Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Welcome back to the World of Shadows :}

Just as with Book 1, Book 2 is already available on Amazon. Where Book 1 had gotten split into three parts, this one got split into five due to its length - There's a whole lot goin' on as POV's continue to switch back and forth. As before, it will be listed at the top who's POV it is so there's no confusion. I'll probably even list the chapter number with who's POV it is in case people want to read it weirdly so they can follow it 'easier' (though that won't fit the timeline correctly, but to each their own).

Again, the book is finished, but I have no set upload schedule. I'll try to get chapters uploaded every other day or so. 

If any questions relating to the story are had, please don't hesitate to ask. Most things are revealed in time but I know just because I see things perfectly I won't always get that down that way, and if I don't, I need to know :}

Chapter Text

Kierra

You'd think watching over a wolf, a maned wolf, a coyote, an ocelot, a young snow leopard, and a small boy would be easy. But is it? Of course not, they have to be all over the place. One Silver Wolf and one mama snow leopard just aren't enough to corral them all.

It’s even more despairing when you think of the fact the small human boy is having better luck than we are, and it's after dark. Has to be for the small ocelot to be out since her other 'form' happens to be a Vampire. My sister Faline, the newly made undead, who also has the ability to shapeshift into a smallish jungle cat.

While she had become a Vampire, I was morphing into what I am; a Werewolf. As if all that wasn't bad enough, we both happen to be the 'Harbingers of Great Change', or so says a couple prophecies that were written centuries before we were even born. My silver-colored pelt and my sister’s ability to calm those around her are what have damned us both.

A couple days ago we were told of these foretellings, the short spattering of words being the reason for the constant death threat over our heads. Sounds like a charmed life, now doesn't it?

Wolf Prophecy:

Pale/Silver one who will
Bring Change, good or bad
Finding those who are lost/hidden
Born of a long line of Magics
Hand in hand with one born from Darkness

Vampire Prophecy:

Lost dark child will spark
Life into being
Bringing vampire and animal together
While calming inner beast
Back to back with one of Light

And that's it.

The words that make it so no matter where we go, we will be hunted. So why go anywhere else? Well, we did kind of go somewhere, but we're not running. Think both of us are tired of doing that.

Right now we're at Ava's, my best friend that I've had since we were both really young and in kinder school. Had to come over so we could be all domestic in between kicking supernatural ass. In other words? I'm doing laundry.

Just because we now spend half our time in the shape of our inner beasts doesn't mean we can go around naked. Although I'm sure Xavier wouldn't mind. Xavier is the WereManed Wolf loner that I seem to have adopted, even though he’d originally been hired and sent to kill me.

Didn't work though, I'm just too charming.

Riiight.

More like the Werewolves and wolf Shifters have a thing for Silver Wolves, since we're super rare and all 'mystical'. Supposedly a wolf harming me is a big taboo, yet that didn't stop it from happening.

When Xavier had realized who and what I was, he couldn't go through with it; instead throwing his lot in with mine. Even went as far as helping me save Faline, who’d been abducted by the Vampire who converted her. Since then he's stuck around, the once loner now part of my ragtag group of misfits.

The wolf, Asher, is also a self-made loner. Black as pitch and cursed to boot. He can no longer take human or 'Garou' form. Garou being the knockoff term for the over seven-foot killing machine that you usually see depicted for Werewolves.

He’d been cursed by a Vampire who took a fancy to his wife, who then ended up dying from the Vamp’s attempt at claiming her. That was over twenty-five years ago. Asher is in his fifties right now, but you wouldn't be able to tell, even if he could take human shape.

That's one of the drawbacks, or perks, of being a Were, because just like the undead, you become immortal. Best way I've been able to figure it is to think of Wolverine from X-Men; his self-healing having him living a very long time from his body regenerating all the signs of aging. Just magnified in our case.

The only aging done is if you're turned when young, then you age till what would be considered the peak 'breeding' age. For males, it's their thirties while females stop in their early to mid-twenties. If turned when you're already past those ages, the signs of time passage will soften or fade.

It's possible for Weres to breed, just very rare since we're so long-lived. Werewolves can't breed with wolf Shifters, but can with humans and natural wolves. It's all sorts of weird magic hoo-doo. Don't know if it would work for wolves with other canine breeds like coyotes or maned wolves, really don't plan on finding out either, thank you. Vampires, however, stay at the age they're converted and become barren. No baby Vamps.

Another little canine that has come into my home by way of Faline, is a young Shifter coyote named Maii. After looking it up, I've learned the word 'Maii' means coyote in the Navajo language. Not sure if it's his real name since he doesn't speak.

He's not mute, since when in coyote form he does make noise. He doesn't even speak telepathically, which all Weres and Shifters can do when in animal form. They're also long-lived, but not immortal.

From what I've heard they can live up to and over eight-hundred years. Maii is young, not sure how old exactly, but we figure between fifteen to twenty, since Shifters usually have control of their shifting by their twenties, and he doesn’t. Whenever one of us shifts around him, he automatically does so. Real funny to see him and Ava's daughter, Lily, pop back and forth.

Friends are both Shifters as well; snow leopards. I didn't know this though till recently. Was upsetting at first, but then it's easy to see why nothing was said. The supernaturals aren't out in the open, so knowledge of them can put them all in danger. It was a miracle Ava wasn't exposed when she was younger since her family had her in public schools instead of the ones specifically for her kind and Weres.

The last one of my little group is the human boy; Bastion. After killing his step-father who was a pedophile and 'renting' him out, I took him in, keeping him as well since he has no other family. His mother had been killed in an auto accident and no other family to speak of. Well, there is one man who's claiming kinship, but he's one who’d 'rented' Bastion, who became a favorite of his due to the fact he looks so young.

My Imp is twelve years old but looks younger from genetics and malnutrition. Since I rescued him a few weeks ago, I've been able to fill him out a bit. He's even gained a little weight and a couple inches from his original height. Considering the average height for a healthy boy at his age is just over four-feet, he has a ways to go yet. I had to look it up, so I knew what was healthy and what wasn't.

Because of how he was 'acquired', taking him to the authorities could have been disastrous. He also refused to see any type of counselor or therapist. Since I've been through the system myself, I can't really blame him. I know he needs to talk to someone though, from what I've been able to glean from Asher, they do talk on occasion when nightmares and memories get too close. I'm not sure if I'm helping or hindering.

Right now he's all smiles as he chases Lily and Faline around the backyard of Ava's farm. I've asked my dear friend to look into the Shifter school her daughter attends to see if they'll take him in and teach him since he knows of this underworld. Also have one of her friends making up papers for him since his had more than likely been destroyed before I got to him. Same for Maii.

They're both taking on my last name as well. I'm a little reserved about the young coyote but no one seems to know where he came from. Faline had met him at the bordello she had been a prisoner in and was given to her to take with when we saved her.

Luckily, because of his unpredictable shifting, he wasn't 'used' within the place, but I can just imagine the things he's seen. Biggest reason we're all running around now is because this is the last night my sister will be with me. She'd made friends within the brothel and wishes to return to make sure nothing happens to them. If I heard right, the Mistress of the place is fond of her. My biggest problem with that is in being able to share my sister’s mind, I know the woman had killed my sibling once.

Well, almost killed, obviously.

She had been drained so much that she'd been fading before others had been brought in to replenish the volume of blood she'd lost. Being so newly converted, it could have killed her. If she were a few years older, she would've just been a bit rabid till a decent meal was consumed. Don't know about you, but that doesn't scream fond to me. Faline is convinced she's in no danger from her though. I guess we'll find out one way or the other.

When I had gotten her home and after she saved my life, my heart was about torn right back out when learning that she not only fell in love with the bastard who had abducted, raped, abused, and converted her, but that she wanted to go back. Not necessarily to him, but to the people she left behind that she promised she'd protect.

Another problem with that, of course, is being the child of their prophecy to bring change.
There are factions out there on just about all sides that don't want that change to happen, or want to control it, so her going back there is akin to tossing her out to sea with only a fickle inflatable tube to keep her safe.

Bastion chases her right to me, so I pounce and cover her body with my own, crouching low to keep her from getting free too easily. Since she'd been looking behind her, the smallish cat didn't see me coming. Her zombie sounding yowls of protest have me wiggling atop her with a wide canine grin.

She does eventually poke her head out from under my rear, which she's letting me know weighs a ton. Doing her version of the cat saying 'no no no' with her pitch is quite freaky. Really not wanting her face in my ass, I lift enough for her to pull herself free.

Because of some weird quirk, she can only speak telepathically with me, everyone else she has to use body language with. Think it only works with me since we can slip in and out of each other's heads. So far, distance doesn't seem to be a factor.

We had started developing the psychic link right after she got her first blood exchange and my first shifting. Everything had been delayed because of my being drugged, but when it caught up...it let us know. Both of us ended up sharing painful experiences with the other without intending to. It wasn't till an exchange was made between her and I directly that the link really connected, so now instead of seeing bits and pieces and just sharing pain, we can see through each other's eyes, talk telepathically, feel emotion, and see and read memories. We've been working on keeping up a block so we do have some privacy from the other.

After having my sister see some of the, uhh, 'erotic' dreams I've had, we both decided that the bond isn't such a good thing when nothing is private. It won't even have to be a conscious effort when we slip into the other. We did find one perk though, she can taste things through me. Thanks to being a Vampire that can only take in blood and a minute amount of water, she can no longer eat. The biggest blow for a female, of course, being the loss of chocolate. Since her taste buds have been augmented, nothing tastes the same as it used to for her.

First, we found that there are some fruity alcohols that can be tasted with no problem, as long as it's just rolled on the tongue. If too much is swallowed, or if anything food-related is taken in, it's violently removed. Not a very fun event for either of us in the learning of that. In sharing my mind, however, she can get the sensation and 'taste memory'. It's a good thing I can run as a wolf to burn off all the stuff she's been making me eat. I'm thick enough, I don't need her help.

When Bastion falls onto his back in the snow with a puff, I go over and nose at his face, whiskers ticking over his skin.

"Your nose is cold!"

I sneeze at him before taking a few steps away, front feet getting to work as I dig and kick the snow out at him, he’s squealing in no time. Snow flying onto my back has me looking over to see Asher and Xavier teaming up to kick it back at me, the boy hiding behind them and laughing. I get the last laugh though when Ava and Lily join me in tossing it back.

Faline, who could have been a tie-breaker once Maii joined the boys, takes the time to practice her dodging technique. Her biggest challenge is against the snowcats who have the larger paws than even the two oversized timberwolves.

Fun and games get called though when I smell all the sweat under Bastion’s clothes. Don't need him getting sick. He's also trying to hide the fact that even with all the moving around, he's cold. The attempted pouting fails when Maii, out of nowhere, shifts to human. Poor kid goes wide-eyed in surprise. Shifters, more so than Vamps and Weres, view nudity differently than those who start out as humans do, so his surprise isn't from suddenly being in his birthday suit.

All the stigma of being naked in front of the opposite gender or in front of others period has no bearing on Shifters. Unless raised primarily around humans, it's just viewed as an everyday thing, nothing to cover up or be ashamed of. Both Ava and Faline have been working with me about it.

My sister knows what's what just from spending so much time around the animals that call the bordello home. After several years even Weres will get to the point that nudity is no problem. The only 'problem' being when one looks at another with bodily intent while the one being pawed at isn't interested.

I may be getting more comfortable with others being nude around me, but I don't think I'll ever be able to be nude in front of others without embarrassment. The only ones having done so since our initiations into this new world being my sister, Ava, and Asher. Him only because of the shifts at the beginning, the violent exchanges with Faline forcing me into human form.

Don't think Xavier has seen too much since most of the time if he's seeing skin I tend to be covered in blood. Him though, I have seen nude. Can we say Oo-la-la?

So far every Were I've seen has been very defined in the muscle department. Understandable when fighting is a part of life. With Xavier though, he started out buff, having been in the service and serving his country, then later going into Special Forces that was specifically a supernatural animal group. His scars are numerous, but most are old and faded.

My most recent one was the hole punched into my ribs that sent bones into my lung and liver. Probably would have died from that one if it weren't for my sister almost double killing me by sharing her blood. Because I’m a 'Silver Wolf', or one who has high magic-filled blood, Vampire fluids don't mix very well with my blood, causing extreme mood swings and blackouts. One of these days I'm going to have to do a painting of the road map that is my body. I had lots of scars before becoming a paranormal freak, I've just continued to add on to the amount.

When Vampires heal an injury, all trace of it is removed. Weres, on the other hand, will scar if the injury is bad enough. It fades over time and can be helped along further if a Vamp steps in, their saliva containing a healing agent that can repair any damage done. Thanks to a friend, I've found that their saliva can be used to lessen the severity of older scars as well.

I find it kind of amazing that while in wolf form I don't have bald patches from tissues being twisted and thick. Even in my Were form, they're only spider-webbed lines under my fur. No, there's no bare skin showing when in that form, we're covered in our pelts.

Once everyone gets back to the porch, the humanoid boys get the back door open so the rest of us with non-opposable thumbs can go in. All our clothes are inside in one room or another. I've talked to Ava about putting doggy doors in at my home.

Faline and I proceed into Ava's room with her just in time for my cellphone to start ringing. My sister being the fastest in shifting with Ava not far behind answers it for me. While the ocelot goes human within five seconds or so, the snow leopard taking maybe eight, has me coming in third at just under half a minute.

Just like everything else, shifting time gets faster with practice. Weres can take anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes to change, so I've been working on shortening my time. Vampire and Shifter changing being almost instantaneous gives me a serious case of envy.

Hearing the male voice on the other end of the line, it sounds vaguely familiar but I can't place it. That is until he asks if 'Silver' is there. Aww, hell. Alarico. Telling him to hold a minute, she looks at me.

"I'm guessing he's referring to you?"

Coming into a mouth that can speak English, I nod. Hands run through my long derpy hair till it's all sorts of disheveled. It goes to just below my waist, wavy with an annoying amount of curl mixed in, and used to naturally be shades of red, blond, bronze, brown, and a bit of black.

Still is, just now there are silver streaks through it, going from my scalp on down. Not gray, but an actual silver that's the same texture as the rest of my long locks. When other supernaturals see it, it seems to tell them right away who and what I am, especially other wolves.

Taking the phone, I hold it to my ear and grab my underwear and jeans. The male on the line is the Alpha for the local Red Wolf Pack, and since I almost shoved a knife into his mate's tongue by way of under her jaw, we're on shaky ground.

"Wolf blood pizza delivery, what can I do you for?"

"Silver?"

I have to fight from chuckling with the other girls on my side of the conversation. Yes, I know it's childish, but sometimes, I just can't help myself. My inner child is a rotten little bastard.

"Yes, Alarico, it's me. What do you need?"

Can almost hear his scowl over the phone the silence is so telling.

"Well alright, if that's all, I'd like to go so I can get some clothes on."

"Wait. I need to talk to you, can you come to the bar?"

I can , but do I want to? Not especially. We left on ‘good’ terms when I sort of apologized and threatened him, swamping him with my emotion of looking for my sister seems to have helped with his not being that hostile towards me. His wife on the other hand... I really don't want to see that woman again, her very existence annoys me.

"Um, sure. Need me now or some other time?"

"Now, preferably. The bar isn't open yet, but will be soon."

They must keep weird hours since it's already pretty late. I look to my sister, Orion's going to be picking her up on his way to the brothel. From my house. Orion is the lion she met there while a captive, becoming almost like siblings. He'd offered her his protection, which gives him several awesome points in my book.

"Go ahead, just drop me off at the house. Asher can stay with Maii and Bastion while Xavier goes with you."

Don't you just love how she assumes he'll watch them? So rude. I reach for him in my head, able to since he isn't that far away. Haven't tried it over long distances yet, so I'm not sure if that'll work.

I've been told by Ava that Weres and Shifters have the same telepathy while in animal form, however, they can use it over long distances while Weres can only do so when near the one they're communicating with. Once I establish a link with someone, I can communicate with them while in any form. Just don't know about distances. Let's hear it for being freaky.

The connection is almost instant as I slip into his head, letting him know Alarico wishes to speak to me. Right away he agrees to watch the boys. I'm guessing they knew each other well before Asher's curse since that's how I learned his name to begin with.

"Wait, that won't work. Remember how much fun it was getting everyone here in my jeep? Ava? Can they stay with you for a bit? They're relatively well behaved."

I smile, knowing damn well they are, even when Lily is all bouncy and hyper they keep level heads.

"Of course, Orion can pick her up here as well if needed."

Shaking my head, I scowl at myself.

"I, uh, haven't gotten a way to contact him. Dude has puppy-piled with us in my basement yet I don't have his number."

Sighing, she laughs at me, still on the phone with a leader of a Werewolf group. If he don't like it he can kiss my ass.

"I'll take her home with our clothes, then when finished at the bar I can come get everyone and actually have room for them."

They both nod while I listen to the bustle going on at the other end of the line. Alarico owns and runs a bar in Downtown Rockford called ‘ Howler's Bane Bar & Grill ’. Don't know just how large his Pack is, but I'm guessing many of them work there as well.

"Alright. Give me half an hour and I'll be there."

He must be near the kitchen, can hear pots banging.

"See you then."

Click.

Well damn. Taking my phone from my ear, I just look at it.

"Needs to talk to me but can't even end a conversation with 'goodbye'. This is going to be very entertaining."

Faline glares at me as I smile innocently. I was never one for fighting before I became a Werewolf. Had lots of attitude, but would never come to actual blows. Since then, however, I'm almost always spoiling for a good throw-down.

I need a boxing buddy.

"Try not to start any problems? I won't be around to clean up after you."

I scoff as I finish getting dressed. Going over all the things that need to be done in my head, the list keeps getting longer and longer as the days go by.

"Should probably be more worried about Xavier, he fought with them too. Would have been 'punished' if I hadn't threatened the Alpha."

Both women gape at me, I shrug and grin. Might not want to mention how I almost split his wife's - who is a self-proclaimed Alpha - tongue by shoving a knife under her chin. I was having a really bad day.

Heading out into the front room, I let everyone else know what's going on. Lily is finally back in human form. She'd been having troubles the past week or so of only being able to stay humanoid for very short amounts of time.

She's all smiles at me, has been since I almost died. Not sure what's in her head. Child minds are so much crazier than adults.

I can make a psychic connection with an adult supernatural relatively easy as most of the time thoughts are focused or dwelling on something specific. A link with a child, on the other hand, is like watching Junebugs on crack on the fourth of July. Some are worse than others though.

Lily, for example, has the Junebugs, Maii's is more laid back but still skittish. My connection with Bastion is on and off. Sometimes I can connect while I'm human, other times I can't. Always able to when in animal form though.

His are skittish as well but more focused like an adult. With the coyote, it's all emotion, color, and images. No words. Like, he literally doesn't talk even in his own head, as if even in his head he's mute. Not even Ava understands it, so it may be magic-based.

Gathering up all the laundry that pretty much fills up the back seat, Faline, Xavier, and the papers that I have to go over for the boys to get into the Shifter school, then we're off. Getting here was really fun, as most had to be animals just to fit. With Maii being the smallest, he was curled up on my lap, Xavier sat in human form in the passenger seat with Faline on his lap, and Bastion got the backseat with all the laundry and Asher under his feet on the floorboards.

Suffice to say, everyone was glad when we got to Ava's. The crowdedness wasn't so much the problem as all the body heat building up. It's been snowing on and off the past few days, and it's only November, but even with the windows opened, it was quite warm. Didn't want them all the way down since one of us is still straight human and prone to freeze.

The papers had been handed over almost as soon as we got there with a wide smiling Ava. She's the type of person who loves getting others gifts, and that was one for both boys. I still have to fill them out with as much information that I know about each of them, but they’ve been accepted. Still waiting on their other papers, the ones claiming they're alive with social security numbers, and copies of birth certificates, as well as the forged adoption papers for them both in my name.

Eternally twenty-six with two kids. Not sure how that happened when I really dislike children. Aside from Lily to begin with of course. Would appear becoming an animal has made me all soft and maternal.

Now that , ladies and gentlemen, is a very scary thought.

Chapter Text

Kierra

We get back to the house pretty quickly, with weather and the late hour, there aren't too many out and about on the streets between my home and Ava's. Which is good since most of the people around here get real stupid when driving in snow. My house is tucked away in a large patch of woods that border the back of Machesney Park mall, around a mile from its parking lot to my front door. Mall itself is closed down, but to either end, it has a Spergmen’s and a J.P. Lenny with a Farmington Coats recently opened in the middle. It was in that parking lot that this all began.

My house and two others were set within the wooded area; one had been Asher's that had burned down twenty-five years ago, the other had belonged to an older couple. Or at least, they appeared as if they were an older couple. When I had gone to talk to them the place looked like it had been deserted for years, the only signs left being a dead cat and a cellar of horrors. It’d looked to be a cross between a butcher shop and a torture chamber, and since the doors had been sealed, all the smells had been trapped and building. A couple buckets of blood were still a liquid instead of a coagulated gel. A Vampire friend had a cleanup crew come and clean it all out, but I still catch that smell in my nightmares.

So now it's just my little ranch-cabin with assorted animals living in and around it.
Faline and Xavier both help me get all the clothes inside. They'd bettered anyway since some of it's theirs. When the maned wolf came to me he didn't have much, only what would fit in a duffle bag. Told me he had been hiring himself out as a mercenary and that's how Nicolaus, the leech who took my sister and sent him to kill me, found him. Being a loner, he moved around a lot so only kept very little with him.

After Maii had come, I went shopping for both of them, which doubled the laundry load. Was already pretty large since all the bedding in the basement had been taken and washed as well. All the bleeding I'd done on the blankets was getting a bit musty. Can just imagine the lint and hairballs that were found in the dryer afterward.

"Alright, when he gets here, can you get his number and write it down for me before you leave?"

Faline nods while gathering a few things to take with her. Looking from her to it, I go to my room for a moment before coming back out with one of my switchblades. Knowing she'll fuss if I give it to her directly, I slip it in the bag when she's grabbing a couple of her longer skirts. Raising an eyebrow at her, she explains.

"If I need to shift in a hurry, getting tangled in clothes costs too much time. Skirts are easy as they just slip right off."

Huh. Guess that does make sense. Ignoring her protests when I give her a hard hug, a kiss gets planted on her forehead before I turn and leave. If I stay any longer, I'll try to keep her from going, and I promised I'd let her go.

Xavier gives her a salute and Tigger gets a pat to his head. Ever since that man used my cat to keep his nude junk covered, the fat little bugger an he seem to have become best buds. Quite disturbing really. I've even caught the orange and white tabby curling up to him while he’s in animal form.

Little traitor.

"I think you've stolen my cat from me."

He just grins at me as we pull out to the street from my long driveway. That charming, flirty grin that gets him in trouble whenever around other females. Shit. Taking him into a bar may not be the best idea.

"Uh, if you pick up anyone, you go to their house, not mine."

A hand goes over his eyes as he starts laughing, but I'm highly serious. He once called it ‘ Animal Magnetism’. His sex appeal being very high, I get glared at by other females and even some males when seen just walking with him.

Personally, I think it may be something extra for him, like a subconscious thing even though he does flirt. From what I've observed, all supernaturals have a magnetism to them, whether from their animal or what I'm not sure, but he has more . I'm just guessing though, I could be way off. I'll just have to be more observant.

Hell, with all this new shit beating at my brain I'm gonna have to start writing it all down and hang it on the wall at home. Right next to the paintings I do that look like some hardcore angsty teens wet-dream. And let's not forget the Werewolf pelt I was recently mailed. It's in a box in my room right now, can't make up my mind if I want to hang it or not. Would it be considered morbid even if it was someone who harmed you? When I got it, every animal in my house at the time had looked at me like I had done it.

All but Asher that is, since he was there for part of the confrontation with the second one who had been sent to kill me. It was that cream-colored wolf that has put a black mark over all the wolves I come across. He was also very large; the Were skin goes from his nose all the way to tail tip and ankle and is at least eight feet long. Haven't taken the time to measure since just seeing it sends mixed emotions through me, none being good. Once the males around me were told it was the skin of the one who raped me, they all looked ashamed for having blamed me. I may be fucked up, but I don't think I'm that bad.

Don't even know who did it. It was found in my jeep and didn't have any residual scent on or around to even ascertain species. Do I owe them an IOU or a thank you? 

When I reach Downtown Rockford, I have to keep an eye on my speed. The new steel-toed boots have a weight to them that I don't account for when pedal-hopping. Wasn't my original idea to get them, but I had already lost three pairs of knee-highs that aren't sold at my local shopping center.

Shifting is really hard on clothes. Not so bad for the Weres doing a partial shift, depending on what they change, but animal or Were form tears them up. One pair had been lost in the house fire I had started to cover evidence of my being there and another at the bordello when I shifted while fighting another Werewolf.

I prefer the partial shift, less material damage done and quicker than a full change, predominantly going for reinforcing my hands for the claws and adding more muscle for more oomph. Can't punch with claws, but you can slash, and it's just as effective.

I hate Downtown.

It's not as dangerous to me now as when I was human, but I still don't care for it. Lots of dangerous people dwell in and around it just waiting for someone to victimize. Doesn't stop people from going though; too many bars, stores, restaurants, businesses, and clubs to keep any away for long.

Last time I was down here is when I found the bar full of wolves by complete accident, then had to call all sorts of attention to myself when having to beat off a couple drunks looking for a good time and not understanding the meaning of fuck off. That's apparently my idea of undercover work. Not very subtle, am I?

Since there's no event going on at the Metro Centre this time, parking is less hostile but still ridiculous to find. Instead of spending time looking for a spot or messing with the several parking garages, I park in the same spot I did last time; down by the library.

Of course, the last time being parked right here had some punk kid trying to steal my jeep and making a mess of the paint job. I think Xavier and I succeeded in putting the fear of monsters into him though; teenager had pissed himself.

The last time I made the maned wolf keep his gun in the glove box, this time it got left at home since being in the car clearly isn't a good idea either. He's the only supernatural I've met so far that actually has one, probably a habit from his soldier days. Always has at least one knife on him as well. When not at home obviously.

When I'd grabbed the blade for my sister, I grabbed another that clips onto my waistband, the same one I had last time coming down here. I'm not as good as Xavier is with a blade, but I'm close. Werewolf speed added to my own has me very fast with it, just have to make sure no cops see me with it since it exceeds the length restrictions. Think they're just pissy that my knives are bigger than their...brains. Ahem.

"Ready for this, Studmuffin?"

The cocky grin he passes my way as we get out of my jeep is my answer.

"First chick to glare at me because of you is going to have me drawing on your face."

"With what? Their drool?"

Well, now there's a possibility, but I'll pass. Pulling the pen from an inner pocket, I flash him a grin. Artists and writers never go anywhere without something to note with, even though many are lax on actually writing anything down.

Least I am anyway. I'll think of something awesome, know I'll remember it so I don't write it down, then forget about it an hour later, if it even takes that long. Narrowing my eyes at him, I think my idea over.

"That might not work as it will only draw more attention. Hmm. Think I need to start stashing paper bags in the car, those should work. Might draw attention, but they won't be able to see those dimples of yours."

Granted it isn't the dimples that draw the eye, they only get added onto his features when he smiles as wide as he's doing now. No, what draws the eyes to this man are his many other attributes. His height being the main one since he stands at six-feet-seven inches. I measured. Long and lean, if you don't see the defined muscle you'd say lanky, but he's very sinewy. Having seen him completely bare, I have firsthand knowledge of his...perks. Another eye-catcher would be his very long black hair.

Around his head it's somewhat short, shaggy, and thick, but the back is long, thinning while going all the way to his tight, muscular rear. Completely straight, no wave whatsoever. Bright, amber-colored eyes, chiseled jaw like that of a young Guy Pearce, and a smallish triangular goatee at his chin. Even in his animal form, he has a longer tuft of black fur under his chin. One thing that would really drive other males and females into a craze is the 8-pack hidden beneath his clothes. It's just good to keep him covered all the way around and try to keep the pheromones in check.

The streets down here have been plowed, sidewalks are even shoveled. He and I both are in leather coats, however where mine is a black trench, his is a black biker. When we first met the coat was the only thing he'd been wearing on his upper body. Should probably get him another, something longer, but he hasn't said anything.

Not even Thanksgiving yet but there are Christmas decorations popping up everywhere. Hate when people do that. Call it a pet peeve. I have many.

Since I'm not 'undercover' this time, the hat and makeup are not in use. Since I don't usually wear either at all, it was supposed to help me hide better. We all know how that went.

Long streaked hair blowing around me, I keep my bright green eyes directed forward. Don't care to make eye contact with people, let alone ones who are drunk, and it appears there are many spread about. Sports game perhaps? I don't keep up with that stuff, find it quite boorish actually.
The way men act with sports reminds me of women with fashion. Since I don't care about either, I tend to be lost when it comes up in conversation. Luckily, those that know me know my views on it so know that trying to talk about it is pointless.

Pretty sure my five-foot-four frame next to the long-legged freak beside me is quite funny looking, even more so when it's my sister with her whopping four-foot-eleven and a half inches. Just simpler to call her five-foot. I may only be four inches taller, but it makes me feel better. Hell, my five-foot mother makes me feel a little tall.

Rounding one last corner has us on the street of the ‘ Howler's Bane Bar and Grill ’. I've noticed several people watching us for the last two blocks now, don't know if they're friend or foe, but I'm sure I'll find out soon enough. The coatless bouncer at the door that has 'badass' written all over him watches me and Xavier as we walk up.

I have this nifty trick I can do when my emotions start kicking, can even do it at will now. Can't stop it from happening though, so need to be careful. Xavier lets me take lead while he takes my back. This nifty trick gets implemented as I cock my head at the over buffed Red Wolf standing in my way. Eyes bleed to yellow as I see his animal in my head. One of the abilities that being a Silver Wolf has given me; is on touch or scent of a supernatural, I get glimpses of what they are in my head - showing that animal’s natural habitat, getting scents from where they are in the vision.

Used to be I did it by touch, but it's evolved into just smelling them. It's nifty, but can be annoying since it's a bit disorientating. I can also force a supernatural who's in human form to shift into their animal. I've done it a few times now, it's pretty trippy. That one I need to touch to use and if they fight it, it becomes pretty painful. I used it to punish a Werewolf once, so it does have its uses.

The bouncer's eyes widen then he nods before opening the door. I look into the dim interior then back to the doorman before my eyes flick across the street to one who's watching us.

"That one of your Alpha’s wolves?"

Looking over, he scowls and frowns. I take that as a no then. Making a brief ' hm ' noise, I go in. Took the moment before coming in so the wall of wolf musk isn't so harsh and right in my face.
Wolves don't smell bad, each one has their own human scent as well as a common animal odor. Again, not bad, it's just pretty thick in here. They need to air the place out, I don't know how normal humans can't smell this. The place is basically a den by the smells I'm getting.

The building itself doesn't look that big from the front, being squeezed between other buildings to either side, yet it is long. Also has multiple levels, which reminds me more of a club than a food-based bar, but what do I know.

I can feel Xavier's presence behind me, I still slip a hand back to touch at his hip for reassurance. Another Werewolf trait that has changed me from what I used to be; never being one to touch others at all to touching often just for comfort or other purposes. Not sexual, still not a casual lusting person, for which I'm grateful. Until, that is, the full moon.

A small shiver travels up my spine, making green eyes flare yellow once more. The three nights of the full moon do hold sway over Weres like in the legends. Those nights, all under two centuries in age have to shift to either animal or Were form, then get stuck in that form till the next morning. Not so bad...for males. For females, it acts like the 'heat' that normal animals go into.

I have several issues with this, main one being that it's what had led up to my rape by a wolf. From then on, the only one allowed near me is Bastion and I'm locked in the basement of my home. During the day it's fine, can be awkward and uncomfortable, but at night, I confine myself.

Not saying those are the only times that female Weres are sexually active, just the time when 'breeding' is an instinct brought on by their inner animal. Vamps and Shifters don't have this issue. Bunch'a bitches. Pun sort of intended.

No idea where the Alpha of the place is, so I go to the bartender. Patrons haven't been allowed in yet, so all the people I see are Red Wolves that watch us curiously. I’m starting to feel like a zoo exhibit here.

Since I don't want to be seen as any kind of meek, mild, or weak, I let go of Xavier when I'd moved. Haven't met many female Weres, only two that I can think of right off hand, one I passed on the street who barely even made eye contact and Alarico's stuck up, self-important wife. Completely different personalities there.

Whatever they're making in the back smells good, so says my belly when it rumbles. Well, that's awkward. Yellow eyes catch the young man behind the counter, he goes pale almost right away. Here I thought I'd like that, but I don't. I don't want anyone to fear me aside from those who want to hurt me or mine.

"Easy kid, I'm not going to eat you. Alarico called me, can you tell him I'm here?"

He bolts off so fast I think I get whiplash. Blinking after him before looking at the maned wolf at my side, he has his serious face on. Other than that, I can't read it.

Now is the perfect time to work on my brain not getting overwhelmed by all the images filling it. Being the result of timber wolves mating with coyotes, as some scientists will say, red wolves are larger than the 'yotes and smaller than the grays. Colors in my head range from tawny, ruddy, reddish-brown, and sable with black.

Thinner and more rugged than the grays as well, often getting mixed and confused with Mexican wolves. While similar, they are different. Hands go to my temples as I let all the images and smells go through, not trying to hold on to them.

Seems right now I can't control it from not happening, but after the initial rape of my senses, it stops. Only images now popping in randomly if a new scent comes within range. I love wolves, always have, but my brain feels dirty now from all the musky canines running through it.

