Howlers: Morning of the Midnight
Chapter 1
Dagger stood there, facing the empty air. He could feel a dark presence following him.
“Hello? Anybody there?” SWOOSH! A shadow swirled past him, leaving one paw print. “Huh? A … dog?” Dagger was both confused and frightened. He could only hear the fading echoes that rang in the silent forest. Then, there it was:
“Get out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
“Huh! No, it can’t be … is it,” Dagger was startled to life.
Yes it is! It’s me RIPPER!!” That voice all of a sudden started to mumble words. The once quiet midnight had turned into a twister of moans and snarls.
“No, Ripper, I am not leaving my new pack! You can’t make me!” Dagger tried to look fierce and brave, but really, he was terrified in the inside.
“Oh no, I don’t want to take you, you savage dog. I want to destroy your pack of mutts, and I’ll start with YOU!” Then the moon and stars disappeared. The sky became pitch black. Every single thing started to vanish, but Dagger.
“No! Nooooooo ……..”
“What!?! Where am I?” Dagger looked around, shocked. All the patrol dogs were safe asleep, until he noticed a pair of green eyes in the dark.
“No!” Dagger screamed softly.
“Quiet, will ya?”
“What? Flash?” Dagger then remembered his litter-brother, Flash’s, green eyes. The moon shined on Flash’s velvety red coat. He had a feathery red tail, and was the only one in the pack with green eyes.
Dagger himself had an unusual feature. He had one grey eye and one blue. But something that he held as a burden was a huge scar stretched across his left eye. That was a mark meaning he was once evil. But I’m not evil anymore. I’m good. And that’s what matters, he thought, I’m good.
“Hey, did you have another one of your nightmares?” Flash asked. Lately, Dagger had been having terrible dreams. But now they looked like visions.
“Well they look like visions now, but yeah. Don’t tell father, though!” Their father-dog was Alpha of the pack. Dagger didn’t want to cause trouble after his act of evil.
“Okay. But sooner or later, he’ll find out,” Flash replied.
“I know. But it should be a secret for now,” Dagger stared at the darkness.
He knew something was coming – something bad.
Chapter Two
The sun rised above all the trees. The river glistened like a thousand stars. There were a ton of fresh deer prancing around the forest.
The hunting team were Spring, Leap, and Dagger, who were all litter-mates.
“It seems there will be a fine catch today,” Spring said hopefully. She was in charge of this hunt. All three dogs silently padded towards a gigantic bush. Spring rolled her eyes to signify where to go. “I’ll go first. I’ll pounce on the deer, and that’s when you grab its hind legs, Leap. When it’s vulnerable, Dagger will bite its throat, and that’s when we’ve got prey,” Spring whispered.
One plump deer appeared right smack in the middle. Spring coxed herself and sprang on top of it. Leap jumped on its rear back, and held its hind legs. The deer was thrusting around.
Ok, my turn. Dagger was nervous since this was his first time hunting for this pack. I can’t screw this up. But I can’t look too fierce, either. He pounced on the deer’s head and took a deep breathe. This is it. Dagger could only worry if he failed – if his two litter-sisters talked badly about him to Alpha. They wouldn’t do that, right? I shouldn’t worry. I can do this.
“Can you, uh, finish it off?” Leap was getting uncomfortable with Dagger doing nothing but worry.
“Oh, right. Sorry.” Dagger took one last gulp. Ok, here I go. He opened his jaws and bit hard into the deer’s flesh until it went limp. Dagger let go, surprised, and barked with joy.
“You did it! I knew you could!” Spring wagged her tail with enthusiasm, and Leap licked him on the ear.
“Good job! – Oh and sorry for rushing you. I kind of forgot it was your first time,” Leap said. They were all proud of their hard labor.
“Come on. Let’s take it back to the camp,” Spring ordered. They were all walking back, until there was a rustling noise coming from a bush.
“What is that?” Leap stepped forward to see what was going on. All of a sudden, the bush burst, and out came a huge dog. The dog pounced on Leap, and then began biting her savagely.
“Leap!!” Spring attacked that wicked dog with all her power. Dagger stepped back, shocked to see who it was … Ripper.
“No! Spring! Leap! It’s Ripper! Oh no – she’ll kill you!” Dagger howled. He had no choice but to fight. He was terrified. If they see how viciously I fight, then I’ll be banned from the pack. Forever!
Then, all of a sudden, a dog came bolting their way. It was Silver, one of the pack’s patrol dogs. He charged at Ripper, but she was clever. She jumped as high as she could and then grabbed Silver’s tail with her fangs. Ripper bit his stomach. Finally, she knocked him off his paws and finished him. Silver howled full with agony one last time, and was soon a lifeless body laying on the dirt.
“Silver!!!!!!” Dagger howled. “You killed him! You killed Silver!” Dagger’s temper was rising, and then he bolted towards Ripper. But right before he could reach her, she was gone. Completely gone. “No. Come back here!” he growled.
Dagger, she’s gone. No use trying to find her, okay?” Spring calmly said. She had a small streak of blood running down her cheek, and her right leg was bruised badly. Leap limped towards them. She had several bite marks across her neck, and her two front legs were terribly covered with blood.
“She’s right, uh, Dagger,” she coughed, “I don’t feel well.” Leap lied down, her eyes burning with pain.
“You should rest, Leap,” Spring said, “While you and I should go bury…” she hesitated… “Silver.” Dagger looked at his dead pack-mate with sadness. He couldn’t help but feel guilty.
“Yeah, you’re right. Let’s do it.” Both of them dug a big enough hole for the body. Once it was in place, they pushed some dirt on top. “I guess we should go bring the prey back before everybody starves,” Dagger said. He looked around but there was nothing at all! Everything was empty.
“Oh no! I think Ripper took it.” Spring yelled.” What are we gonna do now?” Dagger scanned the floor for any kind of hint of deer laying around. Nothing.
“Then, we’ll have to confess to Alpha and tell him the truth. Even if there’ll be consequences.” He said. Spring nodded slowly.
“C’mom. We should go then,” Leap, who still sounded a little wary, said.
Whatever punishment we’ll get, I’ll face it. No matter what it is.
