Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Night had fallen on the town of Milford. Almost everyone was at home, ready to unwind after a long day. However, at a mansion called Farfang Manor, the day was just getting started and was about to get wilder.

Outside the manor, someone prowled up the driveway to the entrance. They looked around for any obvious security measures, cameras, alarms, etc. When they saw none, the figure gripped the bars and climbed over the gate. Touching down on the other side, the figure stuck close to the shadows around the perimeter, heading towards the back. Once there, they tested the window handles until they discovered an unlocked window and quietly slipped inside.

When their feet hit the floor, the person pulled back their hood to reveal a teenage male with bright green eyes. He had very light skin and black hair that reached just past his shoulders with an undercut, styled in a messy ponytail, and messy bangs parted on the right side. He was tall with a slender build, broad shoulders, and long legs. His outfit consisted of a black and purple hoodie over a white shirt, a fang necklace, black fingerless gloves, blue jeans, and tall, black boots.

Breathing through his nose, he looked around the room to better sense where he was in the manor. “Okay… looks like a study.”

He looked around for something to grab. He would only win the dare if he took something as proof, but it had to be something that wouldn’t be missed. He saw a pen on the desk and went to grab it when a high-pitched howl caused him to stumble over his own feet. Startled, he glanced around on reflex, even though he knew that dog wasn’t in the room. “What the heck?!”

He looked toward the study's door and paused, thinking. It was a stupid idea, but he loved the adrenaline. Keeping his steps light, he cracked open the door, looking out into the hallway. Seeing no one, he crept toward the end, keeping track of rooms he could use for cover.

The hall opened up into a grand entryway with large doors and windows. Two circular staircases rounded up to a second-floor balcony that overlooked the foyer. In the middle was an ornate door with wolf-shaped doorknobs that seemed out of place to the teen. Before he could examine further, he heard the metal gate open and a car pull up. When he heard footsteps approaching from upstairs, he knew he needed to hide quickly. Thinking fast, he ran towards the unknown door and slipped inside, closing it behind him.

Once he was sure he hadn’t been seen, he looked around the room in awe. The space was huge, with stars and night sky designs all over the walls and the domed ceiling. The pillars had wolf motifs, and an upper level overlooked the floor below. In the center of the room was a circular pattern with the lunar cycle engraved on the floor. Overall, it felt like it was meant to be some kind of chapel or sacred space.

The teen was pulled out of his stupor when he heard murmuring outside. Crouching down, he opened the door just a crack to see several people in the entryway. There were nine of them, all older than him. They varied in age, the youngest being in their late teens to early twenties, while the oldest were middle-aged or older. Looking closer, the burglar recognized one of the men as Mayor Hotspur Lupin. With his flashy suits, wild red hair, and noticeable bling, he was easy to pick out in a crowd.

After greeting each other, they approached the door he was hiding behind. Panicking, the teen shut the door again, frantically searching for another hiding place. Seeing another door attached to the room, he dashed across the floor, praying it was unlocked. Thankfully, it was, and he managed to slip through and shut the door just in time before the group entered the room.

Keeping the door shut, the thief began to steady his breathing. It was okay. He could get out of this. All he had to do was wait until they left, then he could sneak out the front door. No one would know he was ever here.

His heart leaped into his throat again when another howl rang out. Only this time, it wasn’t a dog. It was a wolf.

“Alright, everyone, gather around.” He heard someone say. Shaking, the teen quietly cracked the door open to peek outside. The group was standing around the room. Four were off to the side, four stood in the center of the room, and the final person was next to a lever on the wall.

“Before we head out tonight,” the head of the center people said. “Just a reminder to stay in the shadows. We’ve had reports of a rogue wolf hunter prowling the city.”

The three standing before him gasped, the younger two looking at each other with worry. The others were just as horrified.

“There hasn’t been a Werewolf Hunter in Milford for a hundred years!” The oldest man exclaimed.

“Or it could be a false alarm,” The other conceded. “But remember, a stealthy wolf is a safe wolf.”

Werewolves?

Hunters?!

What?!

The teen couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He overheard one of his schoolmates talking about stuff like this, but to listen to adults talking about it so seriously… He was brought out of his thoughts when he saw the four center adults mess with identical bracelets they were wearing, causing the stones on them to glow. The leader (He assumed he was the leader) nodded before turning to the old woman next to the lever. “Mrs. Mutton?”

The woman, Mrs. Mutton, pulled the switch without another word. The room started to be bathed in moonlight as the ceiling opened up. The four grown-ups in the circle stood stock still with their arms outstretched. Seconds later, all four started glowing and writhing as if they were in pain. The teenager watched in horror as they changed into werewolves, howling to the moon once the glowing stopped. They were then outfitted with green vests and headsets before charging out the door.

The burglar stood in a daze, his mind still trying to process what he saw. In his stupor, he tripped over his own feet and fell back into a shelf. He didn’t see what was on it, but it made a loud noise when it crashed to the ground.

“What was that?!” The mayor gasped.

The teenage thief cringed, knowing he was going to get caught. Zipping his jacket and pulling up his hood to try and disguise himself, he started groping around for something to use as a weapon.

“It came from that door!” One of the women said.

“Probably Freddy spying on the meeting,” Lupin grumbled.

A high-pitched bark sounded from the upper floor just as the intruder grabbed a broom and put it in position to swing it like a bat. The minute the door opened, he would swing and charge for it. He could take the grief he’d get for not finishing the dare; he just didn’t want to end up in jail.

“Who’s there?!” The other woman demanded.

“Are you coming out, or do we have to come in?!” Mayor Lupin asked.

When the door moved to open, the teenager rushed it. Swinging the broom, he startled the mayor off balance and slipped past him. The remaining five were scattered around the room, but there was a straight shot to the door. Tossing aside the broom for another distraction, he sprinted towards the way out. However, without warning, his pants leg caught on something, causing him to fall face-first onto the floor.

Recovering his bearings, the teen realized that whatever it was had teeth and was pulling as hard as it could on his leg. Looking back, he saw a… poodle? A miniature pink poodle? Under different circumstances, he would have stared at the pooch in disbelief. However, the circumstances dictated that he shouldn’t stay too long.

Moving to get up and shake the poodle off his leg, he was knocked down again when a small weight jumped on his back. Feeling four paws with claws, it was easy to figure out that it was another small dog. He could also judge that it was trying to grab his hood by the nips he was feeling.

Deciding enough was enough, the teenager shook his leg to get the poodle to let go and bucked up to get the other dog off him. His struggles were enough to throw the dogs off him, but the dog on his back was able to pull his hood off before being dislodged. Scrambling to his feet, he spun around, holding a hand in front of his face. The struggle landed him in the moonlit area, so his eyes were adjusting to the sudden brightness.

“Who are you?!” One of the women demanded.

The teen scowled behind his hand. As if he was going to answer that. He was about to bolt again when he felt this jolt go through him, followed by immense discomfort. It was like his body was trying to reform itself in a way that wasn’t natural to him. He squeezed his eyes shut on reflex, but he could see a bright blue light through his eyelids. The light grew brighter, and the sensations became more intense. Just when he couldn’t take it anymore, the teenager fell on all fours, and the glow broke away. To his horror, a howl ripped itself from his throat, loud and clear.

