Dean POV
"Dean," called Tuffy. "Stay awake."
I was being carried. My whole body hurt. I looked to see my family running upstairs I then felt something soft. My vision grew more and more blurry. I was so tired. I could hear a loud noise, and then I heard Tikanni.
"Hold on Dean..."
"Dean..."
"Dean!"
I then heard nothing.
Tikanni then made a very rash decision. He quickly opened the door he slammed a moment ago. He ran to a room, and grabbed a small bag. He then looked at Kate and Humphrey. He proceeded to grab a tuft of their hair. He then grabbed Drew, and pulled her in.
45 Minutes Later.
The wolves waited outside the house. Tyson retrieved the leaders, and they came straight to Tikanni's. Everyone was brought up to speed, and were saddened to hear of their relatives condition.
"He'll make it, right mom," cried Kate towards her mother.
Eve couldn't say anything because she didn't know. She just held Kate.
"Of course he will," spoke Winston. "He's my grand pup, and he's as resilient as ever."
"Winston's right," spoke Tony. He was then accompanied by Talia, Lilly, and Garth saying some reassuring words.
All talk was silenced when everyone heard a door opening.
They then heard footsteps coming down the stairs. They were not ready for the sight that beheld then. Tikanni stepped out of the house. His t-shirt was white when he went in. It was now stained when he came out. Everyone could see, and smell what was on his shirt. The blood of Dean adorned itself all over Tikanni.
He looked exhausted. He looked at the family and then at his shirt. Not only was his shirt covered, but his pants, and hands were bloodstained as well. He knew this looked bad, and it was, but they didn't need to know that. He mentally slapped himself for not thinking about his clothes. He then looked at the family, his new family.
"Is my pup alive." Kate's words hit Tikanni hard. Her voice sounded tired of heartbreak."
"He's alive," he spoke.
Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
"But." Continued Tikanni. "He's in a comatose state."
"What is that?"
"A "coma" is the bodies way of healing from extreme amounts of damage. It goes to sleep, and stays asleep until the body is well enough to wake up."
"Shouldn't Dean be healing quicker?" Tony's confusion was shared by the other leaders as well as Lilly, and Garth.
"Normally, Dean wouldn't be capable of having a coma, but with his sickness, he pushed his body to its limits. He pushed himself a lot when we were gone. So much so, that if I didn't do what I did, we would have lost him."
"What exactly did you do, Tuffy," asked Talia.
"I modified a spell Dean wanted me to collect ingredients for. His so called shopping list."
"What would it do," asked Kate.
"Dean was going to ask if all of you would like to be immune to any illness as well as aging, so near unkillable. You all would stop aging. Now, I recalibrated it as well as gave Dean some of my blood as well as Drew's. It had enough blood in it to replace the blood Dean lost, and fight the disease. I used the spell, and now It's all on Dean to wake up. I heard that if you talk to a comatose patient, they can hear you. You all can go see him. Just try not to knock anything down, or out of him."
Tikanni sat on his steps, and leaned against the railing. Everyone began flooding their way into the Amarock's home. Everyone except Willow and Talia. Willow walked up to Tikanni.
"You did good." She then laid down on the porch.
Tikanni then looked at his dearest friend.
"Tuffy?"
"I lost him twice, Talia. It is a miracle he is breathing now."
"But he's breathing."
Tikanni then stood up, and walked up the stairs, and into the room followed by Talia and Willow. His heart was broken by the sight he saw. Drew was holding Dean's hand to her cheek as she cried.
Kate and Humphrey were crying as they laid next to their pup. In fact everyone was crying. Tikanni laid against the doorframe and silently cried as Willow rested next to him. She even cried. She didn't know Dean well, but she knew he was kind. He didn't deserve this, and his family didn't deserve to feel this way. The females cried as well as their mates. The siblings held onto each other, and Tyson joined in.
Dean's POV
I woke up. I was back in the den.
"Dean, are you ready for Alpha training," asked Kate.
"Uh, yeah," I stuttered. I realized that my voice was of a higher pitch, and mom was significantly taller than I remember.
"Your brother and sister are waiting."
I then looked to see Stinky and Claudette, but they were pups again. I was a pup again.
"Come on Dean," spoke Claudette.
"On my way." I don't know how this happened, but I don't care. Dream or not, I'll take it.
"Have fun at Omega School Runt," I told my brother.
"Oh yeah I am going to have so much fun learning about the forest." The sarcasm in Runt's voice made me laugh. I then followed my other two siblings alongside my mother. we then met up with my grandfather, grandmother and Uncle Tony, and we commenced training. After a few hours, I saw a grey blur in a bush. It then joined the assortment of pups next to my siblings, a young Tyson, and I.
I realized that the little blur was my omega brother.
"Why does this feel familiar," I thought to myself.
I then heard my grandfather and mother had found my brother trying to become an honorary Alpha.
"I don't wanna go to the forest," wined Runt. I then saw my aunt and father along with Omega pups.
"Runt, we aren't just going to any old forest," spoke Aunt Lilly. "We are going to Shadow Forest."
I remember Shadow Forest that's where I found Dar-
I stopped my thought when I realized that I had done this before. I noticed my Uncle Tony was uneasy he looked mildly frightened that my aunt mentioned that place. That was just like how he did it before. I'm in the past. I'm dying. Everything then moved out of my position and I nearly jumped when I turned around. I saw me. I was asking my mother about Shadow Forest. I was living the moment.
"Mom." She didn't respond to me, but she responded to past me.
I then saw something that I don't remember being there.
There was a person. This person was wearing a white cloak. I couldn't see their face. They looked at me. They could see me.
"Hey, what is this."
They didn't respond. I then walked right up to then, but they still hid their face from me. I then thought of something. Death is depicted as a cloaked figure with a scythe. A white cloaked person is the next best thing.
"I'm dying, aren't I?" My question was more for me than the cloaked figure. It helped me piece together my next thought as to what I'm experiencing.
"I guess life really does flash before your eyes. I thought it would be a lot quicker. I looked back to see that everyone was gone. It was just me and the cloaked figure.
"Welp, let's make the best of this situation." I then hurried to the den. That is where I went after training with my grandparents, and where Runt will be brought to us scared out of his wits. Sure enough, not even an hour of waiting in the den did my father come in with my brother in his mouth. Dad sat him down, but he didn't move. He looked so scared. Even now, this made my blood boil.
"Nobody messes with my brother." Once he calmed down, Runt told us of the thing he saw. It was a wolf head. This had ghost written all over it. Uncle Tony then went on to tell his story of Shadow Forest. He and two other young pups were hunting, but they were thwarted when Tony saw the same thing Runt described.
"Dear, are you still on that story," asked Talia.
"It was no story," he argued. "Pups, please avoid that forest."
