Post by SilverSergyon13 on Jun 5, 2005 22:42:18 GMT -5
<This is a story I had to write for cretive writing class. Came out pretty good, but I wish I had more time to work on it.>
Daerus slowly circled the battlefield, planning and observing for the battle to come, making sure he took in every little detail. As he walked, his golden fur glistened in the weak sunlight and his muscles rippled gently under the taught, smooth skin. His large mane encircling his graceful head stirred as a breeze swept through the fields.
The landscape seemed peaceful enough, or at least as peaceful as it could be, considering the haze and fog put into the atmosphere by the human factories. So much had happened in the past century. Much of the Earth had been industrialized, or “futurized” as the humans like to call it. Technology had been their demise, whether or not they wanted to believe it. Unfortunately, they took down many other species with them as they fell, and still they fall; continually going deeper and deeper and the years pass by. Daerus knew it would not stop until they took down the whole world, but he and his colony were determined to stop this massacre of the planet, even if it meant killing all the humans.
Daerus was a lion. He was the commander of the Dark-Winged Squadron and part of the last surviving bands of lions left on Earth.
When the humans seized and industrialized the animal kingdom’s habitat years ago, many of the weaker animals of various species died. Some entire species were even wiped out. After years of all the weaker animals perishing, only the stronger and smarter beings were left to breed and so surviving species became stronger and smarter until they were finally able to fight back. They had been forced to evolve at the humans’ expense and it would cost them dearly, for most of the surviving species formed an army. It was beyond any humans’ imagination.
With the rate that the world had been industrialized, most of the natural resources had been used up. Bullets were no longer able to be manufactured, making guns irrelevant. There was no oil left to be turned into gas and so cars and other vehicles became obsolete. Humans had no other choice but to revert back to the ancient ways of fighting; hand to hand combat.
“Sir?”
Daerus snapped out of thought and turned his head to look over at the owner of this voice. It was one of his scouts.
“Yes?”
“Sir, the rest of the squadron is waiting for your orders.” The scout gulped as if he was a bit intimidated by the presence of his massive commander. “Did you want us to set up here?”
The commander focused his eyes on this creature for a moment before answering. The scout was a scraggly lean being, a wolf to be precise. Wolves were known to be quick thinking and sly, often serving as excellent spies. This scout was no exception. They weren’t much of fighters, but they were important none the less.
“Yes, tell them to prepare. It won’t be long now.”
With the orders given, Daerus turned his head back to the fields as the wolf scout scampered back to the main squadron. The wind had now picked up a bit and the sky turned from bleary grey to that threatening shade of blue. The brown grass, or at least what was left of the brown grass, rustled as it blew in the increasing wind. A storm was on its way.
* * *
The commander had made his way back to the camp. The whole sight was pretty impressive. Lions, tigers, and bears, along with many other types of large warrior animals practiced their last minute training. Wolves ran half-mindedly around the camp delivering orders and the air brigade, composed of falcons, hawks, and eagles were performing complicated battles moves in the air above. Everything seemed set and Daerus just hoped it would all be enough. The humans continually came up with new plans and he didn’t know how long the Animal Kingdom could keep up.
“Lucan,” Daerus called to the second in command as he passed by. He was a small black panther, nothing much to be feared on first sight, but he had a brain to match any strength. “How much time do we have?”
“I was just on my way to meet the scout who was out gathering information,” Lucan said as he bowed to the commander. The metals strapped across his chest jangled when he rose. “Would you care to join me?”
“Good.” Daerus nodded and Lucan turned to lead him to the source of information.
“Is everything prepared?” Lucan asked as they walked side by side.
“From what I can see,” Daerus replied “everything seems to be going perfectly. I just hope this battle will end just as well as it is starting out.”
“Never overestimate your army, sir.” The other Commander advised and Daerus nodded his head in agreement. “I too hope everything goes well, but there is always the chance…” He hesitated.
“A chance of what?” Daerus asked curiously.
“The chance that we will not win this war.” Lucan lowered his head and looked down at the ground.
“Lucan, are you doubting the squadron?” The Lion asked in amazement. He never expected this type of remark from any of his warriors, especially since they had been winning most of the battles. He especially did not expect it from his second in command.