Blinking his eyes open, the former teen stumbled in his new form, trying to get his bearings. A task that was easier said than done. Everything was too loud, too bright. Confusion was making the new wolf’s already muddled senses fuzzier. From the looks of the people and dogs in the room, they were just as dumbstruck as he was. Fear taking hold of his instincts, he bolted for the still-open door. He needed to get away and find a spot to sort things out.

“Hey, wait!” A voice yelled after him, but he didn’t stop.

Bursting through the front door, he ran towards the gate, which was still open. A few long strides later, he was outside the estate’s walls. Making a hard turn, he fled towards the woods. He had a safe zone there. Once he got there, he could catch his breath and figure out what the heck was going on?!

( Back at the Manor )

Freddy couldn’t believe it. Someone had broken into Farfang Manor and witnessed the Night Patrol.

The patrol had just left when he, Batty, and everyone on the lower level heard a crash from the supply closet. Uncle Hotspur thought it was him, but everyone became alert when Freddy revealed he was on the balcony.

Hotspur went to open the closet and was knocked down by an unknown assailant swinging a broom. Everyone scattered in surprise, not wanting to get hit. They were heading for the door when Freddy and Batty sprang into action. The were-poodle got ahold of him by the leg while Batty put pressure on his back. Despite the teen being able to throw them off, Batty was able to pull off his hood so they could get a good look at him. The boy had quickly shielded his face with his hand, but Freddy could still make out his pale skin and black hair.

Before anyone could move, they all froze in surprise as the intruder became surrounded by moonlight. Right before their eyes, the teen transformed into a silver-gray wolf with white patches on his face, paws, and stomach, while his mane and tail were black. Around his neck was a fang necklace, which hadn’t transformed with the rest of his clothes for some reason. His howl rang through the space before frightened green eyes questioned what had happened.

Freddy was taken aback by the fear in the silver-and-black werewolf. Did he… not know what was happening?

Nobody spoke. Nobody moved. Everyone was still processing what had just happened.

Recovering partially, the unknown wolf bolted out the door, snapping Freddy from his stupor.

“Hey, wait!” He yelled before running after him.

The wolf was already out the door. When Freddy made it to the front yard, he saw the wolf make a hard turn out of the gate. Reaching the end of the driveway, the were-poodle couldn’t see the rogue any longer, having disappeared into the dark.

“Freddy! Wait up!” Batty called as she caught up to him. “What was that all about?”

“I don’t know. But we’ve gotta go after that wolf.” Freddy said.

The tiny mixed-breed laughed sarcastically. “You’re joking, right?”

“Batty, I saw the fear in his eyes… I don’t think he knows what’s happening to him.”

“You think so?”

“I do. Which means he doesn’t know he has to stick to the shadows and stay hidden. We have to find him before he’s caught, especially if there is a hunter running around.”

“Yeah, you’re right,” Batty relented. “Should we get the Night Patrol?”

“Yes. So, let’s split up,” Freddy instructed. “I’ll follow the wolf. You go find my dad and the Night Patrol.”

“Got it. Watch yourself out there.” The mixed breed said before they split up.

( Meanwhile )

The Night Patrol stood on a ridge overlooking the city. With quick nods to each other, they sprang into action.

A blind old man was about to walk into an open sewer hole when the group's female member dropped the lid back on. Since he was blind, he didn’t see her. She made sure he was okay before continuing patrol.

Elsewhere, a car accident happened with the driver unconscious at the wheel. Flasheart found him and was able to drag him out of the car.

In another part of town, a stray cat had hopped onto some train tracks just as a subway train approached from the tunnel behind it. Acting quickly, Flasheart scooped up the cat and cleared the tracks, barely avoiding the train. Once the danger had passed, the High Howler gave the little kitty some scritches, which the feline enjoyed. When it realized it was being held by a werewolf, the cat freaked out and fled, leaving the wolf a little dejected while his fellow wolves got a chuckle at his expense.

“Flasheart!” A voice called out, getting the Night Patrol’s attention.

“Batty?” The leader recognized who it was. He jumped back onto the platform just as the mixed breed reached them. “What’s going on?”

“There’s a problem at Farfang!”

The Night Patrol looked at each other in concern, wondering what could’ve happened in the short time they were gone.

( With Freddy )

The pack heir was sniffing around in the woods, following the trail of their mystery wolf.

“He definitely came this way,” Freddy said to himself. “Can’t mistake the smell of pines and books.”

When he came to the hillcrest, the were-poodle saw an older woman with red hair. She appeared to be looking for something or someone, or perhaps she was just lost. Freddy watched her for a minute, feeling conflicted. He needed to find that rogue werewolf, but he couldn’t leave her alone.

“Protect the pack, serve the good, and help those in need,” The heir repeated the Night Patrol’s motto, knowing what he needed to do.

Padding down the hill, Freddy approached the woman, not noticing a car rounding the corner to his right.

“Madame, allow me to escort–” His sentence was cut off by the car passing inches behind him, causing him to yelp in fright as he jumped into the woman’s arm.

“Oh, poor puppy, don’t be scared,” The woman cooed as she tickled him. “Who’s a little tickle puppy?”

“Sto–Stop ticking me!” Freddy squirmed, laughing as he tried to push her hand away before she put him down.

“Sorry, I can’t play. My granddaughter’s gone and lost herself up in those woods.” The woman said before resuming her search. “Scarlet! Hello! Where are you?”

Freddy watched her go, knowing this was gonna be a long night. Soon, the were-poodle set out to find either Scarlet or the lost werewolf.

“What kind of weirdo comes up here at night?” Freddy asked aloud. “And why would the wolf run in this direction?”

Then, he noticed something up ahead. It was a teenage girl with short, spiky hair jumping between the trees like a ninja. This must have been the woman’s granddaughter, Scarlet.

“Target identified. Operation: Big Brave Wolf is a go.” Freddy readied himself before running towards the teenager. “Don’t panic, Scarlet! I’ll save you!”

Just as he approached her, Scarlet spun around and sprayed something at the were-poodle. “Hyah! Back off, wolfy!”

Skidding to a stop, Freddy couldn’t avoid the chemical as he started sneezing and coughing.

“Oh, sorry, poodle.” Scarlet apologized, crouching in front of him. “I thought you were a big bad wolf.”

Recovering from the attack, Freddy tried to explain to her. “I am a wolf! Uh, poodle!”

The problem was Scarlet couldn’t understand him. All she could hear was barking.

“My name’s Freddy, and I’m here to help!”

“Are you lost, girl?” Scarlet cooed as she picked him up.

“Girl? I’m a boy! And you’re the one who’s lost!” Freddy retorted before he started struggling in her hold. “Put me down!”

“What are you doing?” The girl asked as she dropped him.

“Rescuing you!” He replied. The were-poodle then grabbed her pants leg, trying to get her to follow him. “Come! On!”

“Hey! Bad dog!” Scarlet scolded, not getting the message.

Freddy, though, was determined. The two played tug-of-war for a few minutes before Scarlet could free herself. In the process, however, she lost her balance and fell to the ground. The impact caused some stuff that looked like a blowgun and several metal darts to fall out of her backpack.

“Whoa…” Freddy whispered, taking a closer look as Scarlet gathered her things. “Are they… silver darts?”

“Paws off, pooch,” The teenager swiped the dart he was examining. “These are for the werewolves.”

Freddy gasped in horror as Scarlet went on.