We nodded, and my parents told my siblings and I to thank our uncle for the lovely story. We did so, and went home. I decided to talk to the person next to me to pass the time. It's not everyday you get to commentate your own life.
"You can bet I didn't avoid that forest. As soon as my parents fell asleep, I decided to go see this ghost. I wasn't alone as my siblings woke up when I did." I noticed that as I narrated, the scenery matched my pace. Cool.
"We made our way into Shadow Forest, and it was teeming with wildlife. The only place where we didn't hear anything was a cave entrance. That was silent, really silent. Runt said this is where he saw the ghost. As soon as he mentioned it, the wind picked up. Like Runt described, a giant blue wolf head appeared between us and the cave. My siblings ran, but I stood my ground. I turned human, and the ghost stopped. It looked at me like I was a new animal."
"It's not everyday a wolf pup turns into a boy. I was about twelve at the time. I knew enough about spirits from my time as a Guardian's kid."
"Why are you holding on?" My voice threw me off my commentary. I won't be getting used to that anytime soon.
"Spirits hang on to something, or don't even know they died, so I thought the ghost stayed for a reason." I looked on as the ghost rushed my past self, and nudged my forehead.
I witnessed the scenery change. It was now me and the ghost in absolute darkness.
"You can help me," spoke a feminine voice. The spirits voice rang clear in my head.
"What can I do," my past self asked. She then began forcing images in my head. It hurt, but I let it happen. I knew what this was. Instead of talking, she showed me what she wanted me to see. What she showed me played out, so the cloaked figure and I could see. We were looking at a wolf pup, a white wolf pup.
"She's blind," I told the cloaked figure. "The leader of her pack wished for her death, but her mother wanted something better for her. She brought the pup to the forest to keep her safe. The wolf followed, but her mother hid her away. The spirit was killed for protecting her daughter."
"Promise me, that Daria will be protected by you and your pack. Her name is Daria." The spirits words hurt me. I was so saddened by how the mothers life ended so tragically.
"You have been keeping her safe. You have been keeping everyone out of this forest for so long. I'm so sorry you suffered like that. You have my word that your daughter will be protected in my pack."
I meant every word of that. I was going to keep Daria safe. She needed help. I was going to help any way I could.
I noticed that the spirit smiled at my past self.
"Tell her that I will always be with her, and I love her so much. A parents love is eternal."
I nodded.
"You can rest now."
Just like that. I sent a spirit to the afterlife. I did so because she was protecting her daughter. She began to disappear. The scene changed, and my siblings were with me. I was back in the forest. I rushed up to meet Daria. My siblings followed behind me.
"Daria was scared. She was like me when I first met the wolves. I felt like I could relate. I told her that I was here to help, and my siblings and I introduced ourselves."
I then saw myself grab Daria's face. I told her to close her eyes. I then began to chant, and then everything went black.
"I can see?!" I heard Daria's voice. It was music to my ears. "Thank you so much Dean." It sounded as if she was crying. I remember feeling a tight embrace around me. I thought she hugged me.
"You're welcome. Now that you are able to see, you can be a normal wolf."
"I have to return to my pack. My mother will be so happy to see me."
I hated this. I will forever hate myself for this moment. Having to tell her that I laid her mother to rest.
"Daria, do you know who protected you all this time?"
"It was a spirit. I felt a warm presence, but I couldn't smell it. They were the ones that brought me food. I wouldn't be alive without them"
I remember trying to say this as delicately as possible.
"Right, along with curing the blind, I can also see and speak with spirits. This spirit told me how she brought you here to protect you. She also showed me that your leader from before was the wolf trying to hurt you."
"No."
I heard her voice, and if I saw her face, I wouldn't be able to go in with telling her.
"She wanted me to tell you that she will always be with you, she loves you very much, and a parents love is eternal. She was laid to rest after I promised her that my pack and I would keep you safe." I didn't hear any crying.
I then heard my siblings trying to comfort her.
"I'm sorry Daria," spoke Runt. "Your mother really cares about you. She protected you even after she passed."
"I think I knew it was her all along. I just needed the confirmation. She truly hasn't left me though."
"That's right," spoke Claudette. "As long as you have her in your memories, she isn't gone. I think I'm ready to start my new life knowing that she will be with me."
"That's good. Keep remembering that. Believe me that it helps. Now, let's get going before our parents catch us."
I really wanted to tell her more, but I didn't know how to say it. I'm so sorry that I sent your mother away.
I remember hearing footsteps, and I followed them. My siblings began telling Daria all about our home, and members of our pack. My hearing was enhanced, and my smell was too. It made following the pups back to the territory less challenging as expected. Runt said we were nearing a shortcut to our den. Daria then mentioned the beautiful sunrise.
"Well, guess mom and dad will be awake when we get there." Claudette's words didn't make me feel better.
"It won't be so bad, Dad knows all the shortcuts, and showed them to us." Runts words would have been comforting if I didn't hear someone behind us. Make it two.
"Yes I do," my fathers words rang out.
I remember us being completely speechless.
"Pups? Care to explain?" Mom was here too. Great.
"I can explain perfectly, Mom."
"Ok Dean, explain away."
After I gave my parents the explanation, I awaited their response.
"Ok pups, you did the right thing, but next time, don't go anywhere without us knowing. You scared us to death. We were worried sick." Mom's words kinda hurt.
My siblings and I apologized all at once.
"Now Daria, I think Tikanni, should look you over. He knows more about magic, and spirits than my mother."
"Tikanni?"
"He's a friend of mine," I interjected.
"Ok."
With that we walked to Tikanni's I remained behind everyone.
After a few minutes I heard Runt announce that we arrived.
"TUFFY!!" My scream echoed through the forest. I then heard the door open.
"Good morning to you too, Dean. What brings you here on this fine morning?"
"I need you to look at this wolf. Her name is Daria, and she has had supernatural activity."
"Sweet, Ms. Daria. Please follow me."
I then heard Daria following Tikanni inside. After what felt like a few minutes of waiting I heard the door slam open.
"Ok, she has a clean bill of health. Great eyesight and a healthy body. Give her some hunting practice, and you have a great hunter on your paws, Kate."îll
"I look forward to it."
"How long?"
I didn't hear my mother respond.
"How long have you been blind?"
"I'm no-"
"My fist is two centimeters from your nose, so I'll ask again, how long have you been blind."
"A couple hours."
"You've been blind!?" My parents words sounded off to my right.
"The spell I did blinds me temporarily, so I just went with it."
"Why did you do that?" Now Daria was asking questions.
"I did what I thought was right. Now, you are safe from harm coming to you. The wolf no longer has a reason to hurt you."
I then felt a massive pop in my skull, and I immediately saw everyone looking at me.
