I've been writing since I was a starry eyes ten year old who was absolutely so in love with Sailor Moon, she had to create more between each episode. From there, I started crafting and making my own original stories. It wasn't until 2017 I started writing monster romances, and from there I truly found my wings and started a journey that's brought me here!
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Tumblr Pages: Ruby Empire - Modern Monsters - Hearthway Hollow & Demons Hide - Hepheastus Academy & Aliens - Miror, Fragile Lands, Horror - Long Works & More
My part of an art card swap with da wonderous @momolady !
Sharing slighted tilted photos too so you can see the shimmer! This was done in watercolor, a silver colored pencil and posca marker for the grungy back of the card. >:3
“What do you mean werewolf?” You blurted out as your landlord sat there calmly, smiling at you with a knowing look. You couldn’t believe your ears, hell, you were still reeling from the dead deer on your porch!
“You’ve seen the movies, right?” Mrs. Locklear asked, stirring a cup of tea. “Oh, surely a girl your age has read Twilight,” she laughed. “That book is bullshit by the way. I’ve met vampires and they certainly aren’t like that. Oh and don’t get me started on the werewolf shenanigans in there.”
“Mrs. Locklear!” You gasped out to interrupt her ramblings. “Yes, I know what a werewolf is. But that’s just stories! Like…vikings or something came up with those stories. Right?”
“Oh certainly some of the earliest tales of werewolves come from old viking tales. Lots of vikings probably were.” She took a sip of her tea, which you had made before she arrived with shaking hands. “There’s stories of us from all over the world. How could that not be real?”
You grasped your chest. “Us?”
Mrs. Locklear was close to taking another sip before she stopped. “Well, shucks, my bad. Don’t be afraid of me. I’m just an old lesbian. Nothing mean about me except my stance.”
You looked her up and then down. She was far from being a frail older woman. How old could she be? Sixty? Maybe late fifties? No! That’s not what matters, she’s a werewolf!
“How many of you are there?” You felt like you were being squeezed like a dog toy every time you spoke.
“Well, I can’t recall the last tally we did. So many folks have moved in the past few years. Damn covid just about chased all the Northerners here.” She thought a moment more. “Granted, this town was formed as a werewolf safe haven.”
Your eyes could have bulged out of your head. “Please, Mrs. Locklear,” you decided to try bargaining. “Tell me you’re pulling my leg and a deer just decided my porch was the best place to die.” You would do anything to be able to stay in Hearthway Hollow, you loved this place.You loved your job at the daycare. You had thought just this morning how you could stay here forever! The rent was affordable to where you could live on your own, which could never happen anywhere else. The people were nice! Oh god, the people. The werewolves!
Mrs. Locklear put her hand on your shoulder. “There’s nothing to be afraid of. Lots of people here go through this. And us werewolves are just like you, save for being furry once in a while.”
“You said a werewolf left that…deer on my porch.” You pointed towards the sliding glass door which had become one of your favorite parts of your new home. “Why would it do that? Is it a threat?”
Mrs. Locklear smiled. “It’s a declaration of love, actually.”
Your jaw went slack and you had to take a step away to brace yourself at the kitchen table. “How is a dead deer supposed to do that?”
“Look, it’s just a simple tradition here. It’s showing that they want to provide for you and are capable of doing so. Any minute now the local butcher shop will come to take the deer and process it into meat you can cook with. If you don’t want it, they will donate it.” She took another sip of tea. “Also, tell me where you bought this tea!”
“A relative in Vietnam,” you sputtered out. Your head was reeling, spinning. How were you supposed to go to work like this? First it was a dead deer. Now it was werewolves and something about love.
“You’re lucky,” Mrs. Locklear said.
You stared at her in disbelief.
She smirked. “Not many people get courted by a werewolf, you know?”
Somehow, you went into work, managing to put a bright face on for the kids. It was fingerpaints day, and everyone was excited. You got everyone dressed in cute little smocks and sat outside where the concrete slab wouldn’t be harmed by the spilled and excess paint.
“So, are you still enjoying the job?” Julian asked. He was one of the other teachers at the daycare. He was handsome, sweet, and so gentle.
“Yes!” You exclaimed. “This has been, oh my gosh, probably my most favorite job ever,” you said, beaming with pride. “I can’t thank you enough for hiring me.”
Julian beamed right back. “We were so excited to have you here, and the kids like you too.” His eyes cut over to the tables where a kid was complaining about how messy their hands were. “Would you mind going and getting the water buckets?” He asked.
“No problem!” You cheered. “How many do you think we’ll need?”
“How about five. Three kids to a bucket.”
You gave him a thumbs up. “You got it!” You went off towards the shed, stepping out from the shade of the gazebo.
“I was wondering what the noise was.”
You lurched then let out a laugh. “Oh, Kayden.” You breathe with relief while clutching your chest. “You startled me.”
His stoic expression had not once changed since you started working here. His thick brow was set in stone, and his full lips were placed in a permanent half scowl half pensive line.
He bowed his head at you. “I’m a silent walker. I used to scare my mother.”
“I’m sure,” you chuckled. “And yeah, it’s finger paint day!” You said this with a sing-songy tone, like you were still talking to the kids.
Kayden had a handful of jobs at the daycare. His family owned the property so he was part groundskeeper, security, and janitor. He was a jack of all trades to say.
“You wouldn’t think most teachers would be that excited about a mess like this,” he murmured.
“But look how happy the kids are! Not only that, they really let loose and show their creativity. Isn’t that exciting?”
His dark eyes looked you up and down. “I never much liked it as a kid myself.”
You stared at him shocked. “Never?”
He held up his gloved hand and wagged his fingers. It was the closest you had seen him get to playfulness. “I’ve always had a thing with getting my hands dirty. I don’t mind hard work, I just prefer to keep my hands clean is all.”
You leaned closer to him. “Then what did you like as a child?”
His eyes darted aside. “Eating crayons apparently,” he grumbled. “At least that’s what my mother says.”
You tried to keep from laughing, but a giggle escaped from behind your hand. Kayden’s eyes darted back to you and something of a smile appeared.
“What do you need in the shed?” he asked. “I’ll get it for you.”
You were still trying to keep from laughing, but you were bursting. “Buckets,” you sputtered. “For water so the kids can splash around and wash their hands so it’ll make clean up fun.” You said with a bright smile on your face.
“Are you always so chipper?”
The question kind of stung. You tended to keep up a cheery attitude to keep people at bay. If you are happy and sunny no one pays much attention or asks too many questions. “Am I?” You asked, trying to play it off.
“It seems that way. Don’t worry, I’ll go get some buckets for you.” He turned away before you could really see if he was smiling or not.
The paintings were left out to dry, and the buckets of water were used to water the planters all around the daycare. You were wiping down tables while the kids napped, excited for the snack you’d have when you were done. The thought of werewolves was an almost distant thing. Until it wasn’t.
You stalled, looking out towards the woods behind the daycare. You swallowed, thinking that some massive, bloodthirsty creature was watching you from the shadows. Wide, glowing eyes peering at you, wanting you.
“I can help with that.”
You yelped then sighed. “Kayden! You should wear a bell.”
“Sorry,” he murmured.
You shook your head, laughing at how afraid you had been. “Sorry. I’m just a little shaky today.”
His brow furrowed ever so slightly.
You sat down at one of the picnic tables. “I woke up to a pretty frightening sight this morning.”
He was still silent.
You glanced back towards him. “What do you think about werewolves?”
“Not where I expected this conversation to go.” He stuffed his gloved hands into his pockets.
Was he one of them? You thought to yourself. Was Kayden a werewolf? Big, tall, Kayden with the beautiful, wavy chestnut hair. He was lean, but always wore baggy coveralls to hide his form. Then his skin, his lovely skin. You had been wanting to ask him what he used for it, but had been too afraid to.
“You’ll hear a lot of stories about them around these parts.” His eyes darted off into the distance. “Not much you can do to escape it here.”
“Apparently,” you grumbled under your breath. You reached into your apron, taking out the apple in the large front pocket. You picked at the skin before taking a small bite.
“An apple? You really are a teacher.”
You covered your mouth while you chew. “I like them, okay? Don’t tease me about it.”
There it was again, something that could have been a smile, but maybe it wasn’t. “I’ll take care of the tables. You enjoy your break.”
“I don’t mind helping.” You tried to follow after him, but he made you sit back down while he washed off the tables.
Once home you busied yourself with tidying up and washing your hair. Anything to keep your mind off that big glass door. You took to your bedroom, painting your nails and toenails while music played. You heard something rustling, as if dragging through the forest.
You watched your door, which was slightly cracked to where you could see outside the glass door. The motion lights came on and you jumped to your feet. For some reason, you went towards the door. For another inexplicable reason, you slid open the glass door.
The creature was hunched over, trying to pull something along the gravel driveway. It turned around, ears perked up, brown coat bristling along the back neck as it looked at you.
Werewolf!
You froze in fear, unsure why you had been so bold as to come outside.
The werewolf dropped its next gift, which you didn’t even want to focus on. You exclaimed a curse word under your breath as you met the werewolf’s eyes.
“I don’t eat a lot of meat!” You blurted out, once again like you were being squeezed. “I’m barely a cook at all.” You bit your lip. “I donated the deer. I'm sorry.”
The werewolf was frozen in the headlights of your eyes, he’d be caught and he wasn’t sure what to do.
You pointed to what it had been dragging. “What’s that?”
The werewolf’s ears flattened down and he turned away from you, looking down at his feet. “Apples.”
You furrowed your brow. “What?”
He stepped aside, showing you the large burlap bag. “Apples.”
Your mouth opened slightly then closed. “I…I can’t possibly eat that many.” You stepped down towards him. “Did you pick those at Hyacinth farm? That’s miles down the road!”
He nodded.
You were trying your best not to shake. “I do really like apples though. G-good guess. I’ll enjoy them all the same.”
The werewolf was quiet.
You were also quiet.
“Sorry,” he muttered again. “About the deer.”
You bit your lip. “It’s okay. If that’s tradition, I get it. My family has some weird ones.” You then motioned to your door. “Would you like some tea?”
He went quiet again, avoiding eye contact with you.
“I prefer talking to get to know someone who…wants to court me, so to speak,” you laughed nervously. “For starters, what’s your name?”
His tail wagged slightly before curling around his leg. “I’m a bit embarrassed to say.” he followed you, stepping inside and bowing his head to avoid hitting the top of the door.
“Do I know you already?” You asked as you reached for the kettle.
The werewolf looked around, his eyes darting back and forth as he took in your home. He eventually stilled, focusing on you. His eyes looked familiar. You stared at him a bit too long and looked away embarrassed.
“Maybe it’s best I don’t know anyways,” you huffed. “It’s really sweet you’re trying to court me. If it wasn’t so shocking I would be flattered. But it’s okay, you don’t have to do this.”
His eyes flicked up. “What do you mean?”
You fidgeted in place, looking down at the ground. The paint on your toes had gotten smudged when you jumped up. “You don’t have to court me. I mean, it’s a lot of effort. Killing deer, picking apples.” You looked back up and forced out a laugh. “I’m not worth all that!”
He looked at you, his gaze serious and a bit ominous. “Not worth it?”
“You know,” you scoffed, trying to play it off. “There’s better people out there. People who love werewolves.”
His eyes were still sharp. His silence was creeping on you.
You swallowed. “What do you even like about me?”
He snorted. “I wouldn’t be doing this if I didn’t have a lot to like about you. The first time I smelled you, I knew. Your scent is soft and warm, it’s comforting. From there, I found so many things I liked about you. Your hair, your smile. Beyond that, it’s-” His large paw covered his chest and his fingers gripped. “I want to be near you all the time.”
Your heart fluttered. “No. Really?” You murmured.
His eyes were sharp again. “You put up a guard of cheeriness. It’s a wall.”
You shut your mouth tight and grabbed the hem of your shirt.
“No one has to worry if you’re always smiling. Right?” The werewolf stepped towards you. “No one gets too close when they think you’re friendly.”
“So? I am friendly!”
“And you are.” He reached out, gently tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. “But you use it as a shield rather than a magnet.”
The werewolf dropped his hand. “If you want me to stop, I will.”
You swallowed and jumped when the kettle whistled. You caught your breath and grabbed two mugs from the counter. “Can’t we just talk? Maybe if we do, you’ll make up your own mind.”
The werewolf scoffed. His gaze was gentle, and that almost hurt the most. “Fine. This isn’t how the courtship is supposed to go. But for you, I’ll do anything.”
Your heart skipped and you had to avoid his eyes to keep from blushing. “You don’t need to go that far,” you replied. “But, I’ve not had company over since I moved. Aside from Mrs. Locklear anyways.”
“How are you liking it?” He asked.
“Oh, it’s wonderful.” You went on to talk about your love of the town. That then led to some idle chat about childhood and the like. You discussed your favorite toys as kids. Both of you had at one point collected Pokemon cards. Yours was sold while you were away at summer camp one year.
When you woke up in the morning you were in bed. Clothed but comfortable in bed. “Must have fallen asleep talking,” you grumbled. You got out of bed and changed out of your old clothes.
After a quick shower, you went into the kitchen. Through the glass door, you saw a cardboard box sitting on the porch.
“Did he leave something else?” You murmured as you stepped outside. You opened the box, finding an old binder covered in various stickers. Inside was a large collection of pokemon cards.
“Oh my gosh!” You gasped.
You spent the Saturday morning going through the cards, reminiscing and genuinely enjoying yourself. You had so many of the same cards, even a special page just for rares to show off. There were also old toys that you went through, happily setting them up in a line on your coffee table.
“I can’t believe he gave me these. This is amazing!” You squealed with excitement, still finding another binder at the bottom. Then your stomach began growling and you made something to eat, having got lost in the nostalgia of everything.
