#shout out to my son he is so talented and good at killing people till they’re dead | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

irwinkitten · 5 years ago

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feisty | a.i

pairing: oc x werewolf!ash notes: so i’ve been inspired with supernatural stuff thanks to @5sosnsfw, @converse-luke, @theagenderwhocriedwolf and @calumsmermaid and since I’ve been working on demon!5sos for a while I went through my stuff and found this beast of a fic. Pls enjoy I am going to try and tell myself off to stop writing 20k+ pieces lmao warnings: mentions of death, mentions abuse (nothing explicit, just in passing conversation) word count: 21k lmao

Being a human amongst a pack of wolves was difficult.

Despite being the Beta’s first born, Cassidy had been born without the shifting gene. Most said that it was a common thing to happen, but when the Alpha researched it, it was quickly understood that it was a rare thing to happen.

Soon she began to get shunned.

Her Alpha and father treated her with the same respect. But others deemed her unworthy to even be included.

To the point where she lost such a big chance to meet her mate because she chose to be homeschooled.

Children were cruel.

Despite the lack of her shifter gene, she quickly rose through the ranks. She was a good strategist. She heard things that the shifters missed. Her human eyes pointed out the flaw that their perfect vision would always ignore.

Because she fought for her place in the pack, she gained respect from the elders. They listened to her and never belittled her. The younger shifters took a different route. They tried to sabotage her plans.

This time she’d had enough.

Storming through the Pack house, people kept clear of the anger that was visible. The argument was brewing.

It was a regular argument but this time, there was almost a finality to the way she moved.

Slamming through to Alpha Lockard’s office, the elders fell silent as the door slammed shut, ignoring the flinch from the Alpha’s son.

“Cassidy,” Her head snapped to Alpha Isaac, not daring to defy a direct order, “There will be no repercussions from this meeting. What happens here will remain here.” She went straight for the jugular.

“So many times, so many times you have tried to sabotage the raids I’ve conducted.”

“Because they were useless.” The teenager snorted.

“Leo, quit it.” The Alpha snapped at his son, Cassidy took in deep breaths to reign in her anger.

“The raids you attempted to sabotage never failed because what you planned was anticipated. But this time, a wolf died! And it is entirely your fault Leo Lockard!” She shrieked, her anger finally taking control as her hands shook.

The anger was undiluted and burning. So was the pain of losing her best friend. She’d promised him that it would be easy. She promised him that he’d be safe

Leo looked shocked for less than a second before his face turned to indifference.

“He shouldn’t have been playing hero anyway.” His answer was drowned out by a variety of growls. The loudest coming from their Alpha.

She lost her tight reign and her hand snapped out, striking Leo square in the face. There was a satisfying crunch despite the pain that shot up her arm.

“Dad!”

“I didn’t see anything.” He deadpanned, his eyebrow raising, daring his son to protest. He ignored the look his father sent him.

“Dad, she hit me! The filthy human hit me!” That deflated the fight out of her. Of course, he would use her humanity.

“Do you not understand how much trouble you’re in?” Alpha Isaac snarled and a look of fear flitted across Leo’s face. “You knowingly sabotaged our strategists plan and in doing so resulted in the death of a talented wolf, a loved friend and the rest barely made it out with the target wolf we were trying to save!”

Cassidy watched with satisfaction as the colour drained from Leo’s face. Retribution.

“He was trying to play hero!” Leo protested and this time Cassidy responded, cutting across her Alpha.

“He was rescuing the four-year-old that rogues kidnapped and tried to rape. It was only because of her wolf they didn’t touch her!” She shouted, getting closer to the young shifter. “He is the reason she’s alive! You are the reason they both nearly died!” A small part of her brain noted that her throat was aching, the raw power from her voice scratching her throat. But she ignored it.

“Get away from me, freak.” He spat at her and she responded with another hit to his face. Her hand was protesting now, but she ignored it. Compartmentalising it so that she could focus on the anger.

“You cannot keep using my humanity as a reason for failures! I have done nothing but succeed and all you can do is weep with your tail between your legs because your own father knows that you taking over the pack would be an absolute disaster!” She all but screamed at him.

The room went deadly silent at her words.

Her Alpha stood behind her. She could feel the heat and saw Leo’s eyes widen in fear.

“Cassidy, you realise that by stating that, you’re pinning these accusations to the Alpha’s son?”

“I accept that, and have sufficient evidence to support my accusations.” Leo’s eyes widened in fear.

“Seeing as we have the elders needed. Judge and Jury will happen now. Elder Orion?” The man wearing the light blue suit, his hair peppered with grey throughout the dark locks.

Leo looked terrified.

“What evidence do you have, child?” Cassidy ignored the pleading look from Leo, her eyes flickering to the Alpha before looking at Elder Orion.

“Eyewitnesses who saw Leo Lockard move to divert the course of action to save Talon Scarsa and the young she-wolf the rogues took. Not only that but three older wolves had heard Leo discussing it thoroughly with the she-wolf who he has claimed as his mate.”

The entire room went still.

Cassidy counted to five before her Alpha snapped the door open.

“GET KALLIE TYSON HERE NOW.” A yelp echoed up to the room.

Suddenly, two of the fighter wolves flanked the baby-faced she-wolf; whose eyes took in the room and then saw Leo. Understanding dawned instantly and Cassidy tried her hardest not to call Kallie out on it.

“Sit. Now.” She didn’t defy the Alpha, taking a seat next to Leo, only to practically jump onto the other couch at Alpha Lockard’s snarl.

“You are here as an accomplice to the death of a fighter who was trying to rescue the captured she-wolf. Do you deny knowledge of what was going to happen?”

She was silent, shooting Leo a frightened look. Leo ignored her. She shook her head.

Elder Orion moved on.

“Leo Lockard, do you deny sharing information and acting on a plan to sabotage the strategists plan to rescue the she-wolf?”

“Yes.” The word was so vicious as he glared at Cassidy. She returned it, refusing to bow down to him. She’d learnt to never defy her Alpha but his son, she publicly defied him. He wasn’t her Alpha.

“For your defiance, you will receive the harshest punishment if found guilty.”

“She dies if I’m not.” The snarl sent chills down her spine, but she held his gaze. He looked away first.

“This needs to be settled. Cassidy, I’m going to push the link through you. I need to see the first-hand accounts.” She nodded, letting her eye shut as the Alpha placed both hands on her temples.

Cassidy could feel the pack link push through her human mind. There was a sharp pain, but she moved it to where the pain from her hand was. She focused on the conversations, the items she saw, the words spoken. Elder Orion placed his hand on Alpha Lockard’s arm. A second intrusion pushed her mind and she flinched.

“Pathetic human.” The words registered in her brain, fleeting memories of him attacking her as a child distracting the first-hand problem before she refocused.

By the time the Alpha and Elder pulled away, her body was trembling. Normally, contact was needed for private viewings or humans. The pack link was open to all the shifters. But she didn’t have the gene.

The two joined with the other three Elders in the room and her father, the Beta. Leo glared at her, earning a sharp growl from the warrior stood at the doorway.

“Either way, your time is short, filth.” The warrior took the threat seriously, taking position in front of Cassidy with a growl. Leo fell silent and Kallie shot him another terrified look.

The group broke apart.

They turned to Kallie first.

“Kallie Tyson. You did not deny knowledge. You have been found guilty for having knowledge of this crime. You are hereby stripped of any title that could be earnt. Because you only had knowledge but did not assist, you will be monitored for the rest of your time. Should you find your mate, they too will be monitored. For the next year you are banned from shifting. You will wear a tracking device and your shifting will be supervised by at least three elders and two other wolves of their choice. You will have curfew and are banned from travelling around the pack without an escort. Defy these orders results in exile or death if the breach is severe enough.”

At Elder Orion’s words, she burst into tears, her entire body shaking as a strangled howl escaped her lips, her body twitching. Leo spared no glance to the girl he proclaimed as his mate.

They turned to Leo who glared at his father. Elder Orion glared at Leo who cowered at the gaze.

“Leo Lockard. You denied knowledge of the sabotage. You denied that it was you who led the group. You denied knowledge that you knowingly attempted to leave a pack member and warrior to die. This is treason. You are stripped from Alpha titles. Your wolf will be bound till your last breath. You are stripped of a mate, you are hereby banished from this pack and any pack you attempt to enter. You will face the pack with your crimes and take any punishment they see fit before banishment. Upon exile, if you attempt to re-enter the border the warriors are ordered to kill on sight.”

Leo seemed to shrink as each title was stripped from him. Instead of a howl from him, a howl from the pack house caused Alpha Isaac to snarl.

“You found your mate yet led the poor girl on to this madness?” Leo snarled at his father in response.

“I will not be mated to a pathetic nerd who can’t fight.” He growled. Alpha Isaac snarled and shot out of the room, one of the warriors trailing him. It was barely minutes later that he pulled in the sobbing girl who was shaking, her neck red raw.

“I didn’t do anything, Alpha please don’t hurt me.” She cried out. Cassidy stepped from behind the warrior, pulling the terrified girl into her arms, undiluted anger flooding her veins. Hope Granger was the child she cared for when her parents and brother died in a pack fire. Rage filled every bone in her body towards Leo Lockard.

“Calm down. Alpha Isaac was upset because Leo lied. He lied knowing you’d be hurt.” She whispered softly. Hope’s cries turned into whimpers as she clutched at Cassidy’s shirt.

“Alpha.” Her word was soft and he sighed, his eyes watering.

“You hurt the future Luna. You hurt your mate.” Cassidy could see how tired her Alpha looked and felt pity for the man who treated her like his own flesh and blood.

“She’ll never be Luna now.” Leo snarled in response. No one saw Alpha Isaac’s clenched fist hit his son. But his head snapped back and the distinctive crack echoed through the room.

“Elder Orion. This never happens, but I can’t. She’s innocent.” The plea was clear and Elder Orion paused before nodding.

“Let me. Cassidy, I need you to step away.” She went to move and suddenly Hope was crying again. Cassidy realised that Hope Granger was too young to deal with all of this. She was terrified.

