Chapter 11

“I’m going to need a stiff drink” Jessica said thumbing her way down a row of black dresses. “You’ll be fine,” Meg answered eyeing her way down another row “remind me to hit the gym, I really let myself go.”  “Let yourself go, honey have seen yourself” Jessica asked “you look as good as you did before your leg was broken. “Yeah, and who made sure of that” the otter teased. “Do you hate me for it” the vixen asked batting her eyes.

The otter rolled her own before moving to the next row. “Now the one we really have to watch out for is this little heartbreaker” Meg said sizing Sheba with a backless number. “Meg, she’s only twelve, wait till she’s sixteen before going backless” Jessica chided. “Right, oh I know” the otter said thumbing over some more. Sheba wanted nothing more than hide in her hood but her protector had to stay in the car.

“Hun what’s wrong” Meg asked. The child shook her head taking a step back. “She’s a twelve year old tomboy and you’re picking out ballroom gowns for her” the sales woman said trying not to sound catty. “Alright, what would you pick for her” Jessica asked picking a backless with a low cut front and loose shoulders. “Well, you can’t tell she’s twelve just from looking at her” the saleswoman said walking around one row and down other “but I wouldn’t want to just show her off.”

The feline saleswoman picked a hand full of dresses before taking the young folf to the dressing rooms. Once the door had locked the saleswoman pulled Jessica off to the side. “I don’t mean to be rude but I deal with this kind of thing a lot” she said “you’re trying to get with someone close to her.” “Yeah that is rude of you” Jessica said turned away. “I’m not judging, just saying you’re trying too hard” the feline said.

“And what, next you’re going to tell me I have love struck written all over my face” the vixen laughed. “I wouldn’t know about writing but I hear it in your voice” she said fingers counting across one of the racks to an open space “would you be a dear and hand me the third hanger down from that stack on the chair.” Jessica turned filed out the top the feline asked and held it out to her. “Please put it in my hand” the feline asked.

“Oh sorry” Jessica said and fixed it so the feline could take it. “Thank you,” she said and counted again “funny, huh, a blind woman running a store full of colors and designs.” “I didn’t say anything about that” the vixen said taking a step back. “Of course not, just not something you see everyday” the feline said with a small laugh “just like you don’t see the daughter of a major crime boss and one of the most powerful casters known to go clothes shopping together.”

“I have no idea what you are talking about” the vixen said taken by the facts. “No matter, I’m not after her anyway, thou I would love to have her try on the new teen line that just came in” the feline said “could hand me the two middle hangers please?” “Sure” she said and pulled the two the feline asked for and hand them to her. “Thank you again, so nice of you to help me with this” she said filling the open spaces.

With a snap the feline turned back to the dressing rooms. “Let’s go see how she looks” the saleswoman said leading the way. And just as the door open the two were standing next to Meg waiting. The dress had a moistest design that made the young girl look just a year or two older but still made her slim figure eye catching. Sheba stood barefoot just outside the dressing room ready to run back inside. “See what I mean and It’s loose enough that she can wear running shorts under it and no one would know” the feline said “I would recommend low heel shoes and we have a sale on silk gloves if you like.”

Sheba looked at her left hand before coving it with the other. “But go ahead and try on another and see what you think of them” the feline said with a smile. Shyly the young folf locked herself back in the little changing room. “Like I said would love to have her model the teen line we just had come in” the feline said and turned back to Jessica “if there is anything else, don’t be afraid to ask.” the sales woman turn and walked off counting the rows with her hand.

Jessica watched the feline leave before turning back to the dressing room doors. “Shit, Not today please, any day but this one” the vixen said to herself. “Jess,” the otter said rubbing her leg out of habit “leave it alone, we have guards walking around everywhere, we have a demon in the book shop next door and the sweetest little witch trying on clothes, everything is fine.” Sheba chose then to step out of the dressing room.

The dress she wear covered her almost completely. Meg shook her head. “Sheba, the point of getting new clothes is to show off” Jessica said “more to the point getting people to see more of you.” “If I wanted people to see more of me I would go out naked” Sheba answered quietly. “I’m sure Alex would have something to say about that” Meg chide in. “I don’t know” Sheba said “I like the clothes he gets me.”

“He also tends to get you clothes meant for someone half your age” Jessica tacked on. The vixen thought it over before turning to Meg. “Meg, go get that backless number you had a minute ago” she said tapping her finger on her lip. The otter shot up and was gone and back with the dress. Jessica took the dress and shoed the little folf into the dressing room. Use to wearing them Jessica had joined the young folf to help her change into the dress.

Sheba became even more shy having to change in front of someone else. “I … I can do it myself” she whispered. “I know you can I just want to help.” Jessica said and helped the young girl unzip the back of the dress she had on. “Did you take your bra off before putting this on” Jessica asked after seeing the girl’s bare back. “I … don’t have one” Sheba answered slipping out of the dress and setting it back on the hanger.

“I see, why not” Jessica asked helping Sheba put the new dress on. “I … I never asked him about it and Meg was always busy” Sheba answered “and I didn’t want to just ask for money.” “Let me get this straight, you don’t ask him for money for things like clothes” Jessica asked noticing the girl’s bright cartoony underwear. Sheba nodded fixing the dress around her hips as her tail settled in the space made for it.

“So he picks out all of your clothes” Jessica asked holding the front of the dress. “No, when we can we go into the store and I get what I need then he pays for it” Sheba answered “and never thought to get one and now I … can’t get any with him around.” “I see,” the vixen’s ears shied back “And you couldn’t ask me.” Sheba looked always and answered quietly “I was afraid to even look at you.” Jessica nodded and fitted the front of the dress to the girl’s chest.

“Truth is I always wanted to help you two,” Jessica spoke tying the neck strings under Sheba’s hair “but that wound have put both of you at risk and you and him were the only ones who could have asked me anything and I would make it happen.” “Was this before or after you found out I’m a witch” Sheba chide. “Before” Jessica answered “and it was that crazy old Hoots that told me of your gift.” “You knew Mrs. Hoots” Sheba asked.

“Yes, she worked for me” Jessica answered “we didn’t tell you because it was somewhere the both of you felt safe.” “She died because of me” Sheba said turning away from the mirror. “No, she died because I pulled you two into this mess” Jessica corrected “and don’t fight me on this I have more blood on my hands then you will ever know of.” Jessica smiled looking over her handy work. “If this doesn’t show him how much you have grown then he is blind as hell” she added “there was something you wanted to ask me?”

“It was nothing” Sheba said “this feels weird.” “Yeah it does but you look beautiful in it” Jessica said and open the door “let’s show Meg.” Jessica stepped out first to find both Meg and Nightmare standing close together with the demon whispering in the otter’s ear as she giggled. It took Jessica a minute to coax the young girl from the dressing room and closed it before the girl changed her mind. “Jessica, what have you done with Sheba” the demon said turning his head one eye partly open.

“She is right here” the vixen answered point out the young folf with her hand. “No my master is but a child” the demon spoke up “this beautiful creature looks too old to be my master.” “I don’t know, maybe she aged the girl a few years” the otter questioned “cause that is what I imaged what that girl would look like in a few years.”

The girl blushed looking away shyly. She had seen the light gold color of his eye and that had added to her embarrassment. “Sheba, there is no reason for you to be embarrassed” the demon said moving closer “I mean what I said, and it is only truth that I speak.” “Nightmare, this is too much” she said backing away from the demon.

The demon paused, taking step back. “Let us get a good look at you then you can return to your clothes” he said motioning her to turn around once. In her haste she spun quickly as the cloth moved with her smoothly as if meant for her to wear. After the child stop she felt more at easy taking another slower turn watching herself as she moved.

“I think we have a winner” Jessica said watching the young folf. Sheba paused looking to the vixen with large round eyes. “You don’t even have to ask” the vixen answered “now get back in there’s one or two things left to take care of.” With that the two went back into the dressing room where Jessica took the time to check a few things before leaving the young to change back into her own clothes.

Sheba, Meg and Nightmare joined Jessica at the register after Sheba had change back to her own clothes. “Anything else I can help you with” the blind feline asked. Sheba spotted a picture of a young minx that looked just like the Pack. “Is that a picture of your daughter” she asked. “Why yes it is” the feline said before quick turning the frame down cracking the glass “her name was Gwen, but she passed away not too long ago.”

Sheba took a sharp step back right into her own demon. The demon rested his large hands on her shoulders before speaking up “you used dark magic to bring her back?” “Once, I was not strong enough,” the feline’s ear fell back “I take it you already met that thing that has taken her body for itself.” “Sadly, yes” the demon answered.

“It promised to bring her back if we help it win this stupid game” the feline said “I know it’s a lie but my son on the other hand can’t let her go.” The demon nodded quietly. “If there is nothing else, please leave” the feline asked as her voice started to break. Before Sheba could press the matter Nightmare nudged her away. “I’m sorry” the child said and walked away.

