Behind The Eyes

 BEHIND THE EYES

alternative fiction of company of wolves

 Elizabeth woke up sleepy eyed in her pasture of blankets and pillows. She lifted the blanket up off her body and placed her feet onto to the ground beneath her. She shuffled into the bathroom and splashed cold water onto her face. As soon as the water hit her face, her senses began to awake. She looked at herself in the mirror and ran her fingertips through her vibrant red hair, pulling it back with a rubber band, letting soft curls hug the sides of her face. She brushed her teeth and followed by applying her favorite lipstick, labeled Ruby Red. Elizabeths phone began to ring from her bedroom and she made her way to pick it up, a soft voice began to speak when Elizabeth answered  

“ Hi Red, are you on your way over? “

Elizabeth’s favorite color since she was a young girl was red. Her favorite sneakers were red, her favorite crayon was red, and ladybugs were her favorite animal. Elizabeth would collect the red leaves from the forest trees near her grandmothers house, and they would press them between two thin sheets of glass to capture to radiant color. Elizabeth always found it sad that the beautiful colors of the fall leaves lasted for such a short time before they dwindled into nothing. As she got older, she found a way to analyze things that average people would look over. There was something about that specific color that allured her. To Elizabeth, red symbolized a fiery heat and warmth, along with a sense of danger. Red was in association with life and vitality, it embraced the focus to the essence of life and living with the emphasis on survival. Red portrayed lust and passion, and managed to stimulate deeper passions within her, as well as others. Due to Elizabeths passion for the color, her family and friends began to call her red when she began wearing her red sneakers with a red jacket or shirt every day. When Elizabeth got old enough she colored her hair red, and the nickname remained. 

Elizabeth, confused by her grandmothers question sprung her eyes to her calendar hanging above her bed. Sure enough, Sunday September  3rd was circled with a note saying “Lunch with Grandma.” 

“Yes Grandma, sorry I woke up a little late this morning, but i will be heading over soon.” 

“Okay.” She replied “I will see you soon! Be safe!”

“I will” Elizabeth said. “I am going to walk through the forest, I’ve been so busy lately I haven’t had much time to take in the beauty of the season.” 

Elizabeth and her grandmother said their goodbyes to each other and Elizabeth dressed herself. She put on a pair of faded blue jeans, and a black sweater, along with a vibrant red scarf and her classic “Red” sneakers. She walked out the front door and down the road on a cool autumn day. The sunshine was bursting into the leaves and sending an electric scene of red, orange, and yellow. She walked to the end of the road and entered the park that led into the forest. As she walked she quietly sang songs to herself, and took in the purifying crisp air only the woods could provide. As she walked deeper into the trees, she heard the sound of dry leaves on the ground being crunched quickly beneath ones feet, the sound became more clear and she saw a dog running near to her. It was a beautiful golden retriever, who had a forest green color labeled “Hunter”. Hunter said hello to Elizabeth with a wagging tail and kisses on her hands. Elizabeth crouched down to pet the pup and used the silly voice that came out of her when she got excited 

“Hey buddy! Where did you come from?”

When she looked up her eyes looked into the person who was standing in front of her. Gazing into a pair of eyes is a wonder. Elizabeth got lost and drowned in the depths of them. Now she knew why they said that eyes are the windows to the soul. They had an appeal that drew her. Their remarkable shade of brown, were enchanting, warm, and full of life.

“Sorry, I usually don’t see many people this deep into the woods, so I let Hunter off of his leash. He loves making new friends.” 

Melody blushed, embarrassed that he may have caught her puppy voice

“It’s okay, I love dogs! I’m walking to my grandmothers house, she lives over the bridge.” 

“Would you allow me to have the honor to walk you there?”

Elizabeth nodded her head in a shy manor and they began to walk together.

“So what’s your name?”

“Max. What’s yours ?”

“My names Elizabeth, but you can call me Red.”

Elizabeth was nervous and giddy around Max. He was very attractive. Older, but not too much older. He was clean shaven and tall, wearing a red flannel jacket that Elizabeth was very fond of. They walked together and talked about their interests, to find they were extremely similar. As they got closer to the house Max slipped his hand to intertwine with hers. Max,  Elizabeth, and Hunter happily arrived to her Grandmothers house. 

Elizabeth walked with Max to place Hunter in the fenced area with her grandmothers bull dog. As they walked around the house, Elizabeths grandmother came out of the house and onto the porch. Her face showed an instant sign of relief as soon as she saw Elizabeth. Her grandmother said frantically 

“Thank goodness! I was worried sick”

Elizabeth and Max walked up the stairs and Elizabeth grabbed her hand and held it in hers. 

“Why grandma? Everything is okay! Sorry it took me so long, I met Max and his dog Hunter on my way here . He is in the fenced area with Rocky.”

Elizabeths grandmother invited them in and she turned on the television. Max and Elizabeth took a seat on her grandmothers floral couch. A sketch of a bearded man came up on the television for reports of harassing women, violating them, and leaving them alone , across the forest about 35 miles from Elizabeths grandmothers house. Elizabeth became frightened and immediately turned towards Max and squeezed his hand. 

“ I think you should stay here tonight Elizabeth, I don’t want you walking home through the forest alone.” Her grandmother said.

Elizabeth agreed and they gathered at the table. Elizabeths grandmother asked him endless questions about his family, and himself in general. Usually, this would be embarrassing to her; but Max didn’t seem to be bothered by it, and Elizabeth was intrigued with his responses and the sound of his voice. The shine that came through his eyes, framed with bold sweeping eyelashes made her weak to the bone. As they finished their meal, Max began to clean up the table insisting that the women relax. They moved back into the living room and Max sat beside Elizabeth holding her hand in his and brushing his fingers softly alongside her arm. He looked at her and smiled, receiving a smile in return. She was head over heels for this guy that had stolen her heart in a matter of a very short period of time. His shirt that lie beneath his jacket fit him perfectly so his rounded shoulders were visible. The went outside together and sat beside the water, Elizabeths grandmother knitting on the porch nearby. They skipped stones together, and the words Max were speaking began to become unclear. She couldn’t seem to focus on what he was saying due to the overpowering emotion his presence caused her to feel. He grabbed her chin and slowly brought her face closer to his. She had been gifted with another opportunity to look into his eyes, as she watched them begin to close. He sweetly kissed her on her lips and smiled sweetly when he pulled away from her. Elizabeth had butterflies in her stomach and was full of bliss. They spent the day by the water playing with the dogs and holding each others hands. He pulled her close to him and kissed her forehead. He made her feel special, and made her radiate happiness. The day went by quickly and the sun began to set. They went inside and started a fire, Hunter and Rocky were barking outside when Elizabeths grandmother sincerely asked

“Max, could you let the dogs in? It’s too cold for them out there !” 

