Chapter 6
A week had passed since the meeting with the pups and the whole werehall was in high spirits over the approaching time that they'd chose their partners, there was also excitement as well for Shara's run meant in two months' time the Alphena would have a litter and since alphenas were prone to having larger then litters then bitches under them, her litter was the most looked forward to strengthening the werehall. Wolka found himself one of the main topics of conversation ever since his interaction with the she-pup the whole hall was talking and whispering about him.
He often caught words from some of the lads talking out of jealously of some trickery he must've done to get the pup so enticed with him, others felt sorry for him for being chosen by a bitch. He could feel their eyes staring at him when he came into the cottage, most tried their best to avoid him others were more direct in their feelings which earned them quite a few lumps from Raheir when he caught word of it. Wolka paid those boys for the most part no mind although sometimes their words did make him doubt himself as far as he was concerned the she-pup could easily change her mind. Even though he could feel her more every day her feelings and the thoughts were becoming clearer and less muddled with the other wolves as well. Though now he'd taught himself how to block out wolf mind's he didn't want to hear, but it seemed with the she-pup's help he'd better control over his talent.
He shivered at what his father might think if he found out, but he pushed the though aside and continued with his chores putting that part of his life behind him, I'm not under his thumb anymore. If this is where I must be then so be it. He thought to himself as he pulled up another weed, he was busy in the herb field helping the healers pick plants and pluck pesky weeds from the herb garden. That's when he felt a tug on his pants he looked down to see the she-pup with her icy blue eyes staring up at him, " How'd you get out here?'' He said joy in his voice as he squatted down to pet her, though he looked around quickly hoping she didn't escape from the stall again. But he spotted Willow and the other pups playing in the wood pile nearby, the she-wolf didn't seem troubled by her daughter wondering off and settled down in the sun watching her sons play. "Well I guess its ok. But I've got chores to do girl.'' This didn't seem to bother her and she began digging at the plants herself and tugging at the leaves as if trying to help "No! No, girl Healer Alka will kill us for messing up her garden.'' He protested quickly picking her up before she could help anymore, he tried pushing her back towards Willow but she refused to leave and followed him back; eventually he got the point that she wasn't going to be swayed easily. He was over taken by her need to play he smiled, "Alright, alright. I know when I'm beat.'' And he hurried to finish his chore before getting into a tug of war with the pup over a root.
Willow found the pair rather amusing as she watched the boy shoo her daughter away only to have her come running back again thinking it was part of the game. Her human came over then he'd just left the council room, she hardly ever followed him in there now a days with her pups to consider, though even before her time had come, she'd tried her best to avoid that room all together. The humans would talk and talk instead of doing which was the wolf way, Silly creatures always over thinking things. She hummed to herself as she licked at her paws and yawned. Wolves wasted no time on silly talk they lived for the here and now and when things needed doing they took action rather than worry over things that have not come into play. But that's why the wolves had their humans to bring them reason and sense, where they thought with instinct.
But either way Willow often shied away whenever Refron headed towards the council room as would any wolf with good since. Refron crouched beside her then interrupting her thoughts and lavished her with the love and affection she deserved his hands work its way through her fur, "Lazy thing.'' He teased and she gave his fingers a lick, You don't have young that need constant attention, she retorted, her eyes darting back to her sons and daughter , to make sure of their location, her sons where now nosing around the herb garden with their sister who was still pestering the boy to play with her.
"Persistent isn't she sister?'' Refron said taking a seat on the nearest bench stretching his legs out trying to work out the cramps he'd gotten from sitting around the council table, today's meeting had been a long and draining one, the topic of discussion was of the recent orc attack and other strange dark creature like sightings such as goblins, trolls, minotaurs, and even talk of a few witch sightings. Something strange and disturbing was going on, the missions were pouring in from all over Irama from lords and villages asking for the wolfmens help.
But the wolfmen were all too few a horrible disease had struck them years back depleting their numbers the bitches were the hardest hit and without them the packs would die out. Which was why each and every bitch pup born was precious and kept close to the hall though they couldn't waste the wolf or man power and all the wolfmen needed to be ready and on high alert for the upcoming days ahead but things seemed to be improving slowly for the wolfmen as their strength was slowly returning though at the same time the faith in them by the people was weakening.