Chapter Three
The grass was green and lush. Dagger looked at all the trees and plants.The three litter-mates were trotting to the camp.
” Don’t you think we should at least try to catch something else? I mean, arrive at the camp empty-pawed?” Spring was most worried since she was in charge of this hunt.
” Yeah, you’re right. But then we’ll be even late,” Leap argued. She was silent was Dagger. He stood there, thinking it was all his fault,
” Fine! What do you think, Dagger?” Spring, who eyed Leap sharply, asked.
” What! Oh, um…” Dagger could only think about all his guilt. Spring stepped up.
“Dagger, are you alright?” she asked. Spring seemed confused.
“Well, it’s just that,- I think this is all my fault!” Dagger exclaimed. “If I have taken down the prey faster, Ripper wouldn’t have come, Silver would have still been alive, and, well, it’s all my fault!” He wanted this whole day to just end.
“Dagger! It’s not your fault! It’s nobody’s fault!” Leap said. Leap and Spring both licked him kindly. “Let’s just go back before anything happens to -”
“What is the meaning of this!” a broad voice cut in. Startled, Dagger turned around to see Alpha and Galaxy, a huge multi. colored dog who was third-in-command. Alpha had a stern look on his face that Dagger knew wasn’t good.
“Why are you late? And you don’t even have any prey!” Alpha was enraged. Spring, who took a deep breathe, confessed. “We’re so sorry, Alpha! At first, we caught plentiful of deer, but then … she attacked.” Spring shuddered.
“You mean, Ripper.” Alpha growled, mainly looking at Dagger.
“Yeah and well, she – she killed Silver!!” Spring blurted out. Alpha just looked shocked, his eyes and mouth wide open.
“What! She killed Silver, one of my finest patrol dogs!” All of a sudden, Alpha’s eyes looked like a caring father-dog’s again. “Are any of you hurt?” he asked with worry.
“Not too much,” Leap answered, checking her half-injured paws. Alpha smiled with relief.
“Oh my gosh, Ripper appeared? Somebody must have called her over here,” Galaxy eyed Dagger. “And that ‘somebody’ must’ve been Dagger!” Dagger was surprised, angry, and nervous.
“What! I didn’t do that. I would never do that!” he tried to keep his temper cool, but he couldn’t help but feel odd about this.
“Of course you would! You still are bad and evil.” Galaxy bit Dagger on his shoulder.
“Enough! Galaxy, stop doing that to Dagger or your share of the food will be scarce. Go back to your den!” Alpha demanded. Galaxy bowed and ran back to the camp. Then, Alpha looked at the three litter-mates. “It is alright. But your punishment is to fix the hunters’ den before sleeping today and tomorrow. Understood?” he asked.
“Yes Alpha,” they all barked back, tails down.
Galaxy’s unpleasant words rang in Dagger’s mind. You still are bad and evil. He tried shaking that away as they arrived at camp. It turned out that Holly, another one of Dagger’s litter-mates, andGinger, a golden female dog, had caught a faun and two rabbits. When it was time, all the dogs gathered around to eat. Alpha first gobbled up an entire rabbit. Then it was Beta, Dagger’s mother-dog’s, turn.
When it was Dagger’s turn, he just munched on one small rabbit leg, eating weakly. He still felt guilty about the whole situation. When he was completely finished, his back strangely ached. He thought it was because of all the tension and pressure.
Well, now I can relax. As most of the dogs finished eating, Flash walked over to Dagger.
“Is everything alright? ‘Cause you seem a bit worried,” Flash asked. Dagger wanted to tell his litter-brother everything, but didn’t know how. Suddenly, Spring and Leap walked to him, looking anxious.
“Dagger, don’t you remember? We have to fix the hunters’ den.” Leap said.
“Oh right. Well then, sorry Flash but I need to go now.” Dagger followed, feeling grateful. When they got to a massive stack of leaves, Dagger felt like it would take forever to do this job for two whole nights.
I can’t quit now. After all I’ve gone through, I can do a simple task like this. Dagger grabbed a full stack of leaves in his mouth. These leaves must have fallen recently because it didn’t feel crunchy or prickly. Dagger, Spring, and Leap were exhausted, but were relieved to see that their hard work was finally over.
” We did it. Just tomorrow again, and it’s completely over,” Spring cheerfully exclaimed.
” Wow, I am very proud of all of your hard work. What a fantastic job you did.” Beta happily said. Then, Dagger felt bliss. All mother-dogs supported and encouraged their kids, even if they were Beta.
She padded over to them and wagged her tail.
“Thanks, mother-dog.” Leap smiled and winked. Dagger knew they were too old to call her mother-dog, especially since she was Beta, but now and then was alright.
” We better go get some sleep ourselves. Don’t want to be tired,” Leap said. Dagger walked to the Patrol Dogs den and saw Flash already there.
I can’t let him ask me anymore questions. I’ll have to avoid him. Dagger scanned the whole place. He saw his final litter-brother, Tank. He was the runt of the litter, making him the weakest one. He had a disability on hunting. Dagger preferred to stay away from Tank, since they had a long, rough history together. I hope he’ll forgive me one day.
Dagger decided to be alone tonight. He put his head on his paws and stared at the night sky. Flash stood and silently padded up to Dagger. He laid at his side.
“Is it true that the Great Spirit is always watching you?” he asked.
“Maybe. But sometimes I feel alone, like I’m on my own,” Dagger replied as he stared at the bright moon. The comfort of his litter-brother made him feel better already.
“No dog is ever alone. Even if the time is harsh, the Great Spirit will always be with you. No matter what.” Flash said. Dagger’s heart felt tingly. Maybe Flash was right, that the Great Spirit is watching over him. Even if he was evil once.
“Thanks Flash. That’s just what I needed to hear,” Dagger smiled at him.
” Hey, it’s what litter-brothers are for, Goodnight.” Flash gave Dagger one last happy glance and fell asleep.
Flash is right, I shouldn’t worry. Dagger laid there, trying to fall asleep. He still felt strange. He felt like something was missing, and knew what it was: Silver.
