NOVEL WEB Chapter 12 Catkin
The sun had just started its ascent, casting a warm glow over the thick forests surrounding Khalid's expanding territory. The reconnaissance reports had suggested strange activity to the north—rumors of a nomadic tribe fleeing from powerful predators, forced deeper into the wilds.
Standing near the command center, Khalid ran through the intel in his mind. There was something urgent in the way his scouts described the fleeing people, a desperate fear that had caught his attention. He had to investigate this. If there were people in need, and if there were enemies that powerful, it was his responsibility to act.
He glanced toward Optimus Prime, who stood tall and vigilant as ever. “Optimus, we’ve got reports of a tribe under attack north of here. They’ve been hunted relentlessly by what the scouts think are werewolves.”
Optimus’s optics gleamed as he processed the information. “Werewolves? If this threat is real, then those people won’t survive long. We cannot stand idly by.”
Khalid nodded. “I agree. We move now.”
The plan was swift. Khalid gathered a small, mobile force, combining some of his elite Cold War-era infantry and a few of the special recon Terminators for support. With Optimus leading the charge and his military system fully engaged, they were ready to face whatever lay ahead.
Into the Wild
The journey north was quick and purposeful, the team pushing through dense forests and across open plains. The further they ventured, the more signs of devastation they encountered—burned-out campfires, clawed-up trees, and hastily abandoned shelters. This was no ordinary wilderness.
As they reached the outskirts of a clearing, Khalid could hear them—the panicked yowls and cries of the Catkin tribe. They were unmistakable: humanoid figures with soft cat-like ears, fur-covered shoulders, and tails, all running in sheer terror from a pack of hulking, furred beasts closing in on them. Werewolves.
Khalid raised his hand, halting the group just before the edge of the clearing. His eyes narrowed as he surveyed the battlefield. There were at least a dozen Catkin folk, mostly women and children, cornered by a pack of monstrous werewolves—each standing at least two meters tall, with gleaming fangs and bloodthirsty eyes.
“Those poor people,” Optimus Prime said, his deep voice filled with a mix of compassion and anger. “We must act quickly, Khalid. They won’t last much longer.”
“Agreed. Let’s move,” Khalid ordered, his voice cold and focused.
With a wave of his hand, Khalid summoned a set of RPG-7 soldiers to flank the werewolves. His HUD flashed as he issued commands, activating his Military System to mark targets for the RPGs. Simultaneously, Optimus Prime charged into the fray with his towering metallic frame gleaming in the sunlight.
“Autobots, roll out!” Optimus declared as his massive feet thundered across the clearing.
The First Clash: Werewolves vs. Soldiers
Optimus smashed into the werewolves’ line with the force of a freight train. His enormous fist collided with one of the beasts, sending it flying through the air and crashing into a tree. Khalid’s troops opened fire, bullets peppering the area as the RPGs flew in rapid succession, striking the larger wolves and creating fiery explosions that shook the ground.
The werewolves snarled, undeterred by the initial attacks. They turned their focus to Khalid’s forces, charging with savage fury. One of the larger werewolves leapt at Khalid, its claws outstretched, ready to tear him apart.
Without hesitation, Khalid activated his Summoning System and called forth a specialized sniper unit. In the blink of an eye, a lone sniper appeared, positioned on a nearby hill. A single shot rang out, and the werewolf’s head snapped back as it collapsed to the ground, lifeless.
“That was close,” Khalid muttered, the adrenaline rushing through him.
As the firefight intensified, Khalid noticed something odd. The Catkin folk weren’t fighting back. They were huddled together, trembling in fear, clearly not warriors. His HUD flashed again, revealing a side quest:
Quest Unlocked: Tame and Protect the Catkin Tribe
Objective: Defend the Catkin folk from the werewolf assault.
Bonus Objective: Tame the leader of the Catkin folk, Aria.
Reward: 1,000 XP, New Summoning Slot for Beast Units.
Khalid smirked. “Tame, huh?” He quickly glanced at the group of Catkin, noticing a slender figure standing protectively at the front. A young woman with silvery white hair, bright green eyes, and soft fur covering her shoulders. Her cat-like ears twitched nervously as she glanced between the chaos of the battle and her people. She was clearly their leader.
Aria, he thought. The one he had to tame.
Khalid wasn’t about to let the opportunity slip away. “Optimus, cover me!” he shouted as he broke from the front line, rushing toward the huddled Catkin.