He turned his thoughts away from such depressing matters to observe the prospect in front of him as Wolka once again tried to persuade the bitch pup away but she was a stubborn thing and was soon back at his side pulling at his pants leg enticing him to play. She has chosen well the boy shows great patience which he'll need. Willow chuckled, Refron joining her, "Yes she's indeed made her choice clear, a little early then normal but clear enough to all in the hall.'' He never saw such a quick pairing before especially for a bitch, who were always choosey about whom they wanted, "But these are troubling times so we need the pups to choose faster.'' He said with a little severity, the werehalls would need every pup they had for the upcoming winter months. Willow yawned and rested her massive head on her human's lap her usually way of letting on that she wanted to be petted and that he was thinking too hard for his own good, Refron was more than happy to comply, as they watched the boy finally give into the she-pup and began a tug of war game.
It wasn't just Refron who was watching Wolka and the pup, Aatu was watching the pair with a keen interest his brother was also watching with similar interest. " They will make a fine match,'' Nodd said scratching his beard he'd need a shave soon his wolf agreeing with him as they watch the she-pup and lad play, " But he better watch it or she'll boss him around and then where will he be,'' Nodd warned, Aatu laughed showing his canines, He'll do fine he's got a will of his own his sister will bring that out of him, his gaze soon turned from Nodd and towards the approaching Alphas, Thorg with Seff at his side joined them with a wine skin on his shoulder and two silver mugs. The man always knew when it was time for a drink, and after today's meeting he could use one.
Aatu quickly greeted the alpha wolf submissively rubbing and licking under Seff's chin, lowering his head with flattened ears and tucked in tail, Nodd did a similar jester tilting his head to expose his neck to Thorg who gave a quick nod of his head in recognition of the respective jester. Seff and Aatu were soon wrestling with one another like oversized pups while Nodd and Thorg took a seat nearby, Thorg poured him a cup from the skin and one for himself before speaking, "I see you and Aatu are sizing up the new pair." His Alpha kidded as he took a swig from his cup, he knew Nodd from childhood both born and raised in the werehall they were as close to brothers as you could get, even when they bonded they became even closer when Thorg became alpha and Nodd his top beta he could always rely on him and Nodd new the alpha had his back as well.
Nodd felt himself turn red and turned away to see Aatu pin Seff down and maw at him in a cloud of dust, of course like all the other wolfmen he wanted a shot at the new bitch this was a rare opportunity for a male to step up in rank and become Alpha of his own pack if she'd had what it took to become an alphena which not all bitches were capable of doing.
Mar had already warned him that they needed to keep a close eye on the boy to make sure no one made push on him before he was ready to accept what being a partner to a bitch truly meant. Nodd felt his ears turn redder as he recalled that particular conversation, but what Mar had warned was nothing to disregard he'd seen firsthand what happened to those that were pushed before they were ready and the consequences for it were costly.
Aatu began to lean on him then demanding to be petted and to help take his brother's mind off the subject, " We need to focus now on the upcoming patrols, the recent reports are troubling.'' Thorg said changing the subject, Nodd agreed as he tended to his wolf, the recent reports weren't good the patrols reported sightings of trolls and orcs moving across the forest to the east on Winterveil land as well as a troop of centaurs in a neighboring village a few miles away. "Rinn reported that his patrol has cut off the orcs but the centaurs have completely disappeared.'' Nodd couldn't help but shiver at the thought of centaurs lurking about; the half man and half bull looking creatures were deadly in combat with their rusty iron swords and spiked clubs.
Aatu's hackles started to rise as the mere thought of the beasts made him want to rip and tear into flesh and taste the blood of battle, Seff was also agitated his eyes flashing to their deadly red a sign of a demonic wolf on edge. Thorg was quick to ease his brother with a good scratch behind the ears, "Easy brother.'' He cooed his fingers working through his friend's ruff, Seff soon relaxed and his eyes returned to their normal blue, but his tail still cut the air anxiously. "I'm sending out a patrol to scout the low range of the Veil mountains the centaurs were last spotted there.'' Thorg rolled his shoulders until he heard them pop, "Nodd I want you to take another patrol across the Summer river and scout around Springveil and put Lord Rinan on alert.'' Nodd stood and beat his fist on his chest, "Yes sir.'' Thorg nodded and finished his cup before going on his way Seff by his side, leaving Nodd to look on in wonder at Wolka and the she-pup and if they'd survive this coming winter.
