Yours is the first story I came to. I couldn't help myself.
This scene was absolutely enthralling. I initially had suspicion of Follanz, but the others?! Now that's a twist I didn't expect - a most delightful one, to say the least. I loved the tension you created through the scene. I'm glad that Chris was smart enough to refrain.
This scene has got me gripping the seat in eager anticipation for more. I can't wait to see what will happen. Knowing the twists and turns you've taken, I have no idea how this will end up  - only know that it will be one hell of a ride.
I can't wait to see the next segment and try to get it up soon so I don't go into cardiac arrest

Thank you both very much! The twist worked! Yay!
  For those of you who have read Hybreed: Confrontations, you might recognize Lance's first reply in this next segment. If you do, you might realize who's behind the Howlers as well. If not, then you'll have to wait until the Epilogue of part 3 to figure it out.
  Oh dear; I think I said too much.
  This next bit is a little long, and also a bit of a cop-out. I kinda had to due to the size and current complexity of the story. Still, let me know if you think it works. Oh! Let's also see if you pick up on my original idea near the end of the segment! At least I think it's original...
  That being said, this segment is a little longer than normal. Just so you know.
------------------------------------------------

  “Who do you work for?â€� Chris asked.

  Lance shook his head with a smile. “Sorry; that’s need to know, and you don’t qualify.â€�

  “You already mentioned that having both Howlers is valuable to you. Can you at least say what it is you want with us?â€�

  “We want you under control; both of you.â€�

  Chris was not sure why, but something in the way that Lance mentioned control made him think of the things Janna told him about the destruction of the old Colony several years before Chris learned he was a werewolf.

  “Is that why you destroyed the old Colony, because you couldn’t control it?â€�

  Lance raised his eyebrows in surprise at Chris’ deduction, but then smugly settled his expression down. “I wouldn’t know; I missed out on that party.â€�

  Chris felt his eyes begin to burn with anger. It wasn’t a group of humans that attacked the colony; it was his own people. It was an unknown, secretive group, but one that was obviously very well organized. Even worse was their blatant disregard for everything that the hybreed held dear. They showed no respect or interest in the Earthlife. They were willing and able to turn on human and hybreed alike, and held an undisclosed agenda to which no one but their own associates were privy. Frantically Chris looked for a way to gain information from them while he had the chance. He decided to test them with a reference to another deviant with whom Chris made a reluctant acquaintance.

  “I guess it’s safe to assume that Raaym is one of yours.â€�

  “Raaym? You mean that big brown brute that runs his pack like a tyrant?â€�

  Chris nodded slowly, accepting Lance’s recognition.

  “Never heard of him,â€� Lance said with a smile as he shook his head. His cohorts laughed under their breaths.

  Chris’ brow furrowed, and then he sighed. It was obvious that Lance and his men were not going to disclose any information respectfully, let alone directly. There was only one option left to him and the others: escape. They had to find a way to escape. However, they had three hybreed in human form guarding them with readied firearms, with more of their associates on the way. Being the only humans amongst hybreed, Phillip and Melissa were at a terrible disadvantage as well.

  “Look, you’ve got me and Justin. Let Phil and Melissa go.â€�

  “And let them tell Dep:118 that we have you?â€� Lance said sarcastically.

  “What would it matter?â€� Chris argued. “Whoever you guys are working for, you’re a total secret. You don’t really think Dep:118 has the capability to track us down once we leave here, do you?â€�

  Lance paused, as if he was considering the option, but then declined the idea with a shake of his head. “Better safe than sorry.â€�

  “I don’t get it, Lance; why are you guys doing this? What could you possibly gain by keeping us under control?â€�

  Lance took in a breath and inclined his head slightly before he answered: “Freedom.â€�

  His reply was filled with confidence, and even pride, but not the burden or hatred of subjugation. Therefore it was unlikely <THAT> he was talking about freedom from being a hybreed; for the same reason, it was unlikely that his interest was personal freedom. Just about the only option left was freedom for those he represented. But whether that group was only his associates or intended to be hybreed in general Chris could not determine, and they weren’t about to tell him.

  So once again Chris’ mind turned to escape, but the odds were extremely slim. What they needed was a distraction, and Chris had no idea how to create one.

  As it turned out, he wouldn’t get the chance.

  Justin’s ears suddenly perked up, and he raised his head in interest. He looked to the area behind the three Howlers, attempting to fix his attention on some sound that was still out of range for hybreed in human form. The three captours took note; Weber looked over to Lance, who met his eyes, and they both exchanged smug little grins.

  Justin lowered his head slightly and started to lean back on his haunches, preparing to spring at his attackers, but it was nowhere near enough of a distraction. Lance redirected his firearm at Justin.

  “Down, boy. Don’t make me put you to sleep.â€�

  Chris frowned at the derogatory comments, both being human in nature. He was reminded of how these three, and no doubt their cohorts, rejected hybreed ways and culture, and it nearly made his stomach turn.

