A realm of eternal night, no moon, no sun, only stars to gently light up the land below. This realm is inhabited by two species, the shadow walkers and the shadow beasts. These two are at war, constantly slaughtering each other’s young. But one day, a young royal shadow walker decided she was going to make a change, to end this war once and for all. Her name was Rilu, a felidae shadow walker. All shadow walkers stand on two legs, having anatomy similar to that of humans, shadow beasts on the other hand run on all fours, like the feral beasts they are. Rilu stood atop a large hill before her castle. Her emerald green eyes glowed softly in the night, six tails bushed up behind her. She sighed, her head sank into her mane slightly as she thought about the current war. Being princess, she was to become queen if her mother was slain, if Rilu were to survive, that is. Her tufted ears flicked as she heard someone approach her from behind. “ Greetings, your highness “ said a small shadow beast. “ Good evening, Xarvex “ Rilu said in return, turning her head to look at him. Xarvex was a weird mix of feline and canine, wearing what appeared to be a dragon skull over his face like a mask. He was a prisoner of war, given to Rilu as a servant. She hated that. “ The queen is demanding your presence, she wishes for you to hurry, it sounded urgent “ Xarvex said softly, his violet eyes showed pain, and Rilu felt bad for him. He was not a warrior, he wanted nothing to do with this war, but he was taken from his home and family. Rilu wanted to free him, but feared her mother would be at her throat if she did so. “ I’ll be there shortly, “ Rilu huffed. “ Please give me a moment to think “ Xarvex nodded in response, backing away and vanishing into the darkness. Rilu looked down at her dark blue paw pads, grimacing as the memories of battle came back to her. Watching as innocent shadow beast children were ripped from their homes and enslaved by the queen, like Xarvex was. She shook her head, turning to the castle, it was faintly lit by candle light within. Her eyes were adjusted to the darkness, so even little light did a lot for her, After a moment of hesitance, she trotted over to the main gate, where the guards let her in. The castle appeared to be bigger on the inside. A beautiful main hall decorated with paintings and flora, a red carpet that led into the throne room, where the queen, Rilu’s mother, sat. “ Hello mother “ Rilu greeted the queen, dipping her head in respect. The queen stood, her four arms crossed against her chest, three tails swayed behind her. Her deep gray and purple fur seemed to glisten very slightly in the faint light. “ You’re late, daughter. I believe your servant said this was an urgent matter, no?” The queen questioned, but would speak again before Rilu could think to respond. “Nevermind that, you’re here now. Come, sit “ The queen patted a seat next to her. Rilu was reluctant, but she walked over and sat next to her mother. “ As you know, you and Mimi are my only daughters left. Your lives are very valuable here. So don’t disappoint me by getting yourself killed on our next attack “ She growled, baring her many fangs. She raised a hand and lightly touched a glowing green crown floating above her head. “ See this? “ The queen asked. Rilu sighed. “ Yes, mother, I see it “ She resisted the temptation to roll her eyes at her mother. “ If I am to be slain, this crown will go to you, it holds the secrets of mother Therdea “ Rilu’s eyes widened at this statement. “ Isn’t Therdea the creator of our realm? She’s basically a goddess, right? Rarely ever taking a physical form? “ The queen nodded. “ Indeed, she watches over us, guiding us, and will help us win this war. “ “ But- “ Rilu started. “ I thought we wanted this war to end, not to be won. The amount of lives that will be lost- “ “ Soldiers can be replaced, it’s not big deal. “ Her mother interrupted with a snarl. Her cut, scarred ears folded back on her head in irritation. “ You need to act like a queen, your soldiers are ready to put their lives on the line for you, why care about them if they’re so eager to die? “ Rilu didn’t know how to respond to that, her own ears folded back as well. “ Yes, mother. I-.... I understand “ She nodded and looked away from her mother, trying to hold back tears. Suddenly a soldier rushed into the throne room. “ Queen Jarik! We’re under attack. The beasts have Alec pinned down and demand you come and talk with them or… they’ll kill him “ Rilu’s eyes widened in horror, Alec was her oldest sibling, he was not the warrior that he was trained to be. He was a softie, never wanting to fight or hurt someone. “ Not my son! “ Jarik roared out, rushing past the soldier quickly and out the throne room. Rilu cursed under her breath and ran after her. When they exited the castle, the king of beasts had Alec under his feet, holding him down as Alec struggled beneath him, tears welled in his four green eyes as he knew fighting was futile. Rilu saw her