The first howl came from the watch tower later that afternoon, Thorg and Mar were in their solar going over maps for the next patrol when Shara gave the alarm, her howl was echoing all over the room she was quickly answered by her mate Seff and all the other wolves in the hall, What is it Shara?, Mar asked looking down at Shara who'd been quietly sleeping until she heard the watch tower wolves howl in alarm, Moss and Leixen report trouble part of the Fort Keep patrol has returned they are mostly injured men and wolves Ulpa and her brother Henrick are leading them. The rest of the patrol is still at Fort with Beta Manin. "But what happened to them?'' Mar asked his sister, Shara only growled one word Cave bear! And her eyes turned blood red.
Thorg was quick to react, "Seff call for Nodd and Morf tell them to meet me with Nodd's patrol and the boys.'' Seff was quick to summon the betas, while Thorg rushed out of the room and into the yard the whole hall was already booming with active news traveled fast with the wolves spreading it to one another and thus to their brothers. Already the healers were gathering supplies and readying for the injured men and wolves. " Why bring the tithe boys they're not ready," Mar asked as he tried to keep in step with his mate, " The boys are more than ready and this will be good training for them.'' Thorg said firmly sensing where his mate was going with this, Mar had a very close connection with the boys especially and he always dreaded the time when it came for them to join the patrol. But Thorg knew the boys wouldn't be pups forever and the sooner he had them out on patrol the easier it'd be when they joined patrols of their own.
But Mar wasn't going to argue, he couldn't argue already knowing the answer, but still he feared the time when the boys had to go out on long patrols and face the dangers outside the hall, he knew some of them would never return alive.
They'd just reached the hall gates when the injured wolfmen came pouring in, it was a gruesome sight the most badly injured being carried in slings moaning in pain, some of the men where even carrying their injured wolves on their backs despite their own injuries. Ulpa the old tawny bitch and her human were at the head of the line, they were also injured but not as badly as most of the others. Henrick had his arm in a sling and a bandage over his left eye but he was still standing tall and firm, blood covered his clothes and his wolf's fur was stained with blood and she had a few patches of fur missing with deep long claw marks along her sides the fur around them already soaking up most of the blood.
Thorg rushed to him, " What happened Henrick?'' he asked as the Healers lead the injured men away and Henrick was led to a nearby bench and the healers started treating his and Ulpa's wounds while Henrick explained the situation . " We'd gotten word from Fort Keep that they was under threat by a troop of orcs, Ouch!'' he winced as the healer began treating his arm, "Hold still then.'' she scolded and continued her work ignoring his pained scowl, "But little did we know that they had a giant cave bear in their company.'' Mar and Nodd's eyes grew wide in shock, cave bears were larger than your average bear, taller than two draft horses they could kill a horse with one swift swipe of their claws. They often came down from the mountains during spring but they mostly stayed away from the towns and villages, to hear that orcs were using them as a battle weapon was bad news trained correctly a bear could be a deadly force but as far as anyone new you couldn't tame one without losing an arm or leg trying. "The damn thing was a monster; the fucking orcs could barely keep the bear on the chain. And when it broke free the beast killed most of them for us before setting on us.''
Ulpa whined as if in pain though the healers had already spread numbing salve on her wounds and were almost finished bandaging her up, her partner worked his fingers under her chin as the healer hurried to finish, " Easy girl,'' he said stroking his hand through her blood crusted fur and continued ." When the bear broke free it was chaos we were fighting orcs and the bear which didn't care which side it was fighting. The orcs finally broke away and fled and Manin and half the patrol gave chase living use to deal with the cave bear.'' He stopped to check, Ulpa's bandages the healers had just finished, her whole torso was wrapped to keep out infection and she was already feeling much better thanks to the numbing herbs smeared on her wounds, the healer had finished with his arm to and had it in a new sling, she warned the pair to take it easy for a while and not overdo it, and took her leave to see another injured man.
Henrick then continued " Ulpa managed to get a good grip on the bear's muzzle and I went in with my spear, but the bear managed to swipe her off and then went after me, got me in the arm he did and would've finished me hadn't Ulpa jumped in, my brave girl.'' He said petting his sister who beamed with his praise and affection, "The bear then ran for it and we gave chase but we lost track of it when night came and I called the hunt off. No point hunting in the dark with tired and bloody wolves and men, so we fell back to the village Manin was there they managed to kill a few of the remaining orcs and decided to stay behind to guard the village while me and the injured headed back for reinforcements.'' He winced as he tried to stand "We must go back,'' but Mar quickly forced him back down "You are going nowhere you've done enough.'' Thorg ordered and Henrick obeyed sitting back down not to reluctantly as he had Ulpa also bare down on him and in her condition he was going to risk her health over his bullheadedness.