“I know. Sounds cooky, huh? But they’re out there. Sooner or later, I’ll bag one…” She turned around before gasping, “Hey!”

Having heard enough, Freddy took off running, Scarlet watching him go before smiling slightly. “Silly pup…”

“I’ve gotta find that wolf and warn the pack!” Freddy panted as he ran. However, he didn’t notice he was racing towards a ledge until it was too late. He gave a startled cry as he fell, landing on something else that cried out in shock before landing on a rocky outcropping.

“Oh, that hurt…” The were-poodle groaned as he rolled off his back.

“What the–?!” Someone cried.

Turning around, Freddy realized he landed on the wolf he was looking for. He had his back pressed against the cliff behind them, looking at the poodle with wide-eyed terror.

“Uh… hi?” The poodle said awkwardly.

If that was meant to be friendly, it didn’t work because the wolf yelled in fear again before scrambling off the ledge and running away.

“Hey, wait!” Freddy called after him, jumping down on rocks to chase after him. “Oh, come on!”

The werewolf fled down the ravine, with the poodle racing to keep up.

“Wait for me!” The wolf ignored him and kept going before skidding to a stop when he realized he was at a dead end. He turned around and started backing away as Freddy caught up to him.

“Easy,” The pack heir tried to reassure him. “It’s okay. There’s no need to be scared.”

“‘Scared?’” He parroted, chuckling hysterically. “Why would I be scared? I just found out werewolves are real, I got caught breaking into the mayor’s house, not to mention the talking poodle right in front of me! And on that topic, what’s with the pink?!”

“Uh, yeah,” Freddy grinned sheepishly. “There’s a long story behind this.”

The wolf started to calm down a little, stepping closer to the were-poodle. “Weren’t you at the manor?”

“Yep. Sorry for biting you, but I thought you were there to hurt someone.”

“Fair, that’s… that’s fair.” He nodded as he sat down.

Encouraged, Freddy took the chance to introduce himself. “I’m Freddy, by the way.”

He looked to the side and answered, “Ryan.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” The were-poodle smiled before becoming concerned. “Can I ask why you broke into our house?”

Ryan sighed, feeling embarrassed and ashamed. “It’s… It’s stupid, but… a couple of guys at school dared me to.”

“Seriously?”

“Yeah, I know it was dumb, and the last thing I expected was to turn into a wolf.”

“That took us all by surprise,” Freddy agreed. “… Did you not know you were a werewolf?”

“What do you mean?” Ryan asked, confused.

“Well, people don’t just turn into werewolves. You have to be born one. Didn’t your parents tell you any of this?”

The new wolf’s eyes became downcast as he looked away. “My parents are gone…”

Freddy’s mouth opened in surprise.

“They were gone before I was old enough to remember.”

“… What happened to them?” The were-poodle worked up the courage to ask.

“I don’t know. And if my siblings knew, they never told me.”

“You have siblings?”

“We were separated in the orphanage.” Something in the way he said that told Freddy this was the end of that conversation. After a minute, the new wolf sighed before turning back to the were-poodle. “So, what now?”

To be honest, Freddy didn’t know. He hadn't thought this through even before finding out how complicated the situation was. Thinking about it a minute, he had one idea that had never failed him before: “… Let’s go find my dad.”

“Your dad?” Ryan questioned.

“Yeah. He’s the High Howler. That means he’s the leader of the pack. He’ll know what to do.”

Ryan was quiet momentarily, different emotions flicking across his face before sighting again. “Okay…”

“Great!” Freddy said before looking around. “Now, we need to find a way out of here…”

“Just head down the ravine.” The new wolf stated. “It opens up into the woods. We can get back to town from there.”

“Lead on.”

Ryan took the lead as he and Freddy started making their way out of the canyon. They walked for an unspecified amount of time, coming up on the opening as the were-creatures made small talk.

“So, your ancestor was the first werewolf?” Ryan questioned.

“Yup.” Freddy nodded. “My family’s been the leaders of the pack for generations.”

“Huh… So, why are you a poodle?”

“I have no idea. It was embarrassing at first, but I’ve gotten used to it. I’m not as scary as the other wolves, but I can do things they can’t.”

Just as they reached the end, they both heard a twig snap that made them stop.

“What was that?” Ryan’s ears perked up.

“Company,” Freddy said ominously.

They stood still as more cracking sounds were heard before it was quiet again. The boys took another step forward just as a figure jumped out, making them yelp in surprise.

It was a dog, a female with long, thick fur, a compact athletic body, triangular upright ears, and a curved tail. She had a double coat combining liver brown and white, a brown nose, yellow-brown eyes, and a white tip on her sickle-shaped tail. Around her neck was a yellow handkerchief, signifying that the dog belonged to someone.

“What are you doing here?!” She snarled, hackles raised for a fight.

Ryan stared at the dog dumbfounded while Freddy tried to mediate. “Easy, we’re not here for trouble. We’re just passing through, that’s all…”

The dog stared at Freddy before inching closer, sniffing him. “Hmm, you don’t smell like you come from the rescue…”

“‘Rescue?’”

“Zoey?” Ryan questioned, catching the dog’s attention.

“You two know each other?” Freddy asked in surprise.

Instead of answering, Zoey stalked past the were-poodle and stared down the werewolf. Ryan stood stock still as the canine started sniffing him, too. Recognizing his scent, Zoey reared back, staring at the wolf in horrified recognition. “Ryan!?”

“Hi…” He replied meekly.

“What are you? How are you?!” she started, unable to speak because she was so shocked.

“Long story. I’m still getting past the fact you can talk.”

“Yeah, part of the werewolf thing,” Freddy explained as he joined them. “We can understand what dogs are saying.”

“Werewolf?!” Zoey gasped, looking at the black and silver wolf.

“Like I said, long story.”

Before anyone could explain anything, a girl’s voice called out, “Zoey! Zoey, here, girl!”

“Hide!” Zoey hissed, ushering the boys behind an outcropping. Once they were hidden enough, she barked to get the newcomer’s attention.

Moments later, a girl about the boys’ age stepped into the moonlight. She had fair skin, blue-green eyes, and long brown hair tied in a loose braid with a red bead holder. She wore a black and pink beanie, a magenta jacket with a white hood over a yellow shirt, dark blue jeans with black kneepads, and black combat boots. Around her waist was a black and pink fanny pack, and she was carrying a dark blue, black, and white backpack with a symbol that looked like a pit bull standing on a mountain ridge with the sun behind it.*

“There you are, Zoey,” She said as the dog padded over to her. “Don’t run off like that, okay?”

The boys watched from where they hid. Ryan’s eyes widened when he saw the girl. “Ann…?”

“Well, it’s getting late, and there haven’t been any wolves tonight. Let’s head home, set up the cameras, and call it a night.” Ann instructed before she and Zoey left, the dog giving the boys one last glance before following her owner.

Once they were gone, Ryan checked their surroundings again as he and Freddy emerged from hiding. “Coast is clear.”

Freddy breathed a sigh of relief before turning to Ryan. “How much further?”

“Not much. You can see the city from just over the hill.” The werewolf explained before the duo dashed in the direction they needed to go.

“Hey, who was that?” The were-poodle asked. “You said her name was Ann?”

“Yeah, she and Zoey are friends of mine. Ann’s family runs a dog rescue not far from here.”

“Maliki Rescue Center?” Freddy guessed, having heard about it from some of the local dogs.