"Well what do you know. I can see."
"You're kidding," spoke Tikanni.
"I'm not."
"Prove it; is my tail up or down?"
"It's up, Dad."
"Ok, he's cured."
"Now, with that out of the way, let's introduce Daria to the pack." I then followed my family to my grandparents. Daria was inducted into the pack, my siblings and I were given our licks from our parents, and I mean they attacked us by licking.
"That is so hard to wash off clothes." The spirit still said nothing. "It then came time for the celebration, and my siblings and I were called heroes for conquering the Shadow Forest, and allowing the United Pack to roam that part of the forest."
What I wasn't expecting was for the scene to change to a very personal memory for me. It was during the celebration, and I was alone on a fallen tree. I wanted to be alone. I didn't feel like a hero. I sent a parent away from their child. Just like what my uncle did to me. I'm no better than him.
"Son?" Dad was behind, but I didn't want to say anything.
"You ok?"
"I sent that spirit away, Dad. She was just a mother protecting her pup."
"Dean, you did nothing wrong."
"Then why do I feel so awful? The last thing she told me was a parents love is eternal."
"She's right. She may not be with Daria physically, but she'll always have that love near her. Just like you'll always have your mom's and my love near you. She was a ghost, and needed to pass over. I may not be fair, but it's right."
For an omega, Dad had good speeches. It helped me to accept that what I did needed to be done.
"Thanks Dad."
"You have nothing to thank me for. I'm your dad, and I'll always try to make you smile. Now let's see it."
He then began to nuzzle my face which made me laugh. The scene then begins to vanish.
I could see that the figure had a couple of friends now with them.
"Ya know, Daria and Hutch, my mothers friend, the former Western Pack second went on to fall in love. I think he'll propose to her soon.
To my dismay, the spirits multiplied. What was once one was now 4. Two were human, but two more were wolves. I just couldn't tell who they were. They were fuzzy. Like how they looked in my dream from so long ago.
"So, you brought friends? All we need is popcorn, and this movie would be great."
As if on queue a small bucket of popcorn appeared in front of me.
"Sweet." I got a handful and began gorging myself on it. "Let's get this show on the road."
The scene then began to change once more I was now back at the training grounds, and I looked younger. This was maybe a few weeks after I was adopted. It was Runt, Stinky, Claudette, Tyson, Johnny, Kayla, and a new pup I recently met, Fleet.
"Fleet was a little bit shorter than me, but not by much. He was also pretty quick for his age. He could compete with us, and I respected that. He was a cool pup. Got along with everyone."
I noticed that the group was looking at my Grandfather and Uncle. They were showing us a long flat stretch of land. I then noticed that my father and another wolf was behind the group.
"I think I remember this."
"You all are growing very quickly, and soon you'll be proud teenagers heading to Alpha School." My grandfather knew how to make a great speech. "Tony and I decided to let you all show all your progress to the Alphas that have gone on our recent hunting trip. To do so, there will be four of you on a team. Each of you will race a wolf on the opposing team."
"This will continue until the last pup races," finished Tony. "Your coaches for each team will be Nars on one team, and Humphrey on the other. You have today, tomorrow, the next day when the Alphas are supposed to return, and you'll race that next morning.
"An omega coaching young alpha pups," scoffed Nars.
"Yes, well my mate is on the hunting trip, so I stepped in to help my pups win."
"Win? Fleet has been training since he could walk. He'll be ready for whatever you bring, Omega."
Nars was Fleet's dad, and an Alpha. Saying he looked down upon Omegas was an understatement. He was also a very competitive wolf. He also lost to my mom when they were pups in this very race."
"I always thought Nars was full of himself," I spoke to the spirits. They remained silent, and continued watching.
"Tough crowd." I continued watching as the wolves began forming teams. I then noticed Johnny mention something to Nars.
"Winston, is Dean participating in the race?"
"Yes, he is a pup after all."
"I don't think it would be fair if he was too participate."
"Why is that." Tony was now questioning it.
"Dean is somewhat of an outlier. Who is to say that he won't use his magic, or turn human in the race."
"My powers don't work as a pup," my past self defended.
"That's what you say, but where is the proof to back up your statement."
"Do you think my son is lying," defended my father. I could see where this was going, and I didn't want them to argue over me participating in a race.
"I won't race." My voice was more like a whisper. I'm surprised anyone heard it, but Grandpa did.
"Dean, you don't have to-"
"It's ok, I'll sit this one out. It can be a team of three on three."
"Son, are you sure?"
"Dad, it's ok, really. Just because I'm not participating, doesn't mean I can't watch my siblings show how hard they've worked. Grandpa, may I be excused since I'm not participating?"
I could tell that everyone except Nars and Johnny were mad at my decision, but I didn't want everyone fighting because of me. Reluctantly my grandfather spoke.
"Ok, Dean you will not participate in the race. You may be excused, but where will you go?"
"Dad, can I go see Tikanni?"
"The human," growled Johnny.
" If you're so scared of my strength, then I would have care with how you speak about my friend Johnny. Tikanni is close to me in power when I'm in my strongest form." Johnny gulped and Winston cleared his throat.
"With your father's permission, you may be excused."
"Go see Tuffy, son. We'll pick you up, after we pick up Runt.
"Thanks Dad, good luck everyone." With that I left. I eventually made my way to the house. Tuffy was outside on a rocking chair. He had a laptop in his lap, and was typing as he eyed Dean walking up to him.
"To what do I owe this pleasure," he spoke. "Your usually at alpha practice."
"There will be race in two days amongst the pups."
"So, why aren't you training for it?" Tikanni then sat his laptop next to him.
"Someone was a crybaby, so I was asked to not participate in it. I am basically being too strong. I believe the term "outlier" was used. Tikanni let out a huff.
"Is that right?"
"Yep."
"You know what I would do?"
"What?"
"Show them just how powerful you are. Race them and make them eat your dust. They fear your power? Let them. Give them a reason to respect your power and control. Unleash your beast.
"No, I don't need to prove to them anything."
"So, what are you going to do?"
"I came to ask for your help."
"In doing what? Beat up the crybaby?"
"What? No. Help my dad and I coach my siblini ok gs. I'll do anything that I can to give them an edge."
"I know a little bit on running exercise, but I'll have to see the track before I do anything."
"Follow me, and I need a stopwatch."
"You got it boss."
Eventually, Tuffy and my past self made it to the track. By then everyone left, and probably left to train and for my father to pick up Runt.
"You said it's a relay race?"
"Yeah." I then walked onto the trail. I placed the stopwatch by my back paw, and when I took off, my paw started it. When I came full circle, my paw stopped the watch.
"Ok, a quick down and back." Tikanni took the mental note. "Quick too."
"Thanks."