brother and covered her mouth with her hand. The king snarled as Rilu and Jarik approached. “ Forfeit this war, our kingdoms will merge and your people will be enslaved as you have done to our own. If you do not agree to my demands, I will slaughter your offspring, one by one if I have to “ His long saber fangs were bared. Appearance wise, he appeared to be a mix of a deer and wolf, a massive pair of antlers on his head. His deep blue eyes narrowed when he looked at Rilu, running his forked tongue over his long fangs. “ That, or you offer your eldest daughter to me as my future wife and perhaps I’ll adjust my terms. “ Rilu gagged at the thought. “ Not a chance! “ Both she and her mother said at the same time. The king rolled his eyes at this. “ Very well- “ He dug his claws into Alec’s thick, dark blue mane, it took a minute or two, but he eventually reached Alec’s neck and pressed his claws against it, drawing blood. Alec let out a pained whimper. “ K-King Aluuk, p-please reconsider. We can end this war… Sign a peace treaty? “ He asked hopefully. Aluuk laughed at this. “ No, either my terms are met, or I’ll mount your head on a stake “ He finished off that sentence with a hiss, causing Alec to cry more. Rilu was horrified. She didn’t want to marry Aluuk, but at the same time, she didn’t want her brother to be murdered. Suddenly an even younger shadow walker emerged from the crowd behind Jarik and Rilu. “ Please let him go! I-I’ll marry you! “ It was Mimi, Rilu’s only surviving sister. Her fur was dark violet and she had blue-green eyes. “ Mimi no! “ Rilu shouted. Aluuk seemed to be thinking this over. “ Hm… Very well, I’ll accept this offer. A wedding there will be! “ He laughed. Jarik looked at Mimi, disappointment in her eyes. The young feline winced, her short tail tucked between her legs like a scared puppy. Rilu showed sympathy however. She didn’t want such a horrible fate to fall upon her little sister, but there isn’t much else she could do. Rilu wanted to offer herself instead, but knew it could easily be the end of her people if she did so. Rilu and Jarik were the strongest shadow walkers, the royal family of the Skystriders. She sobbed quietly as Mimi approached Aluuk. He released Alec who immediately got up and hugged his youngest sister, letting out a soft cry. “ I’m sorry little one…. “ He knew he couldn’t do anything to stop this. Mimi hugged him back, a faint smile on her face. “ Don’t worry Alec, everything will be okay- “ She pulled away from the hug and stood beside Aluuk, who had a menacing grin on his face. “ We shall have a wedding three weeks from now, Mimi Skystrider is now mine, all mine~ “ He laughed. Mimi whimpered in response to this, her head hung low and she tried not to look at him. Rilu held in her emotions for now, not much else she can do. She looked at her mother, secretly angry at her for allowing this to happen. Rilu wished there was something she could do to keep her family safe from that beast, but she couldn’t. Not yet, anyway. 

What felt like years later, which in reality was only two days, Rilu sat in her room, trying not to think about what happened to her little sister. Tears welled in her eyes and she gritted her teeth. “ I’m so sorry- “ She whispered. A gentle knock on the door could be heard. Rilu immediately wiped the tears away and said “ it’s unlocked. “ The door opened slowly, and Alec walked in, his two tails tucked between his legs slightly and his four eyes blinked sympathetically. “ I’m sorry about what happened…. I wish he would’ve just killed me instead- “ He sighed. Rilu shook her head. “ No, I’m glad you’re alive. Mimi is alive too, we can save her from Aluuk, we just need a plan. “ She held her chin in thought. Alec’s tufted ears went back. “ But- Wouldn’t that resume the war? “ A small, fearful whine escaped his throat. Rilu shook her head again. “ No, not if we kill Aluuk in the process. Without a king, the shadow beasts will crumble. Unless his son takes over… But if he does, we can only pray to Therdea that he’s different then his father. “ Alec nodded. “ And pray that he doesn’t come after us for revenge…. But- Shouldn’t we try to find a more peaceful route first? “ He asked. “ I love you, brother, but you’re too soft. That won’t end any wars…. I’m sorry. I wish it could “ Rilu sighs, gazing deeply into her brother’s eyes. She stood and hugged him, he was a few feet taller than her, but it didn’t bother her. Alec immediately hugged Rilu back. “ It’ll be hard, Rilu, but we can get through this. I’ll do what I can, but for now, we should probably rest, I know you must be exhausted from no sleep. “ He says as he pulled away. “ Oh gods, yeah “ Rilu chuckled. “ I haven’t slept an hour in the past two days…. I’m just- worried. “ Her ears go back. Alec nodded. “ Me too, sis. It’ll all work out in the end…. I hope “ He whispered that last part. He backed away, towards the door. “ Please get some sleep, I’ll be here if you need me “ He smiled before closing the door