Optimus didn’t miss a beat, smashing two more werewolves to the ground with his mighty fists. “I’ve got your back!”
As Khalid approached, one of the werewolves lunged for Aria. With a fluid motion, Khalid unsheathed a combat knife and threw it. The blade struck the creature’s chest, dropping it just inches from the terrified Catkin.
Aria gasped, her wide green eyes locking onto Khalid’s. “Who… who are you?” she stammered, fear and awe in her voice.
“I’m Khalid Haman, and I’m here to save your people. Stay back—I’ll handle this.”
He glanced at his HUD again, the taming quest still active. The RPG soldiers had taken down most of the werewolves, but a few still fought ferociously. Optimus crushed one underfoot as another charged his legs, biting and tearing at his armor, though it was no match for the Autobot leader’s strength.
Khalid focused on Aria, seeing the fear and determination in her eyes. He could sense her vulnerability, but also her strength as a leader.
“Trust me,” Khalid said softly. “I’ll keep you safe. But I need your help. I need to know about your people, your enemies. Together, we can stop this.”
Aria hesitated, then nodded slowly. “You saved us... I will help you, Khalid.”
Taming Aria
The battle raged on, but Khalid’s attention was now focused on Aria. The moment he gained her trust, a prompt appeared in his system:
Taming Sequence Initiated: Aria (Catkin Leader)
Success Chance: 70%
Bonus Condition: Prove your strength and protect her tribe.
Khalid felt a surge of determination. He had to finish the fight and prove his strength. With renewed vigor, he drew his sidearm and charged back into the fray, joining Optimus and the others.
The remaining werewolves were formidable, but they were no match for Khalid’s team. One by one, they fell to coordinated fire, RPG blasts, and the sheer force of Optimus Prime.
As the last werewolf crumbled to the ground, Khalid returned to Aria’s side, breathing heavily from the exertion. The Catkin leader looked up at him with those wide green eyes, her tail twitching nervously behind her.
“You… you really are strong,” she whispered.
The system flashed again.
Taming Success: Aria has joined your ranks.
New Beast Unit Unlocked: Catkin Leader Aria
XP Gained: 1,000 XP
New Summoning Slot Unlocked
Khalid smiled as the system confirmed his success. “Looks like you’re part of the team now, Aria. Welcome.”
Aria gave a small smile in return, her feline ears twitching as she looked at him with curiosity. “Thank you, Khalid. We will follow you now. You’ve earned our loyalty.”
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Khalid knew that this was just the beginning. With Aria and the Catkin by his side, their forces were growing stronger. The werewolves were just one of many threats in this world, but Khalid was more than ready to face them head-on.
Together with Optimus and his newly tamed allies, Khalid’s path to building a powerful army and conquering the unknown had only just begun.
The early morning sun cast a golden hue across the rugged landscape, the air crisp and fresh as Khalid and his forces set out from their base. Their mission was clear: to establish contact with the nearby settlements, gather intelligence, and assess any potential allies or threats. Little did they know, the day would take a surprising turn that would change the course of their journey.
Khalid rode alongside Optimus Prime, whose colossal form cast an imposing shadow over the landscape. The giant Autobot was not just a soldier; he was a beacon of hope and strength for Khalid’s forces. With Optimus leading the way, Khalid felt a surge of confidence. They ventured into the woods, navigating through dense underbrush and towering trees.
Encountering the Catkin Folk
As they moved deeper into the woods, the tranquility of nature was abruptly shattered by a series of desperate yowls and frantic rustling in the bushes. Khalid exchanged a glance with Optimus, who nodded slightly, signaling for the troops to halt.
“What do you make of that?” Khalid asked, scanning the treeline for any signs of movement.
“I detect heightened stress levels in the nearby fauna,” Optimus replied, his voice resonating with authority. “It suggests that a predator is nearby.”
Just as he finished speaking, a small group of creatures burst through the foliage—a mix of humanoid figures with feline characteristics. These were the Catkin: human-like beings with soft fur, cat ears perched atop their heads, and long, expressive tails. Their eyes were wide with fear, and they seemed disheveled, as if they had been running for their lives.
“Run! They’re coming!” one of them cried, her voice a blend of desperation and urgency. Khalid recognized her as a young Catkin girl, her fur a delicate cream color that shimmered in the sunlight.
