his face. He likes someone else.

"Come on Naal! Who is she?" He blushes deeply and frowns.

"You wouldn't understand if I told you."

"I bet I would."

"I know you won't." I'm starting to get frustrated with his elusive ways.

"Just tell me who she is already." His eyes flash black before he answers.

"Abrielle!" He puts a hand to his mouth as a shocked expression claims his face.

"Dude that's gross! She's like 3 years old!"

"I didn't mean to say her name... at all." He shivers as his eyes glaze over and I know he's being spoken to through the mindlink. I turn back to the mirror and continue to fix my hair. I bought a new hair gel that makes your hair looked styled and messy at the same time... whatever that means.

"Hey I have to go and run perimeter with dad. Just so you know I really didn't mean Abrielle that really is gross, but... I can't say who the girl is... it's personal. Sorry but everyone has to have their secrets." He pats me on the back and picks up his phone and headphones.

"Well then I'm going to keep my kiss a secret." I tell him defiantly. Shooting me another annoying grin he chuckles and opens my door.

"Sure Luka. Whatever you say. Have fun today." I sigh and turn back to the mirror.

"See ya."

July has just begun and I am almost officially an eighth grader. I have to admit I'm really excited and not because of being the oldest grade again, but because I will be going to high school! During training I've become a little closer to the older wolves that are in high school and they've been telling me all about it and what to do and not to do and it has me so excited! Being the Alpha in a school that is majority wolves has a bit of an advantage. But being the young Alpha at a high school that is a pretty equal split of humans and wolves... it basically means nothing and in better terms it means I'm going to have to fend for myself and that brings a thrill to me that I haven't experienced before.

I want the challenge. I don't want to be doted on and always protected. I want to get into a fight, I want to get a little bullied... I need to experience these things. In my mind I have to go through some kind of hardship so I can overcome something. My father was a weak link in our pack. Grandma and Grandpa had to fight off the elders that said he would never be a strong enough Alpha. He was sickly and meant to die and he had to fight through that to become who he is now. It may sound weird but... I don't want things handed to me on a silver plate. I was taught better than that and I will be better.

I smile to myself as I reach towards my dresser and put on my wolf necklace. I've worn this every day since Rae gave it to me, except when training because I don't want to lose it. The pendant still looks new and it reminds me of Rae. I clutch it in my hand and think back to my tenth birthday when she gave this to me. She was so cute and innocent then, gifting me with something that I hold so dear to my heart. She truly is one of a kind.

Rae and her family have been back for two weeks now. She wasn't able to go to school because she had already finished early at her other school. They purchased a house within pack territory now and it's really close to the elementary school. They seemed to have settled in nicely but I haven't seen much of any of them since the night they returned. It's a little unnerving that she isn't... close to me but at least I know she's safe.

That night... after her... confession, things became tense for a few days especially with Naal. I don't know what's bothering him so much and I want to help him but he's always so reluctant in telling me. I wonder if it has anything to do with what he thought to himself that day.

"You'll never understand just how much I care for her."

I mean what does that even mean? Is there some kind of super care that I don't know about? How annoying.

It's still weird to know that Naal has kept this secret from me for almost a month! I just can't believe it. He's kissed a girl before me! And he didn't even like it. How unfair is that? I mean he didn't even take her out on a date like I am. He's got such bravado... while I'm a kiss... virgin. Did I use that right?

"Lukkie whatcha doing?" Willow walks into my room and leans against the doorway.

"I'm getting ready for my date Willow you know that." She pouts and crosses her arms.

"But you promised to take me to the movies." I sigh and smile at my little sister.

"Willow you know I can't take you today. But I promise I will take you tomorrow. Is that ok?" She smiles lightly.

"Alright can I get an Icee?" I'm beginning to think I spoil my sister too much.

"Don't you always?" She laughs and runs to hug me.

"I'm just making sure this human doesn't drain all of your money. I come first remember?" I roll my eyes and kiss the top of her head.

"Her name is Aria and you will be nice to her if I bring her here ok?" She huffs in my arms and I feel the warmth of her breath against my chest.

"Yeah..." Pulling back Willow smiles devilishly, her new signature smile, and plays with her hair. "What movie will we watch?" I fix my shirt and check the time. I need to leave by 4:45 so we can pick up Aria from her house and then get to the movies for 5:15. We're going to see a Disney movie... her request.