Nodd and Morf were waiting for Thorg at the gate with the boys and wolfmen ready to leave on the word, " Nodd your to take the boys and men straight to Fort Keep and aid Manin with orders to kill the bear if it's still hanging around.'' He ordered, Nodd pounded his chest, " I will avenge are comrades.'' And he turned to the men and boys, "Let's get moving.'' He ordered and climbed onto his horse, the others following his lead and they were soon off.
Wolka and the other boys were more than surprised when Morf had told them the news of the orc attack and all but shoved them into the weapons room issuing out spears, axes and swords. They whole hall was in an uproar with the arrival of the injured men Morf had given them a quick explanation of what they'd be going up against as they made their way to the gate.
Wolka did his best to recall everything he knew of orcs and of cave bears, he knew that orcs the grey and green skinned children of Modar were a formidable race. Living in large warren orcs were dangerous in a group for they crafted weapons of bronze and rusted steel they were an intelligent race though not as smart as others of Modar's children. They could wipe out a whole village in a single attack killing all in their path before settling in making a warren in the destruction, but for the most part they built their warrens out of the way of humans and only small hunting parties attacked villages. But resent events had caused a lot of orc clans to move their warren from their territories and into human settlements.
The cave bears were a different story, he'd heard of cave bears before from his grandfather who'd made them his sigil of his hall from what he could remember from the stories he'd heard when he was young, were that cave bears were best avoided especially a boar who'd charge if he felt he had to or a sow with cubs. His grandfather had also said that his great grandfathers use to be able to tame the beast before and had used them as a sort of watchdog and weapon on the field; but there was never a found record of such a thing so he couldn't be sure if it was true or not.
Wolka could feel his palms start to sweat as he and the others on horseback left the safety of the hall and made the long track to the watch towers, they'd been training since they arrived for such an event even more so after meeting the pups, Morf felt it was time for them to be more involved with the werehall culture especially since a few of them would bond and would need to learn certain things beforehand which he wasn't going to give much detail about. Now there they were heading off into the unknown with nothing but the sound of snorting horses and wolves trotting along or in this case way up front as they swept passed the men and horses in enthusiastic bounds of energy barking and yelping amongst each other.
They came to the watch towers then, the large oak doors looked impenetrable as they came forward the great doors creaking and groaning as they opened, the guards gave a salute as they passed and Wolka couldn't help but wonder if he'd see this place again and most importantly would he see the she-pup again.
The journey to Fort Keep would took at least a week on horseback; Fort Keep was a small holding newly built under just made Lord Menta and his wife Lady Sela and their newborn son Delion, the hold was built between two large mountain ranges that acted as border for Winterveil and Iron Hall.
They kept at a brisk pace only stopping to feed and water the horses and relieve themselves; they ate and slept in the saddle. With the wolves keeping pace amongst the trees they never seemed to tire as they sprinted amongst the trees like shadows, their speed a sign of the urgency they felt to join their brothers in combat, Nodd couldn't afford to stop not with an opposing threat hovering over Fort.
When they arrived at the forest edge overlooking Fort Keep it seemed rather tranquil to Wolka's eyes the sun was just setting over the mountains casting a long shadow over the valley, but he could make out the small glows of the hold torches, smoke was rising from the chimneys as fires were lit, it looked rather quaint if one didn't know of the present danger that could possibly be lurking in the surrounding forest.
"Let's move!'' Nodd shouted his horse snorted and broke into a run, Aatu and the other wolves started to howl announcing their presence it was answered by the wolves in Manin's patrol. The guards at the front gate nearly sounded the alarm fearing attack, but lowered their guard as they approached reassured by Nodd that they were friends not foe.
They were greeted by Beta Manin and his dark brindle dog wolf Lokan when they came through the main gates which had remained locked despite their arrival. Apparently Lord Menta had shut himself and his family and anyone else inside the safety of the keep and wouldn't be persuaded otherwise to open the gate. " He's given us twenty of his best men and has given us medicines and such but he refuses to open that gate until he's sure the orcs are gone.'' Manin said as he led them to the wolfmen's camp.
Wolka was very impressed by Manin and Lokan both man and wolf were huge compared to Nodd and Aatu, were Nodd was a massive hill Manin was a mountain with his braided fire hair and green eyes he looked rather fierce. Lokan made Aatu look like a puppy he was an impressive brindled male with strong muscled legs and shoulders he was a prime specimen of a demonic wolf. Nodd quickly sent them away to pitch their tents and get settled in as he and Manin headed towards the center tent.