Takes a couple minutes for it all to settle, and I’m glad that after a person's initial scent is 'marked', I don't see them again. Don't know any of them by their human faces, but I know each and everyone's smell and what their animal looks like. Having Alarico's wolf through my head when I first met him, it doesn't go dancing through my brain again when he comes in from the back.

He lets me do my thing before coming too close, even then, he more motions us to precede him to the stairs leading below. This is the top floor, there looks to be two sub-levels. With the way things are arranged, I can't tell much more than that till we reach the bottom. Cooler down here too, thankfully. Wouldn't think stairs would be a good idea in a place where people get drunk, but it's not me they'd be suing.

The top floor looked like every other bar with stacked alcohol, giant T.V.s, and tables. The second floor also has a bar, looks to be more of a dance area, the third floor is where the games are, from pool tables to darts and even a couple slot machines. Well hidden cameras are set up everywhere, very difficult to see unless you have super eyes. Being a Werewolf does have some perks, just haven't decided if the good outweighs the bad or not.

I thought we'd stop at one of the tables down here, but he leads us to a door that is marked for personnel only. The sound of an electronic lock makes sure it stays that way. If I recall right, Asher had said this pack has been here for many years.

The owner 'passed away and left the bar to a relative' many years. Asher wasn't sure just how old the Alpha is, just knowing he's up there in years. Looks to be in his thirties on the surface.
Having the bar so long would indeed allow for many 'other' rooms to be made. Leading us on through, the wolf musk is just as strong here as it is above. Although here it has more the scent that my bedding has when having been in nest mode for awhile.

"Top levels are business, back here is where many of mine lives."

That takes me aback. Underground wolves? No wonder the scents are so strong.

"Underground? Isn't that a little weird for creatures meant to be outside?"

I try not to sound all judgmental, but it just seems so weird to me. He looks at me as if I'm being naive. I really hate that look, so I scowl at him.

"If I'm wrong about something just tell me, don't look at me as if I'm a brainless nitwit. I'd figure being wolves, you'd want running space. I don't see too much of that down here."

He looks a little annoyed as he gives a small nod. Doesn't go far before looking back at us, really studying me, reading my face and possibly my soul, who knows.

"Before I take you any further into our sanctuary, I need to know that you will not try any of your magics on my people. They are safe here, they do not need to be tormented in their own home."

I look him dead in the face as I slip into his head to show him just who I am, tired of his cynical study. He takes a step back, face hardening and closing down when he feels me slip in, he even starts to push me out then actually starts paying attention. I show the man my understanding of what he just said because I want the same for those who are mine.

My willingness to die to keep them safe, having almost done so already. I share the whole event with him, aside from the private sister stuff. Minutes go by as we stand there, me staring into his face as he looks at mine.

Eyes are out of focus but only because he's watching my life like a movie replaying in his head. My need to protect, to care for those in my home, the drive in me to hunt down those who mean harm to my Imp and sister. The emotions tied to everything I do and why I do it.

I basically bare my soul to him, so he doesn't have to hunt for it. I close my eyes as I pull out slowly, not wanting to abruptly withdraw and cause a headache, for him or me. Still rub at my temples though, almost groaning as another scent comes closer. His wife.

Here we go, headache commencing in 3...2…

Green eyes open and go directly to her as she walks up behind her husband. The gray orbs flare with jealousy before dropping down. Woman wants to be dominant, thinks she is just because of who she's mated to.

I can be either or depending on the situation, but more often than not, I'm either too hard-headed or too riled to be submissive. There's only one living wolf who I've shown that to, and he deserved it. She , does not. Like I said when she first came at me, she's not my Alpha.

Alarico blinks a few times, his arm going around her and pulling her close with a smile as he kisses the side of her head. His love for her is clearly obvious, and it makes me smile. When I first saw this woman, I had a serious case of envy, but after she had struck me, that quickly dissolved as well as any respect I would have had.

Envy from her model looks and body, tanned skin, and perfectly placed thick auburn hair that curls around her face. Couple inches taller and once again dressed in biker-chik. Just as with him, her love is plain on her face.

The male Alpha wrapping his arms around her is a couple inches over six-foot, muscled and lean almost like Xavier, long black hair pulled back into a tail. Hispanic features are strong, aside from his green eyes. That's a new one and what makes them so startling.

He's handsome, that's obvious, but he doesn't have the 'pull' that the man behind me does. Don't get me wrong, there is that 'otherworldly' draw, the knowledge in your gut that this is an animal and dangerous. That in itself has a sexual appeal I guess, but not to Xavier's level.

Speaking of Xavier, last time he saw this woman, the smell of his interest was clear. This time, there's nothing. Guess her appeal to him has also dropped just as mine did. Imagine that.

"Lucia, I don't think you two were properly introduced. Hell, none of us have been. I've explained to you who she is, I do not know her companion though."

Guess that's his way of fishing for names since I didn't share them in my head. Her gray eyes flick up, so I hold my hand out to her. The flinch in her eyes sends a semi-guilty thrill through me. With the kid upstairs it had bothered me, yet on her I get all giddy from it. Hmm. That from a female view or that I know I can beat her down? No idea, but probably should find an answer.

Her hand does extend, all prim and perfect. Doesn't bother me a bit, know why? Because hers are never used. My nails are long and sharp, but not all buffed and glossy because I go outside to do my wolf thing, she apparently stays in a cement cube.

"We were not. My name is Kierra, the man behind me is Xavier. Asher wanted me to send you his greetings."

Chapter Text

Kierra

The Red Wolf Alpha beams at the mention of the black wolf.

"I thought I recognized your images of him, but I wasn't sure. He hasn't been seen for many years."

He sounds sad, which makes me sad for Asher, knowing there was someone who missed him.
I hate shaking hands, it's awkward and you never know how much pressure to use, so I more or less just press my hand into hers and let her do the grabbing. Can see the small flare in her eyes of trying something, so I start putting in some pressure with a raised brow. She lets go instantly and looks down as she mutters her greetings.

Her husband, having seen the exchange, just shakes his head with a smile. Man must have the patience of a saint with her, I'd have ditched her by now. The males shake hands, everyone greeting someone else. To break any tensions, I even turn and shake the maned wolf’s hand. He arches an eyebrow as he cocks a grin, his large hand in mine all sorts of awkward. Really hate shaking. Don't think I've ever actually touched his bare hands before.

Long pianist fingers covered in small scars. My lingering on them has me pulling away hurriedly with a low blush. I have a thing for hands, it's weird, I know. The scars on them just make them all the more appealing. Aww shit.

Clearing my throat, I look back to the emerald-eyed Alpha who's smirking at me. Hardy-har.

"Alright, so what did you need to talk to me about?"

I could have read it in his head, but I stayed out. Wouldn't want anyone reading my inner idiosyncrasies, so out of respect, I don't try to read others'. Sometimes they broadcast loudly though, as Lucia is doing right now of her dislike of me and not wanting me in her home. This chick is just making things all the more weird. Doesn't help when he motions us to come in further where there's a small sitting room that seems to double as an office. I wasn't going to mention anything but the waves coming off her are really annoying.

"Lucia, I get it, you don't like me. That's fine. But you can stop broadcasting it so loudly. You're not helping with my word not to use any magic here."

Her gray eyes are wide as she stares at me, Alarico's are narrowed at me. I sigh.

"It's not something I can help, I'm not actively using anything. I had natural empathy before, becoming a Werewolf just seems to have...enhanced it. Your wife has waves of discontent coming off her as well as her want of me to be gone. That's fine, I'll leave, but I'd like to know what you called me for first."

His eyes are still narrowed. Screw this. I turn and start walking away. He calls out for me to wait, sending his wife off to do whatever in the opposite direction we came from.

"Prove this to me, what am I feeling now?"

I cross my arms and scowl at him. Seriously?

"Disbelief, worry, exasperation, and fear. Not fear of me though, of something else. If you really want to save time I can just slip back into your mind and read it from there."

He raises his hands as he shakes his head, moving over to the wooden desk sat against the far wall and sinking into the chair behind it. Motioning to the chairs around the room, I refuse. My patience at its end with my want to get back home.

Sighing, he reaches into the desk and pulls out a stack of files. Thinnish, so I'd guess only a few papers in each, more in others. He sets them on the surface and slides them to me. Looking at him in confusion, I glance over to Xavier; his face once again in its serious lines. Not very helpful, so I step forward and grab the one on top. Opening it, it's basically a missing persons report.

The next three I pull off are the same, each person different with a couple added details to each one; race and animal.

"Missing animals?"

I look up at him, still a little confused about why he's showing them to me. He nods, looking a bit harried. His fear is laid out in front of me. Flipping through another, I also see ages. I stiffen before looking back over the photographs. The Shifters are a mix of children and adults, all the Weres are adults, but none are over the age of thirty. My head starts pounding, so now I take a chair.

"These are all basically children, aren't they?"

He nods, face grim.

"As a general rule; Vampires, Were-animals, and Shifters don't really have much to do with each other. We mingle, sure, only so much space in a city like this to not brush elbows. These files started gathering before any of us learned of you."

I look up from another opened folder, throat closing as things start coming together. Too much for it not to be a coincidence and 'lucky' timing. Can feel my eyes flaring yellow in the soft light of the room, my voice low.

"How long before me?"

He pulls a pad of paper from a top drawer and hands it to me. One of those college-ruled yellow pads with pages and pages of dates for each missing animal, even a few humans. Years. They go back at least fifteen years.

The most recent ones are only weeks old. Fifteen years ago I was ten to eleven years old, already in the system with my sister. Only a few years difference and she and I would probably have been counted on this list.

"Why show these to me?"

Angry molten yellow eyes get directed at him, his face troubled and even lined in age. Stress will do that to you.

"A man came in a couple of days ago, one who knew of our world. Just as you had come to see if anyone had seen your sister, he came looking for a boy. His nephew who was last seen in the arms of a pale Werewolf seen running from a burning house."

He doesn't even jump when I slam the folders back on the desk with hands splayed with growing black claws. My heart is thundering in my chest in anger.

"When 'pale Werewolf' was mentioned and put together with the timing of recent events, I thought of you. I'd thought you kidnapped the child. Then I saw him in what you showed me, knew it was him from a grainy picture the man had. Tell me, what is your connection to all this?"

A heavy sigh comes from me as I start pacing, unable to keep still. Can feel Xavier's anger coming off of him, he knows a little of what happened. To really be able to explain it, I have to go back into my own past.

And here I was hoping it was finally all behind me.

Arms cross over my larger bust, hands gripping hold of the opposite arm. Standing in front of a pale-colored wall, I try to make it as brief as possible.

"To start simply, it began before your fifteen years. For my sister and I, it was closer to twenty years ago. Our mother got mixed up with a man that had been foul from the beginning. My sister and I ended up in the system and went through years of hell. We made it out and built lives for ourselves, trying to put our pasts behind us. Mostly succeeded but for the nightmares."

My eyes close while I grip my arms harder. I'm dragging this on and I don't mean to. Can hear a couple other hearts who are close to the speed of my own as it thumps into ribs.

"The night I was attacked by the Werewolf, I had made it back home where I collapsed just inside the front door that had been unlocked. I woke three days later from a drug-induced coma. The man from my past once again inserting himself to cause misery. He and another pedophile friend of his, who was Bastion’s stepfather."

I spit out the word, the taste foul. Can feel warm trickles starting to drip, but I ignore it and keep going.

"They had intended to grab both my sister and I, but she had been taken by the Vampire. To this day I wonder if it was better for her to have been in his torturing hands than in the ghost from our past. I'm guessing they didn't know of this world since my shifting in front of them had them both running."

A mocking grin crosses my lips as I recall what I did to them. I even share it with them. My first kills. After their deaths, I skip ahead and show them how I found my Imp. A deep growl comes from Xavier who has also grown quite fond of the boy. Can feel Alarico's churning stomach at the thought of his returning a child to that.

"That man who's looking for him is a pedophile who wanted to buy him, instead of getting 'rented' time."

With eyes still blazing like the sun, I turn and face the Alpha head-on.

"I promised Bastion that I would kill that man for him. My Imp, my son , will be kept from this man even if I have to make a bloodbath through the city to get to him. Just as anyone involved in torturing him will be dead by my hands. If there's one thing that I can be grateful for in becoming what I am, it is giving me the strength I need to kill those who have harmed what is mine."

He stares at me for a minute before he nods slowly, determination on his face.

"That was the house I burned down, I didn't know I was being watched. I have a friend who is also looking into this, going against the rules for me. My sister has also encountered a man involved in this. She gave him to a Shifter lion who's also following up on disappearances. The man she found was a lawyer who was scouting the bordello out in Pecatonica for potentials to which someone else would come in and buy."

I pull my claws from my arms when Xavier taps at my knuckles, not really paying attention as I think on everything. It’s my turn to study the man sitting in front of me, to see if he's worth risking lives for. I go out on a limb and take the plunge.

"Do you know of the prophecy revolving around me? Or that there is a sister one to it from the Vampires?"

"I've been hearing a lot of things being foretold and coming to pass of change. Don't know anything on the Vampire end, haven't had dealings with them for at least thirty years."

I incline my head, then continue to recite each one to him. 

Wolf Prophecy:
Pale/Silver one who will
Bring Change, good or bad
Finding those who are lost/hidden
Born of a long line of Magics
Hand in hand with one born from Darkness

Vampire Prophecy:
Lost dark child will spark
Life into being
Bringing vampire and animal together
While calming inner beast
Back to back with one of Light

Doesn't dawn on him at first, so I clue him in.

"I am that wolf. The Vampire child - is my sister."

His eyes almost bug out of his skull as he puts it all together. My head cocks at him as he pieces everything within his mind, then repeats aloud a line of the werewolf side.

"Finding those who are lost or hidden."

Yeah, I caught that too just a few seconds ago, so I share with him my thoughts on it.

"Maybe, but I'm not doing this because some ancient dodos say I'm going to. Can honestly say I'm doing this in wholehearted rage, selfishness, and looking forward to the bloodshed that I will cause. Their deaths will not be quick or merciful. Don't know why the prophecy calls me one of light, because there is nothing light about what I plan on doing."

For the first time, I see the respect in his eyes, the complete glee, and willingness to be right there with me when the flesh starts flying. I can feel Xavier's desire for it as well. What the hell, since I'm supposed to bring change, I'm going to push it that much more.

"All those missing should not have happened. If the races had coordinated early on, many of those missing might still be home. Asher told me of a council of leaders, since they don't seem to want to do anything, I will. Can spread that around as well. I'm done hiding, if someone has an issue, then bring it on. I've been spoiling for a good fight lately."

I can't help the smile on my face, as just the thought has my blood singing.

Sometimes, I wonder if I'm becoming a sociopath.

Sometimes, I wonder if I even care.   

Chapter Text

Kierra

"You probably have a higher standing than I with the other assorted wolves, you can warn them that if they come at me or mine for any non-friendly reason, I will not hold back. Don't care if they're indifferent; as long as they stay away from me, I'll stay away from them. When this mess is cleared up, I intend on talking to all these 'council members'. Don't know what I'll say yet, but I'll come up with something that they won't like, can pretty much guarantee that."

He smiles, his giddiness doing nothing to contain my own. There's also a guarded feeling there, as if although he's looking forward to it, he's cautious. Feeling along as he goes. Not much left to say after that, so I hint at wanting to leave without being too rude about it. He notices it, amusement filling his face.

Before we go through the locked door, I turn back to him.

"I'm sure I don't have to ask if that man returns - his name is Frank by the way, Frank Mallory - give me a shout if he does?"

"Can count on it."

I give him a warm smile as Xavier and I head up. The place had opened while we were in conference, over a dozen patrons now litter the inside. Before exiting, I go to the bar and ask for some water, willing to pay for it but Alarico waves it off.

He hesitates for a moment before leaning over the shiny wooden surface, I oblige and lean in as well, pulling the cold water down fast. End up regretting it as I give myself brain-freeze.

"Oww..."

Gives me a confused look before seeing the empty ice water glass, his eyebrow raises and chuckles. Don't even notice I’d lost the maned wolf at some point between below and the water retrieval. Standing back up for a moment to scan over heads, I catch him quite easily with a couple women who'd stopped him.

His height is an advantage at this point, for me anyway. The look on his face is flirty as they jabber and paw at him in their tipsy horniness. The look is flirty, but I can see his discomfort. Looking like that will always cause trouble. His flirty face I mean; he called them right to him, so I leave him to suffer for a bit longer while I duck back down to hear the Red Alpha.

"Shouldn't you help your companion?"

"I'm getting the feeling you think he's a companion companion. He's not, he's just a friend, and he doesn't need my help, he's all grown...supposedly. Couple human women can't hurt him. Besides, his squirming discomfort will teach him a lesson and bring great amusement to me."
His head goes back with his laughter, which calms many of the other wolves in here. He finally ducks back down as well.

"In the images, I didn't see Asher in any as human, does he stay in that form because of what happened to his wife?"

I flick at my straw warily, knowing it isn't my story to tell.

"What do you know about what happened?"

That seems to be a careful and reasonable start, right? His honest concern makes my heart hurt for the black wolf.

"Fire at his home had killed her, then he disappeared. Tales of a black wolf got passed around, but none could be confirmed. Some stories claimed that he killed her, but I know those to be false."

I nod, getting angry all over again. Not only covered up, but false information getting passed. Have a feeling these so-called council members are corrupt in some way. Probably many ways. Shit like that doesn't happen unless you're hiding something. Lips are pursed before I answer, hoping Asher will forgive me for sharing his heartache.

"There was a fire, yes; caused by Vampires, one of which wanted his wife for his own. They were both caught in the house, he was able to jump free, but before she could, the roof had collapsed. The Vampire had come with a curse, Asher can no longer take human or Were form. He's been stuck as a wolf for the past twenty-five years."

Watching the horror steadily increasing on his face before he schools it, I'm slightly comforted by the fact that Asher did have someone in his corner.

"I can't see the burn scars he has, but I've felt them. They were very bad at one time, the tissues still very prominent."

I can feel Alarico's sadness coming off him in waves, making my belly cramp. I touch his arm lightly then pull back almost instantly.

"Do you want me to tell him anything for you?"

He nods, letting out a damn near letter for me. I make sure to keep it in my head so I can just 'replay' it for him when I get home. A commotion behind me has me turning, knowing trouble has started.

The two women are now arguing in front of the poor flustered flirt, who has his arms raised in surrender.

"Think I'll help him now."

Walking over with a crooked grin, the wolves around me start to tense again. Not in a bad way though, almost like anticipation. Xavier looks up, his seeing me bringing almost relief to his face.

I step right up between the drunk women, bodily moving them apart without putting hands on them. Said hands grasp his coat and pull him away.

"Sorry girls, I need to get him back to his mama, she just loves her little Pooky. She's gonna go nuts that he was in a bar, but I had stuff to do. That woman even keeps his room done up with little choo-choos. You'll miss out on his cuddling with his binkie-rhino though, that's kind of adorable...if you like that sort of thing."

Can hear Alarico behind me somewhere roaring in laughter, many of the other wolves doing the same. Girls aren't so eager to fight over him now, clearing their throats before grabbing their coats and moving off. I can't decide which is funnier, the women's expressions of horror, or Xavier's of disbelief as I just totally ruin him.

Watching after them, I get real mean, tapping my cheek.

"Well that's a shame. They didn't even get to see your peterwinkle."

He makes little stutter noises at me, sputtering a bit while the laughter continues around us. I'm somehow able to keep a straight face until I look up at him. His open-mouthed expression at me has the smile creep up before I start in with my own laughing.

I pat at his cheek, having to reach for it, closing his mouth by pressing a finger under his chin. He just blinks at me for a couple moments before he finds his voice. It sounds a little dry.

"That was just downright evil. You've totally ruined my rep that took years to build. Totally emasculated."

I snort, green eyes glinting at him.

"That was years worth of rep? Think you need to start over from the beginning, Hunny. I'll show you how it's done, no worries."

Smiling innocently at him, I spin on my heel and go for the exit. His face was showing one thing, but I felt all his amusement and laughter, so I know I didn't seriously screw him up. Poor thing, can just imagine what the Red Wolves are going to be calling him now.

That thought alone has me stifling more laughter. Turning back to give Alarico a wave, the maned wolf is right on my ass. Almost walk into him when I turn.

"Excuse me, your freakishness is in my way."

His turn to snort, but I feel his hand at my back, his heat through my own. His nudging me out the door isn't getting any complaint since I'm overheating myself. Pretty sure part of his is from embarrassment though. His face did get a little red there in the beginning. I go stiff at the door, whispering into his head that we're about to enter into trouble.

He's more than ready, moreso than I, yet he can't feel the negativity aimed directly at...me. Of course. Two Vampires smelling of feline are waiting right outside for us.

Xavier slips in front of me as the door opens wider. Using his body as cover, my hands lengthen with claws, finger bones and muscles reinforce so a good swipe at something doesn't break them. Very handy, that. Same for my wrists if needed.

The tall man makes a small grunt as he deflects the two hits that come at him from the front and side. Crouching low, I come up hard and fast at the one on his side, sharp black claws dig deep into the leg and rake upwards. The man jumps back with a shout. If he hadn't when he did, he'd have fun regrowing those bits.

Faline had told me that the one man she’d mangled and tore an ear and half a nose from is regrowing them, it just takes a lot of blood and a bit of time. Hardly fair if you ask me. Bad guys should not be able to do that.

Before any Reds can make it out from finally realizing something's up, two others come flying out of nowhere. The images that shoot into my head are of twin white ghosts. Pure white Arctic wolves. Brothers judging by the similar scents. Even their animals in my head have them running together over frozen terrain with ice caves that smell of snow, moist ground, and spring water.
Yes, water has a scent. Both animals are just about the same size, literally looking like twins. Only obvious differences are eye color and one having black-tipped ears. Get a sense that the one with the ears is younger.

Blinking the images away as fast as I can, Xavier is pushing me back into the doorway while it's opening with other Weres coming out. Bouncer wolf is off to the side with what looks like several broken bones. Pulling free from the body press, I leap over to him. Just in time too as one of the Vamps comes flying at him. Not an attack, but from being thrown. Busted up broken wolf grunts harshly when I pull him out of the way. Whispering in his head that I'm sorry, I keep him covered from the Vamp now standing.

Angry eyes are focused on me as if I were the one to toss him around. I grin at him as my eyes bleed yellow, crouching low, claws splayed and head cocking.

"Well come on then hot stuff, show me what'chu got."

Succeeding in spurning him into action at coming for me, one of the new wolves is able to get at his back and take him down. Let's hear it for unintentional teamwork. Can feel Xavier coming close, so I turn back to the injured wolf.

"Why didn't you call for your Pack to help you?"

Didn't mean to sound like a scolding marm, but whatever works I guess. Pain filled eyes look up at me before sliding away. Ah, I see. I tsk at him while looking over both broken arms, busted knee and leg, bent finger, and assorted bruises.

"I'm sure you're all big and bad with humans and even younger wolves, but Vamps are much different. Even more so when they weren't worried about being exposed. I've tussled with a couple younger ones, they're wiry bastards."

We'll keep it between us that I just referred to my sister as one, but since he doesn't know what undead I'm talking about, it's all good. The wiry part is true though, Faline was always really flexible, now even more so. Think it comes from the feline within her, but not sure. Could just be a Vamp thing.

He grunts at me, clearly not amused with my attempt at humor, so let's try something different.

"Alright Mr. Badass, stuff the grumpiness. I know you're in pain. Suck it up, it was your own stupidity that you didn't call for aid, so now you can deal with the consequences of it. Does your Pack have a doctor of any kind? My sister is usually the one patching me up. I break bones, not set them."

Not necessarily me doing the breaking as much as being the one broken. Looking over to the bar's entrance, I motion over one of the loitering wolves that happens to be female. Not trying to be sexist here I swear.

When she gets closer, I ask her the same question of having anyone who at least knows how to set bones. She bobs her head and goes back in. The outward gathering of Red Wolves block off visuals from the humans walking around.

Aren't too many, but enough to be trouble if calls are made. Looking back to the bouncer, I tap at his nose to get him to look at me.

"Did you know them by chance? From what I felt, they were after me. They weren't the ones that had been here when we went in, were they?"

He shakes his head, jaw clenching hard as he lowers his eyes again. I rest a hand on the top of his head, short hair getting laid flat. Stays for a minute before I pull away, moving from the crouch in front of him to a crouch next to him.

The brothers are now back to back as the Reds try surrounding them. I scowl, rise up and walk over to them, turning my gaze out to the others.

"What do you think you're doing? They came to aid, they are not responsible for this. If anyone is, I am. They were here for me."

Eyes should just stay yellow when around people I swear, less wear and tear. Glares are shot out at them till they back off. Crossing my arms, I look over them all.

Alarico really needs to let them be wolves and run. Would take down all the pent up issues they seem to have. Someone finally comes out and heads to the hurt man. Nope, it’s not a woman.
The doctor or whatever title he goes by is an older gentleman. Where most of the animals I've seen are between the ages of early twenties to about mid-thirties, an older one is a bit surprising. Since that part is taken care of, I turn to the brothers.

Speaking of ages, the younger one looks to be in his twenties somewhere, still having that slight softness to him, while the older brother looks to be in his prime. I can't help but smile at their hair. Taking a couple steps back so I'm not looking up at the yet again tall animals, the older one's a couple inches over six feet with the other being six-foot exactly. Getting real good at measuring people in my head, comes in handy when needing to describe them or sketch them out to scale.

Taller one has long hair hanging down his back, dyed an assortment of purples. Meaning instead of it being a single flat color, shading was done, darker and lighter hues mixed in. Small beard isn't dyed though, looking like a dark blond as a thin line of hair traces his jawline. Sibling also has a blondish beard line, just without the beard tuft on his chin. His short, thick hair is dyed as well, different shades of blue for him.
They're taking small glances at me, but mostly keeping an eye on the Reds. Can't say I blame them.

"Please tell me your pure white pelts aren't dyed to match."

Startle them both as two pairs of blue eyes look at me. One the color of clear spring skies, the other a cloudy day blue. These two look so alike it's kinda freaky, only the smallest differences between them. No wonder the hair is colored.

"Tried, but then we really stuck out like sore thumbs."

I blink at the older one as I try to tell if he's being serious or not. I really hope not, those coats were gorgeous. The trickle of humor coming from him raises my crooked grin again, shaking my head.

"Long way from home aren't you? Why in the world would you come here of all places?"

My nose scrunches, don't understand why anyone would want to come here willingly. Crime is way high, neighborhoods dangerous, and schools not up to par. Could basically consider Rockford as one of Chicago's 'projects' neighborhoods, and not a good one.

They just look at me. Takes me a minute, but I finally catch on.

"Oh. Well, you've now seen, so quickly turn and go back while you still can."

They finally start relaxing when only a few Reds are left outside, the downed bouncer having been taken in with a new one taking his place. Looking dead at him, I slip into his head. Intrusions come in handy so I don't have to move.

"I'm sure I don't have to tell you to be careful, do I? Since I'm leaving, no more should bother you, but just in case, stay on your toes. If there is trouble, call for aid. No more hero crap."

He sneers at me to hide his surprise and fear but inclines his head. I tip my head at him and turn back to the brothers, who'd been watching the exchange. Bit of confusion there, but I think they can figure it out.

Xavier touches my shoulder for my attention, when he has it, his chin points to the others standing across the street.

"Uh, where'd the Vamps go?"

"Took off when we tried detaining them."

Younger bro actually speaks this time, looking kind of adorable when his cheeks redden when I look at him. Oh yeah, soft. Eyes had gone back to green a few minutes ago, so I don't have to worry about that as I stare back at the ones eyeballing us.

Humans. Humans who look like they already know what or who we are.

"I don't want to stick around any longer and bring more trouble here. Walk with us?"

They nod. Had a feeling they'd end up following me anyway, just means now I have an excuse to be looking or watching them. Xavier takes my side like the bodyguard he seems to think he is. Turning, I scowl at him. I just get winked at.

"That's it. Where'd those women go? I'm tossing you back. Any woman will do at this point. Can even get 'em to pay me for you. Consider yourself pimped, buddy."

My exasperated tone and rant just have him grinning ear to ear. White wolves behind me look all sorts of confused.

"I saved him earlier from a couple girls who were starting to fight over him. I wanna toss him back to 'em."

"Why?"

Stopping, I turn and motion my hands at him, having stopped when I did. Making a sound of disgust, I flick his open jacket. Speaking of which, I take mine off and hold it over my arm. Taking the opportunity, my eyes flick between the almost twins, being hidden by their bodies as I look for our trailers. Mouth purses as I see them walking casually across the road a few yards back. Brown leather jackets rustle around me as they shift around to see what I'm looking at.

"You know, I had a tag-along once that ended badly. If these idiots try anything, I will not be accountable for what happens."

Xavier snorts, but he's also alert the whole way to the jeep. When we get close, I look around for any teenagers. Nothing. Good. Looking for a fight does not mean beating on kids.

Stopping at the back hatch, I lean my butt against it and cross my arms over my stomach under my folded coat. The guys spread out around me so I can see the humans coming. Don't care for how it looks like bodyguard detail.

"You know, I am capable of causing just as much damage as any of you. Longer arm and leg length included."

They all just look at me, brothers appearing curious as they watch the maned wolf mock me.

"Careful Dogdeer, I know where you sleep and I have a lot of paint and glue."

He scoffs, but smiles at the nickname my sister has given him. When she’d first seen him in animal form, she didn't know what the hell he was, so she called him a dog-deer. Starting to think his inner animal has influenced his human height.

Maned wolves, while not actual wolves, look kind of close. One big difference being the long-ass legs they have. Xavier is six-foot-seven, his animal is over four feet tall at the shoulder. And that isn't counting his head or his big ears.

To give you a vague idea of just how tall he is, at over a four-foot shoulder, he's taller than Asher, who's already bigger than a 'normal' Werewolf. The false wolf is taller than anyone else I know aside from Orion, who is about an inch taller. You feel really small next to them, even more so when you're already short.

Looking to the brothers, I start yapping at them while keeping an ear out for the humans. They aren't being very quiet about their stalking.

"So, where are you guys from? Figure north somewhere from what I saw. Names? I know you're brothers. From the look you gave me, I'm guessing you've come to gawk at the weird one."

"Definitely weird, that's for sure."

Even though he mutters it, the maned mutt knows he's heard perfectly. Taking my arms from my coat, I toss it at his head. Folded trench coats don't make for the best missiles, but it gets him to shut up for a second, at least on using words.

Just full of chuckles though. They're still watching us curiously, but the younger brother has a slight scowl forming. Bigger brother is who speaks up once again.

"Seen? We're from the north, yes. Northern Wisconsin. What do you mean you 'seen'? You also implied you knew our fur colors."

I nod and tilt my head.

"Mhmm. Speaking of that whole, 'weird', part. Being the odd one out seems to have a few more learning curves than everyone else has. I don't see dead people, but I do see animals in my head. Can smell them in their original, natural habitat. I see you, just as your inner animals and where they'd be if wild."

They blink at me before glancing at Xavier who nods with a smirk, his amber eyes starting to glitter in mischief. Aw hell, here we go. Lifting an eyebrow, I cross my arms over my chest and cock my hip.

"She can also get in your head and make you do things. Things you'd never do before."

Chapter Text

Kierra

My mouth drops as I gape at him. Can feel the Arctic wolves turn instantly wary and tense.

"You are such a butt face."

Original, right? I’m too stunned to come up with anything else. He keeps a straight face for as long as he can, which isn't long. Even resorted to biting his lip to keep it from coming out, but it didn't help.

He bends over in laughter, the sounds coming from deep in his belly. I look to the other males and try to look as honest as I can even as I set myself up for mistrust.

"I can get into your head, yes. Much the same way you guys can when in animal form. I can do the same, just in all forms. I cannot , however, make anyone do anything. I can see, read, and feel, but I cannot direct actions."

The maned wolf is still chuckling and slightly turned, so I kick him in the ass. Not 'real' hard, but should have been enough to get him to fall on his face. But does he? Of course not.

"You and your damn long-ass legs. I'm so going to get Maii to trip you since he can stand under you with no problem. Tangle yourself up while strutting around."

He had caught himself by bringing forward a leg to brace his weight. Long hair gets tossed back when he slowly stands, watching me the whole time while turning to bodily face me.

Shit. Now I've gone and done it. I clench my legs hard as he turns on his sensual flirt. When we first met, it didn't work on me, so he's been working on changing it up, learning, and studying my reactions.

"Oh no you don't, not even. You are so getting it when we get home, I promise."

Quickly putting a hand over my eyes and even turning my head so there's no peeking, his deep chuckle works its way into my ears.

No peeking...no peeking...no peeking.

How does one close their ears? Kinda missing being half deaf now.

"You guys live together?"

Older brother sounds surprised. I point my whole body in his direction so I don't see any possible yumminess from the heathen behind me. Everything wouldn't be so bad...if he couldn't smell my interest. Pheromones and female reactions suck.

"In a way. I seem to have adopted him. Have a Vampire, coyote, wolf, and a human at home too."
They both look at me with wide eyes, so I look at them confused. Xavier fills in the blanks as he comes closer. I tense, but I know he won't touch me.

Aside from light hand touches here and there and him using me as a pillow, there isn't much touching between us. He knows how uncomfortable I am with any heavier petting. He isn't in flirt mode anymore though, watching the humans work their way closer without thinking we're noticing. We may not look like it, but we're all on high alert.

"Aside from establishments like the one in Pecatonica, different animal breeds aren't known to interact, let alone live together. Living the way you do is unusual, even moreso when you aren't..."