She took one last look at the feline as she pulled the small picture frame to her and dropped behind the counter crying. “Demons will use any means to gain power, even prey on those in grief” the demon said “the pack has no body of its own and needs a host, and what better host then the living body of the dead.”

 “No one to fight it for control and to use the body of a helpless little girl” the vixen added “oh what better way to break an enemy.” “Ok can we stop with the evil planning stuff, we still have a birthday to celebrate” Meg said trying to shake the gloom off everyone. “So Sheba what did you want to get Alex for his birthday” Meg asked trying to pick which shop to hit next.

After a quick shower to wash the sweat off Alex and ranger made their way to the kitchen. “What is that smell” he asked looking around as he walked “I feel like I should know It.” the young rat could feel something in the pit of his stomach but couldn’t understand why he felt It. he curl fingers into a fist and put Dreamcatcher on stand-by.

He slowed his pace as he closed in on the kitchen. He pushed the door to the kitchen open slowly inching his way into the room. “Take it easy, I’m not here to hurt you” a soft and sweet voice spoke as the hum of a chime whistled passed his ear. The scent he had picked up was coming from behind him. He heard soft breathing almost a purr.

Alex didn’t thinking his way through the scene. How could he have missed her getting behind him so quickly? “Hands up and power down and tell her to sit,” the voice order “you’re not the first one to try to cover yourself after being caught off guard.” “I don’t trust you” Alex answered charging his fist. “Don’t trust me, but keep this in mind” she said “I could have killed you already.”

She had a point. Alex raised his right hand fingers out with a soft white glow. “Tell your weapon to sit” she said.  “Ranger” he answered “down.” “Good now we may talk as civilized people” she said. “Right, give the fact you have a sword to my neck and my back to you” Alex scoffed. “As rude as it may be it is for your safety that we meet like this” she answered.

“You seem to know a lot about what’s going on,” Alex asked looking at the blade from the corner of his eye “so you might know how many tricks this thing has?” Buying time was not something Alex was very good at but he just needed a few more seconds. “I could guess but that would just waste time” she answered.

“Dreamcatcher” Alex thought to himself “FLASH.” A pulse of white light filled the room. Alex happened to blink at the right time and missed being hit right in the face with the bright light. “Ranger” he called and felt the weight of a handle hit the palm of his hand. In a second he turned and raised the blade. The feline that had been standing behind him had covered her eyes and dropped her guard.

“Cute,” she said when her light blue eyes came back into focus “he taught you well.” “I’m a fast learner” the rat said “now, who are you and what do you want?” Now that he could get a good look at what he was up against he took a step back. She blinked and smiled before she spoke “Mistress Eclairage Gagliuso Daughter of the Storm, member of the Order of the Crown and I’m here to get something to eat.”

She was tall and lean, but had a shapely form with light orange fur wrapped with an almost white shade of blue stripes. Dress in a form fitting business suit and high heel boots. She lowered her sword and turned the grip away from herself never her smile breaking. Alex felt like he knew her from somewhere. Everything from her scent to her face ate at his memories.

“How do I know you” Alex asked turning his hand reaching his blade closer to her. “Yes you know me,” she answered “this is not our first meeting.” “Drop the sword” he said taking another step back. Something about her was toying with his instincts. The feline let the blade fall from her hand and chime against the floor. “Now move over there” he said nodding with his head to a corner of the room next to the stove.

She did making a clear note of her turning her back to him but kept her hands in clear view. When she stop and faced him again letting her body play with his mind. “Ranger” he spoke and let the sword fall to the ground only to change back to the black wolf with her fiery tail. The wolf stood eyes locked on the feline.

Alex picked up the discarded weapon and set it on the counter behind him. “You are more trusting then you let on” she said adding a teasing giggle. “How do I know you” he asked. “All business with you forest dragons” she said “I’m the reason you are where you are now.” Alex turned and looked at her from the corner of his eye.

“I was looking for you six years ago and had that trash can of a home closed after we first met but I didn’t get the chance to collect you when you ran away with the child witch” the feline answered. Alex didn’t react but just glared at her. “Yes we knew about her even before you did” the feline answered “I was to collect you both, you as an asset and her to hide and protect and in worst case remove.”

“Are you still planning on killing her” he asked. “Only if ordered to but she is safer with you for now” the feline answered “there are other agents willing to help you but I cannot tell you who they are but I can tell you there is more going on than just a game.” “Tell me something I don’t know” the rat answered.

“Child you have no idea” the feline chided and flicked her hand. The sword Alex had just set down zipped around the room landing handle first right into the feline’s grasp. Alex and Ranger both jumped ready to counter. But the feline simply set the blade back into its sheath. “I am the granddaughter of a storm dragon and I am four hundred and sixteen years old” she answered “but I think you could have smelled that.”

“Well you look good for you age” was the only thing Alex could think to say. “I’m not sure how to take that but given what a strong and handsome young man you are” the feline said and winked at him. Alex shook his head feeling like she was just messing with his head. “What are you trying to get a raise out of me” he asked locking eyes with hers.

Their eyes flashed his a bright gold hers a dark gray. “If that was the case I would have taken my clothes off” she answered “and with the way you’re going I might just do so.” “Get out” he answered. She put her hands up with the same grin on her face. “Right, my mistake, I should have known you already had a lover” the feline said “but yes I have overstayed my welcome.”

“Next we meet I expect to share a dance with you” the feline said. And with blinding flash of light she was gone. “This can’t be good” he said to himself before his stomach protested the wait. Before long he and Ranger were downing burgers almost as fast as Alex could cook them. After a dozen or so burgers Alex went to get ready for tonight and feared what was going to happen next.

Chapter 12

“Wilson’s Wish Making” read the sign as Jessica and Alex stopped outside the little shop. “This looks like a bad joke” Alex said reading the signs that dressed the door. “Fortune telling, charms, spells, potions, magic tricks, toys and games” he read out. “Sounds more like a gag shop” the vixen answered giving his arm a light squeeze “let’s check it out.”

Alex was feeling very uneasy with having Jessica so close to him and her acting like a teenage on her first date. But before he could protest the door flew open almost hitting him in the face. “Oh my apologies there laddie” spoke a silver wolf with short spiky white blond hair. He wore a baggy overcoat over a faded blue polo shirt and cutoff shorts.

Alex took a sharp step back pulling the vixen with him. The wolf stood on his toes with a long heel. The wolf’s tail seemed to dance the same way Ranger’s tail did. He wore a patch over his right eye but his smile, remind Alex of someone. “Well are you coming in or you just going to stare at me” he asked stepping to the side.

“I take it you’re Wilson” Jessica asked overlooking all the clues setting off alarms in the young rat’s head. “Yes, yes I am” he answered “easy there lad not everything is out to kill you.” Jessica looked down at Alex’s hand seeing it in a tight fist. The wolf just smiled and waited. Ranger trotted up to them after running a squirrel up a tree.

The fire tail wolf walked right up to the other asking for attention. After some light pats on the head the wolf walked herself right into the shop. Still uneasy Alex followed the wolves and the vixen into the shop. “Tea, coffee, cake” the wolf asked leading the three back to a small table with a glass ball and a silver bird sitting on it.

“No thank you” Alex answered taking a seat as the wolf had motioned. “Yes please and I’m sure he will have some too” Jessica said overrule his answer. After a moment the wolf returned with drinks and snacks at the ready. “No I just always keep something ready” he answered before they could ask if he knew they were coming.

“So what can I do for you” he asked turning one of the chairs around and plopping himself on it. Alex shrugged. “About giving the birthday boy here a reading’ Jessica jokingly asked. “Alright palm, aura, cards, or the ball” the wolf asked. “Do his palm” the vixen jumped pulling Alex’s hand across the table. “I don’t think it will work with that one” Alex said about to pull it back. But the wolf was faster and pinned his white paw to the table.

“I don’t see why not” the wolf asked “was this casting of your choice?” “Um, kinda” he answered. “Kinda” the wolf asked “were you told to pick something and this casting came from it?” the rat nodded. “Then it was by choice” the wolf answered and opened the rat’s hand for him to look over. Alex shot Jessica a glare.

“I see long life, lots of hard work, strong will, but this is odd” the wolf spoke drawing out lines with the tip of his claw. The two looked at him. “Your love lines are a mess” he said looking closer “there many people who love you and you can’t seem to understand which is which.” The wolf paused. “Two of these lines seem to clash. Meaning there are two people very close to you that you have strong feelings for you. But you are unsure which to choose” he added releasing the rat’s hand.

