Post by Marrowbone on Oct 31, 2009 0:22:14 GMT -5
Voting will stop on Nov. 7th!
Entry #1!
Sacrifice
Hallow's Eve
When the veil between both worlds becomes thin...
Characters:
Fracturebone- Classic skeleton tom. His white bone markings though, are very, very bright, and contrast deeply with the black base color of his pelt. Fierce golden eyes.
Taegan- A deep purple almost black tom with a lighter colored mask around his eyes. His back is checkered white, and he has two dark red streaks on his jaw, right where his canines connect with skin. The tip of his tail is checkered red. His eyes are two different colors, half is green, and half is blue. They tend to change whats on top and bottom though. He wears a dark cape, and has two studs in his right ear.
Anubis-- Golden pelted tom with a very pointy face. His face istself is black, and his eyes are an undefined color.
Snapflare- Faintly marked skeleton she cat with silver rosettes, and striking green eyes.
Mellowmare- Light brown tom with a black stripe going down his back, around his neck, and under his chin. Light brown eyes.
Raimi-White tom with a black sade by one of his eyes, and a red clover by the other. Has a white base pelt, and red and black checkering.
~~~~~~
Prologue
Why was it so dark already? He had expected there to be some light, not pitch dark. It was suiting though, as he gazed up to see a night filled with neither sun nor stars. A night fit for what was going to happen. All he had to do was wait, and hope. As the time passed though, he felt himself growing more and more restless. Maybe it had all be a joke all along? Everyone had seemed so serious though. Suddenly, there was a sound. It was like a faint rustle of a brush, but it was all that was needed to set the tom, which was already on edge, over it. Whirling, he didn't have time to hide his fierce gaze before the brilliant light bathed his pelt. Gasping in pain, all he saw was darkness, before as soon as the pain had come, and it was gone. When he could see though, what he saw made his breath choke up.
It was all true. Everything. As he gazed at the figure before him, he could only shake his head, mouth forming words that he couldn't make out.
He had never expected it to be this real. But where there was light, there was also darkness, and soon another figure appeared...
Part 1 - The Learning
A form was silhouetted against the darkness, as the rising rays of the sun drew out; removing what he had once been concealed in; well, at least as well as he could be concealed. Looking down at the ultra white markings against the dark onyx which made him up; it was impossible to hide anywhere really, unless there was something behind the hiding itself. For a moment, there was a flicker of darkness in the vast golden depths that made up Fracturebone's eyes. A look of pain seemed to haunt their depths; a sad pain, and for just a fleeting second, all the flashy spark that made Fracturebone who he was, flared out of existence. Head bowed down, he looked as though he was nothing more then a damaged one. Of course, as soon as a presence flashed by him, everything changed. The mask went back up; however, it was not as thick as it was around others, for this cat was well known to the tom. The one that he had easily befriended, almost upon meeting. A smile flickering on the edge of his maw, Fracturebone didn't move as another came to sit beside him, and for a while, there was silence.
"Never thought you to enjoy a sunrise. A sunset, sure." The other tom spoke, offering a shrug just visible under his dark cape.
"Hello to you to. And it does one good to see the sunrise; you can gain sanity that way, at least, they say. Not that I expected you to know anything about that Taegan."
A somewhat dry reply; but it was the banter of friends, not to be confused with actual insults.
"Who needs sanity to live? I may not be like the rest of you; but you can't say that I don't pull my own weight."
Snorting, Taegan rolled his half colored eyes, something that made him quite unique. The upper half was a light green, the lower, a light blue.
"Anyway, I actually ventured out into the light to tell you about Hallow's Eve, tonight."
Excitement tinged his tone, and if he had been any other cat, the circuit probably would have been jumping around; no better then a kit. Very few saw through the facade that Taegan put up; it was something special to be able and see the true cat, not just the image he projected.
"Isn't that just a two leg thing? They dress up in costumes, look for things, and then go home. Sounds like a waste of time for me."
Scoffed Fracturebone. Not that he didn't really have anything to do; tonight the grand plans were to lounge about and sulk in the vast network of tunnels that the Circuits called home. Same as every other night, actually. However, he was startled by seeing the look of shock in his friend's eyes.
"That’s the TWO LEG definition of Hallow's Eve, or Halloween as they call it, idiot. What really happens is something far more interesting."
Eyes growing wide, and pulling his cloak around him for emphasis, Taegan looked around carefully, as though this information was top secret. Not to mention it added to the effect.
""Hallow's Eve is the night when the veil between the living and the dead is the thinnest. Where those who once lived walk again, more real then ever before. A time where you can get the true stories, as well as maybe your own life taken away."
Voice growing lower, Taegan managed only to keep a strait face long enough for the reaction to take place, before laughing, ever so softly. Right before he got the chance to explain though, another voice cut in. This one carried an accent, Egyptian, and a cold certainty, that made both cats freeze and whirl around to face the new tom.
"Hallows Eve is more then that Taegan. Not only is it when the veils between life and death is the thinnest, it is also when those who had once been dead come back for the night. There is no restriction to WHO comes back; they can just not harm anyone. At least, not kill them. You can do much more with the mind though, then physically. To break one, it is all so easy."
The speaker was a medium sized tom who bore a sleek golden pelt, at least, up to his face. With a pointed face that dark brown and endless eyes, Anubis made for a fearsome sight. However, there was only one thing that Fracturebone had heard, and hope, something he had thought died long ago, flared somewhere in the darkest corners of his mind.
They come back? Does that mean... No, that would never be possible. Still... Maybe Anubis does know something. There has to be a way, at least tonight!
"Everyone comes back? Are you sure? Because this is one cruel joke if you’re not serious."
Golden eyes flaring for a moment, Fracture forced a deep breath through his lungs, before returning his gaze back to Anubis, having hidden his emotions once more. He could not however, contain how far up his ears happened to be pricked, almost to a point, and the tension, no matter how scarce, that was tined in his muscles.
""This is no joke, Fracturebone."
