[Kyp]

Adel started to toss and turn in her sleep.
<dream>
Adel awoke to darkness and very much alone.
Adel shivered but made herself walk forwards.
Hello!" Adel shouted.
No answer came,Adel shivered and kept walking then all of a sudden she her a horrible growling before something jumped out at her.
<End of dream>
Adel flew up into a sitting position on the bed heavily panting after a great deal of effort she calmed her breathing down and slowly got out of bed and walked to the window.
It was around noon she guessed from the looks of outside the window Adel ^sighed^ and slowly and quietly walked to the door resting her ear against it but didn't hear a sound .
Adel quietly opened the door and made her way to the kitchen to look for something to eat.
As she went through the dinning room she saw the leftovers and there dishes. Adel rolled her eyes and started to clean up the mess, Once she was finished she took some leftovers and placed it on her plate then started to eat with her back to the kitchen door. As Adel ate she thought back to the dream she had.
*Where in the world did that dream come from?*Adel asked her self.
Adel finished her food and rinced off her plate and fork then went back to the room.
Once the door shut she went over and opened the window.
The air was crisp and cool but she didn't care she just breathed in the air and sat on the window ledge.
Her thoughts seemed to rift away and she felt her mind and body relaxed.
It was very peacful as she closed her eyes a small smile displayed on her face.
She thought she heard a noise but ignored it thinking it was probably just the wind.

"That went unusually well." Michael said with a smile as he carried several fox pelts on his back.
Michale carried the heavier load of pelts and meat as he grinned back at his brother. "We best tan the hides and cure the meat quickly! I sense spring is coming... well look there! Sleeping beauty has awoken!" He stated, pointing toward the house.
Michael looked and saw Adel in the window and then glanced at Michale. "You really have it bad don't you?"
Michale sighed and grinned. "Yeah... I think she likes me too."
Michael glanced back at the house and then kicked some snow at his brother. "Come on, we have a lot of work to do!"

Adel ^sighed^ softly then opened her eyes as she heard the door open.
Adel panicked for a moment then pushed it away she was going to forget the incident for now, but was going to stay more aware then before.
With her decision made she got up and closed the window and walked out her door and closed it gently behind her.

The boys had their pelts hung up on hooks in the nearby garage and were skinning the animals, seperating the meat from the hides.
Michael worked on tanning the pelts while Michale removed the innards and bones and packed the meat in salt and ice. Both were unaware of her as she came in.

Adel saw them working she was going to to leave them alone but got an idea.
"Good afternoon gentleman!" she said from out of nowhere "It looks like your hunting went well?" as she leaned against the door.

"Better than usual!" Michael said with a smile. "And how are you doi-"
"Yep!" Michale said with a grin. "All the rabbits and foxes are starting to come out for the spring! Which should be here in a few days. But it will take a lot longer for the passes to clear."

Adel raised and eyebrow.
" Well I'm going for a walk I shall be back in an hour or two to start dinner."
Adel turned then left.

Michale grinned at Michael. "See? She likes me!"
"How in the world did you get that she likes you from that?" Michael asked, astonished.
"She looked at me!" Michale replied.
Once again, Michale slapped his own forehead.

Adel noticed the sky getting dark.
So she quickly started back to the cabin so she could get there dinner started.
Adel slowed her pace once the cabin was in view.
Adel gentle opened the door no one was there so she made her way to the kitchen.
If they didn't come in by the time she finished dinner she would go find them.

Michale washed his hands and left Michael to finish tanning the hides as he walked into the cabin. Seeing her hard at work in the kitchen, he snuck up behind Adel and then gently put his arms around her.
"You know having a woman in the house isn't so bad when it's you." He said smiling warmly.

Adel squeaked in surprise then turned in Michale's arms.
You Mr. should no better then to sneak up on people she said in mock anger.
Then she quickly turned around and said "thank you" she said softly.

Michale laughed and let her go, moving to stand beside her.
"Who could you be afraid of? It's just the three of us up here." He said, giving her a dashing grin.

Adel smile disappeared remembering the mornings incident.
Adel quickly shook it away and turned her face and smiled at Michale.
"Nothing just instinct."
"I'm used to being by myself."

Michale put his hand gently on her shoulder and smiled softly, hoping to comfort her. "Don't worry. My brother and I will look after you here on the mountain." He assured here

Adel's eyes soften.
" That I have no doubt."
Adel smirked then added.
"At least the best of your capability,that is."
Adel said in a teasing voice.

"I am a very capable man!" Michale insisted. "Capability is my for-tay! I am very capable of being capable!" He continued to insist, smiling at her.

Adel rolled her eyes and continued to finish up dinner, though a smile adorned on her face.
After a few more minutes Adel turned to Michale.
"Dinner is ready."
"Could you go get your brother while I set the table?" Adel asked.

"But of course." Michale said and just before he disappeared out the door he added. "But surely one Michale is good enough for you!"
He closed the door and hurried out to find his brother.

Adel shrugged not understanding what he meant.
She quickly placed food on the plates and placed two on the table.
Then went to get her own as well.
Adel sat down waiting for the brothers to come back inside.

The two of them returned and Michael and his brother helped to set the table.
This time Michale was behaving with..... semi decent manners.

Adel noticed Michale's manners all through dinner He wasn't perfect,but she new he was trying.
"So why were you two asleep at the table ?" Adel asked curiously.

"Just... brushing up on a few lessons." Michael said with a soft smile.
Michale rolled his eyes and used his spoon to eat his soup. Slowly he stopped, his eyes unfocusing.
Michael glanced at his brother, then at her. That was the same look Michale got when turning into the beast, only he wasn't changing.
"Michale?" Michael said softly, but got no response.

Adel looked at Michale when his brother called for him,and didn't answer.
Adel grew worried.
She reached for her hilt of her sword,but didn't draw it.
After all he hadn't changed yet.
She would wait and see how things played out.

Seeing no change Michael got an idea.
"Adel, back away slowly and see if there is any change."

Adel didn't move,she didn't want him to change.
She looked at Micheal but Adel trailed off.
She was unsure of what to do.

Michael saw that she would not move so he moved closer and tried to shake Michale awake.
"Michale... Michale?" He said softly.
Michale opened his mouth and a strange sound came out but nothing more.
Then they both heard it... a roar from outside the house. A roar that sounded like Michale.

Adel face drained of color.
*What was that it couldn't be another, could it?*
Adel looked from one brother to the other.
Adel came to a decision then turned around and started heading towards the door.

"Adel, wait-!" Michael shouted but it was too late, she reached the door and Michale suddenly and instantly changed into the beast. Michael moved to try and take hold of his brother but a massive wing shot out, knocking him right into a shelf, breaking it as Michale let out a roar and flew straight up, destroying the ceiling as he flew out into the air.
Michael was cringing in pain as he lifted his hand to where his brother had gone, "Mi...chale." He whispered before passing out from the pain of his broken ribs.

Adel turned around and ran over to Micheal.
She check to see if he was still breathing thankfully he was.
Then she check for blood there was a little but it wasn't life threating.
She stood up and dragged Micheal over to the couch.
Then she made it back over to the door.
Adel gasped as she saw two monsters fighting each other.
She quickly drew her sword but realized she didn't know witch one was Michale.