I look at him, and he waffles his hands. Still kind of lost here. Younger bro actually speaks up this time.

"Even moreso when you aren't sleeping with them."

"I do though, I sleep with all of them. Wait...oh. Oh! Nono, there isn't any of that kind of sleeping. When we all bed down, we're all in animal form in a nest I made in my basement."

My cheeks had flared red when I finally caught on, especially from what I had said just before. I'm sure it can look that way, especially with how easy Xavier and I are towards each other when in public. The joking, laughing, and him constantly standing guard.

But we aren't so it can be confusing to those who are just looking on. Brothers are giving me a weird look so I give a weird look back. Younger brother seems to have taken up the mantle of questioning. Really would like to know their damn names.

"And the Vampire? The human?"

"Question for a question?"

They look to each other then nod to me.

"The Vamp is my sister, and the human is a boy who is mine, even though we do not share blood."

Their expressions are almost comical as they look at me and blink, so I ask my questions.

"Ever going to give me your names? Was coming to get a look at me your only purpose for being here?"

Older brother looks to younger again, motioning him to speak. Younger doesn't look happy about it but does so.

"We heard rumors of a Silver Wolf. Not sure what all the fuss is about, but you seem to be important. I wanted to come meet you. My name is Shade and this is my brother, Zypher."

I raise an eyebrow, but I leave them to their secret names. They sound pretty nifty anyway.

"So you don't know any of the stories surrounding them?"

My question comes out in slight surprise. Xavier is a loner yet he knew of them. How old are these guys? They both shake their heads. Arctic wolf brothers are standing a few feet in front of me, having moved when noticing I was keeping an eye on our pursuers. I intend on changing their minds about following me. Leading them right to my home really isn't a good idea.

With them being human, I can't exactly hide away the bodies with no one knowing, let alone looking for them. I should probably have a problem with my willingness to kill so easily, but with everything that has been going on, my squeamishness is non-existent. Might also be from my reactions to things being so different from a 'normal' person.

I don't have the same reactions to some things that other people do. The emotion either delayed or just not there, or laughing when it's inappropriate. I've had to talk my way out of many misunderstandings from people assuming me cold, rude, heartless, and-or mean. Granted I can be those things, usually when I'm meaning to be. Having a resting bitch face probably doesn't help either. That's what my sister called it, since it's apparently a thing.

The meaning being that while in a neutral state where you aren't making any specific expression, you look angry or annoyed. I've had times when I'd be staring off into space with no expression while at art showings, then getting elbowed by whoever is with me because I'm scaring people away from approaching. I don't do it intentionally...usually.

Speaking of gazing off into nowhere, I seem to have done it just now as Xavier waves his hand in front of my face. The motion catching my attention.

"Err, sorry. If you said anything I didn't hear it."

Maned wolf has seen me do it before, so he doesn't take offense, the wolves in front of me look amused. I blink a few times and take a deep breath. What had I asked them? Oh, yeah.

"Um, so the prophecies and stories you guys know nothing of?"

There we go. Back on track. Can feel my cheeks tinging red when they just smile at me, even though they're shaking their heads. My eyes catch movement behind them, causing me to frown immediately at what I see.

"We got trouble guys. These are definitely not friendlies. Two males are approaching with guns drawn, just held at their sides. This part of Rockford, the shots won't be uncommon, but we're going to want to move fast. Incapacitate but leave alive."

Spoke low, and they all incline their heads. Awesome, they all take instructions. Wasn't sure about the brothers and I know Xavier can be a pest, but not when it comes to situations like this. Slipping into each one and showing them an image of what I want to do, they give another small nod, even though the brothers go on the defensive.

I drop down as the males disperse to either side, drawing the humans' attention. When they move to raise weapons at the guys, I leap forward and do something daring. Not even sure it will work, but if nothing else, it lets the guys get closer without being shot first.

Human movement was used when they first turned and darted, now they put on the Were speed as they come in on either side. My daring move was to yank the guns from their hands. I get a hold of one but miss the other.

As they turn back to face me though, the guys are on them. The gun I didn't grab goes off, something bites into my lower calf, but I ignore it as I backhand him, sending him flying into Shade's arms.

The other human in front of me takes his chance, having lost his gun, he throws a punch. Since my focus was on the other one, he connects solidly. My left cheek gets the impact that rocks my head to the side.

Zypher grabs him before he can throw another, my head turning back towards him slowly, eyes bleeding yellow as I glare at him.

"Now that wasn't very nice, didn't even buy me dinner first."

He starts screaming at me but is silenced real quick when the older brother spins him around, throwing his own punch that has the yelling man hitting the ground hard. That broken jaw is really going to hurt later.

The other human is also out on the ground. I don't see Xavier, my heart thumps hard but settles instantly when I see him dragging out another man.

"Shit, I missed one, didn't I?"

He nods but smiles at me. He has military training, so he'd known there was probably another surprise attacker. This one is still aware even if he does look a little dazed. Dressed in all black doesn't hide that he has a broken arm and a busted nose. Doesn't look like the typical gangster or street rat, so I'm a little lost. His muttering of a monster in the dark has me smirking.

The three of them get dragged to lay in the brushes decorating the area behind the library. Really cold down here since the Rock River is right there, a few feet away. Not exactly hidden, but not out in the open either. I want to check for IDs but we're out of time as I hear sirens.

"That's a little faster than usual."

Looking at the brothers, I make my offer.

"I can share more information, willing to since you've helped me twice now, but you'll want to come with me."

There’s not any hesitation as they accept. They hop into the back of my jeep while Xavier and I take the front and we head off. Where many people mess up right here is when they try getting away as fast as possible.

That's stupid and just calls attention to yourself, you leave at a normal pace as if you know nothing of what just happened. Only way I don't see that working is if you're trying to dispose of a body and no one else is around for miles. Since that isn't what I'm doing, I should be good.

To be safe though, I do turn off at the next street, just have to circle around to go the way I want. I keep an eye on my rearview mirror, then Xavier pulls a tape out of his pocket, holds it up, and flips it between his fingers.

"Trophy?"

I ask, but I got a feeling what it is, and that isn't good.

"We were being videotaped. The camera got smashed, but I grabbed this from it. Probably a good thing none of us started shifting."

I wince, considering I sort of did with my eyes, but I can't control that. The brothers' speed could also get called out. Since it's a tape, I have nothing to see what's on it, only one I know who would is Benjamin. Will have to give him a call when we get to the house. Going to be fun explaining to Asher my bringing in a couple more strays. Don't think they'll stay long though.

Had noticed Shade had grabbed up my coat for me when he jumped in, so I reach back for it, pulling it up and setting it next to me. I brake kind of hard when I drive into what's almost a wall of water.

"What the hell?"

Rain? Not just rain, but pouring rain. I've heard of it raining in the later months, but I haven't seen anything like this. We’re halfway home, but I've slowed way down, 4-wheel drive does not mean you're immune to spinning out if you get hit.

"You guys bring the rain with you?"

It's coming down so hard it's nearly impossible to see. Even with new sight, it's still blurry, my wipers unable to keep up with the deluge. I keep my eyes on the road now instead of keeping an eye behind us.

"It doesn't rain in northern Wisconsin this time of year, it's all snow."

Even they sound confused. Flooding is almost immediate, the previous piles of snow adding to the water as it melts. So glad I don't live closer to the river. Shit... Ava. Pulling my phone out of my pocket with a little difficulty, I hand it over to Xavier.

"Call Ava, make sure she and Lily are alright, they're damn close to being on that lake."

Scrolling through contacts, he calls them while I focus again on getting home in one piece. Assholes are always aplenty on the streets, ones that think they're immune to everything. Sure enough, one skids off into the ditch on the opposite lane with spinning tires from going too fast.

"Dumbass."

No sympathy here. They're safer staying in the ditch than driving anyway. Safer for others as well. Ava and her daughter are fine, they got Asher and the kids home before it started, rain's not bothering them as much as it is their horses and her crop field. I'd rather it be the fields than them, so I relax a tiny smidge. Going to be a swamp around the house, which has me groaning. Takes three times longer than it should've, but I finally pull into my driveway.

"Well, if nothing else, we shouldn't have been followed very easily. Doubt Asher is gonna want to be out in this either."

Putting my jacket over my head, I make a run for it after parking in the makeshift garage. It's technically a really big shed, but it works. Glad my front porch is wide, leaving room for everyone to jump onto it.

"Shoes off, please. I don't have carpets, but that doesn't mean I want mud everywhere."

I get grinned at all around, but they oblige me as mine come off. Looking out over my 'front yard', my lips purse. Under the pines it isn't so bad, but the clearing around my house is muddy as hell and flooded.

Door opens before I even get close to the knob. There used to be a screen door, but I finally just took the damn thing off. It's leaning against the side of the house now, gathering all sorts of rust and rips. Nowhere else to put it.

Bastion opens up, blue eyes widening when he sees the two new men. Kid is going to have plenty of males to potentially model himself after.

"Hey Imp, please tell me Asher isn't out in this? If he is, he isn't coming back in."

The amused warmth slipping into my head lets me know he's inside. I let him know we have company, but he can already tell that by scent. We file in, me in front and Xavier at the rear.
I head straight for my room where I lay the wet leather out on my bed. Don't know if it's waterproof or not, but I guess I'll learn soon enough. Heading back out, I snag a hair tie and pull mine back.

Makes my face look really round, but I could care less at this point. My socks get peeled off outside the bathroom and tossed into the hamper. I hate socks. Go without whenever possible. Have to wear 'em with shoes though, hence why I also hate shoes. It’s only in the last few years that I could stand flip-flops.

Walking back out and actually looking around this time, Bastion and Maii are at the table working on one of his puzzles, both taking looks at the newcomers. Asher is in his typical spot on my couch, the L shape now more of an I shape since his length takes up one whole side. Drives him nuts when Xavier gets his scent on it, which makes the wolf spend at least five to ten minutes rubbing all over it again.

"Orion pick up Faline?"

Chapter Text

Kierra

There’s nods all around yet Maii looks a little dejected. He had first met my sister at the bordello and had really taken to her, following her around. She pleaded with him to not go back when she did, not wanting him to be there.

Kind of have to agree with her. Since he doesn't speak, no one will know if he gets into trouble, unable to call for help. Since she's already in danger there, she didn't want to take him back into that. Walking over, I ruffle his hair, trying to get him to smile. Xavier had gone downstairs to do whatever with his leather coat, so I turn to the new wolves in my home.

"Alright, you know Xavier. The one on the couch is Asher, and this is Maii and Bastion. Animals and Imp, meet Zypher and his brother Shade. They helped me twice today, so don't be too horrible towards them."

The grin in my voice has my boys both smiling. The brothers each nod when his name is mentioned. Clearing my throat, I give a crooked grin while looking at the black wolf.

"If you value your bits attached, I'd stay off that side of the couch. Old man gets grumpy."

He sneezes, shaking his head.

"I'm told it's very uncommon to have a household like mine, so they might get a bit confused about the happenings here."

Kids look over with warm smiles.

"How did they help you?"

Asher sounds a little suspicious, but I think I've worked with him enough to not growl at everyone who comes near me. He still does at Xavier, just because the maned mutt does things just to get a rise out of the midnight wolf. Pulling the two empty chairs from the table, I offer them to the brothers.

I went from having more than enough sitting spots to not enough real quick over the past month. They take them and set them near the door where they sit with coats still on. Drawing eyebrows together, I hold out my hand.

"Can take your coats off. You act like you're going to bolt out of the door. I promise you that as long as you harm none here, no harm will come to you."

Sheepish smiles form as they remove them and hang them on the back of their seats. Guess that'll do. Looking back over to Asher, I answer his question.

"Couple Vamps jumped me and Xavier as we left the bar for the first time, the second time was when a few humans got uppity and tried following us."

I touch my cheek, rotating my jaw around. Twinges a bit, but that's all. Not even a bruise. He hit hard, but not hard enough it would seem. Got so used to the harder punches of supernaturals that it's almost like I don't feel a human’s hit at all. Neat.

Asher seems to start talking to each one, he looks at them and they at him. Xavier comes up from below as I head for the counter and the stack of bread. I love my bread. That's why my hips are like, a mile wide. Xavier sweeps up the open loaf and moves away with it.

"Oi, honky, you don't eat it right, give up the goods."

Each animal and person that lives in this house knows how I am with bread. The day I'd first met the Red Wolves, I actually shared my bread with him that I had gotten from an Italian bistro, and he literally just wolfed it down. Had to teach him how to savor it and things just kind of came out wrong.

Now he takes pleasure in teasing me with it when at home. Shade and Zypher look over at us as I cross my arms and tap my foot. I know better than to try and reach for it, he just holds it up higher.

I'm not the monkey climber my sister is, so I have to resort to other matters. He spins the bag open and snitches a slice before handing it back. Looking me dead in the face when he just shoves the whole thing in his mouth.

Eyes narrowing, I grab up a potholder and throw it at him. He ducks easily and just grins with his chipmunk cheeks. Pulling myself up onto the island counter, I set the bag next to me and go about eating.

Always get asked how I can eat plain bread. Quite easily actually. Better plain most times than with other stuff on it, as long as it's soft.

"Just you wait, chipmunk face. Your time is coming."

My eyes stay narrowed at him while I eat the bread how it's supposed to be eaten; with relish and much pleasure. With guys in the house now, I don't go all orgasmic-face as I did before when teasing Faline.

"There's a right and a wrong way to eat bread?"

Zypher sounds amused but curious too, so I nod at him.

"Mhmm, how chubby-cheeks there eats it is wrong. Sacrilegious."

He chuckles as I eyeball the maned mutt. I offer them food and they take it. While they eat, I remember what Alarico wanted me to tell Asher. Slipping into his head a little hesitantly, he looks at me in question.

Whispering to him that I have a message, it gets replayed in my head for him. When finished, he pulls away. I let him, fighting my own sadness for him. Pulling out my phone, I call one of the good Vamps.

"Ahoy, Benji. Do you have the equipment to play tapes from a video recorder?"

"Well hello and good morning to you too."

Can hear the smile in his voice, so he must not have been asleep yet, or recently woke up. Either way.

"To answer your question, yes I do. Just not here, it's at my place."

Ah. He's at work. Benjamin Thomas is an editor in the basement of the publisher I used to be with. The guy owning the place is a real douche bag, so I split from him. That reminds me, I need to send out a couple emails.

"Is it portable?"

"Not exactly."

Never been to his place so have no idea where it's at. Calling Xavier over to me, I ask him if he can drive my jeep. An eyebrow raises, yet he nods.

"Mkay, if I have Xavier drop it off to you, can you get what's on it back to me later tonight?"

"Sure. I'm at the office right now, had just gotten in when you called."

Called it.

"Cool, I'm not gonna send him till the rain lets up though, so it may be a few before he gets there. Don't see you goin' anywhere, so I'm sure you'll be around."

My jab at him not being able to go out into the light gets me a long suffered 'ha ha ha'. For some reason, it just now pops into my head that he can hear it when Gary, my old publisher, is screwing women in his office. I choke on my bread from the visuals. Since I've walked in on him, it's pretty horrible.

"Are you alright?"

"Oh God, Ben. Eww, I am so sorry. It just dawned on me that you can hear his romping. You poor thing. No wonder you get so cranky."

I can hear his grunt, Xavier laughs, while everyone else just looks confused.

"And now you know why I have headphones down here."

Oh. Yeah, that does make sense now. Never really thought about it, figuring they were for music. Heh.

"I take it he hasn't had that heart attack yet."

When I had accidentally walked in on Gary pounding the poor secretary, he hadn't looked very healthy with all the huffing and puffing he'd been doing. The woman had been bent over his desk and wasn't enjoying it much by the looks of it. She'd looked rather bored.

"Sadly not, but there's always tomorrow."

Probably shouldn't, but I laugh at that. Saying our goodbyes, I hang up. Closing up my bread and hopping down, the computer gets turned on. Everyone looks at me.

"My old boss is a real douche who's really big on sexual harassment and drilling women in his office, which is right above Benjamin's, who happens to be a Vamp."

They finally get it. Asking Asher if he's had anything, he lets me know he hunted at Ava's. Bastion's been really good on keeping food and water topped off for my fat cat, as well as catpan duty. Perfectly fine with me. I hate cleaning that thing.

"Can you guys fill Shade and Zypher in on tales and prophecies about what's going on? I need to get a couple messages sent out so I don't lose connections that I will need at some point."

I ask it distractedly, but pretty sure they will. Have to email the other publishers I had inquired into and let them know that with family members having problems, I won't be able to get to my writing for a while. Send those off then send another that's almost the same to the marketing manager that I had wanted to keep, asking her to keep me in her books. I've sent these out before, but I still want to keep in some kind of contact with them. Make a side note for her though that if she does anything with art marketing, to let me know.

That gets sent off and I think of the art gallery in Rockford that likes featuring my stuff. Since I won't be able to get much, if any, writing done, I need to work on my other profession more.
I've got two paintings done already, just not taken in. Right now they're hanging from the bookshelves behind the T.V. stand. Didn't get any more done since I wanted to spend as much time with my sister as I could before she left.

The wood-burning commissions I was able to get done during the times she couldn't go out. She and I love the smell of burning wood, super noses have made it a bit stronger, but not horribly so. Depending on the type of wood also depends on the scent too, which just makes things interesting.

While I worked on them she and the kids would be doing some food making in the kitchen or some crafting of their own. Xavier spent the time playing his guitar or working out outside, and Asher went back and forth between inside and out. Getting the pieces shipped out was the fun part. I hate shipping.

Mom had decided to take a vacation with a friend of hers, for which I'm grateful for right now since it keeps her away from Faline and I with all the dangers we bring to those around us. She's supposed to call us each night to let us know she's alright, but she's taken to sending texts instead. That in itself is fine, but I will be calling at some point just to make sure it's her sending them.

Didn't notice them all talking, but when they all go quiet is when it draws my attention. I'd moved around to stand in front of the paintings that'd been finished; the one done of Asher walking out from dark trees, where the only real color in it is his blue-green eyes and the silver pendant at his neck. The necklace he'd been wearing when my sister and I first met him. It was his wife's, but at some point he had gone and buried it in her favorite park. Not sure why he did it, but as long as it gave him some peace to do so, I don't see the harm.

The other is the one I titled ' Claim ', it has me and Nicolaus, the Vampire who had my sister, facing off over her ocelot wearing a defiant look. A face resembling my own on one side and his on the other with the blazing orange eyes he has.

Both with lips pulled back and teeth bared, his being the Vamp fangs while my top and bottom canines are elongated. Not like the old movie ridiculously-sized-for-my-mouth-teeth either. Elongated does not mean massive.

When everything goes silent, I turn back to face the room. Even laying on his legs, Asher can still look over the couch with no problem, which he's doing now. Xavier’s on the other end of the couch, boys at the kitchen table and brothers in the chairs. All staring at me.

Blink blink.

"What?"

"Your sister is the one in the Vampire telling?"

I nod slowly, tilting my head at Shade. While his brother is outspoken, he's more reserved, shy. At first I thought he was giving the cold shoulder, but as I've seen him interact with us at the bar then the others since being here, it's more obvious.

"And you're both being targeted so 'change' is prevented?"

"By certain factions, yeah. Those from today being from a couple I'd imagine. Not sure yet just how many in the undead community knows about her. Benjamin does, he was here when we were all told. Him I trust, my sister I trust. The one who turned her I clearly do not and will slaughter him the first chance I get."

With Faline being in love with him it complicates things, but I already told her I can’t forgive him for what he's done. Any opportunity I have, I will take. Have already told the others that they’re not to touch him, that he’s mine.

"The humans, however, I have no clue what their deal is. Could either be mixed up in the Flesh ring or with one of the paranormal groups who have it out for us."

"Flesh ring?"

Oops. Oh well. If they stick around, even in town, they need to know. Drawing in a lot of air and releasing, I begin laying it out. When they make glances at the boys, I just smile.

"They are mine, if any touch them they are instantly dead. I also want them aware of what's going on, so they know to be watchful. Bastion especially, since there is a specific man looking for him and claiming familial ownership. Calling himself his uncle. He isn't, and when I find him, I plan on making his death very painful."

I look over to Bastion, my eyes going yellow as I reinforce my promise to him.

"I gave my word he would die, and I will make sure it happens. Like I told Alarico, the Red Pack Alpha, this man will be killed, even if I have to make a bloody swath through the city to do it. I’m not bloodthirsty, not that much, but he needs to die."

The brothers watch me carefully, so I turn my eyes to them.

"The man looking for him is part of a human trafficking ring that deals in all species. The reason I was at the bar was 'cause he had gone in looking for a pale wolf. Alarico had at first thought I had kidnapped him, but that was quickly rectified. Orion, who's a Clan lion, has been looking for those missing, my sister had found one who went to the bordello..."

"Your sister is at a whorehouse?"

I glare hard at Zypher. His outspokenness is gonna get him into trouble if he’s not careful.

"Yes, she's at a 'whorehouse'. She'd been held captive there and became friends with many of the people within. A few Vamps will keep watch over her as well as humans and animals. As Orion put it, she is a favorite there. Not because she opens her legs, but because she helps care for the ones there."

My voice is hard, anger picking up. His gray-blue eyes drop as he gives ground. I can detect no anger in the movement and they've both been blocking me from reading them.

"As I was saying, Faline had come across a man there who was trying to rape a child. She strung him up and found out that he was also part of the ring. She didn't know much about it at that point and gave him over to the lion I mentioned."

Shade's nodding, really thinking about everything, his brother had looked back up when I started speaking again. The younger brother’s eyebrows draw together.

"You said 'was', I take it that means he no longer lives?"

My smile tells him all he needs to know, his head inclining.

"Real messed up part is the man was a lawyer. Faline had found out that not only was he part of the ring, being one who scouts out those who are to be taken, but that there are several city officials and other high members of society that are as well. Lawyers, judges, cops, and a priest."

They both scowl hard. Good, glad to know they find it just as fucked as I do.

"The lawyers in the ring work to recruit pedophiles, murderers, and drug dealers, or participate in the flesh retrieved. Judge to get their sentences changed or revoked, technicalities that get them released. Cops buy or rent what's offered and ignore what they see on the streets. She had pulled back before she could get any more, so I'm not sure what the priest is doing."

Just the thought of someone supposedly of the church wanting to have anything to do with this is upsetting. I don't believe in any one specific God, being more... Spiritual, I guess.

Can't even say that since Vampires and Werewolves are real that the devil is too because we aren't made by the ways the movies and stories predict. Well, sort of. I haven't actually asked where each race comes from, and I've yet to see any from Above or Below.

We aren't demons, just a different species. History wise, I'm sure many years ago it was safer for Vamps to be in coffins, so that's how that one would have gotten started. Same with needing to be underground or sleeping during the day.

Vampires can be up, they're weakened and can't go into the sunlight, but they can move around. Okay, so there are some magics mixed in with all of us, but I'm sure that is residual from magic being a big thing thousands of years ago. Hey, it's possible.

Silver does not hurt Vamps or Weres, it's just metal, nothing to do with the silver coins of a traitor. It's platinum, actually, that can seriously injure us. That whole thing of not being originally from this planet or whatever, not entirely sure.

Stake through the heart? Uh, we are living beings, you try to live with your heart being full of anything, let alone wood, and see you not die.

I'm sure the very old vampires and even Weres could actually survive it if they're powerful enough. Wolfsbane could possibly cause issues since it is toxic. Am I missing anything? Probably. There's a lot of bollocks going around.

Blinking, I realize I've gone off into space again. Whoops. Clearing my throat as my cheeks tinge pink, I get back on track again.

"Benjamin has been working on getting more from his end. Just has to be careful with his hacking as well as Vamp rules. He's technically not allowed to interfere, but he's doing it as a personal favor for me."

Not to mention I kind of screwed with his head. It wasn't intentional by any means, was a new ability manifesting and having a weird effect on the living impaired.

One of my abilities is to call a supernatural’s animal to the surface, making them shift. When it happened to Ben, it created some kind of link between us. I think it's my scent that triggers it, too much of it and it's like he's drunk. But again, I'm not sure. Would probably be safer just to stay away from him, but he's a friend that's done a lot for me.

"Each member seems to have an alias, but many know each other in public circles so I'm not sure what the point is. Frank Mallory, the one looking for my Imp, is referred to as the 'Banker'. Not sure if it's because he's an accountant in public or if it's because he deals with the finances of the ring that works in this area. Either way, that's something else Ben is doing; steadily draining all the accounts; sending the money elsewhere or just stashing it."

Can money be deleted? If it's electronic it should be able to, right? Eh, whatever. Out of sight out of mind one way or another.

"Another thing Alarico wanted me for, was my help with the same thing. He's been collecting information on those taken. He has a stack of file folders that are probably all that's left of many of them. Going back fifteen years at least. Shifters, Weres, and a few humans in the ones he's collected. Instead of the amount going down with technology getting better, it has increased."

That's one thing that's been confusing me. With all of the modern-day cameras, satellite pictures, forensics, and computer tracking, why is this getting progressively worse? Breaking eye contact with them all, I start pacing from one bookshelf to another.

This side of the house, the living room, is filled with wall to wall shelving, at least pretty close to anyway. Outside left corner has Tigger's cat tree, the three windows on this side are also open spaced. Books, DVDs, games, and knick-knacks fill the shelves.

A single bookshelf to the right of the desk fills the wall space between it and the door to the basement. It's lower shelves I'd cleared for Bastion to keep the assorted stuff I've gotten him. For right now though, I'm basically pacing from cat tree to inside right corner of the living room.
Not a very large space, especially with the television stand in the way, but enough to work as I think aloud.

"For the ‘missing’ body count to have gone from what it was then to what it is now, is quite a leap. Population increase? Higher demand? Only kept for a span of time before they're killed, animals are able to last longer but spirits can still be broken. Crime rate? High crime rate could be a cover for the abductions. I didn't see on any of the files that bodies were found, even human ones."

I go from walking flat-footed to the balls of my feet. The habitual thing I usually do randomly, moreso lately.

"Plenty of bodies come out of the river each year, let alone from the state parks around. The bordello is in a wetlands area... Which is probably flooding all to hell right now if they're getting the same downpour we are. His files weren't just from here but several counties surrounding this one."

Considering I didn't know there was a wetlands forest preserve right here in Winnebago, that should tell you just how much I've gotten around. I've been into some areas of Wisconsin, but that about covers my travel knowledge.

"From what I've seen on media and read about, human trafficking is usually done in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Vegas, or some other larger populated areas. We're in a central state. Lots of prostitutes down in Rockford...would they be part of it? Plenty of state lines around, are they peddling drugs to?"

I stop at the window in the kitchen, the lower half had been painted over so Faline could be up and around in here if she wanted. The upper half is covered by both blinds and drapes. Several other windows have been painted as well, either looking like stained glass or some wildlife scene that I could do quickly.

This one, weirdly, is fish. Had left the small window that the cat tree is next to uncovered for the cat to have his kitty T.V. and sunbaths. I'm not all that big on fish, last time I had one I killed it from me keeping my room so cold. Wasn't intentional, just didn't think about it.

Besides, I like color, and most of the time the ones with a lot of colors are saltwater based and need specific care. The whole point of having a fish is that it's a minimal care animal. Sealife critters are not minimum care whatsoever. Staring out the window, I hear them chatting behind me. Mostly block it out though as I think of other things. Plenty of other things to think about.

Like fish, apparently.

"All those taken were either kids or young adults, ones who can't fight as hard as a full adult can. At ages where submissiveness is more often common than not. Teenagers can be hotheads but it's mostly bluster. Are the Vamps against my sister and I part of this?"

I scowl at the little motionless fishies on the window since they provide no answers.

"You know, this is what pisses me off about all the animal groups and even the Vampires. If you'd actually communicate with each other, shit like this would either not happen or have a lot fewer victims. But nooo, you all have to be silent, unsocialized, tight asses. Even if it's just talking between the animals and not the undead, it's something. Best believe if it were my kids I'd be talking to every beast out there."

Turning, I glare at all of the adults. Eyes doing the flip-floppy thing again; going from yellow to green several times.

"What's the damn point of having a ruling council if they do nothing for those they're supposed to be looking over? I've already mentioned to Alarico that after this Ring is taken care of, I plan on having chats with these people. If I'm supposed to affect all this change, then they are who I will start with."

Stunned surprise is shown on every face, even pick it up from Asher. He more than anyone should want this, just because he'd gone to them for help and was brushed aside. When he'd first told me what happened, I wanted nothing to do with them, but seeing just how bad it is, I can't just stand here and do nothing.

Bastion has a look of pleased excitement on his face that I'm not sure he even realizes he's showing. Rewinding my words in my head, I find that I had said 'my kids'. Ahh. Well, he might as well be with the way I treat him.

Since the guys have yet to say anything, my heart sinks just a little, but I stiffen my spine.

"None of you have to do this with me, I've claimed it as my own thing. If you're uncomfortable with it though, I'm going to have to ask you to leave. I can't have anyone here that will flip fences on me."

Sure they all know that if they did, I would try to kill them, even Asher. Would kill a part of me to do so, but to protect those with me, I'll do what I have to. Would hurt with Xavier as well, after all the help he's given me up to this point.

Warmth fills my head, pride, and a lot of love slip in from the black wolf. Don't think he meant for me to feel the love part, so I hide my shock of it. Eyes go from him to each of the others, not exactly lingering, but showing them that I'm very serious.

Xavier recovers next, his grin wide and a glint in his eye. I know that glint. He's always up for causing trouble with me. With me, not for me. His and Asher's acceptance releases a large amount of my anxiety.

Looking back to the brothers who have yet to say anything, I try reading them without intruding into their heads. Their thoughts are their own, I just want them to be honest with me. Zypher and Shade's expressions change just about the same time, similar looks to that of Xavier's. Gotta love that about wolves; always up to dish out some trouble.

Upon seeing their expressions, I relax fully and give them a small smile, pretty sure the relief is plain on my face. Emotion gathers behind my eyes that have finally settled to my normal bright green, but I blink it away, hiding it by looking out Tigger's window.

The rain has let up, still coming down, but it isn't a solid shower. The brothers stand and come to me, so I look back to them a bit warily. Something awkward is about to happen, I can feel it. Both kneel down in front of me.

Oh yeah, really awkward.

"I think I speak for both of us in asking if you'll let us stay."

Double entendre there I'm sure. Since I kind of already figured it'd happen, I had prepared mentally for it. Wasn't expecting the kneeling thing though.

Looking into each set of eyes, I finally nod. It was Zypher that had spoken, and his brother shares his same conviction. With red cheeks, I motion for them to stand.

Chapter Text

Kierra

I had to work with Maii on doing crap like that. When he first came here, he was so scared of me that not only would he not really look at me, but he'd kept dropping to his knees whenever in human form. Faline had helped me, having to do the same with him when they had met.

"Are you going to keep collecting the strays of the world?"

Asher's amusement is tinged with something else, but as soon as it's there it's gone again. His low whispers play in my head.

"They keep finding me, not the other way around."

"Yes, but you keep them. I have yet to be able to drive out the last adult you brought in."

My sudden laughter in the near silence has Maii jumping up and shifting immediately. Whoops.

"Oh, Maii, I'm sorry. Blame Asher, he's being mean."

The small, white-masked coyote peeks out from inside the shirt he had on, the visual so cute I burn it into my brain to sketch out later. My fingers itch to hold pencil or brush.

"Does he do that often?"

Zypher sounds amused as he watches white-tipped ears pop out of the bottom hem. Sable-colored with lots of black on his back, white underparts as well as his ear tips and the almost skull-looking mask on his face. Bastion helps him out with a smile and picks up the clothes afterward.

"Sort of. He's really skittish. From what I understand about Shifters is until they reach their twenties, they have issues with controlling their shifting. Maii doesn't speak, so none of us know much about where he came from or how old he is. I'm guessing late teens though."

Shade looks over at him curiously while asking a question that kind of irks me.

"You took in someone you know nothing of, who doesn’t speak, and doesn't have control of themselves?"

Crossing my arms and running my eyes down him when he looks back at me, my scowl is very evident.

"Took you in, didn't I? What do I know about you? Seems you have no control of your rudeness, and you rarely talk either."

The shame and embarrassment crossing his face as he drops his eyes makes me feel a little guilty. Using someone's emotions against them like that is a terrible thing to do. Still only a few feet from me, I go up to him and touch his arm.

"I'm sorry. When I get defensive I don't have much control of my mouth either."

I give a crooked smile, hoping he sees my sincerity. Seems to when he returns the expression. Looking over both of them again, I try to figure out what they did before coming to me. Zypher is a couple inches over six-foot with thick shoulders and a muscular build pegging him as someone physical. Both are tanned and tattooed, hadn't seen it at first with their coats on. Both are wearing jeans, boots, and t-shirts too.

Shade is also muscular but in a much slimmer way. His shoulders wide, but not as wide as his brother’s, and looks to be six-foot exactly. With their attitudes, they could really have been anything, yet the tattoos throw me off.

"So just what did you guys do before coming here?"

I ask, but I'm focused on their ink. I have a thing for tats, what can I say. Have a few of my own that end up covered most of the time. Which was kind of the point since for the longest time there the job market was all 'showing tattoos is taboo' bullshit. A smirking older bro is who answers me.

"We moved around up north quite a bit. Most recently I was a bouncer at a club that Shade bartended at. He may be shy, but when put behind a bar, he becomes a totally different person. That’s how we ended up being at the bar today. We didn’t know you were there, we were looking for work."

Nodding, my eyes go to Shade’s sky blue ones, his blush looking adorable on such a dominant appearing male. Complete personality change. Interesting. Should have figured those lines for Zypher, he has that look about him.