Tone dry, Anubis eyed the black and white tom with his dark gaze, before just as he appeared, he was gone. A talent all the circuits had, but one that wasn't always used. As soon as he was gone though, the mask which hid everything from him broke, and Fracturebone turned toward his friend. Taegan was not like all the other Circuits, not that any of them were alike in any way. His pelt, just from casual observation, appeared to be black in most light, but was actually a deep purple. His jaw was marked by two blood red streaks; his tail tip checkered red, and back checkered white. Not that that the white was really seen too often; as it was hid by a dark cape. With black studs in his ears, Taegan had long ago perfected the image he wanted. Now though, as he gazed at Fracturebone once more, his gaze was reserved, something that he had not seen in a long time. Not since his first arrival.
""Is there something you haven't been telling me, Fracturebone? I never knew you had a fascination with the dead.""
Eyes widening, Fracturebone felt himself bristling, before calming himself.
"Nothing that you need to know about."
Staring at Taegan for only a moment longer, Fracturebone rose and left, not looking back to see the true expression in Taegan's gaze; worry. The violet black tom made few friends; and it was obvious that Fracturebone did not know the true power of the spirits...
Part 2 - Secrets Revealed
He doesn't understand; how could he? Today could be the day when... I can't even begin to ponder it, or else I'll work myself up into frenzy. How will I even manage to get through today? Blast my getting up so early.
Lost in his own thoughts, Fracturebone did not hear the paw steps behind him; but to his credit they were fainter then most, until it was too late. With only the slightest warning, a figure was on top of him, and before thinking, Fracturebone lashed out, before finding himself blinded; all he could see was darkness. Freezing, he cautiously looked around, and when nothing happened, freaked. How was this supposed to work if he couldn't see?
""Calm down."
"Come to save the day, have we? Hilarious; I never pegged you as the heroic type."
Tone cold, and flashing a quick grin, one that was not too friendly, Fracturebone could only stare where he thought the other tom was; for his sight had not been restored yet. If it had been his sight that had been effected in the first place.
"
"Your an idiot, you know that? You are ready to barge right out there as soon as dusk hits, looking for something you don't understand. Unless you have a death wish, I'd say you have a suicide wish."
The growl had gone to a snarl, and not giving Fracturebone a chance to speak, Taegan spoke over the protests of his friend.
"You think that your the only one who has lost someone close to you? A sibling or a friend? Or, have you become too wrapped up in yourself that anyone else doesn't matter to you anymore? Did you ever wonder, if there could be an actual reason behind what I hide, and not just an act I do to annoy everyone that I talk to? That there could actually be a reason I seemed drawn to you when you first poked your head into my den by pure accident?"
Half colored eyes narrowed into slits, something that didn't need to be seen to know, Taegan's tail lashed, a faint rustle against the otherwise silence.
""You talk to me as though I am nothing more then a kit. Oh, look at me, lost in my own world. Well, you know what? Sometimes the real world bites. I don't consider anyone, maybe you should look in the mirror sometime as well Taegan. We are two of a kind; so whatever you classify me as, you'd better look for yourself at what you are."
Still looking in the general direction he thought the dark tom was, coldness seemed to settle over his shoulders, although some small part of him, one that was still rational, a part that was screaming at him, that there could be reason for this talk. Something that had always been on the chest of the other tom.
""I've lost a brother and a close friend in my lifetime. I had the same ideas you did; I thought everything would work out. What I didn't count on, was the fact that... You think that they will be the same as before, don't you? You forget though, that coming back has a way of altering things. When they came back, they were the same in appearance and everything, but they had gone dark. StarClan keeps them sane, being forced to come back drives them mad. Unless you want to die, stay away from that place. I'm not going to save you again."
Well, that was a lie, but Fracturebone didn't need to know that. If Taegan could teach some caution into that tom, then life would be worth it. Lifting the veil to reveal how serious he was, Taegan gathered up his power, and then left. The shadows were gone, as was the feeling of being blind. However, the words that had been spoken were not so eager to depart. At least, not from the mind of Fracture.
"They aren't the same. StarClan keeps them sane. Being forced back drives them mad."
The same words, the same thoughts, they all circled to make one long sentence, and for a moment, Fracture could feel a coil of doubt rising in his very being. Did he really want to see Snap like that, when his memories of her weren't tainted by darkness?
No. There is no way she could ever be dark. There was never a dark bone in her body; in or out. She was the only cat I knew would never fight anyone. Which would have been her undoing, but it could have been trained out of her. She'll be the same. She has to be.
Some part of him knew he was living in the stage of denial, but how could he refuse this opportunity? It was right here, a chance to make things good again, and if only for a day. Taking a deep breath, and pushing that coil down as far as it would go, Fracturebone turned and walked away, going toward where he knew he would find something to do; the outside.
Not before taking a nap though. He needed to be nice and rested when he started this little quest, you could say. And no matter what Taegan said, there was no way he could be right. Grinning a fanged smile. Arrogance in his every stride, Fracture moved swiftly down the tunnels, knowing that tonight was going to be a good night.
Part 3 - The Meeting
It was finally time. Carefully picking his way through the long grass of the meadow that soon gave away to the canyon, the glowing black and white tom cast his fiery gaze to the sky, a look of expectance written all over his features. Grinning, he slid between the boundaries, to a place where the air seemed to crinkle with power, something he had learned how to pick up with the Circuits, and seemed to be unclaimed when it came to rogues. This had to be the spot, there was no other reasonable explanation, in his mind, as to where else it could be. Grinning a dark grin, Fracture paced around, wondering, if and when, this would happen. There was something that he could not get rid of though; a stray nagging feeling, or thought rather, at the back of his mind.
They aren't the same. Being forced back drives them insane.
And for once, some part, the part that had been trying to speak all night, became the only voice he could hear. He had come to see what had left him; but what if there were others? He wouldn't mind seeing his siblings, or at least, one of them anyway. But there was always something else that lurked, something that he had learned oh so long ago. Tail lashing, the pacing stopping, for a moment, a flash of fear flickered on his gaze. Suddenly, there was a crack like thunder, and he knew then, that there was no turning back. Whirling, he could almost make out a shape, when suddenly, everything went white. Gasping in pain, and staggering back, there was a moment when just everything was bathed in pure white light, and suddenly, everything switched. The light was gone, and now, replaced by darkness, there was nothing to be seen. Within a few moments, as quickly as the first had come though; everything was more or less back to normal. Blinking like a deer caught in headlights, Fracturebone turned his head toward where the first light had appeared, and then, let out another gasp, this one of pure amazement. Before him, looking somewhat shocked, was the cat that he had been looking for all along. Stepping forward, almost as though he was afraid, a thousand thoughts ran through his mind, but before he even could say anything, the glowing figure spoke.
