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Malacaster: The Assassin’s Song

Night’s Angel

Chapter 1

The VonDrich school for the gifted was only that in name alone. The students were casters all too weak to be a threat. Most of the students were forced to take in implants that suppressed their powers. The rest were too weak to even cast a spell.

For a six year old swallow girl who had just had her voice suppressed to the point her breathing was soundless. Her father said it was for the best. Her mother just sat there crying as the little swallow was taken from her home.

The great hall stood as tall as the school itself. The ceiling adorn in artwork from across the stars. Windows stretched to the vaulted sky. On the far wall from the entrance was a two story tall portrait of a golden mane lion standing as a hero, teacher and saver.

The tiny swallow followed quickly after one of the teachers. An older human woman whose eyes held nothing but contempt for the child. She asked questions that the swallow had no means of answering.

The woman took the child into an office. “Answer me when I’m talking to you,” the woman said, the back of her hand crossing the small bird’s face. She fell back to the floor holding her cheek. The little bird tried and tried to speak. But nothing came of it.

“That’s enough,” another teacher said moving between them, “her voice was suppressed with her power.” “That is not my problem,” the woman said. The woman left the room. “Old hag,” the hawk female spat.

The hawk turned to the smaller bird. There was a sadness in the hawk’s eyes. “It’s ok,” she said, moving closer to the swallow. The swallow backed away, balling herself up, hiding behind the small fan of feathers on her arm.

“Don’t worry,” the hawk said, “I’m not going to hurt you.” The swallow cried alone and scared. “My name is Emily, Emily Storfron,” the hawk said. The swallow tried to speak, and cried harder. The hawk used the computer close to her.

“Melody Galecharmer,” she said, “you have your mother’s maiden name. Your father must be a real piece of work.” Melody looked up at the hawk. “Well aren’t you a pretty little thing,” the hawk said, kneeling.

Melody watched the hawk laxing her arm. “Can I show you something,” Storefront said, moving her talon hands slowly, “I can teach you away for you to speak.” Melody knelt across from the hawk.

After a few minutes the little swallow learned a few signs she could use to answer simple questions. “Very good,” Storfron said, “Most of the teachers know this language, as well as some of the students as well and we’ll get you a notebook for those who don’t.”

Melody smiled, signing, “Thank you.” “You’re so much prettier when you smile,” Storefront said. Storfron had a sad smile. Melody mouthed the words, “What’s wrong?” “Once we leave this room I have to treat you like the rest of the students,” the hawk said, “which means I can’t openly show you this kindness again.”

The swallow hugged the hawk. “I just want you to know I care about you and the others even if I can’t show it,” the hawk said. Melody nodded. When they left the room Storfron became cold and dissent.

Being at the school wasn’t easy. There was always an unnerving tension between students with the teachers keeping a cold uncaring fist on them. As an unspoken rule. The students never act out when the baron visits.

Melody had seen the lion once, and she felt a distaste of him. The swallow found a skill with her athletics and speed. A few of the coaches thought she might need suppressors. But the suppressor test showed it was a born talent.

When Melody turned ten she was selected for a special class taught by Storfron. By then Melody learned the hawk’s curl treatment was to push them harder to do better. And as such the swallow surpassed the rest of the class, even those who had been there longer.

The friends she made in Storfron’s class were questionable. A cat boy honor student. A hyperactive wolf girl. The rat twins, a boy and a girl. And a horse boy with strength suppressors. Melody had taught them all to sign like her so they could understand her.

“I’m not doing it,” she signed, “Just because I can run up walls doesn’t mean I can reach the roof.” “Chicken,” the cat said, signing alongside his words. “The Baron is visiting today,” she signed, “I don’t care, I’m not doing it.”

“Come on,” the cat said, “It’s just a dare. What are they going to do?” “They still think I have magic somehow and the suppressor doesn’t work on it,” the swallow answered, “I hear kids that show signs of magic are taken to be turned into mages.”

“I’m calling it,” the cat said, “You’re just scared you can’t do it.” “Scared to do what? young man,” a deep thick voice asked. All six jumped into a line at attention. “Nothing Sir,” the cat answered. The deep voice came from a tall lion with a thick mane of hair wrapping his head and neck.

“I know a good dare when I hear one,” the lion said, “So I will ask one last time.” The swallow signed the answer. “I asked for an answer,” the lion said, “not for you to wiggle your talons at me.” “Baron, my Lord,” Storfron’s voice came a few steps away, “Miss Galecharmer has a vocal suppressor implant.”

“A caster,” the lion spat. “And one of my best students,” the hawk answered. “Then Tell me what she said,” the lion ordered. “Repeat your answer,” the hawk ordered. The swallow obeyed and repeated her answer.

“My lord,” the hawk said, “It seems my students want to test Miss Galecharmer’s skills by having her run onto the roof.” “That doesn’t sound like a very good dare,” the lion said. “By means of the wall,” the hawk finished, “my Lord.”

“Well,” the lion asked, “Can she?” “My Lord,” the hawk said, “she could in a few more years with more training.” “So she couldn’t do so right this second,” the lion asked, “And here I thought she was your prized student.”

“My Lord,” the hawk answered, “Do you think here and now would be the best for a test of strength and skill? She is still just a child.” “I know it is not ideal,” the lion said, “But let’s treat it like a pop quiz. Just as high as she can go.”

“You heard the Baron,” the hawk ordered, “Miss Galecharmer, You had best not let me down.” The swallow signed her understanding and slipped off her blazer. She opened and rolled up her sleeves. As a number of students and faculty began to gather.

The swallow folded her taloned hands in a set of simple gestures. She stood a few meters from the wall waiting for the order. The courtyard grew quiet. “Purchase, pressure, push,” the swallow mouthed.

“Go,” the hawk ordered. The swallow didn’t wait to hear the word as she took two steps and leapt three meters up the wall. She kept her arms open and bent. The flight feathers on her arms opened, letting the air hold her to the wall.

Her taloned feet moved swiftly, barely letting one dig in enough to get enough purchase into the next step. As story after story sunk past her. Third story. Fourth story. Fifth story. Sixth story. Her chest burned, her mussels screamed, but as her foot stepped into open air. She smiled.

She let her momentum carry her up on to the low wall next to the vaulted roof. She stood breathing hard and fast, ready to crash at any second. With a voiceless laugh she raised her fists in triumph. She turned slowly looking out over the courtyard and the wide open blue sky.

As the swallow took it all in, a hatch on the roof opened. The old human hag pulled herself onto the roof. “You stupid child,” she yelled, “You are in so much trouble. Get down from this instant. IF THE BARON SEES YOU UP HERE!”

“Fine, it was his idea,” the swallow signed back, “Don’t believe me, go ask him yourself.” The swallow waved the human off. The swallow threw herself into a flip off the roof. For just a breath she felt what it meant to fly.

Keeping with her footwork the swallow raced down the wall. Breaking up the momentum as she went, the swallow landed and stepped on and over the windows till she was a story above the ground. She flipped and landed.

The swallow bounced up to her feet and stood at attention, still breathing hard. The hag raced over ready to backhand the swallow. The hag didn’t see the baron standing a few meters away. The swallow ducked under the swing taking a sliding step to the side.

“Why you little,” the hag said, spinning around into another swing. The swallow led the swing with the back of her hand. She spun her hand around catching the taller human’s wrist. With a twitch of force the swallow pulled the woman’s arm around her back.

The swallow kicked her foot in the back of the woman’s knee, dropping the woman to her knees. Clap, clap, clap. “Well done, well done indeed,” the Baron said, folding his hands with the last clap. “Galecharmer,” the hawk said, “release her.”

The swallow obeyed, returning to attention. “Storfron,” the lion said, “You have out done yourself with this one.” “Thank you my Lord,” the hawk answered. “Does she have any other skills,” the lion asked.

“She is a very skilled marksman,” the hawk answered, “Even made a few shots I barely made myself, my Lord.” “Anything more domestic,” the lion asked. “Not at this time,” the hawk answered, “my Lord.”

“See to it she learns some domestic skills,” the lion said, “If I should take her into my personal care. She should have more than one use for me.” “Yes my Lord,” the hawk said. “And let her friends join her,” the lion said, walking away.

The swallow, the cat, the twin rats, the wolf and the horse spent the next two years adding domestic training. That led into them being moved into the baron’s home. The swallow felt something was off the moment she set foot on the estate.

The whole estate was run by kids. Any of the staff she saw were a few years older or younger than she was. It wasn’t hard to tell who worked in the manor itself and who kept the grounds outside. The group was met by the baron’s wife.

A tall lioness whose curves made her dress pull tightly against them. Being an avian Melody didn’t understand why the others were enthralled with the lioness’ oversized breasts. They looked fake anyway.

“Ah, yes,” the lioness said, “My husband’s newest wards.” She looked each of them over as she spoke. “I have been told so much about the six of you,” she said, “and such beautiful creatures.” The lioness stopped in front of both the horse and the little swallow.

“And you two must be the casters,” she asked. There was a deep hunger in her voice as she looked the two over. “Melody Galecharmer,” she said, towering over the small bird, “I was told you don’t speak,” the lioness asked, bending over to reach Melody’s eye level, “is this true?”

The swallow could tell the others were watching the lioness’ show. The swallow set her bags down, unbuttoning her blouse till the little black box was visible. The look on the lioness’ face was unreadable.

“Shame,” the lioness said, “I would have loved to hear you sing.” Melody gave no reaction. The lioness smiled, righting herself. The swallow redressed herself and collated her things. The lioness said nothing when she turned to the horse and just smiled at him.

When the lioness was pleased with her inspection she addressed the group. “As long as you obey the rules and do as you are told you will find your stay with us most enjoyable,” she said licking her lips, “do well enough and it will be even more pleasant.”

They followed the lioness into the manor, where they were shown to their quarters. They were given time to change into their new uniforms. After a tour of the manor and grounds they were shown their personal duties.

The horse and the swallow were not given tasks like the others and stood in the baron’s study waiting for him. “Ashten,” Melody signed, “I’m scared. I don’t trust them.” “I know,” he signed back, “but we’ll get through this.”

“Ashten,” she signed, blushing slightly, “I want to tell you something.” The horse looked uneasy. The swallow paused. “I love you,” she signed, “I have for some time now.” Her heart sank when he turned away from her.

The swallow hid her tears, turning away from him. The door to the study opened as the baron and his wife entered the room. “Good evening,” the baron said. The swallow bowed as her greeting. “Good evening Sir,” the horse answered.

“I will forgive you this time,” the baron said, “but know to address us as lord and lady.” “Yes my lord,” the horse answered. “As for you,” the baron said, moving to stand over the swallow. The kindness in his tone was gone.

“You will make yourself understandable to me,” he growled, “and know this. As a caster you have no rights, I OWN YOU. And you will do what I say, when I say it.” “My love,” the lioness said, “May I offer a thought?”

The lion nodded. “Maybe if you were to work with her a bit on how she can appease you,” the lioness said, “she’ll be all the more willing to obey you, my love.” The lion mused the thought. “Very well,” he answered, moving over to the desk.

The lion wrote something down. He handed the swallow the note. “Meet these conditions and we will work well together,” he said. The swallow took the page and read it to herself. She was still for a long breath. Her fears, all on one page.

“So we are in agreement then, my love?” the lioness asked. “For now as it stands,” the baron said, not taking his eyes off the swallow. “I will let you think over my conditions,” the baron said, “When you are ready, you may give me your answer.”

“At any time?” she signed, “my lord.” The horse spoke on her behalf, a puzzled look on his face. “Within reason,” the baron answered, “after all it would be bad for you to make such arrangements public.”

“If that will be all, my love?” the lioness asked, “We should let them get some rest.” “Yes, my dear,” the baron answered, and dismissed them with a wave of his hand. The two children left the study. the door closed behind them.

They were greeted in the hallway by two of the other maids. The swallow’s face twisted with rage. The swallow shot one of the maids a glare. The maid turned and led the way. The other maid turned to follow, leaving the horse to jog to catch up.

“Melody,” he said, “Wait, what’s going on?” The swallow ignored him and kept walking. “Melody, please what’s wrong?” “I have my answer,” she signed, “Now leave me alone.” “Melody,” he said, “Please?” She threw the balled up page at him and said nothing else.

Ashten read over the note. Shock pulled across his face seconds later. “Melody,” he called after her, jogging to catch up once more. When she gave no answer, he put his hand on her shoulder. She turned and knocked his hand away.

“You made your choice,” she signed, “Now leave me alone.” “Melody, This is too much,” he said, “You dropped this on out of the blue, and I didn’t know what to think.” “That’s because you haven’t been thinking,” she signed, “You’ve been caring a hardon for her the second you saw her.”

“Melody, don’t be like this,” he said, “You can’t say she is as bad as he is.” “IT was her idea,” the swallow signed, “we’re casters, we are nothing but slaves to them. The difference is, You’re willing.” The swallow stormed off into her room, slamming the door in the horse’s face.

In the morning she would give an answer. But for now she changed and vomited. She laid in bed for what felt like hours as she cried herself to sleep. When she woke, she dressed, took up her satchel, opened the door and stepped into hell itself.

Chapter 2

Five years. For five years Melody endured the baron’s treatments and assaults. As her counterpart enjoyed his life on a leash. Till the lioness was found to be pregnant with his child. The two were never seen again.

The baron’s abuse got worse after his wife vanished. And Melody became the focus of his rage. She became fearful to do anything given even doing everything right was cause enough for the baron to beat and assault her.

The baron once even made her kill a man who tried to protect her from one of the baron’s assaults in public. With the few times she was left alone, she would beg of any god that was listening to just kill her already.

At a meeting with some of the queen’s military advisors, the swallow received a word of hope. “Warlocks.” The group was said to be a militia of casters planning on overthrowing the queen. On the other hand, this was also the first time she had seen a mage.

The mage that stood on either side of the doorway, were tall robots with faceless heads. One was blue and white with a canine head. There was something off about it. The swallow felt like it was watching her. It felt oddly comforting, like something was seeing her as a person.

The two were left alone for a few minutes. In that time it did something that scared her. It spoke. “We don’t have much time,” it said, “when you meet one with a stone face go with him.” “Stone face,” she signed in asking.

The door opened before she could get an answer. A few mages were left at the manor. It seemed the warlocks were planning an attack on the manor and the mages were to stop them. That night Melody’s old teacher and friend visited.