“Hope, please. We won’t hurt you.” Alpha Isaac’s pleas were met with terrified cries.

“See, she’s unfit to be Luna.” Leo spoke up, his face twisted into an ugly sneer.

“She’s a scared fourteen-year-old who has just felt her mate bond snap from her body and now she’s being dragged to the Alpha’s office. She has every right to be like this.” Cassidy snapped at Leo. He fell silent.

“Cass, please don’t let them hurt me.” She whimpered. Cassidy placed a kiss to the top of her head.

“You were classed as mine from the day that I saved your life. They wouldn’t hurt you.”

“Cassidy is right. I promise you little one, that we will not harm you. The law is clear on Cassidy’s actions and in saving you created a bond which even the law cannot interfere.” Elder Orion spoke up. Leo growled and she cowered away from the sound, her wide eyes meeting the Elder’s.

“What do you want to do?” Her entire body was shaking. Cassidy tried to control her rage towards the younger Lockard and it was only her sisters arms that kept her grounded from snapping.

“We want to give you your rightful title. You will be Luna of this pack. Your second mate will be your mate but will not take over as Alpha. This is yours to take if you so wish.”

“No!” The roar ripped from Leo as he was held back by the warriors. Hope clinched against her sister and Cassidy placed herself between her sister and Leo, a fierce scowl upon her face.

“What do I have to do?” Her voice was shaking. She gripped Cassidy’s hand tighter.

“We need to transfer the power to you. Leo will have no hold over you. Your soul with knit itself and find refuge in a second chance mate. You will not be alone, we promise you. Alpha Lockard will teach and train you how to be a Luna over the years until he is ready to retire.”

“I’ll do it.” The words were soft, but Cassidy kissed the top of her head before stepping away.

The Elders closed ranks around her and it took several minutes before they moved again. Hope stumbled to Cassidy and she could already see the differences.

“It’ll be okay sweet girl.”

“Will you stay with me?” Cassidy hesitated. She knew she’d break that promise.

“I’ll stay when I can. But I must travel. My mate isn’t in this pack.” The look on Hope’s face broke her heart.

“Will you stay in touch?”

“Now that I can promise.” She grinned, placing a kiss to Hope’s forehead once more.

“She can’t be Luna! She doesn’t deserve the title!” Leo snarled. Kallie whimpered before looking to her Alpha.

“You can leave. I advise you to get someone to take you home. I’ll be around in a few days.” Kallie nodded her head and paused as she passed Hope and Cassidy.

“I never knew. He said it was me and I believed him. I’m so sorry.” She whispered before half running from the room.

“Why on earth did I pick that sack of shit? Why did fate give me that freak?” Cassidy’s temper finally snapped and she launched at Leo, her fists hitting every piece of skin available.

The move shocked the Alpha and Elders for moments before they realised what was going on. It took them another moment to pry her off him.

“You killed a pack member who was like a brother to me. You endangered a four-year-old girl who was stolen from her family! You didn’t deserve that beautiful girl as your mate and she sure as hell didn’t need you in her life. How dare you say she’s not worthy because she will be better than you. She will succeed where you failed and protect her pack. You useless human!” She shrieked at him.

“I’m not a human freak.” He snarled back and Cassidy laughed despite the pain, she laughed even though tears flooded her face.

“You can never shift again. You’re as human as they get.” Her laughter was slowly becoming manic, even though there was no humour. “Karma is a sweet, sweet bitch. I hope that those humans you hate so much turn on you and make you suffer.” She snarled before going back to Hope, pulling the girl close.

“Cass, can we go? I don’t want him around me.” Hope’s words coaxed her to finally look away and walk out of the office without another word.

Her entire body was trembling with rage as they walked through the pack house. Word swept through and people bowed respectfully to Hope as the two of them passed by.

“Why are they doing that?” She whispered to Cassidy, who, despite the rage that was coursing through her, was smirking like the cat who got the cream.

“Their wolves recognise you as their next Luna. They’re showing you the respect you deserved from day one.”

“What will happen to… him?” As they left the building, she let loose such a sound that even Hope jumped.

“He will live his life as a human. He cannot enter any packs, he cannot cross borders. Alpha Isaac will kill him.” Hope was quiet as they got into Cassidy’s car before she spoke again.

“Alpha Isaac would kill his own son?” The words were barely heard by the human and recognition flared in Cassidy at Hope’s words. If this was happening to Leo, would it happen to her?

“Leo Lockard committed treason. He endangered a pack member and murdered one.” A grimace crossed Cassidy’s face. Hope’s remained stunned.

“But, Talon died from the rouges, didn’t he?”

“Leo made sure that Talon would be killed. He tried to make it look as if I’d failed but too many people saw Leo take the rescuers down a different route to the one they’d been shown. No one questioned him because he was the Alpha’s son.” By the time they’d pulled up to their home, Hope’s face had gone from stunned, to angry, to heartbroken.

Once they were inside, she broke.

“He murdered Talon.” Her voice broke and tears were flooding.

Beta Matthew came home to find his two girls on the sofa. Cassidy had her arms around Hope who had cried herself to exhaustion.

He glanced up to his son, Jamie, who had been sat on the stairs. His eyes were wide before he registered his father was stood there.

“Is it true?” Matthew flinched. “Dad, is it true?”

“Leo Lockard killed Talon. He knowingly led the group away from their rescue point, trying to sabotage your sisters plan.”

“He tried, again?” Jamie’s eyes flashed in anger. Matthew sighed wearily.

“He was all for blaming her when they bought back Talon’s body and little Emilia who was barely alive. He didn’t realise that everyone in the rescue squad had served under Cass’s commands before and knew something was wrong.”

“All hell broke loose.” Jamie muttered.

When Jamie had gone to greet the rescue team, he found himself in shock at the arguments that were breaking out amongst the group, the anger and hatred. It was all directed at Leo Lockard who had used his superior position to shut them up.

Jamie’s eyes studied his father’s face and realised something else happened.

“What was it?”

Matthew’s eyes moved to the sleeping forms of his daughters and Jamie stiffened.

“Hope was his mate. He’d marked her so she’d never find someone. Made her feel everything. He wanted her to suffer.” It hurt Matthew to admit those words, but it had happened. And his heart broke for both of his girls.

Jamie felt his wolf surge in pure fury.

Most wolves ignored humans. When one was born into a pack, they looked after the human. Some would pick on the outsider but most made friends with the human.

Cassidy had both sides of it growing up.

When Jamie had been born only a year later, his wolf burst forward at the age of ten, shocking his father and Alpha. Even the Alpha’s son hadn’t shifted yet.

But his wolf was protective. Especially over Cassidy. When Hope came into their lives six years later at the age of eight, his wolf accepted her with ease.

His sisters were his to protect.

But hearing and knowing this great injustice done to both of his sisters, his rage peaked and Matthew barely had time to shove him from the house before he shifted and a baleful howl filled the air.

It was the howl that woke the girls up and Matthew greeted his very exhausted daughters.

“Jamie just heard the news then?” Cassidy commented dryly.

Matthew snorted.

“I barely had enough time to shove him out of the house before he shifted. He’s angry and upset for you both.”

Hope blushed. Despite being with them for six years, she still couldn’t understand the protectiveness from her older brother.

Cassidy snorted.

“Hope, you know as well as I do, he’s going to break Leo’s face. Personally I hope Alpha Isaac lets Jamie go into the pit with him.”

“Speaking of which.” Matthew stepped forward, kneeling in front of Cassidy and tenderly taking her hand in his. “You need to see the pack doctor.”

“No.”

Hope scowled at her sister.

“You broke your hand by the looks of it. Please?” Cassidy turned her attention from her father to her sister. Her sister pulled the sweet puppy eyes that crumbled her resistance with ease.

“Fine.”

It took an hour for the trio to get to the pack doctor. He looked stunned at the state of Cassidy’s arm.

“This should be a clean break.” Cassidy shot a look to her father, who shrugged in return. “I’ll put one of the smaller braces. Keep this on for a week. I’ll check on it then and we’ll go from there, okay?”

Despite Cassidy’s scowl, Matthew nodded. Hope giggled.

“Well, I’m still driving to the other packs. This has been planned for months.”

“No, you’re not. I’m driving you.” Jamie strolled into the holding area where they were waiting to have the brace put on. Cassidy shot a dark look at her brother.

“Don’t you dare. You need to train with Hope.”

“Cass!” Hope’s indignant shout echoed.

“What? He was going to find out from dad anyway.”

“Doesn’t mean you drop that on him after hearing what he did to us.” Hope snapped back and Cassidy grinned.

“Both of you shut up. Cass, what are you talking about?” Jamie looked between the two girls. Matthew sat back with a smirk on his lips.

“Introducing your future Luna.” She nodded to Hope, whose cheeks flooded with a violent red colour. Jamie took a minute to recover.

“You’re joking, right?”

“Nope.” Cassidy grinned, taking a small pleasure from the chagrined look on her baby sisters face. “She was Leo’s mate. He fucked up and lost his title but Alpha knew that it was her destiny. So, they performed some sort of ritual and she’s officially the next Luna when Alpha steps down. Her next mate won’t be able to take the title. It’s all on her.”

Matthew’s smirk turned into a full-blown grin during the explanation. Jamie’s jaw dropped.

“My baby sister is going to be my Alpha?” Jamie’s question told the three he was processing it before the biggest grin stretched across his face.

Hope shot a glare towards Cassidy.

“Wait, so does this mean I’ve got to do my training with Hope?”

“I’ve spoken to Isaac,” Matthew cut in before Cassidy could tease her sister anymore. She pouted at him. “You’ll have a bit of time off so that Hope can do some catch up training to a standard that can keep up with you. I don’t want either of you going, however I know that Talon was meant to take you.”

At his words, Cass lost the wind in her sails as her shoulders slumped.

