Going Under: Chapter 8

Those in the Shadows

Skia's eyes opened up as he inhaled sharply. His body felt incredibly numb. It was welcoming in a sort of bitter way. But by all means, it was better than the fire that burned him in the White World.
          He quickly looked around and found that sky had an orange hue. The sun had nearly fallen while he was in the White World. Taking in his surroundings, he found that they were still at the rocky outcrop. He was facing a wall and was covered by a shadow from the stone walls that surrounded him.
          "Skia!" came Kardia's voice from behind, "You're up!"
          Skia slowly stood up and with a yelp, he fell to the floor. Then to his own amazement, he found himself laughing.
          "Awake, yes." he said in between a groan. "Up, I can't say that's true."
          "Skia," she said reaching him, "are you all right? Right after the wolves left, you just collapsed! Are you hurting anywhere?"
          "I just lost my clarity," he said with a tone of certainty,  "that's all."
          "You just," started Kardia slowly, "lost your clarity?"
          "Yes," he said as he attempting to stand again. "I couldn't keep my focus. That's all."
          To say the least, Kardia was confused, but she nodded her head in reassurance.
          "Well, if that's what you say," she said slowly. She found it extremely odd on how calm Skia was. It was nice to see, but still odd.  "I suppose I'll have to take your word for it." she said studying his body. Healers had the ability to notice injuries more easily than other wolves
          "Now if I could only –" he then fell again. "...stand."
          Kardia rushed to Skia's side.
          "I can try pushing you up?"
          "It's worth a try."
          Again, Skia tried standing to his feet. As he did so, Kardia pushed him up slowly with her head on his side. At her touch, Skia could feel his strength being renewed.
          "All I needed was the touch from a Healer," he said happily. "Thank you
          "And I'm," she said straining, "glad to help."
          Skia smiled lightly and before he knew it, he found himself standing again.
          "All right, this should work." He took a few steps to test his stability. "I'm afraid to ask: How long has the sun been going down?"
          "Not too long!" she said responding quickly. "It' started recently, we still have some time before the moon rises – not much though."
          Skia's stomach growled.
          "Well, aside from my hunger, I'm good to go."
          "That makes two of us," she said with a nod.
          With Skia leading the way, both wolves took the left trail and continued on.

As they walked along the rocky trail, Skia was led only by the faint scents of the two wolves that were there that morning. Not only that, it was a straight trail that led up, then down, then up, then down once more. It was rocky, and the only signs of life were the birds that occasionally flew up over head. It was bothering to Kardia to be walking in such  place. With the stone walls still there from earlier, her only comfort was the little bit of sky she could see . It was frightening for her to be surrounded by nothing but rocks. Skia on the other hand, was to occupied with his thoughts.
          N'Jar? thought Skia. It's a name I have not heard...maybe an enemy of Skotos?  voice soon broke his concentration.
          "Skia!" Kardia said irritated. "Why aren't you responding? What is troubling you?"
          "I'm sorry," he said coming to a stop, "I've just been thinking. That's all."
          "Thinking of...?"
          "Those two wolves from this morning." Skia looked up to the sky and sighed as he realized the sun would soon be setting. "We should hurry to cover more ground before nightfall."
          "Skia."
          "Yes," he said with a slow turn of his head. He stared into her amber eyes. "What is it?"
          "Skia," she said walking next to him. Skia's eyes followed her graceful body movements. "May I walk by your side?"
          "Only if you can keep up." Skia dashed off ahead.
          "Well wait!" she said running after him. "Why do you get to run first?"
          Skia had no idea what overtook him. He was puzzled by his current circumstances: He was deeply puzzled by what Tomai had shown, the two wolves from before, this mystery wolf named N'Jar and now, his sudden silliness to challenge Kardia to race.
          Panting hard, Skia ran on and on. Thinking he had the lead, he grinned. However, before he knew it, Kardia was by his side with. She could have easily passed him, and Skia could have done the same, but if anyone saw them, it would have been obvious that they were just running together now.
          In perfect harmony, both wolves ran side by side. As the trail would dip, both wolves knew when to lower their speed and how to let their paws hit the earth with each step. And then as the trail would rise, both wolves knew to raise their speed just enough to make it uphill. It was flawless.

Both wolves had run a good distance. As the moon had began to rise, Skia and Kardia had brought their to run a walk again. Although in many ways running was fun and stress-relieving, both wolves found themselves more hungry then before. As they walked down a rocky trail once more, Skia turned to Kardia.