behind him. Rilu sighed, laying back on her bed, groaning tiredly. She closed her eyes, but, after a while, found that no sleep came to her. She sat back up, rubbing her eyes slightly. She glanced across the room, spotting Xarvex at her window. “ Wh-.... What are you doing here? Mother will kill you if she finds out you snuck out from your post “ Rilu got up and walked over to the window, opening it for him. Xarvex climbed inside, landing softly on his paws. “ Sorry, your highness. I just wanted to keep an eye on you, I understand that recent events may not have the best effect on you “ He says with his pointed ears lowering slightly. Rilu managed a small smile. “ Thank you, Xarvex. I owe you one. “ Xarvex shook his head in response. “ When you take the throne, all I ask is for a loving home here, where I can help you rule. “ He smiled, not that Rilu could see it under his dragon skull mask. Rilu spoke softly. “ But-... You’re a prisoner, why would you want to serve me? “ “ Because you have a good heart, your highness. My own people never loved me, you’re the only one who has treated me with kindness “ He says simply. Rilu bent down and hugged Xarvex, much to his surprise. “ Thank you, Xarvex, you’re the best friend I could ever ask for “ She says, smiling at him. “ F-Friend? “ Xarvex asked in shock. “ But… Your highness- “ Rilu then cut him off. “ Please, call me Rilu. “ Xarvex nodded at this. “ Yes, Rilu. Goodness, that sounds so much better, I think I like calling you by your actual name. It’s nice. “ He purred softly. Rilu giggled and pet his head gently, causing him to purr louder. “ Heh, don’t worry Xarvex, all will be well, once I am queen, that is. When I save Mimi, I will challenge my mother for the throne and bring peace to this realm, finally. “ She says optimistically, though, secretly, she had doubts that she could pull this off on her own…. Then again, she wasn’t on her own, she had Xarvex and her brothers by her side, ready to fight alongside her to save their home, and their little sister. Rilu smiled at the thought. Rilu got up. “ i’m going to discuss this with my other brothers. You should return to your post before mother skins you. “ She says, Xarvex nodded in response and hopped back out the window. Rilu opened her door, briefly glancing to a photo on her nightstand that had a picture of her and her siblings together. She longed for Mimi to be reunited with them. Rilu was determined to get her back. She closed the door behind her and walked towards the dining room; Inside sat her younger brothers. They’re all felines, since they’re part of the royal bloodline. One with a dark green pelt, Emald. One with a red pelt, Nanaki. And one with an almost tiger-like pattern on his blue pelt, he had a bit of weight on him, his name is Kioku. Rilu looked at the three, sitting down on the opposite side of the room from them. They looked at her, confused. “ Listen up, my brothers “ Rilu started. “ Mimi has been taken by Aluuk and we must get her back. “ Their moods immediately dropped from the mention of their little sister. “ But what do we do? We can’t just take on an army by ourselves? “ Asked Kioku. Rilu nodded. “ That’s why we’re going to sneak into their kingdom, assassinate Aluuk, and rescue our sister. And I have a plan- “ she says. “ We send in Xarvex to inform the king that they’re going to be ambushed, but in reality, no one will show up to attack them. They’ll likely trust one of their own. While their soldiers are distracted, we sneak in and finish off that beast- And the war will be over once and for all! “ Her brothers cheered. “ We can do this! “ Says Emald. “ We shall be free again! “ Shouted Nanaki. Kioku raised his glass of apple juice. “ To peace at last! “ Rilu smiled at this, glad that they were willing to help out. Her six tails fluffed up slightly, this usually happens when she feels good. “ Now, we should probably get some rest “ She says. “ We can plan our attack tomorrow, but for now, I really need a nap. “ She parted her jaws and let out a yawn. “ Mmm- Yeah, I think I'll do that. How about you guys? “ Rilu asked her brothers, they all nodded and agreed that rest should be a priority right now. The boys went back to their rooms, but Rilu stayed there for a moment. She pulled a pendant out of her mane, looking down at the winged feline shown on it. “ Mother Therdea…. Please guide me, so I can bring peace to your realm “ She spoke softly, hoping for an answer. No one responded though. Rilu sighed and placed the pedant back in her mane. She always kept it with her, but she was slowly starting to lose faith in it. Her head hung low, trying not to think about how alone they were in this. After a while, she headed back to her room, closing the door behind her and flopping onto her bed face first, groaning. “ I really hope that I’m ready for this- “ A small whine escaped her and she curled up, tears rolled down her cheeks and she sobbed softly. Her cries were the only things that broke the painful