Nodd and Manin clasped arms once inside the tent as their wolves made their own loud greetings, " Its good you came Nodd I'd feared id have to hunt the bear with half my force not that we couldn't hold it off for a time.'' Manin said showing Nodd to a chair an offering him a mug of ale Nodd took it happily and took a long gulp, "I'm sure you'd have held out till we arrived.'' He said wiping his chin clean, " Aye but all the same I'm glad Henrick managed to get to you in time I'd feared he be slowed down by the injured.'' Manin took a swig from his mug and fell back in his chair, "But your here now so let's get to business.'' Nodd finished his mug and joined Manin as they went over a map of the area trying to pin point where the cave bear would hide.
Wolka and the other boys were sent out to fetch firewood and were warned not to go too far and to stay in groups, Wolka and Raheir decided to team up as Voca was sent out to fetch water so he couldn't come with them. "I say he got the easy job,'' Raheir grunted as he piled more wood into his arms, "It's not so bad,'' Wolka retorted as he swiped sweat of his brow. Raheir stopped to take a break and lean against a tree, "I think we've collected enough. What do you think?'' he asked as he took a swig of water from his water sack offering it to Wolka, he took a long swig before answering, " Let's go a little further.'' And he picked up his pile and continued on, Raheir sighed heavily, "Alright.'' And they moved on they'd been walking a few minutes when Raheir broke the silence, "So Wolka how does it feel to be chosen already?'' Wolka froze and gave his friend a bemused look, "What do you mean I haven't been chosen?'' he stuttered, Raheir laughed, "Oh, come now don't be so coy it's clearly obvious that the she-pup wants you.'' Wolka felt his cheeks go red it was true that the she-pup did follow him around but that wasn't a clear sign she'd pick him, after all Morf did tell them that even if a pup looks like its chosen it could easily change its mind and pick another partner entirely, " Wolka please,' Raheir snorted, "Everyone in the hall can see it, she's not twitched a nose at anyone else but you, she practically fights anyone trying to stop her from getting to you,'' Raheir retorted when Wolka would've argued, " She could still choose another,'' was all Wolka could say picking up a another branch trying to avoid looking his friend in the eye. " Well in any case my gold's on you.'' Raheir replied patting Wolka on the back , and he could not help but smile at his friends encouragement and the pair kept walking.
They were just coming over a bank in the woods when they decided to turn back and head for camp, the sky was turning dark and by now they'd gotten more than enough wood. They were just starting back the way they'd come when Wolka heard the sound of brush moving behind them, "What was that?'' he stopped trying to listen for the sound again, " Probably just a rabbit or something,'' Raheir said going on ahead but Wolka wasn't so sure but kept after his friend, as he walked a tingling sensation gripped his mind and he froze, he paused to look around but saw nothing and heard only Raheir grumbling ahead of him. Shrugging it off as nothing he continued on and just as he started walking the tingling sensation started again he clutched the medallion around his neck he was a little confused because he could have sworn the medallion was humming as it pulsed as if alarming him to approaching danger and he got a strange feeling that something was wrong.
That's when he heard low noise coming from behind him and he felt his blood chill, then he heard the noise again only this time it was far too loud to be made by some small animal it sounded big, and the crushing underbrush behind him only strengthened his theory of what it was. This time Raheir paused as the noise came closer, " Then again I could be wrong,'' he said as they both paused and listened as whatever it was got closer and closer, " Quick in the bank ditch,'' Wolka whispered so not to draw attention to themselves and they both dropped their wood and ducked into the ditch keeping themselves low .
They waited and listened and that's when they caught sight of the source of the noise it was a large cave bear bigger than a horse, it had dark brown fur with golden brown eyes it was sniffing the air as it moved through the brush. He'd never been this close to one before and he didn't want this to be his last sight, but the bear moved on taking no notice of them though it paused once or twice to smell the air around it, he noticed that the bear had a strange collar on its neck made of bronze. It must be the cave bear Manin fought with the orcs, he wasn't sure if it smelt them or not but it didn't seem interested in staying in the area and kept going on its way and soon it was out of sight. " Lets go before it gets back,'' Raheir whispered as he slowly crawled from the ditch once they were sure it was safe, Wolka following close behind, " We need to warn Nodd and Manin.'' Wolka said and they quickly took off running for camp.