          "I wonder what's on the other side of this mountain."
          "Who knows," she said with a yawn. "I wonder if we are even almost through."
          "Hopefully we'll find out soon." He followed the trail as it turned left.
          "If I have to walk up another trai –" she fell silent.
          Their question was answered quickly. As soon as Skia turned left, the trail went straight down back into a field. Whether it was the field from before, he wasn't too sure. Regardless, a bit of greenery was relieving.
          "Shall we go?" asked Skia politely.
          "Don't have to ask me twice. Let's just go." Without waiting for a response, she led the way. Skia grinned: It was obvious she just wanted to rest. Skia followed closely behind.
          With Kardia leading, it became brisk, and Skia happily followed her. She then froze. Skia himself then stopped. He slowly walked by her side.
          "Kardia?" asked Skia with concern. "Is there something wrong?"
          "How certain are we that the wolves following knew where they were going?"
          Skia hadn't thought about it.
          "Let's hope," said Skia slowly, "that those two wolves are our on side." He affectionately rubbed his head against hers. "We can worry about it after we rest. How does that sound?"
          "Resting," she said with a yawn,  "sounds good."
          Skia took the lead and they both walked down rocky trail with odd relief. Neither of them were to sure of how far they had gone, but it was without question that they both needed to rest.
          As they took the final steps out of the rocky trail, both wolves found themselves walking a bit more lightly on the soft ground. With every step they took in the grass, the grass grew more wild and rampant. It got higher and higher and deeper in, it became mixed with wild plants of various of colours. All of it could provide good cover for resting, but Skia wanted to find something a bit more different. Maybe a tree? Without speaking, he turned left and led Kardia blindly. He had no idea where he was going, and he hoped Kardia wouldn't notice. He figured she was probably more tired than he was, and the thought of her being so tired irritated Skia. I'm a Defender!, he thought proudly, I have to find good cover for us!
          He wandered around with Kardia a bit more – Skia was becoming restless. Why couldn't he find a suitable place to rest? He stopped and scratched at the floor just to release frustration.
          "Skia," Kardia said reassuringly, "keep on going. I'm sure we'll find something." She had caught on. Skia moaned.
          "I'm sorry," he said looking straight ahead. He looked to the left and studied the mountain they had just come from. He turned away with an odd disgust building up in him. He then looked to the right and realized it would be best to find a spot to rest very soon. Skia didn't want to travel deep, especially at night. He still had no idea where they were at. "Maybe," he said slowly, "maybe we should try resting deeper in...just not to deep."
          "That sounds good to me."
          With a nod of his head, he turned right and led Kardia deeper in the grass. Every step he took brought them deeper and deeper into the unknown. It frightened him, and he tried to not let it show. Then all of sudden, he remembered Tomai. He shook his head as he thought of the Phoenix but understood that right now, clarity was one of the only things that would prevent him from making a terrible mistake.
          The more Skia thought about what "true" clarity was, the more it confused him. How could one truly experience "true clarity"? True clarity, thought Skia having fear, apprehension or excitement seems so natural. Really, he thought bitterly, what's my first reaction when going somewhere new? Come on, Skia!
          With his eyes he spotted some more weeds and grass that had had grown tall. Intertwined with the grass and weeds were some wild plant that grew strong and sturdy. The limbs of the plants grew out out like many legs – it could provide some excellent coverage. He walked forward and flattened grass and weeds with his body by rolling on the ground. He figured by doing so, he could also test the ground for anything sharp or painful. He was fine. More so, he was pleased with his work. He  moved aside and presented it to Kardia.
          "Were you the one who was tired?" he asked hoping to have her smile.
          "I don't know," she said playfully pushing him aside, "I might have been." She walked gently to the spot that Skia had prepared and slowly laid down on her right side. She rested her on her paws and stared at Skia with tired eyes.
          "Tomorrow we can resume," he said softly. He softly padded forward and laid opposite of her so that his head met her's. He stared into the amber eyes that he admired and felt warmth at being close to her. "Sleep well, Kardia."
          "You too, Skia." she said with a slow blink. Even though she was tired, she had concern for Skia...and being a Healer only magnified all of the feelings she was having. Regardless, she intensely looked into Skia's green eyes and she herself began to enjoy the glow they seemed to give off in the dark.
