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The Volunteer

Night’s Angel

Chapter 1

“Wow,” the dark fur fox said, his neatly cut silver hair combed back, “You are persistent, Kid.” The young dark skinned man tried to look at the fox without looking down at him. “Sir,” Jonathan said. “Save it kid,” the fox said, “Look I know you want to help, but all you got is a big gun.”

“Doesn’t look that big,” a hooded figure added. “That thing is as big as my head,” the fox said. “I’ve seen bigger,” the swirling cotton candy colored fur otter said. “Taken bigger too,” the hood said. the fox barked out a laugh.

“He’s got your number there Winsten,” the fox said. “Well he’s got more than that,” the otter said. “Look kid,” the fox said, “What’s your name?” “Jonathan Forlan,” the young man said, “Sir.” The fox sighed, setting his drink on the bar counter.

“David,” the hood said, “Don’t do it.” “Boss, he’s going to get himself killed,” the fox said, “and I can’t have that.” The hood thought about it. “Jonathan,” the hood said, “Put your gun on the counter.”

Jonathan paused his hand on the hand cannon at his side. “Boss,” David asked, “what are you thinking?” “I’m making a bet,” the hood said, setting a large potato shaped rock on the counter, “this, over that gun, if he can hit you.”

The otter looked at the rock then to the hood. “You sure about this love,” the otter said, “He’s just a kid.” “Grew up on a farm,” the hood said, “got a green thumb and sharp eye.” “Yes Sir,” Jonathan answered. “I wasn’t asking,” the hood said.

“Kid comes from good stock,” the hood added, “Plus she just woke up.” “She did?” Winsten asked, “You mean?” “Yep, she likes him,” the hood said, “So anyway, the bet is simple. If you can hit him once.”

“I ain’t betting my pa’s gun for a rock.” Jonathan said. “Then go back to his farm,” the hood said, “This is a war. If you ain’t willing to nut up and risk it all. Then go home.” Jonathan set the gun on the counter next to the rock.

His thumb brushed against it, and he felt like something was calling to him. “Worth the risk now?” the hood asked. There was a golden flash under the hood, and Jonathan could feel the figure smile. “Divad,” the hood added, “Use Delta.”

“You sure about that boss?” the fox asked. the hood nodded. “Hey, make some room and clear the floor,” the otter said, helping to move the tables. With the tables out of the way the barmaid was asked to leave the room along with a handful of others.

“Having him use Delta on a kid,” the otter asked, “Are you sure?” “Hey, not much of a far fight,” Jonathan said. “Again, you want to fight a war, it’s not going to be a far fight,” the hood said. “And I’m not going to kill him,” the fox said, “just knock him around a bit.”

The young man flexed and popped the knuckles of his left hand. “This is overboard even for you,” the otter said, “He’s a kid and with only one arm.” “I like his odds,” the hood said. The hood nodded.

“Delta,” the fox said. Even before the fox finished saying the word, he was enclosed in a suit of black armor. The inset design lit up with a dark purple light. “just needs some good fight music,” the hood said, as Ram Jam’s cover of “Black Betty” started playing.

Jonathan didn’t wait for the fox to make the first move and swung hard at the fox’s head. The fox ducked under the swing and came up with a chain of light punches to the man’s exposed side. Jonathan came back with another heavy swing, low to the fox’s hip.

The fox jumped over the swing spinning into a high kick, connecting with the man’s head. Jonathan fell back as he shook his head. “Quick little bugger,” he said, and rushed the fox. He fainted with another heavy swing.

Once he saw the way the fox was moving he came up with a heavy boot to the fox’s chest. The fox caught Jonathan’s foot. He had to catch himself before he fell on his back. It felt like he just kicked a brick wall.

“What the hell are you?” he asked. “I’m the Malacaster,” the fox said, moving with blinding speed. Jonathan didn’t even get a chance to catch his breath before he found himself face up on the floor. “If you’re smart, kid,” the fox said, “You’ll stay down.”

Jonathan rolled up his back and flipped himself back to his feet. “Grandpa, taught me,” he said, “finish what you started.” Jonathan ready himself for the fox’s next move. “You got guts, kid,” the fox said, “I’ll give you that.”

The fox rushed in again, moving too fast for the human to see. But he held still. He blocked the first of a chain of hits, followed up by two more blocks. Jonathan caught an opening, seized the fox’s shoulder.

He took the next hit and pushed in with a headbutt. The fox took a step back shaking his head. Jonathan ready himself for the next attack. The hood held up a pale metallic skin hand. With a gentle but commanding voice said “enough.”

The fox’s armor was gone a blink later, still shaking his head. Jonathan relaxed but kept his guard up. “Easy there, Jonathan,” the fox said, sitting at the bar again “You won the bet.” The human picked up the gun and set it back in its holster.

“Now that’s using your head,” the otter said. “Don’t forget to take your winning’s,” the hood said, nodding to the stone. Jonathan looked at the stone. The side of the stone he brushed against had a few cracks in it.

He picked up the stone. He felt something calling to him again. There was a cracking sound from the stone. the human’s eyes widened, feeling the stone pulse in his hand. “Come on,” he said, “You can do it.”

Chips of stone broke away closest to his voice. “Come on little one,” he said, encouraging whatever it was to come out of the stone. He set the stone down on the counter, brushing chips away helping the little thing.

A small head pushed its way past the stone shell. A tiny light green snake head poked its way out of the stone. “You are so fucking lucky,” Jonathan said, “that I like snakes.” “I wouldn’t be entrusting her to you if she didn’t like you,” the hood said.

“And she is cute as a button,” the hood added. The hood turned and tilted. “I think she’s stuck,” the otter said. “Yeah,” the hood said, dropping his fist down on the stone egg shell. The stone egg shattered leaving the tiny but long snake unharmed.

At the very end of the snake’s long body was a little green leaf. She looked up at the human, and gave a small coo of a hiss. Jonathan held out his hand and let the little creature slither onto it. He lifted the snake up to put her on his shoulder.

As soon as the snake was level with the stump of the human’s arm, she lashed out. Biting into the skin the snake browred into the human’s flesh. Jonathan to his credit didn’t scream. He grunted from the pain and shock.

He dropped to his knee. The only part of the snake left on the stump was the little green leaf. After a few minutes the snake’s head slither up from the back of the human’s neck and half coiled to his neck. The hood dropped a rock the size of the human’s fist on the floor.

“You could have warned me,” Jonathan growled, slamming his fist on the floor. What looked like a vine or a root snapped up the rock breaking it till it mirrored the human’s hand and mimicked his action. The stone fist rapped against the wood floor with a solid thud.

Jonathan lifted his hand watching the stone fist move to match him. He set his fist back down. The first followed the action with the same slow motion. He lifted his hand and opened his fingers. The fist opened with a grinding sound.

“Best way to change a world is with a world seed.” the hood said, “And she is a newborn, she has a lot to learn.” Jonathan was still focused on the stone hand mirroring his own movement. “She will need a name,” the otter said.

“Traroot,” the fox said. The three looked at the fox. “You know, like the world tree thing,” the fox said, “Traira as in world and root like a tree root, Traroot.” “Fitting,” the hood said. The stone fist slapped the floor playful. The whole building shook.

The hood let out a deep bellowing laugh that sounded like an evil super villain. “She seems to like it,” the hood said, “You ok there, Jonathan?” The young man caught the stone hand. The hand crumbled in his own hand.

“I’m ok,” he said, “I think.” The man got to his feet. He reached up and petted the little snake’s head. Jonathan sat at the bar with the others, the new feeling of a living creature moving around under his skin was unnerving.

“You’ll get used to it,” the otter said. “You idiots, done wrecking my bar,” the vixen barmaid said, entering the room. “No one wrecked anything,” the hood said. “Yeah,” the otter said, “just had to measure something.”

“Well then,” the vixen said, take her place behind the bar, “if you’re done. put your dicks away.” The silver-haired fox kept his back to the vixen. “No worries ma’am,” the hood said, “I’ll even help.” “No need,” the vixen said, flipping her red hair back behind her ear.

With a flix of her wrist and a low spoken word, the tables and chairs rushed back to their places around the room. “I know a few tricks,” the vixen smiled. From where Jonathan sat he could see a thick blush on the fox’s face.

The fox tried to play coy, but his face wasn’t hard to read. Jonathan watched as any time the vixen turned away the fox risked a peek at her. She was almost the same height as the fox, long red hair and dark green eyes.

She dressed modestly, not letting too much of her figure show. But graced a few with her curves. “Alright fellas,” she said, “What’da have?” “Round of shots,” the otter said. “Double,” the hood said, tapping the counter.

“Sure,” the fox said, rolling his hand. Jonathan nodded, “No thank Miss Margaret,” “Who’s asking you Jon,” the vixen said, “You’re lucky I let you in here.” the young man looked as if scolded. “Sit down Jon,” the vixen said, “Your dad knows you’re down here.”

The vixen poured them each a shot, and one for herself. Jonathan just noticed the vixen’s blouse was open more showing the pale white fur of her bust. It seemed clear a second later the two vulpines were trying to dance around each other’s gaze.

“On three,” the vixen said as they each took a glass, “One, Two, Three,” They each threw back the shot and tapped the glass on the counter. “I’m ready for bed,” the fox said. The vixen bit her lip. No sooner did the fox take his weight off the stool, his face met the floor.

Jonathan and the vixen both jumped to help the fox. The hood and the otter both laughed. Margaret lifted the fox enough to see his face. The fox’s head and eyes rolled. He focused on the vixen. “You’re Beautiful,” he said, “May I kiss you?”

The vixen dropped the fox back to the floor, stood up and turned away. Her face was flush. “He’s fine,” she said, “Jon, He’s staying in room six. Would you be a dear?” Jonathan nodded, picking up the fox and throwing him over his shoulder.

“He’s heavy for a little guy,” he said, walking to the stairs. Once Jonathan reached the room the fox spoke. “I’m such a fucking idiot,” he said to himself. “I wouldn’t say that,” Jonathan said, “Key?” “Fuck all,” the fox said, fighting with his pocket, “I blew my chance.”

The fox dropped the key into Jonathan’s hand. “Sir,” he said. “Yeah,” the fox answered. “I have never seen Miss Margaret blush,” he said, “And I’ve accidentally walked in on her naked.” “Lucky bastard,” the fox said, loosely kicking a foot.

“And Sir,” Jonathan added, “Miss Margaret is one of the modest women I know.” the fox laxed, hanging limply. “And I blew it,” the fox said, “Like a drunken fool.” “I don’t think so,” Jonathan said. The door opened and Jonathan walked over to the bed.

He set the fox down on the bed. “I saw her and,” the fox said, “I just heard bells.” Jonathan put his hand on the fox’s shoulder. The fox’s hand snatched Jonathan’s wrist, his eyes wide and unfocused. “Bells, bells, star, nova, flames, child, Delta, Malacaster, bells, bells, bells,” the fox said.

Scared Jonathan pulled his hand away. The fox’s head hit the pillow and he was dead asleep. Jonathan dropped the key on the night stand and almost ran from the room. He closed the door and rushed back to the bar.

“Jon, what’s wrong?” the vixen asked. “David,” the man answered, “We were talking and grabbed my arm and just this random set of words came out of him.” The hood turned to the otter. “Ma’am,” the otter said, “Could you go check on him?”

“Why?” she asked. “Because,” the hood answered, “Jonathan here is friendly enough. But if David wakes up and panics.” “It would be better if someone,” the otter said, “with a softer touch was with him.” The otter smiled.

“He’s a diviner,” the hood said, “He just had a vision. And truth be told. Seeing the girl he’s been crushing on, be there. It would do him a lot of good.” “You know,” the otter said, turning to the hood, “You have no tact.”

“Or don’t,” the hood said, “Your choice.” “Not helping,” the otter said. “I’m a smith,” the hood said, “metal doesn’t listen to kind words.” “You can’t handle everything as if it were hard,” the otter said.

“I handle you,” the hood answered. “Let’s not go there,” the otter said, turning to the vixen, “Look, love, David likes you. And.” “Are you asking me to check on your friend,” The vixen asked, “Or are you asking me to let him get lucky?”

“By the gods,” the otter said. “Tell you what,” she said. “Don’t ask us to out drink you.” the hood said, “it might kill you.” The vixen rolled her eyes. “No he means it,” the otter said, “I can’t be killed, and well he’s not like us.”

“Fine,” she said, “I think you’re full of yourselves.” The hood tilted his head. Then he leaned in close to the vixen and spoke solely for her to hear. The vixen blushed. The hood stood up, turning to the otter. “Bed now,” he said.

The otter opened his mouth to retort. The hood picked the otter up and threw him over his shoulder. The otter’s protests were more flirtations than rejection. The hood gave the otter a hard slap on the rear. Answered by a sharp moan.

The two were a few steps out of sight when there was a second loud moan. “What did he say to you?” Jonathan asked. “Jon,” the vixen said, “Go home.” Jonathan held up a surrender and said “Have a good night.

The vixen smiled and pulled her master key from breasts. The action intended to be seen. “Oh,” she said, “I will.” Jonathan blinked and the vixen was gone. Her bushy tail flying up the stairs. He chuckled to himself and went home for what might be the last time.

Chapter 2

A Large feral wolf outlined in a shimmering purple light moved carefully around his attacker in fear of doing harm. The wolf’s attacker was a small kit of three years of age. His black fur, silver hair and bright ice blue eyes, all traits of his father.

“Puppy” the kit said following the wolf around trying to hold the bigger canine. “Easy there Corn pop,” Jonathan said, walking to keep up with the two. “Must you call him that,” the modest vixen said, her steps in time with her loving husband, “I just got him used to answering to his name.”

“Maggy,” the fox said, “It’s just a nickname.” “David,” she answered, “It’s hard enough keeping up with him and running the inn, with you running around in the shadows to wage a war you don’t seem to be winning.”

“I’m fighting for his future,” David answered. “He barely knows who you are,” she said, “I just wish you’d stay longer than a few days.” David sighed. “Just take some time to be home with your son,” Margaret said, “At least a week.”

David gave another long sigh. The kit caught the wolf’s face. The wolf gave David a pleading look. “Take a picture,” David said. The giggling child held the wolf’s head till its eyes focused on the child with a bright flash.

Stunted, the kit fell over, still giggling. “Puppy,” he said, righting himself and gave chase to the wolf. “Get him, Corn pop,” Jonathan said, following the two closely. The wolf danced around the kit. Never fast enough to hurt him.

“Maggy,” David said, “I want to be here with both of you.” “I wish you would,” she said, “you wouldn’t be the man I love, if you ran away from the people you need you.” Jonathan put the kit on the wolf’s back holding him steady as they walked in a slow circle.

“Faster,” the kit commanded. “Easy, Corn pop,” Jonathan said, “when you’re older.” “You said the crossroads will bring the war to you,” Margaret said, “What fate does it have for our son?” David looked at the child.

Tears filled his eyes. “I won’t be there for him,” he said, pulling her close. “No, it’s not written in stone,” she said, “That’s why you call your gift the crossroads.” “Maggy,” he said. She looked away. “Delta,” he said.

The wolf stopped and looked at the fox. “Maggy,” David said, “If you could only see the things I do.” he hugged the vixen. “Then maybe you can understand,” he said. “To me, you’re just listing off words that have no logic to them,” Margaret answered.