“One last thing,” you sighed, content with a fresh pot of tea and a steaming mug. You took out the last binder, finding it had a bunch of old drawings inside with the cards. The werewolf had attempted to make his own pokemon cards, which was amazingly cute.
One drawing had a signature. Your heart pounded. The werewolf’s name. You were used to reading and translating kid scratch, it wouldn’t be hard for you to make out. You looked away for a moment processing if you wanted such knowledge. You looked back, because of course now you wanted to know.
“You’re kidding!” You yelled to yourself as you held the childhood picture up. You made a quick call to Mrs. Locklear while getting out of pajamas. You then raced out of the house, following Mrs. Locklear’s directions.
Soon, you were standing outside a bright red door of the A frame. The place looked small, even smaller than your place.
Then the door opened.
Kayden sleepily blinked at you a few times. “What are you doing here?” He had on an open hoodie and not much else.
You handed Kayden the drawing from his Pokemon collection. “I really like Mewtwo too.” You stiffened your shoulders, trying to avoid eye contact with his hairy masculine chest.
“Shit,” Kayden grumbled as he looked at the page. “This uhm…this isn’t how the courtship is supposed to go.”
You held up the second thing you brought with you, coffee from the local cafe. “You could have told me!”
“Yeah but tradition is-”
“I like you Kayden!” You blurted out, unable to contain it anymore.
Kayden was silent then again, he was usually always that way so it shouldn’t have been a surprise.
“I like you,” you repeated, slower and softer. You realized it was your first time admitting that to anymore. You always held it in, always happier to be protected from anything too strong. Attachment was hard.
“On my first day at the daycare,” you continued, wanting to keep that strength up. “One of the hamsters died. It was hard and I was given the task of dealing with it while the others talked to the kids. You helped me make a little grave for it. Even though it was really silly.”
Kayden shook his head.
“You didn’t say a word. You helped me. You even found the most perfect little box-” Your voice caught in your throat. “You didn’t need to court me or hunt or anything. I just…I just like talking to you.”
Kayden’s expression changed. For the first time since you met him, his brows moved, his mouth changed. He had this sweet, youthful puppy dog look. His eyes melted your heart. He brought you into a tight embrace against his bare chest. Right! He was practically half naked. Despite that, you hugged him in return.
“Sorry,” he pulled away reluctantly. “I’ve barely slept at all.”
“I kept you up. And you went and got your pokemon collection.” You smiled at him, hoping he knew how much it meant. “If you’re tired. I can go.”
He shook his head. “No. I want to spend time with you. Come in, please.” He stepped aside, letting you into his home.
The A frame had a high ceiling, but there was a loft at the top. The entrance led into a kitchenette and laundry room where dark clothes were shoved and piled into a basket.
“I haven’t had a chance to really clean yet today.” Kayden tried hiding the mess in the sink.
“It’s okay. I came over uninvited.” You blushed, smiling up at him.
“The living room is nice. I did fall asleep in there though.” He took you to the next portion of the main floor where a living room was set up. His television was on, but quiet, displaying a rather cutesy looking anime. He quickly turned that off.
“Your place is cozy.”
“That’s how I prefer things,” he muttered. He cleared off a blanket from the couch. “Sit down.” He then took the little carry case of drinks from you. “I can make something to eat if you’re hungry.”
“I’m fine,” You replied.
You never expected to see Kayden of all people flustered. But he was. He looked so much more boyish now.
“I guess it is late in the day for most people.” He took a seat beside you.
Warmth spread up through your cheeks. “Thanks for putting me to bed last night. Sorry I fell asleep on you.”
He had a smile on his face. “Actually it was nice. I held you for a little bit when you fell asleep on me.” His cheeks got darker. “I didn’t want you to be uncomfortable though.”
“I’m surprised how much I-” You hesitated, realizing now how close you both were. You looked up into his eyes. “How comfortable I am around you.”
He smiled again. Reaching out and touching your face, cupping his large, warm hand over your cheek. That smile was almost too much. After seeing him steel-faced for so long, it was like meeting a new person. He didn’t look any different, but he felt like a fuller version of the Kayden you came to like.
“Is it okay if I kiss you?” He asked, his cheeks growing even darker. “And, if I do kiss you, just know, there may be more than one.”
Your insides squirmed with excitement. “Sure.”
His lips were gentle at first, soft and light. He smelled like pine trees and cold air with a hint of spicy deodorant. Your lips parted with a gasp and he pressed closer. His lips were firmer, his grip was tightening. His hands moved down, caressing your neck and shoulder before resting on your hip.
Something was happening to you. It was sudden and powerful, claiming a tight hold of your senses. It was like hunger, but much deeper. You gasped again and his arm coiled around your waist, pulling you in even more to his body. Your palm grasped his chest and his heartbeat was hammering into your palm.
Your eyes met for the briefest of moments and then, next thing you knew, you were bent over the back of the sofa, your clothes disheveled and pushed up, your hair pulled from the messy bun. Kayden’s hands were fiercely gripping your hips while his nose and tongue were buried inside you, slurping, feasting.
Oh my god! You thought loud in your mind. How did you get here?
Kayden snarled, nipping your thighs. “So soft.” he kissed. “So wet for me.” He let out a raspy chuckle. “This perfect little ass.” His fingers groped, squeezing you. “I can’t believe I’m touching it.” He nibbled on your cheek, licking then biting again.
You got there so fast. It was like your body took over and acted on it’s own accord, overriding any overthinking your brain might have had. You were shocked, but you were enjoying it more than you thought.
“Pretty girl.” Kayden was rising up, kissing up your bare back. “Beautiful.” He kissed along your spine then bit your ribs. There was fur against you, powerful claws holding your hips. The werewolf was out.
“Hmm.” Kayden moaned as he stood up. “Spread your thighs a little more for me.”
You did so, meekly glancing over your shoulder to see if he approved. You watched him shiver, his tongue dart along his sharp teeth.
“Good girl,” he growled. “You’re so obedient.” His grin grew. “I like that, especially here.” he came closer to you, petting your rear. Something warm and hard grinded up against your thigh. “Fuck, I love how soft you are. You smell so good too.”
Oh! Oh! Your mind was spinning. Whatever was against your thigh was…big! Maybe too big? You’d not really gotten to try anything…big. But this was-
Trying to glance back to see what was there, you were greeted by another kiss. Kayden bit and nibbled your lip, lapping your tongue with his. “You taste good everywhere,” he snarled between heavy breaths.
“Kayden,” you whimpered.
“I know, I know.” His hand curled around, groping your breasts. “You need me right?” he moaned, his cock slipping between your thighs. “This usually happens out in the woods. But I can’t control myself. You’re too cute. Too sweet. I need to fuck you now. You make me crazy and I love it so much.”
His words were too much. You buried your face against the couch pillows as Kayden’s cock slipped in and he appeared surprised by the ease at it.
“Fuck, how did you get even wetter?” He moaned into your ear. “How did you know I love a wet pussy like that? Good girl. Perfect girl.”
What was he trying to do to you?
“Can I breed you?” he growled into your ear, his grinding growing more intense. “I want to come in you. Fill you up. I want to see my seed dripping from that perfect pussy of yours.”
What? Your mind was screaming.
“Please,” he whimpered. “Let me breed you, my good girl.”
Your lips parted, mouth dry. “Come in me!” Who was that?
Kayden chuckled in your ear. “I knew you were going to be my good girl.” The tip of his cock tickled along your lips, then it was there, pressing inside. It was easy for him to slide in, to fill you, to make you cry out from surprise.
“Like that?” Kayden whispered. “Did it feel good?”
You whimpered, nodding.
“Werewolf cock, you can get addicted.” He pressed in deeper, reaching parts inside you that felt undiscovered.
“You whimper so cutely. Do it more.” He thrust so suddenly, almost knocking the breath out of you.
You moaned into the pillow, gasping for breath right after.
“Good girl,” he moaned. “There.” he grinded inside you and something was pressing at your mound. “Feel that? Feel my knot?”
His what?
“Once I thrust my fat knot into you, there’s no going back,” he growled. “Until I spill all my come inside you and breed that adorable pussy, there’s no stopping.”
Did you want to?
Kayden leaned into your ear. “Tell me, do you want that?”
“Yes,” you whined.
Kayden kissed you, turning your head back. “Good girl.” He pushed you down, pressing closer, tighter. His knot was thick as it slid in you. At first you weren’t sure it would fit. There was no way! Then pop. It was in place inside you.
Kayden’s fingers tensed on your body and he shuddered. “I’ve never knotted someone before. Fuck. It’s amazing! Your pussy makes me feel so good!”
He was deep inside, making your head spin and core pulse. It was too much, it wasn’t enough at all. He had you crying out, making you climax before you could even think. How he was able to keep going after that, you weren’t sure. But his stamina was unmatched.
The werewolf had you all over his ground floor. His couch, table, on the kitchen counter, even the washing machine. When it was his time to erupt you were balanced on the very edge of the washing machine, legs wrapped around his waist. He was snarling, grunting, his face contorting.
“Hurry,” you whispered. “Come inside me.”
He gnashed his teeth.
“Come for me,” you whispered again.
He locked eyes with you, thrusting harder and harder until he went still. His whole body tensed. He pulsed inside. The jerk of his cock made you shudder.
“Yes!” he hissed. “I’m breeding my mate!”
You were on the pill, it was all just for show. But holy hell was that even better than you expected!
Kayden panted, pulling you off the washing machine and laying you on the clothes below. He was still stuck to you as he cuddled you, nuzzling your soft hair then kissing your cheek.
Female Main Character x Male Monster
One Bed - Hurt Comfort - I Would Die for You - Heartbroken People
(Features mentions of former sexual abuse)
As a concubine, I knew the male form well. I had seen many versions of it, large and small, strong and weak. During my service to the royal court, I had seen as many men as there were drops of rain in the sky. It was because of this I saw them all the same. It didn’t matter what color, what size, or how skilled in the bed they were. I didn’t recognize them. They were all one blur, one shape, one person.
I could have stayed and continued to enjoy the luxury I did. But where would that get me? Having children was out of the question. I took the maid root to make sure that never happened. I would stagnate, turn to the same drugs they always did, grow old and train other girls in the same craft. No. What I know ends with me. That’s why I left. I didn’t want to be a murky, scum filled pond for others to fester in. Luxury or not, I wasn’t ready to give up
The shape that is under me now is a silent, gruff creature. Serban is his name. If it were not for him, I would have died on the path. I had been too afraid to stop for long and so I was exhausted, hungry, wasting away as it was. He found me passed out by the river, him and his silly excuse of a dog. I take him now to insure my keep. After all, he is alone in these mountains, growing just barely enough for himself.
His hands are large and callused. I recognize their touch upon me. He doesn’t grab too hard, nor does he push me around. More than not, he simply keeps his hands on me.
I brush my hair after the deed. My nape is sweaty, so I pull my hair up and away from it to keep it from getting too dirty too quickly.
“Do you take no pleasure in it?” The shape asked. He was still on the bed, lounged out from my services.
“I do not need to,” I reply. “It’s your pleasure that matters.”
He let out a huff and sat up on his elbows. “I’m going hunting. I suggest you do not leave the cabin until I get back.”
Was he wanting to keep me here for good? Just until spring, he said, and the mountain path would clear. He would then take me to the strait and I would be free to live my life.
“A terrible storm is supposed to pass through the mountains. I would hate for you to get caught in it,” Serban added as he pulled up his trousers.
To be caught in a storm, to be swept away for good, what bliss. “But you’re going hunting?”
He chuckled. “I’ll be back before it gets too rough. Right now is the perfect time to go hunting as animals are out and about gathering before the storm hits.” He picked up his shirt and shook it out. “I’ll be leaving Red Dog here, just in case. He’ll look for me if I don’t come back in a timely manner.”
Red Dog had been the one to sniff me out. He looked more like a worn sock than a dog, but he was a good creature to have around, and I liked his sleepy, gentle company.
Serban’s hand was upon my shoulder and I stiffened. I set my brush down, sitting still for him. I waited for some sort of command or blow.
“I showed you where the extra logs are, right?”
I nodded in silence.
“There’s a couple of axes out there as well, if you need them.” His hand left me and he started for the other room.
I cut my eyes to the mirror, watching his great big back as he exited the door. I relaxed some, letting out a breath, then clutching my chest. At least he would be leaving. I would have a moment to read.
I wasn’t able to take much out of the palace with me, but I had taken some books that had brought me comfort there. In hindsight, I probably should have packed more food. But that doesn’t matter now.
Red Dog sat at my feet as I read at the table. The kitchen was the warmest area of the house. Adding the scent of bread baking this was the most comfortable I had felt in a long time.
Lifting his weary head, Red Dog let out a small whine.
I glanced anxiously at the door, then reached down and petted his head. “What is it, boy?” He settled once again, falling deep asleep within moments.
“I envy that power,” I muttered to him. Red Dog made me think of the zoo back at the palace. I loved it there, before the king lost his patience with the animals sleeping. “Sleep all you want,” I murmured to him. “You’ve earned it.”
The weather grew worse during the evening, and even in the morning, the winds were frightening. Red Dog stood attentively at the door, head alert, tail stiff. Nothing I could do would move him.
“Maybe he won’t come back.” I murmured as I watched out the window. All I could see was white as harsh winds blew the snow around in skin-ripping torrents. “Maybe it will be just us from here on out,” I said to the dog.
He sneezed, and I went back to the stove.
I had learned to bake bread as a passing fancy. The king thought it would be good for each of his concubines to know the skill, to cook for him in place of his usual kitchen staff. I didn’t like cooking, but I enjoyed the patience and waiting that bread required.
The door swung open, letting in snow and fury. Red Dog bounced around happily, yapping at the figure who came through the door. The shape walked in slowly, carrying something heavy across its shoulders. I hid down behind the counter, holding the bread knife tight in my hand.