          They stared into each others eyes for what seemed like minutes. Then without warning, both wolves soon fell asleep.

The next morning, Skia woke with a jolt. His ears twitched as he heard a voice from afar. It was unfamiliar. Through his sleepiness, he focused as hard he could and soon realized that he could hear a multitude of voices – at least four or maybe more. With a shake of his head, the voices stopped. He studied his surroundings with light the sun provided. It was nearly the afternoon and Skia felt bad for sleeping so long. With unease, he looked at Kardia and felt calmed at her steady breathing. Her rhythmic breathing  felt like a cure for his concern. It wasn't to last though: Kardia slowly stirred. With a yawn she looked at Skia confused.
          "Is something wrong, Skia?" she asked with daze.
          "Voices woke me up...I'm not hearing them now though." Skia walked away slowly. "We should start traveling soon."
          Kardia wobbled to her legs and stretched lazily.
          "Voices?" questioned Kardia concerned. "You couldn't make out anything?"
          "No, nothing." Skia noticed the disregard Kardia gave about traveling again.
          "Maybe you should sleep more," came her innocent voice
          "Maybe," he said with thoughtfulness. Then he flipped around to face her. "Wait? What are you saying? Why should I sleep more?"
          "All I'm saying," she said dropping her tone of innocence, "is that you're tired. You need rest!"
          "I don't believe this." He then gave his back to Kardia. "Are you saying that I am going mad?"
          "What I'm saying is that you are tired and weary from the past few days. Much has happened."
          Skia turned his head and stared at her indifferently. He felt hurt. In the four years that he had known her, which was his entire life, he had never seen Kardia like this. Then as he thought about it, he realized that the only reason that Kardia was the way she was, was because of what he was going through. The White World, thought Skia bitterly. It's because of those Phoenixes that I question myself! It's that horrible bird – Tomai! Him and his...clarity. Skia all of sudden felt like he had failed a test. Even though he couldn't see Tomai, he could feel Tomai laughing at him.
          He looked at Kardia mournfully. He could tell Kardia of the White World. But remembering what Elpis said about it being Sacred Ground worried him. Seeing no other choice, he sighed.
          "Kardia, there is something I must tell you."
          "What?" she instantly grew concern.
          "Lately, I have been havi-"
          An odd silence followed. After an awkward minute, Kardia spoke up.
          "Skia," she said with hesitance, "you've been having what?"
          "I hear them again," he said with a sudden tone of seriousness. "They are not far from here."
          "I'm willing to believe you," she said with a hint of sadness. "But you will finish telling me." With that, she slowly nodded her head. Skia in turn, nodded his and took lead.
          Much of what Skia saw was the same from the night before. Grass, weeds and various plants. A good distance away still stood the mountain. Skia studied the mountain carefully and turned right.
          With silence, Skia listened to the voices. They were hushed, like whispers. He couldn't make out a single word, or even how many there were. One thing he was certain of though, was that the voices seemed to be coming from the right. He followed the vocal trail and soon realized that the reasons the voice were so quite was because the voices were obstructed by something. Maybe they were behind something. That had to be it. However, if they were behind something, what was it?
          Come on, Skia, he told himself, where are the voices?
          It was plain to see. All around him and Kardia was tall, green grass or overgrowing weeds that nearly went over their heads; in some spots, it was a mix of both. Even more confusing was the growing feeling that they were going nowhere. As Skia followed the vocal trail, him and Kardia soon walked out of the grass and into large patches of wild plants. It was as if they had walked through an invisible wall. All of sudden, the grass was just high enough to go over their paws. And in front of them was a large ridge. Even better, the voices were more clear. They had to be over the ridge. He could make out some small words.
          "There," Skia said pointing with his muzzle, "they must be over that ridge."
          "I can barely hear them," Kardia said with a twitch of her ears. "You think Ana is with them.?"
          "Let's hope Ana," started Skia grimly, "and his friends won't notice us. It'll be more than we can handle." With that, Skia led Kardia up the ridge. With each step they took up the ridge, the voices slowly grew more clear that even Kardia could now hear them. Without paying to much attention, Skia could slowly put together that the voices seemed to be going over lessons. As he and Kardia walked up the ridge, they listened in:
          "Marsa," commanded a rough female voice, "tell us the abilities that match with fire."
          "Yes!" responded a soft female voice. "Wind and Speed match well, Master Jeana."