“Wait, could it mean like I don’t know, like family verses a girlfriend thing or” the vixen asked and cut herself off. “I do not count a confused child as a ravel in love” the wolf answered “but yes there are some mixed feels on both side of that coin.” “What” Alex asked pulling his hand back. “You have sister or someone like a sister to you yes” the wolf asked sipping his tea.

“Yeah” the rat answered “but I don’t see what that has to do with anything. And how did you know I have a sister?” “The look on your face” the wolf answered without looking up. He set his cup aside and blinked his good eye. “I’m guessing, she is a good few years younger than you and is at that turning point in a girl’s life” the wolf spoke folding his hands into his lap.

 “The point where she starts liking boys” the vixen chimed in “and him being pretty much all she has.” “Case in point” the wolf finished “so it is no big matter, well in of itself anyway but I’m guessing there is more to that story than I need to know.” “Oh” Alex said looking away. “No matter” the wolf spoke up “talk to her, I’m sure she will be understanding. And now it’s your turn my deer.”

Jessica was more unwilling to show her hand than Alex given how good this guy was at what he did. “If you want we can ask him to leave if it makes you feel any better” the wolf asked his eye bouncing between the two. Jessica look at Alex from the corner of her eye before reaching out her hand and opening it palm up to the silver wolf.

“He doesn’t know the many hardships you have undertaken and only now you bring them to light” he said before even looking at her hand. Jessica’s eyes dropped to the table top. He looked at her hand and closed her fingers and gently pushed her away. “Child, darkness clouds you and you will have to face your demons, ready or not” he said and swallowed hard.

“I know” she answered “I’ve known for a long time.” “You have a lot of love in your heart and a lot of hope,” the wolf went on “never lose them.” Alex could tell Jessica was about to bolt for the door. “However, that is a matter you do not have to face alone nor will” the wolf said and stood up “I guess that is all I have. Took less time than I thought it would.” He scratched his chin and leaded them back to the door.

Jessica and Ranger stepped out of the shop and started to walk down the street. Alex was stopped just inside the door. “Oh there was one last thing, well two to be honest” the wolf said “one this was sent to me by mistake.” He handed Alex an envelope then reached back into his coat after the young rat had taken the letter.

“And second Happy Birthday” the wolf smiled handing him a small box “oh and don’t forget to make a wish.” the wolf tapped his nose and rushed the young rat out the door. “But what do I do with this” the rat asked holding up the small box. “Do with what” Jessica asked looking back at him. Alex spun around to look at Jessica and then back at the shop.

“Wait, There was a shop right here just a second ago” he said looking at an empty lot next to him. Jessica looked at the lot next to him. “Yeah, there was” she said eyes wide. Alex thought about the name of the shop for a second. “Nah, couldn’t be” he said and brushed the thought aside. “Well” the vixen asked as they started moving. “Well what” he asked.

“What did he give you, ya goof” Jessica asked giving him a light tap on the arm. “A box and a letter” he answered. He put the letter away and opened the box. Inside was a small heart shaped charm and a fold piece of paper. Unfolding the paper with his fingers Alex started reading the note written on it.

“Make a wish and give this to your girlfriend already,” it read “Wishmaker.” Jessica had read the note and looked up the young rat’s face. His expression seemed to break into a smile. She had never seen him smile before. It was more fitting than the blank look he had always given her. She blushed when his eyes met hers.

Alex pulled the charm out by the ribbon it was attached to and began to put it around the vixen’s neck. She gasped thinking it was some joke or worst he was going to use it to kill her. But he fixed the knot and let it hang from her neck. When she looked back at him she was about to ask but was cut off with him sharply pulling her into a kiss.

Her eyes closed as she drowned herself in it. Seconds felt like days to her but as he pulled away she felt dazed and blinked till she could focus. Her mind swam with questions but all she could do was smile. “Where to next” he asked taking her hand in his. “Know any good movies” she asked before she could think on the question.

Alex thought about it and shook his head “I never had time for movies or much of anything really.” “Oh” she responded looking away. “I always liked books more anyway” he added. “Books” she asked “I never thought you did a lot of reading.” “Yeah, books are easier to work with when running around and jumping out of windows and what not” he said and pulled an old paper back from his coat.

“Fly and the Spider” Jessica read off the weathered cover “that’s a good one.” “You like spy novels” Alex asked dropping the book back in his pocket. “Just the romance of them” she answered. They walked along talking about the different books they had read and what they thought might happen in later stories.

“I’m just saying I think he’d go for the barmaid over the heiress because of the class difference between them” Alex said. “I don’t think so, she offered him everything she had” Jessica said rolling her eyes “plus the barmaid doesn’t even like him.” “She only likes him because he saved her life” he said “and if that is the only reason she likes him then there was no point in half of the story.”

“Right, the knight in shining armor says playing the hero is no way to get the girl” she teased and pulled him closer. “I didn’t say that” he objected “I’m just saying there should be more to it.” “Like a love of books” she added with a grin. “Yes” he answered “anything more than just. “Oh you saved my life, take me I’m yours.” He finished with a bit of over acting.

It was a new feeling for Jessica to just talk to someone. She hadn’t felt this at easy in years and just talking about something like books just made her so happy. Alex felt much the same, finding they had more in common then he first thought. He had never thought just talking to her would be so easy. She had always scared him.

“I know this place” he said stopping in front of an alleyway. The building next to it had a small spider web set of cracks in the bricks like it was hit a few times with sledgehammer. Jessica looked around and at the web-cracks in the wall. “Well we both should” she add “this is where we first met.” “You still remember that day” he asked with a questioning look.

“I remember you trying to play the hero and failed” she said “you know I was just going to have Mitch knock you out and move on.” “I remember him almost choking me out” Alex said thinking back on that day. “Oh he was” she added “but the minute Sheba showed up that was the game changer.” “Game changer” he asked “I was about to black out when she showed up.”

“I know” the vixen answered “Mitch had told me later on that he had to use enough force to break a man’s neck.” Alex replayed that day in his head. Jessica took a few steps closer to the wall ran her fingers along the cracks in the wall. “He missed because he thought she was taller” the vixen said thinking back as well.

“Had you not put up a fight he would have killed her” she added “I found out later on he had gone rouge from a group called the order of the crown.” “She said something about that” Alex said breaking his line of thinking. “She” the vixen asked looking at him from the wall. “This woman was in the kitchen” he recapped “and she said she was from the order of the crown.”

“What did she look like” Jessica asked “was she armed? Were the lights on? Did you look her in the eye?” “Tall feline, orange fur with light blue stripes, she had a sword but I did disarmed her” he answered thinking about “no the light were off just the light from the window, yeah her eyes flash to a gray color I think.”

Jessica grabbed the rat by the collar and pinned him to the wall “Did she give you a name” she asked getting as close to him as she could. “Eclairage Gagliuso” he answered. “She said something about me having a lover.” Jessica smiled “you have no idea.” She looked him in the eyes doing her best not to blink.

Alex blinked looking deep into her eyes. After a moment his eyes flashed gold. When his eyes returned to their light green color he put his hand to her side turning her with him lightly pinning her against the wall. Her hands released his collar and reach behind his head. They began to kiss heavily drawing small gasps from the other.

Jessica paused him with a finger across his lips. “I think we should save the rest for later” she said forcing herself to release him. Alex’s body was still driven but his mind slowed him down. He nodded slowly taking a slow step back letting his hand slip from her side only to be taken by her own hand.

“Maybe we should get back before it gets too late” he agreed. Jessica smiled as he led her to where her driver was to meet them. They forced themselves to hold back the whole trip back to the manner. Alex’s wild ideas broke when he realized this was the first time he had not seen his sister off to bed.

Once back in the manner he quickly made his way to his sister’s room the vixen close behind him. Alex eased the door open as not to wake the young folf from her slumber. “You are back sooner than I thought you would have been” the demon’s voice whispered just high enough for them to hear him “I hope everything is alright.”

“Yeah, old habits” Alex answered lightly stepping his way over to his sister’s bed. The young folf had been rolling around in her sleep again pushing sheets and blankets off her, her loose clothing showing more of her growth day by day. “She’s going to be a real heartbreaker soon enough” Jessica whispered as she helped Alex pull the beddings back into place.

“Well it’s a good thing I learned to be a good leg breaker” Alex smiled and kissing his sister on the head adding in “I curse you to sweet dreams and happy days my little witch.” Jessica bit her lip to keep from giggling. Alex looked up at the vixen before straitening himself up. He turned to the night stand with an open book on it.

“The Double Dealer” he read the name of the short story and sighed. “That was always her favorite story about Wishmaker” he said and lightly closed the book. They bit the demon good night and left the room as quietly as they could. “The Double Dealer” Jessica asked once they were in the hallway and closing in on Alex’s room “never heard of that one.”