Max smiled at Elizabeth and responded to her grandmother 

“Yes, of course I can.”

Max left the room and Elizabeth went into the kitchen with her grandmother who was beginning to make a pie. Elizabeth urged her grandmother to sit down and that she would do the rest and put it in the oven for her. She agreed and sat down, Elizabeth looked out the kitchen window and saw Max chasing Hunter around the backyard. Elizabeth put the pie in the oven and ran to get his jacket to bring outside for him. As she was running she heard something drop behind her but she was to eager to bring Max something to keep him warm. Elizabeths grandmother sat on the couch and was deeply focused on the news station playing on the television. The reporter announced that the identity of the man had been found, after speaking with victims he was well known in other areas along the coast but yet to be caught. The described him as a handsome young man, age 23, last seen wearing a green camouflage hat with a beard. His name was Logan Kane. A commercial came on the television and Elizabeths grandmother went into the kitchen to check on her pie in the oven. She looked outside to see Rocky and Hunter, but not Elizabeth or Max. She walked down the hallway to the backdoor when she found a camouflage hat on the floor, with a wallet wrapped inside. Suspiciously she opened it to see a drivers license with the name Logan Kane. A photograph identical to that of the one shown on the news just moments prior to this. He rushed towards the door, and yelled for her grand daughter but there was no reply. All the response she received was the sound of the leaves rustling in the wind. 

Little Red Rest Stop

Little Red Rest Stop

By: Brandon Cox

via etsy.com

“Grandma, I’m glad you are okay!” Little red riding hood said.

Grandma replies, “I’m glad to see that you are okay too! I was worried we’d die in there.”

“Let’s get out of here Grandma, You know what they say, wolfs don’t travel alone.” Little Red said.

They decide to get out of the Grandma’s house and flea to the big apple which is only a 6 hour drive.  They hop in the car which Grandma hasn’t touched in years because she always had a lovely granddaughter bringing her supplies.

“Grandma, you do know how to drive, right?” Little Red said worried.

“Yes darling, of course I do. Out of the two of us I am the one with the driver’s license.” Grandma exclaimed.

            They are in such a rush to leave from being frightened for their life. They don’t know where the wolves may be hiding so in a frantic rush they don’t pack the necessities they may need for this long of a trip. Although, with Grandma not touching her car in years, she doesn’t realize that the wolves have made a home in the trunk of her car.

“How long is this trip going to be?” Little Red asks.

“Long enough for you to feel safe and not worry about wolves being around us.” Grandma says encouragingly.

“I have to get gas in a couple hours anyways. This car is a gas hog. When we stop to get gas, we’ll get food from McDonalds too.” Grandma states.

“I love McDonalds Grandma!” Little Red says excited.

“You have to eat healthy though, I can’t have your mom yelling at me for letting you eat all those fatty foods.” Grandma says.

“Grandma, I don’t see mom around us, So as long as you don’t say anything I won’t either.” Little Red says in hopes of getting to eat the good un-healthy food.

As the women drive on, the wolf ponders in his head the plan of action he is going to take to get revenge on them for killing his mom.

"Muahahahahaaa as soon as they stop, they won't even suspect a thing. As soon as they turn their backs they are mine. They have no chance. Once and for all. I will get revenge for my mother. Nobody kills my mother and gets away with it. We have taken over her car, next will be that lovely home that she desires oh so much. Muahahahahaaaa."

Now getting back to the women. Little Red is beyond bored with Grandma playing her cassettes with music on it that can date back to the 1930's. Little Red with the boredness that overwhelms her decides she is just going to sleep until she has to get up at the rest stop for gas and food. On the good side Grandma playing the music takes her mind off of just about being killed by a wolf and feels a safer and safer the further away she gets from her house.

As they travel along the closer and closer they get to the rest stop, the more anxtious the wolf in the trunk gets, and the safer Grandma feels. Grandma has to tap on the breaks kind of quickly when a deer pops up on the highway in front of her. With the sudden jolt of motion it wakes up Little Red from the deep sleep she encountered for roughly two hours.

"Grandma, what was that?" Little Red said shocked.

"Oh honey, That was just a deer, don't worry at all. We are fine." Grandma explained.

"Why was it on the highway?" Little Red questioned.

"It wasn't trying to get away from a hunter that was trying to kill it for it's meat." Grandma still explaining.

"Why would someone ever want to kill something if it hasn't done any harm to them?" Little Red said confused.

"Some people just feel the need of having that power, and feeling that sensation of killing something." Grandma said with a little attitude because she is just bothered by Little Red asking all this.

"That hunter won't go after us though would he?" Little Red continued to question.

"No Little Red, Him and us are all humans and if humans did that to someone that'd be murder and you can get in very big trouble for that." Grandma said with quite an attitude as in hopes for Little  Red to stop asking questions.

"It's good to know that he can't harm us without him harming himself. Is that the rest stop up ahead?"
Little Red again asks another question not realizing how annoyed Grandma is right now.

"Yes, yes it is. Get your coat on, it's a little chilly outside and I can't have you catching a cold while your with me, your mom would just flip!" Grandma says with all her might to shut her up.

"Alright Grandma, Can do." Little Red stated.

As they pull in to the rest stop, Grandma decides that the sounds in her stomach are more important to take care of than getting gas. She figures her car can wait for her to be full. They pull in and they find a parking spot in the middle of two semi's and she thinks that nothing will happen to her vehicle while it's parked there while her car is facing away from the building. On the downside when she gets out of the car she has to bend over to tie her shoe. It strangely untied itself while she was driving.