"We can see whatever you want Willow. Maybe Rae can come too! It would be fun right?" If looks could kill I think I would be dead right now.

"No! She will not spoil this for us!" I sigh and flick her nose.

"Don't be like that Willow. I thought things were getting better for you two." She snorts and turns towards the door.

"Oh yeah it was great... because she was GONE!" Willow slams the door and leaves me annoyed. I was hoping she would have gotten over this petty disagreement years ago, but I was wrong. My hand automatically reaches for the necklace. I wonder what she's doing right now.

A knock on the door pulls me from my thoughts.

"Luka sweetheart Dave is downstairs waiting for you. Are you ready?" My mom walks into the room and gasps.

"Is something wrong?" I ask checking my reflection for flaws. She shakes her head as her hands cover her mouth.

"You look so handsome Luka. I can't believe you're going on your first date!" Tears fill her eyes and I give her a hug.

"I love you mom." She sniffles and holds me closer.

"I love you too baby. You're so grown and mature. You are turning into such a beautiful young man." I feel her tears fall onto my head and I pull back to kiss her cheek.

"Don't cry mom I will be back for 9:00 like promised." Mom laughs lightly, the sound soft like a wind chime as it hits my ears.

"Well I'm glad you haven't forgotten your curfew young man." Letting me go she wipes her tears and pats my back. "Come on sweetie it's 4:45 now." I nod and take a deep breath. I grab my wallet and phone and follow behind my mother. I give the necklace a quick kiss for good luck and head downstairs.

When we reach the living room I see father and Beta Dave speaking to one another, but they stop when they see me.

"Hey pup don't you look dashing." Dad says standing up.

"I was trying to go for laid back." I say crossing my arms. Dad and Beta Dave start laughing.

"Oh come on Gannon don't make fun of your son. This is his first date and you will give him... you know..." Mom shoots him a look and dad gulps before taking me by the shoulders and leading me to his office. When we get inside he sighs and lets go of my shoulders.

"Alright pup I'm not one to beat around the bush so... what do you know about sex?" My face pales and I shiver. The truth is I don't know much. In the teen movies I watched they didn't show anything past making out on the bed. I never saw sex... but I know how it works.

"I don't know... anything. Why?" Father runs a hand through his hair and sits on his desk.

"Well pup you're at the age where you will feel certain things for certain women. And sometimes those feelings will want you to act on them and do certain things." I roll my eyes at his timidness.

"Like kissing."

"Yes like kissing."

"So what does this have to do with sex? What is it anyway? I mean what does it entail?" Father blushes making me want to laugh but I hold it in.

"Sex is for happy couples that want to enjoy each other's embrace and in turn want to have children."

"And how do they do that." He blushes harder.

"Didn't you learn this in health class?" I hold in my laughter just a little longer.

"Yup I just wanted to see if you would tell me yourself." I begin to laugh as father blows out a sigh of relief.

"Good because I have no idea how I was going to explain it." He laughs a little shakily.

"Yeah we know in depth how to have sex, I just haven't done it... obviously. But seriously dad what does this have to do with me going on this date. I'm not going to lose my virginity at thirteen." He laughs harder and gets up from the desk.

"I don't know pup your mom just wanted me to talk to you about it. But I trust you Luka." He pulls me in his arms.

"Thanks dad." He opens the door and lets me out of the office. Before I can leave the house Willow gives me one last hug and my mom gives me an extra $20 in case I want to play games or buy Aria something nice. Beta Dave waves me over to the car and we leave for Aria.

***

"I like your hair Luka." Aria says getting into the car. Her hair is in a high ponytail and her cheeks are rosy from the heat. Her blue eyes are sparkling and match the blue sundress she is wearing, with a jean jacket hanging from her arm.

"Thanks I like your dress, it matches your eyes." She giggles as she straps herself in.

"I always wondered what Luka means..." A blush rises up on her cheeks making them a deep red. I see Beta Dave look at me through the rear-view mirror and he winks.

"It means light or bringer of light." She gasps a little.

"Really? That's so pretty... I mean... in a manly way of course." She pouts and turns away from me. "My name has something to do with music." Her muttering is low but I can hear it regardless and it makes me chuckle.

"Music is beautiful Aria and if your name relates to music that means you are beautiful as well, from the inside out." She blushes harder and plays with her ponytail.

"Thank you Luka, that was really sweet." I take her hand in mine and we sit in silence for the rest of the ride.