          "Well said, Marsa – but" said Jeana abruptly, "what makes these elements match well? Klai – answer!"
          "Y-y-y-y-y-Yes, Master Jeana!" said a tender male voice that seemed caught off guard. He continued, "as a Fire starts the flame, a Wind can put his abilities to use by stirring up the wind. Doing so can start spread the fire more easily. As for the speed –"
          "Enough!" shouted Jeana. "Ana! What could a Speed do to aid a Fire? Answer – now!"
          Found you! thought Skia happily. He he had stopped walking when they both had been about two wolf lengths from going over the ridge. "We'll stay here," he whispered quickly and quietly to Kardia. Kardia answered with a nod. They both continued to listen.
          "Well," started Ana's voice slowly, "while a Wind may be able to call upon the wind at will to help spread a fire, a Speed is able to build wind by just his speed alone." He paused as if trying to piece something together. "It may take more time," he slowly added, "but having a Speed run a fire, especially in area obstructed by large objects, may prove more effective."
          "Correct," said Jeana proudly, "you have answered well, D'Tojv Pipf," she added in High Plain.
          D'Tojv Pipf?questioned Skia. He thought for a few moments. Kardia must have noticed it. She leaned over to him.
          "It means bright mind," she said quickly whispering. Skia nodded his head and they both continued to listen.
          "Ana is quite right," said Jeana continuing, "however, what other two elements can help a fire?  D'Tojv Pipf Ana?"
          "I, um. A Spirit?"
          "Yes, yes. Spirit wolves are quite good. Tell me," added Jeana eagerly, "what do the wolves from the Higher Plains call Spirit Wolves?"
          "I believe," said Ana slowly, "I believe they are also called...Aura Wolves?"
          "Correct, D'Tojv Pipf!" she shouted with growing excitement. "Tell me, Ana. What could a Spirit Wolf do for a Fire?"
          "Spirit Wolves have the ability to amplify another wolf's power. Not only do they have the ability to amplify, they also have the ability to suppress. So if a," he then paused again...he continued, "if a Water is trying to douse a Fire, the Spirit has the ability to suppress the Water while the Fire works. Then," added Ana eagerly, "if a Spirit Wolf is well trained, he might eve be able to suppress and amplify at the same time."
          "B'Tonnoepv Pipf, Ana! Well said!" shouted Jeana celebratory. This was a word Skia knew. B'Tonnoepv meant brilliant. She continued, "most brilliant, Ana!" At this point, Skia could hear some wolves moaning and groaning in discontent. With a growl, she silence their mumblings. After they fell quite, she continued. "All right, Ana. There is one more ability that can be put to use – name it!"
          "There is one more ability?" he asked with utter confusion.
          "Yes. Do you find yourself unable to answer it?"
          Ana was completely silent. He then sighed loudly.
          "I'm," his voice began to shake, "afraid so..."
          "Huan!" she shouted with a snarl. She continued bitterly, "Bua fanp-yov'wif, Yunh! Ov'u pu yup'fit buat vov'vit ov fief!"
          There came no response from anybody. Even worse was that neither Kardia or Skia could translate anything that was said. They could only hear the anger in her voice. And just when it seemed like nothing else was going to happen, a slight whimper was heard.
          "Maste–" Ana paused, "Pev'vit Jeana, o ep vutt'b vu jexi heonif bua biv ejeop..." he ended with a bitter tone.
          "You have every right to be sorry! Stupid, honv'j!"
          It fell quiet again. Skia looked to Kardia and she looked dazed and confused.
          "Kardia," he whispered, "maybe a closer look will be better?"
          "When they start talking again," she said with a nod, "we will go the–"
          "Reeah," interrupted Jeana, "finish Ana's answer – now!" Skia and Kardia took the chance and quickly walked over the ledge. Quickly taking in the view, Skia realized they were lucky and fortunate to be in the spot they were in. Just to their left were some bushes they could hide behind. As for where the wolves were, his question was easily answered.
          Looking down from where they stood, it was a downhill trek to an old, large tree. Just by looking  at it, Skia could see that it was obviously an old tree.  The crown of the tree provided more than enough shade to cover a pack of at least 15 wolves. The tree's branches stretched out like limbs all over, as if they were grabbing for something. And in the ground, the tree's root popped in and out of the ground. Then in front of the tree sat 5 wolves in a semi-circle. Skia noticed the black-coloured wolf standing near the tree
          Skia and Kardia quickly took cover behind some bushes and they continued to listen. This wolf named Reeah seemed to be having trouble answering.