They spent the night on the roof. “I’m sorry all this happened to you,” Storfron said. The swallow said nothing. “Warlocks and mages,” the hawk said, “none of you are ready for this.” “If I can die as a weapon,” the swallow answered, “over living the rest of my life as his sex toy and punching bag.”

The hawk’s eyes welled with tears. “You knew what he was doing to us,” the swallow signed, watching the edges of the grounds. “I have no excuse,” the hawk answered. The hawk rolled up her sleeve. Melody saw the same small black box cut deep into the hawk’s forearm.

“I have six,” she said. The hawk reached into a pocket. “I have no use for this,” the hawk said, handing the swallow an old tattered leather book. The swallow took the book, thumbing the pages for a second before putting it in her own bag.

“It’s every spell my people knew,” the hawk said, “I want you to have it.” The swallow hugged the hawk. “No matter what happens,” the hawk said, hugging the swallow back, “I want you to run. do whatever you need to and run.”

“Why?” Melody asked. “Because you’re not going to live after today,” the hawk answered, “If you don’t.” “Fine by me,” the swallow signed. “We should go,” the hawk said, “it sounds like the party is about to start.”

Together the two slid down the wall of the maron. “So who do I aim for?” Melody asked. “I can’t answer that for you,” the hawk said, “This is where you choose your own path.” “One of those mages told me to go with the stone face,” Melody added.

“A mage told you that?” the hawk asked, “I have never known them to speak.” “It said when you meet the one with a stone face, go with him,” Melody added. “Do what you feel is right,” the hawk said, “This is your choice, your life, your path.”

“Will you come with me?” the swallow asked. “No, I can’t,” the hawk answered, “I have to stay here to keep them as safe as I can.” “Thank you for everything you did for me,” the swallow signed after hugging the hawk one last time.

The two separated, weapons at the ready. The swallow darted off into the trees with the pulse rifle Storfron gave her. Once inside the treeline the swallow hid between the trees, looking back at the manor. The baron stood in the main entryway.

It was almost the perfect shot. One round would end this nightmare. She heard something behind her. On pure instinct the swallow flipped the rifle and slammed the butt of the rifle into the source of the sound.

She looked back to see a figure half buried in the ground. The butt of her rifle pressed flat into its stone face. With a muted scream the swallow tried to back away. The figure simply put a finger over where lips should be and said “I’m not here to hurt you.”

His voice was a deep rumble, warm and comforting and equally terrifying. The swallow shook. What was she to do? Protect the only home she knew? Or go with this monster? “Stay here,” he said, “I’ll be back to get you out of here.”

The figure sunk into the ground. The storm of emotions struck, ripped and tore at her mind. She looked back, finding the hawk’s perch. The two locked eyes. “Do what must be done,” the hawk signed, “And I’m proud of you.”

“I love you,” the swallow signed, tears in her eyes, “Mom.” “I love you too,” the hawk signed back, “my daughter.” The stone figure emerged from the ground in front of the baron. The two avaines moved with blinding speed.

The hawk blocked the stone figure from the lion and the swallow almost a hundred meters behind the stone figure. The swallow raised her rifle. She lined up her shot and took it. It felt like time slowed to a stop.

The energy round zipped past the stone figure’s head, and struck the hawk in the side of the face. The hawk spun and fell to the ground with a smile on her face. The two men looked back at the swallow as her rifle came to bear once more.

Four of the metal monsters descended on her. The swallow was knocked to the ground as they stood over her. She bellowed an empty scream. Everything went black as the swallow felt the ground rumble beneath her.

She clutched her rifle as the darkness moved around her. What felt like forever in time past she opened her eyes. She was being carried. “Fall back, fall back,” she heard the same deep voice say, “They were ready for us. Fall back, we’re scrubbing the mission.”

Melody felt sick to her stomach. Everything was spinning. The ground was moving too fast for her to see. She felt like they had been moving for hours before the figure stopped. He set her down on her side.

The swallow pulled herself up enough to clear out what was left in her empty stomach. She dropped back onto her side and laid there. She only rolled over to see where the thumping sounds were coming from.

The stone skin of the figure broke away and fell to the ground. Instead of a stone monster stood a monster size human. His dark skin was hard to see in the shadows, but she could see a big friendly smile in his white teeth.

He knelt and bent down to her holding out his hand for when she was ready. “Hey, hun,” he said, his deep growling voice sounding more like a purr, “I’m Jonathan. Are you ok?” She nodded slowly before taking his massive bald hand.

He let the swallow pull herself up and eased her back to her feet. The swallow slung her rifle over her shoulder. “Hello Jonathan,” she signed, “I’m. My name is Melody.” “Beautiful name for a beautiful girl,” he answered.

The swallow was taken aback, both by his understanding and his answer. She felt herself blushing. “Thank you,” he said, “you saved my life back there.” “Don’t thank me,” she signed, “That shot could have gone right through your back.”

“But it didn’t,” he answered, “and for that I thank you.” The swallow looked away. “Here,” he offered to carry her again. This time the swallow got onto his back, holding his belt with her feet. The monster human moved quickly for his size.

He checked in with his friends a few times till they reached a small ship. Minutes later the ship was loaded and on the move. The little swallow curled up into the massive human’s lap where he put his arm around her and simply said, “It’s ok.”

She cried into his chest till she fell asleep. Tired, hungry, thirsty and hurt, the swallow woke still in the human’s lap covered with a blanket. The man slept sitting up still holding her. It was the first time she could remember feeling safe. Under the stone face was a gentle soul.

She cuddled back up to him with a little soundless chirp. It took almost a week for the ship to make landfall on an ice world at an outpost. The little swallow was excited and scared. She had never seen snow before. She had also never been off world before either.

The bulkhead opened as her first taste of the cold hit her. She shuttered, fluffing out her feathers against the winter. The night was dark and cold. But Melody rushed out to meet it. The warlocks laughed and chuckled at her. But it was a warming sight to them.

Jonathan led the swallow to a ramshack tavern where his friends were staying. The swallow ran on ahead to get out of the cold. The door opened as the little swallow ran headlong into something and fell back.

Melody looked up to see a red and silver mage. The swallow fumbled rolled and brought her rifle to bear. The mage tilted its head and said “If you’re going to shoot me.” The swallow paused. “Wait, Melody,” Jonathan called, running to catch up with her, “She’s a friend.”

The swallow looked between the two. “I get this a lot,” the mage said, holding up its hands. Jonathan got between them his back to the mage. Melody lowered the rifle. The mage lowered her arms and stepped to the side.

Jonathan helped the little bird to her feet. A second later she darted into the bar. Melody missed what else was said, because she walked in to see a colorful looking otter sitting on the bar moaning and shuttering.

He was holding someone’s head in his lap. All she saw of the otter’s partner was a mess of brass hair. The otter took a double take looking at her. He pushed his partner off covering himself till he dressed. The swallow gave a muted laugh.

The otter’s partner complained about the interruption. The otter pointed to the swallow and mumbled something. “Oh, She’s here,” the brass mop said, “Well go talk to her. You’re better with kids.” The otter rolled his eyes.

“I’ll catch you later,” the mop said, kissing the otter, leaving out the back. “You’re lucky, you’re cute,” the otter yelled after the mop. The swallow hid herself in the closest corner waiting for Jonathan.

Jonathan came in a moment later waving down the otter. “So what’s with the kid?” the otter asked. “Had to scrub the mission,” Jonathan said, “but we picked up one hell of a sniper.” “The kid?” the otter asked. Jonathan nodded.

Jonathan sat down next to the little bird, who in no short order hopped into the man’s lap. The otter sat across from them. “Ok, you look beat,” the otter said, “so we’ll keep this short.” The otter pulled a tablet out and read over a few things, called for some snacks.

They waited till the swallow had gotten something to eat. “Now,” the otter said, “We know you’re a caster like half of the people in here. So know you’re safe here.” The swallow nodded. “Good,” the otter said.

“Next, You have gone through a trauma no one should have gone through.” The swallow looked down at the sandwich she was holding. The otter held up a hand, adding, “you don’t have to recall anything you don’t want to. But I have to ask. Did he?” The swallow nodded.

“Understood,” the otter said, “You can call me Bliss.” The otter waved for her to keep eating as he turned the human. “I’d get her a room,” he said, “But they're booked, aside from the room I got you. So she will be happy to know she gets to bunk with you.”

They both blinked looking at the otter. “Till we can get her someone a little better to help her,” the otter answered, “She feels safe with you, so deal.” The swallow shrunk in her seat. “Besides Jonathan,” the otter added with a smile, “You got yourself a cute little song bird.” the swallow blushed.

“Well, I’m off to bed,” the otter said and left. After the swallow finished eating, Jonathan collected her and took her to their room. They went to sleep without changing. Melody woke up to find a cute little snake head looking back at her.

The next two years flew past in a blur. Melody grew closer to Jonathan over that time, but she couldn’t bring herself to say it. Even to the point they started fighting. The mage at one point when they were out on a mission had enough of them.

“Will you two just fuck already and stop playing some stupid coy game and get it out of the way. We have a job to do.” the mage said. That night they sat down and talked about it. They spent hours talking trying to dance around the words.

The swallow stood up undressed and looked him in the eye. The sight of her body caught him off guard and the words came with his breath, “I love you.” The swallow blinked, and signed, “I love you too.” She jumped on him before they knew what they were doing.

By morning they woke cuddling as a naked mess. “How bad was it?” he asked. “You up for another round,” she signed. The swallow rolled over looking up to his eyes. She pushed back enough for him to see her hands. “Wait, was I your first?” she asked. He nodded.

She pulled herself up to him, and kissed him again mouthing the words “thank you.” Jonathan smiled, “All because you hit me in the face with the butt of your gun.” “Well now I can hit you with my butt,” she signed. “And you can use my gun as much as you want,” he said.

They married a month after meeting the avatiles, Switch, and Aithenas. Years later they met a young fox, Jonathan knew years ago. And saw the aftermath of a maracle. The mage was restored to a beautiful feline.

The fox won a war, and following his recovery he designed a machine that could repeat that same maracle. And the little swallow was the first one to use it. The two years following, their little family won the hearts of worlds.

And Dawning on her return to the place that started her journey.

Chapter 3

The swallow Didn’t like the idea of being undercover. It was always easier for her to just stay out of sight. And how the feline, the fox and the otter could do it with ease. But the others were all special. Next to them she was nothing.

“Gale?” the feline asked, as the group of them walked to one of the school offices, “Are you alright? You haven’t said a word all day.” The Swallow paused, her hands about to sign her thoughts. The feline put a hand on the swallow’s.

“Old habits,” the swallow said in a quiet voice. “Well, remember we’re about to meet with the Dean of the school,” the feline said, “No hints of who you were.” The swallow nodded. They were not the oddest group to walk the halls. But they did stand out.

The paintings and articles dressing the walls leading into the Dean’s office were unchanged after some many years. Even as they entered the office itself, they all found the sight fitting if not odd in her own right.

Seated behind an oak desk, was a fit hawk woman who had an almost ageless grace to her. The scarring around her right eye was displayed like a badge of honor. Even if the cybernetic eye twitched and moved at random.

“Good morning,” the hawk said, still reading over a few notes. “Good Morning Miss Storfron,” the otter said, his rich brown fur having a waxy shine as well as his business suit well pressed with many sharp edges.

“Prof. Springwell,” the hawk said, rising to her feet as the doors closed behind them. The hawk was tall and lean with years of hard work and training. There was a stillness in the air. The swallow knew this stillness, and one wrong word is all it would take.

“What brings you here to my office today,” the hawk asked. “Inspection,” the otter answered. “Oh, I had almost forgotten about the wellness inspection of our students and faculty,” She said, almost too blankly, as her eye twitched.

“Am I to presume your companions are the experts for your inspection,” Storfron asked, looking each of them over. “Yes,” the otter answered, “Each is an expert in their fields.” “Please introduce yourselves,” the hawk said, her eyes drawing to the swallow for a moment.

“Joana Aster,” the feline said, “just a fitness instructor.” “With a history in the performing arts?” the hawk asked. “I have my hobbies,” the feline answered, “But my husband here is a real expert.” “I’m sure you could give this old bird a run for her money,” Storfron added, “Never sell yourself short.”

The hawk turned to the fox. His suit became stiffer. His silver hair brushed back into a short tail. “Dr. Mala C. Aster,” the fox answered, his icy blue eyes dissant, “Cybernetic engineer.” “Do you make house calls or just special cases?” the hawk asked, “Dr. Aster.”

The fox smirked. “You have a three one one eight model eye,” he said, “And by the looks of it. It disconnected from the ocular nerve.” “You are good,” the hawk added. “He’s one of the best,” the otter added, “We’ll see about getting it fixed up for you. If you want?”

“Later,” the hawk said, “Let me meet the rest of you crew.” “Dr. Jonathan Forlcharmer,” the human said, the metal plated arm looking out of place on him, “Agricultural, architectural engineering with a minor in culinary science.”

“You must have a very lucky partner,” the hawk added. The human rested his hand on the swallow’s shoulder. “I like to think so,” he added. The swallow and the hawk had been signing since they saw each other.

“I have a surprise for you,” the swallow signed, failing in hiding her smile. The hawk turned her full attention to the swallow. “I’m Gale Forlcharmer, I serve as an assistant of sorts,” she said in a soft tone, her glee oozing from her words.

“So the true expert of the group,” the hawk said, with a well hidden grin. “I wouldn’t sell them short like that,” the swallow answered. The others gave the swallow a wary look. “No worries,” the hawk said, “those of our clan, just know one another.”

The otter eyed the hawk. “It looks like you all had a long trip,” the hawk said, leveling her eyes with the otter, “If you would like I can show you to your accommodations, personally.” “Professor,” the swallow said, “We should take her up on her offer.”

The otter looked at the swallow. She looked back at the otter unmoved. “Yes, I think we could use some rest before we get started,” the otter said. The hawk returned to her desk and pulled up a comlink. She spoke to her assistant before leading them out of the office.

The hawk led them to a sizable house behind the school. The swallow walked in step next to her. Where they noticed the swallow was bouncing with each step. Outside the house the hawk turned to them. “This is my personal residents,” she said, “So I ask you to respect my people’s traditions.”

They all nodded. The hawk opened the door and let them inside. Once the door closed everyone’s tone changed. “It seems we have time enough for me to adjust your implant,” the fox said, “please take a seat.”