“No,” He lifted his head to look at Daerus. “I’m just stating what could happen. I’d rather us be prepared to lose than have a loss completely devastate the Squadron…and the rest of the Animal Kingdom for that matter.”
Nothing more was said until they met up with the slender brown scout; another wolf. He had been waiting for them in a secluded area, where they could speak in private. The area was guarded by two tigers, whose bright orange coats stood out like a bright light in the middle of night. Both bowed as the two commanders passed.
The wolf stood still in the center of the clearing. He did not move as the two Lucan approached. He only watched.
“What is your name?” Lucan questioned
“Alpin, sir.” He retorted. “I have the information you asked for.”
“What do you have to report?” asked Lucan.
“Humans, they are on their way.” As Alpin said “humans”, he made a snuffling grunt noise. He clearly disapproved of the human race, as did most of the other animals.
“How far?” Asked Daerus. “How long ‘till they reach us?”
“It won’t be long now. You should prepare the troops for battle.” Ordered the wolf. He seemed to have no regard for authority, as he had just given the commander, but neither the lion nor the panther noticed. They were too engrossed in the information that had just been given.
“Are you sure?” inquired Daerus. Daerus had known the humans were coming, but despite that fact he was still taken aback. The battle would begin soon. Are we ready? He asked himself. As with every other battle, he worried until it was over. Yes, he had confidence, but confidence cannot always counter fear.
“Thank you, scout. You may return to your post.” Ordered Lucan as he turned around to face Daerus. Just as he was about to open his mouth to speak, a shrill hawk cry rang out.
Daerus knew exactly what it meant; the humans were already there.
“They’re here!” He shouted. “Lucan get to your position and have the squadron form ranks! Go!”
Lucan took off towards the camp without a word. He knew what needed to be done. Daerus ran after him a moment later. He had to find out what the humans were armed with. He made his way towards the air brigade lieutenant. They would be able to scope the Human army from a distance.
“Asteroth!” Daerus yelled to a large golden eagle flying above.
“Commander Daerus! They are here earlier than expected. I was just about to prepare my troops.” Replied the large bird from the air.
“Asteroth, I need you to send an owl to scope the humans. Find out what weapons are being carried and how many there are”
“It’s already been done, sir.” Stated the eagle. “Looks to be a small army carrying a few guns, minimal supply of bows and arrows, and hand to hand combat weapons.”
“Good job, lieutenant.” Commended Daerus. “Stay low and wait for orders.”
In the distance, Daerus could now hear the humans’ shouting. Their footsteps could be heard moving closer and closer. Above that he could hear Lucan shouting orders to the ranks. Without another thought, Daerus hurried to the front of the battle lines next to Lucan. As he turned to face the Dark-Winged Squadron, a shiver ran down his back. It was a shiver of shrill amazement at what stood before him. All animals of different species who had come together and fought for one sole cause: to free the earth from the harmful restraints of human control.
Every single face was looking at him. This squadron had a lot of respect for their commander and they trusted him with their lives. His order was their command. They listened to every word told to them. Daerus wondered how much of that could be said for the humans.
“Dark-Winged Squadron!” Daerus said, addressing the army. “We yet again find ourselves at the frontline of this War. It’s been a long time, and I know we are all tired of the fighting. But we fight for a cause! A cause that will set peace to the Earth! You remember the stories of the old days, the days of lush green meadows and a warm yellow sun? This is what we fight for! A new day! A day when animals will rule!”
These last words were followed by a cheer of roars, growls, and cries. They were ready for the battle, as were the humans. Daerus could now see them approaching. They were so close he could smell them, but he would wait until they were closer. Then the order would be given.
“Wait for the order, warriors!” Shouted Lucan to the waiting ranks. He showed no sign of fear on his Cat-eyed panther face, but Daerus could sense he was apprehensive about the future. They all were. This battle could be the telling factor as to whether or not the Animal Kingdom has won or lost the war.
While all this had been going on, the sky had continually darkened. Before either side made the first move, a torrent of rain poured down from the sky, drowning out most of the sound. A gun shot could be heard in the distance and Daerus knew the humans had been given the signal to attack. The rain only allowed him to see a few feet in front of his face and no matter how hard he tried, he could not see where the opposing army was. In a rush, he rose up on his back legs and roared as loud as he could, praying that the Squadron would recognize that as the signal. It was a few moments before he felt a rush of bodies run past him. Everything was in such just such a jumbled mass of confusion to him. He only hoped his troops were better off than he was.