When they arrived the moon was up and the camp was a glow from the torch lights and dying campfires, Nodd was waiting for them just outside of came his foot tapping the ground irritable, " An where have you been?'' he asked his eyes furious Aatu also gave them a scolding stare, " We saw the cave bear Beta Nodd!" Wolka said urgently out of breath, Nodd's face changed from scolding to surprise, "Where?'' he asked. Wolka and Raheir quickly told him where the bear was and how they came upon it or in this case how it almost stumbled upon them. "You've done well to the werehall.'' Nodd praised, "Go get ready we're heading out as soon as possible.'' The boys scurried off and Nodd turned to Aatu, Call Lokan let him and Manin know what's happened, Aatu had already done so and said that Manin was gathering the men together already.
Manin had called most of the wolfmen together not all of them were going just the boys and the men and wolves that came with them from Howling Stone and a few of Manin's men that were already there the rest stayed behind to guard the village. They marched side by side the wolves were running through the trees ahead , Wolka could catch their glowing red eyes as they ran passed he could feel their excitement and their bloodlust coming over them through the pack link. Manin and Nodd had both decided the best course of action would be to herd the bear into the open where they could attack better, Manin would lead half the group uphill locate the bear and force it back down to an open field in the forest where Nodd and the rest would then attack. The group spilt off once they reached the field Manin and his group went up hill while Nodd and the others went amongst the trees on the lower side of the meadow.
Wolka and his friends waited with Nodd's group they hid amongst the trees at the edge of the field and waited, listening and watching for any sign of men and bear, the wolves amongst them were pacing back and forth in anticipation amongst the trees staying close to their brothers who were also edgy they were all anxious for the upcoming fight.
"Do you think they'll find it?'' Voca whispered while Wolka tried to make himself more comfortable as he leaned against a tree, "I don't know the bear could be anywhere by now.'' Raheir said gripping tight to his spear; they all stood there in silence only the growls from the wolves broke it.
Howls started echoing through the forest around them. "Ready yourselves.'' Nodd ordered his sword drawn already Aatu by his side looked like a demon out of hell with his red eyes glowing and his long canines catching the torch lights, Wolka grasped his spear tighter as the howls came closer and the sound of brush being trampled came nearer. His medallion began to pulse against his chest at first he thought it was his own anxious heart but no not this time for sure he looked down at the crescent moon on his neck and he was sure it was pulsing and he got the same tingling sensation in his mind and he was for sure it was a warning of some kind and with that knowledge he'd better be on his guard.
Nodd dug his boots into the ground Aatu was snarling at his side eyes glowing red, They're here! Aatu snarled as the enemy showed itself in the form of a dozen ugly orcs, "Orcs!'' Nodd shouted and they all charged forward shouting their battle cry.
They were greeted by the orcs' bronze swords and with a metal clang swords meet, wolves swarmed into the battle snarling and leaping onto the enemy. Is was and incredible sight as Wolka's spear met and orc's shield, bouncing off his opponent Wolka drew his sword dropping his spear he fought the large orc.
Wolka and his friends were consumed in the battle, Raheir pulled his sword out of an fallen orc dark green blood dripped off the edge, "I thought we were fighting a bear not orcs,'' he shouted as he dodged an orc spear, Wolka was also wondering about that as he parried with an orc spear they broke away Wolka broke through its defense and stabbed it right through the chest. The orc let out a grumbling hiss as it spit up blood and fell.
Wolka paused to catch his breath this was his first real battle except for the one with the harpies but that had felt different somehow, as if it were his own personal fight to see if he could stand and fight on his own without his father hovering over his shoulder. And he couldn't help but feel invigorated by the smell of blood and the sound of metal and steel but his rest was short and soon he was back in the fray spear in hand. The battle was going well with both men and wolves pushing the orc troop back into the forest.
Wolka was covered with orc blood, and sweat leaked down from his brow and into his eyes and quickly wiping his forehead he dodged an orc sword and sunk his spear into its throat.
The battle seemed to be going their way, the orcs were being pushed back the way they'd come and it seemed they'd finally drop their weapons and flee, but that was a false hope it seemed as a they heard the shouting and screaming of men and wolves from the high slope amongst the trees, the fighting stopped for just a split second with orc, men and wolves frozen as the screams of men and wolves followed by a monstrous roar echoed from the trees. And then there was Manin and his men with a giant cave bear storming after them crushing young saplings in its wake.
The remaining party of orcs that had been fighting Manin's group were soon overtaken by the bear that trampled on them like a wolf among sheep, it bore on them without even stopping it swung its claw wide slicing through the orcs rusted armor and with its gaping maw it mauled the remaining orc its way.