As she was bent over tying her shoe, that gave a window for the wolf hiding in the back to sneak out. And him seeing that chance he took it and out he went. Grandma didn't even notice. The wolf ran and hid behind the car and waited for the chance to pounce. As soon as he heard both car doors shut he knew it was time and just had to wait. With the wolf not making a peep, both grandma and Little Red pass the wolf without acknowledging that he was even there. And the wolf takes his chance and pounces on Grandma once and for all to take out the stronger out of the both of them. In a panic, Little Red tries to help her Grandma but is too weak to do any help. Grandma is swallowed whole by the wolf and with Little Red right there trying to fight him off, makes it much easier for the wolf to grab her and eat her too. And that's exactly what he did. He grabbed her and ate her whole too.

After he makes sure that they are both nice and digested in his stomach, he hops back into the vehicle, goes over and gets gas with the money that Grandma was going to use for food, and drives back to her house where he met up with the rest of his family. They are overwhelmed at the success that he had and they lived happily ever after in what use to be called "Grandma's House".


Picture from- http://www.etsy.com/listing/69794800/little-red-riding-hood-giclee-print-of?ref=pr_faveitems&atr_uid=10977778

The Touch Of A Wolf

David Mernan

Fan Fiction

The Touch Of A Wolf 

       Snowlight, moonlight, a confusion of paw-prints. All silent, all still. Midnight; and the clock strikes. It is Christmas day, the were-wolves' birthday, the door of solstice stands wide open; let them sink through. See! sweet and sound she sleeps in granns bed, between the paws of the tender wolf.

She awakes

       “Hey Little Red Riding Hood why don’t you come with me, that was great and everything but I would like to take you to my neck of the wolves.  Im sorry I meant woods.”

“ I don’t know if that’s a good idea Mr. I’m supposed to wait for my Grandmother here, because I have some things to give her”

“We can come back for those in a few minutes I just live up the hill”

“My father told me never go up the hill because  only bad happens up there and plus there are wolves up there”

“It will be fine Red Riding Hood I will protect you from any danger”

Hugging Little Red Riding Hood and comforting her that everything is going to be alright, she still seems skeptical.  The touch of Little Red Riding Hood is amazing to the wolf. He knows he has to convince her to come up the hill with him to satisfy himself.  She finally gives in only making him promise that they will be back shortly for when her Grandmother returns. 

            Borrowing clothes from her Grandmother, Little Red Riding Hood, and the wolf begin to make their way up the mountain.  The smell of Little Red Riding Hood is more than the wolf can handle.  He wants to break down and eat her right here but knowing her father could come looking and find the remains would not be good.  He would come hunting for one of them and no wolf wants that.

            While walking to where the Wolf supposedly lives they are talking about everything from family to schooling to what they do for fun. The Wolf has never had someone talk to him like this but he also never really gives anyone time before he consumes his victims.  The Wolf was very interested in what she had to say and was also very open to telling Little Red Riding Hood about his life before being a Wolf.  She did not know this but the conversation really had the Wolf reminiscing on his days before his wolf state of being.  The innocence of Little Red Riding Hood really had him going with what was going to happen.  It made him return to his past thinking of what was going to happen.  Remembering his victims gave him a thrill every time.

            Arriving at the wolfs' so-called home was interesting. Little Red Riding Hood was scared but anxious to how her visit here was going to turn out.  Going inside the wolfs' home had such a dark feeling.  Little Red Riding Hood didn’t realize this was the place where many of the wolf’s other victims lives had come to an end.

“Can I get you some tea or anything Little Red Riding Hood”

“No that’s ok I’m alright.  What's that you are doing over there”

In the Kitchen the wolf was putting some things together in an oversized pot. Little Red Riding Hood thought it was suspicious but didn’t think anything of it.

“Just putting together somethings for supper later”

“ Ohh ok that’s alright”

            Remembering what had happened at Grandma’s house the Wolf walked over towards little Red Riding Hood with a seductive smile.  Her pale skin was a turn on to him.  Kissing her neck little Red Riding Hood was skeptical about what was happening. The touch of the wolfs' strong arms and body had done something to her. Little Red Riding Hood found herself being seduced but couldn’t do anything about it.

            Awakening clothes-less for the second time today Little Red Riding Hood was wondering where she was. What just happened to her? Whatever it was she thought it was time to get back to Grandma.  Out gathering some things for his “supper” the Wolf was nowhere to be found right now.  Her clothes were scattered all over so she started dressing getting ready to return to Grandma’s house.  While roaming around the wolfs house she started looking through some of his things.  They were some interesting things that were a little out of the ordinary but Little Red Riding Hood being so young and innocent once again didn’t think anything of it.  She came to a locked chest but the lock was undone.  Obviously something the wolf didn’t want her to see but Little Red Riding Hood could not help herself.  She opened it up and inside were necklaces and clothing items of many other women.  She started going through all of them thinking that something wasn’t right with this.  Finding blood on a clothing item she began to freak out.  What could she have done.  Is the man she is with right now a murderer? “ I need to get out of here right away” she says to herself.  She grabs and handful of necklaces to show the village people what she has discover and continues to rush to the door.

            In a rush Little Red Riding Hood knocks over her chair spilling the tea and other items the wolf was using for his supper.  She opens the door only to find the Wolf making his way down the hill with some ingredients he had gathered.  She panics, shuts the door so the wolf does not see her.  She knows that if she stays she will be the main ingredient in the wolfs' supper.  She rushes to the back window opening it and jumping out.  She hits the hard ground rolling a few times before she comes to a stop.  Getting up she begins to run knowing that the wolf could easily catch her if she waits.  She runs in the direction of her grandmother’s house hoping she can get there before the wolf tracks her down.

              The Wolf returns to his house only to find everything spilled on the floor and Little Red Riding Hood nowhere to be found.  Looking through everything in anger he finds the chest open with the contents unorganized and all over the place. Realizing that she had found them he jumps to his feet. Letting out a howl he runs to the door.  Using his powerful sense of smell takes in a big breath of air sensing that Little Red Riding Hood was not far.  There was something about Little Red Riding Hood that made him want her more than his other victims. 