“That’s right.”

“Why was she talking about wolves? And why does she need cameras?”

“Lately, something’s been getting too close to the kennels and scaring the dogs. She started putting up trail cameras to see if she could find out what it was.”

“And she thinks it’s wolves?”

“She doesn’t think, she knows. One of the cameras caught this big, hulking wolf thing with red eyes.”

“Okay, we need to talk to my dad about this,” Freddy declared as they reached the top of the hill. “If there is a wolf drawing attention to themselves, the Night Patrol needs to know about it.”

“Freddy!” The boys stopped when they saw the Night Patrol and Batty running their way. Ryan stepped back a little as Freddy went up to Flasheart. “Oh, Freddy, there you are!”

“I’m fine, Dad.” The were-poodle assured him.

“Batty filled us in,” the pack leader said before looking at Ryan. “Is this him?”

“Yeah, this is Ryan.” Freddy looked back at the new wolf before focusing on his dad. “Dad, he needs our help.”

While the Lupins talked, Ryan glanced at the other wolves, fighting his usual impulse to slip away quietly.

“Alright,” Flasheart said, turning to the pack. “The sun will be up any minute. Let’s call it an early night and head back to Farfang.”

The other wolves nodded in agreement before everyone started making their way back. Freddy looked back at Ryan when he didn’t move right away, seeing him glance back at the woods like he would bolt. The boys looked at each other before Freddy nodded encouragingly. Despite his nerves, Ryan soon followed the others, taking the help offered.

( The Next Morning )

Once they returned to the manor, the Night Patrol and the Elders discussed the night’s events while the boys were sent to bed. The Lupins’ housekeeper, Mrs. Mutton, showed Ryan to a guest room to sleep in. While Ryan wasn’t sure he would get any sleep, to his surprise, the next time he opened his eyes, the sun came up. Seeing that he wasn’t in his clubhouse and was still a wolf, the teen knew last night wasn’t a dream.

“Well, that happened…” He muttered, groaning as he got up. When he stepped into the sunlight, the same uncomfortable feeling from last night started again. It didn’t last as long as before, and Ryan soon found himself back in human form, slightly disoriented from the change.

“That’s gonna take some getting used to…” He glanced down, and his eyes widened when he saw he was naked. “For crying out loud!”

He grabbed a sheet from the bed and wrapped it around himself before there was a knock on the door.

“Hey, Ryan, you up?” The street boy heard Freddy Lupin call from the other side.

“Don’t come in,” Ryan responded.

“Oh, yeah…” The other teen chuckled sheepishly. “Yeah, your clothes disappear when you transform. Mrs. Mutton went to get you some extra clothes until you can get your stuff from wherever you’re staying.”

“Thanks.”

Ryan walked into the dining room sometime later in a new pair of jeans and a red and gray T-shirt. Mrs. Mutton was the only one there, and she set out a plate for him with flapjacks, bacon, fruit, orange juice, and a muffin.

“Wow…” Ryan blinked, surprised by the spread. “Thanks…”

She giggled. “You’re welcome, young man.”

“Nice of you to invite me to breakfast before calling the police,” he said as he sat down and began eating.

“Oh, don’t worry, dear, we’re not going to send you to jail,” Mrs. Mutton assured him as she did some light cleaning around the room. “Freddy explained your situation to Master Flasheart, and he wants to help you. As High Howler, keeping the pack together is part of his job. Since your parents were werewolves or werens, someone in the pack should’ve been informed of their deaths and taken you and your siblings in.”

“Werens?” Ryan asked between bites.

“Werens are werewolves in the pack who can’t transform, but just because a weren couldn’t transform doesn’t mean their children won’t. I’m actually a weren myself.”

“Really?”

“Yes. It goes back to the old days when the wolf population declined due to the werewolf hunters. We took humans as mates, and ever since, we’d had pack members who couldn’t transform.”

“Whoa,” Ryan breathed before asking, “So, what’s going to happen now?”

“Well, that decision’s up to the Council Elders. They’re discussing that upstairs right now,” Mrs. Mutton said, coming over to him. “Personally, I wouldn’t mind if you stayed at the manor with us. There’s always room for more. Talking of which, would you like some more pancakes, dear?”

“Yes, please,” Ryan handed her his plate.

While she left, the teen noticed the mix-breed from the previous night looking at him from under the table. She was giving him the happy, give-me-food eyes, as Ann called it. Glancing around, Ryan took a couple pieces of bacon from his plate and handed them to her.

“This stays between us,” He said as she ate them out of his hand.

She laughed. “Don’t worry, Freddy sneaks me scraps all the time. It’s no secret.”

“And I almost forgot about the talking dog part of this,” Ryan said before taking a drink.

“Ah, you’ll get used to it.” Batty waved off. “I’m Batty.”

“Ryan.”

“Welcome aboard this crazy train.” Batty quipped, making Ryan laugh slightly.

“Thanks.”

“So, Freddy mentioned you’re a stray?”

“Stray?”

“Well, an orphan. The word we dogs use is stray.” Batty explained.

“Oh,” Ryan understood before looking solemn. “Yeah, guess that’s what you’d call me. I’m one of the ones no one wanted…”

“I know how that feels…” Batty came out from under the table and surprised the teen by jumping on his lap. “I was at one of those stores where they gave us to people before I became a street dog.”

“An adoption center?” Ryan offered. “Ann’s family works with a few of them in town.”

“Yeah, one of those things. I got passed over so many times that I just decided I’d go it alone. I’d been on the streets since then ‘til I met Freddy.”

“Guess you finally got your lucky break, huh?” The werewolf smiled slightly, happy that Batty got a happy ending.

“Yeah, I guess I did.” The mixed-breed said.

( Meanwhile )

Freddy was in the meeting room with his dad, uncle, and the elders, discussing what happened last night and what the were-poodle learned about their mystery wolf.

“I must say, this is a very perplexing development,” Lord Hightail said.

“Indeed. How could we have let an orphaned cub slip through the cracks?” His wife questioned.

“Do you think he could be the descendant of a wolf we had defanged?” Hotspur theorized.

“I’m not even sure if that’s possible. We don’t track defanged wolves, and we haven’t had to use that punishment in centuries.” Flasheart said before turning to his son. “You said Ryan doesn’t remember his parents?”

“Yup,” Freddy nodded. “And if his siblings knew, they never told him.”

“Does he know where his siblings are now?” Pincus asked.

“Nope, and from how he said it… it sounds like he doesn’t care enough to find them,” The were-poodle explained awkwardly. “Just a feeling I got, but I think they may have parted on sour terms.”

His father hummed at the information. “That may make things a little harder…”

“Let’s focus on the boy for now,” Lady Hightail suggested. “What should we do with him?”

“My personal opinion is that he should stay with one of us to keep an eye on him,” Flasheart suggested. “As the pack elders, it’s our duty to nurture the next generation of wolves, so he’s our responsibility.”

“I agree,” Pincus nodded.

“As do I,” Lord Hightail said before looking around the pack. “Any objections?”

The room was silent, showing no one had a problem with that argument.

“Very well. Now, whom shall the young man stay with?”

“Oh, oh, oh, Dad! Can he stay with us?” Freddy jumped in excitedly.

“You sure, Son?”

“I wanna help with this! It’ll be my job as High Howler someday, so why not start learning? Besides, it’ll be fun to have someone my age to hang out with.”

