FSE

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formerly SoFurry search engine

Once she knew they were there she vanished with a gust of wind that kicked up. Growling under her breath for getting schooled like that then wiped her muzzle. Vyekk reached over, placed a hand gently on Launa's large forearm and smiled. Meanwhile at the border of our hunting grounds and the entrance to the village. When I appeared so did Launa and Elder Vyekk and that's when I was spotted.

Sabrina patrolled inside the walls while Sayber did the same on the outside. Before anyone could tell the tiopard that it was me, she gored me in the stomach. We crashed onto the ground tumbling together until I pinned Sayber under me. Of course she's struggling furiously to get free but, she froze when I spoke. <Sayber, will you relax a minute this hulking beast holding you is me, Nova.> I stated.

She stopped thrashing then looked deep into my eyes and saw the truth. The fur from the base of her neck to the tips of her ears turned a bright shade of red. Now the position we managed to get ourselves in and from a distance was intimate. When I finally decided to look at just how close our bodies had actually become. Seeing her strong and busty frame pressed tightly against me, I jumped to my feet.

As I continued moving away from her person I grabbed her wrist and pulled. What shocked me next was how easy it was to help the powerful feline up. "I gotta admit you've improved a great deal Nova, I think Sayber is impressed also. Though you'd better change back before someone that won't understand sees you." Launa said. Agreeing with her I returned to my sled where I left my clothes and changed back.

This time around the transformation back was rougher than previous attempts. Ten minutes later the shift ended but, I need some time to recover my strength. Once rested I got dressed then brought the sled of fresh meat into the village. When I retrieved the heavy bear carcass and was able to drag it with little trouble. Later on that evening I learned the bear I killed and brought back weighed four tons.

Once everything was in the village center a group men and women appeared. They started to skin and carve the meat from the prey that I brought back. {Umm, could a couple of you make a cloak of some kind from the bear skin? I'd like to give it to my guest Sayber due to complaints about her lack of clothing.} I asked. Nanagi, Vyekk's sister smiled and patted my cheek then told me not to worry.

Thanking her with a kiss to the cheek I excused myself and joined the others. "Eythreir, could you have the rest of your guests join Launa and me in my home." Vyekk said. Doing as he asked I retrieved them and had them follow me over to his hut. Once inside Launa and him waited for everybody to sit down before speaking. For some reason I could sense that something big was going to be revealed soon.

"Elder Vyekk do you want me to tell him or would you like to do the honors?" Launa asked. The sixty three year old stallion was silent for a minute making me uneasy. "Thank you Ms. Viander but, I believe that this should come from a village elder. Nova are you aware of the final test before a warrior turns thirty years old?" He asked. I've heard something about this but, I allowed him to continue his explanation.

"You're test of judgment has been scheduled thirteen months from today. The Goddess Coreencia is going to test you personally once you've had training. What ever magic is now coursing through your veins needs to be controlled properly. I'm certain with their help this task can be done within the time she has provided." He said. I knelt there thinking how could he have such confidence in me, when I'm terrified.

Excusing myself I stood up, stepped out of his hut to go clear my head. As I kept walking Launa wasn't too far behind me when she caught up and spoke. "Nova, the elder and I spent some time together I learned quite a bit about you. He believes once you've mastered these powers that you'll be able to do even more. What Vyekk doesn't know is that this power you have there isn't documentation on it." She stated.

Shaking my head side to side I walked past her and went back to my hut alone. When Sabrina appeared she stopped them from going after me and explained why. "Look, I think it's best for everyone, Nova included that we stand aside for now. He needs sometime alone to sort everything that's happened out for himself. Nova will come to us when he's ready so let's not put anymore pressure on him." She stated.

"I agree with you time is something he needs but, that might not be enough. Since we've known Eythreir, he's a generous soul and not one to ask for help. To have this power dropped on his lap without warning isn't exactly a blessing. Right now he's looking for a reason to forge ahead on this strange and unclear path. In the meantime would you ladies mind helping me with tonight's festivities?" Ju' nya stated.

"If any of you need me I'll be outside his hut, he needs some form of support." Sayber replied. "Before you go Ms. Sayber I have something for you that Nanagi handed me. Eythreir asked her to craft this from the skin of the bear he killed a little while ago." Ju' nya added. Placing the folded garment in Sayber's paws then politely excused herself. Unsure on how to react upon receiving such a gift Sayber looked at the others.

"Gotta admit that was thoughtful of him and it'd be rude not to wear it, Sayber." Azzy smiled. Opening it up, slipped her head through the only hole then tied the sides together. Next Sayber tested her new outfit to see if it'd restricted her range of motion. Once satisfied with her new attire the tiopard walked away tail swishing happily. Leaving Launa, Azzy and Sabrina with big smiles then caught up with Ju' nya.