"Do you have anything you need to get from somewhere?"

They both nod, so I look out the window again then back to Xavier.

"Feel like driving? Rain has slowed way down."

He smiles and jumps up. Knew he would, seems to like driving the jeep, although I pictured him more as a motorcycle guy. Gathering coats back up, they head out.

"Don't forget to drop the tape off to Benjamin."

"Aye' aye Cap'n."

Dude is older than Asher by quite a few years yet acts like you'd expect a twenty-year-old to. I need to get a dart gun for moments like this. He just gets waved out instead.

Since it warmed up quite a bit from hours before with all the snow, I leave the door open. Tigger might go out to the porch, but with it raining, that's as far as he'll go. Maii is coming out from the bathroom all dressed again, looking a little sheepish. I give him a warm smile. Asher lays his head back down, eyes dropping to doze.

Grabbing up the papers that need to be filled out for the boys to go to school, I fill out as much as possible, asking them a few just in case they might know, like allergies or health problems. As far as Bastion knows he doesn't have any of either, and Maii shrugs. Very helpful.

I'll be very happy when he learns to write, it’ll make things a lot easier to answer. Only takes at most ten minutes to get 'em finished and put up on the fridge in a clip. Don't need them getting lost in the mess that has become the desk.

While the boys go back to their puzzle, I get back on the computer to check just how much I have in the bank. Last good shopping trip took a big gouge out of it. With all the people I seem to keep 'collecting', as Asher would put it, another couch is needed.

Since the television hasn't been getting used, the question comes up of unplugging and putting it against the back wall, flush to the bookshelf. Flatscreen and stand aren't all that big or wide, so should work. Don't see myself doing much reading anytime soon, so having some shelves blocked isn't that big a deal.

The animal encyclopedias that I had taken down for the Imp get left on the coffee table now so he can read through them, any other books I'd need for anything are put elsewhere as well. Might need to stick a sheet or something over the television so it doesn't reflect light everywhere.
Dreading opening the account page, I do it quickly. My eyes widen, then narrow as I look at the balance. That isn't right, it should be way lower. Pursing my lips, I grab my phone and text a certain Vampire.

Sending the question of him dropping money into my account, I feel conflicted about it. It's blood money, but money is money in this world. If you really think about it, all currency is gotten by blood in one way or another.

During my wait for his reply, I bring up another tab and start looking through cheap but real sturdy couches. Another ‘L’ shaped one would be good, but I think I need something bigger since everyone but me is over seven-foot. Major exaggeration there, but that's what it feels like most days.

The reply comes, and I frown at first at the response, but then just shake my head with a small lip lift. His wink face response kinda says it all. Small emoji of rolling eyes gets sent back, shortly followed by a thank you.

For there to be that much in my account, he's had to have been slipping it in since we first talked about this whole mess. Considering he's not supposed to be doing it, period, not counting human laws here, Benji could get in deep shit if he's found out. I know he'd cover up where the cash is going, so I don't have to worry about that, but I still do anyway.

Out of curiosity, I bring up the ones I made for Bastion and Maii. Sure enough, both of them are larger as well. Bastion's being moreso since his is older. Faline's has been added to as well. When stealing money from major players like that, you only want to do small amounts at a time so it isn't noticeable. Really only get caught if they have very attentive whoever's looking after them. Small amounts usually get counted off as either little bank mistakes or one of their own siphoning and stealing from the collective. Least that's what I think, I could be totally wrong.

Closing bank pages out, I go couch shopping. Still plan on going cheap, but if sturdy is wanted, it won't be that cheap. Looking up a used one does not sound appealing at all when you'd be bringing in other people’s funk. Even without super noses, it would be obvious.

Spending a couple minutes on yet another tab looking through pictures, I finally find what the couch is called that I'm looking for. Feel pretty stupid for not already knowing it when I own one. ‘Sectional sofas’. Have to get up and retrieve measurements real quick, getting weird looks from sleepy ocean eyes that I ignore. I look for immediate delivery as well. The biggest problem I'm gonna have is my OCD kicking in when mud gets tracked in. Can't be helped and I know that, but that doesn't stop the craziness from rearing its head.

A white couch is also not a good idea. Slipping a look over to the giant black mass that has covered the end with not only his scent but small tufts of very black fur... The couch itself is a darker shade of some kind of brown, yet still shows all the shedding. Yeah, anything white is a no-go. Would be anyway when you call into account an orange tabby, a spotted and striped ocelot, and my painting. That last one is a big one as I don't always realize I have wet paint on me when I plop down. So even though it's mostly brown, it does have a spattering of other colors.

Picturing in my head of how things need to be moved around, I pick out one that is a close color to what I have, but then change my mind when I see the dark green one. I think it'd look okay, but I'm no interior decorator. Meh.

Shaped more as a squared ‘U’, just with one side a little shorter. That end doesn't have much back to it so it looks like a bigger cushion. Also comes with one of those pieces that I think started out as a footrest but morphed into its own large sitting spot.

For shits and giggles, I also get an area rug for it too. Weird looking shag thing that looks like leafy ground cover; a 'Safavieh Handmade Decorative Rio Shag Natural Area Rug'. Quite a fancy mouthful for a multiple brown-colored area shag, but whatever.

I think it'll look good with the green and brown couches, but again, I'm no decorator. Once ordered and paid for, immediate delivery requested since it’s local, which of course raises price - it's in transit. Woot. Now to move stuff out of the way.

Hope they're able to get through the front door...would really suck if they couldn't. I'll be all sad-faced. Having sent an email out earlier to the Rockford Art Gallery director, I check for a response. Nothing yet. Kinda figured, it's still pretty early.

Might be why delivery had cost so much. Oh well. Putting the computer on standby, I get up and start moving things. Asher grumbles when I make him move. It wasn't necessary, I just felt like annoying him. So of course in retaliation, he goes in and starts rolling around on my bed. Not like I've been using it, so go right ahead. Not hurting me none.

Definitely going to have to cover the television screen. Changing my mind, since I don't want it getting knocked into on accident, the whole T.V. and stand setup gets wheeled into my room. Asher is all up on my pillows, having moved them to the center of the bed where he's laying on them.

"Talk about a pampered pooch..."

My jab just gets a snort. The stand is moved to the wall behind the door, pushed into the corner. Just enough space between the end of it and where the door would go if opened all the way. It never is, but better safe than sorry.

Once the ‘L’ sofa is moved to its new spot with the coffee table pushed aside for now, the small rug under its feet going with it, the back door is opened. The easel goes out and gets set up after checking to make sure the rain isn't blowing towards the porch. Don't want to start anything with it yet though, since when I start I'm not going to stop.

Having totally spaced out, I tell the boys that a new couch is coming. I know Asher can hear me, so I don't bother going back to tell him. Grabbing some juice then plopping down with my sketchbook, I lose myself.

I start with the picture I have of Maii in my head with him peeking out of his shirt. Each person does their sketches differently, adding more or less detail. Since most of mine get put on canvases, detail would be considered relatively sparse.

Not much color gets added to mine either, don't see the point unless it’s to put emphasis on something, or placed as reminders for specific colors to use when ink is used. What I more or less focus the most detail on is the expressions. On natural animal faces, some expressions are very hard or not possible to get across.

Have to go more by body language unless you go with a slight alteration; turning them anthropomorphic, bipedal, or 'furry'. I can do each, just have to be careful since when most people see 'furry', they automatically think sex-crazed people in animal suits and porn. Granted there's a large part of the community that's that way, but there are two sides, just like any fandom.

Sex-crazed porn being on one side, while those more into the art and losing themselves in the animal they want to be, are on the other. Most in that community are also some of the nicest people you'll ever meet, known to also raise money for many different charities and causes.
In most of my paintings going into the gallery, I try to keep as realistic as possible with how the animals look but do add little tweaks so I get the expressions I want. I'd done fantasy prints of Werewolves before I even knew they were real, kind of surprises me that I hadn't been approached before. Maybe Weres don't go to art shows. Vampires clearly do.

The Mistress of the bordello my sister is at has one of my larger prints that I'd done around three years ago. A three-year-old painting that had been almost a foretelling of what has become our 'now'. Pale wolf with green eyes back to back with a feline with eyes of gold. Made out as ghostly, wispy creatures, but still obvious as to what they are. Had been done after I got the image from a dream and had to get it down. Wasn't sketched out before it was put on the canvas, so the original picture from my head was a bit vague.

That one is also what links my sister and I to the prophecies for each race, years before we even knew this darker world existed. Also curious as to why the Vampire bought it in the first place. If I recall, there’d been a lot of money offered for it, a little over three times what the starting price was and it wasn’t cheap.

Maii's face is given a startled expression, most of it in the eyes and ears since he's mostly hidden. Even give the same background that's there in reality, minus Bastion of course. Kitchen table legs, a chair behind him, wooden floor, and the pants to go with the shirt. Can't help but smile as I get it penciled out. It's horrible that he's so jumpy but funny at the same time since it has him morphing at the oddest of times. Won't be able to really take him out in public till he has better control, which I hope the school will help him with.

The page gets turned to a new sheet, an idea coming to me as Maii's still in my head while Tigger walks by with a toy mouse in his mouth, doing his calling kittens routine. With the way he does that and has attached himself to Xavier, I'm starting to think my cat is gay. Thought doesn't bother me at all, find it rather funny instead. Don't see why people have an issue with homosexuality, if it's natural in the animal kingdom itself, it is for humans as well. Yes, it is a natural thing. You don't like it, that's fine, but don't be shoveling your shit onto someone else because you don't like what they do with their lives.

Coyote form once again, this time a side view as his front half is lowered in a bow, a pose meant for initiating play. Open jaw with tongue slightly out as he looks at a toy mouse just in front of his nose. Not sure what to do for a background, so I make it again my wooden floor with the kitchen as a faded backdrop. Have to admit the little guy is cute.

Another page turned, each sketch only takes around twenty-five to thirty minutes to do. When I have the image in my head that I really want, it doesn't take long to get it down. Again, also quick because I don't go into major detail since I plan on painting it.

Next are snow leopards, two of them. Large mama cat curled around a much smaller kitten, the adult faces out towards the artist, while the small kitten stands on its hind legs to catch snowflakes as it snows. Ava and Lily sure are a couple of really pretty kitties.

I’m just finishing up some last detailing on a snowy background when Xavier and crew pull up. Placement of my current couch is set aside for the other to come in, but it's not in its permanent spot, just put directly in view of the open door so I can see who pulls in.

Putting the sketchbook on the desk, I go to the doorway and watch two vehicles come up the driveway. Going out onto the porch, I direct the brothers to pull their black truck up to the opposite side so the furniture truck can get through easier. Should have figured they'd have a truck. Seems everyone from Wisconsin owns at least one. Trucks and motorcycles being the most common vehicles, followed by jeeps and SUVs. Only reason I know that is from the year I'd lived up there with my father.

The bigger vehicles used for boat haulers, jeeps for mudding, and bikes for all the biker bars. You couldn't go past a block that didn't have a bar on it in one form or another. Bowling alleys, dance clubs, strip-joint here and there. Can basically call Wisconsinites northern hillbillies. Bunch of drunks and partiers, but not too much in a bad way. Speaking of which, once the truck pulls over to the side, there's a bike hooked up in the bed with a nearly shredded cover attempting to conceal it. Figures.

"Hope you don't plan on riding that thing anytime soon, I'm not digging you out when you go flying into a snow mound."

Zypher laughs, so I take it the bike is his. Shade does seem to be the more sensible one. But really, does a truck need to be that high off the ground?

"Y’all and your long-ass legs don't need huge vehicles you know, I'm sure a regular-sized one would have worked just fine. Compensating for something, maybe?"

I grin and waggle my brows at Shade, his brother roaring in laughter claps him on the back.

"She figured you out bro, no fighting it now."

Chuckling, I shake my head. Really can do without the knowledge of how big the animals in my house are in the bits section. Bad enough I know Xavier's and Benjamin's. Hell, Xavier has mooned my sister. Full moon too, no half or quarter. Having been standing in my doorway and bending over for some reason or another when she had come up behind him. Since that had been unintentional, he blushed mighty prettily. Come to think about it, aside from the newcomers, think everyone in my house has seen that mutt nude at some point. My poor virtue is at stake just about every day. Ha.

"What you have 'em pull over there for?"

Speaking of the mutt, he looks a little confused.

"I ordered a new couch that should be here soon...real pretty one."

He looks horrified for a moment.

"God, it isn't pink is it?"

A snort escapes me. I'm not very fond of the color, but I'll make an exception for his face.

"Yes, Xavier, it's a bright pretty pony-pink with red ruffles and yellow throw pillows."

"...That has got to be the most hideous thing I've ever pictured."

I laugh, he laughs, everyone laughs.

"Gary give you any trouble when you were there?"

Gary Rhodes, slimeball extreme.

"He was in a meeting that didn't involve humping this time."

I give an over-exaggerated shocked face while Shade and Zypher pull out large backpacks from the truck. Geez, do males not need clothes or something? Granted I don't own as much as my sister does by a long shot, but enough to say I can wear a week's worth without using anything twice.

"Are all loners such light packers?"

Bit of a silly question, I know, but I'm still curious. They all nod with a smirk or grin. Uh oh…

"Be glad we have what we do. I'm sure the three of us have come across one or two that have nothing but a pouch with condoms."

The sad part is, they all nod, even the one in on my bed.

"That's just disturbing, but I guess safe sex is better than no sex. Speaking of which, you two, if you want lady friend time, it doesn't happen here. Boys and I are scarred enough by the Dogdeer flashing everyone, don't need sound effects to go with it."

Shudder up my back is the real thing. If I'm the one making the sounds with a partner, that's one thing. Hearing someone else with theirs is just grody.

Xavier makes a face that has me blushing, Zypher groans in mock horror while his brother laughs at him and Asher's in my head also claiming mental scars. Clearing my throat, I get everyone back on track.

"Want to show 'em downstairs? Zypher, I think I have an extra tarp down there big enough if you'd like it?"

Both brothers nod, so Xavier gets asked to show them where it is. Not like my basement is super huge or anything, just lots of stacked tubs down there that keep getting stacked higher and higher to make more room.

Down and back up within a few minutes, the tarp is within hand. It's one of those large gray ones. Original plan was to have it cover the floor and paint inside, but fumes don't care for enclosed areas. Think I like doing it outside better anyway.

While Shade and his brother work on getting the bike re-covered, the rain slows even more to a mist. Bit late for the tarp, but it'll keep from anymore getting on it. Zypher's under the tarp and wiping the thing down with a rag he pulls from the saddlebags while I look on.

Xavier moves to stand next to me, rubbing his neck. Wouldn't really have paid attention, but where he's rubbing is where I had bitten him. Wasn't entirely intentional; Faline and I had started horsing around when he, Benjamin, and Asher read it as us actually fighting and they pulled us apart. Doing so caused things to go all wonky, her and I sinking into each other’s drives as well as our own. Battle lust and bloodlust mixing and creating a volatile energy.

If they'd left us alone, we would have stopped on our own without anyone getting hurt. Xavier had grabbed me while Ben grabbed her. I turned on him, craving a good fight that went into wanting to either bleed him or screw him. I'd chosen to spill blood. Top and bottom canines had extended and sank into the side of his neck. Same thing happened between the two Vampires. She'd told me sometime after that biting between Vampires provides no nourishment, but works as a type of foreplay.

The bite has varying degrees of how strong it works, from just getting wet and horny to a full-blown orgasm. Since Vamp fluids don't agree with my blood very well, I don't get those reactions at all. Seems I got the short end of the stick on that one. Or so you'd think till you realize just how badly it can go when turned against you. Faline mentioned it's been used against her a few times, that's how she knows there are different levels of it. I didn't ask what she'd done to Benji, it was a bit obvious when he stood and had wet pants.

Things were a bit awkward for a while between them, probably would’ve been with me and Xavier since he'd gotten a raging boner, but I had gotten so angry with them all that I'd gone outside and painted for several hours. Watching him now, I begin to dread my bite did something along those lines to him.

"Xavier, sit."  

Chapter Text

Kierra

I think I startle him since he jumps slightly. There's a table and a couple chairs on the right side of the porch, so I direct him to one. He looks a little confused but does as I say.

"You've been rubbing your neck, do you realize you're doing it?"

At first, I can see the amusement forming in his eyes, then he has to think about it.

"No, not really. Been twinging a little for a couple of days now."

Visibly wincing, I go to the side that he's been rubbing. When first given, blood had been drawn and pressure used so it looked like a wicked hickey.

"Have you noticed you're rubbing where you were bitten? I didn't think it that deep, was something damaged?"

Feeling really guilty, I move his hand away. The area is red from his grabbing but all the bruising is gone as well as the bite holes. There is something there, however, and it causes my spine to stiffen.

"You let a Vamp bite you?"

Shade asks, pretty sure he didn't quite mean it like it came out. He seems to be really good at putting his foot in his mouth. The maned wolf frowns and shakes his head, then stops. Head slowly turning to me.

"I didn't know... I didn't mean to... If I knew... God, Xavier, I'm sorry. You should really stop being my guinea pig, one day it could go really bad."

He snorts, running his fingertips over the raised skin.

"You bit him?"

"Yes, there was some crazy shit going on. I was riding my own desire to fight and my sister’s need for blood. I didn't know it would leave a mark like that. This Silver Wolf crap is really getting annoying with its random power-ups."

I leave the sexual part out, which has the maned wolf looking back at me and away from Shade. He watches my face while Asher comes out. Wrapping my arms around myself, I give them both an apologetic and lost look.

"So you bit him and didn't know your teeth would imprint? You sank your teeth into him like a Vampire right? What did you think would happen?"

I step back, strongly wanting to bolt, and Shade's idiotic questioning isn't helping. Xavier's eyebrows draw together, then look back to the younger brother.

"It's not fang marks. Even I felt all the energy that had been swimming around in the air when it happened. That's what she's worried about. Her Silver Wolf magics don't all come at once with knowledge on how to use them. This has happened before, it's no big deal."

I shake my head hard, giving him sad eyes to let him know I didn't know.

"No, Xavier, this hasn't happened before. Nothing has left a mark before. It would make more sense if it were bite marks, but it's not. The bite itself is all healed, what's on you now isn't natural."

He gives me soft eyes, clearly seeing that I'm about to take off and not wanting to push. Giving me a look as if I'm being silly, I frown at him.

"If it came from your magic, everything about it is natural."

"That makes no sense."

He slowly stands and turns to face me full on.

"You can't run right now, you have a couch coming, remember?"

The couch hardly matters right now as Shade and Zypher circle the porch.

"Don't! If you box me in it will just make things worse. You guys are new here, so there are things that have to be brought up right now. My wolf and I like a good fight, yes, but on our terms. I don't want to know what I'd do if I'm caged in by friends. Please step back."

They incline their heads but are looking around me with weird expressions. Xavier is as well, while Asher keeps an eye on me, giving only the briefest glance to what's going on to the surrounding area.

"What?"

An assortment of expressions look back at me, it’s the maned wolf who points to the patio under my feet. Looking down, I just blink, dumbfounded. Not only is my breath fogging in the icy air, but there's literally a sheet of it under my feet and covering a wide radius around me. I didn't even notice the severe drop in temperature as I lower my arms, reaching out to touch the side of the house that’s covered in frost.

"It's ice."

Asher walks closer to me, nudging my hand and having me look down. The backs of my hands have a light layer of frost as well, but I don't feel cold.

"I don't feel it... I know the temperature has gone way down, but I don't really notice a difference."

My voice sounds just as confused as I am. Stepping back so the others can do their own testing, the Arctic brothers actually look a little pleased while Xavier crosses his arms, clearly feeling cold. As my emotions settle, the air regulates and ice melts.

"Xavier, come here please."

He comes with no hesitation. Wish I had that much trust in myself. When he's standing in front of me, looking at me with amber eyes, I ask him to kneel. Going down without a problem, I tilt his head to the side.

The mark left where I had bitten him is raised up like scar tissue, thin and tinged blue. Looking much like how you can see blue veins through your skin. The symbol on him is not one a mouth can accomplish by just a straight bite.

Reminds me of spider web threads. Roughly an inch and a half from one edge to the other, a circle is imprinted with an assortment of lines within. A dreamcatcher comes to mind, but the inner lines are in the shape of an intricate snowflake. Lines descending below it lead to a few feathers.

Not going to lie, it is really pretty, but I'd like to know how the hell it happened. I look up to the others and motion them over to see it. Asher being the closest looks at it and perks his ears forward.

Xavier's body heat pulses against me, his inner thermostat rising to keep him warm in the cold air that is steadily fading back to what it was before dropping so fast. Hard not to be so aware of a male when they're kneeling right at your feet. The position would look more natural if his arms were around or resting at my waist, but he's respecting my wishes by leaning back a bit.

"You've never made this mark before?"

My head shakes at Zypher's question. I slide fingertips over it softly, the texture reminding me of real thin raised scarring. Amber eyes slide to me as a shiver goes down his spine and has me pulling away, but I have to ask.

"While it was happening, were you getting...the same thing Faline said about Vamps when they bite each other?"

I dread his answer as he clearly doesn't want to say. Just that lets me know that it was though. Wincing, I step back and his eyes drop.

"What happens between Vampires?"

Taking in a lot of air and letting it out slowly, Xavier beats me to the punch as he stands, avoiding looking at my face while he explains. I turn and look down the driveway so I don't have to see their expressions. Not like I meant for it to happen.

Asher's warmth weaves into my brain, but I'm too uncomfortable right now to accept it. Thankfully, the large furniture van, truck, whatever you want to call it, pulls in. That seems to have knocked all their brains back into functioning on regular, normal things, instead of me.

Bastion comes out and makes his way to my side. My eyes fly to Asher, knowing he called him out. Think he realizes that the only males I don't feel threatened by are the ones I look at as kids. Granted they are, but still. Tugging him in front of me like a shield, my arms go around him and we watch the vehicle come in.

Chapter Text

Kierra

Store brand emblazoned on the side, they do the same thing the guys who came with the shed did. Motioning they're going to turn and back in, I give them a salute in acknowledgment.

"Bastion, can you and Maii be on standby to help me with all the mud about to be brought in?"

He looks from the ground into the house with a scrunched up face before nodding. The other sectional is against the far wall with the small coffee table out of the way. Letting him go so he can go alert the coyote, I start directing the guys around.

"Alright, the rain has fully stopped so that will help even more but I want you guys around just in case they need help or start slipping. Also don't want them getting stuck when they go to leave. Think you can spread out without looking imposing?"

With my attempt to lighten things up, they all give assorted smiles and place themselves around. End up looking back to my door frame though with slight worry pinching my features.

"They should be able to get through, right? Not like it's one whole single piece."

"Well, how big ‘a one did you get?"

Xavier looks at me in mock criticism, so I give him a smirk.

"Had to be big enough for your ass, so it's pretty big. Thankfully though, it's not pink, red, and yellow."

Actually not sure if the pillows in the picture came with it, probably said in the description and I just read over it. Trying to picture it again, it would have at least four.

"I'm not actually sure how many pillows are going to be with it...wasn't paying attention to those. Bad enough I still have a habit of favoriting items that I'd love to get and can't because... Well, could probably get away with it now since I actually have the people to fill them. Those items, however, really wouldn't fit here."

Faline and I both did it and talked over some of the items we'd find, listing the pros and cons since it was just the two of us and a cat.

Cat.

Crap.

"Bastion, can you get Tigger into my room for me before those guys start coming in? Don't need him trying to be all lovey-dovey."

Hearing his voice from inside saying he's on it, I smile. Asher plants his butt next to me, acting like the proverbial guard dog. One of these days I'm going to have to learn to get used to it, I'm sure, but not today. Tapping the end of his nose, I let him know he doesn't have to stick around if he doesn't want to. He wants to. Of course he does. Anything to be a pain in my ass.

I get a large canine grin from him just as the truck backs up as close as possible. Can't get too close from the trees growing the way they do and big rigs aren't known to be very flexible, so since they can't bend, they're not very close. Probably would have been able to get up closer if the makeshift garage weren't there. Oh well.

Only issue is the mud, and it can be cleaned up easily. Laying a hand between large black ears, my nails tease into the fur while watching the strangers come out and do their thing. Three guys, they must travel in packs. Were there three last time? I can't recall, and I'm not making hot chocolate this time. They should be glad I'm being civil at all.

With a laughing wolf at my side, I wave and smile as they come up. Immediately a picture of a cat pops in. Lynx or bobcat, with his coloring it could be either really, since Were-animals tend to be bigger anyway.

Pushing away the scents that are digging into my nose, the WereCat is clearly tensing, having come to a den of canines. Granted there's a cat that lives here, but isn't right now, is beside the point. Catching his dark eyes, my head inclines with a small easy-going smile. Faline is the calming one, not me, but I try my best and hope I don't chase him off.

Might also explain my lack of dating, you think? Nah. A stray thought from the black wolf beside me is caught; grumbling that I don't need to be dating. His ear gets pinched.

Signing some electronic papers, I ignore the laughing eyes at my bare feet. Actually forgot they were bare. Shows how much I've been paying attention. Big cat comes closer to get a sniff, then goes back to the opening truck. I don't take offense. Can just imagine the hostile people they've had to deal with, and it's still pretty early.

"Where do you want it?"

Motioning him to follow me, he eyes Asher.

"Don't worry, if he bites, he's getting snipped."

Making the finger scissors with a grin, I get multiple looks of horror. Laughing warmly, I try to not think of how it looks with a single female and four adult males. I lead him in and show him where and how I want it.

Oh God... I need to scrub my brain.

Mentally I try to do so as Asher gives his warm mind-belly laughs. The sound of belly laughter, just in my head.

"So that's why none of us have had any luck, you want pussy. Literally."

My face lights up instantly as I gape at him openly. His thoughts had gone out to every animal, so everyone hears him. Even the WereCat blushes before darting back out.

"You. Are. So. Dead."

Stepping toward him in threat, he moves out of the way, running out the back with his amusement trailing with him. I send him a visual of a shaking fist as he hightails it. Stepping out front doesn't help, my face refusing to stop glowing as every canine here openly laughs at me. Human males look a little confused, but their cat buddy just shakes his head at them with a small smile. I hear them ask if he knows us, he waffles a hand back and forth. Well, not lying. He doesn't know us specifically , but he knows what we are.

Since he's a feline, not sure I have much threat coming from him. Only emotions I'd picked up were his obvious embarrassment and wariness. Have no intention of harming any of them, but I know trying to put it to voice can make things worse.

After bringing in the carpet, they ask if I want them to lay it out or do it after. Looking at all the mud, I let 'em know I'll do it. They apologize for the mess, but I wave it aside with a smile.

"My fault for not putting in more stone."

The outside walkway is actually decorative stone, just can't be seen with all the mud, dead leaves and pine needles around. I'm not ridiculous about keeping the path clean, never usually use it anyway; it was here when I bought the place. Not wanting to drench the ground in salt to prevent ice, I just leave the foliage over it to make it less likely for water to pool and allow it... If that makes sense. Did to me when I originally thought about it.

One of the movers keeps making conversation with me, not sure what his deal is till I catch a whiff of his sweat when he comes too close. Think someone is misreading the situation here, so I move farther out of the way and plant my butt on the railing. There, still around so as not to be rude, but not close enough to make anymore easy chitchat.

Pulling my legs up, I cross them and lean back onto the pillar. The ice that had formed has made it and the railing slightly damp, but it's no biggy. Casually watching them as they bring in several pieces, I relax a little more. Xavier gives me a raised eyebrow at all the items so I give him an innocent grin and shrug. Smaller pieces means it gets through doorways easier.

WereCat seems to be the leader of the group, calling me in and pointing out the small niches on the pieces that allow for dismantling and putting back together. Detachable yet still able to become one long piece that won't move unless someone runs and jumps onto it. Sadly I can see that happening, so I ask about the knobby feet of it scratching on the wood floors. Just by the look he gives me lets me know that my floor is going to be scratched all to hell. He suggests getting those little coaster-like things made for larger objects to be moved around easier. Problem is, I don't want it to move, but the coasters will lessen scratches made. Decisions decisions.

His flirty buddy is pushing his luck though. Having heard me asking about the scratching and moving pieces, he again takes things wrong, making sexual innuendos whenever he thinks his buddies can't hear him or seem innocent enough to be said in front of them. Dude is going to get hurt, if not from me then by one of the males around also hearing it. While talking to the leader cat, I look him dead in the face and whisper into his head.

"You, I won't harm, but your buddy is pushing his luck. He seems to have figured out everything that goes on here and he couldn't be further from the truth. I'm sure your nose can tell you that, let alone how diverse critters here are."

His eyes widen in alarm, but he quickly looks down so his expression isn't seen by his friends. Head pointed down, his eyes swing back up and he speaks low.

"How did you do that? You aren't in form for it."

Since my hair has clustered into the thicker curls that it likes to do, locks laying over my shoulders, I casually reach up and lay a finger over a silver streak, tapping it till recognition dawns. Smiling, I incline my head. Not hiding any longer, so telling him is no skin off my nose.

"That's why they're here. Protecting you."

I scowl at that before sighing. Pretty sure that's what they think they're doing, so I shrug. Annoyance clear on my face.

"Didn't think a feline would know anything about it, really. I apologize."

He looks confused for a moment but pushes it aside. Head coming back up as he looks to be casually talking.

"Probably wouldn't have, but there's a lot of rumors flying around these days. Just about every Were-animal in the city that isn't a wolf has been questioned by them about seeing...well...you."

Nodding, I motion to his small paper pad. Giving it to me, I write down my number and hand it back, just signing it as Silver as I had with the Red Wolf Alpha. He looks at it confused.

"I'd like to hear the rumors going around, but now isn't the time. You're the first feline I've come across that isn't fanged and on perpetual PMS. There a Pack you belong to in the city?"

He shakes his head. Not surprising, both bobcats and lynx tend to be solitary.

"Alright, give me a call sometime so I can pick your brain."

I grin to let him know it's a joke, so he gives me a lopsided smile in return. Looking over just in time to see his buddy look annoyed, having seen me slip over a piece of paper that I'd obviously written on, I let out a small groan. Seems whatever he sees me doing is misread all to hell. Clearing my throat, I look back to the cat.

"Think I may have caused some friction between you and your friend. Again I apologize, especially if he is the type to assume his own stories instead of listening to what's really there."

He sighs as well, giving a curt nod. Since everything has been brought in, there's no reason for them to stay. Each piece had been brought in still wrapped in plastic. They'd cut open the sides so they could connect everything, but most of the plastic is still attached. Some pieces were dropped down so they walked on it instead of the floor. I appreciate the effort.

Just to try and smooth things over between the males leaving, I snag the flirt before he can step off the porch. He looks back with an annoyed look that he tries to hide behind professionalism.

"Feel I have to clear something up here. The males here? They're visiting cousins for the holiday. My sister isn't here at the moment, but there's more than one female living in this house. You saw me pass my number, yes, but for friends we have in common, not for a date. I'm sorry you got that vibe from those here, I just wanted to clear that up before you go."

None of it was that much of a lie, just skirting around truths. Depending on the type of person he is will now show by his reaction. At first, he doesn't look like he believes me, but then he starts blushing. Guess it sounded honest enough. I pat him on the back and send him off, telling him no worries. A sheepish grin is given before he takes off. I heave a heavy sigh and slump my shoulders.

"I get demoted to cousin? That doesn't sound fair."

Narrowing my eyes, I point at the maned wolf threateningly. Don't know what I'll do, but I'll think of something.

"Alright, if you guys want to see it, shoes off."

With that, I turn and go back in. Have to move the middle piece out so I can get the rug rolled out to lay in the center space. It feels funny, but it is kinda nifty. Doesn't quite look like the advertised picture, but that's not surprising. Rolling it out, the tufted brown pieces need to be fluffed a bit so they're not flat. Can hear the guys come in behind me making assorted appreciative sounds.

"First rule: No shoes on this rug. Want to keep it nice as long as possible. Why? Because I said. Besides, unless you new guys have some seriously funky feet, everyone is usually barefoot."

I get chuckles as they help peel off the rest of the plastic. Bastion and Maii had been keeping up with the mud build-up, so there isn't too much on the porch either. I give each a hug and a thank you which has them both blushing. D'aw.

"Since you guys did all the work, you get to sit on it first."

Both grin and take off for it. In the shape of a blocky ‘U’, the left long side goes almost the whole length of floor space from bookshelf to bookshelf on the wall. Not up against the wall, there's about a two-foot gap between the back of it and the wall bookshelves. The bottom of the ‘U’ has the same distance between the back of it and the outer wall and bookshelf. The right side of the ‘U’ is the wider section that isn't fully covered by backing, also only about half the length of the opposite side. Once the rug is in place in the inside area, the footstool-like piece is put in the middle of it. Almost directly centered. Sweet.

Once the boys are all comfortable I motion the guys onto it. It did indeed come with throw pillows, about a dozen of the damn things. Many are a smaller size with the larger ones being the main focus for the center ‘corners’. A dark forest green that's that felt-like material, I purposefully avoided leather. The middle rug, once all fluffed out, does kind of resemble fallen leaf ground cover.

While they get all cozy, I move my original couch over. Not too close, but basically having it fill the space as a large square of furniture in the room. Asher's end of it gets pointed towards the large end of the green. Leaves a space of about four feet between their edges. The longer part of the ‘L’ points towards the back wall, it also has a couple foot span between its back and the bookshelves on the inner wall. The small, out of place, round carpet and coffee table get situated back with the brown sofa like it had been before.

