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Far Beyond the World

Blood Moon

Chapter 2: Getting to know each other

It was morning by the time Dominik woke. His sleep was interrupted by the creaking of wood

within the cottage; it seems that Ranok had a morning routine. Dominik could not fall back

asleep. In all honesty, it was probably for the best since he was plagued with many different

nightmares throughout his slumber. The thought of falling back asleep just to encounter another

left the human annoyed and uneasy. Instead, Dominik realized it might be important to greet and

talk with Ranok. It's not every day some hot stranger takes someone into his house trying to

help them with such a peculiar predicament.

As Dominik stood to get out of Ranok's comfortable bed, his feet met the frigid cold floor. Oh

shit, Dominik thought as he made his way towards Ranok's drawer, looking for more clothes he

might be able to put on. All Dominik had on was a loaned loincloth; although it was his first time

wearing one, Dominik felt extremely comfortable with the loose undergarments he was wearing.

As he checked his new undergarments, he went around to check himself out.

As he looked at his loincloth, Dominik couldn't resist checking out his own loins. He felt about

his flaccid cock. His penis itself looked normal for the most part, the shaft seemed to be it's

natural length... but his scrotum seemed different. His testicles seemed much larger than he

could remember. He couldn't help his eyes widen as he lifted the loincloth to reveal his XL egg

sacs; they felt heavy on top of his palms. He felt very manly... and horny as he fondled them

within his hands. Gradually, his flaccid length would elongate to full mast.

As Dominik grabbed his erection, the door swung open, revealing Ranok. "Ahm... is this a bad

time?" Ranok questioned, looking slightly away from the lewd sight. Dominik felt so

embarrassed, trying to hide his erection behind his hand and forearm, but failed to do so... it

didn't really matter, however, since he attempted to do so far too late. Dominik tried to find the

words to explain himself, but he failed to do so and sputtered only a few unintelligible ah's and

um's.

Ranok, who was still looking partially away, told Dominik, "Listen, if you are feeling pent up, it's

fine if you choose to relieve yourself. Just give me a heads up before you do so. Yeah?" He was

trying to clear up the tension.

Regaining his composure, Dominik noticed a protruding tent in

Ranok's pants, clearly showing that Ranok liked what he saw, even if he was trying to avoid

looking at Dominik.

"Sorry," Dominik replied. "I got a bit sidetracked since I was checking myself

for anything. I noticed that my balls were... umm...bigger... a-and it felt good to touch them and

so..." he chuckled, scratching the back of his head awkwardly.

"You say that you died and came back to life in this world with bigger balls?" Ranok asked with

an intrigued humorous interest. Dominik nodded yes with blushed embarrassment. Ranok

makes his way from the door frame and takes a knee, trying to see for himself.

"W-What are you doing!?" Dominik asked, taken aback by both Ranok's forward-ness and his huge bulge.

"I want to see how big you are," the wolf replied nonchalantly; the prospect of him being entirely

respectful of privacy has now fallen.

"You're about as big as me..." Ranok concluded, his tail wildly wagging behind him as he stood up.

"That's quite something... from what I remember, I think I am a few times larger than before I

woke up. But, umm, it seems you have something exciting as well~" Dominik teased, feeling

less embarrassed than before.

The human was cheekily pointing at Ranok's clear erection. "Are you into me or were you thinking about a hot she-wolf before you came to talk to me?" Ranok

was confused and looked down at his pants, then comedically covered his bulge with his paws

while cursing with panic under his breath.

Troubled at how Ranok reacted, Dominik asked, "Hey, are wolves homophobic?"

"Homo-what?" Ranok asked back, not understanding the question.

"I'm asking if it is not socially acceptable for people who have a certain type of relationship with

their same gender. Some people are mean and homophobic to the point of which they outcast

those who are homosexual or gay," Dominik explained, his mast was slowly lowering and could

now be hidden by his borrowed loincloth. The human chose to move and sit on the edge of the

bed, trying to get more comfortable.

Ranok took a deep breath, trying to calm himself and his lust down. "We wolves call that

defectiveness and many consider it really bad to be defective. Some might even be outcast and

most are practically less respected in our society. And I'm not defective!" Ranok explained, the

last personal bit of his explanation was much more emphasized.

Dominik put two and two together and realized that Ranok might be afraid of the concept of being gay, but the human knew that Ranok's responsive body couldn't lie.

"That's a shame... thanks for explaining. But just so you know, I am gay, or defective, and I'm proud of it since it is a personal aspect of mine. I want to be honest and say that I would find it very hot if you were defective too and chose to dominate me. Some people like it when their partners are more aggressive and growl and nibble their significant others like some big strong alpha marking their territory and possessions~" Dominik stated.

He took a bold risk, coming out to Ranok from the get go while simultaneously

teasing the possibly closeted wolf. Fortunately for the human, his gamble paid off, rekindling

Ranok's erection which he barely got down between their turns in the conversation.

"Sorry, I find dominant submissive scenarios very hot." Shyly looking away in embarrassment

and realization at the possibility of making his wolf uncomfortable. But his negative thoughts

were quickly blown away after Ranok closed in.

"Oh really? What else does my pet like~" he teasingly growled into Dominik's ear.

"Master orders you to tell him more," Ranok teased. Was Ranok really straight? Dominik thought to himself while he furiously blushed and his heart beat rapidly.

Ranok put an arm around Dominik, leaving no space between them. Dominik squeezed

his arm and leaned into Ranok's sturdy form, unconsciously breathing in the wolf's earthly scent.

"I like muscles... the bigger the better. Muscles like Vulgor's... and of course yours too. They're

so big and sturdy, I want to massage and worship muscular bodies. Rubbing them up and

down... and getting stepped on by such strong and smelly feet. I want to lick them clean... and

musky armpits too, I'd like to get stuck smelling them too... uhhh-" Dominik stopped himself,

realizing he was getting over obsessive with his fetishes, he looked away from Ranok letting go

of the arm that slung over his shoulder.

Ranok teasingly turned Dominik to face him and put his paws on Dominik's shoulders with reassuring force. The wolf's green eyes pierced Dominik's as

he remarked, "It seems my pet is quite kinky~"

"Unfortunately for you, Vulgor is into Verissa, and as I said before, I'm not defective," Ranok said

apologetically. Dominik had sweat dropping from his forehead; he was frantically considering the

fact that Ranok might actually be straight, but his teasing proved otherwise.