After sitting idly for a moment, he came to the full realization of what was going on. His hind legs kick started into motion as he ran towards the rear of the squadron to see if he could get a better view. The only noise that could be heard was the dull thud of bodies falling.
Where was Lucan? He thought to himself as he silently cursed the weather. It was all so unexpected; the arrival of the humans and this massive storm. How could they have miscalculated so much?
A lightly armed human ran up behind Daerus waving his spiked weapon in the air. Just as the human attempted to swing the weapon at Daerus, he swiped a huge claw and knocked the human to the ground with a powerful thud. Quickly the human tried to scamper away, but Daerus had him pinned before he even realized what was happening. The weight of the lion pushed the human’s weak body deeper and deeper in the mud. With every flash of lightning, Daerus could see he was trying to say something, but humans an animals never were very good at communicating with each other. Another swipe with the paw and the human was gone.
The rain was still just as heavy as it had been. The only thing that illuminated the gruesome battle field was the inconsistent flashes of lighting. The only sound that could be heard was the roar of angry thunder.
Another human tried to attack Daerus, but a tiger took him out before he reached the commander. Finally he was able to make it to the top of the small hill overlooking the battlefield. His range of vision was a bit better, but he could still see little due to the rain. He was about to return back to the battle when a young red tail hawk flew over head.
“Arrows!” shouted the hawk as he struggled to fly with wet feathers. “Take cover!”
Daerus quickly found a large tree to hide behind. He tried to take cover, but before gaining his bearings, he heard an anguished roar from somewhere nearby. As he spun around to look, an arrow struck him in the shoulder. A jolt of pain ripped through his body, but he needed to help the owner of the cry. He looked around and around, but could not see anything through the god-forsaken rain. Just as he was about to go back behind the tree trunk, a flash of lightning lit up the scene. There lying five feet in front of Daerus was the body of Lucan, surrounded by a puddle of blood which was now washing down the hill.
No. No. He thought as he shook his head. Lucan was the brains behind all their operations. Without him they were...they were lost.
The rain was slightly calming down now, just enough for Daerus to see the humans surrounding him. They came closer and he knew he would not be able to hold them off all by himself…but he would try till death.
The next thing he knew he was surrounded by darkness, falling downward faster and faster. He feared hitting the ground, though he knew not where he was. With a jolt he was abruptly awakened.
Am I dead? he wondered as his vision cleared. There was no longer any rain, just a distant rumbling of thunder, the remnant of a bloody battle.
Lifting up, he saw a circle of beings surrounding him, Humans? Was his first thought, but as he regained consciousness he realized the eyes were the golden ones of his warriors, not the scared, colored eyes of his enemy.
“Did we win?” he asked anxiously. He could think of no other question at the moment.
“We won,” answered the nearest feline, a smile growing upon his cat head. As Daerus looked around he saw a mixture of happiness and anguish. Daerus just couldn’t understand. They had won. Everyone should be happy.
Then he remembered. “Lucan!” he cried out. His muddy furred body rose from the ground as he rushed to the spot where he last saw Lucan laying. Lucan was dead.
In silence, Daerus walked through the crowd of warriors to the spot overlooking the battlefield. No longer could the brown grass be seen. In it place were dead bodies and bloody puddles. They had won, but not by very much. So much had been lost and for what? What good was freedom and happiness when there was no one left to live it? All these soldiers fought and for what? Death….Death was all they had achieved.
Daerus’s visions of green grassy fields and sunny skies had been washed away with the rain. He could not fight any longer. He could not lead his troops into death and destruction for nothing.
Just as all hope seemed to be lost, Daerus looked up to the sky. Then and just at that moment, a ray of sunshine shone down through the clouds of polluted haze. Never had Daerus seen such a thing. He had only heard about the yellow in childhood stories…He had only seen it in wishful visions. However, that ray of golden sunshine now shone down over the battlefield, illuminating every Animal body, yet leaving the humans in shadow. It was an amazing sight, one very unbelievable, but it gave Daerus a shimmer of hope. Perhaps not everything had been lost. Perhaps one day they would see the light of day as it was meant to be seen.