While I cleaned up my hut I noticed Sayber's silhouette sitting down nearby. Though she wasn't alone my avian entered my hut next and landed on his perch. Greeting him with a big piece of jerky and a friendly scratch of his chest feathers. When I scritched the right spot his feathers fluffed up and he grunted with content. Pulling my hand away he leaned down and gently grabbed my finger with his beak.

Clearing my throat he let go then I motioned him to spread his wings out wide. For a Northern Black Condor my friend here has lived past their normal lifespan. So I make it a priority to give him a health check every time I come to visit. Granted he doesn't like being poked and prodded but, I'm forgiven afterwards. Ten minutes of aggravation later I gave him another piece of jerky for his troubles.

Next he tilted to the left then perked upright signaling that someone entered. Not knowing who had come inside I looked over my shoulder and saw Sayber. She poked her head inside silently wondering if it was okay for her to come inside. With a smile and a friendly gesture the large muscled feline entered my home. She looked around at the decorations and artwork that were hanging upon the walls.

Before I could ask the tiopard if she liked her gift I heard a lot of talking. "Umm, Sayber I gotta change for tonight's celebration do you mind stepping out?" I asked. Shaking her head no as she came over, gave me a firm hug and held me tight. I was so thankful she was wearing the cloak or I'd be stuffed between her breasts. Luckily she didn't hold me for long since my self control was already dwindling away.

Once she stepped outside and closed the flap behind her I changed clothes. My ceremonial attire I actually hand stitched myself and without anyone's help. These clothes needed to reflect the animal spirits within my heart and soul. Placing my beaded breastplate on last, tied it then started braiding my long hair. The last thing I needed to do was to put my tribal make up on but, decided not to.

Knowing Launa or Sabrina would probably tease me the instant they saw it. Taking a moment to double check my attire and once happy with it I went outside. From there Sayber and I walked side by side together towards the village center. Where everyone in the village was gathering around the large un-lit fire plume. A hand grabbed my shoulder making me jump and when I looked it was the chief.

"Welcome home Eythreir and I'm deeply sorry for the loss you've endured. All of us believe a part of her still lives within your heart and won't be forgotten. Come everyone lend your strength and give hope to our brother during this trial." He stated. His wife was next to grab my shoulder then the entire tribe followed their lead. Feeling their all strength I dipped my head down then up to the sky and howled.

My howl released all the sadness, pain and misery that weighed on my heart. As I went to inhale my legs gave out from under me luckily the chief caught me. "Easy, Eythreir I've got you my friend, come you'll sit with my wife and I." He smiled. Upon almost collapsing Launa had to stop the others from coming to my aide. Reminding them that they were guests here and still had to mind everything they did.

"Launa, please follow me since you're Nova's guests you must sit next to him." Ju' nya said. All four muscled warriors looked at the black vixen funny but, followed her. Sitting on the Chief's right side is considered an honor and it didn't feel right. When Ju' nya brought Launa and the others over then had them sit next to me. The strange feeling in my gut grew bigger and tighter as the fire plume was ignited.

It took a while for it to reach a good size thus signaling drummers and singers. Taking a couple minutes to get in sync before starting tonight events with song. They started off with a prayer of mourning to honor those that are no longer living. As the song played one by one people would approached and gave their condolences. Thanking each of them for all their kind words the song slowly came to a pleasant end.

As the night continued the music got better and even the food was great. Considering Launa, Sabrina and Sayber ate enough to feed the tribe for two weeks. I knew that I'd have to go hunting early tomorrow morning to restock our stores. Before anything else Ju' nya came over then asked me to get up and dance with her. Accepting her offer I got up from my seat then heard someone make a smart remark.

Not sure who it was I decided it was best to get them all involved in spite. "I don't know who made that remark so why don't all of you come and join me." I replied. Sure enough Azzy and Sayber gave the culprits away by looking over to the left. While standing up straight not wanting to be rude Launa and Sabrina followed suit. The last song of the night is always something that leaves you in great spirits.

Launa and the others were amazed at the fact I was a pretty decent dancer. When the music came to an end the chief and the elders were the first to retire. Next to leave was the band, dancers, hunters then their families leaving us alone. "Sayber, do you mind escorting everyone to my hut where they can retire for the night. I've been asked to assist with guard duty so I'll see all of you tomorrow morning." I stated.

"Goodnight Nova if you need any of us don't hesitate to come get us alright." Launa replied. Bowing slightly in response the black feline reached over and patted my cheek. Azzy hugged me tight, Sabrina simply gave my right shoulder a playful punch. Next Sayber nuzzled the top of my head briefly then escorted them to my hut. Once they were gone two of the seven other guards went to douse the dying campfire.

