Hello again my pups! Look what I have for you! So exciting to be able to be writing and having everyone enjoy another adventure. I have to tell you that I have been able to write 4 chapters already, I can only hope that enough people love this story so I may post them as well. I hope that everyone likes this one as much as they like "You're a wolf, stand proud" if you haven't read that one, I recommended it!
I give big shout out to Deveney! The sweet darling is helping me out again so this story can be better without so much misspelling and grammar issues.
Anyways! Let us dive in to the real fun yes? Enjoy your treat my pup!
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Chapter one
Lexa 8 years old
"Lexa, I really don't think you should climb that!" Anya shouted up at her best friend as Lexa continued to climb the tree digging her nails into the bark to keep from falling.
"I'm fine Anya! Besides, who else is going to help this kitty?" Lexa shouted back at her. She adjusted her sweater that was looped around her midsection. Lexa huffed as she pulled herself up further into the tree, the bark scratched at her skin but that didn't bother her.
"I don't know, maybe the police?! Or the firemen! Get down here already you're going to hurt yourself!" Anya whined out pacing back and forth getting ready for whenever Lexa may fall. Lexa rolled her eyes ignoring her friend, there was someone that needed to be saved. Lexa pushed away leaves and branches that got in the way; her thoughts focused only on the black kitten that was clawing at the branch it was stuck on. It kept meowing loudly, terrified, with each cry it made Lexa push on, its distressed calls fueled her to keep going.
When Lexa and Anya had been on their way home from school, they had heard this little thing crying. They both went searching for the sound having to go off the path their parents had always ruled them to stay on. As they followed the sound it led them to the park square that was four blocks away from their homes. Once they found the distressed kitten, Anya being the responsible one since she was older said they should find an adult to help them out. But Lexa had other plans, she didn't want to wait for an adult to maybe help them, adults made excuses all the time not to help out. So, for Lexa it was more reasonable to climb the tree and rescue the kitten herself, she had to rather be brave since she had just a slight fear of heights.
Finally making it to the branch the kitten was on, Lexa pushed on the branch to see how sturdy it was. A little flimsy, wouldn't be able to hold her, no wonder the kitten didn't want to move. It probably thought it was going to fall if it tried to get down. Heck Lexa didn't even want to be on the branch either. They both were very far from the ground, one slip up and they both hit the ground and likely break something. Lexa bit her lip and reminded herself why she was even up here. Lexa shifted her weight a little so only half of her body was on the branch. Thankfully it wasn't an issue, at least not yet. The kitten took notice of Lexa and right away in its distress state it hissed clawing in her direction, but Lexa smiled at the kitten not feeling afraid. She extended her hand to the small creature.
"it's ok, please don't be scared. I just want to help you," Lexa cooed softly at the small fluffball. She reached out to it being able to touch its paw. The kitten still hissed and batted at Lexa's hand, its claws dugging into her skin but Lexa ignored the pain. Lexa leaned further out and the branch groaned under her, a small crack was heard. The kitten yelled out and swiped at Lexa's hand again but this time Lexa gripped its small paw and pulled it forward. Lexa had added more weight into the branch and there was a louder crack and she could feel the branch breaking lose. Lexa yanked hard on the kitten finally getting its claws to loosen from the bark and quickly held it close to her chest. Lexa shrank back as the branch broke from under her and she used her free hand to claw into the bark.
"Lexa!" Anya screamed out horrified as she saw the branch break and her best friend clung to the tree. Anya was ready to run off and find the closest adult but then she heard meowing.
"Its fine Anya! I'm okay," Lexa shouted back, the kitten was safely huddled into Lexa stomach its claws digging into the sweater fabric. She carefully pulled the kitten lose from her shirt and gently tucked the small creature into her makeshift pouch. Lexa could hear Anya lecturing her for her stupidity but she ignored her as she adjusted the pouch to behind her back. Once Lexa was sure the kitten was safe, she began to climb down the tree. "Enough already! You're worse than my mama," Lexa snapped at Anya.
"well someone has to be the responsible one! I'm older than you! Your mom would kill me if she found out I let you climb a tree like some monkey!" Anya yelled back, while Lexa finally made it safely back to the ground. She was able to breathe easier once her feet touched the earth. Lexa spared a glance up from where the tree branch broke and it was way higher then she first thought,
"Would have been worth it," Lexa gulped looking away from the tree and to her friend who was scowling at her. "Look isn't he cute?" Lexa pulled the pouch in front of her and pulled the kitten out hoping to distract Anya from lecturing her again. The kitten was looking around dazed and clung onto Lexa's arm, its claws digging deep enough to draw some blood.
"Sure, if it wasn't trying to tear your arm off," Anya looked at the kitten hesitantly she seemed like she wanted to pet the kitten, Anya has a weak spot for cats. Lexa laughed at her friend's expiration. Lexa gently stroked the kittens head; the fur was rough and dirty more than likely it was a stray. Lexa kept petting the kitten from the top of his head down to his tail.
"He's just scared, wouldn't you be if you've been stuck up there?" Lexa teased continuing to calm the kitten, little by little the kitten withdrew its claws. The black kitten relaxed against Lexa's chest his breathing slowed down and he was looking around again.
"I wouldn't be stupid enough to climb something I couldn't get out of," Anya talked back though she couldn't help reaching out and stroking the side of the kitten's head. The kitten now calmed arched into Anya's touch letting out gentle purrs,
"Aw I think he likes you," Lexa grinned seeing Anya's heart melt for the tiny fur ball. She easily transferred the kitten to Anya's arms while she looked over herself. A few scratches on her hand and arm, lifting her shirt to check her stomach she could see a bruise forming from where the branch broke against her.
