Animal Attack 1

7/29/2019 Animal Attack 1

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1.

Alex Lanner looked through the large front gate to the building beyond and

sighed. Today would be her first day in the new school Aunt Rain hadrecommended for her and she was determined not to screw up.

She hoped Aunt Rain had told them what type of person she really was. So

they dont call the FBI like the other school did.

She walked inside and navigated her way to the principals office. She

knocked on the door and heard a friendly Come in. in return.

There were three people inside. One of them was sitting behind a desk andwhen she entered, he stood up and strode over to her. He had short gray hair

and kind blue eyes. He smiled and said,

Welcome Alex. Your Aunt has told us all about you. Come, Im Rex Anlet,

but you can call me Mr. Anlet. Let me introduce you to your homeroom

teacher.

Mr. Anlet guided Alex to the chair nearest the desk and indicated a young man

with short brown hair, big brown eyes and a friendly face.

This is Mr. Laxis Ragret, your homeroom teacher. And this, He pointed to a

woman of about the same age. She looked almost identical to Mr. Ragret. Is

Mrs. Lexie Ragret, the nurse. She will take care of you when you are sick or

injured.

Alex shook their hands and said politely,

Nice to meet you.

Alex had the feeling that this was going to be a good school for her. Mr. Anlet

had said that her Aunt had told them all about her and they didnt seem to

reject her, but one thing still bothered her. She frowned and asked,

Mr. Anlet, does anyone else have the kind of abilities Ihave?

Mr. Anlet chuckled.


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My dear, every single student in this school has some kind of ability. Whether

its mental or physical. I assure you; no one will laugh and or be afraid of

you. In fact,he said with a wink. I think they will take to you as soon as you

walk into that classroom.

Alex smiled and sighed. Then something caught her eye. Mr. Anlets pen was

moving on a piece of paper, signing its signature. She stared at it. Mr. Anlet

noticed this and chuckled.

Now,he said. Mr. Ragret will show you to class. I wish you luck on your

first day.And remember, he looked seriously at her Defend yourself. Every

day you spend here is a risk.

While they were walking to the classroom, Alex was acutely aware of the

bulges on the top of her hat and the large bulge in the back of her coat. Her

heart was pounding. She thought her heart would beat out of her chest at any

moment.

She was a very attractive girl by regular standards. She had shoulder length

pail blond hair and the most beautiful lavender eyes you have ever seen. Shewas flat and round in all of the right places, not too little, not too much and

her skin was almost as pail as her hair.

This was her last chance to be in a public school and Alex was determined

NOT to mess it up, but wow, she was too nervous even to think.

They stopped outside a door, but before Mr. Ragret opened it, he told her to

stay outside until he called her. He shot her a grin and entered. Alex could

hear a loud cheering from inside as he entered. Three minutes went by untilshe heard a faint Come on in. from Mr. Ragret.

This is it, Alex. She thought. Stay calm. You can do it.

She took a deep breath and opened the door.

The classroom was full of extraordinary people. She now understood what Mr.

Anlet had meant when he said that everyone here had some sort of ability.

Some had weird things attached to them, some had things floating around


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them, and some had nothing at all. She suspected that they must be the ones

with mental abilities.

A whisper broke out as she walked up to where Mr. Ragret was. The boys and

girls were pointing at the bulges in her clothes and looking at her with curiouseyes.

OK class, said Mr. Ragret. Quiet down and let her introduce herself. If you

have any questions, wait until she is done.

To Alex he said, Tell them your name, age, and your ability. Then you can

answer any questions they may have if you want. Go ahead.

Alex looked at the various boys and girls of different ages and smilednervously.

Im Alex Lanner. Im sixteen years old, she took off her coat and hat and

turned sideways as to show her tail. and Im half wolf.She twitched her

tail.

Her tail was bushy, two feet long and came out of a hole made in her shorts.

Along with her ears, it was white.

Many gasps and shouts of excitement went up into the air as the class saw

her features. Almost everyone raised his or her hand.

Alex stared at them in surprise and then smiled. She pointed to the first one

she saw.

A girl with large, round glasses asked,

What kind of powers do you have?Alex answered with a very broad smile. No one had ever asked her that

before.

Well, I have all of the senses of a wolf, smell, hearing, sight, and any kind of

reflexes a wolf would have. For example, She sniffed experimentally. You

had bacon and eggs for breakfast and not 10 minutes ago you ate a She

sniffed again. A chocolate muffin. Am I right? And I also have the teeth and

claws of a wolf but they never show up unless I feel threatened or in a fight.


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The girl looked at her and nodded with a smile on her face.

Apparently, the question the girl asked was on almost everyones mind and at

least half of the people put their hands down. The next question came from a

boy with long brown hair and piercings.

Can you transform into a wolf?

Alex frowned at this one but she answered just the same.

I dont really know. Ive never tried.

The next one wasnt a question at all. Another boy like the first one except

with shorter hair and pointed ears asked if she could demonstrate a wolfs

reflexes.

There isn t really enough space here. Maybe next break I could do it

outside.

A pretty girl with pink hair and blue eyes asked,

Your eyes are beautiful, is that their real color?

Alex was flattered. Never before had anyone complemented her eyes. Sheblushed and answered somewhat shyly.

Yes. My mother had the same color, and sometimes if I looked really close, I

could see flecks of gray, like my father.

Another girls hand flew in the air. Alex picked her.

Can I pet you?

The question took Alex by surprise. She stood there for a moment, staring atthe girl. When the girl tried to apologies, Alex quickly said it was all right and

walked over to the girl.

After a few minutes of letting the girl and a couple other people scratch her

ears and stroke her tail she walked back to the spot where she had introduced

herself.

To Alexs surprise, a boy in the back stood up. He had jet-black hair withblack ears just like hers on top of his head and a black tail coming out from


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jeans. He was very handsome. He was tall and lean with the kind of face to

knock girls off their feet, dark eyes, high cheekbones, and a strong chin. He

looked straight into her eyes when he asked,

Whats your symbol?

Alex frowned again. How did he know? Did he have one too? He was like her,

so why not. Still frowning, she asked,

Why do you want to know?

He shrugged. Just curious.

She stared at him for a moment and then lifted up her shirt to revile a black

circle around her navel with a spiral heading upwards and a spiral going down

with a dot on either side of the circle. After a few seconds, she let her shirt

fall.

Mr. Ragret cleared his throat. Any more questions? No? OK. Alex, your seat

will be right there next to Cassie. He pointed next to the girl with pink hair.

She smiled and beckoned Alex over. Alex thanked Mr. Ragret and went over

so sit down. She was careful to move her tail out of the way as to not sit on it

and waited, ready for class.