The swallow moved out of sight of the hawk’s right eye and signed a message. The hawk nodded and showed the fox to the kitchen where she sat in one of the chairs. The fox worked quickly removing the implant and crushed it in his hand.

“Clear,” he said, “Three one one eight models are easily tampered with. “No wonder they didn’t bug my house,” the hawk said, “when I was the bug the whole time.” The fox nodded, still working on something.

“Please don’t move,” he said, “I’m almost done.” Within a few minutes the fox fitted a new prosthetic eye. The eye powered up and the hawk blinked. “And that should do it,” he said, “blah, the color is still off.”

“I can see out of it,” the hawk said, “thank you, Dr. Malacard.” The fox froze. “It’s ok,” the swallow said, “she knows who we are.” “So my daughter,” the hawk smiled, “Who do I thank for you having your voice back.” The swallow nodded to the fox. The hawk stood up and hugged the fox.

Her eyes watered, tightening her grip. “You have my fiancé to really thank for it,” the fox said, “If someone in the state she was in can come back from it.” “Anyway,” the feline said standing at the kitchen door.

“I didn’t know you were part of the waking strom,” the otter said following the feline. “You never asked,” the swallow said. “I adopted her into the clan when we first met,” the hawk answered. The human joined a few seconds later.

“So your marriage is just an act?” the hawk asked, her eyes on the human. “No,” Jonathan answered, “We’ve been married for the past ten years.” “And the doctor part?” the hawk asked. “Dr. Jonathan Forlan,” the human answered.

“So there is only one name I don’t know,” the hawk said. “Novabell,” the feline said. “The dancer?” the hawk asked. “You’ve heard of me?” the feline asked. “My mother made it a point to study your technique,” the hawk answered.

“You are an expert like the rest of us,” the otter said. “You just don’t have papers to show it,” the fox added. “So, Mom,” the swallow asked, “Has anyone broken my record?” “Once I became dean,” the hawk answered, “No one was allowed.

“For the best,” the swallow sighed. “What record?” the feline asked. “I ran up the side of the school to the roof,” the swallow answered, “And consigned myself to hell.” “And that’s why we’re here,” the otter said, “to find others that had gone through the same thing.”

The swallow looked at the floor. “I have no proof for myself so this is the only way,” the hawk said, “I want to shut him down.” “I forgot about the others,” the swallow said, sitting on the floor balling up, “I’ve been so caught up in myself, I forgot about the others.”

“Melody,” the hawk snapped. The swallow’s eyes snapped to the hawk. “I told you to run, to save yourself. All I could do was protect as many as I could.” “And now we are stepping in, to make things happen,” the fox said, “So we’re going to steal them.”

The hawk blinked a few times. “Wait, your cover name,” the hawk said, “Mala C. Aster. … … … Malacaster!” The fox bounced his eyebrows a few times. “Fitting,” she laughed. “Mom?” the swallow asked.

“Fitting that I get to see you again,” the hawk said, “And you serve the champion of the Vanguard.” “Who?” all but the otter asked. “The Caretaker,” the otter answered, “he has many names but all mean the same thing.”

“Champion?” the fox asked. “Later,” the otter said, “other fish to fry.” “But yes,” the hawk said, “You are welcome to my home.” “I just need your basement,” the otter asked. “What do you need the basement for?” the hawk asked.

“Sex dungeon,” the otter answered. “Do I look like the baron to you?” the hawk asked. “Need a big enough space to park my ship,” the otter said. “Is this some kind of youthism?” she asked. “No ma’am,” Jonathan answered, “He means it word for word.”

“Park a ship in the basement?” the hawk asked again. “Right,” the fox said, “Just show her.” The hawk’s mouth fell open. “Mom,” the swallow said, “He has a ship, and everything we need is onboard. Jonathan can make a large enough space under the house for us to use.”

The hawk’s mouth closed. “This way,” the swallow said, leading them into the basement. “No windows,” the human said, “That’s good.” “Gets better,” the swallow said, pushing on one of the walls. The wall opened into another room with stairs leading into a sub basement.

“How?” the hawk asked. “The school has a tunnel system,” the swallow said, “Built like seventy years ago.” “How did you know about it?” the hawk asked. “Followed the hag one day,” the swallow answered, “That’s how she got around the school without anyone seeing her.”

After a few more twists and turns the swallow led them into a large chamber. “If we open up that wall,” she said, “we can park Herby and no one will ever know.” “See, the smart one’s never need a piece of paper,” the fox said.

“You’re lucky you’re cute,” the feline said. “Right,” Jonathan said, hanging his suit coat on a wall and pulling his shirt off. He removed the prosthetic hand, giving back to the fox. Jonathan flexed his arm as vines and roots shape themselves into an arm and hand.

“Traira,” he said, “time to go to work.” A little green snake head peeked out from under his shirt. Within minutes they had made the chamber larger. “That should do ya,” Jonathan said. “It will,” the otter said, “Thank you.”

The swallow and the hawk returned to the house. “I’ve done well for yourself,” the hawk said, once they returned. “Yeah,” Melody said, “Jon is great, And the others are great friends.” “You sound disappointed?” the hawk asked.

“It’s nothing,” Melody answered. “Melody,” the hawk said. The swallow looked away. “I’m not good enough,” she said. “Not good enough to have a loving husband,” the hawk asked, “To be friends with and work alongside a group of powerful casters?”

“Two of them have the powers of gods,” the swallow said, “Joana is half elemental, and the Malacaster. I’m nothing compared to them.” “And what makes you think you’re not good enough to be on par with them?” the hawk asked.

“I’m just an assassin,” Melody answered, “My magic is little more than a few tricks.” “You held your own before you got your magic,” the hawk said, sitting on the couch. “I was still just a sniper,” the swallow answered, sitting at the other end.

“One of our biggest fights,” she said, “I spent in a sewage ditch because the branch I was on broke.” “So,” the hawk asked. “I wasn’t there to help,” the swallow said, “Not that I was going to be much help.”

“You were there when they needed you,” the hawk said. “They don’t need me,” the swallow said, “even my call sign makes me sound small.” “Wisp?” the hawk asked, “Sounds like you haven’t been watching the news.”

“I always had one of them backing me up,” Melody said, “I’m useless outside of them helping me.” “Melody,” the hawk said, “I can tell how much they love you. You don’t need to have the power to go blow for blow with them.”

“It’d be nice though,” the swallow said. “Besides,” the hawk said, cupping the swallow’s face, “You have one thing they don’t.” “What’s that,” the swallow asked, “Anything I can do they can do so much better.”

“You have limits,” the hawk said, “Like you said they have the power of gods at their fingertips.” “I don’t see your point,” Melody said. “You keep them at our level,” the hawk said, “They slow down to walk with you. And carry you so you can keep up.”

“And you’re a little hottie,” the feline said from the door away. The hawk’s head whipped around to look at the feline. “What? She is.” Joana said, “You’re just as sexy.” The hawk blushed, covering her face.

“I hope the rumors aren’t true about you two,” the hawk said, turning back to the swallow. “The one about us using sex to get information?” the feline asked with a wicked grin, “Did you want to find out?” “Joana,” Melody hissed.

“What she asked,” the feline smiled. “She’s my mom,” the swallow said. “Your point?” the feline asked, “afraid she’ll find out we swap husbands?” “We’re trying to catch up,” the swallow said. “Husband swap?” the hawk asked.

“Oops,” the feline said. “Yeah, We trade partners once in a while,” the swallow said. “Two for one?” the hawk asked. “Mom,” the swallow said, hushing her voice, “yes.” “Not bad,” the hawk said. “It’s cute when Cornelius and her cuddle afterward,” the feline added.

“Did you need something?” the swallow asked. The feline rolled her eyes. “The boys started talking shop,” she said, “So I got out of there before my head started hurting.” “Brains and braun,” the hawk said, “Lucky.”

“Jon is the one that is down to earth,” Melody said. “I noticed,” the hawk added. “Mom,” the swallow said. “If I was a few years younger I’d take her up on the offer,” the hawk said. “You know I’m almost seventy,” the feline said, “guess you can say he likes them well aged.”

“He fucks the otter doesn’t he?” the hawk asked. The swallow’s mouth fell open. “When he’s in the mood,” the feline answered. “Well, you have run of the house,” the hawk said, “I have some paperwork to settle to get you to work.”

With that she stood up nodded and left, added, “Just remember to clean up after yourselves.” The swallow curled up on the couch, eyes watering. “Something wrong,” the feline asked, moving closer. “No,” the swallow answered.

“You didn’t think you’d get to see her again,” the feline asked. “Or that you’d start flirting with her,” Melody said. “I’m sorry,” Joana said, “I’m not very good with people.” “No, That’s not what I meant,” Melody said.

“You’re a little freak,” Joana smiled. “I blame you,” the swallow said, throwing herself into the feline for a hug. “Look,” Joana said, “What she said about you.” “Was just to make me feel better,” Melody said.

“Nah,” Joana said, “It’s true. We’re out there. We need someone to keep us in line.” “Keep you in line?” the swallow asked. “You think any of us can get by without you?” Joana asked. The swallow shot the feline a look.

“Well who makes sure we all eat and sleep,” Joana asked. “Cornelius gets caught up in his work and has no track of time. Winsten is all over the place and drinks a lot. And Jon well he and Traira well you know.”

“Case in point,” Joana said, “Now let’s go check on the boys before they hurt themselves. later into the night Melody and Jonathan woke to an odd noise. “What was that?” Melody asked. “What was what?” Jonathan asked.

“Shh, listen,” she said. In the still darkness they heard what sounded like a soft clucking sound. “Let’s go check it out,” the swallow said, jumping to her feet. The human dragged himself out of the small bed. and followed the swallow.

Up the stairs down the hall beyond the cracked open bedroom door they found an interesting sight. The hawk was pinned down on the bed by the fox. His hips thrusting like a machine. As the feline’s nose and mouth dug into the space under the fox.

The hawk clucked and moaned. “What are you doing? Get your tongue out of,” the hawk moaned, “BAWK!” Her eyes rolled in a wordless gasp. The feline moved aside, licking her lips. As the fox settled with the hawk.

They rolled over with the hawk laying across the fox. “I need that,” the hawk said, “thank you.” The feline kissed the fox, letting him lap at her lips. “Tastes like chicken,” he said. “If I could move, I’d hit you,” the hawk said, “Melody, What did I tell you about spying.”

“Don’t get caught,” the swallow answered. “Well, are you joining us or not?” the hawk said. “We don’t have to,” the human said. “yeah but then we won’t get to call you a mother fucker,” the swallow said.

Chapter 4

The little swallow led the fox to the school’s infirmary. The glasses he wore added to his charm, alongside his messy mop of silver hair. “I think you got the easy part,” he said. “Yeah,” the swallow said, “I get to run around the whole school doing paperwork.”

“That sounds so much easier than what I have to do,” he said. “You and the professor are both medical doctors,” the swallow said, “And part of what we’re doing requires all the students to receive a medical exam.”

“Yeah, hormonal teens and kids,” the fox said. “You also get to do the exams for the faculty as well,” the swallow said, “And you’ll have Joana with you with the older students.” “And the nurse?” he asked. “You’ll be fine,” the swallow said, “Just be your charming self.”

The fox sighed. “Good,” the swallow said, “Now then Doctor, It’s so weird to call you that.” “Weirder hearing it,” the fox answered. His glasses flickered with a soft blue light. They greeted the nurse as the fox settled into his role, taking off the necktie.

“Right,” He said, “Let’s get any of the students with implants or cybernetics to the end of the line for each group.” “Anything else Doctor?” the nurse asked, hiding the blush on her face. “Yes,” he answered, “A pot of coffee.”

With that the swallow took some files from the nurse and moved on to check on her husband. “Hey love,” the human said, “Get him settled in alright?” “For now,” she answered, with a half growl “Trouble is going to come from the teens.”

“Afraid they’ll take your other favorite toy away,” the human asked, “Or do you think they’ll just break him?” “No, just envious,” she said, “Wish the doctor we had was half as good looking.” “He’s not bait for them,” the human said.

“Shit,” the swallow added, “even the fucking nurse was drooling over him.” “And this place was well built,” the human said, “We can’t find anything wrong with the place.” The swallow rolled her eyes. “This is only part of the inspection,” the human said, “the kitchen’s next.”

The swallow nodded. “But to buy us some time We’ll go back over this place with a fine tooth comb,” the human said, stealing a kiss. “Meet for lunch?” she asked. “If we can,” the human answered. With that the little swallow slipped into a wall and vanished.

The feline was overseeing a group of students running drills, her tracksuit giving her a modest look. “Hey Mrs. Aster,” the swallow said, meeting up with the feline. “Mrs. Frolcharmer,” the feline answered, “They’ve gone soft on kids these days.”

“Yeah but we were the exception to the rule,” the swallow answered. “Still,” the feline answered. Two of the students were picking on a third student with a prosthetic arm and a suppressor implant.

The student, a young ferret, was trying to do some push ups as the students kept kicking his arm out of the way. “Hey,” the feline called, “knock that off.” “Why, not like he’s even trying,” one of the students, a young bunny girl spat.

“Right,” the feline said, taking off the suit jacket. Her tank top pulled at the feline’s toned figure. Her prosthetic notable against her flesh. “You have no idea how hard using one of those is,” the feline said, “Now leave him alone.”

The second student backed down, as the bunny just laughed. The feline did a handstand lifting her prosthetic arm. The feline did a set of push ups before flipping to her feet. “If you can do the same,” the feline said, “I’ll let this little show slide.”

The rabbit student threw her hands up. “You,” the feline said, “finish your set.” The ferret went to begin when his cybernetic arm gave out. The ferret hit the ground. The other students laughed. “Weak,” one yelled.

“Keep going,” the feline said. The ferret took off his arm and tried again. “Keep your weight over your hand,” she added. Slowly the ferret pushed him. “One, … two, … three,” he said with each push. The feline smiled.

“Fifteen, … sixteen, … seventeen,” he counted. The other students watched in awe. He was breathing hard and shaking. “Twenty-three, … twenty-four, … twenty-five,” he said. The ferret crashed to the ground.

The rabbit student yelled, “Come on get up, five more.” She got down next to him. “Get up. Five more,” she said “You can do it.” The ferret gasped, pushing himself back up and continued. “Twenty-six, … twenty-seven, … twenty-eight, … twenty-nine, … thirdy,” he counted.