"Alright, I've seen what I needed too. Let's head back. I'm already brainstorming ways to increase you speed, and endurance in two days. I can't do much, but I'll offer my input."
The scene changed to the two of us returning pop back to Tuffy's house. Waiting for us was Dad, Stinky, Claudette, Runt, and Ty.
"Hi, guys," I spoke. "Runt, how was omega training."
"It was good. I'm sorry you can't race."
"It's ok. Ty, I guess you switched teams?"
"Yep, I can't wait to wipe that smug grin off Johnny's face."
"I like the attitude. Dad, I showed Tikanni the track, and he thinks he can help us prepare."
"Ok son, I trust your judgment. What do you have Tikanni?"
"Well, I'll be sure once I see everyone run. Let's get started."
What followed was Dean beaming with pride. What these days showed were important to him. It showed his siblings and best friend racing, Tikanni and Humphrey talking to the racers, and Tuffy putting them through certain training regimens. The best part of this was Runt and Dean had participated with all the training.
"That was a great few days. We all did it together, and that's what made it so great. We also used one of mom's technique. She figured how to turn quicker. It was a great way to lessen our time turning around. The days became even better when mom returned. She helped us perfect her turn. We decided not to use it unless absolutely necessary. I remember grandpa looking like he saw a ghost when I told mom why I wasn't participating." The exact scene that played out in front of my eyes.
"DAD," roared Kate.
This made me laugh. The spirits remained quiet.
"Come on that was funny." They continued to say nothing.
"You stiff's"
I continued to watch my memories, and evidently it is now the day of the race. I was sitting next to my mom, and Dad. The whole pack, as well as Tikanni, we're here to witness the race.
The pups lined up and here's the lineup of the racers.
Tyson and Johnny.po
Stinky and Kayla.
Claudette and Fleet.
"Ready...Set...Go!" Grandpas' words had the two pups explode at the start. Ty and Johnny ran as fast as they could, and I cheered Ty on. Ty, despite being bigger, than Johnny, was barely in the lead. That continued until Johnny tripped Ty. Ty said to the ground, but immediately got up, and continued to gain some distance he lost.
Kayla was already running when Ty tagged Stinky. He managed to gain further to where he was on Kayla's tail. The final race was going to be close. Claudette was the sinker of the group. Evidently, Fleet was the same for the opposing team. Both pups were neck and neck, and then Fleet did something I couldn't believe. He used mom's technique. I'll be it badly, but he used it olive none the less. My anger subsided when my sister pulled it off perfectly. This is what won the race. We all cheered, and I jumped for joy. We walked to congratulate the racers.
"Nice job guys. Did you have fun?"
Everyone nodded.
"That's all that matters."
"I would feel much better, if I wasn't tripped," mumbled Ty.
"Well, just know that I would have won if I raced you. I wouldn't have needed to trip you."
"You'd be eating my dust."
"Whatever helps you sleep. Nice job none the less."
"Thanks Dean."
"We did it guy's." Claudette made me smile.
We all cheered, and my parents began the formalities as to how proud they are of the pups, and even Ty got the speech of how proud they were of him. I then saw Fleet being chewed out by his dad. I decided to step in.
"Hey Fleet!"
He and his father looked at me. I then stuck my paw out.
"You did good. I wish I could have participated. I would have liked to race you, but don't beat yourself up. It was just a race. You win some and lose some. Did you have fun?"
"Yeah, and thanks Dean."
"You're welcome." I then looked at Nars. "You should be very proud of him." Claudette appeared next to me. "Nice job, It could have gone either way. I'd like to race you again."
Fleet was utterly speechless.
"Say something," I joked.
"Uh yeah, I would like He He that a lot."
With that Claudette, and I walked away. I distinctly heard Nars apologize to Fleet, and told him how proud he was. That was music to my ears.
"We did it Dean."
"I never doubted you guy's for a second."
"Dean." I turned to see Nars walking up to us. My sister stayed close to me.
"Go on Sis. I'll catch up." Claudette then returned to my family.
"I owed my son an apology, and I owe you one as well. Your father said something very similar to what you just said, and I finally understood it. I am sorry I stole from you of showing your progress to your family, and having fun in this event. I know you may not forgive me, and I have a lot I regret, but I'm going to start now on being better." He then stuck his paw out. I graciously took it.
"Apology accepted. I'm glad to hear that you'll do better. I think Fleet and I are going to get along great. You also may want to avoid my grandmother, and mother. They know what you did, and are not taking it as well as I."
I saw my mother and grandmother staring daggers at Nars. He didn't seem to notice as he saw Fleet with Claudette. He walked up to his son, and told him how proud he was.
I was then tapped on the shoulder. I turned to see Tikanni. "You did good. That takes strength to let bygones be bygones."
"Thanks." I then noticed everyone began leaving the area to celebrate the victory of the winners. I realized it was just my family, Tikanni, and I. Even Tyson and his family, Lilly and Garth, Winston and Eve, and Tony and Talia stayed. I wondered why everyone was holding back, even the winners.
"Dean," spoke Mom.
"Yeah?"
"I want to see how fast you can run." I then saw what was happening.
Tikanni then stepped in.
"I saw your time on the stopwatch, so before you say you don't have an opponent, you do. I know you were going to race yourself. I just think there should be an audience."
I remember being really quiet. I looked at my paws.
"Ok, I'll do my best."
"Get ready Dean."
I got ready as Tikanni instructed.
"And...GO!"
I shot like a rocket, and was off. I didn't know how fast I was going, but I was happy. My family did this for me. They could have gone on with their lives, but they decided to watch me run. I only became happier when I heard my family cheering me on.
"Run Dean," spoke Dad.
"Finish strong," cheered Garth.
"You can do it," exclaimed mom.
Everyone cheered some sort of encouragement. I then landed mom's technique perfectly, and made my way back to my family. As soon as I crossed the finish line I grabbed my mom and dad in a hug. They greatly accepted it.
"Dean." I heard Tikanni. I faced Tuffy.
"New time."
"I won?"
"Everyone cheered, and congratulated me as they did moments ago for my siblings." Mom and dad then told me something when the cheering died down.
"Dean, I don't ever want you to think you are any less important than your siblings." Mom's words were gentle, but stern. "We love you so much, and we'll do everything we can to show you how much we care about you, and your pups."
"Son, I would have fought for you to race. I will defend all of you with my life, and will always do so. I love all of you."
There kind words brought tears to my eyes. All my family members began saying kind words, and these brought tears to me as I watched my past self hug, and say how much he appreciated and loved his new family.
As soon as I dried my new tears, I looked at the spirits. They now faced me. I looked to where my memories were showing, and they were gone. Everything was now black except for the figures. They were white cloaked or silhouettes for the two wolves.