Jonathan Helped the kit back to his feet. The kit trotted back to his mother. He stopped at his mother’s feet hugging her legs. “What’s the matter Cornelius?” the vixen asked, picking up her kit. He looked to his father and to the human.

Then he held his arm just above the elbow. “Oh,” she said with understanding, “You remembered your nightmare again.” “Nightmare?” David asked. The kit hugged his mother. “He had a nightmare the other night,” Margaret answered.

“Hey Cornelius,” David asked, “can you tell me what it was about.” “It’s ok Cornelius,” Margaret said, “Daddy can help.” The vixen passed the wiggling kit to the fox. David pulled the child in close, holding him carefully.

“Come big guy,” David said, hugging the child. Cornelius hugged his father’s neck. David spoke gently, his words almost song-like. Jonathan and Delta moved closer. “Let light reveal what night bestode,” he sang softly, “Share with me, what you have seen.”

At once both of their eyes flashed. David fell to his knees standing the kit on his feet. “Oh my sweet child,” he said hugging the child, “it was just a dream Cornelius. It was just a dream.” David’s eyes watered, with his hand stiff.

“Delta,” he said. the wolf trotted over. “Here Cornelius,” he added, “play with the puppy.” The kit hugged the wolf. David held his arm, gasping once the child wasn’t watching. “David,” the vixen said, “I know that look.”

“He’s too young,” David said, “He’s too young.” “What is it? David?” she asked. David flexed his hand a few times. “Crossroads,” he said. “But he’s only three,” the vixen said. “No wonder he was scared,” David added, “It felt like my arm was ripped off.”

“He saw his arm ripped off?” the vixen said. “No, he felt it too,” the fox added. “This is too much,” she said. “Sir,” Delta said, “Incoming transmission.” “Go ahead,” David said, his eyes hardened as he listened.

“The queen’s forces are making a push into Earth’s traitroy,” he said, his voice cold. “They’re coming here?” Margaret asked. “Earth has been a haven for casters for years. why is she making this push now?”

“It’s also where the Warlocks have been staging attacks against her,” David added, “We did this.” “What are we going to do?” she asked. “Take Cornelius somewhere safe,” David answered, “We’ll buy you all the time we can get.”

“But David,” Margaret asked. “Margaret, please,” David said with a deep sigh, “get yourselves to safety. We’ll meet up with you as soon as we can.” “David listen to me,” the vixen said, “This is our home. we’re not leaving. we’re not leaving you.”

“Damnit, please,” David shouted, “If you stay here you will die. And it kills me that we can’t stay in the home you grew up in. The only home he has ever known. But it’s not safe here anymore. And I can’t protect you if you stay.”

“And I can’t leave you to the hands of that bitch and her mages,” the vixen answered. David hugged her. “You’re not leaving me,” he said, “You are protecting our son.” “If we go,” she said shaking her head, “I will have to bind his power. He can never know about us.”

“I understand,” David said, “It will be the only way to keep him from that fate.” “You said it yourself,” Margaret said, “the crossroads will find him.” They looked into each other’s eyes. “I will set it so only Delta can awaken his power,” she added.

“I will find the phoenix,” David said, “I will find this nova of the bells.” “If you don’t come back to me,” she said, holding the piece of armor on the fox’s arm, “Then I never want to see this thing again.”

“I will do everything in my power to find you again,” David said, “this life or the next.” The vixen pulled away. “You were never a good lair,” she smiled, tears coating her cheeks. She picked up the little kit.

He wiggled and cried. “Daddy, Daddy, Daddy,” he cried, throwing himself around in his mother’s arms as she walked away. David watched them, hoping she would look back one last time. She never did.

It was the last time he saw his wife. Jonathan rested his hand on the fox’s shoulder. “Old blood will take care of them,” Jonathan said, “let’s just pray to God we can get out of this in one piece.” “I left my gear in the tavern,” David said, walking off to be alone.

After the bloodbath Jonathan found himself alone on the otter’s tiny ship. He punched in the commands. The ship took off. His home, gone. His friends, missing or dead. All he had left was his father’s gun and the little snake growing under his skin.

It took two days for the little ship to catch up to the mage transport ship. The little skip made its own hard dock in the hull of the transport. After an hour, the cotton candy otter and a red and silver mage joined him.

The mage had powered down. “We lost David,” the otter said, “poor thing over here was the one.” “I know,” Jonathan said, “You said her name was Novabell?” “Yeah, she was a dancer twenty years ago,” the otter said.

“She must have been beautiful,” Jonathan said. “And then some,” Winsten said, “she had dozens of nicknames, the burning goddess, the living flames of lust, and few others.” “Damn,” Jonathan said, “And she took out a dozen mages before she was captured.”

“No,” Winsten said, typing out a message, “Mark investigated the scene.” “Mark?” Jonathan asked. “Yeah,” the otter answered, “David’s father. He found evidence of necromancy used.” “So it was staged?” Jonathan asked.

“Yep,” the otter answered, “she’s been the news’ go to for disinformation for years. The reason casters are dangerous.” “And yet,” Jonathan said, “every caster I met has been the nicest.” “People fear power,” the otter said, inputting commands and setting course.

“Nova of the bells,” Jonathan said, “bells, bells, star, nova, child, Delta, Malacaster, bells, bells, bells.” “You sound like David,” the otter said. “His words,” Jonathan said. “What you think she’s the burning guardian he was talking about?” the otter asked looking back from the cockpit.

“It just fits,” Jonathan answered, “Why did he call his visions the crossroads?” “As he put it,” the otter answered, settling back in his seat, “They are the crossroads where fate and choice meet.” The otter pulled a blanket out and covered himself with it.

“Get some rest,” the otter said, “it’s going to be a long trip.” Jonathan pulled out two more blankets. He covered the mage with one of the blankets. Then he laid down on the open cot and went to sleep.

The small ship floated just inside the reach a jump gate outside the system. They wait for four days for a ship to head out of the system to ride in its wake. “Come on, poker is only fun when there’s betting,” the otter whined.

“None of us has any money,” Jonathan said, “and I’m not stripping for you.” “And I can’t strip,” the mage said, adding in a hush voice, “any more.” The little snake was using her roots to shuffle a deck of playing cards.

“Strip?” Jonathan asked. “You were too young to see my shows,” the mage answered. “I’m not the otter answered, “was lucky enough to catch a few.” “I know he was at my last show,” the mage said, “How or why his folks let him go is beyond me.”

“The how,” otter said, “Mark was contracted to build your stage. So he got passes.” “But why did his mother let him?” the mage asked. “Oh,” the otter said, “A lesson in control.” “A lesson in control? From an erotic dancer?” the mage asked.

“How many spells did you have running at once?” the otter asked, “And singing and dancing in time with music. And all that keeping the flames under control.” “twelve,” the mage answered, “But most of that was loose upkeep.”

Case in point,” the otter said, “You had to keep track of a lot for just one song.” “That takes talent,” Jonathan said. “I started training when I was six,” the mage said, “a few days after I got dumped there by my mother. Bitch.”

“That must have sucked,” the otter said. “Fuck them,” she said, “dropped her name and took the name Novabell.” “I can guess the rest from there,” Jonathan said, leaving the matter be. “Well, You got my story. How about you two?” the mage asked.

“I’m an old bitch,” the otter said, “Just here to have a good time.” “Bliss here,” Jonathan said, “is sleeping with our benefactor.” “Dating,” the otter corrected, “And we’ve been dating for a long time.” “Yet, I don’t ever see you two go out,” Jonathan added.

“That’s a long story,” the otter said, “and unless you got something longer for me there big man.” “Easy there,” Jonathan said, an awkward blush on his face. “So who’s this benefactor?” the mage asked.

“Don’t know,” Jonathan answered “never seen his face. David always called him boss. And this one only used pet names.” “And what about you and the roots?” the mage asked. “Oh this is Traroot,” Jonathan answered, pointing to the little snake head peeking out from the collar of his shirt, “Traira for short.”

“Earth magic,” the mage said, “and a world seed. No wonder you were on the list.” “Oh I made a list?” Jonathan asked. “Yes,” the mage answered, “capsure on sight.” “And yes I know,” the otter adder, “the queen only wants my heart. But last, it belongs to another.”

“Or the first dick you see,” Jonathan added. “Was that an offer?” the otter asked. the little snake hissed her ownership. “Easy there cutie,” the otter said, “I’m only teasing.” “But nah,” Jonathan continued, “I volunteered for this shit.”

“He even went a round against the Malacaster to do it,” the otter added. “Pride before the fall,” Jonathan said, “I feel like a damn coward for leaving him like that.” “He could have stopped me at any point,” the mage said, “He could have run.”

Winsten flipped around in his seat checking readings and the like. “He bought us time,” the otter added, “and you.” He looked back at the mage with a small smile. “Give me your shirt,” the mage said, “I’m going back to sleep.”

“No it’s chilly in here,” the otter said, “I don’t need my nipples hard too.” “Here,” Jonathan said, handing the mage a grass green hood mask, “she made it for you.” “Aww,” the mage answered, taking the hood, “thank you.”

“Sorry, we both find it a little creepy,” he added, “always looks like you’re always staring.” “If I could blink I would.” the mage added, throwing the hood on, “Assholes.” The mage powered down. “Saying things like that to her,” the otter said, booting up the engines, “You’re lucky she didn’t rost ya.”

Within a few minutes the jump gate booted up as a transport ship approached. “Buckle up,” the otter said, “We are jumping in Five, four, three.” Jonathan checked his straps as the otter spoke. “Two, one.”

The small ship lunged forward into the controlled rift and sped away from the transport ship. a minute later the ship stopped shaking as the effects of the rift passed. “Let’s see, where are we?” the otter said, punching in commands.

“Oh, cool,” the otter said, “We got a base two days from here.” “Fun,” Jonathan said. After checking something the otter opened a comlink. “Hello darling,” the otter said, “This is the magic school bus, checking in.”

“Bliss,” a voice answered, “What the hell is going on?” “Long story,” the otter answered, “Short answer, we picked up a transfer student with precious cargo.” “No games, Bliss,” the voice said, “Where’s Mel?”

The otter paused. “Mel is K.I.A.,” the otter answered. There was a long uneasy pause on the other end of the comlink. “Are you sure? Are you certain Mel is K.I.A.?” the voice asked. “The transfer student sighed Mel’s paperwork,” the otter answered.

“And they have?” the voice asked. “Contract to Mel’s next of kin,” the otter answered, “It’s safe.” “And the turncoat?” the voice asked. “Unit one one four seven, code name the dragon,” the otter answered.

There was another long pause. “What’s your ETA?” the voice asked. “Two Days,” the otter answered. “I start a pot of coffee for us,” the voice said, then the link closed out. “FUCK,” the otter said.

The otter set the autopilot and righted his seat. “That stupid righteous selfless son of a bitch,” the otter said. “I know the feeling,” Jonathan said, “He was a better man than me.” “IT should be him sleeping there,” the otter said, “He could have put her out of her misery and gone home.”

Jonathan turned to look at the red and silver armored mage. “He had a wife and child,” Winsten said, “We should be dragging a sleeping fox to his family. Not taking some poor dead woman to be interrogated.”

“Then why didn’t you put her down when you had the chance?” Jonathan asked. “Because by time she found me,” Winsten answered, “Delta already contracted her. It would have looked like a power grab.”

“That’s a copout,” Jonathan said, “What’s the real reason?” “I knew David since he was Cornelius’ age,” the otter said, slumping back in his seat. “Delta has been with the Malacards for a long time. Longer than most.”

“Those who know that fact,” the otter added, “call Delta the Malacard curse.” “Curse?” Jonathan asked. “No Malacard that held Delt, lived to see their grandkids,” the otter said, “They take that oath to heart. They get themselves killed doing the right thing.”

“So, You couldn’t do it,” Jonathan said, a sad smile on his face, “Because it was David’s wish?” The otter nodded, “the damn saint.” The otter chuck the metal cup at his side across the small cabin. the cup chimed as it bounced off the bulkhead and rolled across the floor.

Chapter 3

Jonathan stood beyond the holding cell bars. He watched the red and silver mage laying on the floor motionless. The commanding officer stood next to Jonathan. The officer stood a step above Jonathan’s belt.

The rat watched the mage with a smirk on his face. “She’s going to die if you don’t let her recharge her battery cells,” Jonathan said. “This is an interrogation,” the officer said, “It will be dealt with once I am satisfied.”

“Where’s Bliss,” Jonathan asked. “Out of the way,” the officer answered, “I have him fixing one of the power units on the other side of the base. Should take him a day or two.” “You’re not the Malacaster,” Jonathan said.

“The Malacaster is a title,” the rat said, “the real power is the codex.” “It’s not yours,” Jonathan said. The rat turned to look at Jonathan. “She refuses to give it to you so you’re going to let her die so you can take it,” Jonathan said.

“Only to see that it goes to the next malacaster,” the rat answered. “It will find its way to the next Malacaster,” Jonathan said, “Delta will not let itself fall into the wrong hands.” “And you think it should be in the hands of some bleeding heart or some snot nose brat,” the rat said.

“I think Delta knows better than us who should have that power,” Jonathan answered. “Easy for you to say,” the rat scoffed, “You were hand picked to bear a demigod.” “And you hid in a shit tank till the mages gave up on hunting you,” Jonathan said.

“You have no idea what those things are capable of,” the rat retorted. “And you would be worse than the queen herself,” Jonathan answered, “Mel was a good man and if he thought saving her was the right thing to do. Then it was the right thing to do.”

“Go back to your farm, human,” the rat said. Jonathan slammed the rat into the rocky wall behind him. Dragging him up to his eye level. “My home is gone,” Jonathan said, his grip tight around the rat’s throat, “A good man gave his life to save as many people as he could.”

Roots coiled around the rat pinning him to the rock. “So, if you’re planning on killing a caster just so a slimeball like you can try to take a power you have no right to,” Jonathan said, drawing his gun and pointing up under the rat’s chin, “I’ll put you down right here right now.”

“You wouldn’t dare,” the rat snarled. “Try me,” he added, “Traira is the one holding you.” Jonathan looked back at the mage. “She wants to kill you right now,” Jonathan said. “Traroot,” Bliss’ voice called, “Put the little prick down.”

The roots recoiled back into the rock. The rat hit the ground hard. “Remember,” Bliss said, next to Jonathan, “you out rank him.” Jonathan eyed the otter. “And the queen wants you not him,” Bliss said, “And I have a better idea.”

The otter twisted his fingers and a block of ice enclosed the rat and sealed him to the wall again. “Chill,” the otter added, “don’t worry. you’re not going to die. you can see, hear, and breathe. you just can’t move or feel anything. MAGE.”

The otter with swirling cotton candy fur, opened the cell. “Help me get her up,” Bliss asked, “Please.” Jonathan picked up the mage by the chest plate. With a grunt he pulled the mage to her feet. “Mana cell,” the otter said, pulling a small tube from his belt.

He stuck the tube into a port on the mage’s back. Something in the tube clicked. seconds later the mage started moving again. “How long was I down for?” the mage asked. “A few hours,” the otter answered, “I hope you had a nice nap.”

“It would have been better if I wasn’t looking into a light,” the mage answered. “I’m sorry love,” the otter said. “Low power,” the mage said, “just enough to move but that’s about it.” “Well let’s get you to the chargers and get you a good nap,” He said, taking the mage’s hand.