  “You talk like a Coyote,â€� he spat at Lance.

  Lance looked back at Chris and smiled. “Uh-huh; I was wondering when that would come up. Of course, it won’t phase us; ‘sticks and stones’. Actually, I’m a little surprised you’d even try that.â€�

  The sounds of forest foliage being disturbed by approaching individuals met the ears of all, including the two humans. Lance began to smile wider as he looked at Chris; his eyes twinkled with delightful triumph.

  A large ebony shadow quickly emerged from the trees from behind Lance, came up behind him, and slashed diagonally across Lance’s back in what seemed to be one fluid movement. Lance yelled in pain. His muscles tensed, which caused his gun to fire. Chris saw these actions and instinctively ducked as Lance’s weapon fired at him. Even with the instinctive move, the shot barely missed him. At the same time Follanz looked toward Lance to find out the cause of his cry and the gunshot, and that was when he was tackled to the ground from behind. Immediately afterward Weber aimed his gun at whatever attacked Follanz, and yet another dark shadow lunged from the tree line and slashed at Weber’s extended arm. Weber cried out in pain and dropped his weapon before it could be fired.

  By that time the first shadowy figure had slashed at Lance in the front and on the sides with deadly precision, attacking his joints and muscles. Weber’s attacker had slashed him across the face and kicked him into the middle of the clearing, where he lay still, but breathing nonetheless. Finally it became clear to Chris that the three Howlers were being attacked by yet more Hybreed, but he did not understand why. Finally he focused on the one that attacked Follanz, and noticed that he had dirty blond fur. He was attacking with brutality while the other two attacked with precision, and none of them were fighting with what could be called a hybreed fighting style.

  Chris was rather certain he knew who had arrived to save them. If his suspicions were at all doubted, the blond attacker confirmed them when he finished with Follanz and looked straight at Chris.

  “Love that shirt,â€� he said in the hybreed language, jutting his jaw toward Chris’ borrowed attire. It was Grayle, which meant that the other two attackers were no doubt Truug and Janna.

  Chris was somewhat at a loss. “How did-â€�

  “Jake told us,â€� Truug said as he took a breath.

  “How did Jake know?â€�

  “He overheard something at their hideout, and then came to get us,â€� Grayle answered.

  “Truug!â€� Janna called with alarm, immediately getting Truug’s attention. She looked over at Weber, whom she kicked into the middle of the clearing. “They are shifting!â€�

  Truug and Grayle looked over at the other two and saw the same beginning signs of growing fur and stretching limbs.

  Grayle looked down at the Follanz. He then looked at Truug, his eyes wide with astonishment. “They’re hybreed?!â€�

  “No,â€� Chris said as he took a defensive stance. “They’re not.â€� He had no doubt that Truug and his pack would understand his meaning.

  “What to do?â€� Janna asked Truug.

  Truug looked at her. “We will keep to the plan, but much more quickly.â€� He looked over to Chris. “Graman, tell Phil and the woman to each climb upon our backs, and you as well.â€� He looked at the three men on the ground. “We have no time for you to shift.â€�

  Chris complied. “Phil, hop on Grayle’s back. Melissa, climb on the back of the dark brown one over there. We’re getting a ride out of here.â€�

  Melissa was obviously scared, but she did not let that fear consume her. Chris made a mental note to compliment her on that, when he got a chance. Even so, Justin stepped forward toward Melissa. He nudged her and gave her an assuring glance, to further dissipate any reservations she may have. Melissa quickened her steps toward Grayle, who had lowered himself to accommodate her mounting. Chris climbed onto the back of Truug. The three lupine steeds then rose in unison to stand on their hind legs, at the same time bracing the legs of their human loads with their front arms. Finally four hybreed, three burdened and one not, sprinted their way into the darkened forest, taking great care not to let the arms of the trees attack their human passengers.

  And somewhere behind them three wounded hybreed continued to heal and shift into their hybreed form.

Last edited by Grayle (2008-09-25 17:21:14)

Love it!  Though I wish they they had decapitated Lance and the other two.  Oh well. 

Gosh Darn Typos! They're like cockroaches!
  Thank you for pointing that out to me, Punx, and thank you for your feedback on the escape. I know I could have expanded it, but I'm getting really close to 150k in word count, so I have to watch how far I take things now. Phooey.
 
  Thanks also for your preference, Wolfsong. In truth, I'm was still playing around with the idea of killing off at least one of the Howlers, but I think it would clash with what's about to happen. Besides, I've already got a thing going here with the sanctity of life or whatever. Anyway, let's see what you think of this next segment and tell me if you think a Howler death might fit in.
 