"You watched as my family cared for me, so you know I love them dearly. I promised them that I would fight tooth and claw to live." I then got into a fighting stance. "This isn't what I had in mind, but I'll do it. I'm going to live for them."
One of the cloaked spirits lifted a hand, and my surroundings began changing. Trees, and bushes began sprouting, and a bright blue sky appeared. I heard water and I saw a river to my right. This place looked so familiar. I couldn't place my finger on it until I saw the waterfall. This was my dream I had from before. I was outside the cave.
"Where's my family?"
I faced the figures who slowing became clearer. The humans removed their hoods, and the wolves began to become less blurry.
My mouth opened as I couldn't find the words to describe who I was seeing.
"Hi Dean." The man who said that had blonde hair like me. He was dead, or supposed to be. In fact the majority of the beings standing before me were supposed to be dead. The only one I wasn't so sure of was a wolf. That was until he spoke.
"Hello, you may not know me, but I'm-"
"Stinky. You're the pups great grandfather."
"I'm your great grandfather too from what I saw, and you've made me proud pup."
I smiled. "Thank you great grandfather."
I then turned to the three individuals who I knew all to well.
"Hi guy's. Forgive me if I don't really know what to say, but I really got nothing."
Jesse laughed. "Waya, I believe Dean's tongue tied. What do you think, Sarah?
The skeleton patterned wolf let out a hearty laugh.
Sarah then walked over, and held Dean in a tight embrace.
"I'm so proud of you."
"Thank you mom."
Dean then realized that they watched those memories.
"I found my family like you said."
"I saw."
"You also kept your guard up," spoke Waya.
"And you grew stronger," interjected Jesse. Dean then frowned. If he is seeing dead relatives then it doesn't take a genius to realize where he's going.
"I'm dead."
"No," spoke Waya. "Tikanni managed to save you, but you did die twice on the table."
"Lovely. So, what is this if I'm not dead?"
"You're comatose," spoke Jesse. "That gave us time to show you some memories, and help you recuperate. Now, we need to talk about you waking up."
"What about it?"
"You have three options," spoke Sarah. "You can either stay asleep and die peacefully, or you can live."
"You said three options."
"If you live, you'll be forced to give up one of two things."
"Well, I'm not dying, so that options out the window. I made a promise, and I'm not going to break it."
"We know," smiled Jesse.
"So, what do I give up?"
"Well, Tikanni modified your shopping list to save you," spoke Waya. "You'll have to give up a form. You can either be human or wolf. You'll never be able to turn into a wolf if you choose human, and you'll never be able to turn human if you pick wolf. You may not be able to shift for a while if you pick either. Your magic will become locked as well as shifting, and only you'll be able to unlock it if you choose either form. You now have large amounts of Amarock, and Guardian blood after Tikanni and Drew performed a blood transfusion as well as used Kate and Humphrey's DNA for the "shopping list." Drew has also become stronger due to her blood being mixed in with Tikanni's via a cut on their palms mixing their blood. That will be something you'll need to help her with if you choose to live. What do you choose?"
Dean was silent for a moment.
"So I'll be basically normal in either form I choose until I unlock my powers through means that are unknown to me?"
"Yes. This power and magic could also possibly be distributed to your family now. However it is locked as well, and they'll have to unlock it as well. They'll also possibly cease aging, and never become sick. These abilities will also be passed on too any significant others the families choose, as well as their offspring. This silenced me for a moment.
"You're saying they have the capability of unlocking magic abilities, and unlocking the shape shifting capabilities among other powers of a guardian and Amarock!? Not to mention they'll never get sick and stop aging?!"
"Yes, this is if you wake up, and they'll unlock the powers on their own, but it is highly unlikely. The aging and sickness will be permanent, but it isn't guaranteed they'll have these powers." Jesse tried to ease these worries. If I survive, this'll be a very interesting outcome.
Before I choose, I wanted to say that I'm sorry I couldn't save you three.
"Dean, you did the right thing, and did as your mother and Waya told you to do. You couldn't control what happened that night. You found a family, and we couldn't be more proud. I want you to promise me that just because you won't forget us won't mean that you'll love your new family any less. We aren't mad that you love your new family. We wanted you to find that love, and you did. I am so proud of you. Sarah is so proud of you. Waya is so proud of you.
"No matter where you go, no matter how far, with all our love, be well Dean. Ok?"
"I really needed to hear that. Thank you all."
"You're welcome, now if you grab my hand, you'll be human. If you touch Stinky's paw, then you'll be a wolf."
"If I pick wolf, Drew will-" he was interrupted by Sarah. "Drew will be fine. All I ask is that you protect her, and tell her we love her so much."
"And tell her that we will always be with her, and if she wants to call your family hers, then we are fine with it." Added Jesse.
"And that we are so proud of both of you," added Waya.
"Tell our family that they all made me proud," spoke Stinky.
"Ok. Ok. Ok. I'll tell her all that, and I'll tell our family. I love you guys so much, but to be honest, I hope we meet again later rather than sooner."
The wolves and humans laughed. After a few moments, I walked up, and grabbed someone. I saw a bright light, and then darkness. I slowly opened my eyes, and everything was blurry. My head was pounding like none other, and I was wrapped up in something soft.
After a few moments, my vision adjusted a little, and I realized that I was on a bed. I tried to move, but I ended up falling out of the bed. This made my head hurt even worse, and I let out a groan. I then heard advancing foot steps racing up the stairs. The door bursted open, and I could barely make out two figures. One a human, and the other canine. The human figure crouched down, and began to speak to me.
"Dean?"
I tried to stand.
"Woah woah take it easy. You've been out for a few days. Willow, go get everyone!"
The canine figure, who I now know as Willow, left.
I remained in my corner, and complied with my friend's orders.
"How do you feel?"
"My head hurts, and my legs feel numb." My voice was hoarse.
"Do you know who you are?"
"Dean."
"Do you remember me?"
"Tall, Native American, reeks of magic, you must be Tex." I grinned when I said this.
"I outta punch you for that one."
"Please don't Tuffy, my head still hurts, and my legs are still numb." I was then grabbed in a hug.
"I'm so glad your awake. You have no idea how much you scared us all."
"Tuffy...can't...breathe..." Tuffy released me from his bear hug.
"Right, sorry. Do you feel different?"
"I feel...good. I can't explain it, but I feel good. Different would be a good word to use." I then remembered what I was told while I was under.
"You used my shopping list."
"How did you know that?"
"Never mind that. Do you feel any different?"
"What are you talking about?"
"The affect works on my family, and you're my family."
Tuffy's eyes grew ever so wide at this, and then something dawned on him.
"I felt a flow of energy run through my body, and then I heard you upstairs."
"I was going to ask everyone."