"Indra is definitely going to kill me, you look awful like you got into another fight," Anya sighed though her attention was fully on the kitten as it continued to purr away and she kissed its cheek. Anya wasn't wrong though; her mama would not be happy how scuffed up she was. It wouldn't be the first time that she'd gotten into a messy situation that left her scratched and bruised. Lexa's been helping animals with every chance that she got, she'd feed stray cats or dogs, she's beaten up a bunch of boys that would hit a dog, she's even freed wild animals from hunter traps in the forest that was further away from her home.
Lexa always had a passion for animals, she loves them. She finds animals to be the most innocent and trust worthy creatures to ever live. Animals only wanted the simple things in life shelter, food, water and love that's all that they expect for a person they don't want anything more than that. Animals didn't hurt you just because they wanted to nor did they disrespect you. Not like the kids in her class that bullied and harassed her just because she was adopted. Always making jokes about how her real parents probably found her too ugly to keep and tossed her away. Animals didn't care that she didn't look like her mom or her dad not like people did. Anya was the only person outside her family that she trusted with all her heart because Anya has never tried to hurt her.
"Take him home with you, your dad likes cats. Wasn't he whining about wanting one?" Lexa pushed, there was no way she could take the kitten home the landlord had a strict rule of not allowing any animals to be in the house. Complained that animals were just home wreakers that would destroy the value of his house. Plus, her mom and dad were far too strict about following those rules.
"Yes, but he wants a cat, not a kitten. You have to train a kitten how to use the litter box and not to scratch crap up," Anya protested even though she continued to baby the tiny thing. She was holding the kitten like a baby, grabbing his little paws and kissing the pads, the kitten seemed rather happy with the affection as it meowed and purred with delight. Lexa only grinned wider and began walking back towards their block. Anya followed after keeping the kitten close to her chest.
"I'm positive it won't be a problem, " Lexa patted the kittens head gently and leaned in to kiss its nose. Anya rolled her eyes but no longer made no protest happily cooing at the kitten as they continued to walk.
"What should I name him?" Anya wondered aloud, the pair was nearing their separate homes. Lexa's rented house was first on this block while Anya's house was three houses down,
"What about Scruffy?" Lexa suggested, they stopped in front of Lexa's house.. Lexa leaned against the fence around the property. Anya held the kitten in front of her tilting her heard considering the name,
"Too soft, he needs a manly name," Anya argued, the kitten reached out to smack her nose. Anya tilted away before he could scratch her out of excitement, though she did grin, "How about Crash?"
"And what reminds him of his trauma every time you call his name?" Lexa huffed, she tickled the kitten under its chin, "mm how about Reaper? Challenger of death,"
"Ooh, I like that on-"
"LEXA WOODS! Have you gone and ruined your clothes again!?"
Lexa flinched at the loud booming voice of her father, slowly turning around her shoulders hunched up. She gulped and looked up at the overbearing tall beard man. Her father was huge and wide so he often scared a lot of people, it didn't help that he was also the local butcher to his own shop. Yeah because 6"8-foot man wasn't intimidating enough let's give a huge knife bigger then your head to chop up meat. Her father must have gotten back from work, he looked like he just got of the shower and smelled of Irish soup.
"Hi-i papa, umm no? It was just the sweater," Lexa meekly answered stepping back a few steps as her father glared down at her. Anya was already slowly trying to get away, she turned around ready to run off but her father snagged the top of her backpack and held her in place.
"Uh huh tearing up the sweater your grandma made you and what are you hiding in that sweater, Anya?" The man scolded. Anya slowly turned back around lowering her head she carefully pulled back the top of the sweater.
"It's a kitten sir," Anya answered looking like she wanted to flee, Lexa knew she was in trouble big time. Her grandma hand knitted that sweater for her, but she didn't like it at all. It was a bright orange color and very rough against her skin. Lexa looked at her father's face smirking as she saw him smile at the little kitten. Her father was weak for the smaller animals, he loved dogs and cats.
"Sure is, a mighty cute one," her father's hand was bigger than the kittens head as he reached down to pet him. So, it didn't surprise Lexa that the kitten shrank back and hissed at the intimidating man.
"Lexa saved him, sir," Anya stated proudly handing off the kitten to the large man. Her father grabbed the kitten carefully and scratched his back, though kitten looked like this would be his last moment to live. The kitten's eyes were wide and unmoving just waiting to see if the man holding him would eat him or drop him,
"Did she now? And would that explain why your sweater is all messed up?" her father addressed to her. Lexa held her head up proudly; she wasn't about to lie she did something good,
"Yes papa, and I'll do it again to save any animal," Lexa nodded firmly. Her father's booming laugh startled the kitten to pounce away from his hands and onto Lexa's shoulders. The kitten snuggled close to Lexa's face as he took a moment to be grateful that he was away from the big scary man,
"Of course, you would. Like you saved that dog from the river and used your sweater to dry it off. Or when you gave your sweater to a bird's nest to keep it warm," her father laughed his teeth gleamed with his bright smile. Lexa only smiled feeling just a little guilty as she petted the kitten that curled around her shoulder,
"My mother would be heartbroken if she knew how much you kept "losing" or destroying the sweater she knits for you,"
"They were sacrificed for a good cause," Lexa protested, she grabbed the kitten and handed him off to Anya.