The ferret crashed again to the sounds of cheers. The rabbit helped the ferret up and hugged him. She whispered something in his ear, then picked up the ferret’s arm. “Get him to the infirmary,” the feline said, “My husband will take care of him.”

The two walked off. “I wanted to hold your hand,” the ferret said to the bunny girl, “But it seems I got you to hold mine.” she giggled as they left. The feline smiled at the swallow. The swallow nodded and headed back to the school.

The swallow headed back to the Dean’s office. She knocked on the door. “Enter,” a woman’s voice answered. The swallow entered the office. The otter was standing to the side of the desk reading over some papers.

The hawk was sitting at the desk reading over some files. The swallow closed the door and sat herself in one of the chairs across from the hawk. She put the files on the desk. “Cornelius is playing the doctor, Jon is looking for weak points in the school and Joana is playing matchmaker,” she said.

“Right, and I’m giving a letcher,” the otter said. “Why don’t you take a break, you’ve been running around all day,” the hawk said. “And I got nothing done,” the swallow answered. “It’s just the first day,” the otter said.

“Besides you got a meeting coming up,” the hawk said, handing the swallow a note. The swallow took the note. “It’s time we talked, noon in the courtyard.” the note read. “Who sent this?” she asked. “My guess,” the otter said, “someone who needs to talk to you.”

She read the note again. It was hand written in scratchy uneven letters, by an unsteady hand. “How do you know it’s for me?” she asked. The otter sighed, “I was asked not to tell you.” The swallow huffed out a sigh and looked the note over again.

“What does he want with me?” she asked, more to herself. The otter sighed as if about to give an answer, then he shrugged. “Only one way to find out,” the hawk said. The swallow nodded and stood up.

She didn’t show it, sitting on one of the benches in the courtyard. She was scared. He never really spoke to her, and even when he did it was always a passing thought. But now he wanted to talk to her? What was going on?

She scanned the courtyard. She blinked looking down at a small bag next to her. At the far end of the bench sat a figure. The metallic glow of his pale skin and gold eyes, the most notable features. He looked human, but that was where it ended.

He sat in a laxed stillness. The swallow could feel his attention on her even with his eyes looking up at the roof. “Be not afraid for the lord is with you,” the figure said. The swallow arched an eyebrow. “Right,” he said, “Not that kind of angel.”

The swallow just stared at the figure. “Well this is getting nowhere,” the figure said. “There is a reason why we haven’t talked before now,” he added, “But you can guess why.” “Does it have to do with this mission?” the swallow asked. He nodded.

“Is it the same reason You did that thing to the avatile priestess?” she asked. He nodded. “If I told you what happened to me,” she said, “we wouldn’t be here.” He nodded. “Why?” she asked. “Closure,” the figure answered.

The swallow looked up at the figure meeting his gold eyes.The swallow looked away quickly breathing hard. “I have no reason to hurt you,” the figure said. There was an unnerving silence between them. “Why would giving me closure matter to you?” She asked. “Why wouldn’t it?” the figure asked.

“Because I’m no one,” she said, “They all matter to you more than I do.” “And who told you that?” the figure asked, sitting forward resting his arms on knees. “No one,” she answered, “Cornelius is your champion, you and Winsten are an item, Jon is caring for a world seed, and you treat Joana like family.”

“The malacaster is expendable, Winsten can call it off anytime he wants, Jonathan is consigned to a very cruel death, and Joana is my grandniece with six greats in front of it,” the figure said. The swallow blinked. “When you think about it,” the figure added, “No one should matter to me.”

The swallow’s mouth opened. “And that’s why you all matter so much more,” he added, “That’s why you should all matter.” “A god caring for some ants,” the swallow said. “That hurts,” the figure said, “You know, you lot keep throwing that in my face. I never asked to be like this.”

“I just wanted to stay in my forge and making whatever popped into my head. But no. I had to save a life and get ripped apart and shoved into a fucking glass ball. They should have just let me die,” he spat, “And now I’m treated like some kind god. I’m just a smith. I was happy with that life.”

The swallow looked at the ground between her feet. “I’m sorry,” she said, “it’s just you’re so far beyond anything I can understand and it scares me.” “And?” he asked. “And what?” she said, “you scare me. What more do you need? I already feel like nothing next to my friends.”

“Next to you,” she added. “How did you pick up your callsign?” the figure asked. “The rumors that followed some of my missions said the only sign there was a gunman was a wisp of smoke,” the swallow answered.

“So it became a calling card,” the figure said, “And the name stuck.” “I’m told it’s a feared name,” she said, “The wisp strikes again. Five officers, two mages and a goldfish were killed in a single shot. Reports of a wisp of smoke fading from a window two blocks away with an almost zero visibility shot.”

“You shot a goldfish?” the figure asked knowingly. “I didn’t see the fish bowl till after I took the shot,” she answered. “You know what’s really scary,” he asked. “What?” she asked. “the unknown,” the figure answered, “the unseen, the unspoken, the soundless.”

The swallow tilted her head studying the figure. “You are feared because you are the unknown,” he added, “Some are not even sure you’re a bird or not.” “You’re just trying to make me feel better,” she said. “Not working?” he asked, “I can do the brute force thing if that helps?”

“No,” the swallow answered, “Chartun, What did you really want to talk about?” “You,” Chartun answered, “simple words always make the hardest questions and the hardest answers.” “So what’s the question?” the swallow asked, working up a small smile.

“Are you ready to talk about what happened to you?” he asked, he turned back to look at the wall across from them. The wall was nothing special, just having evenly spaced scratches and holes running up it, starting a few meters off the ground too high for any of the students to reach.

The swallow looked up at the wall. “I can’t say they didn’t earn their powers or gifts,” he added, “But one little girl dared to reach for them, having nothing, not even her own voice.” The swallow looked back at Chartun.

“You think you’re not worthy of walking with “gods” as you put it,” he said, “The little girl who scaled that wall has more right to walk with them than the one they answer to.” “I was ten when I met the baron,” Melody said, beginning a long painful story.

The Caretaker of the great library of deeds listened, as the sky above echoed and threatened rage. The ancient being slid over to the swallow with a comforting hug. The sky cleared after the swallow finished her story as if a force simply pushed the oncoming storm away.

“Thank you,” he said, “I know it was hard for you.” “It doesn’t change what happened to me or those that were forced to take my place,” Melody said. “No,” Chartun said, “But it could save those who are in that place now.”

“That would mean we need to get into the manor,” Melody said, “He won’t risk it outside the manor, not again.” Chartun smiled. “It hurts to leave them there,” Melody said, “But we need to finish stealing the school first. so no one else can take their place.”

“Needs of the many?” the ancient being asked. “Sadly so,” the swallow said, “By the way, what’s in the bag?” “Oh, I got you a happy meal,” he answered. “Happy meal?” she asked. “Yeah, comes with a toy,” he answered.

The swallow opened the bag. Inside was a small bento box and a note. And what looked like a large copper wasp with sapphire eyes. The swallow sighed, reaching into the bag and pulled out the insect. It didn’t panic or sting her. It seemed to like being held by her.

The swallow didn’t look up, knowing he was already gone. The note made her laugh. “So you’re an Item beast?” she asked the insect. Its wings flickered with a buzz. The swallow took out the bento box and ate, sharing with the insect.

“What would you like to be called?” she asked. It buzzed again. “I kinda like the name Willow,” she said. The insect turned to face her. “You like it too?” she asked. The wasp jumped onto the swallow’s hand coiling its legs around her pinky talon.

In a blink the wasp shrunk into a ring. “I hope you’re not stuck like that,” Melody said. The wasp’s wings buzzed. The swallow smiled, adding, “Back to work.” she packed up the box into the storage space in her codex.

The swallow spent the afternoon running around school. She checked on the fox. He had a system going, moving the students quickly through a line. He only took more time on the students with implants or cybernetics.

The kids seem to take to him well. It helped that he could have his own prosthetic arm in clear view. Melody could see the joy in his eyes, as the fox got to help people first hand. She also noticed a broken prosthetic arm on the desk behind him.

They spoke for a minute between two of the classes moving through. The fox handed the swallow some files and waved her off as she left. Using the school’s back halls the swallow found her human husband in the kitchen.

Jonathan jumped when the swallow appeared next to him. “I wouldn’t call it five stars,” he said, “It’s good enough for a school this size.” “Some things never change,” she said. “And as for building itself,” he said, “It’s in good shape. Nothing that would shut down the school.”

“Gilded cage?” she asked. “Looks like it,” he answered. “And the students?” she asked. “They seem to be well cared for,” he answered, “I don’t think we’re going to find anything here.” “No,” she agreed, “we’ll have to get into the manor to find anything.”

“So far I think the dean is the only one who knows what’s going on,” Jonathan said. “I think I know why,” Melody said, “But she’ll tell us when she’s ready.” The human nodded, “I’m trusting your judgment, my love.”

They shared a quick kiss, to the dismay of a few students walking by. They parted as the swallow moved on to check in with the feline. In the gym the golden fur feline was working with a group of students as they practiced a gymnastic routine.

The feline had switched to a pair of gym shorts drawing the young eyes to her figure. “Don’t hold back, Don’t look back,” she said, leading the group through the routine, "Because when you do, you’ll miss the next step.”

“You make it sound like anyone can do it,” one of the students said. “Because it’s all in your mindset,” The feline said, “I bet you, if someone you think can’t, does it, there is no reason you can’t.” “Like her,” another student asked, pointing out the swallow.

“Oh, Mrs. Forlcharmer,” the feline asked. The swallow played along. “Nah, nah,” she said, “I couldn’t.” “Come on now,” the feline teased, “I’m sure you can do it.” They had a small playful back and forth, getting the students to cheer the little swallow on.

When the swallow gave in she handed one student the files she was holding and her suit coat. “Fine you win,” she said, “Show me.” The feline did the routine for the swallow. “I might be a little rusty,” The swallow said, and followed the routine to the letter.

A look of shock and awe fell across the students. The swallow recovered her coat and files. “Not my best,” she added, “but it should do.” She received a round of applause. “Now you lot,” the feline said “Again.” The swallow left to find the otter in the lecture hall.

The otter was sitting on the edge of the stage talking to a smaller group of students and a handful of staff. The swallow waved herself over. “Hey hun,” the otter said, the somber look on his face turning into a small smile. “What’s the topic that has you looking so down?” the swallow asked.

“Professor?” a student asked, “We have a school legend about a student who found a way to heaven.” “Oh?” the otter asked. “I was told the wall in the courtyard covered in scratch marks leads to a gateway to heaven, and when they ran up the wall to the roof they just vanished,” the student said.

“It wasn’t a gateway to heaven,” the swallow spat, absentmindedly, “It led to hell, and only opened when the devil was standing there.” An old human woman studied the swallow. “The student’s name was Melody Galecharmer,” the woman said, “She was our top student, and biggest trouble maker.”

The swallow flitched hearing her name. “Myself and a few other teachers tried to dissuade her from making a show of herself,” the woman continued, “As Mrs. Forlcharmer said, ending up drawing unwanted attention to herself along with five other students.”

The swallow looked down at the floor. “That isn’t to say,” the woman said, “She hasn’t returned as an avenging angel with the help of the warlocks and the Malacaster.” The swallow looked up at the old hag.

Chapter 5

The dark of night gave cover as three figures moved through it with ease. The grounds to the manor were well kept. The high walls to the grounds were an easy step for the figures. With grace and seed they reached the manor unseen.

“Ok, You have your orders,” A female voice said over the comlink. “Falling back,” the small hooded figure said, dashing back to the tree line. The figure in a cartoonish ninja outfit slinked around the side of the building.

“Heading around back,” the ninja said, “A new first for me. Me going in a guy’s backdoor.” “Cut the chatter,” the female voice said, “ready to drop the decoy on your mark, Bliss.” “Ok,” Bliss answered a few minutes later, “I’m in.”

“That’s my line,” the dark armored figure said. “Mel,” the female voice said, “Keep in your pants.” “For you babe,” Mel answered, “I’ll try.” “I got movement,” the hooded figure said, “First floor second window from Mel’s position.”

“Confirming my movements,” Bliss answered, “Hey, think I should get a few of those maid outfits?” “I have a shot,” the hooded figure answered. “We’ll talk about it,” the female voice answered, “Wisp any other signs of movement?”

“Not yet,” Wisp answered. “Breaking line of sight,” Bliss said, “Heading into the basement.” “Right,” the female voice said, “Be careful.” “Yes mother,” Bliss answered. “Mel,” the female voice, “be ready.” “Understood,” Mel answered, “Buy you breakfast after this?”

“Mel,” The female voice said. “Got movement three floor center window,” Wisp said, “I have eyes on the target.” “Is the target alone?” the female voice asked. “Negative,” Wisp growled. “Bliss,” the female voice asked, “Give me an update.”

“This kinky bitch,” Bliss answered, “found the playroom.” Wisp growled, “Please let me take the shot.” “Bliss, where are you?” the female asked. “Got what we came for heading out now,” Bliss answered, “What age is the oldest member of staff?” “You don’t want to know,” Wisp answered.

Minutes later Bliss answered, “I’m at the pool. I need a shower after that. You three have fun. I’m out.” “Right see you back at base,” Mel answered. “Wisp, You are cleared to open fire,” the female said, “Let’s give the sicko a wake up call.”

“Understood,” Wisp answered. “Mel,” the female said, “You’re up.” The dark armored figure moved to the front door, shaking something in its hand. The can hissed out silver paint across the large double doors, taking the shape of an “X”.

“Done,” Mel said, “Wisp he’s all yours.” As the armored figure fell back to the tree line, it threw the can through one of the windows. With the crash of breaking glass lights came on as kids in maid uniforms rushed to windows and posts on the roof.

The hooded figure took shots at each of them. They fell back. “Missed” shot marked the walls and windows with colorful paint. “They did go soft on them,” Wisp said, between shots. “Told you,” the female answered.

The kids got up looking at the paint. More reports sounded off as each was struck again. The baron came out the double doors yelling. The lion that came out had a thinning mane combed over to cover a bald spot, and ever growing pot belly.

He yelled at the kids who couldn’t even take a step without being pelted with more paint. Windows closed as the kids ran and hid. Till all that was left was the baron himself half naked outside the manor. The lion twisted and turned, as the gun fire went silent.

A lone hooded figure stood on the cobblestone drive half turned away from the lion. “WHO THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?” he roared. The figure unmoved by the threat spoke clearly, never raising their voice.