The Draithes fought tooth and claw and one threw the other to the ground.
Then the one in the air spied her and the house and opened his mouth to burn them all to ashes.
Yet the one on the ground got between the house and Adel and the oncoming fire and took the brunt of the attack before lunging at the creature. Bu the beast in the air knocked the draithe protecting her with it's claws raking across the scaly skin. The draithe was thrown to the ground right next to Adel and he instantly transformed back to Michale....
A very badly wounded Michale.
Yet... he started to get back to his feet and placed his body between her and the creature as he growled out in a voice that was barely half human and muddled with pain. "You... will not... hurt... Gloria!"
The creature in the air did not seem to understand as he lifted it's head back to fire another burst of flame.

Adel couldn't breath Michale was protecting her she new it was him.
When he landed beside her and changed back she was frightened.
He was hurt badly and when he got back up.
Then he yelled out her mothers name Adel face became deathly pale.
*Whats going on?*
She quickly pushed the question away as she saw the monster going to attack again.
She quickly moved out of the line of fire hoping Michale did the same.

Michale did not... in fact he did just the opposite. He charged toward the creature, returning to his Draithe form and stuffing his clawed had into the fiery mouth of the other one, bringing it down with a crash into the side of the mountain.
Both Draithes were severely weakened once they hit the stone of the mountain... but only Michale had the scars across his chest.

Adel recognized Michale because of the scares on his chest.
Adel quickly ran over to the two draithes she brought her sword up and cut the monsters head off.
She saw his body still move so she continued to chop off his body parts.
*I probably should burn the body as well just in case it can regenerate body parts or something.
Adel quickly gathered large logs and branches in a pile she quickly started the fire.
Once she got it going she went back over to the monster and started to burn its body parts.
The smell was awful but she pushed on just the same.
finally she threw the head in the fire she quickly turned to Michale.

Michael stood across from the fire out of range of her necklace, his eyes lost in the flame as he shifted slowly from the Draithe form back to human. She saw the scars on his chest slowly vanish into perfectly healed skin.
"Gloria.... I... I didn't... I couldn't save you... from him." He said, tears forming in his eyes as they closed and he collapsed in the snow, unconscious.

The door to the cabin opened and Michael limped out, holding his in cured side and gasped as he saw his brother's torn and bleeding clothes.
"Michale!" He said, ignoring his own hurts and rushing to his brother's side. He breathed a sigh of relief when he saw that his brother was healing.

Adel ^sighed^.
"Lets get him inside."
"Then I check over your injuries."
She made her way over to Michale lifted his arm around her neck and started to slowly and carefully drag him towards the cabin.
She stop for a moment "Are you coming?" then continued to the cabin.

Despite his badly injured side, Michael helped her bring Michale into their livingroom/diningroom. Some snow was falling lightly through the hole in the roof.
"I'll go and fix tha-" He began to say then doubled over in pain from the broken bones in his side.

Adel gave him a stern look
"You Mr are doing no such thing.
She went over to him and helped him to the kitchen chair.
"Now take off your shirt while I go get some badges. "
"You probably damaged your ribs"
"Oh by the way where are your bandages?"

He let himself be led to the chair in the kitchen and pointed to the cupboard which held the medical supplies.
"I need... to get everything fixed up before Michale awakes. I want him to think all of that was just a dream. We can go on living like nothing happa-ah!" He said with a wince of pain as he managed to tug his shirt off.
She saw bruises and cuts and scars on his body. All of which he had gotten from Michale long ago although the bruises were clearly more recent.

Adel went and got the bandages.
You can't keep lying to him he needs to know the truth.
What if something happens when you hurt and he has blood all over how do you think he'll react.
Adel started to wrap Micheal's torso and continued in a softer voice
"You need to tell him"
"Yes he might get angry but you also have each other to heal those wounds."
"Nothing emotionally will change you'll still love each other you just won't have to keep lying and hiding the truth from him."
"I can tell you feel guilty thinking up excuses."
"All you need to do is talk to him tell him why you hid it from him."
"just explain it to him he will understand."
"You need to give him more credit."

Michael grit his teeth against the pain as she bound him up.
"He... he's so gentle and caring. If I told him he hurts me he will blame himself. It's not his fault... Just like it wasn't his fault when he killed my parents ten years ago. He was just defending himself just as my parents were trying to protect me."
Michael's eyes cast down to the floor. "It's better he not know. There seems to be nothing that can cure this... except for you."

"True, but I still stand by my decision."
What happens if another of those monsters came back?
Maybe we should find about more about these monsters.
Adel finished wrapping Micheal's torso.
"Up until today, I only thought there was one now I'm afraid at how many there could be."
If Michale knows, maybe you could control it better or something?

Michael hung his head and then slowly shook it 'no'
"I just can't tell him. It would crush him... I can't do it."

Adel looked at Micheal and ^sighed^
"Well it's your call you after all his brother."
Adel picked up the left over medical supplies and put them away.
"Perhaps I should start dinner."
A plan already forming in her head.

Michael slowly got up and slipped into the other room. He returned with fresh work clothes and quickly and expertly began repairing the shelf. Within minutes it was almost as good as new.
She then saw him getting tools to fix the roof, yet he walked stiffly as all the work was agitating his injuries.

"Oh no you don't.
I specifically told you are not getting up on the roof."
Adel put her hands on her hips for good measure.
*Sheesh I feel like a mother.*

"But if he sees this he will ask questions- I mean if we leave a hole in the roof we will all freeze." Michael stated, trying to step past her.

Adel placed her hand in front of Micheal's chest to stop him.
"I will take care of it you are in no condition to .
So let me cook then I get started on the roof."
With that Adel turned to the kitchen to start dinner.

Michael waited until she had gone into the kitchen before he went outside.
He would not have a guest mending his house, no matter how battered he was.
He set the ladder against the house and began to gather his tools to ascend onto the roof.

Adel started cooking dinner After about five minutes into cooking she heard tapping coming from the roof.
Adel ^sighed^ to her self
*I should of known men never listen
Well I can't do nothing at the moment.*
So forty-five minutes later she put the food on three separate plates and then quickly added a little extra something to Micheal's plate.
She hated to be sneaky but she had to find out more about Michale and how he knew her mother.
As she finished she no longer heard the tapping.
*Well better go get them and get this show started.*
Adel exits the kitchen and walks out side.

Michael was looking a little pale and haggard from all the pain and work in the cold as he began to put away his tools. He looked up as she came out.
"I know I know... I shouldn't have. But things will be better this way." He said, more to himself than to her.

Adel shrugged and smiled at him.
"I just wanted to let you know dinners ready."
Then she turns around to go wake Michale up for dinner.
She finds Michale still on the bed.
She steps up beside the bed.
"Michale dinners ready."
knowing that will be enough if not his brother will get him when he comes in.
Adel walks back into the kitchen and grabs the plates and sets them on the table and waits for the brothers to wash up and enter for dinner.

Michael comes in to sit as he puts his coat over the top of his chair.
Michale slowly wakes up, smelling the good food. He blinks a few times, wondering if he blacked out and not sure what he remembered last... But it didn't matter because there was food to be eaten!
The man got up and ran a comb through his tangled and unruly hair before striding into the kitchen.
"Ah! Makin us more grub? Thanks!" He stated, plopping down in a chair as though nothing had happened.

Adel rolled her eyes at Michale.
Adel smiled anyway *At least he said thank you with out his brother having to elbow him*
Now all she had to do was wait until the powder took affect to get some answers.

"Did you have a good nap?" Michael asked his brother softly.
"Yeah... sorry. I must be very heavy to carry." He apologized to his brother.
Michael smiled and shook his head good-naturedly. "I need the exercise... besides what are families for?"
"Hawlling you like a sack of meat?" Michale joked, digging in.