            Arriving at her Grandmother’s house, she hears the sound of the howl in the distance. Little Red Riding Hood rushes inside slamming the door behind her.  Frantically looking for her Grandmother, she still cannot find her.   Looking in every room and every closet she still cannot find her.  Finally opening the bedroom closet she finds her Grandmother unconscious with a lot of blood covering her body.  She knows the wolf must have been there before.  Sprinting out the door, knowing the wolf must not be far behind.  She runs towards her father’s house crying hysterically at what she had just witnessed. The Wolf not far behind picks up her scent following her every step. 

            Little Red Riding Hoods father comes rushing out of the house hearing the sound of his daughter crying.  She jumps into his arms till crying hysterically.  Her father still trying to figure out what is going on holds her and comforts her.  He can’t make out what she is saying but the few words he does are “wolf” and “grandmothers dead”. Realizing something is really wrong he rushes inside and grabs the shotgun by the door.  He comes back out to bring Little Red Riding Hood inside the house.  Little Red Riding Hood suddenly gets a strange feeling like something was brushing the back of her neck.  Looking back she sees the Wolf staring her down from a distance.  She hears a whispering voice “Until we meet again Little Red Riding Hood” as she makes eye contact with the wolfs big dark scary eyes.

           

The Howl of the Werewolf

Justin Kennelly

Dr. Hill

ENG 215

18 November 2012

The Howl of the Werewolf

A Fan Fiction of Angela Carter’s The Company of Wolves.

            Darkness has fallen upon a remote village deep within the dark forests of Germany, robbing the land of its warmth as the wind gusts bring with it a heavy snowfall, which threatened to entomb them in a wintry grave. Then suddenly over the cries of the blistering winds, came a blood-curdling howl so fearsome and melancholy, it sent a chill down the spines of even the most seasoned of hunters. At that moment they knew they were no longer alone and that I, the beast who terrorized these woods, striking down any who dared venture out alone after dark, had returned.

            For generations I had terrorized this village, returning every ten years to steal every young man and woman of marrying age and torture them mercilessly until they literally begged me to end their wretched lives. But wait…. How rude of me!  I haven’t even introduced myself! My name is Wilhelm Klawitter, and I am a 100-year-old werewolf. However, contrary to popular belief I was not born a werewolf, I was a hardworking huntsman engaged to be married to the love of my life.

Now you’re probably wondering, if my life was going so well, how did I become a werewolf in the first place? Well in order to understand my story you must travel back in time with me to the winter of 1726, to the very village I now lay siege to on this dark wintry night. I was a young 20 something hot shot, thought to be the best huntsman by far in the entire region, and engaged to be married to the young and beautiful Wilhelmina Barde. I had loved her with all my heart since the very moment I had laid eyes upon her when her family resettled in our quaint village 5 years prior when her family's estate burned to the ground in a nearby village. From that moment forward, I did everything within my power to make her mine, making a complete utter fool out of myself in countless foolish acts I would prefer not to divulge, until one day I had finally won her affections, or so I thought.  

When our wedding day came,  I was standing at the altar as the whole village piled into the tiny little church dressed in their Sunday best waiting for the ceremony to begin. However, from the very moment I awoke that morning I had this foreboding feeling in my heart that something was terribly wrong. Early that morning, the sky had darkened, the temperature had dipped well below freezing, and the snow had begun to fly. Despite the deteriorating weather conditions and the incessant feeling that something was quite right, I decided the wedding was to go on as planned. However, five minutes before the ceremony was to begin, my worst fears came true as the best man came dashing up to the altar and told me Miss. Barde was nowhere to be found! Fearing for her safety in the steadily worsening weather conditions, I immediately assembled a search party and we searched high and low for hours until in utter despair my friends pleaded with me to admit she was gone and we would continue the search for her body when the weather permitted. Heartbroken, I staggered home with my friends who were worried about what I would do in my grief stricken state. Once we reached my home, I told them they were welcome to stay until the storm blew over. What happened next will forever be seared into my mind for the rest my days. When I opened my chamber door, to fetch some blankets for my guests, there was Wilhelmina lying in my bed with another man! Distraught, I bolted out the door into the frigid night before she could even muster the words to defend herself. I ran deeper and deeper into the woods until my frozen legs were incapable of carrying me any farther. As I lay there face down in the snow heartbroken and praying for death, a strange man appeared out of nowhere and immediately seemed to know everything about my life.

“You disgust me! How do you call yourself a man? I thought you were supposed to be some sort of hotshot huntsman. But all I see here is a pathetic washed up bastard unworthy of life, wallowing in the snow over some wench who left him at the altar for another man! No wonder she felt the need to leave you, she needs a real man to hold and cherish her on these cold wintry nights! However, despite your unworthiness, I am willing to grant you the power to exact your revenge on those who have betrayed you and make their every waking moment a living hell! However, if I grant you this gift, you must first prove yourself worthy of it before you exact your revenge.

Brewing with anger at Wilhelmina for her most dishonorable betrayal and this verbal lashing from a man I had never met before in my life, I wasted no time in delivering my answer. “YES!”

While at that point I was willing to do pretty much anything to exact my revenge on those who had made such a fool out of me, I was completely unprepared for what I was about to witness. The man started to convulse as he let a blood-curdling scream, what used to be normal human teeth and fingernails became razor sharp fangs and claws, which he immediately used to cleave off the skin of his human prison, revealing a muscular body, more dog than human. However, it wasn’t until I stared into his glowing eyes that I knew the stranger was a werewolf!

When the transformation was complete, he let looked up to the moon and let out a most forlorn howl, the likes of which I never heard before. Between the utter disbelief of what I had just seen and frigid temperature, I was paralyzed where I lay as he came and over to where I lay wrestled a huge chunk out of my shoulder with his massive fangs right as I was passing out.  

When I finally came to days later, I was surprised to see my shoulder was completely intact, which led me to believe it had been nothing more than a bad dream. That is until I turned my head and saw him staring at me from across the cave.