“I am Wisp,” the figure said, “And I bear a message for you from the Malacaster.” The lion reached for a discarded rifle. A lone shot cut a line between the Baron and the weapon. The lion looked at the figure in fearful disgust.

“The message is,” the figure said, “You’re next.” “Next?” the lion asked, “NEXT FOR WHAT?” “You’re sins,” the figure answered. In a rain of gun shots the figure was gone and the Lion left on the ground cover in paint and painful welts.

After a shower Melody shook, ruffling her feathers dry, before dressing in a towel. “Feel better,” Jonathan asked, as the little swallow sat in his lap. “After the shower,” she asked, “Or shooting the baron?” “I guess a little of both,” the human said.

“Yeah, I guess,” she answered, “Did we get what we needed?” “Yes and no,” Winsten said, “The bastard keeps it clean.” “If we knew where he kept his client list, we’d get somewhere,” Joana added. “Client list,” Cornelius asked, “What makes you think he has one?”

“A private auction,” Emily the hawk said, “the school’s benefactors, support the school through a private auction. Where the baron sells “Art” to raise money for the school.” “And given that schools are to be untouched by the war,” Winsten said, “the baron has no choice but to support the school. But the number of zeros he gets, lets him do whatever he wants.”

“Why are the schools untouched by the war as you put it?” Joana asked. “Even wars have rules,” Winsten said, “And to keep our benefactor from taking the field.” “The queen agreed to leave the kids alone,” Cornelius finished.

“And it’s a one to one deal,” the otter continued, “He can freely act only to protect children.” “The avatiles,” Jonathan noted. The otter pointed at the human with a nod and a click of his tongue. “So which reason are we here for?” the feline asked.

“Both,” the otter shrugged. “So that means come Monday,” the feline said, “Cornelius gets to be neck deep in teens.” “Not by myself,” the fox said, “Plus I had found a way to deal with it.” “You’re not,” the feline asked.

“No,” the fox answered, “My glasses.” “How are your glasses the answer?” the feline asked. “I coated my glasses in a nano filament, that I can have Delta filter out the light so all I see is an outline.” “So how does that help?” the swallow asked.

The fox took out his glasses and handed them to the little bird and nodded. The swallow put the glasses on.” A second later the lens lit up. Looking around, the swallow turned to the fox. A base outline of the fox could be seen.

The only thing she could see of him was the prosthetic arm he had. The swallow turned to the feline and saw only her prosthetics. Melody turned to the hawk. The hawk’s clothes were visible. The swallow took off the glasses.

“It doesn’t work on clothes?” she asked. “It works as a medical scan,” the fox answered, “Even if I can’t see them. They have nothing they can hide.” The fox took the glasses and put them away. “And my arm can fill in for the rest,” the fox added before being asked.

“You little cheat,” the feline smiled, “Wait, you wear glasses?” “Yeah,” The fox answered, “eye strain. I only need them when I’m working.” “Oh,” the feline, “When did this happen?” “After that one mission with that big flash,” the fox answered, “and I was blinded for a week.”

“Oh right,” the feline said, “and your sight came back with us in the bath house.” “You said it was a mixed bath,” the fox answered. Jonathan and Melody were trying and failing at not laughing. “I let a bunch of fuckable luntices into my house” the hawk said.

“Love, you know I’m gay, right?” the otter asked. “And you’re the Vanguard’s lover,” the hawk answered, “The weird part about that is you sleeping with his champion.” “It’s a long story,” the otter said, “I don’t like talking about it.”

“I’m fine with that,” the hawk said, “I’m going to bed. Good night.” The hawk got up and went to her room. “Good Night,” they answered in turn as each set off to bed as well. Melody’s dreams had left the swallow with one thought, one answer.

A lone medicine bottle lay on the bathroom floor. As Melody lay in the tub under a scalding hot shower. She just settled into place when she noticed the room getting fuzzy. “It might just be the steam,” she thought.

“They’ll be better off without me,” she thought, as she closed her eyes. There was thumping somewhere in the house. Followed by shouting. Then a ruckus reaching the door. “Melody,” She heard the otter yell, “Melody, Melody, Open the door. Please baby girl. Please open the door.”

“Winsten,” the feline’s voice followed, “She just went in for a shower.” “No, She’s not,” he answered, “Melody, Please open the door!” She felt to num to move much less say anything. “Melody,” the otter yelled, with more feet stomping to the door, “I’m coming in!”

Seconds later the otter was over her. The shower soaking his fur giving it a waxy shine. The otter shook the swallow till her eyes opened. “Melody, please look at me,” he said, giving her face soft little slaps. The swallow looked up at the otter.

There was a panic, a pain, something she never saw in those old eyes. “I’m sorry,” she said. “I’m sorry too, baby girl,” he said, forcing his hand into her mouth, “Uisce, please, save her, the way you saved me.”

The otter hugged the swallow. The swallow’s eye opened as she felt like someone just shoved a hose down her throat and turned it on. Weakly, she beat and hit the otter, fighting him every step of the way. “That’s right baby girl,” he said, “Take it out on me.”

The door to the bathroom broke open by a large foot following it. In seconds the swallow’s stomach turned and emptied onto the floor. The giant human and husband of the little swallow stood in the doorway. “Kill me later,” the otter said.

In the same panic the otter checked around the tub. “What are you looking for?” Jonathan asked. “Plan B,” the otter answered, grabbing the pen knife from the edge of the tub. “Give that back,” the swallow gasped, reaching for the knife, “bastard.”

Winsten swallowed the knife into his arm. “Give it back and leave me alone,” Melody hissed, trying to rip into the otter’s arm. “Melody?” Jonathan said, wrapping his massive hand around the swallow’s arm.

Melody looked at the massive hand than to the owner. “Get away from me,” she screeched, “Just leave me alone.” The swallow threw herself back into the tub. She turned her back to them crying. The otter fell back against a wall. “Thank you Uisce,” he said, sliding to the floor.

Jonathan turned off the water. “Melody,” He whispered, “I’m right here, I will always be right here.” The otter waved a hand clearing the steam from the room and drying off the mess. “Son of bitch, she wasn’t ready,” the otter said.

The feline and the fox’s heads poked around the doorway past the broken door. “Thank you,” Jonathan said, “Thank you Winsten.” They finished drying the swallow and moved her back to bed. It would be late into the afternoon before Melody woke up.

The swallow looked around, finding herself cuffed to the bed. She looked at the feline sitting next to the bed. “Good morning,” the feline said. Melody turned away from the feline. “Yeah, I know,” the feline said, “it sucks.”

The feline stood up and checked the swallow’s head and wrists. “Winsten and Jonathan are fighting down in the kitchen,” the feline said, “Cornelius is down in the workshop, And Emily is at the school.” “So they made you watch the coo coo bird,” Melody said.

“Made?” the feline answered, “No. I kicked them out so you could sleep.” “And the cuffs?” the swallow asked, “You know they won’t keep me here.” “No they won’t,” the feline answered, “But Cornelius made them.”

The swallow tested the lock and was hit with a small shock. “I really need to lock him out of the workshop,” the feline said. “By the gods,” the swallow spat, “What kinks did he pick up this time?” “He got his paws on a suppressor implant,” the feline said, sitting on the edge of the bed, “unused of course.”

“Fucking saint,” the swallow spat. “What is going through that pretty little head of yours?” “I don’t want to talk about it,” Melody answered. “Look,” the feline said, “We’re all dealing with repressed trauma. I’ve been repressing mine for a long time.”

The swallow rolled her eyes. “I can’t,” the swallow said, “I just can’t.” The swallow shifted. “You can take these off me now,” the swallow said. “I don’t know, can I?” the feline asked. “Joana, please,” the swallow said, “We both know you can take my sorry ass in a fight.”

“That’s not what I asked,” Joana said. “Even if I want to,” the swallow said, “I’m against three gods and the Malacaster. I already fucked up my one good shot.” “Melody,” Joana said, “This isn’t a fight. This is a lot of big words I don’t understand.”

“That makes two of us,” Melody said. “Corn pop is working on something for you,” Joana said. “The Vanguard's champion at it again,” the swallow sighed. The feline spoke a word and the cuffs unlatched from the bed.

Melody sat up, pulling the blanket over her chest. “Let me guess,” the swallow asked, “No clothes?” “Not yet,” the feline answered, “Not till we’re sure.” The swallow rolled her eyes again. The feline got a bathrobe and took the belt off it.

Melody put the robe on and followed The feline out of the room. The shouting in the kitchen quieted down as they passed. They walked down the stairs into the cold basement, then down to the sub basement. Then into the large chamber where Winsten’s ship sat.

The ship looked like a massive beetle with a cream color and red and blue stripes. As well as a circle with the number fifty-three in it. On the ship toward the back was the workshop. The lab the boys used. Joana tapped the screen pad by the hatch.

“Yes,” Cornelius’ voice came over the intercom. “Hey, love,” the feline said, “She’s awake.” “Oh, I wasn’t finished with that yet,” he answered. “How many are you working on?” she asked. “Six,” he answered. the feline glared. “teen.”

“Again?” the feline asked. The hatch opened. The feline waved the swallow in. “Just don’t touch anything,” Joana added, “Just trust me.” Just stepping into the room was walking into another world. How could three mad scientists share a space like this and not kill one another?

“Back here,” Cornelius called from the back of the room. Melody pulled the robe tighter and threaded carefully to the back of the room. “How?” she asked, looking over the workbench cover with tools and parts.

As the dark fur fox with shaggy silver hair sat with his back to the swallow. “Don’t ask,” he answered. “Is that my rifle?” she asked. “You said the sight was off, and I’m reworking the power system,” he answered, without looking.

“What else are you working on?” she asked, stepping up next to him. “More than I should be,” he answered, “Family trait.” “What did you want to show me?” she asked. Cornelius sat back, a small black box sat in front of him.

“That’s a suppressor,” she said. “Very good,” he said, “a model thirty-six vocal suppressor, the same you had.” The swallow blinked. “It breaks up mana discharges by muting the vocal cords,” he said, “Works by disrupting them. Fun fact. It doesn’t mute the sound. just changes it.”

“What?” she asked. “Sorry,” he corrected, “small words, it pitches your voice out of the normally hearable range.” “Normally?” she asked. “Like right now,” he said. “Ding” the computer sang. The fox uttered a word and both sets of cuffs came off.

“Oh, thank you,” the swallow answered, “You’re not scared, I’ll try again.” “I’m more mad than anything,” he answered. The swallow folded her head down. “Melody,” the fox said, paused and started listing names.

The fox reached over and picked up a pen knife. It was the one she stole. With a grunt he drove the knife into a board sitting on the workbench. “Thirty-six,” he said, “I’ve tried thirty-six times. I had to watch my mother and father die to protect me.”

“I have vague memories of the warriors shielding me with their lives,” he said, “And now that you’re so close being done with him. And you want to give him another win?” The swallow didn’t look up. She looked at the knife and the board it was in.

It had a scoreboard on it, with the knife driven under the baron’s name. “So if you want him to win,” the fox said, “I’ll deliver your body to his doorstep.” “Cornelius,” she said. “Save it,” he spat. The swallow jumped ready to bolt for the door.

Melody covered her face with her talons. “Make a choice,” he said, turning back to the computer. A video started playing. Melody could hear the ghosts of her past on the screen. The swallow looked up at the screen.

One of her friends got hold of a camera and was recording their little group. The camera panned to a younger swallow smiling and joking with her friends. “Melody, give us a sound bite,” one of them said. The swallow on the screen flipped off the camera, mouthing something.

The fox sighed, turning off the video. “Let’s hope it works,” he said to himself. The fox opened a program and ran it over the video file. The video started again. The camera panned over the group again. Was she hearing things? Was there someone else laughing?

The camera panned to the swallow again. Melody, give us a sound bite.” The swallow flipped off the camera again and said “Here’s a soundbite for you. Fuck you.” The group laughed again. The fox stopped the video. “It worked,” he said.

The swallow hugged the fox, crying into his shoulder. The fox pulled the little swallow in his lap, letting her curl up to him. “The suppressor pitched the vocals out of range of normal hearing,” the fox said, “The program had to find it and bring it back into range.”

The swallow couldn’t think straight. The computer dinged again. Cornelius switched screens. “That answered a lot,” he said. “What?” Melody asked. “Your mutation is affecting your brain chemistry,” Cornelius answered.

Melody questioned the fox with a look. “You had the thought, stress maybe, and the mutation affected your impulse control and you acted on it,” the fox said. The swallow rubbed her head. The fox changed the screen again.

“And Now we have the answer to that problem,” the fox said. “Small words please,” the swallow asked. “In short, We have to have Traira bite you again,” the fox answered, “After she samples a stable hybrid.” The swallow blinked.

“One step at a time,” he added. The swallow shifted to straddle the fox. “I’m sorry,” Melody said, letting the bathrobe open, “I can’t face them right now. And I …” The fox’s head turned up a little looking at the wall.

“I know,” she said, “We have this unspoken rule about all of us being together.” “Oh, that’s what those two are going on about,” he asked, “What would you like for dinner?” “I don’t know,” she answered. The fox looked back at the wall. “Takeout it is,” he added.

“I’m sorry,” she said “I shouldn’t have.” The swallow’s thoughts cut off with a gasp. “Just save some for those two,” he said. The swallow moaned. “Thank you,” she cooed, cuddling up to the fox. “Made your choice then,” the fox said.

Chapter 6

The infirmary was filled with students. The dark fur fox barked orders to the students. The female students grouped watching the fox, as they tried to flaunt themselves for him. “If you haven’t been examined, get in line,” the golden fur feline hissed, protectively, “If you have, then get dressed and out of the way.

The little green swallow tried directing students without implants to the earth brown fur otter. But many were focused on the fox. To his credit, he didn’t try to look over or under or around his thin wire frame glasses.

“Could you imagine those eyes looking at you as he has his way with you?” one girl said. “I wonder if his hand has a rumble feature?” another asked. “I want to know what his tongue can do,” another added.

“I love looking into his eyes,” the feline said over them, “No his hand doesn’t. We need to look into that though. And if you want that answer, get where you’re going.” They sighed and got back in line. The fox turned away to drink some coffee.

“Is the silver hair real?” the first girl asked. “Yes,” the feline answered, “for both heads. And Unless you have an implant or prosthetic this is as close you’re going to get.” “I have both,” the girl answered, “leg and an implant in my stomach.” “Right,” the fox said, rubbing his eyes. “Next.”