Alex recapped the story of how Wishmaker tricked two warring kingdoms into a peace treaty. “So he gave one girl a gift from the sister of the boy from the other kingdom, by having him give it to her” Jessica asked thinking about how silly it was. “Yep,” Alex answered “because the sister knew how lonely the two were and had made a wish for her brother’s happiness.”

“Sound silly if you ask me” Jessica said opening the door to his bedroom and walked right in. “Yeah but she was always like that,” Alex said giving another sigh “always trying to find ways of helping people. That’s how we found out about her gifts.” “God damn saints the both of you” Jessica said turning the lights on.

Sitting out in the open on Alex’s desk was a small box with a bow sitting on top and a note reading “Happy birthday Alex, love Sheba.” Jessica picked up the box and before Alex could do anything else she put it in his hand and said “open it now.” Alex took the box and opened it. Inside was a charm shaped like a dream catcher and another note. “Promise saved promise kept” was all it said.

Alex laughed taking the charm and threw its chain around his neck. Jessica read the note remembering how they were hollow words to her but knew those same words were like gold to Alex and Sheba. “You said this to her a lot haven’t you” she asked setting the box and note aside. “Yeah,” he answered as he emptied his pockets.

“I heard those words a lot growing up too” she said looking around the room and simple and clean it was “but they were always lies.” “I’m sorry to hear that” he said meaning it. “Don’t be you’re not the one who gave me a drug abusing mother and a criminal for a step-father” she said. “At lease you got to have time with them, I never knew my mother or father I was a doorstep baby” Alex said “and Sheba her folks died in a car wreck.”

“I guess we all have had it rough” she said turning back to him. “Yeah I guess” he said. She smiled moving closer to him. He blinked and put his arms around her holding her close. “I know it sounds silly but could you say them for me” she asked “that way I can hear it once and know it wasn’t another lie.”

Alex squeezed the vixen close to his chest and softly in her ear said “promise saved, promise kept all before day is night.” She smiled feeling her heart racing in her chest. She could feel his heart beating against his rib cage. “Now where were we” she asked smiling up at him. He smiled back at her and picked where he left off on the street corner.

Chapter 13

“I think you are confusing two different types of love” Wilson’s voice rang in the young folf’s ears as flashes of her brother ran through her mind. Ideas still new to her crossed her mind countless times. The wolf’s words drew a sharp line between her thoughts and dreams. “I know he doesn’t see me that way” she said “but part of me wants him too. To see only me.”

“You are young, you have been through a lot,” the wolf answered “it is understandable to think like that.” “But she doesn’t know him the way I do” she said. “But she has feelings for him anyway” the wolf asked. “I don’t know why” she answered “for years he had meant nothing to her.” “Is your brother strong and caring” the wolf asked.

“Yeah, up till now he has done everything for me and asked for nothing in return” she answered. She recalled everything he had done for her. Every time she was scared he was there to protect her. Every time she needed something he’d have it waiting for her. “Maybe there is something in that fact that caught her eye” the wolf asked.

“I don’t even see how” she answered “with one word she could have everything.” “Everything” he asked. Her thoughts jumped to the number times she had see the vixen and the way she looked at her brother. “Maybe I don’t know” she answered. “Maybe there was one thing she couldn’t have” he said “Maybe there was something she couldn’t demanded.”

“You understand the power of a promise” he asked. Her thoughts again jumped to the night she summoned Nightmare and how his words not hers make the apple glow. “A true promise is born from love and that is a power no one can match” the wolf said. She recalled every time Alex had shown great strength and how it was always to help someone else.

“Tell you what,” the wolf spoke as Sheba’s mind returned to the shop where had met this odd wolf “go ahead and pick two gifts.” “Two gifts” she asked. “Yes, Two,” he answered “one for your brother and the other for the one you feel needs it most.” She went over and began to look over the number of charms laid out under a glass case.

As she looked over the case one charm stood out over the others. It was a small dream catcher charm that matched the design on the back of Alex’s hand. “That one” she said without a second thought. “I see” the wolf said closing around the other side of the case “why pick such a charm?” “It just suits him, he was always there to scare off monsters and boogie men” she said.

“I see” the wolf repeated “do you know what a dream catcher is meant for?” “To stop bad dreams” she answered looking up at the older wolf. “Very good” he said “but one needs faith to make it work fully.” She looked down at the charm and thoughts of Alex always needing to find answers. “He has a hard time finding or even keeping it” she said.

“He has a lot of love and hope in his heart” the wolf asked taking the charm from the case. He set in a box and set it to the side. “He couldn’t live without doing for others” she answered. “Then two out of three will have to do for now” the wolf said turning back to the case “now go ahead and pick another.”

She looked over the case again. Two other charms caught her eye, one was a small heart the other a tear drop. “Can I see those two” she asked and pointed them out. The wolf withdrew the two charms and set them out for her. “One would think these two wouldn’t mean what they do” he said pulling out another small box.

“The heart means hope” she said thinking about it “the hope and trust to the one it is given to.” She looked closer at the tear drop that looked more like a raindrop. “Very good” the wolf answered “and the rain drop?” “Love” she answered “rain is love given to all.” The wolf smiled sliding a piece of paper and a pen in front of her.

“I think I know which you want to give to the other” he said but waited for her answer. “I want him to know it’s ok to be with her but I don’t know if I could tell him. Because I want him for myself” she said looking back at the heart shaped charm. The wolf smiled as he spoke “let me ask you this. Do you want him to trust her or love her?”

“Both I guess” she said “I mean after everything he has done for me. He should be able to give his heart to someone he cares about.” The wolf grin dipped as he asked “even if it is not you to whom he gives such a gift?” Sheba thought about it. He had never broken a promise before, nor had he ever stopped loving her.

“Yes, because I don’t own his heart, but I will kill anyone who breaks it” she said looking right into the wolf’s good eye. When she looked down at the charms again the heart was gone and one of the boxes was closed. “Then that matter is settled” he said “but I will see to it myself that it is put into the right hands.”

The wolf looked back at the case then to the young folf. “You know” he said dreams are like people.” She looked up at him. “Well in truth there are really only three types of dreams that can change the world” he said picking up the last charm off the glass case. Sheba’s head tilled as the old wolf spoke. “But it’s not the dreams themselves that change the world” he said crossing around the case again his baggy coat shifting oddly as he moved “it is when they are met with faith, hope and love.”

He took the charm and placed its thin chain around Sheba’s neck. “Here write him a note and put in the box and take it with you” he said taking his leave of the room “I have gests coming soon, I hope they like cake.” After she finished writing her note she left the little shop and rushed into another dream.

Her body felt hot and itchy. She felt uneasy and this sense of need was almost painful. She woke needing to use the bathroom and found the blanket and sheet had been kicked off at one point but somewhere in her dream she thought Alex and Jessica had put them back on her and he had said something to her.

But her first need picked up again and looking down at herself she made sure to do so quickly and clean the mess she had made in her sleep. Once she had stripped the bed and changed her clothes she picked them all up and went to take them the laundry room. But a few steps into the hallway with her load of balled up beddings and clothes she was startled by a voice.

She dropped everything was holding when Megs voice caught her ears. “You’re up early” she said. Sheba was startled and embarrassed by the otter. Meg stood watching the young girl rush to repack the sheets and blankets and messy clothes. When Sheba finally looked at the otter, she was still in shock.

The otter stood in the hall her sleek form and curves made clearer by the tight one piece swimsuit she wore. Meg smiled biting back a small giggle. “Sheba, are you ok” she asked taking the load from the girl. Sheba couldn’t think of what to say and rumbled over her words. “Feel very hot and itchy” the otter asked setting the mess aside.

Sheba nodded shyly. “Woke up and found a mess in your bed” she asked leading the girl back to her room. Again she nodded. “Tell you what, go put your swimsuit on and met me at the pool” the otter said and gently pushed the girl back into her room. Without a second thought Meg turned and grabbed the messy linens and tended to them.

Ten minutes later the two females stood next to a large indoor swimming pool alone. The otter in her tight one piece and the little folf in her modest cartoony two piece that was getting to be a little too small for her. “Sheba, you know I’ve had to go through the same thing with Jessica” the otter said stretching out her arms and legs.

Sheba nodded still feeling uneasy. “It’s normal,” Meg said “you’re going through your first heat.” Hearing that made the girl less standoffish about the matter. “And I did the same thing to her I’m going to do to you when I caught her making that morning run” Meg said giving the young girl a hug. Sheba blinked thoughts racing in her head.

“Time to cool off” the otter said picking the young folf up and jumping into the pool. When she hit the cool water her body was thrown off, breaking the burning itchy feeling and sent chills down her back. When her head broke through the water and gasped for air she stood shaking from the cold. The otter on the other hand had not come back up.

This scared the girl thinking something was wrong, till she felt arms around her. “See, isn’t that better” Meg asked helping the girl warm up to the cold water. Once Sheba could talk without her teeth chattering she began to ask a lot of questions that she otherwise wouldn’t. The otter answered the best she could.