Maybe Ranok had trouble admitting; he already explained how it is looked down upon, being gay and all. The human chose not to press any further, restraining himself from more innuendos and promiscuity.

"Now's not the time to be in heat, how about you wash up and we eat breakfast?" Ranok asked,

coincidentally finishing up their sexual episode in accordance with Dominik's internal decision.

The grey wolf offered the human his paw. "Thanks, I'm starving; I actually wanted to ask you

about some things," Dominik followed.

In the kitchen, Dominik found a vat of water with a sponge sitting on a tray of ash. "So what would you like to talk about?" Ranok asked, he was striking some flint, starting a fire over a pile of wood that was reminiscent of a modern stove.

"I'd like to start learning more about you wolves in general, if I know more about you and your

culture, it will be easier for me to understand what's going on," Dominik replied, scrubbing the

ash onto his arms using the sponge.

As Dominik scrubbed various parts of his body, Ranok was cracking and laying eggs

onto the stove. "Well for starters, there are six wolven tribes: Tirnan, Brecillien, Guldiren, Arden,

Lothien, and Anwynn. We are part of the Tirnan tribe, the closest tribe to us is Brecillien. Our

tribes have been the closest allies for centuries," the grey wolf explained as he changed cooked

eggs for new uncooked ones.

"Unfortunately, our relationship isn't as close as one might hope, and our relationship with the other tribes is regrettably more detached."

"Why's that?"

"We still are on neutral terms, at the very least. The tribes all share a majestic lake we

use as a vacation spot from time to time. The lake itself is very sacred since it was enchanted by

a powerful fey enchantress to heal extremely fatal wounds and injuries. At times, it has

properties which enhance the growth of pups, often making them become taller and stronger

than normal. Because of this, however, the tribes find tension in territory and access over the

lake."

"So do the tribes hope to create super soldiers for their armies or something?"

Ranok grimaced at the idea brought up by Dominik.

He finished cooking all the eggs he wanted to prepare and was setting strips of bacon on the stove. Dominik was now drying off, using a rag and sitting down at the wooden table on the opposite side of Ranok.

"Yes and no. We limit the usage of the lake because it has dangerous mind altering properties.

Pups aren't allowed to bathe as much as adults since many who spend too much time in the

lake often lose their minds. That is to say, it isn't impossible for adult wolves to go insane too."

Ranok was finished with cooking by now, setting a wooden plate filled with the eggs and bacon.

"Regardless, we need to assess a wolf's mental state before they enter the pool."

"What do you mean by losing their minds? Like did they become insane?" Dominik asked.

Ranok sighed, "Yes, unfortunately my grandfather was a tyrant who ruled over the tribe. He and

his iron fist wanted a strong military power, and so he frequently called for the pups to take

baths in the lake; even worse though, my grandfather took baths multiple times a day. There's

no doubt he was immensely powerful and unreasonable. It was a shit show for sure." Ranok

pulled up a chair and sat opposite of Dominik.

"He didn't want the other wolves to grow bigger and stronger than him, right?" The human asked. Ranok solemnly nodded, grabbing a loaf of bread and handing it to Dominik.

"We've all had at least one bath, as adult wolves. I've had 4 and Vulgor has had 7," Ranok

stated as he was taking alternating bites of the bacon and bread. Dominik was confused, "Wait,

why have you only taken 4 while Vulgor has had 7? Is that why he's so..."

"So aggressive? No, Vulgar has always been that way. The limit for baths an individual can have

is 10 for a chief's pups, 8 for pups of alphas and alphas themselves, and 4 for wolves lower in

the hierarchy. My father limited me to 4 because he fears that I might become lost like his father.

I guess it's also why I'm a bit smaller than Vulgor."

"What about the other tribes? Do they live very different lives than here?"

"Well Arden, our closest allies live in the HIgh Forest. It is the oldest part of the Sylvan

grounds; the trees are the oldest there and have been standing strong ever since the birth of the

greater forest in general. To say the least, they are more protective of their trees than we are

with our name trees."

"How so?"

"We'll kill you if you decimate a name tree of ours. Our name trees are very important to

us and our heritage; even the breaking of a branch is considered a grave offence and an attack

on one's pride." Dominik gulped, thinking to himself, Thank god I was brought to Tirnan rather than Arden. By now, Dominik was stuffed and was closely listening to Ranok's explanation.

"Then we have Guldiren. They live in the northernmost reaches of the woods. They are strong

and hard working people with a fierce reputation for warmongering. They've both started and

participated in more wars than we have. The Lothlin tribe is found in a mountain range west of

Guildiren. They are specifically at the foot of Amon Silva, the highest peak of the mountain

range and the entire area. Although they aren't as violent as Guildiren, they are very fickle and

often betray the other tribes. To them, it depends on where the wars go. Fortunately for them,

they have won the most tribal disputes, but unfortunately for them, the other tribes aren't open

to associating with them for fear of backstabbing." Ranok was washing his food down with some ale.

Dominik was wondering whether or not wolves have a higher tolerance for liquor. "The last tribe was located in the Deep Forest, the Anwynn tribe, there, lives in the most beautiful groves and meadows filled with plentiful bounties and are often filled with joy. They have participated in the least amount of wars and stay out of conflict in general. They are also most open to trade and don't take tributes from Sylvan other-kin inside."

"Could we ask them to get me some clothes?" Dominik asks Ranok. The wolf leans back in his

chair and stares at the ceiling before finding an answer.

"We don't have much contact with them. Even so, they probably wouldn't mind seeing a human; or the fact that you can speak Wolven. It would take around three days to arrive there, however we would need to get permission from my father or the elders, and that's not happening anytime soon," Ranok smiles bitterly, trying to sugar-coat the fact that Dominik was stuck in Tirnan.

"You really want to see the world," Dominik was playing footsies with Ranok's hind paws from across the table.

Their eyes were locked in contact. Dominik's expression was of mild discomfort at the idea of being cooped up.

The wolf's eye's pierced Dominik's with slightly solemn lost sorrow and optimistic kindness, giving Dominik the strength to look back with compassion, despite his similarly sad outlook on the situation.