“I want Jamie to take you,” Hope spoke up, her eyes on Cassidy. “he knows how to respect Alpha’s and I’ll be too busy to miss you. Not to mention I’ve got dad. Please Cass, don’t hold back on my account. You deserve to be just as happy.”

“You should have had that happiness.” Cassidy whispered.

Hope shrugged.

“I’ll get my chance. I’m fourteen, I’ve got my time yet. Cass, you’re twenty-two and not left the pack because you felt duty bound, but also sure that you didn’t have a soulmate because you’re human. Even Jamie found his. Please, for me?”

Like every other time, Cassidy knew she couldn’t deny her sisters pleas.

“I’ll go. But you need to look after dad. Who knows how many pizzas he’ll order?” Cassidy teased, Matthew shooting a mock look of hurt at his eldest.

Hope grinned.

“He’ll order as many as I ask him to.”

The four descended into laughter as the doctor returned and fitted Cassidy’s brace.

“That’s staying on for a month instead of a week. If you’re travelling, it stays on longer. Don’t argue with me on this one Cassidy.” The sharp look from the pack doctor stopped the protest that was forming on her lips and a grumbled acceptance was offered instead.

Jamie was sat in the beaten-up Jeep that was going to serve as their transport. Although having more than enough money to live off comfortably, Matthew taught them to be humble, like their mother had been.

Cassidy had always supported this and worked hard for her keep. But even for this one, Matthew made sure she had enough money for fuel and possible hotels.

Once the last bag was in the trunk of the Jeep, Alpha Isaac stepped forward and Cassidy formally bowed to her Alpha.

“Your home is always with us Cassidy. I promise that justice will be served by the pack before his public exile.” She nodded her head at him and he opened his arms out to her.

She flung herself at Isaac and clung onto him tightly.

Growing up as a human, she learned from the best. Alpha Lockard had been her mentor and Uncle growing up. He was family and she was going to miss him.

“Please stay safe little lion, or I’m sending an entire squad after you.” He joked and she laughed as she pulled away.

“I’m pretty sure that they’d be more than willing to go on a mission to drag me back here.”

Matthew laughed.

“I can list the squad that’d be formed myself.” He grinned and Cassidy stuck out her tongue before turning back to her Alpha.

“Please look after her. She’s my world.” Isaac nodded his head, pulling Cassidy in for another hug.

“You have my word. She’ll be unrecognisable when you come back to show off your mate.” He teased and she laughed once more before turning to her dad, who swept her up into his arms instantly.

“My baby girl is growing up.” He teased and she laughed.

“It’s a good job Jamie does handshakes then he’s ready to go.” Cassidy grinned at Matthew who laughed.

“You’re my eldest. My little girl. I have the pack link to check up on your brother and sister. But not you. This is terrifying.” He admitted softly. Isaac skilfully pretended to not hear this conversation.

“Mum will watch over me.” Cassidy whispered in return and he smiled at his daughter, tears shining.

“I have no doubt about that.” She placed a kiss to his cheek before letting go and turning to her little sister who flung herself at Cassidy.

Cassidy didn’t even attempt to hide her tears now. She was leaving her baby sister behind. It felt like all kinds of wrong.

“I promise I’ll text when I can and bug Jamie to change into an overgrown dog so that he can relay any messages I have for you. You’re going to be an amazing Luna, I promise you.” Hope laughed through her tears and Cassidy kiss her forehead.

“I’ll be back before you know it, okay?” Hope nodded before stepping back and letting Cassidy clamber into the Jeep.

Once the house was out of sight, Cassidy leaned back as she felt Jamie take her hand.

“They’ll be fine. Now c’mon. We’ve got months ahead together.

She was on the verge of giving up.

After visiting twenty-five packs over the past year and not finding her mate, Cassidy had had enough.

The time away from her own pack took its toll. She spoke to Hope daily and her father, but she missed them all.

Jamie was having the time of his life. He was lucky that his mate was still seventeen. They’d agreed to wait till she was eighteen to pursue anything, but they had marked each other rightfully. Even though he missed his mate, he enjoyed meeting the new packs.

Some were kind and accepting of the human and the wolf. Others scoffed at her until Jamie stepped up and they respected the requests, only because they knew that repercussions would hit them hard if they denied the daughter of the Beta.

As they reached pack number twenty-six, Cassidy was impressed that they were met with a line of wolves on the territory border for Vinewood Pack. The leader of that pack stood with his back straight, tattoos displayed and his eyes trained on their vehicle.

They stopped the Jeep away from the treaty line and walked the rest of the way. Cassidy had her eyes on the wolves to see their reactions to a human.

Two looked wide-eyed but the rest held stoic faces. She was mildly impressed.

“Good training for your newer wolves to learn how to react when facing with a human who was born into a pack.” Cassidy’s words held the tone of conversation, almost as if she were speaking about the weather.

It took thirty seconds before smiles cracked across the group and the one she dubbed as the leader, stepped forward to greet them.

“Looks like we have a feisty human,” He teased before holding out his hand. “Calum Hood, head Warrior.”

Jamie took his hand first.

“Jamie Hayden; son of Beta Hayden in Rosewood pack.” Calum nodded his head impressively before turning to Cassidy.

“Cassidy Hayden. Strategist for Rosewood pack and firstborn daughter to Beta Hayden.” At this, Calum’s eyes widened before letting out a low whistle.

“Word spread around that you’d climbed the ranks, but no one said how far you’d gone. Nice to meet you both. Alpha Irwin is currently in a meeting with another Alpha from a local pack, concerning a wolf turned human who seems to be attacking their pack. He’ll meet with you after, but for now I’m instructed to introduce you the rest of the pack.”

They both nodded and retreated to their Jeep. They followed the wolves and both shared a concerned look.

“Could it be him?”

“How many wolves have been turned human in the last twenty years Cass?”

She shuddered and sighed.

“Let’s get through this, if we’re unsuccessful, I want to go home.”

“Are you sure?” Jamie’s eyes moved from the wolves to his sister who was wearing such a forlorn look, he nearly stopped the car.

“You’ve got training. I can work on the rest of the packs with dad when he travels with Alpha Isaac. I miss them.”

“I know you do. Hope’s going to be dead excited to know you’re going back home.”

Cassidy grinned.

“I know.”

As they drove through the pack, Cassidy was impressed. They’d created a beautiful little community and once they reached the pack house, they realised that the Alpha must have been very much like their father.

What Cassidy knew about Alpha Irwin was that he was one of the youngest Alpha’s to have taken over a pack. At eighteen he was named Alpha when his father passed unexpectedly. The pack had only risen from that point.

Not only was he the youngest, but next to Alpha Isaac, he was the most respected.

Once they were out of the Jeep and had their things settled into separate rooms, Cassidy found a younger warrior wolf waiting for her outside of her door.

“Warrior Calum asked me to escort you to the meeting room where you will meet the Beta and Strategist. Alpha Irwin will be along as soon as possible.”

“Will you convey an apology to Warrior Calum and let him know I’ll be another ten minutes. I need to shower, it’s been a long journey.” There was a brief pause before the young warrior nodded his head and moved away from her door.

Cassidy made sure that she was ready within the ten minutes. Her shower had been brief, but it felt nice to have the journey washed from her body and hair.

Tying the wet hair into a ponytail, Cassidy made sure that she was dressed respectably before there was another knock at the door. The young warrior was back and this time she followed him quietly.

“As always, fashionably late.” Jamie teased her once she’d thanked the young warrior and entered the meeting room.

“Unlike you boys, I like to clean myself after a long journey.” She retorted childishly. Jamie rolled his eyes and Calum laughed.

“May I introduce to you, Beta Luke Hemmings.” Beta Hemmings held out his hand which Cassidy shook, a smile on her lips.

“And, this is Strategist Michael Clifford.” Again, Michael held out his hand to her which she took.

“Luke, Michael, this is Cassidy Hayden, Strategist for Rosewood pack and firstborn human daughter to Beta Hayden.”

Michael let out a whistle at this and Luke nodded.

“Feel free to call me Cassidy. I’m assuming you’ve met my brother, Jamie?” They nodded and Jamie rolled his eyes. “Don’t tempt me little brother. I’m being polite.” She shot at him and he smirked.

“So, Cassidy,” Michael stated “A human and strategist? That’s an impressive feat.

“When you work for something you want, anything is possible.” She shot back coldly. He raised his hands in defence.

“I have nothing against humans. It’s just an incredible sight.”

“Cass, he means no harm. They have two other humans born into their pack as well.”

Cassidy softened up considerably after that.

Between the five of them, they covered many topics before the door opened and Alpha Irwin finally walked in. They were discussing the possibilities of Cassidy doing a walk around town with a few of them to see if she could sense her mate.

“Alpha Irwin, pleasure to meet you.” Jamie started off.

“Pleasure’s mine. Jamie Hayden, right? Son of Beta Hayden and next in line for the title?” Jamie nodded, shocked that the Alpha knew his name and title. Shaking his hand, Alpha Irwin turned to Cassidy who smiled at him.

And it hit her like a ton of bricks.

She could feel the bonds connecting her to him. She could feel her body surging to close the distance between them both.

Alpha Irwin took her hand and shook it.

The sparks exploded instantly, taking her breath away.

“Cassidy Hayden. I’ve waited a long time to meet you.” His fingers hadn’t let go of her hand and Jamie finally laughed, breaking the two from the small world that had built around them in those few crucial seconds.

“Alpha Irwin, I’m going to ask permission for Beta Hemmings and Warrior Hood to show me the perimeters. I’ll also need to consult with Michael as well.” Jamie spoke up, a smirk on his lips.

“Sure, that’s fine.”

“Look after my sister please.” Was all he left with, the other three following curiously.

Cassidy didn’t hesitate to follow Alpha Irwin through the pack house, entering a beautifully done room.

“Please tell me that you’re not a human who is going to make me wait.” He whispered as he pressed her against the door.

Even if she had been one of those humans, feeling him against her would’ve changed her mind instantly.

“Do it. As long as you promise to treat me as your equal, nothing less.”