Before Khalid could react, a chilling howl echoed through the woods, sending shivers down his spine. The Catkin folk turned pale, their eyes darting in terror. From the shadows emerged a pack of werewolves, their grotesque forms towering and feral, teeth bared in hunger.
“Optimus!” Khalid shouted, adrenaline surging through him. “We need to protect them!”
The Battle Begins
Without hesitation, Optimus transformed into his battle mode, his towering form ready for combat. Khalid raised his hand, summoning the Cold War-era Special Forces, who quickly fanned out and took positions, weapons drawn.
“Cover the Catkin! Engage on my command!” Khalid ordered.
The werewolves advanced, their eyes gleaming with primal hunger. The soldiers, well-trained and disciplined, responded swiftly. Gunfire erupted, the sharp cracks echoing through the forest as the first wave of bullets struck the charging beasts.
Khalid felt the weight of leadership as he directed the troops, coordinating their efforts. “Flank them! Don’t let them get close!”
Optimus stepped forward, his massive frame imposing against the feral creatures. He fired his ion cannon, a brilliant blue beam slicing through the air and vaporizing one of the werewolves. The creature howled in agony, its body disintegrating under the blast.
“Engage the targets!” Khalid shouted again, adrenaline coursing through his veins. He knew they had to protect the Catkin folk at all costs.
The soldiers unleashed a barrage of bullets, their rounds finding their mark against the charging werewolves. The creatures stumbled, but their resilience was unnerving. They continued to surge forward, fueled by primal rage.
“Fall back! Reposition!” Khalid called out, watching as some werewolves managed to breach their lines. The soldiers fought valiantly, but the ferocity of the werewolves was staggering.
A Strategic Move
“Optimus, can you create a barrier?” Khalid shouted amidst the chaos.
“Affirmative,” Optimus replied, his voice unwavering. He activated his defensive systems, deploying energy shields around the Catkin folk and the soldiers, creating a protective barrier.
As the werewolves crashed against the barrier, they yelped in frustration, their claws and fangs unable to penetrate the shimmering force field. This temporary reprieve gave Khalid and his team a moment to regroup.
“Now!” Khalid shouted, pointing toward the flank. “We need to push them back!”
The soldiers rallied, regaining their composure. They launched a coordinated assault, working together to pick off the werewolves that had gotten too close. Khalid, with the adrenaline pumping through him, led the charge, firing his weapon with precision.
One werewolf lunged at him, but Khalid sidestepped and used his training to bring the butt of his rifle down on the creature’s head, stunning it momentarily. He followed up with a swift kick to its ribs, sending it sprawling.
Saving the Catkin Folk
With Optimus providing cover and the soldiers regaining their composure, the tide of battle began to shift. The werewolves, realizing they were being overwhelmed, started to retreat into the shadows of the forest, their howls echoing in defeat.
Khalid watched as the last of them disappeared, a mixture of relief and triumph washing over him. “Is everyone alright?” he called, turning to the Catkin folk who had gathered nearby, wide-eyed and shaken.
The Catkin girl from earlier approached him, her fur bristling but her eyes filled with gratitude. “You… you saved us. Thank you!” she exclaimed, her voice trembling.
Khalid knelt down, meeting her gaze. “What’s your name?”
“Aria,” she replied, her ears perked with a mix of caution and curiosity. “We… we thought we would be food for them.”
“We’re not going to let that happen,” Khalid assured her. “You’re safe now. But we need to know more about the werewolves. Why are they hunting your people?”
The Taming of Aria
As the tension eased, Khalid turned to Optimus. “We should talk to them. They might know more about this region and the threats they face.”
Optimus nodded. “Agreed. Establishing trust is crucial.”
Khalid turned back to Aria and the other Catkin. “We’d like to help you. Can you tell us about your village? And what’s happening with the werewolves?”
Aria hesitated, glancing back at the other Catkin, who nodded encouragingly. “We live in the forest, in a small village. The werewolves have been hunting us for weeks. They say we’re a delicacy, and they’re growing bolder.”
Khalid’s mind raced with the implications. If the werewolves were hunting the Catkin, it meant there was a larger conflict brewing in the region, one that could threaten his newfound allies.
“Can you take us to your village?” Khalid asked gently. “We can protect you and your people.”
Aria’s eyes widened, and she hesitated for a moment. “You’d help us? Even after everything?”