""Your in horrible danger, and most of its my fault. We have to get away from here; before anyone else can see you."
It was like a sucker punch, and set Fracture reeling. There was no questioning her though, a hint of steel was playing out in those green eyes, and with mute acceptance, he followed the she cat to where she deemed safe; which really wasn't all too far from where they had been before. It was learned long ago though that some questions can't be answered. In fact, he was still dazed from what had happened, and couldn't feel the eyes upon him, more then one set. Turning, the phantom cat, who was becoming what seemed to be more and more real as time passed, offered a shy smile at him.
""Its good to see you again Fracture. Its been so long; I'm amazed that this even worked, and that I wasn't driven insane from the pressure."
Gently, air rushed against the skeleton tom, and he sighed softly. His world was whole once more; all was good. Taking a deep breath, Fracture opened his maw and let loose everything.
"Its been so strange without you, Snapflare. Life with the Circuits is different, but not too horrible. It is too good to see you though. But what did you mean by 'terrible danger?' You seem to be just fine, and your the only one I can see here."
""Just because you can't see the darkness doesn't mean that it isn't there. We aren't alone here, Fracturebone. And unless you want to die tonight, its time to keep moving."
"I can take him."
Typical male, the last words had been like a blow to his pride. There was no way he would be able to back down from this fight now; and Snapflare saw her mistake just moments after saying it, and could have cursed herself. What happened to her wisdom that she supposedly gained? Shaking her head, a pained look flickered in her gaze. There was no way that this could work; she would not be the death of her brother. When she looked into the steely depths of Fracture's gaze though, there was no hope of him turning back. Suddenly, anger exploded in her gaze. The days back when Snapflare was weak were over; things had long since changed.
"Do you honestly think that you'll be able to beat what you can't understand? Your not invincible Fracture, and you'll never be anything other then just an average warrior, if even that. Your worthless here, and because you mope, you only further ruin yourself. I hate you when your like this, and yet, you never stop. You want to fight this? Fine. Be prepared to die though, alone."
And suddenly, she was gone, leaving just a rift of pain that seemed to pour from the tom's gaze. Painfully he detached his gaze from where Snap had once been, not feeling the fact that she was still there, watching, just unseen. Whole form shivering, Fracturebone turned away, and headed toward where the darkness was. He knew now that there was no turning back, and there seemed to be little reason to live. His best friend was mad at him for reasons he could see now, and his sibling he thought to be the same wasn't. The world wasn't fair.
""That was rough, but very true."
A voice spoke from the shadows, one that was familiar to the tom, but one that he didn't want to hear, because that meant he really would have gone insane. He could not help the feeling of hope that sprang into him though, as he turned, to look at his dark friend.
"Your not going into battle alone. I have something out there as well."
Reaching into his cape, something that surprised him, Taegan drew out a small scythe, one that he had 'borrowed' from Clopar, and a cloak. A few other things pulled out, such as a bone mask for himself as Fracturebone didn't need one, and it was evident what was going to happen. And yet, the costumes, no matter how real they were, confused Fracturebone.
"Didn't you say costumes were only for the two-legs?"
Voice, tight, Fracturebone stared at Taegan, although already putting on what had been given to him. As soon as he put on the cloak, pulling up the hood, it was as though he had just faded away. The brightness of his bone markings was gone, and he was suddenly a cat of the darkness, much like the cat before him, who was almost unidentifiable with the mask he wore.
""In a way, yes. But they have the costumes part right. This will hopefully confuse the spirits that are after you and I. Come, we don't have much time. We need to set them free."
Looking up, the sky was starting to get lighter, something that had gone unnoticed before, and now cast a pang of worry in his gaze. Time was running out. Wordlessly, he followed his friend into the dark cavern, where the air was thick with tension. The time had come to confront what was lurking in the shadows. For both of them..
Part 4- Bring the Big Guns
As soon as the cavern was entered, it was as though the air had dropped ten degrees, causing the two cats to puff up slightly. The ground was slick with something dark and red, something that could have been blood, once upon a time. Shivering, something was very wrong her, something that rocked every nerve in the body of Fracturebone. Taegan seemed to be unaware by it, but from the powers he held, it wasn't surprising that it wasn't affecting him. Suddenly, the two halted, as a hazy figure danced on the edges of their vision, soon joined by another. It was as though speech had been robbed from him, and he could only stare as they grew more and more visible. And soon, there was no doubt as to who it was. Well, at least for one of them. Both were toms, and yet, Fracture found he could feel pain emitting from his friend. Shivering slightly, he stood closer to Taegan, but was alarmed by the feeling of pure power in the tom. He couldn't look away from the light brown gaze of the one cat he knew. One that had also perished, but it seemed, had met a different fate then Snap. With a pure brown body, a black stripe going down his back, around his neck, and under his chin, there was another story to be told here. For this tom was none other then his other brother, Mellowmare. Shivering again, Fracture tore his gaze off the light brown of Mellow's, and looked to see what had caught Taegan's gaze. This cat was obviously of Circuit nature, sporting a white pelt with markings very unlike Taegan's. A black spade, a red clover, red and black checker pattern. He had no clue how this cat was, but evidently, it was one of the cats that Taegan had spoken of. Had that only been today? It seemed as though it had been so long ago...
"So this has finally happened. Its been a long time, Taegan. And yet, you haven't changed at all. Typical."