I should stop thinking about him. He’s gone. He’s already with the Great Spirit. Dagger tossed and turned, trying to sleep. Nothing. Then he remembered those awful words Galaxy called him.
You still are bad and evil. It still rang in his mind. Am I still evil? Is it true? Thatt’s my greatest fear ever! I don’t want to be the dog I used to be.I don’t want to be the dog everybody thinks I am. I’ve changed. I just hope everybody else gives me a second chance.
Chapter Four
Dagger’s paws were trembling. The ferocious wind roared and kicked into several directions. Then, Dagger spotted a big, fierce dog-Ripper. She was there, glaring at him with those spooky eyes. All of a sudden, she bolted towards him with incredible speed! Dagger wanted to scream, but somehow he couldn’t. Neither could he run. It seemed like his paws were glued to the ground.
” Time to finish you!!” Ripper roared. She opened her jaws, showing her massive fangs. Dagger wanted to cry out for help but couldn’t. How could he survive this now? He was doomed! Then, a grey-and-white dog ran to his aid. It was Silver! With great bravery, Silver took on Ripper. It was a giant fight between the two dogs, until Silver was thrown. He didn’t move a muscle.
He wasn’t alive anymore.
Horrified, Dagger woke up from that terrible nightmare-vision. A streak of dim morning light shone through. It was daytime already. Tank was already awake and was padding towards the edge of the den.Quickly, Daggers pretended to be asleep as Tank kept walking slowly. Once he was gone, Dagger stood with all fours.
“What a great morning,” Dagger whispered to himself. He hoped that today would be a much better day. Right when he stepped outside, Alpha called for each and every dog.
As the pack formed a big circle around Alpha and Beta, Dagger walked to Spring’s side.
“What’s going on?” he asked. “Alpha usually never calls us this early. Unless it’s an important meeting.” Spring nodded, trying to focus on Alpha. Finally, when the pack went silent,Alpha cleared his throat.
” Attention everybody, I have an announcement to make. We are moving to a new territory.” Alpha said. A lot of the dogs gasped. Most of them looked confused. But Dagger, Spring, and Leap knew exactly why.
” We are leaving this one because an intruder arrived in our lands yesterday,” As Alpha continued to speak, Dagger started to feel scared about what others would say.
” Wait, who was the ‘ intruder,'” Ginger asked with curiosity.
” Ripper,” Alpha growled, “And she knows where we are. That’s why we need to find a new territory”, he stated firmly.
” So get ready to move. We have a long journey ahead of us,” Beta said. As everybody went to where they needed to be, Dagger sat there, wondering.
I hope everybody else doesn’t think this is my fault.
“Galaxy, Spring, and, let’s see, Dagger,” Alpha smiled, “you three are the Hunting team for today. Bring a plentiful amount of prey for us. And try not to be late. Galaxy’s in charge.” Alpha walked back to his den with Beta, and soon disappeared.
“Ok, let’s go. I’ll explain the plan when we’re in the forest,” Galaxy, who acted like an Alpha, ordered.
A rabbit stumbled in their path, but Dagger ignored it as the rabbit hopped back up.
” Ok, first Spring will tackle the…” Galaxy looked around. A gazelle with an injured leg limped towards a pine tree.
“…the wounded gazelle. It won’t run fast with a broken leg. So when Spring has a grip on it, I’ll bite as hard as I can on its throat, and then it is dead. But we can’t scare it away.”
” Wait, what about me?” Dagger asked. Galaxy looked almost amused.
” You? Just stay out of this, you evil mutt,” Galaxy scowled. Spring stared at her litter-brother with sorry eyes.
” That’s not fair. Yesterday, he did a great catch. Besides, Alpha will be angry at you,” Spring said, licking Dagger kindly.
” Zip it, Spring. Don’t become a careless dog like your ‘brother’.” Galaxy replied. Hurt, Dagger wanted to bite him but decided not to. He didn’t want everybody to think he was a brute. His heart ached at the thought of getting kicked out of the pack.
I can’t be a villain. And I’m not. But a miniature growl escaped from his throat. Dagger had to control his rage.
“Don’t worry, Spring. Besides, I’m still not confident. I can, um, watch and learn,” he whispered. Dagger especially didn’t want to do anything in front of Galaxy. Spring still held sorry eyes, but continued.
First, Spring quietly and slowly walked her way to the gazelle. It sat there, looking the other way. With all her hope, Spring silently jumped on top of it. The gazelle, knowing there was a predator, rampaged. Galaxy bit hard into its flesh, but the gazelle ran out of their grip. In fact, it was running straight towards Dagger! With great fear, Dagger looked into his eyes. He was afraid he would fail. But he had to take a chance. So as the gazelle came hurtling towards him, Dagger opened his jaws, still trembling though, and bit into its throat. A small pool of blood covered the dead gazelle’s throat. I did it! I really did it!
“Amazing! Dagger, thanks to you, the pack will have something to eat!” Spring happily exclaimed. Dagger wagged his tail with gratitude.
” I guess. But I still don’t trust you,” Galaxy said. Dagger felt that he’d never earn his trust. Oh well. I don’t even talk to him, anyway. Ignoring Galaxy, Dagger and Spring held the gazelle tightly.
” Don’t you think we should go a little faster?” Spring mumbled, still giving an effort carrying the prey. Remembering what happened yesterday, Dagger agreed as they walked faster.
When the hunting team arrived, Holly and Comet, a fluffy white-and-tan friendly male, greeted them. Alpha was impressed by how they caught a big gazelle.
” Good job. That will be perfect for eating,” Beta complemented.
Each and every dog, from Alpha to Omega, ate their share.
“I am giving all of you some time to rest before we leave,” Alpha said, letting his mate speak.
“We need everybody’s strength for this. So just rest for a while,” Beta said. The two of them left to their den. Dagger got up and turned to Flash.
” Who’s turn is it to patrol right now?” Dagger asked.
” I’m sure it’s Comet’s turn,” Flash replied, ” And that gives us time to relax.” Both of them trotted to a patch full with shade. The sun glared at them, making Dagger extremely thirsty.