Flasheart chuckled good-naturedly as he set a hand on his son’s shoulder. “Can’t argue with that. Any objections?”

Aside from Hotspur looking displeased at the idea of another person in the house, the room was quiet.

“Great. Now, onto another matter of importance,” The High Howler continued seriously. “The hunter situation.”

“We know one of these girls is actively hunting us,” Pincus said before turning to Freddy. “You said Ryan was acquainted with the other hunter.”

“I’m not sure if Ann’s a hunter, but she does know about werewolves because someone’s been getting too close to her family’s property.”

“I’ll send out a reminder to the pack not to get too close to the humans,” Flasheart said. “And stay in the shadows while the other hunter’s around.”

“Agreed.” Lady Hightail said. “Now, about Ryan’s education into werewolf society.”

“If I may,” Hotspur said, " why not enroll the boy at Howlington Academy?”

“Really, Hotspur?” Pincus asked, surprised, along with everyone else.

“Of course. Howlington would be the perfect place for him to learn all he needs.”

“Hmm, you got a point, Brother,” Flasheart agreed. “Alright, let’s talk it over with Ryan, and if he agrees, we’ll set aside a spot for him in the entrance exam.”

“As well as a spot for Freddy.” Hotspur threw in.

“Wait, what?” The older Lupin questioned, stunned, along with Freddy and the rest of the elders.

“Really?” Freddy added, not believing what he just heard.

“Absolutely. After all, you offered to be the young cub’s guide,” The mayor assured like they never had a feud. “Plus, with the smarts, courage, and decision-making you showed last night, it’s just the sort of go-getter we need in the Night Patrol.”

The pack heir brightened up, smiling eagerly as he turned to his dad. Flasheart looked hesitant since he thought it was odd his brother suddenly supported his nephew, but he also knew how much this meant to his son.

After a minute, he sighed, looking at his son encouragingly, “Alright. I don’t see a problem with this.”

“Yes!” Freddy cheered.

“All those in favor of letting Freddy and Ryan sit the Howlington entrance test?” Hotspur raised his hand. Pincus and Flasheart raised their hands, followed by Lord and Lady Hightail.

“Really?! We made it, Principal Pincus?!” Freddy asked eagerly.

“You two still have to pass the test. We only accept seven students a year.” Pincus explained as the pack heir’s smile kept growing excitedly. “But it’s a start.”

“Howlington, here we come.” Flasheart smiled at his son before Freddy howled with excitement.

( Later )

After breakfast, Freddy told Ryan about being able to stay in the manor with them. The stray had been hesitant at first, but some reassurances from Batty convinced him. He showed them where he usually stayed, an old clubhouse in the woods, packed up his things, and changed back into his regular clothes.

“Gotta say, I was surprised when I saw your place,” Freddy said as he set down a box with books and a DS Lite on top. “You were better off than I was expecting.”

“Yeah…” Ryan paused as he set his messenger bag on the bed in the room he was given. “My friends surprised me with it a couple of years ago. I know they didn’t like it, but they respected my decision to live on my own. So, they outfitted the clubhouse with stuff for a dorm room, so I was at least comfortable there.”

“How’d ya get the mini-fridge to work?” Batty asked, inspecting the device.

“Portable generator.”

“These must be some really good friends,” Freddy commented as he helped Ryan unpack.

“Yeah… they are,” He nodded slowly, putting a guitar case in the corner. “It’s gonna be hard to keep this from them, especially Ann.”

“I know how you feel, Ryan, but secrecy is important in the pack. It’s how we stay safe.”

“Yeah, I get it,” The new wolf responded, still feeling guilty. He sighed before he changed the subject. “Anyway, your uncle suggested a special school?”

“Yeah! Howlington Academy!” The pack heir said, lighting up with excitement as he talked. “It’s a secret werewolf school where they train wolves for the Night Patrol!”

“Night Patrol?”

“The group you saw the other night. They’re a secret task force of werewolves that protect Milford from the shadows. All Howlington graduates become new members.”

“Okay, so what does this have to do with me?” Ryan questioned.

“Going to Howlington would teach you everything you need to know about being a werewolf,” Freddy explained. “Though the choice is up to you.”

The other teen was quiet for a minute, thinking over it before he sighed, “… Okay, let’s give Howlington a try.”

“All right!” Freddy cheered before he started going through Ryan’s things to unpack. “Let’s get your room set up, and then we’ll go over what we should know for the entrance exam!”

“‘We?’” Ryan questioned.

“Oh, yeah, I’m going, too.” The pack heir mentioned off-hand before he pulled out a poster. “No way! You’re a Doom Wolves fan, too?!”

“Yeah, I like their music.” The other said shyly as he put a mini radio on the nightstand.

“Sweet!”

As the boys and Batty talked while they set up, Flasheart smiled from where he stood outside the door. It was nice to see his son making a new friend.

Later that evening, Ryan sat on his new bed in his new room.

Along with his poster, radio, and fridge (now fully stocked), his guitar was set up in the corner, his books were in the bookcase, and his game system and games were stored in a box on the shelf. All the practical stuff, like clothes and toiletries, had been put away along with his bag and suitcase. Around the ceiling were fairy lights (a gift from Ann) that Ryan had back at the clubhouse for extra light.

While people would think Ryan would be happy with a new home, he felt apprehension and sadness. He had learned a long time ago not to get his hopes up. One too many adoptions falling through had taught him that.

Sighing as he looked at the setting sun, he pulled out a blue dragon stuffed animal and clutched it close. So much had happened, finding out werewolves were real and learning he was one himself. It made him think about his birth parents and his brother and sister, as much as the latter two left a bad taste in his mouth.

What happened to their parents? Did his siblings know about all this? Vickie was the oldest. She at least must have known something.

“This all feels too good to be true, Nuri. I’m just waiting for the disappointment to come.” He whispered to the stuffed dragon. Just then, there was a knock on the door, and Ryan quickly hid Nuri. “Hello?”

“It’s Mrs. Mutton, dear!” The housekeeper called from the other side before she opened the door. “I just came to tell you dinner is ready.”

“Okay,” Ryan nodded but didn’t move to get up. “I’ll be down in a minute.”

Sensing something was wrong, Mrs. Mutton came over to check on the boy. “How are you doing, Young Ryan?”

“Fine… I think,” The new wolf tried to play it off before sighing again. “A lot’s happened in less than twenty-four hours. It’s almost too much to take in.”

“I can imagine.”

“I mean, I have my own bed in my own room. Not a room I have to share with random kids or a cot on the floor of an abandoned shack in the woods.” He went on, feeling his eyes sting as tears began to form. “I’m just wondering when I wake up and find this was all a dream… Then, there’s the whole ‘werewolves are real’ side of it…”

The teen lowered his head so his bangs covered his face, a couple of tears slipping through. Mrs. Mutton patted him on the back before giving him a comforting hug. “Oh, it’s alright, dear. Just take your time.”

Ryan wiped at his eyes, collecting himself. “Sorry about that.”

“Oh, don’t worry about a thing, dear.” She assured him. “And don’t fret over the entrance exam either. If you don’t make it, it’s not the end of the world.”

He smiled slightly, amazed at how she knew what was in his head. “Thanks…”

“You’re welcome. Now, why don’t we get some food for you.”

“Sounds like a plan to me.” Ryan agreed, getting off the bed as they both left the room.