The mage pulled her hand away and followed the otter and the human. They passed a few over mages who were much the same. But they all gave the red and silver mage a wide berth. “Should have let my batteries drain out,” the mage said.

“Knock it off,” Bliss said. “You’re the new kid in school,” Jonathan said, “Give it time.” A few minutes later they entered a room with a handful of large tubes. Two of the tubes were open. The interiors had a charging clamp and fully blacked out.

“Set up like a scenery deprivation tank just without the water,” the otter said, “we’ve been trying to find ways to help mage feel like they got some sleep.” “No clocks?” the mage asked. “Just ask the interface,” Bliss answered, “but at least try one of the dream programs.”

The mage stepped into the tube and let herself be locked into the clamp. “Good night,” Bliss said as the tube closed. With a hiss the tube sealed. “Everyone is scared of her,” Jonathan said. “They’re scared of a suit,” Bliss said.

the otter stretched, adding, “Let’s go get drunk.” “Sounds like an idea,” Jonathan agreed. “Yeah, I want to find out what it would take you to forget what I am.” “That won’t happen,” Jonathan said. They started walking down a rocky corridor.

“Right,” the otter said, “You can’t tell me you haven’t looked?” “Aren’t you dating a god-thing?” Jonathan asked. “One, don’t say it like that. He’s just a very powerful and sexy guy,” Bliss said, “And we both have time on our hands.”

“You can’t say it,” Jonathan joked. “Look, we are dating. But time for us is different,” Bliss said, “it’s an open relationship.” “But is it real or just a booty call?” Jonathan asked. The otter stopped and looked up at the human.

There was a long pause. “Think what you will,” Bliss said, “I know how I feel about him.” The otter turned to walk off. “Bliss,” Jonathan said, “Come on man, I’m not judging you. I’m just asking.” Jonathan took long steps to catch up to the otter.

“Well, what are you asking?” Bliss asked, “the way you put it. I’m the personal slut to a god.” “No, I’m asking if you love him?” Jonathan asked. The otter’s steps slowed as he regarded the question.

“I love him as a person,” Bliss answered, “Because you can’t love something like him.” Jonathan eyed the otter. “You know what he is,” Bliss said, “so you know that kind of love is worship.” “Yeah,” Jonathan said, “But I never saw him as a god. He doesn’t act like one.”

“Have you ever been in love,” Bliss asked, “or even just had a crush on someone?” “Margaret,” Jonathan answered, “but I was just a kid and she was my babysitter.” “So you never met a girl who just made you heart stop or beat so fast you thought it was going to rip right out of your chest?” Bliss asked.

Jonathan shook his head. “Well the day you do, You’ll understand,” the otter said as they rounded a corner and entered the mess hall. It didn’t take long to get some food and eat. “So what kind of girl are you into?” Bliss asked through a half mouth full of fries.

“Don’t know,” Jonathan said, “Didn’t take a lot of time dating to find out.” “Maybe you’ll find some sweet song bird,” Bliss said. “Maybe, and maybe love will hit me like the butt of a gun,” Jonath added.

“Be careful what you wish for,” the otter added, smirking at the remark. “Hey, if it’s a sign to watch out for,” Jonathan said. “Kids,” the otter laughed. After a few too many drinks the otter was drunkenly sprawled out on the table, his round rear high in the air.

“You’re in a mood,” Jonathan slurred. “Am not,” the otter drooled, “Just leaving an invitation.” the otter wiggled a bit. “Besides, It’s not like you’re going to tap this,” the otter said, giving himself a slap on the rear. his cheeks rippled and settled after a second.

“Sorry Bliss, you’re not my type,” Jonathan said, pulling himself to his feet. “I think it’s time to get you to bed,” he added. “Your bed, I hope,” the otter said with a high feminine tone. “Not a chance,” Jonathan said, flipping the otter over his shoulder.

“Ugh,” Bliss answered, “no fun.” “How a little guy like you can drink so much and never get a hangover,” Jonathan said, as they left the mess hall, “Is beyond me.” “A hangover is the result of dehydration,” the otter said, hanging limp off the human’s shoulder.

“Having the kind of hydromancy I do, I can bypass it by retaining water apart from my system and slowly feed it in as I sleep removing the effects of heavy drinking.” he added, “Traira does the same for you.”

“But not to the level you have,” Jonathan said, rounding another corner. “Years of practice,” Bliss answered. After a long minute he added, “You know, I can alter my body to a degree that I’m not male at all.”

“Nope,” Jonathan said, “I don’t need to wake up and you’ve changed back.” “Oh, come on,” the otter whined. “And there’s the part where you used to work with David’s father,” Jonathan added, entering their shared quarters.

“I can be any age you want,” Winsten retorted, “weirdo.” “Man,” Jonathan said, “just drop it.” “You drop it,” the otter said. With that Jonathan flipped the otter off his shoulder and onto one of the cots. “Fine,” he said.

Winsten grunted from the impact. The otter balled and fell asleep. Jonathan laid down on his own cot. He fell asleep dreaming about a simple wish. To meet a cute girl and return home to live the rest of his life running his family farm.

After seven years he would make part of that dream come true. Meeting and rescuing a gorgeous swallow girl. And true to his own words. They meet with the butt of her pulse rifle meeting his face.

They didn’t start dating till a few years later, when the mage Novabell told them to stop playing games and just go for it. following a few years after meeting Switch and his younger sister, the two tied the knot and got married.

And the day came when Old blood called. The queen’s forces learned of the next bearer of the Delta codex and had to get him off world before he could be found. They set up a small temporary base in an underground bunker.

Novabell had always seemed cold and distant. But once the base was set up she became almost unfeeling. Jonathan and Winsten confront her about it. “What’s wrong, love?” the otter asked, “You were never this off, even to me.”

“It’s nothing to worry about,” she answered. “It is something to worry about,” Winsten said, “Because it’s affecting you.” “Don’t worry about me,” the mage said, “After this, I can finally rest.” “You’re not killing yourself after this,” Jonathan said.

“I’m only here for one mission,” the mage answered, “and once it’s done I won’t be needed anymore.” “This has nothing to do with your life,” the otter said, “You don’t want to meet him.” “What gave you that idea?” she asked.

“What gave you the idea of me not wanting to meet the kid of one of my victims?” she asked, “The son of a gentle man who was the first one in two decades to treat me like a person. And then broke him within an inch of his life.”

“And now you have a chance to do right by him,” Jonathan answered. “No, it’s not,” she said, “If I could do the right thing. His father would have been here.” “David could see the future,” Winsten said, “He called his visions the crossroads.”

“What does that have to do with this?” she asked. “You were part of the crossroads,” Jonathan said, “Nova of the bells.” The mage’s head snapped to the human fast enough the metal whined. “Bells, bells, star, nova, child, Delta, Malacaster, bells, bells, bells,” Jonathan added.

“The burning guardian,” Winsten said, “He said you would be there for Cornelius, in his hour of need. The reason he needs.” “Old blood will tell us where and when to find him,” Jonathan said. “We also got an updated picture of him,” Winsten added.

The otter waved them over to a computer and pulled up an image. It was an I.D. photo. A young fox with thick black fur and shaggy silver hair, and sharp ice blue eyes. The mage’s head tilted. “No fucking way,” she said, “that can’t be the kid.”

“From what Old blood said, He’s been on his own for the past fourteen years,” Winsten said, “His mother, Margaret passed away when he was ten.” “So plan is we split three teams,” Jonathan said, “Winsten and switch will run errands. You and I find and follow him.”

“We also have the heavy hitters in town so they’ll be looking for the big guy first.” Winsten said, “So we’ll have some room to move around. With the queen planet side there’ll be more mages running around.”

“Give you some room to breathe,” Winsten added. “But first let’s see if we can find out more about him.” Winsten spent hours pulling up and going through records as Novabell started tracking his movements.

“Damn kid, you could have done anything with your life,” Winsten said after his third pot of coffee. The mage sat at the other terminal with an empty cup acting like she was drinking from it. it would have taken her half the time to do all this by running it through her system.

Jonathan hast popped in for refills and fresh food. “Any luck,” he asked. “Kidding me,” Winsten said, “Kid’s damn smart. Degrees in engineering, bio-engineering, cyber tech, and a minor in medical biology.”

“He can build mages?” Jonathan asked. The mage’s head turned. “No more like, he can work out how to get people out of them.” Winsten said. “He’s ready himself,” Jonathan said, “for his crossroads.”

“Crossroads?” they both asked. “Last time we saw him,” Jonathan said, “Margaret said he had a nightmare, David checked and said it was a vision.” “Fuck,” they said. “If his power is sealed then maybe his crossroads are as well.” Jonathan added.

“No, visions are something else,” Winsten said, “if we could talk to delta we could go through his journal.” “Delta has a journal?” the mage asked. “Well David kept one with delta,” Winsten said, “using their link to record the visions.”

“Forget the visions,” the mage said, “I got a trace on his day to day movements.” “Cool,” the otter added. “Not really,” the mage said, “He has to watch his mana levels. Even sealed their very high.” “Kid’s a power house,” Winsten said.

“Yeah, but it cost him,” the mage added, “Aside from his job. He is restricted to the area he lives in. Caster pots I hear soldiers call them. slums set up to pool potential casters.” “A mage breeding pool,” Winsten added, “find a few at the right level and take them.”

“Yep,” the mage agreed, “And top that off, your boy has been feeding a mana cell ring. But he doesn’t keep the money he gets.” “What is he a player or something?” the otter asked. “Or something,” she added, “he transfers the credits to a number of families in the area.”

“Another damn saint,” the otter said, “any partners or friends?” “Friends yes,” the mage said, “coworkers, a few of the guards, some of the shopkeepers.” “So no partners?” Winsten asked. “None,” she answered, “at least not in the past month.”

Winsten flipped his terminal to the same information. With a few clicks he pulled up a few pages. “Now who do we have here?” He said, “Closest thing to a best friend he has is a guard, a checkpoint watch.”

Both pulled up another guard image. The image of a vixen came up on both screens. And both dropped their mugs. “NO FUCKING WAY” they both said. “What?” Jonathan asked. “It’s her,” Winsten answered, “That little bitch is here running around under everyone’s nose.”

“Who?” Jonathan asked. “The queen,” the mage answered, “Mage’s have a backlog image of her so if we see her we don’t attack her even if she uses magic.” “But check it,” Winsten said, flipping through windows, “He’s keeping their game on an even level.”

He pulled up a video feed of one of the checkpoints they started tracking. Watching as a notable hood figure walked through the checkpoint. “He’s here?” Jonathan asked. “Yeah,” Winsten answered, “which means they're looking for the same thing.”

“Cornelius,” all three said. “Anyone else hear a pinging sound,” the mage asked. Both shook their heads. The mage looked at her arm where the black metal of the Delta codex sat. “It’d be nice to know what’s going on,” the mage said.

“Might just mean Fey knows Delta is here,” Jonathan said. “Who’s Fey?” the mage asked. “Long story,” the human answered. “Anyway,” Winsten said, “we got to get to him first.” “If we’re lucky, she’s just playing her little dating game and will move on in a few days,” Novabell said.

“And if we’re not,” Jonathan asked. “She’s found both a new toy and we lose our last hope,” the mage answered. “Let’s just hope,” Jonathan said. “You two get some rest,” the otter said, “We got a lot of work to do.

Their plan to wait two weeks to meet with the young fox was cut down to a few days. And then all hell broke loose.

Chapter 4

Jonathan never got used to hiding under ground even with simple missions like this one. “Alright boys and girls,” Bliss said over the com, “by the numbers.” “Understood,” Malacaster answered. “We’re ready for the drop,” Nova added.

“In position,” Wisp, “landing pad in sight.” “Traroot,” Bliss said, “You’re clear to move topside.” “Topside,” Jonathan said, “So I get to watch the fireworks this time?” “Word is there’s a ground team waiting close to the landing pad,” Bliss said.

“Oh, I get to play crowd control,” Jonathan asked. “Or you can sit in that hole,” Bliss answered, “your pick.” “Fine,” he answered. Guiding Triara’s will Jonathan move the dirt and stone around them. Seconds later he pulled free of the ground.

His first thought was. It was just a few guards. But what he found was. Dozens if not hundreds of mages around him. “BUG OUT! BUG OUT!” he cried into the com, “IT’S A TRAP!” As if time slowed, He could see Cornelius and Joana falling from Winsten’s ship.

Winsten following after them. seconds Later the ship exploded. Before Joana could open her wings, a red and silver mage hit her. Driving both of them into the ground. As other mages jumped on Cornelius.

Both groups smashed into the ground hard. Earth and stone launching into the air. Dozens of mages froze Winsten into a block of ice. He shattered when he hit the ground. One of the mages picked up one of the pieces.

Its chest opened as organs and intestines spilled out onto the ground. The mage placed the piece of ice into its chest. Joana was fighting the red and silver mage. It was the same suit she was trapped in for years.

She screamed as it ripped off her limbs and fought to return her into it. Joana’s screams were cut off when it ripped her throat out. “Jonathan, run!” Cornelius yelled, as the mages broke his bones. Shots rang out as pulses of energy struck the mages.

Jonathan turned to where he heard the shots. Melody was hiding high on a weather tower. A mage was standing behind her. “MELODY,” he yelled into the com, “BEHIND YOU!” “Jonathan, run,” he heard David’s voice call.

Jonathan looked back at the broken fox, where he saw David’s broken and dead body on the ground. The red and silver mage was eating Joana’s body. Jonathan turned back just in time to see the mage crush Melody’s windpipe and let her fall from the tower.

He watched helplessly as the swallow fell. She stuck an antenna. The antenna impaled itself through the scar at the base of her throat, ripping out her spine. Another mage struck him, knocking him down. It was hugging him, holding him, trying to comfort him.

Jonathan’s eyes snapped open, his voice horse and raw. He felt soft feathers pressing into his chest and under his chin. As the sweet voice of his beloved Melody sang softly to him. “Jon, Jon,” she said, holding him close, “It’s ok, you’re safe. we’re all safe.”

Jonathan hugged his arms around her, tears rolling into her crown feathers. The little snake head cooed with a small rumble. Her tongue flicked and spurred the swallow’s neck. The swallow let out a moan of shock as the snake snapped, biting the swallow’s neck.

Melody shook, clenching on to Jonathan. she moaned, cooing into his chin. A damp spot grew quickly between them. The little snake withdrew from the swallow merging with Jonathan’s skin. “Seed,” He felt the word in his mind, “seed.”

“Seed?” he asked. “Seed?” Melody asked, “What’s going on? Jon?” “I don’t know,” he answered. There was a knock on the door. “Come in,” he answered. “You two ok in here?” Winsten asked, his cotton candy fur matted and blotchy from sleep.

“It’s nothing,” he answered. “Jon had another nightmare,” Melody answered, over him. “Well, come on,” he said, “Don’t think anyone is getting any sleep tonight.” The otter rolled his eyes and headed back to the common room.

“For the love of God,” the otter whined. The swallow threw on a bathrobe as Jonathan put on a pair of paints. They followed the otter into the common room of the cabin. The dark fur fox was balled up on the couch.

The golden fur feline sat with the fox’s head in her lap. Her short red hair was thick covering the marks of her cybernetic ear. Her nightgown and bathrobe hiding her form. She was petting the fox’s head speaking softly to him.