"Hardly think she would agree with you. Though let's be honest, those things are the ugliest piece of shi-"
"August hold your tongue! We don't curse in front of children!" August stood up straight right away and this time Anya bid Lexa a quick good-bye and took off running towards her home. Lexa shrank back trying to hide behind her father, but Indra had already caught sight of her new wounds. Nothing escaped that woman,
"Hi, mama," Lexa smiled carefully as she quietly stepped forward otherwise her mother would yell at her for hiding. Indra looked Lexa over and shook her head before letting out a deep sigh,
"What was it this time?" Indra grabbed Lexa's arm gently and began thoroughly checking her wounds.
"A kitten," Lexa answered as Indra took her hand and lead her towards the front entrance of their home. August followed close behind keeping his mouth shut,
"And where is this tiny beast that has caused harm to my child," Indra eyed Lexa's backpack uneasily, wouldn't have been the first time Lexa tried sneaking an animal inside.
"With Anya, she's naming him Reaper, challenger of death," Lexa smiled feeling more relaxed since her mother hadn't yelled at her. But then she began leading her towards the master bathroom, Lexa knew all to while what was in there. "Please mama, not the peroxide,"
"None of that, you saved the kitten, now I save you from getting an infection," Indra lectured her. She let go of her hand and Lexa knew where to go. She claimed up on the bathroom counter and pushed herself up then leaned over the sink and waited.
"I know that, but it hurts so much," Lexa half argued there would be no reasoning with her mother. Indra had the first kit in hand and placed it by the sink and pulled out the things she would need.
"Maybe you should be more careful on how you save those animals. Wouldn't have to keep patching you up so much," Indra pulled out the dreadful peroxide. Lexa wrinkled her nose up as her mother opened the bottle. Lexa looked away as her mother began to slowly pour the liquid over her arm. "or maybe you just stop this altogether,"
"No, I won't stop. Not ever, if I don't save those animals who else will?" Lexa hissed out from the small pain. She bit her lip to hold back a whimper as her mother dabbed at the cuts with a cotton ball. Indra didn't say anything this time, Lexa had her heart set on saving as many animals as she possibly could and no one will ever stop her!
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Lexa 16 years old
"You better fucking run!" Lexa screamed as the two boys scrambled away trying desperately to get away as Lexa flung two more rocks at their backs. Lexa spat at the ground a little blood coming out of her mouth. She licked over her teeth making sure none were chipped or broken, all good there just a split lip. Lexa checked herself over, she hardly had a scratch on her besides the rock that hit her mouth from defending the pair behind her. She dusted herself off growling under breath for the dirty scums who would willingly hurt innocent creatures.
Lexa looked back at the skinny bald-headed boy that was curled up around a pit bull. He had been using his body to protect the dog from the bullies. Lexa had only been passing by the alley on her way to her volunteer work when she heard the two boys yelling insults and laughing manically. Lexa stepped inside to see what the commotion was and witnessed the two heavyset boys chucking rocks at this boy and his dog. She was blinded with rage and stormed right in taking a hit to her lip.
The boys were startled only for a second before they sneered at her too, they tried hitting her with some rocks. Lexa was quicker, sidestepping them easily and rushed forward punching the first one in his gut. He doubled over in pain and his friend rushed forward and grabbed a fist full of her hair. It only hurt for second before Lexa throw her elbow back and hit him square in the face. She could hear the crack and knew she fractured his nose. Then the boys took off like the devil was on their ass.
"Hey, you okay?" Lexa crouched down next to the boy who still was protecting his dog. The boy jumped under her touch and he spun around ready to smack at whoever touched him. Lexa caught his hand before it even got close enough, she gave him a minute to adjust to his surroundings before letting his hand go. His dog though, a beautiful gray pit bull with bright brown eyes was wagging its tail excitedly. Lexa offered the dog her hand giving it the chance to sniff; the pup happily licked her fingers.
"Y-y-you helped u-s," the boy stated disordered as Lexa now gave her full attention to petting his dog. The pit bull was happily leaning into her touch resting its head in her hands while she scratched behind its ears.
"Well yeah, what kind of monster would I be if I didn't help out?" Lexa checked over the dog, seeing a few cuts on its head and shoulder there was a deeper scrap on its chest more likely from a sharp rock. The boy next to her sighed in relief as he sat back into the dirt,
"Thank you, thank you so much. Those assholes always pick on me for being too small and boney. They chased us in here and Ruby tried to protect me she started to growl at them. They got scared and started throwing shit, I was afraid Ruby would bite them while trying to keep me safe," the boy sighed again and smiled at Lexa grateful. He offered his hand. Lexa took it and shook it firmly once before letting go, "Names Lincoln, and this cutie here is Ruby,"
"Lexa, your dog is really beautiful. She needs her wounds cleaned so they don't get infected," Lexa petted Ruby one more time before standing up; she looked to Lincoln and offered her hand to pull him up. Lincoln took her offer after he grabbed Ruby's leash.
"Oh okay, umm what kind of stuff do I use?" Lincoln asked hesitantly, Lexa discreetly looked him over he was rather skinny for a guy. His clothes looked worn out but he didn't look abused just looked like he lived off second-hand things. Lexa gestured towards the sidewalk to have him follow her,
"Nothing fancy, just some warm water to clean off any dirt or gravel and an ointment to keep anything from getting inside." Lexa lead Lincoln to her original path heading for the veterinary clinic at the end of the street. That answer wasn't completely true, the wound on Ruby's chest would need a good rinsing of antibiotics.