The two climbed out of the pool and cleaned up before returning to Sheba’s room. “Now go get dressed and wake Alex” Meg said “And I’ll go make breakfast after I get dressed.” Sheba thanked Meg and went into her room. Infrerna had made herself comfortable in the empty bed as the demon slept in his stone like state.

Sheba rolled her eyes at the sight of the two. She giggled to herself and change into a blue button-up dress shirt and red skirt. She looked herself over in the mirror running her hand down her front. “In time” she said to herself before fixing herself and put the raindrop charm around her neck. When she was ready she rushed out of the room leaving the door cracked.

Outside of Alex’s door, she paused with a thought popping her head “he might not be alone.” She knocked on the door, heart racing. No answer. She tried again this time calling his name. Still no answer. Nerves she tested the knob and opened the door. Morning light was breaking through the windows letting her see.

“Alex” she called stepping into the room. He still live the same way as long as she had known him, clean but messy. Clothes were thrown about the floor. But her first thought was that was just like him, till she saw some of Jessica’s things thrown across the room. Sheba bit her lip and swallowed hard. They spent the night together.

“Alex” she called again making her way over to the bed. An uneasy shaking came with each step till she stood next to the bed. She looked down at the sleeping rat. His arm wrapped around his head with his mouth open and tongue hanging out. A hand laid curled along his side with Jessica’s face resting on his chest, his free arm pulled tightly around her.

Sheba was envious of Jessica’s looks but see her like this, closed a gap between them. “Alex Wake up” she said and lightly shook his arm “Meg is cooking breakfast.” Alex’s body shifted as his head rolled around. Jessica sleepily squeezed him tighter as a reaction to his sudden movement. Slowly two sets of eyes open blinking away from sleep.

At first they looked to the other for reinsurance of the night before. “Good morning Sweety” Jessica said kissing Alex. “Good morning” Sheba chimed in. both Jessica and Alex turned their heads to see the young girl standing there already dressed for the day. Jessica quickly pulled the blanket high up over her chest folding her legs under her as she sat up.

Alex sat up covering as much of his bare lower half as he could. “You forgot to lock your door” she said and playfully rolled her eyes “I tell Meg to keep something warm for you.” the young folf turned and quickly left the room locking and closing the door behind her. Alex and Jessica looked to the other and both smiled.

Once the door was closed Sheba made a mad dash for the kitchen. What had gotten into her that she would act like that to her own brother? Her young mind dance his form around her eyes adding thoughts of what he was hiding under the blanket. But she did her best to push those thoughts aside. “Yeah I hope you aren’t making anything that can’t be reheated” she said pushing her way into the kitchen.

One of the guards was standing next to the coffee pot waiting for it to brew. Meg was bouncing around with a mix of foods and smells flying all over the place. “I’ll be sure to save them some beacon and eggs” the otter answered without a second thought. After a few minutes the guard had his coffee and was taking his first sip when Sheba spoke up her thoughts.

“I woke Alex and Jessica up and I think they had sex last night. The guard’s coffee flew across the kitchen. “Dave, she’s a grown woman and she can sleep with whomever she wants” Meg said after seeing the guard’s face. “I’m not mad Miss Meg” he answered “just envious of the bastard.” Meg shot the guard a dirty look.

The guard threw his hands up and left the room before the otter could take a frying pan to his head. Sheba covered her giggling by sipping her tea. “Don’t mind him Hun” the otter said setting a plate out for Sheba. As the morning shift changes picked up Sheba watched as guards and day workers pasted through the kitchen as they do every morning.

“Hey kiddo” some of them would say when they saw her. Others would ask about Alex. A couple would try to hit on Meg but run before she’d hit them. The few that stuck around till they had to start were shock to see two things. One their boss Jessica walking into the kitchen in just a bathrobe. And second seeing Alex half dressed and holding her.

One of the overnight guards dropped his coffee. “What I’m not allowed to be in my own kitchen” She asked glaring at half of them. The room cleared out of all but the four of them. “Alex, after you eat, be sure to take the girls outside for a walk and take your time” Meg said “we need to have some girl time.”

“And what are we eating” the demon asked as he entered the room. “Bacon and eggs” the otter answered setting a plate out for him. Ranger and Infrerna sat waiting for their fill as the Drake sat on Nightmare’s shoulder. “I hear many things from the people that walk around at night” Drake chirped. “Like what” Jessica asked having picked the night security herself.

“Small talk of seeing things like us and the woman who use to run the manner before Miss Meg” the little dragon answered “She is like the boy but of a different breed.” “Yeah she said something about that” Alex said packing a biscuit with egg and bacon. “I had been meaning to ask” Jessica spoke tilting her head “where did you run into that woman?”

“She was standing in this very room not more than a day ago” the tiny dragon answered “I can smell her scent.” Jessica looked to the dragon blade and back to Alex who scratched his ear and looked away. “And you didn’t tell me about this why” she asked as her ears began to fold back. “I forgot” he answered “I forgot and ever if I did tell you I don’t think we could do anything about it because she knew what she was doing.”

“Works for me” the vixen said turning back to her plate “Eclairage Gagliuso use to work for my father.” “Your father worked for the order of the crown” Alex asked. At those words the demon set his fork down and turned his closed eyes to the young rat and the vixen. “No, she was a mole and had been for years” the vixen answered.

“Question is for who was she a mole for” the demon asked “the order of the crown dates back long before any but the oldest of us would know.” “I can tell you she was one of the ones undermining my father” the vixen answered “but she could only do so much without him taking matters into his own hands.

Meg looked away. “Order of the crown” Sheba asked unaware of what the others had said. “It is an ancient order meant to curve the deeds of mortals for the betterment of the world” the demon answered “my brothers and I are agreed to ourselves and the order to not act by greater means.” “The Sons of the Caretaker not acting by greater means” the vixen laughed.

“The stories alone make you three out to be heroes the world over” she added. “Yes but name one story where anyone or all three do anything to change the whole world on that scale” Meg chimed in. Heads shook. “Case in point” the demon finished “but if the order still watches you it means there is more to this game then even I had foreseen.”

“Well then” Jessica smiled “good thing we got Sheba a dress.” Alex’s head snapped around. “Well if we’re going to a Ball we had all look our best” the vixen said. The rat’s eyes grew in his head. “Relax, Dancing is just like fighting” the demon answered. “Fun part is you’re going be dressing up too” she added.

The demon’s large ears shot back as he spoke “I am not going.” “Oh yes you are” Jessica corrected “all four of us are going. Make that everyone in this room is going.” Jessica set the open letter down for the demon to read. “The whole team is invited and as fare and I’m concerned that means everyone in this room right now.”

“Ranger and Infrerna and drake as well” Sheba asked. “Yep” Jessica answered which means they’ll all need a bath.”

Chapter 14

It was an unnerving feeling for Alex to walk into room full of people he had robbed, beaten or some other act to under minded or cripple by Jessica’s order. Jessica herself held her own to the number low lives she had put under her thumb. Sheba had hid herself fully inside Infrerna’s cloak form. Nightmare showed little concern to hiding his form at this point but retain his size to move around with greater ease.

Meg dressed to kill. The otter’s dress fit her figure and drew the eyes of men and women alike. The walk into the building was unsettling in many ways for each of them. “Good evening, may I have the party’s name” asked a small white mouse wear slim but loose dress and sunglasses. Her head was pointing down even as she talked.

Alex was quick to pick up on the way the mouse’s moved. “Yes I’m Jessica Pinaco and my team’s name is dreamer” the vixen answered. “Member names, as to announce your arrive” the mouse asked without skipping a beat. But at the sound of Jessica’s name the mouse had taken a notable step back. “The Caster is Sheba Bloodgold, her guard and champion in Alex Hunter Greenvolt,” the vixen spoke watching the mouse’s reaction to each name as she wrote them down “and her demon’s name is Nightmare the beast, knight of the Caretakers keep.”

“Yes ma’am” she said shaking as she spoke “As you know in the litter each member of a team is welcome to bring one person with them, may I ask the number to be seated?” “Eight” Jessica answered. The mouse nodded before turning around. “Follow me please” she said and began to count each of her steps.

They were led into the building where they pasted a second mouse girl equally as blind as the one that led them. Other guests and staff turned heads at the sight of the almost seven foot tall demon walking closely over a cloaked figure. The mouse stopped just outside the ballroom and turned back to the group. “I must ask you to disarm before passing this point” she said pointing her hand to a horse standing outside a large walk-in closet full of fire arms and swords.

“Then half of our group will be left out” the vixen retorted. The mouse’s head tilted. “Alex” Jessica said turning to the tall rat next to her. Without batting an eye, he drew his sword with its wolf head guard. He dropped the blade. Ranger land on her paws then sat at her master’s side wait his next order. Drake leaped from the top of Nightmare’s head and landed on the back of the fiery black wolf.