          "One other?" questioned Reeah, "I can't think of any others, Master Jeana." Skia looked at the orange coloured wolf. Skia could see her bracing herself for the Ana had taken.
          "It's all right, Reeah," replied the wolf near the tree, Jeana.  Looking at her, Skia saw Jeana had a black body with some brown colouration on her head and tail. "Just be sure it doesn't happen again," she added sweetly.
          "Y-y-yes Master," responded Reeah with complete surprise.
          Skia quickly glance at Ana. He had the same face of confusion. But it was mixed heavily with the look of complete and utter sadness.
          "Does anyone else wish to answer?"
          No wolves replied. But then a red-bodied wolf stepped forward. Aside from his body, Skia could see that his red colour was mixed with shades of orange around his legs, paws and tail.
          "Master Jeana, since it seems that these wolves have not studied, may I answer?" asked the young wolf proudly and coldly.
          "You have my permission, Linta," responded Jeana with a tone of happiness She seemed to like this one.
          "The last and final element is the Defenders, Master. Defenders have the ability to lightly change the wind so that they can hide scents if needed. So if need be, a Defender can essentially do the same thing with a Fire. While starting the fire, the Defender can just stir up the wind as he would usually do. It won't be enough, or even much, but a small advantage in any battle can and will turn the tide," he ended with a smile. He then slowly turned his head to Ana and smiled coldly. Jeana approached Linta and nodded her head in approval.
          "Well said, Linta. You will develop well. I'm sure that Skotos himself will want to see you one day. You make all of us proud, R'tifiuat." Skia and Kardia looked at each other. They didn't understand the word. Linta seemed to be glowing with happiness though. It must have been something good. Jeana nodded her head again and made her way back to the tree.
          "All right, young ones, it's time for that special lesson I told you all about." All of the wolves seemed stir except Ana. Ana looked up sadly and nodded his head. Jeana noticed, but still, she continued, "I will like to introduce to introduce Ra'Sha." There was nothing.
          Skia and Kardia looked at each other confused. Then with a jolt from both of them, they heard a  voice from behind.
          "Keep watching," said the soft voice. It sounded familiar. "It'll make sense in a bit – don't worry about it."
          They couldn't argue, so Skia and Kardia turned there attention back to the tree. A lightly blue coloured wolf was midway through speaking.
          " - to be honest, Master, I am confused. What are we doing?"
          "Be still Klai," Jeana said with a smile, "must you always jump ahead of yourself?" Jeana turned her back to the wolves and then turned to the tree. "All right, Ra'Sha. No more games."
          "If you insist," came a voice from the tree. Excluding Jeana,  all of the wolves  jumped back. The tree was talking!
          "M-m--Master Jeana!" stammered a wolf who was the same colour of Klai, "the tree is speaking!"
          "Marsa!" shouted Jeana with a snarl, "don't speak in such a way! You stand before the Aura Wolf Ra'Sha!" Just then, a white-coloured wolf slowly began to appear in front of the tree. He was sitting on his haunches and looked mighty and proud. Along his back and the top of his were three black streaks that went down his back and then connected at his tail. Jeana smiled sweetly and then sat by his side.
          "As I said before," Jeana said slowly, "I introduce you to Ra'Sha the Aura Wolf."
          Excluding Jeana, the five other wolves stood astounded and speechless. Even Skia and Kardia were speechless. It was unheard of for an Aura Wolf to do something like this. An Aura Wolf's ability was used for suppressing and amplifying one's ability. This Aura Wolf used the ability of Defender. Cloaking. Not only that, he had also managed to mask his scent.
          "Be still," said the voice from behind. "Calm down and pay attention."
          Skia looked behind himself and saw nothing. He began to shudder at the though of what could be behind him. He then turned his attention back to the tree:
          " - no need to be angry, Jeana. I made quite an entrance." finished Ra'Sha as he stood to all four legs. His body and pelt seemed flawless. It made Skia feel slightly envious. "These For'forniv have much to learn."
          "Disciples," translated the voice hiding behind Skia and Kardia.