“Good boy, Red Dog. Good boy.” It was Serban’s voice that came out of the shape, so I relaxed my grip upon the knife. I stood from behind the counter, watching him.
Serban struggled to take the pack off his back. “There you are.” He let out a moan of anguish. “My, my, it smells good in here.” He shrugged the large load off his back, letting it fall upon the kitchen table. Snow fell from him in sheets, having turned to ice upon his coat.
I gasped, lurching forward, searching under the freezing bundle for my book.
“Easy there, girl. It’s only wild boar.”
I glared at him, finally pulling my book to freedom. Blood spilled across the pages. My mouth hung open in horror.
“Oh, I’m sorry,” Serban murmured. “I didn’t see it lying there. Here. Put some cloth between the wet pages and let it sit before the fire for a moment.”
The bright red, smearing and dulling the words on the page, made my hands shake and my insides turn to ice. I dropped the book, running away from it in fright. I went and hid, wrapping myself in a blanket and hiding in the corner between the wall and the dresser.
“Miss,” Serban’s voice called through the darkness. “I’m sorry about your book.” He came walking into the room, footsteps quiet and slow. “I uh…I don’t know what you like to read, but I have these.” He set a small stack of books down before the dresser. “I’m trying to take care of your book now. It should be alright.” He placed down a plate of my bread with butter melting into a bright red jam.
“The bread has been a treat for me,” he murmured. “But we need to conserve the flour we’ve got. I won’t be able to get anymore until the thaw.”
I remained silent.
“I’m sorry,” he murmured in a gentle voice. He got up and left, leaving the door ajar. Just enough that Red Dog could poke his head in and trot into the room.
I reached out for the bread, taking a bite and picking. The jam was tart, a hint of cinnamon, then a small wave of heat.
Red Dog plopped down beside me, sniffing and licking the melted butter dripping down my hand.
After I ate, I went to stand but remembered the books. They looked ragged! Worn to death. I took a book, which was worn from countless readings. It was poetry and short stories about the Spice Country.
I peeked out into the kitchen, seeing Serban slumped over the kitchen table, sleeping. I quietly stepped out, intending to get more bread, then go to bed. The old floors creaked as I stepped upon them.
Red Dog suddenly let out a loud, terrifying bark.
Serban sat up with alarm, looking around the room, then directly at me. “Oh, you’re out.”
I went rigid again, holding my arms before me and nodding.
“Stop that,” he grunted, holding his foggy head. “You don’t need to behave like that around me.”
“Like what?” I asked.
“Like I’m going to hit you if you don’t behave!” He huffed, standing up from the table. “I’m not. I’m only going to touch you when it feels good.”
I averted my eyes.
Serban stood before me. “I ask for your company because it is cold up here and the only companionship is my dog. That bed in there is big and having you in it settles my nerves.”
I nodded in silence.
“Speak up! Do you have any feelings about it?”
I pressed my lips together in a firm line.
Serban sighed. “What do you plan to do out there by yourself?” When I didn’t answer, he let out a long, heavy sigh. “Did you like the books?”
I lifted my eyes to him.
“They belonged to my wife. I haven’t looked at them in ages.” He walked around me, heading to the bedroom. “I hope you enjoy them.”
I followed him, watching as he took off his clothes. I followed suit, removing my sweater, my tunic, dropping my skirt upon the ground. Serban got into bed and I crawled under the blankets with him. I pressed myself against his body, letting my skin grow warm.
Serban growled. “What are you doing?”
“What we agreed upon.” I stroked my palm down his body, feeling how strong and hairy he was.
He took hold of my hand. “I’m tired. I just want to rest. That’s enough for me tonight.” He placed my hand over his chest.
My fingers tensed. “What is?”
A strange laugh left his lips. “Holding me. Cuddling me.”
I wasn’t sure how to take that, so I laid there, quiet, and pressed against him. Eventually, I drift to sleep, holding Serban’s colossal frame.
I woke up in the morning to find him holding me. I remain still, too afraid to stir should his arms come down around me and crush me. But his grasp was weak, as he was still asleep. The way his arms held me was more protective than it was possessive. I crept out of them, standing and looking down upon him. He was deep asleep.
“Strange,” I said to myself. I stepped back into the kitchen, finding my book sitting before the woodstove. The soiled pages had bits of cloth between them to keep them from sticking together. Blood blotted most of the pages where I had been reading. What remained was brown and hard.
I took it to the table, testing the pages to see how stiff they were. Red Dog shuffled out from the bedroom, flopping down before the woodstove now that it was free.
“How is it?”
I jumped in my seat, looking up as Serban’s shape stepped into the kitchen. “Fine,” I mumbled. “You did a good job.”
“Good. I’m glad.” He sounded shy, something I was familiar with in my line of work. He stepped out of the bedroom further. “I hope the other books will be good for you, too.”
“Where did you get the Spice Country book?” I asked.
His shape shifted in a way that made him seem shocked. “Oh well uh…my wife was originally from there. I met her when I was a soldier.”
I tilted my head to the side. Why would anyone leave the Spice Country for this snowy hellscape? “She left Spice Country for you?”
Serban laughed, placing his hand around his stomach. “You say it so bluntly! Actually, no, I left my home for her. We lived in Spice Country for a long while.” He came towards the table, taking a seat across from me.
I tilted my head to the side, watching his shape lower into the chair. “Then how did you come here?”
He sighed heavily. “Grief.”
I shifted my eyes away. I didn’t know how to respond to that. “Must have been devastating.”
He nodded, running his fingers through his curly hair.
Wait.
Curly hair?
“I lost both her and my child,” he admitted. He spoke in a torn and pained, yet somehow relieved, voice. “After I buried them, I came here.”
I only shot fleeting glances at him, just to read his expression. “Was she young?”
“She was. Even if she wasn’t, it was still too soon.” He let out a sigh. “I’ve not told anyone that.”
I bit the inside of my cheek. “Who is there up here to tell?”
He chuckled, his long, dark curls fell over the blur of his face. “I suppose you’re right. Before you showed up, I was deeply lonely.”
“I was feeling smothered.” This, I offered this freely. I was glad to get it out.
He nodded, letting out a breath. “Well, out here, it’s just the three of us. You’re free to tell me to fuck off.”
I shook my head. “I owe you for saving my life. The least I can do is lie with you.”
His brow furrowed, and I wasn’t sure if he was angry or concerned. “You don’t have to if-”
“I want to,” I interrupted him quickly. “There’s not much use for me, really. I’m not a good cook. All I know is bread. I’m not a wonderful housekeeper either. But I know bodies. I know fucking. I can perform that job very well.”
“Yes, well…” He sounded shy again. “You do. Are-” he cleared his throat.
I stood up. “Let me thank you for fixing my book.”
Serban looked away from me. His tusk raised as his jaw went tight. “You don’t have to.”
“Please.” I knelt down between his thighs, undoing the ties on his pants and tugging them down. His large, green staff had mottled specks of purple and brown, and thick veins bulged along the side. His tip was bulbous and purple, even while soft. I took him into my mouth, letting him warm upon my tongue. He grows thicker, harder and I move my head, sucking what my mouth can take and stroking what bit of his large member doesn’t fit.
“Miss,” he snarled.
He was growing thicker, more rigid. I hadn’t sucked him before, but I knew how massive he felt inside me. I kept bobbing my head, working my way up to pressing his tip into my throat.
“Look at me,” he growled.
I flicked my eyes up, seeing first his long curls cascading down his face. He cupped his rough hands around my head, keeping my head up so I had to look at him. His face was amorphous to me, shifting, blurring, never visible. But for a brief flash, I saw dark eyes, a crooked nose. But I blinked, and they were gone.
Serban took himself from my mouth and laid me on the kitchen table. I waited to feel him inside me instead. His hands spread me open, and he placed kisses on my belly and thighs. What was he doing?
Then his tongue touched me, going between my lips, briefly inside me. His fingers touched my clit and I let out a gasp.
“No-” I whined, trying to prop myself up.
His lips kissed my clit next, followed by the warmth of his tongue.
“That feels strange.” I reached down, grabbing his curls. “What are you doing?”
His finger slipped inside, tickling me at first, then it crooked inside, hitting a spot that made me jerk in reaction.
“Serban!” I fussed, pulling his curls.
He placed another finger inside me, stroking that spot and making my breath shudder. His tongue on my clit lapped harder, kissing, suckling. I pushed his head down. Maybe I could make him stop. But his fingers went faster, harder.
I was dizzy, gasping for breath. His fingers snagged tighter into his hair. I fell back against the table, spinning faster and faster. Then my body wracked, tensing, relaxing, pulsing until it all released. I cried out as everything inside me, knotted up and tortured, and undone. I came, for the first time in years, I came and it was hard.
“There.” Serban sat up, licking his fingers clean. “How did that feel?”
I wasn’t sure. It had been so long since I had that sort of release. It was almost painful.
Serban laid his heavy, long staff upon my belly. “How about a little more?”
“Wait-” I panted, trying to rise, but my exhaustion and weakness prevented movement. My lashes fluttered, seeing the massive orc above me.
An orc?
Serban penetrated me, making my already sensitive channel ache with the pleasure of being stretched. I cried out, whimpering.
“You know the male form, do you? Well, I know the feminine one,” he panted. “I have been out of practice for so long I might as well be a virgin again. But you remind me what it feels like.”
Why did his thick orc cock have to feel so good? Why now? Why couldn’t I just do my job and have him fall asleep? Why was I being pleasured? Aroused?
“That’s it,” he moaned. “Take me deeper. Want me.”
No! I don’t want to want any man!
“Fuck,” he snarled. “Being inside you is like being in a goddess.”
I sniffled.
“Power, warmth, love, fear,” he moaned. “I want to worship you inside and out when you’re wrapped around me like this.”
Tears broke through and fell down my cheeks.
“Don’t cry, Miss.” he wiped up my tears, bending over to kiss my cheeks and neck. “I’m not that good.”
I couldn’t explain to him how empty I had been, so devoid of feeling that I had taken no thought to my sensations down there. Why now? Why here?
His warmth flowed through me, making me shudder again, although weaker than before. His seed was thick, dripping slowly from my folds as I laid there sobbing on the table. Serban picked me up, holding me in his arms.
“It’s alright, Miss. Shh. It’s alright,” he whispered comfortingly to me.
There came an afternoon where everything was peaceful. Birds began flying overhead again, signaling the coming spring. Serban took me out with Red Dog, hoping to find a rabbit coming out of their dens.
I was wandering about, keeping close while doing my thing. As I was picking snow flowers from around the bases of trees, I saw two men on the horizon. I looked around, anxiously searching for Serban, but he had gotten out of my reach while I wasn’t paying attention.
I looked back, seeing the men talking, then pointing my way. I darted back into the trees, hoping to see Serban somewhere. The men were wearing bright yellow, the colors of the king’s court. I could be mistaken, but I didn’t want to take any chances. That yellow covered my nightmares.
I tripped on a branch hidden by the snow, falling over with a yelp. I could hear the men behind me coming up close.
“Hello! Young lady!”
I looked at the stick jutting out of the ground, the one I tripped on. I would rather shove it through my eye than have those men see me.
“You there.” A hand grabbed me as I was reaching for the stick. “We’ve been calling you. Isn’t it rude to ignore someone?” he wrenched my hand back, forcing me to look up at him and his mate. I couldn’t see their faces, but I could see that yellow. Their cloaks, the bands around their arms, even the rings in their ears.
No! They worked for the king!
I froze up, angry beyond measure, frightened more than that.
“She looks familiar, doesn’t she?” The shape holding me laughed.
I knew that laugh, that wheezing, grating, half-man of a laugh. He’d bedded me before. He liked to hit girls. No. More than that. He wanted to torture girls.
“I know those eyes,” he laughed again. His hand grabbed my face. “I think we found her. The king’s been right pissed with you missing!” His grip pinched my cheeks, gripping my jaw hard.
The other one was coming up beside me, kneeling down to pick me up. I swung the stick, unaware of how big it was. It cracked both of them upside the head. His hand released me, but I knew I had had a moment to act. I was up on my feet, about to run, when he grabbed my hair and pulled as hard as he could until he dragged me along the ground.
“No, you don’t!” The one snarled. He stood over me, then kicked me in the side.
“Take it easy.” The other one said.
“She attacked us! And as long as she’s alive when we bring her back, we’ve done our job.” He spit on the ground. “He said it doesn’t matter what condition we bring her back in. We could do what we wanted to her.” He yanked my hair, shaking me. “Look at her, no one would notice anyway with a face like that!” Again, there was that nasty, wheezing laugh.
The other one was hesitant. “She’s still the property of the king.”
The wheezing one scoffed. “She’s not a queen. She’s a concubine. And an older one at that.”
“But what if she ain’t alone out here?” The other one was trying too hard. It didn’t matter to me, they were the same.
“A whore like her? Ha!” The wheezing man laughed. “Look at her? Who would look after someone like her? She’s cold. She’s mean. There’s no chance she found anyone worth their salt in these-” There was silence as an arrow went through the head of the other shape.
The wheezing man stood there in stunned silence, then began fumbling with his belt, trying to get his sword. Red Dog was snarling. He came up beside me, his teeth bared, his eyes fixed. I did not know that the gentle dog could look so vicious. He stood over me, protecting me as the wheezing man brought forth his sword. He lunged. So did Red Dog, who evaded his sword, then grabs hold of his leg, biting hard enough to pull him down.
Serban appeared, his bow and arrow at his side. “Are you alright?” He sounded filled with fire and brimstone. He sounded like hell itself coming from the earth.
I sniffled, shakily nodding my head.
The wheezing man was screaming while Red Dog took care of him.
Serban pressed his forehead to mine. “I’ll be right back to take you home.” He stood and went towards the screaming. “Good boy Red Dog. Down. Down I said.”