“Shhh,” Joana said as the others entered the room, “I just got him settled down.” “What happened?” Melody asked quietly. “I don’t know,” the feline answered, “He was talking in his sleep again. I told him to stop playing games.”

“Games, Games, chess, knight, rook, bishop, choice, champain, end, games, games,” the fox said, shaking. Both Jonathan and Winsten looked and nodded to each other. “Is this the first time it happened?” Jonathan asked.

“No,” Joana answered, “About a month or two.” “And it’s always a chain of words like that?” Winsten asked. The feline nodded. “It’s the crossroads,” they both said. “But, he’s not a diviner,” Joana said.

“Yes he is,” Jonathan said, “He had them when he was three.” “Can you still recall his memories?” Winsten asked. “I’ll go put on some tea,” the swallow said leaving the room. “No, It’s like trying to remember a dream,” she said, “It’s there I can feel it but I can’t reach it.”

“Right,” the otter said, “hey Cornelius, love, can you call Delta out.” An icy blue light flashed as a large wolf glowing in the same blue light filled the space at the foot of the couch next to the fox. “Delta,” the otter asked, “do you still have David’s dream journal?”

“Yes,” the wolf answered, “I had also started one for Cornelius as well.” “Well,” the otter said, “If you can, access David’s. I think it might be the second to last or the last one itself.” “I cannot access the second to last entry,” the wolf answered.

“Why not?” the otter asked. “The entry was recorded then relocated,” the wolf answered. “Delta,” Jonathan asked, “Was that entry made the day before we lost David?” “Yes,” the wolf answered. “Why was that relocated?” the feline asked.

“It was Cornelius’ first vision,” Jonathan answered, “Delta must have recorded it when David used a spell to view it.” “Night Light,” Winsten said, “Mark used it when David started getting visions.”

“I forgot which Malacard made it but it’s a family spell,” the otter added, “It was made to help the younger ones to understand their visions and learn how to handle them.” “Great,” Cornelius said, “I don’t even get a “how to” guild.”

“Well, maybe if one of us casts it we could try to help,” Joana asked. “Bad idea,” Jonathan said, “Corn pop here’s first vision was so intense he felt real pain.” “Corn pop,” Cornelius said, “I haven’t heard that name in years.”

The fox shifted on the couch without sitting up. “Yeah,” Jonathan said, “You were growing faster than a corn stock in spring.” The fox’s icy eyes turned to the floor as did the feline’s leafy eyes. “We didn’t even go back to the house,” they both said, “We got on the first ship she could get us on.”

“I cried for hours,” they continued, “I couldn’t understand why we left, or why Dad didn’t come with us.” They both blinked looking at the other. “I will never get used to that,” they both said. “It’s scary how synced you two are,” Winsten said, “No wonder you two have such great sex.”

They both glared at the otter. “What?” Winsten said, “the only other time I got fucked that good was last I was with Chartun.” The fox shuddered at the sound of the name. “Ok,” Winsten said, “He was part of the vision.”

“Ok,” the feline said, “let’s take a step back for a second.” Eyes turned to her. “What was the vision You had when you were three years old?” she asked. “It was about him losing his arm,” Jonathan answered.

Eyes moved again. “I only heard part of it,” he continued, “mostly I heard David saying it felt like his arm had been ripped off.” “Well, that answers a lot of questions,” Winsten said. “How does that answer anything?” the fox said, sitting himself up.

Melody came back into the room with a tray of cups and a steaming tea pot. “Like why someone as young as you got doctorates in three fields of study, that deal with cybernetics,” the otter said, sitting next to the fox.

The otter accepted a cup of tea. The swallow served each of them a cup of tea and set an open sleeve of cookies on the tray. “On a side note,” the swallow asked, “Why are you naked?” “I like to sleep this way,” the otter answered, “Much like how the sex goddess over there likes to wear clothes to bed, unless she’s balls deep on her fox.”

“Besides,” Winsten added, “When the two boys here started screaming, I tucked my junk away till I could find out what was going on.” “It was just a nightmare,” Jonathan said, “I’m fine now.” “No you’re not,” the Otter said, “But we will come back to that.”

“Anyway,” Winsten continued, “It also answers how you got so much detail into those blueprints.” “Also answer how you got over it so quickly,” the feline added. “I’m not over it,” Cornelius said, “I’m still not used to this thing.”

He held up his arm. “Love,” Joana said, “We’re not saying it like that.” “It took me years to get over losing my arm,” Jonathan said, raising his right arm. Roots and vines wrapped tightly into mussels and bone, with patches of bark covering parts of the arm.

“Now,” he added, “I have to get used to this.” “Yeah,” Melody agreed, “She is a little touchy though.” “Touchy?” the feline asked. “She.” the swallow answered and cut herself off. “Traira understands a human body,” Jonathan said, “more so a human man.”

Winsten nodded. “So you get fingered by a world seed,” he said. The swallow’s feather ruffled. Cornelius covered the otter’s mouth with his cybernetic hand. “Let it go Winsten,” the feline said, “or you’ll sleep alone for a month.”

The otter eyed the feline. The feline teased a low growl pitching into a purr. The three of them broke out laughing. “Delta and I will work out all that,” Cornelius said, “But really Jonathan. What’s going on?”

“It’s nothing,” Jonathan said. Melody punched his arm. “If Traira wasn’t looking right at me,” she said, “You would have ripped me apart.” Jonathan sighed, setting his cup down. He recounted what he could remember from his nightmare.

The otter nodded. “My mage suit was eating me?” Joana asked. “I turned into my father,” Cornelius said. Melody just held her scar. Jonathan sat back with his eyes closed. “You’re still blaming yourself for David’s death,” Winsten said, “And for the past year we have gone non-stop.”

“Yeah,” Cornelius said, “I’ve been a little driven to get the ball rolling.” “Understatement,” Joana smirked. The fox nodded. “Alright,” Winsten said, “I’ll call command and get us pulled from the next mission.”

“You don’t have too,” Jonathan said, “I’m good.” “It’s not just you,” Winsten added, “Jonathan, We all need a break.” The fox set his cup down. “Yeah,” he said, “Pull us. I shouldn’t have been pushing us this hard.”

“It’s all good,” Jonathan said, “You got started with a one sided battle and turned it on its head. That kind of steam. I’m shocked we haven’t gone after anything bigger.” “Same here,” Melody agreed, “You’ve also grown a lot.”

“I can’t say much,” Joana said. “Well given you’ve only really been fighting for just as long as he has,” Winsten said, “Hell, From a biological standpoint. You’re only two years older than him anyway.” “And what is that supposed to mean?” the feline asked.

“Well with a number of factors at play, you didn’t age the whole time you were in that thing.” the otter answered, “And you didn’t start aging till you were out of it.” “So, what?” she asked, “My body didn’t age for forty years.”

“And checking the logs,” Winsten said, “the total time you were a mage you were only active a total of two years.” “Maybe,” she said, “I was more active after.” Her words trailed off. “No,” the otter said, “You would power down any time we traveled.”

The feline looked away. “It’s fine love,” he added. “It’s a good thing. You more or less jumped forty years.” “But,” Cornelius asked. “No buts,” the otter said, “aside the ones you fuck.” “Right,” the feline said, “No dick for a week.”

“Oh, don’t be like that,” Winsten said, “I’m just saying.” “Winsten,” Joana said, “This is not about us. this is about Jonathan.” “It’s fine,” the human said, “Really, it’s fine.” “Jon,” the swallow said, “you need to talk about it.”

“Melody, babe,” he said. “Don’t Melody babe, me,” she said. “On that note,” the otter said, “What happened when I knocked?” “Yeah, you have blood on your neck,” the fox added. “And you’re wet.” the feline said.

The swallow checked herself shifting to cover herself more. “Traira bit me,” she said. Three looks curled the swallow’s leg up. “It didn’t hurt or anything,” the swallow said. “We can see that,” the feline said.

“I don’t know what got into Traira,” Jonathan said, “But once she let go. I … heard isn’t the right word for it. But I heard the word seed in my head.” “I’ll check with my love about it,” the otter said, “He should know something about it.”

“And we can’t do anything else till the morning anyway.” Cornelius said, pulling himself to his feet. “You’re sure,” Joana said, taking his hand. The fox helped the feline to her feet. “No,” he said, “But I know where it’s coming from.”

The fox let the feline lead them out of the room. He rested his hand on her hip. “If you’re not sure,” she said, jumping into a fit of giggles. “Maybe after a night cap,” he added, tickling the feline. Just inside the door to their room they kissed with the feline hugging the fox’s neck.

Not even a second after the door closed the sounds of giggling and moaning were heard. The otter rolled his eyes. “Fuck me,” he added, heading to another door. “Not going to bed?” Jonathan asked.

“Nah,” the otter answered, “I got calls to make now. And We’re still doing recon.” “You going to be warm enough down there?” Jonathan asked. “Yeah,” the otter answered, “I have to run the system for a bit anyway.”

Both Jonathan and Melody went to speak. “No,” the otter said, “Go back to bed. I’ll be fine.” Once the otter was out of the room the little swallow pulled the larger human to his feet. “Yeah, maybe after I scramble your eggs we can get some sleep,” Jonathan said.

“You said you were going to talk about that again,” the swallow chided. “The other kind of scramble,” he said. Before the little bird could think. She was off her feet. Her back was pinned to their bed, with her loving husband on top of her.

She grunted with his girth stretching her folds. She cooed a moan from his thrusts. She couldn’t hold out against his size, melting into a drooling mess on the bed. Jonathan didn’t let up driving his beloved mad with need.

He paused, so she could breathe as he picked her up and laid back on the bed. The little swallow covered her enterice. “Jon,” she said, reaching to the night stand, “What did we agree to?” “What?” He asked with a smile, “I was enjoying my beautiful and sexy wife, that I love ever so much.”

The swallow came back with a bottle in her talons. “Lube,” she answered, and bonked the human on the head with the bottle, “Just because I pop out eggs the size of your head, doesn’t mean it’s easy for me to take this beast.”

She straddled the human, pouring the contents between them. Jonathan lifted his hand to help work the cold ooze into her. “Left hand,” she said, pushing his right hand down, “You have no idea how hard it is to wash sap out of there.”

Jonathan laughed and switched hands. After soaking his fingers, Jonathan ran his hand over himself before slipping a finger through the swallow’s folds. Drawing soft coos from her. Adding digits he worked into her depths causing her to chirp.

“Better,” he asked. “Much,” she moaned. With a gentle touch she drew her talons across his length, getting a loose grip on it. “Now,” she said, lining him up. The little swallow let her weight drop onto him.

She gasped as her feathers mixed with his thick bush. “Remind me why I love you,” she chirped. Jonathan needed nothing else. With his hands on her hips, he indulged his love till she squawked her orgasm.

Jonathan watched as his little swallow’s eyes rolled back as her body quaked and convulsed, milking every ounce from him. Her belly bulged and his seed overflowed and ran down his shaft. “Seed,” he heard in his mind again.

The swallow fell across him, her head on his chest. “I have been thoroughly scrambled,” she huffed. “I love you,” he said. “I love you,” she answered, “Let’s go, for poached in the morning.” Jonathan looked down at the little swallow. “Yes,” she answered, “Both.”

Chapter 5

“Well,” The cotton candy otter said, “We’re stuck here.” “Something wrong with the school bus?” Jonathan asked, cracking open eggs. “NO,” Winsten said, “there’s nothing wrong with my baby.” The otter sat at the table.

“Nah,” Winsten continued, “Command wants us to stay and keep recon going till the other team gets here. Then we’re their back up.” “That’s fine by me,” the golden fur feline said, setting two cups of coffee on the table.

“Where’s Cornelius?” Jonathan asked. The feline smiled. “One of the most powerful casters ever,” she said, “round six, he was sound asleep.” The otter eyed the feline. “He needed it,” she answered, “and.” “You kept going till you passed out,” Winsten said.

“Jealous?” Melody asked, limping into the kitchen. The feline eyed the otter back. The otter looked at Jonathan then back to the swallow. “Fucking size queen,” he laughed. “Jealous?” Joana asked. “Girls,” Jonathan added, “No fighting at the table.”

“But dad she started,” the otter said. “No buts,” Jonathan jokingly added, “unless you want yours smacked.” “OH, yes please,” the otter answered. “Not at the table,” the swallow said, fixing herself a cup of coffee.

“I’ll get it,” Cornelius called after a knock at the door. “Weird,” the otter said, “Command said they were sending a doctor. I didn’t think they would get here so quickly.” The door opened followed by a commotion of glass breaking and shouting. All four of them bolted from the kitchen.

Running into the common room the scene they found was a riotous mess. Standing in the doorway was a tall human looking man with pale metallic skin with brass brown hair and sold gold eyes. The heavy robe he wore was colored the same as the night sky.

Over his shoulder was a large duffle bag. Meanwhile across the room with furniture pushed wayside or broken was the dark fur fox sitting on the floor his back pressed to the wall. He was covered in broken glass with a few larger shards protruding from his arm and leg.

“Oh, shit,” they almost all said. The feline ran over to the fox as the otter walked over to their guest. “I forgot to warn you,” the otter said, “Cornelius has started having visions and you were part of it.” The figure said nothing.

The figure snapped his fingers as the room started to reset itself. The fox hissed as the glass pulled free of him. Trickles of blood dripped from the cuts. “Right then,” the figure said, stepping past the threshold and setting the duffle bag down next to the door.

He closed the door and sat himself on the arm of the couch. The fox remained still, his wounded limbs shielding him from the figure. The feline knelt next to the fox holding his arm. “It’s ok,” she said, reaching up to pet his head.

The tension in the fox’s body laxed, as he nuzzled her hand. “You two have been fighting?” the figure asked. “The crossroads hit him hard the past month and we only found out about it last night,” the otter answered.

With a studying look the figure stood up. The robe fluttered and vanished. The figure stood in gray slacks and a matching t-shirt. “Well from a doctor stand point,” the figure said, “He’s fine. Give it time and it’ll get easier.”

The feline turned to glare back at the figure. “It’s a family trait, love,” the otter said, “They all went through it.” “And you’re fine, no empathic dreams or anything?” the figure asked. Joana shook her head. “That’s a good thing,” the figure added, “One of you has to keep a clear head.”

“Forgot the lube again?” he added, turning to the little swallow more than a head shorter than the figure. “Yeah,” she answered. “And the blood?” he asked, drawing a line from his neck. Melody looked at Jonathan for her answer.

“Traira bit her.” the human answered, “With everything that happened last night we forgot to clean it up.” The figure’s gold eyes turned to the human. “Oh,” the figure asked. “I woke up and Melody was holding me,” Jonathan answered, “And out of the blue Traira bit her.”

“Nothing else?” the figure asked. “Seed,” Jonathan said, “I think she said seed in my head.” “Aww,” the figure said. “What?” Both Melody and Jonathan asked. “It’s a good thing,” the figure said, “She’s growing in power, and is trying to learn different genetic structures.”

The otter smiled. The feline blinked a few times. “Wait, You mean,” she said, cutting herself off. The fox blinked as if he just woke up. Joana put her finger to Cornelius’ lips. “Shh,” she said. “But if she is, then so are you,” he said, a confused look on his face.

