You can definitely see where the story is building to this, if this is indeed where Sean begin to learn control over his werewolf form. The reader gets a definite sense of the story eating away and creating pressure on that character.

Still a work in process.

I have another post ready, but first I was wondering if perhaps I should go back and redo the first two chapters, or possibly more.  A while back my wife  was of the opinion I should, but I essentially told her I wasn't going to do any rewrite until I got the first book written all the way through at least once.  It's been quite some time since I've given that idea any consideration, but every now and then it does pop back into my mind, especially when I re-read my material.  Today I had a thought of hearing what my readers had to say and I'm going to put it up to a vote.  I'm setting a quota of at least eleven votes, and the first one has already been made by my wife.  Vote yay or nay.

Although I've only had a couple of people (mrRW and OldWolf) respond since my long hiatus, I know there's more of you guys out there so I don't think ten more votes is an unreasonable amount.  I've seen the amount of views increase quite a bit and I can't believe it's only been from those two and myself.

*shrug*

Well what ever the case for the increase in views I'm at least grateful there are people out there who still occasionally like to see what else is new that I have written.

I'd appreciate the feedback and your input on whether or not you think I should do a rewrite of the first few chapters or continue with new material.  There is a good possibility this post may get buried and forgotten about as a result of few reader responses and my pressing on with the story, but never the less I've thrown it out there to see what comes of it.

Hope to hear from more of you soon before I make my next addition to the story (of which did I mention is ready?)

Last edited by SilentStrider (2014-10-24 00:27:30)

Thanks mrRW!  As always your feedback is awesome!

The next chapter will have more to do with laying the ground work for the bonding ritual.

One of my primary obstacles in planning this part of the story has been Tara's motivation for wanting to create it.  My character's motivation has always been a very important concern to me through out the entire story.  It's a key element to making them feel believable and relatable.  Let me know what you think of how they all present themselves in this chapter and if you feel there are any parts I should change, add, or just doesn't sit well with you.  By the same token I appreciate knowing what works too

I know this part has a lot of dialogue to read through and that may or may not be something that detracts from reading it, but never the less I'd like to know how you guys feel concerning it.  I'm not sure how the final rendition of the story will be and there's a strong possibility if it ever comes to print much of this dialogue will get trimmed down.  So once again enjoy the chance of reading it here before we get to that much later stage of the creation process.

Here's the beginning of Chapter 19!

Read.  Enjoy.  Comment.


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Chapter 19

     It took them another two hours to finish the road trip.  After their first break Chris wasn’t able to go more than fifteen minutes before she warned them her head was starting to ache.  Sean pulled over and just the two of them got out to give her a chance to relax her ability.  He expressed his concern if she’d be able to continue like this, but she told him not to worry about it.  If need be they’d keep doing little hops until they finally made it to the Cormicks.

     They took one more break after another fifteen minute run and luckily, while Chris was resting up, a snow plow went by with several cars following in its wake.  They hurriedly got back in the car and followed suit making the last hour of the trip a lot easier.

     Dawn got on the cellphone at about two in the morning and risked a call to her parents, hoping she didn’t wake them up.  As it turned out her mother wasn’t able to sleep and was worried about them making it safely.  She also told them that her father was on the road plowing streets and helping out a few people that had gotten stuck in the storm.  He had told her he was taking care of the east side of town and going as far out as he could in hopes of making the last leg of their trip safer.

     Soon afterward Sean was pulling the Lincoln into the recently plowed driveway of the Cormicks.  There were a bunch of multi-colored lights decorating the bushes along the driveway, going up the railing of the deck and along the edge of the house.  In addition there were also some lawn decorations that were half buried in the deep snow drifts, but the decoration Sean liked the most was the pine tree seen in the bay window that had lights and ornaments hanging from its branches.  He thought about how he had helped with setting it up right after Thanksgiving and how in the end of his time spent here he was made welcomed as though he was family.  The thought of family put a warm smile on his face that he kept to himself.

     After he parked the four of them quickly unloaded the car, taking everything inside in one trip.  Since Serenity was comfortable in Dawn’s lap Sean insisted she kept two hands on the cat when she brought her in and he would carry all of her things.

     Lily greeted them all at the door, holding it open for them.  When she went to hug Dawn she was only slightly surprised she was holding a cat nestled in her arms.  Serenity was released and Sean reassured Dawn’s mother that he took full responsibility for the feline and was going to get her set up in the room he had slept in last time he was here.  Lily told him not to worry about it.  She was more than used to animals and she had faith Sean was mature enough to handle his pet.

     When he returned Lily and the girls were in the kitchen enjoying warm cups of hot chocolate and there was an extra one waiting for him.  Evidently, Sean suspected, this was something of a tradition since it was what she had done when they were last here.  Tara returned the same time he entered.  Evidently she was thoughtful enough to get Chris some headache medicine before she started complaining about how her head felt now that she could rest properly.

     The room was pleasantly warm and the smell of a spiced ham was slowly being cooked in a large crock pot along with another scent, likely pumpkin pie in one of the double stacked oven.  His mouth involuntarily salivated at the delicious smells and he only then realized how hungry he actually was.  An embarrassing gurgle sound came from his stomach, loud enough to make the others pause in mid conversation and laugh in surprise.

     â€œOh dear,â€� Lily exclaimed as she stood up from the kitchen table. “It didn’t occur to me how hungry you all must be.  It’s just at this late of an hour I’m not thinking about meals.  I’ll have something whipped up for you in a city minute.â€�

     He was about to tell her he was fine and how he didn’t want to impose, but by now he had a better sense of how Dawn’s family was and to say to Lily not to bother would be an insult.  So when she heated up a large tray of spaghetti and meatballs for everyone he extended his thanks and showed appreciation by digging in.

     â€œJoe and I helped out with a church convention the other night and there were plenty of left overs to bring home.  He insisted on grabbing Mrs. Balementi’s spaghetti and meatballs, and don’t you worry none about eating your fill.  There’s still plenty for him in another container for when he gets home later.â€�

     They continued with idle chat, winding down from the tension they were all feeling from the past few hours.  Chris only ate half of what was on her plate and then politely excused herself to go lay down.  Sean couldn’t blame her.  In fact he was surprised she hadn’t fallen over yet from exerting her talent so hard.

     While they relaxed Lily called her husband who was still on the road to let him know his daughter and friends had made it home safely.  She relayed to the rest of them he was glad to hear the news and would be home in a couple of hours.

     When their dishes were finished Lily gathered them up, quickly rinsing them in the sink then said they should all go ahead to bed; it was already very late.  She grabbed her jacket saying she was going to check on the animals before she laid down, and Dawn was quick to her feet offering to go with her.  Her eagerness made Sean think she wanted to talk to her mom privately.

     He considered offering his help anyway thinking the place was large enough for him to keep his distance if they had something to talk about, but as he rose from his seat at the kitchen table Tara, who was sitting next to him on the inside of the bench, placed a hand on his arm, suggesting he stayed a moment.  He eyed her, suspecting Dawn was leaving for his benefit and not the other way around.

     â€œSo… you want to talk to me about something?â€� he asked after the other two had left the house.

     â€œYea.  It’s about what I’d like to do to help you.â€�

     â€œHmmph,â€� he smirked with a disbelieving shake of his head. “You know… every time I hear that from you something unpleasant winds up happening to me.â€�

     â€œNo.  No.  This is nothing like that this time.â€�

     He looked back at her skeptically.

     She met his gaze and said, “Trust me.â€�

     â€œOh,â€� he spoke with an edge of sarcasm, “I trust you alright.â€�

     â€œFine.  Just… listen.â€�

     He relaxed his gaze and she looked away, preparing what she wanted to say.  He waited patiently, studying her body language, looking for any hints of how she truly felt and ready to pick up what she didn’t want to elaborate on.

     Finally she looked back.