The next girl stepped up. The fox turned, blinking. “Any problems?” he asked. “I don’t have your,” she said when he cut her off. “Medical problems,” he said. “No sir,” the girl answered. The fox yawned, with the student just a meter away.

The girl blushed. “Hold still,” he said. The fox looked tired and broad. “Mala,” the otter said, “Take a break. Get some air.” “Let’s get through this,” the fox answered. The fox stood up waving for the room to quiet.

He took off the glasses looking at the students as a group. “Ladies,” he said, “Please, stay in line and this will go a lot faster.” The swallow sighed, “Play up the charm. Make it personal.” “I would personally appreciate it if we can move this along quickly,” he added, “OR do you want to be naked all day?”

He got a few giggles before saying, “Thank you.” Then he sat down and got back to work. When the young vixen that the feline was talking to moved up the fox blinked. “Doc,” she said, “How is what you’re doing different from a regular scan system?”

“What makes you think that?” he asked. “You’re indifferent to anything you see,” the vixen said, “And that was the first time you took your glasses off this whole time.” “Your point?” he asked, giving no reaction.

“You’re as robotic as those mages,” she stated. “I’m not a people person,” he answered. The vixen took the fox’s glasses, forcing him to look at her. “I’m tired of everyone focusing on my foot and not me,” she said.

The fox tilted his head looking the vixen in the eye. “I’m sorry you feel that way,” he answered, holding up his right hand, “You’re the one focused on the hardware.” The vixen covered herself for a moment. “And the hardware can be a painful reminder of things we don’t like,” the fox added.

The vixen looked at the fox’s hand. “But You can always treat the hardware as a hardship to overcome,” he said, “A tool so you can keep moving. The only one holding you back is you.” He took the glasses back, putting them back on.

“Plus having to sit here and look at all these pretty girls like yourself,” he added, “I’m sure my wife wouldn’t want me to have to replace her hips tomorrow.” The vixen blushed. “Right,” the fox said, “Now let me check your hardware.”

The vixen covered herself again. “I was talking about your foot,” the fox said. “Oh, right, sorry” she said. The golden fur feline came over to help. “This is a Malacard design,” the fox said, “I didn’t think they were still making them.”

“I didn’t know who made it,” the vixen said, “But it works just fine. I have a hard time with flips though.” “Yeah, it’s a cheap sock fit,” the fox added, “Good for day to day activities.” “But not for gymnastics,” the vixen said.

“I’ll put a note in your file about it,” he said, “Thank you, love.” The feline leaned down as they shared a quick peek on the cheek. There was a tone of disappointment from the room. After her exam was finished the vixen thanked the fox and moved on.

“That was sweet of you,” the feline said. “What? The hardware thing?” the fox asked, “Or replacing your hips?” “A little of both,” the feline answered, “Just a few more and we can go and blow off some stress.”

“It’s a date,” the fox answered. The hour moved quickly, giving the two the time they needed. They returned just before the next batch of students arrived. “How can you eat that stuff?” the feline asked, “Do you know how much garbage is in that?”

“There’s a reason they call it dorm food,” the fox said, “And then there’s medical internship.” “Right,” the feline said, “you were a sixteen year old med student with a part time job.” “You make it sound like a corny show,” the fox said.

“I’d take your corny stressful show over my high school porno,” the feline answered. “But you didn’t sleep with any of the sports teams,” the fox noted. “Nah, I hate jocks,” she answered, “I slept with the chess club.”

“Didn’t have to do your homework the whole year,” He added, “And that’s where …” The fox stopped talking. They both looked down. “Where I met May and started acting like a decent person,” the feline finished.

“You two ok?” the otter asked. “Just some back in the day stuff,” the feline answered. “Speaking of school drama,” the swallow said, “The pool? again?” “When?” the feline asked. “Last night.” the swallow answered. “Not us,” the fox said. “We were with Emily all night,” the feline added.

“Shit,” the swallow said, “I wish it was you.” “Oh,” the feline asked. “We could have joined you. Jon and I were going to but we saw two people going at it.” “And what made you think it was us?” the fox asked. “The guy had a prosthetic arm,” the swallow said.

“Aww,” the feline said. “What did you do?” the fox asked, eyeing the feline. “Nothing they wouldn’t have worked out on their own,” the feline answered. “She made a kid with a prosthetic arm do one handed push ups in front of his crush,” the swallow answered.

“You were showing off again,” the fox said. “It was cute,” the feline said, “Once she started cheering him on he was unstoppable.” “And who broke his arm?” the fox asked. “Well she did but,” the feline said.

“She was teasing the poor guy by kicking his arm out from under him,” the swallow said, “Joana here, did twenty, one handed, handstand push ups to prove he could do it.” “You are so lucky you’re cute, song bird,” Joana said.

“Alright kids back to work,” the otter said, “I just gave the next group the rundown.” “You going to tease the boys when it’s their turn?” the fox asked. “Only if you want me to,” Joana answered, “Doctor.” “Please don’t say it like that,” the fox answered, “I just calmed down.”

“You could make them feel better about themselves,” the feline added. “And not sound like a creep?” the fox asked. “I’m right here you know,” the otter said. “Winsten, no one is calling you a creep,” the feline said. “This time,” the swallow added.

“Hey, I’m not the only freak in the room,” Winsten answered. “Ladies,” the fox said, “To make this easier on all of us.” The fox waved to the otter. “Prof. Springwell will examine the lovely ladies without implants and/or prosthetics,” He said, “And please Keep the flirting to a minimum.”

“My wife is standing right here,” he added, “I don’t need her to get jealous.” “Hey,” the feline said. The girls giggled. Before the first two stepped up the intercom came on. “Good afternoon Students and staff, and guests,” a female voice spoke.

“I have just a few announcements,” the voice said, “First, A reminder that the school’s pool is off limits to all students and staff after twenty hundred hours in the afternoon and before eight hundred hours in the morning.”

“Second, We have all heard the story of Melody’s run,” the voice continued, “I must remind you all. Do not attempt it. You will get hurt. And third, We will be holding a seminar with our guests. Where our guests will be testing your knowledge and selected students who impress our guests will receive a prize.”

There was a long pause before the voice continued. “ Lastly, I have asked our guest to join us for our semester dance,” the voice said, “Where the winners from the seminar will get their prize in the form of a dance with one of our guests. That is all.”

The fox’s jaw went slack. As every girl in the room blushed. “I guess that means the sooner we get this done the sooner You all can get out of here and get to studying,” the feline said. “I think she broke him,” the swallow said.

The fox with a blank look on his face. The student in front of the fox waved a hand in front of his face. “I’m going to kill her,” the feline said. “Doctor?” the student asked. The fox shook, saying, “sorry.” The otter dropped the hint that the fox only wears the glasses when he’s working.

But the group went by quickly. As did the following two groups. After the last student left the fox took off his glasses, turned to the desk behind him resting his head on his hands. “I’m sorry,” a young robin girl said, leading another student into the infirmary, “But if the doctor could see one more student?”

The student following the robin was a bat girl who seemed to move blindly around. The fox sighed, turning around. The swallow took the bat’s hand and walked her over. “Doctor,” the swallow said, “You might want to take this one.”

The bat signed a thank you to the swallow. The fox stood up letting the girl take the seat. “Thank you,” the swallow said to the robin, “Can I ask you to wait outside?” The robin nodded leaving the room.

The fox put his glasses on as the feline helped the younger bat undress. The fox took out a small box out of his pocket and set it on the desk. “Ok,” he said, “Time for a trial run.” “Hun,” the swallow said to the bat, “I want you to talk to us.”

The bat raised her hands to sign. The swallow put her hand on the bat’s. “Use your voice,” the swallow said, “Trust me. He knows what he’s doing.” The bat started mouthing words. The fox nodded, and rolled his finger to keep the girl talking.

As the bat tried to speak, the box chirped. “What was that?” the bat asked, through a static and broken voice. “Just helping you find your voice,” the fox said, “So please keep going.” The bat spoke no clear thought behind it, just doing as the fox said.

The box lit up with a green light. “Is that good, Doctor?” the bat asked, her voice had a sweet but high pitch to it. the fox nodded. “Doctor please,” the bat said, pushing her hair out of her face. “I know,” he said, “Winsten, Could you get?”

“What color?” the otter asked before the fox could finish. “What color would you like?” the fox asked the bat. “I don’t know,” she said, “What are yours?” “On it,” the otter said and was gone. “His are a bright ice blue that shines when he smiles,” the feline said.

The fox put a blanket over the bat taking off the glasses. “You already know what I look like,” the fox said, “we have the same gift.” “You’re the angel with the silver hair who bares his cross over his heart,” the bat said.

“She got you pegged, babe,” the feline said. “And you’re his burning guardian,” the bat added. The swallow sighed. “Melody,” the bat asked, “Have you found your song?” The swallow froze. “I have seen all of you,” the bat said.

The fox stood next to the bat. “She’ll find it when it is time,” the fox said, tilting the bat’s head up. He took the bat’s hand with his left hand. “It might hurt a bit,” the fox said. “Thank you,” she said. The fox set to work removing the broken prosthetic eyes.

Just as he finished the otter returned. “Sorry,” the otter said, “Had to pipe this one.” The fox took the box from the otter. “I don’t remember making these lenses,” the fox said. “That’s why I had to take the pips,” the otter said.

The fox pulled out a tool and set to work. The bat bit her hand to keep from screaming. Minutes later the fox took a step back. “Give it a few seconds to calibrate,” he said, cleaning up. The bat blinked as the light of the eyes came on giving a soft icy blue glow.

The fox smiled. “You’re right,” the bat said, “His eyes shine when he smiles.” “Well help her to the mirror,” the fox said. The swallow helped the bat over to a long wall mounted mirror. She gasped at the sight of herself.

“How did you know she had the same gift?” the feline asked. “It’s a type of wavelength diviners are on,” the fox answered, “Mine is common, I only get visions when I’m in R.E.M. sleep, it’s also why I panic when I come out of one.”

“You walk the crossroads,” the bat said, still engrossed in her reflection, “I thought my breasts would be smaller?” “You have large hands, so by touch alone you couldn’t tell,” The feline said. The fox was working on something at the desk.

“It’s a short term answer,” the fox said, turning to hand over a small pendant. “She’s beautiful,” the feline said. The fox nodded, adding, “Now that she can see it for herself.” The bat turned to the swallow.

“I was to be his next pet,” the bat said, “Aside from being older than he likes.” “Seventeen,” the fox said, “read your file. He wants a kid.” “So you were just going to be his breeding toy?” the feline asked. “Till angels came,” the bat answered.

“Cornelius,” Joana said, “I know where you stand on this. But I just had a wicked idea.” “Don’t worry,” the swallow said, catching the feline’s idea, “It’s just a kiss.” After a few minutes, the bat was dressed and on her way. The robin girl outside the room was still waiting.

The two left as the Dean approached. “I am so going to kill you for that stunt,” the feline said once the door was closed and locked. “I’ve done what I could to encourage the students to take the bait,” the hawk answered, “This is just payment.”

The feline eyed the hawk. “Just be fair with them,” the hawk added, “give them a chance to show off.” “Oh, this is going to be fun,” the otter said. “You didn’t have to put him on the spot like that,” the feline said.

The fox eyed the feline and said, “Wale you’re here. I think we can knock out your exam too.” The hawk blinked. The feline smiled. The swallow rolled her eyes. “You two are really pushing your luck,” the otter said.

“I could use some help with this one,” the fox said, “And I know you know how to handle my tools.” “When you put it that way,” the otter grinned. “Oh my gods,” the swallow said, “I’m going to go check on Jon.”

“Aww, my little girl doesn’t want to join us?” the hawk asked. “Mom,” the swallow answered. “Melody got hit with some powerful magic and it’s been affecting her moods,” the fox said. “That explains the breasts,” the hawk said.

“Mom,” the swallow said. The bored feline began undressing herself before moving to undress the hawk. “I swear,” the otter said. “You want it or not,” the fox asked. “Yeah he’s been itching to go back into otter space for a few days,” The feline said. “Fuck me,” the otter said rolling his eyes.

“That’s the plan,” the fox said, “So drop the pants and get on the desk.” The otter blushed, “yes Daddy.” “And don’t call me that,” the fox added. The swallow left the room before she could be drawn into another mess.

The swallow found her husband in the kitchen of the Hawk’s residents, cooking dinner. “You’re back late,” the human said. “Long day, horny teens, and now the four of them are playing doctor in the infirmary,” the swallow answered. “Cool,” the human said, “Means we have the shower all to ourselves.”

“Still afraid to leave me alone?” the swallow asked. “Would you hate me if I said yes?” he asked. “No,” she answered, “I think I’m more afraid to be alone right now.” The human turned the stove off, taking the pot off the heat.

Warm steam made the bathroom hazy as her moans filled the house. Her back was pinned to the shower wall with her human’s gentle strength. Each thrust filled her with bliss, as she moaned and begged for more.

Chapter 7

The little green swallow sat on one of the stools in the lab with the golden fur feline standing naked in a cleared space. “So we found how Joana is a stable hybrid,” the cotton candy colored otter said, “And it’s part of her power.”

“My phoenix state,” the feline added. “Correct,” the otter said, “So the question becomes how can Traira sample that state without getting hurt?” “Answer,” the fox said, “Joana can control the output of the heat. Or in other words.”

“She can control it and not melt or burn anything around her,” the dark skinned human answered. “Correct,” the otter said, “So, the answer is. We have to lower Joana’s core temperature long enough for Traira to get a sample.”

“So,” Joana asked, “What? I go phoenix mode and then you turn me into a popsicle?” “In short, yes,” the fox answered. “Sounds dumb,” the feline said. “Yeah it does,” the fox said, “but it’s the best we got.” “We did the math based on your burn tests,” the otter added, “so we have an idea on the douse.”

“Now it sounds stupid and dangerous,” the feline said. “When does anything we do work on the safe level?” the fox asked. “Right,” the feline answered, “I’m not standing here naked for nothing. Let’s get this over with.”

“Liquid nitrogen is ready. Vents are open. Everyone got a blanket?” the fox said. “Wait, nitrogen?” the feline asked. “Setting the clock for two minutes. Winsten, make sure the flame suppressors are set to manual,” the fox said.