"You didn't need to ask me. I am supposed to protect you, so, as long as you live, I'll live with you. I guess I won't age anymore. I also feel better."
"That might be due to what happened in San Diego."
"True."
"Wait, does that mean mom and dad may be?"
"I discussed it with them that they might be near immortal. They were ok with it. It might also effect your grandparents, aunts, and uncles."
Not even a second later, did I here paws on the forest floor. I turned my head that direction. Not only did I hear them, I smelled them. "We have company. At least 16 wolves."
"Well, I think Willow really pulled through. Brought the whole family."
"Can you pull up your camera? I wanna see what changed."
"Sure."
Not a second later did I hear paws on the hard floor, and quickly running up the stairs. I looked at the door as my mother was the first to come up. Eventually more wolves entered. I recognized the majority of them as my family, but there were some wolves who I felt like I knew, but couldn't figure it out. Mom walked right up to me. At this point I sat up. Eventually, mom broke the silence.
"Dean?"
"Hi everyone."
"Does this mean-" began Drew. I took a breathe, and looked at the camera that Tuffy presented me. I saw almost golden eyes, grey fur, and small tawny brown tufts by the ears.
"No more human. I am a full blooded Canadian Wolf. Drew I-"
"No matter what you chose, I wouldn't have cared. You are, and always will be, my baby brother. I'll love you all the same."
"Thank you for that." I then turned my attention to several young wolves. One was grey, the other was the spitting image of mom.
"Grandpa?"
The grey wolf laughed.
"Hi Dean."
I then looked at mom's clone.
"Grandma?"
She nodded.
I then saw two brown wolves.
"Tony and Talia."
They laughed and nodded.
"How do all of you feel?"
"Younger." Spoke Winston.
"Like I never had back pain." Answered Tony.
The females both stated how much younger they felt.
"I'm glad, I only speculated this would happen, but I confirmed it in my coma. You all have ceased aging, and you will never get sick. This has only been affected by my family, as well as Tikanni. This gift can be given to your chosen mate, and will be passed down to the offspring. I just wish I could have brought this gift to you guys differently. I'm sorry."
"Hey, we are a family, and we'll do whatever we can to protect our own. Even if it makes us live a little longer, we'll do it. Now, I don't speak for the others, but I don't have any regrets for the decision that was made. I'm glad you're ok." Everyone agreed with my grandfather's words. Even Tyson agreed with his words. "Mom and Dad didn't complain," spoke Tyson. This made me very happy.
"I'm very happy you all feel that way."
"Who told you about the spell Dean? You said you figured it out in your coma." Drew's question reminded me of what I was ordered to tell her.
"I saw many passed loved ones in my comatose state. First off, Great-grandfather Stinky said he was proud of all of us." This made everyone's mouth drop. The only one who didn't drop was Drew.
"Did you see?"
"Yeah, I saw them."
"Were they?" Drew had tears down her face at this point. She couldn't finish her question.
"They were ok. They wanted me to tell you how proud they were of you. They also wanted me to tell you that they loved you so much. They'll always be with you, and they won't be mad if you want to call my family your own. Waya also added how proud he was of both of us. I was also asked to protect you."
Drew then enveloped me in a hug.
"Thank you so much for telling me this. I feel like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders." I nuzzled some tears off her face.
"I will protect you no matter what, but, to do that, I'd like to ask you that you stay with me and my family, or at least with Tikanni."
"Way ahead of you little bro. I've been staying with Tuffy, and Kate and Humphrey. I'm even going to Alpha School."
"Really?!"
"So are we." Two voices I came to know so well sounded off to my right. I see a black she wolf and a white she wolf.
"Ebony? Ivory?"
"In the wolf flesh," joked Ivory.
"What brought fourth this change, and who did it?"
"Drew changed us because we asked her too, and we just wanted a fresh start." Answered Ebony.
"We want to help our pack, new friends and family, and be the best wolves we can be."
"Yeah, turns out Drew, Ebony, and Ivory are very fast learners," spoke Winston. "They'll be ready to tag along. Especially with you helping."
"Everyone's been helping us, and they're all very kind. I think I'll stick with being a wolf more than human." Drew's answer took Dean back.
"Drew, are you sure?"
"I don't have anyone in the human world Dean, I can turn human to help you guy's, but, like Ebony and Ivory, I'd like to think of this as a fresh start."
"Drew." Kate made everyone turn to her.
"Humphrey and I were talking, and we would love it if you stayed as our daughter."
"I'd like that a lot." Drew then turned into her black she-wolf, and hugged mom and dad.
"You have no idea how happy I am. My family is together, and I'm not sick." Everyone cheered at this.
"Well Dean, it's time we reintroduce you, and our other new pack members. Don't you think?"
"I do Grandpa. I do." I then stood on my new legs. I was very wobbly at first.
"I feel like a newborn caribou." This got a laugh from everyone. I then looked around and realized that I was looking down on everyone more than usual. Even Garth.
"Am I taller? Did I grow?"
"Now that you mention it, I think you did. I even think you gained a couple pounds. What were you?"Spoke Tikanni.
"175"
"You're at least 200."
"Really?"
"I think you're bigger than Garth, but not by a lot."
I then gazed upon my massive Alpha of an Uncle, and realized that I was eye just a little bit taller than him.
"Sorry Uncle Garth."
"No worries. That means I don't need to hold back when we spar." Garth's remark made me laugh.
"Can you walk?" I then turned my attention to Tikanni.
"I need to." I took my steps slow, and I leaned on mom and dad the majority of the way. I slowly made my way down the stairs to be confronted with a new addition to the house. The door had been upgraded to accommodate a rather large canine species.
"How long have I been out? You installed a doggy door?"
"5 days, and it's more of a wolf door. I got tired of opening the door for scratching paws, so I installed the wolf door. Be warned that if a bear tries to come inside, you'll all be hearing from me." Everyone laughed.
I could hear mom whispering to grandpa behind me as I walked out the door. Once everyone got out, Grandpa called out Tikanni.
"Yes sir?"
"It has come to my attention that you were the one who helped Runt train all this time, and it was some of your techniques that beat Garth. I remember being told you also helped Humphrey train the pups in the race a while back. Both times in which you helped train, the trainees show more promise than they had."
"You honor me with your words. Thank you."
"With the approval of the other leaders, I would like you to help train all of our younger wolves as well as coming to Alpha school."
Tuffy was speechless.
"I second the decision," answered Talia.
"Third," answered Eve. "I trust you Tikanni, and my mates decision."
"Thank you ma'am."
"Do not misplace my trust or you'll surely regret it."
Tikanni has been around the wolves long enough to hear the infamous threats of Eve. He gulped. "I'll try my best." We all then turned to Tony. "I'm ok with it. I hope you can keep up, Tuffy."