"You have experience in this stuff?" Lincoln asked curiously as Ruby walked ahead of them. Lexa could tell that the dog hadn't been trained to walk on a leash. He was letting the dog tug him around, the collar digging into her neck as she forced Lincoln to walk faster,
"Kind of, mostly from personal experience. I save any animals I come across, patch them up, feed them, or even just playing with them," Lexa continued to walk. She was surprised at herself for talking so much to a stranger. She wasn't much of a talker to people, yet this kid had some kind of peace about him. Lexa had a habit of keeping people away from her, she didn't get close to anyone because so many people were dishonest and back stabbers.
"That's awesome! I don't know much about wound care. Just know dogs need a good food balance and to be played with," Lincoln grinned. Lexa smiled back he had spark to him alright. She could definitely see he loved his pet for sure, any guy willing to use his own body as a shield to protect his dog was someone Lexa could be open minded to be friends with…maybe. Lexa glanced at Ruby for a moment,
"That's usually what people know, but some advice?" Lexa offered not wanting to sound bossy like so many people told her she was. They were nearing the vet office clinic now. Before Lexa could open the door, he rushed forward to open the door for them,
"Shot,"
"I wouldn't let Ruby yank you around, it puts too much strain on her throat and can lead to breathing problems down the road. Should make the leash shorter so she walks beside you not ahead of you, " Lexa checked the wall where employees checked in, she saw Anya's name already clocked in but no one was at the front desk. Lexa just pressed on and headed behind the counter. She could see Lincoln getting nervous.
"o-okay umm I don't think we can go back there," Lincoln stayed by the front counter, Lexa smiled shrugging her shoulders as she heads to the back room anyway.
"They know me, don't worry about it," Lexa went straight to the cupboards knowing where to find the materials that she would need to treat Ruby. Lexa could hear the break room door open and someone stomping out in a fit of fury,
"Who the hell do you think you are?! Fu— oh it's just you," Lexa looked back seeing Anya frowning at her with her hands of her hips, "You could at least announce yourself. I thought it was some stupid teenagers again," Anya sighed as she moved beside Lexa seeing what she was pulling out.
"Well sorry to disappoint your chance at busting some skulls in," Lexa found the ointment she needed and grabbed a bottle with purified water, "If it makes you feel any better, I just busted a few skulls myself. Hey Lincoln! Come on back," Anya cast her a confused look before she heard someone coming in along with the pitter patter of dog paws.
"Who were they?" Anya asked as she eyed Lincoln up and down intensely. Lincoln shuffled nervously as he came inside the room, but Ruby was on high alert. She was sniffing at the air she looked over at Anya and let out a soft growl, her tail raised midway in warning.
"Some jerks that were abusing these two. I was Literally throwing rocks at them, Lincoln kept his dog safe from them," Lexa gestured to the table in the middle of the room. Lexa washed her hands while Lincoln didn't waste any time in reaching down and picking his dog up than setting her on the table. Despite his, small structure he was rather strong being able to lift a 35-pound pit bull. Ruby was still on alert watching Anya carefully, more than likely sensed her hostility towards her owner.
"What's her name?" Anya addressed Lincoln as she calmed down giving the dog the chance to relax. Anya offered her hand to her but she only sniffed at it once before turning her head away,
"It's Ruby, sorry she's usually very friendly," Lincoln smiled apologetically. He wrapped an arm around her neck as Lexa began to clean off her small cuts. Anya shrugged before putting her hands in her pockets.
"No problem, probably smells Reaper. My old fat cat, he's around here somewhere," Anya watched as Lexa patted the cuts dry before beginning to put some ointment on her cuts.
"He's not that old," Lexa smirked seeing Anya cast her a doubtful look. Anya was ready to protest but then all of them heard a loud meow over by the doorway.
"Well speak of the devil," Anya smiled she beckoned her cat over and he patted over and jumped on to the same counter as Ruby. Lexa tensed up a little because Ruby's fur raised right away and Lincoln stopped breathing. Ruby let out a deep growl showing her teeth, Reaper looked over at her with little interest. Ruby leaned down and Lincoln shot forward to get in the way but then Reaper held up his paw and WHACK smacked Ruby's right on the nose. Anya laughed watching as Ruby flung back in surprise. Reaper huffed at Ruby then bounced off the counter straight into Anya's arms.
"Wish you hadn't taught him that," Lexa lectured as she grabbed Ruby's muzzle checking to make sure there were no scratches. Lincoln was still baffled as he petted his equally stunned dog.
"He doesn't use his claws anymore, he knows better now," Anya scratched under his chin and he purred away rubbing his head against her hand.
"That's one brave cat," Lincoln finally broke out of his shock and looked at Reaper suspiciously. "Never seen a cat do that, Ruby certainly never been hit by one either. Usually, they get scared of her right away and take off," Lincoln picked Ruby up and placed her on the ground. Lexa cleaned off the area, she saw Ruby eyeing Reaper-like she wanted to take a bite out of him. Ruby growled at him softly which caught his attention. Yet Reaper raised his paw again this time he flashed his claws. Ruby changed her mind and hid behind Lincoln instead,
"Most cats would, but my chubby Reaper takes shit from no one. Taught him how to defend himself whenever he goes outside for his daily adventures," Anya placed him down on the table though he didn't seem to be done with wanting affection. He trotted over to Lexa and leaped into her chest. Out of reflexes, she caught him before he could fall, right away the chubby thing buried his head under Lexa's neck,
"Not a bad thing at all, he seems rather friendly," Lincoln looked like he wanted to pet him but surely felt Ruby wouldn't be happy with him if he did.