The bell rang, signaling lunch. Alex sniffed her bag cautiously and smiled.

Aunt Rain had packed her favorite thing for her first day, a beef sandwich.

Half the class left to eat in the cafeteria but Alex stayed in her seat to eat.

Three girls came to join her; the girl with pink hair, the girl with the large

glasses and a girl with small black wings on each temple. They said hello andintroduced themselves.

The girl with pink hair was Cassie Clarington. Her ability was to change her

appearance anytime and anywhere she wanted to.

The girl with glasses was Grace Lignin. Her ability was to memorize every

single word she ever read or heard.

The girl with the small black wings on her head was Alice Nivel. Her ability

was being able to fly and spit fire.


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Alex smiled and asked them if they would like to eat lunch with her. They

accepted and sat down to join her. They conversed a while about the school

and what they liked about it and then they explained that there were four

social groups in school. The cool, the smart, the funny and the nerd.

Alice was in the cool, Grace was in the smart, and Cassie was in the funny.

Alice looked Alex up and down and said after a moments concentration said,

Youll absolutely be accepted in the cool group.

Cassie smiled. No questions there.

Right after the girls had finished their lunch, put away their things, the boy

with the pointed ears came over. He introduced himself as Toby Jalinel who

was half elf.

I was wondering if you could show me some of those reflexes you talked

about.

Alex smiled. Toby was one of those people with those kinds of eyes that can

persuade you to do anything, but she was sure Toby wasnt the type of

person that would take advantage of that ability.

Sure, Id love to. Do you know a place where I can do my tricks freely?

Toby grinned. The field ought to be okay. Ill show you.

Wait just a stinking second!! interjected Alice. Alex isnt going anywhere

without us from now on. Besides, I have to see this.

Alex grinned and the four of them were led by Toby to the track field. They

sat on the nearest bench and waited.

While Alex warmed up, she could hear them whispering and wondering about

what she was going to do. By the time she was ready; many onlookers had

joined her friends and were waiting anxiously for her to start.

Alex looked at the benches. A steady crowd was there now, but that was not

worrying her. Her adrenalin was building up fast. She waved to the crowd and

it cheered.


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Alex turned on the spot and started to run. After about ten feet, she jumped

at least seven feet in the air and did four front flips, landing without a stagger.

The crowd cheered.

In fact, Alex had taken six years of acrobatics and thanks to her wolfishreflexes; she was able to do almost anything.

She spotted a tree not too far from the benches and climbed it. The tree was

at least fifty feet high and she figured she could do her trick easily. She

jumped. The crowd gasped, and with a diving trick she had learned a few

years back, she landed without even breaking a sweat.

Several tricks later, Toby and the girls came running over to her cheering.

That was great! Where did you learn all of that?

Alex smiled.

I took six years of acrobatics.

The others went on and on about Alexs abilities on the way back to class and

Alex opened her mouth to say something but she stopped dead. She had

heard something; she put a finger to her lips, telling everyone to be quiet. Herears twitched and she sniffed. She smelled blood. Alex motioned for Toby and

the girls to follow and she went to where the sound of fighting and the smell

of blood were.

Two large boys were shoving a smaller boy around as if he were a stuffed

animal, behind the bleachers. The poor boys nose was bleeding and he had a

nasty scratch on his knee. Alex could not stand it anymore. She ran forward,

ignoring the others protests.Teeth bared, claws extracted, she growled at the two larger boys. They

looked at her fearfully then exchanged glances; one hit the other on the

shoulder. They looked at her again, exchanged glances again and came at

her.

For a moment, Alex stood there. She was shocked that these boys would

actually come after a girl half their size. She snapped out of it hastily. The two

boys may have a size advantage but she was quicker, more agile, and most


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likely, more intelligent. With one quick, smooth move, Alex had scratched both

of the boys faces. They howled in pain and started to run away.

Turning to see if the smaller boy was all right, she felt big, rough hands pick

her up and throw her across the field. One of the two larger boys was back formore. Alex hit the ground with a loud thud and felt the air leave her lungs.

She got up a second later. Her leg hurt when she put her weight on it but she

could not afford to show pain. Not now.

A fair amount of people had gathered now, watching with interest as the new

girl fought with one of the boys in school.

Alice stepped forward to try to help but Alex shot her a glare.

Stay out of this, Alice! she snapped. I dont want you to get hurt.

Alice wisely stepped back and went to help the boy instead.

Meanwhile, Alex glared at the large boy, who was now growing into a larger,

more bulky creature. Alex swallowed. This was not going to be easy. She

lunged, and caught the boy in the face again. He retaliated by throwing her

against the nearest tree. She got up quickly but was unable to hide her wince

of pain. He sniggered.

The little wolf cub get hurt?

Alex grinned.

That wiped the smile from the boys face.

He scowled and started to run.

They went for each other. It was hard to see who hit first or who was hit firstbut when they came apart, the boy had six bloody claw marks on his chest

and arms and Alex had a fat lip. She was holding her side gingerly and

investigating further, she could feel one of her ribs sticking out.

They went at each other again and in ten seconds, they were both panting,

glaring at each other bitterly. Suddenly, the boy started to laugh. Alex stared

at him, stunned. Glancing at her face, he laughed harder.


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By the time he stopped, Alex had caught her breath and was now clutching

her side, ready to faint.

He looked up and said,

Youve got guts kid. Keep it up and you might just survive.

Then he transformed back into an overlarge boy and stomped off. Alex just

stood there, stunned.

Tobey and the girls approached Alex apprehensively. To her surprise, her

vision was narrowing a little.

Are you all right? asked Cassie.

All Alex could do was grunt.

Someone approached her. It was the boy with the features like her. She felt

herself falling and the last thing she saw was a faintly blurry figure with bulges

on the top of his head, catching her.

2.

Alex woke up in the infirmary with Tobey, Cassie, Alice, Grace, the wolf boy,

and Mrs. Raglet leaning in around her. Alex sat up so quickly she almost

bumped Tobeys head but instantly her head spun so fast she had to lie down

again.

Harrumph! Three broken ribs and a pulled muscle in your leg; in a fight like

that, youre lucky to be alive.

Who brought me here? Alex could faintly remember a figure with ears likehers.

I did. said a deep voice. It was the wolf boy.

Alex stared at him. Finally, she said,

Thank you

Leo. Leo Nack. Half wolf. Like you. He smiled, which made him even more

handsome.


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But how did you know that she was going to faint? asked Grace.

Leo looked directly at Alex when he answered.

I sensed it.As if, I felt it was going to happen.