Underneath his cape, Taegan flinched, sparking rage in the golden orbs of Fracturebone. Nobody spoke to his friends that way. Stepping forward, anger seemed to fuel him as he glared at the white, red, and black tom, tail lashing, scythe hidden in his cloak. Before he had the chance to speak though, Mellow jumped. Whirling just a second too late, Fracture rolled, and felt claws, not air, slice into him. Wincing, Fracturebone rolled, turning to spar with his brother. Time had changed things that much was obvious, and it would be an interesting match. Beside him, Taegan was locked in battle with the one cat that he didn't know. Suddenly, the hidden tom rammed into Fracture, moments before a figure crashed into him. Flying against the wall, everything went black, and soundless. And while the black wave rose and crashed, Fracture fought it. Finally, he awoke once more, to something that left him cold. Having been forced into a corner, Taegan was fighting for everything he had, as two spirits, grinning gleefully, strode closer. Bolting to his feet, there was only one shot at this, one chance to save his friend. Grabbing the scythe, Fracturebone jumped... And was just a little bit too late. Claws descending, they raked against Taegan's throat, leaving only a pool of blood. Arriving just moments after that happened, pain, so bright, seared the tom, and it felt as though nothing he had ever felt before. An intense, almost burning, feeling, one that left nothing in its wake. Whirling with speed he didn't think possible, the red, white, and black tom that was already half gone was dead, body fading out as Fracturebone hit him full on with the scythe. Turning, he glared at Mellow, knowing that this would be a fight until one of them died. Breath coming in pants, Fracture paced, eyes burning nearly white with anger, there was no clear definition who he was anymore. Maw lifting to reveal sharp fangs, he turned, and jumped, landing where Mellow had been only moments ago.
"Aww. Is the poor little Fracturebone mad that I killed his little friend? That’s so sad. Now what ever will you do? You can't fight me, your just a normal, weak, warrior."
Grinning, the tom raked a claw against the other cat. Or at least, where he thought that Fracture was. Anger was a powerful tool though, and flitting with the shadows, Fracture kept just out of the way, playing with the other tom. Exhaustion burned in his muscles, and yet, there was no stopping. To stop would mean death, and Taegan needed to be avenged.
Suddenly though, there was a feeling of sliding, and Fracture took a one way ticket to the floor, having slipped over the blood of someone. Landing with a crash, he didn't have time to roll over before a figure stood over him, although it was not one he had expected.
""Mellow. Long time no see."
An icy exterior, but claws ready to tear and rip, Snapflare jumped when the other tom lunged, taking a bad blow to the side. Gasping, she whirled in time to rake her claws across his face, blinding the tom in one eye, before fading once more. Fracture though, at that time, had regained his feet. Charging the blinded Mellow, he swung the scythe, and connected. But not in time. Just as it had been with Taegan, Fracture felt his own blood being spilled as claws swiped across his neck. Rage still held him though, and he watched as Mellow turned to dust, before managing to make it over to Taegan.
""You were avenged. May you rest in peace. And I am so sorry for what happened. This is my entire fault, I alone take the punishment."
Suddenly, the world swam, and suddenly went dark. Shuddering, Fracture fell forward, landing on top of Taegan, their blood intermingling on the stone floor....
Epilogue -
It should have been the end. However, with a sudden gasp, Taegan awoke. His powers were more immense then he had first thought, and now, although he bore the scar, he was alive. For some reason though, he knew that the shadows weren't responsible for this, as words rang in his mind, over and over.
"You were avenged. May you rest in peace. And I am so sorry for what happened. This is my entire fault, I alone take the punishment."
And suddenly, everything snapped back into place. The fear he had felt as he watched Raimi toss Fracture easily into the wall, fighting as he waited for his friend to regain his mind, and then, watching the claw come down, knowing that even though Fracture moved fast, it would be too late for him.
Fracture. Where is he?
The spirits were gone, he could taste that, but also, there was the taste of death. Turning his head to see why he couldn't move, everything inside of him seemed to turn cold. As the image became more and more clear, so did the words that had been spoken to him, pulling himself out, Taegan turned toward his friend, two colored eyes wide with shock, and pain.
"No, no. This isn't your fault! YOU CAN'T LEAVE."
Even as he spoke, he knew it was too late. Fracture was just too still, too cold. Pain racking his entire body, Taegan turned and pressed his nose into the fur of his friend, agony washing throughout him. Almost without thinking, he turned the area shadowed, so nothing could get in... Or out. And suddenly, there was another figure in the cavern, one that although faint, was obviously one of the spirits that had come from the portal that night.
""He isn't gone yet. But you can't help him. By speaking what he did, he refused to let you sacrifice yourself for him. However, there may be a way I can help."
It was almost as though she was talking to herself, although Taegan could hear everything with clarity. Silence was the best key here though, no matter how interested he was in the cure this spirit offered. The first he had seen that hadn't gone insane.
""Tell Fracture I've always loved him, and that I won't be back. I made this sacrifice for him, and him alone. He isn't ready for death. Not like I was."
Suddenly, a bright light flashed, and she was gone. Blinking, blinded from the sudden flare, Taegan almost missed the faint rise and fall of breath that came from his friend's body. And when he did see it, he thought it to be nothing more then his imagination. There was no doubting him though, once Fracture shakily sat up, leaning on his friend as he regained his thoughts.
"What happened? I remember you getting killed, and then I getting killed. And then I said something that seemed so right, and your alive. Now I'm alive..."
Blinking his golden eyes, Fracture turned toward Taegan, eyes wide and confused, and open for once.
""What happened to Snapflare> She was just here, I can feel her.."
Knowing know that Snapflare must be who the she cat had been, Taegan's head bowed slightly.
"Self sacrifice. She saved you, because she loved you. She won't be back, and she asks that you don't mourn her too horribly. She gave this up for for you, remember?"
And suddenly, pain flashed in the eyes of Fracture, and he gasp, drawing away from Taegan.
"
"I killed two of my siblings, and yours as well."
Agony pierced his tone. Shaking his head, Fracture rose to his feet, searching for his sanity, wherever it may lie.
""This wasn't your fault Fracture. Come on, lets get back to the Circuits. We should tell Anubis at least about what has happened."
Nodding, almost without thinking, Fracture followed his friend, cloaked by the power of shadow. The explanation would be hard. And yet, although he searched and searched, he felt no grief really. It seemed as though that had been stripped from him as well. Maybe that would be for the best though. It was time to get his life back on track. Taking a deep breath, he caught up to Taegan. He wasn't going to let the dark tom do all the explaining. They were more then friends now, they were siblings of the shadow. Both bore the same scar, both were bound by sacrifice. There was nothing left to say; but there was plenty to do. It was time to let the shadows finally guide his path. All would be avenged in the end.
Credits:
Story Idea: (C) Sacrifice 2009
For use on: www.Spirit-cats.proboards.com ONLY.
Characters (C):
Snapflare: Sacrifice
Taegan: Sacrifice
Fracturebone: Sacrifice
Anubis: Sacrifice
Mellowmare: Marrow
Raimi: Tants
Word Count: 5247, give or take.