  Thanks to you also, SilentStrider! I'm very glad to hear that the audience appreciates Truug and his pack. They've developed a lot since the time of Hybreed: Confrontations, so I'm happy to know they've developed well.

  Here's the next bit. It feels a little melodramatic to me, so any other thoughts would be appreciated.
----------------------------------------------------------


  Their travel was swift, but nowhere near as swift as unburdened hybreed with revenge and anger festering in their hearts. It was less than half a minute before the group heard howling from the three hybreed they left behind. Even with his human ears Chris could determine that their pursuers would overtake them before they made it to Ashley Campground, and he found no alternative in his mind.

  However, he did find something else in his mind: a foreign thought. This thought is going to Chris and Phil as well as Truug and his pack, it said. In a few seconds you’ll be at a large dead tree leaning against two standing ones. A mental image of the described trees suddenly appeared in Chris’ mind. Stop there and drop your riders. Don’t tell Melissa or Justin what to expect. Don’t tell them anything. Trust me.

  Chris had no idea what was about to happen, but it was plainly clear that Jake had something in mind, and he trusted Jake implicitly. Without a word, he began looking for the fallen tree.

  Within the next minute Janna spotted the tree and pointed it out to the rest. The three load-ridden hybreed made for the area with Justin following close behind. When they got to the fallen tree, Chris and Phillip immediately hopped off the backs of their hybreed carriers, and Janna gently lowered to all fours so that Melissa could dismount more easily. Justin once again approached Melissa as she stood up. All of those in hybreed form could hear the disturbance of the trees and brush somewhere behind them in the distance.

  “What’s going on?â€� Melissa asked with fright quivering in her voice.

  “We have to stop here,â€� Chris said.

  “Why?â€� She asked.

  As soon as she finished asking, something appeared in thin air right before her and Justin. It was enormous, and as black as an abyss, like a hole of darkness in the night itself. It had large wings that spread out on either side of it, blocking out whatever light was near – that is, all except two crimson lights that looked like they could be eyes. For any who might stumble upon the wraithlike darkness the sight would be terrifying, especially if their ideas of reality and personal security were already in a fragile state, as was the case with the human woman traveling in the company.

  Melissa let out a blood-curdling scream that pierced the silence of the night. She tripped and fell backwards to the ground, raising her arms up in front of her to fight off the supernatural apparition. Justin yelped and jumped back, but then reseated into a defensive stance and growled. Within an instant he poised himself for leaping at the apparition, but Truug and Grayle held him back from attacking. The unsettling presence folded its wings and closed its eyes, but Melissa screamed once again.

  “It’s all right, Melissa! It’s all right!â€� Phillip said as he attempted to take her in his arms. She tried to push him off at first, but Phillip’s persistence and continuing words of consolation soon calmed her. She wrapped her arms around Phillip and began to weep into his shoulder, crying out incessantly.

  “It’s all right now, Melissa, it’s okay; you’re safe. It’s okay, Melissa…â€�

  Justin was slowly released by Truug and Grayle, but complete bewilderment was shining in his eyes as he stared at the absence of light standing before him.

  “Jake?â€� Chris asked.

  The darkness held up its finger as if to command Chris to stay his question for the moment. Then it pointed at Phillip.

  “Phil, Jake is trying to get your attention,â€� Chris said, still uncertain as to what just happened.

  “You’d better link with my mind again, Jake,â€� Phillip announced behind him, “I won’t be able to see your hands.â€�

  Moments passed with the only sound being Melissa as she sobbed into Phillip’s shoulder. Phillip gently stroked her hair as he kept his head inclined, having some unspoken conversation with the Shadow of the Night that was standing nearby. Finally he smiled, took Melissa’s head in his hands and looked directly into her eyes as all the others paid heed.

  “Melissa, that frightening thing behind me is Jake. He was once known as the Nightmare of Culmna City. He works with Chris and I at Dep:118. Jake says that he’s terribly sorry for putting you through that scare. He really feels bad about it; I can feel some of his guilt right now. But he wanted me to thank you for him and let you know that you provided him with exactly what he needed to save us.â€�

  Melissa sobbed, and looked at Phillip with curiosity and disbelief. She looked up at the absence of light behind Phillip, but then looked away immediately, and continued to try refocusing her attention on Phillip.

  Phillip removed his hands from Melissa’s face and quickly looked back at Jake for a moment. “Are you sure?â€� he asked.

  Jake could barely be seen by any, whether human or hybreed, but Chris was able to make out his shape since he was familiar with it. He saw Jake bow and extended his right hand, moving it in a circular motion, indicating for Phillip to continue. Phillip cocked his head and raised his eyebrows in acquiescence, looked back at Melissa for a moment, and continued.