"He is, but he has a sweet spot for Lexa," Anya grinned seeing Lexa blush, Lexa wasn't a fan of being put in the spotlight. She shrugged like it was no big deal giving Reaper some kisses on his forehead. "Saved him from a tree, got himself stuck near the top. It was at least 20ft tall and she climbed it barehanded," Lexa blushed deeper seeing them both look at her; one was being smug while the other was star struck.
"Wow really?! I'd love to hear that story," Lincoln beamed smiling widely,
"Another time than, we have work to do," Lexa cut in before Anya could say anything else, Lincoln's smile didn't waver he nodded his head excitedly,
"Alright, awesome. How much do I owe you?" Lincoln asked reaching for his wallet, Lexa shook her head,
"Nothing, you can pay me back some other way. I'll see you around," Lexa placed Reaper down heading towards the back room. She could hear the pair still talking as she walked away,
"But umm that wouldn't be fair,"
"Dude, really don't worry about it, this happens all the time. The things she uses aren't expensive and come out of my paycheck but she does the work I really don't want to do. So, it's not like you are stealing,"
"Oh ok, well it was really great to meet you and Lexa. I've seen Lexa around school before, she doesn't really talk much. But I've always wanted a chance to talk to her, she seems like she could be a good friend,"
Lexa felt her cheeks redden, she didn't even remember this guy at all yet he knew her. The way he first introduced himself must have been out of politeness instead of acting like he already knew her. Lexa considered having him as a friend and the idea didn't bother as much as she thought it would. She smiled to herself as Lexa began to clean up the back yard of all the waste and ruined toys. She was actually a little excited to make a new friend one that actually seemed real instead of the fake ones that chased after her.
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Lexa 22 years old
Lexa knew it the moment she saw the team from The Wild Animal Sanctuary, that this place would be her dream job. Lexa was in awe as she watched them take control and started ordering people to go do their jobs; their main goal was wanting to help save the wild animals.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary, was specialized in rescuing and caring for large predators who were being mistreated, taking them away from the people who were not fit to raise the animals, and saved the predators from being euthanized. The predators lived on vast amount of lands having their every needs meet. People were even allowed to visit the Sanctuary, the place had one huge bridge throughout the entire place. People stayed out of the animal's territory, giving animals the chance to live in peace feeling no stress from the people that came to see them; while people had the chance to see the predators. These people dedicated their lives into saving and caring the abused creates. Lexa lived for that, all her life that's all she has ever done, saving the animals that desperately needed it. Now she only needed to finish her degree zoology.
Anya actually worked with them, thanks to being a veterinarian assistance and having a long history of professionally taking care of animals she was highly looked up to and even one of the main mangers. Anya stood over the crowed shouting at her employees what needed to be done first and what could wait. She only gave commands and the employees never questioned, they went right to it even telling the volunteers how things needed to go.
Lexa had to physically shake herself from her daydreaming to get back to work. Lexa grabbed her assigned shovel and went with piling the wheelbarrow with as much sand as she would be able to push. Once she filled it to the max, she tossed the shovel into the wheelbarrow and grabbed the barrow pushing towards the forest's edge.
A wild fire had broken out in the forest some time during the morning and firemen were doing everything they could to put the flames out. Lexa had heard of the unfortunate situation on the news and when the firemen were begging for volunteers, she rushed in to help. While the firemen were deeper inside the forest trying to tame the flames; volunteers were setting up a sand bearer to limit the chance of the fire spreading out any further. The team that Lexa was part of were close enough to feel the heat of the flames from where they were. They weren't in any danger yet, but Lexa could feel the threat of the heat waves wanting to consume her.
Lexa was happy to see so many volunteers working hard to help tame the flames. It made her feel good to remember that there were people out there that actually cared a great deal. Lexa was packing down more sand where lines were too small. Occasionally she looked up to watch as the animal rescue leapt over the sand piles right into the heart of where the flames were coming from. Lexa could hear the leader of the animal rescue team shouting to any volunteers who were willing to head deeper inside to create a path for the animals to escape the danger.
"Come on people! There is no time to waste! You won't have to go near any dangerous animals, we just need some people willing to throw down more sand deeper inside the forest!" The man's voice boomed over the crowd, it seemed only 14 people were willing to go in to risk themselves. Lexa put her shovel inside the wheelbarrow before picking it up and joining the group. The man grinned seeing a few more people follow after Lexa's example. Lexa guessed that they didn't want to be shamed for being so hesitant. "That's better! Now everyone follow Anya and Luna here, they will guide you where to put the sand and where to avoid the harsh areas," the man turned to Anya and the girl named Luna who were near the area of where the sand wasn't placed.
Luna went in first and Anya gestured for the group to move out but waited for everyone to pass by her as she eyed everyone down. Lexa shrunk a little knowing Anya wouldn't be so happy to see her putting herself in a dangerous situation, again. Lexa stayed close to the middle as they all rushed in following Luna, Lexa felt like she almost got away but then she felt a hand hit her shoulder blades.