“You have my word Cassidy Hayden. You are my equal and nothing less. Will you let me complete the mating today?”

“Yes.” The whispered word was all he needed before his hands tore the clothes from their bodies. He carried her to the bed as he kissed her, his lips covering every inch of skin.

And despite the hasty start, he explored her body. Brought her to orgasm a handful of time as he found what she liked and what made her body shake from intensity.

“Mark me.”

Ashton Irwin didn’t need to be told twice. He built her up again, before sliding himself into her. He was patient as she readjusted and then suddenly he was moving again and every thrust seemed to fill her body with this need, even as she built up to another orgasm, his lips almost worshipping her body.

But as they both orgasmed, his canines found the sweet flesh that made her body tingle and he sunk them into the skin.

It was enough to drive Cassidy over the edge, stars blinding her vision as she cried out his name like a prayer on her lips. His own chanting her name like she was a goddess.

It took them awhile to recover, and she was unwilling to move. He was unwilling to relinquish his grasp on her.

“Tell me about yourself, Cass.” Even her nickname sounded like heaving coming from his lips.

As she began to tell him about her life, his lips worked down her body. They worked her breasts, body before finally reaching her clit.

She continued telling him, realising that if she stopped, he stopped. He pushed her over the brink again and again.

It was only when she was left pleading him to stop, to do something about her heat.

Round two was much longer than round one, and they’d both learned about each other quicker than anything.

He was everything she wanted and more.

And he was hers.

Dinner was ignored in favour of spending time with each other, and Cassidy could have cared less.

“So, my sweet human,” Ashton teased, his lips brushing against her forehead and she grinned, “How did it come to you travelling?”

The two were lay together in his bed, her leg over his and her body pressed against his side, her head resting on his shoulder.

“I stopped myself from finding my mate by being home-schooled. Kids were cruel at first, but I could deal with that. But when the Alpha’s son came to school, I couldn’t cope.” Cassidy admitted quietly. Ashton tensed up briefly, but her hand tracing delicate lines against his chest reminded him that she was here with him.

“What happened?” He asked softly.

“He used to attack me. State my human freakishness shouldn’t be inflicted upon other wolves. I was the freak of nature and needed to be exterminated.”

Ashton growled which made Cassidy jump. She didn’t protest when she was pulled tighter against him.

“Most kids didn’t argue with him because he was the Alpha’s son. They didn’t want to anger their Alpha and future Alpha. So, they let it happen. It was when he threatened to kill me when school finished, I ran home. He said he’d make it a hunt so I ran home and hid. My dad came home and heard my terrified cries. I never told him, but he guessed.”

“He pulled you from school, then?”

“He spoke to Alpha Isaac who agreed it would be safer. I received private tutoring from my Alpha and dad. It kept me safe.”

“How did you come to be the Strategist? It took Michael three years to get that spot and even now he’s still learning.” Cassidy looked thoughtful as she let her lips press against his chest.

The tingles appeared and she felt her body relax further. She knew that down the road, she would never tire of that feeling.

“At first, I thought it was my Alpha taking pity on me. Many others did as well, so he laid out one of his previous battle plans that had failed and asked me what should have been done differently. I proved everyone, including myself, wrong that day. The next day Alpha inducted me into his close circle and told me of the future-plans and raids into the rogue territory.” Cassidy caught herself and blushed. Ashton laughed.

“Your secrets are safe with me, love.” He whispered, placing a delicate kiss below her ear.

“Thank you.” The words were a whisper but he appreciated it all the same.

Using his position, Ashton rolled over, pinning his mate beneath him and looked at her with such a look of awe and pride, Cassidy blushed.

“My mate is utterly incredible. You’ll make a wonderful Luna. I’ll travel back to your pack to meet your Alpha and father and we’ll come up with a peace treaty. I’ve never had a problem with Rosewood pack, and now I don’t need to have any problems.”

“They’d like that. Jamie misses home, I just miss my sister.” She whispered and Ashton placed his own strategic kisses and her trail of thought was rapidly disappearing.

“Let me show my mate how proud I am, we’ll deal with everything else tomorrow.”

Cassidy couldn’t argue.

When the two emerged from his room the next morning, the four boys were positively smug. Jamie looked a bit apprehensive. But when Ashton placed a kiss to Cassidy’s temple, he relaxed significantly.

“We managed to get some discussion done, and we’re going to head over to Rosewood to outline a treaty and alliance.” Ashton had carried his sentence on, ignoring the smirks and snickers from his pack mates.

Jamie managed to restrain his amusement to a smirk.

“Would you like me to make Alpha Lockard aware?” Ashton nodded in appreciation at Jamie’s offer.

“That would be much appreciated. I need to organise my own pack meeting, so that everyone can meet their new Luna.” Cassidy flushed at his words and felt her nerves skyrocketing.

“Will they like me?” Ashton stared at her in shock at the words and Jamie’s look of understanding made him frown.

“But, why wouldn’t they?” Michael piped up, staring at her in total confusion. Luke and Calum wore similar looks to their Alpha and Cassidy found herself feeling unsure.

Jamie saved her from answering.

“She’s scared. Cassidy is a human in a world of wolves and supernatural beings. A lot of our pack shunned her because she would never be like them. How would your pack react to a human Luna?” He paused as he let the information sink in, turning his attention to Ashton. “Everyone who has grown up in the supernatural world knows, that a wolf's only weakness is their mate. Cassidy is a human mate. She knows the dangers of being a human and she’s seen the aftereffects of losing a mate.”

Cassidy shuddered. Ashton shifted his attention to his mate, placing a hand over hers. She gave him a weak smile.

“I’m scared of how they’ll react to a human Luna. A Luna who is a weak spot for their Alpha and the weakest link in the pack.”

The siblings’ words sunk in and Ashton found himself in a position he never thought he’d be in. His heart was overcome with fear for his mate, his mind going over every possible packmate, singling out those who had attack the two humans in their pack.

Luke, Michael and Calum were thinking along the same lines and suddenly the entire thing had become real.

“The warriors know better than to harm a human of the pack, let alone their Luna. They’ve been trained to protect and defend.” Calum broke the silence first.

“They’ll need to understand that even though I’m human, I can run with the wolves.” Cassidy put in and Ashton snorted in amusement. Jamie grinned.

“The warriors we can work a rotation out maybe?” Ashton glanced to his mate who nodded in approval.

“My safety comes first, I get that. But don’t lock me away. I need to be a Luna as well.” She gave Ashton a pointed look who nodded and Luke’s face broke out into a genuine grin.

“It would teach the pack children how to act towards their human packmates.” Michael pointed out and Cassidy smiled.

“I can also spend time with the human packmates because I understand more than anyone how they might feel.” She broke in and Ashton’s heart swelled.

He knew that the human packmates were barely teens and children truly were cruel. Not to mention those that find their mates within the pack ranks find them around the ages of adolescents.

They continued to work out ideas and possibilities.

Jamie contacted his Alpha and they were set to travel home the next day.

Ashton had kissed his mate goodbye and dragged Luke and Calum with him to meet with the Gamma and their own Elders to work out the pack things that needed to be run in his absence.

“How about we go and visit the human pack members? They might be able to believe in themselves if they can see their Luna is a human who is also a strategist.”

Cassidy shot Michael a smug grin at his words. He just grumbled before grinning at her. She knew he was teasing.

Michael attended to visit along with three warriors. Jamie admitted to staying behind because he needed to call their dad. Cassidy accepted that as they left and the five of them headed out into the pack town in the black jeep.

“You guys use jeeps instead of SUV’s?” Cassidy was situated in between two warriors, Josh and Jacob. They were twins who had just passed their final exams with the warriors and were fully fledged. Both had been impressed to learn their first assignment was to watch over their new Luna.

Michael was driving and next to him sat the youngest of the three warriors, Abel.

Abel answered readily, having been prepared. He was just shy of his eighteenth birthday and still had eight months of training before his final exam. This was a trial to see how he would handle grouped situations.

“SUVs attract attention and scream out importance. Jeeps like this, highlight travelling and safety.” He indicated to the reinforced metal bars on the roof and inside of the car.

Cassidy nodded in appreciation.

“Any of you found your mates yet?” The question was curious enough and she was pleased by the smiles on each of them.

Then it hit her why they’d been picked. They knew what a mate meant. They understood the emotions and therefore knew how to protect their Alpha’s mate.

Jacob went first.

“I met mine when I was fourteen. Been together for six years.”

“What’s her name?”

“Sadie. Pretty blonde who loves watching TV shows and horror films…” He trailed off with a sheepish grin. Cassidy grinned.

“What about you, Josh?” He shot her a very shy glance and mumbled under his breath. Michael snorted.

“The human can’t hear you when you mumble.” She teased playfully. Josh’s cheeks flushed as the other three laughed.

“I met my mate two years-ago. His name is Caleb.” Was the quiet whisper. Cassidy didn’t even pause as her smile grew.

“What does he do?” Her enthusiasm didn’t go unnoticed. Michael smiled as they drove onto the street where one of the humans lived with her family.

“He, uh teaches the younger pups. He’s an assistant.”

“Do you think I could meet him? I had been planning to work in one of the schools alongside my strategist job and maybe introducing newer things into curriculum. Mainly things that even humans could do so that the pups don’t push them away if there were any future humans born to a pack of wolves.” She spoke with ease and Josh’s entire body relaxed at her statement.

It wasn’t common for same sex mates, but they still happened. And there was always those that held firm beliefs of the wrongness of it.

Cassidy had never even considered those beliefs and embraced the same sex mates fully.

“I haven’t actually met my mate yet, Luna. But my little sister met hers. She turns sixteen and she’s been talking to our parents about loosening some restrictions.” Abel admitted and she giggled.

“This is our first stop. Luna, please wait a moment so the warriors can scout.” She nodded her head and sat back as the three warrior wolves left the car and scouted for a few moments.

“Josh was very nervous to admit to his mate. Does he get ridiculed by others?” The question was curiosity mixed with sadness. Michael sighed.