"How long would I be gone?"
"Until spring." Answered Winston.
"All of winter? In unknown land most likely so deep in the woods almost no human would dare traverse the lands? Basically being alone? Surviving the harsh dangers nature has to offer? Coaching wolves? How can I say no? I'll do it.
Everyone cheered.
"I don't know why you guy's are cheering. You're my victims, I mean students." This made the students nervously laugh as the adults continued laughing.
"Grandpa," asked Runt. "Yes Runt."
"I would like to go to Alpha school."
"You're an omega?"
"I understand this, but an Omega is supposed to be more of a peacekeeper. I want to use more than jokes to deescalate a situation."
After the four leaders discussed this new issue, Winston then turned to Tikanni.
"What do you think Tikanni? You trained Runt. Do you think he, an omega, should be allowed to go with us?"
"In my opinion, anyone should know how to defend themselves. It shouldn't be denied to anyone. If an omega wants to train, then they should be able too. Runt worked hard for this. To go with his siblings to Alpha school. I think he should be able to go."
After a few more moments of discussion, the leaders turned.
"You may go to Alpha school with your parents permission." Spoke Winston.
Runt quickly turned to his parents.
"Guys?"
"I want you to follow what you think is right," spoke Humphrey. "Just be safe, and come back in one piece."
"Mom?"
Kate was silent.
"If you need any help when you're up there, you can talk to your siblings, Tuffy, your grandfather, Garth, and Uncle Tony."
"Does that mean I can go!?"
"Yes, just please be careful."
Runt leapt up in the air with joy which brought a smile to everyone's face.
"Winston." Spoke Tikanni.
"Yes?"
"Willow is a close friend. She helped us save Dean, and I want your word that she is taken care of while I'm gone."
"You have my word."
"We'll look out for her," spoke Kate.
"Tikanni, you don't need to-"
"Willow, I'm coming back, and if I don find you, I'll hunt you down myself."
With that Willow gave a small grin.
"Ok, I'll stay, but you better come back my friend."
"I'm coming back. Who's gonna heal you?" Tuffy gave a huge grin.
"Ok, does anyone have anything to reveal, or do I need to hold off on adding new pack members, and reintroducing old ones?"
"I actually need to talk to Dean, alone." I looked at my father.
"What's up dad?"
"You guy's go on ahead. We'll meet you all at the leaders den. Come with me son."
"Yes sir."
With that, Dad and I went a separate direction while the group went the other direction. Once we were out of ear shot, I broke the silence.
"So Dad-"
"You were cheated on." The bluntness silenced any thoughts I had.
"And?"
"That hurts. I know that hurt you."
"Yeah, it did."
"I know what you're thinking, but you're wrong."
"Oh yeah?"
"Yeah. It isn't you're fault. I don't want you to think that you made the mistake. It was all Kayla. She chose to cheat. Just like the guy who cheated on his mate that you fought in San Diego." I almost forgot that they saw that. That dark side of me.
"When I saw that guy. He had hurt someone the way I was hurt. I asked why he did it, and all his excuses sucked. I saw Johnny and Kayla when I looked at him. I wanted him to not hurt anybody like that again. I was so angry at them. I felt so betrayed. I wanted to tear them apart, but I knew that wouldn't fix the way I felt.
"Son, that is perfectly ok. You can feel mad. You can feel sad, but don't feel ashamed. It wasn't your fault and you have nothing to be ashamed of. I want to do something for me."
"What is it?"
"Don't let them hold you back from the good things in your life. You can feel bitter about it, but don't be for long. She lost you, she's the idiot. You can move on, and you'll find your mate. It just wasn't her. Show her what she's missing out on; an strong alpha, with a heart of pure kindness, courage, and bravery, who would do anything for his family. Not to mention, you're funny."
This earned a laugh out of me.
"I'm telling you this because you'll see them. I want you to show them how great you are because you are. You are great."
"Thanks Dad, I needed that."
"Hey, what are father's for? It's my job to help you get over bad females. I love you son, you are surrounded by loved ones, and if you wanna talk, come talk. If not me, your mom, or your siblings, or your grandparents, or your aunts and uncles."
"Alright Dad, I got it. Love you too."
"Alright, now let's go show off."
With that, Dad and I raced to the leaders den. When we got there, the base of the den was surrounded by the whole pack. All eyes landed on Dad, and I
"Who's the new wolf?" Asked a male wolf.
"He's bigger than Garth!" Shouted another.
"He's cute," spoke a female. "Wonder if he's taken."
This made my father and I laugh. Once we made it to the den, I joined the other new members.
"Are you guys ready?"
They all nodded.
"Great."
Soon, the leaders went on to tell the pack of my new look, and introduced the rest of the pack to our new members. They also stated how my power may be dormant for a while, possibly forever, so I'll be a wolf permanently probably. They also said I won't turn human again. They also stated that they look much younger now due to them using a spell to save my life. Once everyone stepped out, an ocean of gasps erupted when all eyes landed on me. I didn't care. They could look all they want me. I think I look great. Once the introductions were out of the way, a celebration ensued. I made my way down the hill, I was immediately stopped by my ex. She had a smile on her face.
"Hi, Guard Wolf."
"Kayla." I nodded to her.
"You look great. So, you're a full wolf?"
"Yeah."
"You even look like Kate and Humphrey's pup."
"Their fur was used in the spell, so it would make sense I look like their pup. I've always been theirs though."
"Right."
"Hey Bro." I love my sisters timing. Drew came right next to me. "Who's your friend?"
"Drew, this is Kayla, my-"
"Horrible, backstabbing, cheating, ex girlfriend. I was notified of her, and if you ever hurt my brother just know I will hurt you. I'm just as if not better than Dean in skill, so I suggest your next words better be I'm sorry Dean, and I'll never bother you again." Drew's interruption had me absolutely stunned. I was speechless. Kayla looked a little scared.
"Dean, I'm really sorry about everything I did and say. I really don't want to lose you. You are one of the best things that happened to me. Please, give me another chance. I won't cheat again." She actually apologized.
"I accept your apology, but I don't trust your word anymore. I don't know wether you're sorry you did it, or sorry you got caught. I forgive you, but I don't want you as a girlfriend. I hope you understand."
She was quiet, and even shedded a few tears.
"I understand, and I'm going to try and get you back. I'll prove myself to you." She gave me a grin.
"Good luck."
With that, she walked off.
"You're not seriously going to take her back?"
"Oh no, but I wanna see what she does exactly. It'll be interesting to say the least."
"You had me worried for a second. I may have had to smack some since into you."
"Oh please, and just as if not better than me?"
"Hey, she doesn't know how much I trained, and doesn't need too. I'll just use your memories to be brought up to speed on training. With your permission of course."