“I’ll get him some coffee,” the otter said after sharing a look with the figure. “Wait what,” the feline asked. “Laddly,” the figure said, “Don’t think about that right now.” Winsten returned with a tray of cups and passed them out.

“Later have Delta go over the crossroads with you,” the figure said, chugging down one of the cups. “Wait, what did he mean by that?” Joana demanded. “Just that,” the figure said, “When one of you is so will the other.”

“Joana,” the otter said, “the crossroads is not set in stone, nor do we even know when it could happen.” The feline held a hand to her stomach. “But,” she said, eyes wide. “Maybe slow down on that for a bit,” the figure answered, “or start using rubbers.”

“And no, Jonathan,” he added, “If she does. It would be your seed.” The figure held up a hand. “Right,” he said, “physically, you’re all fit for duty. But. Cornelius and Jonathan have a few mental issues to deal with.”

“I’m fine,” Jonathan said. “Jon,” Melody said. “It’s nothing,” he said, “It was just a nightmare.” “If you’re still feeling guilty about David,” the figure said. Jonathan looked away. “Traroot can’t defend herself,” the figure said, “Delta can, so can Uisce.”

The human’s fist clenched. “Dad made a choice,” Cornelius said, “You can’t hold that against yourself.” “And you don’t,” Jonathan asked, “You don’t hate me for leaving him to that fate?” The fox pulled and held the feline close to him.

“Would he have hated you for it?” the fox asked, “Could he have hated you for it?” “David,” Jonathan said, “should have been more selfish.” “You want someone to hate you for running,” the fox said, “When everyone told you to.”

“Jonathan,” Joana said, “Would we be friends if you had stayed.” “I would have killed you,” he answered, “I didn’t run because I was told. I ran because I was scared. And I left my friends to die.” “Right,” the figure interjected, “It would be fun to sit here all day and play shrink for everyone.”

They all looked at the figure. “As much love for you lot,” he said, “I can’t hang around all the time.” “Then why did you come?” the otter asked, turning his back to the metallic skinned human. “I’m here as your medical professional,” Chartun said, “Because I’m the only one they trust to care for you.”

“Yeah, Two of us have a god living inside us,” the otter said, “One is an elemental. And one works solely for you. Poor Melody over there is only getting the royal treatment because of her husband.”

“It’s not like that,” Chartun retorted. “No, because it is that.” Winsten said, “We’re just pawns in your stupid game. And you’re only here because we’re about to break.” The metallic human moved as if space moved for him.

He clutched the otter from behind. Winsten’s back pressed against the metallic human’s chest. Arms wrapped tightly around him. “None of you are pawns,” he whispered, just loud enough to be heard, “All of you have a role to play. But never think so low of yourself to think I’m only using you.”

“You think holding me and sweet nothings is going to make this right?” Winsten said. “I have gifts but that is a different matter,” Chartun said, “me being here is a risk in of itself.” “I know that,” Winsten answered.

“Winsten,” the feline asked, interjecting a thought, “We talked about this. Tell him.” “How can I tell him something he already knows,” the otter answered. “But It will do you good to say it anyway,” the fox added.

Winsten eyed the fox. “Say it or one of us will,” the fox answered. the otter sighed letting his colors fade into his rich brown as his height shifted. “Chartun,” he said, “We need to talk.” the metallic human’s head tilted.

“Later,” Winsten said, “This visit is about them.” “Winsten,” Chartun said. “It’s fine,” the otter said, “Get them squared away. Then we can talk.” “Cornelius is fine for now,” Joana said, “And our cybernetics can wait a few hours.”

“And we know what the warning signs for my crossroads,” Cornelius added, “So we know what to watch for.” “I just have a sore throat,” Melody said, “Nothing to worry about.” “I’m going to be living with nightmares the rest of my life,” Jonathan continued, “So I’ll learn to deal.”

The otter turned to address them. “Winsten,” Joana said, “Just because you can’t die, doesn’t mean you can’t be hurt.” “We never talked about this,” Chartun said, “If you needed me.” Consurne was loud in his voice.

“It’s too risky for you to just show up because I need a good dicking from you,” Winsten said, keeping his back to the metallic man. “Is it too risky for me to spend time with someone I love?” Chartun said.

“We don’t have the same love for each other,” the otter said. “Just because,” Chartun said. “No,” Winsten interjected, “I gave you my heart. And I got someone else’s heart in return.” There was a pain in Chartun’s gold eyes.

“I’m just someone you love,” the otter continued, “But I love you. In a way I can’t even put into words.” “But, I do love you,” Chartun said, “As much as I can.” “There it is again,” the otter spat, “That limit.”

The angel closed his eyes. “If I could give it up,” he said, “I would in a heartbeat.” “Don’t give me that,” Winsten said. The angel spun the otter around pulling him into a deep kiss before holding him tightly.

“I can’t love you the way you need me too,” he said, “Because it hurts too much. Even with Uisce’s heart. I’m still going to outlive you. As long as I’m part of the library I can’t die. Not like you.” “Okay,” The fox said, “I think we need a supply run.”

Both the fox and the feline stood up “We’ll do it,” the feline said following the fox out of the room. “We should get lunch started,” the swallow agreed, pulling the larger human to follow. The otter pushed the angel back storming off to his ship.

“I can see how being around us would make him feel that way,” Jonathan said, quietly once they were in the kitchen. “What do you mean?” Melody asked. “I was envious of Margaret and David,” Jonathan answered, “I felt alone, up till I met you.”

“I hit you in the face with my rifle,” Melody said, “How can that be the same?” “Corn pop risked his life for a girl he didn’t even know,” he answered, “When love hits. It hits hard.” “Yeah but we don’t know what the story is with those two,” the swallow said.

“Does it matter?” Jonathan asked, “They love each other even if they can’t say it.” “You say that,” Melody said, “but you can’t believe it?” “I can,” he answered, “Winsten doesn’t want to see Chartun as some god-thing. And Chartun can’t help knowing Winsten won’t live as long as he will.”

“You’re saying Chartun doesn’t want to love him because he’s just going to lose him?” she asked. Jonathan tapped a finger to his nose. “By the gods,” the swallow answered, “They’re worse than children.”

“Yet,” he said. “It’s not hard to see it between them,” Melody added, “but that leaves one question. “Hmm?” Jonathan asked, starting a pot of water. “Is Winsten really in love with Chartun or the face he wears?”

“It could be both,” He answered, “Look, It’s not my place to judge how they live their lives.” The swallow started chopping vegetables. “I’m not judging them,” she said, “I’m just worried about them.” “Winsten is just lonely,” Jonathan said, “they don’t see each other for months or years.”

“Yeah,” Melody agreed, “I’d go nuts if we didn’t see each other for a few weeks.” “The reason why they keep it an open relationship,” Jonathan added, “is just to fill their needs.” “I thought the stew was for dinner?” she asked.

“It is,” he answered, “Start it now and let it slow cook for a few hours.” “Yum,” Melody said. They worked quietly for a few minutes. “What’s on your mind babe?” Jonathan asked. “Oh, nothing really,” Melody answered.

“Come on,” he asked, “I won’t get mad.” “It’s nothing,” she sighed. “It’s not like You thought about how we never been with other people,” He said. “It’s not like that,” she answered. Jonathan smiled. “Babe,” he said, “It’s fine, I’ve thought about it too.”

“WHAT?” she demanded. “Babe, We both thought about it,” He answered, “If we weren’t together, Who would we be with?” “So, Would you go for Joana?” she asked. “Would you go for Corn pop?” he asked.

They set down whatever they were holding and turned to face each other. They sat in an uneasy calm. “We agree not to be mad about the answer we get,” Jonathan asked. “Agreed,” Melody said, “same time?” Jonathan nodded.

They counted and both said, “yes.” They paused. The only sound in the room was the stock bubbling on low heat. “You ok?” Jonathan asked. “Yeah,” she answered, “You?” “Yeah,” he answered. The swallow blushed.

Jonathan gave a genuine laugh. They kissed and both laughed. “You know,” he said, “You two would look too cute cuddling if you did.” “Funny I thought it would fucking hot seeing you two tag teaming her,” Melody said.

“What if we teamed up on you?” he asked. “It would have to be a spit roast,” she answered, “Cause that would just be too much for me.” “Too much for you?” he asked. “We’ve both seen that thing,” she answered, “He’s almost as big as you, and then there’s the knot.”

“Not to leave him out, what about Winsten?” He asked. “Love him to death,” she answered, “But I couldn’t get drunk enough to sleep with him.” “Same,” he answered. “It’s the shapeshifting thing,” Melody added, “Just weirds me out.”

“It’s more his age for me,” Jonathan said, “And knowing he’s still a guy no matter what form he takes.” They took a minute to compose themselves. “Hey,” Winsten said from the doorway, “Are they back yet?” “Not yet,” Jonathan answered.

“Oh,” the otter asked. “Supply run,” Jonathan answered. “So what were you two up to?” the otter asked. “Just making lunch and getting dinner started,” Melody answered, face still flush. They turned to the otter.

His clothes were ripped loosely hanging off him. His mop of brown hair was pulled back. “Angry make up sex?” Jonathan asked. “And then some.” the otter sighed contently. “Feel better?” Jonathan asked.

“Much,” the otter answered. The little swallow set a plate on the table for him. “Sit, eat,” she added. “Nah,” Winsten answered, “we’re going out.” “Oh,” Melody asked. “Going out?” Jonathan asked, “like out on a Date?”

Another first from the otter, he blushed. “Yeah, you could say that,” he answered. “Aww,” Jonathan said, “our little old man is growing up.” “Keep it up there kiddo and I’ll come over there,” the otter said, “and blow you into next week.”

“Hey now,” Melody answered, “Don’t be threatening my man with a good time.” “Yeah,” Jonathan added, “that’s her job.” “Anyway,” Winsten said, “we might be out all night so don’t wait up.” “You want us to follow the video feeds,” Jonathan asked.

“No,” Winsten answered, “I set it to record. I can review when I get back.” “But,” Melody asked. “Not to worry,” the otter said, “Recon is my job. You four need the rest.” “Besides,” a second voice followed, “You’re all on light duty for the next week.”

“Light duty?” Jonathan asked. “Yeah well,” Chartun answered, hugging the otter. His clothes were just as ripped up as the otter’s. “One year of hard running,” Chartun said, “Three systems have seceded from the empire and opened gates to casters and the like.”

“If this mission goes through as planned,” Winsten added, “This world might do the same.” “Catch is,” Chartun continued, “We need the Malacaster to make a show of it.” The door opened as the feline and the fox walked in.

“Speak of the devil,” Chartun said. They set packages and bags on the table. “What did I do?” Cornelius asked. “You, being a hero again,” the metallic man answered. The fox shot him a glare. “I’m not doing this for glory,” the fox added.

“Anyway we’ll talk later,” Winsten said, “We’re running later on a well over due date.” Chartun nodded as his clothes shimmered and changed. “Right, back in five,” the otter said, running off to change.

“No wild parties and don’t wait up,” Winsten said as he and the metallic human left. After stew for dinner and a few drinks the four sat in the common room talking. “We had run in with our informant,” Joana said.

“How do you do it?” melody asked, “I mean we can’t find someone we can buy or bully into helping us.” “Oh, we find someone to bully,” Cornelius answered. “I don’t bully them,” Joana said, “I just find someone who is looking for a little TLC and we give it to them.”

“She uses orgasm denial,” the fox said, “If it’s a girl I edge her till she caves. And Winsten gets the guys.” “Wait,” Melody asked, “You use sex?” “I wasn’t called a sex goddess for nothing,” the feline answered, “just have to know your target.”

“And you’re ok with Cornelius doing this?” Jonathan asked. “She’s the one who picks them out,” the fox answered. “Wait you pick who he’s going to fuck?” the swallow asked. The feline nodded. “But you don’t sleep with the guys?” the swallow asked.

The feline leaned into the fox purring softly, “I found what I was looking for,” she said, “And I’ve had more “partners” than I feel like counting.” “So, you’re having him play catch up,” Jonathan asked. “It’s more to help us desync more.” Cornelius said.

“Oh, I get it,” the swallow said, “you’re filling his head with things he can remember.” “Happy things he can remember,” Joana corrected, “and all by choice.” “So how does it work?” Melody asked. The fox looked at Jonathan.

“Oh this should be cute,” Jonathan answered. Melody shot him a glare. “It’s simple,” Joana said. “Oh, I want to see how this works,” Jonathan said. “Jon,” the swallow said, her face flushed. “What’s wrong song bird?” the feline asked.

As an old habit when she got flustered the swallow signed her thoughts quickly. The feline’s codex eye was the only thing fast enough to keep up. “You’re kidding?” the feline asked. “No, I’m sorry. I know it’s stupid,” Melody said, trying to hide under her husband’s arm.

“Don’t play dumb,” Joana said, eyeing the human. Her smile held mischief. “Yeah, we talked about it.” he answered. “Just talk us through it,” Melody said. “I’m not ready for the walkthrough.” “Ok,” the feline answer, first we find our target. in this case you.”

“Winsten finds the best place to make contact,” the fox said, “then he or I will scope the place out.” “Making sure to be seen by the target at least once,” the feline continued, “Then I make first contact.” “In this case, I would have to make sure you see me,” the fox added.

“Once I make contact,” the feline said, “I’ll chat you up and get friendly with you.” the swallow’s eye darted between them and back to her husband. “So how do you know if they took the bait?” Jonathan asked.

“In part she,” Joana answered pointing to the swallow, “will be looking for him.” “From there,” Cornelius added, “I would make myself known, mostly by ordering something.” “Once she sees him,” Joana continued, “I use a simple spell to tease her. My wife “hated” that spell so I know how to hide it.”

“That’s where the fun begins,” the fox said, “Joana will call me over. That’s a friend of mine kind of deal.” “From there,” the feline continued, “and it’s cute, he has to walk over with boner. And she has to see it.”

“Not easy,” the fox added, “then I get the target to touch it in passing.” “I spike the spell and cut it off,” The feline continued, “If it worked. Well. You can guess how it goes from there.” “So he’s the bait and you’re the hook,” Jonathan asked. “Line and sinker,” Joana answered.

“So you break them?” the swallow asked. “No,” Joana answered, “Not that way. We pick the ones who want it but can’t get it. So we build them up to it.” “Then keep them on the edge till they beg for it.” the fox added, “And once they agree to help.”

“Boom,” Joana smiled, “and like any good dom, Give them all the after care they need.” “In a very twisted way,” Melody said. “Kinda hot,” Jonathan said. “Well the after care anyway,” Melody added, “I was part of a group like that in the past. Not again.”

“Care to walk us through it now?” Jonathan asked. “Jon,” Melody said. “Aside from the mind breaking part.” “Jon,” the swallow chided again. “This case you know it’s coming,” Joana said, “So even if we did “walk” you through it. We would need your consent.”

Melody looked back at Jonathan. He arched an eyebrow. “I’d have one condition,” Melody said, her face just as flushed as before. The swallow signed her condition. “Didn’t we have something like this happen before?” the fox asked. “That’s why we kept Winsten with us,” Joana answered.

Chapter 6

“Ok,” the feline said, “We can cut most of the bored shit out.” “And we can just start from step five,” the fox added. “First contact,” the swallow answered. “Very good,” Joana said, “But since we know each other it’s more loose.”

