Mythical Mates

Eight

Isla screamed nervously at the loud bang the flare made. She’d never liked guns nor had she ever been interested in firing one. She’d tried using her rifle once as practice, and it had nearly dislocated her shoulder. She could only afford 2 bullets, so if she were to use it, it would have to be worth it. Hopefully, she won’t have to use it to defend herself against a bear or wolf. She trotted after the other men who were racing off into the forests. She wasn’t sure where she should start hunting and was hoping they’d cross a fluffle of rabbits or a herd of deer so she could catch something with them. Ten minutes later, several men branched off. She stumbled, trying to choose who to follow. They ran, ducking and dashing between the trees. She heard someone swear before sprinting off. “Wait!” she called, but she couldn’t keep up. Her feet caught in the dirt and she screamed as she fell. She cried out as the pain rushed up her leg. She had twisted her ankle. Her knee scraped against the rocks on impact, causing blood to pool down her leg. “H-Help!” she screamed. “Somebody, help me!” Tears ran down her dirty cheeks as she struggled to prop herself up. Surely, one of the overseers would come to her aid soon. The cut was covered with dirt. Hopefully, the overseers had clean fabric and alcohol to treat her wound. Her stomach growled. She dug into the small knapsack she’d brought with her and pulled out an assortment of nuts and berries she got from the market. She figured she’d be hungry and hoped it could be used as bait to lure prey. She stopped munching when she heard a twig snap. She held her breath and waited. Was it the overseer? Leaves crunched in the distance as something grew near. Isla strained her eyes to peer through the darkness. The hair on her neck stood on end, so she slowly pulled herself to her feet. “H-Hello?” she called softly. Silence. She pulled out her switchblade as her instincts warned of danger. In the darkness, there was movement followed by a loud yip and slow growl. Her breath quickened as her heart began to race. Something had found her, something predatory. Her eyes widened as she watched the brown coyote emerge from the trees. Its glowing eyes locked with hers as it bared its teeth. It let out another yip and a long growl. Isla trembled as it approached her. With shaky hands, she grabbed her rifle and took aim. “G-Go away!” she screamed. The coyote continued on. She backed away, wincing with every step. “Pl-Please go away…” The coyote lunged and she stumbled back, screaming as the rifle went off. Scared, the coyote whimpered and ran off. Isla sobbed quietly as she massaged her shoulder. Her nostrils and eyes burned from the smell of the gunpowder on her hands. Quickly, she gathered her things and limped away, trying to create as much distance from the coyote as possible. More tears fell as she scolded herself for wasting a bullet. Now she only had one left. Could she even make use of it? She was terrible with it, seeing that she could barely hold it. She felt like such a failure. She’d agreed to this because she wanted to help her father. However, she was far too weak. He was right. She really was useless. In the midst of her anguish, she could hear the leaves crunching around her. Several yips rang through the trees. Terrified, Isla picked up speed, though she couldn’t go much faster with her injured leg. In seconds, she could hear the rapid thump of dozens of small footsteps charging after her. When she looked back, she gasped in horror as several coyotes charged out of the trees. They growled and snapped their teeth at her. Isla cried out for help, hoping someone would hear her plea. Her eyes darted back and forth, looking for the smallest glimpse of a lantern. All that surrounded her was darkness. “Somebody help!!” she gasped, feeling a tug at her coat. One of the coyotes had caught her by the hood. She fell on her back screaming as the coyote pounced on her. It snapped and growled as she pulled at its face to keep it at bay. She managed to grab her blade and plunge it into the creature's shoulder. It whimpered and fell away. Isla scurried to her feet, waving her blade wildly at the other coyotes. They approached slowly, jumping back ever so often to avoid the blade. She backed away, unaware of the drop in terrain. Realizing it too late, she fell. The blade flew from her hand as she crashed. The world spun around her as she lay on the ground. The growling continued and she looked up to watch as the coyotes backed away to find a safer way down. Isla combed through the leaves searching for her blade. She screamed with frustration as she looked over to see her knapsack torn, her food spread out on the forest floor. Unable to waste anymore time, she grabbed her rifle and ran. In the distance, she could see light. A wave of joy washed over her. “Hey!!” she called, trying to get the overseers' attention. “Help me! Please!” She could hear the coyotes catching up behind her. She pushed herself as hard as she could. She just needed to get to them and all would be well. Finally, she pushed through the thicket and fell to her knees only to find, not an overseer, but a large shiny rock. “Wh-What…” she couldn’t believe her eyes. Before her was a small meteor that sparkled like a giant diamond giving off a bluish hue. The meteor was cracked open, surrounded by broken trees and fallen leaves. Dread filled her thoughts as she realized that no one was close enough to help her. Her head whipped around as the coyotes pounced on her. She screamed as they tugged at her legs. She kicked and thrashed, trying to fight them off, but it was useless. She stared into the creature's hungry eyes as it opened its jaws and aimed for her neck. Isla shut her eyes tight, awaiting the pain. The creature yelped and fell off of her. Too afraid to open her eyes, Isla lay there listening to the cries and whimpers. Something growled and barked. The pack seemed to back away as she could hear their whining grow quieter. Slowly, Isla opened her eyes, grateful to still be alive, and looked over to see one of the coyotes torn to shreds on the ground. There was a low growl and Isla turned her head to see the other coyotes backing away, their bodies lowered and their tails between their legs. Her eyes widened as she took in the great white wolf standing before them. Blood dripped and stained its beautiful coat. The wolf growled, forcing them back. One of the coyotes lunged forward, but was quickly caught and thrown to the side. The brave creature whimpered and scurried away. Soon the rest followed, retreating back into the trees. Isla looked up as the clouds parted. The moon was bigger and brighter than ever. The wolf turned to her, its head held high. Unable to move, Isla lay watching as the majestic creature approached. The wolf lowered its head and grazed her with its muzzle. Atop his head was a glowing crescent. She’d never seen a creature as striking as he. How beautiful, she thought, as the world grew dark.