It let out a monstrous roar, blood dripping from its curled muzzle as it turned molted golden eyes on them and rose to its hindquarters roaring in challenge. The surviving orcs quickly realized the battle wasn't going anywhere near their favor an made quick steps towards the trees, Manin and Nodd quickly shouted orders to the men, splitting the party in two again they returned to the battle half of the men attacking the fleeing orcs the other dealing with the bear.
The men didn't hesitate and with weapons raised they charged letting out a booming battle cry, the cave bear roared again as the men began their, it roared again its massive canines catching the torch light as it stood on its hind legs. The wolves were quick to respond instinct driving them to meet the enemy head on, their brothers following right behind them and the battle continued.
Wolka and his friends were assigned to the orc party and were tearing right into the fleeing creatures while Nodd and Manin dealt with the bear. Wolka charged at a fleeing orc sinking his sword straight into its back it let a gurgling scream as blood spilled from its mouth and it collapsed to the ground. The wolves were acting like sheepdogs cutting off the orcs' escape route and forcing them into battle, it seemed to go on forever as orc after orc charged forward trying to break through the wall of men and wolves, they were quickly meet with a sword or spear and fell.
Wolka was exhausted and was starting to falter as were the others that's when the bear broke free from the second group with wolves barking and snapping at its heels it snarled crashing through Wolka and the others clawing at man an orc in its way. Soon the battle was nothing but confusion as the enraged bear tore into them, orcs were trampled and mauled along with men already two had fallen to the bear.
Nodd decided they needed to change tactic the orcs weren't the main threat anymore the bear was and he quickly ordered the men to focus on the bear. Aatu and Lokan rallied the wolves together with quick howls and barks and were focusing all their attention on the bear, the surviving orcs seizing the moment fled for the hills and no one even batted an eye as they fled. All attention was on the massive bear before them, Wolka wiped orc blood from his cheek catching his breath, he legs were screaming for him to stop and rest but he couldn't find the will to stop his pack needed him and he laughed when he realized that he thought of the wolfmen as his pack. And realized he couldn't ignore the connection he started to feel with the werehall that he hadn't felt with his own hall back at home, he stood up then and gripped his spear tighter as he and the others focused on the bear.
The bear roared again its bellow echoed across the forest Aatu and Lokan answered with snarls and charged forward the other wolves following the men close behind, spears and arrows went flying into the air a few arrows struck the bear's hide but didn't seem to be affected by it. Enraged by the attack the bear charged forward meeting the wolves head on, the wolves scattered around it biting at its heels trying to force it down the men stabbed at it with spears and swords but no one could get close enough to do serious injury. Wolka watched in horror as a man lost his footing and the bear was on him before anyone could stop it, it tossed and tore into him like a mad struck beast it was over in seconds and the man was nothing but a crumpled heap of blood and organs.
The men roared in rage and pushed harder at the bear the wolves lunging themselves on the bear biting into its shoulder and back, they tore out lumps of fur and blood starting dripping from their jaws as they tore into flesh. The bear screamed in rage and pain and swiped at the wolves but they easily darted out of the way of the danger and were back at it again tearing at its legs trying to force it down.
Seizing the moment the pack rushed forward stabbing the bear with spear and sword, the bear roaring in rage, while swinging a massive claw that could break a draft horse's back in one fatal swipe. Men and wolves cleared the way darting in all directions from the bear's attack.
Wolfman Rurin wasn't fast enough the bear's claws caught him right in the back ripping through armor and tunic like a knife through butter. Wolka felt his heart go cold as he, heard Rurin scream in agonizing pain as he fell to the ground thrashing in pain the bear hovered over him ready to finish him off, its bloody claw reaching for its fallen victim. Then in a flash of fur Rurin's wolf ,Keolf came to his defense and lunged at the bear locking onto the bear's muzzle causing it to rear up shock.
Keolf tore into the bear and clawed at its face aiming for its vulnerable eyes, the bear screamed in pain as it tried to shake its assailant off, the men came to the wolf's aid stabbing their spears into it blood spilling over the bear as they drove their spears in deep inside its belly.
But it did little to slow the bear it only seemed to enrage it, as it let out a final roar before knocking the men and spears away and flung Keolf away the wolf landed on his feet ,teeth bared in a challenging snarl he acted as a shield for his fallen brother his eye were glowing blood red as he starred down the bear.