Well its a good thing you did bring her in. Another blow and she could have

been dead.

Mrs. Raglet looked so concerned that Alex tried to manage a smile but failed.

Alright kids, out. Alex needs a good rest to let her wounds heal completely.

Tell your friends she is all right, and bring her things over. Ill be driving her

home today.

When she had thanked Mrs. Raglet for driving her home and told Aunt Rain

about the day, Alex got undressed and collapsed on her bed, only to fall

asleep right away.

What she didnt know was that three pairs of glowing yellow eyes were

watching through the darkness, spying, planning on how they were going to

kill her and the rest of the half wolves.

Alex was walking to school the next week in a positive attitude. Any time she

was out of the school grounds she had to wear a thick coat and a hat to hide

her special features. Suddenly, she felt that someone was watching her so she

whirled around to see nothing. However, she could hear footsteps running

away around the block.

How weird, she thought.She entered the class ten minutes later, brooding about those footsteps and

while Alex took off her hat and coat, she felt a hard tug on her tail. She

yelped, and then heard laughter break out behind her. She whirled to find her

friends clutching their sides, howling with laughter. She scowled and said,

That was not funny

Her reaction just made them laugh harder.


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Grace was the first to stop.

Im sorry, Alex. It was Cassie.

Alex glared at Cassie and as the girl shrugged. You had such a serious look

on your face I couldnt resist.Then she collapsed in another fit of giggles.

She stopped so abruptly with such a straight face that Tobey nearly fell off

Alexs desk with surprise.

By the way,Alex, your tail, Alex looked at Cassie, confused.

What about it? She asked.

Cassie stared at her for a moment and then broke down. She flung her arms

around Alex and started rubbing her ears and talking to her as if she were the

cutest puppy in the world.

Cut it out! cried Alex.

But your fur is so soft! I just have to touch it! protested Cassie.

Despite her pride, Alex rubbed her head against Cassies hand, liking the

feeling. Cassie obliged by stoking her head softly. Just then, the bell rang,

Cassie had to stop and go to her own seat.

Mr. Raglet opened the door and walked to his desk without a word. Usually he

would say good morning or wave but he didnt do a thing until he had got out

his things and put everything in order, ready to start the class. This was going

to be the first real lesson of the year. The last few days had been to get to

know everyone and get everything organized for the school year. Alex knew

this school was not an ordinary school like the others she had gone to. It did

not teach Math, Science or any of the other regular subjects but taught youhow to use and control your ability. Alex was really looking forward to it.

Alright, everyone put your things away and follow me. Its battle training

today.

An exited whisper broke out and the class followed Mr. Raglet out to the track

field Alex had visited on her first day. Mr. Raglet turned to the class and said,


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Ok, I want rank 1s on the right, rank2s on the left, and rank 3s over here

next to me.

Alex felt a bit confused but went over to Mr. Raglet and opened her mouth to

say what was on her mind when; holding up a hand to stop her, he said,

Yes Alex, you will be in the rank 1s for now, until you improve your skills a

bit.Without another word, he pointed to where Tobey and the girls were

along with half of the class. Seeing the confused look on her face, Tobey

explained.

There are 3 ranks for the battle training. He said. Rank 1 is where the

people are amateurs in knowing how to defend themselves with their powers.

AKA, us. interrupted Alice.

Tobey continued. Rank 2 is the group where you have a higher level of

training exercises and then have to pass a test to get to rank 3, and rank 3 is

the group of people who have passed the test of rank 2 and are highly

dangerous.

There are only three people in the rank 3 group. Leo Nack, the wolf boy.

Isabelle Harass, the ice queen. And Neil Jonson, the trickster. Rank 2 is made

up of six people, but I dont know them very well. And last but not least, rank

1, the amateurs. He grinned.

Alex smiled back. She felt happy at finally being involved with her friends but

confused. What did Tobey mean when he said *Ice Queen* and *Trickster*?

She knew Leo but who were the other two?

Well, Ill find out once I reach rank three. She thought to herself.Indeed, she was the better of rank one. She had beaten almost everyone that

had challenged her and mastered every exorcise Mr. Raglet could throw at

her. She had just left the last boy with a bloody nose and claw marks on his

arm when Mr. Raglet came over to her.

Im impressed. He said, smiling at her. I haven t seen anyone fight that

good since Leo joined us.

Alex blushed.


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Thank you.

His smile broadened and he looked curiously at her.

You know, if you pass a little test of mine, I would be happy to award you to

3rdrank if you like.

Alexs breath caught. She looked to her friends for advice. At her questioning

look, they all nodded their head vigorously. Alex smiled at them and turned

back to Mr. Raglet.

I accept.

He beamed. Great!

He guided her to a spot far enough not to be overheard by the others and

said in a whisper,

The task Im going to give you will be difficult but worth it. Are you ready?

Alex nodded and Mr. Raglet explained.

There is a forest on the edge of the school that no one enters because of the

creatures that live inside and is blocked by a gate constructed by Mr. Anlethimself to keep the students safe. Unfortunately, a very rare herb inside is

very helpful to my sister and can cure any kind of wound in a moment. There

is a huge patch of it in the middle of the forest but some of the most vicious

creatures guard it. Your job is to get as much of it as possible and return as

soon as you can. This is a very dangerous job, He looked at her with shining

eyes. You will be in constant danger and might even die. Are you willing to

do it?

Alex shuddered. She was anxious to get up her rank as soon as she could but

the possibility of dying made her heart drop to her stomach. After a moment

of thinking hard, she looked up at Mr. Raglet and nodded.

He smiled and patted her shoulder. This journey will take many days and

nights. You are allowed to take four other people with you if you like and if

they are willing. If - whoever they are - decide to join you, their rank will go

up as well, but that is up to you and them. Come to me tomorrow with or


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without the people that wish to come and I will open the gate for you and

your friends. If you change your mind overnight, I will understand.

They both walked back to the others as the bell rang. Seeing their friends

grave expression Tobey and the girls asked what was wrong. Alex told themabout the task Mr. Raglet had given her and about the potential danger. They

looked worried.

Oh, Alex. Dont do it! pleaded Grace.

Alex shook her head. Ive already said I would do it.

Then she looked hopefully at them. But he did say I could bring four people

along with me. He said if they agreed, their ranks would go up too.

Tobeys head perked up. Really? he said eagerly.

Alice gasped. You dont plan on going with her do you? You might be killed.

Its bad enough Alex agreed, but you too, Tobey.

For the first time since the conversation started, Cassie spoke.

Ill go.

Alice gasped again. Not you too. She cried, now with tears in her eyes.