Looking at me first they wisely left the fire alone then went to their posts. Thus leaving me to my thoughts while I stared into the fire recalling the time we had. Lost in those sweet memories until the campfire had been reduced to embers. Sighing heavily I covered the remains with plenty of dirt then walked to my post. Where I spent the rest of the night looking up high into the night's sky until sunrise.

Once I was relieved the next place on my list was my hut to get changed. Sadly Elder Vyekk had other plans for me when I walked by him standing nearby. "Eythreir, mind coming inside my home and talking with me for a few minutes?" He asked. Giving him a weak smile, I entered his home and sat down across from the stallion. I still find it scary even to this day how he can predict whatever I'm going to do.

All he told me was to be careful and make sure that all my affairs are in order. That he would see me once my training was complete thirteen months from today. Next the stallion stood back up, turned around then looked around for something. When Vyekk found it, he turned back around and I saw a highly decorated hatchet. "This belonged to my older brother before he died and I think it'll serve you well." He began.

"It brought him and me plenty of luck, I do believe it'll do the same for you. Eythreir where ever you go in life, don't forget that you have a home with us." He stated. Nodding as he placed it in my hands then rose to my feet and hugged him tightly. Thanking him for everything he's done and that I'll never forget all his kindness. For most of the morning I said good bye to everyone I knew and came to respect.

Next on my list was to return to my sister's home and take care of things. "Nova mind opening a separate portal for me and the others if that's not a problem?" Launa asked. Asking for a visual of where she wanted the portal to take her and the others first. When she did the rest was simple then I raised my hand and opened up a portal. "Will you be alright alone or would you like one of us to stay with you?" Sayber asked.

"Thanks Sayber but, I'm pretty sure I can take care of my private affairs. If I need help with anything major I'll be sure to get in touch with you ladies, ASAP." I replied. For the past two days Azzy hadn't said much nor did Sabrina for that matter. "Here, Nova take this orb once everything is taken care of give this a squeeze." Azzy said. As Launa and Sayber entered the portal Azzy handed me this golf ball sized orb.

With a parting smile Azzy caught up to Launa and Sayber a moment later. Leaving me alone with a very imposing Sabrina until she knelt down before me. "I may not be the best person for this kind of thing but, I've been your shoes myself. Trust me Nova there's a silver lining somewhere and I hope you're able to find it. With our help I'm positive we can turn this power of yours into something good." She smiled.

"Alright, Sabrina I'll take you word for it, you take care and I'll see you soon." I replied. She gave a nod and walked through the gateway then it closed shortly after. Leaving me standing alone for a bit before I opened another to take me home. Fortunately I entered and exited without a problem or had to do any explaining. After the portal closed as I walked upstairs to the door that lead into the kitchen.

Luckily it was unlocked stating Yvonne was home and was resting inside. When I entered she was curious to know what happened during my time away. During dinner I told her everything that went without bending the truth too much. Figuring that she couldn't handle certain events that unfolded during my stay. After eating, cleaning the dishes I went up to the attic and spent the night meditating.

As my spirit expanded I soon sensed were several distinct energy signals. Four of them I knew while the others had this powerful dark and hollow vibe. Sadly that wasn't the weirdest part when this strange life pulse made itself known. It was such a shock when I wound up standing right beside Lord Courahn's prison. A couple years after this, I learned what I sensed was the life force of planet Earth.

Even the caged Snow Leopard was caught off guard when I appeared suddenly. Before he could open his mouth and say anything I roused from my trance. As I went downstairs to join my sister for breakfast she told me about Gina's wake. The problem was to the outside world I'm dead and that would be a problem. If I was going to attend I'd have to do so in disguise and that wouldn't be an easy task.

"If I may offer some input, think of your human state like your other forms." He said. I had to admit what he told me sounded genuine and was worth giving it a try. Focusing hard to picture my old human state then my body began to transform. When the transformation ended it felt weird returning to my original form. The only thing that didn't change was my eyes and spots that were along my spine.

Next I fished around the house for a decent pair of sunglasses to hide my eyes. While I searched the doorbell rang, Yvonne yelled saying that she'd get the door. The second the door opened, I found a pair of red mirror tinted glasses in a cabinet. "Welcome back everyone so what brings all of you back to our little home?" She asked. Launa was more than happy to explain their reasons for stopping by for a visit.

"Well, we've come by to see if your brother is ready to undergo his training. Or does he needs another day or two get any last minute affairs of his finished." Launa said. Yvonne told them what she had told me earlier about my ex-girlfriend's wake. Saying that I was planning on going to pay my respects to her and her mother. It was the only thing that I had left to do that she knew of at the present time anyway.

"All of you are welcomed to come even if it's only to keep me out of trouble." I replied. When Launa, Azzy and Sabrina saw me their reaction was how I pictured it'd be. One was frozen in confusion while two and three pointed then started laughing. "Don't remind me I looked like a wuss in this state, luckily this is only temporary. A select few people knew that I was once human so it's a decent disguise." I stated.