silence. Her heart pounded in her chest, bringing her back to reality after a moment or two. She gets up slowly realizing she cried herself to sleep. She rubbed her eyes, parting her jaws in a big yawn, followed by a long stretch. She wrapped herself with her six tails, sighing and walking out of her room, staring at the carnivorous plant that was mounted on the wall next to her door. The realm had many carnivorous flora, the residents never seem to lose anyone to them, which is odd because the plants will eat shadow beasts but not shadow walkers. Rilu thought for a moment. “ Maybe we can use these- “ An idea struck her. She reached into the plant and pulled out a seed, stashing it in her pocket for now. Rilu headed over to the dining room again, where her family was having breakfast. The smell of bacon and eggs wafted in the air, Rilu took in the scent and sighed, it made her realize how hungry she was. She took a seat beside Kioku, nodding to him but staying silent. She served herself some bacon and some pancakes, grabbing a bottle of syrup and putting some on her pancakes. The sweet syrup was sticky and clung to her fingers, oops. She’ll have to wash that out when she’s finished eating. She took a strip of bacon and bit into it, a satisfying crunch sounded from it. She purred softly at the taste and continued to eat. “ So- “ Jarik started. “ Rilu, when do you plan on challenging me for the throne? “ Rilu nearly choked on her pancake when she was asked this. She cleared her throat before saying: “ What? Why would I do that? “ Shock shown in her eyes. Jarik huffed and responded with: “ I know you want the throne. But know that I will not give it up easily. As you know a spar will take place, whoever draws blood first wins. But the loser can be chosen to be beheaded by the winner’s wishes. “ Jarik explained. Rilu’s ears folded back. “ I would never do such a thing “ She responded. Jarik scoffed. “ Don’t lie to me, you want the throne, that’s why you allowed your sister to be taken so your selfishness can take over. “ Rilu’s jaw dropped for a moment. Then she stood, her brothers looked at her in worry. “ Listen here, mother- “ Rilu started with a snarl. “ I am NOT selfish. I didn’t allow Mimi to be taken, that was out of my control, and, for your information, I plan on getting her back, with or without you “ Rilu bared her fangs slightly. Jarik laughed. “ You expected me to help you save that pathetic excuse of a shadow walker? I’m embarrassed to call her my daughter. “ Rilu’s pupils slitted and she let out a menacing roar. “ Don’t you EVER say that about my sister again! I will gut you like a damn fish if you speak another word. “ She threatened, Her brothers went completely silent in fear. Jarik finally stood. “ Do you really think you’re in the position to be threatening me with death? I could charge you with treason and you’d be beheaded in an instant. That or tossed into the dungeon with very little food and water, until you wither away, slowly, and painfully. “ A low growl escaped the queen. “ I will not tolerate this behavior, am I clear? “ Rilu didn’t respond at first. “ DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR? “ Jarik responded with a roar. Rilu visibly flinched from this. “ Crystal clear “ She hissed under her breath. Looking up at her mother with daggers in her eyes. “ You all are dismissed “ Jarik eventually said, the brothers immediately scampered out of the room, leaving just Rilu as Jarik left soon after. Rilu sighed and lightly scraped her fork against her plate to break the silence. But the silence stayed with her, mocking her quietly. Her ears folded back and she let out a low snarl. “ Cursed Aluuk….. I just want my sister back- why did he have to do this!? “ It felt like her heart was being torn apart. She didn't want Mimi to suffer, alone. A soft cry soon escaped Rilu, she wished that she would've taken her place. But at the same time, who would come to rescue her? Mimi could have done it alone- but, she wouldn't have been alone, right? She had her brothers. Rilu sighed, standing from her seat and pushing it back under the table before heading into the main hall, where some of the servants and subjects were discussing what happened only a few days ago. Rilu winced, hearing someone say that it was her fault and that she should've saved Mimi when she had the chance. Rilu held her head in her hands, flattening her ears against her head and covering them, hoping to drown out the sound, but failing to. A servant looked at her with concern. Rilu gritted her teeth and ran to her room, slamming the door shut behind her. She parted her jaws and let out a somber roar. The roar echoed throughout the castle, filling the subjects with sorrow and in some cases, sympathy. Rilu sat on the ground, back against the door. She rested her arms so her knees and her chin in her arms. She started to sob softly, still blaming herself for letting Mimi get taken. 

Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.