“I need to go get a drink by the river,” he said as he stood. Flash nodded while looking away from the flaming sun. Dagger ran up a small slope o where a great river laid. He lapped at the refreshing water, letting his tongue loll as he finished. That was good! Then, Dagger stared at his reflection. His scar was still there.
“Just another reminder of my terribleness,” Dagger sighed. He was surely not proud at all of what he has done before. Then, all of a sudden, came another reflection. Surprised, Dagger turned around to see a beautiful female dog who wasn’t from the pack.
“What?” Dagger tried not to sound mean, “Who are you?”
The female looked very kind and friendly. “I’m not a villain, I’m just from a different pack. This river is the same river we drink from,” she calmly said.
“Then, how have I never seen you before?” Dagger cautiously asked.
“Well, this stretches out for nearly like a hundred paw-steps. And I just came here to explore,” she replied. Her eyes were sky-blue, and her fur was grey-and-black. She was definitely pretty. Reluctantly, Dagger stepped forward.
“Hello. My name is Dagger, what’s yours?”
She smiled at him and opened her mouth to speak. “My name is Sunset,” she replied. “You’re nice. Do you want to be friends?” Dagger imagined what Alpha would say about this.
Proudly, he answered, “Of course! “Of course!” But then, he remembered the pack was about to leave. ” Wait- my pack is leaving.” They both frowned. Oddly, Dagger couldn’t think about not having Sunset in his life, even though they just meet. And by the look on her face, Dagger knew she felt the same way. ” Actually, I have an idea. I mean, it’s just a thought,” he said.
Sunset looked at him with curiosity. ” Tell me, please. ‘Cause, I don’t really want you to leave,” she answered. Happily, Dagger resumed.
“Okay, listen. If you are willing to do this, well, you can join this pack!” He wanted Sunset to say yes so badly! If she says no, then I should understand.
“Definitely! I always wanted to be in a different pack, because my alpha is extremely mean. And there’s only like seven of us! Will your pack let me and my best friend, Amulet, join?” Sunset agreed. Full with a ton of joy and happiness, Dagger answered with such excitement.
“Of course they’ll let you and Amulet join us! Besides, my Father-dog is Alpha, and my mother-dog, who is Beta, is like the kindest dog in the pack! And they’ll like you since your very nice,” Dagger replied. Sunset wagged her tail with joy.
“Great! Can I go run back to get Amulet?” She asked. With a smile, Dagger nodded as she quickly ran back. He ran to his father’s and mother-dog’s den. Respectfully, he entered.
“Alpha? Beta? May I ask you a question?” Dagger asked. They both nodded. “I met this beautiful dog who’s name is Sunset, and I wanted to ask if she and her friend, Amulet, could … join the pack?!” Alpha hesitated and looked at his Beta. Gracefully, she cleared her throat.
“Dagger, Sunset sounds great and,” she smiled, “I think she and her friend will be a great addition to the pack!”
“Then it is declared that they can join our pack,” Alpha said. With great joy, Dagger rapidly wagged his tail. “Thank you so much!” he exclaimed. Alpha and Beta both smiled.
All of a sudden, Comet entered with Sunset and Amulet, a small female dog with beige fur.
“Alpha, I found these intruders walking on the border of our territory,” he growled.
“Comet, they aren’t intruders. They are our new pack-mates,” Alpha exclaimed. Sunset smiled at Dagger, knowing they were welcomed.
Alpha called the whole pack for an announcement. “Listen, my fellow pack-mates, we have two new dogs joining our pack. Sunset and Amulet.” he explained. As the two new dogs walked on the Great Rock, Dagger felt a new kind of hope enter his heart. Everybody cheered for their new pack-mates. “But as every pack goes, you two will be at the bottom. You’ll have to challenge other dogs if you want to be in a higher rank,” Alpha said. When it was over, all the dogs greeted Sunset and Amulet. Sunset came to Dagger, wagging her tail.
” I’m super glad your a part of this pack now!” Dagger cheered.
“Yeah, I am too!” she answered. But Alpha interrupted.
“But now, it is time to find a new territory,” Alpha ordered, “So everybody, follow me!” All the dogs formed a line behind Alpha and Beta.
“Why do we need to leave?” Sunset asked Dagger. Amulet looked confused also.
“Because a villain knows where we live, and we can’t risk her attacking us. Do you know who
Ripper is?” he said. Sunset had a growl escape her throat.
“We both know who she is. In fact, she killed three of our old pack-mates. I despise her,” Sunset growled. Dagger agreed in his mind.
Whatever kind of territory they find, it will be home.
Chapter Five
The pack had been walking for two days in search of a new home. Dagger’s paw pads were aching already. He was happier that Sunset was walking at his side.
Dagger was also happy that he didn’t have those awful visions lately. Hopefully I won’t have them at all.
Alpha stopped as soon as they arrived at a massive mountain.” This mountain is very rough to pass, so be careful,” Beta shouted.
The mountain had a ton of rocks and boulders. Dagger turned around to see poor Omega’s shocked face.
“Wow! I have never climbed something this high before,” Flash said timidly. Dagger himself wasn’t so sure about this, either.
As everybody progressed, Dagger felt they could do this after all. He could see they were almost at the top, and then they’d just have to walk back down.
” I can’t believe we’re doing thi!” Sunset exclaimed. Dagger nodded, trying not to lose balance.
“We’re half way there! Then, to a new territory, Leap pitched in.” But we can’t be that hopeful. Something could possibly go wrong at the last minute,” She said, looking straight below.
” I doubt that. We should all be positive, Leap,” Dagger answered. They reach the very top. Dagger was proud how much they climbed. Dogs like Omega got their paws stuck in a steep hole, but they were all here now.
” Okay, pack, we are at the top. We mustn’t give up now. I know this isn’t easy, but we’re almost through, so let’s keep going,” Alpha supportively commanded. They all agreed..
It seemed they were doing great-until something came in their way. A savage puma sneaked behind the pack!
“Ahhhhhhh!” Most of the dogs were frantic but Dagger wasn’t going to let a puma scare him off. With bravery, Alpha, Beta, Holly,and Dagger carefully ran towards it. The puma sprang and collapsed onto Holly. She didn’t scream, but instead attacked it. Dagger ran to her aid and helped defeat it. When it was nearly dead, Alpha ripped its throat open until it was lifeless.