Entry #2!
LW
Entry #3!
Fallen
Entry #1!
Sacrifice
Hallow's Eve
When the veil between both worlds becomes thin...
Characters:
Fracturebone- Classic skeleton tom. His white bone markings though, are very, very bright, and contrast deeply with the black base color of his pelt. Fierce golden eyes.
Taegan- A deep purple almost black tom with a lighter colored mask around his eyes. His back is checkered white, and he has two dark red streaks on his jaw, right where his canines connect with skin. The tip of his tail is checkered red. His eyes are two different colors, half is green, and half is blue. They tend to change whats on top and bottom though. He wears a dark cape, and has two studs in his right ear.
Anubis-- Golden pelted tom with a very pointy face. His face istself is black, and his eyes are an undefined color.
Snapflare- Faintly marked skeleton she cat with silver rosettes, and striking green eyes.
Mellowmare- Light brown tom with a black stripe going down his back, around his neck, and under his chin. Light brown eyes.
Raimi-White tom with a black sade by one of his eyes, and a red clover by the other. Has a white base pelt, and red and black checkering.
~~~~~~
Prologue
Why was it so dark already? He had expected there to be some light, not pitch dark. It was suiting though, as he gazed up to see a night filled with neither sun nor stars. A night fit for what was going to happen. All he had to do was wait, and hope. As the time passed though, he felt himself growing more and more restless. Maybe it had all be a joke all along? Everyone had seemed so serious though. Suddenly, there was a sound. It was like a faint rustle of a brush, but it was all that was needed to set the tom, which was already on edge, over it. Whirling, he didn't have time to hide his fierce gaze before the brilliant light bathed his pelt. Gasping in pain, all he saw was darkness, before as soon as the pain had come, and it was gone. When he could see though, what he saw made his breath choke up.
It was all true. Everything. As he gazed at the figure before him, he could only shake his head, mouth forming words that he couldn't make out.
He had never expected it to be this real. But where there was light, there was also darkness, and soon another figure appeared...
Part 1 - The Learning
A form was silhouetted against the darkness, as the rising rays of the sun drew out; removing what he had once been concealed in; well, at least as well as he could be concealed. Looking down at the ultra white markings against the dark onyx which made him up; it was impossible to hide anywhere really, unless there was something behind the hiding itself. For a moment, there was a flicker of darkness in the vast golden depths that made up Fracturebone's eyes. A look of pain seemed to haunt their depths; a sad pain, and for just a fleeting second, all the flashy spark that made Fracturebone who he was, flared out of existence. Head bowed down, he looked as though he was nothing more then a damaged one. Of course, as soon as a presence flashed by him, everything changed. The mask went back up; however, it was not as thick as it was around others, for this cat was well known to the tom. The one that he had easily befriended, almost upon meeting. A smile flickering on the edge of his maw, Fracturebone didn't move as another came to sit beside him, and for a while, there was silence.
"Never thought you to enjoy a sunrise. A sunset, sure." The other tom spoke, offering a shrug just visible under his dark cape.
"Hello to you to. And it does one good to see the sunrise; you can gain sanity that way, at least, they say. Not that I expected you to know anything about that Taegan."
A somewhat dry reply; but it was the banter of friends, not to be confused with actual insults.
"Who needs sanity to live? I may not be like the rest of you; but you can't say that I don't pull my own weight."
Snorting, Taegan rolled his half colored eyes, something that made him quite unique. The upper half was a light green, the lower, a light blue.
"Anyway, I actually ventured out into the light to tell you about Hallow's Eve, tonight."
Excitement tinged his tone, and if he had been any other cat, the circuit probably would have been jumping around; no better then a kit. Very few saw through the facade that Taegan put up; it was something special to be able and see the true cat, not just the image he projected.
"Isn't that just a two leg thing? They dress up in costumes, look for things, and then go home. Sounds like a waste of time for me."
Scoffed Fracturebone. Not that he didn't really have anything to do; tonight the grand plans were to lounge about and sulk in the vast network of tunnels that the Circuits called home. Same as every other night, actually. However, he was startled by seeing the look of shock in his friend's eyes.
"That’s the TWO LEG definition of Hallow's Eve, or Halloween as they call it, idiot. What really happens is something far more interesting."
Eyes growing wide, and pulling his cloak around him for emphasis, Taegan looked around carefully, as though this information was top secret. Not to mention it added to the effect.
""Hallow's Eve is the night when the veil between the living and the dead is the thinnest. Where those who once lived walk again, more real then ever before. A time where you can get the true stories, as well as maybe your own life taken away."
Voice growing lower, Taegan managed only to keep a strait face long enough for the reaction to take place, before laughing, ever so softly. Right before he got the chance to explain though, another voice cut in. This one carried an accent, Egyptian, and a cold certainty, that made both cats freeze and whirl around to face the new tom.
"Hallows Eve is more then that Taegan. Not only is it when the veils between life and death is the thinnest, it is also when those who had once been dead come back for the night. There is no restriction to WHO comes back; they can just not harm anyone. At least, not kill them. You can do much more with the mind though, then physically. To break one, it is all so easy."
The speaker was a medium sized tom who bore a sleek golden pelt, at least, up to his face. With a pointed face that dark brown and endless eyes, Anubis made for a fearsome sight. However, there was only one thing that Fracturebone had heard, and hope, something he had thought died long ago, flared somewhere in the darkest corners of his mind.
They come back? Does that mean... No, that would never be possible. Still... Maybe Anubis does know something. There has to be a way, at least tonight!
"Everyone comes back? Are you sure? Because this is one cruel joke if you’re not serious."
Golden eyes flaring for a moment, Fracture forced a deep breath through his lungs, before returning his gaze back to Anubis, having hidden his emotions once more. He could not however, contain how far up his ears happened to be pricked, almost to a point, and the tension, no matter how scarce, that was tined in his muscles.
""This is no joke, Fracturebone."
Tone dry, Anubis eyed the black and white tom with his dark gaze, before just as he appeared, he was gone. A talent all the circuits had, but one that wasn't always used. As soon as he was gone though, the mask which hid everything from him broke, and Fracturebone turned toward his friend. Taegan was not like all the other Circuits, not that any of them were alike in any way. His pelt, just from casual observation, appeared to be black in most light, but was actually a deep purple. His jaw was marked by two blood red streaks; his tail tip checkered red, and back checkered white. Not that that the white was really seen too often; as it was hid by a dark cape. With black studs in his ears, Taegan had long ago perfected the image he wanted. Now though, as he gazed at Fracturebone once more, his gaze was reserved, something that he had not seen in a long time. Not since his first arrival.