     â€œWhat I have planned requires the participation of all four of us, and it’s… well… sort of my gift to you, which quickly turned into a gift from all of us, but it also needs to be something you’re okay with.  This is why I’m talking to you now and not leaving it as a surprise.  The others have already given their consent to try this and now… I just need yours.â€�

     â€œThey’ve consented?  What do you mean?  What’re you planning?â€�

     â€œIt’s…,â€� she exhaled deeply, “it’s a bonding ritual.â€�

     â€œA what?â€�

     â€œSimply put… it’s a spiritual ritual that will connect us.â€�

     â€œHang on a second!â€� he reacted in surprise. “Connect us!?  If that’s entailing what I think you mean then there’s nothing simple about that.â€�

     â€œI know you’re probably thinking this isn’t a good idea, but give me a chance to explain.â€� She gave him a moment to reign in his reaction before continuing.

     â€œYou’re reaching a critical age physically and psychologically as a were.  What I mean is that you’re in a state of imbalance and quickly approaching a point in which one way or another that imbalance will be corrected.  What we did for you, forcing you to change back, was a temp fix.  You understand that… yes?â€�

     â€œYea I know.â€�

     â€œIf we have to try that again we might not be so lucky.â€�

     Sean spent a few seconds recalling what he could of that experience.  He was the one at fault for it.  If he had gone to his friends sooner, and been more open with what was going on, together they might have been able to stave off his unwilling transformation and come up with an alternative way for him to cope with what was happening to him.

     After mulling the past over he finally asked,“How much time do you think I have?â€�

     Tara frowned disconcertingly. “Not enough to take care of you the right way.â€�

     â€œWhat’s the right way?â€�

     â€œYour entire problem is psychological and the best way to merge your separate identities is by helping you come to terms with the reasons you have them.â€�

     His eyes flickered and twitched with obvious discomfort despite his effort to remain emotionless.  The whole idea of another individual sharing the same space inside his head and one that was threatening to usurp possibly even destroy his identity unnerved him.

     â€œThe personality that encompasses the werewolf side of you exists to fight and protect,â€� she continued. “It represents survival.  In your mind you rely and need that power to overcome the obstacles in your life, to continue existing, but that same power is also linked to a lot of pain and fear.  So to insulate your identity you’ve allowed it to become it’s own individual.  That animal side can’t function in everyday life.  It needs, ‘Sean’ to cope with nuances and complications of civilization, which in some ways I imagine are frightful and intimidating to it.  You may not be able to feel the amount of pressure building, but your psych can’t handle the strain of two separate identities.  The only recourse is for one of them to become dominate or they merge into one whole identity.â€�

     â€œMerging?  That sounds more appealing.  How do I do that?â€�

     â€œIn a manner of speaking you’ve been working on that, just not very well.  Let me rephrase that… both of your identities have been working on merging, but with the idea of two different end results.  The animal side of you has been exerting its dominance.  Its more aggressive and will bury your human identity.  Your human idea of merging is the two of you balancing out into a single personality, but that approach is more gentle and requires time and finesse.â€�

     â€œWhat if I'm more aggressive with learning how to merge my personalities.  I mean what if I devote all my time to this?â€�

     â€œYou don’t understand.  It doesn’t work like that.  It takes time for the lessons and concepts to set in.  We’re talking weeks to lay the groundwork and give you the mental tools to attempt this, and then several more weeks of controlled sessions.  You don’t exactly have an abundant of options.  I thought you might have had a month at best, but seeing how you were on our way here… I’m not so sure now.  It could be a week.  Maybe less.  We could possibly add more time if we repeat the process of forcing you back into being human, but the more we do that the more primitive your mental state will become.  We need to do something that will have a more immediate effect, and I honestly feel this is the safest and best course of action.â€�

     Sean was quiet, allowing what she had told him to sink in.  Even though he understood what she was telling him it was still very difficult accepting it.  He wished he could just deny the whole problem.  It was ridiculous that at some point in his life he had somehow decided he needed to be two separate people, or rather a person and an animal.  Why couldn’t he simply make a conscientious decision to stop being like that and move on.

     â€œI’m sorry Sean.  You just don’t have that kind of time left.â€�

     Anger suddenly flashed across his eyes, and for a brief instant Tara looked like a startled creature ready to take flight, but she exerted her will and maintained composure.

     Fortunately the anger wasn’t directed at her; it was Gregor.

     â€œWhat I don’t get,â€� he began, turning his head to look forward and removing Tara from his cross-hairs, “is why my uncle didn’t do something about this?   Why didn’t he warn me?â€�

     â€œI think he did what he could to help you.  Granted there are aspects to your situation I don’t completely know about, not like I suspect your uncle does, but I’m pretty sure he’s done everything he could.  If you have some way of getting in touch with him perhaps he can give you options I can’t.â€�

     â€œI thought you didn’t trust vampires.â€�

     â€œI don’t, and I’d rather you not allow him to meddle around with your mind any more than he already has, but ultimately it’s your call to make.â€�

     â€œThere’s nothing Chris can do, is there?â€� he asked, looking back at her, trying to sound hopeful, but coming across with an edge of anger still to his voice.

     Tara shook her head. “She’s a gifted telepath, but she’d need a surgeons hand so to speak to even come close to what your uncle did for you.  Maybe one day she might have that kind of skill, but she’s a ways off from that.â€�

     â€œI guess it’s stupid of me to even ask,â€� Sean added, sagging his shoulders and turning his gaze down to the table.  It looked as though he was giving up, but really that was only a part of it.  He was mostly trying to disconnect with the emotional flare of hatred.

     "The last thing I'd want," he continued, "is for her to get hurt by any other mind  traps my uncle may have left behind."

     His last comment gave him pause.  He originally presumed the mind trap they had triggered was placed as a protective measure against any unwilling mental probes.  Perhaps Gregor had the Veil in mind when he placed them, but now Sean had to wonder if there was an alternative reason.  What if there were things in his head Gregor didn't want him to know about?  Secrets about his uncle that, if he knew, would make him seem less than the caring benefactor he had grown up knowing and more like the monster Tara feared all vampires were.

     That avenue of thought led to more disturbing questions.  It was a distraction he couldn't afford right now so he decided it best to leave for later.  Only after he returned his thoughts to the current issue did he realize Tara was patiently watching him, looking for hints as to what he was brooding about as well as how stable he was.  Underneath the cool calm mask she portrayed there was the slightest hint of fear.

     Fear of him.

     That single realization struck home more than anything else.  Guilt and shame shadowed over the burning in his heart and the plague of suspicion.  He was a danger to the people he cared about.  A monster.  How many steps further were there before he resembled the creature that originally bit him?

     â€œSo..." he forced himself to speak, breaking up the current line of thought and returning to the matter at hand. "Explain this bonding ritual.  How is it supposed to work?â€�

     â€œIt’s actually very simple," Tara picked up the conversation like it had never stopped. "It’s based off the primal elements that connect us all together.  Essentially each of us takes a small portion from ourselves representing each element and during the ritual it gets mixed together.  The physical properties are consumed leaving behind the blended essence which returns to us.â€�

     She made it sound  very plain and straight forward, but her quick explanation wasn't enough for him.

     â€œHow does it affect us afterward?  Exactly how are we connected?â€�

     â€œIt’s a very basic connection.  Nothing on the level of being able to read each others minds.â€� She waved a hand dismissing the idea. “It’s more like we’ll be able to sense the presence of one another.  Sort of like a sixth sense that says, ‘you are here’.  We might be able to get a sense of how we’re feeling, but only at a very close range.  Other than that… well… there’s nothing else.â€�

     â€œAnd this is going to help me… how?â€�

     â€œThe next time you transform we’ll all be close by.  Our presence, our combined concentration will help you retain your human self during and after the transformation.  You’ll be you in the body of your werewolf-self.â€�

     â€œAnd there’s the catch.â€�

     â€œWhat do you mean?â€�

     â€œYou said ‘our combined will’.  That implies there’s more to this Bond than what you described.â€�

     â€œYea. Well that part is a little harder to explain,â€� she surrendered with a sigh. "The easiest way to say it is this Bond connects our souls, life energy, whatever you want to call it.  Through it we can exert our influence in a combined effort toward a singular goal.â€�

     â€œAnd this ‘influence’ is it directed by a single person within the bond?" he asked, not liking the implications. "The others don’t have control?â€�

     â€œNo.  Each of us retains our own individuality.  We have to be unanimous in whatever we’re focusing on.  If we aren’t then any effort we put in will amount to nothing.  As long as you want… need to retain your human consciousness then the three of us can boost your attempt and get you there.â€�

     Sean digested the information, absorbing it all and imagining what it would be like as it happened.  He was quick to realize another issue.