” Ha! That’s what a puma gets when it messes with us dogs!” Amulet encouraged.
Sunset licked Daggers with gratitude.
“You did great! Now we can go to the bottom, ” Spring cheered.
Hopefully nothing will come across us now.
Finally, the last few dogs came stumbling down onto the ground.
” We did it!!!” Spring and Ginger proudly said. They were right, they finally, finished.
” Ok, let’s keep wandering until we find a new territory,” Alpha ordered.
Dagger’s whole body ached from the long journey, but they were here! The pack arrived to a beautiful forest that was amazingly green and lush, and there was a great clear blue, refreshing stream full with rocks. There were also nice, roomy dens for them to sleep in. Everybody fell in love with it at first sight.
” This is an amazing place for us to live in. And this is our new territory!” Alpha said. Everybody cheered as they looked around. Yup, this is a great place. And this is ours!
” Ok, I know we are all hungry, so Ginger, Holly, and Galaxy, you will hunt today,” Beta ordered. The three of them galloped across the great lands until they disappeared into the trees. “And, Dagger and Sunset, would do a good job. They nodded and ran to their positions.
” You know, I’m loving this pack! it is just great! Especially you.” Sunset grinned at him.
” You too.” Dagger replied. They kept on talking, until Sunset saw someting swirling their way in the sky out of the corner of her eye.
It was a gigantic eagle! Eagles were one of their enemies.
The eagle was Flying towards them with red eyes. ” Ready?” Dagger asked.
“Ready!” Sunset replied. They both leaped into the air with full power. The eagle’s beak slammed onto Dagger’s chest. He quickly bite as hard as he could on the throat. Its wings flapped rapidly, making it more of a challenge for Dagger. Hardidly Sunset smacked it to the ground. Its head was twisted in an unpleasant way, meaning it was down.
” Oh my gosh, we just beat an eagle! we make a good team,” Dagger cheered.
” Of course we do!” Sunset wagged her tail.
“Now that is over, we can go eat!” She proudly eyed the prey the hunting team caught. One big deer, and three squirrels. Wow, this new territory is awesome. It has a whole lot more prey, and we’re far away from Ripper and her pack!
When Spring finished eating, it was supposed to be Leap’s turn, but Flash was starving. He went to the prey pile and nibbled on a piece of squirrels leg. Alpha snarled and stepped up.
“What do you think you are doing?” he growled. Flash flinched and hesitated. “It’s not your turn!” Alpha looked fierce for e moment. Flash crouched down, regretting what he did. ” Don’t do that next time. Understood?”
“I’m so sorry. Yes, Alpha,” he whined. Flash tucked his tail between his legs and ran back. Leap munched on a remaining squirrel’s arm and a deer leg. When she finished, Flash got his proper turn. As everybody finished, the moon rose.
“All the dens are ready,” Omega said, who had a squeaky voice. Dagger couldn’t go to sleep since he was on night patrol. He stood straight, keeping guard. His eye twitched but forced it to stay wide. Nothing at all. It’ll be a slow night.
The earth shook. Trees collapsed. It was the Battle of the Dogs!
Dagger could see Galaxy and Comet fighting a pair of evil dogs, and Spring and Leap fighting other dogs. Ripper and Alpha were bolting towards each other. Dagger wanted to help, but somehow, he was invisible.
“You have done enough already!” Alpha growled. Ripper scratched his face.
“Your son got a scar from me, now your turn!” she snarled. With great fear, Dagger ran to his father.
“No!!!!!” Alpha whined. Ripper’s claws shimmered in the moon’s light …
“Huh! Where am I?” Dagger looked around. He was at an abandoned place full with – what used to be – a forest. He heard noises coming from a small place full with bushes. How have I come here? I must have … sleep-walked! Shocked, Dagger padded towards the noise.
“C’mon, your turn. Hit me!” a shaggy voice growled.
“Beware, I’m more of a fighter than ya think, Sharp!” another voice snarled. Oh no! I’m at the Evil Pack’s camp! Dagger had no choice but to spy. He crouched down and hid behind an immense bush. The wicked pack were all fighting each other. It was a huge fight. Why are pack-mates fighting each other?
“You like that?” a massive black dog sat on top of a young, much smaller, grey dog. Dagger never saw anything like this – well, after he left that horrible pack – he never saw something like that.
“Intruder!” a voice growled into Dagger’s ear. Terrified, he turned around to see Ax, his former Beta from this pack. Ax grabbed Dagger with his powerful fangs, and ran to Ripper, the Alpha. “Ripper, look who’s back,” he scowled.
“Well, well, well. If it isn’t the dirty mutt who betrayed us,” she snarled.
“You killed Silver! How could you!” Dagger growled.
“Who, that useless white rat? I had fun doing it, by the way,” she snickered, “And I would’ve done it to you too.” Ax laughed darkly by her side. Wacker, who was still third-in-command, shoved Dagger and smirked. The Evil Pack started to gather around.
“Ax and Wacker, take that burden to the dungeon. I’ll deal with him there,” Ripper demanded, “And you’ll be sorry you ever stepped paw here.”
Chapter Six
The dungeon was dark and creepy. Wacker and another big dog were guarding Dagger. Finally, Ripper arrived with the entire pack following her.
“My pack, a former dog has come. But don’t worry, I plan to kill him,” Ripper growled. A lot of the dogs cheered for her.
“Rip his face off!”
“Attack him, before anybody ‘rescues him!’”
“Do it! Do it! Do it!”
“Now, don’t you remember the day I gave you that scar?” Ripper said. Dagger growled, looking at Ripper with hate. “You are doomed now! Ha, ha, ha! DOOMED!” Dagger whined, remembering all his friends and litter-mates. I won’t ever see them again. Leap, Spring, Flash, Holly, Tank. Never! Ripper glared at him with evilness. At this point, Dagger even missed Galaxy!
“Any last words, dirty mutt?” Ripper snarled.