Dont worry Alice. Alex and Toby will protect me, wont you?

They both smiled.

We sure will.said Tobey.

Ill go too. said a familiar deep voice from behind Alex.

She whirled, only to bump into Leo, because he was standing so close.

BBut...!she stammered.

He grinned down at her. He was a full head taller than her.

You wouldnt last a day without me. Besides, I have experience inside the

forest and I know where the herb is.


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Alex stood there, staring at him. Why would he do this for her? What did he

gain from it?

Tobey apparently read her mind because not a second later he asked,

Why? What would you gain?

His grin faded but he said,

I told you, I have experience, youll need all the help you can get.

Alex thought for a moment, figuring that he was right. They would need all

the help they could get. Bracing herself, she looked Leo straight in the eye

and said,

Alright, you can come. But no funny business.

That made him smile again. He nodded and asked if his friend could come

along too.

Tobey grimaced and asked,

The Trickster?

Leo raised his eyebrows.

Yes.

Alex giggled. The look on Tobeys face was funny.

Alright, but no more, thats four people. Well meet Mr. Raglet in class

tomorrow, and bring things you would as if you were going to go camping,

light things, OK.

They all agreed and went back to class, nothing on their mind but the

prospect of the next day.

3.

Alex walked into class the next day to find Tobey, the girls, Leo and a boy

with long blond hair and black markings all over his face, neck, and arms

waiting by her desk. This must have been Neil, Leos friend.


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They beckoned her over and Neil introduced himself.

Im Neil Jonson. My ability, He disappeared. Is to turn myself invisible and

tack advantage of my enemys sight, said his voice.

He reappeared and smiled.

Itll be my pleasure to accompany you on this quest of yours.

Alex smiled back. He was nice; despite all of the warnings she was given. But

she soon found out why he was called *The Trickster*. Neil kept becoming

invisible, pulling on her tail, ears and hair but when she finally took out her

claws to strike, she could never find him.

This annoyed her very much. Tobey kept giving her *I told you so* looks

every time Neil did this but she was determined not to snap. At least until the

quest was over.

Mr. Raglet called to Alex after the bell rang.

Are you ready? Anyone else coming along?

Alex nodded and gestured for her friends to come forward. He looked at the

two third ranks with interest. He did not say anything however, but told the

class to wait for him then led Alex and her friends out to the gate where the

forest was.

Alice and Grace had refused to talk to them when Alex had said good bye, but

she was sure she had seen tears in Alices eyes.

To her surprise, Alex found that Mr. Anlet was waiting for them at the gate.

He smiled at Alex and said,I will give each of you a word of advice before I let you in and hopefully it

will help each of you in your own life quest.

He beckoned to each of her companions before her, she was sure he was

saving her for last on purpose.

Alex my dear, this journey will be exceptionally hard for you. You will find

you have to be braver than you feel and not run away from the tough


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decisions. My word of advice is this: Trust yourself. Trust your friends. Defend

yourself and your friends. Dont be reckless.

Without another look at any of them, he opened the gate to let them through.

Alex took a deep breath and stepped through, followed by the others.

Once the gate was closed, Alex did not look back. She turned to Leo and

asked,

Can you lead the way?

He nodded, and took the lead.

He led them a few miles before Cassie called for a break. They walked into a

small clearing that was up ahead, shed their packs and pulled off their jackets.

Phew!! This forest is hotter than I thought it would be, said Cassie, shedding

her sweater and taking a sip from her bottle.

Tobey grinned.

Its a rain forest, Case. What did you expect?

Alex could hear Cassie faintly retorting back, however, a small movementbehind the spot where Cassie had sat down caught her attention. Alex moved

instinctively.

Cassie, move! Now!

Too late. A large furry hand grabbed Cassie and threw her across the little

clearing. Tobey reacted fast, caught her before she hit the ground and led her

to safety.

Leo pounced on the beast, with teeth and claws out, tore at its face. Alex,

seeing an opening, lunged for its chest and slashed. The beast roared in pain

as the two half wolves scratched, bit and tore at it. With its huge hand, it

clawed at Leo and threw him off. Alex took this chance and went for its face.

Again, it threw her off too. Looking around for Leo to see if he was unharmed,

she found him getting up off the ground, wincing at the claw marks on his

back.


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Alex, satisfied everyone was all right for the moment, went for the beast

again. Tearing at it with all her might, and after a while, it finally stopped

moving from under her. It was dead. Panting, holding her arm, she climbed

off the beast, in search of her friends.

Cassie was sitting next to Tobey, trembling, while Neil tended to Leo with the

herbs Mrs. Raglet had given them. Alex went over to him.

Are you alright?

He looked up at her.

I should ask you the same thing. He said, grinning.

Im fine. Alex replied, though she wasnt. She felt like fainting again.

She sat down and Cassie came over to her with a patch of herb. Alex smiled

weakly and allowed her to tend to her wounds.

Im sorry,Alex. Cassie said finally.

For what? Alex asked, perplexed.

Im sorry for thinking I could help.

Alex was surprised to see tears slide down her friends cheek.

When I witched you fight that monster, I thought you were going to die. I

realized I could never fight like that, not with my abilities. So, Im sorry Im

being such a burden.

Cassie buried her head in Alexs lap.

Youre an idiot.

Cassies head shot up, looking hurt.

Cassie, said Alex calmly. I knew you would never be able fight anything if

you were going to come along. I said yes because you would be a comfort to

Tobey and me. Not to mention being helpful in other ways too. Alex smiled

down at her sobbing friend. So dont be sorry. Be happy. You see, your

helping me right now.


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Alex indicated her now healed arm. Cassie smiled weakly and went to put

medicine on Alexs smaller wounds.

Suddenly, Alex jumped up, yelling,

Ouch!!

What?! Did I hurt you? asked Cassie

No. Alex frowned. Something Something bit my tail!

The others, drawn by all the noise, sniggered.

Whats up? asked Neil.

Cassie answered. Something bit Alexs tail.

OUCH!!! Alex yelped again.

Turning to see what had bit her tail, she saw a small white squirrel like

creature clinging onto her tail by its jaws.

Get it off!!! Alex yelled.

Leo grabbed the squirrel like thing and pulled. It let go immediately butsquirmed in his arms until he let it go and it jumped into Alexs arms almost

immediately.

Puzzled, she tried to let go but it clung to her. It looked terrified. Forgetting

her anger, she took pity on it and held it as if it were a baby. It made a sound

of contentment and settled itself in her arms.

Neil started to laugh. Not long after, the others joined him.

Looks like you have a new pet, Alex. commented Tobey.

Alex looked at the creature in her arms curiously.