     â€œThe other thing I don’t like is how close you’ll be while I change.  And before you even imply it… no!  I’m not making a point about decency.  It’s the fact that there’s no guarantee any of this will work.  I could still lose it and wind up hurting you.â€�

     â€œIf it makes you feel any better we could confine you or do something to shield ourselves, but I honestly don’t believe it’ll be necessary.â€�

     â€œHow can you say that?â€�

     â€œI’ve done my homework," she responded defensively. "I found examples of this being done in other situations.â€�

     â€œYou mean... other were creatures?â€�

     â€œWell…," she hesitated, "not exactly."

     He narrowed his eyes at her not liking how she seemed to keep dodging the full explanation of this bonding ritual they had planned for him.

     "But the same principals apply," Tara hurriedly continued before Sean could interject his concern. "Circles are often created to pool magical powers in order to pull off larger spells that normally a single individual could never do by themselves.  Circles can also be created to fine tune one’s ability and allow them to do more precise work.  Spell casters do this quite often.â€�

     â€œTara…,â€� he began, but she quickly interrupted.

     â€œI know what you’re going to say that this has nothing to do with casting a spell, but you’re wrong.  I remembered how you said this werewolf that bit you seemed to have been summoned, and do you remember how I said you don’t do that sort of thing unless you’re dealing with spirits or extraplanars?â€�

     He said nothing and she took his silence as an affirmation.

     â€œYou weren’t bitten by a normal werewolf.  You were bitten by a spiritual aspect of one.  When you transform it isn’t just physical.  It’s metaphysical too.â€�

     Sean still said nothing, but he looked thoughtful in consideration of what she was saying.

     â€œAlmost all were-creatures that exist are purely biological.  There are a few exceptions, but the few that have metaphysical traits are rare and they often have very little of it.  As an example occasionally there’ll be a were-creature born that can spread their trait by biting, or have supernatural strength even greater than what the norm is.  I hear there are even a few cases able to transform into a full wolf in addition to their werewolf form.â€�

     â€œSo are you saying I might be able to infect someone if I bit them?â€�

     â€œI wouldn’t use the term, ‘infect’, but that’s beside the point,â€� she said waving her hands about emphatically. “The point is every time you change there’s an element of magic to it, and if that’s true I can use that to help guide you.  We can help guide you.â€�

     â€œWhy not just you?  You’re the one who can wield magic.  Why do Chris and Dawn need to risk themselves in this too?â€�

     â€œYou only need one person with magical talent to initiate the circle the rest has to do with numbers and connections.  The more in a circle the greater the collective will and the more likely we are to get our desired results.  Also if there’s a common connection existing before the circle is formed then there’s a foundation for a bond to be made that can continue to last long after the circle is broken.â€�

     â€œAnd the Bond is so we don’t have to keep on creating the circle every time I change.  That means you think this is going to take me a lot more than just one try.â€�

     â€œYea.  And the bond will slowly fade over time which will give you a chance to wean off of it.â€�

     â€œThis Bond doesn't just connect me to the three of you, does it?  It connects all of us to each other too.â€�

     Tara nodded her head.

     â€œAnd you’re all okay with this?â€�

     â€œYes.â€�

     â€œI think I want to talk to them first before I agree to it.â€�

     â€œI completely understand.â€�

     "I need to ask you something about all this and it's very important to me you're straight forward and honest about it."

     She stared straight back at him with stiff apprehension on her face. "Of course," she managed to say.

     "Is there anything about this bonding ritual you aren't telling me for any reason?"

     Her face remained blank and very neutral.  After a second or two she responded with a shake of her head.

     "Tara?"

     "Gahh!" she lifted her open hands up to either side expressing her frustration and wishing she didn't have to give any further explanation.

     "I don't want to lie to you, “she gave in. “I have unanswered questions and doubts about some of the long term aspects to this, but overall the benefits greatly outweigh the risks.  We're talking about saving your life."

     "No.  Not my life.  My human Identity.  Let's be clear on that."

     "Fine," she consented. "Granted, but essentially still the same point.  We're talking about you.  Sean.  If we don't try this then the person you are... disappears.  It's the same thing as dying."

     "If there are risks you're not telling me then I have to know what they are if you want me to go along with this plan of yours."

     Tara covered her face, hiding an expression he thought to be of helplessness.  She didn't want to give him an  answer in fear he'd  decline the option she was offering.  Likely it was her opinion the best, most surest way of helping him, which was along the lines of, “the less he knew, the better off he wasâ€�.  She didn't want him to disappear into the identity of his animal self.

     "Hey," he said as he reached for her hands and gently pulled them away from her face. "I know you want to help, and that this is really important to you, but don't make it worse by asking me to go into it blindly.  That's not fair."

     Her face cracked.  She frowned and her eyes squinted as if confessing what she knew was too painful.  She pulled feebly at her hands wanting to hide her face behind them again, but he held onto them.  Not too hard.  He held her hands firmly, but gently.  She could wrench them free if she wanted and he'd let her, but it wasn't his physical strength that held her.

     "I...,"she started and shook her head slightly to the left and right in denial. "I'll tell you and then you'll say no.  That it's not worth the risk and then..." She stopped shaking her head and looked him straight in the eyes.  There, as plain as day he could see her on the precipice of grief and despair. "There's nothing else I can do.  You don't have time.  I don't have anyone else I can get help from.  I'm limited with how much magic I can use.  I don't know where else to look for answers.  If I don't try this then... that's it."

     Sean kept holding her hands, not letting go.  He remained quiet for a moment absorbing what she told him.

     "It'll be okay Tara.  If," he stressed that single word and let it hang in the air, "there are consequences, a burden to bear, then we do it together.  That's the way it's got to be.  The only way I can agree to."

     "Okay,â€� she responded delicately like a flower petal falling to the floor.

     She steadied herself and prepared to tell him what she wanted to avoid.

     "I was trying to only tell you what I was certain about.  The rest is theoretically and guess work.  Basically... my fear is... if we are connected, during the brief time the bond exists, that might make all four of us targets to that werewolf spirit."

     The sliver of hope Sean had shriveled.  She was right.  He couldn't agree to it if it meant that thing could potentially come after them too.

     "But it's just a chance,â€� she insisted in a hurry before his doubt firmly set in. “It may not be that way at all, and in case it is I can fashion a charm to camouflage our auras much like I did for Dawn.  And this bond is also temporary like I said.  It'll fade away in a couple of months at the latest."

     He sat there frozen, not sure how to feel.  He knew he should say no, but that would....  Would what?  Bring her to tears?  Was she about to cry over him?  With that thought he couldn't decide which was worse, losing his identity or making the little wizard in front of him cry.

     "I know how afraid you are of that monster,â€� she added in the midst of his hesitation. “I feared if you knew what I figured to be only a possibility you wouldn't go through with this."

     "You're right,â€� he responded, trying to be callous, but failing.

     He could see the hope in her eyes ready to burn out as she was about to turn her head away and give up.  She truly believed there were no other viable options for him, and she was looking at, for all intents and purposes, a dead man.

     Damn!  He couldn't say no.  His resolve for the original plan to leave was falling apart, yet again.  He knew it was now only a matter of time before he agreed to this, but saying yes so soon felt wrong.  He had to allow himself some time to get a little perspective before settling on a final answer of which he probably already knew.