          Ra'Sha walked to Marsa and studied her for a bit. Marsa quickly lowered her head as if she was ashamed. Ra'Sha laughed lightly and then went to Klai. Klai instantly lowered his head, and he shook with fear. Ra'Sha smiled grimly and then lifted Klai's head with his muzzle. At his touch, Klai stopped shaking and then found himself staring into the eyes of Ra'Sha. Ra'Sha stared back and both wolves made no attempt to avert their gaze.
          All was silent. The only sound was the wind blowing through the tree above. Klai breathed slowly while Ra'Sha breathed regularly. It was odd – nothing was happening. Then all of sudden, Klai fell to the ground with a yelp. His head shook as if someone was shaking it, and his legs twitched as if he were getting ready to run. Ra'Sha turned his head to Marsa and smiled.
          "Your brother is quite the Healer...it's a shame he can't heal himself, though."
          Marsa stared at her brother as he twitched and shook on the floor.
          "My brother does what he can, Master," she said weakly, not even looking at Ra'Sha.
          Skia and Kardia watched helplessly. There was nothing they could do. It was extremely risky to jump in and put their lives in danger to save a wolf they didn't know. It pained both of them greatly to see the wolf shaking on the floor. With sadness, they continued watching. Ra'Sha had approached Marsa.
          "Will you just stand there do nothing?" questioned Ra'Sha curiously. "Both you and your brother are Healers, but here you stand. Doing nothing."
          "My brother," she said with defeat, "is beyond my help...I can see it just by looking at him."
          "Ah!"shouted Ra'Sha happily. "You are quite wise!You're right: He is beyond you –" a male voice interrupted him.
          "But," Ana said speaking up loudly, "you can undo what you just did, right?"
          Ra'Sha backed  off from Marsa. He slowly turned his attention to Ana and stared at him keenly.
          "I certainly can, D'texi Ana," Ra'Sha said uneasily, "but, before doing so, we must find out what I did to poor Klai." He stopped and looked at the other wolves. "Let's start with you, Linta. Any guess to what's happening here?" he asked motioning to Klai who was still twitching and convulsing on the floor.
          "I will certainly try, Mas –"
          "There will be no try!" interrupted Ra'Sha with a snarl. "I want you to tell me what is wrong! No guessing!"
          "Well, uh..." Linta paused.
          "Clearly," Ra'Sha said with a growl, "you are not as intelligent and wise as you thought."
          "You didn't give me time to think!" argued Linta.
          "I didn't give you time? Time?!" his voice then rose to a terrifying yell, "you have had all the time you needed! He's been on the floor long enough for you to study what was wrong with him! You, Linta, disgust me!"
          Linta stepped back. He didn't want to continue this argument: clearly, he lost.
          "Reeah – an answer from you?" queried Ra'Sha
          "I have none, Master," she said quickly responding.
          "You are wise to admit so, Elemental," responded Ra'Sha with a nod of his head. He turned his attention back to Ana. "All right, Ana. What is wrong with your friend Klai?"
          "It's nothing...physical," started Ana slowly, "it looks something like mental pain."
          "Oh really?"
          "Yes, Master." Ana then stood and walked over to Klai. He studied his body. "Ho – how did you do it? I didn't know Aura Wolves could do something like this."
          "D'texi Ana, you are wise to ask." Ra'Sha then lowered his muzzle and lightly nudged Klai's back. With a sudden inhale, Klai woke up with a gasp. He looked around confused, but as he saw Ra'Sha standing over him, he yelped out of fear and jumped to his feet. He rushed to his sister's side.
          "W-w-w-w-what," stammered Klai, "did you do to me?"
          Ra'Sha smiled with some hidden pleasure.
          "You will soon find out, Klai. All of you will find out. When is soon you might be thinking – soon is now. Get comfortable, For'forniv."
          "Eata Ra'Sha," Jeana said from behind, "they are all yours. I must prepare for the meeting tonight. I will see you there, yes?"
          "I will be there, Jeana," he said with a nod. "Now leave. Your work is done."
          "As always, Eata Ra'Sha, it's a pleasure to see you," she added sarcastically.
          "Yes, yes. Now go!"
          Without another response, Jeana left. Ra'Sha turned his attention back to the other five wolves. All of remained standing. Even though it wasn't said, it was quite obvious were tense. It was irritating for Ra'Sha to see.
          "Well? What are you all standing for? There's nothing to be afraid of. Please, take a moment to sit before we head out." With Jeana gone, he took on a new attitude.