Filled with a new spirit, Daerus stood tall with his head towards the sky. Hope…hope had returned.
Daerus slowly circled the battlefield, planning and observing for the battle to come, making sure he took in every little detail. As he walked, his golden fur glistened in the weak sunlight and his muscles rippled gently under the taught, smooth skin. His large mane encircling his graceful head stirred as a breeze swept through the fields.
The landscape seemed peaceful enough, or at least as peaceful as it could be, considering the haze and fog put into the atmosphere by the human factories. So much had happened in the past century. Much of the Earth had been industrialized, or “futurized” as the humans like to call it. Technology had been their demise, whether or not they wanted to believe it. Unfortunately, they took down many other species with them as they fell, and still they fall; continually going deeper and deeper and the years pass by. Daerus knew it would not stop until they took down the whole world, but he and his colony were determined to stop this massacre of the planet, even if it meant killing all the humans.
Daerus was a lion. He was the commander of the Dark-Winged Squadron and part of the last surviving bands of lions left on Earth.
When the humans seized and industrialized the animal kingdom’s habitat years ago, many of the weaker animals of various species died. Some entire species were even wiped out. After years of all the weaker animals perishing, only the stronger and smarter beings were left to breed and so surviving species became stronger and smarter until they were finally able to fight back. They had been forced to evolve at the humans’ expense and it would cost them dearly, for most of the surviving species formed an army. It was beyond any humans’ imagination.
With the rate that the world had been industrialized, most of the natural resources had been used up. Bullets were no longer able to be manufactured, making guns irrelevant. There was no oil left to be turned into gas and so cars and other vehicles became obsolete. Humans had no other choice but to revert back to the ancient ways of fighting; hand to hand combat.
“Sir?”
Daerus snapped out of thought and turned his head to look over at the owner of this voice. It was one of his scouts.
“Yes?”
“Sir, the rest of the squadron is waiting for your orders.” The scout gulped as if he was a bit intimidated by the presence of his massive commander. “Did you want us to set up here?”
The commander focused his eyes on this creature for a moment before answering. The scout was a scraggly lean being, a wolf to be precise. Wolves were known to be quick thinking and sly, often serving as excellent spies. This scout was no exception. They weren’t much of fighters, but they were important none the less.
“Yes, tell them to prepare. It won’t be long now.”
With the orders given, Daerus turned his head back to the fields as the wolf scout scampered back to the main squadron. The wind had now picked up a bit and the sky turned from bleary grey to that threatening shade of blue. The brown grass, or at least what was left of the brown grass, rustled as it blew in the increasing wind. A storm was on its way.
* * *
The commander had made his way back to the camp. The whole sight was pretty impressive. Lions, tigers, and bears, along with many other types of large warrior animals practiced their last minute training. Wolves ran half-mindedly around the camp delivering orders and the air brigade, composed of falcons, hawks, and eagles were performing complicated battles moves in the air above. Everything seemed set and Daerus just hoped it would all be enough. The humans continually came up with new plans and he didn’t know how long the Animal Kingdom could keep up.
“Lucan,” Daerus called to the second in command as he passed by. He was a small black panther, nothing much to be feared on first sight, but he had a brain to match any strength. “How much time do we have?”
“I was just on my way to meet the scout who was out gathering information,” Lucan said as he bowed to the commander. The metals strapped across his chest jangled when he rose. “Would you care to join me?”
“Good.” Daerus nodded and Lucan turned to lead him to the source of information.
“Is everything prepared?” Lucan asked as they walked side by side.
“From what I can see,” Daerus replied “everything seems to be going perfectly. I just hope this battle will end just as well as it is starting out.”
“Never overestimate your army, sir.” The other Commander advised and Daerus nodded his head in agreement. “I too hope everything goes well, but there is always the chance…” He hesitated.
“A chance of what?” Daerus asked curiously.
“The chance that we will not win this war.” Lucan lowered his head and looked down at the ground.
“Lucan, are you doubting the squadron?” The Lion asked in amazement. He never expected this type of remark from any of his warriors, especially since they had been winning most of the battles. He especially did not expect it from his second in command.
“No,” He lifted his head to look at Daerus. “I’m just stating what could happen. I’d rather us be prepared to lose than have a loss completely devastate the Squadron…and the rest of the Animal Kingdom for that matter.”