It takes ten minutes for us to get to the movies and when Beta Dave takes us to the ticket booth to purchase the tickets, he gives me a pat on the back before letting me know he will be viewing another movie only two doors away.

"Thank you so much for this Dave. I know it's not in your best interest to be watching over two teens, especially because you're the Beta but it means so much."

"Hey don't get all mushy on me kid, but you're welcome. Have fun and remember I'm only two doors away." He ruffles my hair and leaves to see his movie. Aria is waiting patiently in line and I go to join her.

"So do you think this is going to be a good movie?" I ask as I stand beside her.

"Of course! Disney always makes amazing movies." I laugh to myself at her comment.

"Well I trust you Aria. If it's a bad movie then we will have to go and see another one." The line moves forward and we follow in step.

"Are you asking me on another date already?" Her pupils widen and I smile in response.

"Only if the movie is bad." I slip my hand into hers and she squeezes it lightly. Another person moves forward showing us that we are next to having our orders taken. I check my pockets to make sure I have everything and get ready to order some popcorn. The lady in front of us moves out of the way and we step forward only to be stopped by a group of older guys. They cut in front of us and begin to order. My wolf growls at their blunt disrespect but I hold my tongue.

"Excuse me but we waited in line." I say tapping one of the guys backs. The man turns to me flashing his canines and I realize he is dangerous.

"Listen kid we're hungry so f*ck you and shut up." I feel Aria move behind me and I hold my stance. My human side is scared out of my mind at these men, but my wolf isn't having it.

"It's rude for you to use that kind language, all I am asking is for you to move." My eyes flash black in warning and I know they see it. The larger man beside the swearing one turns around with a hotdog in his hand.

"Ease up Ty they're just kids. They're stupid. Just order and hurry up." I look towards the man at the cashier and can see he is just as nervous as I feel. The swearing man, Ty, smirks at me and turns his back. He continues his order and ignores us. Catching their scent I can tell they are rogues... but they don't smell like Henry did, if anything the scent is very faint. But... but... they are definitely rogues. How does that make any sense? Darn it where is Beta Dave when I need him?

"Luka they're staring me." Aria pulls on my sleeve and I look up to see Ty watching Aria.

"Stop looking at her like that you creep." His eyes turn to me slowly before he winks and continues to watch her.

"She's a pretty little thing. I've always liked brunettes." The big man turns to Ty and frowns.

"Don't be a pervert. Let's go." They walk away from the counter and the big man whispers to Ty, "Stop causing trouble you idiot. We're not here for that, we need to scope this area and get the hell out of here." As soon as I hear that I mindlink Beta Dave.

"Dave! There are rogues here... well I think they're rogues. They're causing trouble though."

He responds immediately.

"Stay clear of them young Alpha. If they find out who you are we will have a fight on our hands. Do you want to leave?"

"No they're gone, everything should be ok."

"Check in with me if anything else happens. I will have some scouts check the perimeter right now."

"Ok." I turn back to Aria to see her staring at me intently.

"Um are you ok?"

"Yeah sorry I spaced out. So what do you want to eat?"

"Popcorn please." The man at the cash sends us a sympathetic look and rings up our request.

"Are you going to do anything about those men?" I ask. He nods his head and gives me a small smile.

"I've already paged my manager and she will have security watching them. I'm sorry you had to go through that, you concession snack is complimentary." He hands us our popcorn and a large drink.

"You're brave kid. Enjoy your movie."

"Thank you sir." I take the popcorn while Aria takes the drink and we head to our movie. The human side of me is still quivering in fear at those men and how it is possible for them to have seemed so dangerous but not be rogues.

"Come on Luka! We're gonna miss the movie if you keep 'spacing out'!" Aria is already at the door.

"Sorry, sorry I'm coming." That pretty pink blush that I've liked for so long creeps up her neck and touches her cheeks. She's really pretty.

Entering the theatre the lights have dimmed and the previews have already started. We find a seat in the middle row and get comfortable.

"Young Alpha I have some scouts coming to meet with us after your movie. Sorry to cut your date short but we need to know what they looked like and how they got in."

"Of course Dave I understand."

Sighing I hold Aria's hand and do my best to enjoy the rest of our date.

"Are you not having fun?"Aria asks squeezing my hand lightly. I turn to her and watch the way her lips part slightly. Her heart beat is faster now and her pupils are widening.