“Thought it was a dream huh? Sorry to disappoint you, but it wasn’t a dream. As far as your shoulder goes, werewolves are quick healers and are capable of surviving wounds that would prove fatal for a human. Now for the next year, you must dedicate yourself to learning to live the life of a werewolf. I’m going to teach you how to hunt, how to survive, how to adapt to your environment, and most importantly how to control the beast inside.”

“But I thought…”

“You thought what? That werewolves only transform during the full moon? That’s a load of crap that mothers tell their children at bedtime, when they can’t sleep at night. In reality, you can change at any time day or night and as a new werewolf, it will be nearly impossible to control, but with time and my guidance, you will learn to change back and forth on command.

And that’s exactly what I did, for the  next year, I learned the ins and outs of being a werewolf, how to hunt, how to survive and how to keep a low profile to keep the angry villagers from finding and killing me when I was at my weakest right after the full moon.

By now, winter had once again graced the dark forests of Germany and it was about a week away from the anniversary of my becoming a werewolf, when my master told me he had taught me everything I needed to know about being a werewolf, and now to officially graduate I was to do what I had been waiting so long for, I was to stalk and kill Wilhelmina and the bastard who stole her from me. With that said, my master took off into the woods and I was never to see him again.

Immediately I set out for the village, anxious to exact my revenge! For four days after I reached the village I observed from a distance, seeing that in my absence she had married the man I’d caught her with the year before and she had borne him a son. What irked me the most however was the rest of the village had just as soon forgotten about my existence and openly accepted her and her family into their little community. No matter, they would feel my wrath soon enough, but for now, I set my sights on Wilhelmina and her happy little family. On the fifth night, I quietly snuck into the nursery and snatched their young son and ran off with him into the forest, where I enjoyed consuming the little boy’s body, not a big meal but the feeling of exhilaration I got listening to their screams when they discovered their baby's severed head lying next them more than made up for it! The next night after the young grieving parents had gone to bed once their babies remains had been interred in the local cemetery, I returned to their house and kidnapped her dear husband as he slept and dragged him to the forest where his screams rang like music in my ears as I dismembering him piece by piece and left the pieces scattered around the house for his darling wife to find the next morning. Having robbed her of her family, she finally snapped and sat in a corner rocking herself back and forth until the next night, the anniversary of her betrayal, when I paid her a visit in human form. Oh, how I loved the sheer look of terror that ran across her face when I finally transformed in front of her.

“PLEASE… PLEASE, you’ve already taken everyone I love away from me! Have Mercy!”

I stared deep into her eyes and told her, “You should have thought about that before you left me at the altar to jump in the sack with your now deceased husband! Now you can go join your family and burn in hell!” With that, I tortured her until sunrise at, which point she finally succumbed to her wounds and I had consumed her entirely, after which I plotted my revenge for the village that had taken in the little harlot and her illegitimate family.

On that night, I decided from here on out, every ten years I would return to the village and slaughter every man and woman old enough to partake in the bonds of holy matrimony. And this was how it was for the next 79 years, I would return on the anniversary of Wilhelmina’s betrayal kill all who were old enough to marry, before they had the chance to engage in the same treachery I had been subject to and then leave before the remaining villagers had the chance to track me down and kill me. However, when I returned for the decennial slaughter in 1806, I came across a young woman now known to the world as Little Red Riding Hood. Her parents had been stupid enough to allow her to go wandering alone in the woods, knowing perfectly well that the decennial was upon them, so I stalked her for a while through the woods waiting for the perfect moment to strike. After about an hour of trailing her, I had had plenty of opportunities to dispatch her, but something about her kept me from doing so. Therefore, I decided I needed to get a closer look so I shifted back into my human form and presented myself as the young huntsman I once was. When introduced myself, there was something in her eye that almost immediately calmed the inner beast. Captivated by this strange spell she seemed to have over me I decided to gain her trust and walk along with her, while I tried to figure out what was wrong with me. After a while, I devised a plan that would finally allow me to kill her and continue on with my mission. I had found out she was on her way  to her grandmother’s house, so I made a bet with her I could make it there she could knowing full well that with my werewolf abilities it would be no contest. Once there I would kill her grandmother, not my usual target but hey, it would be an appetizer for the main course, and enraged she would try to kill me forcing me to respond in kind.

My plan went off without a hitch, until Red arrived. Instead of the murderous rampage I expected, she started stripping down to her bare skin! What in the world was she doing? Didn’t she know what I was and that I was here to kill her? But one look into her eyes and I knew I was never going to be able to kill her, and that despite everything I’d done to her she had for one reason or another accepted me for me!

Now most assume that I simply ate her and went on with my life, but I will tell you right now that is not what happened. As I stood there staring into her eyes, part of my icy heart thawed just enough to realize that maybe there was enough room in my heart for a companion to accompany me through my eternal life. Therefore, in a completely unexpected turn of events, I made her a werewolf and she has been at my side ever since, feeding on passersby brave enough to wander the woods alone and every ten years joining me in my ongoing vengeance against the village where it all began. 

Don't Look Back

Don’t Look Back

By: Kara Craig

          Many people don’t understand the struggles I’ve been through. I’m just a small town girl who has had the most complicated childhood of them all. My parents abandoned me when I was 4, and went off to live a dream life in Italy, while my grandmother was the only one present in my entire life so far. She has never forgiven my parents for what they had done to me and quite frankly I never have either. If I had the choice though I wouldn't want to have been raised by anyone but my grandmother. She has taught me everything I know, and has acted as a mom and dad figure to me. It’s crazy how just one person can have such a huge impact on your life. I do everything and anything for my grandmother, especially during the winter time because she can’t go out as much because of the cold, snowy days. Recently I had met an old man that live a few acres down from where my grandmother and I live, he seems very nice and always asks if I need any help carrying the baskets of food. I just recently found out that his name in Earl. He’s very short with white hair and long beard! Kind of like Santa if you ask me.

          “Looks heavy darling! Let me help you” said Earl

          “I got it Earl, but thank you!”