The wheezing man was still screaming, agonized, bleeding. I could see the steam rising from where he lay as his blood spilled into the snow.
Serban knelt down towards the man. “She is mine,” he snarled. There was a sick, wet squelch as his fist came down upon the man’s head.
A soldier, he said. Serban had been a soldier.
He stood from the snow, wiping his fist on his pants. He turned and looked at me, his eyes dark, face set like stone. His tusks came out from his thick bottom lip and he licked blood from the tip of one. His brows were thick, one cut in half by a long scar that was like a crescent moon on the left of his face.
Red Dog came panting and smiling at my side, covered in the blood from the wheezing man.
“Take her back home, Red Dog,” Serban growled. “I’ll deal with this mess.”
I stood, holding my side, and silently followed Red Dog back to the house. A task he seemed so proud to do. He knocked open the door for me, standing there as I went inside.
“It’s cold,” I murmured.
I added wood to the fire, then warmed some water to clean Red Dog. My hands were shaking the whole time. Red Dog remained posted at the door. That was a creature I would have thought wouldn’t hurt a fly. But he mauled that man! Probably would’ve killed him if Serban hadn’t stopped him.
By the time Red Dog was clean, he went and waited at the door, wagging his tail until it opened. Serban stepped inside, closing the door silently behind him. His eyes met mine, and I took in his harsh, dire expression.
“No one will find them.” He said, stripping off his cloak. “No one will find you.” He grabbed my arm, pulling me close to him and kissing me. The events that had transpired shook me. His kiss was the last thing I expected. Serban broke the kiss, grabbed the back of my head, then pressing his forehead into mine again.
“Why would you do that?” I breathed.
He growled, thumb running up and down my cheek. “Kill them or kiss you?”
I blinked tears from my eyes. “Either.”
Serban sniffed, standing erect again. “The same reason.” His jaw was stiff, eyes watery and red. He also noticed how I was looking at him. “What is it?”
“I’ve never noticed before.” I traced my fingertips along the bridge of his hooked nose.
His nostrils flared. “Noticed what?”
“How handsome you are.” He had always been a blur to me, a shadow, much like any other man. But I saw him, clear as day. Crooked nose, thick brows, dark eyes. Serban was an attractive orc.
He sighed. “Yes, well, thank you. But you’re the beautiful one in this house. I should, um…go wash up.” He looked embarrassed, slightly purple around his eyes and ears. He walked away, going towards the back where the pump was.
I followed him, watching him take his clothes off, then wash the blood from his hands. My eyes took in the lines of his body, his strong, hairy chest, broad shoulders, thick arms. I stepped in closer until he noticed my presence.
“You should rest, Miss,” he grumbled, embarrassed.
I tilted my head towards my shoulder. “What did you do to them?”
He scoffed, using a bar of soap to scrub his arms. “I burnt the clothes. Then I tossed the bodies off a cliff. No one will find them.”
“Good.” I said with a sigh of relief.
“He’s wrong about you,” he growled. “The laughing one.” He was scrubbing harder at his body, frustrated, angry. “The way he talked about you. Held you like that-”
“Stop.” I grabbed his soapy hand, so he did not clean himself raw.
He stilled, averting his eyes. “I’ve not felt this way since my wife. I don’t know how to control myself in that state.”
I glanced down at his lap, then back into his eyes. “When you’re done, come to me in the bedroom. Let me thank you.”
Serban's brow pinched, uncertain. “You don’t have to do that.”
“Not for that,” I murmured. “For calling me beautiful.”
He looked into my eyes, deep, penetrating.
Laying in bed, I touched myself as I imagined him inside me. The thought of what I may do to him, of how I may make him come deep within me. I shuddered, sinking my fingers inside myself to feel an ounce of the pleasure he gave me before. I was slick, quivering, ready for his touch as he came into the room.
I looked over bleary eyes at him, reaching for him as he came naked to the bed. He knelt down on the bed, stroking my hair away from my face, then cupping my cheek in his strong, rough palm.
“Beautiful,” he whispered.
Tears came to my eyes, and he kissed me.
I pulled him on top of me, begging him inside, pleading. I had wanted no one like I wanted him before. No man, no woman. I scared me how much I needed his touch.
“You’ll be mine,” he growled. “Forever.”
I sniffled, large tears rolled down my cheek. I was his already. How could I leave him now when he would kill for me?
“All mine.” He pressed against me, slipping inside.
It took my breath away. I had grown so used to being used, but this was different. It was something I needed, not something forced upon me. Serban was what I wanted.
“And yours,” he breathed. “I will be all yours.”
I gazed up into his eyes, sniffling still. He smiled, leaning down to kiss me as he filled me. It wasn’t just his cock. It was everything else. His warmth, his eyes, his touch. He filled me to the brim, overwhelmed by emotions I had long buried. I clung to him, holding him tight as he moved inside me. My fingers studied his strong back. Muscles and scars, coarse hair. Something about touching him turned me on further.
“That’s right, hold on to me. Don’t let go,” he growled. His hips moved hard. I could feel his sack hitting against my ass. I didn’t want him to leave me, I wanted him to stay inside me always. There was never a man I was secure with like him. How was it that now I had never felt so safe? So loved?
“I’ll come if you keep squeezing like that,” he snarled.
“Then do it,” I panted. “Fill me. Give me everything. Leave it all inside me. Please!” I was still crying, still holding fast to him.
“Not yet,” he breathed. “First…you-” He held my hips, so he struck that place inside. I cried out, moaning into his shoulder, biting. I licked his skin, kissed his neck, I buried myself into the curls of his hair.
“That’s it! Good girl!” His voice was turning raw. “Beautiful girl. Have me any way you like.”
“Serban-” my voice squeaked.
I could feel him bristle, his muscles tensing more. His hips swung deeper. “Yes! Say it again.”
“Serban. Serban,” I panted.
“Beautiful. So fucking beautiful,” he snarled into my ear, biting down upon my neck.
A cry escaped my lips and my thighs locked tighter around his waist. My fingers dug into his back. “Serban! Oh, my goddess. Don’t stop!”
He pressed me harder into the bed. “Come for me, beautiful woman. Come for me!”
That sensation swept through me again. Tensing, turning, spinning so fast. And then it all relaxed, a wash of warmth through my body, my bones, my mind. He snarled then, filling me until there was nowhere else to go. Overflowing. I was overflowing.
Serban kissed me, moaning softly against my lips. I took him again that night, and again, and again. I couldn’t get enough of him. Body, soul, and mind, I wanted all of him within me.
Come spring, the thaw revealed the deep, lush green of the mountain. Caravans began passing through the mountain along the trail near the house. I was watching from the window one afternoon, spotting a bright red wagon cover through the trees.
“The path is clear now,” Serban said. He glanced down at me, studying me. “Do you want to go?”
I smiled as I pet Red Dog at my feet. “Just for flour.”
Serban chuckled in relief. “Right. I miss your bread.” He reached out, taking my hand, and I squeezed it back.
It was starting to rain, great, just what this scene needed. The lights from the ambulance flashed, creating shadows and colors along the wall that moved back and forth with the breeze. The smell of blood was tangible, hell, it was nauseating. The scent of the piled trash didn’t even compare.
You placed a peppermint upon your tongue, keeping your eyes peeled for anything and everything. The crime scene was fresh, quite possibly the freshest you had ever seen. As you stepped forward, you saw the dark figure hunched over a particularly grisly spot on the ground.
“Zombification was in effect,” the hunched one said. “There was no stopping it.”
No shit, Sherlock, you wanted to sneer out, but the peppermint candy kept you quiet. You watched him as he rose, placing something into an evidence bag.
“These zombie attacks are becoming more and more violent.” His pale skin absorbed the colors around him, becoming deep red then sapphire blue as the lights of the ambulance washed over him. Julian was the ‘stand in the corner alone’ type, but his long dark lashes, cherubic lips, pale eyes, and perfectly angled cheeks made him the center of attention. Everyone always remarked on how attractive Julian was. How lucky you must be to be his partner! Must be so nice to be around someone like him!
No, you’d always think, beauty is a beast.
“Zombies are always violent.” Your eyes scanned the scene again, watching fresh blood and viscera drip from the walls. “But this is different. It’s like they were purposefully trying to create a mess. But zombies aren’t like that. They don’t splatter their victims, they pool.”
“Feasting,” Julian murmured. His usually quaffed hair was being flattened by the rain. “They’re relatively clean eaters, they want to get all they can. This scene appears…wasteful.” His dark hair shimmered blue from the lights.
You feel like you said the same thing, but you let it go. “Is it a new type of zombie?”
“Perhaps.” Julian showed you the evidence bag containing a finger.
Your eyes widened. “That’s a good find.” You inspect the bag, the finger inside. The skin still looked fleshy, pink, but there was a shadowing under the nail and something settled into the lines of the fingerprints.
“I’ll get this to testing right away,” he said softly. “Perhaps we can find out if this is blood born, or created.”
You furrowed your brow, following along beside him. “Created? But that practice has been outlawed.”
A slight smirk appeared on his face that annoyed you instantaneously. “And why are we here then?”
You scowled back at his smirk. “I know. But we haven’t seen creation zombieism in literal decades. If that assumption is true, then this is bigger than a rash of zombie attacks. You’re insinuating something that’ll set our whole department into a blaze.”
“It’s always good to stay on our toes. Feral werewolves can’t be our only source of work. Aren’t you bored?” He kept walking, keeping a gait that made him look like he was floating through air. Meanwhile you were starting to puff from keeping pace with him.
Your peppermint candy was coming to an end. “Doesn’t feral werewolves mean we’re doing our job? Lower monster attacks means this city is safe.”
“But even on beaten paths, snakes can hide anywhere.”
Damn him and his floraly language. You stopped keeping up with him, letting him go on ahead while you stayed behind with the rest of the crew.
“Still enjoying your new partner?” Florence asked as you approached the patrol cars.
You swallowed the last remains of the peppermint. Rain began pattering down more around you, so you pulled up the hood on your jacket. “You ask that and I begin to think you did it on purpose, Chief.” You wouldn’t say you had animosity to Julian, but he did used to get a lot of the cases you wanted. You wanted hard work, pavement pounding, cork boards with tons of red string. You had trained for years, had excellent proficiency in combat and firearms. But still, before you were partnered with Julian, you often got silly monster on human domestic crimes.
Florence smiled, nothing malicious or sinister, just wise. “I always told you when I got this position I’d see to it that this department ran a lot smoother. Now don’t you get more work done with Aster?”
Julian Aster, what a stodgy name for someone like him. Silent, awkward, standoffish, he was more like a shadow in the office than an investigator. You couldn’t argue he was good at his job, hell he was great at it. In fact you admired his work ethic, his commitment to civilians and their protection. It always confused you why a dhampir would join the MR and fight against his own kind. You respected it in a way. Too bad he was really, really, ridiculously good looking, as a great film once said. It sort of hindered him. Hell, he had even admitted to you he used it to his advantage, but it made him uncomfortable. Sure he was a good investigator, had some of the best combat skills in the whole department, but he said he felt coddled at times. All for how he looked.
Florence beamed and slapped your back. “Cheer up! I thought you’d be having fun with this.”
You rolled your eyes. “Oh sure, zombie attack, great fun! I’m still laughing with glee over my last assignment.”
“You got that smuggling ring, didn’t you?” Florence turned, mumbling something to a cop before looking back at you.
“It was a kobold fake purse scam!” You snapped.
“Kobolds are hard to catch, you and Aster did a wonderful job.”
You threw your head back and moaned, letting water splash down on your face. You opened your eyes, intending to look up at the sky. Instead, you saw a shadow hobbling around on the fire escape before slipping into a broken window.
“What is it?” Julian was suddenly right beside you.
“Fuck!” You exclaimed in shock. You clutched your chest, glaring up at him. “You can’t keep scaring me like that.” He was always appearing out of nowhere. Not really, but he was as quiet as a fucking mouse. It was hard getting used to and was part of why you were sometimes on edge around him.
His long lashes fell to his cheeks, his cheeks reddening. “I apologize for that. But I felt your pulse change.”
“I am not used to your weird powers yet. But yeah.” You motioned up towards the fire escape. “I saw something crawl inside there. See? That window?”
Julian was off in a flourish, scaling the fire escape with one graceful leap.
“Hey!” You gave chase. “Wait-” You took the fire escape less elegantly.
He stayed ahead of you, bounding from one floor to the other before coming to a stop at the window. You eventually reached him, seeing he was brandishing his firearm. You reached for yours, trying to keep your breath quiet.
“Stay behind me,” Julian whispered.
You peered in through the window, where something dark was dripping down the jagged edges. Inside, you saw a dark figure against the white walls.
You pressed the button on your communicator and whispered into it. “Backup on the seventh floor. I request back up on the seventh floor. 7G. 7G.”
“You think it’s a 7G?” Julian murmured. “Good eye.”
You scowled up at him, it sounded like he was mocking you. “Your magic pulse sense isn’t working?”
He shook his head slowly. “No. I don’t sense a heartbeat.” He then extended his arm before you. “Stay here. I’ll go in.”
He made a move towards the window, silently stepping onto the sill. He began to move in when the figure inside lurched, turning, and lunging. But it didn’t go towards Julian. Instead, it came rushing at you. It shattered the glass, throwing its hands into your face to grab you.
Julian’s arms wrapped around you, grabbing you and throwing the both of you off the fire escape landing. The zombie went flying as well, still pursuing you. Everything was happening so fast, you didn’t have time to piece together the flashing images in your mind.
With a quick spin, Julian grabbed onto the ledge of another window, but the zombie continued to fall, clawing and scraping at Julian’s leg in one last vain attempt before it hit the concrete below.
“That was close,” Julian mumbled.
You were clinging onto him, wondering how he was holding onto that ledge.
“Are you alright?” he asked.
“I think so.” You looked up at him. “You?”