"Yes, I would like to learn and see how I could make our lives a better place. That's why I hoped

you had come from some human city so I would have an excuse to get out and experience life

outside the forest," Ranok sighed. Ranok placed his chin on the table, looking very much like a

sad puppy.

"I mean, I am one for telling the truth, but why not bend the truth a bit to fit your needs?"

Dominik micheviously suggested.

Ranok perked up, "What do you mean by bending the truth?"

Dominik stood up and banged his chest with a fist, as if to make a pledge or promise. "My name

is Dominik Artz, I come from Avalan and got lost here through some blood magic. I've cast a

spell so that I can understand and speak with you in the hopes of learning magic of different

origins; it is a spell of my master's design. One day, I was separated from my master and found

myself lost here, separated from all that I know. No knowledge of where I am, how I got here, or

in possession of a place to call home... or something like that. Basically, we can make up a

story which lets us leave here on technical business!" Dominik took a seat next to Ranok.

"That business will be us searching for my nonexistent master. We'll travel the world together and

return. I can fulfill my debt to the tribe and you can come home with knowledge of the outside

world!" Dominik was smiling, happy about the story he made up.

"That's one hell of an idea, but there are some kinks we should iron out before we present the

full story to my father and the elders," Ranok concluded, his tail was wagging.

"I think we should tell your father the truth," Dominik interjected, shocking Ranok. "What!? Are you nuts?" Ranok yelled, surprised and against the idea.

His paws slammed the table as he stood in astonishment, which made Dominik want to flinch. Dominik calmly explained, "If we go along with this. It can become a huge political scandal. However, we still need allies and I'd rather have your father as a friend rather than foe if the lie falls through. We need as many trustworthy people in on the secret so that we can get as much support and help as possible." Ranok couldn't fight that logic. He loved his father dearly.

On one hand, he could be against the operation entirely, not trusting Dominik for what he is. On the other hand, he knows that this feat would be easier with his father's approval and support.

"I need to think about that, okay?" he told Dominik. The human sat down feeling a bit defeated since he wasn't able to completely persuade Ranok into letting his father in on their secret.

However, he felt surprised and proud of himself, nonetheless at his seemingly newly obtained silver tongue. "Before anything, we need to talk about this with both Vulgor and Verissa. Their input will be invaluable with our decision.

Although, I think I struck a nerve with Vulgor," Dominik admitted, respecting Ranok's

unsureness.

"You might have triggered a bad memory of his childhood," Ranok explained as the

human grimaced. "Don't worry, I don't think he's truly angry at you. To be honest, I think you'll be

a good influence on him," Ranok reassured Dominik.

Dominik felt more at ease and continued to ask more questions of the wolf.

"I have two more questions to ask. I did some reading and realized that in the book "The Rise

and Fall of the Magic era doesn't mention the wolves, why is that?

"That's because we wolves don't have much any contribution to magic. Our aptitude is minimal

at best and almost nonexistent at worst. But we are still part of the Sylvan. The umbrella term

still refers to all who live in the forest, including us wolves, bunnies, elk, and bears. The most

magic we have access to is the magic the shamans have access to; their magic lets us

commune with our ancestors and our goddess.

"So wolves do have magic?"

"Yes, but only enough for us to improve our senses. Our ability to harness magic is uniquely

different, whereas traditional spell casting is impossible. That, however, makes us better

warriors than the Lions and Tigers."

"I also heard humans were the most influential with magic, their god being representative of

magic and wisdom. Except he wasn't happy with his first creation and asked Aluna to bless

them with a portion of her people's strength."

Ranok was surprised and entertained by Dominik's excited expression. He ruffled the human's

hair affectionately.

"Someone did their homework! This book was written by a wolven shaman centuries ago. They

traveled the world and got the book blessed by Aluna herself, and so we traditionally accept it

as fact. Humans are a rare sight after your great civilization fell. The Tigerii, under law, are.

considered to have protection over you ever since the great rebellion. In fact, most humans

have a high position in their society, still able to study magic... At least, that's what the book

says. I'm not sure if it really is true"

Ranok grew a little depressed again, remembering how he doesn't freely get to see the outside

world.

"Never mind that, what was your other question?"

"Oh right, I wanted to ask if you could train me to use a sword and help me get all shredded and

buff" Dominik poked at his belly.

It was much smaller than he remembered, and it was never a six pack.. The wolf's eyes grew wide as he understood why Dominik would want his help.

"So you want to fit in here, right?" Ranok asked gently, earning a shynod from Dominik who gazed at the floor.

"But there's more to it. I think it would be really cool, and you promised yesterday that

you'd do it," the human mumbled.

"That I did!" Ranok exclaimed standing up.

"It will take a few days getting things sorted out before I can let you out of my house safely. Until

then, I can teach you the theories behind combat so that you can think about what type of

weapon you wish to use. There's already a lot of things we can do indoors!" Ranok explained

with excitement, hitting a crumpled fist to his open palm. Dominik responded with excitement,

jumping in the air, pumping a fist while exclaiming, "Hell yeah!"

"But you must first know about your debt..." Ranok trailed with less enthusiasm. He didn't want

to have that talk, but he figured Dominik would understand and had the right to be informed.

"My debt?" Dominik asked with confusion.

"Yes... your debt. Since I saved your life, the tribe will see it fit that you be required to pay a

tribute in return for my services... It's not my will, but it will most likely be the will of the elders..."

Ranok continued with a saddened expression.

He didn't want to burden Dominik with the news of forced labor just after recovering. Dominik, however, cheekily responded with a sarcastic,

"Awww. So not only am I required to work at home, training under you will give me a much

harsher sentence, forcing me to stay here to work for you bidding... works for me!" Ranok had

sweat dripping down and held a shocked and confused expression as opposed to the

sympathetic expression he held before.

"But you are a slave now! How can you take this so well?"

"Because I just died, and have no place to go. It would feel wrong to leave someone who cared

for me hanging, and you know I already like being a servant for you, Master~" Dominik teased,

causing Ranok to blush and look away.

"You sure know how to sweet talk with someone but... you'll have to wear a collar every time

you go out," Ranok explained with withheld anxiety.

"Can I get one with spikes? Do you think it will make me look cool?" Dominik asked with childish

inspiration.

Ranok just laughed at the realization that he was worried over nothing.