  “Alright, Jake wants me to tell everyone about his ability, so here goes. Jake is telepathic, but he’s more than that. He can affect other people’s fears and nightmares. He can give you a fear or take one away. However, he can also feed off of the energy produced by someone’s inherent fear. It’s like it gives his mental abilities a boost, in a way. He was feeding off of the terror that Melissa and Justin felt at his presence, but it was mostly Melissa. In doing so, it gave him what he needed to instill certain fears into Lance and his cronies, and those fears are now keeping them from finding us.â€�

  “What fears?â€� Chris asked.

  Phillip smirked as he looked back at Melissa directly. “When you screamed and Justin yelped, Lance and the others heard it. They got a little afraid because they didn’t know what would cause you to scream like that. Once he sensed that fear in them, Jake increased it exponentially, turning it into more of a mortal terror. He also gave them an irrational phobia of tracking us down, just for good measure.â€�

  “Dang, Jake!â€� Chris said. “That’s… that’s pretty original; and a little profound!â€�

  Two arms emerged from inside the darkness, one on either side, and shrugged.

  “Jake says that they’re deliberately avoiding our tracks and our scents, even though they’re completely aware of them and where they lead. He wanted to thank you for enough energy to accomplish that. He also said that he just finished curing your Nyctophobia as compensation. I guess that means you won’t have any fear of ‘nyctos’ anymore.â€�

  Melissa looked at Phillip with mild bewilderment, and then tentatively looked up at Jake. She stared at him for a few seconds. She then began to look at different points in the shadows of the darkened forest around them, and ever so slowly a grin began to part her lips. She looked at where Jake stood and her smile blossomed to maturity.

  “Thank you,â€� She whispered.

  Jake again bowed.

  “What is nyctophobia, anyway?â€� Phillip asked.

  “Daarrrkk,â€� Justin replied.

  “Ahh…â€� Phillip said with an understanding nod. He then turned to Melissa. “And you got all this way through the forest at night when you were afraid of the dark?â€�

  Melissa shrugged. “I haven't let it take me since I was a kid, but when I saw your friend, I..." Her gaze faded for a moment, but then she regained her attention and smiled. "Besides, I had two werewolves on my side, and you too.â€�

  “Hybreed, Melissa; Hybreed,â€� Chris corrected her.

  “Oh; right, sorry.â€�

  As Chris heard his correction issue from his lips, it triggered the memory of sitting in Dad’s office as he explained his theories. It seemed like a lifetime ago when Dad informed Chris that he was part of a race created with the intention of protecting and maintaining the Earthlife. He found himself very thankful for Dad’s willingness to objectively seek the truth and accept it, whatever it might turn out to be. Chris resolved to follow Dad’s example, and encourage others like Melissa to do the same.

  Phillip smiled with a shake of his head as he stood up. He then offered his hand to Melissa, who accepted the help. Philip then turned to the others.

  “Well, I guess we’re safe from the Howlers for now, but it’s only a matter of time before their buddies show up.â€�

  “Then we should get moving,â€� Truug said. “I believe we can make it back to our home without difficulty, but it should be a quickened pace.â€�

  Chris translated the message to Phillip, Jake, and Melissa. After another moment for Melissa to compose herself, they all began their trek. Phillip and Melissa walked behind Truug, following his lead. Grayle and Janna walked along side Chris behind the two humans. Chris also stayed in his human form for the time being. And after they left, the former Nightmare of Culmna City made his way up the fallen tree, using it to launch into the air and melt into the night sky.

Last edited by Grayle (2008-09-23 19:47:36)

Wow! It really worked that well? Okay, I refuse to doubt you, but it just feels like her screaming fit is a little over the top to me. However, I defer to my reader's comprehension of the scene. Thank you again very very much, Punx.

  Here's the next bit, setting up the scene for another hefty amount of dialogue. I'm still trying to iron this scene out as I go, but I think I got this first part done adequately - you tell me.
  Anyway, here it is.
------------------------------------------------------


  The night progressed, and generously bestowed a light breeze to caress the trees and those that traveled among them. The gentle rustle and hiss of the trees gave way to the voices of the travelers as they continued out of the Imperial Forest preserve. As they walked, Chris asked how the pack knew where to find them, and Truug explained that Jake stopped by their house on Cottonwood Lane. Truug, Grayle and Janna had returned to set their affairs in order, because taking care of the tribe would result in an extended leave of absence from the human world. It was quite a point of fortune that Jake found them at all, as they were being quick in their actions. Chris agreed with the fortune, and was extremely thankful that Jake thought of the possibility at all.

  Chris informed Truug of what little information he was able to get from Lance; Truug listened intently, but his expression remained hardened. Meanwhile, Grayle ‘accidentally’ nudged Justin’s hind leg into his other hind leg, causing Justin to effectively trip over his own paws. After the fourth time, Justin snapped at Grayle, and then instinctively began to show dominance. Immediately Truug broke away from his discussion with Chris and strictly enforced the ranks. Melissa became concerned with what looked like an attack on Justin, but Chris made sure to explain the importance of rank among their people. It was yet another aspect of being hybreed which Justin was not familiar, let alone Melissa.