He heard Josh through the pack link, telling Michael that he was okay with his story being explained by another.

“Growing up, Josh realised that he liked boys long before he met his mate. He knew instantly that he would be disgraced and so he tried to ignore the fact that if he met his female mate, he’d have to break her heart, or beg her to understand.”

“He still had to beg, but to his family?” Michael nodded.

“She did something that any wolf will cringe at. She took a scalding hot poker made of silver and branded him. Scarred his body and left him dying in the street.”

Cassidy remembered his words that he’d met his mate two years ago, and she felt nauseous.

“All clear Michael.” Came through Abel’s voice. Cassidy left the jeep silently and she worked through the different emotions she could feel, so she could greet the human child.

Michael knocked on the door as Cassidy turned to Josh.

“Can we talk when we’ve done this?” He looked hesitant but nodded. She smiled at him in return before turning her attention to the door that was opening.

“Mr. Clifford, I wasn’t expecting any callers today.” The woman’s voice filtered through. Cassidy could see her eyeing the warrior wolves wearily.

“It’s okay Mrs. Teller. The new Luna wanted to meet young Trix.” Michael stepped aside to reveal Cassidy to Mrs. Teller who stiffened and eyed her new Luna cautiously.

“Luna.” She murmured, bowing politely.

“Nice to meet you Mrs. Teller. I felt that Trix was someone I wanted to talk to before the pack met their Luna.”

Mrs. Teller hesitated for a second, disarmed by the charming smile on Cassidy’s lips.

“Please, call me Rae.” The woman stepped aside. Josh and Abel went in first, Cassidy following with Michael and Jacob behind her.

Once they were in the living room, Rae offered for Cassidy and Michael to sit, knowing the warriors would want to stay on their feet. She wasn’t wrong as they changed themselves to different strategic positions in the room. Eyes always moving.

She shuddered.

“Trix, come down for Mama please, I have some people who I want you to meet.” The thud of feet along the hallway upstairs and then thundering down the stairs made Cassidy smile.

She watched as a young girl, no older than seven came barrelling into the room and aiming straight for her mother.

“Mama, I managed to make the car move! I had to tap the wires together and the car went super-fast!” She regaled breathlessly. Rae smiled before taking Trix’s hand.

“That’s lovely dear. I’d like you to meet our new Luna.” She nodded to Cassidy and suddenly the little girl became aware of the other people in the room. Her wide eyes took in the bulky masses of the warriors before turning to Michael and Cassidy, both watching Trix.

Instantly she blushed before nodding to the Luna.

“Why’d you want to meet me Mi-Luna?” Cassidy grinned and shifted her body in the direction of the child.

“Well, I heard from Alpha Irwin that you’re not like other wolves, you're human.” She started carefully. Instantly Trix looked crestfallen.

“Am I not allowed to play with the others anymore?”

“And why would you think that, little one?” Cassidy patted the spot between her and Michael. Trix had hesitated, but after glancing back to her mother who nodded, she sat in between them both and turned to look at Cassidy.

“The big ones always tell me that Luna won’t let a runt like me stay here. They-” Trix hesitated, shooting a terrified glance to her mother, “when they corner me, they laugh when I cry for mama and tell me that Luna will toss me out so I have to get used to fighting without Mama around.”

Three growls from the warriors made Trix shrink into Cassidy who instinctively wrapped an arm around the small girl’s shoulders. Rae stared at her daughter before hurrying into the kitchen. Cassidy didn’t need the super hearing to hear the poor woman burst into tears at her daughter’s admittance.

She shot a pointed look to Michael who nodded. The warriors closed in slightly. Trix trembled as they drew in closer.

“Abel, please sit down, you’re scaring her. Jacob, please get young Miss Teller a glass of water, or perhaps a cup of warm cocoa?” She glanced at the girl who stared at Cassidy in wonder before the small girl herself burst into tears.

All her mind could think of was ‘This wonderful lady cares’. Cassidy could feel her own tears as the warriors obeyed her without question.

Abel was sat across from her and his eyes were on the small girl shaking in his Luna’s arms.

His wolf was howling in such delight because his mate was the nine-year-old girl. Abel already knew that he’d wait for eternity for the girl.

Cassidy looked up to see Abel’s look of bewildered astonishment and she clicked what had happened. She smiled at him and nodded, a silent promise to calm his young mate down. He grinned in return, eyes returning to watching out of the windows, tracking movements and rustles.

“Trixie, can I call you Trixie?” Trix nodded to her Luna as Cassidy pulled her away, wiping the little girls tears from her cheek. “Do you want to know something amazing? And you can tell those big bullies about this, it’ll make them think twice about hurting you again.”

Her eyes caught movement and she saw Rae Teller re-enter the room with Michael, eyes rimmed red. She offered a weak smile and nod at her Luna.

Cassidy returned her attention to the small girl that was now staring at her curiously, tears still pouring from her eyes.

“I’m human too.” Her eyes went wide at the statement and Cassidy could see the amazement flicker through her face. “And you know what else?”

“What?” Trix whispered, but Cassidy knew every wolf in the room heard her.

“If those big bullies even try to come after you again, your Luna and her big bad warrior will come and protect you.” She nodded to Abel who returned his gaze now that Jacob was back in the room with a cup of hot cocoa. Trix took in Abel’s appearance and her eyes widened once more, looking back to Cassidy.

“Will he be there to help?” She asked quietly. Cassidy grinned and she was sure that Josh and Jacob would be laying into Abel the minute they left the home.

“I can do one better. He’s your warrior sweet one. He’ll protect you and make sure those big bullies stay away.” The little girl gasped in astonishment before looking at Abel again.

The grin on his lips told Cassidy everything.

“He’ll be my warrior?” Cassidy nodded. “What about the other two scary ones?” At this, Cassidy snorted.

“They’re big teddy bears.” She shot a glance to the twins who had goofy grins on already. Watching their Luna made their wolves within more determined to protect and please their Luna. “Because they’re big teddy bears it means that to you only, they’ll be your big brothers. They’ll help you when those bullies try anything.”

“Wow.” The amazed little girl whispered before giving a pleading look to her Luna. “Will you come with me when I have to go back next week. The others were told to bring in someone who helped them when they first transitioned.” She admitted quietly.

Cassidy had hated it when Jamie had come in barrelling home and proclaimed to their dad that he needed to go with him to school for the project.

She glanced to Michael. He nodded his head.

“Well, seeing as today is Monday, I have plenty of time. What day is it next week Trixie?” The little girl looked stunned that her Luna was considering this.

“It’s on Friday! Will you really come?”

“I’ll have to be away from town for a week from tomorrow, but I’ll certainly be there on Friday. Does that sound okay to you?”

Cassidy was rewarded with the tightest cuddle, making her giggle.

“I think that’s a yes, Luna.” Michael teased and Rae managed to laugh.

“I think so too. But whilst I’m gone, Abel, Josh and Jacob will help you. They’ll look after you. But why don’t you take up your hot cocoa, because I’m sure that the pack can do with more genius’ who are as bright as you are.” Trixie didn’t need to be told twice.

But before she picked up her drink, she hugged Abel, who was closest and waved to the twins, taking her cup and scampering up the stairs.

Rae Teller sat down opposite her Luna and promptly burst into tears once more.

“I’m so sorry that this is happening to your daughter. It shouldn’t happen.” Cassidy murmured.

“Is it true that you’re human?” At this, the three wolves guffawed.

Michael broke in.

“Any wolf wouldn’t dare call a warrior a teddy bear, Luna or not. As a human, she can get away with a lot.” Cassidy raised an eyebrow before grinning at Michael.

“You’ll learn more about me at the pack meeting. I wanted to get to know the two human children in this pack because I wanted them to know that they too can be great.”

“Thank you Luna, I’ve been so worried and when she came home with bruises, it’s scared me and I’m so sorry, but I’m so happy and-”

Cassidy cut the woman off by hugging her. She froze before relaxing into the hug.

“That little girl is so very special. Not just because she’s human, but her mate is someone who will protect her till his last breath.”

Rae pulled away then, her eyes wide. Cassidy glanced to Abel who nodded silently.

“How can you be so sure?” She asked so wearily. Cassidy smiled.

“Let me introduce you to your daughters mate, Abel.” She nodded at the warrior sat down and Mrs Teller felt every fear drain from her body.

“You’ll take care of my little girl?”

“Ma’am, I will protect her,” The twins’ laughter interrupted then, he scowled at both, “no matter what. Luna was right, she’s special. And probably will turn out to be a genius. She’ll be bossing us warriors around before long.” That shut the twins up.

Michael laughed.

“Oh my goddess, you are a gift from the moon goddess herself Luna. Thank you so much.” Rae Teller honestly thought her heart was going to burst from excitement. Her little girl was safe.

“You have my word Mrs Teller, she’ll be the most protected child. And anyway, when she’s due to go into high school, I’ll talk to the Alpha about tutoring her. It worked for me. It’ll surely work for your daughter and the other child.”

This time Mrs Teller initiated the hug that Cassidy returned.

When they finally left the home, Trix returning downstairs to give each of them hugs, saving the last two for Abel and Cassidy.

Once the door was shut and they were in the jeep, Josh and Jacob reached forward to punch their comrade in the shoulder.

“Congrats brother!” Jacob crowed and Michael laughed.

“Man my wolf is at peace. Thanks Luna.”

“I didn’t do anything.”

“On the contrary! You helped set up a schedule so that Abel will be within proximity to his made to keep his wolf satisfied. You’ve helped a lot.” Michael explained and Cassidy flushed.

The other human was on the other side of the town. They pulled up and witnessed a small child being attacked by kids that were clearly bigger than them.

“Abel, Jacob go.” Cassidy ordered. The two needed no further instruction as they launched from the car, their warning growls causing the attackers to freeze before running. Jacob shifted and went after them.

“Michael?”

"Got it." He was out of the car fast and Abel took off after Jacob, heads peeking out from doors as the growls reverberated around the street.

Cassidy and Josh finally got out and went over to Michael.