     "Let me think about it.  Okay?"

     It wasn't a yes, but it was enough to rekindle that little spark of hope he saw in her eye and the hint of a smile.

Last edited by SilentStrider (2014-10-25 15:38:42)

Thanks mrRW!  That's reassuring for me to hear you say that.  His transformation is both metaphysical and physical.  I guess since this bond is such an integral part of the story and these characters it should be appropriate to allow the time to set it up. 

When I'm writing I usually like to just plow ahead without concern to how much material I'm putting down.  The fewer constraints I place on myself the better I feel about what comes out of me.  It isn't until after I have it written on paper, or more in case on the computer, do I start to reconsider what I've chosen to write and wonder if it's too much.  I've stopped myself from doing that mostly, but I still try and review everything before I put it up here at the werewolf cafe, and more often than not I wind up adding tidbits here and there to try and address things that are going on in the story that I feel would be important to my characters.

A good example is that scene where Chris had scratched herself all bloody thinking she had bugs crawling all over her after she caught the brunt of a telepathic trap Gregor left behind in Sean's mind.  In the aftermath of that scene I had forgotten to have my characters react to the bloody mess I'm sure Chris was in so I considered it very important to go back and add to the story in that regard.  There have been many other instances, but I often catch them before I post.

The next two sections are going to have Sean getting Dawn's and Chris take on the bond and how they feel about it.  He's having a hard time reconciling with going through with it, and wants to get their input.  Then after that there might be one more post before the bonding ritual is performed and the connection between them all is established and we get to see how it affects them

Last edited by SilentStrider (2014-10-28 15:44:15)

Alright!  Here's the next update.  I think I got most of the kinks knocked out of it, at least enough where it should flow smoothly to enjoy reading.  There may be a few little things I'll go back and change around, like the way a particular sentence was said or the way in which I constructed a paragraph or two, but I got the essence of it down.  So here you go.

Read.  Enjoy.  Comment.

Oh yea!  That's right!  I thought about the instant after I clicked the okay to post.  I have to work out some of the time issues in which everything takes place.  The order of which people are coming and going, the time length in which the Macy's parade is, and the time of day in which they all sit down to eat.  You may not get what I'm saying right now but it'll become apparent as you read, unless I fix it first before you get to that point.


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     Dawn and her mother came back in through the front door and both he and Tara got up from the table when they heard them enter.  They stomped the snow off their boots just outside and hung their jackets up on some wooden pegs on the wall near the front door.  Lily smiled at them as she entered the kitchen letting them know the animals were staying warm and she went over to the double oven to check on the top one.  It had the pie in it that Sean had been smelling, and she took it out setting it on the counter and covering it with a glass top made for the dish.

     Lily said she was going to lay down for a few hours and recommended they do the same.  Tara yawned in agreement, and happily told them all merry Christmas Eve before heading off to her room, but Dawn said she wasn’t sleepy yet and wanted to watch the Macy’s parade.  During the car ride he remembered her telling them it was like a family tradition to watch it all together, but the snowstorm had disrupted the timing on everything.  Lily apologized for being too exhausted to stay up and watch it with her this time, but Sean told her not to worry he’d fill in.  Lily thanked him, saying he was sweet, and gave her daughter some instructions on what to prep next for the Christmas Eve dinner, what to keep an eye on, and when to wake her up before she finally walked down the hallway to bed.

     Dawn went through the kitchen cabinets getting a few pots out and doing some of the prep work for what had to be done later.  There wasn’t much Sean could do to help, but he offered anyway and got a basic idea of what to expect.

     As they were finishing up in the kitchen the darkness outside was turning into a light white-grey and they could see through the windows the snow was still coming down heavily.  Outside in the front they heard a large truck engine pull up in the driveway and Dawn’s face lit up as she excitedly ran to the front bay window in the family room.  Her father had gotten home and when Sean looked out the window with her he saw a large truck with a snow plow attached clearing the snow out of the driveway.

     When Mr. Cormick at last came to a stop and turned off the truck engine Dawn could no longer wait for him and she headed out the front door to meet her father before he came inside.  She collided into him on the deck ramp in a big hug with enough force to knock most men backwards, but Joe was much larger than most men and didn’t budge an inch, even on the icy ramp.

     Joe laughed out loud as he wrapped his two large arms around her. “Pumpkin!  I’m glad you made it home safe.â€� With the smile in his eyes and what could barely be seen through his beard, Sean imagined he’d make a great look alike for a Santa Clause.  A very tall and broad Santa Clause.

     Sean waited for them both just outside by the door and held it open for them.  Joe greeted Sean and shook his hand after they were all back in the warm home.  Noticing the lack of people he quietly asked where everyone else was, in particular his wife.  Dawn told him they were all sleeping.  She also gave him a brief rundown of what time they had gotten home, the animals had been checked on, and she was minding the kitchen while her mom slept.

     Joe told her once again how grateful he was she was home safe and gave her a kiss on the forehead.  Since it looked she had the food under control he was going to go get some shut eye, and before he left he gave Sean a pointed look without Dawn seeing.  Sean nodded his head in understanding of the fatherly warning.

     A few minutes later the two of them were in the living room where Dawn grabbed a snuggy blanket from the back of the couch and stuck her arms into it before settling down.  She tucked her legs up under herself and took the remote out from under the flip up cushion of the arm to turn the TV on and flip it to channel five where the parade had already begun.  Sean sat down in the swivel recliner next to her and did his best to relax, or at least appear to be relaxed.  What he and Tara had just talked about was still very fresh on his mind, and he wanted a chance to mull it over before using this time to talk it over with Dawn. 

     New York was late in getting hit by the snowstorm and it didn’t look like they were going to have as severe of a snowfall.  As they watch the different parade floats, bands, and giant balloons they reminisced about the past parades they saw, Dawn with Tara and her family, Sean with the Rosenblatts.  After a while he realized there was an uncomfortable edge he felt while in Dawn’s presence.

     She was one of those girls who didn’t realize how beautiful she was and her innocence added to the.  She was sweet, kind hearted and impossible not to like.  Of course he was attracted to her, but he didn’t feel like the timing was right for him.  He suspected she was attracted to him too, although that wasn’t something he’d ask her.  He was more comfortable just letting it be the it was.

     During a lull their casual conversation he asked, “What do your parents like to do?â€�

     â€œYou mean like hobbies or for fun?â€� she verified, looking comfortably warm all curled up in the blanket and ready to doze off.

     â€œYea.â€�

     â€œWell… my dad likes woodworking when he has the time.  My mom used to like horseback riding a lot,â€� her voice sounded a little sad, “but as she’s gotten older her back has gotten worse so she can’t do it as much as she used to.â€�

     â€œHmmm,â€� he hummed thoughtfully.  He was searching for an idea of what he might be able to do, make or get for her parents as a holiday gift even though it was really late to even be trying, but still if he could think of something then he’d try.

     â€œAre you trying to figure out a gift for them?â€�

     â€œYea.â€�

     Dawn smiled warmly. “Don't worry about it.  As long as you’re a good guest they'll be happy.â€�

     Her demeanor made him feel even more comfortable and relaxed.  It was a gift she had.  One that made him not worry about having to keep his emotions wrapped and compartmentalized.

     â€œI know, but I'd still like to try and come up with something.  I wasn't prepared to be here although I probably should've known better.  Do you have any ideas?â€�

     â€œYou should just relax and enjoy the time off, but if I come up with any ideas I'll let you know.â€�

     They were quiet for a short while, listening to the commentary about one of the giant balloons and Sean could see her eye lids getting heavier.  If he was going to talk to her about what the three of them had planned now was better than later.  He steadied himself and opened up the conversation.