He nodded, swinging to the side and tossing the two of you back onto the fire escape. The sleeve of his jacket was ripped.
“Julian-” you gasped.
He brought his arm to his chest, inspecting the sleeve more than his own skin. “Shame. I liked this shirt.”
“Julian!” You exclaimed loudly, your eyes focused on the large wound.
He twisted his arm slightly to see better. “It got my leg too.”
You glared at him.
He looked unbothered. His expression rarely shifted, so it was hard to read him. “I’ll be fine, partner. Don’t worry about me.”
You snapped. “You got bit by a zombie!”
“Did you?”
You wanted to bite him yourself. “No!”
He gave you a stiff nod. “Then everything is fine.”
The seventh floor was sweeped, more zombies were found and wrangled up to be tested and eventually dealt with. You forced Julian to see the doctor at the department office, but he wasn’t in there for long.
“Shame. That was a really nice jacket,” Dr. Longhorn replied.
You stared in disbelief as Julian simply cleaned up at the sink. “That’s all you two are worried about.”
The minotaur took off her glasses and chuckled. “He’s half vampire, not much a zombie bite is going to do to him other than give him a rash for a couple of days. I’ll prescribe an ointment so the itching doesn’t bother him.”
He saved your ass in the line of duty, the least you could do was try and care for the aftermath. “What about the human half? Doesn’t it get affected at all?”
Dr. Longhorn took off her gloves. “Probably in need of a good sunscreen judging from the light farmer’s tan I saw.”
What fucking tan? You screamed in your head.
“I had a few days I had to work outside before the full moon.” Julian was drying off his hands. The bite mark on his arm was almost all gone, save for some dark bruising. His bare chest showed signs of a few scars, some slight body hair, and the shocking revelation of a nipple piercing.
He picked up his ripped jacket and shirt. “I’m glad I keep a change of clothes here.”
“Me too,” you grumbled.
Julian’s pale eyes flicked up at you. “Are you sure you’re alright? While we’re here you might as well tell Longhorn if anything is wrong.”
“I am fine!” You snapped.
“That zombie rushed at you pretty hard. You sure no borne glass cut you? I thought I smelled blood,” he said with that same monotone.
You tensed up, every hair on your body bristled. “Don’t go around smelling me!”
His eyes slightly widened. “I’m sorry,” he said softly. “I didn’t realize it was-”
You pinched your thighs tight together. “Yeah well-” you huffed, turning on your heel and leaving Longhorn’s office in a hurry.
You went to the bathroom, changing out your menstrual cup. “Half vampire,” you sneered under your breath. You emptied the blood from the menstrual cup into the toilet. “Fuck.” You doubled over as a cramp ripped through your lower abdomen. You had been stubborn, using the mints to calm your nausea and distracting you from the cramps. You had taken some cramp killers that morning, you could handle the rest of the day.
“No, take them, stop trying to power through,” you said through gritted teeth.
The next day, you walked into the office to see everyone gathered around Florence. You quickly joined, seeing she was on the phone with a dark expression on her face.
“The zombies were sent off last night.”
You flinched then scoffed as you saw Julian standing beside you, wearing a too-tight black turtleneck that you could see the outline of the nipple piercings through. You quickly averted your eyes.
“And?” You scoffed.
Julian’s eyes cut down to you. “They were sent off, do you know what that means?”
You furrowed your brow. “Like…off off?” Your skin prickled and rose into goosebumps. “The Academy got them?”
Julian nodded. “Florence is just receiving word now from them.”
“When did the Academy get here?” You whispered. “We were here so long last night!”
Julian shook his head. “I thought I had heard something when I left, but I’m sure Florence wanted to keep everything quiet.” He took a small step closer to you. “You didn’t rest well.”
“Shhh!” You hissed at him and unwrapped a peppermint candy, tossing it into your mouth. How dare he tell you how you rested. Of course you didn’t rest well, not after last night, not after all the cramping. Damn his vampire side. Where was his human side when you wanted it?
Florence set the phone down and the whole room became hushed. She sighed, pursing her lips. “It seems we’re dealing with something much more than a rash breakout of zombie attacks. The Academy has determined that we are dealing with something planned.”
“The zombies were man made, weren’t they?” Julian asked.
“Your assumption, Aster, was unfortunately correct. Prick marks along the back of the necks was the first sign. But then they were thrown for a loop when magic relics were discovered within the corpses.” Florence folded her arms against her chest. She was worried. “They weren’t just zombies. They were being controlled with the use of effigy magic.”
A silence washed over the room. No one breathed, no one even blinked.
“The Academy wants me to send down a couple of my best investigators due to the…nature of this case.” She seemed breathless saying this. “As soon as humanly possible, they said.” She swallowed hard.
The Academy was a big deal. They were the head of the monster attack and reform department. They watched everything that went on, every case, every investigation. They personally went through every note you had ever made while working there. You had seen their signature on everything the chief signed off on. Anything monster related went through them.
Julian’s arm brushed against yours. You scooted away. You glared at his offending arm, wondering why he kept inching so close to you. When you looked back up, Florence’s eyes were focused on you.
She said your name first then looked at Julian. “You and Aster are to head out to the Academy. I’ll give you time to pack your things and get ready. I’ll have someone set up lodgings and food for you both.”
“Yes, ma’am,” Julian said with a nod.
You puffed out your chest. “Of course! Thank you for trusting us.”
The office began to slowly ripple back into some form of normalcy, but the tension of that news hung heavy in the air. Effigy magic was one that was only legal to magic users who were hand selected by the Academy. Not only that, any one else using magic even in the slightest was kept on a database and closely watched in case any illegal magic were to be used. Someone using effigy magic could only be coming from within the Academy itself.
“Is this your first time going to the Academy?” Julian asked you. The two of you were standing in the equipment locker, preparing to receive your stocked go bags for the mission.
“It is.” You kept a stiff upper lip despite the fact you wanted to both panic and celebrate. This was a huge deal, a major assignment that could be career changing. “You?”
“Half vampire, remember?”
You sighed. “Right. You probably have to do those biannual check-ins. Right?”
He nodded in silence, keeping his long arms to his side. “I have to have blood tests done every time.”
“Fun.”
“Not exactly.” His usual monotone voice turned into a deep sort of snarl.
Jimmy, the ‘master of weaponry’ as he liked to call him, placed two large cases before you. “Ammo, ammo, and more ammo. Plus guns!” He announced like a game show host.
“Did you clean my warthog?” Julian asked.
“To your very specific specifications, my handsome compadre.” He placed the gun atop the silver case. Julian took it, looking over the near antique warthog gun before putting it back inside his jacket.
“I also have what you requested for your lovely partner.” James said, placing a long, thin case upon the other too.
You frowned down at the case, clicking your peppermint along the back of your teeth. “You requested something for me?”
“Don’t take offense.” Julian said as he opened the case. “I’ve noticed you have a keen eye. You seem to be able to catch things most of us don’t. Like last night.”
Inside the case was a mothman rifle. You held your breath inside your chest. You had heard tales the department had one, but you had never seen it before.
“In case of emergency only.” Jimmy replied.
Julian closed the case. “Thank you for this, Jimmy. I’ll see it’s taken care of.” He turned to you, offering you the case.
“You think I can handle a mothman?” You were in total disbelief.
He nodded. “If anyone were to control this weapon, I trust in your skill the most.” He held out the case again and you took it.
You were given a car for the trip, as well as an itinerary for your lodgings and places you would receive free meals. The car was specially tinted for Julian’s condition, allowing him to drive during the day. The car was loaded, equipment hidden under the back seat for security.
“Nervous?” Julian asked as you drove away from the station.
“Aren’t you?”
He was characteristically quiet. “I am.”
“Hard to believe,” you scoffed.
“I’ve learned to hide my emotions well, partner. I have a hard time showing them.” That sounded like bragging, but what did you know.
“I’ve noticed.” You turned your head to him, announcing.
“I’m sure you have.” He gave a quick glance to the passenger side mirror, refusing to acknowledge your gaze.
Why did he have to retort to everything? “Our first big assignment together.” You took a breath, eyes going back to the view outside.
“I wouldn’t say that considering all we have accomplished together. It is simply our first time away together.”
“I’m sure for you this is a walk in the park. Going to the Academy and all.” You double checked your pocket for peppermints.
A slight frown appeared on his face. “I’ll tell you now I do not have a fond opinion of the Academy. I would much rather Florence had chosen someone else other than us.”
A surprise! “Really?”
Julian sighed. “That’s as much as I will say about it.”
“Okay. Okay.” You eased back into the passenger seat.
“You may rest if you so wish.”
It was your turn to frown. “You want to read my diary too while you’re at it?”
“Excuse me?”
“Nothing. Just frustrated,” you grumbled.
Julian’s eyes were still focused on the road ahead. “It’s part of my job as your partner to notice when things are wrong. If you are unwell, then we as a team are unwell.”
You clicked the peppermint against your teeth. “It’s just a period, okay? I’ve had hundreds of them, I am quite used to it.”
“I understand that. But I also understand what constant pain can do to a person. If it were up to me, you wouldn’t work while in your condition.”
Your body began inflamed, turned against him in that quick of an instance. “You think I’m unable to?” You snapped at him. “I’ve worked countless hours while in this so-called condition.”
Julian nodded. “It was not my intention to offend you.”
“Yeah well, ta-da!” You slumped back into your seat.
Part Two:
The presence of the Academy made itself known long before you could see the structure. The small town of Heartwood was entirely overcast as if shadowed by the looming presence. You noticed some of the houses had large fixtures out front that appeared to be something between a fountain and a lightning rod.
“Hecatians,” Julian spoke suddenly.
You lurched, turning to him in surprise. The two of you had been silent for a long while. “Bless you?”
He gave you a look. “Not a sneeze. Those structures you see. They belong to Hecatians. High ranking magic users who are being watched over by the Academy.”
You sank back into your seat, casting your gaze back out the window. “If they’re so high ranking then why do the houses seem so lackluster?”
“The Academy does not employ them.”
You looked down at your hands. “I see.”
“Not everyone in Heartwood would love to be associated with the Academy, partner,” Julian continued with a dark tone to his voice. “Some choose to live here so the Academy isn’t breathing down their necks.”
“I take it you don’t care much for them either. Just guessing.” You said with a shrug.
He shook his head. “Your guess is correct.”
You decided you had had enough of the quiet cartrip. The radio was growing annoying after the hundredth replay of the same six songs. “Not too many people seem to be. So why work for them?”
“I’m not working for them. I’m working with our department.”
You nodded. “Which is under the thumb of the Academy.”
Julian looked slightly annoyed.
“You’re half vampire, you could be doing anything out there. But this? Isn’t it awkward when we do have the occasional vampire bust?” You thought about that dark gray case in the equipment room, the one filled with especially made wooden stakes.
“Did you have reservations when you were a rookie cop and had to arrest humans?” Julian retorted.
You pouted. “No.”
His hands grew tighter on the steering wheel, as if he had been expecting that question. “Then it is the same for me. I do not feel guilty for dealing with my own kind when they do things that harm others. I protect people. That is my job.”
After a beat of silence you tilted your head to the side. “Savior complex?”
Julian’s expression turned to a severe, sharp glare upon the road.
You smiled. “I used to love Dino Ranger Hero Force. I couldn’t be part dinosaur, no matter how many pet lizards I had that I tried to make bite me in hopes they were the magic one,” you laughed. “But I got a pretty strong sense of justice. I saw them saving people, doing good for the sake of making the world a better place.” You then scoffed. “I guess being a cop really didn’t accomplish much of that. But being accepted by the MR was a pretty big step for me.”
“Dino Ranger Hero Force?” Julian repeated slowly and under his breath.
“Silly. I know. Becoming what I am because of a silly kid’s show.” You let out a heavy sigh. “But I love this job, even if I almost get bitten by zombies or pissed on by werewolves.”
“That was an accident,” Julian quickly replied.
You waved it off, not wanting to rehash anymore about that incident. “I think everyone in our department, from Jimmy to Dr. Longhorn has a bit of a savior complex. No matter how ridiculous the reason may be.” You reached into your pocket, taking out another peppermint.
Julian was quiet, almost irritated. He then sighed, letting his shoulders slouch. “I’m trying to find my sister.”
“There’s more of you?” You accidentally let that come blurting from your mouth. You quickly covered it up. “Sorry.”
“It’s alright. Usually, a dhampir is rare enough, let alone a family with multiples of them. My mother always joked about how ridiculously fertile she was.” He bit down on his bottom lip, seeming almost anxious. “Before you ask, I have three sisters, one older, two much younger.”
“That really is something! Way to go for your mom.”
“Yes well-” he gripped the steering wheel again. “My eldest sister was influenced by members of our father’s family. She grew a bloodlust that was hard to satisfy.”
That was something you were always curious about with Julian himself. But that was far too personal. “Did she go batty?”
Julian looked pissed. “Please, don’t use that term.” He had never used a voice that was malicious before.
Guilt struck you hard. “Sorry.”
He shook his head. “She formed a coven, from there we’ve not heard a word from him. My hopes in joining the MR were to find a clue, anything to lead me to her.”
“And the Academy is no help?”
“If they know anything about my sister they’ve not said a word.” Julian pulled up to a hotel. The parking lot was quite full, so you had to park some ways from the entrance.
“Go check in,” Julian told you as he got out of the car. “I’ll get our bags.”
“Sure.” You got out of the car, noticing that the continuous overcast of Heartwood was growing darker in the distance. A chill ran down your spine as the sensation of being watched crept over you. You made a hurried dash to the check in counter.
The last at the counter had a pale complexion and deep bags under her eyes. “Sorry, it’s been quite busy.” She’s busily typing away at the computer.
“It's okay.” You click the peppermint against your teeth.
“Oh,” she gasps.
You look up. “Oh? What’s oh?”