""Is there something you haven't been telling me, Fracturebone? I never knew you had a fascination with the dead.""
Eyes widening, Fracturebone felt himself bristling, before calming himself.
"Nothing that you need to know about."
Staring at Taegan for only a moment longer, Fracturebone rose and left, not looking back to see the true expression in Taegan's gaze; worry. The violet black tom made few friends; and it was obvious that Fracturebone did not know the true power of the spirits...
Part 2 - Secrets Revealed
He doesn't understand; how could he? Today could be the day when... I can't even begin to ponder it, or else I'll work myself up into frenzy. How will I even manage to get through today? Blast my getting up so early.
Lost in his own thoughts, Fracturebone did not hear the paw steps behind him; but to his credit they were fainter then most, until it was too late. With only the slightest warning, a figure was on top of him, and before thinking, Fracturebone lashed out, before finding himself blinded; all he could see was darkness. Freezing, he cautiously looked around, and when nothing happened, freaked. How was this supposed to work if he couldn't see?
""Calm down."
"Come to save the day, have we? Hilarious; I never pegged you as the heroic type."
Tone cold, and flashing a quick grin, one that was not too friendly, Fracturebone could only stare where he thought the other tom was; for his sight had not been restored yet. If it had been his sight that had been effected in the first place.
"
"Your an idiot, you know that? You are ready to barge right out there as soon as dusk hits, looking for something you don't understand. Unless you have a death wish, I'd say you have a suicide wish."
The growl had gone to a snarl, and not giving Fracturebone a chance to speak, Taegan spoke over the protests of his friend.
"You think that your the only one who has lost someone close to you? A sibling or a friend? Or, have you become too wrapped up in yourself that anyone else doesn't matter to you anymore? Did you ever wonder, if there could be an actual reason behind what I hide, and not just an act I do to annoy everyone that I talk to? That there could actually be a reason I seemed drawn to you when you first poked your head into my den by pure accident?"
Half colored eyes narrowed into slits, something that didn't need to be seen to know, Taegan's tail lashed, a faint rustle against the otherwise silence.
""You talk to me as though I am nothing more then a kit. Oh, look at me, lost in my own world. Well, you know what? Sometimes the real world bites. I don't consider anyone, maybe you should look in the mirror sometime as well Taegan. We are two of a kind; so whatever you classify me as, you'd better look for yourself at what you are."
Still looking in the general direction he thought the dark tom was, coldness seemed to settle over his shoulders, although some small part of him, one that was still rational, a part that was screaming at him, that there could be reason for this talk. Something that had always been on the chest of the other tom.
""I've lost a brother and a close friend in my lifetime. I had the same ideas you did; I thought everything would work out. What I didn't count on, was the fact that... You think that they will be the same as before, don't you? You forget though, that coming back has a way of altering things. When they came back, they were the same in appearance and everything, but they had gone dark. StarClan keeps them sane, being forced to come back drives them mad. Unless you want to die, stay away from that place. I'm not going to save you again."
Well, that was a lie, but Fracturebone didn't need to know that. If Taegan could teach some caution into that tom, then life would be worth it. Lifting the veil to reveal how serious he was, Taegan gathered up his power, and then left. The shadows were gone, as was the feeling of being blind. However, the words that had been spoken were not so eager to depart. At least, not from the mind of Fracture.
"They aren't the same. StarClan keeps them sane. Being forced back drives them mad."
The same words, the same thoughts, they all circled to make one long sentence, and for a moment, Fracture could feel a coil of doubt rising in his very being. Did he really want to see Snap like that, when his memories of her weren't tainted by darkness?
No. There is no way she could ever be dark. There was never a dark bone in her body; in or out. She was the only cat I knew would never fight anyone. Which would have been her undoing, but it could have been trained out of her. She'll be the same. She has to be.
Some part of him knew he was living in the stage of denial, but how could he refuse this opportunity? It was right here, a chance to make things good again, and if only for a day. Taking a deep breath, and pushing that coil down as far as it would go, Fracturebone turned and walked away, going toward where he knew he would find something to do; the outside.
Not before taking a nap though. He needed to be nice and rested when he started this little quest, you could say. And no matter what Taegan said, there was no way he could be right. Grinning a fanged smile. Arrogance in his every stride, Fracture moved swiftly down the tunnels, knowing that tonight was going to be a good night.
Part 3 - The Meeting
It was finally time. Carefully picking his way through the long grass of the meadow that soon gave away to the canyon, the glowing black and white tom cast his fiery gaze to the sky, a look of expectance written all over his features. Grinning, he slid between the boundaries, to a place where the air seemed to crinkle with power, something he had learned how to pick up with the Circuits, and seemed to be unclaimed when it came to rogues. This had to be the spot, there was no other reasonable explanation, in his mind, as to where else it could be. Grinning a dark grin, Fracture paced around, wondering, if and when, this would happen. There was something that he could not get rid of though; a stray nagging feeling, or thought rather, at the back of his mind.
They aren't the same. Being forced back drives them insane.
And for once, some part, the part that had been trying to speak all night, became the only voice he could hear. He had come to see what had left him; but what if there were others? He wouldn't mind seeing his siblings, or at least, one of them anyway. But there was always something else that lurked, something that he had learned oh so long ago. Tail lashing, the pacing stopping, for a moment, a flash of fear flickered on his gaze. Suddenly, there was a crack like thunder, and he knew then, that there was no turning back. Whirling, he could almost make out a shape, when suddenly, everything went white. Gasping in pain, and staggering back, there was a moment when just everything was bathed in pure white light, and suddenly, everything switched. The light was gone, and now, replaced by darkness, there was nothing to be seen. Within a few moments, as quickly as the first had come though; everything was more or less back to normal. Blinking like a deer caught in headlights, Fracturebone turned his head toward where the first light had appeared, and then, let out another gasp, this one of pure amazement. Before him, looking somewhat shocked, was the cat that he had been looking for all along. Stepping forward, almost as though he was afraid, a thousand thoughts ran through his mind, but before he even could say anything, the glowing figure spoke.