“Hey! Hey, kid! Get up!”

Isla awoke when something hard jabbed her rib. She was staring at a man carrying a large rifle and lantern.

“What’re you doing sleeping out here? You trying to get yourself killed? This is a hunt, not a slumber party.”

Confused, Isla sat up and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. She couldn’t quite understand what the overseer was saying. Was she sleeping? When did she fall asleep? What had she been doing beforehand? “I-I wasn’t sleeping. I’d gotten attacked by a pack of coyotes. I-I need medical attention.”

The man scuffed. “Medical attention? What for? There’s nothing wrong with you.”

Isla reached down to show him her wounds when she realized the pain had vanished. She touched her leg. The cut was gone. She touched her arms and torso and gasped. There wasn’t a single scratch on her. But how could that be? She’d been left immobile and broken. How were all her injuries healed so quickly?

“Don’t get cocky, kid. Just because you managed to kill something doesn’t mean you can slack off. You still have to get it back to the village. I will NOT be helping.” The man climbed back on his horse and trotted off.

Isla turned to the direction he had pointed. Laying in the grass was the dead coyote. Its neck had been snapped and there were a few puncture wounds around its torso. She remembered the white wolf and how it saved her. She was surprised it hadn’t taken its prize. Her heart leaped at the thought of the wolf leaving it as a gift. Coyote meat wasn’t exactly favored or sought out due to its close relation to dogs, but any meat could be good if prepared right. If the council rejected her offering, that would mean more for her and her father. Quickly she tied the coyote up so it’d be easier to move. It'd be dusk soon, she needed to find her way back before the last flare. A howl echoed through the trees. Isla turned as the sound vibrated through her mind. She gazed up at the moon feeling envious that it had been serenaded so passionately. In her newly found spirit, she too, joined in.

“Unbelievable…Do you really plan to sleep all day?!” Koda screamed. Brie awoke with a start. “Is this what you modern wolves do all day? Lazy about taking advantage of my lord's kind hospitality?”