Her lips press together in a tight line. “I see you reserved two rooms, but we overbooked. We only have one available.”
You sighed in exasperation. “That’s fine. Really. As long as it has two beds, it’s fine.” You reach into your pocket to procure the company card.
“Uhm-”
You flick your eyes back up. “Uhm?”
“It’s king sized,” the woman’s voice cracks from frayed nerves.,
“One bed?” You snapped. What is this, a cheesy fanfiction?
“I’m afraid all we had left was the uhm, honeymoon suite.”
You want to bug out, but the cramps are making you also want to die.
“It’s fine,” Julian says behind you. “We’ll require an extra cot if you have any.” He looks at you. “Don’t worry, we’re here for work anyways.”
“Reassuring as always,” you scoff and hand over the card.
You and Julian make your way to the honeymoon suite. Your skin is crawling thinking about it. Just wait till the office hears about this! Laura is going to see the bill and she’s not going to be able to contain herself.
“It’s just a room,” Julian replied. “I’ll sleep on the cot, it’ll be fine.”
“I’m not worried about it,” you grumbled. You fidgeted with the card key, unable to get it to work the first time.
“We have to go to the Academy anyways. We won’t have much time to spend here anyways.”
You finally get the key to work. “It’s late. Aren’t they closed?”
His blank expression doesn’t move. “No. The Academy is always open.”
It’s pitch black when you arrive on the steps of the Academy. Luckily there’s lightning to light up the horizon.
“You seem unnerved,” Julian said as you walked up the steps.
“No shit I’m unnerved. I feel like I’m about to walk into a haunted Saw trap.”
Julian furrowed his brows. “Saw trap?”
You shook your head. “Movie, never mind.”
At the top of the stairs was a large cylindrical office, like a ticket booth at a theater. The golden light radiating from it made it look like a large candle.
You and Julian showed your badges to the lady inside. “We’re here on orders of the Academy.”
“Yes. We’ve been waiting for you.” The woman was pale, voluptuous, and had pristine black lipstick. “Good to see you again Julian.”
His eyes shifted away.
The woman leaned forward on her small desk, making sure to brush her hair away to show her neck. “You look great.”
Your eyes shifted to Julian.
Julian cleared his throat. “Long time no see, Agatha. Just our passes pleace.”
Agatha’s dark eyes cut over to you and she winked. “Of course. I have them ready for you.” A drawer opened up before you containing to large, red badges. “They’ve been waiting for you. I would suggest you not keep them waiting.”
You and Julian each took a badge, heading inside as a bell sounded to alert the lock was off.
“You know her?” You whispered to Julian.
He remained silent as the doors opened, letting you inside. The large, grand foyer was all shades of gray. It tricked your eyes, making you think you’d stepped into an old cartoon.
“It’s to perceive unperceivable things,” Julian whispered to you. “Magic, specters, this allows the guards to see it all.”
You weren’t aware of them, but as you walked in further you saw the great stone gargoyles peering down upon the room. At once, all their heads turned and faced in your direction. Their eyes illuminated to deep purple then dark pink.
“My Mr investigators! Welcome!” A man suddenly appeared beside one of the larger gargoyles. He was draped in gray robes to match the room, but his large owl eyes were the most radiant shade of gold. “I have been so excited for your arrival!” He then appeared on the landing overlooking you. “Mr. Aster, it has been a while!” He was now beside you, taking hold of your hand. Julian made a step closer to you, nearly putting his hand on your shoulder.
The owl man smiled at you, his eyes bright as sunlight. “I’ve read up on you. Quite the remarkable young lady.” He took your hand, touching the smooth side of his beak against your skin. “Come along now! I have much to show you.” he was suddenly on theont he stairs, happily skipping up them.
“What is that?” You whispered to Julian as you walked to the stairs.
“Lord Athena as he is known here. Archie is what he’ll insist you call him.”
You furrowed your brow. “Me?”
Julian had an unpleasant frown upon his face. It almost made him, dare you even think, like a little boy. “He prefers women. I’ll leave it at that.”
“I see.” You looked ahead to spot Archie but he was gone again. You looked around, noticing more people walking the hallways on this floor.
“This way.” Archie was behind you, taking your hand and guiding you in the right direction. “Don’t worry! I know your combat skills are second only to Mr. Aster here.”
Julian remained silent with that same boyish frown on his face.
“We are so excited to reveal to you our findings with this effigy magic!” Archie spun you around like you were dancing then dipped you back, to which your instant response was to giggle. “I’m sure you’re eager to see all the gorey details.”
“Lord Athena,” Julian said with a snarl.
Archie straightened, setting you back on your feet. “Oh come on, it’s so stuffy here. I get fussed at enough.” he winked at you. “We can have a dance later, right?”
You held back another girlish giggle. Something about Archie was wonderfully charming.
“I know,” he tapped a feather finger to his lips. “We must work before we have fun.” He led you into a room where there was a two way mirror and a long table. Inside were other members of the Academy, murmuring over papers and glass vials.
A light turned on behind the two way mirror, revealing one of the zombies that had been apprehended the day before.
“It looks rough,” you murmured to Julian.
“Keep looking,” he whispered into your ear as he sat down. “I need your eyes.” He turned back to the members of the Academy, while you were transfixed on the zombie as well as his words.
The findings were boring. You had gone over these exact same things during the car ride. They weren’t giving away everything, you knew they wouldn’t reveal it all, you would need to question them. You looked at Archie, who too seemed bored by the proceedings.
“If there is someone within the Academy using this effigy magic, we want them found and dealt with swiftly.”
“Of course, Madame,” Julian replied. “We want this problem fixed as thesethey attacks are becoming a threat to public safety.”
Your eyes cut back to the zombie behind glass. They looked fairly human when captured, save for the milky eyes and rapid alopecia. But this zombie, it looked far too decayed for just one day. The nose was gone, patches of skin were dry and sunken.
“What do you see?” a voice whispered in the back of your mind.
Your hair stood on end.
“Look at it.”
You looked back at the zombie and a weight came to your eyes. You cupped your cheek, keeping your head up. You focused on the dry skin, the missing nose.
“Heavy experimentation? No. You don’t think so do you. You don’t think this is a zombie we’ve met.” The voice continued to tickle the back of your mind.
“No,” you said.
“What was that, officer?”
You flinched, unaware you had said that outloud. “I said…no.”
“You don’t think this is adequate information for you?” The Madame said.
You swallowed the panic clawing at your throat. “No.” You repeated. “I don’t think it is. This is…mediocre if I am honest. I expected more.”
Archie grew a giant, mischievous smile, meanwhile Julian nodded along in agreement.
“If you believe this effigy magic is coming from inside your own ranks, I must agree. It feels like you're purposefully trying to hide some of your findings, Madame.”
“I assure you, we are not.” She replied.
You were later given a roster of Academy employees who had knowledge on effigy magic and zombie creation to interview. But something was still bothering you. While doing interviews, you had to take a small break to go to the bathroom.
Passing down a hall, you saw Archie on his own, sitting on a bench. You went on towards the bathroom door, but then Archie was there, in front of you.
“Don’t hit me!” He threw up his hands, sensing your reflexes kick into action. “I just wanted to say hello.”
You furrowed your brow at him. “Then don’t jump in front of me like that. Especially not in front of the bathroom!”
He bowed slightly. “My apologies. I was simply curious to see how your investigation is going.”
“I can’t say at the moment.”
Archie chuckled. “You have a keen eye, don’t you, officer.” He tilted his head towards his shoulder. “I saw you watching that zombie.”
He liked women, Julian said. Maybe you could use that. “Well, I couldn’t stare at you the whole time.” You said with a giggle. “But, yes, I did notice something strange in there.”
Archie ruffled, taken by the compliment. “I tried my best to keep from staring too. I know women don’t like that. But you are quite captivating I must say.”
“Thank you.” You inched a little closer to him. “What do you know about this case by the way? I was a bit surprised you sat in on the meeting.” You reached up, fidgeting with the tie around his neck.
“Yes well,” Archie purred. “The MR is sort of my pet project.”
“Then did you create that file we were going over?” Your hand touched under his chin, stroking along his jawline.
“No,” he scoffed. “Usually I would but Madame has taken a personal interest in this case.”
You knew you were getting closer. “Why is that?”
“Well, when she was a young woman, she gained the Academy’s attention with her own form of effigy magic.”
Your eyes widened and Archie froze, realizing he said something he shouldn’t have. “Excuse me,” he chuckled. “I’m afraid I let something…slip.” He vanished from in front of the door. You raced back to the interview room, grabbing Julian and tugging him outside.
“Madame knows effigy magic,” you gasped.
Julian furrowed his brow. “Are you sure?”
“Archie told me.”
Julian’s gaze became distant and he looked down the hall then back at you. “When did you talk to Archie?”
“Just now.”
He nodded. “I see. Well, this is certainly something we need to look into.” He went back into the interview room, not holding the door like he usually did. You followed after him to finish this last interview of the day.
Back at the hotel, you were groggy and out of sorts. You were nearly nodding away on the long elevator ride. You yawned, noticing that Julian was nearly shoved into the corner, his hand around his mouth and nose.
“What’s wrong?” You asked.
“You should go to the bathroom when we get back.”
You frowned. “What?”
Julian closed his eyes and gulped. “You’re bleeding.”
You were snapped awake like ice hit the backside of your head. You never went to the bathroom! Your menstrual cup was probably overflowing.
“Oh my god!” You pinched your thighs together.
“I’m sorry.” Julian’s voice was raspy behind his hand.
“This is so humiliating!” You watched the illuminated numbers climb too slowly. Once it reached your floor, you bolted from the elevator and locked yourself in the bathroom. You stayed there a long time, too afraid to face Julian outside.
You had washed your bloodied pants and underwear, planning on laying them out on the balcony. As you opened the bathroom door you heard deep breathing, even a moan. You stalled, watching from a crack in the door as Julian was huddled at the foot of the bed, shirtless, huffing and puffing.
“Are you alright?” You asked before coming out.
Julian sat up, turning around to reveal the blood redness of his usually pale eyes. “Are you?”
“Yeah, I’m fine,” you said, chuckling to brush it off. “Sorry about that. I guess I just let work overrun my mind.”
“It’s natural.” He averted his eyes, placing his hand over his mouth. There was a slight flush to his cheeks. “I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable. I know this…one room situation isn’t preferable.”
“Yeah me too,” you pouted, feeling a touch bad for him. “Does the smell bother you?”
He flinched, his widened slightly.
“Blood and all. I remember you telling me once that sometimes it’s like-” you stopped, feeling how horribly red he was becoming. Hell, part of his face even looked purple. “Sorry.”
“No. No it’s alright,” he whispered. He slowly dropped his hand. “I suppose, to keep our working relationship working, I should be honest.” His upper lip curved differently, behind them, his canine teeth were much larger, almost sticking out over his bottom lip.
“Oh,” you gasped.
“I keep my bloodlust in check with regular plasma sodas. But uhm-”
There was something about this vulnerable expression he never let out that was making your heart pulse. Shit! Not in front of him! “No, no, you don’t need to explain.”
He scoffed and cupped his hand around his mouth. “I enjoy working with you. Even being around you.”
That confession might as well have been a bomb.
“I would like to keep working with you.” His eyes cut back to you. He reached for his shirt, tugging it back on before standing. You noticed he shook a bit. “You rest. I’ll take my time showering to not disturb you.”
“You haven’t.” Not in the way he was saying anyways. “Uhm…how about I go down to the bar and get us something?”
Julian nodded. “Thank you. Surprise me.” Despite the darkness of the room, there was a very noticeable bulge to his jeans. But you tried your best to ignore it. But his confession, his vulnerable expression. It was hard to wipe that from your mind. It was…beautiful.
Damn your keen eyes.
Part Three:
The Madame was sitting in front of you and Julian, her dark slitted eyes narrowing upon you. Specifically you.
Crap,why is she looking at me? You thought.
She lifted her hand and pointed to you. “Do you have any more of those peppermints on your person? They always help settle my stomach.”
“Oh uh-” you fumbled as you got up. Shocked that a lady as terrifying and formidable as her had the same issues you did. “Me too.” You reached into your pocket, accidentally spilling the dozens you kept there.
Madame smirked, stooping over to pick one up off the floor. “My mother taught me the trick when I was young.”
“My grandmother!” You said with a bright smile. “She used to work for Laufey’s Candy back in the day.”
A look washed over Madam’s face, one of awe and surprise. You had been speaking with her all day, going over everything from the effigy magic case. She had been stone the entire time, unmoveable, expressionless. But this! Oh my goodness this face threw you for a loop.
Madame smiled, the first time you think she ever pulled such a thing in the walls of the Academy. “Mine too!”
“Did she used to bring you the punch candy scrap?” You asked excitedly.
Madame clasped her hands together and exclaimed excitedly. “Nothing tastes as good! I used to vibrate as a child when my mother came home with that scraps bag.”
You nodded in excitement, continuing to talk nostalgia and candy with Madame. Meanwhile, behind you, Julian was watching intently. He had not slept that night and it showed in his pale eyes.
“It was also her who first taught me about effigy magic,” she confessed this freely from the nostalgia. Her eyes fell, gazing upon the ground. “It frightened me.”
“Is that why you didn’t offer your knowledge to us when we arrived?” You asked.
“I never wanted to practice it, but my mother made me.” She pressed her lips into a firm, solid line. “I swore I would never use it once I was hired here at the Academy.”
“Then what can you tell us about the effigy magic we discovered at the MR? Do you have any theories, thoughts?” You asked her like a friend, like you were having a girl chat.
Madame sighed and tapped her lips. “That’s why I am nauseous. I can’t stand to think about it. There was blood involved…sometimes body switching…” She cupped her hand over her mouth and you offered her another peppermint.
Body switching? Did you hear that right? Was such a thing possible?