Where did you come from?

To her surprise, it looked at her and lifted a paw towards the west. Alex

blinked.

Can you understand me?


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The creature moved its head in a way that looked, incredibly, like a nod.

Wow. whispered Cassie.

Alex was still confused. Ok, if you can understand me, why did you bite my

tail?

The little creature leaped out of Alexs grip and picked up what looked like an

ugly bug off the ground. He gestured at it and then her tail.

Youre saying that that bug was on my tail.

It nodded and Alex smiled.

Thats it. Youre staying.

The little creature made a high-pitched little squeak and jumped into Alexs

arms again.

Whats your name? she asked it.

Leo sniggered, Alex glared at him.

The little creature however, had leaped out of her arms again, went into a

patch of trees, returning with something in its mouth. A nut.

Nut? Alex asked.

The creature nodded its head for a third time.

Nut it is then! Welcome to the group, Nut! exclaimed Alex.

Hes sooooo cute! said Cassie.

She put a hand to pet Nut and he nuzzled it with his head.

Wed better get going. There might be more creatures around.Leo spoke

into the the silence that had followed.

Alex glared at him, but he was right and it was beginning to get dark out. Nut

squeaked and indicated a path leading east that no one had noticed before.

He scurried out of her arms and moved his paw in a gesture that meant to

follow him. Alex and Cassie followed without hesitation but the boys werentso sure at first. With a look from the two girls, they quickly followed.


22/40

Nut had turned out to be right about the path being okay to pass. Not one

creature had crossed their path. Night had fallen and Nut had led them to a

clear spot near a large stream where they could wash and fill their water

supply. Cassie was a bit embarrassed about sleeping in the open with three

boys but the idea of having Alex there with her, in the same situation,

comforted her. Besides, Alex had pledged to her that if any boy touched one

of them, she would not hold back in hurting him.

The boys kept close as to keep the group in the safety of numbers but did not

try anything, too polite to and fearing that Alex really would carry out her

threat.

They did however; stay up longer than the Alex and Cassie, keeping an eye onthem as they slept. Leo had told her that he and some friends of his, one of

which was a girl. He had said that, in this particular forest, it was the females

the creatures tended to go for first: whether by pure instinct, or because

females had a scent that attracted the creatures.

Meanwhile, they had come up with a plan of protecting the girls. Neil and

Tobey would guard Cassie while Leo would guard Alex. The same when

fighting. Though this made Nut very agitated because he obviously wanted tokeep Alex to himself.

Alex glanced over at Leo. He was conversing quietly with Tobey. She

wondered why Leo had volunteered for this. She knew it wasntjustbecause

they could use his help and experience. He wanted something from her.

She got up from her bedroll, sidled over to Cassie and tapped her on the

shoulder. She jumped and gasped, whirling to see who had touched her.

Relax Case. Its just me.

She sighed. Oh. Alex, you scared me. Is everything okay? she added

anxiously, looking around, nervous.

Alex shook her head. Everythings fine. I was just wondering if you could

come with me to wash up a bit. My Aunt gave me a bit of soap if we should

need it.


23/40

Cassie beamed at her. That sounds great! I would love to get this sweat off

me.

Alex grinned. Ill go tell the boys.

She went over to them.

Hey guys, Cassie and I are heading to the stream for a quick wash.

Leo nodded, engrossed in their conversation. He didnt even look up at her.

You might want to clean up a bit yourselves. You stink.

He paid no attention to this. Alex frowned. She made a face behind Leos

back that made Neil, who was nearby, grin.

Alex shrugged and gave him a look.

If you follow us, Ill smell you and I ll kill you. Got it?

He looked disappointed for a second but nodded in an honest way. Satisfied,

Alex went off in the direction of the stream, Cassie on her heals with changes

of clothes.

They arrived at the edge of the clear water a fair distance away from the

camp and shed their clothes. They washed in the cold water; cleaned Alexs

blood stained clothes and changed into the fresh ones.

We should head back now. Its getting dark.

Alex nodded. She shook out her short hair and sneezed. A squeak in the bush

near her said that Nut was there. He jumped out of the bush into her arms

and squeaked franticly, pointing with his tiny paws in the opposite direction.Realizing what was happening too late, Alex pushed Cassie out of the way

before the giant tiger could bite her. Instead, its claws collided with Alexs

leg. She groaned.

Go, Cassie! Get the others!

Without a backward glance, she went with Nut right behind her.


24/40

Alex turned the large cats attention back to her by grabbing its tail. If only

she could persuade it to go into the water, she would have the advantage.

She concluded her plan by noting that the only way to bring it near the water

was to annoy it. Alex smiled.

Whats wrong Kitty Cay? she asked, though she knew the creature couldnt

understand her. It slashed at her but she ducked and back up a few paces,

into the water. It paused, and then followed.

Good! Its working, she thought.

She backed up until the water was up to her thighs. The cat hissed, hesitated

and leapt. Alex dived for deeper water. Fortunately, the stream was more of a

river than a large stream, not to mention she was a good swimmer.

She broke the surface to see the cat inches from her. She dived again;

catching sight of Cassie, the boys at her heals. Her luck was out though. The

cats jaws locked around her ankle and it dragged her under. She was quick

enough to draw in a breath before she went under.

She saw a break in the surface as Leo dive in the water before the cat, unable

to breath, drowned. It sunk like a stone, dragging her with it. A strong handcaught her arm. She looked up to see Leo. He broke the cats jaws, releasing

her as Alex let her breath out, unable to hold it anymore.

Things were going dark. She needed air, when

Whoa! She gasped in the oxygen as Leo dragged her out of the cold, dark

water. After catching his breath, he lifted her into his arms and carried her

back to camp, Cassie tagging along beside them, Nut on her shoulder.

When they reached camp, Tobey and Neil were looking worriedly around.

They saw her, Leo and Cassie not a moment later and came running over.

What happened? We went to the bathroom and when we returned, you were

gone!

Tobey glanced at Alex with worried eyes.

Are you okay? What happened? he repeated.


25/40

Leo set her down on his bedroll, and sat down next to her, examining her foot

as Cassie explained.

Alex flinched as the herb touched her half-severed foot but Leos touch

couldnt have been more gentile. She tried to hoist herself up on her elbowsbut he pushed her down.

Lie down. You need to rest, you nearly drowned.

She sighed. Thank you.

He smiled.

Here. said Cassie, tossing them a couple of small towels. That was when

Alex noticed that she was soaked to the bone again and cold, she realized.

She shivered.

Leo put a towel over his shoulder and held out a towel for her. She tried to

take it from him but her arm was far too weak to obey her. She tried to lift

her head too but it wouldnt budge.