Cornelius got up and left the room. “Well from here, we would just talk, nothing big or deep,” Joana said, “As I’m doing that and getting a read on Melody here, Fey and Delta run a thought link between us so Corn pop knows what’s going on and can act appropriately.”

“Why did you have to tell her that name?” The fox asked. The swallow turned to look at the fox. Once Joana knew Melody had both males in her line of sight, her Eyes flashed. The swallow’s leg twitched.

After a second the little bird started to squirm in her seat. Jonathan sat back and watched. The fox came back with a round of beers. “Did you grab the note I left on the table,” the feline asked the fox. “Yeah, It’s in my pocket,” he answered, his hands full.

“Melody, could you reach in there and pull it out,” the feline asked. The swallow looked at her husband and to the fox then back to her husband. Jonathan nodded, thinking it was just too cute. when the swallow reached into the fox’s pocket, her face went beat red.

She looked back at the human. Cornelius set the drinks down quickly. Once the swallow’s attention was divided the feline’s eyes flashed again. Cornelius groaned the same time Melody chirped out a moan.

A second later Jonathan leaned over and said “You can let go of his dick now.” The swallow jumped and withdrew her hand, only loosely taking the note. Jonathan read the note over Melody’s shoulder.

“You have been hooked. To keep playing you know what to do.” He caught the look on his wife’s face. “Can’t close the can now,” he answered. The swallow’s skilled hands moved quickly. In a blink the fox’s shorts dropped to his knees and Jonathan’s shorts were being tugged on for him to move.

Jonathan shifted in his seat kicking his shorts off. Both finished undressing. “Ok,” the fox asked, “Now what?” “Well,” the feline said, “I’m enjoying the view.” “What now?” the swallow asked, undressing, “You’re standing there naked with the safety on your rifle turn off. what do you think is next?”

“By time I’m like this,” the fox answered. The little swallow jumped onto the fox. They fell with the swallow pinning the fox to the floor. “And there it is,” the fox groaned. “Yeah,” Joana said, “he doesn’t take his shirt off.”

“His scar?” Jonathan asked. The feline nodded. “Go ahead, loves,” Joana said, “Enjoy yourselves.” The feline stood up moving to sit in the human’s naked lap, her clothes blinking out of existence.

“So what are you doing?” he asked the feline. “Fair trade,” she answered, petting his leg. “It’s one thing for them to go at it,” he said watching as his little swallow turned around pushing herself into the fox’s month, and suckuling his tip.

“Mammals and Avians can’t normally breed,” Jonathan said. The feline in answer held up a flat square wrapper. “And I can cook out anything I don’t want,” she added, “Your pick.” “What would be your pick?” he asked. “Personally, I go raw,” she answered, “Just feels right.”

“Fine by me,” Jonathan said, nervously patting the feline’s knee. He felt the hard metal of the artificial joint. “The drawback to these things,” Joana said, watching the swallow moaning and cooing, “I can tell your hand is there, but that’s about it.”

The feline took his hand and slid down her leg. “I’m not as worked up as they are,” she said, guiding his hand to her pelvis, “You might have to help me a bit.” “Fuck,” the swallow squawked, “it burns.”

The swallow had taken the fox half way. Jonathan pulled a small tube from his right arm. “Now who forgot,” he said, passing her the tube. The swallow took the tube and put it to use. “Oh that’s cold,” Cornelius gasped.

After a few seconds they were back at it. The swallow bounced happily as the fox held her tail feathers guiding her movements. “Looks like she’s enjoying herself,” the feline remarked. “And he’s not?” he asked, letting his fingers feel her out.

“He gets like that,” she answered, “he’s enjoying it. He’s just making sure she’s enjoying herself first.” The swallow pulled her top off. “Come on big guy,” Joana said, “You can do better than that.” She turned his hand, pushing his fingers deeper.

“There we go,” she said, “Don’t be afraid to get ruff.” The swallow passed the tube back. “Jon’s not much for foreplay,” Melody chirped, “Fuck, stop that.” “Cornelius,” the feline said, “Let her finish. we’re not on the clock.”

“Can he?” Joana asked. “That’s up to her,” Jonathan answered, Letting the feline pour the contents of the tube into his hand. “Well,” she asked the swallow. “Fuck, yes,” she squawked. Joana gave Melody a questioning look.

With a nod the swallow moaned. “Love,” Joana said playfully, “Knot the bitch.” “If that’s what she wants,” the fox said, picking the little bird up and resting her on the couch. “Slowly, it’s her first time,” the feline said.

The fox’s control eased his knot into the little bird. She held a long note with her moan as she convulsed. “You’re not going to fill her up?” Joana asked. “I can?” he asked. “Hold that thought,” the feline said, turning back to Jonathan.

“She was your first?” she asked, taking his hand and rubbing herself with it. Jonathan nodded. “You know, that is rare,” she added, appling more lube to him before taking his full length on the first try. She hissed and gasped and moaned as she moved.

“Damn,” Jonathan groaned, his head falling back as his eyes rolled. “Yes love,” she said, “Fill her up.” The feline pulled the fox’s head closer and kissed him as he let loose, filling the little bird. Melody groaned, her nipples erecting through the feathers of her breasts.

“Well that’s new?” the feline asked, “I didn’t know avians had nipples.” “We don’t,” Melody answered, “We don’t produce milk.” “Then what’s this?” Joana asked, lightly pinching the little nub. The swallow squawked a moan of pain, settling into small huffs.

The fox picked up the swallow holding her carefully. He rolled them onto the couch, letting her curl up into lap with a post cuddle. “Aw,” Joana said, watching the two rest. “That’s what I said,” Jonathan said.

“You thought about my boyfriend sleeping with your wife?” the feline asked. “Just the post cuddling,” the human answered. “Yeah they look so cute together,” She said, “And you need lessons.” Jonathan gave the feline a look.

“Just because she’s a size queen,” the feline added, “Doesn’t mean just sticking it in is going to do the trick.” “Yeah, I guess,” Jonathan said, “But she doesn’t tell me what she wants.” “I’m right here you know,” Melody said, still curled up in the fox’s lap.

“I know,” Joana said, “Just like I know you’re still milking my boyfriend’s dick.” “And what about you?” the swallow asked, “you don’t seem to be enjoying my husband.” “It’s not that,” the feline remarked, “He’s got the size going from him. Guess I’m more used to more engaging partners.”

“She got a point,” Jonathan said, “and you’re tight.” “It’s the build,” the feline said, “So what’s holding you back? I can tell you’ve been ready to pop.” “For how long?” Melody asked. “Oh, about your third,” the feline answered.

“Traira, Traira,” the swallow called, “Come on now.” the little snake head lifted from Jonathan’s skin. “Sweet, it’s ok to share with friends,” she said. The snake’s tongue flickered. “Are you mad I didn’t let you take part last night?” she asked.

The three fingers of Jonathan’s right hand writhed. “You’re kidding me,” the feline said, “Traira, you’re blue balling him because you’re mad?” The snake’s head seemed to nod. “I don’t mind her doing it,” Melody said, “it’s her sap. It’s hard to wash out and when it dries out it gets really itchy.”

“Oh, that’s an easy fix,” the fox said, “aloe vera.” “what?” the three asked. “If Traira can mimic aloe vera sap and use that in times like this. yeah it’s a bit sticky but it dries clean and is good for the skin,” the fox said, “You have to check around though. It was just the first one to pop in my head.”

“Why would that even be something you know?” the feline asked. The fox held up his cybernetic right hand. “Reasons,” he answered. The feline blinked. “Little surprised she just didn’t use the compounds in precum,” the fox added, “after around twenty years in a human body. It’s just a thought.”

Jonathan groaned from the unplanned climax. Joana gasped a moan from the sudden filling sensation. “Better?” the fox asked. “Much,” they both said. “Corn pop,” Melody said, “You just turned a goddess into a sex toy.”

“It was just a thought,” Cornelius answered. “No, It was very sound,” Joana added, “Thinking about it. Traira both plant and animal, integration Jonatha’s biology into her own should mean she can replicate the same materials he can.”

“When did you become a scientist?” Jonathan asked. “Hush,” the feline said, giving a hard bounce. Jonathan groaned. “Right then,” the feline said, “Let’s take this to one of the bedrooms.” With a plop Cornelius pulled his knot from the swallow.

“As I was saying last night before we got side tracked,” Joana said sitting at the kitchen table, “Our informant told me. The queen’s forces know the Malacaster is here and have called in extra mage power just in case.”

“So we’re talking what five, six, maybe ten mages total?” Jonathan asked, “It can’t be that bad?” “Try around a hundred,” the feline answered, “after the loss with the Avatiles and the seven past missions. The Malacast has shown to be a real threat.”

Cornelius waved his hands and rolled his eyes adding, “Yay, I’m a threat.” “Anyway,” the feline continued, “So we can’t leave even if we wanted to.” “It will take more fire power then what we got to take the base” Melody said, setting plates out for everyone.

“Correct,” Joana continued, “so the plan we have now is.” “We hold off the mages as the other team shuts down the base,” the fox added. “Can I talk,” the feline said. “We already know the score,” Winsten said from the doorway, “And why does it smell like an orgy in here?”

“Long story,” the fox answered. “Sounds like a good one to me,” the otter said, “any chance of it happening again?” “Winsten,” Jonathan said, “you can’t get me drunk enough to sleep with you.” Melody bit her beak.

“Anyway,” Cornelius said, “We just do what we have been doing. We’ll keep the mages busy, and the other team should be able to get into the base and reprogram them and shut the place down.” “When is it ever that easy?” the otter asked.

“As long as there’s no scythe wielding cyberlich mage with an army of robo undead,” the fox said, “I think we can take it.” “I don’t like it,” Jonathan said. “Yeah, sounds more like we’re walking right into your nightmare,” Winsten said.

“Might as well,” Jonathan added, “we’re walking into a death trap.” “Nah,” the metallic human said, “I got a guy.” “A guy?” Joana asked, “There’s a catch. What is it?” “That is between you and her,” Chartun answered, “I got her to the table for you.”

“So you got us a merc?” Joana asked. “Yep,” Chartun answered. “Who,” the feline asked. “You wouldn’t know her,” the metallic human answered. “Try me,” the feline said. There was a long pause. “Her name is Sam,” he answered.

“That doesn’t help,” Melody said. “Sam Daliaviod,” he finished. “Sam Daliaviod?” Joana asked, “Daliaviod as in one of your siblings?” “No, much worse,” he answered, “my daughter.” “The one that could land a blow on you?” the fox asked.

“Yes,” Chartun answered. “Do we get a family rate?” the fox asked. the metallic human’s gold eyes turned to the fox. “What?” Cornelius asked. “No,” Chartun answered, “She’s not bound by the same laws I am.”

“Can you give us an idea of what it would cost?” Melody asked. “No telling,” he answered. “How can you not know?” the feline asked. “I don’t know everything,” Chartun answered, “I’m not omniscient.”

“If there is no record of it he doesn’t know it,” the otter said. “Mostly true,” the metallic human said. “Anyway,” Cornelius said, “What can you tell us?” “nothing useful,” Chartun answered, “so what did you four do last night?”

“Melody has nipples now,” the feline answered. “Tell me something I don’t know,” Chartun said, “so what happened?” “Wait. You know she has nipples,” the feline asked, holding a hand out to the swallow, “But you don’t know how your own daughter thinks?”

“Do you really want me to answer that?” Chartun asked. “We had sex what else is new,” the feline said. “Oh really now?” the otter asked. “Melody asked about how we get information,” the fox answered. The otter nodded asking, “And?”

“Winsten,” Chartun said, “Leave it be.” “Oh come on,” the otter retorted, “Just give me something here.” The swallow nodded to the feline. Joana’s eye flashed as a still image projected from it. “Wait, is that Cornelius and Melody in a post cuddle?” the otter asked.

“Adorable,” Chartun said. “Aww,” the otter said, “and I missed it.” “It was hotter watching them tag team Joana here” the swallow said. The Feline eyed the little bird. “They got you too,” the feline answered, letting the image flicker and change.

The little swallow went red faced. “Wait, both of them and the knot?” the otter asked. “We had a lot of lube,” the swallow answered. “Sorry, Delta refused,” the fox answered. Melody’s codex stone lit up projecting images as well.

“Everyone keeps forgetting I have one,” she said. The feline took her turn to blush. “I wish I got a picture of the three of you in a post sex cuddle,” Jonathan said, “It was the cutest thing.” “I knew I should have bugged the place,” the otter said.

“Winsten,” the metallic human said, “You know acting like a horny creep is why most guys don’t want to sleep with you.” “Yes, I am both,” the otter answered, “But one has nothing to do with the other.”

“Anyway,” Cornelius said, “what’s in the bag?” “Upgrades,” Chartun answered.

Chapter 7

“You have no idea how weird this feels,” Jonathan said from inside a large stone block. “You think you have it bad,” Bliss said through the com. “Cut the chatter,” Nova said. “Are we there yet?” Mel asked. “Don’t make me turn this ship around,” Bliss answered.

“Are we sure this is going to work?” wisp asked. “NOPE,” Mel answered, “But they know we’re coming. So no point in you trying to find a place to hide.” “Just keep moving and you do fine,” Nova said. “Right,” Bliss said, his voice uneasy, “reaching the drop point.”

“Bad time to say this was a bad idea,” Jonathan said. “Never a bad time,” Bliss answered, “Just not a good time.” “Hammer” the little snake thought in Jonathan’s head. “Yes Traira,” he thought back, “It’s hammer time.”

“Corse locked, engaging autopilot,” Bliss said, “I’m going to miss you baby.” “Fine, you can play a song this time,” Nova said. “Nice,” Bliss answered, "Dropping in three, two, one.” Jonathan felt his stone box move. There was a weightlessness that followed.

“You guys know I don’t have eyes right now,” he said, “What’s happening out there?” After a few seconds “Human” by Rag’n’bone man, played. “Traroot, Now,” Nova ordered. “Time to get to work,” Jonathan said.

The stone around him cracked and broke. Ruble clutched to him with the roots and vines of the little snake. The stones that didn’t cling into the armor fell alongside him. His thoughts guided the snake’s will. The falling rocks sped past him into the ground below.

“We’re going to have company,” Mel answered. “And here they come,” Nova added. “Wisp, Traroot, keep going,” Bliss said, “We’ll deal with the fliers. You two, clear the landing pad.” “Copy that,” Wisp answered. “Understood,” Jonathan answered.

The storm they planned for was moving in. “Make a hole,” Bliss called, power building in the words. “I said, MAKE A HOLE,” he bellowed, as a bolt of lightning struck past Jonathan. the Mages flying up to meet them jerked and fell back to the ground.

Jonathan turned himself ready to hit the ground. As a second wave of mages took to the air. Shots rang out from Wisp’s rifle, dropping a few mages as they drew closer. Jonathan turned his head to see the taloned foot of the swallow on his shoulder.

“Nice shooting,” he said. “I’ll keep them off us. Just make sure we don’t die on impact,” she answered, firing off several more shots. Reaching out their wills to the closing ground below, drawing it up to slow their fall fan out the force.

Seconds before impact the swallow jumped. Wisp landed a few meters away using the wing feathers of her arms to slow her fall. Jonathan rose from his knee looking around. The shock wave pushed the army of mages back, giving the two room to work.

“I can work with this,” Jonathan said, his stone mask turning to the first mage to rush them. from under his leafy cloak turned swinging his branched arm out driving its stone fist into the mage’s face.