  Upon reaching the little house on Cottonwood Lane they entered the dwelling under cover of darkness. Once inside Truug, Grayle, and Justin shifted to their human forms, but Janna stayed in her hybreed form. Truug was able to supply Justin with replacements for his tattered clothes, which Justin accepted graciously. The quaint little house was filled with celebration as Grayle brought in drinks from the kitchen, and they all got to know each other as they discussed their escape. Justin took the opportunity to embrace his former employee, who was very happy to see him again, especially now that he was both in human form and in his right mind. Chris was also very pleased to see his sole confidant of Romberg in such a positive state.

  Moments later there was a knock on the door. Chris took it upon himself to get the door, and in walked Jake. Both Justin and Melissa were seeing his human illusion, however, since they did not get a clear view of his mutated form in the darkness of the Imperial Forest Preserve. Once introduced to Jake in his human form, it was suggested that Justin and Melissa should see him as he really appeared. Phillip described it to both of them and they agreed to the offer. Jake turned off his illusion and both Justin and Melissa finally saw Jake in all his mutated glory. After the initial shock they both accepted his presence.

  Grayle suddenly approached Chris as the rest became better acquainted.

  “So what is it with you and Coyotes, anyway?â€� he asked.

  “What?â€� Chris asked with bemusement.

  “Every time we see you, you’re being victimized by some hybreed following the Coyote Way.â€� He looked over Chris’ back. “You don’t have a bull’s-eye on your back. Is your scent a derivative of Coyote hormones or something? What’s the deal?â€�

  For a moment Chris was not sure if Grayle was being serious until he let a smirk seep out across his lips. Chris smiled in return.

  “I really don’t know. I guess I just end up in the wrong places at the wrong time.â€�

  Actually, Graman,â€� Truug started as he came near, “it would be more accurate to say you’ve been in wrong places at the right time. You’ve not only helped us avoid an infection of the Coyote Way, but you’ve shown us that there are other dangers more hidden and organized than we would ever have imagined.â€�

  “As well as friends we never would have imagined,â€� Grayle added with a nod toward Jake, Phillip and Melissa.

  Truug grunted an agreement. “As to who the Howlers are really working for, I have very strong suspicions, but I will say no more until I can prove I’m right.â€� Truug’s eyes glanced over to Grayle, who returned the gaze knowingly. “If I am right, then I will contact you or Dep:118. Until then, it’s best if as few people know about it as possible, just in case.â€�

  Chris looked at Truug with a furrowed brow, trying to solve the riddle of what Truug may know. However, his expression did not falter in the slightest, and Chris had to relent to Truug’s unwavering determination.

  “Okay...â€� Chris said slowly.

  Truug smiled. “Don’t worry, Graman, I’ll let you know, but it may be a while before I can test my suspicions.â€�

  “How about if I test them for you?â€� Chris asked, gently applying pressure to the issue.

  Truug shook his head. “I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I’m in a much better position to do what’s needed. Not only that, but since the Howlers know what you and Jolaar look like in human form, it would be best if you did not try to sneak into their lair, don’t you think?â€�

  Once again, Chris was broadsided by Truug’s wisdom and consideration. Humbly he nodded, accepting Truug’s point.

  “Also, I want you to know how much we appreciate the help you’ve already given us, Graman. You have provided a very great service to me, my pack, my tribe and the new Colony. We are very much indebted to you. I only wish it didn’t cost you so much in the process.â€�

  Truug’s comment caused all in attendance to stop what they were doing or saying and pay him their full attention. Chris was also very curious as to the final statement, and cocked his head with interest.

  “What do you mean?â€� Chris asked, voicing the curiosity of the others present.

  Despite his strength of character and wisdom laced throughout his posture, Truug’s eyes fluttered with hesitation. He looked at Grayle, and then at Janna. The returned his gaze to Chris, then looked downward, and then at Justin, and finally turned toward Chris once more before he answered.

  “Graman,â€� Truug said with hesitation, “the Howler must die.â€�

Last edited by Grayle (2008-09-23 19:58:06)

No worries, SilentStrider; you are correct, he's referring to the symbol. However, I needed to end the segment somewhere, and that was a convenient place. As to the 'why', this next segment should answer that question adequately. Therefore, here it is.
------------------------------------------


  “Now, wait just a minute!â€� Justin protested.

  “I don’t mean literally, Jolaar,â€� Truug clarified, “But I’m afraid that you both are going to have to leave the Howler persona behind.â€�

  “Why should we?â€� Justin asked obstinately.

  Chris stood steadily, but he felt his heart sink in his chest. As soon as Truug said it, the reasons for such began to pour into his mind, weighing heavily on his heart.