     â€œSo... Tara told me about the bonding ritual you guys are planning.â€�

     â€œShe told you?!,â€� she said in disbelief, twisting her body to see him better with her eyes opening wider. “That was supposed to be surprise I thought.â€�

     â€œShe thought it wiser to give me a heads up.â€�

     â€œYea,â€� she resettled. “I guess that’s probably better.â€�

     â€œHow do you feel about it?â€�

     â€œI...good I guess,â€� she stammered as though she wasn't prepared to discuss the topic fully. "I mean this is something that could really help you out so I think it's important we do this.â€�

     â€œBut do you understand exactly how this bonding is going to work?â€�

     â€œYea.  T told us all about it.â€�

     â€œAnd you're still okay with it?â€�

     â€œYea.  Why wouldn't I be?â€�

     "Did she discuss with both of you the risks involved?"

     "Umm… what risks?," she responded, deliberately avoiding looking at him, while staring too intently at the television, and fidgeting with her hands underneath the sleeves of the blanket.  She was the worst liar he'd ever seen and doubted she could do so to save her life.  It almost made him laugh with how endearing it made her look.

     "Dawn... really?" he stared at her doing his best to not show amusement and maintain an appearance of disappointment.  He sighed heavily bringing his fingertips up to his forehead to cover up his wavering expression and wondering how far he'd have to go to ferret out everything they were scheming about without his knowledge.

     "Look, I can't lie to you, but T told us that it was better if we didn't talk to you about any of this.  Otherwise you'd probably not let us help."

     "While you and your mother were outside Tara and I talked." He did his best to look stern, but it was difficult putting her under the false pressure.  She was too kind of a person to do that to. "She didn't want to tell me everything about the bonding ritual, but I wasn't going to go along with it if she didn't, and if there's anything else you know that she neglected to say it's best if you tell me now because...." He had to look away.  His insides were starting to feel twisted with the thought of the mild manipulation he was doing to her. "...I will not be happy otherwise."

     "Sean," she pleaded, staring at him with large kitten-like eyes, "you have to understand how serious this is for you.  If we don't..."

     "I know," he interrupted her. "If I don't say yes then I'm basically out of time.  I'm out of options."

     He leaned forward in the chair hanging his head low, and he could feel the weight of her saddened eyes staring at him from the side.  He remained that way for a while and she helplessly looked on, not knowing what to say, the only sound being the low volume of the TV.

     Finally he said, "Tara gave me a run down on how the ritual would allow the rest of you to help me keep my awareness when I change.  She told me this bonding would connect our lives, our souls.  We would basically get a sense of location from each other and if we are very close could possibly have a sense of what we're each feeling.  The biggest Issue I had was when she told me there was a possibility the beast that hunts me might target the three of you as well."

     He leveled his gaze at her as he spoke that last sentence, stressing it was a big problem to him, and with it Dawn looked relieved she didn’t have to continue lying.  Deception disagreed with her nature.

     â€œThat’s it,â€� she said with a sigh. “That’s the thing she told us would make you say no if you found out.â€� She looked back in the direction of the TV, but not at it. “So…â€�she continued after an awkward pause, “does that mean we’re not doing this thing now.â€�

     It was obvious what his answer meant to her.  She wore her heart dangling from her sleeve and the tension was visible by how stiffly she sat holding her breath.  He knew saying no would crush her and his heart dropped into the pit of his stomach with the thought of him being responsible for making her cry.

     â€œLook… I’m not saying no, but you got to admit… this isn’t a small decision.  We all have to give this serious consideration and how it will affect us overall, not just the case of inheriting my dangers.â€�

     â€œI know.  We have been.  Tara first mentioned this to us a couple of weeks ago and we’ve been kicking it around since.â€�

     His eyes nearly popped out of his head when she mentioned how long ago they had started this plan.  He had no idea they were planning this.  It had been in the works for a while and they didn’t even mention it to him.

     â€œDon’t take it the wrong way,â€� she reacted to his look of surprise. “In the beginning it was just an option; one that seemed very unlikely, but now… things are different.  T is really concerned for you and so am I and Chris.â€�

     â€œWell, maybe since you’ve had so long to consider this answering my questions will be easier.â€�

     She stared at him, waiting to hear what he’d ask.

     â€œOutside of how it will help me I want to know how it will affect each of us.  What do you think it’ll be like to be connected to me as well as Tara and Chris.â€�

     â€œOh.  I haven’t thought about them as much as you, but… you know…. I really have no idea what this is going to be like,â€� she said, shaking her head and looking thoughtful. “Don’t get me wrong.  I tried to imagine it ever since T gave it to us as a possibility, and, I admit, I thought it would be an awesome idea, but the more we talked about it the more I wasn’t so happy about the plan.  Especially when we figured that giant monster might target us if we went through with this.  I mean… that’s scary, but after I got over the initial shock of it, and the more it became apparent how much trouble you were in… I mean… are in, it wasn’t even a choice then.â€�

     â€œWhy?â€�

     â€œIf I don’t try to do something now, when it matters, and you pay the price for it the end, then I have to live with myself and the choice I made.  Knowing I can do something to help you right now and not taking that chance… I can’t not try.â€�

     â€œEven if that means you could get killed as a result?â€�

     â€œI don’t want to die if I can help it, but I’d rather stand with my friends than live alone as a coward.â€�

     â€œAnd that’s the only thing about the bond that has you concerned?â€�

     She looked away from him, biting her lower lip nervously.  Sean waited patiently to see if she’d speak what was on her mind or ignore the question altogether.

     â€œI’m nervous for other reasons too, but it’s petty when compared to your life.â€�

     She was quiet again for nearly half a minute before saying another word.

     â€œI thought about it a lot, what it would be like being connected to you, and I thought… I don’t know… I might find it disturbing.â€� She winced when the words left her mouth. “Terrible things have happened to you, and... it can't be easy to have stuff like that on your soul.  It leaves a mark and shapes you, and I guess that's why Tara and Chris act like there's a darkness around you.  But there’s good in you too.  You have a good heart and I believe in you.  I'm sure if it was any of us in a similar situation you wouldn't hesitate to help so how could I do any less.â€�

     â€œYea.  You got me there.  Doesn’t mean I like you risking your life for mine, but I can’t argue it.â€�

     â€œDon’t forget it’s all just a possibility.  That’s what T said.  That monster might not even be attracted to us.  So we could be worried about this for nothing, and anything else by comparison is small.  The bottom line is I have a friend who’s in trouble and I can do something to help if he lets me.  I know what I’m doing is right.  I just have to have faith it’ll all work out.â€�

     They both sat there for a while, neither one of them saying another word and staring at the television without watching it.  He didn’t know what thoughts Dawn was lost in, but his were of what she had told him.  She was straight forward and honest, her answers were simple.  He wasn't entirely certain she had her mind fully wrapped around what this bonding was going to feel like, but he knew she had the conviction to see it through despite the potential danger.

     He pondered the source of her conviction and realized it wasn't bravery.  She was scared.  She admitted that.  Scared for him.  Scared for herself.  Scared for her friends.  What gave her strength to move past that fear was her love for them all.  That single realization lifted his heart and left it somewhere in his throat.  It took him a while before he could speak again.

     â€œDawn... you are the kindest, most generous person I have ever met.â€� He turned his head to look at her face just as she did. “Thank you.â€�

     Her cheeks brightened and a hopeful smile lit up her face.

     â€œDoes that mean you're willing to go through with the bonding?â€�

     Her positive spirit touched his and he couldn't deny a momentary smile of his own.

     â€œMost likely.  Yes.  I just want a little more time to... make sure I'm ready for this.â€�

     â€œI understand.â€� She reached over to him where his hand was resting on the arm of the chair and put her hand on his. “I'm here for you.  We all are.â€�

     He could feel that lump reform in his throat and he prayed he wasn't about to face another uncontrollable emotional outburst.  He concentrated on his breathing making sure it stayed even.  The feeling was intense for a few seconds, but ebbed to something calmer and warm.

     He never in a million years imagined he'd be so lucky as to have friends like these.  They stayed like that, peacefully watching the Macy's parade with the sound coming from the flat screen acting like white noise. 