“Infrerna” spoke a quiet voice from under the fire red cloak. With just the word the cloak blew itself free of its wearer shifting to a canine form seven long tails curling into a dancing flame. Sheba wore a long red gown that stopped just below her knees in the front and came to a point half way down her calf. The black trim cut between fur and cloth. The front of the gown fit to her young body drawing out her growing curves. From her tail to her shoulder was bare and only covered by a thin shawl.

Her hands gloved in black silk one stopping at her wrist of her right hand the other at the elbow of her left arm. She carried a small basket holding her family spell book and a golden apple. Around her neck was a small tear drop shaped charm hanging by a thin gold chain. Alex’s jaw dropped from seeing his little kid sister looking so grown up. Gasps and awes made her blush.

“What did you do with my sister” Alex asked pulling his eyes away from the girl and to the equally beautiful vixen holding his arm.  “I did the best with what I had and seems I had more to work with then I thought” she answered playfully closing his mouth with a finger. “This way if you will” the mouse asked leading on “one of the staff will inform you when your table is ready.”

Just pasted the door, the mouse handed a card off to a bull with his eyes close in a respectful manner. He took the card and read it over before looking back at the group. He cleared his throat and spoke into a microphone that stood next to him. The eyes of the guests turned to see who had just arrived.

The room became quiet as they moved down the steps. Alex shook his head just a bit saying “I don’t like this, too many people staring at us.” “That’s the point Alex” Jessica answered “just relax and have fun.” “I have a bad feeling about this” Alex said looking around. “I have the same feeling but I have that part under control” Jessica said and kissed his cheek.

“Nightmare why is everyone staring at us” Sheba asked staying close to the demon behind her. “Who would not gaze upon three beautiful women such as yourselves” he answered. Ranger and Infrerna both shot a look back at the demon. “You two are another story” he answered. Tails waged as the two trotted off behind Meg.

“So the plus ones are sticking together” Meg said petting their heads “well that’s fine I have to make a call here in a bit.” Meg, Drake and the two canines were greeted and lead over to a set of tables where others sat and talked. And she made quick work of becoming part of the chatter. Sheba nodded Jessica and Alex off to dance as she stayed right next to Nightmare who found another demon he had known years ago.

“Not use to being a guest and not one of the crew” the vixen asked guiding his steps with a tap of her toes. “I’m use to not being seen” he answered letting his moments fall into place. “I know, but you were not as good as you thought you were” she smiled letting her body press against his. His eyes met with her offsetting her words with a look.

“There was always one person who saw you cutting between the shadows” she said never breaking from his gaze. “I never knew you had kept that close of an eye on me” he laughed before leading the vixen in a spin. “Remember that one job where you were stuck in a crowded room” she asked. “That has happen more than once” he answered.

“It was a birthday party for Bulloft’s daughter,” she pointed out “we went to school together and the old guy thought me and her were friends.” “Yeah, I stole papers from one of the offices in the building and on my way out, I got pinned down in the room the party was in” he said bring her through a small dip. “I saw you trying to get to the window” she smiled “and I just happen to have been groped by one of his men.”

“Really, I thought a fight broke out I didn’t stick around to see what happen” he said. “But that was not your best work” she added. “Tell it wasn’t the magic show” he said shaking his head. “I don’t remember that one,” she answered “but you’re going to tell about that one later. But the one I’m talking about was when you got Sheba’s spell book.”

“Oh, how was that my best work” he asked pulling her close once more. “You looked like an angel who forgot how to fly” she answered as the music ended. A sharp scent caught the rat’s nose making his ears and head turn. “You’re getting better” a soft voice spoke. The voice was owned by the feline dragoness Eclairage Gagliuso.

Her silver blue dress pulled out her markings and the tight fit to her form kept many eyes on her. Next to her was a white fur wolf with bits of gray across his maw. “Eclairage, why is this boy dancing with my daughter when he should be in a grave” the wolf said his distasted clear in his tone. “My apologies my lord, but this one seems to have a few tricks up his sleeve” the feline answered.

“Jealous to see me in the arms of another man,” Jessica cut in “or still pissed that I wasn’t firing blanks?” “Boy, step aside so I may have a dance with my daughter” the wolf said with the wave of his hand. Alex looked to Jessica who looked back and nodded. “I’ll be right back” Jessica said after giving Alex a gentle kiss.

The wolf pulled Jessica across the dance floor before holding her close. “You forget your place Jessica” the wolf whispered in her ear. “My place is where I choose to be” she answered pushing herself back away from the wolf. “No your place is where I tell you to be,” the wolf said “and that means I tell you be on your knees then you drop to them where you belong.”

“You have no power over me, not anymore” Jessica answered following in time with the music. “I never wanted you beneath me Jessica,” the wolf spoke “but time and again you force my hand.” “Force your hand,” she retorted “you had a woman’s leg broke for trying to take care of her-self and then made her walk on it.”

“She stole and lied from me” he answered. “You almost killed her” the vixen said continuing to move away from the wolf “then a girl who wasn’t even twelve steps in to help her. And what did you do?” “You had no reason to look in to my work, what happen to you was your own doing” the wolf cut her off.

“I had every reason, time and time again I heard the screams I saw the blood, I even saw my mother’s body being bagged up and put out with the trash” the vixen chide tears filling her eyes “and no less than a day later you raped me like I was some kind of toy.” “I loved you Jessica,” the wolf barked “just like your mother, and what did the two of you do? She went out to screw other men just for her fix. And you defined me in my own home.”

Jessica laughed “and the next day I got my hands on a shotgun blew you full of holes.” “As you can see your plan to kill me failed” the wolf said forcing her close once more “kill me all you want because I will just keep coming back bigger and better.” Hate filled her eyes. “But I want to forgive you” he said “I want you to come back to me.”

“I’ve already moved on and he is a much better lover then you ever were” she said and pushed the wolf back. “That boy is only using you, what has he ever done for you that I haven’t” he said pushing back. “He talks to me” she said a soft smile breaking her tears. “Jessica if you don’t do as I say I will kill you” he cut off.

“Like I care, before all of this is over one of us will be dead, and if I’m going to die then you’re coming with me” she said laughing to herself. “Jessica, do not test me,” the wolf said “but fine then pick which one you want to die, your street rat lover or the girl.” “This is between you and me they have nothing to do this” Jessica answered.

“Really, Jessica, I’ve played this game before I am the king of demons this is my two hundredth time taking part in this game” the wolf said grinning ear to ear. Jessica’s eyes went wide. “And no matter how powerful the beast is,” the wolf laughed in her ear “I only need to kill the girl to win. But if you give me the girl and kill the street rat then I will forgive you.”

“What do you want the girl for” she asked “and why do you want Alex dead?” “You don’t need to know my reasons,” he answered “you just need to do as is I command.” “You hurt or even touch them I’ll kill you myself” Jessica said breaking free of his grip. The wolf looked at the young vixen a growl deep in his throat.

The small charm that hung from her neck glowed softly. “So help me Jessica, if you do not obey me,” the wolf growled. “Don’t threaten me,” Jessica said “I’m not my mother, I’m not the scared little girl you once knew.” The wolf stepped back the glow from the small heart shaped charm was becoming blinding to him.

“I have something to protect, I have a family now, and if you or any other even try to take them from me no force in this world or any other will stop me from hunting you down and tare you part” she said and walked off. The wolf stood forced to rub his eyes. “No, you’re going to end your little family with your own hand’ he said to himself turning away and returning to his table.

“Please understand, we’re running out of time” the feline dragoness said moving in time with the music “and if he gets his hands on her no one can stop him.” “What does Sheba have to do with his plan” Alex asked following her lead. “I can’t tell you now but find the story of the Caretaker’s keep,” she whispered “you’ll find the answers you need there.”

“He made it made it clear that he wanted me dead” he asked “why?” “because right now you are the only one keeping him from his goal” Eclairage answered and pulled away “stay on you guard and keep her safe.” Before he could blink she was gone as Jessica walked back to and right into his arms. “I’m sorry it took longer than I thought” she said and squeezed him tightly.

“We’ve got a lot to talk about after this” he said “tell me you have a plan B to get us out of here?” “I know, and always” she answered letting him lead her through another dance. “Sheba I didn’t know you were so light of you feet” Nightmare said dancing with the young folf who was being held a few inches off the floor. “I might be if I was on my feet” she giggled.

“You two look so cute together” Meg said “would you mind if I cut in?” Sheba nodded as Nightmare set the girl back on her feet. “I saw a boy over there that looks a little lonely” Meg said to her and pointed to one of the tables close to theirs. Sheba looked over and saw a young minx who looked to be a year or two older then her.