          All of the wolves gazed at each other uneasily and they all did as he said. The feelings of nervousness were strong, even Skia and Kardia were feeling it. Silently, Skia and Kardia exchanged glances, they both had taken notice of Ra'Sha's differences. It was strange. They continued to listen.
          "This," started Ra'Sha as he stared at the tree, "is a tree, correct?"
          "Yes," responded the wolves in unison, "Eata Ra'Sha."
          "Klai," Ra'Sha said turning his head around mournfully, "would you say that you're alive?"
          "...yes?" he felt confused. What is this? Some sort of trick question?
           "Ana," Ra'Sha said moving closer to him, "I am called both a Spirit and an Aura Wolf, correct?"
          "Yes, Eata Ra'Sha." He picked up his head held gaze with Ra'Sha's mournful eyes.
          "Reeah and Marsa," Ra'Sha said breaking his gaze with Ana. He stared at the the wolves and continued, "Wouldn't you both agree that the plants of the field are in fact, wonderful things?"
          "Yes," Marsa said with a nod of her head.
          "They are wonderful things," added Reeah.
          "Linta," Ra'Sha said with a tone of bitterness, "the feelings that drive you are quite...powerful, right?"
          "If you are talking about them driving me mad, then yes." Linta shook his head. "It's hard sometimes." Ra'Sha smiled slightly.
          "Mad?" he asked humorously.
          Linta gave him a dirty look. There was much he wanted to say, but now wasn't the time.
          "Ana," Ra'Sha said turning to face him again, "is there a connection to everything I have said.?"
          "Yes. I belie –"
          "Enough," interrupted Ra'Sha politely, "Reeah, finish what Ana started."
          "Well, you asked all of us something...different." She paused and she felt slightly confused.
          "Take your time and think. You may not always the liberty to do so, so I'll give it to you when I can." At this statement, Linta felt extremely angry. Why wasn't he given time?
          "Thank you, Eata," she said feeling truly grateful. She took some time to think. She lifted her head and looked at the tree. Once she had studied the tree for at least a minute she nodded her head and then looked at Klai and Marsa. She nodded her head as if she was putting something together; she was. She looked at the grass beneath her and pawed weakly at the ground. She then looked at Linta, and then quickly averted her gaze when seeing the anger in his eyes. Last but not least, she then looked Ana and then to Ra'Sha. With a perk of her head. She sighed and nodded her head.
          "Well?" questioned Ra'Sha curiously. "Clearly, you got something."
          "I believe the connection is that we are all living and breathing...am I right?"
          "Ana," started Ra'Sha slowly, "was this what you were going to say?"
          "Yes, Eata Ra'Sha."
          "Then I give you both my congratulations for getting it right." For once, he seemed happy. However, it soon left. "But it's too early to celebrate. "Linta. What's the difference between an Aura and a Spirit Wolf?"
          "There is...none?" Linta seemed uncertain. He then shook his head and continued, "there is no difference. There are just two names for one thing."
          "Right again. You see, wolves from the High Plains call their Spirit Wolves something different. They call them Aura Wolves. Most believe there's some special reason behind it, but there is none really. Well, at least not that I know of. We High Plains don't know much about ourselves when it comes right down to it," he began to laugh lightly to himself. Klai then moved himself closer to his sister.
          "Eata Ra'Sha," Klai said trembling, "is there an actual difference between an Aura and a Spirit?"
          "Do you always hide by the side of your sister when you are afraid?" queried Ra'Sha.
          Klai stared at him confused.
          "Well?" asked Ra'Sha once more.
          "I do it...quite often." Klai lowered his head sadly.
          "I see" Ra'Sha nodded thoughtfully. "You are a most interesting Healer."
          "Wait a second," Klai said picking up his head, "how did you know what my sister and I were from the beginning?"
          Ra'Sha smiled. The question had pleased him.
          "You've jumped right into what I was going to discuss with you all today." Ra'Sha turned and faced the tree once more. "Reeah," he said turning his to her, "come join me."
          Reeah slowly stepped forward and stopped when she was about two wolf-lengths away.
          "Have no fear, Reeah. Come closer and stand by me."
          "Yes, Eata Ra'Sha." she said stepping forward reluctantly.
          "All right, Reeah, what can you tell me about this tree?"
          "Well," she said starting slowly, "it's old. And it's...uhm."
          "Is that all?"
          "I'm sorry Eata Ra'Sha." Reeah lowered her head.
          Ra'Sha sighed sadly.