“Of course you all take note when there is a growl, but a crying child falls on deaf ears that are sensitive to noise.” She snapped at those that were peering to take a closer look.

“You don’t boss us around lady!” Another snapped back and Michael held Cassidy back from ripping into him.

Doors slammed and she turned her attention to the child.

“What’s your name sweet thing?”

The child finally uncovered their face once they realised that they were safe. Cassidy wished she could snarl. Another girl, a little older than Trix by the looks of it.

“Don’t know my name.” She muttered. Dirt and grime covered the girl from head to toe. Cassidy shot a panicked look to Michael whose hands were shaking.

“Where do you live little one?” The girl shrugged again and pointed to the house they were stood in front of.

“They never let me in. Sleep outside like the runt I am. Got a house round back.” At her words, Josh slipped into the back garden. He returned with a look of disgust mixed with shock and pity.

Cassidy could feel her temper rising.

“It’s a dog kennel, Luna. They feed her scraps.” He whispered and she felt her anger double.

“We’re taking you to the doctor. No arguments little one.” She whispered. “Tell Jacob and Abel to bring the children they round up to the pack house. Michael, direct link with Ashton, he’ll pay attention to you. Tell him to organise the pack meeting tonight. Josh, call in a group to take these wolves into some sort of custody. Michael, alert the pack house that there will be an extra guest. Contact Mrs. Teller, let her know to bring Trixie with her to the pack house.”

Josh carried the small girl to the car as both he and Michael linked to the people they needed.

He lay the girl on the backseat with Cassidy who had her head lay in her lap, stroking the girls matted hair.

How dare they do this to a defenceless child.

“Alpha is setting up for the emergency pack meeting. The response unit are picking up the wolves before Alpha sends out the call for a pack meeting. He wants to talk to you when we get back.

“You tell him I’ll be sat with the little one as her acting guardian whilst the pack doctor looks over her and I’ll be with her until Mrs Teller and Trixie arrive.”

The rest of the journey was silent.

When they reached the main pack house that housed the Alpha, Cassidy noted the pack doctor outside, waiting. Josh picked up the small girl and followed the doctor who looked horror struck. Ashton watched, crestfallen.

Cassidy walked over to him, capturing his attention.

“I know we wanted to wait, but I refuse to stand by and let those abusers get away with this.” She practically snarled.

“Are you sure you’re not a wolf, love? You snarl like one.”

Jamie greeted the couple with a laugh.

“She learned from me when I first shifted. Dad always said that her bad habits are my fault.” This made Cassidy smile.

They trooped into the room where the pack doctor was. She could see the look of horror on the pack doctors face and she pulled her Alpha and Luna aside, casting a daring glance at Jamie.

“He’s my brother, he’ll protect her whilst we have privacy.” Cassidy assured her and that was all it took before the two were ushered into a separate room where the doctor exploded.

“They beat and raped a defenceless child.” She snarled. Tears were falling from her eyes as the couple stiffened in shock. Cassidy felt her insides churn and Ashton felt his anger burn up.

“How long?” Despite having spent little time with her mate, Cassidy sensed the danger in her mate’s voice. For a fleeting second, she felt proud. For an Alpha to show the danger within his tone was impressive.

She was brought back down to earth at the doctors whispered words.

“Years. This has been happening for years.” Cassidy gripped Ashton’s hand tightly, a silent reminder for him to not shift in this small office, but also to hold herself back from going after those pathetic wolves.

Bullying was one thing, but this was neglect and abuse.

“Please, tell me that never happened to you?” Cassidy sensed the danger of answering and so she stepped in front of him, allowing the doctor to leave the room for them.

His arms wound around her tightly as he pulled her closer, his nose trailing along her neck.

“I was bullied, kids hurt me and Leo, he tried to had Jamie not smelt my blood. Nothing what that girl has suffered ultimately. Dad would’ve died if he lost me and mum so close together.” She whispered and he let loose such a guttural snarl, Cassidy found herself shaking in her mate’s arms.

“If ever Leo Lockard tries to seek out refuge, he will be killed on the spot. I would go after the others in that pack but I do not want war.” He finally ground out, his eyes flashing amber.

Cassidy gave him a smug grin.

“They got their comeuppance. Trust me. But please, you’re going to be scaring that poor girl and I need her to trust us.” Ashton sighed, hiding his face against his mate’s neck, her hair and skin almost drowning his senses in her scent.

Finally, when he was calm, they left the office. The pack doctor looked fleetingly panicked, but Cassidy smiled at her, reassuring. She shared a knowing look with Jamie who felt his features morph into a look of wariness. He understood the look and what she’d just told her mate.

“We have a town auditorium. It can house the wolves easily. How do you want to go about this?” He asked her quietly as they sat by the girls bedside. She’d fallen asleep as the doctor was working. Because she was underage and had no reasonable guardian to look over her, Ashton remained as acting guardian, Cassidy by his side.

��I want you to introduce your new mate. I want those that sneered at me on the street to see their mistakes. I want them to know I may be human but I will not tolerate their sneers nor their snide remarks. I will not bow to the wolves that think they are better than me because they have the genetics and I don’t.”

It hit Ashton very fast as he stared at his mate in awe. The bond was usually there to help feelings develop over time, people were never sure of their other half. They both felt sure. Allowing him to mark her told Ashton that, and letting her do the same to him spoke volumes.

But the feeling of love, pride and adoration, it hit him all at once.

His mate was incredible. And he was the lucky bastard that got to keep her all to himself.

Cassidy greeted Mrs Teller and Trix in the open spaced lounge. Those that helped keep the pack house in top shape were preparing for the pack meeting over in the auditorium. Cassidy had requested that they make sure the guests in the holding cells were hydrated and alive.

“I didn’t expect to see you again so soon, Luna.” Mrs Teller stammered and Cassidy smiled at them gently, assurances in the smile as she opened her arms to Trix who hugged her tightly.

“I know, it’s a bit soon. My mate will be along in a moment, but I wish to ask about home life. I take it your husband works?” At this, her shoulders became a little more straighter.

“He trains the warriors. He’s classed as an elder due to a longstanding family genetic that means he can no longer help with the raids and protections, but he’s a hard worker and proud of his little girl.” She smiled at Trix who had not released her Luna yet.

She was still too excited that her Luna was a human and very smart.

“I see my Luna has been taken hostage, I must admit defeat to the scary human holding her.” Ashton’s voice reached them. Trix giggled as she hid herself against Cassidy and Rae Teller looked like she wanted to tell her daughter to let go.

“But Alpha, she’s a clever human, and says I’m one too. She told me that I’ve got my own warrior too. How cool is that Alpha?” Trix didn’t notice her mother’s distress and Ashton laughed at the enthusiastic girl. He got down to her level and held his own arms out.

“Well if your Luna gets cuddles, what ‘bout that old Alpha of yours, huh?” He teased playfully, a smile on his lips. Rae Teller relaxed instantly.

Cassidy giggled with Trix.

“But Luna is my friend. She’s dead clever and told me I was clever just like her. If I hug you she might get sad that I ain’t hugging her no more.” Ashton pouted at the little girl who then hesitated, glancing up at Cassidy.

“You tell him he can’t be big bad Alpha to you or your Luna will beat him up.” She whispered conspiratorially to the little girl who looked positively gleeful.

“If I hug you, you can’t be big bad Alpha to me, cause my Luna will come beat you up and save me.” She nodded at him, unawares he’d heard perfectly clear what his mate had whispered.

“I think I can do that, I mean you’re a genius human and I always need to train genius humans, don’t I?” At this, her gleeful squeal hit them as she launched into her Alpha and he swept her up with a laugh.

“Are you sure, he’s the Alpha and I don’t want her-”

“Rae, it’s fine. He’ll act like this with her pretty much any time he sees her now. I’ll explain it all if you’ll allow and not mind that he’s going to steal her away to his office for twenty minutes to see how he can tutor her?” Rae nodded and Cassidy pulled the young woman towards the side of the house that housed the pack doctor and the small infirmary.

There were more surgeries scattered around the town, as Cassidy learnt, but the pack doctor at the house was the Alpha in respects of the doctors.

“We went to visit the second child today, situated on the other side of town. When we got there, a bunch of teenagers were attacking someone. Of course Abel and Jacob chased them down, they’re currently standing guard till the pack meeting, however we realise it was the other human girl. Her family tossed her outside to live in a kennel. She’s been beaten, and raped. She’s had the worst of the worst thrown at her.”

Rae Teller trembled as tears threatened her once more. The poor girl must have been terrified, and not to mention that it could have happened to her own little girl, aside from tossing her into a kennel. Rae Teller was not about to do that to her only daughter.

“Why are you telling me, Luna?”

“Because I’m asking for your permission, after the pack trial, I want you to take in this little girl and give Trixie a sister who is the same as her. I want you to love this little girl like you love your daughter.”

And then something triggered inside of Rae Teller. Her wolf sensed the child and she found herself scared for her little girl, glancing above them.

“Trixie is safe as sound with her Alpha. But this little girl has no one.” Cassidy whispered and when Rae Teller laid her eyes on the broken little girl, she wept like she had the day when her daughter was born.

“Oh my poor baby, of course I’ll take you in as mine.” She cried, the girl finally pulling her eyes wide enough to realise there was a weeping woman and her saviour.

“Hello little one, how do you feel?” Cassidy asked softly as Rae composed herself.

“Hurt, but that nice doctor did things and made the pain go away. She fixed the pain between my legs and put something on my cuts.” The girl muttered. Cassidy kept a gentle smile on her lips.

“Good. This lady here, her little girl is human like you, but her little girl is happy.”

“You don’t hurt her?” The girl asked sharply. Rae Teller shook her head and clasped her hands around one of the girls.

“Goddess no, I love my little girl so much. But I heard that the people that were meant to be your family hurt you. They shouldn’t have done that. I wanted to ask if you’d consent to stay with me, my husband and our little girl. And be her big sister?”

She hesitated.