"Yes, you may, but not now. We are celebrating a new beginning." I spoke too soon as I saw Johnny walking up to the two of us.
"Dean, you look great."
"Johnny." I nodded.
"You think your new looks would get you a new girlfriend?"
"Don't know, why? You need tips on getting your own, or are you going to steal someone else's? Apparently your good at that."
He glared, but held his tongue. He then turned his attention to Drew.
"You're Drew, his sister, right?"
"His overprotective sister, yes."
"So, you were human too?"
"Better believe it. Why? Gotta problem, or gotta crush?"
"What!?" Johnny's embarrassment earned a laugh out of me, my family, Tikanni, and Tyson who came behind us to join the celebration.
"No thanks you're not my type. I don't date jerks and cheaters." This made Johnny fuming with embarrassment and anger.
"As if, I like a female of pure blood. No, human wolf freak."
"Oh I'm gonna crush you!" Tyson began stomping up to Johnny.
"We'll join you." Tikanni sounded off, and he was followed by the whole family. Before they got to him, I pinned him, and let out a snarl as I stared pure hatred into his soul. The fear in his eyes was priceless.
"You can say whatever you want about me, but if you ever say anything about my family, wolves and humans alike, I'll make you forget what it's like to chew solid meat. I will permanently cease your ability to have pups, so you can't bring any more stupid into the pack. You're bloodline will end with you. I'll break every part of your body and sleep like a pup. I nearly killed a human just by picturing your face on it. Nod if you understand!"
Johnny quickly nodded.
"Good, you're not as dumb as you look, Johnny. Now, the next words out of your mouth better be: I'm so sorry, Drew. I will never disrespect you. I'm also apologize to everyone of Dean's family. I am a lowly worm beneath your feet and paws, and don't deserve to even be in your presence."
Johnny looked like he was going to faint.
"SAY IT!"
"I'm so sorry, Drew. I will never disrespect you. I'm also apologize to everyone of Dean's family. I am a lowly worm beneath your feet and paws, and don't deserve to even be in your presence! I'm so sorry." His crying made this all the better.
"Good, now get out of my sight."
"Hold up Dean. I got something to say to the worm."
Tikanni then stood Johnny up, and duested his fur off.
"Johnny, I thought I should let you know that I'll be accompanying the leaders and helping them with training all of you at Alpha School."
"Oh no."
"Oh yes, and Dean has told me everything you have said over the almost two years we've known you. Now, I won't hurt you yet, or you'll run away. When we're at Alpha school, your tail is mine. I'm going to shape all of you into strong alphas. You may not make it through my training, but that's a sacrifice I'm willing to make. Now, you can get out of our sight." Tikanni then kicked Johnny in the tail, and Johnny sprinted away.
"Too much?"
"No, now, if grandma Eve was to say something, then it would be too much."
"That's the truth," joked Uncle Garth.
"He's lucky I didn't say anything." My grandmother's comment made everyone laugh. The rest of the celebration went well. Drew, Ebony, and Ivory made friends, Claudette and Fleet met up, and Tikanni and Willow were actually enjoying themselves. They didn't seem like outcasts. I loved all of this. We celebrated through the day and into the evening. Once it was time for bed, we went our separate ways. Willow, Ebony, and Ivory went with Tikanni.
"Bye Runt," spoke Ebony.
"Bye Stinky," spoke Ivory.
"Bye everyone," spoke both the girls. "Goodnight."
"Goodnight family," spoke Tikanni. "I'll be brainstorming on Alpha school training. Sleep well." With that they left.
My grandparents, aunts and uncles, and Ty went to their dens as well. This left my family, and I walking to our den.
I never knew how much I could miss dirt until I laid on the den floor. We all fell asleep pretty quick. I slept peacefully that night. I then heard a voice. I opened my eyes, and everyone was still asleep. That was except for one. I slowly crept to the den entrance and saw Drew. She was singing. Soon, everyone was listening to Drew. She soon stopped using words, and just howled it was beautiful. She stopped and looked at the entrance. Her eyes grew wide at all of us.
"I'm sorry I didn't mean to wake you."
"Don't be, it was great."
"That was beautiful, Drew." Spoke Mom.
"Dean was right, you are a good singer," spoke Dad.
"You rocked it," spoke Claudette.
"It was a great thing to wake up too," spoke Stinky.
"I loved it," spoke Runt.
Drew shied away from the compliments. "Thanks guys. I really appreciate it."
"Ready for training?"
"Oh yeah."
From the time we had until Alpha school, we trained. All of us prepared Drew for Alpha school. We all pitched in to help her. My whole family helped her. She had fit in perfectly with us. She trained with Tyson, Mom, my grandparents, Uncle Garth, Uncle Tony, Talia, and Tikanni. They didn't need to do much because Drew did use a spell to look into my memories of everything I learned, but you couldn't be too careful. She trained with Stinky, Runt, Claudette, and I as well as received moral support from Dad and Aunt Lilly. Lilly even heard Drew sing. She howled with her.
"I love your voice," she cried.
"Thank you, Lilly. I love yours too."
All the training paid off, and now, it was time to leave to Alpha school. The day came to say goodbye.
"I am so proud of you guys," spoke mom. She hugged all of us. "I'm going to miss you."
"Mom, we won't be gone forever."
"You're right, and we'll be right here with open paws when you guys come back." Dad then gave us a hug. "Be safe."
"We will," we all said.
"Don't worry, I'll keep them out of trouble," spoke Tyson.
"And I'll keep Tyson out of trouble," spoke Tikanni. Tikanni was wearing camp pants, a camo shirt, brown combat boots, and had a large knife strapped to his side.
He possessed two bags. One with camping gear, and the other with exercising equipment.
"Tikanni, I know that my dad, Garth, and Tony are there, but please watch them."
"You have my word. I'll also have them in tip top Alpha shape."
"I know you will."
"Everyone move out!" Grandpas orders were quick and sweet.
Before we left, we hugged our parents, and said our goodbyes. I was the last one.
"I love you guys so much."
"We love you too."
We separated, and I began to join the group. Tikanni began to jog with the wolves.
"I see you guys at spring."
"Goodbye," they said.
I let out a howl, and began to sprint to the front of the group. My siblings, Tyson, Fleet, and Tikanni caught up to me, and we were behind the leaders. We fixed our pace, and began to jog. I looked at my friends and family. I smiled.
"We are ready for anything. Whatever happens next, my family is ready for it."
Thank you all for reading this story. Feel free to leave a review of what you thought. I think I'll take a break from this series and work on another project a friend and I have been working on behind the scenes. If you haven't yet, you can read my first story. I hope you enjoyed reading the story, and I will eventually come back to this series for maybe a third or even a fourth installment. Forever be well
Wolfsaurus Rex