"Of course, you'd volunteer to do the more dangers part. I'll yell at you later, but for now we need to make some clear passages so the animals can get away from the flames," Anya scolded her lightly but she did smile at her, Lexa offered a mischievous smile as she picked the wheelbarrow back up and pushed on.
"You know I couldn't stay away; didn't you see those people? They didn't want to come anywhere close to the actual danger," Lexa huffed, she felt the sweat sliding down her body as she walked on. Anya laughed moving ahead and started yelling at people where to put the sand.
"More likely didn't want to be showed up by a girl!" Anya shouted back at Lexa as they got closer to fires, Lexa placed the wheelbarrow down before flipping her off. Then Lexa was back to work, tossing the sand down and at this closer proximity Lexa could see the flames at a distance. The firemen were working hard dosing the flames running back and forth doing their own fair bit of shouting orders.
Lexa continued to toss the sand down pausing only when smaller animals passed through. Rabbits, mice, foxes, and boars ran past her, they're only concern was the heat that chased them out of their homes. Lexa felt bad for them though she knew well enough that they would find other places to live. Animals didn't get attached to their homes like people did, they would build up a new home somewhere in the forest.
Lexa's back was beginning to ache as she piled on the sand but she ignored the pain and kept going. Anya and Luna were still shouting where people needed to put the sand and everyone listened. They didn't have the time or chance to question what to do next, they had to listen, and when the bigger animals came their way they moved out of the way. Despite the danger Lexa and others were putting themselves through she was fascinated as she watched all these animals pass right by her.
The heat of the flames felt like it was getting closer, Lexa's muscles were screaming for her to stop, her forearms and hands tingling as she continued to work. Lexa panted the sweat falling into her eyes stung, the smoke was stronger making it harder to breath. Anya popped up beside her, she passed her a mouth cover that was dripping with water. Lexa took it and placed it over her mouth and nose,
"Time to go Lexa, this is all you can do for now. I and Luna needed to make sure that the animals know where to go. You can't stay, you aren't trained for this part," Anya spoke firmly not leaving any gaps to make an argument, Lexa wanted to keep helping but even knew she could feel her chest starting to hurt from breathing in smoke. Lexa only nodded before tossing the shovel in the now empty barrow. "Lead the group back out, please be smart and stay out of the forest now," Anya took off before Lexa could say anything else. Instead of calling the people's attention she picked up her barrow and began heading out. The others caught on quickly picking up their equipment and followed after her.
It felt like the path they took to get inside was longer this time. Maybe it was because Lexa was feeling exhausted and her arms felt like lead. Lexa could hear the people behind her complaining about their own aches and pains. She was grateful to see the clearing up ahead, she put her equipment away with the other tools. The mouth cover over her mouth was still damp it felt nice against her heated skin. Lexa walked over to one of the tables that had water cups set up, she took one and poured the first one over her head to cool herself. Lexa sighed in relief as she reached for another one, pulling down her mask she drank this one slowly the ice water was sending a cold chili down her spine.
Lexa felt like someone was staring at her, she looked up seeing some women volunteers were gawking at her. She cast a quick look at herself seeing that her wet clothes were really defining her fit figure. Lexa blushed feeling stupid to expose herself like this. She turned away and headed in an area that didn't have many people. She wasn't interested in having a conversation with these people, she was glad they were helping but she wasn't planning on making any friends here. Too many people were fake, Lexa was friends with only two people Anya and Lincoln. They earned her trust and they earned her friendship.
Lexa watched as the leader of The Wild Animal Sanctuary was guiding people where to put the injured animals. Their company trucks were full of small animals with some harsh looking burns. Most were small animals like raccoons and boars, Lexa wondered if the larger animals knew where to find safety in the flames.
She looked back to the forest fire and double glanced as she thought she saw something large was running by. Lexa moved closer to the edge and squinted her eyes trying to get a better look. Sure enough, there was a larger animal running blindly deeper inside the forest. And then Lexa took action before even thinking, she ran back towards the closest ambulance and grabbed one of their security blankets.
Lexa took off running throwing the blanket over herself she shot right in. She could hear people yelling after her but she ignored them all, her only concern was to save the animal. Lexa found their tracks and it was easy to tell they were from a wolf, a rather large one. But that didn't stop Lexa, she kept pushing her legs to go deeper into the forest. Her eyes began to sting as smoke grew thinker making her version hazy. Lexa pressed the blanket to her mouth feeling the cloth over her nose was getting dry.
The heat around her was overwhelming and her lungs were burning from the smoke she breathed in. Lexa coughed hard, her movements slowed down as she moved on, she could barely see the wolf ahead of her. Lexa could make out that it was covered in ash and it was slowing down now. Lexa's vision was getting worse as the smoke grew thicker but she was at least able to make out that the wolf was nearing a lake. Lexa stumbled forward, her head felt light, her lung felt suffocated, she couldn't see in front of her it was all a blur.
Lexa fell onto her hands and knees and coughed up a storm she was certain the wolf knew she was there now. She could hear a deep threatening growl in front of her, she lifted her head the best that she could manage. But her version was a mess, everything was blurry, black spots danced across her eyes. Though the growl she could hear, the horrific sound sent a shiver throughout her body, this wolf was going to kill her, it felt threatened. Lexa coughed out and sucked up air only to choke again. Lexa wasn't using her head right, but she felt her hands move on autopilot, she pulled the blanket around her off of her body. She pushed into the ground to stand up, the wolf snapped its jaws nipping around her thigh.