“I promise that we won’t do to you what those monsters did. Not to mention, Alpha and his Beta will teach you as well. You’ll be a smart little girl who can protect someone else like her.” The idea was appealing, so Cassidy finally stepped in.

“I’ll be with both of you as well when I come back from my old pack. I’m not a wolf like them, I’m human too.” She whispered and suddenly the girl nodded, crying as she did.

“They never wanted me an’ I never want them, please don’t make me go back.” She sobbed into Rae who shifted herself and pulled the girl into a protective hold.

Ashton entered then, with Trixie sat on his shoulders.

“So this is the other human?” She asked quietly. Ashton nodded.

“And she’ll be your big sister if you ask her nicely.” Cassidy’s sly comment made Trixie gasp excitedly.

“Will you be my big sister? My warrior can protect us both and we’ll both have big brothers who are teddy bears!” She exclaimed from the top of Ashton’s shoulders, causing her crying to subside.

“I’ll be your big sister, but I don’t know my name.” She admitted quietly.

“What about Roxy? Cause I’m called Trix an’ Luna calls me Trixie.” The little girl pondered that, but hesitated.

“How about Roxanne?” Rae suggested softly and the girl nodded.

Cassidy explained to the family what was about to happen. Rae assured them that her husband would be there to witness the public pack trial and that he was more than happy to take in Roxanne.

Cassidy left the office with a smug air about her.

“How long till the pack trial?” She questioned silently as they headed back to his room.

“We still have hours yet, and by god I want to see that look on your face above me please.” He rasped as his lips latched onto hers once they were in the confines of his room.

She didn’t argue as she teased him and the smug feeling filled her just as he did, his teeth sinking into her mark just as she did to him when they climaxed.

It was certainly something else, but they held each other hostage for little over an hour before they finally made themselves look respectable. Cassidy had found one of her more promising outfits, a regal dress that Ashton commented made her look fierce and confident.

By the time of the pack meeting, the auditorium was filled. Ashton stepped out onto the stage, standing on the podium, Cassidy was just in the wings.

“Tonight, I greet you with some wonderful and tragic news. I will greet you with the wonderful news of my mate,” He paused as people cheered for their Alpha. “And I’d like to introduce her. Cassidy Hayden of the Rosewood pack.”

Cassidy took her cue and stepped out, smiling to the tentative cheers from the pack. She knew that their wolves were wondering why they couldn’t quite feel the bond of their Luna like they did their Alpha.

“As you may have possibly guessed, she is a human. Born to the Beta of the Rosewood, she rose the ranks and excelled most of the wolves from her generation. She was the strategist for them and now Luna for you. And she has some words she wanted to share.”

Instead of outright hostility, she noted the looks of fear from those who had dismissed her earlier in the day, but a few cheered. One of them she guessed was Mr. Teller.

“I know it’s a shock to you all, a human Luna. However, I am making a promise to you tonight to do my best to rule with my mate, and understand issues amongst pack life. I will bring up the tragic news that my mate wanted to tell you, because this currently ties in with a few things.” She paused, looking around.

“I will not, in any way tolerate anybody causing grief to a human member of the pack. I want you to support them like you support each wolf. I became a strategist of my previous pack. Just think how far and how high a human would reach with the right push? Which brings me to my next point and a rule that is being enforced as of today.” She glanced to Ashton who nodded his head, a smile on his lips.

“Abuse of a human within the pack will not be tolerated. Abuse of a wolf will not be tolerated, however with the pack so closely linked, an abused wolf is quickly found and cared for. A human is not. Today I went to greet the two human children that are pack members. One is a girl under the age of ten, who has been beaten up by bullies who think they are better than her. You will instil in your children that this will not be tolerated any longer. Today we caught six young wolves attacking the second child in the middle of the street, yet no one heard the cries for help.” Her gaze landed on a group clustered together, her eyes darkening into a scowl.

“Don’t you dare disrespect me like you did today. You didn't know I was Luna, granted but you shouldn’t disrespect anyone, let alone one who is travelling with three warriors and the Alpha’s right hand.” Growls erupted then.

“You disrespected the Luna?!”

“How stupid are you?”

“QUIET.” Ashton snarled, the crowd falling silent once more.

“The poor girl was kicked out into a kennel where she had been fed scraps of meat occasionally. She was filthy, but as well as the neglect and abuse, the poor child had been raped. She is less than fifteen years old. How can you stand by and let that happen without your sensitive ears not picking up her distress?” She ground out.

Growls were rolling in once more.

“The adults of the family are facing a pack trial. Tonight. The children will be judged by their Alpha at a later date.” She snapped, her temper breaking lose for a moment.

The pack went silent. They’d not had to do a pack trial in decades.

Things changed then, the warriors positioned them around the stage as they pulled the family members in front of the packs.

Two women, two men. Two were clearly elders and the other two were the parents.

They snarled about a runt of a human, they said humans had no place in the pack and Cassidy lost her temper. Ashton didn’t even attempt to stop her.

“As a human myself I’m living proof that we each have a place in this pack.” They froze at her words. “You attacked a child and abused her. You have no say on whether humans have a place or not because you certainly don’t.”

They tried to call her a liar and something snapped completely. She took the dagger from the closest warrior, one laced with silver and sliced her hand.

The wolves yelped but she didn’t flinch. She bled and bled. No super healing like the wolves had. Suddenly all protests fell silent.

Ashton had to stop himself from launching at his mate to prevent that, but he knew they needed to see the truth.

The pack judged. And instead of exile they called for execution.

Things calmed once the entire meeting had settled once the family was dragged off, their protests falling on deaf ears.

“Because my mate is from Rosewood pack, I’m planning to be away for a week. Look to the superiors for help and stay vigilant. Don’t let this tear us apart.”

With those words, he and Cassidy swept from the room. Each male knew that they would not be meeting their Luna properly until they returned.

Ashton didn’t disappoint. He swept Cassidy to his room and neither were seen till the early hours of the morning, marks fresh and a freshly bandaged hand.

Jamie snickered at the pair.

Cassidy sat in the front with her brother, Calum, Luke and Ashton situated in the backseat. Michael waved them off with Roxanne and Trixie. The Tellers were staying in the pack house whilst things were arranged for them to move closer to the pack house.

Two pack cars followed behind them, two warriors in one and three in another.

Most of the journey was slept away by the three wolves in the backseat. Cassidy and Jamie were wide awake as they inched closer to their home.

“How does it feel to be going home Jamie?” Glimpsing at his sister, Jamie shrugged.

“My wolf feels ready for his mate. It feels like home. What about you?”

“Scared, excited. I’ve missed them, but I already miss Ashton’s pack.” She admitted quietly.

“There’s nothing wrong with feeling like that. I know that Luna Lockard felt the same way when she first met Alpha. Do you remember the day that she came back after they’d gone to visit her parents?” She nodded her head. Leo hadn’t been born by then.

“She scooped us both up and cried because she felt guilty to her pack. I don’t think she knows we remember.” She admitted quietly.

“We were the only kids on close terms with our Luna and Alpha. So, she sought us out and Alpha advised dad to let her be. Do you remember the look of shock on mum’s face?” The siblings laughed quietly.

“I still miss her.” There was the opening Jamie was waiting for.

“She’s proud, you know that.” He murmured, reaching across to hold her hand.

“I still wonder if she would have cared that I wasn’t a wolf.” Jamie snorted.

“I’m almost certain mum knew. She was so overprotective of you that even dad clocked on. Why do you think Alpha and Luna had been introduced to us so fast?” They shared grins at that, taking note that they reached the border.

Reece and Evan were waiting along with Tanita. Once they saw who was inside the car, they motioned for them to pass through, returning to their patrols instantly.

There was a welcoming committee waiting for them at the pack house. When Cassidy stepped from the car, she reacted to the squeal from her little sister and met her in the middle, laughing loudly as Hope picked her up with ease and spun her around.

Jamie whined in protest.

“Am I chopped liver?”

“Yes.” Both sisters responded in synchronisation before Cassidy pried herself from Hope and watched in amusement as her baby sister tackled her brother.

Cassidy turned to her dad next, both wearing matching grins as he pulled her in for a hug, placing a kiss to the top of her forehead.

“Welcome home baby. I’ve missed you.”

“Missed you too daddy.” She whispered, his arms getting a little bit tighter around her.

Once Jamie reacquainted with their dad, Cassidy moved back to Ashton, taking her hand in his as she guided him up.

She was yet to greet her Alpha because she knew that she needed to respect the Alpha code but also her mate.

“Dad, this is Alpha Irwin of Vinewood Pack.” The two shook hands and then Cassidy dropped the bombshell. “He’s also my mate.”

She noted that Alpha Isaac broke into a grin as her dad’s jaw clenched. His eyes zeroed on the mark before he shot a look to his daughter.

“Of course, you’d introduce me and let me be polite before dropping that bombshell on me.” She grinned at him as Jamie laughed.

“She is your daughter after all Matthew.” Alpha Isaac called out, rather smugly.

That was when she tugged Ashton over to Alpha Isaac and introduced him before allowing herself to be pulled into a tight hug from her Alpha.

“I’m so proud of you Cassie. And rather glad that your mate is an Alpha.” He commented slyly, earning a sharp punch to his shoulder from his wife.

Pandora Lockard was fierce as she was delicate. A true force of nature. So, Cassidy didn’t bother protesting when her Luna pulled her in for the tightest hug she’d ever received.

Once the greetings were done with, the group ventured into the house and to the Alpha's office.

Elder Orion bowed to the newest couple, a smile on his face.

"When Isaac told me of his plans for you, Luna Cassidy, I was doubtful. But it seems our Goddess had other plans for you and merely informed him of some of her plans to help you. You two will truly be blessed and I am overjoyed for you, my dear." He bowed once more, which Cassidy automatically returned, making Isaac chuckle.

"You don't need to bow now, Cassie. You hold rank with me, we get away with a lot when it comes to the Elders." Isaac teased and she flushed.

"It's ingrained to be respectful, old timer." She shot back and her dad roared with laughter as her brother blanched for a moment.