"Sorry, Nova it's a little hard to believe that you were once human but, to see it. Let's just say it's no wonder that you went through your tribe's rite of passage. Though I wish some people would show a little self control and maturity about this." Azzy said. Fortunately Launa calmed down as for Sabrina she needed a little motivation. A large pitcher of magically chilled water dumped on her head fixed that real quick.

Sabrina wanted to kick my ass but, she found the strength to restrain herself. Before anything could happen Launa tossed the superwere a towel to dry off with. Next she gave a loud whistle then the ground shook followed by a massive roar. As a huge custom motorcycle pulled up in front of Yvonne's home shortly after. Upon seeing her chopper I couldn't resist the urge to inspect the custom built machine.

She smiled as I inspected every inch of her chopper like a true gear head. Until she grabbed my shoulder then told me we'd better get to the funeral home. Agreeing with her and asked if I could drive the large vehicle making her laugh. Sadly I ended up sitting in the sidecar with Azzy and Sabrina then drove away. Once we entered the parking lot and found a spot I walked towards the front doors.

Launa and the others stayed outside while I traversed inside and up the stairs. Not bothering to sign the visitor's log I took a deep breath and walked up the aisle. Ignoring everyone that was standing or sitting then knelt before Gina's open casket. Moving right hand in a cross shape pattern then bowed my head and prayed. I stayed like this for a couple minutes before signing the holy cross and stood up.

Deliberately walking past Vincent and taking his wife's hands and said sorry. I went down the line offering the family my condolences then went back outside. Where my new friends were waiting for me to return but, didn't expect company. Paying them no mind as I continued walking towards them until Vincent caught up to me. "Hold it, Right There, Nova You're Not Going Anywhere you Waste of Space." He growled.

Stopping briefly to look over my shoulder at him then continued walking. Until Henry appeared out of nowhere and cut me off but, he wasn't for very long. As I drove my right knee hard into his diaphragm knocking the border collie out. Once he hit the ground I started walking again until Vincent fired off a warning shot. "You're not going anywhere Nova not until you pay for killing my little girl." He stated.

I could feel the gun being pointed at the back of my head time began to crawl. To the point I could actually hear the trigger and firing pin being pulled back. As the gun fired I moved faster than anyone's eyes could follow this included Vincent's. Dodging the bulled with utter ease and closed in on him and charged right for him. Pinning him against the wall making an indent then placed Ravenaire at his throat.

Blinded by rage I failed to notice that Launa and Sabrina had a hold of my arm. "Nova, this bastard isn't worth it, trust me I've lived long enough to know. Killing him won't help you or bring Gina back, be the bigger man and let him go." Launa pleaded. Defiantly I moved the large blade within a couple centimeters of his scrawny neck. Even with both women doing their best to keep me from killing the stupid bastard.

Tears are pouring down both sides of my face as a war raged in my heart. "*sighs.* You're right Launa this prick isn't worth my time, here's your sword." I replied. Next I tossed him into a metal trashcan after handing Ravenaire back to her. It was a good thing I let him go cause Sadie had come outside to look for them. Upon being confronted I somehow changed effortlessly back into my anthro form.

While my tail twitched angrily behind me, Sadie came over and took my hand. She placed something into it then she smiled weakly and walked back inside. Vincent and Henry wisely did the same a couple minutes later leaving us alone. As I opened my hand in was the ring I bought Gina and a note folded around a chain. Hooking it around my neck first then I carefully unfolded the note and read it a loud.

"Nova, I know that you loved my daughter with every fiber of your being. You did everything in your power to keep her from harm on that stormy night. I wish there was something I could say that would fix every thing that's happened. Sadly all we can do is march forward and hope that someday we can be forgiven. I'm returning the lovely ring you gave Gina as something of hers you can hold onto.

Ever since the first day we met I could see all that love brewing inside of you. Promise me that you'll find love again after you've mourned this heavy loss. There's so much love contained in your heart it'd be a shame to lock it away. Have faith in yourself and your second chance will appear when you least expect it. Good luck to you Nova and I hope you find happiness where ever you may go."

A weak smile appeared on my muzzle as I folded the note and put it away. From there Launa drove us back to my sister's home where we stayed for lunch. Since leaving the funeral home I had grown oddly quiet and it bothered everyone. Azzy felt like she had to do something to help me but, Launa and Yvonne stopped her. "Leave him be Azzy only time can heal the wound his heart has received." Yvonne said.

The raven looked at my sister, nodded softly then joined everyone in the parlor. It wasn't until later that evening I walked into the living where the others were. Yvonne was the first person to get up and wrapped her arms around my waist. Hugging her tightly and released a heavy exhale before looking around at everyone. "Launa, Azzy, and Sabrina I'm ready to get my training underway whenever you are." I stated.

To be continued.