Dagger gulped. “Help!!!!!!!!!!” he howled at the top of his lungs. “Help me!!!”
“Your skunk-bag pack won’t help you at all! And if they do, they’ll end up like your friend,” she snarled. Ripper opened her jaws and sank her fangs into Dagger’s flesh. Dagger howled with pure pain, his paws feeling num. Everybody laughed. Dagger’s vision turned blurry and he soon felt dizzy. Ripper was right, he was doomed. When he thought he’d never be saved, a voice interrupted.
“Let him go! NOW!”
Dagger turned around to see Spring, Leap, and Sunset. His heart pounded with content.
“Attack!!!!” Ripper demanded.
Spring jumped and bolted towards two brown dogs. Leap fought a dozen of them, trying to keep her strength. Sunset instead ran to Dagger. Her face was determined, and he knew she wasn’t going to give up. After defeating most of the obnoxious dogs, Spring and Leap ran to Dagger too. Leap nodded to them and stopped in her tracks.
“Hey, come and get me, Ripper!” Leap shouted. Enraged, Ripper bulldozed towards her. Spring attacked Ax, trying to let Sunset free Dagger.
“Dagger! You’re safe! We came here to rescue you,” Sunset reassured. Dagger smiled.
“Thank you. I don’t know if I’d be alive if it weren’t for you. Now let’s get out,” Dagger said. Sunset barked at Spring and Leap. They all ran to the exit. When they were through, Dagger kicked at three enormous boulders, which fell and covered the exit so that the Evil Pack couldn’t escape.
The four dogs entered the silent midnight forest. Relieved, Dagger froze and stared at his pack-mates.
“Thank you all so much! You saved my life! I owe you all,” Dagger thanked.
“Hey, it’s what litter-mates are for,” Spring replied. Leap nodded in agreement, letting her tongue loll.
But how did you find me? And how did you know I was, um, captured?” Dagger asked.
“We heard your howl. And we followed your sent-trail and paw-prints. But Alpha and Beta don’t know about any of this,” Sunset paused, “or anybody else.” Dagger’s anxiousness soon washed away. They ran back to the camp, figuring out everybody was asleep. Sunset and Dagger quietly padded to the patrol dogs’ den.
They laid with each other. Dagger wondered if he would ever be fully happy. Well, you won’t always get things your way. I’m lucky enough to have a good pack, even if I don’t always fit in. He sighed.
“What are you thinking about?” Sunset whispered.
“Well, it’s just that I sometimes feel different. I don’t always fit in because of my past. In fact, me and my litter-brother, Tank, don’t even talk to each other anymore! I don’t know, maybe I’ll just have to face the fact that I’ll have to struggle by myself,” Dagger sighed again. Sunset was quiet for a moment.
“No dog is ever, ever alone. No matter what happened before in the past, or what’ll happen in the future, the Great Spirit will help you. All the time,” she advised. “Don’t worry, trust me.”
“Well, it’s getting late. Thanks Sunset,” he kindly thanked.
“No problem,” she calmly turned her head and rested.
Dagger thought to himself about everything. It seems like I’m still alone. Even though the Great Spirit is watching over me. Is he? Dagger’s head lifted. Dogs say he is the sun and moon. Dagger squinted above a thin layer of cloud to where the moon lay. Full moon! Then, when I was gone, the pack must have howled. They should have.
All of a sudden, howls filled the night sky. Wolves. They always howled to the full moon during the darkest hour of midnight. Arrrrrrrrooooooooooo!!
Wait a minute, both Flash and Sunset have told me that nobody is alone.
‘No dog is ever alone. Even if the time is harsh, the Great Spirit will always be with you.’
‘No dog is ever, ever alone. No matter what happened before in the past, or what’ll happen in the future, the Great Spirit will help you. All the time.’
Wow! I guess they really are right! Dagger still thought he needed something else. I know! I need to find somebody else’s point of view. If they say yes, then it is completely true. But I better be patient.
And I still need to have faith.
Chapter Seven
“Alpha, I want to challenge somebody,” Sunset said.
“Already? Well, if you’re sure, then who do you want to challenge?” Alpha asked. Sunset looked around and locked her eyes on Holly.
“Oh, I know. Holly.”
Surprised, Dagger stared at his litter-sister. Holly was higher than him, since she was a hunter. She was licking her paws when Dagger saw her. I don’t know who’d win in that fight. I never actually thought about that. Dagger never challenged anybody because he was too timid.
“Holly, Sunset challenges you to a fight,” Alpha told her. She stepped backwards, looking both surprised and amused.
“If it’s a fight she wants, then it’s a fight she’ll get. I accept this challenge!” Holly barked. My litter-sister and Sunset fighting? Dagger and Comet were the first ones to arrive at the fight. Other dogs joined in, interested to see who’d win.
“Sunset challenges Holly, who accepts it. If Sunset wins, she will be in the place where Holly is right now. But if Holly wins, they’ll both remain where they are. Fighters, are you ready?” Alpha asked. They both nodded. “Ok, and … START!”
Holly snarled, pealing back her lips. She shot out at Sunset, knocking off her paws. Sunset stumbled back, who sprang on top of Holly. Holly grabbed Sunset’s tail and smacked her down. She tore off a small patch of Sunset’s fur. Sunset whined as Holly kept scratching her stomach. Sunset shoved her opponent and quickly got up. She came hurtling towards Holly, but she ducked. Sunset slammed herself on a huge tree trunk, and Holly pushed her against the tree even further. Sunset, by surprise, pushed Holly with her legs and took her down. Sunset viciously ripped off a chunk of Holly’s ear. Howling in pain, Holly heaved and tried to get up, but couldn’t. When she no longer could resist it, she whimpered loudly.
“Ouch!!!! I … I surrender!” Holly yelped. The crowd cheered for the winner, Sunset. Dagger felt kind of bad for his litter-sister, but was proud of Sunset.
“It looks like Sunset is the winner! So now she’s a hunter,” Beta announced.
“Good fight. And congrats, you’re a hunter now!” Holly joyfully barked.
“Thanks, Holly. You fought honorably too!” Sunset replied with a pleasureful smile. Dagger was glad they both got along very well, even though Holly lost. That’s how good fighters say.