          “How’s your day going? You look very tired” I said

          “Oh yes my dear very long day so far, past my nap time in fact” said Earl

          “Well lucky you! Enjoy that nap, I’ll be on my way now, wouldn’t want grandmother to worry” I told Earl

          Finally when I arrived home with grandmother’s basket of food, she had asked me

          “Sweetie is everything okay lately?”

          “Of course grandma, what would be the matter?” I said confused

          “Just making sure is all my dear!” said grandmother

          That was suspicious to me; I don’t know why she would be asking me this out of random. Did she may see me talking to the old man? But how? She wouldn’t be outside. I just can’t seem to figure it out, but ill just let it slide I suppose. What if she put a hidden camera in the basket! That could be an idea, but would she really not trust me? Or is she doing it for protection because he’s harmful. Oh my! Well then my plan tomorrow is to try to see if he’s harmful or not, I’ll show grandmother I’m very responsible and so she can see I know how to deal with strangers. So the next day finally rolled around and it was time for me to go off and get grandmothers food, I kissed her an extra two times before I left and told her I love you. Off I went and today I felt a little more scared than usual. I was approaching his house and I saw him nowhere in sight, which I found very odd because he is out every day at this time. I began to worry even more, and wonder what could be happening. I tried to stay positive and just think that he was inside taking an early nap or feeding his animals. I began on my way, moving fast towards grandmothers. As I approached his house even closer I heard banging, very loud obnoxious banging. I couldn’t understand what was going on or where the banging was coming from. I slowly but carefully walked up to the living room window and yelled

          “Earl? Are you there, it’s me!” I pronounced

          But I heard nothing in reply but more banging. I thought to myself what if he’s hurt? I slowly walked over to the door and began to knock. No answer, just more banging. That’s it, I’m going in is what I thought to myself. But what if I get myself into a lot of danger? I’m doing it anyways I thought to myself, and in I went. The door creaked open as if I was in a scary movie. I gripped onto the basket so hard, and my hands were sweating so profusely. I carefully walked to the basement door where the banging was coming from. I saw that the door had bolts on it, that’s when I wanted to scream and shout.

          “Hello? Anyone down there” I said

          BANG BANG BANG is all I heard. I unbolted the bolts and unwillingly opened the door a crack, as soon as I did out popped a body. It was Earl, his mouth was duck taped! I screamed and grabbed his hand, I ripped off the tape and as soon as I did he yelled

          “RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN AND DON’T STOP!”

          I bolted so fast out of that house, with Earl straight behind me. We ran all the way to grandmothers. We pushed through her door like there were a pack of wolves behind us. Grandmother was completely frightened and asked what was going on. We locked all the doors and windows, so we were trapped inside. Once we caught our breathe I asked Earl what has happened.

          “The wolves! They got my son; they turned him into one of them. He trapped me downstairs, they were going to kill me.” Explained Earl very panicked

          “Grandmother what are we going to do? How do we get rid of these wolves?” I asked

          “There’s only one thing we can do” said Earl

          “What’s that? I questioned

          “Shoot them.” Said Earl

          Earl loaded grandmothers shotgun she had laying behind the door, and now it became the waiting game. We knew sooner or later the wolves would be out so all we could do was stay safe and wait inside. I started to doze off when all of a sudden I heard “BOOM BANG BOOM.” I jumped out of my chair and ran to the door. There laid 4 big black wolves and above them was Earl with a smile on his face. We did it! Grandmother thanked Earl and welcomed him for lunch the next day. He and I were both hero’s and it felt great to help out a great friend! How could I ever think Earl was a bad guy? Never! So the next day as he approached the house for some lunch I kindly greeted him at the door with a hug. He looked at me wish the biggest smile on his face and said

          “That’s the best hug I’ve ever gotten! Thanks sweetie, now let’s eat!”

          We trotted over to the table and we all sat together, shared laughs and stories. Let’s just say things couldn't be any better! We shared a desert grandmother had made, and joked about the wolves. How silly it is, but also how frightening. 

(From The Company of Wolves by Angela Carter) It Was Only Just A Dream

It Was Only Just a Dream

These gloomy winter days play a major told on an old women’s body. It is dark, cold and I am very ill today. If only I had some company or someone to help me but living in these woods makes it difficult for people to come visit me. I’ve always lived here. Summers are graceful, winters cold, dark, and harsh. I raised my daughter here. My husband built this house for us. She was a happy child and we were a happy family. My daughter was always happy as a child. Always laughing, playing and cheerful. Oh how I miss the simple days. Life was good. Really good.

            They say live everyday like your last. Always love, never hate.  I lost my husband when my daughter was just nine years old. My husband and I had gotten into an argument about him always going out hunting by himself. I absolutely hated it. The wolves in these woods are cruel, blood sucking demons. Demons I tell you! My husband got angry and left. I was so mad at him for leaving that not for one second was I worried about him. I had gone to bed early that evening. I expected to wake up to my husband next to me, but he wasn’t there. He hadn’t come home. I panicked and called the police. They found him in the middle of the woods half eaten by the wolves. It was hard on our whole family. My daughter changed from that day on. She couldn’t even look at me. She had lost her best friend in life and that is why our relationship is the way it is. She thinks it was my fault he got killed however she didn’t know I was trying to stop him from going out.

            From that day on I rarely leave this house. What business does an old frail lady like myself have going out in these woods? None at all I tell ya. Not unless one wants to be killed, especially an old frail lady like myself. I am deathly afraid of those awful beasts. Oh how cold it is in this house. I best make myself a fire. I can’t remember the last time I saw my granddaughter. She is becoming a beautiful young lady now. Her mother sends me pictures once a year. I got a call from my daughter today. I told her how ill I am. She decided that she is sending my granddaughter over to bring me a basket of soup and medicines. I begged her to come with my granddaughter but she refuses. Although I am upset that my daughter won’t be here, I’m very excited to see my granddaughter however the idea of her walking here alone scares me to death.

            My excitement faded as I thought of my granddaughter walking here in the dead of winter alone in these woods. If only I could talk some sense into her mother. If those wolves spotted her she would not be able to escape a pack of them.  Oh the thought of it makes my legs weak. I need to finish making this fire and lay down for a bit. I wonder when she will be here? Maybe I should get some rest before she comes, yes that sounds like a good idea.