Nothing more was said until they met up with the slender brown scout; another wolf. He had been waiting for them in a secluded area, where they could speak in private. The area was guarded by two tigers, whose bright orange coats stood out like a bright light in the middle of night. Both bowed as the two commanders passed.
The wolf stood still in the center of the clearing. He did not move as the two Lucan approached. He only watched.
“What is your name?” Lucan questioned
“Alpin, sir.” He retorted. “I have the information you asked for.”
“What do you have to report?” asked Lucan.
“Humans, they are on their way.” As Alpin said “humans”, he made a snuffling grunt noise. He clearly disapproved of the human race, as did most of the other animals.
“How far?” Asked Daerus. “How long ‘till they reach us?”
“It won’t be long now. You should prepare the troops for battle.” Ordered the wolf. He seemed to have no regard for authority, as he had just given the commander, but neither the lion nor the panther noticed. They were too engrossed in the information that had just been given.
“Are you sure?” inquired Daerus. Daerus had known the humans were coming, but despite that fact he was still taken aback. The battle would begin soon. Are we ready? He asked himself. As with every other battle, he worried until it was over. Yes, he had confidence, but confidence cannot always counter fear.
“Thank you, scout. You may return to your post.” Ordered Lucan as he turned around to face Daerus. Just as he was about to open his mouth to speak, a shrill hawk cry rang out.
Daerus knew exactly what it meant; the humans were already there.
“They’re here!” He shouted. “Lucan get to your position and have the squadron form ranks! Go!”
Lucan took off towards the camp without a word. He knew what needed to be done. Daerus ran after him a moment later. He had to find out what the humans were armed with. He made his way towards the air brigade lieutenant. They would be able to scope the Human army from a distance.
“Asteroth!” Daerus yelled to a large golden eagle flying above.
“Commander Daerus! They are here earlier than expected. I was just about to prepare my troops.” Replied the large bird from the air.
“Asteroth, I need you to send an owl to scope the humans. Find out what weapons are being carried and how many there are”
“It’s already been done, sir.” Stated the eagle. “Looks to be a small army carrying a few guns, minimal supply of bows and arrows, and hand to hand combat weapons.”
“Good job, lieutenant.” Commended Daerus. “Stay low and wait for orders.”
In the distance, Daerus could now hear the humans’ shouting. Their footsteps could be heard moving closer and closer. Above that he could hear Lucan shouting orders to the ranks. Without another thought, Daerus hurried to the front of the battle lines next to Lucan. As he turned to face the Dark-Winged Squadron, a shiver ran down his back. It was a shiver of shrill amazement at what stood before him. All animals of different species who had come together and fought for one sole cause: to free the earth from the harmful restraints of human control.
Every single face was looking at him. This squadron had a lot of respect for their commander and they trusted him with their lives. His order was their command. They listened to every word told to them. Daerus wondered how much of that could be said for the humans.
“Dark-Winged Squadron!” Daerus said, addressing the army. “We yet again find ourselves at the frontline of this War. It’s been a long time, and I know we are all tired of the fighting. But we fight for a cause! A cause that will set peace to the Earth! You remember the stories of the old days, the days of lush green meadows and a warm yellow sun? This is what we fight for! A new day! A day when animals will rule!”
These last words were followed by a cheer of roars, growls, and cries. They were ready for the battle, as were the humans. Daerus could now see them approaching. They were so close he could smell them, but he would wait until they were closer. Then the order would be given.
“Wait for the order, warriors!” Shouted Lucan to the waiting ranks. He showed no sign of fear on his Cat-eyed panther face, but Daerus could sense he was apprehensive about the future. They all were. This battle could be the telling factor as to whether or not the Animal Kingdom has won or lost the war.
While all this had been going on, the sky had continually darkened. Before either side made the first move, a torrent of rain poured down from the sky, drowning out most of the sound. A gun shot could be heard in the distance and Daerus knew the humans had been given the signal to attack. The rain only allowed him to see a few feet in front of his face and no matter how hard he tried, he could not see where the opposing army was. In a rush, he rose up on his back legs and roared as loud as he could, praying that the Squadron would recognize that as the signal. It was a few moments before he felt a rush of bodies run past him. Everything was in such just such a jumbled mass of confusion to him. He only hoped his troops were better off than he was.