""Your in horrible danger, and most of its my fault. We have to get away from here; before anyone else can see you."
It was like a sucker punch, and set Fracture reeling. There was no questioning her though, a hint of steel was playing out in those green eyes, and with mute acceptance, he followed the she cat to where she deemed safe; which really wasn't all too far from where they had been before. It was learned long ago though that some questions can't be answered. In fact, he was still dazed from what had happened, and couldn't feel the eyes upon him, more then one set. Turning, the phantom cat, who was becoming what seemed to be more and more real as time passed, offered a shy smile at him.
""Its good to see you again Fracture. Its been so long; I'm amazed that this even worked, and that I wasn't driven insane from the pressure."
Gently, air rushed against the skeleton tom, and he sighed softly. His world was whole once more; all was good. Taking a deep breath, Fracture opened his maw and let loose everything.
"Its been so strange without you, Snapflare. Life with the Circuits is different, but not too horrible. It is too good to see you though. But what did you mean by 'terrible danger?' You seem to be just fine, and your the only one I can see here."
""Just because you can't see the darkness doesn't mean that it isn't there. We aren't alone here, Fracturebone. And unless you want to die tonight, its time to keep moving."
"I can take him."
Typical male, the last words had been like a blow to his pride. There was no way he would be able to back down from this fight now; and Snapflare saw her mistake just moments after saying it, and could have cursed herself. What happened to her wisdom that she supposedly gained? Shaking her head, a pained look flickered in her gaze. There was no way that this could work; she would not be the death of her brother. When she looked into the steely depths of Fracture's gaze though, there was no hope of him turning back. Suddenly, anger exploded in her gaze. The days back when Snapflare was weak were over; things had long since changed.
"Do you honestly think that you'll be able to beat what you can't understand? Your not invincible Fracture, and you'll never be anything other then just an average warrior, if even that. Your worthless here, and because you mope, you only further ruin yourself. I hate you when your like this, and yet, you never stop. You want to fight this? Fine. Be prepared to die though, alone."
And suddenly, she was gone, leaving just a rift of pain that seemed to pour from the tom's gaze. Painfully he detached his gaze from where Snap had once been, not feeling the fact that she was still there, watching, just unseen. Whole form shivering, Fracturebone turned away, and headed toward where the darkness was. He knew now that there was no turning back, and there seemed to be little reason to live. His best friend was mad at him for reasons he could see now, and his sibling he thought to be the same wasn't. The world wasn't fair.
""That was rough, but very true."
A voice spoke from the shadows, one that was familiar to the tom, but one that he didn't want to hear, because that meant he really would have gone insane. He could not help the feeling of hope that sprang into him though, as he turned, to look at his dark friend.
"Your not going into battle alone. I have something out there as well."
Reaching into his cape, something that surprised him, Taegan drew out a small scythe, one that he had 'borrowed' from Clopar, and a cloak. A few other things pulled out, such as a bone mask for himself as Fracturebone didn't need one, and it was evident what was going to happen. And yet, the costumes, no matter how real they were, confused Fracturebone.
"Didn't you say costumes were only for the two-legs?"
Voice, tight, Fracturebone stared at Taegan, although already putting on what had been given to him. As soon as he put on the cloak, pulling up the hood, it was as though he had just faded away. The brightness of his bone markings was gone, and he was suddenly a cat of the darkness, much like the cat before him, who was almost unidentifiable with the mask he wore.
""In a way, yes. But they have the costumes part right. This will hopefully confuse the spirits that are after you and I. Come, we don't have much time. We need to set them free."
Looking up, the sky was starting to get lighter, something that had gone unnoticed before, and now cast a pang of worry in his gaze. Time was running out. Wordlessly, he followed his friend into the dark cavern, where the air was thick with tension. The time had come to confront what was lurking in the shadows. For both of them..
Part 4- Bring the Big Guns
As soon as the cavern was entered, it was as though the air had dropped ten degrees, causing the two cats to puff up slightly. The ground was slick with something dark and red, something that could have been blood, once upon a time. Shivering, something was very wrong her, something that rocked every nerve in the body of Fracturebone. Taegan seemed to be unaware by it, but from the powers he held, it wasn't surprising that it wasn't affecting him. Suddenly, the two halted, as a hazy figure danced on the edges of their vision, soon joined by another. It was as though speech had been robbed from him, and he could only stare as they grew more and more visible. And soon, there was no doubt as to who it was. Well, at least for one of them. Both were toms, and yet, Fracture found he could feel pain emitting from his friend. Shivering slightly, he stood closer to Taegan, but was alarmed by the feeling of pure power in the tom. He couldn't look away from the light brown gaze of the one cat he knew. One that had also perished, but it seemed, had met a different fate then Snap. With a pure brown body, a black stripe going down his back, around his neck, and under his chin, there was another story to be told here. For this tom was none other then his other brother, Mellowmare. Shivering again, Fracture tore his gaze off the light brown of Mellow's, and looked to see what had caught Taegan's gaze. This cat was obviously of Circuit nature, sporting a white pelt with markings very unlike Taegan's. A black spade, a red clover, red and black checker pattern. He had no clue how this cat was, but evidently, it was one of the cats that Taegan had spoken of. Had that only been today? It seemed as though it had been so long ago...
"So this has finally happened. Its been a long time, Taegan. And yet, you haven't changed at all. Typical."
Underneath his cape, Taegan flinched, sparking rage in the golden orbs of Fracturebone. Nobody spoke to his friends that way. Stepping forward, anger seemed to fuel him as he glared at the white, red, and black tom, tail lashing, scythe hidden in his cloak. Before he had the chance to speak though, Mellow jumped. Whirling just a second too late, Fracture rolled, and felt claws, not air, slice into him. Wincing, Fracturebone rolled, turning to spar with his brother. Time had changed things that much was obvious, and it would be an interesting match. Beside him, Taegan was locked in battle with the one cat that he didn't know. Suddenly, the hidden tom rammed into Fracture, moments before a figure crashed into him. Flying against the wall, everything went black, and soundless. And while the black wave rose and crashed, Fracture fought it. Finally, he awoke once more, to something that left him cold. Having been forced into a corner, Taegan was fighting for everything he had, as two spirits, grinning gleefully, strode closer. Bolting to his feet, there was only one shot at this, one chance to save his friend. Grabbing the scythe, Fracturebone jumped... And was just a little bit too late. Claws descending, they raked against Taegan's throat, leaving only a pool of blood. Arriving just moments after that happened, pain, so bright, seared the tom, and it felt as though nothing he had ever felt before. An intense, almost burning, feeling, one that left nothing in its wake. Whirling with speed he didn't think possible, the red, white, and black tom that was already half gone was dead, body fading out as Fracturebone hit him full on with the scythe. Turning, he glared at Mellow, knowing that this would be a fight until one of them died. Breath coming in pants, Fracture paced, eyes burning nearly white with anger, there was no clear definition who he was anymore. Maw lifting to reveal sharp fangs, he turned, and jumped, landing where Mellow had been only moments ago.