Leo frowned. Dont try to move. Youre still too weak. Ill help.

Then he lifted her torso up with one arm and dried her hair with the other.

Cassie cleared her throat.

Please tell me that youre not going to change her clothes.

To Alexs surprise, Leo blushed.

No, you can do that, but shell catch a cold if she sleeps with wet hair.

Cassie laughed. Okay, Ill change her clothes, and thenyou can finish dryingher hair. In the mean time, you can dry off too. Youre getting her even more

wet by holding her like that.

She was right. Leo place Alex gently back down and got up.

Well turn our backs but do not leave the camp.

Alex smiled weakly. Dont I get a say in any of this?

No. Both Leo and Cassie answered simultaneously.


26/40

As Cassie changed Alex as if she were a baby, Alex too weak even to move a

finger, Leo shook his head like a dog and went a little ways into the trees to

change his own wet clothes.

When he came back, Cassie was done and Alex was shivering. She was stilllying on Leos bedroll.

Now that she was dry and rested up a tiny bit, she had enough strength to try

to move to her own bedroll, but to her horror, Cassie was rolling it up and

putting it away.

Why, she began.

Leo moved over to her and made her lie down.

Youre cold, weak and you need rest. Youre not going anywhere. Youre

with me tonight.

But!

He stared sternly at her. No buts.

Alex sighed, defeated. She lay down on the hard pillow and let Leo pull the

blanket over them while the others went to their own bedrolls.

Alex shivered again. Leos arm wrapped around her waist and he pulled her

to him. His body was warm. Despite being embarrassed beyond belief, she

found herself snuggling up to him as a cub would to its mother.

Nut squeaked and nudged his way between them. Leo chuckled.

Looks like someones jealous.

Alex smiled. The next moment, she was fast asleep.

The next morning had little exiting events.

Alex had asked Nut to show them to the patch of herb in the safest way

possible but still had little encounters along the way. She had found out that

the creatures they encountered would never really go after the boys, justCassie and herself. This did not worry her. She was just a bit concerned about


27/40

her friend. When she told the boys about this, Tobey assured her that he and

Neil would do their best to protect the girl. When Alex glanced at Leo

however, he only said,

My job is you.

This had made Alex irritated and confused but the creatures that kept on

attacking kept everything else off her mind except to protect her friends. She

hardly cared about herself.

After more than a few of these encounters however, she and Leo put together

a little competition on who killed the most creatures. Ha had grinned, and

taken almost every opportunity of stealing the show.

Alex was about to comment about his ignorance on the matter when Nut

squeaked a warning.Another creature! She would show him!she thought.

Get Cassie to safety!Alex shouted to Tobey as a large, bearlike monster

appeared from the trees.

Alex lunged for it but she was caught around the waist by Leo.

Oh no you dont! This one is mine! He grinned and sped past her.

Within seconds, Leo had been thrown across the ground only to get back up

again. The creature was strong. Alex clawed and bit at the beast. One strong

swipe from Leo had the beasts head spinning off its shoulders, landing a few

feet away from Cassie who cringed away from it.

Seventeen.he said, a smug smile on his face.

Alex puffed and said,I still have eighteen. Youre a bit slow.

Tobey cut off Leos comeback.

Hey guys, we found something that might interest you!

Both went over to where Tobey and Cassie were crouching and exclaimed

happily.


28/40

It was a tiny patch of the herbs that they have been looking for! They were

getting close. Alex and Tobey did a little jig where Alex did several back flips

and Tobey sang out his pleasure.

When everyone was finished laughing, Leo said,

This may mean that we are closer to the herb patch than we thought but it

also means that there will be more creatures than ever. They might even be

more dangerous and powerful than the ones weve already fought.

This comment wiped the smiles from everyones faces. Alex frowned. Was

Leo right? Would they encounter creatures even more powerful than the

others? But Alex was too excited to think about that right now. They were

close, she could feel it.

Leo, however; had been right. Lots more creatures attacked them on their

way to find the herbs, bigger and more powerful. As dark came closer, Nut led

them to the safest place he could find and they slept without interruption.

You know, said Cassie to Alex. We might even be back at school by

Wednesday.

With that happy thought in her head, Alex slept thoroughly.

4.

Alex woke with a start the next day. No one else was up. She got up quietly,

not wanting to wake the others. Nut was already awake, waiting for her. She

smiled at him and put a finger to her lips.

She went far enough into the forest as to not be heard by the others and didher morning things. When she was done she went to the river near their camp

and washed.

Refreshed, Alex decided to practice her slashing on a near tree. She went far

enough as to not wake the others though. They would need to be fully rested

for today. While she practiced, Nut sat watching, eating his nuts. Five minutes

passed and then Nut sent a warning to Alex. A creature was approaching.


29/40

Alexs heart dropped into her stomach. A creature? This early? Alex had never

fought a monster and won without help. She would have to try. Once she

killed it, she would go wake the others. She just hoped it wasnt a large one.

It was. It was huge. Alex swallowed. She was going to have to do thiswhether she liked it or not. She attacked. It was another lion like monster but

much larger. It roared in pain as she clawed its face. It swiped at her, hit her,

and roared again.

Alex hissed in pain. The creature had clawed her shoulder. She gathered her

courage and lunged for its neck. Ten minutes later, Alex was panting, the

creatures head at her feet, clutching her shoulder and limping back to camp.

Alex found everyone up and looking worried. Cassie saw her approaching and

screamed out her name. They all rushed to her, asking what happened. Alex

explained the best she could.

Neil was impressed at how Alex kept her cool and Cassie was outraged that

she did not call for help.

Why didnt you wake us up?You could have been killed!!

But I wasnt.

You could have been!! Cassie exclaimed, tears in her eyes.

Alex smiled. Im sorry, Cassie. I wont do it again.

Cassies lower lip trembled and she looked like she was on the edge of

madness with worry.

Im sorry, Case. Alex repeated lowering her head like a dog knowing it haddone something wrong.

She had crossed the line. Cassie threw her arms around Alexs neck and

knocked them both to the ground in a suffocating hug.

Alex grinned but yelped as one of her wounds scraped the ground. Cassie let

go.

First things first, heal those wounds.


30/40

Alex was flexing her arm to test if it had truly been healed when Tobey asked,

Alex, how big was the creature?

Alex grinned and offered to show them where the body was.

Cassie covered her eyes when she saw the place where Alex had fallen. The

ground was soaked in her blood. The monsters head was as big as a car.

The others just stood there, staring at her.

Alex broke the silence.

Where is Nut?