“Absolutely,” Khalid replied firmly. “We’re stronger together. We want to form an alliance, and we’ll need to understand what we’re up against.”
With a tentative smile, Aria nodded. “Alright, I’ll show you. But we must be careful. The werewolves could return.”
A Bond Forged
As they began to move toward the Catkin village, Khalid felt a strange pull toward Aria. There was something about her spirit that intrigued him. Despite the fear she had shown moments ago, her bravery shone through.
As they walked, Aria kept glancing back at him, her curiosity piqued. Khalid decided to make an effort to reassure her. “You fought bravely today, Aria. Not everyone has the courage to face danger head-on.”
She looked surprised, her ears flicking in disbelief. “You really think so?”
“I do,” Khalid affirmed, a smile creeping onto his face. “And I want you to know that you and your people have allies now. We’re here to help.”
Aria’s expression softened, a sense of warmth flooding her gaze. “Thank you, Khalid. It means more than you know.”
As they continued through the forest, Khalid felt a newfound connection growing between them. It wasn’t just a partnership of necessity; there was potential for friendship—and perhaps something more.
Arrival at the Village
Soon, they reached the outskirts of Aria’s village, a quaint cluster of wooden huts nestled among the trees. The scent of smoke from cooking fires wafted through the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of the forest. The Catkin villagers stared in awe at the newcomers, some of them still visibly shaken from the earlier encounter.
Aria stepped forward, raising her voice to reassure her people. “Everyone, these are our allies! They saved us from the werewolves!”
The villagers murmured, their expressions a mixture of disbelief and gratitude. Khalid could see the tension slowly easing as the realization sank in.
Optimus stepped forward, towering above the villagers, yet emanating a sense of protection. “We are here to help you defend your home. Together, we can drive away the threats that linger in these woods.”
As they began to communicate, Khalid felt the bond with the Catkin strengthen. He noticed how they interacted, their warmth and playfulness contrasting with the ferocity of their earlier encounter. He felt a growing respect for their resilience and tenacity.
Amid the gathering, Aria stood beside him, her presence a source of comfort. He could sense the determination within her—she wanted to protect her people as fiercely as he did.
As evening descended, the village lit up with the soft glow of lanterns. Khalid realized he had found not just allies but potential friends among the Catkin.
But there was still work to do. They needed to establish a plan to protect the village and confront the werewolves once and for all.
Yet, even amid the preparations, Khalid’s thoughts drifted back to Aria. There was something about her that intrigued him—a spark that promised adventure and connection beyond mere duty.
The forest was thick with the scent of damp earth and the distant sounds of chaos as Khalid and his team advanced toward the village of Felwyn. They moved with purpose, every soldier on high alert, knowing that lives depended on their swift and decisive action. The reports had indicated that a faction of mercenaries had invaded, seeking to capture the Catkin folk, known for their agility and unique abilities.
Khalid's heart raced as they approached the outskirts of the village. The whispers of the wind carried cries of distress, the sounds of conflict rising and falling like a grim symphony. He motioned for his team to halt behind the cover of thick underbrush, their silhouettes blending into the shadows.
“Adler,” he whispered, gesturing toward the chaos unfolding in the village, “take the Phantoms into the air. We need eyes on the ground, and the enemy's position must be assessed.”
Adler nodded, signaling to the Huey helicopters hovering nearby. Within moments, the roar of rotors filled the air as they lifted off, climbing into the sky to provide aerial reconnaissance.
The Rescue Mission Begins
Khalid scanned the scene before him. The village, once vibrant and bustling, now lay in disarray. Mercenaries clad in mismatched armor were advancing through the streets, brandishing weapons, their crude shouts echoing through the alleys.
“Move out!” Khalid commanded, his voice steady and resolute. “We engage on my mark.”
The team moved in unison, slipping through the trees and surrounding the village. Khalid could see the Catkin folk—humanoid beings with feline features, their fur glistening in the fading light, attempting to defend their homes.
They were outnumbered and outgunned, their agile movements hampered by the chaos around them. Among them was Aria, a striking figure with long, flowing hair and eyes as bright as emeralds, fighting valiantly alongside her people. Khalid felt a surge of determination; he couldn't let them fall.
As the command was given, Khalid and his team charged into the fray, weapons raised.
“Cover the civilians!” he shouted, firing his M16 into the air to draw the attention of the mercenaries. The bullets struck with precision, sending several of the attackers sprawling.