Nice and cozy without being too crowded. Until bodies are piling up, then it might be a little cluttered. Can't wait to see Faline's face when she sees it.

Catching a smaller pillow out of the air as it comes flying at me, surprise lights up my face. Surprise, yet wicked cool. Turning, they all look innocent, but I know Xavier's antics by now. Flipping it over, I fling it much like a frisbee back at him. He catches it just as easily as I had.

"You are many things, Xavier, but innocent isn't one of them."

He gives hurt-face as Bastion giggles at him, but when the boy looks away I see the very not innocent glint in the man’s eyes. Dog. Even whisper it into his head. He clutches a hand over his heart, giving the whole act of being wounded.

Rolling my eyes, I ask him if he's explained the set-up below to the blue and purple-headed wolves. He nods, having told them when their stuff was taken to the basement. Good. I'm tired, but I want to get some painting done. I close and lock the front door, letting them all know that Asher had gone out, probably to hunt. The eagerness on Shade and Zypher's faces is apparent and very obvious.

"You're welcome to go out at any time, just be aware if you're out when everyone's asleep, you might end up staying out for a while. When you get back, straight to the shower before you go anywhere else."

Again sound like an old marm, but eh. Maii looks out the open back door, also eager. I tell him he can go too if he wishes, he isn't a prisoner. He should know that already, but he's still wary.
Looks torn between wanting to go out and spend more time here. Bastion talks him into going, promising he won't touch the puzzle while he's gone. Smiling, he bobs his head and heads below as well.

"You going out too, mutt?"

"You've turned into a rude little thing, haven't you?"

I snort at him.

"I've always been rude, if you haven't seen that by now then you're seriously blind, buddy."

He pouts at me but shakes his head to the going out, rubbing at his neck again.

"Does it hurt?"

Chapter Text

Kierra

My asking gets me a puzzled look till I point to his rubbing, guessing he didn't realize he was doing it again.

"Hurt, no. Just weird. It itched before, probably from it forming. Since you touched it earlier it just feels cool."

As in cool to the touch, not awesome cool. Motioning him to move his legs and turn in his spot, I go to take another look. He's lounging on the bigger cushion, so makes things a little easier. And he's not kneeling in front of me, which is another plus.

Two snow-white wolves and a small coyote come up from below. They look roughly the same size I am when in animal form, probably close in weight too. I've read somewhere that Arctic wolves are on the smaller side to conserve heat, timber wolves being the largest breed, mine should be bigger than theirs. However, snow wolves have been getting smaller and smaller due to breeding with dogs.

Arctic wolves from centuries ago, I would bet were a bit bigger just from prey being much more plentiful. Would seem whoever attacked these guys had come from the older lines. The only way you can tell them apart if you don't have a super nose is their eyes and ears. Little smaller than the gray’s, Shade's ears are tipped in black. His eyes a dark blue and his brother’s a pale yellow. Eyes and tipped ears are the only real color on them.

Many wild snow wolves' white coats tend to look white till against the snow, where they're more yellowish. These two would look albino if it weren't for the eyes. Their color coats are probably also from the Were that got them.

"Well, glad to see you aren't purple and blue. Do me a favor though and don't go rolling in mud baths."

The amusement in my voice is pretty telling that they're allowed to do whatever they wish. Shade asks if they're supposed to look after the coyote, I shake my head.

"Maii knows to come home if he gets into any trouble. Same goes for you guys. Can always call for Asher, but he's got quite the territory here, so he might not be able to get to you very fast."

That stops them short, looking at each other before back to me.

"You let him mark your land?"

I shrug and try to explain it in a way that isn't confusing.

"Could basically say today is my first day out in the open; not hiding from everyone. I was hiding before so I could save my sister without the 'council' or any others trying to interfere. The house itself is marked as mine, that's all I really care about. Last time a male picked up my scent, it...didn't end well. Besides, this was Asher's land a long time before I got here, so could technically say I'm on his land."

Wasn't until getting it out that way that I notice the truth of it. Even after Asher learned and even attempted to change me himself, he never once told me I couldn't stay. Yes, the house may be mine, but everything else he's had for over twenty-five years. Even when he hadn't been here to mark it.

Surprise comes from them, but they accept it and take off. I crook my finger at Maii and rub at his ears before he goes, then get back to the maned wolf.

"What do you mean it's his land?"

Not actually sure just how much he knows, being here he's figured or heard a lot of it, but Asher is hardly talked about. He heard about some of it when I relayed it to Alarico, but not all.

"I bought this property some four years ago, probably closer to five now."

Not trying to entice him in any way, just trying to figure out what the marking is, my fingertips go over it again. Instead of a swipe, I go over it as if I'm reading braille. He shivers, but I dismiss it and get back to explaining.

"I'd never seen him before this all started. Asher has quite an assortment of abilities himself, just as I'm assuming each animal does in some shape or form. One of his abilities is precognition."

Amber eyes direct up to me as he turns his head a little, so I push his hair over the opposite shoulder, the long silky strands weaving through my hand as I end up finger combing it.

"He'd seen what would become of Faline and I, so in an attempt to help, he'd attempted to get the Change started in me before I was attacked by Anthony.”

Thinking about everything up to this point, it feels more and more like it's all being orchestrated, someone pulling at the strings of fate just about every step of the way.

"He'd bitten me when I'd gone out to meet a friend. I'm sure you've found the small clearing with the fire pit? Sitting on one of those logs is where my life took a major turn."

My brow furrows, the hand that'd been finger combing the lower strands now buries in the shorter hair around his head. Fingers get lost in the thick black locks as something jumps into my brain.

"That night I almost died, when my inner wolf had talked to my sister, it was mentioned that ancient bloodline magic also courses through the both of us. I've always healed faster than normal, empathy for as long as I can remember, constant dream deja vu, rarely got sick, and even my eye color...no one else in my family has eyes like mine."

Always loved my eyes and that it was something that really set me apart. My own and something that couldn't be taken. Xavier catches my attention, shifting his head since my hand had stopped moving. I take up the motions again. Should probably be weird or awkward right now, but as one with long thick hair, I know how good it feels when someone plays with it right.

"Your eyes didn't change at all when you turned?"

Thinking back, they did a little, just not really different color-wise.

"They became brighter, but that's all I noticed. About them anyway, never had the silver in my hair before that first change, the scars I already had faded more. Body was thicker, but I think the leaning it's doing now is from all the running. You have no idea how good it felt to run again. Puberty really screwed me; before it I had run all over the place."

I keep bouncing from story to story, but I can't help it. It was the running that was the biggest draw for me in this world, the wolf and strength to save my sister all being the major things that I love about being what I am now.

"The way you asked that, is your natural eye color not what it is now?"

I love his eyes. Chunks of sap is really all it is named after, but it's the color that is the draw. No other quite like it. If you've seen the movie Jurassic Park, they have the perfect visual of the color.

Catching myself staring into them, my cheeks warm and I look back to his hair. His eyes shift around every now and then so he's not doing a constant stare, but his focus is pretty clear.

"More or less what happened to you. Mine were this color, just a darker shade. After my change, it was like a light had been turned on behind them."

I nod, that's pretty much what went on with mine. Circling back around, I try recalling what I was originally answering and talking about.

"Alright, I'm all turned around, where was I?"

It's Bastion that reminds me as he watches both my hands now weave through the maned wolf’s head. If he starts rolling over with a kicking leg and wanting belly rubs, I'm so outta here.

"Asher seems to think that even if he hadn't interfered, I would've been fine, but I'm not so sure. He wasn't there when it happened. He was around sometime later though because he'd followed the man that took my unconscious body from the floor just inside the front door."

Bright eyes come back to me.

"The bloodstain, that's what it's from?"

I nod. Since the blood had been there for around 72 hours, it soaked in pretty good. Was a congealed goo when I had come in with Bastion that night. Even then, I was so focused on other things that it didn't get cleaned up till way later.

"That's a very big area."

Doesn't sound like he believes me, so to save time and doubt, I show him. Looking to Bastion and asking if he would like to know, so he can understand the events leading up to my finding him, he nods slowly, closing his eyes.

Replaying events from mine and Faline's first known encounter with the supernatural, it takes place right in the parking lot of the mall less than a couple miles away. I start first with meeting the large black wolf though.

From there I jump to the parking lot and the bizarre conversation that went on. The moment when I was taken down by my first glimpse of a Werewolf in 'Garou' form. My fear not for myself so much as for my sister.

I keep a lid on Faline's memories, those are not ones to be shared. Not with Xavier and definitely not a young boy who had to go through the same. I have to pull back on the emotions as I go over my attack, they're both feeling the pain I went through, a faded version. Keep forgetting that I can project any emotion I'm feeling or have felt. Bastion's already in tears and Xavier's hands are clenching. Can just imagine what his attack was like, so I try fading things out more, but my arm is grabbed and he looks at me.

"Don't. Let it play out."

I nod, but I pull back as much emotion as I can. The pain I had gone through would have been enough to tip a normal person into insanity. Only reason I got through it was and is my high pain tolerance, having been through several different kinds already.

He keeps hold of my arm but loosens his grip as my attack is played through. My long semi-numb trek back home in mud that was quickly forming. Almost forgot it had started raining, could really go all out and say even the sky cried for us. My own brush with losing mind over events that went on, my brain wanting to deny everything it'd just seen and went through, the walk up the porch step to the propped open screen door. Hadn't even realized it at that point. Only thing I had really noticed was the front door being unlocked and open. Getting just inside where I fell to my knees and passed out.

I stop there to give them a break. Even with my pulling back as much as I could, I couldn't hide all of it. I look to Bastion, asking in whispers if he wants me to skip over how I found him. Opening his swimming blue eyes, he shakes his head. Inclining mine, I continue. Continue to waking in a room not my own, the harsh scent of having been in my own waste for what turned out to be three days. Xavier's hand, that's still on my arm, clenches again. Don't think he's aware of doing it though, his eyes cloudy with watching my ordeal.

Also show them the changes I had noticed in myself. The lack of needing the glasses I had lost in the parking lot, enhanced sounds and smells, and the absence of pain that I should have been swimming in. The change had been delayed with all the drugs that had been pumped into me, it didn't stop everything, but enough. The cramping my body had started to go through.

I skip over the nightmare I had just before waking, not wanting to share that at all. My eyes close as a hot tear escapes me at those memories wanting to override the more recent ones. I pull back from them both, even taking a step back as my breathing quickens. The looks on their faces lets me know I didn't pull out in time. I look out the window, trying to hide my shame.

"You weren't lying...when you said you had a past almost like mine."

I don't acknowledge his statement since it's full of shock and disbelief. If after all this time he thought I'd been lying, then I'm doing something wrong here. My eyes close as a pang of guilt hits me, knowing that I should have expected it since I'd been the same way when people tried to 'identify' with me. Can feel the air temperature dropping around me, so that answers one question. Emotion seems to be the spark for many things. I analyze how I seem to be doing it, and pull it back, the action actually working as it starts to warm back up.

Xavier's large hand slides down my arm to take mine, not demanding anything, just holding. Giving me that small lifeline if needed. It takes a bit, but once I have a tighter rein on memories, I ask if they wish for me to continue. Replaying physical pain is so much easier than emotional.
Eyes are closed and pointed towards the window, but I feel their response. I start back up just before the door had opened to show Fred and James, Fred was Bastion's stepfather, just like once upon a time, James had almost been mine.

The disbelief I felt when told I'd been there for three days, my attempt to escape before I was grabbed and drugged again. Luckily by that time I had been awake long enough with a quickened heartbeat that adrenaline and metabolism were kicked into high gear which quickened my body reforming on the inside. The drug was a paralytic that affected me for just a short time before my blood went through it like acid. The degradation as I was carried and undressed, the pain that was starting deep within me.

I pull back hard on the feelings I went through so Bastion doesn't feel it. Bad enough he had been there and heard everything.

The fires of hell that had gone through me as I writhed in a rotting room, but upon standing, the feeling of being renewed, revitalized in my new form. Knowledge of what I was, was pretty clear, and it hadn't really frightened me in the least. Not even my rage and instant lust to kill now that I could.

Bastion had seen the bodies, but not how I did it. Turning my head and opening my eyes, I watch him closely as it plays out. My first strike at James to put him down before going after Fred.
The first strike made to eviscerate the giant of a man, his innards falling into a steaming heap in front of him, my turning to the other man who pissed himself and the claw rake that cost him his eyes, then leaving him to go back to the man who'd dominated my childhood with shame, fear, confusion, and pain.

I had stalked him, followed his terribly slow crawl to get away from me while pulling his guts back into himself. Blood poured from his belly, making the cement floor slippery. Kicking him over onto his back, his words lost in translation as I knelt down. Having had to fight back the urge to eat him from the blood smelling sweet, I’d grabbed the exposed slippery mass and pulled, yanking the soft insides of his body out and dropped them to the ground like garbage.

Bastion wobbles, but hangs on stubbornly. I really shouldn't be showing him this, the high probability of making his nightmares worse very high. A movie would have been different since with me, he's riding my senses as I go through them. Looking at Xavier, I continue.

The screams coming from both humans starting to hurt my ears, I show them how crouching over one led to my shoving my arm up into his body, under the ribs, and between squishy lungs. The sounds that were made when I told the man that he would no longer haunt me, then ripping out his heart.

I stop immediately when Bastion’s already pale face turns green, his hand going over his mouth hurriedly as he bolts for the bathroom.

"I shouldn't have gone into specific details, what I'm showing him will haunt him."

"He'll be alright, he's stronger than you think. You persist in seeing him as an innocent child that you need to protect from everything. He may look like a child, but his mind is that of an adult."

I wince, knowing he does. My shamed worry of him being alone too long with Lily rides me each time we're over there. Knowing just from my own past that things get real confused when you're so young and introduced to sex. How warped things can become.

"Don't have to worry about him doing anything that adult, from what I've gathered from talking with him, he wants nothing to do with intercourse."

I nod, but I know better. My Imp comes back out, his face wet from water splashing. Still looks a little green around the edges, but not too bad.

"Just tell me when you need me to stop, and I will. Since I doubt you'll let me get away with not showing you anymore."

Instead of going back to where he had been sitting, he moves closer to Xavier. Seeing him do so warms my insides, the show of his ability to even want to go near an adult male is tremendous.
The maned wolf scoots more towards me so the boy can sit next to him. Feeling awkward with the hand holding, I move back over to play in his hair. He releases, but just like before, he keeps his head turned just enough so he can see me.

When he motions he's ready, I pick back up. I skip over a little bit so he doesn't have to go back to the bathroom quite so fast. The parts of feeling my claws slicing through other organs and the bloodlust riding me hard getting left out.

Instead, I pick up again with me walking towards Fred who's cradling his face as he mewls pitifully. Playing with him before snapping his spinal cord so my brain’s wish to feast isn't tempted anymore. The walk up the stairs of what turned out to be the basement and stopping at the top where I started weeping...was more a relieved cry I think.

From there it goes to me inspecting what little of myself I could see, not getting very far as that's when Asher showed up. The conversation we had of not being able to go to anyone and that he was sorry it had to happen that way, a little about what was going on, and my shifting times.

I skip over some details of the pictures I had found, not hiding the fact though that I took the camera's memory chip. My original thought was to make sure it was disposed of properly and couldn't be recovered, having found it in a setup around a bed that was surrounded by things you'd see at a photoshoot.

Bastion’s body stiffening catches my attention, though when I look over his eyes are glazed as he focuses on the pictures flowing in his head. The memories of Asher then and now seem so different, yet in a way still the same.

Our talk of needing to burn the place down when sudden insight had me listening hard, the sound of scratching I had heard before faint, but still there, following it back downstairs and into the area where a dog cage had been, with a small boy huddled inside.

"So that's how you found me. I had heard most of what went on and started smelling it. I didn't know what was going to happen to me."

Considering it could have been any number of other hostiles, I can imagine. Turning up my smile, I share the part where a scared and starving child stood up to a monster and asked defiantly if it was going to hurt him too. Xavier's whole body had stiffened when seeing the boy in those conditions, but he's slowly relaxing.

I help by rubbing at his scalp with my nails, sharing with them both my pride in the young man at how far he's come since then. He still has the scars, and always will, but as of right now, he's not letting them rule him. He blushes, the action bringing a more normal pallor to his face.

Bastion knows what happens from then on, but I still go through it with Xavier, who's still intent on the images. The burning down of the house and long trek home, my thinking we remained unseen aside from the homeless man under the bridge. Then leaving him be after a confusing conversation about 'Night People' and continuing home, I let the images slowly fade once we do so.

I do believe the original question that started all this was to do with Asher, but for the life of me, I can't recall what it was. Fingers once more slip down to the marking on the neck under me, the heat coming off his skin making me want to bury my face into it. Can feel his gaze on me as I look over the small dreamcatcher-snowflake-like mark.

"You're sure this doesn't hurt?"

Chapter Text

Kierra

He nods, so I draw my hands away. I know that amount of touch is going to get me into trouble. Should be pretty platonic since he's seen me do it with Asher, Maii, and even Bastion.

I take the chance to sit on my couch for the first time. Not overly firm, but you don't sink in either. Good. Tapping the man's long legs to move them, they draw up slowly, which has me watching them randomly since it's something to look at.

Trying to think back on what the conversation was about before it derailed completely, the length of his legs fold as they cross in front of his body, still holding my gaze. The clothes I had bought him cover him top and bottom; a designed t-shirt and snug jeans that ride low on his hips. Wasn't until I saw him wear a pair that I had bought that I realized he had tricked me, getting me to buy the clothes that he knows will have me gawking. He's such an ass.

He's an ass, but he belongs to me. The brand on his neck bears two symbols I've always been fond of. Stories behind the reason for dreamcatchers had me buying several over the years. They haven't been working for me for a while now, but that's okay, they're still pretty to look at. One hangs in each of the bedroom doorways and several are up around my room.

The snowflake; a sign of snow and colder temperatures, simple water drops that had been changed through their journey to the ground. Having started out as one thing and changing into something better. Prettier. Able to be as delicate as the fluttering of butterfly wings or as destructive as a hell uprising. Think I can identify with the small pieces of nature’s art. To a point.

Only thing now is what it will do to the maned wolf. I already have a Vampire linked to me from my calling his animal, will this be something like that?

My eyes roam over his folded legs, wrapped snug in the jean material, to his covered abdomen. Hiding a very nice upper body with soft cotton and polyester, they continue on an upward path over his long frame. Being over six and a half feet, there's a lot of area to cover. I believe the technical term of what I'm doing is 'undressing him with my eyes'.

Don't really need to do that, since I know what he looks like beneath, no undressing is necessary. Could probably call it a waste when you think of the fact that I sleep with this man every night yet nothing nefarious is done. Almost a shame. Can feel my green eyes slipping into their bright yellow counterparts as I go higher to his neck.

A lean frame with not overly wide shoulders and a strong throat, the small brand is visible on the right side since he's sitting. When he's standing upright, I don't see too many being able to see it. Trying to decide if that's a good thing or not. Think pheromones are at work here...my brain going all mushy and melting over the male visage.

No...not just any male frame, but his . I’m in so much trouble, so intent on him that I don't even blush with my blatantly obvious perusal.

Tanned skin helps to hide an assortment of battle scars, not just from fighting other animals, but when he was in the war as a soldier quite a few years ago. It's been said that he's in his nineties, couldn't tell it by body or attitude though. You'd think after so many years, one would become beat down, age mentally even if they don't physically. Not saying he's slow or a child, just, not torn down by what he's been through. Wish I had that kind of strength.

I have yet to blink as I go higher to the small goatee at his chin, the tuft of black hair that triangulates his strong jaw. The shape of it reminds me that of Brad Pitt or Guy Pearce. No other facial hair other than the usual eye and head masses. Wonder if he just shaves that well or it just grows in that spot. Ava's baby daddy, Ryder, hadn't been able to grow anything down the middle of his lower face, the hairs only coming out to either edge of his chin. A spattering of thin scars on Xavier's face are hard to see but there, and soft-looking lips that I'm sure many a woman has had her fair share of fantasies about.

I plead the fifth here, please.

An aristocratic nose and long black lashes surround his amber eyes, so thick that it gives the look of eyeliner. I’ve always envied that look, but annoyingly, it's found most commonly in males. Naturally arched brows that aren't overly bushy or too thin also adorn his face. Perfect male specimen. No, I don't pay attention to feet. Feet are feet, nothing more.

Long muscled arms flex as my gaze goes over them. Not doing that he-man bullcrap, but just a hand clench or wrist twist has the tendons and such move around. No bulging veins that can ruin texture until you get to his hands. Rough, long-fingered, and also scarred. Beginning to think I have a thing for scars, them being just like tattoos. A body starts out as a blank canvas and you take it from there. More often than not, you can read a person just by their hands or by the maps laid out over their skin.

Not sure why long-fingered hands are called a poet’s, not after watching him play over the strings of his guitar. Musicians hands. Would also work very well on a piano. Of course, that's not the only things that are done well with them, but I keep those thoughts away for now. Can revisit in dreams where it has no effect when awake. I'm really good with dreams, the whole vivid imagination thing comes into play.

Without really thinking, I reach for his hand, and he gives it over more than willingly. Turning it palm up and running sensitive fingertips over the length of them, starting at his wrist and ending at his fingertips, you can almost read his life in just his palms. No, I'm not a palm reader, but I'm sure any good one would tell you the same thing. A rough and calloused texture telling you outright that he's not one who shies from hard or physical work.

Before all this happened, I'd been self-conscious of my hands. Thicker fingers scarred and calloused from years of writing and painting, woodworking to weight lifting. You name a craft and I've more than likely tried it at least once, even crochet.

I’ve seen all the commercials and ads about women having soft hands to equal out a soft touch, how that's what's wanted in a partner, as well as perfect features, thin body, and clear skin. Don't think my skin has ever been clear and blemish-free. I trace the lines in his large hand as I think of silly things that have no bearing on what's going on. Tell you right now though, I'd rather have rough and marked hands then pretty and proper that have never seen a day of work in their life. My art is my pride and joy, just as is my ability to spin words and phrases into stories that others can enjoy.

Working on autopilot with a sudden need to put my own hands to use, I let his fall away as I stand and go out back. I don't even bother to pull my hair back this time as I get all set up, the only things really needed are my paints put in order and a blank canvas put up. Having totally lost the desire or need to use any words for a while, I sink into my art once again, the early morning light rising to spread its warmth over its dominion. One of the sketches I had done with Bastion and the recall from earlier jumps into my head, and I get started.

The next several hours are spent bringing Bastion's past into living color, adding my own flare to it of course, because that's how I roll.

A large pale wolf is coaxing a small dirty pup from a dark cage that has the look of a mouth from some great monster. The starved youth has a defiant look in his eyes while looking out through its prison. Large eyes forming in the background go with the mouth of the beast waiting to devour him.

A tangent of angry reds, malicious oranges, and haunting greens mix within the eyes as madness forms within the depths. The massive shadowy outline of the monster is the only thing seen as its body and face remain hidden. Deeper shadows get formed from the light coming off the pale wolf, but warmth and safety are offered in the soft glow. Name is signed before I title it on the edge; ' Revealed '.

The smell of cooking food finds my nose, but I'm too focused on setting up another. My jeans and hands are smudged in ink, some spots are on my shirt. I should probably get an apron or something at some point. 

Grabbing a larger canvas for this next one, the image forms in my head like a sketch pad in my brain. Things can get a little messed up when doing it this way, the changing of small details right in the middle can screw up the whole thing. Doubt that will happen though since the image is as clear as day in my head.

A boy resembling Bastion forms on his hands and knees, face pointed up and looking out towards me. Tattered and broken feathered wings hang limply over his sides while a look of anguish takes over his face. Another wolf, this one the color of pitch and much larger than the normal Werewolf in animal form, stands next to the boy protectively. Ears in mid-motion of going back with a forming snarl reveal long teeth, also looking out towards me with blue-green eyes that are glinting in anger. The background becomes one of a small clearing surrounded by trees, a fat full moon illuminating the pair in its light.

Stepping back from many hours of work on just this one, I lean back on the outer house wall, careful of the hanging one that had been done previously. The hooks set into the walls were put there just for that reason. Going back to it, I sign in my name and title it; ' Guardian '.

After that I set my palette down and sink into one of the wicker patio chairs, almost knocking over the glass of juice that I'm guessing the boy had brought out at some point. Smiling, I swallow it all down within seconds. Of course, you can never have just one glass of orange juice; more is needed. Standing to go inside, I almost run into Shade. Since he's just standing there, I move back. Have to anyway so I can hang the canvas.

When did he get back? If someone really wants to kill me, all they have to do is come at me while I'm painting, I'd be easy pickings. That's if their emotions didn't warn me first. That I think I would feel, just because it wouldn't be a normal emotion that's normally felt around this place. Not from the ones within my home anyway. Chord out of place type thing.

Shade pads over on wide paws and looks at both paintings. His black-tipped ears are begging to be touched, but I'm covered in paint. Granted he looks pretty dirty himself, but still.

"Take it your bro called seniority for the shower?"

My smile is reinforced when he nods, his dark blue eyes keep going to the windows of ink. Either he's an admirer of art or he's picking them apart in his head.

"If I hadn't watched you, I wouldn't believe that you'd done it. The ones hanging on the bookshelves inside are ones you've done too, aren't they?"

I nod my head, not really taking any offense, I don't look like the proverbial painter. The ones inside are of me and Nicolaus facing off over Faline in her cat form on one, and the other is Asher walking out of darkness and shadows. Have to keep them up or cat hair will stick to them.

"You're very good."

My head tilts to the side, curious.

"You a painter?"

Get the feeling of a shrug in my head.

"What's your medium?"

"Metal."

"No shit?"

Startled, he looks back over to me. Don't know why he's so surprised. I had tried it once, only parts I was good at was burning myself and slicing open my fingers. The snow wolf just looks at me, so I'm a bit confused here. I know there's a couple schools in Chicago that give classes, is that what he's wanting?

"Um, you alright?"

"Don't usually get that type of response from a female."

Xavier steps out to get a look at the finished projects.

"I think you'll find my friend, that she is not a typical female."

Not sure if that’s a jab or a compliment, so I just lift an eyebrow. He doesn't notice though as he looks at the finished work. Well, while they gawk, I want more juice. Dammit.

Xavier makes me go around him so I pinch his side, hard. He jumps and pulls away, laughing. Get him to move one way or another, maybe I should look into getting a cattle prod. Seems the only sensible way to deal with that man-child.

I get to the kitchen with no more roadblocks and get my refill. When was the last time I drank something? Hmm.

Zypher comes out of the shower, bathroom all steamy. Have a feeling my water heater is really going to get tested in the days to come. Should probably have them wait ten or so minutes before the next one, but if his bro really wants in, there's no stopping him.

Thankfully, he has a towel securely around his waist. His thick chest is covered in a light cover of hair, so stereotypically Canadian that I have to smile. They did say northern Wisconsin right? His moisture darkened purple hair is in a long braid down his back. Nifty.

"Never understood how people could do that, I never could."

Gray-blue eyes blink at me till I motion to his hair.

"The braid, I can pull mine around and do something simple, but it doesn't stay long."

He smirks as I pour another glass. Where is that Imp anyway? Don't have to look long, he's curled up on the new couch, tucked into a center corner and sleeping. Looks like a very good idea actually.

"Takes a lot of practice when you have nothing better to do."

I lift a brow at that. For some reason, I can't picture this man having nothing to do. Calling out to Shade, I ask him to wait a moment so I can get some of the paint off my hands. Once as clean as they're going to get with a quick rubdown, I give the okay, closing the door for him as he goes in and pointing to the cabinet with towels. Pretty sure I didn't need to since his sibling managed, but oh well.

Older brother is leaning against the island counter watching a sleeping Bastion. Not wanting to answer anymore past dredging questions, I speak up first.

"Shade says he works with metal, do you have any artistic ability?"

Rinsing out the glass quickly before the shower starts up, I get it put in the strainer. Here's to hoping it doesn't screw him too much. Whoops. Zypher grins at me as if he knows what I'm thinking. Probably does since I'm not concealing any thoughts, so they play over my face pretty easily. He gives a shrug while shaking his head.

"No, my trade is being a badass and working on bikes."

Uh-huh. I just blink at him till he chuckles. Since having spotted the sleeping child, I seem to be dragging more and more. Leaving him to scrounge for food, I head to my room. The door never gets closed all the way so I can open it easily once on four paws. Just as I'm about to pull my shirt over my head, it opens then closes softly. My heart thumps hard as the male scent finds my nose.

"You can continue, I'm looking away. Just wanted to go over a few things."

Looking over my shoulder, the maned wolf has indeed turned away. I move more in front of my closet door mirror so I can keep an eye on him.

"Speak."

His head sinks down as if he's rubbing his eyes, so taking him at his word, I start stripping. Hope he knows if he tries anything, I'll never trust him again.

"Conversation earlier never got finished."

"What conversation was that?"

He almost turns, but I see him catch himself. His hand instead waves in the air motioning at the house.

"Asher. You said you're technically on his lands."

I nod before it clicks he's not looking, so I give an affirmative ' Mhmm '. Pants and underwear down, shirt and bra left to go. All my shirts tend to be pretty long, so even just in a shirt, I'm still relatively covered.

"I know he marks everything, the whole area within a five-mile radius is claimed, but I've found your marks on some of the trees that are further out from range of the house."

That makes me wince. I kneel down to my knees, legs under me as I look into the mirror, trying to find the courage. My voice is low as I look down to the once upon a time punctures on my outer thighs.

"Those had been made on my second day of the full moon. I was foolish in following a trail that was laid out specifically, a stranger’s marking making me go nuts till I removed all trace, to follow the scent and be rid of it."

"Stop."

I look up, he's still looking away, but I can hear the harshness in his voice. He knows what happened on my first full moon. Can see his attention flick over to the box on the side of my bed. The box that a mysterious someone sent to me as a gift. Forgot to ask Alarico if he knew anything of it. I'm sure it isn't too often an occurrence for a rogue to get skinned.

A large, tan-colored pelt from nose to tail tip is folded all nice and neat within the box, fitting end for a rapist I think.

"I thought we'd gotten them all re-covered with Asher's scent. At the time of them being made, I was still trying to stay under the radar. If one could find me at home, another surely could as well, but if all they get is Asher's scent, it might deter them."

At first, I had thought I was putting a burden on the wolf by doing all that, but when you think of the fact they used to be his lands in the first place, I'd just given him an added reason to go over everything.

"The burned-out house near here is his from over twenty-five years ago, he’d lived there with his wife before she was killed and he was cursed. I don't know if anyone had lived in this house or the other at that time, so as far as I know, everything is his."

Can see him nodding, so I remove my shirt and unclasp the offending boulder-holder. Really hate when just as you take the darn things off, your nipples become instantly happy with freedom and decide to become harder than stone. Can actually be painful at times.

Re-positioning, I sit on my rump and bring my legs up, crossing them in a way that everything is covered when looking in the mirror.

"Xavier, turn please."

Chapter Text

Kierra

Imagine my shock when he actually shakes his head. The motion makes me smile.

"I'm covered, I won't blind you."

Succeeding in annoying him, he turns and glares at me, amber eyes flashing. Can see his attempt to keep eye contact, but he's a male. Can only expect so much. Doesn't even have to be jabbed at his gender since anyone who's with you would make a perusal. Anyone who tells you differently is lying. Can be any type of body, any shade. Eyes roam, that's just a natural thing. I'm sure there are those that are prudish enough to keep their eyes firmly away, but I'd imagine those people to be prudish in all things and have a serious stick up their ass.

"Asher has been bouncing around since then. Said at one point he was at the preserve way south of here, had been thinking of staying there when something pulled him back here... Do you ever feel like your life isn't really your own? I'm really beginning to feel like this whole thing has been orchestrated by someone...or something."

I lay my hand on the cool glass in front of me while looking into eyes that start bleeding to yellow. I can almost feel where his eyes alight on. My back is mostly covered by my long hair, but I can feel his heavy gaze on my left shoulder. Everything I've fought up to this point seems to really take issue with my left side. Every single fight, it gets busted up. If I were still human, I'd be seriously mangled right now.

Hell, if I were still human, I'd be a dead one, just from that first encounter. Wouldn't have had to deal with James and all his squalor if I had, but then Bastion would have also died. My sister. An assortment of others who would have gone if I hadn't been around to take out the people I'd killed.

Another notch hooks into the feeling that events are being planned and plotted out. Do you recall that scene at the end of the movie, Men in Black? The one where an alien hand is shown to be playing with marbles before grabbing them up and putting them in a pouch, each marble containing a galaxy? Maybe this isn't quite that extreme though.

Hopefully.

I think the apropos visual here would be higher beings in one shape or form playing a game of chess. You win some, you lose some. Key pieces come into play as they enter the picture; the game.

One major thought that that brings to life is; which piece are you? If your life isn't your own, are you a background pawn, or the king always in danger of toppling? Will the toppling be done by someone else’s hand, or by your own by taking on too much, making the wrong move? What happens when the game is over? Is it ever? Or just new pieces put in place for a never-ending loop?

Hurts my brain even thinking about it. When my eyes focus on the now once more, ice crystals are spreading out from my hand to creep along the glass. Have you ever really taken the time to look at it when it forms? It's really quite beautiful. Curious, I try directing it, making the pattern forming into one of my own. As it starts doing so, I smile. Pulling my hand away slowly, I turn my hand so it's palm up, picturing everything in my head as I direct it.

A combination of magic and science.

Can simply explain it away as something fantastical that can't be explained, or really analyze it and know that you're reducing the kinetic energy of atoms within the air, pulling in the tiny water molecules of moisture, freezing them, and reforming into something else.