"Aww. Is the poor little Fracturebone mad that I killed his little friend? That’s so sad. Now what ever will you do? You can't fight me, your just a normal, weak, warrior."
Grinning, the tom raked a claw against the other cat. Or at least, where he thought that Fracture was. Anger was a powerful tool though, and flitting with the shadows, Fracture kept just out of the way, playing with the other tom. Exhaustion burned in his muscles, and yet, there was no stopping. To stop would mean death, and Taegan needed to be avenged.
Suddenly though, there was a feeling of sliding, and Fracture took a one way ticket to the floor, having slipped over the blood of someone. Landing with a crash, he didn't have time to roll over before a figure stood over him, although it was not one he had expected.
""Mellow. Long time no see."
An icy exterior, but claws ready to tear and rip, Snapflare jumped when the other tom lunged, taking a bad blow to the side. Gasping, she whirled in time to rake her claws across his face, blinding the tom in one eye, before fading once more. Fracture though, at that time, had regained his feet. Charging the blinded Mellow, he swung the scythe, and connected. But not in time. Just as it had been with Taegan, Fracture felt his own blood being spilled as claws swiped across his neck. Rage still held him though, and he watched as Mellow turned to dust, before managing to make it over to Taegan.
""You were avenged. May you rest in peace. And I am so sorry for what happened. This is my entire fault, I alone take the punishment."
Suddenly, the world swam, and suddenly went dark. Shuddering, Fracture fell forward, landing on top of Taegan, their blood intermingling on the stone floor....
Epilogue -
It should have been the end. However, with a sudden gasp, Taegan awoke. His powers were more immense then he had first thought, and now, although he bore the scar, he was alive. For some reason though, he knew that the shadows weren't responsible for this, as words rang in his mind, over and over.
"You were avenged. May you rest in peace. And I am so sorry for what happened. This is my entire fault, I alone take the punishment."
And suddenly, everything snapped back into place. The fear he had felt as he watched Raimi toss Fracture easily into the wall, fighting as he waited for his friend to regain his mind, and then, watching the claw come down, knowing that even though Fracture moved fast, it would be too late for him.
Fracture. Where is he?
The spirits were gone, he could taste that, but also, there was the taste of death. Turning his head to see why he couldn't move, everything inside of him seemed to turn cold. As the image became more and more clear, so did the words that had been spoken to him, pulling himself out, Taegan turned toward his friend, two colored eyes wide with shock, and pain.
"No, no. This isn't your fault! YOU CAN'T LEAVE."
Even as he spoke, he knew it was too late. Fracture was just too still, too cold. Pain racking his entire body, Taegan turned and pressed his nose into the fur of his friend, agony washing throughout him. Almost without thinking, he turned the area shadowed, so nothing could get in... Or out. And suddenly, there was another figure in the cavern, one that although faint, was obviously one of the spirits that had come from the portal that night.
""He isn't gone yet. But you can't help him. By speaking what he did, he refused to let you sacrifice yourself for him. However, there may be a way I can help."
It was almost as though she was talking to herself, although Taegan could hear everything with clarity. Silence was the best key here though, no matter how interested he was in the cure this spirit offered. The first he had seen that hadn't gone insane.
""Tell Fracture I've always loved him, and that I won't be back. I made this sacrifice for him, and him alone. He isn't ready for death. Not like I was."
Suddenly, a bright light flashed, and she was gone. Blinking, blinded from the sudden flare, Taegan almost missed the faint rise and fall of breath that came from his friend's body. And when he did see it, he thought it to be nothing more then his imagination. There was no doubting him though, once Fracture shakily sat up, leaning on his friend as he regained his thoughts.
"What happened? I remember you getting killed, and then I getting killed. And then I said something that seemed so right, and your alive. Now I'm alive..."
Blinking his golden eyes, Fracture turned toward Taegan, eyes wide and confused, and open for once.
""What happened to Snapflare> She was just here, I can feel her.."
Knowing know that Snapflare must be who the she cat had been, Taegan's head bowed slightly.
"Self sacrifice. She saved you, because she loved you. She won't be back, and she asks that you don't mourn her too horribly. She gave this up for for you, remember?"
And suddenly, pain flashed in the eyes of Fracture, and he gasp, drawing away from Taegan.
"
"I killed two of my siblings, and yours as well."
Agony pierced his tone. Shaking his head, Fracture rose to his feet, searching for his sanity, wherever it may lie.
""This wasn't your fault Fracture. Come on, lets get back to the Circuits. We should tell Anubis at least about what has happened."
Nodding, almost without thinking, Fracture followed his friend, cloaked by the power of shadow. The explanation would be hard. And yet, although he searched and searched, he felt no grief really. It seemed as though that had been stripped from him as well. Maybe that would be for the best though. It was time to get his life back on track. Taking a deep breath, he caught up to Taegan. He wasn't going to let the dark tom do all the explaining. They were more then friends now, they were siblings of the shadow. Both bore the same scar, both were bound by sacrifice. There was nothing left to say; but there was plenty to do. It was time to let the shadows finally guide his path. All would be avenged in the end.
Credits:
Story Idea: (C) Sacrifice 2009
For use on: www.Spirit-cats.proboards.com ONLY.
Characters (C):
Snapflare: Sacrifice
Taegan: Sacrifice
Fracturebone: Sacrifice
Anubis: Sacrifice
Mellowmare: Marrow
Raimi: Tants
Word Count: 5247, give or take.
Entry #2!
LW
Entry #3!
Fallen
I am teh awesomness!