     It didn't take long for Dawn's eyes to fully shut and sleep to take over.  Once her breathing steadied he dared to gaze upon her, and the hand she had offered to console him with.  It was so soft and light, yet he felt every square inch as if it were heavier than it actually was.  He traced the length of her arm with his eyes until he fell upon her face.  Her hair laid about her head in golden waves with a single lock that had fallen out of place resting close to her mouth.  He stared at her, admiring how peaceful she looked.  In his eyes she looked every bit the angel.

     She understood how weak and vulnerable he truly was.  She had also come to know of his grief and pain and how it left him broken.  She had seen the darkness that was a part of him, the violence, how he had killed, and the destructive force he could become, and yet despite all that still believed he was good.  When he had lost control and was stuck in his werewolf form she wasn't afraid.  She confronted the beast he was with kindness and laughter and he was helpless against it.

     She saw not a monster, but a noble soul, one with a good heart willing to put others before himself.  Most importantly she believed in him.  Trusted, that no matter what, he'd do what was right.  She inspired him and gave him strength he didn't know he had to rise above the pain and despair that had poisoned his life and to become a better man.  He didn't know if he could live up to her expectations, but he'd rather suffer than have her look at him with disappointment.

     Her faith and willingness to help made him think that maybe he could have tomorrow.

     Maybe... somehow... with the four of them... anything was possible.

Last edited by SilentStrider (2014-10-29 16:21:26)

I know it's been like forever since I've posted anything, and for all I know no one reads these anymore.  However, for what it's worth to whom ever cares, I've decided to restart this first book from the beginning.  I've read some really good writing tips recently from one of my all time favorite writers, Jim Butcher, and while he may not be the best (strictly a matter of other people's opinions) he's a down to earth sort of guy and someone I respect, and I greatly admire the story arch he's developed for the Dresden Files.  I feel a need to prove to myself I can do better and I want to do well by the characters I've created.  If people read it here... Cool.  If not... well that's fine too.  I'm mostly doing this for myself to prove I can, and I suppose it would be nice if a handful of people wind up enjoying it too.

I hope everyone of my old readers are doing well, and if I wind up getting new ones, feel free to share your thoughts and feelings.  Feedback is essential to becoming a better writer.

One more note... when I begin the new "first chapter" I'm going to make it in a brand new post, most likely entitled, "The Bond".

I've gotta say, It was and incredible christmas gift to see this story continued!
I hope that we will be able to get to see more from you sometime soon!

Here's a little bit more to prove I'm still alive and have the desire to finish this.  I'll come back later and fix the format.

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     The timer beeped and Sean got up to turn off the burner, using that as an excuse to break away from the conversation.  He knew she was right.  Still, he didn’t want to admit it.

     Chris got up also and headed into the other room asking if they were going to eat soon or if she should have a second bowl of cereal.  He heard some friendly laughter and something along the lines of eating soon.  Sean took that as she wasn’t going to have any more so he cleared the kitchen table of their morning snack.

     As he entered the same room  Dawn was volunteering to go check up on her parents to see if they wanted to start eating now.  Tara told him he was just in time to head outside with her and Chris to check the barn and make sure the animals were still staying warm.

     They grabbed their jackets and headed out the front door and into the continuous downfall of snow.

     â€œI can’t believe it still snowing!â€� Tara exclaimed. “How much were we supposed to get?â€�

     Going down the deck and the driveway wasn’t bad since it had been cleared not too long ago, but the way leading to the barn hadn’t been cleared except where Dawn and her mother had broken a way through during the night.  The total accumulation had to be at or near three feet, and poor Tara, being the shortest, had the level of snow coming up past her waist.

     â€œHey, Chris, maybe you can clear a path like you did before,â€� Sean suggested.

     â€œNo!â€� Tara quickly interjected. “After what she did to get us here she needs to rest her talent.  The last thing I want to see is her burning herself out.â€�

     Chris, unable to resist being a smartass, added, “Besides, it’s more fun watching you swim.â€�

     â€œBetter watch it, or I might make you grow a wart on your face.â€�

     â€œHahaha!  Wait… can you really do that?â€�

     Tara didn’t reply and Chris didn’t press the issue.  Sean smiled listening to their antics, but that they couldn’t see since he was the one leading the way to the barn.  Once there he had to pull hard on the door against the snow building up around it to open it enough so they could squeeze.  It had been done before on previous trips, but it was getting progressively worse as more snow was getting packed into the space created.  After the girls had gotten in he spent a little extra time clearing as much of the snow out of the path of the door, but without a shovel or some other tool he had little success.

     â€œDon’t worry about that right now,â€� Tara said, poking her head of the barn door. “We’ll get it later.â€�

     He had to agree with her.  The progress he made was minimal so he joined them inside.

     The interior had a well-worn cement floor with a few small divots and plenty of dirt.  Both sides at least halfway down were lined with half a dozen horse stalls and half of them occupied.  Further down there were a couple of pens, one with pigs and another enclosed with goats.  They were huddling together for warmth despite the heated air blowing down from the ducts above.  At the end, opposite of the pens was an enclosed chicken coop and a separate room that Sean had been in before that was packed full with bales of hay.  The center isle they were walking also had a bunch of farm equipment like a tractor with a flatbed hooked up to it, a wide tiller with a hitch capable of being dragged by the tractor, another large vehicle that looked like it was used to harvest crops and numerous hand tools and equipment.  There was an upper floor as well that held more bales of hay and farm equipment, but Sean hadn’t seen it yet.

     Once he was inside and had the barn door closed he knew right away the atmosphere had changed.   He could sense it and so could all the animals.  The second he was aware of it he immediately stopped right where he was with his hand resting on the door and his back to the girls and animals.  Tara picked up on it next and she slowed.  Chris was the only one who seemed oblivious and continued talking aloud about some of her ideas of what they could do in the snow.

     The prey sensed a predator amidst them and Sean knew he was the source.

     He held his breath and stayed right where he was.  He became perfectly still like he was no less a permanent fixture like the tractor or the rest of the clutter.  He wasn’t tense nor was he completely relaxed.  He simply was.

     Everything seemed to stop.  It was like one of those moments in time that felt like it stretched on and on, and he waited.

     Just waited.

     He didn’t think about anything.  He didn’t focus his senses on anything.  Within that brief lapse of infinite time he let everything be just as it was.

     Until he finally felt that click.  Every animal, every person, including Chris even though she didn’t seem consciously aware, and himself breathed in.  He turned around and moved as though nothing had happened.  He was just like everybody and everything else in the barn.  He belonged and there wasn’t even a thought to consider otherwise.  The only thing, or more appropriately the only person out of place was Tara.

     She had picked up on that instant of tension, and as quick as she sensed it... it was gone.  She thought she knew what it was and turned to look at Sean who nonchalantly walked up to her.

     â€œWhat’s wrong?â€� he asked as though nothing had happened.

     She looked at him judgmentally. “I’m not sure.â€�

     He continued to walk past her, not in a hurry, but with a sure purpose like he knew exactly what he was doing and had been in this barn a thousand times.

     Tara looked at him, then at the barn door, and back at him again. “What… what did you just do?â€�

     â€œSuppressing the predator,â€� he grinned.

     She looked at him quizzically and Chris was only now realizing they were talking about something else.

     â€œI don’t know if that’s what it’s really called, or if it has any other name, but that’s what my uncle and I called it.â€� He spoke as he leaned against one of the horses stalls looking in. “My uncle helped me figure out how to do it.  Carlos, I guy who worked for him, liked hunting and he was trying to teach me.  I tried it.  Was halfway decent.  Killed a couple of bucks, but I didn’t much like it.â€�

     â€œThe killing?â€�

     â€œNo.  It wasn’t so much that.  It was more… one sided.  It felt too easy like anyone could do it, and I felt wrong.â€�

     He paused trying to find the best way to describe what he meant.