  “Because it’s too dangerous,â€� Chris explained slowly. “Two years ago I left because the crooks were taking my existence seriously and started carrying silver bullets.â€� He looked over at Justin. “But now there’s a gang out there that had you incapacitated and under their control, and Dep:5 is looking for the Howler now, too, and we don’t even have a clue what their intentions might be.â€�

  “That doesn’t scare me,â€� Justin said.

  “That’s the point,â€� Grayle replied. “It should. The fact that it doesn’t shows you don’t know enough about yourself or your people to make proper decisions.â€�

  Truug took a step toward Justin. “Jolaar, what Grayle means to say is that you need to come with us back to our tribe and learn our ways. You need to learn to be a Hybreed instead of a Howler. You must leave the Howler behind, just as Graman did before you. The Howler must once again fade into legend.â€�

  Justin looked over at Chris, his eyes desperately groping for support, but Chris could not bring any to bear. Truug was right; Chris’ attempts at community service and building a legacy to be proud of must once again be sacrificed for the greater good, staying in the past, only succeeding as stories, not sightings. There were more than just crooks after the Howler now; and if Dep:5 was chasing the Howler, then maybe it simply meant that the crime rate was low enough so they didn’t need his help and were trying to ask him to desist. Whatever the case, and as much as he wanted to deny it, the time had come to let the Howler die. Unfortunately, that meant the Howler could not be used in helping to find the Lost Children.

  Truug apparently noticed Chris’ concern. “What bothers you, Graman?â€� He asked.

  Chris sighed. “It’s just that I was kind of hoping we could use the Howler to find more of the Lost Children. They could look for the Howler, like Justin did, and then we could take them to the Colony from there. Now it’s not an option.â€�

  “That’s a good point,â€� Grayle interjected. “At least two from your list made it into the haunted forest looking for the Howler, and they ended up finding the Colony. Now that the Howlers are around, the Lost Children might try to go for them instead.â€� He looked at Truug. “If we’re going to save any more, we’ll need to get to them first.â€�

  “There’s more to the challenge,â€� Truug added. “The Howlers are now aware of Graman as well as Jolaar. They know what each of you look like in human form, and will be hunting you both.â€�

  “They’ll probably keep their eyes open for Phil as well,â€� Grayle added.

  “We’ve got other people in Dep:118 that can take up the search,â€� Phillip said, “No worries there.â€�

  “But that may not be enough, Phil,â€� Truug replied. “The Howlers will know by now that you both work for Dep:118. They might also keep on the hunt for anyone professing to be from your department.â€�

  Jake signed something for Phillip to translate.

  “Good call, Jake! He says we can leave it up to Dad; he thrives on that kind of challenge anyway.â€�

  Jake nodded, added that devious smile of his, and held two thumbs up in response.

  “But here’s another question,â€� Phillip offered. “What about Melissa? I mean, if she spotted Follanz as one of the suits, then he might recognize her too. If she stays here they’ll probably come after her, and I bet they won’t be so friendly this time, either.â€�

  “Then she has a choice,â€� Truug concluded. “She can come with us, or she can go with you.â€� He turned to look at Melissa directly. “But she cannot stay in Romberg.â€�

  Melissa looked at Truug with concern and trepidation in her eyes. “W-wait; what about my job, and my apartment? What about my family? My hamster?â€�

  “What would a human want a hamster for?â€� Grayle asked rhetorically. He immediately received a warning stare from Truug, and conceded his attempt at levity. “Sorry; bad timing.â€�

  Truug sighed, and then continued. “It would be best to abandon your job and your apartment within the next few days, Melissa. Gather your things, but leave behind anything you can live without; and do not under any circumstances go to your job or your apartment alone.â€�

  Jake signed something.

  “Jake says that we can help with all that,â€� Phillip translated, confirmed by a nod from Jake.

  “Visiting your family might be possible,â€� Truug continued, “but having them visit you away from Romberg would be safer.â€�

  “But where am I going to go?â€� She asked, desperation seeping into her voice.

  “You can either come with us, or go with Phil, Jake, and Graman.â€�

  “Wait a minute,â€� Phillip protested, “I thought humans weren’t allowed in the Haunted Forest. I thought all humans became…â€� And as Truug looked at Phillip with knowing pale blue eyes, sudden understanding swept across Phillip’s face. “Oh.â€�     

  “What?â€� Melissa asked.

  Phillip shrugged empathetically. “Well, if you go with them, it’s with the understanding that you’ll be turned into a hybreed. If you’d rather stay human for now, you might want to stick with us.â€�

  Melissa looked at Truug with a certain level of accusation burning in her eyes. “I think I’ll stay human for now; thanks anyway.â€�

  “It'd probably be best for your hamster if you did,â€� Grayle commented, and another glare from Truug caused him to apologize a second time.