“Done and done,” the otter said, “cryo tube is ready.” “Wait, you’re using nitrogen?” the feline asked. “We’re at negative two o-nine C,” the human said, checking another screen. “Joana,” the otter said, “Once the bath starts you will have to keep your core body temperature from dropping below thirty-six degrees celsius.”

“Bath?” she asked, “Are you saying your plan is to throw me into a nitrogen bath?” “No,” the fox answered, tapping his fingers in the air. “When did you turn your glasses into a screen?” the feline asked. “This plan is on a timer,” the fox answered, “I don’t have time to look at a screen.”

“And the plan is to drop a liquid nitrogen bath on you in your phoenix state to lower your core temp long enough for Traira to sample your blood in that state to reset Melody’s gene markers into stabilizing so the poor girl doesn’t try to kill herself again,” the otter said.

The otter huffed a breath. They all stopped to blink. “And we only have two minutes to get through half of it,” he added, “will that be all?” “Delta hazmat,” the fox said. His suit enclosed around him. “Last thing, It’s going to hurt like hell,” the fox added.

“So why are you suited up,” she asked. “failsafe,” the fox answered, “I’m not letting you do this alone.” Once ready the tube sealed the feline and the armored fox. “Two minutes,” the fox said. “Two minutes.” “I can’t watch,” the swallow said.

The swallow looked away. “starting the clock,” the otter, “starting nitrogen bath.” The feline screamed. The seconds passed like hours. “Starting the fans,” the otter said, “Opening the tube. Jonathan, now.” Melody could hear the feline gasping for air.

“You’re doing great, Bebe,” The fox said. “Fuck you,” the feline gasped. The swallow gasped as she felt the snake biting into her neck. “Right,” the otter said, “forty seconds, starting the rise.” After a few seconds Melody turned back around.

The swallow rolled her eyes. The feline and the fox were both naked in the half filled tube going at it. “We’ll have to give it a day to see what happens,” the otter said, “But in short just watch for molting feathers.”

“Well I don’t feel like killing or fucking the thing I see,” the swallow said, “Jon don’t give me that look. I’d do the same to you no matter what.” “Come on, let’s,” the human said, “let’s give them some alone time.”

The swallow headed out of the lab and back up to the house to get cleaned up for tonight. “I still can’t believe how many students showed up,” Jonathan said, following the swallow, “And how many passed your questions.”

“What? asking common sense questions to students?” the swallow asked. “Smart and beautiful,” the human said, “how did I get so lucky?” “Jon,” the swallow said, blushing, “Don’t say things like that.” “What? the truth?” he asked.

“Besides, I’m more shocked how many girls Winsten has to dance with,” the swallow said. “He goes dancing whenever he can,” Jonathan said, “especially ballroom dancing.” “He hasn’t talked to me in a few days,” she said, “not since I …”

“Melody,” Jonathan said, “He’s had a hard life, and watching the people grow old around you is hard enough. But when someone you care about closer than family does something like that it hurts more.” “Live for today,” the swallow said, “Because you don’t have tomorrow.”

“Yeah, something like that,” Jonathan said, “Have you seen that stupid arm I’ve been using?” Later into the afternoon Melody and the hawk Emily were walking a few steps behind the others well into one of their small chats.

“You lot have been pushing his buttons,” Emily said, “I must ask, do you even have a plan?” “Does it look like we have a plan?” the swallow asked, “Half the time we don’t know where we’re going till we get there.”

“Does he always hold his arm like that?” Emily asked, nodding to the fox, “when confronted with stress he holds his arm like that.” The swallow looked around before speaking. “Malacards are a family of diviners, they call their visions the crossroads.” the swallow said.

“So what does that have to do with the way he holds his arm?” Emily asked. “He had his first crossroad when he was three,” Melody answered, “And it was about losing his arm.” The hawk looked at the swallow. “It seems, it caused him real pain and to comfort himself he holds his arm” Melody said.

“How such a tell can go unnoticed,” Emily said, stopping just behind the larger human. As the little swallow walked right into the otter. “Oh sorry Winsten,” She said, taking a step back. “How are you feeling?” he asked.

The little swallow hugged the otter. “I’m sorry,” she said, “I’m sorry for everything.” “It’s ok, song bird. I’m just worried about you,” the otter said, “We all are.” “Yeah, bebe,” Jonathan his hand on her shoulder, “This is your mission. we’re your support.”

“You don’t walk with gods,” the feline added, “we walk with you.” “And we don’t carry you to keep up,” the fox said, “we push you to the front so you can get ahead.” “We still have a dance to get to,” the hawk interjected, “and you each have a dozen students to dance with.”

With a quick change of outfits the small group ready themselves for the hardest part of this mission. A school dance. The feline wore a plain blue backless dress giving shape to her curves without making them the focus with silver threads.

As her fox fiancé wore an ember red suit with a gold dress shirt and a leaf green tie. The human wore a black suit with a dark green shirt and brass tie. The hawk being the dean wore a plain suit dress. As the otter wore a neon pink suit with a navy blue shirt, no tie.

As the little swallow wore a stone gray, form fitting gown to draw out her figure and drawing attention to her bright red eyes. The Entry hall drew still as students and staff turned to the six of them. The little swallow blushed, feeling so many eyes on her.

She could see the students and some of the teachers talking, some pointing, with one or two with a stunned drool hanging from their mouths. They reach the end of the hall turning to stand under the ego sized portrait of the false idol the baron was.

“Good evening,” the hawk said into a microphone she was handed. “Good evening Miss Storfron,” the students answered. “I am glad to see you all are enjoying yourselves,” the hawk continued, “And I am very proud of your conduct with our guests.”

The hawk looked about the room as she spoke. “So I want you all to enjoy yourselves tonight,” she said, “You have all earned it.” The group took to the dance floor with the otter taking the hawk as his dance partner.

With each song they changed partners giving each of the students time enough to turn the rumor mill. Till each had finished their list of students, short by one. A young robin girl holding hands with a young bat girl.

The swallow watched as the fox took the bat’s hand leading her to the dance floor and walking her through a slow ballroom dance. The young bat wore a plain black dress with her long hair brushed and braided. Her glowing ice blue eyes watching the room as a whole.

Just as the dance ended the doors to the entry hall bursted open. The students parted to the walls as a small army of maid uniforms marched in. Followed by a tall balding lion with an ever growing pot belly. The baron. With five royal guard mages behind him.

“Baron VonDrich,” the hawk said. “Save it Storfron,” the baron answered, “We have a problem.” “My lord?” the hawk asked. The baron scanned the room with a deep growl as his eyes settled on the fox with the bat girl standing just behind him.

“I was just attacked in my own home by the Malacaster,” the baron said, “I want to know where your guests have been.” “They have been with me the whole day,” the hawk answered, “And they have been here at the school dance all night.”

“And you think I believe that?” the baron asked. “My lord,” the hawk answered, “I assure you our guests have not left the grounds since they arrived. As is set by law.” “Tick, tock, Baron Isaac VonDrich,” A voice echoed through the hall, “It is time to bring your sins to light.”

The multistory portrait of the baron flashed. The once proud display of an idol changed into a grotesque display of the overweight lion in latex leather and a ball gag in his mouth. With the background matching the room in the Baron’s own manor.

“Get your tiny dick off me you creep,” the ghostly echo of a young girl’s voice followed. Other echoes followed, ghosts of all ages cried out in haunt whispers. The Baron spun on the spot trying to find the source of the sounds.

As a black armored figure with an icy blue glow stood in the doorway of the hall. The baron’s eyes locked on the figure as he roared. “Rapist, abuser, slaver,” the figure said, “You will do no more harm to anyone. Give yourself over and I will be merciful.”

“Your Games, Your Lies won’t work,” the baron roared, “I will have your head!” The mages move to capture the figure. But it was faster and led them off into the night. “Students, return to your dorms the school will be locked down till this matter is settled.” the hawk ordered.

“Faculty and staff, Stay with the students and bar all from entering the dorms,” the hawk ordered. “This worked out a little too well,” the swallow thought to herself. “And someone turn off that projector,” the Baron growled.

“My lord,” the hawk said, “That’s not a projection.” Without recourse the lion struck the hawk with the back of his hand. “I SAID GET RID OF IT,” he roared. The hawk was knocked to the floor holding her face.

“It will be done, my Lord,” she answered. “YOU!” the Baron said, turning to the otter. “I had nothing to do with this Baron,” the otter answered, “And if you touch me there will be hell to pay.” The lion growled.

One of the mages returned. The purple and gold armor with a black sash came to a stop next to the baron. “Mage,” the otter said, “Under article thirty-seven of the treaty of conduct between the Imperial Queen and the Caretaker of the Great Library of Deeds.”

“Accusations against the Baron by The malacaster are to be addressed,” the otter continued, “The Baron’s personal staff is to be submitted to medical and psychological exams as part of an open investigation.” The mage nodded.

“This investigation is open,” the mage answered, “Your staff will be allowed to leave the school grounds under supervision.” The mage turned to the baron. “Till the resolution of this investigation,” the mage said, “You are to be held under house arrest. You will be restricted to one of the guest houses on the school grounds.”

“You can’t do this to me,” the Baron said. “And your staff will undergo medical and psychological exams.” “You can’t do this to me,” the baron yelled, “They are lying about all of it.” The mage scanned the room. “Know this, Springwell,” the mage said, “Your staff will also be under investigation.”

“Very well then,” the otter said, “Save you half the search. There is myself, Joana Novabell, Jonathan Forlan, Cornelius Malacard, and Melody Galecharmer.” Both the mage and the baron flinched at the names.

The other four joined the otter as the other mages returned. The baron’s eyes fell on the swallow in horror. “I was once a student at this school then made the personal guard of the baron,” the swallow said, answering the mage’s glare, “I will give my full testimony another time.”

The shock on the Baron’s face hearing the swallow speak was almost broken. “Know this Malacaster,” the mage said to the fox, “Your games will not work on me.” “I wouldn’t flirt with my cousin,” the fox said, “Mab.”

The mage took a sharp step back. “How is your father, my uncle?” he asked. “Dead,” the mage answered, “Because of casters like you.” “I’m sorry to hear that,” the fox said, “We’ll talk later. We have a lot of work to do.”

“Cousin?” the feline asked. “Yeah, I was shocked too,” the fox said. The mages left, taking the baron with them. As the army of maids was taken to one of the dorms. “I’m shocked,” the otter said. “You shocked?” the human asked.

“I didn’t know he had a cousin,” the otter said. “Yeah, on his mother’s side,” the human answered “the Lafaes.” “What’s next?” the otter asked, “a holy hand grenade?” “Men in tights?” the feline asked. “I wish,” the otter said walking off.

The swallow dropped to her knees. “Oh gods,” she said. “Melody,” the human said, kneeling next to her, “It’s almost over.” “I know,” she said, “but they may turn it on us.” “No,” the fox said, “She won’t. They found Puck.” “Your robot?” the swallow asked.

“Yep,” the fox answered, “gave them a copy of all the evidence we found along with one of my counter suppressors.” “You think that was wise?” the human asked. “Act of good faith,” the fox answered, taking the feline’s hand, “Let’s get to bed, we have a lot of work to do.”

The next day the fox and one of the mages stayed in the infirmary to examine the baron’s staff. The feline and one of the mages were sent to the town to question a number of people. The human and another mage were sent to the Maron.

With the otter pouring over paperwork with another mage. Leaving the little swallow with the last mage, The one the fox called Mab. Melody told her story to the mage giving every detail she could and making herself sick the whole time.

“I know you don’t believe me,” Melody said, “But it’s the truth.” “I know you believe it’s the truth,” the mage answered, “And your evidence supports the claim.” “But?” the swallow asked. “What makes you think I will believe anything you crimeals say?” The mage asked.

“If we’re done?” Melody asked. The mage paused. “You’re not going to fight me on what I said?” the mage asked. “Would it matter,” the swallow asked, “You chose your side.” “I want you to give me a reason,” the mage said, “My aunt is dead because of him.”

“She chose to bind his power with her own life to protect him,” Melody answered, “His father killed himself to keep himself from taking his own son to the same fate.” “This is not his fate,” the mage answered, gesturing to itself.

The swallow stood up. “So what would his fate be?” she asked, “A lab rat, a breeding toy, a slave?” “A king,” the mage answered, “I don’t know why she would want him but she does.” “Want him?” Melody asked.

“It is not my place to ask why,” the mage said, “mine is to just do and die.” “You asked for a reason,” Melody said, showing the mage the scar on her neck, “I spent half of my life with one of your queen’s implants in my neck. And that goofy lovable fox took it away. I have a voice again because of him.”

“I was six years old when it was forced on me,” She added, “just to be raped and abuse by one of her barons. You and your queen can go to hell. And if you dare try to touch Cornelius. I will send her your skull in a fucking trash bag.”

“You are dismissed, Miss. Galecharmer,” the mage said. Melody left the mage, to find the hawk. In the Dean’s office she sat curled up in one of the corners. The hawk entered the office and sat at the desk.

“I heard you threaten one of the mages,” the hawk said after a long minute. “It wasn’t a threat,” Melody answered, “That thing touches him. I will kill it and send its skull to the queen in a trash bag.” “I agree,” the hawk said, “You had a hard day, you should get some rest.”

“I don’t want to be alone right now,” Melody said, “I don’t know if I can trust myself.” “They are in good hands,” the hawk said, “And the mages will honor the laws.” “Why does she want him?” Melody asked.

“Maybe the reason why you care about him, or why Joana loves him, even Winsten,” The hawk said, “Cornelius has shown nothing but care and compassion for everyone around him, even his enemies.”

“He is the Vanguard’s champion,” the hawk added, “Even when my sins come to bear. He will still show mercy.” “That’s because unlike the rest of us,” Melody said, “he doesn’t know what hate is. But that’s how Malacards are. They love unconditionally.”

Chapter 8

The school was still under lockdown conditions when the two teams met again to conclude the investigation. The entry hall was closed off. The five mages stood lined to one wall as the warlocks lined the other.

The baron stood in the middle of the room facing the portrait of himself in a disgraceful state. With the hawk standing under it. “Baron Isaac VonDrich,” the black sash mage said, “You stand accused. What say you?”

“I am innocent of all charges,” the Baron said, “This faris was staged by the warlocks to let casters run wild on this world.” “Malacaster,” the mage said, “As We have agreed on our findings. I ask you if there is any last evidence you wish to address.”