“Spring, please show and explain to Sunset how to do things as a hunter,” Alpha ordered.
“Sure thing. Come on, Sunset, let’s go to the den and I’ll explain there,” Spring barked. Sunset took one last proud glance at Dagger, and then headed out with Spring.
“Ok, one last thing. We need something useful to protect ourselves from the Evil Pack. I hear they are on the move. So Tank and Amulet, you two are on Patrol duty. We need to be safe from them, so Ginger and Comet, you head out north and make sure nothing’s coming. And Flash and Dagger, head out south,” Alpha commanded.
“Oh, and Leap and Galaxy, you two go out for hunting. Find a lot of prey for the pack,” Beta ordered.
* * *
Everybody ran to where they were told to. Omega, who usually did a lot of work, just sat there. She wasn’t told to do anything directly, but she scrambled to the dens anyway. Dagger and Flash walked south as Alpha said so.
“If we keep walking straight, I’m pretty sure we’ll run over a cliff,” Flash said.
“I think that cliff you are talking about is south. We’re fine. Don’t worry,” Dagger replied. Flash glanced at the path ahead of them and finally nodded.
“So, Dagger, have you been having any more of those strange visions?” Flash asked.
“Yeah. But I don’t understand why I have them. I don’t even think anybody else has visions like me,” Dagger replied as he looked at the ground.
“I don’t know. Have you told anybody else about them?” Flash asked.
“Well, no. You are the only dog I told. I don’t really trust other dogs to even keep it a secret from Alpha and Beta!” he exclaimed.
“Oh. But very, very soon, they will find out. Eventually. I mean, I’m keeping it a secret, like you told me to, but somehow everybody will know. I can feel it.” Flash said.
“And I can too,” Dagger sighed. He didn’t want that to happen or they’ll think he’s still evil. But I’m not. They were so focused on the conversation, that they totally forgot about the cliff, which was actually south.
“Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!” They fell and stumbled! Miniature pebbles raced behind them.
“Oh no. That cliff was in our path after all! I’m sorry,” Dagger coughed. The dust from the rocks oozed out from cracks, making it difficult to see. They looked at each other when all the dust dissolved. Without even a plan, they both knew the one thing they had to do:
“Help! Anybody, help us!!!!!!” The two litter-brothers howled and howled until only their echoes were heard in the distance.
“It’s no use. We’re probably going to stay here for awhile,” Flash whined. Dagger didn’t want to believe it, but he was right. Flash sat against the hard-rock wall, ears drooping, while Dagger paced back and fourth, trying to think of a plan.
“I got it! Flash, do you think that wall is possible to climb?” Dagger asked. With his paws, Flash rubbed it to see if it would slip.
“Yup. It’ll be a bit challenging, but we can still climb it,” Flash, who’s tail began to wag, answered.
“Great! Then we’ll climb it, until we get to the top!”
Dagger leaped as high as he could, and held a grip on a small gap. Flash was right at his side. Carefully, they climbed up and were nearly there. Dagger’s claw held tight on a stump of rock, until it shattered into tiny pebbles. He stumbled and accidentally made Flash lose his grip, making both of them fall back to the ground.
“Unbelievable! We were almost there! I’m so sorry,” Dagger whined. He felt ashamed.
“It’s not your fault. It could’ve happened to me too,” Flash assured him. They looked above and saw cracks, larger than the old ones, form. Dagger tucked his tail between his legs, feeling guilty once again. “Let’s, um, call for help!” Flash instantly blurted out. With no other choice, Dagger agreed to this.
“Help! Help! We’re down here! Help!” they howled. When Dagger thought they’d be stuck there forever, they heard paw-steps coming.
“Hello? Anybody there?” With great smiles, the two litter-brothers looked at each other with glee.
“Amulet! We’re down here! We fell from the cliff!” Dagger shouted. She poked her head out.
“Guys! Do’n’t worry, I’ll get you two out of here! Hmmm…here! Grab my tail and I’ll pull you both out of there!” She barked. Her long tail appeared. Dagger grabbed Amulet’s tail, and Flash grabbed Dagger’s tail. With all her strength, she pulled both dogs and brought them to safety.
“Wow! You rescued us. Thanks so much, Amulet!” Flash exclaimed.
“Yeah, thank you! And by the way, Amulet, you have a strong tail,” Dagger laughed. They were all jubilant. The three dogs ran back to camp, figuring out that the pack was already eating. At that time, Tank was finishing up on a groundhog’s arm.
“There you guys are! We started eating since you never came. When Tank’s done, you can go ahead and eat,” Beta barked.
“Ok Beta. Thanks,” Amulet replied. Dagger didn’t notice how hungry he was, until it was his turn. He gobbled up a groundhog’s leg and a small chunk of rabbit.
“That was delicious!” Dagger said as he and Flash padded to a small comfy bush.
“That was some adventure, right!” Flash playfully barked. “Let’s try not to do that ever again. Agree?”
“Of course! Agree!” Dagger replied, remembering how awful it was to be stuck in there.
“I just hope nothing else crazy or strange happens to us. But if something does occur, we’ll face it as litter-brothers.”
Chapter Eight
“Can you tell us more about the tale of the Battle of the Dogs, Uncle Tank?” squeaked a small white-and-brown female pup. “Oh yes, the Battle of the Dogs. Your mother, Sunset, helped defeat the Evil Pack. But your father, Dagger, was the one who saved us all. If it weren’t for him, we wouldn’t all be here! He defeated Ripper, the villian,” Tank explained.
“Ooh!” the three puppies were all snuggled up.
“Is there ever going to be another Battle of the Dogs?” asked a small white-and-grey male pup, who was the only male of the litter.
“Nope. Or at least – not in a thousand years,” Tank answered. All three pups were fascinated by what Tank described to them.
“Are we going to be alive by then?” a small black female pup asked.
“Of course not, you silly little pup!” Tank playfully said. The three puppies began to play-fight and giggle. Tank smiled at them …
Dagger woke up with a shy grin on his face. That wasn’t a nightmare, but a dream. A fantastic dream where he and Sunset were mates, where he had three wonderful puppies, where he and Tank were good friends again, where the world lived in peace. Dagger wanted to make those wishes come true – and he would. With new hope in his heart, he jumped right up and padded towards the entrance of the den. He took a small glimpse at Tank.