Rurin wasn't moving he might be dead and if he was Keolf would be risking his life for nothing, Wolka thought as he quickly made his way towards the fallen man, his friends followed close behind spears at the ready in case the bear turned on them. But the men and wolves had its attention diverted for the time being.
When Wolka reached the body, Keolf let out a deep whine from his throat as he looked to his fallen partner and then to the wolf, torn between defending him and seeing to what ailed him. Wolka sent a comforting look to the wolf as he touched the Rurin looking for any sign of life, but the wolfman was still as a stone and he feared the worst until he heard Rurin let out a low groan the only sign he was still alive but barely.
" We've got to get him out of here.'' Wolka said as he slowly tried to turn the man over Voca helping though they did so carefully so not to stir the man's already injured back, other men soon came to their aid and they soon had Rurin off the ground and were slowly making their way away from the fight, with Keolf and the other men's wolves keeping the rear their eyes focused on the battle.
None of them noticed that the cave bear had broken from the circle of men and wolves and was now bearing down on them, Keolf growled and lunged forward followed by the other wolves they meet the bear face to face. But the bear was quicker and knocked them all clear away its claws out it struck two wolves clear, they yelped in pain and quickly retreated to safety. Aatu and Keolf were tearing into the bear's shoulder as Lokan held tight to its throat trying to pull it down, the bear then charged madly forward thrashing from side to side trying to dislodge the three wolves that showed no sign of letting go. But Lokan lost his grip somehow and fell toppling to the ground; the bear then shook of Aatu who barely managed to dodge a claw aimed towards him, leaving poor Keolf the only one left.
Wolka sent out a prayer to the gods that the wolf would let go and let the men take over but his prayer wasn't answered and Keolf let out a yelp as the bear managed to swing him off and crush him in his massive jaws there was a sickening, Crack! As the bear bit down on his victim Keolf yelped in pain and Wolka heard Rurin moan from behind him as if he felt his wolf pain and impending danger. The bear gave Keolf a mighty shake before tossing him aside like he was a ragdoll the wolf fell in a heap near the forest edge, men were rushing over to collect the fallen wolf but if he was dead or not Wolka couldn't tell for he returned his attention back to the fight.
Nodd had seen enough as did Aatu and the others and screaming and enraged by their fallen comrades they pushed forward, spears and swords ready. The bear came to meet them claws ready it brought a man down with one swipe, crushing another in his massive jaws, wolves snarled an barked jumping onto the bear's back they tore into it but it refused to go down, it charged again everyone quickly moved out of the way Wolka and a tithe boy called Quamin didn't move fast enough.
Wolka managed to barrel roll out of the way but Quamin wasn't so lucky, the bear was on him in seconds, he could only watch in horror as the bear tore into the lad his screams muffled by the loud cracking of bones. It was over in seconds that felt like minutes to Wolka, the bear then turned away from the corpse and locked its eyes on him, it roared and charged forward. Wolka was frozen in fear he could hear the others yelling at him to run to get out of the way but he couldn't move his eyes were locked with the bear's golden eyes and he couldn't move.
The bear was almost on him when a sharp bark came from behind him he turned to see a little black pup dart from the trees and lunge herself into the air, grabbing hold of the bear's muzzle tightly growling savagely as her tiny canines tore into the bear's sensitive snout. Wolka couldn't believe what he was seeing the little black she-pup had followed them all the way from the werehall and was now risking her own life for his he could feel her anger and protectiveness flood over him as she followed her instinct to protect what was hers and that was Wolka.
But she couldn't hold on forever he could sense she was losing her grip, and without thinking Wolka picked up his spear and charged forward just as the pup lost her grip she pushed herself away from the bear and his massive jaws, he could just picture what would happen if the bear got a hold of her frail body and he couldn't let that happen. The she-pup managed to get free of the bear and went in for another attack locking her jaws onto the bears muzzle again, she gave and opening for Wolka who took it as he charged forward.
And with strength that he didn't know he had he drove his spear right into the bears left eye he drove it hard and deep until the spear pierced through the skull and came out the back of the head. The bear reared up an let out a blood curling roar Wolka jumped back a few feet his sword in hand in case the bear went on another rampage the she-pup was by his side growling her once icy blue eyes were now a blood red like that of an adult wolf. He braced himself for an attack, which never came as the bear went silent its head drooped down low ,blood dripping from the spear lodged in his skull, its breathing was labored and it didn't move, then without warning it fell on its side with a ,Thud! , its breathing slowed and its reaming golden eye fell shut with a chorus of howls echoing in the night.