“He does,” the hawk said, “The testimony of his first victim.” The mage looked at the fox. “Abjection,” the Baron called. “Malacaster,” the mage said. “Yes,” The fox said, “If Dean Storfron has a witness. Then yes.”

“Miss. Storfron,” the mage ordered, “present your witness.” “I am the witness,” the hawk said, “I am both his victim and accomplice.” “I abject,” The baron spat. “She will speak,” the mage said. “Know your place mage,” the baron growled.

“It’s over Isaac,” the hawk said, “I can’t standby any longer. And I will accept the consequences of my action and inaction.” The mage nodded. The swallow stood agasp. “I was eleven when The baron first took me,” The hawk said, “I was young and naive. He told me he loved me and I believed him.”

The hawk told her story. The baron grew more agitated with every word. “If asked why I waited,” the hawk said, “Because I found a new love. A love I thought I would never know.” The hawk looked at the swallow.

“The love of my daughter,” the hawk said, “And the strength she found on her own.” The hawk smiled sadly. “The night the warlocks made their first assault on the manor,” the hawk continued, “I told Melody to run, Because the baron ordered me to kill her.”

The hawk rubbed her eye. “I was shot by Melody,” the Hawk added, “Freeing her and sealing my standing with the baron.” “By the laws,” the mage said, “You will face the same sentence as the baron.” “I know,” the hawk said, “My students are safe, and we will see justice done.”

The hawk knelt down holding out her arms. “You stupid bitch,” The baron spat, “You won’t get away with this betrayal.” The lion drew a pistol and fired. The hawk’s arms fell as she slumped to the floor. The swallow screamed rushing over to the hawk.

As both sides broke ranks into a fight. Melody reached her mother doing whatever she could. “It’s ok Melody,” the hawk said, gasping in pain, “I got to see the woman you grew into.” “Mom,” Melody said, “Stop talking, We’ll get you help. You’ll be fine.”

The baron drunkenly ran for the door letting the casters kill one another. The armored fox was about to give chase. Melody looked at the baron and then to her mother then the fox. The choice was clear. CORNELIUS,” the swallow screamed, “PLEASE! HELP!”

The malacaster looked back at the baron, but turned and rushed to the swallow’s side. The armor withdrew. “Delta, focus power on stopping the bleeding and get the E.K.G. going,” the fox said, putting pressure on the wound.

The fox’s hand glowed with soft white light. “Fuck,” he said, “Delta I need to transfer more power.” “I don’t care,” the fox said. “Melody,” the hawk said, holding the swallow’s hand, “Melody, I have one last request.”

“Mom, Please don’t talk, you’ll be fine,” Melody said, “Cornelius take care of you.” “Melody, please,” the hawk said, “Let me hear you sing just once.” The battle around them held into a standstill. “Please Melody,” the hawk said, “just sing for me. If this is my fate, so be it. I’ll pay for my sins.”

“Melody,” the fox said, “Just sing, Trust me.” The swallow sang, the words infusing with her magic. The battle raged as Melody’s song filled the hall. The Baron reached the door as it brusted inward sending the old lion flying back, landing on his ass.

“ENOUGH” a voice with an absolute force said. The room froze. The human was fending off two of the mages at once. As the otter dodged a shot from one of the others. As the feline and the black sash mage were about to clash.

In the open doorway stood two figures both in dark robes. The smaller of the two held the other by the arm. “Good, now back to your corners,” the taller figure said. With a flash the groups were divided and sent back to their starting points of the meeting. Aside from the fox swallow and hawk.

“Better,” the tall figure said, head turning to the lion on the floor, “Don’t move.” The smaller figure released the tall one and stood gloved hands folded in front. The tall figure swept past them all and crouched next to the fox.

“Hey Chartun,” the fox said without looking, “I’m working here.” “The Vanguard,” the hawk gasped, “I am not worthy of your grace.” “And who are you to say a penitent soul is unworthy of grace,” the figure asked, “and it is not my grace you seek.”

“But you are here all the same,” the hawk said. “Well that’s what happens when one is summoned,” the figure answered, its hood turning to the swallow, “Your choice was made then?”

“I don’t care what happens to him,” the swallow said, still holding the hawk, “Even if it takes me a lifetime to repay you. Just save her.” “My price is a life for a life,” the figure said, “But she is in good hands.” The fox huffed.

The hood turned to the fox. “Delta’s limit?” the figure asked. The fox nodded, still holding the spell. “I just can’t get enough power,” the fox said. The smaller hooded figure pointed to the black sash mage with a nod.

The mage was still till an unseen force threw the mage over to the other figure. “Well that was kind of you,” Chartun said, “Here, Help him out, matching energy and all.” The figure righted the mage.

“Just put your hand on top of his and send you power through his spell,” Chartun said. “Why should I help scum like you,” the mage spat. “We could ask your boss?” Chartun said, “or as you put it, do and die.” the mage cursed again setting a hand on top of the fox’s.

In seconds the two boosted the healing magic. “Scum,” the mage said, retreating to the other mages. Chartun drew his hood back. His pale metallic skin and gold eyes smiling at the hawk. “But,” he added, “Others can do more for less.”

“But who summoned you?” Melody asked. “Really?” he asked, “That much power in one song?” Chartun patted the swallow head. “All I did was sing?” the swallow asked. “Your mom was dying, he was having a hard time stopping it.” “Hey,” the fox said.

“And those knuckle heads have been itching for a fight,” Chartun finished, “You called me with a song with a pure wish.” The swallow blushed. Chartun helped each to their feet. As the hawk coughed up some blood.

“Oh,” Chartun said, “here.” Handing the hawk a beach towel from his pocket, “Don’t ask.” With a clap the Caretaker turned walking over to the lion. “lesson of the day,” he said, “Don’t piss off the mortal who walks with gods.”

“Hey,” The otter said, “She doesn’t walk with us.” “We walk with her,” the feline added. “Point still the same,” the Caretaker said. The smaller figure folded their arms. “You’re the one not talking,” Chartun said, “Only one of them knows who you are.”

The swallow took a few steps, putting herself between the hooded figure and the fox. The hooded figure shifted their weight as if amused by the display. “You can’t have him,” the swallow said. The other warlocks looked to the swallow.

The human moved next to the swallow. “She wants Cornelius,” the swallow said to the human. The otter moved to the other side of the swallow. “I want to know why,” the otter said, “I mean we all have a reason but anyway.”

The feline moved to join them, taking her fiancé’s hand. The figure shifted again with distaste. “I guess they all know who you are,” the metal human said with a smile, “You sure you don’t want to say a few words. Though we should deal with the matter at hand.”

The figure turned their hood to the lion. The lion flopped over onto his knees. “Mercy, Mercy, Your Majesty,” the lion begged, “Please have mercy.” The figure lifted a hand, with the same force the lion was lifted to face the figure.

With slow deliberate steps the figure walked over to the lion who was twice the figure’s size. The clacking of high heels follow the figure. Once in front of the lion the figure ran a hand across the lion’s cheek.

“Yes or no,” the sweet voice of a young woman said, “No lies, no speeches, no twisted words, just the truth.” The lion shook. “Are their accusations true?” the figure asked. The lion opened his mouth to speak but closed it and his eyes. Then signed his fate with a nod.

“For trash like you,” the figure hissed, “This is all the mercy I have.” The figure’s hand drew back. With a crack of thunder and a wet snap the lion’s head twisted around before the body fell to the floor. The figure turned to the warlocks.

The hawk hugged the swallow and kissed her forehead. “It will be ok Melody,” the hawk said, “I must do the right thing and pay for my crimes.” Reluctantly the swallow let the hawk pull away. The hawk moved away from the group and knelt in the middle of the hall, with her arms out.

“I am guilty of giving into VonDrich’s demands” she said. The figure moved with the same slow grace to the hawk. Again putting her hand on the hawk’s cheek. “Was she by your choice?” the figure asked with a nod.

“No,” the hawk answered. “Were any of the others by your choice?” the figure asked. “None of them,” the hawk answered. “If I were to spare your life at the expense of her life?” the figure asked. The hawk glared at the figure hands closing into fists.

“I would give my life for hers and her friends,” the hawk growled. “You know I can do far worse to you?” the figure asked. “Hell at your hands will be far better than the guilt I feel every day for the lives I helped ruin,” the hawk said.

“And if I were to turn you over to him?” the figure asked, nodding at the metal human. “I would be too honored to see it as a punishment,” the hawk answered. “I can’t decide,” the figure said, Her tone directed to the metal human, “She thinks you would be a mercy and has no fear of me.”

“Inpass?” the metal human asked. “She would willingly suffer over killing the girl,” the figure said, “And She is willing to die to protect your pawns.” The figure’s hood turned to the fox. “I’m in a good mood,” the figure said, “But you still have to make amends.”

“She was your best student?” the figure asked, turning to the swallow. “Still is,” the hawk answered. “This school will be your grave,” the figure said, withdrawing her hand, “You are to serve this school for the rest of your life.”

The hawk blinked. “You may never leave the grounds for any reason,” the figure continued, “This school is now your life. The better it does the better you do.” The hawk’s jaw went slack. “I agree to these terms,” the metal human said.

“Your pawns are to remove the suppressors from all the students including those under the former baron’s care,” the figure added. The metal human arched an eyebrow. “I never knew about them,” the figure said, “As well as anyone else that has them.”

“Oh,” the metal human asked. “And lastly This world will be treated as neutral ground,” the figure said, “As an act of good faith.” “Very kind of you,” the metal human said, grabbing the body of the lion by the foot.

“I would hate to hold them over,” the figure added, “It would be fitting that they oversee the changes.” The hawk lowered her arms but otherwise did not move. “What happened to that one?” the figure asked, addressing the down mage.

“I don’t think she’s dead, just knocked out,” the metal human answered, “I think my knight put your bishop through the wall there when the fight started.” The figure giggled as if surprised. I’ll be back with the paperwork,” the metal human said, before both vanished.

The hawk sat there dumb struck. “No,” the fox said, “It couldn’t be?” The otter looked away. “That fucking bitch,” the swallow spat. After some odd looks the swallow said, “She did that for you.” The fox blinked.

The human helped the hawk to her feet. “I don’t understand,” the hawk said. “She has the hots for Cornelius,” the swallow said, “So she did all that as an act just for him.” “She couldn’t have been?” the fox continued to himself.

The mages collected their downed member and left. “We’ve got a lot of work to do,” the otter said, “that fucking spoiled brat.” The hawk hugged the swallow. “I have you back,” the hawk said, “Nothing else matters.”

“Hey lady killer,” the feline said, “Let’s go use the pool one last time before they let the kids out.” The feline pulled the fox behinder. The otter shook his head. “I’ll move Herbie up to the courtyard so we can get the pods up and running,” he added, “Send word to the warlocks and the locals.”

“This was way too easy,” the swallow said. “Not really,” the human said, “She gave us the win. Even if Chartun wasn’t here for it she might have done the same or worse.” “I know but at what cost?” the swallow said.

“Well,” the otter said, “for one, means we’ll be seeing a lot more of her.” The three set to work as the day rolled on. With word being sent out over the next few days people had made their way to the school. And the little swallow found out how much damage the baron had caused.

Storfron had all but one of her implants removed, with the last replaced with a remote kill switch on her heart. Where if she goes more than six meters off the school grounds it would stop her heart. That she was fine with her, not that she left the school aside from the manor.

One family took the swallow by surprise. With three kids having a mix of horse and lion features. The mother finely age lioness carrying extra weight from the children. A horse just a few years older than the swallow.

“I’m sorry Miss,” the horse said to her, “But you remind me of a friend of mine.” “Ashten,” the swallow answered, “We haven’t been friends for years.” “Melody,” the horse asked. “No, Ashten,” she said, “You casted us aside. You casted me aside.”

“Problem babe?” The massive human said, turning to the horse looking him in the eyes. “No, Jon,” the swallow said, “Just happened to find a loose end to tie up.” “Mel,” the horse asked, “Who’s this?” “My husband,” the swallow answered.

“Don’t be mad at him” the lioness said, “It was half my fault anyway.” The swallow looked at the lioness. “Isaac was a monster,” she added, “and I turned a blind eye to it. Till I met Ashten. I waited till he turned eighteen before we did anything.”

The lioness waved to the oldest of her kids. “Son of bitch here gave me the presten,” she said, “and almost got us both killed.” “I know,” the swallow said, “he took it out on me.” The swallow sighed. She tilted her head and said, “I’m glad you two are safe and happy.”

The swallow turned and walked away. “You’re the boy that broke her?” the human asked. “You’d be within your right,” the horse said. “I should,” the human said, “Not going too.” “Jonathan,” the swallow yelled, “I’m in the mood for scramble eggs.” “got to go,” Jonathan said.

After another month They were ready to move on. “There is one last thing I got to do,” Melody said, “I also need Cornelius for it.” “Wait what?” the feline asked. “I have to break the curse,” the swallow answered, “That’s why I need your angel.

With the fox standing a few meters from part of one of the walls around the courtyard. The swallow stood at the starting mark she used once before. People, teachers, and students watched as The swallow made her run.

Her feet followed her steps once more. She felt the same thrill of freedom she once felt before. The cheers of the onlookers made her feel higher than ever before. She repeated every step like it was nothing. “Now it’s a gateway to heaven,” she said.

“Hey song bird,” the otter asked, “Can we talk?” “Sure thing cotton candy,” the swallow answered. They walked slowly to the ship. “Are you?” the otter asked. “No,” the swallow answered, “I’m not mad about what you did. You saved me from myself. As if you know what I was going to do.”

“What’s your take on Chartun and I,” the otter asked. “I know you love him,” she answered, “To the point he’s always on your mind.” “I think we have a toxic relationship,” the otter said. The swallow shook her head adding, “You two just have a lot going on.”

“Well, I’m the toxic one,” the otter added, “I didn’t always love him.” “Hard to believe,” the swallow said, “What did he do?” “The son of bitch saved my life.” “Aww,” the swallow said, “From what?” “He saved me from myself,” the otter answered.

He sighed. “I was in my twenties,” the otter said, “I was dying, heart defect. So I was going to go with a bang.” “Party to death?” the swallow asked. “Blow out after blowout,” the otter said, “I was strung out on everything.”

“One night my ex beat me in a bathroom and left me for dead,” the otter continued, “The bloody mess that I was, tried to talk to him again just to get thrown out of the bar. Last thing I remember of that night was vomiting on some poor guy, and looking into his gold eyes."