Adel ate a little slower.
* Just a few more minutes and then hopefully I'll get some answers.
I just hope this stuff works if that merchant sold me a imitation I'm going to be very upset.
That powder cost me a lot.*

Michael ate politely, and in far less amounts than his brother who wolfed down his food and then sat back contentedly. He then rested his hands behind his head and and smiled at Adel... she looked so pretty.
"You know you don't have to wear all those clothes, it's warm in here-"
"MICHALE!" His brother said horrified.
"What?" Michale said, not realizing he had said it out loud.

Adel was getting impatient and grabbed her goblet and too a long sip then spit it back out.
"What?" Adel stared at Michale like he was insane.
Then she realized * My plan worked.* she thought gleefully.

Michale glanced at Adel, wondering what she was reacting to when his brother reached over and twacked him lightly on the head. "I taught you better manners than that!"
"What did I do?" Michale asked, glancing between the two of them. "It's not like I said I wanted to kis-"
At that, Michael thwacked Michale even harder.

This was her chance but how to initiate it* hmm blunt would be the best way I suppose.*
Then Adel got an idea and smirked but quickly schooled her features.
"Michale there was something you said earlier before you fell asleep?
I was wondering who this Gloria was?"

Michael shot her a glance but Michale just chuckled and leaned back.
"Did I mention Gloria? Gloria is.... Gloria... I..." Michale's face became a picture of confusion as deeply buried memories came to mind.
"Must have been the name of one of the mountain horses." Michael quickly suggested, seeing a look of pain entering his brother's eyes.
"No... not some horse." Michale said softly to himself. "Much more important.. much much more."
"We'll it 'was probably nothing." Michale said, trying to draw his brother's thoughts away.
Michale looked up right at Adel and then said firmly, "She saved me... she had flowing golden hair and a spitfire will... she saved me from the fires of hell."
Michael paused and looked at Michale. "She did? When?"
Michale opened his mouth but nothing came, pain filled his expression and he shook his head. "I... don't remember. I don't remember any more."

Adel gasped.
"Is that why you said that no one would hurt her?"
"Although I don't understand, why did you say it outside while we were fighting the monster?"Adel
asked curiously.
"Wait how did you meet her?"

"Wait... what monster? Wasn't.. wasn't that just a nightmare?" Michale said, his eyes going wide.
His brother stood and walked over to him. "Just be calm, Michale. She doesn't know what she's talking about-"
Michale was clearly becoming frantic with worry and confusion. "But no... the monsters are only in my dreams! They aren't real... they can't be real!"
"They aren't real." Michael said, trying to calm his brother down before he transformed.

"Both of you CALM DOWN! Adel shouted seething with anger.
Answer my questions now!
The monster situation can be dealt with later."

Both brothers froze and looked at her in shock, wondering what had come over her and what questions she would ask.

"Well" Adel said a little embarrassed at her outburst.
"How did Gloria save you?"
Adel asked focusing her complete attention on Michale.

Michael put his hands on his brother's shoulders to comfort him. "You don't have to answe-"
"I... lived... in fire, and rage... chained to do what I do not remember." Michale said, his eyes growing dark as the memories resurfaced. "I was... in a vast town. A woman... wearing a pendant came at me protecting her infant... and suddenly I was free. I didn't... I didn't know what to do. I didn't understand what was happening to me. I was so afraid, so confused that I tried to strike out... but the woman with the flowing gold hair saw me for all that I was. She took me into her home. Taught me to speak and to behave."

Michael watched his brother in awe, realizing he was not the first to tend to this creature nor the first to have pity on him.
Yet the memories were clearly very painful for Michale. Like a dagger being thrust through him, even though the memories seemed happy.
"She... taught me so much, but I was too dangerous. She sent her little child away till I knew better. She and her mate- her husband... they taught me how to be human. How to feel as I should feel. Together with a pendant crystal I soon left forever the darkness and fire... but something... something happened."
Michale doubled over, putting his head in his hands, not wanting to remember anymore as his brother turned and pleaded with Adel. "Please, can't you see this is hurting him? Stop! Whatever you are doing to him just stop it."

Adel knew she had tears in her eyes all she could do is nod.
Then she quickly got up before her tears fell and left to the room where she sleeps.
As soon as she closed the door she let the tears fall that she held in these last ten years.
Adel tried to make it to her bed but her legs couldn't hold her shaken sobbing body and fell in the middle of the floor where she curled in a ball and cried herself until she fell asleep.

Michael tried to comfort his brother but Michale was an emotional wreck by that time.
"They aren't dreams, are they? I've been turning into that thing... just like back then! I... I hurt you so many times... Michael-"
"It's alright, Michale." His brother whispered, holding his brother close. "You're my brother and I love you. No matter what sickness or problems you have."
Michale sobbed, leaning against Michael, "But... I killed them, your parents, your brother-"
"No. That wasn't you. This thing that you turn into... this demon that tries to take control. That is not you." Michael insisted. "You are my family. You will always be my family."
Then the two of them remained like that, kneeling there on the floor with Michale sobbing and Michael's arms surrounding and comforting his brother at heart.

where am I.She saw a little girl come out and walk to the first body on the floor.
Adel tried to call out as she ran forward but her voice wouldn't work.
So she just kept running,but it was to late the girl fell to her knees and was crying
Adel gasped in horror realizing it was her Adel slowly turned and saw her father lying a few feet away
No No Adel chanted and closed her eyes she didn't want to see any more then she heard a noise and looked and saw to monsters fly away.
Adel shouted and sat up quickly her body in a mence pain for her laying position on the floor .
Adel looked out the window it was not yet morning.
Adel forced her body to move through her aches and sluggishly made her way to the bed.
Soon Adel fell back to sleep dreaming of nothing.

The two brothers did not get any sleep that night. Michael told his adopted brother everything, filling in the gaps and comforting him when he could. But the more Michale knew, the more he felt both secure in his knowledge and insecure in what he was.
"I've hurt you our whole life long. I've taken everything from you... and still you- Michael." Michale said, looking completely ashamed and in awe. "You are just too good."
"My father was hunting you, actually." Michael told him. "He thought he had killed you but you awoke and attacked. He ran here... and you followed him." Michael explained. "Father was an idiot to lead you here. You were just protecting yourself. The stone you wear around your neck helps keep you human. But it doesn't always work."
Michale nodded. "I know... there is a call in the air. It is strong all the time but sometimes it is too powerful. This stone I wear... and this very mountain, it wards off the darkness. If I were elsewhere this small stone would not be enough. I would be lost to you."
"The crystal! Adel was wearing a crystal!" Michael said, recalling the moment. "It seems much more powerful than this stone. Maybe if you wore it you would stay human-"
"I wouldn't take it from her." Michale said softly but he looked troubled. Adel's crystal was familiar... he recognized it from somewhere.

When Adel woke up it was early she layed there thinking about what happened last night.
Adel felt a little guilty but brushed it away.
She still needed more answers and hopefully she'll get some.
Adel made her way quietly out of her room and quietly as possibly made her way to the kitchen.
*Well at least no ones out here*Adel ^sighed^
She made a quick breakfast then put the left overs away if the brothers wanted it.
Adel grabbed her food and went back to her room to think of what to do next.

Michale and his brother sat outside together as they remained in silence. A lot had been discussed the previous night and now Michale was trying to absorb it all.