( Sometime Later )

Soon, it was time for the Howlington Academy entrance test. Fitting a werewolf school, the test was to be held at night.

The full moon became covered by clouds as the Lupins’ limo drove through the deserted streets. They turned into a dim alley before stopping near the end. Flasheart climbed out of the front while the boys clambered out of the back.

“Uhhh, where is this place?” Freddy asked as they looked around uncertainly.

“Right around that corner,” The older Lupin pointed behind him.

None of them noticed the trunk open as Batty climbed out. She had followed them in case Freddy needed a hand with the test. Keeping quiet, she peeked around the back, watching the Lupins and Ryan.

“This is as far as we go, boys,” Flasheart said before looking at Freddy. “Make us proud.”

“Yes, indeed,” Hotspur put a hand around his shoulders. “Do what you do best.”

The high howler then turned to Ryan with a kind smile. “Give it your best shot, Ryan, and keep an eye on each other as much as you can.”

“Yes, sir.” Ryan nodded, though he looked nervous.

“Don’t worry, you boys will be fine,” Hotspur assured him.

The new wolf still looked unsure as he looked at the mayor. Freddy told him how Hotspur tried to usurp control of the back and betrayed his brother. Ryan didn't understand why he was still calling shots in the pack. The young wolf also found it fishy that Hotspur was suddenly on Freddy’s side when the older wolf hadn’t wanted the were-poodle in Howlington Academy in the first place, but Ryan didn’t want to spoil the other’s confidence. He would just have to keep an eye on him as best he could like Flasheart asked.

Freddy took a deep breath before looking at Ryan. “Ready?”

“As I’ll ever be.” With that, the two ran around the corner.

“Hellooo, Howlingt–wha?” Freddy began excitedly before becoming confused when they found a group of other kids milling about. They all turned to stare at them, making Ryan nervous.  “Are you all here for the test, too?”

“No, we’re here for the Doom Wolves concert,” a blond boy remarked sarcastically, getting a laugh from a blond girl and a lanky redhead behind him.

A girl with a cat ears headband groaned irritably. “Ignore Ivan. He’s an idiot. Yeah, we’re here for the test.”

“But… this isn’t Howlington,” Freddy said, confused.

“Yeah, I’m pretty sure someone would’ve found it by now if it was out here,” Ryan added.

The biggest kid in the group yelped in fright, backing away from everyone. “I knew it! There’s been a mistake! I’m going home–!”

Suddenly, the lights snapped on behind him, revealing Flasheart and the rest of the elders. The giant cub screamed as he turned around, the other kids gasping in surprise.

“Welcome, everyone, to the Howlington entrance test. Only seven of you will make it through tonight,” The High Howler explained, making everyone look at each other. “So, play hard, play fair, and remember the Night Patrol motto…”

“Protect the pack, serve the good, and help those in need.” The elders recited together.

“Let the test begin.” Then, the lights went off, and the council was gone.

“Wait, what?” One of the girls asked after a minute.

“Hey, what test?!” Cat-ears growled.

“Maybe figuring out the test is part of the test.” A blond girl in glasses suggested.

“Yeah. We should spread out and look for clues.” Freddy suggested.

“Um, no,” Ivan said. “First of all, I don’t know you. Second, I don’t like you. Third, why would I help you?”

“You got a better plan, blondie?” Ryan remarked, getting a glare from the other cub.

Before anyone else could say anything, a mechanical sound interrupted them. Looking down in surprise, they saw a toy baby crawling along the ground.

“What… is that?” Ivan questioned.

“A toy baby,” Ryan stated the obvious.

“A clue!” Freddy realized. “What was the Night Patrol motto?”

“Uh, protect the pack, serve the good, and help those in need.” The big guy answered.

“Huh, what could be in more need than a…?” Cat ears started.

“A diminutive human child?” Glasses finished.

Ivan laughed mockingly. “You’re basing this theory on one runaway dolly? Good luck with that.”

Seconds later, another doll bounced off his head, making them all look up to see several more dolls on the warehouse roof. There were also a few others on the building ledge across the street.

“How about several runaway dollies?” Ryan smirked at Ivan, getting a glare from the other as he held his head.

“Let’s save those babies!” Freddy stepped forward. The clouds parted and let the moon out just as the pack heir left in the alley. Caught in the moonlight, Freddy twitched and glowed before shifting into his poodle form, making the other kids wide-eyed.

“What?” He looked back at them. “Haven’t you ever seen a poodle before?”

“I know you, you’re Freddy Lupin!” Ivan realized. “He’s only here because his dad’s high howler!”

“Can’t hear you, haters, I’m too busy winning a place at Howlington!” Freddy retorted before running off.

Ryan took his turn to change as he followed the were-poodle, letting out a howl before giving a wolfish smirk to the other kids. Not wanting to be outdone, the other kids soon ran out into the moonlight, transforming as everyone spread out to find a mechanical baby.

“Ugh, fine!” Ivan rolled his eyes, being the only one left. He ran forward and stepped out of the alley as a wolf, howling at the sky.

Meanwhile, Freddy had followed one of the baby dolls to the docks.

“Here, baby,” He cooed as the toy crawled through a hole in the fence. “Good, baby–”

Suddenly, in a jerk move, Ivan ran into him, knocking him into the air with a cry before the were-poodle landed on his back. Ivan laughed as he jumped on some crates to get over the fence. Freddy stared at the sky with annoyance before gasping in surprise.

“You want me to bite him?” Batty asked as she and Ryan looked down at him.

“Batty,” Freddy said as he got to his paws. “You can’t be here.”

“I’m a stray. I go where I like.” Batty remarked.

“Can you stray away? They’ll disqualify us. Scoot.” The were-poodle started to run off before running straight into the fence, making the other two cringe.

“Oooh.” Batty hissed.

“That’s gonna sting,” Ryan added.

Recovering, Freddy moved through the hole and started his search again, making Batty groan in annoyance.

“I’ll keep an eye on him,” The new wolf said before following the path Ivan took.

Coming around the corner, Ryan stopped in awe as he watched the other cubs go after their targets. One of them jumped on top of the shipping containers while another was able to move aside a crate to get another.

“Wow.” He said before trying to sniff out another doll.

( Elsewhere )

Scarlet was also in the area, unknown to the wolves, putting up flyers for information about the werewolves. As she finished posting another, one of the cubs’ howls caught her attention. “Huh?”

At the same time, Zoey was out by herself that night when he also heard the howl.

“Ryan?” She wondered before going to investigate.

( Back at the docks )

Ryan was still looking around for a baby, knowing by now most of them were probably found by now. While that worried him, he remembered Mrs. Mutton’s words and relaxed, knowing there would be another time.

Suddenly, he heard the sound of machinery and containers being moved around. Knowing no one would be working at this hour, Ryan knew something was up.

“What the–?” Following the sound through the yard, he arrived at the loading area just in time to jump back when a container nearly fell on him. “Ah!”

Getting his heart back under control, he looked out from behind the crates and saw someone climbing down from the crane. Suddenly, a faint set of lights shined on them, just enough to reveal it was Hotspur Lupin.

“What’s he doing here?” Ryan’s eyes narrowed suspiciously.

Distracted by the lights, Hotspur slipped off the ladder with a startled cry. His foot caught on the hook, swinging back and hitting one of the posts, causing his bracelet (a moon band, Freddy had called them) to fall off. It clattered to the ground before rolling off the docks into the water with a splash.

