by Cherie Camins

Created on: September 18, 2011

The silver moon radiated its light across the desert, highlighting the quiet and isolation from civilization. It was the perfect place for training.

"Concentrate," Alpha said.

Nanette nodded and focused on the power growing within her, the power that was enhanced by the presence of her Alpha. Her eyes began to glow golden and she darted forward, the patches of dragon scales along her brown skin glimmering in the moonlight.

A hundred yards away, she could see it. Smell it. Nanette extended her claws and tackled the beast into the sand.

The beast roared and Nanette lifted her arm to block an attack with the use of her scales as a shield. With her other hand, she swiped her claws along the beast's face before jumping back.

She was new to the pack and this was her first training exercise outside the walls of the compound. She was not ready to fight an Other, but her Alpha had sensed one of their weaker pets nearby and offered her the challenge of killing it alone.

Nanette accepted that challenge.

She rolled away to avoid the beast rushing her before getting to her feet. Alpha moved to her back and with a firm touch to her shoulder, Nanette felt a flow of strength flowing into her.

"You are trying too hard, Nanette. You were given special gifts that go far beyond our speed, strength, and our hybrid appearances during battles. Concentrate on using them."

"Yes, Alpha."

Nanette charged forward towards the beast with claws extended. Just as she reached it, Nanette launched herself into the air and spread her arms. She let out a burst of bright lights and shot it towards the beast's eyes.

She landed on her feet and watched in satisfaction as the beast stumbled about, blinded from her attack. It did not take long for her to take down the beast. With it no longer breathing, Nanette turned around to face Alpha.

Alpha dipped her head and extended her hand. "Well done, Nanette. You still have a lot to learn, but what you have done is adequate. I will have Roberto adjust your next training session. Now come along. We don't want to miss dinner."

Nanette accepted her Alpha's hand, enjoying the soothing aura washing over her, and together they walked back to the compound.

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