The Outcasts
Ones who have never, or once, been considered part of the pack. Their place is now somewhere in the pack territory, either wandering or chained, but strictly restrained and controlled, whether it be because they are insane or they are a threat.In a secluded clearing surrounded by ancient trees, the Fateful Trio convened for their annual meeting, tension thick in the air. Fatecurser stood tall, her calm demeanor a stark contrast to the flickering shadows around her.
"Let's get this over with," she said, her voice steady. "We have wolves to discuss, and the longer we linger here, the more restless I become."
Rune leaned against a gnarled tree, a sly grin spreading across his face.
"Restless or just bored? We could spice things up. How about I throw in some scandalous secrets? I know a few juicy ones about the pack."
Vulcan, his red and black fur shimmering in the dappled light, grinned sinisterly.
"Secrets? Now that's something I'd pay to hear. But let's not forget why we're really here; it's about power and influence. I could change the future of half the wolves in this territory with a single deal."
Fatecurser sighed, frustration creeping in.
"Your deals come with a cost, Vulcan. Every time you twist a wolf's fate, you throw the balance into chaos. When you corrupt their future, I can no longer see it."
Rune snickered, amusement evident.
"Look at you two, like an old married couple bickering. Delightful! But admit it—Vulcan's deals are entertaining. Watching a wolf's hopes dashed makes for a good laugh."
Vulcan leaned closer, his voice low and conspiratorial.
"And watching Fatecurser squirm under the weight of her morals is even better. You've been invited back to the pack, haven't you? Such a shame you chose to remain an outcast."
"I don't need the pack to define my worth," Fatecurser replied, steady and firm.
"I choose to stand apart because I know my value. I prefer the freedom of the outer territories. Unlike you two, I have a sense of purpose."
Rune, with a sly smile, prodded, "Oh, but we all have our purposes, don't we? Mine is to reveal secrets—for the right price. Care to share why you rejected Frostbite's offer?"
Fatecurser narrowed her eyes. She growled, "I don't share my secrets, especially not with you. Some truths are better left hidden."
Vulcan chuckled darkly. "What's the fun in that? But I admire your conviction. Keep holding onto your ideals while I shape the fates of those who dare to approach me. Desperation breeds recklessness."
Rune laid down on the grass, his expression feigning innocence. "Well, if you're both done dancing around your insecurities, shall we get on with this? Who's first on the chopping block?"
Fatecurser narrowed her eyes again. "Let's start with the young ones—those who are still impressionable. Their futures are the most malleable. We must ensure they don't fall into Vulcan's clutches too easily."
Vulcan rolled his eyes, smirking. "Please, they'll come to me willingly. Once they see the allure of power, they won't need convincing. But fine, let's discuss them. I'll enjoy watching you squirm when you realize how futile your efforts are."