Last edited by Grayle (2008-09-26 14:45:25)

Sorry for the delay, yet again. My computer keeps disconnecting. Anyways, I think you did a fabulous job on these segments.
For the segment before last, I read the last line and I was hooked (Well, I've always been hooked, but you know what I mean). You've done a great job with explanations and not to mention Grayle's jokes. What I love about your story is the complexity of the - how you haven't looked past any minute detail, but added everything the reader needs to know. I deeply envy that ability you have to incorporate such things in your story. Please post more soon and I will keep an eye out for it

Very nice implications of emotions. I like that you point out that she may be losing everything by who she was following, but in the end it was all worth it to gain companionship. I very much admire that about your writing abilities, Grayle, because alot of stories I read are so emotionally devoid that it seems unrealistic. But not yours. You know how to inlcude these essentiall aspects and make it the great story it is.

I loved that. " “All the freaking time!� Shannon groaned loudly,"
You know how to bring humor to the story and it made me laugh pretty hard, believe it or not.
You ended it on a light note and I really enjoy how you portray your characters to have time away from any bad memories or current problems.
Sheesh, I think I might need to add some of your humor to my story. I just need to figure out how. I'm not nearly as witty.
Again, great segment and don't be afraid to post more. I'll be sitting by the computer waiting for it.

I agree with you Punx.  The humor Grayle places in this story is very well done, and it's rolled into the characteristics of his characters.  Without even having to say who was doing the speaking in the begining of this epilouge we already knew who was talking.

I like that we're getting to meet Michelle here.  I'm looking forward to how her presence will expand upon Jake and the relationship between the two of them.

Thank you very much, Punx! Getting the family atmosphere right for Dep:118 was a high priority for me, so it's really great to know that it works so well.
  And thanks to Silent Strider as well! Humour has been tough for me to write. Niktoma really helped me with that, so I owe him for any success with humour. I'm also glad that you appreciate getting to know Michelle finally, but unfortunately, the relationship between her and Jake isn't explored any further in this story. I was thinking of that one for a later story, but I'm still not sure.
  Here's some more.
-----------------------------------------------------------


  Seconds later the door to the conference room opened and Dad walked in. Chris immediately noticed something different about him. His emerald eyes were not as bright as they usually were; he was frowning, and the invisible smoke of stress and frustration seemed to be billowing up from his shoulders and head. After he entered the room he rubbed his forehead and ran his fingers through his full, dirty blond hair, exhaling air from his lungs that had the scent of frustration emanating from it. He took the empty seat at the head of the table and, as he did, he issued a long sigh and leaned back in the chair.

  “I hate politics,â€� he said rhetorically, looking up at one of the posters on the ceiling. He then righted himself and put both hands on the table. “Okay; has Julie told you the plan?â€�

  Most of those in attendance gave an affirmative answer.

  “Thank you for doing that, my love. Well; no one can tell me why nobody in Dep:5 knows anything about what’s going on in Romberg. I don’t want to jump to conclusions, but it doesn’t make me feel very good; it means that anyone going to Romberg should be that much more careful.â€� Dad took a breath. “It also means that we have to be quick and effective at getting the Lost Children, and not all of us are trained for that.â€�

  “You make it sound more like a covert extraction,â€� Rachel commented.

  Dad looked her square in the eye. “That’s exactly how I’m seeing it, Rachel. We need to get the Lost Children out of Romberg quickly and silently. If they don’t want to go, then that’s their choice, but we have to move fast. The faster we move on this, the less potential for complication or danger. I’d like you all to leave for Romberg tomorrow. The jet will take most of you over there, though I’m sure Shannon would like some company on the trip.â€�

  “I’ll go with Shannon,â€� Michelle offered.

  “You’d better,â€� Shannon threatened teasingly.

  “Good; and just so everyone knows, I’m putting other case studies on hold for now until we’re finished with this.â€�

  “Yes!â€� Phillip declared with a closed fist in triumph.

  “Phil, you and Chris are going to provide support from here. Keep the list up to date by the hour – by the minute, if you can.
I’m going to increase your status level on ALAN to priority three, at least for the time being. Don’t abuse it.�

  “You got it,â€� Phillip replied.

  “That reminds me. Chris, talk to Emily when you get the chance. With the help of her contacts in Dep:89, she’s been able to develop an ointment that can counteract low-level silver infection. You can get the details and the ointment from her later on.â€�

  “Wow; really?â€� Chris exclaimed. “Okay, will do. Thanks!â€�

  “Good. Now, I want you all to understand the importance of this on both sides of the equation. If we get this done right, it’s going to show the Office of the Empress that we’re not a joke. I’ve explained to them the situation we’ve run into with Dep:5, and that got their ears perked. Now, along with that, the Empress herself has apparently shown great interest in stories of the Howler, and also the Gang that uses his name, but she only knows what the general public does due to a lack of information. That means Dep:5 has been playing dumb for them, too. They weren’t paying very much attention to the problem before, but thanks to our inquiries they are now, and they’ve given us a little more clout so that we can get some answers for them.â€�

  “The Empress wants to know about the Howler?â€� Chris asked, somewhat flattered.