            What seemed to be moments later I heard a pounding at the front door. It gave me such a fright. I thought I had been dreaming because I had put my head down for a moment but I heard the pounding again. Maybe it was my granddaughter! I rolled out of bed as fast as I could and forgot to put on my glasses. I finally got to the door and opened it, my granddaughter ran inside and slammed the door shut. Oh how happy I was to see her! I could only make out shapes but grabbed her and gave her a big hug. I told her to come sit down and make herself comfortable. I must have stepped on my glasses because I picked them up and they were broken in half. Disappointed I laid back into bed and tried starting conversation with my granddaughter. She sure was acting strange. Her responses were short and sweet. She had a deeper voice than I had remembered but I ignored it the flew was probably getting to me. She then offered to heat my soup up over the burning fire. Oh how sweet she is I thought. She then gave me the hot soup and watched me slowly eat it all. I found this to be very odd. Before I knew it she was hovering me almost like she was going to eat me. I told her to have a seat anywhere she liked but she refused. Suddenly I felt that something wasn’t right. She then let out a howl and a pack of wolves came into the house. I then realized this was not my granddaughter at all but a wolf! I screamed and screamed for help but a storm had picked up outside and no one was around. Before I knew it the wolf was shaking me so hard that I woke up. My granddaughter had woken me up from a nightmare. I couldn’t believe it was all a dream. Relieved I gave her a big hug and kiss. I was so happy to see that she was ok. We talked all through the night. I had told her about my nightmare. She told me that nothing was going to happen and that it was all a bad dream. So brave she stayed up all night to keep a watch out for me. I slept all through the night. Nothing was going to happen tonight. For the first time in years I felt a sense of relief. For now. 

           

Red With Poison

Red with Poison

Story adapted from the short story: The Company of Wolves by Angela Carter

Now you’re probably wondering how I got into that situation and you’re also probably wondering how I didn't get eaten.  You see that wasn't the whole story.  The story wasn't the whole truth.  I have a secret, a secret so dark that if anyone found out I would be burned at the stake.  But since my lover, yes my lover killed my grandmother the secret is already on its way out.  …. I am a wolf you see.  Reason number one why I wasn't eaten.  Now you’re probably wondering how I became a wolf.  This is all my grandmother's fault… and we had to do something about it.

Shortly after I was born, my mother died.  So, my father was left to raise me.  My father couldn't raise a newborn baby on his own, so he left me in the care of my grandmother, and you see how well that worked out.  Now you see my beloved father was supposed to come back for me because he loved me so much blah, blah, blah.  By the age a seven my grandmother was the only person that I knew.  I had heard stories about how much he loved me and he would come back for me.  At this point I was pretty sure that he was never coming back.  My grandmother told me what I thought was the truth about my father.  If I had to redo my life I would not have listened to anything my grandmother said.  In the end I found out that my grandmother hated me and told me outright lies about how much she loved me, but we will get to that later.  I was told that my father went to build a house and work on a farm to create a better life for me, and I believed it all.  
Where does the wolf part come into all this? Shortly you will see.  Every day, before my grandmother became ill, she would take a short walk to the market and leave me at home with a list of chores to do.   As I was sweeping the front porch, a little old lady came up to me to sell me some of her fruits and vegetables.  I kindly declined hoping that she would go away.  Before she left she gave me a peach to try.  Taking it to be polite, I took a bite, said it was good and kept on sweeping.  Unbeknownst to me she was a witch.  Later that day when my grandmother came back from the market she had some news.  First she told me there was a witch on the loose in the countryside.  My grandmother said that this witch was trying to give people fruit or vegetables, which were poisoned.  She asked me if I have seen her, I lied and said no.  Great I now probably am going to get sick because I ate that stupid peach I thought to myself.  I dared not tell my grandmother, afraid that I was going to get beaten.  Then she said “oh yeah, your father is coming to get you today.”  Thanks grandmother that’s no big deal or anything, I thought to myself, I have only been waiting eighteen years for this.  After this riveting conversation with my grandmother, I went to my room and packed.

I could hear the carriage approaching the house.  I watched out the window until it stopped out front.  My father got out of the driver’s seat and then opened the door to the carriage.  A woman stepped out!  Was this my new mother?  Even before I could walk out of the house, my grandmother pushed passed me so she could greet not my father, but my stepmother.  They embraced each other like they were friends forever.  But wait there’s more!  A young boy stepped out if the carriage.  My father replaced me and my mother, that’s all that was going through my head.  But as a faithful daughter I greeted all of them with a big cheesy smile on my face and REVENGE being pumped through my veins.  
They were invited inside for tea; of course I had to make it.  My stepmother, trying to be nice, gave a wonderful description of where they live.  “We live in a cute little house with a farm and it’s like five minutes away from the market”.  I almost choked on my tea.  My grandmother was never “shopping” she was visiting my stepmother and stepbrother.  She knew and never told me, my so called family lived fifteen minutes away and I was kept in the dark.  After we finished our tea, I said goodbye to my grandmother and got into the carriage.  My life as I knew it just changed, it was a total 180-degree change.  When we arrived at my new home I was shown my bedroom and told to make myself comfortable.  The next few months of my life story are pretty boring.  So, we will speed it up to a week before Christmas. 

            In preparation of Christmas dinner I had to go to the market to go get things for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner.  While browsing the different stands, looking for the items in my list, I saw the most handsome guy at the meat stand.  Being a young, flirtatious kind, I went up to him to and tried to strike up a conversation.  Little did I know, he already knew who I was.  

                                                     “I've been waiting for you” he said.  

                                      Knowing that was not a pick up line, I said “What do you mean?”  

                                              This handsome man said “let’s talk somewhere private”.  

     Being overwhelmed by his good looks I followed him and we stopped at the end of the edge of the woods.                 

                                                          “I’m glad you joined us” he said.  
                                                      “What do you mean joined with you?” 

      Now you think it can’t get any weirder.  This guy tells me that I am a wolf, like him.  When I ate that peach from the witch it was laced with a spell that turns people into wolves.  Also, my grandmother and stepmother planned the whole thing.  He filled me in on the whole situation.  My stepmother got used to me not being there and my grandmother didn't like me because she wanted a grandson.  My poor father knows nothing of it.  So, together we devised a plan to get revenge.

