Original - With Wrath, the Fall

Randal - Chapter 1: The First Morning

My ears rang with a constant rapid blare. I reached out and hit nothing but the night stand. I lazily opened my eyes.

"Finally awake," a fox with rust-colored fur, a red t-shirt, and white pants stood across from me on the other side of my nightstand. In his hands, he had my alarm.

"Kalvin... What are you doing with my alarm?"

"I'm making sure you're not late."

"By taking my alarm hostage," I came to a sitting position and rubbed my face.

He eyed me curiously, "Indeed. Get up. Those lecture notes aren't going to write themselves."

"Give me a minute."

"I'll give you fifteen to get ready. You hungry? I can make you some eggs."

"Sure. Do whatever," I waved him off.

I stood up, stretched, and let out a yawn that could have been mistaken for a roar.

The sun shone through the window of my dorm. Its golden rays seemed to make my white sheets glisten with a yellow hue. A perfect day to start classes.

I clicked my light on. The tile floor was cold under my feet. The air felt muggy. I gave another stretch then groggily made my way to my shower. The water slowly warmed, the sudden change in temperature covering my body in goose bumps. The purifying steam opening my airways. As I stepped into the hot rain my entire body tingled and relaxed from its soothing touch. I closed my eyes drifting away with the steam.

Rejuvenated and refreshed I left my bedroom with a buoyant step. I was drawn to the kitchen by an enticing smell that made my mouth water.

I sat in the cold chair of the dining table, "Whatcha got cooking there Kal?"

In response Kalvin served me a plate with half of an omelet, "We don't have much time so get eating."

"You haven't changed since high school," I smiled as I sliced through the soft flesh of the omelet.

"I'd say the same of you. You're always sleeping in, putting your alarm on snooze, staying up late wooing the ladies. Neve..."

I happily chewed the chunk I had cut, "Yeah. Yeah. I get it. I'm irresponsible. Quit bugging me about it."

"Admit it," he gave a smug smirk as he chewed his own bite, "you need me."

I shrugged, "If you say so."

"Now finish eating."

My silverware clattered to my plate, "That was delicious." I leaned in my chair. The clock caught my eye as I gave a long stretch, "...Five until the eighth hour... Oh shit! We need to get going!" I jumped out of my seat.

"That we do." Kalvin quickly grabbed my plate and took it to the sink.

My heart raced as I struggled to tie my shoes, "We're gonna have to run."

"I'll be right behind you."

I slung my backpack over my shoulder and bolted.