After Adel finished eating she just layed there trying to gather her thoughts on how to what she needed.
I have to go after the one that killed...
Her thought trailed away from finishing that thought.
She heard movement and then deciding to go down.
She knew she would have to leave it didn't matter to her at least she tried to convince herself that.
She wrapped her emotions and proceeded out the door.
*Here's wishing myself luck!*

Both of them stood up and there was an uncomfortable silence as the snow fell around the group. Slowly Michale stepped forward, his head hanging low.
"I... I'm... sorry... for everything.... to you both." He whispered, his heart breaking.

Adel stared at Michale for a moment.
"I need you to remember about that night."
"The creature that attacked this Gloria, was there any kind of markings? "

Michael glanced at Michale who's face grew dark and his eyes narrowed in a scowl.
"That night... to end all days in darkness. They came for me, but she and her husband stood against it.... she was without her gem that protected her and fell before he could save her. I was so enraged I chased after it.... found it and ripped it to pieces, burning it with my fire. The creature is dead... and I lost my mind and will to remain human that day."

Adel face was drained of color.
*No it can't be, am I responsible for her death?*
Adel softly touched the pendant were it touched her collar bone.
Adel shook her head when she heard Michale say he killed the creature.
"Are you sure you killed the creature?" Adel asked.

Michale nodded solomnly. "The one that attacked us just now was not that creature... there are many Draithes scattered far over the world. Very very rarely do any two meet."
"And yet you've met two." Michael pointed out.
"That's different." Michale said softly. "They are controlled, I am not. Controlled creatures do not stray off their designated path-"
"Designated??? Controlled?" Michael said in horror. "Who would send such creatures."
Michale closed his eyes and slowly shook his head. "I... am not sure. It's not clear in my mind."

"So there are many of those creatures out there?"
"Are they sent to kill people and there families often?"

"I do not know the exact number... save that in the darkness of my mind I hear the voices of scores of them." Michale said softly. "In my dreams I see them, searching out towns and burning them... some walk amongst men in disguise and kill silently in the night one or two people only. Still others spread words of lies and death. All at the command of the voice within."
Michael put his hand on his brother's shoulder and asked with pain and pity in his voice, "And you hear this voice as well?"
Michale slowly nodded as he added, "It... is less clear here in the mountains. The nightmares are less vivid too. I feel safe here in these mountains."

"I see thank you."
Adel smiled at the brothers.
Then turned around and went back into the house.
Then she walked in the room she had been staying in grabbed her stuff then walked back out.
Adel went to find the two brothers.

The two of them glanced at each other as she left them to go into the house and when she came back out Michale looked concerned.
"You've packed your things? Are you going somewhere?"

Adel nodded her head.
"Thank you for your kindness.
I hope you both stay safe."
"Goodbye"

"Wait! You're just going to leave?" Michale said, his eyes filling with fear and a desire to beg her to stay. Michael put a gentle hand on Michale's arm and shook his head, telling him to let her go.
Yet the former draithe shook his head and reached out, wrapping her in an embrace.
"I don't want you to go!" He said, speaking his heart boldly like always.

Adel eyes widened for a moment then softened.
She gently slid out of his embrace
"I have to go,I have to help all those other people and there families."

"How will you do that?" He asked her, beginning to panic. "How will you find them? And then how will you fight them?"

"I'm not as helpless as I look.
I'm far stronger then you think."
"I will be fine.
Besides I need to help, so children won't become parent less."
"I've been tracking these creatures and I've seen the devastation they leave behind.
So I'm going to track and kill these creatures until there are no more left or until I can no longer fight."

Michale opened his mouth to protest but his brother stopped him softly and shook his head. Then Michael looked at her with a soft sad smile, "It won't be the same without you here, Adel."
"Yeah... who'd cook for us?-ooph!" Michale said in all seriousness as his brother elbowed him.

Adel smiled at the brothers antics.
Adel went over to Micheal and embraced him "Thank you for everything."
Then Adel turned to Michale and embraced him as well "Thank you for all your help."
Adel then moved away and turned and started her way down the mountain.

Michale watched her go, his eyes following her every movement until she was well out of sight. The snow shimmered white and her footsteps were clearly seen.
Michale hung his head and fell to his knees, Michael went softly to his side and put a gentle hand on his shoulder.
"Michael... just let her go-"
"It's not that." The brother said, his voice strained, "There is another... monster. And it's coming closer."

The draithe beat it's wings as it walked to make the fire spewing from it's mouth roar with great strength at the single hunter that was following it. They had fought for days and still this human would not die!
The creature turned and once again tried to fly up above the trees and escape this immortal human hunter.

The hunter just smirked*your not going to escape.
I will catch you and kill you.*
As the hunter saw it take flight.
He threw daggers at the creatures wings but, he couldn't tell if the daggers hit there mark.

One of the crystal tipped blades cut it's wing, sending the Draithe crashing down.
It turned on the hunter, grabbing him with his claws and then flew high up into the air, flying higher and higher.

He pulled out two small daggers while he kept the claws from ripping him to pieces.
He jammed the first dagger into the monster chest.
The second dagger he sawa couple of trees to land in.
As they reached the trees he sliced the monsters wrist and fell into the trees.
As he fell he grabbed on to as many branches to stop his fall but his fingers slipped each time.
A second later his world went black.
He hit his head on the branch then fell and hit the ground.

The monster reeled and crashed hard. It struggled but managed to remove the dagger. With a screech it began reforming into a draithe as it charged at the unconscious man...
Only for it to have it's head ripped off from behind by a pair of clawed hands belonging to yet another Draithe.
Michale ripped the beast to shreds and when there was nothing left he began to move toward the human... before he passed out in the snow.
Michael hurried, but was not yet close to the place so see what had happened.

A groan came from the hunters lips.
*Well that was a nasty fall*
The hunter looked around him and saw a young man facing away from him.
He slowly made his way towards him.
The hunter keeled beside him a turned him over,
He gasped in surprise*Gabriel!*
*He's alive,was he the one I was trying to kill?
Then something caught the corner of his.
The hunter stood add moved over to it.
*A draithe* ...
The hunter heard a noise before he could finish his thought and moved back towards Gabriel.

Michael hurried as fast as he could go, but Michale had moved far too fast for him. He glanced up and gasped as he saw a man approaching his unconscious brother.
"Wait! No! Don't hurt him!" He gasped for breath in the cold air as he ran all the harder. "That's my brother!"
In the snow, Michale began to stir slightly, his hand moving groggily toward his head as consciousness returned to him.

Brother! the hunter said in a surprised tone.
I wasn't aware Gabriel had any family.

"Yes... brother!" Michael gasped.
Michale let out a bit of a moan before he slowly sat up and shook his head. "I don't think I will ever get used to-" He froze as he looked at the man, his eyes filled with confusion.
"I... know you, don't I?"
Michael walked over, looking at the man differently. Was this someone from Michale's past?

*He doesn't remember.*
HE smiled and held out his hand to Michale.
"I'm Samuel David's ,it's great to see you again Gabriel. "

Both Michael and Michale looked at at each other and then back at Samuel.
"Gabriel??" They both said at the exact same time in the exact same way. They did not look like twins, but the certainly acted like them.
Michale took Samuel's hand and stood somewhat unsteadily to his feet as his brother joined them where they stood.
"Did you kill that... draithe?" Michael asked Samuel as he nodded to the carcass.

"No I black out from the fall I took earlier."
"I don't suppose you have a place it's more comfortable?"
"I'm not as young as I used to be."