“No! My moon band!” Hotspur cried, causing the teen to look back at him. “Help!”

The mayor struggled on the hook as he swung back and forth in the moonlight. It didn’t take long for him to transform into a werewolf, the younger wolf watching as he howled in distress.

At that moment, Scarlet and Zoey arrived on the scene from different directions. While they couldn’t clearly see Hotspur, they could see something under the crane. They both gasped before growing determined as they ran into the yard.

Hotspur struggled as Ryan approached him, joined by Freddy and Batty.

“Don’t move, Uncle, we’ll save you!” Freddy said.

“Which is more than you deserve,” Batty added as she and Ryan glared at the older wolf.

“This is no time for paw-pointing!” Hotspur retorted. “Get me down!”

When they heard a familiar mechanical sound, they turned around and saw the baby doll crawling away.

“Hey! Bad baby! Stay!” Freddy said before running after it.

“Hello?” They heard Scarlet call, making Freddy stop with a gasp. “Who’s there?”

“The wolf hunter?” He said questioningly.

“Wolf hunter? I thought you were making that up!” Hotspur cried.

“No! I just–I–!” The were-poodle stammered, no one noticing Ryan retreating back into the shadows.

“You again?” Suddenly, a flashlight clicked on as Scarlet approached the dogs. “What are you? Guard dogs?”

Glancing up, her eyes widened when she spotted Hotspur dangling from the crane hook. “O.M.G!”

The mayor whimpered as he struggled again, frightened for a new reason.

“Don’t panic, wolf. I don’t want to hurt you. I want to cure you.” Scarlet said as she loaded a silver dart in the back of her flashlight, revealing it doubled as a blow dart tube.

Freddy gasped in horror as Ryan’s eyes narrowed from where he crouched in the shadows.

“One jab from this dart will change you back into a human. Forever.” She went on as she moved in front of him.

“N-N-N-No!” The werewolf whimpered as she readied her weapon. “I don’t want to be cured!”

“No!” Just as Scarlet blew the dart, Freddy grabbed the tube out of her hands, throwing off her aim.

“Hey!” She said annoyedly.

The dart bounced off the hook, then a steel cable, before embedding itself into a container between Batty and Ryan, the two looking at the projectile in surprise.

“Naughty dog!” Scarlet scolded Freddy as he ran off with her weapon before chasing after him. “Gimme that!”

“Oh, boy,” The were-poodle muttered as he jumped over crates, glancing at the wolf hunter as she ran along the containers above him.

This left Batty to deal with Hotspur, who was still stuck on the crane hook.

“Oh, boy.” She muttered.

Ryan was about to step out when he heard a whimper so soft he almost missed. Looking back into the shadows behind the crates, he saw two other testees cowering in the corner. Judging by how terrified they were, they must have seen or overheard the scene just now and knew a hunter was after them.

Looking between them and the commotion, Ryan sighed and walked over to them, knowing someone had to help them. “Easy, it’s gonna be okay.”

“What do we do?” The girl wolf whimpered.

“I don’t wanna be mounted on someone’s wall!” The boy wolf added.

“I don’t think that’s what she’s aiming for, but that’s not the point,” Ryan commented before checking their surroundings. “We need to find the elders and warn them.”

“How? They’re probably waiting for the winners at Howlington and we don’t have one of those baby dolls!”

“Maybe I can help with that.” The wolves looked back to see Zoey looking at them with a playful smirk. “Honestly, never send a wolf to do a dog’s job.”

“Zoey, what are you doing here?” Ryan asked.

“Wondering what all the racket at the docks was about,” She replied, trotting up to them. “And it sounds like you could use a paw.”

“You don’t know where Howling is,” The girl wolf said, giving the dog a side look.

“I don’t need to,” The Zerdava replied. “If other wolves have already found their way there, all we have to do is follow their scents.”

“Can you track ‘em, Zoe?” Ryan asked.

“‘Can I track ‘em’ he asks. Forgetting what my breed is used for?” Zoey replied, smirking. “My kind’s been used for search and rescue for years along the Black Sea.”

Getting to work, the hunter dog started sniffing around as the wolves watched her. She jumped up and took off once she found what she was looking for. “This way!”

“Move it or lose it, you two!” Ryan ran after her.

Not seeing another option, the other wolves followed them as Zoey led them to safety.

( Elsewhere )

Out in the woods, Howling Academy was hidden in what was known as the Old Wolf Shed.

Flasheart and the elders (minus Hotspur) had just welcomed the first two wolves to make it there, Ivan and the girl with cat ears, Kitty. Suddenly, they heard a wolf’s distress howl from outside.

“What in the world…?” Pincus questioned as another howl sounded closer than before.

“Something’s not right…” Flasheart said. “Open the gates! Quick!”

Doing as he said, the gates were opened seconds before Zoey, Ryan, and the other wolves came into view down the back as they raced to the building.

“Everyone inside! Now!” Ryan ordered as they passed the gate, the new wolf slowing down to ensure they weren’t followed before joining them. The other wolves panted heavily from the run while Zoey and Ryan barely looked winded.

“Ryan, what’s going on?” Flasheart asked, confused and concerned.

“There’s a wolf hunter at the docks!” The boy werewolf responded for him, causing the elders to gasp.

“How could one of them have found the test site?” Lord Hightail questioned. “The whole reason we hold the entrance test there is because it’s secure.”

“Probably because of the racket you guys kicked up,” Zoey quipped, giving the pups a look. “Seriously, do you guys realize how loud you are? I’m surprised you didn’t wake the neighborhood.”

Ivan and Kitty glanced at each other in surprise, both embarrassed and shocked that they were being lectured by a dog.

“How many others are still out there?” Flasheart turned to the other adults.

“Six applicants,” Pincus replied.

“Actually, there are seven if you count Hotspur,” Ryan added.

“Hotspur?!” The High Howler gasped, surprised that his brother was out there.

“What was he doing out there?!” Lady Hightail questioned.

“Aside from trying to operate a crane, I have no idea.” The lost werewolf explained. “And he’s the one the hunter tried to take a shot at with a silver dart.”

“Silver darts?!” Pincus gasped along with the other wolves.

“Apparently, she wants to ‘cure’ us, whatever that’s supposed to mean,” Ryan said.

“Okay, this is getting too dangerous,” Flasheart said before turning to the other elders. “We need to round up the other kids and call off the rest of the test. We’ll reschedule for a later date once things calm down.”

“Follow me!” Zoey ran back the way they came with Ryan right behind her.

“Ryan, wait!” Flasheart called when he saw them leave, but they didn’t stop and soon disappeared into the shadows.

“He’s going to be a hard one to control,” Pincus commented.

“Alright, everyone, stay here,” The High Howler ordered the others. “I’ll go round up Freddy and the others.”

Activating his moon band, Flasheart transformed into his wolf form. Letting out a leader’s howl, he ran after the other wolf and dog, the gates of Howlington closing behind him.

( Back at the docks )

Freddy was still playing keep away with Scarlet’s weapon, jumping across the shipping crates with the huntress behind him. He was doing a good job so far, but Scarlet had trained herself to keep up with a wolf, much less a miniature poodle.