They looked around but Nut was nowhere to be found. Alex was beginning to

get worried. Alex called out and Nut came running.

He jumped into her arms and nuzzled her face in an affectionate way. Then

he jumped down and pointed down a path indicating that they follow him.

They walked for half a day without interruption. When they stopped for a

break to eat lunch, they were all feeling very happy.

Not one monster in four hours. How wonderful! exclaimed Cassie.

Alex frowned. It seemed suspicious. We were getting closer the herb patch

every minute. Why were there not as many creatures as before? Werent

there supposed to be more? Where were they? Alex thought Leo said there

would be more creatures than before.

Faintly she heard someone calling her name. The next second she was in theair, being tossed around by TWO new creatures.

Cassie screamed as Alex hit the ground for the fourth time only to be picked

up again by the one creature. Leo jumped, caught her in midflight and set her

on the ground near Cassie. She was so dizzy, she saw three of everything.

Are you alright? he asked.

Alex groaned and tried to get up but Leo pushed her back down.


31/40

Stay out of this. Well take care of this.

He, Tobey and Neil ran to fight the creatures and within twenty minutes and

many injuries, the two monsters were dead.

Once their injuries were coated with herb, Alex got up. She was still dizzy and

needed Cassie to help her from not falling. Cassie helped her over to the boys

and sat Alex down next to Leo.

So, this was what it was like to be helpless. Alex watched as a particularly

deep cut healed on Leos shoulder and fought back the urge to cry. She

wondered if Cassie felt like this every time shegot hurt in a fight.

Alex got up; staggered a bit and walked into a patch of trees. Nut followedclose on her heels. Probably thinking she needed to do something private, no

one followed.

She walked just far enough so the group would not hear her, went to the

nearest tree and burst into silent tears. She felt horrible. Now she understood

how Cassie felt every time anyone got hurt. Nut placed his paw against her

leg, worried.

Back at the camp, Cassie motioned the boys to follow her to where Alex had

disappeared. They found her with her back to them, crouching against a tree

with her arms above her head, her tail swaying from side to side in an upset

way.

Cassie motioned for the boys to stay where Alex would not see them but

where they would be able to see and hear just fine and started toward Alex.

Alex heard Cassies footsteps as she approached her and quickly tried to calm

herself down.

Alex? Cassie said timidly.

How can you stand it? The calmness in her voice surprised heras much as

Cassie.


32/40

Stand what, Alex? asked Cassie.

Alex whirled and glanced surprise in Cassies eyes as she saw Alexs

tearstained face.

How can you stand to watch us fight and get hurt? How can you stand to feel

so helpless? It was all I could not to burst into tears watching their wounds

heal!

To Alexs dismay, new tears streamed down her already wet face.

Cassie smiled kindly.

It always pains me to heal your wounds, Alex. It pains me to see any of you

get hurt. There is always the possibility of one of you dyeing. It hurts to see

anything get hurt, Alex. But at least I know the boys will protect you.

Alex stared at her, tears still pouring out of her eyes.

Cassie came over to her and hugged her tightly.

Thats why I was so worried when you fought that monster on your own.

What if you werent able to beat the monster and the boys werent there to

protect you? What would we do if you did die? What would I do?

Cassie squeezed her hard. Alex melted with her words. She dissolved against

Cassie and cried for longer than she would have wanted. When she was done,

Nut squeaked angrily, running into the trees not too far away. Then she

noticed three bodies standing a few feet away, hidden in the trees.

You can come out now boys. Alex called loudly.

A few seconds later, the boys, accompanied by Nut came to the place whereAlex and Cassie were standing. All three looked extremely sorry. They

probably had no idea the girls felt that way about them. Tobey spoke first.

Were sorry... We didnt know.

Neil spoke next.

Well try to be more careful.

Leo had a sudden light in his big green eyes.


33/40

As long as Alex doesn t go recklessly into a fight.

Alex looked into Leos eyes. Then she smiled and added,

As long as you don t either.

Leo grinned.

Deal.

To Alexs surprise, her heart beat faster at his smile and she felt herself go a

bit pink.

Without another word, they went on.

5.

Nut kept leading them to the herb patch in different frustrating ways. First,

they traveled on a manmade path, second, they traveled straight through the

forest, third, Nut got them so close but the way was guard by a creature so

big, they were sure they could not defeat it even if the whole school fought it

at once.

Now they came up to a pathway blocked with large thorn branches and pointy

plants so horrifying that all of them sat down and sighed tragically. Unless

they wanted to take their chances on a big monster, they would have to cross

this pathway.

This is so frustrating!!!! Alex thought.

She sat down to think a bit and then it struck her. She would have to try it. If

they did not do something soon, they would end up dead in five days anyway.Either from lack of food or from a creature attack. She could not let that

happen to her friends.

Ill cross.

All heads turned towards her.

No you wont. It was the voice of Leo. He looked at her with such a stern

look, it rather frightened her.


34/40

But if I dont try, well have to end up fighting one of those monsters. What

other choice do we have?

Alex was stubborn; she was not going to give up just like that. Not after

everything we have been through.

He came to stand right in her way of the thorns.

You are going nowhere.

Alex glared at him. Who was he to tell her what to do? This was her quest,

not his.

So, Ill climb a tree and jump over. Whats the point of just sitting here,

brooding, unless you would rather fight a monster. Fine, you fight creatures

while I find a way to cross the thorns!

Alex ducked under Leos arm and was about to climb the tree nearest the

thorn field when Leo caught her arm and pulled her back.

She growled and struggled. Not long after, it turned into a full powered

wrestling match.

Alex may have been stronger than any human boy, but Leo wasnt human

either. He was also male. Which meant his strength was far more than hers

and within several minutes of teeth and claws, he had her pinned under him.

Both of her wrists in one hand and sitting lightly on her legs as to not hurt her

but not let her escape. The others had wisely stayed out of it.

Youre going nowhere. He repeated.

Alex scowled at him.You can t tell me what to do.

He smiled.

He had a scratch on his cheek and his hair was ruffled. She must look no

better.

With one hand still clamped tightly on her wrists, he beckoned to Neil.

Get me some rope.


35/40

Neil tied her left hand to Leos and only when he was finished did Leo

relinquish his grip on Alex.

The rope that was holding her to Leo was thick and only six inches apart so it

was difficult to move. They went on until they reached a path with two crossroads. They chose left.

The group could now see the herb patch very clearly. Tobey let out a cry of

joy when Tobey was in the mouth of a huge spider, its poisonous fangs

sunk deep into his body.

Alexs heart dropped. Tobey. It couldnt be. No!