I think that's how a lot of magic and 'fantasy' end up losing their mystery. Someone has to pick it apart and find an explanation for everything. We lose the wonder and ability to see more of what's there as we get older.

Not even having a past like mine or Bastion’s can really take that from you, not unless you let it. Possibilities are endless when you learn to lose yourself in something, whether it be internal; retreating from the world to create your own and get away from pain - or external. External is more difficult I think since the ability to 'see' gets lost somewhere along the way. Artists can retain some of that sight within whatever it is they create; the will to dream and fabricate something new, to bring things to life.

I think you'd be amazed at just how many there are, but they're passed off as something else. Delusional. Schizophrenic. Autistic. The list can go on really. The downfall of each being that they can no longer control how much they see, or they make what is there into something Dark, made of nightmares, and even harmful.

The ice forming above my hand is spinning slowly, hovering as it takes shape. Doesn't take long, could probably be almost instantaneous if the picture was clear enough on what I want it to do. I can see Xavier behind me, much closer than he had been, watching what's happening.

Instantly, the ice shapes into something that only recently became a visual on skin. Not sure if he can even see it on himself, so I now show him, making it larger than it is on flesh, the color much the same as it takes on a light blue tint. Think that's also more my doing, since water tends to take on the color of the particles within it. It's kind of dusty in here. Dusty water forming into ice doesn't seem very attractive.

Still slowly spinning, I raise it higher till it's hovering more in front of him. The larger, thicker circle containing the inner threads of a dreamcatcher, but instead of the usual webbing pattern, it's an intricate snowflake. He reaches out to it but pulls back before actually touching it.

"That's the mark on me, isn't it?"

I nod and stop its spinning so he can see it clearly. I smirk for a moment before questioning him.

"So how do you figure a bite mark turning into that?"

His lips quirk. As he's looking at it, I start my shifting. From being around others when they do theirs, each person gives off an energy while they morph, no matter the species. The best way I can explain it is a release of 'magic' coming from the body.

When I had gone against that tan Werewolf, I was able to keep the energy expended on a lower key to keep him from feeling it right away. When I had fought Nicolaus for a short span of time before his pet came in, the energy that had come from him was also low key. Faline's is really strong, almost like a small explosion.

Think that's more from the way she shifts though, her will bending the ability to come almost instantly. The amazing part is that it doesn't exhaust her to do so. The first ability I learned when I had been buried within my wolf was how to instantly shift. It comes with a price though; shifting to wolf or Were instantly has somewhat of a time clock on it. The length of time I spend in that form becomes how many hours of unconsciousness needed to recover.

In other words, when I go back to human, I better be somewhere safe because I will be passing out immediately. Passing out and staying out for however long I had been in the previous shape, longer if lots of energy was used from fighting or long constant travel.

Within a minute since I wasn't pushing it, I'm sitting as a Silver Wolf in front of the mirror, ice symbol still holding up thanks to focus and concentration. Amber eyes had gone to mine while I'd been shifting. The shift to yellow when looking into the mirror minutes before sticks since that's my wolf’s color. I stand and turn to face him head-on while he intently stares at me. His dropping to his knees in front of me has the formed ice shattering.

Instead of falling, it just returns to a minuscule state within the air. The mirror also clears of the frost that had formed on its surface. Meanwhile, the man in front of me slouches while sitting on his legs.

Can't be very comfortable with the length of his torso, but I see none of it in his eyes. His intensity starts to worry me, so I cock my head. A large hand comes up and combs through the side of my face before the other follows suit on the other cheek. He dips forward and lays a kiss on my forehead, then moves till his mouth is right at my ear as he speaks low.

"For ever the length of time you need me, I wish to stay by your side."

Pretty deep for the playboy, so I give him a way out.

"Oh, I don't know, if you think me mean now, I can only see that getting worse as I get older. You'll be tired of me by this time next year."

If I'm alive that is. His hair tickles my nose, being so close makes his scent strong. Don't know when it happened, but at some point, I started attributing his smell to mean home, just like Asher and Bastion. His hands had clenched in my fur at my flippant reply, so I try to soften it.

"As long as you wish to stay, I will have you. You are welcome by my side anytime."

After all he's done for me, I can allow no less. His heart is thumping hard, so I step into him. The emotions coming off him so strong, I almost drown in them.

I catch thoughts passing as he has them. Memories. The long travels having lost their draw. A self-made loner feeling like he's missing something but not knowing what, spending many a night wrapped in some woman or another’s arms yet still feeling nothing. His looking for a home to settle down, hoping something will come from it. Hiring out his services to be able to build something of his own someday.

Xavier is actually really well off, having gotten large amounts for him to do this or that, mostly involving killing someone. That shit ain't cheap. He'd taken on one last job before his search for a spot to build on, never knowing that his last task would lead him to just what he wanted and just didn't know it.

A place where he was needed.

A place where he's still needed. Even Asher got drawn into the pull of what was originally me and a small lost boy. A place he can call his own, a family. The comfort of knowing he's no longer alone.

His thoughts and emotions tear at my own heart. Not sure if he meant for me to see it or not, so I just keep it to myself. Guys can be weird about that kind of stuff. Instead, I send him warmth, the knowledge that his presence in my home is a comfort. To both me and Bastion, hell, even to my pervy cat. That gets me a smile, can feel it form against me since he buried his face into my fur.

He finally lets go and pulls back, liquid amber eyes trying to avoid mine. I leave it alone and let him pull himself back together. Can't leave until he opens my door though, so I hope he doesn't take too long.

Moving closer to the door, I sit and wait, trying not to look too impatient. I'm tired though, so I'm not entirely sure what expression I'm wearing. Having been looking away from him so he can gather himself, the large hand coming down to rub at my ear comes as a delightful surprise. If canines could purr, now would be the best time. Eyes already heavy, they drop and I lean into the rubs. Kind of sad that as a human, you can't really feel the delight of touch that you do as an animal.

Having someone play in your hair is close, as I'm sure a back rub would be, but those can't compare to a good ear rub when in wolf form. When he pulls away, I almost fall over. He gives a small deep chuckle. Probably did that on purpose.

Nipping at his hand, I scratch at the door. Cuddle sleeps are calling my name. A long finger goes up the middle of my nose and stops to rub at a small area on the nose bridge between my eyes. That...is no fair. It feels amazing, so wanting him to stop so I can go out is in debate at the moment.

"Now who's being mean?"

My voice slips into his head, pitch low and lazy, sleepy. With a smile, he finally takes pity on me, opening the door and letting me out. Almost walk into Shade again on my way out. If he's going to constantly be underfoot, I may have an issue. Moving aside, he follows my progress into the living room, eyes larger than normal as he watches me. Makes you wonder if he's seen a female wolf before.

I share the thought with Xavier, who tries to stifle his laughter. Getting to the couch corner my Imp is still sleeping in, I nose him lightly. Sleepy blue eyes open, then smile as he lifts up so I can crawl in under his head. Moving into a position that has Bastion against my belly, head laid on my side while I curl around him, my long tail comes up and drapes over part of him as if a blanket. My head lays next to his bent legs, nose pointing out towards the room.

Being gawked at by a pair of brothers who just look dumbfounded is quite comical. Licking my muzzle gets followed by a yawn. Sleepy eyes watching them, Xavier's off to the side grinning at the staring near twins. They're both dressed, looking like they're about to go out.

"Going back to town?"

Even my projected voice is low and sleepy as I wait for their answer. Blinking their eyes out of their stupor, heads bob and features lighten into smiles.

"Does she always do that?"

Since they're not talking to me, I don't answer. Xavier nods, his own grin turning into a proud smile.

"Yes. If everyone beds down at the same time, we're in the basement, but she's always curled with the boy. Should see them when they wake up. Bastion climbs in his sleep."

He laughs. Guessing he's seen it happen. Probably ended up losing his pillow at my hip from the boy's dream travels. Can go to sleep with him next to me and wake with him on top of me. They join his laughter. Very amusing.

"If you guys don't mind, I'm going to take a nap. Xavier if you're staying here and awake, make sure Maii can get in, please."

He nods. Brothers are indeed going into town, going to look for jobs so they aren't 'mooching'. After they leave my eyes close, then open sometime later when my head is lifted into a warm lap. Xavier's scent filling my nose sends me back off into dreamland. A land that I had dreaded to go to at one point in my life, still fear going to it every now and then when memories have gathered too close to the surface that day. Really sucks considering some of my best ideas come when I'm sleeping.  

Chapter Text

Kierra

I attempt to steer things towards a different direction, my dreams being a very deep well that I can draw inspiration from. There’s never enough hours in a day to get all the sleep I love to take and get other stuff done. Might sound weird; someone loving to sleep. It can be an escape or become your own private hell.

I know I've been peaceful for a while when dreams start getting very...heated. Let's just say I'm glad that a few males I know are not privy to my dreams like my sister had been a couple times. With the bond she and I share, it seems the closer we are to each other the more bothersome it is. Since she's gone back to the bordello, we haven't slipped into the other on accident...yet.

The sleep images bounce around while I float among them, quite peaceful till I'm yanked down into one. Hate when they do that, it usually means something’s going to happen soon that I won't like. Had at least two other dreams like that before.

A thundering heart is being chased by a large black shadow, stomach cramping in emptiness and terror. The mixture of thoughts collide with emotions; hunger, fear, loneliness. Wanting of a home but refusing to go back to the one from before. Following multiple shadows in hopes of finding a safe place to sleep. Heart feeling a little lighter when a smaller shadow joins the larger, them not tearing it to pieces.

Keeping quiet, yet still getting caught by the monster bearing down on him. Weak with lack of food, cold, and so tired. The other darker shadows have gone, something new ahead is bathed in light. Warmth comes from it, security, and a chance to rest without having to pay for it in flesh. In pain. Running fast for it and jumping right into the light, it’s blinding as I look on. Hate when you see an event but are also in the head of the one having it, gets really confusing.

The bright brilliance fades till everything is black once more, a feeling of loss filling me. This pain is known from before, yet it seems so much worse now that walking away is voluntary. Large ocean eyes open just ahead, the sadness in them so deep that even in the dream I weep for him. Eyes that hold love as well as a painful rage. They start swirling faster and faster into nothingness, going out as if never there. Swallowed into oblivion.

A man stands just ahead, his back facing me. Long midnight black hair goes down his back, tall with wide shoulders lead down to a trim waist. Touching a hand to his shoulder, his head turns. I jump back from the sight, scared even though there's nothing to fear. Strong features look at me, a face I've seen before only in pictures.

A smile forms on my lips - a curse lifted? His expression is unreadable for a moment before filling with fondness then turning to love. My heart pounds as he reaches for me, but just before he touches my skin, his disappears.

Dust whirls around him till it fades into a shape I'm more familiar with. Eyes have stayed the same in color and held emotion, the black wolf lifts his head in a mournful howl. The sound tears at me before he turns and runs away, taking my heart with him. I’m not able to cry out for him since this is what he wants, what he needs. Knowing this day would come but hoping he would change his mind. My feet are leaden, preventing me from going after him.

The absolute darkness he had gone into starts to lighten. The whole landscape changes to a crisp, bright morning. Bare feet on a dirt path. Looking around and seeing nothing familiar, I turn around.

Still nothing real familiar, but the large house a few yards away steals my breath. Two stories high with a large porch area. Specific details go fuzzy when I try to focus on them, so I stop trying. Really want to make things out better since I feel so drawn to it, but my feet are once again planted to keep me from moving, so my eyes roam. A decent size clearing in front and surrounded by forest, it reminds me much of my home, just a lot bigger.

Wilder.

My feet finally let me move, only now I'm on four instead of two. Padding softly across the yard as I gaze around, my gut clenches hard when another walks out from the opposite side of the house. His very size causes my tail to fall, stepping back slowly as muscles prepare for bolting.
The size of this one is so much like the tan Werewolf that it has my heart pounding hard in fear. This one possibly being bigger sends ice down my spine. Everything I'd been through up to this point seems to flash in front of me, reminding me that I'm alive and all others who came at me are dead.

A long tail lashes behind me as I raise my head high. Standing proud and defiant with knowing I'm much stronger than I had been then. Doesn't stop the light fear that still trickles through me as he comes closer, but we'll chalk that up to the whole common sense thing.

The large gray and black timber stops a few feet in front of me, head also high with chartreuse eyes directed at me. Curiosity is clear and obvious as he moves to walk around me, but I growl and follow the movement. Not letting another of this size at my back, fuck that. He keeps going, so I do as well. My tail reacts almost like a cat’s would as it lashes from side to side behind me. Making a complete circuit, he stops and raises a leg towards the house.

The message is pretty clear when he starts pissing. House is his. Well, golly-gee-wiz, excuse me. I blow air through my nose as my eyes narrow. I'm not known for being smart while awake, why would I be in a dream?

My haunches lower as I let my own stream go. Irritation fills his eyes before amusement does. Standing once more, I move to walk around him as he did me.

He lets me, seeming to have no fear of me at all. Taller than Asher by quite a lot, he's even taller than Xavier's animal. His gray and black fur gives the look of burning charcoal, while his scent is wild. Dominating. Having no need to posture, his tail is down, breathing easy and unconcerned. Tall, wide, proportioned. Muscle mass alone on this beast lets you in on the fact that this is no normal wild animal, yet at the same time, it is.

His head turns to watch my progress once I'm at his side. I can feel the draw, the pull to him, but I push it aside quite easily. Doing so seems to make him curious while again irritating him. Oh, this is just too fun. My maw opens as I give a toothy grin, making my way to stand in front of him once more, yawning as I turn my back on the giant.

Probably not the smartest thing to do, but I'm curious too. His rumbling growl is instantaneous at my rebuff, so I lay it on thicker by raising my nose and stepping away. The rumbling turns into a full out growl which has me laughing as I fade away.

His howl follows after this wisping, ghostly form that becomes me as it whirls around a chessboard in play. More and more pieces are getting added on both sides till it's full. Hardly any room to make a move, yet they do so. Pieces fall into ash on either end, blowing away in the vague shape of running wolves.

~

With that as the last image my mind’s eye sees, I slowly awaken. Sounds and smells find and assault my senses, so I move my forelegs closer to my head in an attempt to drown things out. It doesn't work though. The sound of a motorcycle outside is being revved before it goes silent and the smell of food cooking makes my belly grumble aloud. A small chuckle next to me has me raising my head, have to blink a few times to make sure he's who I'm seeing.

"It would appear you are hungry, little wolf."

I yawn before looking back to bluish-green eyes that are several shades lighter than the ones I'm used to seeing. Benjamin the Vampire is sitting next to me on my new couch. My ears quirk before I look around.

"Someone actually let you in? Think I need to fire my security."

The glittering of my eyes shows me clearly being an ass, but he scoffs anyway.

"Seeing as how most of your 'security' are pups, I fear you're in for a mighty big disappointment."

Sitting up casually, I lean over and nip at his arm. He pulls away but still laughs. Since he's here, it must be after dark. Yawning again, I drag myself off of the couch, stretching my legs while I do so. Seen dogs do it before, now I know why.

"When did you get the new couch?"

I look back to him as I get my legs under me. Tail lashing from one side to the other has a wisp of dream rise, but it's instantly gone. Great, probably had some awesome dreaming done and I remember none of it. Typical.

Bastion and Xavier are in the kitchen cooking again, Maii sitting at the end of the island counter watching them. Can hear the brothers outside but no sign of Asher yet. Probably making his rounds again.

"Earlier today actually. Bought with money you slipped into my account. So guess you could say the bad guys bought it for me. So nice, aren't they?"

All he does is smile, so I shake my head. Smile does fall though when he motions out front, question obvious. My projecting turns into whispers for his brain alone.

I rub along the lonely footstool while he shivers. Would ask if he's alright, but I know he is. Just a side effect from my calling his animal to the surface. Seems it creates a bond with Vampires, so I have to be very careful.

"Picked up a couple new strays. They helped Xavier and I earlier when I went to see Alarico, the Red Wolf Pack Alpha. Couple Vamps tried jumping us as we were leaving when they provided aid, then again later when a group of humans made a try for us."

Glancing over, can see his face has hardened.

"It was the humans that we got the tape from. I know the Vamps were after me, but I have no idea where the humans come in in all this. Any ideas? Did you get what was on it?"

He nods but doesn't look too happy. Making it around the dark green ottoman, leaving scent and loose fur, I walk past him, swatting him with a long tail.

"Sourpuss."

Have to stop and really laugh at that, him actually being a puss an all. Send my laughter into his brain just as he snags hold of my tail. Keep forgetting his speed, his being faster than any others I've come across.

Sending him a raised eyebrow visual, he tugs till I start stepping back, only stopping when I'm right in front of him. His scent hits me hard as he moves more to the edge of his seat. Must have been sitting there for a while for his musk building to that level in one spot.

Musk, not must.

The smell coming off him entices my wolf senses. Oh, shit. Watching him closely, he doesn't look too drunk yet, he’s still ‘there’ in his eyes as his hands sink into the fur on my back and side. You'd think I was a freakin' petting zoo with as much as everyone touches me. Don't get me wrong, feels good, just...damn.

"You with me here, Benji?"

"I am."

I get saved by an Imp as he comes over with a few slices of roast beef. Nahm. Licking his face before snagging up the food, I plan on shifting back soon anyway, soon as I stop getting groped.
Get the feeling he wants to talk to me, just not in range of everyone else. I look at him and ask if that's what he's wanting, and he dips his head down once. I'd be nervous if he was drunk, but he looks to be fighting it pretty well.

"To do that, you have to let me go. I want to be upright, dreams made me uneasy. Let me shower and such then we can talk."

He lets go instantly, seeming to know all about dreams going bad. Can just imagine that he has. That or I stink. Either way, once he lets go, I head for the shower. Checking to make sure there's a towel left before shifting, I take my shower and do all other assorted bathroom things. My own breath tasting especially horrible, teeth get brushed twice.

Now the fun part. I usually dart across to my room, especially when so many are here, but there are a couple that like to be right under my feet. Putting my ear to the door to get a better idea, doesn't seem to be anyone out there to be a pest. Opening the door to see the way is clear, I make my dash, making the roughly seven-foot sprint in two seconds flat. My room is across from the bathroom, but the doorway itself is further down.

While equipping myself with my daily armor, the urge I had in the shower to call Ava gets stronger. Hope she's alright. Also have to make a call to mom since she more than likely only sent a text.

Also think that I should probably look into getting a new place. If I keep collecting people and housing them, I'm going to need more room. Probably won't be able to get anything this late in the year in the size I need, let alone needing to figure out finances.

That's all pushed away as I start daydreaming. Large house with a big wrap-around porch, multiple stories for space and rooms, a basement that doesn't have any exposed pipes and lack of windows. Large open rooms that are a combination of carpet and hardwood. Most definitely more than one bathroom, my God. It’s true when they say bathrooms sell houses.

Hook-ups for a washer and dryer would really be nice, can't keep mooching off of Ava's. She says she doesn't mind, and she may not, but I do. Lots of land will be needed as well, with privacy. The biggest problem I think will be finding a balance between Faline and everyone else.
Sorry guys, but she comes first.

Clothed, I now start putting in all the assorted body jewelry that doesn't like to stay in when I shift.

Maybe have rooms in the basement? One that isn't dank and depressing for sure. Want to keep up with the whole nesting thing, and to be able to accommodate her, it needs to be in a basement again. Instead of a man cave, it'll be an actual den. Can't help but smile at that. Still need several bedrooms though, even if they aren't slept in; a place to put your things is always nice. Not to mention answers to any asked questions.

As far as daydreams go, I think it's pretty good, even moreso when trying to stay realistic. Hell, a new vehicle is also needed, since my jeep seems to be getting smaller and smaller. The park that Ava lives in, could it have open houses? That would be pretty damn perfect actually. Lots of space to run without worry of getting caught every few seconds and since someone has to go to her place to get Lily for school, they could snag up my two as well.

Ahh, the power of dreams. Not sure how much Ava pays for her setup, but I'm pretty damn sure it isn't cheap. Any house I get would also have to be bought, not rented. Hell, even if it's a place in foreclosure, just means you get to fix it up in a way you want.

Staring into my mirror, I can see my eyes get all dreamy. I blink it away. Time to get back to reality, where things are a lot harder, and a lot less shiny. Jeans and a plain shirt in order with piercings in place, I head back out. My hair air dries, no brushing till then, otherwise, it just gets ripped out. Hate using a hairdryer, I end up looking like a damn poodle.

While stepping out of my door and playing with the barbell in my tongue, I step right into a chest. Blinking a couple times, I look up to a shit-eating grin. Leaning against my doorway and knowing how I tend to come out, he just sat and waited.

"Creeper."

"Insolent pooch."

Laughing, I push past the annoying overly tall male. Tongue still playing along my lip as I get the hole to widen. Have to be careful with assorted skin additions since flesh will try to heal over it.

Re-piercing my ears each time is one thing, but my tongue is a whole different deal. May heal faster and all, and the initial piercing won't be that bad, it's the annoying swelling afterwards. My masochism does not extend to the enjoyment of the swelling muscle that I use to talk with, sorry.

Chapter Text

Kierra

Bare feet are silent on the floor, but I'm dripping a little. Oh well, won't be the first or last time.

"Xavier, can you bring in the finished canvases and get them hung on the shelves like the others for me?"

With a nod, he goes to do so while I get to the kitchen and pick up my phone to check any messages. Playing first with Maii's hair before going to play in Bastion's. I do so absently while listening through a few different voices. One's from mom, so that settles getting a hold of her. Her voice sounds relaxed, happy. So hopefully she's getting the, uh, rest , she needs. Her friend looked capable enough.

The second call was from the art gallery in Rockford; always willing to show my work for a commission. No biggy, I don't mind as long as it isn't ridiculous. I get that times are hard, but trying to get grabby with artists is not the way to go. Artwork doesn't always sell, called for less these days since no one has the money to spare. Yes, I want to share my visions, and I enjoy the work itself, but a payment for at least replacing materials is needed.

Price also goes off of the quality and size of the print. Print in my case, other mediums have their own whatsits. Dumbing down my work is not something I like to do, so galleries and I can go back and forth. I'm one of those that doesn't understand the draw one can have towards a five hundred dollar painting that's only a couple splashes of color on a blank background. I don't get it, never will. I need color, design. Purpose isn't always needed, but other things are.

Third call is from someone I've never heard of before, a 'Mr. Silverton'. A representative for an out of state collector who would like a couple specifically made prints from me. Huh. How would someone in Missouri even know about my stuff? I've never been out of state, even when doing my books. Aside from Wisconsin, of course. The art gallery has a website, maybe seen them on there? I write the number the man gives down, having to listen to it twice more to catch it all.

The fourth call is actually one I've been waiting on for months. Eager to do something for them, but not wanting to seem too eager and come across as begging for a spot. A local restaurant likes to feature things done by locals, whether it be art, getting some great award, or winning a high stakes game of whatever is popular at the time.

I'd been there admiring some of the items featured when a waiter had come up asking if they could help me. Guess it did come across as me loitering when gawking, but I wasn't meaning to be a nuisance. Was just my luck that the art galleries' auctioneer had been there and recognized me. Guy embarrassed me all to hell by making a big fuss, wanting to talk to the owner of the place. I was horrified by that time but couldn't move, so upset that I was shaking and trying to contain my anxiety.

Turns out the owner of the restaurant and the auctioneer were actually friends, his making a fuss was just to cause innocent trouble. Didn't feel that way to me, but it helped me calm down a bit. They'd gotten into a big discussion on random subjects, so I figured I could leave. When trying to walk away without looking like an idiot is when he introduced me. Pretty sure the owner could see how uncomfortable I was, so he didn't believe I was very good. Rick, the auctioneer, didn't have any images on him, but I did.

Pictures were taken on my phone, so they could have been from anyone. That was exactly the look I got, so Rick invited him to the gallery to see some of my stuff. The owner had said if all went well he'd give me a call. Dude was a real prick, actually. Guess he finally got around to seeing my junk. He didn't relay to make anything specific, so it's artist’s choice. Could be a real bitch and make it derogatory in some way, but I'll try to contain myself. Have to remember what their theme was anyway, so I may have to take a trip.

Paintings I've done already I don't know if I want to part with. That's usually my problem. Always tell myself I can do them again and better, but it never seems to happen. They're done though and can be taken to the gallery tomorrow. Gets them out of the way so I have the space to make the commissioned ones. Done that way I can even get a photographer’s professional shot of them for records.

Calling Mr. Silverton back, I get a recording so I leave a message that I need details of what they want. The gallery is called back to let them know I have four that I can get over there tomorrow, then leave a message for the diner that I'll get to theirs soon. If he's going to try looking like a hotshot by having me wait so long, then he can just wait for me to get to it. Bastion hands me a plate of spaghetti and my eyes widen. He smiles and mouths that he made it with Xavier and Maii.

Giving him a smile, I take a bite. Amazingly, it's really good. Giving him a thumbs up, I get Ava dialed. Need to get the boys' papers back to her too. Busy busy busy. She answers and we talk a bit before asking when the best time to bring them is. Want to ask about properties, but not in front of so many. ‘Either later tonight or tomorrow is good’. Perfect.

Something I've been wanting to ask Xavier for a while now and have yet to do so, I plan on snagging him for now. When the boys take plates out to the Arctic brothers, I pull him aside.

"You're proficient with a blade, yes?"

He just gives me a droll look, so I smirk. Already know he is, been wanting to get some instruction from him myself. I just love to be a pain, especially to him. He makes it amusing.

"I've been toying with the idea of Bastion learning how to use them. I'm good, but not good enough to teach a child. Same with Maii. I want them both able to protect themselves if for some reason none of us are around. Think you're up for it?"

He actually nods with a serious look.

"Been thinking the same myself. Where the rest of us have an animal to draw on, he's left out. He wants to do more, but with what's going on, he can't do much. Teaching them will give both more confidence in themselves. Do you have blades they can use or are we using butter knives?" 

Don't think I've ever wanted to kick someone so hard as I do him right now.

Instead, my eyes narrow as I push past him into my room. The small end table-like thing on the one side of my bed has multiple drawers. Inside one drawer there's a collection of throwing knives. One set is balanced, which can be thrown by either end. Came as a set of twelve and are very pretty. Black and silver. No frilly stuff needed.

Another set of three is kunai based that I have a habit of playing with since they have a ring at the pommel. Since they need to learn the blade first, I pull out a couple butterfly knives. Usually the best to practice with, then move your way up. When no practice ones are around anyway. Should probably look into those.

Pocket knives, bowie, daggers, and a few OTF blades that are highly illegal. Commonly called the switchblade in most areas. Since I'm not the teacher, I pull them all out and lay them on the bed. And when I say all of them, I mean all of them.

On the last count, I had over a hundred different ones. Some are stashed around the house too. Few survival knives, couple karambits, and another that if caught with, I'd be taken in for some serious questioning. Why? Because unlike the others that can have some other use, as in protection, hunting, or utility, this one is meant for killing. A cyclone tri-edged spiraling fixed blade knife. It's a beaut.

Twisted blades like that are made for killing and that's all. I take it out so Xavier sees it, but it will not be touched by the boys. Used to have a few swords as well, but those got sold off. I like smaller blades better.

Take that however you wish.

When he sees it, his eyebrow goes up, even more so than it’d already been from when I started pulling out everything.

"Think I'm covered without needing butter knives, but I suppose those could be used too."

I smirk at him as he raises his hands in surrender. Most have their own sheaths, but there are a few that don't. The cyclone even has its own specially made sheath.

Best way to get rid of a handsy date? Start playing with your knives. Guarantee they may gawk, but then they are so gone. Especially if you're like me and like to pet them. I have these and several others in boxes in my closet. Some are actually collectible. Isn't that the saddest thing you've ever heard?

When I first started out, I trained with the butterfly. Well, no, I take that back. When I first started, I was always playing with my uncle's blades. He decided to teach me so I wasn't cutting off my own fingers.

When he was teaching me knife work, since I was so very young at the time, he carved a couple wooden knives for us to use. If Xavier hadn't been here, I think I would have gone to him for help. Blade knowledge and physical.

Faline and I have two uncles, our mom's brothers. Each has a totally different personality, complete opposite on the spectrum really. One is really into the physical aspect of life; fighting, mountain biking, blade work, outdoor survival, that kind of thing.

Other uncle is all brain. Biggest geek and nerd you will ever meet more than likely. Well, maybe not, there are some pretty crazy ones out there these days. Real smart, loves to talk about history, big gamer of all kinds, movie buff, and did I mention, really smart? Not sure how high the IQ, but pretty damn far up there.

So me, Faline, and our assortment of cousins were pretty set no matter which way we chose to go. Best part is they're both highly creative too, one being a carver and the other a storyteller. I shake my head hard to pull myself out of the past. Good memories this time, but they can still make me cry.

Blinking over to Xavier, I motion out over the bed, the cyclone in my hand.

"Even the decorative ones are usable, so use whatever you need. Don't worry about damaging them, they're meant to be used. Not sure if you know about the practice area set up over at Ava's. Since I have to run over there tomorrow, I can take you guys to check it out too."

He nods while looking over everything. Setting the heavy deadly blade off to the side, I head back out. Think that's everything I wanted to do before talking with the Vamp chilling on my couch looking amused.

I look at him for a second then turn right back around and go to my room again. Socks. I sadly need a pair of socks. Don't pay any attention to what the false wolf is doing, just grab them and scoot. Coming back out once more, Benji raises an eyebrow, so I hold them up. He just shakes his head.

"Oi, you might be able to wear shoes without socks, but I can't. Now...where'd I put my food?"

The semi-reclining Vampire rolls his eyes and points to the desk. Least it isn't some weird place this time. I've done that a time or two...or three. I've put my phone in the fridge too. It was pretending to be the milk for the day.

It's a little cold now, but I don't care, it's food. Sitting in the desk chair, I take a bite and put a sock on. Take another bite, put the other sock on. Another bite, fetch my boots. Pretty routine for me, but Ben looks at me like I'm insane. Twirling some noodles on the fork, I point it at him with narrowed eyes, then proceed to eat it. Put one boot on, take a bite, put the other boot on, take another bite.

By this time it's gone and both the Vamp and maned wolf are looking at me. I grunt and rinse my plate, snag another glass of juice, then head for the door. Letting the others know I'm going for a walk, I get assorted looks. All are ignored, considering I only told them as a damn courtesy to begin with. Still not used to having people in my home that I have to let know what's going on. Rarely did it with Faline...since she would get brought with anyway.

The way they act, I'm not supposed to be out at all. They can get that out of their heads real quick. Brothers think I don't know they're watching me even while doing whatever to or on their vehicles. Could be mean and ice their tires up, but I don't know how to control it that well and I might blow them up on accident. At some point during my nap, all the rain managed to either soak into the ground or trickle off into small puddles. Cold wind that picked up again will probably freeze it soon.

We walk in silence till we reach the end of my driveway, then I turn towards the deserted old couple’s house. Haven't been over there since Ben and his crew cleaned all the...uh...dead, from the cellar. Hands going into my pockets, I look over to the tall male next to me.

"Speak."

"Woof."

"Don't make me hurt you."

He chuckles but looks like he's trying to find a place to start. That bad? Why can't good news be more common than bad? That would be so much better on so many levels.

"I finally tracked down a chunk of the group you're determined to go after."

"I would think that's a good thing. Why do you look so...conflicted?"

His barely beating heart thumps hard, which has me looking over at him again. Some time ago, I had asked him to look for this flesh ring on the dark web by tracking the money through accounts of people known to be in it. He couldn't do too much because Vampire politics apparently clash with helping a Werewolf take down a pedophile-filled ring of sadists and sickos. I'm sure there's more to the politics than that, but I still won't understand it.

He found Frank Mallory for me, the man after Bastion. Through the man Faline had found, the information Ben got on Frank, and all the files Alarico has, we should be able to piece something together.

"I looked up all the people your sister described from getting into the other man’s head. This goes a lot deeper than originally thought."

Kinda already figured that out myself, but there must be more to it that I don't know for him to look the way he does. Already know there's at least one judge, a few lawyers, some cops, and even a priest. It's finding out which ones that's proving to be the biggest problem.

When found, there will be no contacting of authorities with all the info we have. No court, no jury, no trial. They get nothing but a slow death. Believe what I will be doing is called 'premeditated murder'. Meh. Po-tay-to po-tah-toe, to-may-to to-mah-toe.

"I found the judge and lawyers, couple cops, and a money trail leading right to a club downtown. It's a fetish club that's only been there for a couple of years. Found a hidden transaction and a dirty money trail."

A fetish club that has dirty money, hmmm. Catching my look he explains more.

"Regular fetish club, but something is going on under the table."

Oh, that makes a clearer picture then. My brows furrow.

"I didn't know there was a fetish club in town. Been there a couple years? How long has this 'dirty money' been going there?"

His thumbs stick into his jeans pockets. Could almost be matching here with our wardrobe. Boots, jeans, no coat. Shirts are different though, where mine is a plain t-shirt, his is a button-down with sleeves. Since where he works isn't too ‘public view’, not sure why he finds the need to cover his tattoos. May just be a habit, I have no idea how old he really is, only looks to be late twenties-early thirties. Forever young.

"About six months now. The people who bought the building still have ownership of it. The club is being used as a cover for what goes on underneath it. Screams are ignored as well as the heavy smell of sex, even blood because the place is known to be considered pretty extreme. That's why it's such a surprise that it's right in the middle of one of the busiest areas inside the city."

I shake my head at him, walking lightly over the concrete road leading to the deserted horror.