The two of them spent the next few hours talking with each other, learning more facts about

each other. Dominik explained the story of his childhood, his family, and how he remembers

dying. Ranok listened with fascination to how the world Dominik lived in was, he often

shuddered at the many dark and disturbing facts he learned. Their quality time can to an end,

however, when someone knocked at the door, causing the both of them to perk their heads up

"Who is it?" Ranok asked walking towards the door, sniffing the air. "It's just Vul and I," Verissa

answered without delay.

Ranok opened the door, letting the black and white coated wolves in. "It seems you two had a relaxing morning," Vulgor grumbled.

"What's up with him, did he wake up on the wrong side of the bed?" Dominik asked.

"Let him be, he's just sulking," Verissa teased as she took a seat with Vulgor following suit.

"I'm not sulking, I'm just waiting until we get rid of him.

Surely there's some tiger or other human who could take him and get us out of this mess,"

Vulgar considered, causing Ranok to roll his eyes.

"You know as well as I do we can't just let him go, and that the won't do such a thing. This is his

new home, whether he likes it or not. We just need to make his presence official without getting

him or us punished in the process..." Ranok nervously chuckled, causing Vulgor to bang the

table. Verissa sighs with feigned ignorance at Vulgor's newfound anger as Dominik jumped in

his seat.

"You're kidding me! You want this thing living with you, in this tribe, and think you can

accomplish that with no repercussions!?" Dominik interrupted, "To be clear, I know I owe your

tribe a great debt, but I believe I'm okay with a life of slavery as long as I have a roof over my

head." He smiled with content in the hopes of calming Vulgor while informing everyone his

opinion on the matter of his debt.

Ranok and Verissa sighed at the display. "Do you think this is just a game piglet!?" Vulgar reprimanded, his face gradually closing in on Dominik with cold

anger.

"I am well aware that this is no game. What I don't understand is why you treat me like I

have no brain and only brawn!" Dominik responded giving Vulgor a ferocious glare, implying his

attitude towards the rageful wolf.

"Enough, the both of you! We have more important matters to discuss and no time for this childish spat," Verissa scolded. Vulgar and Dominik broke eye

contact, both huffing.

Verissa continued, "I have a plan which might earn Dominik protection." The three males looked to Verissa.

"Ancient laws decree that the wounded who claim sanctuary may be taken in for healing." Vulgor smiled while Dominik and Ranok quickly realized where this was going.

"Wait a minute... you want to appeal to the elders by lying about me being wounded? But to convince them of something so easy to prove you'll have to-" Dominik trailed,

interrupted by Ranok.

"There must be alternative solution," The grey wolf pleaded.

Verissa sighed, "If we want to be convincing, it has to be done." By now, Vulgar was grinning

wildly, so much so that it was hard for Dominik not to miss.

"Oh hell no! There's no way in hell he's doing it!" Dominik pointed at Vulgor in horror.

"He's a professional butcher, so he knows how to work around and inflict a convincing fatal wound that isn't too life threatening," Verissa states nonchalantly. Ranok is standing now and slams his paw on the table growling,

"No way! I'm not gonna let this happen!" Verissa was unamused. "It's either that or the human risks death to the elders," she melodically growled.

"Fine! I will do it," Dominik decided reluctantly.

"Then let me do it!" Ranok responded, not trusting Vulgor with the matter.

"Ranok, listen... I trust you most of all, but I don't think you're able to do that. I am trusting you

to make it so I can speak naturally because I don't think I can play the part of a fool," Dominik

pleaded with seriousness. Ranok nodded, his tail dropped between his legs in bitter

understanding while Verissa and Vulgor listened on in slight confusion and apprehension.

"If they learn that you can fluently speak our language, they are going to kill you, no matter what,"

Verissa reasoned.

Dominik shook his head. "I've considered a few things and want to ask you to do one of two

things. As a shaman, please tell them that I gained the ability to speak your tongue as a

blessing from your ancestors, or affirm to them that a magic spell was cast on me by my

previous master who attempted to speak with you. My master and I, however, were ambushed

and resulted in our separation and my appearance at Ranok's name tree." Ranok's eyes grew

wide in careful realization, trying to remember the story Dominik made up just then. Verissa

sighs once more contemplating and murmuring to herself.

"Fine, we'll do it,"Verissa affirmed.

"Are you mad! The piglet is asking all of us to dance with death!" Vulgor roared.

"Listen, Vul, what he says makes sense. If this secret is too hard to keep, letting our people know he can talk may place him on trial. But the council won't be able to disprove his story on just hearsay. Not only that, his story brings him here against his will, they can't put him at fault for his disposition.

Either way, we will want the chief or Vithyr on our side to ensure Dominik's protection," Verissa

reasoned. Her eyes were serious and coldly contemplative, causing Vulgor to back down

slightly.

Ranok gave the others an uneasy look. The wolf wasn't thrilled with the prospect of talking to his

father. Although he had the capacity for understanding, his temper was something too difficult to

deal with.

Ranok cleared his throat, "I-I will try my best. But if it doesn't end up working, we are

screwed..." The grey wolf looked worryingly at Dominik.

"Then we will make him understand," Verissa affirmed. The white coated she-wolf was dead set on Dominik's plan while both Vulgor and Ranok were left wondering what she planned on doing. Ranok had crossed his arms in discomfort as he thought while Dominik was rubbing Ranok's in hopes of calming the both of them down from their anxiety.

Vulgor's expression was directed at the she-wolf demanding an explanation. Verissa obliged, "Dominik's right. If the village knows from the get go that he can

speak, we'll have one less thing to worry about. Besides, not needing to hide the fact that

human can speak makes it easier for the all of us." She crossed her arms this time and smiled,

subtly proclaiming that there's no more room for talking about the situation.

"I like a woman who can take charge," Dominik quipped. The human was childishly making a scratching gesture at the air while making meowing noises while Vulgor stared at him with a dumbfounded look.

"Excuse me?" Vulgor exclaimed hoping for another explanation while Verissa and Ranok

ignored, not wanting to put in further comments. Dominik took the opportunity to make a joke.

"It's really not that hard to understand. I just didn't know you're a glutton for punishment, I can

see why you have your eyes set on Verissa~" Verissa and Ranok face palmed at Dominik;s

comment.

"The human really has no problem speaking or making witty remarks," Verissa

commented to Ranok, who could only nod.