TOBEY!!!! Alex screamed.

She tried to run to him as the spider dropped him but the rope tying her to

Leo stopped her. She whirled, tears in her eyes to find that it was not the rope

holding her but Leo himself. The rope had been cut.

Let go of me!!!

He shook his head and looked away.

Alex snapped. How could he? Tobey was their friend. Didnt he care?

Alex yanked her arm from his grip and to her surprise, it was free. She dashed

before he could get another grip on her and went for the spider.

Alex caught the spider on the back with her claws and it screeched in pain.

She slashed again. It screeched again. Then it rolled. Alex fell of its back with

a cry of rage and surprise. The spider came at her but before it could strike,

Leo grabbed her and pulled her away from the beast.He had an expression of concern and amusement. He reached out and pulled

a leaf from her hair.

Youre one stubborn girl. He said with a small grin.

Alex did not pay attention to him. The spider had raised its fangs again,

aiming for them

Look out!


36/40

Alex pushed Leo out of the way.

She glanced quickly at him to see if he was okay and pounced for the spider.

Once again, Alex had managed to slash it a few times and even sever a leg

until the spider threw her off and lunged for her.

She dogged, but instead of getting bitten, got slashed by a big hairy leg.

Her leg now bleeding freely, Alex collapsed, unable to move. In that moment,

Alex wondered what had happened to everyone else. With a pang of new

tears, she remembered Tobeys body lying lifeless not far and Cassies face

filled with terror. Then she thought of Neil. He may have been a jerk from

time to time but he was still her friend. And Nut. He was just an innocentanimal; he did not deserve to die like this. Last to come to mind, was Leo. She

had started to like Leo. She hated him but at the same time liked him a lot.

Alex glanced around for the others to see that Cassie and Neil were nowhere

to be seen and Leo; stepping away from the now bloody, dislocated head of

the giant spider, was coming towards her, his grin gone.

Supporting his side, he glared at her.

Idiot! You complete and utter idiot!

That was uncalled for!Alex thought.

Leo glared at her again. She glared back.

You just cant sit still, can you?!

Alex stood up with difficulty. Her leg hurt badly.

This is your entire fault anyway! If we had just gone through the thorn field,

Tobey would probably still be alive!

Her voice cracked. New tears rolled down her face.

I we had gone through the thorn field, we would all be dead. Those thorns

were poisonous. He said in a calm voice.

What? Alex was stunned.


37/40

They were poisonous. That was how one of my friends died. He was ignorant

and decided to get the herbs on his own. We found his body lying a few

inches inside the thorns. Not long after, a beast ate his body and died from

the poison in his blood.

Alex stood there, her mouth open.

Why didnt you tell me?

I tried, but you did not listen. You were too busy being stubborn.

Leos voice was back to its normal state and he was glaring again.

Anlet told me to protect you and that is exactly what I am going to do.

Oh, so that is what he told you. came Neils voice from the herb patch.

Alex turned to see Neil and Cassie, bags full of herbs, walking towards them.

Cassie was crying.

He told me to keep my mouth shut and to help in any way I could. He was

frowning.

Should we burry him? Neil was looking at the body of Tobey.

Not yet. Leo came towards Alex.

He put one arm around her shoulders and the other under her knees and

picked her up.

Hey! I canwalk!

He looked at her. His face was five inches from hers.

No you cant. Not on that leg. Then he looked at Cassie.

Would you do the honors?

She nodded and Leo set Alex down on a log near her. When both of their

wounds were healed and Leo had gone to help Neil clean Tobeys body for a

proper goodbye, Cassie spoke.

Mr. Anlet told me to be strong. She said in a small voice.


38/40

He said *Be strong. Accept even the worst possible event and everything will

be alright.*

She sniffed.

Alex smiled; she knew how hard it was to accept death.

Hes ready.called Leo.

Alex took Cassies hand and they went to where Leo and Neil were.

Tobey looked as if he were sleeping. His face was surprisingly peaceful. The

two large holes in his side where the spider had injected its poison were

covered and the boys had cleaned away all of the blood.

Alex knelt and kissed his cold forehead. He did not deserve to die like this.

She wiped away her tears but they just kept coming.

Cassie said something to Tobey, kissed him on the cheek and covered her

face in her hands, sobbing. Leo, Neil and Nut said their goodbyes and then

covered his body with large rocks.

Nut put a paw on Cassies thigh; the girl took the small animal in her arms

and hugged him. Neil was patting her shoulder.

Leo however, came towards her. Alex looked pleadingly at him. He nodded

and without another word, she ran into his arms and cried, cried until she had

shed every tear in her body. Leo having his tears rolling down his own cheeks.

6.

The journey back was easier than Alex thought it would be. Probably becauseof the herbs they were carrying. Leo had said that the animals that lived in the

forest avoided the herbs but no one knew why. Maybe because it was

poisonous to them.

Nut was extremely happy when Alex told him he could stay with them and did

a few summer salts on top of Leos head, much to his annoyance. Finally,

after eight summer salts, he shooed Nut away and he settled himself

comfortably in Alexs arms. Only to fall asleep in a few seconds.


39/40

Alex smiled. Nut would be a great friend. Especially after Tobey. She only

hopped Mr. Anlet and Mr. Ragret would let her keep him. She knew Aunt Rain

would.

After two days travel, they reached the gate to the school. The trip had takena lot less thanks to the monsters.

Mr. Anlet was waiting beside the gate to let them out, a large smile on his

face. He let them out and counted them. When he finished, his smile was

gone.

Five of you go in and only four return. He shook his head sadly.

We shall all remember Mr. Jalinel as a very brave young man.

Then he saw Nut.

Ah! he exclaimed, so loudly that Nut woke with a start.

I see you have another in his place.

Alex smiled.

Mr. Anlet, this is Nut. We found him in the forest, taking a bug from my tail.

Mr. Anlet smiled kindly. Alex swallowed and took in a breath to talk but before

she could say anything, he said

Of course he can stay here. But you will have to take care of him.

Alex beamed.

Yes. Yes. Ill take good care of him! Thank you Mr. Anlet.

You are quite welcome, my dear. The he frowned.

It seems I will have only two people to add to the 3rd ranks. Seeing as two

are already in it. His smile returned and he looked hopefully at Alex and

Cassie.

Are you two willing to accept the offer?

The two girls looked at each other, grins on their faces. After all they hadbeen through; they were not likely to turn down the offer.


40/40

Of course! they said in unison.

Well then, lets go tell the rest of the school the good andbad news. Shall

we?

He glanced at the group and without a backward glance at the forest; they all

headed towards the school.

END

Documents

Animal Attack 1