When Freddy turned a corner, he didn’t notice until too late that there was nowhere else to go. He tried to stop with a muffled cry but fell off the crate, Scarlet just inches behind him. Recovering quickly, Freddy looked up and didn’t see the teen hunter. He was about to run off again when Scarlet suddenly jumped out in front of him, making the poodle gasp.

Done with the chase, Scarlet closed in on him to retrieve her blow-dart tube. Thinking fast, Freddy tossed the weapon aside as a distraction.

“No!” Scarlet cried, diving to catch it before it ended up in the water. Seizing the chance, Freddy ran to the left, turning the corner and out of sight before the huntress could get up.

Meanwhile, Hotspur was having an even worse time as he was bounced around on the crane cable like a yo-yo. Batty was up in the control car, messing with the controls to try and get the wolf down.

“No,” She muttered when the levers didn’t work before pushing one of the buttons.

Hotspur cried out as he was bounced around again.

“No,” She muttered again before pushing a different button, only to get the same result.

“Careful!” The mayor managed to get out between yelps.

“Hmm, nope,” Batty pretended to think about it before noticing one of the bigger buttons. “Ooh, what about this button?”

Pressing it, the cable dropped Hotspur as he crashed onto the pavement below, where the two small dogs joined him.

Freddy pushed his uncle to his paws. “Uncle, which way is Howlington?”

“Ooooh, uhhh, don’t know,” He groaned, still dizzy from his ordeal.

“Found you!” Ryan called as he and Zoey ran up to them. “We gotta go! Now!”

“But where?!” Freddy asked.

“Follow us!” Zoey said as she and Ryan led the other three out of the loading area.

Seconds later, Scarlet returned to the crane, only to find the wolf was gone. Groaning angrily in frustration, she looked around with her flashlight for any evidence. She was rewarded when the light fell on a tuft of pink hair. Kneeling to pick it up, Scarlet realized it came from that strange poodle.

“What kind of poodle are you?” She whispered curiously.

Up on one of the crates, Flaheart watched her after reaching the docks. After seeing his brother and son get out of there with the others, the High Howler slipped away to catch up to them.

( Back at Howlington Academy )

The elders and the rest of the new students were waiting for Flasheart, Hotspur, and the other examinees. By that point, more students had passed the test despite the danger. The jumpy wolf, Omar, and Ivan’s posse, Winslow and Wendy.

Soon, the gates opened, and in walked the glasses girl, Aggie. The elders clapped for her arrival.

“That’s six,” Pincus announced. “Only one spot left!”

Lord Hightail hummed in concern as he looked at the now-setting moon. “Flasheart’s been gone for some time now. Perhaps we could call the Night Patrol and go search for him and the remaining pack members still on the streets.”

“Don’t worry, dear,” His wife assured him. “I’m sure they’re all fine.”

“We’ll wait until sunrise,” Pincus said. “If they are not back by then, we’ll go look for them.”

The younger wolves looked at each other with concern. Having been informed of the wolf hunter situation when they arrived, they could only hope the others were okay.

( With the wolves and dogs )

“This way!” Zoey took the lead as they circled a corner.

The group ran down the main street to Howlington, the moon in front of them starting to set. Moments later, Flasheart ran alongside them. “Nice night for a run, ain’t it?”

“Dad!” Freddy cried happily.

“Glad you kids are alright. I saw the last student find a doll, so they’re on their way to Howlington now.”

“Then let’s keep moving,” Zoey said.

“And Brother,” The High Howler looked back at his brother. “We’re going to have a conversation when we get back.”

Hotspur groaned. “Yes, brother dearest.”

( At Howlington )

The sun had started to come up as the last student, Beatrice, showed up. The elders were about to round up a search party when they heard Flasheart’s howl outside the gates. Opening up, the High Howler returned with the remaining party, all safe and accounted for.

“Thank goodness you’re all okay.” Lord Hightail said.

“Is everyone alright?” Lady Hightail asked.

“We’re okay?” Flasheart confirmed.

“Some shortcut, Zoey,” Ryan quipped.

“Hey, you were the ones who wanted to stick to the alleys after seeing a cruiser go by,” The zerdava argued.

“What happened to the hunter?” Omar asked timidly.

“Not sure,” Batty shrugged. “Probably gave up after we left.”

“Speaking of the hunter, Hotspur,” Pincus turned a stern look to her fellow elder. “What were you doing out there?”

“And start with why you were operating a shipping crane,” Flasheart added.

“Uh, well, I was just, uh…” The mayor stammered as he tried to cover up what he did.

“You were interfering with Freddy’s test, weren’t you?” Ryan accused.

“What?! That’s–That’s ridiculous! Of all the–I would never–!” Hotspur attempted to deny it, but the young wolf continued giving him a deadpanned look until he caved in. “Okay, yes, that’s what I was doing.”

Ryan looked at Flasheart. “Why is he still calling shots in this pack?”

“I don’t even know anymore.” The High Howler responded, still giving his brother a disappointed and stern look.

“Well, despite the appearance of unforeseen obstacles,” Pincus said, giving Hotspur a look before turning proudly to the winning candidates. “The test as concluded with Howlington’s newest incoming class.”

The still human elders clapped for the young wolves while Freddy hung his head in disappointment.

“Son?” Flasheart turned to his son.

“I’m sorry, Dad,” The young howler apologized. “I really wanted to make you proud, but then the hunter showed up, and Uncle Hotspur–”

“Freddy, it’s okay,” The High Howler assured him. “I would rather see you do the right thing than worry about some test. Besides, there’s always next year.”

The were-poodle smiled at his dad, grateful for his support.

“The same goes with you, Ryan,” Flasheart turned to their charge, getting his attention. “I’m proud of how you both handled this emergency.”

The stray wolf looked down bashfully, not used to being praised. Zoey gave him a playful nudge with a proud smile of her own.

“Indeed,” They turned as Pincus walked up to the duo. “While you both broke every rule in the book regarding this test, it was all for the sake of protecting the pack.”

The boys perked up as Freddy wagged his tail, hopefully.

“What was the Night Patrol motto again, Hotspur?” She turned to the mayor.

“Protect the pack, serve the good, and help those in need.” He recited, annoyed since he knew what she was going to do.

“Indeed. Just the sort of headstrong go-getters the Night Patrol needs, wouldn’t you?” Pincus said, the were-poodle grinning as she called a vote. “All in favor of letting this pugnacious pup and courageous young cub into Howlington?”

Her vote was soon joined by the rest of the elders, excluding Hotspur, giving the vote a majority rule.

“No way! We made it?!” Freddy questioned excitedly as the adults smiled at him before running around Ryan joyfully. “We made it! We made it, oh yeah!”

“‘Cause you’re that awesome!” Zoey remarked.

“Don’t boost his ego,” Batty muttered.

“I love being a dog!” Freddy cheered as he jumped off Batty and Hotspur’s backs into the open air. However, that also put him into direct sunlight, which he realized belatedly. “Woohoo– Uh oh!”

“Oh, boy,” Ryan said as the were-poodle glowed and landed in some bushes.

“Freddy? You okay, Son?” Flasheart asked.

Instead of answering, Freddy popped back up in human form, causing the others to gasp since he was naked.

“Dude!” Batty chuckled, having seen this enough times to just laugh it off. “You’ve got to stop doing that.”

The elders laughed at the young heir’s antics, along with Ryan, Zoey, and the other cubs. Freddy also had to laugh at himself, too overjoyed to care for the moment. “… But seriously, I need some clothes.”