Dominik took slight offence to her statement and replied, "I've died once and so before I die again I want to try and explore new things. I'm not ashamed to be a bit more daring, especially since I'm already not ashamed of my sexuality, if you know what I mean..." He was eyeing Vulgor for a reaction, which he got when the black wolf smacked his head.

"Fucking stop it. It's enough of a burden living which one, I don't need a

second in my life," Vulgor muttered in annoyance.

"Oh, so that's why he was so interested in my ba..." Dominik trailed off, staring back at the grey wolf who blushed in embarrassment.

"Really Ranok! The human too?! Is there anyone you won't try to sleep with?" Vulgor asked

rhetorically.

Dominik chuckled, "You know... I wouldn't mind it if you had your way with me, you

Big. Strong. Alpha~" The promiscuous human was tracing a finger up Vulgor's bicep, about to

reach his broad shoulders.

The wolf issued a warning and growled at him. "Listen, pet... I don't swing that way and I don't like to be touched, especially by the likes of you." Dominik was keenly blushing, aware of Vulgor's crotch.

Eyeing, the growing bulge, Dominik replies with a teasing "Okay~"

Vulgor attempts to retort but gets interrupted by Verissa.

"Enough of this, we have more important matters on our minds that this childish activity. If the both of you don't stop bickering, I will be forced to castrate the both of you!" She melodically growls. Although Verissa's fangs, which she only shows in stern situations, usually fills Ranok with a feeling of dread and guilt, the grey wolf can't help but sigh in relief and awe. He came to learn how Dominik was admirable in the fact that his bravery, although promiscuous, held no bounds.

"Fine," Vulgor affirmed indignantly. "The piglet when have the pleasure of being stabbed by me anyways..." he muttered. This did not sit well with Ranok, but the grey wolf didn't want to aggravate Verissa anymore than she already was.

Dominik stood up, nodding silently and walked to Ranok's bedroom attempting to steel himself for what was to come. The wolves, each aggravated in some way, stood in silence, knowing full well that what was about to happen would be an unpleasant experience for everyone.

Dominik was standing at the bedside, Vulgor had drawn his dagger and was gauging where an

optimal stabbing spot would be; although he was ticked off, he didn't want to risk killing the

human by harming vital organs.

Verissa was on the opposite side of the bed, readying her bandages and ointments while Ranok was pacing at the foot of the bed, frantically with the helplessness of a puppy without their parent. Dominik saw this and tried to calm his wolf down,

"Ranok listen, I know you don't want this to happen, and neither do I. But we have to do this...

and we'll make it work alright?" The grey wolf slowed his pacing and shut his eyes tight, his tail

drooping between his legs still.

"After all of this is over, we can freely be together without suspicion of the tribe, and we can spend more time together," Dominik said charmingly, Ranok couldn't help but internally chuckle at Dominik's optimistic outlook.

He wanted to hug the human, but didn't want to upset Vulgor so he stopped pacing and nodded while looking to the door, however he let Dominik know that his words touched his heart and gave idle flicks with his tail.

Vulgor still noticed this and grunted, but made no comment at the grey wolf. "Listen, at first

you don't feel anything, the pain will follow a few seconds after I stab you. I want you to grab

onto me so that you don't fall," Vulgor explained to the human.

Dominik nodded, choosing not to quip something sassy. Dominik leaned onto Vulgor's free hand and shut his eyes, grabbing onto the hide on Vulgor's back. Then... the black wolf swiftly lodges his dagger within Dominik's flesh, effortlessly missing all organs and bone.

At first, Dominik felt nothing. Sure he was shocked that he was actually being stabbed. He could

feel the guard of Vulgor's dagger making contact with his skin. But then the world seems to slow

down. There's still no pain, but a dizzy feeling eroached on the fragile body, tears welling up

inside. Then an unrelenting torrent of agony fills up Dominik, it's dull but bearable.

Ranok looks over to Dominik, his heart aching after he had let this happen while all Vulgor and the human stood there holding onto each other so that Dominik wouldn't fall.

"Thanks for this... Vulgor," Dominik laborously breathed into Vulgor's chest. Something triggered

in the black wolf, seeing this human show gratitude for such a unique interaction.

"No problem," Vulgor said grimly with understanding and a more positive opinion of Dominik. He smiled, feeling slightly guilty. His heart felt more and more torn the more he thought about why Dominik made him feel this way.

As the pain grew worse and worse for Dominik, Ranok could do nothing but watch as his new

friend fell into deeper and deeper levels of agony. The human was deliriously opening and

closing his eyes, straining with his arms so as to not lose his grip on Vulgor, veins were bulging,

his limbs trembling, tears and sweat was falling, and groans escaped his lips from time to time.

Ranok knew in his heart that only for one day, Dominik seemed to lift all the weight which buried

Ranok's shoulders, and not his human was subject to some sort of punishment to keep up some

lie for his protection.

It felt so wrong, but there was nothing he could do about it. At the very least, Ranok knew, he did not and could not lose the human; their connection felt so true and he didn't want to lose it.

Verissa stepped back from her work after patching up Dominik with bandages, "It's done. That

should be enough for now. I will check in on you later again before the feast and after, okay?"

Dominik nodded as if he were swept by a lucid high.

Vulgor had been holding the human in place, impressed at the fact that Dominik did not pass out. With a gentle swoop, attempting not to worsen the wound, Vulgor carried and laid the human down bridal style. Dominik took this opportunity to sleep and recover, he was knocked out before the three wolves could exit the room.

"Now for the harder part," Verissa trailed, "we need to see your father before the feast starts.

Ranok, it's best if you talk to him alone, it's a safer bet to take since he is closer to you that

Vulgor and I." Ranok's eyes grew wide, he didn't want to speak with his father nor did he want to

leave Dominik.

"Wait! I promised Domnik I would be at his side," Ranok sputtered.

Vulgor wanted this sorted out as soon as possible and so he cut his moonbrother off, "Listen, he's out like a light. I can stay here and make sure he is taken care of while you sort this situation out

with your father. It's better we handle the problem at hand directly rather than make all this for

nothing." Vulgor placed a hand on Ranok's shoulder so as to reassure the grey wolf.