Maybe we will be friends some day. Some day when the battle is over. Some day when all our dreams come true.
* * *
Dagger woke up Sunset, who was sleeping in the Hunters’ den.
“What? Why are we awake so early?” she asked all exhausted.
“I want to tell you something,” he whispered, “follow me.” Sunset got up and walked to a small patch of grass. “Ok, listen. I had a dream today. It was about how things were after the Battle of the Dogs. My litter-brother, Tank, and I were friends again and …” Dagger hesitated.
What would she say if I told her everything? Changing his mind, he looked back up at her. “… never mind. It’s not important. You can go back to sleep, Sunset.”
Looking confused, she licked him on the ear. “Ok. Good night, see you tomorrow,” Sunset whispered. “Good night,” Dagger replied. They walked to their separate dens.
Maybe I should have told her after all. But I already did what I did. Dagger still held on to that magnificent dream of his. Then he looked at Tank again. His left paw twitched, along with his tail. It has been over six years since they have talked to each other. Dagger still didn’t have the wits to speak to Tank.
Hopefully, after the battle, we’ll be friends.
Dagger padded to the entrance. I just need some fresh air. The night was fading into dawn as he trotted into the forest. “Yup, this was all I needed,” Dagger told himself.
“Yeah, it helped me too.” a strange voice said. Terrified, Dagger stumbled back, and out came a small grey dog. He was the same dog Dagger saw from the Evil Pack’s fighting grounds. Instantly, Dagger growled to mean warning.
“No, I didn’t mean to scare you. I’m here to warn you about something,” the grey dog whined. Dagger hesitated, still alarmed. He nodded.
“What’s your name?” he asked, still shaking.
“My name is Sword. I’m here to warn you that Ripper is coming for you. She wants to take over the world, and she’ll start by battling your pack. You better tell your pack before it’s too late,” Sword answered.
“But why did you come tell me? And how can I trust you?” Dagger asked.
“I told you because I didn’t want Ripper to rule the world, and,” Sword looked around, “I didn’t want to be in her pack anymore.”
“Why?” Dagger asked.
“Because she killed my litter-brother, Pistol, and she tried to hurt me,” Sword whimpered. Suddenly, Dagger felt sorry for him.
They heard paws coming their way. “Evil Dog!” Alpha, who leaped out of a shrub, snarled.
“Wait! Alpha, he’s here to help us,” Dagger protectively said. Alpha’s eye twitched. He nodded, still snarling.
“Ripper is going to attack your pack. I’m warning you because she killed my litter-brother. So I’m against her,” Sword replied.
“Very well. If you are ‘against her,’ then you will fight with us in the Battle of the Dogs,” Alpha ordered sharply. With one look at his bloody paw, which Ripper did, Sword nodded. “But I’m still keeping an eye on you.” They walked back to the camp.
“Hey, I have a question, Sword. Does the Great Spirit protect every dog?” Dagger asked.
“Yeah. Even for … Evil Dogs. No dog is alone in this world,” Sword answered. Surprised, Dagger finally knew that the Great Spirit would protect them in the battle. Flash, Sunset, and Sword all told him the same thing. Now I believe.
“Pack, here me!” Alpha barked. “Ripper will be attacking us very soon. So we have to be ready. We have to leave now and meet her and her pack in the middle of the forest. Come on, let’s -”
“Oh, no need for that,” Ripper snarled. The entire Evil Pack was growling behind her.
“Ripper. What are you doing here?” Alpha growled.
“Oh, I’m just here to – ATTACK!!” Ripper demanded. Suddenly, her whole pack came bulldozing towards Dagger and his pack.
“Attack!” Alpha howled. Dagger bolted his way to a black-and-brown dog.
The dog tore off a small piece of Dagger’s ear and threw him towards the same cliff he and Flash fell into. Dagger’s claws held onto the edge. The dog laughed darkly and stepped forward.
Dagger searched all over the place for a dog’s help. There was only the lifeless body of Omega, and … Tank.
“Tank! Please, help me!!” Dagger, for the first time in a ton of years, howled to Tank.
He hesitated but soon ran to Dagger’s aid. “Get off my litter-brother!” Tank growled. He bit the dog’s throat, until it was dead, and then ran to Dagger. Tank grabbed Dagger’s scruff and tugged him up.
Dagger gasped, and smiled at his litter-brother for the first time since puppy-hood. “Thank you Tank. You saved my life!” Dagger licked him with gratitude.
“Hey, it was about time I did something, Dagger. Friends?”
“Friends!” Dagger joyfully barked. They both wagged their tails, until they realized something terribly awful happened. Ripper and Ax killed Dagger, Tank, Holly, Spring, Flash, and Leap’s father and mother!
“NOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” all the litter-mates howled with pure misery and sadness. Dagger charged straight at Ripper, rage taking over him. He viciously tore open her throat, until Ripper was finally dead. He turned around and ferociously snarled at the Evil Pack.
“Dagger has defeated Ripper! Retreat!” Ax howled as that pack ran far away from the camp. When they were out of sight, the pack cheered.
“Dagger, you saved us all!”
“You truly are a hero!”
“Thank you so, so, so much!!”
Galaxy and Tank both stepped forward. “Since both Alpha and Beta have sadly died …” Tank began.
“We think you, Dagger, should be our new Alpha!” Galaxy finished. Then, everybody started to cheer in agreement.
“Dagger as Alpha! Dagger as Alpha! Dagger as Alpha!”
Dagger stood. “If you all agree, then … I will be Alpha!” he proudly and thankfully declared. “And the new Beta of the pack, my Beta, will be Sunset!” With a humongous smile, Sunset gave a long howl of joy. Everybody cheered for their new Alpha and Beta.
All my dreams are coming true! We defeated Ripper, me and Tank are friends, dogs like Galaxy respect me now, and Sunset and I are together! The Great Spirit really did protect us!
This was a brand new start.