"St—op it, I'm hel—p—ing you, " Lexa gasped out then to the best of her ability she flung the blanket over the wolf. The growling stopped and instead was replaced with a small whine. Lexa smiled at the wolf before her body finally gave in and she blacked out. Wouldn't be a bad way to die was her last thought.
Xxx
Lexa woke hours later in a hospital, there was an ivy feeding into her arm to keep her hydrated. She tried to remember how she got there her mind was hazy, but then she saw Anya, her mother, and father were close by. They were talking about what had happened not too long ago. They sat near the window discussing what had happened in forest fire,
"Lexa could have died in that fire. What was she thinking?!" Her mother growled out angrily, Lexa winced knowing she was in for a good long lecture. There was a reason she didn't tell anyone about her volunteering to help with the forest fire.
"She could have died twice! Chasing after that huge beast," her father added just as angry, he scuffed out kicking his feet out. Anya was siting closer to them than Lexa so she hadn't noticed that Lexa was awake yet or at least barely awake. Whatever medicine they were giving her was making Lexa sleepy,
"The fire, I'm certain would have killed her, but I'm sure about the wolf though," Anya sounded unsure of herself, Lexa toned in more at that she wanted to know if the wolf she saved had made it out okay.
"You said it was close to her! That thing could have easily snapped her head off! And you told us that it did bite her leg!" Indra snarled out. Anya gulped nervously, forgetting who she was dealing with.
"Well yes, she did, but it was more like a defensive move to get Lexa to run off to go away. But knowing her Lexa probably didn't even notice the pain and just kept trying to help her." Anya clarified. Lexa mind was still too foggy to grasp that concept she didn't have the strength to move her leg to see which one was damaged. "When I got there, Lexa was under the security blanket and as I got closer, I could tell the blanket was soaked in water. And the she-wolf was close by her completely dazed but it kept looking around. Once she heard me and the others, she got up and tried to move on but barely could walk. So, I decided to tranquilize her so a vet could treat her wounds, there was bloody paw prints all around Lexa and her fur was burnt in several areas,"
"Where is it now?" her father asked his voice was calmer and Lexa couldn't keep her eyes open any more. Her body was demanding that she rested and it was forcing her to close her eyes and sleep.
"She was taken to The Wild Animal Sanctuary, once she was treated for breathing so much smoke and enduring burns. The zoo vet tech looked her over thoroughly and found out she came from an abusive home. Must have escaped somehow and was running around the forest blindly and got caught up in that horrible fire. The vet informed me that the wolf may have been used for to-" sleep took over Lexa and she was left wondering what Anya was going to say.
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Lexa 25 years old
Finally, after waiting for 2 years and going through countless aggravating interviews she now had the job of her dreams. First thing this coming weekend she would be working at The Wild Animal Sanctuary that was now only 30 min away from her new house.
Sure, she shared the home with Lincoln and Anya but the place was huge plus areas around the house were blocked off so everyone had their privacy if they wanted it. Lexa was positively glowing with excitement, she practically skipped down the stars towards the living room. She could hear the T. V. playing as Lincoln must have it on as he worked on his day to cook dinner for everyone.
Anya would be home soon from the same sanctuary Lexa would soon be working at. It was actually thanks to Anya that Lexa had gotten this job, the manager who was hiring people wasn't so sure of taking her since she had only graduated college a year ago. But she did have a number of volunteer work in pet shelters and vet offices as well as having worked in small zoo for a short while her resume was impressive on its own Lexa would admit. Lexa felt she could have gotten the job on her own but still was very grateful to Anya to have spoken up for her so much.
Lexa made it to the kitchen in time to see Lincoln pulling out some raviolis from the oven. Jam their dog a four old pit bull was sitting by the island looking up at Lincoln with pleading eyes. Lexa waited to see what Lincoln would do because she knew very will he liked to feed him people food. Lexa leaned against the door frame and Lincoln plucked one ravioli out and below on it.
"I won't tell, if you won't," Lincoln whispered to him and tossed him the small square pasta. Jam caught it easily he chowed it up and swallowed, his tail walked excitedly before he looked over and saw Lexa. Lexa smiled crossing her arms, Jam wagged his tail nervously before slowly turning away and trotted out the other door frame. Lincoln looked confused before he looked over seeing Lexa himself. He jumped slightly before offering a nervous smile, "Hey Lexa, dinners ready," he turned around to grab some plates out of the cabinet.
"Smells good, what kind is it this time?" Lexa asked calmly as she strolled in, she then saw Jelly was on the opposite counter snacking away at her own ravioli. Lincoln's shoulder relaxed clear thinking she hadn't seen what he had done. Lexa chuckled deciding to let it slide since he did it only a few times not often enough to effect either pets' stomach. Jelly, their cat noticed Lexa and right away trotted over then leapt on her shoulders. The small kitten curled up on Lexa's shoulders, then slithered her tail around Lexa's neck.
"Just cheese filled for you, mine and Anya's has beef and cheese. Of course, you're welcome to have some of ours," Lincoln served them both. Lincoln really beefed up since the first time Lexa had met him. Used to be nothing but skin and bones now he looked like he worked out in the gym 6 hours a day (really only 3). Lexa was proud of him honestly, she was grateful he stuck to her like glue he was an amazing friend.
"Yeah don't think so, haven't eaten meat since I was 10. I don't plan on eating it any time soon either," Lexa grabbed three cups then the water pitcher before following Lincoln to the living room. She set the cups down and pours water inside them. Jelly still sat on her shoulders as she moved about the cat was determined to stay put. Lexa could hear Anya's loud truck coming up the drive way now.
