Too Young

Lightning flashed, casting its white light over the vast meadow. The silver winds hummed along, signaling the oncoming of a strong storm. Dark eyes that shone in the various flashes of light watched on, completely entranced by the purple and blue clouds that danced overhead. The ears that accompanied the eyes perked at the distant calls of the neighboring wolf tribe, signaling all to get to a safe place, but the dark eyed figure didn’t seem to want to listen as it continued to gaze out at the storm that was quickly making its way across the hillside. It would be here soon, but still too long for his taste. Why wouldn’t it come already? He wanted to feel the magical power of the serene waters that the heavens provided.1

“You should head for shelter, young one,” a deep voice stated behind the figure. 2

“I can’t,” it replied. “I want to feel the power.”3

The red wolf behind him snorted at the youth’s statement. “This storm is too much for any being to handle, much less for a cub such as yourself.” He stopped, turning slightly. “May the Mother look after your soul, young cub. Those waters are too pure for anyone or anything. Mother look after you.” He left.4

The dark figure, seeming not to have heard, never moved, muscles twitching in anticipation. The storm was almost here. He could already feel the slight spray that the wind carried. The waters seemed to take on colors of green and blue as they descended from the skies, running in rivers across the valley.5

“Not much longer.”6

Nothing more was said as the waters fell upon the figure, setting his body afire. He was indeed too young to quench the storm’s hunger and yet still not innocent enough....7