She made her way over to the young feline but as she got closer she saw two faces that made her uneasy. She saw the Pack sitting in the chair next to him dressed in a cute pink dress meant for a girl that age and she even had a little pink bow in her hair. And next to her was her mother the saleswoman she met when she got the dress wore.

Blinking the little girl looked at her and waved her over. Sheba moved closer watching her. She didn’t act the same as before. She was acting like a six year old taking in everything she sees. The girl waved again and lightly pulled on her mother’s arm. “Mommy, mommy there’s a really pretty girl over there” the girl said in the only way a girl that young could say.

“Pretty girl” the saleswoman asked the child “what does she look like?” “Hello again” Sheba said shyly and being more then polite “I’m sorry I upset you last time we met.” “Sheba was it” the women said her head turning to her. “Yeah” Sheba said after nodding her head. “Don’t worry about it” she said “that thing does have some good qualities.”

“Mommy you know her” the child asked looking between the two of them. “Yes Gwen, her friend bought the dress she’s wearing and can do magic like mommy can” The woman answered. “She’s beautiful” the child said “just like mommy.” Sheba covered her mouth to hide a soft giggle. “Well you are very beautiful yourself” Sheba said smiling.

The girl’s eyes light up. “Henry, Henry She said I am beautiful” she said batting at the boy’s arm. “Yes, this is my daughter Gwen and this is my son Henry” the mother said “and my name is Ginger Woodcut.” “I’m Sheba Bloodgold” she said dipping into a small curtsy. Henry looked the young folf over and shyly looked away.

“Yeah hi” he said trying not to look at her. Mrs. Woodcut’s twitched ears in her son’s detraction. Sheba tilted her head a little to the side. She thought he was cute and his demeanor reminded her of Alex. She bit her lip trying to find her voice. “Henry, are you going to leave a lovely young lady standing there” Mrs. Woodcut asked reaching over her daughter and gave him a small push.

He coughed as he stood up still trying not to look at her. “Would you … like to … I mean care to” he asked words getting stuck in his throat. Sheba shyly looked up at him give he was a few inches taller. The young feline was forced to swallow hard. The look on her face was too cute and made it hard for the young man to speak.

“I think she wants you to have a dance with her” his mother answered the both of them.

Chapter 15

                Sheba’s heart was racing. There was something about this ball. Even if most of the people were low-lives, the party goers were so friendly and the music was beautiful. The young minx holding her hand led her to dance floor. They turned facing one another, still gripping the other’s hand. He set his free hand on her hip as she took his shoulder in hers.

                Slow uneasy steps turned to light and graceful movements falling in time to the music. To Sheba it felt like it’s a kind of magic. She saw more and more of her brother in him as they danced, a gentle touch holding back. She had to blink and look at him to remind herself of who he wasn’t. “Are you part dragon” she asked slowly letting herself draw closer to him.

                “No,” he answered “I’m a golemor.” She blinked. “Gwen is my half sister from a different father” he continued “mine was an earth spirit named Elvin, and Gwen’s was a trucker name Steve.” “My brother is part dragon” she said “there are times when he scares me because of how strong he is.” “Guess it will take a lot for a guy to match up to something like that” the minx said jokingly

                Sheba shook her head and smiled. “No,” she said “it’s not my brother to fear.” “Yeah I know” he said “it’s you.” “ME” she asked feeling a bit taken. “Out of any caster here you’re the only one strong enough to summon Nightmare in over a thousand years” he answered. She looked away. “I’m not that strong,” she corrected “I couldn’t do it on my own and even then I almost died.”

                “Well don’t you two look cute” Jessica said as her and Alex found them in pasting. “Hey Shebs,” Alex asked with a quick pat on her head. “Henry, Henry Woodcut” the minx answered quickly “I’m sorry for all the trouble my sister put you through.” “Sister” the two asked in tandem. “His sister is the host body for the Pack” Sheba answered.

                Alex’s ears shot back. “Wait, Alex,” Sheba cut in “it may not be as bad as we think I mean I just met this sweet little girl sitting with her mother.” “You getting that feeling too” Henry asked. “Yeah,” Alex answered “you might want to get back to your family kid.” “I’m sorry Sheba, maybe we could meet up again sometime after all this is over.

                Still in shock she stood there as the boy she just met ran off. “Sheba, I didn’t mean to chase him off like that but I need you to go find Nightmare and Meg” Alex said ears twitch everywhere. “He’s right Sheba” Jessica added “if I know my father well enough you and Alex are at the top of his list and we need to be ready for anything.”

                Sheba looked past Alex and Jessica in time to see three blind mice girls pushing large rolling trays into the ballroom. “Alex” Nightmare spoke dancing up with Meg in his arms. “Yeah I know” Alex answered. The five of them quickly moved off the dance floor and back to their table. “Ok, we’ll save the fight for later but quickly what do you know about his plan” Alex asked.

                “Not a whole lot but this what I do know” Jessica answered “he wants you dead her alive and anyone who could stop him out of the way.” “We’ll need to divide ourselves to escape this place” Nightmare said quickly flicks his ears around. “Maybe we can help” a bombastic voice spoke from behind the demon.

                They all turned to the voice. The rooster, Great Dane and the crocodile they had met a few weeks ago stood as a group. Dressed in suits that only seem to fit the Great Dane’s look, they walked around the demon and parked next to the table. “We’re team Neverlan” the rooster said sitting next the Ranger “I’m Peter Panbrook, this is Captain James “Hook” Rodger and this is my demon Tick Tock.”

                The crocodile took a pose hands out waving “Jazz hands” it chimed. “Tick tock” Sheba asked just happening to be standing between the two demons. It leaned down to her ear. “Tick, tick, tick, tick” could be heard deep inside the demon’s head. “Yeah he’s a hell-mouth” the rooster answered. “If you want to get out of here before anything goes down then you best listen to him” the old sea dog spoke.

                “Give me one good reason to trust you” Jessica said leaning over the table a bit. “I can give you two” the rooster answered kicking his feet up on the table. Glares enclosed on the rooster. “We’re with the order” he said. “And this son of bitch can get his ass out of anything” the old dog braked. “You love me anyway” the rooster teased.

                “We don’t have time to argue about this so what’s your plan” Jessica said looking around the ballroom and seeing other groups starting to do the same thing they were doing. “First you the witch and the maid don’t stand a chance fighting those gorgons” the rooster pointed out “so going with your idea of splitting up, we’ll need to break into three groups to get out of here.”

                “If their working for my father they’re not going to touch me” she said “but if they can they’re going after Alex and Sheba.” “Kill him, catch her” the rooster asked. Jessica nodded. “Thought so,” he said “you and him are going out the front door. The rooster pointed to Jessica and Alex as he spoke. “Big guy think you can make a door out of that wall” the rooster asked nightmare and pointed to the wall behind them.

                “With ease” the demon answered. “Good, you take the maid and the captain out that way” the rooster said “and you will come with me and Tick Tock.” “Wait” Alex said holding his hand out. “Look I know you’re playing over protective brother and all but we don’t have time for it” the rooster said cutting the rat off “she’s small and light, and we need to get her out of here first.”

                “He has a point” Nightmare said. “Thank you” the rooster said. Alex looked at Sheba. She looked back at him and smiled. “She gets so much as a scratch I’ll rip you a new one” Alex said. “I love it when you talk dirty to me” the rooster answered “but you have my word as a thief.” Alex shook off the rooster’s comment and looked around.

                “I don’t like this” he said “we had too much time to plan.” “That’s the point” the old captain said “Pinaco is a man who believes himself to be better then everyone that he doesn’t care if they plan or just die.” “Now that is no way to speak about your host Captain” Eclairage’s voice said from behind Alex’s shoulder. “So you want him to lie” the rooster spat kicking his feet off the table.

                “Now now Panbrook, I’m not here for you” the feline said curling her fingers around Alex’s shoulder. Alex rolled her hand off keeping his back to her. “You are so much like your father” she said. “My what” Alex jumped turning around. Before anyone could react the feline had pulled the rat into a kiss.

                She pulled away sharply with a smile. “Just like him” she said and trotted off. Alex stood jaw gapping. Jessica’s ears folded back. Alex shook his head a few times and started lick the feline tasted off his lips. “Damn everyone wants you” the rooster said. “Stay focus” the Captain said knocking the rooster upside the head with his hand.

                The white wolf that Alex had few minutes ago stood half way up the stairwell they had entered from. “Ladies and gentlemen and whatever unwholesome creatures we have running about” he said his voice booming over the chatter and small talk going on. The three blind mice stood at the top of the stairs blocking the only known way out of room.

                The crowd turned becoming quiet as the wolf spoke. “First off, thank you all for joining me tonight” he said giving his hands a quick snap and clap. The guests all gave a forced cheer all beginning to feel the same scents of doom looming over head. “Second, I hope you are all enjoying yourselves” he added his grin growing from the dismay building in the room.