"I'm having a great time Aria." She moves closer to me and the theatre darkens as the movie begins. The Disney opening begins and the theatre illuminates blue. Her eyes close and I feel her breath fan across my lips. Are we going to kiss? Holy! I close my eyes as well and lean into her. It takes four seconds for our lips to touch and when they do it feels... warm. It's not like the movies at all, but it's not dull like Naal said. It's soft and warm and nice. Really nice. Our fingers interlock and I tilt my head to the side to get a better angle. It lasts for forty-five seconds and it's so good. We peck each other twice before we pull away and rest our foreheads against each other.

"I really like you Luka."

"Me too." We both laugh and turn to see the movie playing. Everything else is drowned out as we hold each other's hands.

There are some scenes that I catch as the movie continues but all my mind plays is my first kiss. I thought I liked Aria before but now... wow. The way her eyes seemed to sparkle and her cheeks flushed.

The fullness of her lips and the taste of orange pop from her mouth. I feel so different, but the same... as if I've changed only slightly but it was enough to make me feel more mature. I like kissing... a lot.

As the credits rolled in Aria and I rose, our hands still entangled and walked slowly to the exit. When we got to the doors Beta Dave was waiting at the car.

"I'm sorry Aria but I have to end the date here. I have some... family matters to deal with." She looks towards Beta Dave and then back to me.

"I understand. But before I go I just have one question." She walks closer to me and holds my free hand.

"What's that?" Stepping closer she looks up to me with those blue eyes.

"Was it just me or was that movie terrible?" I frown for a second before understanding her motives.

"It was the worst movie I've ever seen." She smiles.

"I guess I will have to choose a better one next time."

"How does next Friday sound?" Kissing my lips softly she pulls away and begins walking to Beta Dave.

"It sounds perfect." I stand on my spot and watch her get into the car. The door closes and I can see her still staring at me so I wave and stare as she gets driven further and further away from me.

"Stay right where you are. Remain in plain sight young Alpha. The scouts are almost there."

"Got it."

I close the mindlink and hang out in the arcade. Checking the time I see it's 7:28 and I needed to be home for 9:00 ... I guess I have to break curfew. I still a lot of money left thanks to the free popcorn so I play games in wait for Dave.

Ten minutes pass and I am about to play Tekken when that scent hits me again. The men from the line walk past the arcade, only to stop and catch sight of me. I put on a brave face and continue to play my game hoping they won't make a scene because there are children around. Ty watches me from behind the big man as they enter the arcade. I try to remain focused on the game but their presence is unnerving.

"Hey there kid, you remember me?" I ignore him and continue playing. He steps into my line of sight and I hear a low growl. "It's because of you that we were 'removed' from our movie. You have anything to say to that?" I try to keep playing but I feel fear begin to creep up my spine and surround my thoughts.

"Ty I said cut it out." The big man says. I am not facing him but I can see he doesn't want to cause trouble.

"And I said shut the f*ck up. This little p*ssy here owes me a refund." I scoff when he says that.

"As if you actually paid for your tickets." He growls again and the big man pushes him behind.

"What did you say kid?" The fear is still rising but my wolf, the damn hero, thinks it's necessary to show his face again.

"You heard me. You walk around here like you belong but you don't, so why don't you just leave?" Ty laughs at me and clenches his fists. What the hell am I doing? I can't take on three guys alone!

"I will leave, just give me your little girlfriend and I'll be out of here." He snickers like the little snake he is.

"You make me sick." I say still hoping the big man will continue to hold him back. Ty's eyes flash red and I know I've pushed him too far.

"Not here Ty. Come on man there's too many civilians." I can already see his claws breaking through his skin. He's shifting... right here.

"The f*ck I care about civilians? You never used to care about civilians Bo until that asshole decided it was cool to take us in. You know what? F*ck you and f*ck him. I'm gonna show this kid just who he's messing with." His body begins to sprout fur and the fear turns to worry for the people in the theatre... so of course I do something stupid.

"You wanna fight me then let's go outside. I'll rip you to shreds." He growls low in the back of his throat and a woman and her children peer towards us. I lead the way to the back exit knowing they're following.

"Dave if you can hear me I need help! They're about to attack and I can't do this alone. Please help. Quickly." There's no response on his end and I clench my fists.

"Show me what you got kid, I'll kill you without shifting." I gulp and put up my fists in a fighting stance. This is nothing like training. My life is in danger... if I don't hold out long enough... I could die. I take a deep breath and prepare myself, but the wind is knocked out of me as Ty runs forward and slashes me across the face. The pain isn't instant but the blood flow is. I can feel the warm summer air blowing across the cut causing a numbing pain to appear. I wince at the feeling and focus on Ty. He has a smug look on his face and blood on his claws... my blood.