You glanced back at Julian who was watching you with awe and surprise. He had never seen Madame appear as anything other than stone-cold ruthless.
“Why was your mother teaching your effigy magic?” You asked.
“Family tradition, she considered it an art, just like my grandmother, her mother before her, her mother before her-” Madame let out a heavy, labored sigh. “Since I couldn't have children, she forced me to take on a ward.”
The hairs on the back of your neck bristled.
“Who was it?” Julian spoke up.
Madame seemed to remember where she was and gasped. “Oh…I uhm-” she gave you a wary look. “She was a dhampir.” She said this with caution, her eyes cutting to Julian.
You moved away from Madame, turning to face Julian. You approached him, hoping to catch the storm at the pass. Instead, you saw his expression become sickly.
“She came to me for advice and my mother saw potential in her.” Madame fidgeted in her seat, continuing to steal glances towards Julian. “She said someone like her would be able to carry on the art for far longer than our blood could.”
“Who was she?” Julian slid his fingers through his hair, trying to keep his composure.
Madame’s stony appearance slowly began to return. “I’m sorry, Julian.”
He stood up abruptly, startling you. He swiftly moved towards the door you gave chase, trying to keep pace with him.
“Julian! Stop!” You called out to him. He was quickly outpacing you and heading towards the stairs. You leaned over the railing to watch him bolt to the exit. “Julian!”
Someone clutched your shoulder from behind. “Let him go, he needs to blow off some steam,” Archie laughed.
You furrowed your brow as you looked back at him. “I should really check on him. He didn’t have a good night.”
“I thought he looked haggard.” Archie sighed. “So, what did Madame say to make him so-” he breathed in through his teeth, “angsty?”
You didn’t feel it was your place to say to Archie. “I was about to go have lunch. Why not come with me?”
You brushed Archie off. “Sorry.”
“No. No. I see.” he smirked, tapping his chin. “Off to rescue the handsome prince.”
You shook your head. “He’s my partner, my responsibility. He would do the same for me.”
“Be careful , little investigator,” Archie chuckled. His tone almost sounded ominous. “Vampires, and dhampirs, have increased fight or flight responses despite their cold demeanorsdeamnors.”
Frowning, you went down the stairs, leaving the Academy doors. The car was still parked out front, meaning Julian had left on foot.
You drove slowly back to the hotel, keeping an eye along the way for Julian and his dark clothes. Once you made it back to the hotel, you searched around there before going back up to the room. But he wasn’t there either.
“Crud,” you grumbled. You took a seat at the foot of the bed. “Where have you gotten to?” You took out your phone. It had been off since that morning, Academy rules and all. You turned it on, hoping Julian’s was miraculously on too when you called.
A ringtone sounded in the room. You looked around, seeing his phone was on the dresser. “Dammit, Julian!” You huffed, going over and picking his phone up.
His background was the photo taken the day Florence had been assigned chief. You and Julian had presented a plaque to the old chief together and were dressed in uniforms, standing side by side.
Your heart fluttered ever so slightly.
“Can I have that?”
You could have raised out of your skin he scared you so badly. “Fucking! Fuck! Fuck!” You stomped your feet, grasping his phone and your phone to your chest. “Where have you been?” You barked at him in retaliation.
“Please. Let me have it,” his voice was hoarse.
You held the phone behind your back. “Not until you tell me why you ran away like that? I thought you wanted information on your sister? I assumed that’s who it is by the way. We’re partners here, we have to work together.”
Julian let out a whimper that struck you with lightning.
“Julian-”
“I need blood,” his voice warbled weakly. “Please. Give me my phone.”
You offered it out and he snatched it. He turned away from you, shaking as he tried to dial on the screen.
“So uh…you eat your emotions?”
Julian shot you a wicked look.
You held up your hands in defense. “Hey! It’s okay. I do it sometimes too. You’re stressed out right? It’s okay.”
“No, it isn’t,” he growled. “I get stressed, I drink blood.”
“How much do you need?”
Julian glared. “No! Do not start what I think you’re going to!”
“I’m bleeding already-” Julian hand cupped around your mouth, pushing you back slightly. His eyes bore into yours, making your insides squirm and wriggle. Was this exciting? Scary? Think girl, think!
“I wouldn’t…I couldn’t…not you,” he rasped. “I just need…a bag.”
With his hand cupped around your mouth you couldn’t try to offer again. You were bleeding freely as it was, you didn’t need it. Did vampires like period blood even?
Julian slowly moved his hand away. “You always do this. You always put yourself in danger.”
You scoffed. “Do not!”
“The other night with the zombies? Why did you have to follow it? You could have told me to go searching.”
“We’re equals and I love my job! We’re partners, Julian! I’m not a sidekick to you. I’m at this job despite it being dangerous.” You stood your ground. “You treat me like a child.”
“I don’t want to see you get hurt!” You snapped.
“I don’t want to see you making yourself sick!” You barked back, jabbing his broad, strong chest with your finger.
You both stilled and a quiet permeated the air. The sound of a vacuum going off made you snap out of it.
“Why did you run?” you repeated.
“I panicked.” He sounded guilty. “I wasn’t professional. But you…you did great. You broke through Madame. No one has ever done that before.”
“The power of Laufey Candy.” You forced out a chuckle then pressed your palm upon his chest. “Do you think it could be your sister?”
“If it is, I wouldn’t even know where to begin.”
You nodded. “I do. Madame mentioned part of the effigy magic she was taught included blood and body switching. If she has switched bodies with someone, maybe there is a tell that Madame could tell us.”
Julian put his hand over yours upon his chest. He was shivering.
“You can drink my blood if it helps,” you offered again. “I need you in your best shape when we go back to the Academy.”
A strained look painted his face. There was something boyish about it. A child who broke a toy or stole a cookie. “If I taste you, I may not stop,” he whispered, his voice as quiet as rustling grass. “If I have you inside me…”
You swallowed. It was as if every fiber of your being was pulling to him. “What? You’ll explode?”
He chuckled softly, taking your hand that was on his chest and moving it up until he pressed his lips against it. “Maybe.”
You were about to explode yourself. “I don’t mind,” you breathed. “I mean! Uhm…if you need something to eat.”
“Why would you offer that?”
Your voice shook as you tried to speak. “We’re partners. I want us to…you know, help each other?”
He took one of your fingers, placing it in his mouth. His tooth was sharp against your fingertip, but you noticed your skin going numb. After a moment, he bit, puncturing your finger. You only felt the pressure. He exhaled then closed his lips around your fingers.
Your heart was thrumming, drumming, a whole black metal concert of it. You stepped closer as his tongue lapped at your fingertip. That vulnerable look was on his face again. Pathetic, needy. You liked it.
He kissed you, hungrily. The taste of your blood was on his tongue, yet you didn’t mind. You returned the kiss, cupping his face between your hands. You wanted to wipe away that pathetic look on his face, you wanted to replace it with something else.
You were pushed down onto the bed, pinned by Julian’s strong limbs. “If I do this-” his voice cracked.
“Then you did it,” you whispered.
Julian scoffed, taking off his shirt. “I find stubbornness to be an attractive quality.” He placed his shirt under you and slid his knee up between your legs.
Your face was burning hot like embers. “Have you ever…fed like this before?”
“I have,” he sounded awfully calm about this. He undid the buttons on your pants, tugging them open then lifting your hips to pull them off. “The few partners I have had have offered similar things.”
“Partners or…”
“Lovers.” Julian hand cupped over your underwear, gently kneading your mound.
“I just wore a pad today,” you quickly gasped.
“I see.” His eyes flashed up to you, having gone from pale to suddenly dark. They were completely black. “What about you?”
“I mean…I’ve gone down on girls before but this is new.”
Julian smirked. “I never knew that.” He tugged at your panties, pulling the elastic until your pubic hair was exposed.
“Yeah well,” you scoffed.
“Did you like the taste?” His voice was becoming a deep purr. “Did you like making them wet?”
You weren’t sure but lava was certainly running down your face now. “You like making people hard?”
“I do.” He pulled off your panties, letting them hang around one ankle.
“Well then, we have something in common,” your voice cracked as he began lowering himself down.
His tongue was on you, almost cold, but not quite. He moaned softly, pressing kisses to your labia. He used to fingers to spread you open and he pressed his tongue inside.
You squirmed for a second, shutting your eyes tight. He moaned between your thighs, pressing in closer, growling, wrapping his arms around your thighs and lifting you up off the bed. There really wasn’t much time for you to think. His lips were cool, his breath beat upon you. His tongue lapped at you, pressing, pushing until it slipped between your lips.
You gasped, tensing as his tongue penetrated inside you. He moaned deeply, pressing his face even closer. The vibrations of his sounds of pleasure traveled through your body, tickling up your limbs. His strong nose rubbed against your clit, awakening deeper pleasure.
You closed your eyes, losing your breath the more he tasted, touched. His fingers rubbed your vulva, stimulating you more than his tongue.
“Wait-” he gasped, pulling up his head.
“No!” You whined and beat your fists against the mattress. You were so close!
Julian’s black eyes met yours, his lips were red, covered in your blood. He eased your rear back onto the bed, sitting over you with this glazed, puppy dog look. “I’ve had feelings for you,” he caught his breath. “For a long while now.”
You were too stunned to speak. He says this now???
“I’m awkward around most people. That’s why I keep to myself a lot. I was excited when I was assigned with you. But the more we worked together the more I…yearned.”
You propped yourself up to sit beside him. You were horny, shocked, but you were also relieved. “Yearned? That’s a big word to use.”
He averted his eyes shyly. “It is accurate to my feelings.”
You let out a deep breath. “When I first got assigned to the MR I was attracted to your silent, brooding, mysterious shtick. You’re beautiful, obviously.” You pouted slightly. “But you kept getting in my way. Even once we got partnered I felt overshadowed. But…I also hated the way people looked at you. It felt like they were taking something that belonged to me, and then that pissed me off.”
“I know.”
You frowned at him. “Don’t act like you know everything!”
A small smile appeared on his face. He licked his lips, wiping away the excess blood. “I just wanted you to know my feelings before we continued. If we continue,” he murmured and his eyes darted to you. “If we have sex, I’ll for sure fall in love with you.”
Your heart almost stopped.
“Yeah well,” you coughed to clear your throat. “There are worse things that could happen.” You placed your hand on his thigh, moving up until your fingers brushed against something long and warm. It pulsed.
You pushed him down onto the bed, kissing him from his lips to his neck where you bit him. He whimpered, sounding weak and pathetic. Good. You kissed down his chest, nipping and tugging at the piercings.
Your journey ended at his zipper, which you undid and were smacked hard in the nose by his thick, throbbing cock.
“Holy shit!” You exclaimed as you took in the giant white oak erect before you.
Julian fidgeted, pinching his thighs together.
You grasped him in your hand, squeezing the base. “How do you work with this thing all day?”
Julian made little grunts and whimpers in an attempt to speak.
You eyed the blue veins pulsing on the shaft, the slight curve. Then you saw the beads embedded under the skin, ridged bumps along the head of his cock. There was also a ring coming from the tip.
“You have some interesting piercings, Julian,” you breathed, kissing his shaft, licking his tip.
Julian flinched, arching his hips.
“Are you sensitive?” You teased. You put his whole tip in your mouth, sucking. The piercing was strangely nice against your tongue.
He cried out, arching his back off the bed.
“Goodness,” you chuckled. “No wonder you’re used to giving head.” You sat up, climbing upon him and straddling his hips. “I hope you’re not a quick cummer,” you moaned. “Because I want to watch you squirm all night.”
Julian was biting his lip, hard. His eyes were watery and wide with a slight flush to his cheeks. Pathetic, adorable, there was so much more you could do to melt his ice. You lifted up slightly, guiding that monster of a cock to your slit. YOu rubbed against it, teasing him yet again. Tormenting would probably be a better word.
“Hot!” He cried out.
“Am I warm?” You murmured. “Do you want me all around you?”
Julian nodded, panting weakly.
You smirked, slowly easing him inside. His monster cock was a lot to take. So thick…so long! The bumps under his skin also rubbed all the right places.
“Go slow,” he whispered.
You leaned over him, kissing what you could reach. “I’ll be gentle,” you chuckled. “As long as I can.” You rolled your hips, grinding him inside. Fuck! That big cock of his really delighted every spot.
Julian reached back, holding the headboard in his fists.
“I like this look on you,” you moaned. “Seeing you so weak, so sweet.” You licked your lips. “It makes me hungry.”
“Quiet-” he tried to stammer out.
You giggled, moving from grinding to bouncing upon him. Each time you fell upon him, he hit so deep inside it took your breath away. Julian for sure wasn’t breathing. You took control, but he was taking away your thoughts. His thick, long cock was taking over you, fulfilling a desire that ached.
Julian rose up, latching his arms tight around you. He kissed you, bouncing you in his lap. Then, his lips trailed, going to your neck where his teeth punctured the skin. You gasped in alarm, ready to push him away, but then, oh god then…
He drank you and everything went warm.
Part Four:
It was a good thing you packed a turtleneck for the trip. You wouldn’t dare admit you had gotten it because of how good Julian looked in his, but that was the truth. You were groggy in the car, barely able to keep your eyes open. Julian came out from the gas station, placing a cold bottle of orange juice in your hands.
“I also got you a few breakfast items.” His skin looked flushed, pinker. His eyes were still jet black from last night.
You cracked into the orange juice, drinking deeply. “Coffee?” You slurred after letting go of the lip of the bottle.
“That too.” Julian said as he sat back down in the driver’s seat. He placed the tall cup in the holder. “I’m sorry.”
“Stop apologizing,” you wiped your mouth with your sleeve. “I’ve never orgasmed like that in my life.”
“Shh. Don’t say that-” Julian hissed.
You eyed him. “What? Orgasm?”
He flinched.