“What are you on about this early, Koda?” She lifted her head, the page of her book stuck to her cheek. “If this is how you treat guests, I’m concerned for the company your lord keeps.”

“Well, that makes two of us then. My lord slaved over a hot fire to prepare your breakfast, only for you to sleep 6 hours into the afternoon. Have you no shame?”

“Wait, 6 hours?”

“Honestly, I do not understand why the lord favors you. It makes me concerned about his taste in women. I much prefer your friend. At least she knew the dishonor of overstaying one's welcome.” the small fox scuffed and turned on his heels.

Brie climbed off the bed, knocking the book over in the process. Quickly, she made the bed, pulled on a fresh gown and went to find Phyn. In the dining area, she found a breakfast spread laid out with a note for her. It read: Miss Brielle, help yourself to the feast I prepared for you. When you are ready, please meet me in the garden. I’ll be waiting. -Phyn” Her stomach growled as the sweet aromas overwhelmed her. She didn’t have time to sit and eat, so she stuffed her mouth with whatever she could carry and hurried out. Outside, the forest was a bit more lively. The animals trotted about freely while the children played carelessly. A family of squirrels raced across the branches of the tree house. In the distance, she could see Koda playing with 2 baby foxes. She navigated her way back to the garden, easier now with small rays of light coming in from the setting sun. How could she have slept this long? Was she still injured? Maybe she’d stayed up a bit too late reading. When she entered the garden patch, she found Phyn tending to his flowers. She was surprised to find Angela waiting with him.They were talking, though she couldn’t make out about what. They looked up as she approached. Angela didn’t wear the familiar scowl she seemed to reserve only for Brie.

“What’s going on here?” Brie asked.

“Ah, good evening Miss Brie.” Phyn greeted her as he pulled out a weed. “I hope you slept well.”

Brie frowned. “A bit long actually. We were supposed to leave this morning. Why didn’t you wake me?” he met her eyes and Brie had to fight herself from blushing.

“You seemed tired. You were resting so peacefully, I did not wish to disturb you.”

“How nice of you. Hope there weren’t any ulterior motives behind that.” she searched his face for any hints of distrust. His expression remained neutral as he rose to his feet.

“I would never tell you an untruth. It saddens me to know I have made you so weary of me.”

Brie felt guilty for giving him the cold shoulder, but she couldn’t forget what happened the night before. Angela looked back and forth between them. Brie crossed her arms and looked away. Two brown rabbits made their way over, each carrying a small basket. Phyn kneeled, petting their heads as he took the baskets. He held out the baskets to them.

“I’d figured you likely wouldn’t eat much from the meal I prepared, so I arranged a gift for the both of you. You will need your strength.” Angela took the basket and thanked him. Brie tried not to look at him, but couldn’t help it as their fingers brushed. The sweet smell of lavender and a hint of honey swept past her, filling her heart with warmth. “Despite our short meeting, I truly enjoyed the company. I’m sorry the feeling isn’t mutual for you.”

Brie pushed back threatening tears. Cora was whining in the back of her mind. Her voice trembled as she turned away from him. “We should get going.”

They walked for 10 minutes into the trees. Fewer animals were seen the farther from the treehouse they got. Phyn led the way as Angela and Brie walked slowly behind.

“What was all of that back there?” Angela asked. “You two had a fight or something?”

“Why do you care?” Brie asked coldly. She hadn’t forgotten the last conversation they’d had.

“Well, we’re leaving a day earlier than we initially planned. I’m curious why you changed your mind.”

“I just did, okay. You should be happy.”

“Why the attitude?”

“Why so nosy? You’ve never been all that interested in me before. Don’t go acting like we’re besties now.” They stopped and Phyn held out his hands. The air seemed to warp as ripples expanded from his touch. The colorful forest was slowly washed away. In its place,the familiar dark trees they’d always known. There was barely any light coming in, so Phyn pulled out a lantern. He gestured for them to follow. “ Let’s just focus on getting back to the pack.”