Ranok nodded and delayed no further, leaving the house hoping to save his relationship with the

human in light of the tribe. Vulgor sighed heavily, his arms crossed looking to the closed door

protecting the sleeping human.

"You sure have guts, human. Hell of a lucky piglet..." Vulgor muttered and chuckled to himself as he helped himself to a bottle of moonshine.

~~~

By now, the afternoon had hit and the wolves of the village were busy at work with their jobs.

The streets were fairly empty as Ranok gulped and dragged on, forcing himself to trudge

towards the villa for the dreaded conversation with his father.

Verissa was at his side and attempted to calm his nerves, "You know, Dominik was right. Hiding too much could hurt us, and having your father on our side can be to Dominik's advantage." The she-wolf feared that Ranok's unease would jeopardize the whole operation.

Ranok continued his uneasiness, it was obvious to Verissa that Ranok didn't want to treat Dominik in such a way as what was related to the events prior.

Verissa smiled, but rubbed her temples, "If it is true that he died and was reborn into this world. It means that some higher power was at work. Maybe even Aluna herself brought the human here to play a crucial part in our tribe and for the Wolven race as a whole. Maybe it's a sign that the Pantheons will take action again..." Verissa theorized.

"But weren't the pantheons the reason why humans are rare nowadays?" Ranok responded in confusion, he based his knowledge off of the history book back at the cabin.

Verissa smiled mischievously, "Listen, what I am about to tell you is something that the last shaman shared with me about the history of the hunting of humans and why the age of the Pantheons ended." Ranok nodded, letting Verissa take the lead.

**Many centuries ago, humans once lived with the rest of the Sylvanian races, inhabiting

the forests in modern day ruins belonging to the Anwynn tribe. Knowledge over magic

was special to humans. With their technology growing and growing, some attempted to

venture out of the greater forests to explore and find more opportunities about

themselves and the tribes they allied with, us wolves being one of them.**

**As time continued to pass, more and more humans moved out of the forest, until none were left in the forest settlements. Most of them moved, built, and settled on in a now ancient

kingdom dedicated to Sihir, their god. The kingdom, of course, prospered with their

magic and soon had the power to rule over the entire continent of Avalon.**

**They even attempted to spread their influence and reach across the great oceans. They let go of their traditions and began to clash, socially speaking, with the sylvan and our own race.

Many wolves believed humans to be traitors for leaving their homeland and letting go of

the many traditions and customs they left behind in their conquest.**

**Fhreya, a leader to the humans and part of the greater pantheon, preached of peace and

of helping others to her people. Although they didn't grow arrogant, us wolves refused to

acknowledge the humans and their progress away from their forest. Other races

however, especially the Tigerii, left their own homes to join in on the humans' progress,

becoming close allies with them.**

**As more time passes, the other gods grew envious of Sihir and the humans (except for

Macan who thanked the humans for saving his people). Fhreya knew something was up

and that war was on the horizon.**

**Attempting to prevent it, she decided to settle the dispute among the pantheons

themselves. They agreed on meeting over neutral grounds, known today as Lambah Pati.

It is a place concentrated with magic that persists the trials of time and has given rise to

creatures of calamitous nature. Most who make their way there fail to escape alive. As

the pantheon members meet up, it was soon clear that a trap was set by the pantheons

who were for the war. Serigala of the wolves switched sides out of honor and fought

alongside Fhreya and Apik Tenan of the Tigerii.**

**They were outnumbered, but held the upper hand thanks to Fhreya and her powerful

magic, which defied nature. Through a self sacrificing spell, she manages to kill all the

pantheon members, including her own allies. We wolves blame her and her humans for

losing our pantheon representative and breaking contact with them completely. But one

Pantheon member, Getih, survived the attack and led the lion's conquest with

unchallenged power.**

**The humans, without the guidance of Fhreya, slowly lost their presence within the ranks

of the Tigerii; in light of the Lion's conquest, they took over the progress made by**

**humans and their advanced technology, enabling them to cast magic much like a human

would. With advanced weaponry and disastrous magical capabilities, the lions were

almost unstoppable. Only certain areas, like within the greater forest, where the sylvan

have home-field advantage, could best the wolves in battle.**

**The lions conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt other cities, enslaving other races and began

their genocide of the humans. Once with population counts reaching the millions, barely

one million stand strong today. The Tigerii rebelled against the lions and asked Sihir for

guidance and help such that their closely allied humans wouldn't be completely

slaughtered. Unfortunately Sihir did not aid in their plight and so the Tigerii and humans

were stuck at a natural disadvantage against their lion oppressors.**

**Humans who wield magic for battle are rare since it is not a practical art, nor is it easy to

learn. But all those left who could, aided in the rebellion. The free Tigerii and humans live

together away from Lion civilization in small isolated settlements protected through

truces and diplomacy and general tactical advantages. Away from their homeland, they

crafted a plan to free the city of Karmardikan, a symbol of freedom to the Tigerii. At the

time, it was heavily guarded and the humans and Tigers had no means of liberating it.

And so, the humans made a desperate attempt which would change the course of history

forever. Without knowledge and the guidance of Fhreya, they created a spell which

brought their god down to the mortal plane and sacrificed him to alter their magical

capabilities. Now, in using their own life force, they could amplify their spells 100 fold,

mimicking the abilities Fhreya had.**

**With their own god slain, his essence became an unintended gift to every race on the

mortal plane, making magic possible for every living thing. The Tigerii got the most out of

this sacrifice while we wolves and the Sylvan were left almost untouched. With magic in

the paws, they trained and procured an army which stormed Kamardikan. With newfound

magic, they took the lions by surprise and forced them to surrender the city to their

original owners. Now that their hope had been rekindled, other races were soon to join

the rebellion; us included. Getih was furious about the retaking of the city and of the

unspoken liberty being pursued and so mutual war broke out. Thankfully, Getih was

killed, as well as his god. The humans, however, took the greatest toll, having a total

population of a few hundred thousand by the end of the war. The Tigerii and humans

began to rebuild their homes taken by the war while the sylvan and us wolves returned to

our forest with the threat of lions now gone.**

**To honor the humans and their great deed, the Tigerii consider them nobles or elites in

academics; of course, they are widely respected and it is considered a great offence to

harm them. Most humans are known to live in Tigerii cities, they actually have a few of

their own within the Tigerii kingdom.**

"Because of the events of that war, everyone can learn to wield some form of magic and

humans can utilize their lifeforce... do you see what I'm getting at here, Ranok?" Verissa faced

Ranok with seriousness painted all over her face. He looks back with a confused and blank

expression,

"So you see Dominik as a tool for our tribe?" Verissa sighs and smiles toward the

dumb wolf placing her arms on his shoulders.

"Aluna may have gifted Dominik to you, but you get to decide what he can become; you and him hold each other's destinies in eachothers arms and get to determine and influence what it will be," Verissa explains, squeezing Ranok's shoulders filling him with determination.

"You're right, I will help him and he will help me. Together we will take life head-on," Ranok

smiled broadly.

Puffing his chest and broadening his shoulders, he stridded knowing full well

that he had to convince his father to accept Dominik, no matter what. Verissa smiled and

followed after him, knowing full well that everything would be fine as long as they believed in

each other and themselves.

Shortly, they arrived at the villa, where the chief was residing. The squared off building had

servants/wards scurrying about busy with work. Howl, Ranok's little brother was nowhere to be

found.

"I hope my dad is in a good mood," Ranok told himself, scratching the back of his head.

A bunny walked up to the two wolves and greeted them. It was Tryst, the ward Ranok dropped

before Dominik came into his life. Ranok chose to drop the rabbit because he didn't like being