I charge forward and get ready to hook his jaw when he disappears. I look both left and right and see nothing, but I hear him too late. He kicks me right in the spine causing me to collapse on the floor. The pain is like knives constantly stabbing me and I have to fight back tears at the intensity of it.

"Oh come on I was hoping for a little more of a challenge." He taunts from above me. Pulling me up by my hair he uses my head like a punching bag, landing blow after blow. The tangy metallic taste of blood fills my mouth and dribbles down my chin as he teaches me a lesson I wish I had already learned. His grip on my hair loosens and I get ready to attack when he grabs me by the neck and slowly begins to cut off my air supply.

"What happened to ripping me to shreds? Eh kid?" His pupils are rimmed red and his canines are extended. I try to catch a glimpse of anything surrounding us, hoping for someone to pass us by but I see both men are guarding any pathway towards us, meaning I'm trapped. My vision begins to darken as he continues to choke me. If this is death then I am a failure. I feel a sharp sting and realize he is hitting me again and I am helpless in fighting back.

No we're not.

I hear the words thunder through my mind and I feel my wolf rise to power. My claws extend and I slash at his face, payback is pretty bad huh? He hisses but keeps his hold on my throat. My wolf growls out and locks his legs around Ty's waist. Taking a deep breath I swing and pelt his face as hard as I can for as long as I can till he loosens his grip. Using the same technique as I did with Jo I push against his chest to rock him backwards and then use that momentum to fling us to the ground. I land on my back hard but ignore the pain and flip Ty over. I'm about to continue with the slashing when his eyes flash red again and he kicks me off of him. He shifts into his wolf and growls at me fiercely. I don't wait to shift either and feel my wolf completely take over.

Ty circle us with a predatory look in his eye but we aren't fazed. He steps forward with his left paw and his mistake is clear. As soon as he lunges we duck underneath him and claw at his stomach. Blood coats our paw as he whimpers and falls to the floor. But he is not one to give up as easily as we detected. He lunges again getting a good bite into our shoulder, but we bite back taking a chunk of his flesh and fur with us. The bite is disabling but not enough to stop us. Standing on all legs to show no pain we growl menacingly showing his blood coating our teeth. He is no match. His brown fur is already looking matted from the wounds and he has a slight limp, we use that to our advantage. Going for his leg we buck into it causing him to fall onto his back. The opportunity is clear as we pounce on top and growl for submission. The wolf knows his death is nigh and rightfully so. Our claws dig into his stomach and we tear at his insides enjoying the feel of his intestines being crushed underneath us. He cries and whimpers signalling his already approaching friends so we end him quickly. A deep tear to the throat, ripping out his jugular causes his death to be swift. The wolves watch us carefully before the smaller one shifts and lunges.

As our claws are still within the dead wolf's stomach we have no choice but to take the impact. He knocks us onto our side causing a momentary weakness. The wolf growls at us standing over the mutilated body of its friend. Getting up quickly we growl in defense and circle him. This was the quiet man from before. Bo is still in human form watching us carefully. We must be cautious of him as well. The odds of us making out of this alive are slim with our current injuries but we will fight. We lunge for the wolf extending our claws to attack the face. We are able to blind him in one eye as the remnants of his left eye trail down his snout. He howls out in pain and we hear our Calvary.

"Young Alpha can you hear me? We are almost there. I apologize for not protecting you. I am coming!"

"Dave one of the three wolves is dead but I don't know how much longer I can last."

"We are almost here Luka. Stall him!"

We focus on the smaller wolf as it tries to nurse its eye. If we continue to hit from the left he will never be able to hit us back fast enough. With the strategy created we dive to its left and bite into his flesh. He yelps and kicks at us but our hold is strong. The blood oozes down our mouth but we do not give up. Sinking our canines deeper we see Bo getting closer.

"Luka we are here!"

The Beta rushes to our aid and fights with the smaller wolf. He's an easy kill with only one eye and a wounded side. A rush of fatigue washes over us as we collapse to the ground. Our wound has caused us much blood loss and our body is tired from using only one source of strength. The scouts search the area for Bo as he is missing but our vision clouds and darkness consumes us.

PICTURE OF ARIA>>>>>