  “That’s what they said; and who could blame her? I mean, how can you turn down a crime fighting werewolf, right?â€� Dad’s smile returned. “I think Dep:118 just showed up on their radar, so to speak. They want us to give them a report on the Howler and on the Howlers too, if we can manage it. Fortunately, we already have plenty of information on the Howler, and a little on the Howlers, so we’ll just shift our intentions in Romberg a little and get the Lost Children out of there instead.â€�

  A wave of murmurs – some of surprise, some of excitement, and some of trepidation – made its way around the table.

  “Again, if we do this right, it’s going to give us more influence and notice in the Empire itself, and that can actually end up being a good thing. What’s even better, though, is that if we do this right, it’s going to go a very long way in showing the Hybreed that we can be trusted.â€�

  “Amen to that!â€� Phillip said.

  Dad nodded and pointed at Phillip, acknowledging his comment; Chris noticed that Dad’s enthusiasm was slowly coming back into his essence.

  “Now, I’ll be honest; there’s a lot about this circumstance that we don’t know, like who the Howlers are working for. For the time being, we’ll wait for Truug on that issue. Don’t engage the Howlers unless absolutely necessary. We also don’t know what the heck is happening with Dep:5, either, so try to stay out of their hair if you can. That being said, there’s still no reason that we can’t get this done within the week and get out of there, because no one is expecting us to do what we’re about to do. Now, any questions?â€�

  “What about Melissa?â€� Phillip asked. Again.

  Dad shifted his emerald eyes to Melissa. “Well, that one is a little more complex. See, I could approve Chris because he’s a living example of unexplained phenomena; that was easy. In your case, you’re a regular citizen, just like Rachel. It took me months to get Rachel approved, and she was a transfer, not a new hire. What’s more, you don’t yet have qualifications for a position with Dep:118; and from an administrative point of view, that doesn’t help much.â€�

  As Dad took a breath, Phillip unsuccessfully tried to stifle a groan. Melissa was visually showing signs of fighting back her emotions.

  “I did apply to the Office of the Empress for more funding, but they haven’t approved it yet. If we give them info on the Howler and Dep:5, that might expedite matters. Still, it would help if Melissa had some experience in research, or field work, or medical. To that end I’ve asked Martha if she could try to find a job for you along the lines of what we could use.â€� He looked at Melissa directly. “She’s also going to find a place for you to stay.â€�

  “That might actually turn out for the best,â€� Michelle offered as she turned toward Melissa. “They say Culmna City is only for those that can ‘weather the weather,’ and there’s a reason they say that. It would probably be a good idea to make sure you can withstand this place before you take a job with Dep:118.â€�

  “It sounds harsh, but it’s a good point,â€� Julie added. “A lot of people that come here and end up feeling extremely lonely and depressed; most of them end up moving away, eventually. There’s no reason for you to go through that if you don’t have to.â€�

  As the others accepted the point made by the Angel of Loneliness, Chris could not help but wonder if that was one of the reasons she was so often in Culmna City as opposed to the rest of the world. With the way she appeared and disappeared in an instant, one moment in a forest outside of Romberg and the next on a library rooftop, there was no reason to believe that Julie was limited to human methods of transportation. So why would she spend so much time in Culmna? Perhaps she was helping lonely people overcome their loneliness? Perhaps that was one of the reasons Dep:118 stayed in Culmna, for Jake’s benefit as well as Julie’s? Chris would have to ask about that possibility at a later time.

Dad upset? It was such a drastic change in emotions that I was taken aback. I'm not use to seeing Dad perturbed. But I mean this in a good way - a very good way. I felt sympathy (no lie) for Dad's character that he's seems so burdened and overworked and that just reveals how well you've developed his character that you can instill such sympathy in the reader. I liked that scene in particular because it reveals how he also has a harder side to him (not a mean side, if you know what I mean) and his character has been developed so well that I feel pain for his pain.

I also liked the very keen observation of why Julie and Jake perfered to reside in Culmna City, and that Melissa still has options to return to a fairly normal life.
Overall, I am very pleased with the scene and please, please post more whenever you can. My night is free (Besides Smallville @ 6pm )

For some reason, I was laughing aloud at this part:
and finally looked back at Dad. “Ray,� she finished. just the way you described it was hilarious.
As for the scene, I can't wait to see how they'll find all of the Lost Children. I will be here everyday, if not more, looking for an update. I am really anticipating how this will all come to a conclusion.
I also can't wait to see what Dad has to say to Chris. Post more whenever you can. I'll most likely be back on the net in 7 hours (After work)
Can't wait!