"Certainly sir." Michael said, coming over and giving the man an arm to lean on. "I will lead you back to our house- Michale stop staring!"
As they walked, Michale had been walking along with Samuel, staring into the man's face only inches away.
He continued staring for a moment longer until Michael caught his eye. Then he straightened, put his hands behind his head and whistled like nothing had happened as he walked with them.

when Samuel saw there home he sighed.
When they went inside he heavily sat on the couch.
"Thank you Micheal and you too Gabriel."
"So were should we begin."

"First things first... um..." Michale began, then a thousand questions entered his mind so he could not pick, but his brother spoke for him,
"How did you get here?" Michael asked, heating up the pot of water to make tea.

"Well of all the questions to ask that's a really easy to answer.
I'm a draithe hunter.
Next question."

"So you were after that Monster-" Michael began when suddenly Michale interrupted.
"So you're like Adel. She's also a draithe hunter. She came here for me but found out I wasn't the one she was after and left." Michale stated matter o factly.

Samuel was shocked.
You let a young lady leave alone!
To go after draithes.
Are you insane we taught you better then that Gabriel.
A lady should never wonder alone.

They both were shocked at his outburst and Michale spoke up, "She's a draithe hunter. She will be fine.... I hope." He added in worry.
"We had no right to interfere with her life." Michael added.

Samuel snorted.
" No right!"
Samuel got up.
"It was wonderful to see you again Gabriel.
Gabriella would be have been happy for you."

"Where are you going?" Michale asked, concern entering his voice.
Michael put his hand on Michael's arm. "Michale, we've been over this. He can chose to go where he wills. We have no right to interfere."

"Gabriel I am a draithe hunter now.
Although If I just so happen to bump into this female hunter.
Well maybe we'll team up for awhile."
Samuel walked over to Gabriel and hugged him.
"It was great seeing you again Gabriel" Samuel whispered.
Then he took Micheal into a hug.
"Take care of your self's. "Samuel said after he step away Micheal.
Samuel gave one last wave turned and started down the mountain.

The door closed and both of them stood there for a moment.
Then both began to argue at the same time.


"I know what you're going to say-"
"You better know! We can't just-"

"But it's his life and his choice"
"-he doesn't know this mountain! And what if-"

"We can't worry about every single person we ever-"
"draithe come and attack? I'm the only one who-"

"They are professional hunters-"
"Who couldn't defeat the 2 draithe-"

"Now you're just assuming-"
Michale stomped his foot down. "No Michale. I am going after them. Whether you come or go is up to you." He said, walking into the kitchen to pack.
Michael bit his lip. He didn't want to run off on some adventure... but if Michale left he would be all alone on the mountain... and maybe he could marry the girl of his dreams?
he sighed and walked over to help pack. "I'm coming too. We're family and family sticks together."
Michale grinned and soon the two of them were packed for four along with traps for their food, they locked up and boarded up their house and soon they headed down through the snow to leave their home.

*Hmm so it looks like she wears a size six.
A small hill easy to run in if needed.
It looks like she has good traction on the bottom of her souls.
Well at least she is well prepared* Samuel thought.
Samuel got up from his crouched position and started on his way again.

The two brothers reached the bottom of the mountain just as the man tracked Adelle to the exit. The way had been cleared and Michale walked up to Samual with a big goofy grin on his face.
"We thought if we were going Draithe hunter hunting we might want to pack for a long haul, see?" He said, hefting his pack/

Samuel laughed at Michale's antics.
"Well I guess I got some company then."
Samuel grinned "Welcome a board."
Then he turned and started to walk in the direction where he tracked the girls foot prints.

Adel couldn't help but feel that someone was speaking about her.
She quickly shook the feeling off.
After some time she had this strange feeling that someone was following her.
She doubled back and saw a man crouched down by her foot prints.
Adel had some mix feelings about this.
*I'll just have to quicken my pace a little.*
Adel quickly took off.

And she was suddenly tackled from behind.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADEEEEEEEEEEEEEELL! We found you!" Michale said, rubbing her head like a puppy with snow everywhere. "We were looking for you-"
"MICHALE!" Michael said, reaching where Samuel was and looking at Michale in shock. "That is NOT how you treat a lady!"
Michale stood up and dropped Adel into the snow. "Oh! oops!... Sorry."

"Michale!" Adel said in surprise.
Then she glared "Well are you going to help me up, or just stare?"

"Can't you get up? are you hurt or somethi-" Michale began when Michael walked over and thwapped him in the head. "Be a gentleman and help the lady up."
"OOOOOOOOOOOoh ok." Michale said, helping her to her feet and brushed some snow off of her.

As Michale helped Adel a wicked grin cross her face.
Adel carefully scoop a pile of snow in her hand.
As soon as she was on her own feet she step closer to Michale then was necessary.
Then she dumped snow down Michale's shirt.

Michale let go of her and hopped around, reaching around to try and touch his back.
"Ah ooo ah cold!" he said, getting away from her when suddenly his wings shot out and ripped his shirt to shreds.
"OOps.... that's weird." He said, noting the rest of him remained human.
He didn't even realize he made himself shirtless.

Samuel saw what Adel was going to do.
So he waited to see what Gabriel reaction.
When Gabriel started to jump around Samuel chuckled.
Samuel chuckle stopped abruptly when Gabriels wings sprouted out.
"Well Gabriel your going to have to work on control."
Samuel said as he handed his cloak to Gabriel.

Michale took a few deep breaths and recalled his wings, then put on the cloak.
"Thanks Samuel... I don't think I will get used to being 'Gabriel'." He said, although it felt very familiar.

Adel didn't know who this man was.
Though she was confused she didn't show it.
She walked calmly over to them crossed her arms and stared at Michale.

Michale glanced at her, then blinked a few times. "What?"
Michael walked over to him and gave him a firm smack over the head. He then turned to Adara. "Sorry about that. This is Samuel... he apparently was acquainted with Michale before I was."
"And I was called Gabriel." Michael pointed out.
Michael then looked at Samuel. "Samuel, this is Adel. The huntress we told you about."

Adel raised an eyebrow and stared.
The hunter laughed "so your the young hunter, hun I thought you would be older."
Adel eye twitched a little at the hunters comment "It was nice to meet you Mr. "
"The name is Samuel no need for the Mr part makes me feel old."
"Well it was very nice to meet you Mr. Samuel,but I have to be on my way."
With that being said Adel turned and started to walk away.

Michale strode up, keeping in pace with her.
"So where are we headed?" He asked her, his eyes sparkling with eagerness for adventure.

Michael grinned, following them with Samual by his side.

Adel raised an eyebrow curiously, but kept up her quick pace.
"What makes you think that we are traveling together."
Adel asked still moving quickly.

"Well." Michale said with a grin. "I'm walking here, you're walking there, and we're both walking the same way and we're standing side by side. Are you saying we aren't traveling together?"

Adel giggled softly.
"Well when you put it that way I'm headed South then follow the winding river."
"As long as that merchant was telling the truth what was his name again."
" Ah yes that Wallace he said it will take me to Presanbur."
" There was a draith in that area."
" Are you sure want to come?" Adel asked looking at Michale worriedly.

"Well don't you think it would be better to have me along? It would make it easier for you to catch them." Michale said, but a hint of doubt entered his eye.
He was helping her catch his own- they were ruthless beasts, but could they be like him?
He did not know.

Adel eyes softened as she looked a Michale.
"I think it would be safer if you went back home,you are conflicted and that could get you hurt."
"After all I can't keep you out of trouble all the time."
"Right" Adel giggled and winked at Michale.
"Anyway the chose is yours." Adel smiled and pick up her pace a little faster.