“I almost blacked out when I came,” you sighed. “My pussy still feels your huge cock deep inside me.” You said and took a sip of orange juice.
“Please! We still have interviews to do!” He said through gnashed teeth.
“My goodness you’re easy.” You switched orange juice for coffee. You sipped upon it, finding it mixed just to your specifications. You sighed with relief. Good old caffeine. “I thought I knew you, Julian.”
“You’re still fresh inside me,” he huffed. “When I feed I can…perform readily and easily.”
“Perform?” You looked down at his lap. “Well, let me buy tickets to the next show because I was thoroughly entertained,” you chuckled.
Julian stopped the car at the stop sign, quickly turning and capturing a kiss before you put more coffee into your veins. It stunned you for a moment, then you melted into it. You touched his chiseled face, remember how sweet and simpering he looked last night.
“Will you be okay today?” You whispered.
Julian butted his head against yours. “Let's hope so.”
“Just don’t run away again, okay? That makes me look bad,” you teased. You went in for another kiss, but a car behind you honked loudly.
Back at the Academy, Madame was waiting for you at the door and she swept you away to her office.
“I’m sorry about yesterday,” she murmured. “I should have come clean about…everything.”
“Do you know where Selene is now?” Julian asked, almost returned to his usual chilly persona.
Madame shook her head. “No. She got all she needed from me and vanished.” She caught notice of you throwing away your coffee cup. “If you need more, the employee lounge is just down the hall. The good coffee is in there. Green handle.”
“Thank you.” You placed your hand on Julian’s shoulder. “Can you handle this?”
He nodded. “I’m fine now.”
You left, heading down the hallway where you found yourself following the scent of coffee like a cereal toucan. The lounge was empty and gentle music played over a speaker. You poured yourself another tall cup and began to add cream.
“Back for another day of grand investigation?” Archie was suddenly beside you.
You flinched, glancing towards him before placing a lid on your coffee. “Yes.”
He leaned down towards you. “Yesterday your partner seemed to run off in quite a hurry. Was everything alright?”
“Yes. it’s okay now. He just found out some rather…personal news, let’s just say.” You took a deep drink, and damn! If it wasn’t a fine cup of coffee.
“It looks like he gave you quite a fright,” Archie hummed.
“Hm?”
“Well you look rather pale my dear. And that turtleneck.”
You went to step aside but Archie’s hand was suddenly around your neck. He yanked down the turtleneck to spy the bite mark on your throat.
“Let go!” You snapped.
He shook his head, clicking his tongue. “Julian was always such a picky eater. But a neat one at that.” His fingers brushed against your neck, turning your blood cold.
Your coffee dropped from your hands as you grabbed hold of Archie’s arm, twisting and then tossing him over your shoulder as you swung around. He hit the ground with a loud thud, shaking the room, distorting the music.
“Oh? So the little girl can fight, can she?” Archie’s voice was strange. It shifted, going in and out with another voice. He rose up onto his arms, his turning bright white. “But can you handle me?”
He lunged and you dodged, rushing around him while reaching for the gun at your side. His body elongated, becoming snake-like. His mouth opened wide, cracking back further than it should. Inside was a woman’s face.
You shot, turning and running as, whatever that was, recoiled. People were crowding in the hallway to see what the commotion was.
“Everyone! Get out!” You yelled.
They began to cluster around you, blocking you off from the hallway. They grabbed at you, tugged your clothes, forced you back towards the employee lounge.
“No! Let go!” You screamed.
The woman laughed. “Why don’t you use that gun? Huh? Isn’t that what it’s for?”
You didn’t know if these people were innocent. It would be risky. That, and the fact one of the people grabbing you was holding you in such a way you couldn’t pull the trigger if you wanted.
“I don’t like the idea that my little brother did god knows what to you, but you’re exactly what I need.” The woman cackled behind you as you were shoved down onto the ground.
You were struggling. It would be easy to fight your way out of this, usually. You were weak, exhausted, all from a night you would have bragged about. But now, you were just pissed.
A woman with long dark hair stood over you, her smile a bit too big for her beautiful face. “Hello there.”
You fought against hands and arms holding you down, getting red in the face from effort. You yelled out, but she cupped her hand around your mouth.
“Shh, shh, sweet girl. Don’t make any unnecessary noise.” She knelt over you, her long hair falling along the side of your face. “You do have nice skin.” Her fingers slipped along your lips, sealing them shut with a touch.
You fought more as adrenaline pumped through your veins.
“I took the time to make this private for us,” she whispered. “Shh.” She ran your hair through her fingers, tickling your scalp with her long nails. “It’ll take me a while to get used to a human body again. But I had to work so hard to keep that bird under control. It’ll be nice to relax a bit.” Her nails dug in at the nape of your neck, trying to break skin.
You arm broke free, and your gun became pressed to Selene’s chin. Your arm was grabbed at and pulled, but the adrenaline had made you stone.
She chuckled. “Go ahead. Make my day little girl. Do you think you bullets could do anything to m-”
Suddenly the arms and hands around you went slack and you were able to pull yourself up from the ground. Blood dripped down the back of your neck, caught by the turtleneck. Great! Exactly what you needed, less blood.
You turned and aimed your gun at Selene again who was clutching her hands around her bloody jaw. She looked up at you, eyes completely white.
“Silver bullets.”
She gurgled and made guttural noises. She rose up, clutching her jaw with one hand while reaching for you with the other.
“It’s all the MR uses.” You took another shot, but a body on the ground grabbed you and the shot went into the ceiling.
Selene screamed, throwing herself upon you, bleeding upon your face. Her jaw sealed back to her skull and her tongue slithered back into place. The gun was slapped out of your hand, skittering across the room. Selene was in your face, breathing heavily.
“They all put up fights!” She wrapped her hands around your head again, placing her nails along the back of your neck and scalp. “Don’t think you’re special, little girl. None have escaped me.”
You're trying to fight back, but adrenaline won’t save you now. There’s too many hands, too much force. You’re pinned to the ground, limbs held down as if you’re displayed in a museum. Selene hovers over you, jaw still healing, speech very rasped and slurred.
Where’s Julian? He’s always saved you before. He’s always known! Where is he?
Selene’s smile was crooked. “I know what you're thinking. Little brother won’t be here. I’ve seen to that. We get to be alone and become acquainted.”
There’s another gunshot that grazes Selene’s shoulder. She ears out in pain, turning to see the form of Archie holding our gun. She lunges at him, and he shoots again and again, hitting her neck and her arm. Selene tackles him and once again the bodies around you go limp.
You manage to get on your hands on knees, shaking from fear. You slowly rise up, seeing Selene on top of Archie’s body. You tackle her, biting down on the healing wound of her neck and ripping it open more with your teeth. She screams, rearing back and trying to throw you off. Somehow, you hold on.
“Selene stop!”
Everything went quiet. You keep your teeth locked onto her neck so the wound won’t close.
“I made this mess,” Madame snarled. “I knew it was risky teaching you.”
Selene’s voice came out as a rasped, strained sound. “I’m glad you did. Don't’ beat yourself up about it.”
Your jaw was beginning to ache, and the taste of blood made you want to vomit.
Where was Julian?
“Let her go, Selene. Let Archie go.” Madame’s voice was ominous.
Selene’s garbled, hissing laughter filled the room. “Or what?”
Bodies began to rise again. You clung harder to Selene, ready for them to rip you to shreds before you released her. They clustered towards you, pulling at you, grabbing your face. They dragged Archie away and Selene was still laughing. But then she choked. The bodies were taking hold of her as well, peeling you off so they could force her down upon the ground.
“Bring her here.” Madame beckoned.
You were taken to Madame’s side, left to rest at her feet.
“It’s alright now,” Madame murmured. “I’ve got this under control.”
You coughed, almost throwing up. “Ju-” You dry heaved. “Julian?”
Madame’s eyes were glowing bright white and dark, back veins spread across her skin. “Making sure the Academy staff is safe. He’ll be here soon, I’m sure.”
You managed to stand up on shaky knees. You instantly had to turn around and vomit.
“Here.” Madame offered out a peppermint to you as you recovered. “I brought a few today with me as well.”
You took the peppermint and eagerly placed it on your tongue. Instantly better.
“What happened?” You asked, wiping your mouth with your sleeve.
“She had my office sealed off once you left. Julian became disoriented by the magic she was using. Luckily, I was prepared.” She said with a smirk.
Selene was screaming as the bodies kept her pinned down.
“I feel like an idiot. I didn't realize how deeply she had infiltrated us. I suppose using Archie, she knew we would trust him.”
You glanced down at Archie’s form on the floor. “I thought it was you.”
“I know.”
Academy knights finally moved into action. They disabled the magic on those controlled by Selene and were able to subdue her. You and Archie were taken to the Academy hospital and you were hooked up to a mighty blood bag.
Finally, Julian was able to see you.
He rushed in, nearly hitting the doctor who opened the door. He held you tight, burying his face in your hair.
You relaxed in his embrace. “It’s fine. I handled myself.”
He inspected your cuts, your bruises. His eyes wide and watery. The sad puppy dog eyes really did suit him. “I’m so sorry! I wasn’t there.”
You cupped his cheek. “I was, so it’s fine. I got a good shot at her.”
“I heard,” he murmured, kissing your cheek. “You bit her.”
You smirked. “I did. Kept her bleeding so she got weak.”
Julian sighed, clutching your hand to his chest where you could feel his heart racing. “I tried to get to you.”
“Your job is to protect innocent civilians first. You did that. I’m not some damsel you need to rescue all the time.” You smiled. “You would have just gotten in my way again.”
Julian returned your smile. “I know.”
You glanced across the room where a curtain separated you from the other bed. “Check on Archie. Please?”
Julian gave your knuckles one last kiss before he stood up.
You eased back into the bed, watching the tube in your arm and following it up to the bag. “Fine cup of coffee,” you grumbled.
A few days later you were sent home. Everything looked fine, Madame even gave you a once over to make sure Selene hadn’t laid any of her magic in you. All clear. No magic, just blood loss.
“I know I’m going to gift you for saving my life,” Archie said. “But I’m just not sure what sort of gift it will be.” Getting to know the real Archie was a treat. He was spirited, flirty, and eager to make friends.
You were eating your dessert while he was talking. “You don’t need to give me anything, Archie. I was doing my job.”
“But because of you I have my body back! I have my life back! You saved my life in more ways than one. I simply cannot let that go unrewarded.” His eyes were a bright, shimmering shade of purple, no longer dark from Selene’s influence.
“Live a long healthy life?” You offered as an out.
He scoffed, rolling his eyes. “I’ve already done that. Tell you what? I’ll just surprise you since you won’t accept it.”
“It’s no that I’m not, I’m just telling you that you don’t have to”
He wagged his long finger in your face. “No. No. No. I insist. If you weren't already attached to Mr. Aster I would sweep you off your feet and court you proper until you agreed to take my hand in matrimony.”
You giggled. “Surely you could find a better catch than me.”
Archie gave you a seductive smile, leaning onto your bed with you. “You saved my life, it would be only fair if I gave it to you in return.”
You were awarded by the Academy for your service in protecting the facility. Given a medal and everything, and an assurance that your MR department would be heavily rewarded for yours and Julian’s efforts.
There were gifts in your apartment from everyone at the MR. Casseroles filled your fridge and flowers covered your entire table.
Julian set your bag down upon your sofa. “I’ve never seen your place.”
“Well, I don’t usually have this many flowers.” You sighed.
He smiled, eyes wandering along a wall of family pictures. You stepped before him, cutting off his gaze so he didn’t see the silly baby pictures your mother made you put up.
“Should we talk about what happened?”
Julian was stooped over a bouquet, sniffing the flowers. “Which part?”
“All of it?” You offered. “I mean…let’s start with your sister.”
Julian sighed heavily. He brushed back his hair away from his face as he turned his gaze towards the windows. “I decided I didn’t want to speak to her. Not yet anyways.”
“Why not?” You asked with a furrowed brow.
“Right now, I’m too angry. I coul;dn’t face her with a level head. I need time to sort this out. Madame promised she would keep me updated. I also know where she is now. Which is…good.” he sounded unsure if that was the right word or not.
“After searching so long I’m sure.” You took a deep breath.
His dark eyes cut back to you. “I know what you’re going to say.”
“Stop,” you huffed. “Ugh. Whatever. Okay, so you and I…” You bit on the inside of your cheek. “You and me fucked.”
He nodded, silent.
“And it was very good. Very mutual.” You were trying to keep your strength up. “And we both admitted some things. Some things that as partners might make a mess at work.”
“It might,” he agreed.
“I just wanted to make sure it wasn’t all done in the heat of the moment,” you said matter of factly. “Was it?”
“No.” He said that so quickly, you barely got the question out. “It was said in the heat of the moment, but it was true. I care about you, deeply. I’ve yearn-”
“Yearned, I know.” Your face was getting hot again. “And I agree.”
Julian dipped down, kissing you. You cupped his face between your palms, melting into that kiss.
“You should go and rest,” Julian murmured.
You shook your head. “Oh no! I’ve not been able to stop thinking about that big, hard cock of yours pretty boy.” You smirked as Julian shivered, his cold expression melting away. “I keep thinking about how much you made me cum. How deep you were inside me.” You dragged your lips along his neck.
“You just got out of the hospital,” he whimpered. “You really should rest.”
You giggled. “You promised you would take care of me. I know what my body can handle. But most importantly I know what my body wants.” You took hold of his hand. “Come on, I haven’t shown you my bedroom yet.”
Julian clutched your hand, holding on tight. “You’re sexy when you're stubborn.”
“I know,” you said with a big grin plastered on your face. You squeezed his hand, pulling him along behind you.
I've been working on this piece in one form or another since early 2024 and it's finally done! I rewatched the anime last year and felt compelled to create something to celebrate my favourite martyr murderess, Misa Amane.