"Not really. I mean, think about it. It's a club - perfect cover for almost anything from drugs on up. Corrupt cops have that area as theirs so nothing is seen. No one is going to think of a place in that location with a police patrol. Can be hidden in a crowd as well."

He inclines his head. I'm sure he would have thought of it eventually, just has so much other stuff on his mind that it just got lost.

"Okay, so we know bad money is going through it, but who's running the operation?"

"A spoof company overall. Does have a business front, but nothing goes on there. Aside from runner assignments."

I blink at him. I got the first part just fine, but if nothing goes on there, then what are the runners?

"Um, runner assignments?"

He nods, a look of concentration on his face.

"From everything I've found, there are three local jobs. Collectors, Trainers, and Runners. Collectors are those that catch, drug, and hold for the Trainers. Trainers break down the people they're given, softening them up, making them less inclined to fight, and brainwashed. The Runners are the money carriers, moving it from one place to another before it can be deposited or stored."

He sighs as if tired, even running a hand over his face before continuing. My own hands get sweaty in my pockets from clenching fists.

"Product is often moved or disposed of to keep from discovery. Drugs seem to also play a part in all this, as they’re used to draw in more product. Each is titled as to what they are; breed, gender, age, and quality."

I bring out my hands and motion him to stop, my breathing quick and harsh as I stop walking. We’re not far from the house, but I need to collect myself here and now. Sentient beings being referred to as 'product' is sick, I don't care who or what you are. Eyes closed, I bend over, hands on knees. Recently eaten food threatening to come back. This is why I hate eating anymore, seems each time I do something happens that makes it want to come up for a reappearance.

Benjamin stands next to me, waiting while I decide if I'm going to paint the ground. I take in deep breaths, the air being cold helps a lot. There's just something about cold air that always helps me. Don't know why. My voice is low when I speak up, working at keeping it even.

"Don't tell me any more right now, wait till we get to the house. If the others are going to be with me on this then they will need to hear it as well."

Think I found the perfect spot for my cyclone dagger; into the bellies of each one of these people. He shakes his head as he offers me a hand.

"No, you need to hear this and decide what they know. Not only are many of the Runners Were-animals, but Trainers and Collectors as well. I also found something else, what I asked you to come out here for."

This isn't going to be good. Looking up at him, I take his cold hand into my very hot one. At some point he had rolled up his sleeves, so I put my other heated hand on his arm, which is also cold. Talk about having your own personal ice cube. He doesn't seem to mind, eyes too busy roaming. Oh yeah, real bad. 

"Out with it then."

He sighs, looking very uncomfortable. I let him go, but he grabs my hands back. Squeezing them before slowly letting me go and reaching into his back pocket.

"At first I wasn't sure, the images are years old. Looking into the background of them and who took it, I realized who they were...and now are."

My insides start cramping hard. I don't want to see this, I really don't. The temperature around me is felt as it drops drastically, frost forming on the ground from my feet and escalating outward. The Vampire pays attention to none of it as he holds two sheets of paper out to me. I look at them in his hand before I take them.

The ice recedes as my dread turns into anger, tired of feeling like a victim. My spine stiffens and I quell my belly. Rage fills and makes me very warm as the last of the anxiety I had passes away. In this world, if you're a victim, it's up to you whether you stay that way or rise above it. I'm tired of being one, so this is the last time fear will ride me about my past. Yes, I was abused, but it's not going to keep abusing me. I'm finished with cowing away and hiding in tears.

Folded over twice, I unfold and look at them, one next to the other. One is of me as a child, the other is Faline. If for no one else, I will take this ring down for myself. Two little girls with large smiles and trusting eyes, forever online for some pervert’s enjoyment. Now I know how Ben knows about the listing system, since that's what's written as a profile beneath our images. Female human children of different ages and very good quality, unused and untested.

"Unused and untested indeed. We'll see who is unused and untested in the times to come."

I look up to the undead male, eyes blazing yellow.

"Thank you, Benjamin. I couldn't make up my mind if I should feel bad about actually planning several people’s murder, but this is the last time they get anything from my family. I will hunt down every single one and give them the slow death they deserve."

Chapter Text

Kierra

My jaw clenches as I fold the images up and put them into my own pocket. Feel quite peaceful with myself actually as I continue walking. Serene. Don't need to look to see if he's with me, I can feel him.

Some small piece of me calls out to him like I'm sure a piece of him does for me. Thanks to the bond created from calling his animal, I can feel him when he's close, a slight humming in my blood and in my brain. Don't know what it means yet, but I'm sure it will reveal itself in time. Everything seems to eventually. Right now, I need to figure out a way to kill lots of people and get away with it.

After they’re dead it will come out as to just who and what they were, I will make sure of that. No one will care that they’re dead. Just have to make a point not to send all the others underground. Even then, I will find them, even if it takes me years.
I have the time, that's the beauty of it.

Once on the property that goes to the house, I turn back to Benji. Yellow eyes beat into his cerulean. He's tried to close himself off from me, and I appreciate the attempt, but it isn't working too well.

"Can I count on your continued help, or do you wish to stop? I need to know now so I can prepare one way or the other."

His lips purse, long beaded goatee moving with his chin. Doesn't have to say anything, I feel it. Bit creepy, to be honest. I ignore what his body is telling me and wait for his brain.

"I've always been with you on this, will till you no longer need me, and even then."

That sounds way too close to what Xavier had said for comfort. Please tell me all the guys aren't going to be like this, falling one by one into what looks much like infatuation. I screwed up Benji, he wasn't like this before I called his animal.

His head goes up alertly just as I hear it. Problem is, I can feel it too; Asher is pursuing something hard this way. The Vampire moves to stand in front of me when I turn to face what's coming head-on, but I shake my head, eyes a bit confused when this seems familiar.

Bits and pieces of a remembered dream rise to the surface. Can see the shadows barreling this way and have just enough time to brace myself when my arms are filled with a wet, shaking mass. Asher puts on the brakes immediately, actually had before he got this far, not running at his full speed.

"Uhh, Asher? Hun, why are you chasing a child into the ground?"

He snorts, air expelling from his nose hard as he shakes his head. I catch it to, the same scent of fox that’s been driving him nuts for days. What he doesn't seem to be getting is that this is a Were-child.

"Asher, he's like me. He's like you, he's like just about everyone back at the house. Pull back your seeming rampage and use your head, not your instincts."

I keep my voice soft, soothing. Nobody likes losing their quarry, let alone to another.

"I know what he is. He was getting taught a lesson. You do not mark up another's home without consequence."

That, I have to give him, so I incline my head. The poor shivering thing is panting hard, heart pounding against my body as small sounds come from him that sound much like sobs. Foxes have a weird assortment of sounds, and right now he's doing what's called a 'gekking' which is like a cross between chittering-whining and an almost high pitched talking.

His head is tucked in close to my abdomen as he tries to hide, covered in mud and who knows what else. Asher sure made him work for his ignorance. While the creature whines softly, I project to both Benjamin and the black wolf’s head.

"Not going to like this Asher, but this boy was in my dream, he's meant to be here. You've done the whole big bad wolf routine, and I'm sure he needed it. But for now, leave him to me."

Neither wolf nor Vampire is very happy, but it's really not their choice. If I wish to fill my home with a hundred men, I will do so. Asher's ocean eyes set on me with that, not looking at all enthused. Since my hands are a little full, I send him the impression of rubbing along his side, making sad eyes, and motioning to the pitiful thing. He rolls his, but I feel the returned motion.

"Alright, let's head back. No telling how the house is going to look from them all being unsupervised."

The fox in my arms is so exhausted, he passed out. Pretty sure foxes are supposed to be a little heavier than this, so he's probably starving as well. If I keep collecting kids I'm going to need to open a damn daycare.

Asher is laughing at my complaints, but in all honesty, what the hell am I going to do with another kid? His scent is mixed with everything he ran through but I catch enough to see the visuals in my head. Red fox.

Looks like your everyday garden variety vulpine till I see the markings on his face and down his back. They're a darker red than his coat and remind me of tiger or zebra stripes. Starting at his muzzle and making a direct line down his back to his tail.

Very interesting. Never heard of markings like that, so must be something along the lines of Maii's markings. Walking back with a large black wolf on one side and a Vampire on the other, I bet we look quite the group.

"Why are you out here all by yourself with a Vampire again?"

I hide my grin as I look down. Was waiting for that.

"You're adorable, you know that? Benji was giving me info on the ring that was personal to me. Didn't want the others to hear."

I want to share with him, yet at the same time, I don't. He doesn't ask or push, letting me make the decision myself. Figure now is not the time, so I say nothing.

We make it back a lot quicker than when we left, Arctic brothers still out front messing with their toys. I look up and frown just as the snow starts to fall again. Think the weather Gods are all confused on what they want to do. Hearing thunder miles away makes things even weirder. Knowing my luck, the damn world is ending. Right when I have several jobs lined up, too.
When close enough to not feel like I'm shouting, I ask them how their search went. With everything that had happened, they figured to try their luck at the wolf bar again. With having previous experience, they were welcomed in. I give them happy smiles before looking to the bike and truck.

"Same hours?"

With their nod, I motion to the bike.

"Are you planning on using that?"

Zypher pulls his purple head out from under the truck hood that even he needs a lift to get into and smirks. Whatever he's standing on must also belong to them because it doesn't look at all familiar to me.

"Thought about it, but since we have the same hours and such, would just make sense if we used the Beast."

I blink at him. Clearly I'm not caught up on my car talk, but I get pretty quickly that he's talking about his brother’s ridiculous sized truck. Said brother is looking at my arms with a raised brow, dirty rag in his hands. I decide to be nice... For once.

"Can get my jeep pulled out and put the bike in the shed if you wish, might be better than leaving it out in the weather or taking it with you where it can be stolen. Downtown can get pretty rough."

Not sure why I bothered with that last part since it only has them both smiling at the possibility of dealing with trouble. Zypher does incline his head though. His bike, so his baby.

"How much longer do you think you'll be? Need everyone together so don't have to keep repeating everything."

Not only is it past nine, but it's cloudy as well, so I'm not sure how they're getting any work done to begin with.

"Just about finished."
Nodding, I start heading in. Should give me enough time to get the fox settled. Once in the doorway, I turn and glare at the undead male.

"Shoes off. No mud. Asher hang up a sec and I'll get you squared away."

With the way I tied my boots, they can be pulled off relatively easily, which is good since my hands are full. Wolf sits off to the side amused while Benjamin grumbles good naturally. Someone got him to take them off before, so he can just deal. Once inside, Xavier is at the kitchen table with the boys explaining blade mechanics.

"Hate to interrupt guys, but gonna have to pause for a bit. Bastion can you get Asher dried off? He may have his own spot but that doesn't mean it needs all gunked up. Maii can you grab one of the larger beach towels for me?"

Both hop to do their requests while I look at Xavier. He's looking at the bundle in my arms with a raised brow, but I think he recognizes the scent as well. At one point or another, I'm sure we all tried to find him.

"Are all the blades off my bed?"

"No, but they can be. Where do you want me to put them?"

Nowhere really to put them, but thankfully everyone here is relatively responsible.

"Counter for now I guess. How're they doing so far?"

His smile before leaving can either mean very well or he’s got his work cut out for him. Ben comes in and takes the desk chair. Can't say I blame him, being in a house surrounded by Were-animals.

Maii comes up with a huge towel, looking curious. Telling him to follow me, we go to my room where I have him lay the towel out over the knife-cleared bed, folded once. Even folded, it's very large.

Carefully putting the sleeping fox on the towel, I pull back. He’s so tired he doesn't even move, so I curl his tail close to him. I have no idea how he looks as a human so no clue on sizes. So, for now, he just gets left on the towel. Looking over to Maii, I explain that this is our resident fox that has been slipping past Asher for over a week. He makes an ‘O’ face, then smiles.

"Watch out for mister cranky out there, he's mad I took his chew toy away."

A hand goes over his mouth as if containing a laugh, glinting blue eyes holding the mischief mine are. What he doesn't hear though is the black wolf rolling around my brain as if a cat on nip.

Aloud he grumbles since everyone heard me. Winking at the coyote, we head back out, me snagging a new shirt as we go. Light gets left on so he can see right away where he is if he wakes, door left open an inch. A house full of supernaturals, he isn't going too far without someone noticing.

Into the bathroom to clean up and change shirts, then to the living room where I lean against the end of the bookshelf right at the mouth of the hallway. Looking out over the main living area brings a smile to me, not sure why. Benjamin, still in the desk chair and Asher in his usual spot on the original couch, just turned the opposite way so he's not staring at the wall. Bastion is sitting with him, showing and talking about the blade he's holding. Would be a little nervous, but he isn't playing with it in any way, just holding and turning it.

Maii is sitting on the ottoman facing the brothers on the longer side of the new couch. Seems he's trying to follow along as they talk about bikes, but the boy just looks confused. Xavier seems to have claimed the other end of the ‘U’, where it's wider and not as long. Leaning back with his arms crossed behind his head as he watches my Imp, long legs are stretched out along the cushion.

Biting my lip and trying to be as unobtrusive as possible, I go in and get my phone from the counter close to the fridge. Bringing up the camera and pointing it out into the room. Only ones to really notice is Benji, since I walked in front of him, Xavier, since he's always watching me, and Asher. Zooming in just a little, I get them all in frame and snap a picture. Grinning as if I accomplished something amazing, I put the phone down and go back to the hallway.

Know I'll start pacing so I don't see the point in sitting down. Having never done anything like this, I feel all sorts of awkward. So to get started, I ask Zypher and Shade if they know anything about what's going on. When I start talking, Bastion sets the butterfly knife onto the coffee table and turns to face me. Maii as well spins around, his legs drawn up and folded. When the brothers shake their heads, I sigh, having no real idea where to start.

"Alright, let's see. You guys were filled in on the whole prophecy bollocks, factions, and recently passed events, yes?"

Nods, faces grim. Heh, if they're grim now it's just gonna get worse.

"Mkay, I wouldn't bother saying anything but since you're under my roof, I figure you should know since it will bring nothing but trouble. Trouble, danger, and very bloody fights."

I'm stalling, think everyone sees it. Reinforcing my spine, I go on.

"For the last twenty years, at least , there’ve been people, young adults, and kids mostly, coming up missing. It's recently come to my attention to just what's going on, I don't know just how far it goes, but so far it's enough. There's a human trafficking ring active here."

Feet are now pacing, not even looking up to faces as I go back and forth.

"Not just human, but Shifters and Weres as well. My sister and I got a hold of a few members and got enough information to at least get a point of where to start. There's a man looking for Bastion claiming family ties, he's not related in any shape or form, but he is part of this ring. From what I've heard from Alarico, he knows about supernaturals and knows a 'pale-colored wolf' has the child he's looking for."

Have to work at keeping on track and not branching out like I have a habit of doing.

"His name is Frank Mallory and he knows at least a few down at Howler's Bane are wolves. The humans that jumped us in town I'm guessing are also part of this ring, either knowing I'm the one who has him or a whole separate faction that is wrapped up in prophecy babble."

I wave my hand in the air at the mention of that damn foretelling. Talk about trouble.

"With Benjamin's help, we've been able to gather more names and where the money is going. He's been slowly bleeding the accounts he finds, filtering the money out elsewhere. So far we know of a judge, a few lawyers, some cops, and even a priest who are involved. That's not counting the other people who are 'high members of society'.”

I practically spit that out. Those of so-called privilege looking down at the ones they step on just to acquire more money or status. I was quite happy being a simple nobody.

"Pretty sure this spreads out everywhere, but I'm damn sure going to get a hold of it here. Personal to both me and Bastion, I promised that they would all suffer. Thanks to paranormal retardedness, help from others is minimal, which is fine. I don't want anyone involved that doesn't want to be or who’ll be a hindrance."

My hands are wringing in front of me as I continue my circuit. The more who know about this the more who're in danger. Is it really fair of me to put this on any of them? Even with all my bluster, I need help with this. Can't do it all myself. Wouldn't have a clue how to do any of what Ben has done, or even Alarico.

Can hear Benji talking, but I'm so focused in my head that I don't hear it. Taking down the lower tiers is one thing, but going higher will prove to be much more difficult, I'm sure. How does one go after a judge without getting caught? Let alone the lawyers.

Can I guarantee Bastion and Maii's safety if they come for me here? How do I prevent any possible blowback? Faline has shown interest in helping, but she's restricted by that annoying shiny thing in the sky. Not like any of this can really be done during the day...or can it? Planning is definitely going to take a lot of time. I don't expect any of them to help me with the messy part, I'm fully capable and willing to keep all that blood on my hands.

I'm abruptly stopped when I walk into a body. I catch myself easily enough, blinking at the wide chest before looking up, his arm also out to catch me if I start falling. Zypher is looking at me with his gray-blue eyes, long purple braid hanging over his shoulder. Think this is the most serious I've ever seen him look. Blinking, I take another step back.

"What? I'm sorry, I didn't hear anything you just said. Wasn't ignoring anyone on purpose, just focused in my head."

His serious face softens a little but it’s still pretty focused. Looking away from him, his brother, Shade, is standing right at his side, per usual. Same serious expression, but he's pretty reserved anyway. Xavier is sitting more upright on his cushion and Benji is staring at me. Can feel my face heat up, hair follicles prickling on my scalp.

"What? What's wrong?"

Getting a range of expressions, Xavier finally speaks up since no one else will.

"You have a habit when you pace, you talk under your breath. Not always full sentences, but enough that we can figure out what you're thinking."

My face flames instantly. Benjamin had been talking, I heard that before I went into my head. Major rudeness there, but when I look over to apologize he's grinning and shaking his head.

"I've seen you do that a couple of times before, I know you don't mean to do it."

Well, thank frick for that. Looking back to the brothers, I'm about to apologize to them as well when they do the same thing as Ben. Crossing my arms over my chest, I look over them all.

"Well, I'm sorry anyway. I apologize for dragging you all into this. You’re supposed to feel safe here, yet being anywhere around me isn't."

They all chuckle at me, which is highly annoying, so I scowl. Zypher bringing up a hand to face me draws my attention.

"Speaking for my brother and myself, we're perfectly fine here. Should know by now wolves are always up for confrontation and it being for a good reason just makes it better. Worth it. You have our word that we'd stay. Said we'll help any way we can, we meant it. Don't have to take this all on yourself when there are many who are ready and willing to stand at your back and side."

Uhh. How does one respond to that exactly? A blush colors my cheeks again, yet I smile anyway.

"Hope you all know what you're getting into because this isn't going to be easy or clean by any means."

Smiles all around the room, even the boys. Asher is hesitant but happy how things are working for me. Slipping in gently, I ask if he's alright.

"I'm proud of you. You've really stepped up, even your sister is doing her part. There aren't too many who can do what you're doing and stick with it, but I think you will. You have those here as well as many others who will be willing and even wanting to help you."

His words seem off to me, a tingling in my brain signifying a deja vu moment as well as a tug at my heartstrings. I look over to him, but his head is down as he mocks sleep. Pushing won't get me any answers, so I leave it for now, feeling uneasy.

While I'd been buried in my own head, Benji did get all his info out to them. Same stuff I heard outside so I didn't miss much. It's amazing anyone can have a smile with the gravity of the situation, but you can only do so much at a time and smile when you can.

Chapter Text

Kierra

Everyone spreads out of the hallway, leaving it open for me to see a limping fox make his way nervously forward. I start whispering to him immediately.

"If you're hurt, don't walk, you'll just make it worse. You're safe here, Asher was just teaching you a lesson in marking others' homes. Could have gone about it differently, I think, but I hope it got through to you. Things could have been a lot different."

His ears are splayed out to the side, whole body lowered close to the floor. There is defiance in his eyes, I'm glad to see it.

"Keep that fire in you, little fox, you're going to need it if you stay. Just remember that you came to me. You put anyone here in danger, things will not go well. For now, you're welcome to take a shower and get some food into your belly. I take it you have nothing with you, clothes are needed when human."

I shoo everyone else away but keep Bastion close when I move closer to the little fox and crouch down. Light amber eyes look up at me warily as he starts rolling to present his belly. I smile and shake my head, speaking aloud now.

"I'm not big on dominance displays, kid. No reason to show your belly to me unless you've done something really bad. This is Bastion. Since I figure you'll want a guy’s help instead of mine, he's the nicest one here aside from Maii."

Smiling, I call the coyote to me to show him who I'm talking about. Xavier scoffs from over on his cushion. Looking at him with a raised brow, I give a warning.

"Don't mind the rude dog over there, he's a little special in the head."

I share a smile with the three with me, working at showing the fox he's safe.

"Let one of them know what size you wear and I'm sure we can scrounge up something for you. Can I get your name?"

Just now realized I've been jabbering at him, poor thing couldn't get a word in if he tried. His body is still low, so I reach down and start working on his cheek. He starts making those gekking noises again, eyes closing. Opening them a few seconds later, he answers me.

"I'm Kani."

I smile warmly at him, moving back to stand.

"Well Kani, I'm Kierra and this is my home. We'll get you introduced to everyone after you've washed up."

Getting them shooed off, I go to the kitchen sink and wash the mud from my hand. If I hadn't seen his fox in my head, I wouldn't have had a clue as to what he looked like. Don't think I've ever seen a fox that dirty.

Making my way to the Vampire, I poke him in the ribs. He grunts at me.

"You said you got that tape transferred, right? Got it with you or are ya gonna tell us what was on it?"

Getting up, he goes to his hung jacket in the closet and pulls a case from one of the pockets. On his way back over, I turn the computer on. Once everything is booted up, the disc gets popped in and pushed to play.

Focusing in on the Howler’s Bane Bar, Xavier and I are walking up to it and in. It cuts off for a second then the screen flips to show the front of it once again with the Vamps fighting first the bouncer, then us as we come out. Bouncer took quite the licking, hope he's learned something from it.

Muscles only make a difference when you know how to use them. He may have been all buff and imposing looking, but he didn't even protect himself very well, as was obvious. He was trying to fight back as if he were against a normal human. Probably be good if he never sees this, might tickle his pride even more.

It keeps filming us all the way to my jeep and the whole time we're there. Doesn't have any sound, like a muffler was put on it, but the zoom was activated several times on our faces. My jaw clenches when seeing he did in fact catch my eyes changing. Looks very cool, but very dangerous in the wrong hands.

The beginning of the fight is filmed, but then cuts out when the camera flies to the ground and goes out. I sit there and stare at the screen.

"Well. That happened."

Xavier snorts from behind me, having come up to watch as well. Taking a side glance at him, I ask if he needs a tissue with all the problems he's having with his nose. I just get glared at. Ha.

"One question here is were they filming to catch us on tape being otherworldly, blackmail, or for some other reason?"

"Doesn't matter the reason, visual proof like that would spell disaster for us all."

Have to nod at the maned wolf’s grumpiness. Bad enough my eyes threaten to each time they change, but since I can feel it coming on, I can usually direct my eyes down. Can make them do it, just can't make them stop and they change on their own at times. As if I wasn't getting enough sass from those here, my eyeballs also have to be a pain.

"Should probably invest in some sunglasses, eh?"

Being flippant is my way of dealing with issues, so sue me. This tape reminds me of one I have hidden in my room, so when everyone else disperses, I tap Benjamin and motion my head. An eyebrow raises but he stands.

Leading him back to my room, I try to stay out of Bastion's hearing range. I don't hide anything from him, but this... He knows from what I showed him earlier, but I can't recall seeing if he reacted to my having it. Just the room itself. Going straight to my dresser and the jewelry box on top, I lower my voice. All animals can hear, but my Imp hopefully can't. Pulling out the small sandwich baggy, my jaw clenches.

"This is a memory chip I took from the house I burned down. It came from a camera that had been set up like a movie set. I'm not really sure why I took it, and I fear what's on it. I'm ashamed to say I'm not sure if I can deal. Can you set it aside for me? May need to look at it at some point, so could you get it on disc and just stash it away?"

Can't look into his face when I ask, flipping the small card over and over in my hand.

"I was there for three days, Benji. Three days that I can't account for. From the way I woke, I doubt I'm on it, but Bastion might be. He's been through enough already, and who knows what will be coming soon. I don't want him knowing about this, not till it's important. Can you do this for me?"

By this point, I could care less if I'm on it, just don't want the boy in it anymore. A large hand settles over my twisting one, so I look at him. His lips are pursed and eyes hard.

"If you don't I'll understand. No one should have to go through whatever is on this thing. If nothing else I can plant it on one of those we'll be going after."

A cool hand tips my chin and turns me to face him, his eyes intent.

"I'll do it, you know I will. It will be done and set aside if you ever need it."

He gives me a small smile, thumb rubbing my chin before it moves to slide up my jawline and into the hair at my nape. It had dried awhile ago but hasn't been brushed yet. His cool touch on hot skin causes goosebumps to travel along my body and a small shiver goes down my spine. One of those shivers that have people thinking they're doing something that you're reacting to, when in reality it's just the body's response to all the hair rising at once. In this case, the very different temperature change from my neck and his hand causes both. Think just about every woman will agree with me when I say the neck is a very sensitive spot when touched right.

I'm sure Benji here has been around the block a time or two...too good looking not to have been. Before and after Vampage. Well, maybe. Package may be a little intimidating. My face flushes a bit when it pops into my head. It wasn't my fault! He shifted in front of me, eyes travel. Claiming no responsibility here. Nature and gravity have been really kind to both him and Xavier.

So awkward.

Bedroom light may not be very bright at the moment, but I'm sure my face is very visible, let alone his ability to smell it. Clearing my throat and looking away, I push a hand against a very firm body. Upper body, mind you. I'm having enough issues here.

I get maybe a foot of space, but it's better than nothing. Sliding the bag from my hand with the chip, he puts it in his pocket. A smirk on his face keeps my attention from it and what could be on it, to worrying about virtue and the fingertips pressing firmly at the back of my neck.

Oh yeah, definitely been around to know how to do that so fast and quite smoothly. Instant feminine responses that I have no control over flood through me. Even my eyelids droop a little. So not fair.

"You are a very horrible person."

Toothy smirk flashes at me as he pulls his hand away, his eyes starting to glaze since he spiked my temperature. Kind of hard to hide any reactions when it's body heat that betrays you. Heat goes up, which in turn strengthens scents. Seems I'm right when I guessed it was my scent that gets him to that 'drunk' state.

"I know."

A hand pushes with more pressure to get him to back up more. Think I need to go outside, dip my head into a snowbank and be an ostrich for awhile. Taking a couple steps back, I make shooing motions at him. Think he needs to bury his head somewhere too.

Shit...

Oh my God.

I hate my brain. Can feel my face flaming hard, which has his eyebrows raising along with a creeping smile. Snow! Needs to bury his head in the snow . Jeebus.

I narrow my eyes at him, which just gets him to chuckle.

"You don't scoot I will toss you into the snow. Shoo. Don't make me get the squirt bottle."

Both arched brows fly high, making me laugh.

"They go any higher and you'll have floaty cartoon brows."

He frowns at me, which just has me laughing harder. Actually hadn't meant to say it out loud, but oh well. His confusion is just too much. Covering my face and turning, I try to get a hold of myself, but his brows keep popping into my head, which isn't helping. The added stupidity of said brows developing little eyeballs themselves that are scowling with their own bushy downcast brows at me... I can't do it.

The image and emotion start projecting from me with no mercy. I turn slightly to keep an eye on the man and he just has a look of horror on his face. I'm laughing so hard I can't breathe.

"Now who's a horrible person?"

Well, so much for trying to breathe, his question just makes things worse. My heavy emotion filled-projecting has him smiling, but he still looks confused.

"New project, I will paint it and send it to you special. Free of charge."

Was barely able to get that out, and with his expression once again going to one of pained horror, my bending down has me on my knees. What the hell is wrong with me? Whipping my head back, hair goes flying as I lean back on my legs to stare at the ceiling. Eyes are full of tears as containing myself becomes a priority. I can't look at him, but I try to make up for it.

"I'm sorry Benji. Wasn't so much at you as just a focus for stress release. My brain is screwed up, you know this."

There's a smile in my voice while reading what's coming off of him. He's blocking most of it, but I get his curiosity, amusement, and a tiny bit of embarrassment. His amusement more at me than what I was picturing and sharing.

Slipping into his head, I offer my sincere apologies. Have to pull out quickly though as I start picking up other things that are not mine to know. Clearing my throat and wiping my face, I get to my feet. Walking up to him, I pat his cheek. His gaze is heated, making me blush again. Pulling away, I go around him and out into the main room, snagging a hair tie as I go. I’m in the process of pulling it up unbrushed when I look up to everyone's grins. My cheeks tinge pink again, but I return a smile. Poor Benji, soon as he comes out there's going to be a riot. 

The black wolf is in his spot with Bastion next to him with a hand over his mouth, grinning brothers at the one end of the new couch, Maii on the ottoman also with hand over his mouth,  and Xavier straddling his cushion with a wide and obvious smile. Crap. The red fox is at the kitchen table scarfing down the last of the spaghetti, but he also has a small, albeit confused, smile.

Looks like he's in a pair of Maii's sweats and tank tops. With him sitting I can't tell how tall he is, but he's very thin and has short, shaggy hair that reminds me of mine almost. Appears as if it's predominantly brown, but has natural blonde and reds mixed in. Blue hazel eyes are kind of dull, but working on brightening. Looks young, just how young though I'm not sure. I leave him to his food for now and turn to the others.

"Be nice, that was pretty awful for me to do."

"Yeah, but that's what makes it all the more enjoyable."

Xavier is such a butt. Narrowing my eyes at him, my eyes drop to the mark on his neck. Smirking, I picture blowing lightly over it, my eyes going to his as they widen. Can hear and feel as his heart thumps hard.

Not in fear though, females aren't the only ones with touchy necks. Kind of surprised it worked really, since it wasn't an image I was sending him, but something I pictured doing and the mark reacted to it; creating the sensation of what I wanted.

Ooo. I promise to only use my powers for good…

Not.

My eyes glint, daring him. Now his are narrowing. I am having way too much fun with this.

"I think you and me going a round will also be enjoyable, what do you say?"

Benjamin comes up from behind me and goes to his usual spot on the desk chair. He's grinning at the maned wolf, eyes glittering and ready for a good beat down. Extremely glad to see it's in camaraderie as Xavier smiles back.

"Anytime, anywhere, Fangs, show me what you got."

"Somehow, I don't think my house would survive the two of you, so if you're gonna romp, take it outside... Dammit, Dogdeer give me back my cat!"

Hard to yell at him when Tigger just got all cozy between the legs of the annoying one, who's cheesin' bad. I throw my hands in the air.

"Go get your own pussy, that one's mine."

Every adult male in the place chokes or sputters, which has me smiling very wide. Kids are too busy laughing openly. Xavier just kinda gapes at me before petting my cat. He gets saved by my phone going off on the counter. Narrowing my eyes, I point at him. I glance over at Asher, who's joining in, but I have a feeling things are going to be changing...and soon.

Going over to answer it, I also get me some juice. Don't recognize the number, but that's pretty common. Pressing to accept the call while pouring, the guys chat on behind me. What was the fox’s name again?

"Y'ello'?"

"Silver?"

Grunting, I take a drink before responding.

"Depends, who am I talking to?"

Kind of already know since there's only one other person who knows that handle, and he knows my real name now.

"Never got my name to you, I'm Nathan. I delivered your couch earlier today."

"Ah, yeah. Rumor exchange. What's up?"

Hate talking on the phone, would rather send texts, but in this case, it's just faster overall to talk.

"Well for one, the boy you have in your home is wanted, the reward out for him was posted by a human."

Can feel claws growing from my fingers, have to check my strength so I don't break my glass. Or my phone. I set the glass on the counter softly and very carefully.

"I've heard that too. He will not have him. I'm curious though, what is this reward?"

Upon the fox hearing the conversation, his shoulders stiffen. Send him the feeling of reassurance, he's not the one we're talking about, although we will be having a chat. I don't mind him being here, but if he has someone looking for him as well, I need to know.

"Lot of money, if I understand right. He's been frequenting places owned by Weres and Shifters. Not sure how he can tell us from humans, but he's pretty dangerous."

"Oh yes, he is, but hopefully not for long. Don't suppose he ever leaves a way to get ahold of him, does he? That would be most helpful."

Can feel the grin curling my lips, sharp claws making thin furrows into the wooden countertop. My furniture, can tear it up if I wish.

"Take it you plan on killing him? May I ask why?"

Can tell just by his voice he doesn't approve. Guess cats aren't as bloodthirsty as the wolves. Somehow, that doesn't seem right.

"Many reasons, really. The biggest one being he's a danger to my boy. My family. And really every young person out there both human and animal. If you have any friends with kids, they would do the same thing I'm going to do, I'm sure. If not, then I would not want to be their kid."

Can hear him breathing on the other end, looking up to the living room, everyone is still having their own conversations, but I can tell I have their attention. Really don't need his approval, but I don't need him making waves either.

"Well, Nathan, that a good enough reason for you?"

Chapter Text

Kierra

Picking my glass back up, I gulp the rest of it down, then head for a refill. It's a wonder I'm not one of those who just drinks it from the carton itself; would save so much time, but I'm not the only one who drinks it.

"Good a reason as any I guess. Not sure if he leaves a way to contact him, you’d have to ask around and I’m sure doing so will get you noticed by someone he has out."

Hmm, that's very true. Could try that, see if I can lure him out. Pretty sure since he's a civil servant working with money, there's a record of him online somewhere.

"Very good point, thank you. Is it just humans looking for him or are supernaturals doing so as well?"