He hesitated for a moment and then shook his head, hurrying to catch up.
"I'm coming along. I want to know why I am this way and why I'm different from the others." he said. "And I don';t want anyone killed by creatures like me."

"Hey you two what are you doing up here."
Samuel said loudly and wrapped a friendly arm around Michale's neck.
"If I didn't know any better I'd say you have forgotten about us back here."

"We were just talking." Michale said with a grin. "If we were kissing you would have seen it."

Adel elbowed Michale in the stomach
"Dream on lover boy."
Adel giggled at Michale's face and raced on ahead.
Knowing she left two confused man behind.

Michale tore after her and his brother tried to catch up.
"We don't have to run the whole way!" he shouted, but they were already racing out of sight.

A fierce desire to pounce Adel hit Michale and he rushed faster and faster until he did just that. He tackled her and pinned her into the snow.
"Gotcha!" he said, breathing hard with a smile on his face.

Adel flipped Michale so she was now on top.
Adel giggled at Michale.
Adel heard water and looked ahead and jumped up.
"Look the river." Adel said.
Adel held a hand down to Michale "Come on."

Michale coughed from the impact but then was on his feet and hurrying after her yet again.
"Be careful! Running water is dangerous near the mountains!" He said like a worried mother hen.

Michael slowed to a stop, doubling over in order to catch his breath.
"I'm... pretty... bad shape." He gasped to Samuel who was clearly in better shape.

Samuel laughed Don't worry you'll get use to it.
Well lets get moven there out of sight again.

Adel rolled her eyes when she heard Michale's shout.
She waited away by the river for Michale.

They all finally caught up and Michale moved to continue on when his brother grabbed his arm.
"What are you doing? Don't walk on that- you'll freeze your legs off!"
Michale pouted. "There's no bridge, what do you suggest we do?" He said, then turned to Samuel. "What do you suggest?"

Samuel ^sighed^ and took off his pack.
Then he pulled out a rope.
He threw it up to a high branch the other end following.
Samuel tied it then pulled it

Michael looked on in curiosity as Michale walked over to him.
"What are ya doing?" He asked, looking up at the rope.

I'm making a way to get across the stream so we can keep moving.
Samuel turned to the group.
"We are going to swing across."
"So who wants to go first?"

Michale almost jumped for joy. "Ooh ooh! Pick me!"
Michael slapped his own head. "Michale... have some dignity." He pleaded.

"Well alright Michale go right ahead."
Samuel smirked "Adel you can go after Michale."
Adel nodded.

Michael gave a woot and jumped, grabbing the rope to swing over the stream.
"WHOOOOOOOOOO-OOPH! Michale said as he faceplanted into a tree, causing Michael to flinch. "That had t hurt.

The rope swung back towards the others.
Samuel caught it .
"All right Adel your next."
Adel took a deep breath and swung over the stream.
Adel jump off but notice Michale right were she would land.
Adel's eyes widened as she crashed into Michale.
Adel slowly raised her head and met Michale's eyes.
Adel blushed slightly and quickly got off Michale.
"Sorry" Adel mumbled.
Adel could hear faint chuckling from across the stream.
Adel moved further away so it wouldn't happen again.

Michale laughed and jumped to his feet. "It's alright." He said with a smile. "Actually I kinda liked it."
Michael let out a groan. That was NOT something his brother should have said. Michael turned to Samuel. "I'll go next... and keep them out of trouble."He said, taking the rope and swinging over, landing with only a few tripped up steps on the snow on the other side before throwing the rope back to Samuel."

Samuel swung over and landed gracefully.
Samuel walked to the others.
"Thank you for testing the rope Gabriel."

"Ok, let's go- Hey!" Michale said as he finally caught on. "Y-... the rope... HEY!"
Michael burst into laughter, doubling over.

Adel rolled her eyes but there was a hint of a smile on her lips.
Adel turned to Samuel
"Shall we continue."
Samuel bowed to Adel
"After you Milady." Samuel held a arm out for her.
Adel giggled.
"Thank you kind sir."
Adel said as she passed Samuel.

Michale's cheeks turned bright red. "Hey! Why do you get to walk with her!"
"You aren't jealous.. .are you Michale?" Michael asked giving his brother a slight elbow to the side.
Michale hmphed and folded his arms. following the rest of them with a glance now and then at Gabriel.

Adel glanced back at Michale and saw him pouting.
*i wonder what's wrong with Michale .*
Samuel looked at Adel and saw her with a confused look on her face.
"Is there something on your mind milady?"
Adel looked at Samuel "umm it's nothing.'
Samuel saw her look at Gabriel.
"Don't worry Gabriel is just pouting."
"Why is he pouting?"
Samuel smiled at her innocents.
"You understand in time."
"I'm going to look ahead" leaving behind the group.
Adel stayed at her pace and was left to walk alone

Michale saw Samuel go on ahead and he hurried to fill his spot. "So you wanna take my arm? I give you permission to." He said, attempting to be gallant.
Michael stifled a chuckle at this and watched with some amusement.

Adel stared at him then shook her head.
"I'm ok,but thank you for the offer Adel said.
"What was wrong earlier?"
"You seemed unlike your self."
"Why?"

"Samuel was just showing off." Michale said with a shrug. "He's trying to look all many in that mannish manly way- but I could beat him where it counts." Michale said, flashing her a grin.

"Umm ok."
Adel looked at Michale and said.
"Is Samuel the reason why you were pouting then."

"I wasn't 'pouting' !" Michale insisted, trying to think of a good excuse. "I was.... pondering- thinking... scowling maybe." He said, nodding to himself at the witty words.

"Sure you were" Adel said sarcastically.
"Anyway lets catch up to Samuel."
Adel grabbed Michale's hand and started running.

*Well no draithes anywhere.*
Turns around ^sighs^ And sits on a rock waiting on the others.

Michale laughed and ran, trying to pull her along.
Michael only groaned at this *why do we always have to run?* He wondered, jogging behind them.

Michale let go of her hand and ran ahead... only to hit some ice and fall on his face, sledding at full speed with a hollar as he landed into a snow mound beside Samuel.
"Fhhhrst!" His muffled voice said from within the snow

Samuel laughed .
"Hello Gabriel have a nice trip."
Samuel laughed again at his own joke.

Adel caught up quickly,and saw Michale.
He was on the ground,and she started to giggle.

Michael also caught up and fell to the ground, trying to catch his breath.
"At... least we... made it to... the river." He said, nodding to the frozen over water ahead.

Samuel looked at the group.
" We should get moving."
"We'll have to camp before dark."
Samuel turned and started walking.
Adel quickly followed.

"What is it with you people and boundless energy?" Michael gasped, then moved forward.
Michale walked out onto the ice and smiled, beginning to ice-skate with his boots over the surface of the river.
His brother sighed and walked out onto the frozen ice as well, quite nervous and wondered if it was as solid as it looked.

Samuel walked calmly but carefully across the ice.
Also kept an eye on everyone.

Adel was the last to go on the ice.
Adel loved ice skating,but memories started to surf us.
Adel squashed it and glided on the ice.

Michale hurried off across the ice, not noticing how some of it cracked under his weight. Michael didn't see it either as he walked ever closer to the cracking ice.

Samuel heard a unique noise over were Gabriel was.
Samuel looked over towards Gabriel and his brother, and saw the crack and yelled" Gabriel!"

Adel quickly whipped her head towards Samuel.
Adel saw Samuel looking over at Michale and his brother.
She turned and saw the ice Michale Adel shouted.