            This was going to happen simultaneously while I was bringing my grandmother her Christmas Eve basket.  My handsome friend and I were going to have my grandmother and stepmother eaten.  But we had to play it like I had just met this man walking through the forest.  While we are “taking care” of grandmother other wolves are going to storm my house and eat only my stepmother.  But they couldn't touch my stepbrother because he was innocent.

***

            The day finally came.  My stepmother asked me to bring my grandmother her Christmas Eve basket.  I kindly accepted, knowing this was going to be the last time I would see my stepmother.  My grandmother's and stepmother’s fate was near and I was joyfully waiting for the time when their lights went out for good.  When I arrived at my grandmother’s house, she was already gone.  Success, I thought to myself.  Step 2 was in progress as I was staring into the eyes of my lover.  We celebrated.  We danced all over the room in a passionate rumba of love.  It was my first time and it was liberating.  I was free in more ways than one.  
          When I returned home, wearing my grandmother’s clothes and no one seemed too noticed.  My father was crying and saying that my “mother” was eaten.  Her clothes were all over the floor with her bones lying in a pile next to the kitchen table.  I went to change into my clothes and burn my grandmothers’ to get rid of the evidence.  The next day my father went to tell my grandmother about what happened, but he found her eaten too.  My father found her bones under the bed.  He went to the police, but they could not do anything.  They said it was some freak attack.  Then we went back to living our normal lives.  A few months later, I got married to my partner in crime.  My father walked me down the aisle, as I have always pictured.  My stepmother and grandmother were out of the picture.  And nobody knew the whole time this was my sweet revenge. 

A Man's Curse

Fan Fiction of A Company of Wolves:

They are a reflection of ourselves in the wilderness. We live in large groups as a family and we fight among ourselves. Yet wolves also show loyalty and protection of others like we do. Most like to believe we are superior to other animals, but it is very obvious we are not too different, and sometimes this inner beast inside of us can take over.

 I don’t know what came over me that day, and I’ve regretted it every day since. I loved her very much and she meant everything to me. A feeling of lust overpowered love, and I betrayed the woman I loved. When she witnessed me with another woman she casted a curse on me. Until my death, if I ever feel attraction to another woman, I will transform into the wolf only to kill and eat her. Because of this, I spend the remainder of my life isolated from the rest of the world to insure this fate never happens.

I walk through the forest now with nothing to do but think about the normal life I had lost in an instant with one but terrible mistake.  It’s the only thing I can do because I cannot be near other people. If I ever desire another woman again, my inner wolf-beast will take over, leaving me with little free will and an animal’s instincts taking over. I will unconsciously devour any woman I feel attracted to. Once in a while I see a wandering girl roaming in the forest but I quickly look away in order to save her life. Usually, I spend my days just sleeping to escape and fast forward through this life I am forced to live so I can get it over with.

Today I woke up feeling more depressed than ever before. This loneliness is becoming unbearable. I cannot even remember the last time I made human contact with someone. I just wish I could be loved again and that person allow me to love them back, without me turning into a monster.  So I return back to sleep. After a long while of dreams, I’m awoken suddenly by a noise and realize the dreams aren’t a reality. I listen closer and I realize it is footsteps I hear. I looked behind the trees where I hear the walking and I’m surprised to see a beautiful young girl walking with a basket in her hand. I continue to stare at her as she walks even though in the back of my mind I’m screaming to myself to turn away, but I can’t help but stare. There’s something about her I can’t turn away from. Suddenly without thinking, I jump out into the path. She looks tense and frightened but then she smiles at me. Just that smile reminds me of what I haven’t been able to feel in years. At the same time I feel my blood start pumping and my heart racing, and I realize I’m going to start changing into my beast form as the wolf. I try to keep the thought from my mind and introduce myself to her. We begin talking and joking around with each other and instantly, I feel a connection with the girl. It’s hard to tell if it is because I haven’t talked to any living, breathing person in years or if what I feel is real. Either way I don’t care because I finally feel good. Every few minutes as we are walking I need to stop and concentrate on staying as a human being. She looks at me and asks me if I’m alright. I say yeah and instantly try to change the subject. I ask her where she is headed. She responds, “I’m going to my grandmother’s house to bring her some goodies”. I feel the energy getting stronger and I know it’s only a matter of time before I transform. I decide I need to leave before she sees who I really am and kill her in doing so. So I make a bet with her. I tell her I could make it to her grandmother’s house a half hour before she does. She asks,” how do you plan on doing that?” I say “I have a compass. So what will you give me if I get to your grandmother’s house before you do?” She responds, “with a kiss”. I agree and quickly get on my way. As I am running through the trees, the transformation begins, and I can feel the fur grow on me. My legs and arms become stronger. My body changes shape. Then my teeth become sharp. It’s hard to believe that just a matter of minutes ago I was just regular human being, and now I am a wild beast. My human mind loses control over my newly transformed body, and I just feel like I’m viewing the wolf through its own eyes.  This wolf body I am trapped in runs through the forest slaughtering animals and eating them raw. The house is in sight now and there is nothing I can do about it. Not just one, but two innocent people are going to be killed now because of me. I get to the door, and pound on it. The woman’s voice tells me to come inside. In an instant, I knock down the door, jump on the old lady, and eat her alive. All I could do is have my mind scream at the body to stop, but it doesn’t. Minutes later the young girl runs in, and she sees what I have done. She doesn’t seem too alarmed for an odd reason, but I’m wishing she would run away while she can. She must know that it is me somehow, because she doesn’t . She unexpectedly takes off her clothes. This brings up my memories of lust, when I betrayed the girl I love. Instead of attacking her, my wolf body doesn’t move at all. It just watches. She gives me the kiss that she owed. I begin to feel a change, and suddenly I’m back in control although still in the wolf body. There’s no instinct to attack anymore. She takes my head and places it on her lap. I feel a sense of freedom; something I have not felt in what feels like forever. The curse has been broken giving me a second chance.