pampered and he wished to keep Dominik a secret.

Finally, they arrived in the main atrium of the Villa, the meeting room where important Howls

were held. Luckily, Ranok's father, Varok, and his advisor, Vithyr, were present and having a

conversation at the head of the tables. This was good for Ranok and Verissa since Vithyr was

very reasonable and was quick at calming down the chief.

Varok noticed his son, thrilled to see him. "Ah, Ranok," the chief exclaimed, "how nice of you to

come and pay your old man a visit. Did you decide to move back to the villa?" Varok chuckled,

bouncing the many scars which painted his body proving that he was a valiant warrior who had

fought many battles.

He was a force to be reckoned with, not to mention his short temper.

"Uh- No father, I am here with Verissa to discuss an important matter regarding the tribe," Ranok

replied. Having stumbled a bit, he made sure to steel his resolve. Verissa stood beside him,

bowing and regarding Ranok's father with a, "My chief." Varok raised a brow wondering what

this meeting entailed.

Vithyr questioned, "May I ask what you wish to discuss in private without

the presence of the elders?" as he eyed Ranok down for what he wanted to talk about.

"Father, what I have to tell you is something you will not like. But, it is important for the tribe and

so I ask that you remain calm," Ranok began and cleared his throat, bracing himself for his

father's anger and rage.

"Yesterday when I went into the forest for my coming of age ceremony, I stumbled upon something that was laying at the foot of my name tree. It was a human," Ranok

paused, letting the information sink in.

The chief remained calm. "Did you find out how the intruder managed to sneak past the sentries into our part of the forest?" Varok asked, not knowing why his son made a fuss over a simple intrusion. They had methods for dealing with these criminals, albeit not very civil or diplomatic. Vithyr sighed, realizing where this was going.

"No," Ranok continued, "I didn't figure out how the human got there. He was naked and covered

in blood. I feared he was dying and so I took him to my home to try and save him." Ranok

flinched as he finished his explanation, seeing his father grow angrier and angrier with veins

popping up all around until he slammed a fist onto the table.

"YOU DID WHAT?!" Chief Varok howled, shaking the walls as he growled. "WHY DID YOU NOT DISPOSE OF THE HUMAN ON THE SPOT. BETTER YET, PLACE HIM IN THE STOCKADES FOR QUESTIONING!" The chief finished bellowing, although his pulse was obviously high, his breathing was at a resting pace, remarkably so.

"Because he's my path, father! I found him at my name tree during my coming of

age ceremony. If that is not some sign from Aluna, then I don't know what is," Ranok answered.

The grey wolf refused to falter and stared at his father's eyes with extreme ferocity showing as

much bravery as much as he could muster. His eyes did not break contact under his father's

unrelenting gaze.

Vithyr spoke up next, trying to break up the tension as delicately as possible. "I take it that the

human is alive and will be given a debt to our tribe?" Vythir asked, knowing that the ancient

sylvan laws had nothing against Ranok's actions if he simply wanted a servant.

"He is aware of his debt and has agreed to its terms," Ranok explained, causing both Varok and Vithyr's eyes to widen in shock. "You mean to say he speaks Wolven?!" Varok interrogated with shock.

Verissa took this question and answered, "The human's name is Dominik and can speak our tongue as if he were born and raised within these woods. With what he told us and what I gathered from

communing with the ancestors. Dominik died in his own world and was reborn here under

Ranok's name tree. As it stands, Dominik is innocent in reference to how he got here. And the

ancestors whisper of Aluna's intervention, but we are clueless as to the reason why Dominik

came under Ranok's name tree specifically, but the ancestors made it clear that Dominik was

important for Ranok's future." Her alibi was stated plainly and coldly, as if to give a formal report

of the situation, leaving Varok and Vithyr speechless.

They were flabbergasted and it took a long moment before Vithyr began to speak again. "The

elders will riot if they find out about this. Even if Dominik truly is innocent, they will grasp at any

excuse to call a Howl and get you off the chief's throne," Vithyr considered, looking to chief

Varok.

Ranok gasped and realized the situation Dominik's presence puts on chief Varok. Varok

raised his head from thought and addressed his son. "I want to say that this is fine, but since the

elders are breathing down our necks, the human puts you in much more danger than you

realize. If you truly want the human to stay, I will support you anyway I can, but I can't stop the

elders from grabbing ropes and calling for the primate to hang," Varok sympathized with as

much fatherly courage as he could muster.

"I know, father, and I am prepared to do anything to protect this human and myself," Ranok said, relieved at the fact that his father was no longer outraged.

"Not so fast... First I want to speak with the human and gauge how we can best handle this

situation. Second, he will have to pull his weight around here due to his debt and service to the

tribe. As long as the human works, the elders can't make the excuse that the human is like a

leech to the tribe. Not only that, we must make sure the human sits well with the tribe and that

the other wolves trust this otherworldly monkey." Ranok nods.

"But there's more, even if he is accepted as your ward and is permitted to speak our tongue, a few elders and maybe some of the other wolves will try to get rid of the human, or even use him against you. You are walking on thin ice, do you understand me?" Varok pleaded with a concerned expression and equal determination, reminiscent of his iron will.

"Yes father, I understand," Ranok replies; chief Varok sighs. "There is something else, you

should start taking your role as an heir more and more seriously and commit yourself to your

duty to the tribe," Varok continued, sitting down in his chair much calmer and more collected

than before.

He was grabbing and refilling himself a tankard of wine. Vithyr spoke up," Who's

going to look after the human while Ranok isn't home?" catching both Ranok and Verissa off

guard.

"What do you mean? Dominik is supposed to stay at my house and wait until I get back?"

Ranok's ear flattened back, unable to hide his emotion. He looked like a pup go got caught

doing something stupid.

"No, wait... that cannot be an option. The human would likely get bored

and do something stupid; not to mention, him being alone would make him an easy target for

assassination or kidnapping," Vithyr thought outloud, "Dominik should be watched around the

clock, especially now while we get used to his presence." Varok looked to his advisor and raised

an eyebrow inquiring,

"Pray tell, what do you have in mind?" Ranok looked to the older brown

wolf with anxious anticipation, he hoped nothing drastic was going on inside Vithyr's head since

he didn't like the idea of Dominik in the paws of other wolves, at least not the untrustworthy

ones.

"While Ranok is on duty, the human can either work at my place and work with me or he

can work directly under chief Varok. The easiest alternative would be sending him to assist

Verissa," Vithyr stated while Varok nodded, stroking his beard-like chin fluff.

Verissa copied chief Varok and nodded, she didn't mind Dominik and was actually fairly curious

about the human. Ranok was forced to agree since he knew that was the best available option,

especially in consideration of the fact that Dominik was in danger, regardless of whether or not

he was allowed in the tribe.

"Good, then we've reached an agreement. Ranok, I will come early in the morning so I can speak with the primate. Vithyr will accompany me since we'll need as many eyes watching him and his surroundings," Varok concluded. He clapped his paws heartily, trying to make their reunion more pleasant,

"Now, if that was everything, the feast will be starting soon, I can see it in the sky. We should begin making our way over there just about now." Varok followed Vithyr out of the Villa's dining hall, leaving both Ranok and Verissa.

Once the chief and his advisor had left, the heir sighed in relief. Ranok was glad for their

meeting to successfully be over.

"This is only the beginning. We'll need to teach Dominik about the politics here, and how he'll need to behave around the other wolves," Verissa told Ranok, not letting her guard down. He looked at her defeatedly, knowing that he never wanted to put Dominik in such a stressful situation, especially since he was barely a day in.

"Relax, Dominik wanted to make his presence known and he seems ready to learn and adapt. We should pick up Vulgor for the feast before the other wolves grow suspicious," Verissa continued, trying to lift Ranok's spirits after their troublesome experience. Ranok looked up to the glass covering the villa, the moon shining brightly.

"Aluna, please watch over us," Ranok prayed, turning around and making his way towards the feast.