Really don't want to be known to the animal community as one who will 'kill first, ask questions later', but I’ll do what I have to. Ah well, guess we'll see what happens.

"Just humans as far as I know. Supernaturals and humans are looking for you though. A call went out by the Gray Alpha wanting to know anything. You've got everyone in quite a tizzy."

I scoff, finishing off the rest of the juice in the carton. Going back to the fridge and looking inside it, I see all sorts of 'healthy' stuff. Bastion has struck again. The kid loves those V8 drinks that taste like ass. There's also something green and thick in a bottle that's had the label ripped off, so don't know what the hell it is. Pulling it out, I shut the fridge and go to the counter, holding it up.

"Uh, someone mind telling me what this is? Toxic sludge does not go in the fridge."

I'd try smelling it, but that just has bad idea written all over it.

"And not my fault. Hell, for the first few weeks I was just trying to keep to myself... For the most part." 

Last part was more said under my breath, but he heard it. Bastion comes over, I’m somehow not surprised. I lift an eyebrow and set the bottle down.

"I'm all for you being creative, but science experiments do not go in the fridge."

He gives me a droll look. Don't get me wrong here, I love my green veggies, just not when they're mush or liquified.

"It's not bad. It's a fruit and vegetable smoothie, the label was ripped off on purpose so you could see what it is this time and not try chugging it."

I scowl at him. That only happened one time. That whole event was just horrible. Let's see what you do when a gorgeous naked man appears in the middle of your house. Would boggle anyone's brain.

"That wasn't my fault, can blame the Dogdeer for that one. And smoothies are supposed to be edible, this in no way looks eatable let alone healthy."

I push it away with fingertips that have returned to normal, nose scrunched up. He rolls his eyes and puts it back into the fridge, rummages around for a second, then pulls out a bottle of orange juice.
Making a pleased sound, I take it. It’s set on the counter, glass rinsed out, then I reach out to ruffle his hair before he goes back to the living room. When going past Xavier, the maned wolf holds out his fist where Bastion raises his and they bump fists together. Both grinning fools. Bunch of comedians around here.

"Sorry Nathan, go on."

Could hear him in the background chuckling the whole time. Glad I can be so amusing.

"Wait, you said the Gray Alpha? Alpha of a wolf group I'm guessing? He's the one named Gabriel, I assume? Kid I met at the store mentioned him. Poor thing about wet his pants, but figured he would have passed on the word by now."

"I would assume he did since efforts to look became more serious instead of being half-hearted. Many thought that the word of a Silver Wolf going around was a prank."

"If only it was..."

Can almost hear his confusion, but I don't go into any more detail or reasons. I look over to Asher, who's looking at me. Can't read his eyes and he's blocking me from slipping into his head.
I frown, but look down and away, playing with the juice bottle.

"Okay, so big bad wolves are hunting. What about the humans, why are they looking? Don't think I've had much human interaction since becoming a Were."

Honestly, I have. Two are dead and two are ones I worked with, but I left there. The only other I can think of would be Mom. Oh, and Bastion. Almost don't consider him human though. Isn't that weird?

Actually, as it turns out, most of those that have been around me for years, whether friends or just friendly hellos in stores...weren't human at all. Should probably get a hold of Tristan and make sure he's still human. Know he's not a Vamp, I've seen him out during the day. Well...not recently …

Before this all happened, he and I had hung out, he'd called and was upset that he and his fiance split. Before that, we didn't see each other often, but he does go out, I'm sure of it. That would just leave animal. Ava and Ryder are Shifters, grew up with her and went to school with him, and had no clue. Feel like my judge of character has been failing me for years.

Granted it's not like it would point out and say 'Not Human', but still. Always counted on the vibes I'd read from people.

"They heard the wolves were looking for a 'pale' wolf. Apparently, one had been seen with a boy. That is what caught this man’s attention and brought him to the animals to seek answers. Least I would figure that's how it happened. No one was even sure of the gender they were supposed to be looking for."

Makes sense. Not only had I been seen by hidden eyes, but I also missed a camera or two when fleeing Rockford. Those images were hidden immediately, but even with them, gender couldn't be distinguished. Can't go by size when in Were form; all are huge. I kept low and had Bastion in my arms so body shape couldn't really be seen either. Also had Asher with me, so my scent was muddied with his, the boy’s, and lots of blood that I'd been covered in.

There’d been that vagrant, but he and a group of others who know about the supernaturals ditched town shortly after. Too many asking and looking for someone, even beating the homeless. I ran across him again when leaving Wisconsin, many of those with him weren't very happy with me. Not much I could’ve done about that though, not like I had asked for any of this.

"I'd heard that in the beginning there were many homeless who had been beaten for information. Do you know who would have been the ones to do that?"

"More than likely the humans. Most of us don't bother the street urchins, mostly because they do see so much and could become very dangerous if riled. Think a lot of them are also protected by the WereRats."

Uhh, what? That stops me for a second. Rats? Were...Rats. Well then. I don't mind normal rats, but trying to picture a WereRat just hurts my brain.

"WereRats? There are WereRats in Rockford?"

"WereRats are everywhere, just like actual rats."

Can hear in his tone that he thinks me another girly to be scared of rodents. I can honestly say there isn't a single animal yet that has given me the heebee-jeebees. Not counting deep-sea monsters - those are fish. Not counting those giant ancient bug looking things either. Those are bugs.

Furry, scaled, feathered, and combinations therein do not frighten me. There.

"I don't mind rats, sir, it just came as a surprise. Need to tell me right now though if there are any Were-insects. If there are WereJunebugs, I am so moving the fuck out of here and going to Alaska."

I get amused looks from all the males, so I just scrunch my nose at them. Even Nathan is getting a laugh at my expense. Not funny. Junebugs are hellbugs. Next to earwigs, centipedes, and millipedes.

Fuck. That.

Nothing needs more than eight freakin' legs for one, and earwigs are just eww. Wait a second, caterpillars have more than eight legs I think, but them I don't mind, they're adorable. Mkay, let me rephrase something here; anything with more than eight legs, aside from 'pillars, and bugs with no legs. All are out. No sir, I'm good.

"There are no supernatural insects that I am aware of. Can't say about Australia though, they have bugs that are bigger than a man’s head."

Yea, think I'd have issues with a bug that big too.

"Well if they have them there, they can stay there. No reason to come up north whatsoever."

Hmm, could you imagine a WereSpider? I'd imagine those being 'driders' though, a cast of dark elves. Think I'm really delving into fantasy right there. Probably a good thing that they stay fantasy. Oh, oh, wait. A WereSpider with arachnophobia. Wouldn't that just be a kick to the gonads from nature’s humor.

"Mkay, so WereRats in the city that protect the homeless. Not all though, when fleeing through the area that night, I met a man who'd made his home under one of the bridges. Seen him again later in Wisconsin, he and a group had fled the city."

Have a feeling he's nodding.

I can hear many things dude, but your brains rattling in your head over a phone line does not qualify.

"Something to this scale, it would be too noticeable if humans started disappearing left and right from being abusive towards those no one cares for. I'm sure many have been dealt with, just not enough to ease the minds of those living on the streets."

Makes sense. One of the boys yawning seems to set off a chain reaction through everyone, even me. Still need to talk to the fox who's still sitting sideways at the kitchen table, taking in his surroundings.

"True. Alright Nathan, thank you for the info. This old marm needs to get her flock to bed."

Snorts sound from the living room even as the bobcat chuckles. Exchanging goodbyes, I end the call.

"Have I mentioned I hate talking on the phone? My mind wanders too much to hold a good conversation. Don't know how many times I had to keep myself from drifting off."

"Yeah, that was obvious."

Maned wolf is going to get my foot up his ass one of these days. Just for good measure. Setting my phone down, I go to the other side of the island counter and pull myself up. Just now dawns on me all the blades are gone again. Looking from the counter up to Xavier, he tosses his head towards my bedroom. Ah. Feel like a bit of an airhead for not noticing sooner. Least the army man had the presence of mind to put them up.

The empty plate is almost licked clean. Washed up and rosy, blue hazel eyes find themselves on me. Looks young, but not extremely. Would guess around the same as Maii. What was his name? Kani?

"Alright, your turn. You know, I think I talk more in a day now than I would have for at least a few days before all this. People makin' me talk an shit."

I gripe, but I smile at the new male, he looks nervous. Can't say I blame him, the way I bounce from one thing to another.

"First things first, the orange tabby is not for eats. Swear I'm going to put a sign on the door saying as such."

Scowling over at Xavier who still has my cat between his legs, Kani follows my gaze, a grin and low blush coloring his cheeks. That's an interesting response. Indeedy.

"Even with as traitorous as he's being right now."

Amber eyes find mine as he slowly rubs my cats back. An eyebrow rises, but I don't fall for his bait. Clearing my throat, I attempt to get back on track.

"Your name's Kani, right?"

His head nods as he looks back at me, the scattering of facial hair pegs him as teens at least, but that's easy enough to see.

"How old are you? Are you running from someone in specific? Seen your shoulders stiffen earlier."

Eyes flicker around as he swallows a little difficulty, then finally settling back on me with firm defiance.

"I'm of age to be out on my own. I'm nineteen. I ran away from home. I couldn't stay there anymore."

Don't get the feeling he ran because he had an argument with a sibling or a parent. Not with the fear coming off him. He does sound kind of petulant, but I don't think it's on purpose. Also get that he's trying to hide something from the crowd.

Might be nineteen, but his voice does have a higher pitch. From the way he keeps taking small glances at all the guys who have gotten up, I get a small niggling in my brain. Catching me smirking at him, his cheeks tinge pink. Oh yeah. Busted. I slip into his head, bringing warmth with me.

"You're gay, aren't you?"

He looks panicked till he realizes I asked in his head, eyes go down for a moment just to rise with tears. I give him a small smile.

"It's alright, no one here will judge you. You have no fear of me driving you out because of your gender preference."

He looks relieved and finally nods his head once. I actually don't know how they will react, but it can't be hidden, so I project a question to them all, leaving the fox out just in case. Including Benji as well as I ask if any of them have a problem with homosexuality.

Thankfully, they don't all look over at once, making it obvious something was said. A sigh of relief slips from me when they all respond with head shakes. Not sure how Bastion will react either, so I ask him directly in whispers. He will more or less be the deciding vote on whether the newcomer stays or goes. Having picked up three new males, he's become quieter again.

"Bastion? It’s your decision if this one stays or goes. I don't want you uncomfortable in your own home. The fox is gay, will that be a problem for you?"

Can see his shoulders hunch, so I get down immediately and go to him. Crouching down in front of him, he's leaning over Asher's rump onto his back. The black wolf is looking at me a little warily before looking to the boy. I slip back into his head since his face is hidden in midnight fur.

"If you can't do this love, just tell me. I'm not going to make you deal with something you're uncomfortable with. You have to tell me though."

Reaching forward, I lay my hand over his clenched one, gripping at the wolf hard. His heart is pounding, which makes mine stutter and is my answer.

Kani will have to go.

I can give Ava a call and ask if she can house him for me. My heart sinking, I pull my hand away and move to stand.

"Wait."

I freeze at his request. Shade and Zypher had made their way below to shift, Maii following. Xavier is standing and talking with Ben near the couch behind me.

"Let me see."

Not sure I understand, so I cock my head. He pulls himself up, looking determined as he gets off the couch and goes to the fox still sitting quietly at the kitchen table. I follow a few steps behind, unsure of what he plans on doing.

He goes right up to Kani and stares into his face. Not sure if he understands what Bastion is doing, but he keeps eye contact and doesn’t move. After a few minutes, my Imp turns and nods. Giving the fox one last look before he goes downstairs. Kani looks at me, worry clear on his face. I keep my voice low as I sit across from him at the table.

"Bastion came from an abusive man who sold him to others. He had to be the vote that let you stay. I do apologize, but this is his home and I don't want him to feel unsafe."

Blue hazel eyes soften, his facial features revealing that he seems to acknowledge exactly what I'm referring to.

"I understand. I wouldn't want him to feel like he's going through it again. Really glad he's decided to give me a chance, I don't want to make anyone uncomfortable."

I nod, looking towards the stairs as clicks come up. The fox looks confused for a second then his eyes widen when the two Arctic wolves come up with a white-faced coyote. Think Maii has made new friends, which I'm very happy about. All look at the fox before the wolves go to the backdoor in tandem. I stand to let them out as Maii gives Kani a coyote grin, the action seems to ease him a little more. They're all let out one last time before bedding down.

Bastion comes back up, having gathered himself and putting on his happy mask. I want to comfort him, but he'll not accept that right now. He nods at us and goes for Faline's room where he changes.

"What's going on?"

I stand and stretch my arms up, back arching.

"Everyone's getting ready for bed. We all sleep below in animal form. There's an area cordoned off with curtains that you can undress and change in. Just fold your clothes and we'll find something else for you tomorrow. Well, later today."

"You all sleep together in animal form?"

Nodding, I pull the tie from my hair so I can get it brushed out.

"Yeah. Got a nest set up down there. Up to you if you want to sleep with us or up here."

He still looks confused but follows when Asher goes below. Turning to Xavier and Benji, I join them. While they stand, I sit on the cushion usually claimed by the tall pain in my ass.

"Since you guys are going to bed, I'll head home. While comfortable, I don't want to be stuck here all day."

Think both he and I know that's a lie, but I leave it and nod. Thanking him again for the tape and memory card business. As I let him out, the others come in. Still snowing, so I tell Ben to be careful. He just looks at me.

"Hey, just because you're some gung-ho Vampire does not mean you can't crash and get stuck till after the sun rises. Humor me."

Benji shakes his head, giving a smirk. Granted it's just after midnight, but got several things to do later. That and I'm not sure what Shade and Zypher's hours are. My heart clenches as I look out at the dark sky. It looks angry and foreboding. Xavier touches my arm to get my attention. He looks kind of grim and a little sad. Something's going on.

"What's wrong?"

I know he's not hurt by all my teasing, the day that happens he won't be who he is. He shakes his head and asks me to wait for him. Nodding, I turn back to look out over the dark trees. The front door is open with me standing on the porch, leaning into the railing. A nudge at my leg has me looking down, a small red fox bumping against me. Looks like any other red fox from this area, aside from the tiger stripes going down the length of his body.

"You clean up well. You have a few minutes if you need to go out and do anything real quick. Xavier will be coming out shortly. When everyone's in and settled I'll lock up and head down myself."

Amber eyes several shades lighter than what the maned wolf’s are when human, look at me curiously. Crouching down, I scritch under his jaw. His eyes close while he gives a fox grin, then runs off when I pull back.

Can feel him as I stand, the link from the mark I put on him making us very aware of each other. Get a head to the gut when I turn, the headbutt turning into a rubbing and scent marking. Grabbing a hold of his cheek fluff, I tug his head to the side, hand sliding from his face down his throat to his upper back. Fingers toy with the black mane before delving under the fur to find the skin beneath. Fingertips search around his scruff and upper shoulders, then stop when I feel him shiver. Moving them slowly, I can just make out the shape of the mark.

A smirk lifts the corner of my mouth as I play my nails over it. Can feel his reaction, blood heating, and heart quickening. His almost ten-inch tall ears go back as his eyes close. I know I should quit teasing him like this, but it's too much fun. I'm pretty sure he'd tell me to stop if he didn't want the attention. Even though he's male, doesn't mean he's a slave to his libido. Wait a minute, this is Xavier, who am I kidding.

Moving my hands to his ears, I grip both and massage them for a minute before letting him go. Resident playboy nudges my belly with his nose, so I tap it then point out to the trees. He blows air through his nostrils but does trot off. Those long black legs of his almost look like stilts over the snow, short white-tipped tail getting lost between the tree trunks. I once again try to reach out for Asher, but he's still blocking me. Wincing, I pull away, trying not to feel hurt.

Going down the couple steps to the ground, bare feet touch into the cold snow. Instead of feeling cold though, it just makes me smile. The wind is near non-existent, so the snow is coming pretty much straight down. Lifting arms and face toward the falling flakes, I stay that way for a moment before moving my arms down a little. Fingertips dance in the air as the snow starts spinning around me. Yellowed eyes close as I start weaving my symphony.

Faster and faster it spins, coming together to form the pictures in my head. Tiny flakes come together and grow to form larger versions of themselves, thinning almost clear then coating in a layer of thicker frost. The multitude of larger shapes floats above my head, bobbing and weaving with my hand's motions. Like the very first time it manifested, there's a layer of frost coating the backs of my hands. They continue their patterns made within the air, shaping new figures that dance up with the larger snowflakes. Small animal shapes form and move around my body as my brain focuses and harnesses to play with a new energy. Canine, feline, bird, bear, rodent, and others come to shape and spin.

Discord sounds as my brow furrows, my heart clenching again with the feeling something's going to happen. The multitude of shapes crack and shatter into snow dust, then whirl around my body in a frenzy before pluming straight up. From the sky, it spreads out and falls like the rest of the falling frozen water. My breathing is fast as my heart pounds, knowledge dawning on what's going on. Snippets of a dream torment me with images while memories of knowing this was going to happen sooner or later.

Lowering my face as yellow eyes open, both fox and maned wolf are staring at me. I glare at the false wolf, he knows but wasn't going to tell me. I try to be angry, but I can't.

"Come on, let's get it over with."

I can feel confusion from the small fox, but the tan-colored eyes of Xavier won't meet with mine. Both walk in with me following at the rear, waiting in the kitchen for me as the doors get locked up and lights turned off. Stopping in the bathroom before going to my room, I stay silent.

I don't even bother with closing it as much as I usually do. Taking out assorted body piercings, brushing my hair then stripping down. My feet are damp, so I pat them dry with my shirt before tossing it into the basket. Falling to my knees as the shift starts, my body and mind start to go numb. Standing on four paws when it's done, I make my way out and to the stairs. The two males follow after me without a word.

Avoiding eye contact with anyone, I go to my usual spot and curl up with Bastion. Asher is in his usual spot on the other side of the boy, Xavier at my hip using me as a pillow, and Maii changes spots from night to night it seems. Tonight he's curled up next to Xavier and pressed close to me.

The three new males are hesitant, so I raise my head. The brothers take the area at the boy's feet while the fox comes up close to my back, settling next to Maii. Lowering my head back down, I will myself into unconsciousness.

Only works for a few hours before I feel the warm nuzzle. It wakes me, but I don't move or let on in any way that he's woken me, wouldn't change anything even if I did. Asher and Bastion rise and go upstairs.

They're gone for about ten minutes before the boy returns alone. My eyes open as he comes back, his filled with tears as he falls onto me, gripping handfuls of fur as he cries into it, my own tears fall softly at the loss of a very dear friend.  

Chapter Text

Kierra

When I finally open my eyes again, Bastion and I are by ourselves in the basement nest. Can tell he's awake by the way his hands are moving on my side. My eyes well up again, but I push it back with much difficulty.

"He's gone...isn't he."

Not really a question when I already know the answer. His head nods against my ribs, my whole right side damp from his tears.

"We knew this was coming. It was his choice."

"Why couldn't he choose to stay here? He was happy here."

"I think that's a big part of why he left. You remember him telling us about his wife, don't you? He was still searching for the one who had her killed when he stopped to help us."

His silent weeping isn't helping mine at all. It’s even hard to keep the voice in my head from being wobbly.

"I don't understand. If he was happy, why did he leave? I know she died, but that was so long ago."

"When all you have is time, it takes on new meaning. I would imagine he was starting to feel like he was betraying her by not looking for that leech. I think the only one who really understands his motives is Asher himself."

Least I hope he does. I wanted to run after him so bad but knew I couldn't do that to him. He's been searching for at least twenty-five years, that's not something you can just stop doing. I will not deny him his right. Wish I had thought to help him in some way while he was here; have Ben do some hacking, my searching for anyone who would know anything, some magic to undo his curse, something .

"It's not fair."

"No, it's not, but it is something he needs to do. We'll always keep our door open for him, just as he'll always be welcome."

I will be contacting Alarico though, and see if he can keep an ear out. If Asher needs any help, he will get it.

"He wanted me to tell you he's proud of you. The way that you and your sister are trying to bridge Vampire and animal relations. Proud of your decisions to help so many others and not be selfish like the council. He...he said if he could, he would have stayed to help, but he can't."

I can't keep the hot tears from falling. If it weren't for Asher, no one in this house would be here right now. I'd be dead, my sister lost, Bastion gone. Xavier never would have come, nor Shade and Zypher. Faline wouldn't have been around to help those at the bordello, to bring Maii to me. The newest, Kani, would still be out in the cold and probably would have died soon.

"I'm proud of him, too."

The Imp nods, wiping his nose as he agrees.

"We better get upstairs before all the guys destroy it... Bastion? Are you sure about the fox? Kani?"

He nods again, hands buried in my scruff like he used to do before everyone started showing up.

"When Maii and I were helping him, I didn't feel anything bad from him. He's lost, much like the rest of us here."

I sit up and look at him. Bastion is becoming quite astute for someone so young, but I'd expect no less. Dipping my head closer, I touch my nose to his. Licking his cheeks before putting my head on his shoulder, his arms wrap around tight.

He and I may be on unknown ground when I'm an upright human, but when covered in fur, he has no problem holding firm. Pulling away after a few minutes, we both stand and make our way upstairs, him grabbing some clothes on the way. Have to shake out my coat when I stand, right side all soggy.

With an abnormally long tail hanging low behind me, we trudge into the kitchen. The Arctic brothers are once more out front working on their vehicles. They must have had a toolbox in the truck because I own none of the stuff they're using. Maii and Kani are at the kitchen table eating while Xavier paces the hallway. That's new, never seen him pace before. He turns to face us as we come around the counter and table. Bastion heads for the bathroom while sad amber eyes roam over me. I look back with no expression showing before going to the front door.

"Kie, I'm sorry. I didn't know till late and he wished me to say nothing. You knew he was going to be leaving."

Ignoring him, I scratch at the door. He sighs but opens it. I walk through it calmly enough, brothers looking up as I make my way out. They get ignored too as I go off towards a clearing not far away.

Walk to it more by instinct than anything else, my head hanging down. Getting there and sitting in the spot I'd been in when I first met a midnight wolf, it’s hard to believe it was only twenty-one days ago. Exactly three weeks and feeling like this...how pathetic is that? May not be very long in the grand scheme of things, but a lot can happen within that time. I'd grown very close to Asher. He'd become my rock through all this. Yes, I knew he would be leaving at some point, but I had hoped he wouldn't. Have to cut the strings at some point though, right? Only three weeks, but it feels like a lot longer.

Tilting my head back, I cry my pain of loss to the blind and deaf skies. From the amount of snow that had fallen, it seems so dead silent. My howl seems abrupt among the mute trees, not even any birds to sing with me.

I know everyone within range will hear, I know it will echo for miles, and I know they'll feel the heart wrench of someone loved leaving to go their own way. Doubt he's still within range to hear it, but I sing to him; letting him know that my door will always be open if he decides to return. That he will always have friends here waiting for him. I sing to him my thanks for all his selflessly given help.

I've read somewhere that a howl can be heard up to six miles away, and ten on open snowscapes, with another saying that on certain conditions, up to fifty square miles away. I push mine to reach further than ten, to reach the ears of the one I sing for. Emotions tie in with the musical notes, letting all who hear share my pain of his loss, but also the gratitude and fondness, the hope that he finds what he's searching for.

A few minutes after the last notes die away, I have company. Long-legged company that somehow managed to worm his way into both mine and Bastion’s hearts. And to think, he initially came into our lives with the intent to kill me. He said the reason he hadn't was because he’d realized who and what I was, but it goes deeper than that. Not talking about his obvious fondness, either. He didn't kill me because what he'd been searching for, for years , was finally within his grasp, and he wanted it bad enough to put his own life in danger.

The obnoxious, fun-loving playboy has a core of cruelty and a willingness to kill more than my own. Having been trained to kill then sent out into the world to off the other person before they get a bullet or knife into him first, he’s ruthless and efficient, yet run by his own code of standards.

Walking up to me slowly, unsure of his welcome, brings a smile to my mind. Even with as hard and ruthless as he was made to be, he still retains a part of himself that many others lose. For being around ninety years old, he seems over seventy years younger. I send welcoming warmth to him even as I keep my focus on the sky. Light gray clouds are threatening to darken at a moment's notice. He settles his rump next to mine, his much darker reddish-brown fur against my own clashing in contrast.

"How long were you back there?"

He really shouldn't be surprised that I knew. I wouldn't have caught him before, but he bears my mark now. Just in case he wasn't aware of it, I share the knowledge with him.

"Since moments after you left the house. Should have seen how red your fox had turned when I dropped my pants."

"Are you going to flash everyone that comes into my home?"

Laughing, I can just imagine the face that was made.

"I haven't...err...no. Wow, guess I have sort of up to this point, haven't I?"

Can hear the smile in his voice. The only one he hadn't intended to show off to, at least at that point, was Faline. She got the full moon experience when he decided to bend over in my doorway while nude. His attempts at teasing me backfired quite nicely. Sadly, it hasn't taught him anything.

"You've probably given the kid wet dream imagery to last at least a week."

"Just a week? That's all? That doesn't sound right."

Chuckling, my head lowers to a more comfortable angle. Can see him out of the corner of my eye, keeping watch on the area around us. Forever the good soldier.

"I'm sure by the end of the week you'll have refreshed the image for him."

Can feel his gaping at me, so I look over at him, yellow eyes dancing in merriment. His coming to cheer me has worked the way he wanted. Even with both of us sitting, he's still taller than I, but when already being a foot taller, that shouldn't be shocking. Standing and turning to headbutt his shoulder, my happiness mellows out again.

"I want to give Alarico a call, see if he'll keep an ear out if there's any word on him. I know he can take care of himself, but I can't just let him go without doing something. You're right, I knew it was coming, but that doesn't stop it from hurting."

Turning enough to do so, his muzzle dips down and buries in my scruff. Offering comfort as well as taking it. Asher wasn't just mine and Bastion's, Xavier had been a friend too. Well, more like an annoying little brother, only he's older.

I smile. They had a weird relationship, no matter how it's put. Maned wolf was always finding new things to annoy the black wolf with or about. Little did I know that one of the things they quarreled over, was me.

My brain finally starts filtering his scent. After cutting off the intermingling smells of where his animal comes from naturally, as is one of my more confusing abilities; animal musk, a sense of home, the burning of leaves and logs at a campfire and put simply, sin. Musk is a no brainer, the thick husky scent derived from the beast itself. Sense of home, since he still carries the smell of the bedding at home. No, not stink, just a smell. Like your blankets and pillows get when you haven't gotten them washed in over a week. Not sure how he manages the burning wood and leaves, but that one alone is intoxicating. The sin... Yeah. Not really sure how to explain it. It's not a smell of sex, more like the leading up to. The feeling invoked from the knowledge that you will bed him soon.

I don't plan on it, but it doesn't stop the scent process with possible teasing glances. It's bad enough when seeing him in nothing but a towel and dripping with water, my brain will totally scramble if I ever find him in one of those fantasy scenes all women who like men and men who like men, find themselves with; lowcut jeans, tanned skin covered in sweat, and a smile. Oh lordy.

Safe behind my wolfen fur and hidden face, I can get away not feeling the need to blush. Of course, that's also if he isn't peeking either. He doesn't usually talk when in his wild form, relying more on body language and sounds. Not sure if he chooses not to, or can't. Never thought to ask if it was just an ability of Asher's or if all could do it. Coming to think about it, no one has been in my head with me unless I was showing them something, or if it was Faline.

The black wolf was constantly sharing my brain when near each other. Made for some pretty awkward moments, especially when he'd get from my head what my body doesn't always advertise in scent release. Main one being arousal. He always knew it seemed.

Now that that sharing is gone, I'm going to miss it. The feeling of warmth, amusement, and his own desires coming through that could bring on any number of emotions from me. The most common one lately being the latter with his teasing, like he'd done when the bobcat was here. His jab at none of them being able to catch me because I wanted feline. Well, pussy is what he said, but I actually really don't care for the word. Just like 'penis', the words themselves being ugly, not necessarily their meaning.

He made it a joke and had been uncertain at first, but I think he picked up that I don't lean that way. Not heavily anyway. Asher had picked up on my reactions that only rose from three of them; himself, Xavier, and Benji.

That last one he really wasn't happy with, his hatred for Vamps too deep. He tolerated Ben because he's my friend and Faline for obvious reasons, but he never fully relaxed around either of them. Think they also picked up on his distrust and for the most part tried to stay out of his way. He'd warmed up more around my sister but I’m not sure if it stemmed from his getting to know her better or her not acting and seeming like a Vampire, and her never acting like one.

No flashing of fang unless big smiles were made, no shows of bravado or strength, no posturing period. If any was shown, it was the being able to shift side of it, not a fanged killer. I think all of us kept forgetting what she is.

Bastion, Maii, and Xavier never got to see her before she was converted and Asher'd only heard and seen glimpses when he'd been near the house. To them, she's always been what she is now but with my sharing of memories of her from before, they get a sense of who she was. She tries to be much like what she used to be, but has been through too much to be able to see some things like she used to. Granted she's still close to being the same, just more reserved, more serious. More adult than what she'd been before this all happened. I miss that side of her, but we both had to become something a little different just to survive.

Sighing, I pull my head back, having gone off on yet another of my brain's field trips. Blinking to bring the maned wolf into focus, I think he knows what happened from the look in his eyes and feeling from his head.

"So, yeah... Back now."

Can hear his chuckle as I share his head. Not having meant to go that far in a melding, I pull back. He lets me with no problem, but steps closer to nuzzle my cheek.

"You can share my head anytime."

"I don't think that's a good idea. Actually, I can say that it definitely is not a good idea. I'd get lost in that maze of yours and end up in your overabundant porn section. Last thing I need is seduction tips from a barely eighteen-year-old who has yet to learn what a condom is."

He blinks at me as he decides how to react, then those eyes finally fill with laughter. His nose meets my cheek to do that nibble thing you see critters do when grooming themselves or others. Feels weird, my ears going back yet don’t stop him at all. His body moves to face the direction of home before he nudges me forward, the bodily push making me step backwards a few feet before I plant them.

"Can walk all by myself, you know."

His scoff sounds in my head as he lifts his. Including the ears that are pricked forward, he's standing over a foot above me. There’s only two things I have him beat on; body length and weight.

From my nose to my rump, I'm a little over six feet, tail adds another three and a half feet. Tail is longer than anyone else’s I've seen by over a foot. I'm also between 200 to 220 pounds, he's only maybe 110 and around four feet long. His tail adds a little under two more feet. With his long legs and lighter body, he may be able to move faster, but he doesn't have paws made for the snow, which slows him down, just a little. When he kicks on his Were speed, he's extremely fast, but so am I.

Darting around him and zigzagging before running full out through the landscape, the trees hinder speed, but I've gotten to know these woods like the back of my hand...er...paw. Whichever. Can hear his pursuit, which causes adrenaline to spike as I glory in the ability to run free. One of the 'downfalls' to keep me in this form, is the simple pleasure of running, the movement taken with someone or alone.

At regular animal speeds, Faline and I can keep up with each other, barely, as her shorter legs get her each time. When packing on supernatural speeds, she can seriously boogy. Maned wolves are actually faster than timbers when running full out on open terrain, not by much, but enough. Because of past events, I've worked on becoming faster, sleeker in my dives and dodging to avoid getting grabbed.

One of Asher's abilities is that he can put on a burst of speed that excels that of even his ‘regular’ Were. Using it though drains him fast, so it isn't used often. Without that extra boost, I was getting to where I was faster than he.

The only one that can really keep up with me when I put on all my speed, is the one with me now. I've come close to breaking my own neck from running so fast and not paying enough attention to the area around me, almost running into a tree head-on. If I'd been any slower on reaction time, or a slow healer, I probably would have seriously messed myself up.

I lead the maned wolf around for a while before heading back home. It's just before or just after noon, and I have a lot to do today. Starting with a shower. We're coming up on the 'backyard' when I slow back to a normal walk, posture normal. Can hear the brothers up front romping in animal form. Xavier comes up next to me, bumping my side with his.

Keeps doing it till I nip at him, to which he then whines and drops down, face dropping first followed by his whole body till he's laying in front of me with belly presented and ears back. Stopping, I look down and wonder what the hell he's up to now. Can feel multiple pairs of eyes on us and it's starting to embarrass me, so I pull back my lip and growl, ears flicking.

Rolling more onto his side with tail tucked, he pokes his muzzle up and licks at mine. Wonderful, dominance displays. I hate these, and he knows it. Trying to move away has him moving to stay in front of me, ears back and whining as he keeps abasing himself. Having enough, his muzzle is grabbed between my teeth, low growl sounding till he calms himself. I roll my displeasure into his brain on making me do this. Soon as I grab him he stops, knew it would since he's done it before.

Letting go, I move to go to the house while he flips back onto his feet and rubs along my side. Zypher, Shade, Kani, and Maii all have their eyes on me. Bastion probably would too if he were out here. He'd be the only upright human since everyone else is in wild shape. Now things get awkward since they're all just staring. Raising my head high with tail lashing behind me, all their eyes drop almost immediately. I sigh in my head. I don't want this.

"Should know by now you have to establish who's in charge with animals. They look to you, but there are those who will try to walk over your claim. Everyone here now follows where you lead." 

Xavier's voice slips in all annoying-like, so I kick snow at him. The others come up and do much the same as he'd done. Pretty sure the whole thing looks like a mother with cubs wanting attention.

One by one they present their bellies, even the fox who's breed doesn't do displays like this. When he got here I told him I wasn't into this crap, and I've been made to look the liar. Once all are back up, I growl in their heads to not make me do that again.