Woods led the way, his M60 Patton rolling forward, creating a wall of firepower. The tanks’ cannons roared, shaking the ground and forcing the mercenaries to scatter.
“Let’s make this quick!” Woods yelled, laughing as he rained fire upon their enemies.
The Battle for Felwyn
Khalid’s team split into two groups, some focusing on rescuing the Catkin while others engaged the mercenaries directly. The air was thick with the acrid smell of gunpowder and smoke as chaos enveloped them.
Aria, with her graceful movements, was taking down mercenaries left and right, her agility a sight to behold. Khalid watched in awe, impressed by her ferocity and skill. Yet, he knew they needed to retreat; the safety of her people was paramount.
“Aria!” he called out, weaving through the melee to reach her. “We’re here to help! We need to get your people to safety!”
She turned, her expression fierce but filled with relief as she recognized Khalid. “Khalid! You came for us!”
The sounds of clashing steel and shouting men surrounded them as they fought back to back. “We can’t stay here much longer! Follow me!”
With a quick nod, Aria led the way, her agility allowing her to weave through the battlefield with ease. Khalid stayed close, covering her as they moved toward the village’s perimeter, where the shadows of the trees provided shelter.
“Get to the trees!” Khalid shouted to the Catkin folk still fighting, gesturing for them to fall back. “We’re regrouping!”
The Escape Route
The mercenaries, realizing the tide was turning against them, began to retreat, but not without leaving a trail of destruction. Khalid and his team pressed forward, leading the Catkin folk toward safety.
They slipped into the thick underbrush, where the sounds of battle began to fade. It was a precarious escape, with mercenaries firing in their direction, desperate to retain their prize.
“Move faster!” Khalid urged, adrenaline coursing through his veins as he covered the rear. “We’re almost there!”
They reached a small clearing, where the helicopters awaited them, their engines already roaring to life. The sight of safety spurred Khalid’s team into a final push.
Khalid turned to Aria, his voice firm. “Get your people on the Hueys. We’re taking them to our base.”
Aria nodded, her emerald eyes shining with determination. “Let’s go, everyone! To safety!”
The Catkin folk scrambled onto the waiting helicopters, their relief palpable. As the last of them boarded, Khalid and his team made a final stand, ensuring no mercenaries followed them into the clearing.
“Hold the line!” Khalid shouted, his weapon firing in controlled bursts. The sound of gunfire and the thump of helicopter blades filled the air as the last Catkin folk boarded.
With a final check of their surroundings, Khalid sprinted to the last Huey, diving into the open door just as it began to lift off. The helicopter soared into the sky, leaving the chaos of the village behind.
A Safe Haven
As the village of Felwyn disappeared beneath them, Khalid turned to Aria, who was catching her breath, her cat-like features softened by the relief of escape.
“Thank you,” she said, her voice breathless yet steady. “You saved us. I thought we were done for.”
Khalid shook his head, the weight of their near defeat still heavy on his heart. “We couldn’t let that happen. Your people deserve better than this. You deserve better.”
The helicopter swayed gently as they flew toward the base, the landscape rolling beneath them. Khalid glanced back at the Catkin folk, their expressions a mix of gratitude and lingering fear. They had lost much, but they were safe now.
As they approached the base, the lights shone brightly, a beacon of hope in the dark world around them. Khalid felt a surge of pride knowing that they were providing refuge for those in need.
Once they landed, the Catkin folk were met by other soldiers, ready to assist them. Khalid stepped out, helping Aria and her people disembark, leading them toward the safety of the base.
“Welcome to your new home,” he said, a reassuring smile on his face. “You’re safe here.”
Building a New Future
As the Catkin folk settled into their new surroundings, Khalid took a moment to reflect on the day’s events. The chaos of battle and the tension of rescue had tested his leadership, but he had emerged stronger.
Aria approached him, her gaze intense. “What will happen to us now?”
Khalid placed a hand on her shoulder, feeling the strength of their shared experience. “You will help us build a better future. Together, we can create a sanctuary for all those who have been displaced by conflict.”
Her eyes sparkled with determination. “I will do everything I can to protect my people.”
Khalid nodded, impressed by her resolve. “And I will stand beside you. We’ll turn this base into a haven, a stronghold against those who seek to harm the innocent.”
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the base, Khalid felt a renewed sense of purpose. They had a long way to go, but with allies like Aria and her Catkin folk, the possibilities were endless.