~~~

It was a pitch black void. Encompassing Dominik, it trapped him leaving no way to escape. It

was empty and unnerving, filling the human with freezing fear. Dominik was holding on to the

thoughts of Ranok. The grey wolf was cute... so was Vulgor.

"Have a thing for feral beasts, huh?" a deep chilling voice broke the silence which surrounded Dominik. "Who said that!?" Dominik asked the empty void, looking around for a source, although it seemed to come from everywhere. He was scared, he couldn't wake up after the stabbing, nor did he feel that he had control over what went on around him. He felt powerless. The malicious voice chuckled,

"Try as you might, you'll just end up as prey to them. You can run all you like... only to be devoured."

"What are you talking about?" Dominik questioned, confused.

"You know what I am talking about. You are nothing more than a tool, a play thing for them. You are weak and powerless... once they grow bored of you, they'll kill you," the voice laughed and cackled sociopathically.

The sourceless voice gave Dominik feelings of despair and fear, anger and malice. All these

negative emotions seemed to fester. Dominik panicked, the pitch black void seemed to expand,

the invisible floor holding the human up disappeared. Suspended in mid air, eldritch tentacles

from a lovecraftian horror grabbed him and pulled him deeper and deeper into the darkness.

"Don't resist, give in. I can save you from those evil and feral wolves~" the voice told Dominik.

He struggled with futility, the more and more he squirmed and clawed his way to escape, the

faster he seemed to sink.

"Shut UP!!!" Dominik screamed, "I know I can trust Ranok, and at the very least I know not to ever trust the likes of you!" He tried to drive out the voice, attempting to block their words from endearing his head. The tentacles stopped bringing the human downward.

"Fine, I'll make you mine one way or another," the voice cackled again. The

tentacles jerked from their motionless suspension and shoved Dominik into complete darkness.

~~~

"RANOK!!!" Dominik screamed with all his might, afraid of being submerged in the empty void.

He caused Ranok, who was beside him to shriek as well.

"Dominik!" he worriedly yelled. It was dark in the bedroom, only the moon's light slightly brightened the room to where silhouettes were see.

"Ranok?" Dominik gasped, out of breath. He was searching for a sign from the shadowy visage next to him. The furry figure gave Dominik his paw,

"Shhh... It's okay. It was just a bad dream." A paw wiped sweat away from Dominik's head, the voice it belonged to confirmed Ranok's presence.

"I- I am sorry," Dominik breathed, recovering his breath. "How was it... the meeting with your father?" the human asked.

"It went well enough I guess, but you need to rest. We can discuss this tomorrow," Ranok said, gently pushing Dominik back down onto the bed, covering the shivering human with a blanket. Although he was not shivering out of fear, his body felt so very cold, as if a numbing frostbite were engulfing his entire body.

"S-So C-Cold," Dominik chattered as he slowly tried to curl up into a ball. To his discomfort, he cried in pain as he irritated his recently earned stab wound. Ranok's instincts took over and burrowed under the blanket next to the shivering human. He hugged Dominik, burying the human into his side.

"Shhh... It's okay. I will keep you warm. You need to rest," Ranok whispered, petting Dominik

and quietly humming as if to growl softly trying all he could to lull the human back to sleep. Soon

enough, Dominik's shivering stopped and Ranok himself let himself go to the sweet sensations

of deep slumber.