“Right..” Angela dragged mockingly. “Back to the pack, you finally woke up and decided you cared about. Let me guess, he dumped you, right?”

“The f**k are you talking about?”

Angie laughed. “I’m not stupid. I saw you two making googly eyes in the river last night. I thought it was weird that you were so insistent about staying when your parents could literally be dying or worse right now. Now I get it.”

“That is NOT what happened.” Brie argued.

“Was it good? Did you two have fun? Did he rock your world? Is that why you were knocked out for so long?” Now she was in Brie’s face.

“Don’t get bitchy with me just because you don’t have anyone. If you fixed your attitude, maybe you’d find your mate too.”

“Oh, so he’s your mate, is he? That’s just f*****g fantastic!” she clapped her hand mockingly.

Brie blushed and glanced at Phyn who was now watching them. She couldn’t tell what he was thinking. She hadn’t planned on saying anything yet, as she was unsure if their bond was real. It was embarrassing being put on the spot so boldly. Furious, she pushed Angela away. “Back off…”

“Or what?” Angela said. “You’ll beat me? Break my ribs again? Go ahead. Or will you step up and make me submit like a true pack leader?” she stepped closer. “C’mon, try it. Let’s see how much of an alpha you really are.” Brie growled, but didn’t move. Angela laughed. “Just as I thought. You’re a phony just like your rotten bloodline.”

Cora was growling in her mind. Finally, they agreed on the topic of Angela. Brie snarled and charged in, but was stopped. Phyn had appeared between them, his arm held up to keep them separate. “Move, this has nothing to do with-”

“Shh..” he hushed her. His head darted across the trees. “Do you hear that?” All three of them froze and listened. Unsure of what he was hearing, Brie looked to him to explain. He wasn’t looking at her, but at the sky instead. His brows twitched and she looked up at the moon with him. Then she heard it. Low growling coming from deep in the forest. “The wolves…they are close.”

“Do you mean the rogues?” Angela whispered.

“Yes. You must go. It isn’t safe here.”

“Wait, you’re not coming with?”

“Your home is not far from here. Head north until you hear the water. I will stay and hold them back.”

“No way, we can’t just leave you to die! I can fight too!”

“Enough with the lovey-dovey bullshit! Let’s go!”

“Bite me!” Brie snarled. “You wanna go, go! I may not be the best alpha, but at least I’m not a raging b***h who abandons and shits on the people who help her.”

“Yeah, I may be a b***h, but at least I’m not a self-centered, lazy cunt who prioritizes d**k over her family!”

“Ladies!”Phyn called. “Now is not the time!” At that second, a black wolf emerged from the forest. It licked and snapped its teeth as its eyes locked on them.

“Screw this!” Angela leaped, her clothes ripped apart as her wolf took over. Without looking back, she ran off.

“Angie, you-”

“Go with her.” Phyn ordered. Brie growled and transformed, planting her feet beside him.

“I’m staying!” The wolf pounced on them and, without hesitation, she threw herself at it. She sank her teeth into its neck, tasting the blood as she tore into its flesh. The wolf cried out in pain as she used all her strength to throw it backward. She’d tried to break its neck, but it was far too big and heavy. She lowered her body, ready to pounce again, when Phyn grabbed hold of her face. A rush of lavender engulfed her. He forced her to look into his eyes.

“My dear, I couldn’t bear to see you hurt. I’ve gazed upon your soul and it is pure and beautiful.” he touched his head to hers. His eyes glowed. “If fate allows it, we shall meet again. Until then, you must return to where you belong. Now go.” Brie whined as her feet seemed to move on their own. She didn’t want to leave him, so why was she turning away? She tried to fight it, but her body wouldn’t listen. She ran away as more rogues came out of the trees. Sadness too powerful to bear washed over her. For a second, she managed to look back as Phyn removed his gown and shifted. Moonlight reflected off his white coat. The wolves pounced on him as he opened his mouth and let out a howl.