“I think we’ve been watching too many movies from Mel’s collection,” Wisp said ducking under one of Jonathan’s swings. “What makes you say that?” Jonathan asked, loosely dodging one of the swallow’s shots.

“I think I saw this scene before,” she answered. “Hey,” Mel said over the com, “This is like a staple fight in most action movies.” “Cut the chatter and watch your six,” Nova said. As a creature with massive burning wings flew overhead. Gouts of flames erupting from the ground.

A figure in black armor burning with icy blue light landed on a mage’s back. With a punch the mage dropped. “Not the best entrance,” the figure said, “But I’m not about to go for a second take.” the burning creature landed next to the armored one.

“Is Bliss not joining us?” Jonathan asked, willing a heavy wall between him and an incoming attack, before touching the stone to drive it into the attacking mage. “He can’t do much down here till the rain starts,” Nova answered, looking up at the rolling storm.

“I didn’t know he could control lightning,” Wisp said. “It’s not the bolts themselves he’s controlling,” Nova answered, “It’s the water in the atmosphere.” “Well, it looks like he’s still having a blast up there,” the Malacaster said, jumping up with a kick, knocking one of the countless mages back.

“This is a little odd,” Jonathan asked. “What,” Nova asked, turning to him with a spin kick to another mage. “Their holding back,” Jonathan said, “Look at how much room they're giving us.” “We knew it was a trap,” Malcaster said, “They’re waiting for Bliss to join us.”

“Wait for it,” Bliss said over the com. “Wait for what?”Jonathan asked. “Take two,” Bliss answered from where the malacaster stood. The armored figure shifted into a brightly colored otter wearing a form fitting tank top, oversized baggy pants and a salmon pink overcoat.

“Alright girly,” Bliss said, “Are your drones in place?” “What did I tell you about calling me girly?” a woman’s voice called over the com. “Well?” the otter asked, “Are you ready or not?” “Yes,” the voice answered, “Don’t fuck this up kid. We’re only getting one shot at this.”

“Why did I even agree to this,” Mel said, “I don’t even know if Delta can even handle that much power.” “What? You don’t trust my old man’s handiwork?” the voice asked. “That’s not it,” Mel answered. “Just do it,” the woman’s voice said.

“Fine,” Mel said. A bolt of Lightning struck a figure dropping from the sky. The area became illuminated in an icy blue light. Seconds later the figure crashed into the ground. The shockwave sent mages, tanks and other heavy weapons flying.

“Well played,” the Malacaster said, raising to his feet. The armor figure of the Malacaster caught a mage by the head and twisted it off. “These are all collector bots,” Malacaster added, “They have no magic.”

“Well then,” Jonathan said, “Guess we don’t have to hold back.” With a twist of his hand, pillars of earth shot up from the ground crashing back down on the army of robots. The burning creature turned with a long kick leashing out with white hot flames.

The little hooded swallow whispered a word, with copies of herself darted off. Rifle fire rang out from a number of directions. The otter dropped to a knee, slapping his hand on the ground. The ground around the otter rumbled as brustes of water broke the ground, washing through the robots freezing each in place.

“Canon falter,” the otter said, “Almost makes me wish we could face the real ones.” As each of the warlocks cleared the false mages they burned spell after spell. As the last foe fell the warlocks regrouped. “Think that bought them enough time?” Malacaster asked, taking a knee.

“No,” the otter said, flopping on the ground. The burning creature’s wings folded and faded to an armor feline. “We can only hope it helps,” the feline said, “cause I’m spent.” “Same,” Malacaster agreed. “I don’t like this,” Wisp said, “Sitting out in the open like this.”

“That’s the point of the collector bots,” Jonathan said, “Run casters into the ground.” “How soon before the real ones show up?” the swallow asked. “At this point,” the otter said, “Any second.” “We’ve got contact,” the woman’s voice said.

“How many?” the otter asked. “Not enough,” the woman answered. “Right,” the otter said and flipped up to his feet. “More bots?” Wisp asked. “Nope,” the woman answered, “royal guard mages.” “Fun,” Malacaster answered, dragging himself back to his feet.

“Shit,” Nova spat, “Loyalest.” “Understood,” Malacaster agreed. “Anybody got anything left for round two?” Jonathan asked. “Nope,” Malacaster said, “But we better make a good show of it.” “This is going to be messy,” Nova said.

“Anyone ever fought one of these things before?” Malacaster asked. “Nope,” Jonathan answered. “I’ve seen one before,” Wisp added, “but never up close.” “No,” Nova said, “Had to fight alongside one once.”

“I have,” Bliss smiled, “Bitch didn’t know when to quit.” “You’re kidding right,” Nova asked. “Eighty years ago,” Bliss added, “On an ocean.” “Don’t think you’re going to get to drown these guys,” Jonathan said, turning to face the first royal mage he saw.

With royal violet and gold the mage’s armor shined, the only off setting color was a sash marking its magic. Jonathan faced off against one wearing a green sash. It looked like some kind of bull with a gold nose ring.

Nova stood against another feline bearing a red and silver sash. Bliss was watching one with a blue sash that almost looked human. With Wisp matching up with another bird. As four more with black sashes faced the Malacaster.

“Really?” Malacaster asked, “I got to take on four of you?” There was no reaction. “Take it easy there kid,” the woman said, “Just play your part.” “Easy for you to say,” Malacaster answered, “I am so dead.”

With a deep sigh the Malacaster righted himself and walked toward the four mages. “Evening,” he said, “If you’re looking for something maybe we can help?” “Malacaster,” the closer of the four hissed, “Her Majesty would like a few words with you.”

“Maybe some other time,” Malacaster answered, “I’m sure she has time to take a raincheck.” “This is not a request,” the mage hissed. “If she wants to end this war, release the mages and stop acting like a spoiled child,” Malacaster said, “Then maybe we can talk.”

“Mind your tongue, peastent,” the mage hissed, drawing a long sword from its hip. “Fine. Answer one question for me,” the dark armor figure said, “And your answer chooses your fate.” “What foolishness is this?” the mage hissed, as the two stepped closer to the other.

“Foolishness?” the figure asked, “How is it foolish to want to be free? How can you live with yourself knowing how many people have been hurt or killed or worse, made to be like you?” “Doesn’t matter,” the mage hissed, “This game is over.”

The mage raised the sword ready to strike. Malacaster stopped just close enough for the mage to reach him. The mage swung. “Who,” Malacalaster asked, “Who did she take from you?” The blade stopped a hair away from the Malacaster’s armored face.

There was a stillness in the mage. A stillness Jonathan had only heard about. A second later Malacaster fell to his knee. The mage took a step back looking at its hand. “She took my father from me,” Malacaster said, Forcing himself to his feet, “To protect me, My mother bounded my power, costing her, her life.”

The sword fell from the mage’s hand. “The name you gave me,” Malacaster said, “They have been freed.” “How can I trust you?” the mage asked, taking another step back, “How can I believe anything you say?”

The dark armor caster tilted his head. “You have seen my face,” he said, “If I wanted to hurt you. I would have killed you already.” “My child is free?” the mage asked. “We have medical devices that can reverse the damage,” the figure said, “We can help you.”

The figure looked past the mage and to the others mages. “We can help all of you,” he added, “Just stand down. Please.” “If you don’t believe him,” Nova said, “Unit one one four seven. The dragon is me.”

Jonathan turned to the mage next to him. “What’s your name?” he asked. “Don’t speak to me, warlock,” the bull mage answered, its voice metallic and hollow. “I’m sure we can all talk this out,” Bliss said. “No one has to die tonight,” Wisp added.

“What are you doing, kid?” the woman asked. “I don’t want to kill any of you but I will if I have to.” The second black sash mage stepped forward. “Enough of you mind games,” it said. “Sorry that spell takes a lot,” malacaster said, “I can’t use it more than once every few days.”

The second mage drew two short swords. “You made your choice then?” Malacaster asked. “I live to serve,” the mage answered, kicking the first mage out of its way. “I’m sorry friend,” Malacaster said, “Any who stand down will be shown mercy and will not be harmed.”

“You sound like the old man,” the woman said. The mage lunged at the Malacaster, blades arching into pinpoint strikes. A metal plate met the blades glowing in the same icy blue light. The exchange of blows between the two happened faster than any of them could see.

A single chip of armor half the size of a pea clinked to the ground. “Mhmm,” the mage mused, “not as untouchable as you think you are.” “Mhmm,” Malacaster answered, “How many swords do you have?” The mage looked at its weapons, and all but the hilt was gone.

“Last chance,” Malacaster said. The mage charged a spell to unleash. As Malacaster backhanded the mage with the shield. With the contact of the shield, Malacaster released the kinetic force he built up from the mage’s attacks.

The mage was launched backward into the wall behind the last two mages and continued into the wall behind it. “Mel we’re done up here,” another voice said, “Charges are set this place gonna blow.”

“Good,” he answered, “Fall back. We may have a few guests about to join us.” “the good kind of guests,” the voice added, “Meet y’all back at base.” “Good work,” he said, before turning back to the mages, “Last chance.”

The first mage got up and retrieved its weapon. The last two mages joined the first one. “Does he speak the truth?” one of the mages asked. “Yes he does,” the first answered. “This part is a leap of faith,” Malacaster said, holding out his hand.

The first mage took the Malacaster’s hand. Each of the warlocks held out a hand to the mage before them. “This place is about to blow,” Malacaster said, “If you’re not joining us you better run.” The other two black sash mages rested a hand on the Malacaster.

The last four mages ready an attack. “Right, pulling you out now,” the woman answered. In a breath the eight were standing in a white room. The mages released the Malacaster and took a step back. “Your freedom is on the other side of that door,” Malacaster said.

The first mage laughed as he rushed to the door. Then he stopped, turned and drew his weapon. The room froze for a second. Malacaster took slow steps to the mage. The dark armor blinking away. As a black fur fox with silver hair and icy blue eyes stopped in front of the mage.

The fox held out his hand. “You can lay down your arms,” he said. The mage turned the grip to the fox. “Anything to see my kids again,” the mage said and handed the weapon to the fox. The fox nodded and took the blade.

The door opened as a reptile girl stepped into the room. “Thank you for coming,” the fox said, “Could you take these mages to the pods?” “Yes Sir,” the reptile answered, taking the mage’s hand, “Follow me please.”

The other two mages disarmed and followed the reptile. Once the door closed, the fox fell to the ground. They each held their breath till the fox started snoring. The otter fell next but held up a hand in a wave, adding “I’m good.”

The swallow sat down by the wall. As Jonathan sat next to her. “Damn,” he added, “I am so glad he pulled that off.” The door opened again with a woman in her mid twenties entering the room. “Does every Malacaster have to take that oath to the letter,” She said.

With the same pale metallic skin and gold eyes as her father. She stood as tall as the Caretaker. Her blond hair looked platinum and reached past her shoulder. “Aw, is he dead?” she asked, looking down at the fox on the floor.

“No,” Joana answered, “Just burnt out.” “We all are,” the otter, “besides, You got the footage you wanted.” “Still,” the woman said. Joana knelt down to pick up the fox. the feline grunted, lifting the fox. “How are you so heavy,” the feline said.

The woman lifted the fox to his feet. “Too bad you don’t keep a white marker on hand,” she added. The feline withdrew a marker from the pouch. “Silver,” she added, “matches his hair.” “I was joking,” the woman said.

“It’s a one wash fur dye,” Joana said, “We try to hide his identity.” “Come on,” the woman asked, “you got silly with it?” “No, I got my ass beat the one time I drew a dick on his face,” Winsten said. “Joana tried glasses once,” Cornelius said, “but they turned out more like tits.”

“With his eyes they looked like ice nipples,” Melody said. Joana took the weight of the fox. “Melody,” the feline added, “you’re one to talk about nipples.” “I’d ask,” the woman said, “But something tells me, it was something the old man did.”

“NO,” the swallow said, “she did it.” The swallow pointed to Jonathan. “If I didn’t have context already,” the woman said, “That would have been funny.” “How,” Joana asked. “I’m daughter of the Caretaker,” the woman said, “He told me.”

“Sam,” Winsten said, “Anyone ever told you. you look just like your father.” “only the ones that never met my mother,” Sam answered. “Do you mind me asking about her?” the feline asked. “No,” Sam answered, “She died when I was little.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Joana said. “Long story short,” Sam said, “the old man refused to trigger one of his stars to nova and my mother destroyed his drone body that was linked to the star.” “That is a whole other level of messed up,” Melody said.

“Yeah, she was his first love,” Sam added, “he and I never really got close after that. Till the day we met up.” “From what I heard,” the otter said, “You clocked him good.” “We’re working on it,” the woman answered.

“She must have been beautiful,” the fox added, “Given the facts at hand.” “Really?” she asked, “Are you really hitting on me?” “Cornelius, I love you,” Joana said, kissing the fox’s cheek, “But go back to sleep.” The feline let the fox fall back to the floor.

“Ow,” he groaned. “I think he was just being kind and calling both you and your mother beautiful,” Joana said, “I don’t think he knows how flirting works.” “Hey,” the fox said. “Hush,” the feline said.

“Well sweet of him anyway,” Sam said, “I’m sure my wife thinks the same.” “Are we paid up?” the otter asked. “Yes,” she answered, “but you don’t want to hang out with your step daughter?” “the only thing we have in common,” otter said, “is we both have daddy issues.”

“Well, we both love the old man,” Sam corrected. The metallic skinned woman took a few steps to stand over the otter. “You threaten to kill him every time you see him,” Winsten said. “I’m his kid,” she answered, “it’s how we show affection.”

“I want to know what your beef is, Winsten,” Joana asked. “Long story,” the otter answered. “He thinks I say or do things that leave the old man feeling like shit any time we talk,” Sam answered, “truth is I remind him of mom and it hurts.”

“Really Winsten?” the feline asked. The otter flipped to his feet. “First you scare off my boyfriend,” the otter said, heading for the door “Then you take my ship.” “Did he give you Herbie?” Sam asked.

“I had that ship for eighty years,” Winsten said. “And he gave it to you,” Sam said. “That’s not the point,” the otter said. “You know Herbie is a ship,” the woman said, “And the school bus is falling apart.” “I’ve been taking care of her,” Winsten yelled.

“Herbie was my idea,” she answered. “This was your idea,” Winsten shouted. “Yeah,” she answered, “Because I didn’t want you flying around in that death trap.” “Death trap?” the otter asked, turning to the metallic woman.

“Yeah,” she yelled, “You think I don’t care about you? That I thought you would have loved to have one of my father’s item beasts.” the otter stopped. “Yeah, I know it was late,” she said, “but happy birthday.”

“Wait,” he asked. “Don’t look at us, we had no part in this,” Joana said. The otter pointed at Sam. In a blink Sam was standing in front of the otter holding him in a tight hug. “Dad wanted to give him to you,” she said, “but you know the rules, nothing for free.”

“But,” the otter asked. Sam tapped the otter on the chest. “He already gave the most he could get away with,” she said, “Besides, when do we ever take time to bond.” The otter blinked. “Come on,” Sam said, “I’ll buy the drinks.”

Chapter 8

“Hey Corn pop,” Jonathan said as he entered the workshop, “Where is everyone?” “Joana said something about having a girl’s night out,” the dark fur silver hair fox answered, “come on now. Why is the interface not working this time?”