Michale stopped and looked back at Michael who quickly lay down.
"What are you doing?" Michale asked, moving a step back.
"Nononono... don't move, Michale." Michael said as he lay on the ice. "I'm spreading out my weight.... just keep moving and don't fall in the ice."
Michale glanced down at his feet and saw the cracking ice and it freaked him out, so he turned and tried to run, but was slipping all over the place.
"Michale! Michale don't fall!" Michael shouted, his eyes wide in worry. If Michale fell he would fall right through the ice.

Samuel saw Gabriel start to freak out.
"Gabriel stop moving!" Samuel shouted but to no avail as Gabriel wasn't listening.

Adel saw the ice crack more and more.
Adel lied down on her stomach and quickly yet carefully as possible made her way over to Michale.
Once she was about two feet away she called to Michale in a soothing voice.
*Please let him here my voice* Adel thought as she called out to Michale.

Michale slipped and twisted and almost fell, but then he heard a soft sound. He struggled to stand still although his feet were having a hard time finding a place to stand. He turned his head, still very wobbly and looked at Adelle.
"The ice! It's cracking!" He said, still in a panic but not flailing about.

"Michale you mustn't panic.
Michale you need to slowly move a few steps back.
Then lie down and slowly move towards me."

Michale nodded, holding his breath as he tried to shift his weight....
A massive crack formed under his foot and grew with a loud rending noise. His eyes opened wide as he was about to panic yet again.

Michael watched, holding his breath in terror.

"Michale don't panic.
Stay with me look at me Michale.
Adel started to make her way to Michale.
Michale give me your hand."

Michale's eyes were wide as he twisted, reaching out for her. His feet slid out from under him and he landed hard on the ice, the crack grew and one boot slipped into it. Michale hissed from the cold but held tight to her hand as he lay on the ice.

Adel held Michale's hand tightly.
"It's okay don't let go." Adel said soothingly.
As she every so slowly pulled Michale away from the cracking ice.
Adel pulled Michale to the other side.
When she had them safely across she rolled on her back and took deep breaths.
Never realizing she didn't let Michale's hand go.

Soon the others made it to the other side as well, and Michael rushed to his brother's side.
"Quick, take your boot off!" He said.
But Michale wasn't listening, He had his eyes closed and a smile on his face as he enjoyed the warm hand of someone... holding his.

Adel heard Micheal and quickly took her hand away from Michale's grasp.
Then she quickly got to her feet and took a few steps away from the brothers.

Samuel walked over took off his bag and handed Micheal a wrap for Gabriel foot.
"Wrapped that up quickly so we can get moving again. "
Then Samuel walked away from them.

Michael nodded in thanks as his brother slowly sat up and then pulled the soaking wet half frozen boot off. Already his foot was turning blue. after drying it the brother's quickly wrapped it up very warm before putting the semi-dry boot back on.
Michale stood and tested it... it felt awkward but it was better than a frozen foot.
"Alright... let's go!" He said, turning and walking ahead of the group."

Adel followed quietly.
*What was I thinking? Why did I do that?
I shouldn't have done that he's a draithe but.
Arg I think about this later.*
As Adel looked ahead she saw Samuel looking over at the darking horizon.

Michale and his brother caught up, Michale going right up to Adelle and with a smile took her hand, walking and swinging it slightly.
"Thanks for saving my life." He said with a smile as bright as the sun

Adel cheek tinted a soft pink.
Adel new she should take her hand away.
She just couldn't because he's hand felt warm holding hers.

Suddenly Samuel called for her and she quickly dropped Michale's hand.
Your most welcome then turn and ran to catch up to Samuel.

Michale watched her run ahead and smiled. He glanced back and up at the sky... somehow the stars looked a little less friendly than they had been up on the mountain.
Michael walked up to him and put his hand on his brother's shoulder and they walked together in silence.

Samuel said nothing for a while as Adel walked beside him.
*Why does this girl remind me of someone,and Who?

Adel felt confused * I thought he wanted something.
Oh well at least it;s not uncomfortable.
That gives me more time to think about what happened back there.*

Michael walked along side his brother and finally spoke. "The sun has long begun to set... we should pitch camp soon. If we keep walking it will be after midnight by the time we reach the road and dawn by the time we reach the next village outside the mountain."

Samuel new it was getting late.
He saw a small rock formation that looked to be good shelter.
"Alright will set up camp over there he told Adel.
I go tell Gabriel and Micheal."


Adel nodded,and walked over to the spot Samuel pointed out.

Samuel walked back to Gabriel and Micheal.
"Hey we're going to set up camp over there."

"Right... Michale. Why don't you lend her a hand?" Michael suggested.
"To do what? We're going to be laying on some rocks- fine... moving." He said as he received a glare from his shorter brother.

Michale walked over to her and then shuffled his feet in the snow.
"Um... I could... gather wood?" He suggested.

Michael waited till Michale was out of sight before he spoke to Samuel. "I'm worried about my brother. He has very little control and the mountain is the only thing that keeps him... human... is the stone of this mountain and this." He held out the small stone pendant he had and Samuel saw that the crystal was from the mountain, but clearly not pure as it could be.
"What happens when we leave this mountain? What can we do?" He asked the older man.

"I will handle that.
Don't worry enjoy the journey."

Adel just nodded and continued on doing what she was doing.

Michale shrugged and wandered off alone into the woods to search for wood.

"Don't worry?" Michael repeated in surprise. "You might as well tell me not to breathe."

Samuel chuckled at Micheal "What ever works for you.
Although you should ease up a little.
Enjoy your self a little."
Samuel smiled then walked over to Adel.

Michael could not help but smile and shake his head. Sometimes the thing one should listen to was the hardest to hear.

Michale wandered deep, finding dry wood ad carrying it in the crook of his arm as he hummed to himself.

"Hey Adel where's Gabriel?" Samuel asked.

"He went to get some fire wood.
He should be back any minute."Adel answer.

*Hmm wonder if I should be worried,I'll give him another five minutes.
Before I go looking for him.*

An elderly old man was walking in the forest.
When by chance he saw a young man.
"Hello young man!"the elderly man called.

"Hello o- I mean good sir." Michale said, walking over. "Fine evening for a walk in the snow is it not?" He said with a grin.

Michael sat down on one of the stones and glanced around. "Do we have anything to cook?" He asked outloud

Samuel frowned I go see if I can go and find something.
*While I'm at it I'll find out were in the world Gabriel is.* he added to himself.

"It is beautiful night although it's a little on the cold side at night.
I was wondering if maybe I could join you for the night?"

"I don't see why not. The more the merrier." Michale said with a grin. "We're just about to get a fire going. Come on I will show you where the others are waiting." He said, offering the old man his arm.

Michael watched Samuel go... trying not to worry.

Samuel threw two knifes in the bushes.
He calmly went over and found to dead rabbits.
*It will have to do.*
Suddenly Samuel heard noises and quickly got into a crouch position.
Ready to attack if necessary.

Adel sat on her stone wondering what to say.
*Well maybe Micheal rather not talk unlike his brother.*

Michale came through the bushes, crashing about more like an elephant than a trained woodsman.
"No no I'm sure they won't mind." He reassured the old man, practically running into Samuel.

Michael glanced over at her and then cleared his throat slightly. "So... it seems my brother has feelings for you. You'll let him down easy- won't you?" He asked in concern for Michale.

Samuel stood up quickly "Gabriel!"
Samuel growled not liking the fact that Michale nearly ran right into him.
Samuel noticed the elderly man.
Who is this? Samuel asked.