After sitting idly for a moment, he came to the full realization of what was going on. His hind legs kick started into motion as he ran towards the rear of the squadron to see if he could get a better view. The only noise that could be heard was the dull thud of bodies falling.
Where was Lucan? He thought to himself as he silently cursed the weather. It was all so unexpected; the arrival of the humans and this massive storm. How could they have miscalculated so much?
A lightly armed human ran up behind Daerus waving his spiked weapon in the air. Just as the human attempted to swing the weapon at Daerus, he swiped a huge claw and knocked the human to the ground with a powerful thud. Quickly the human tried to scamper away, but Daerus had him pinned before he even realized what was happening. The weight of the lion pushed the human’s weak body deeper and deeper in the mud. With every flash of lightning, Daerus could see he was trying to say something, but humans an animals never were very good at communicating with each other. Another swipe with the paw and the human was gone.
The rain was still just as heavy as it had been. The only thing that illuminated the gruesome battle field was the inconsistent flashes of lighting. The only sound that could be heard was the roar of angry thunder.
Another human tried to attack Daerus, but a tiger took him out before he reached the commander. Finally he was able to make it to the top of the small hill overlooking the battlefield. His range of vision was a bit better, but he could still see little due to the rain. He was about to return back to the battle when a young red tail hawk flew over head.
“Arrows!” shouted the hawk as he struggled to fly with wet feathers. “Take cover!”
Daerus quickly found a large tree to hide behind. He tried to take cover, but before gaining his bearings, he heard an anguished roar from somewhere nearby. As he spun around to look, an arrow struck him in the shoulder. A jolt of pain ripped through his body, but he needed to help the owner of the cry. He looked around and around, but could not see anything through the god-forsaken rain. Just as he was about to go back behind the tree trunk, a flash of lightning lit up the scene. There lying five feet in front of Daerus was the body of Lucan, surrounded by a puddle of blood which was now washing down the hill.
No. No. He thought as he shook his head. Lucan was the brains behind all their operations. Without him they were...they were lost.
The rain was slightly calming down now, just enough for Daerus to see the humans surrounding him. They came closer and he knew he would not be able to hold them off all by himself…but he would try till death.
The next thing he knew he was surrounded by darkness, falling downward faster and faster. He feared hitting the ground, though he knew not where he was. With a jolt he was abruptly awakened.
Am I dead? he wondered as his vision cleared. There was no longer any rain, just a distant rumbling of thunder, the remnant of a bloody battle.
Lifting up, he saw a circle of beings surrounding him, Humans? Was his first thought, but as he regained consciousness he realized the eyes were the golden ones of his warriors, not the scared, colored eyes of his enemy.
“Did we win?” he asked anxiously. He could think of no other question at the moment.
“We won,” answered the nearest feline, a smile growing upon his cat head. As Daerus looked around he saw a mixture of happiness and anguish. Daerus just couldn’t understand. They had won. Everyone should be happy.
Then he remembered. “Lucan!” he cried out. His muddy furred body rose from the ground as he rushed to the spot where he last saw Lucan laying. Lucan was dead.
In silence, Daerus walked through the crowd of warriors to the spot overlooking the battlefield. No longer could the brown grass be seen. In it place were dead bodies and bloody puddles. They had won, but not by very much. So much had been lost and for what? What good was freedom and happiness when there was no one left to live it? All these soldiers fought and for what? Death….Death was all they had achieved.
Daerus’s visions of green grassy fields and sunny skies had been washed away with the rain. He could not fight any longer. He could not lead his troops into death and destruction for nothing.
Just as all hope seemed to be lost, Daerus looked up to the sky. Then and just at that moment, a ray of sunshine shone down through the clouds of polluted haze. Never had Daerus seen such a thing. He had only heard about the yellow in childhood stories…He had only seen it in wishful visions. However, that ray of golden sunshine now shone down over the battlefield, illuminating every Animal body, yet leaving the humans in shadow. It was an amazing sight, one very unbelievable, but it gave Daerus a shimmer of hope. Perhaps not everything had been lost. Perhaps one day they would see the light of day as it was meant to be seen.
Filled with a new spirit, Daerus stood tall with his head towards the sky. Hope…hope had returned.