“What ya working on?” Jonathan asked. The fox looked up with three sets of eyewear dressing his head. “Trying to get an interface program to work,” the fox answered. “Is there something wrong with the limb or the coding,” Jonathan asked.

“That’s the thing,” the fox said, “Both are working just fine. But I can’t get the limb and the interface to communicate with each other.” “So did you try everything yet?” Jonathan asked. “Short of ripping my arm off and linking up to it myself,” the fox answered, “Yes.”

“Gonna sound dumb here,” Jonathan asked, “why haven’t you?” “I don’t have a matrix,” the fox answered, “Mine is fused right to my arm.” “Because the damage to his arm didn’t leave a clean enough space to fuse a network matrix to,” a voice answered from a comlink window that opened on the screen in front of the fox.

“Chartun here, had to fuse the limb right to raw nerves, flesh and bone,” the fox added, “So I can’t just take the arm off and fuck with it.” “Not ever part of it?” Jonathan asked. Nah, it’s a hard set,” the fox answered, “Like a real arm.”

“I work with what I get,” Chartun said, “Plus trade secrets.” “And you can’t make one?” Jonathan asked. “I have,” the fox answered, “It’s not the matrix. It’s the codex.” “Codex?” Jonathan asked.

“Yeah,” the fox answered, “Linking the limb, the interface and the matrix through a codex lets it work.” “The A.I. in the codex can balance the system and add a “living” intuition. Like how your hand can move without thinking or upkeep an action.”

“Active use of a limb can direct it, but doesn’t adjust for other factors,” The fox added. “Like how Joana could walk but had a hard time with it till she turned Fey on,” Jonathan said. “Exactly,” the fox said, “unless I can find a way to jump the codex link.”

“Why not use a codex?” Jonathan asked. “They’re not cheap,” Cornelius answered, “the stone, the setting, costs a lot. Fey was made with a real emerald and the setting was ninety-seven percent pure silver.”

“Yeah, the cheapest part of a codex is the micro circuit,” Chartun said, “and for the most part is really all you need.” “So could you just use the micro circuit in the matrix, load the interface into it,” Jonathan asked, “and link it to the limb?”

The fox looked from Jonathan to the screen and down to the cybernetic limb on the table. “I am so fucking stupid,” he said, Taking off the layers of eyewear. “I’ll send some over after you take a break,” Chartun said, “You haven’t moved from that spot for a few hours.”

“Yeah,” Cornelius said, “Thanks.” The fox stood up and stretched a bit. “Come on, food’s ready,” Jonathan added, “Working all day like that. You must be hungry.” “Yeah,” the fox said, “What are we having?”

“Chili,” Jonathan answered, “as hot as I could make it.” “YES,” the fox grinned. “Oh, last thing,” Chartun asked. “Yeah,” the fox answered, “Would you deliver a message for me?” “Yeah, sure,” Cornelius answered.

“It’s for Winsten,” Chartun said. “I think I know what it is,” the fox said. “Thank you,” Chartun answered, “I’ll catch you kids another time.” the comlink closed. “So why are you making cheap cybernetics?” Jonathan asked, heading back to the kitchen with the fox in tow.

“If it works,” the fox answered, “it would be easier to buy without the need for a codex.” “And,” Jonathan asked. “And I’ll see about getting mine adjusted,” the fox answered. “Are you planning on quitting?” Jonathan asked.

“No,” Cornelius answered, “Just planning ahead.” “Stop being cryptic David,” Jonathan said, “you had another crossroad.” The fox paused. Jonathan turned back to the fox. “I think that was the first time you got us mixed up,” the fox said.

“You sound the exact same,” Jonathan answered, “And your dad would throw himself at a crossroad to get ahead of it.” Cornelius put his hand over his arm where the cybernetic limb met his own flesh. “If it happens,” the fox said, “I’ll get to be there.”

“What are you talking about?” Jonathan asked. “I get to hold Delta’s ceremony,” the fox answered, “And pass Delta to my kid as the next Malacaster.” “Does,” Jonathan asked. “No she doesn’t,” the fox answered, “please keep it that way.”

“Why?” Jonathan asked. “Because,” Cornelius answered, sitting at the table, “this crossroad is linked to another one.” “That choice you have to make,” Jonathan asked, serving them each a bowl of chili.

“Yeah. And if I make the wrong one,” Cornelius said ducking his head under his hands. “Best to not think about it right now,” Jonathan said, setting one of the bowls in front of the fox, “for now just eat.” Jonathan sat across from the fox.

They ate in sober silence. “still thinking about it?” Jonathan asked. “It’s normal,” the fox answered, “it’s part of why the malcards were so selfless and reckless.” “Your mother was just as bad,” Jonathan said.

“No she was worse,” the fox said, setting his bowl to the side. “Yeah, let’s change topics,” Jonathan said, letting the first thought fly out of his mouth, “we could do another wife swap when they get back.” “Nah,” Cornelius said, “I just want to get back to work.”

“It’ll be there in the morning,” Jonathan said, “It’ll be good for you to relax.” “I’ll relax when this whole shit show is over with,” the fox said, getting up for some drinks. “God, you act like your mother,” Jonathan said, “always worrying over everything.”

“First time anyone said I act like my mother,” the fox answered, setting a beer next to Jonathan. the fox lazed back into the chair taking a drink. “They were good people,” Jonathan said, “madly in love, and gave so much more.”

“Yeah,” Cornelius said, “I’m the son of the caster theft and the wicked witch of the Westbur.” “And you make them proud,” Jonathan said. The front door opened with a cladder. “Boys!” Melody called, “Where are my boys?” “In the kitchen babe,” Jonathan called back.

Winsten as the plain brown otter walked into the kitchen with a drunk swallow hanging off his back. “There’s my boys,” the swallow slurred, “put me down.” “She is not allowed to have tequila,” Winsten said, setting the little bird on her feet.

Joana and Sam follow a few steps behind. “Right,” Sam said, “I got them all back safe and sound.” The little bird fell onto the fox’s lap. “My fox,”she cooed, hugging his waist. “Easy there love,” Joana said, a gentle hand on the bird’s back.

“What happened?” Jonathan asked. “Oh she got drunk,” Joana said, “Poor thing is so repressed.” “How bad are we talking?” Jonathan asked. “Well. I’m out,” the metallic woman said, “Before I get dragged into anything.”

Sam left. Winsten looked at the feline and then to Jonathan. “She tried to blow me at the bar,” the otter said. Jonathan laughed, “Really? She tried?” “That was after her little striptease,” the feline added. “We were lucky Sam knew the owner and got us out of there,” the otter finished.

“Why is it so hot in here?” Melody asked, “Can someone get this thing off me?” the little swallow tried reaching for the bra strap on her back pressing her chest into the fox’s lap. Joana flicked her fingers, releasing the strap.

“Much better” the swallow cooed, squeezing the fox more, “They got too big and it hurts to wear that damn thing.” Cornelius blushed through his dark fur. “Someone likes them,” Melody said, wiggling her chest around the fox’s lap.

“Is she that drunk or just in heat?” Joana asked. “A little help here,” the fox mouthed. “You’re fine,” Jonathan said, “Just let her get it out of her system.” “I want it in my system,” the swallow chirped, “I want my boys in me.”

“I think she’s a bit of both,” the feline said. “Wait,” Winsten asked, “I think it’s Traira’s gene manipulation.” “Jon,” Melody said, pulling herself up the fox to sit in his lap, “come do me right in this fucking fox’s face.”

Jonathan got up and picked the little bird off the fox, who slid half a meter back. The swallow curled up into her husband’s chest. “Somebody fuck me now,” she moaned. “Might as well,” Jonathan said, “Come on, we could all use the workout.”

“Pass,” the fox said, “I got to get back to work.” “Same,” Winsten added, “got to get us ready for the next mission.” “I’m a little too drunk,” Joana said, “I might go to sleep.” “You’re all being no fun,” Melody said.

“Come on babe,” Jonathan said, “You know I’ll take care of you.” The swallow huffed. “Well night all,” Jonathan said, taking the little swallow into their room. “Night,” the other three said. With the door closed Jonathan helped his wife the best he could.

Jonathan woke to a knock on the bedroom door. He sat up looking around the room. Melody was balled up asleep. He got up and got dressed. He answered the door. “How’s she holding up?” the otter asked.

“A mess but asleep right now,” Jonathan answered. “Good,” the otter said, “I did some digging. And She’ll be fine. I wanted to put that out first.” “So what’s going on with her?” Jonathan asked. “In short,” Winsten said, “She’s a hybrid now.”

“Hybrid?” Jonathan asked. “Yeah,” Winsten said, “Traira infused her with a copy of your genes. But It’s not stable. We just need to infuse her with something closer to her gene structure.” “I’ll get coffee going,” Jonathan said.

“Nanobot, nanoskin, micro circuits, system coding,” the fox said sitting at the kitchen table reading over notes and papers, “Hell, give me two weeks and I can build an android from spare parts.” “Winsten went to the bathroom,” Jonathan said.

“Blah,” Cornelius said, “I’m a bio engineer, not a genetic engineer.” “I helped mages by giving them plants to care for,” Jonathan said, “doesn’t make me a shrink.” “The closest I come to any of this is in coding and that’s still a stretch,” Cornelius said.

“I’ll take a look after coffee,” Jonathan said. “I thought your thing was plants and rocks?” Cornelius asked. “It is,” Jonathan answered, “Plants have genes too, you know.” “Right,” the fox said, “The best I got is an organ replacement with a genetic mixer.”

“Not a bad idea,” Winsten said entering the kitchen, “But let’s start with something smaller.” “Well I got nothing,” Cornelius said, “and even Delta can’t do anything about this.” “Sounds like we need a stable hybrid,” Jonathan said.

“So we need a stable avion mammal hybrid with some high level magic power to balance out the hormones in Melody,” the fox said. “Hey guys,” Joana said walking into the kitchen in just a bathrobe. The three of them just looked at the feline.

“Why do I feel like I just walked into a mad science think tank,” the feline asked. “And again I feel stupid,” the fox said, dropping his notes. “Look, you three are the mad scientists here,” the feline said, “I’m just a high school dropout with a G.E.D.”

It took an hour and two pots of coffee to walk the feline through everything. “Ok,” she said, “What do you need me to do?” “We still need to work that part out,” Wisten said. “We should start with a sample,” Cornelius said, “from there we should be able to work out the rest.”

The otter pulled one of his tools out of nowhere and handed it to the feline. Joana let Winsten take the sample. she gripped the fox’s hand. “I just notest you two always sit the same way,” Jonathan said, watching their hands.

“Oh you mean,” Joana said, “I always sit on his left side, or him always on my right.” They held up their hands with a small glint of metal shiny from the ring finger. “Because it’s what saved our lives,” Cornelius said, “and the cybernetics don’t have the same feel to them even with the nanoskin.

“And what are those,” Winsten asked, grabbing their hands to take a closer look. They had a matching set of gold and silver bands on each of their ring fingers. “This means what I think it means?” the otter asked, “RIGHT?”

The feline nodded. “This goof has been working to buy these from your boyfriend,” she said, “and when I went to check on him last night he popped the question.” “Aww,” Winsten sighed, “I can’t wait to see what your kids will look like.”

The fox pulled the feline onto his lap as she cuddled up to him. “We wanted to be sure,” she said, “this is what we wanted.” “What’s next?” Winsten asked, “Did you already pick out names for your kids?”

“If it’s a girl,” the feline chirped, “Margaret May. After his mother and my wife.” “And if it’s a boy?” Jonathan asked. “David Hunter,” she answered, “after our dads,” “Right,” Winsten noted, “you were raised by Hunter Wildbell, the shapeshifter.”

The feline nodded. “After that, we’re using friends,” the fox added. “So ideas on when you have the big day?” Winsten asked. “We were thinking next time we run into him,” Cornelius answered. “So you’re going to tie the knot next time I see my boyfriend?” the otter asked.

“Well we can tie the knot any time we want,” the feline said, “like right now.” The fox smirked. “But yeah,” he added, “having him over see it.” “Is the closest thing to having God do it himself,” the feline finished.

“Alright boys,” Joana said after another cup of coffee, “You three work on fixing this mess.” “Oh, and what are you going to do?” the otter asked. “See if she “needs” anything,” the feline answered.

“Well,” the otter said, “Till I’ve had a chance to study this. there’s nothing else these two can do.” “I guess I’m free,” Jonathan said, “I’ll take care Melody.” “And me and Winsten will hold up in the workshop,” the fox said.

“Or you can take a break from all that,” Joana said, “and spend some time with me.” “I can do that,” the fox answered, “It’s just some fine tuning.” “I can do that for you,” the otter said, “give me something to play with.”

“Please don’t use my prosthetics to give yourself a hand,” the fox said. “I won’t break your toys,” Winsten said,waving three off, “go play.” The feline drew her hand under the fox’s chin drawing his eyes to hers.

“Besides,” she smiled, “We have to let her know. That you are my fox.” “When you put it that way,” Cornelius said, trapping the feline by the waist, “My cat.” The fox lifted the feline onto his shoulder and gave her a playful whack on the rear.

“This is so not fair,” Joana laughed, “You can pick me up whenever you want to.” “It’s my thick skull,” he answered, “very dencents, very hard to move.” The fox left the kitchen with his fiancé in tow. “You are so lucky you’re cute,” she giggled.

Jonathan followed soon after leaving the otter to his work. “Let us know if you need anything,” he added. “Will do,” the otter called after. The fox seated the feline on the couch across from the little swallow who was holding her head.

“This is why I don’t drink,” she said, “oof.” “Well start off with the bad news,” Joana said. “No, bad news,” Melody retorted, “I’m in enough pain as is.” “But it’s important,” Joana answered, leaning into Cornelius.

“How bad?” the swallow asked. “Well you can’t keep calling Cornelius your fox anymore,” the feline said, holding out her hand. Jonathan sat on the arm of the chair the swallow sat in. The little bird looked at the ring on the feline’s hand then to its twin on the fox’s.

“That’s wonderful,” Melody said, “Did you set a date yet?” “Next time we run into Chartun,” the feline answered. “Aww,” the swallow said, “we got to celebrate!” “Cornelius,” the feline said, “will you stop staring at her tits.”

“Sorry,” he answered, “You don’t see full avian mammaries lactating every day.” The swallow looked down at her round breasts. “So that’s why they hurt so much,” she said, “Any ideas?” “Well I have one,” Jonathan said.

“Not now,” the swallow said, “My head is killing me.” The feline went to the kitchen returning with some coffee and a tall glass of water. The swallow took the water and drank it. She set the cup down as the feline continued to speak.

“Winsten just told me who our next target is,” Joana said, “A world baron named Isaac Von Drich.” The swallow’s feathers ruffled as her face went pale twisting into rage. “Please tell me it's a kill order,” she snarled.

“You know him?” the feline asked. “And you don’t?” the swallow asked. “I met him back in the day,” the feline answered, “but I wasn’t myself at the time.” “Well what’s the word?” Jonathan asked. “Nothing about killing him,” the feline answered, “but that’s what’s on paper.”

“Should I tell them?” Melody asked, looking up at her husband. Jonathan sighed. “If you think it will help,” he answered, “Nobody is forcing you.” “It’s about time I really tell someone what happened to me.”