          "Reeah, Reeah," Ra'Sha said with a shake of his head, "as a Elemental, you must train yourself to feel and know all that goes in and around the elements of the world. In order for this tree to survive, this tree needed help from nearly all of the elements that spread about our land. It also needed the help of something greater. Anybody want to take a guess of what that something greater is?"
          Instantly, all of the wolves looked at each other. Each one wanted to answer, but they all felt as though they could be wrong. An odd silence followed. Marsa stepped forward two paw-steps.
          "Is the 'greater something' Aura?" she asked sheepishly.
          "Yes," Ra'Sha said with his head held high. "There is an Aura inside all of us. It is where we draw our powers from. It is the silent force that keeps all of us breathing. No matter how much I try to explain it, none of you can or will truly ever understand the importance of the Aura, or Spirit, inside each and everyone you."
          "So," began Klai, "what I'm thinking is that your so strong with the Aura within yourself, you were able to...mess with my Aura?"
          "You learn fast, Klai." responded Ra'Sha with a smile. "Yes, that's just how it works. Only the most advanced Aura Wolves can do it. And as of now, I've counted myself and no others. And hopefully," he said with his face growing grim, "it'll stay that way."
          All of the wolves took note of his changed expressions and they asked no questions of it.
          "What else can you do?" asked Linta curiosuly.
          "There is much," Ra'Sha said dropping his grim expressions. "I can see what's going to happen in the coming hours – but that is a dangerous and cloudy thing to do."
          "R-r-r-r-r-really?" stammered Klai. "What am I going to be doing later tonight?"
          "Well...let's see." Ra'Sha studied Klai for a few seconds and said nothing. With a breeze of the wind, Ra'Sha shook his head. "It appears that you and your sister are going to be part of the Meeting tonight. Even," he turned to Reeah and Linta, "you two."
          "What of me?" asked Ana.
          "I'm sorry, Ana. You have watch tonight."
          "Oh that's just great..." responded Ana with a sigh.
          "It's only fair that the duties of watch are shared among the disciples. It just happens to fall on you tonight." added Ra'Sha reassuringly.
          As Ana lowered his head and began to mumble bitterly, Skia turned to Kardia.
          "Maybe we can grab him while he's on wat–"
          "I," interrupted the mystery voice from behind, "would not dare trying so."
          "Well," responded Kardia annoyed, "what would you have us do, ghost?"
          "Keep on listening." The voice fell silent again.
          Skia and Kardia looked at each other comfortingly and they continued their listening.
          "-that what your saying?" finished Linta.
          "Yes," confirmed Ra'Sha with a nod of his head. "Come For'forniv. There is much to be talked about."
          Ra'Sha motioned the wolves. It confused Skia at first, but it soon became clear what it was. It must have been some sign to get into a line, because all of the wolves formed a single-file line. The line was quickly formed, and Ra'Sha then studied the line as if looking for a flaw.
          Once he had finished looking over the line, he nodded as if pleased. He then nodded his head and the wolves began to walk away east until they slowly disappeared as they went down a hill. Ra'Sha himself began walking after them, but then froze. He looked at the tree and Skia noticed that his expression grew sad. He then trotted off to join the other wolves. They were gone.
          Skia and Kardia stoop up and considered all they heard.
          "Tonight," began Skia, "we have to him tonight."
          "Wait!" shouted the mysterious voice. "You must meet with Poj'Kwa Upi first!"
          Kardia growled lightly. She slowly stepped forward looking for him. Skia quickly blocked her.
          "Hold on Kardia," he said feeling unsure of what to do. "Who is this wolf – or whatever you speak of?"
          "Oh, he's wol–."
          "Better yet!" interrupted Kardia. "Who are you?
          "Well," started the voice slowly, "I'm wolf too."
          Just then, they could see a figure slowly starting to appear in front of their eyes. Then with a gust of wind, the wolf appeared. He had a tan body with a white underbelly and light brushes of green on his side. Going down his legs, the tan fur continued until the tip of his paws. Tips of white, like snow.
          "I'm also sure," said the tanned-wolf happily, "you two might want to see your friends Korax and Yaly, too."
          "Wha-a-a-a-at?" stammered Skia. "How do you know them?" Maybe the message got out. Is he friend or foe?
          "As a matter of fact," he said cooly, "I know a lot about you, Skia. Even you Kardia."
          Skia and Kardia froze.