     â€œThere was no honor in it.  No sportsmanship if you will.  I felt like I wasn’t respecting the prey.  So when I told my uncle about it he challenged me to a different method of hunting.  The goal was to sneak up on an animal and get close enough where I could touch it before it even noticed I was there.  As a result of me attempting this I had to figure out a way to track and stalk while not acting like a predator.â€�

     â€œLike ghosting,â€� Chris said. “That’s what I would’ve called it.â€�

     â€œThat’s a good name, but I don’t become invisible or blend in.  I make myself feel like I’m part of the environment and move with it.â€�

     â€œWait,â€� Chris realized. “So what you’re doing right now, if you weren’t, then the animals would be freaking out?â€�

     Sean nodded his head like her question didn’t really matter to him.

     â€œIs that anything like what you did to me… in the woods when you were a werewolf?â€�

     â€œI wouldn’t know.  I don’t have my memories of it.â€�

     Tara’s eyes seemed to dilate and she stared at the space around him. “Interesting.  You’ve changed quite a bit.  Like you’re a different person.â€�

     â€œSometimes I can’t do it.  If my timing is off or if I’m  not of the right mindset it won’t work, but I get better with it the more chances I get.  It’s hard for me to describe how I do it.  It’s one of those things I just do without thinking.  If I have to think about it then it becomes a lot more difficult to pull off.â€�

     â€œThere’s either do or don’t.  There is no try,â€� Chris spoke in her best Yoda-like voice. “Let me guess… you haven’t seen that movie either.â€�

     Sean grinned at her. “Actually that’s a movie I have seen.â€�

     â€œThen there’s hope for you yet padawan.â€�

Last edited by SilentStrider (2019-03-18 18:28:13)

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     Tara was with Chris in a stall brushing down Mary, an older black and white mare.  She didn’t really need the brushing, but it was nice to do and was soothing to both of them.  Chris had never grown up around horses like Tara had so the experience was a novelty to her.  Sean busied himself with finding a replacement bulb to put in the chicken coop.  He was nearby but far enough where he couldn’t hear them talk.

     â€œHow’s your head doing,â€� she asked Chris.

     â€œFine.â€�

     â€œYou’re not just saying that?â€�

     â€œNo.  I’m really okay,â€� she said with a smile.  The act of brushing down the horse seemed to make her feel more relaxed and open and her attitude reflected it. “My head hurt quite a bit after we got here,â€� she elaborated, “but now it’s just a mild headache.  Nothing too bad,â€� she shrugged.

     â€œThat’s good.â€� Tara spoke with a hint of relief. “I didn’t want to say anything and have you worried, but I was concerned with how long you were maintaining your telekinetic wall that you might have hurt yourself.  You know Chris… I’m not exaggerating at all when I say this… you have an amazing talent.  I’ve never heard of anyone who could do what you did.â€�

     â€œReally?  So you know other people like me?â€�

     â€œNo.  Not personally, but if you want I may be able to track some down and you can meet.  Maybe even learn a thing or two from each other.  People like yourself are a rare and usually avoid populated areas.  They wind up seeking places of seclusion, and I think the fact that you’re still living in a city is incredible.â€�

     â€œOh!  Don’t get the wrong impression.  I’m only in Louisville to finish college.  The city life certainly doesn’t agree with me.  Like you pointed out, too many people.â€�

     â€œStill though, you’re doing pretty well and it’s just never heard of with someone of your caliber.â€�

     â€œYou know who I would love to meet?â€� Chris beamed with a hint of mischief. “Sean’s uncle.  Now that’s somebody who could probably teach me a lot.â€�

     Tara frowned upon hearing her idea.

     Chris’s face went slack and she immediately looked apologetic. “Oh no!  I don’t mean anything by that.   You’ve taught me so many things.  I can do more with my abilities than I even imagined I could before.â€�

     â€œNo it’s not that,â€� Tara shook her head. “It’s the fact that he’s a vampire.  I don’t trust him.â€�

     â€œWhy?  What’s so bad about vamps?  I mean other than the whole sucking on blood thing.â€�

     â€œA lot of things.â€�

     â€œLike what?â€�

     Tara nodded her head over to Sean, indicating she didn’t want him to overhear them talking about his uncle in the negative.  Chris got the hint and established a mental link between the two of them.  Tara paused a brief moment, adjusting to Chris as her mental presence slid alongside hers.

     Tara had had telepathic conversations before, but with those it was more like someone knocking on a door.  They arrived in your mind and you knew they were there.  With Chris, it was more subtle and smooth.  She had no obvious point of arrival.  She was just all of sudden there.  If she wasn’t expecting her she’d never had known to look, and that was Chris without even trying to be stealthy.

     One of the very grateful things she’d learned as she was helping to train her was that she had a very healthy respect of an individual’s mind.  She never meant to eaves drop on the private thoughts of others, but her sensitivity was so high she received them naturally, and periodically found herself pulled into their minds unwillingly.  Fortunately she had developed an excellent way of being quiet and remaining unseen, otherwise she’d have probably been noticed much earlier, and then who knew what sort of unfortunate fate would’ve befallen her.

     It was hard for Tara to tell, but she thought Chris was already there and listening.  Perhaps even feeling a sense of pride with what Tara was already thinking.   That was if she was deep enough to read past her surface thoughts, which was most likely, knowing her.

     â€œDrinking human blood is a big thing,â€� Tara thought, picking up their conversation where they had left off. “They’re dark creatures.  Evil in my opinion.  Seldom have I ever heard of a good vampire, and the myths of good vampires turned out to be exactly that, myths.â€�

     â€œOkay.  So far you haven’t really said much to convince me otherwise.â€�

     â€œWhat?!  Is blood something you’re into?â€�

     â€œNooo!  Definitely not!  But, I guess for some people that’s a turn on.â€�

     â€œNot if they die in the process.â€�

     â€œOh.  So it’s something they can’t control… you know… the whole thirst for blood stuff.â€�

     â€œSome can, but they’re older.  The younger ones are… it’s very easy for them to turn into monsters.â€�

     â€œSo basically all vampires can’t help themselves and are killers.â€�

    “There’s more to them than just that.  The way they think and act, it’s not in the spirit with the rest of humanity.â€� She stopped projecting her thoughts in an organized manner, and many different ideas and concepts struggled to come together in a coherent fashion. “It’s hard for me to explain.â€�

     Chris waited quietly while she sorted through what she wanted to say.  After a few seconds Tara latched onto a thread and everything quickly fell into an outline she could follow.

     â€œPeople are food to them.  We’re just a resource at best.  The way we view cattle and such is much the same way vampires see us.  For the most part it’s that simple.  They may have been human before they became vampires, but afterwards they become something different.  They no longer see themselves like us, and it’s because of that they lose their sense of humanity.  It becomes easier for them to manipulate and justify killing and doing whatever they want.  They’re a species unto themselves and for the most part they moderate themselves too, otherwise the Arcanus and other supernatural powers would make vampires extinct.â€�

     â€œReally?  They’re that bad?â€�

     â€œIn the medieval ages… yea.  They were pretty bad, but in modern times it’s a different playing field for them.  They move behind the scenes; influencing society, controlling economies worldwide, using their immortality to their advantage and scheming on a much broader scale.  In our day and age they are probably one of the worst supernatural creatures out there because they play themselves off as human, but are truly monsters underneath.â€�

     â€œOkay.  You make some good points, but I’m still not convinced.  I believe you enough where I definitely want to keep my guard up, but if Sean’s uncle is so evil then why’d he help him out in the first place.  Werewolves and vampires are like mortal enemies, right? So why’d he practically raise one?â€�

     â€œI don’t know.  It’s got me asking the same question, and getting Sean to even consider it is dangerous because, to him, I’m the outsider.  I’m the manipulating Wizard of the Arcanus that takes advantage of those without magical powers, while he views his uncle, the vampire, as a man who saved his life and denied his own nature to do everything he could to raise and protect him.  I  can’t compete with that unless I show him I’m different than what he’s learned.â€�

     â€œHow often do you do that?â€� Sean’s voice came from outside the stall.  They were so wrapped up in their conversation they hadn’t noticed him take up a position leaning against the door.