                Alex nodded to Nightmare who had already begun feeding from the negative force growing around him. Other demons, casters and fighters began readying a defense. The canine weapons were quick to their master’s sides. Drake was bored and was blowing bubbles about the room getting them to float high in the air.

                “To be honest with you all, I have gotten bored with this game and thought to myself” the wolf spoke his hands moving slowly through the air “let’s kill a whole flock in one go.” The men lining the rails pulled out a range of fire arms and prepared to open fire. “But before we get to that” the wolf added bring his hands together “let me tell you why.”

                The shockwave of a large blast shook the room smashing the windows in. “A few years ago I had found something long forgotten” he said unaffected by the blast. Nightmare froze. “No, no, no, we hid that ages ago” he said looking out the window were the Pinaco manner once stood. The building was gone as only flames and broken stones remain.

                “Yes, I had found what many wound say never was” the wolf said “and soon enough I will have the power of a god.” He sighed and laughed. “So I don’t care who wins this little game” he laughed “when I can have EVERYTHING!” Alex threw up his hand yelling “AVALON!” a clear glass shell jumped before the crowd blocking them from the rain of gun fire that just begun. “GO NOW” he yelled.

                The croc opened his mouth spitting out a handful of guns and swords. Oddly they were dry. “Grab and go” the rooster said taking his pick and grabbing Sheba’s arm. The size of the shield and the continuous gun fire began to take its toll on the young rat. The thin glass shell started cracking. “Alex” Sheba called as she was taken away.

                He looked back at her and yelled “PROMISE SAVE.” He turned away and focused. All he could do was buy them time. The casters began to throw spells and shields. Some even tried reinforcing the shield Alex had made. Jessica moved between Alex on the gunners. “Break it” the wolf ordered. The three mice girls, all threw off the sunglasses opening their eyes.

                The small frail mice shifted in size and form. In no time there stood three snake-like creatures hissing as their coiled bodies spring them into the air. Night had changed in size ramming the wall across from where the rat stood. In one blow crashed through the wall and into the night. The serpents hit the shield causing it to shatter.

                Nightmare turned catching one of the serpents. He held her with one clawed hand as a number of party guest raced out the opening. Meg and the captain rushed out with the others. “Is the mighty Nightmare scared to look me in the eyes” she hissed. “You should not wish for such things” the demon answered.

                Her body coiled around his arm in an attempted to crush it. “No one is afraid of you, old man” she hissed. “In most cases I would enjoy that fact” he answered opening his eyes “but even I have my reasons for what I do.” Their eyes met and locked. Her gaze held powered, as bits of flesh became stone. But the held gaze of the older demon broke her.

                Her long body uncoiled from Nightmare’s arm as she began to tare at her own eyes as she started screaming. The demon closed his eyes and set the screaming snake down. “I’m sorry” he said as turned and made his exit. The second serpents had landed right in front of the Woodcut family. Henry meeting her gaze before any of them could act.

                His body became stone in no time. The snake turned the woman and met her gaze but nothing happen. With a snap of her fingers flames shot from the blind witch’s hand. “I’m blind you bitch” she said as her flames scorched the serpent’s face. “Did you know a gorgon’s gaze doesn’t work on a golemor” Henry’s broke voice said as he grabbed the snake’s arm and flung her to the ground and knocking her out with one punch.

                The third serpent had landed right in front of Jessica. “You want him” Jessica said “you’ll have to go through me.” Alex had dropped to the ground from exerting so much energy. “Please, don’t make me hurt you” the snake hiss more scare of Jessica. “No” the vixen answered. The snake shook her head before picking the vixen up by the neck.

                Before the snake could turn on the rat who was trying to pull himself up she saw her sisters lay on the ground. One bleeding from her eyes the other badly burned. She looked between her sisters and the rat. She shook her head again dropping the vixen bond her way to her sisters. “Come on we got to get out of here” Alex said breathing hard.

                Sheba was running the best she could but the dress and shoes were slowly her down. The rooster a few feet ahead of her turned into an open door. “This way” he said grabbing her arm and pulling her into the room. “Ok not my best plan but we’re doing fine” he said looking out the window. The croc found his way in the room and closed the door behind him. “We got trackers” he said.

“Like they’re going to find us” the rooster answered. “Heard one yell about the girl’s scent” the croc said and turned back to the door. “Ok, so we not doing fine” the rooster remarked “no matter I got a plan.” Infrerna barked at the door her seven tails opening like a fan. “Right” the rooster said looking at the door “that’s not good.”

After looking around Panbrook opened the window and looking at the fall to the ground. “Right, well I can get us out of here but it won’t be easy” he said handing Sheba a backpack he pulled from one of the file cabinets “I like to plan ahead.” Inside she found a full change of clothes, even underwear. She looked up at him from the pack.

“I have my hobbies” he answered “give me the panties you have on.” “What?” she asked needlessly covering herself with her hands. “Look if anything I wish I was saying this to your brother” he answered “but a decoy spell I can use needs a very strong scent.” “Oh” she said before it fully clicked. “Tick Tock watch the door” the rooster said moving to the window “please be quick we don’t have much time.”

After a moment she quickly changed into the clothes in the bag. The clothes had an odd fit to them and some pieces made her blush from feel alone. Once she was fully dressed and her dress and other clothes packed away along with spell book and the gold apple she threw it on her back and called Infrerna.

The rooster turned around finishing his spell. Sheba had left the cartoon faced underwear on the floor and from where she stood casted a shadow over it. The rooster waved his hand as the shadow ate the cloth and then darted out the window. “That was a phantom runner” the rooster said before jumping out the window.

Without a word the croc had turned and picked the young folf up and put her on his back before jumping out the window himself. Both the croc and the rooster floated with ease. “Now then” he said and waved his hand once more. Sheba shook with a weird feeling. “One, I have us shield from sight so we’ll need to get moving and second those are meant to give you a wedge” the rooster said and took the lead, flying away from the building and to an old warehouse.

Still holding a heavy oak door as a shield Alex ran with Jessica a few feet ahead of him “This way” she said turning down an alley as several rounds zipped past her head. For a second Alex thought he could smell Sheba running past them and turning down a different street. Turning down the alley and dropping the door Alex caught up with Jessica who pulled him into a large dumpster and closed the lid.

Gun shots, roars and screams echoed around them. When she could Jessica curled up to Alex’s chest shaking. He pulled his arms around her and held her close. She knew it was going to be bad but the idea of him out right killing so many people scared her. “This is not your fault” the rat said squeezing the vixen.

They waited till the sounds died off. “Wait here” Jessica said work her way out of the dumpster “if I don’t come back, wait till dawn and run. Get Sheba and run. And don’t look back.” Alex caught head and said “then you better come back before I come looking.” He kissed her and slide back into hiding. Jessica quietly walked back to the open street.

Peeking out she found they had lost them. She turned to go back to Alex when something grabbed her and slammed her into a wall. “Running away are we” Pinaco said his hand around the vixen’s neck. “Leave them out of this” she said clawing at his hand. “You made them part of this and you dare think you can hide them from me” the wolf said reaching in his pocket.

“I won’t let you hurt them” Jessica spat gasping for air. “This is true” the wolf answered “you will.” “What” she said. “If you do not bring me the girl, I will kill her” he added “and as for the street rat give him this.” the wolf pulled a black apple from his pocket and held put to the vixen. “And if you don’t I will rip him apart and stuff his carcass down your throat” the wolf added cramming the apple in her hand.

The wolf dropped her letting her fell to her knees. “Do this and I’ll forgive” he said walking off into a mist “oh and I will be watching.” Without thinking she ran back to the dumpster where she had left Alex. She tripped on her heels ripping her dress and scraping her knee. She yelped in pain before picking herself up and limping the rest of the way.

“Alex” she called lifting the lid. The young rat pushed the lid off and jumped out of the dumpster. “Jessica” he answered “are you ok?” he looked at her leg and seeing a good bit of blood rolling down. Taking no time he fixed a wrap for her leg from his suit and tied it in place. The black apple started burning her hand.

She held it as tight as she could till it scorched her skin and dropping into the young rat’s open hand.  Alex looked down at his hand seeing a bright red apple. “I know I’ve been eating a lot but I could have waited” he said with a quick lick of his lips. “Alex don’t eat that” she said only second too late. He had taken a sizeable bite of the apple.

He stood up as he spoke “we still need to get out of here.” She looked at her hand tears filling her eyes. “Alex, I’m sorry” she said holding up the burn marks for him to see. Before he could even turn his head he became very dizzily. He held his head as everything fade to black. He staggered and tripped hitting the ground hard. The last thing he saw was Jessica crying. Then everything was black.