Adel stared at Micheal for a moment.
*Umm what are you talking about?"

"Since he met you Michale's been head over heels for you... he does an awful job of hiding that fact too." Michael pointed out. "I mean earlier when you collapsed on him you two were both blushi-"

"Oh... This is-" Michale began and then paused, realizing something. He turned and looked at the old man. "I'm sorry, sir, I didn't get your name."

I have no idea what you are talking about.
Adel interrupted Micheal.
All I was trying to do was help Adel said defensively.
A light blush tinted her cheeks.

Oh my name is Stephen.
It's nice to meet you both he bowed a little at them.

Samuel smiled and bowed back wonderful to meet you too.
Well we should get back to camp.
Samuel walked over and grabbed both rabbits.
Turned and started to walk towards camp.

"Oh?" Michael said, raising and eyebrow and smiled at her. "Is that so?"
"Is what so?" Michale said as the group returned.

Nothing you need to know about.
Adel said looking towards Michale.
Adel noticed the elderly man.
Oh who is this? Adel asked.

"Everyone, this is Stephan! He's going to be staying with us tonight." Michale said with a smile.
Michael tried not to sigh. "My brother... you just met this man. You shouldn't so blindly trust everyone-"
"What's not to trust? There's nothing wring with sharing a campfire and I got plenty of wood!" He said as he set it down for them to begin making a fire.

Well hello Mr. Stephen." Adel holds out her hand ."

Stephen smiles and shakes her hand.
"It's very nice to meet you young miss."

Adel giggled "Oh please call me Adel."

Stephen smiled and nodded at Adel.

"Here let me help you sit down." Adel offered with a smile.

Stephen smiled at Adel as she helped him over to sit on a large rock.

Samuel kept his eye on the whole interaction.
He would keep an eye on this stranger just in case.

Michale put the wood down a ways from them and began trying to start a fire. He tried again and again but the somewhat wet wood was refusing to light. He huffed in annoyance and gasped as flames lept from his lips and caught the wood on fire.
He was a bit disturbed by this, and a bit relieved.
"Heh... that's... one way to bake a log." He added nervously.

Michael glanced at the old man, wondering if he had seen this or missed it while talking to Adel.

Stephen was talking to Adel when from the corner of his eye, he saw Michal have fire come out of his mouth.
Stephen pretended he didn't see it and kept talking to Adel.

Adel saw Michale breath fire but ignored it .
Adel kept on talking even though she was shocked.
She didn't want to draw attention to it right.

Samuel rolled his eyes.
He really has no control at all.
Samuel ^sighed^ *I'm going to start from scratch again.*

Soon Michael had the rabbits skinned and placed over the fire on a slow roast. Michale avoided the fire now, as it made him nervous and he walked over around the border of their camp, just pacing and feeling uneasy.

"After we get done eating we should all get to bed.
We going to have an early start." Samuel said.

Michael nodded but Michale wandered off a ways. He kept the fire in sight but found a place where he could be alone so he could think.

Adel saw Michale walk away and sighed softly.
*I hope he is alright?
What am I doing I shouldn't be worried about him.
I just need to distract myself*
"Well is everyone done ?"
She saw everyone's nod
"Well then I just go wash these up."
Adel headed towards the stream in the opposite direction of Michale.


Samuel got up after Adel left.
"I'll be back in a while."
He left in the direction were Michale went.

Michale looked up as Samuel came over and gave him a smile.
"It's pretty dark out tonight.. isn't it?" He asked, feeling uneasy. Being at the bottom of the mountain meant there was not much crystal in the lower part of the mountain.

Samuel nodded.
"Gabriel what is wrong?" Samuel asked

"I... started the fire. I made fire." He said, his face full of worry. "What... what happens if I turn into that thing again and can't turn back? She... isn't here to stop me anymore." He said, his head lowering in grief.

"Well I guess I'll have to retrain you.
It's going to be brutal.
Do you think you can handle that?" Samuel asked.

"But... what if I kill you?" Michale asked and then hesitated, "Wait... last... last time I saw you- you were dead. How did you survive?"

"You saved me.
You probably don't remember you were in your other form."
Samuel lifted up he's shirt and there was a dark patch of skin.

Hesitantly, Michale reached out and brushed the dark skin patch with his fingers.
"The... the memories... They are so... jumbled... vague... but I think... I think I remember giving you that." He said, glancing up at him with relief in his eyes. "I'm glad it worked."

Samuel smiled sadly.
"Well we should get back ,to camp and get some sleep."
Samuel turned and headed towards camp.

"Yeah... alright." Michale said with a smile, feeling better about the night as he walked back with Samuel to camp. Michael came over and brought Michale aside so they could sleep side by side to keep warm...
and safe.

Adel was already laying on her leather fur inline with a thick fur covering her around the waist.
Adel evened out her breath and was turned away from everybody.
She heard Samuel and Michale enter the camp .
Adel ^sighed^ in relief knowing they came back safely.


Samuel noticed Adel sigh he smiled softly.
He quietly walked over to her a lifted the fur up around her shoulders.
"Goodnight young one."
As Samuel walk over to where he's spot he heard a soft" goodnight", and he smiled and went to sleep.

Michale slept deeply... and then something sniffed.
He paused, wondering if he was still asleep... shuffling noises... more sniffing.
He opened one eye and glanced around, and saw everyone else asleep... Clearly he was the only one who heard this.
Slowly Michale sat up, looking into the pitch black woods.
"Everyone... I think you should get up- we have to go." he said, every sense alert.
Just then, deep in the woods, something howled a lone powerful howl.

Samuel immediately jump up from were he was laying
Samuel quickly went to Stephen to help him.
"Come on" Samuel said to everyone else.


Adel knew they wouldn't get very far,with a elderly man with them.
Adel,took a deep breath grabbed her things and took off towards the wolfs.
*I have to give them some time* she thought as she ran.

They rushed together through the dark wood, getting further and further from the cries of the wolved.
Michale glanced back and then stopped, letting the others run on ahead.
Where was Adel???

The wolves entered the camp site, snarling as they slowly approached Adel.

Samuel saw Gabriel stop all of a sudden.
He also noticed that Adel was nowhere near them.
Samuel said nothing and continued getting the other two to safety.

Adel saw three grey wolfs coming at her.
Adel held her sword to the approaching wolves.
Then Adel used her other hand to whistle.

Adels Whistle echoed through the trees.
Then the wolf on Adels right attacked.
Adel slashed the wolfs leg and it fell in the snow.
Suddenly The other two wolfs sprang at Adel.
Adel fought them off but just barely.

Adel heard growls from behind her she saw two more wolves come fromm behind her.
In A flash A big black wolf and a slightly smaller white wolf came and stood growling in front of Adel.
Kale Satasha Adel said quierly.
Go Adel shouted and they attacked the five wolfs.

Some time later Adel was breathing hard and her sword covered in blood
Kale and Satasha mouths and fur were covered in blood.
Adel went to the two wolfs and dropped to her knees.
"Thank you " and hugged them both .
Kale heard a noise coming closer and stood in front and started to growl.
Adel shakily got to her feet Kale Satasha go I'll be fine.
The two wolves left and Adel held her sword in the direction the noise came from.

Michale came out of the trees like a lumbering bear, but what he saw caught him off guard.
"Wow... what a chick!" He said, too stunned to realize what he said until it was too late. Then it registered that there was blood all over her and he stepped forward. "Are you alright Adel?"