     â€œHuh?  Brush down a horse?â€� Chris asked, trying a little too hard to look innocent.

     â€œTalk about me… telepathically.â€�

     â€œWhat?  Oh no.  We weren’t doing that.â€�

     Chris’s eyes went a smidge too wide, her posture shifted and the motion of her brushing the horse altered.  If Tara could catch all that it had to be even more obvious to Sean with his keen senses.

     â€œUh hu.â€� He said, making it obvious how his eyes saw every physical detail of Chris’ attempt at deception. “I wasn’t born yesterday.  I know you guys have been doing it.  I was just wondering how much.â€�

     Tara spoke up before things potentially got worse. “Sean… you’re right and I’m sorry.â€�

     He shrugged his shoulders as though it hardly bothered him. “No.  I get it.  I’m not exactly stable, and you don’t know how everything is going to play out with me so you got to be cautious.  I think that’s what I would do if I were in your shoes anyway.â€�

     â€œLook,â€� Chris began, “we were talking about my powers which lead to talking about your uncle which lead to why Tara feels vampires are evil and shouldn’t be trusted and then we just started the topic of how your viewpoint differs from hers.â€�

     Without missing a beat to absorb what she told him he went straight to asking her, “Where do you stand… you know… your opinion about vampires?â€�

     Chris considered her answer while she continued focusing on the old mare. “I think for right now I’m reserved.  I’d love to meet your uncle one of these days and see what I could learn from him, but Tara does make some valid points about being careful.  I don’t know.  I’ll listen to what you both have to say, but I’m a practical girl.  I learn better from experiencing things first hand.â€�

     "You’d be wise to listen to her.â€�

     That made Tara pause, and she looked at him with a raised eyebrow.  A bunch of questions ran across her mind as she considered if his viewpoint on his uncle had changed.  She also had to wonder if that meant he no longer trusted him.  If that was the case then why did she feel like she was in the wrong?

     It was her goal to warn him and make him more knowledgeable about vampires in the hopes he’d use that knowledge to protect himself, not break the only familial connection he had left.  Having grown up with only a mother, she understood how important that single connection could be.  She felt guilty and she was pretty sure he picked up on it too.  Tara couldn’t stand it.  She had to look away.

     â€œDon’t misunderstand.  My uncle saved my life,â€� Sean clarified. “It may not have been the same life I would’ve had, but I’m alive nonetheless.  He put me back together, raised me, taught me.  He’s family.  I love the man like a father.â€�

     He paused, considering his next words.  He just described the aspects of Gregor that anyone in Sean’s position would greatly value and hold dear.  It was made even more precious in the contrast of their natures and the difficulties she imagined the man had to overcome to restore and care for his nephew.  She felt horrible for shoving her doubt in his face and potentially damaging Sean’s belief in the man

     â€œSadly,â€� he continued, “there will always be a part of me that hates him too.  We’re opposite ends of the spectrum; werewolf, vampire.  Maybe Tara’s right.  Maybe his reasons for helping me aren’t all noble and pure, but I know it wasn’t evil either.  Most people are in between.  If anything… what you’ve said has got me to reconsider my uncle, but I’ll never be able to see him as a bad person because I’m living proof he’s not.â€�

     â€œHmm,â€� Chris appeared thoughtful. “What’d ya have to say to that o’ manipulating Wizard of the Arcanus?â€�

     Tara stared at Chris and blinked a couple of times in surprise.  Sean couldn’t help but to laugh at what must’ve been a priceless and rare expression on her face.  She wanted to let it go and join them in their amusement, but she was taking it too seriously to find humor in it.

     â€œYou know, you yourself are a good example,â€� Sean nodded toward Tara. “You try to do good and what’s right, but I still manage to get hurt in the process.â€�

     â€œThat’s not fair.  I never meant to hurt you.â€�

     â€œI know you didn’t, and don’t worry.  Everything I did was by choice.  I accepted any risks and went with it.â€�

     â€œI still feel bad about it though.â€�

     â€œDon’t.  I don’t hold it against you and besides you’d have to do far worse than that to get rid of me, but you see my point?â€�

“Yea,â€� she said staring at his face and gauging his sincerity.  He looked stable and sure of himself without a hint of the turmoil that had been churning in him with increasing frequency.  There was respect for who she was and a level of trust she felt she had yet to earn.

     â€œAnd… thanks,â€� she added.

     â€œI have a request,â€� he started to say. “If we’re going to do this bonding ritual then I want you to promise not to have any more these private conversations behind my back.  I’d much rather have you be up front and honest than feeling like you have to hide from me.â€�

     He mainly focused on Tara when he spoke and she understood the underlying meaning behind his words.  She valued honesty and loyalty between the people she felt were genuinely close to her.  People she could call true friends.  He was reminding her of that and identifying the source of her discomfort while at the same time acting relaxed, conveying he had no ill feelings toward her.

     â€œOkay,â€� Chris responded first.

     â€œFine,â€� Tara agreed with a resigned nod, acknowledging she was in part guilty of undermining what she valued in her friends.

     Sean stared into her eyes a little too long.  There was something else on his face; another expression that seemed disassociated with what they were talking about.  He looked a little too serious, and perhaps a touched disturbed as though something else was on his mind that he didn’t know how to talk about.  His mouth twitched ever so slightly, but he didn’t say anything, and then he turned walking back to the room that stored the bales of hay.  He opened the door looking back at them with a grim expression before walking in.

     Tara had a strong inclination of what he was thinking and followed him with Chris behind her.

     The room still looked the same as when he’d last seen it with the manacle chained to the floor.  Tara knew what it was meant for and was more familiar with the story behind it than they were.  This was Chris’ first time seeing it and the questions on her face were evident.

     â€œWhat do you think of doing it in here?â€� Sean asked, keeping any emotion whatsoever hidden.

     â€œWhat…,â€� Chris stated absurdly, “and use that on you?  Isn’t that… Look, I’m not exactly comfortable with the idea of sitting next to you when you… do your thing, but collaring you like a dog?  That’s just all kinds of wrong.  Besides, from what I’ve seen I have a good feeling it wouldn’t be strong enough.â€�

     â€œNo.  It would be,â€� Tara responded, not liking the idea any more than her.

     Chris’ face scrunched up as she looked back and forth between the two of them, but before she could say anything else Tara objected.

     â€œWe’re not collaring you, and besides I don’t think the animals would react well.â€�

     â€œHow did they handle…,â€� Sean began, but Tara was quick to cut him off.

     â€œThey were moved, but it’s not practical with the weather the way it is.â€�

     â€œBut it would be safer,â€� he muttered.

     â€œWe’re doing this in the old barn and it’s going to be safe. I’m making sure of it,â€� Tara told them, sounding like she believed what she was saying. “Otherwise we wouldn’t be attempting this.â€�

     Sean’s expression continued to remain very neutral and unchanged, and she could tell he still had doubts. Perhaps even enough to make him still want to back out of it.

     â€œLook,â€� she continued, “I know you’re not completely comfortable about doing this, and us being safe from you is important to you, but ask yourself this… If I didn’t feel confident about performing this ritual do you think I would even attempt it with Chris and Dawn present?  I can accept risks to myself, but risking others, especially people I care about, is something else entirely.â€�

     With that Sean relaxed.  It wasn’t a lot of reassurance, but enough for the moment.

     They backed out of the storage room and decided it was time to return to the main house.  The walk was short, but felt twice as long in their silence while concerns for the future filled their heads.

Last edited by SilentStrider (2019-04-01 15:23:09)

been awhile since i was last on here glad to see that this stories is getting updated. from what i have been able to catch up with it is just getting better and better

Hello, quiet here these days.

So sorry to hear that, I am wishing you the best.