"Fair enough, what time is Anya getting home?" Lincoln asked as he set the plates down, he reached over for the remote. As though on que the front door opened a little roughly. Lexa glanced over seeing Anya strolling in looking annoyed and very roughed up.
"I fucking had it with her!" Anya snarled as she tossed her backpack on the floor by the door. She kicked off her shoes and tossed them off, Lexa moved over to give her the space she usually favored. Lexa settled in her new seat waiting for Anya to continue her rant. "She's a fucking huge demon dog! In all my damn years I have never had so much trouble with one shitty animal!" Anya spat out irritated as she slumped into the couch. She grabbed her water cup and gulped it down in one swing.
"What did she do this time?" Lexa asked while she ate her portion of food, Lincoln stayed out of it merely looking through T.V. channels. Lexa knew what animal she was talking about, it was about that wolf she saved in that awful forest fire 3 years ago. Lexa could barely remember that day, she only knew from Anya that apparently, she saved a wolf from burning up. Though it landed her in the hospital for a short while as she recovered from the ash she breathed in and a slightly fatal bite near a major organ in her leg. The doctors had to put her on some heavy medicine that which caused her to lose quite a bit of her memory of that time. Lexa was fine otherwise just that day of the forest fire she simply couldn't remember right. Anya served herself more water first before answering.
"I was only checking her enclosure making sure it was clean and the wolves had fresh water. I looked for her first to make sure she wasn't close by. I had to adjust my boot and bent down to re-lace them, that's all," Anya shoved a portion of food in her mouth, "fixed the lace and out of fucking nowhere that beast comes up behind me grabs my jacket and yanks me against the cage. Pulled me hard enough to bruise my hip, I was lucky an employee was close by otherwise she would have done worst. Luna grabbed the closest bucket of water and splashed her across the face," Anya growled out through the mouth full of food. Lexa hummed feeling a pain in her chest for the wolf, she only knew bits and pieces of what happened with that wolf's past hearing only what Anya could get a hold of. It was obvious that Anya wasn't a fan of the wolf,
"Poor thing, I wonder what made her so hostile towards people," Lexa finished off her food. Anya casted her one of her famous "are you serious looks" the one Anya gave her when Lexa forget to show concern for the person first. Lexa choose to ignore it this time not wanting to start something with her, "You know with all that talk about this 'commander of death', you haven't told me what she looks like," Lexa petted Jelly who finally jumped off her shoulders and now curled up in her lap. Jam also came over and curled himself by her feet, she used her foot to scratch his belly.
"Does it matter? Either way she's still a menace, which by the way I'm done dealing with. I didn't think she would ever be so much trouble compared to how I first met her. But as you requested, Wanheda is being assigned to you from now. I prefer that your main focus is Wanheda for now before picking up other rescue cases," Anya scuffed as she finished her own food. Lincoln was enjoying watching some show on the TV while they talked. He didn't work in the Sanctuary like Anya and Lexa (soon will be) he worked at his father's restaurant. He may love animals but not enough to want a career in caring for them.
"I look forward to it, I'm sure I can help her. Even if a wolf is hostile, it has a reason to be. They aren't violent by nature if they are not provoked," Lexa scuffed when Anya rolled her eyes but made no arguments,
"Whatever you say, Lexa, I'm just saying she is all yours this Saturday. Maybe you with special animal skills can help break this pattern. If you can't help tame her, Wanheda will have to be put to sleep, despite her uniqueness. The owners getting fed up with her violent behavior and just can't take any more of all the issues she has been causing," Anya finished another glass of water looking away from Lexa this time, knowing what Lexa's opinion was on such a topic,
"I still can't believe they would do that to an abused animal. That's the whole point to the sanctuary! To help the abused animals live the rest of their lives in peace and harmony," Lexa sighed, she scratched Jelly's ear cuddling her sweetly. "It just seems so wrong..." she could hear Anya sigh as leaned back in the couch with a groan and hiss of pain. Her little tantrum finally subsiding thanks to Lincoln's food,
"She's killed 8 employees, 10 several injured and sent 12 people to the emergency hospital care. She is dangerous, extremely dangerous, she won't do anything to another wolf but people? No mercy man," Anya coaxed Jelly with a soft whistle making Lexa look up to watch the cat trot up to Anya. "Listen to me Lexa, as much as I hate that damn wolf for all the problems she's caused, I truly hope you can save her," Anya picked up Jelly kissing her nose and cheeks a few times before putting her back down. "Maybe she'll warm up to you, she may remember the woman that saved her life." Lexa nodded her head firmly
"I will be able to save her, I won't let her die, not if I can help it," Lexa spoke firmly not in a way to boost but to give herself confidence that she could save this wolf named Wanheda.
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That is all for now my readers! As always please let me know if the new story catches your interest. There will be more exciting chapters that I promise. :) this like filler chapter so you understand Lexa better and why she has passion to take care of animals.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a real place in colorado, I used to go a lot of times because is an amazing place and the amount of work people do there for the animals is outstanding. I donate often because I like to help as much as I can. Now I don't know exactly what the work is like there! This is a fanfic after all, if I use anything from their website I will absolutely leave a link to credit their hard work.
I hope to hear from all of you soon! You know the routine ;) come back in two weeks for anther chapter!
Love ya lots and pretty please won't you be sweet enough to leave me a treat?
-YuriWolf