Hope smirked at her sister before nodding.

Isaac playfully scowled before grinning at her and the group sat amongst the various couches.

Nobody missed how Cassidy sat next to her sister and Alpha Irwin wedged himself against his mate.

"Lu- Pandora," Cassidy caught herself, making Isaac smirk which she ignored. "when Al- when Isaac met you, was it just as fast moving for you or did you adjust quickly?"

Pandora smiled at her, looking to her mate briefly who seemed confused. She took pity on the young Alpha.

"Alpha Irwin, to explain, Isaac met me when he was travelling to various packs to discuss the rouge situation twenty four years ago. Your little Luna was who I greeted first when I returned back from my previous pack during my transition years after she was born. As she got older and Jamie joined the family, they became good therapy for the, let's call it unpleasantness, from my previous pack, especially when I bore no heir immediately. I love those two as if they were my own, even after the public embarrassment of Leo, I still consider them my children, Hope included when she joined their little family. When Tamara passed, I was the one they sought out for the motherly affection and I doted on them. She is considered family which is why such a question was asked."

Understanding dawned and he nodded, giving his mate a brief smile who responded with a brilliant smile of her own.

The older pack members held back from chuckling at the love struck look on the young Alpha's face.

Pandora turned back to Cassidy who smiled sheepishly in return.

"Fret not little one. I adjusted quite fast, but I never took the mark as quick as you did. That may be why you feel it is going alarmingly fast. However, it seems that your natural born instincts from our genetics told you to make Alpha Irwin-"

"Please, if she considers you family, call me Ashton when it's just us. That applies to all of you." He interrupted quietly. Pandora smiled and nodded at the young Alpha.

"Ashton, then. Your natural born instincts told you to claim Ashton in the most basic and raw way possible. I'm certain your brother experienced it, and Hope will experience it with her mate."

Hope shifted uncomfortably but Pandora continued.

"It is why as parents, we do not police our young when it concerns mates, only when they are too young to understand that primal urge, do we police them to protect them."

"But, I'm human? How is it, that the primal urge in wolves, effectively showed itself within me?" Ashton found himself stunned at his mates words, trying to understand the progression of her emotions.

"Had you been one of the lower ranking wolves, or even just a civilian. But then again, perhaps not. You were destined for young Ashton here, so instinct would have prevailed where the change failed you."

"Wait, so the mating urge that my wolf was pushing, that wasn't over-protectiveness out of fear?"

Pandora smiled at Ashton.

"Perhaps it was a small part, but your wolf recognised on the most primal instinct that Cassidy is his, yours. The legend goes that the Moon Goddess gave us our soulmates, by splitting our souls in half, for us to find. The basic urge to claim, or to bite per say, is the souls connecting. You can feel what she feels, correct?" He nodded. "Cassie?" She nodded as well.

"Wait, but if our souls are split by the Goddess herself, what about me?" Hope's voice sounded broken and Cassidy wrapped her arm tightly around her younger sister.

"What do you mean?" Ashton quietly enquired and Isaac sighed.

"Do you remember how my Pandora spoke about the embarrassment of Leo?" Ashton nodded at Isaac's words. "Cassidy here, received formal training from myself and our Elders. She could see things that we could not. People argue and say we are flawless, but that builds a god-like complex, to us truly believing we can come to no harm. She saw every flaw and executed every plan to keep the wolves safe. About eighteen months ago, a young wolf was kidnapped. She was only six at the time. It took us months of strategic planning, Cassidy reviewing every open option and every potential ambush."

"Not to mention the god damn traps." She grumbled under her breath, making a sad smile appear on the old Alpha's lips.

"And avoid the traps we never saw. Her closest friend and confidant, Talon Scarsa was a talented warrior. I am certain that if he were still here, he'd transfer packs just to keep his best friend close and protect her. Don't misunderstand me, we knew he had a mate out there, but she was his priority because she was a weakness for a long time. They day she ran home from my son, terrified he would hunt and kill her, I took Talon into my own confidence and asked him to help. He was originally just for protection around the pack, but he became her best friend. And I know Matt was grateful for that after his own mate passed on." Isaac stood from his seat, heading over to his cabinet and pulling out what looked like a bottle of whiskey.

He said nothing as he poured out various measurements, handing it to everyone. Cassidy snorted at Hope taking a sip and cringing, but held onto the glass anyway as Isaac returned to his seat, tumbler of whiskey in his hand.

"The day we went out on the mission, it was executed perfectly, had my own fucking son not decided to sabotage it. The reports that came back from the wolves who had served under Cassidy prior to this assignment, said how Leo had led them from the route that would have protected Talon as he entered enemy lines to retrieve the young wolf. He died saving that child's life and Leo tried to pin the blame on Cassidy."

Ashton felt undiluted rage flow through his bones till Cassidy shifted herself on his lap and took his face in her hands.

"It was normal for me, the human to get such criticism. It never bothered me, but when they brought Talon home I was distraught. I was angry, christ, I double checked my plans and knew he should have made it out safely, yet he was in a body bag. And I knew one person who would cause such a thing so I came into my Alpha's office, all guns blazing, ready to kill the young heir for placing a packmate in jeopardy and for killing another."

Isaac laughed.

"She was a sight to behold, pure and undiluted fury towards Leo and he never knew what hit him. Literally. I believe she broke a bone or two after punching him a few times." Isaac grinned and she smiled, resuming her position next to her mate once she felt he had calmed down considerably.

"It was the first time we had ever pushed the pack link through her mind to get every ounce of information. At the time, Leo had apparently claimed a mate, and everyone believed him. Until I stripped him of every title and his mate, only for a howl to rip through the house. It was Hope here, who he had marked and made her feel everything he did with the girl he claimed his mate. So the Elders and I, we passed the title of Luna to her. So when I step down, she will take over the pack, and her mate will be Alpha, but it will be her who holds the title, who attends the meetings, does her duties as an Alpha."

"And now you wonder if the Goddess would gift you with a second mate?" Ashton asked quietly and Hope nodded.

"If he was meant to be my other half, am I taking the chance of someone else? Have I shifted things so that someone who was meant to potentially meet their mate is now stuck with me?"

Pandora tutted.

"What they never teach children is the story of the second chance mate. After generations of wolves had spread throughout the world, a wolf prayed to his Goddess after his mate was ripped from him. He asked either to be with her or to be allowed to move on with his life. It took the Goddess months, but she found another who too had lost their mate. She healed their souls in tune to each other, knowing the other would help through the losses they both suffered. Although, your case is slightly different, it still applies. The Goddess will have healed your soul and attuned it to someone who understands your pain. And they will support and love you no matter what." She comforted the young Luna and Hope nodded, a sad smile on her lips.

"Where is Leo now?"

Isaac scowled.

"We stopped keeping track after the first month. He was never worth our time after such an act of treason was committed.

"Ashton, didn't you say you were in talks about a rogue who was human?" Cassidy enquired quietly, knowing they'd all hear her.

"Yeah... You don't think he would, do you?" A growl reverberated and Ashton immediately wrapped his arm tighter around his mate in response.

"There hasn't been a wolf turned human in over two decades. It fits the timing and his tactics."

"If he is seen, kill him on sight, Alpha Irwin. He will infect the minds of rogues and try to form some sort of resistance. It will be bloodshed if we aren't careful."

And with those words, the two Alpha's delved into battle plans, Cassidy casually pointing out errors, and calling her mate and old Alpha idiots every time they overlooked the most basic thing.

Hope, who had never witnessed her sister in action, looked scandalised until their father muttered that this was tame and she was holding back. Only to grin when his eldest rolled up a newspaper and whacked both Alpha's around the back of the head.

This caused the group to laugh and Isaac playfully scowled whilst Ashton merely frowned, unable to understand how she was getting away with such an act.

"I'll toss you to the wolves, if you're not careful Cassie." Isaac threatened and she laughed in his face.

"You toss me to them, they'll make me their Queen and you know it. Quit being an ass and look how it could go wrong!" Both Ashton and Hope shared a look of lost before diving back into the plans.

Ashton felt stunned at how his mate could be so blase towards her old Alpha, and it was only when Beta Hayden took pity on the young Alpha, inviting him to go for a walk whilst the others argued semantics.

Both men were quiet as they began the journey from the pack house. Both were acutely aware of the warriors that were shadowing them, and neither expected anything less from either pack.

“Cassie has always been hard headed and stubborn. A trait she got from both her mother and myself.” Matthew finally started. Ashton smiled appreciatively.

“Oh my pack found that out quite fast. My warriors both love and hate her for it.” Ashton snorted at the huff of laughter he caught from the trees of the wooded area they passed by.

Matthew raised an eyebrow.

“We have two humans in our pack. One was found to have been tortured, for lack of a better word. The child’s parents and grandparents were the culprits. We held the first pack trial in decades and Cassidy proved her human side to them by taking a dagger from one of the warriors on stage.” Matthew flinched.

“Bet they loved that show.” He muttered and Ashton laughed.

“All of them were understandably furious, but she’s their Luna. If she were to order them, unless it goes against a direct order from me, they have to obey her. I don’t think she’s quite grasped how much power she actually holds in her hands.” Matthew laughed at that.

“Even as a child, she never understood why other children would bow to her. When I tried to explain it to her, she protested it until Isaac explained that it was her birthright and that she needed to stop fighting it because other Alphas would look down on both of them. She has so much respect for him that she took it without complaint from that day forward.” Ashton chuckled. He was not surprised in the slightest.

“How is it that with so much respect for him, she still talks to him the way she does?”

“It goes against every instinct, doesn’t it?” Matthew mused, a smirk on his lips. “Isaac never treated her differently. He never corrected her when she pulled stunts like the rolled up newspaper when it was a closed council. She knew the lines and knew when to cross them. Otherwise she was the perfect little human who still bowed to her Alpha’s wishes.” Ashton snorted at that.

“What was her mother like?” Matthew gave Ashton a sad smile at the question.

“Katie was a force to be reckoned with. She took no shit from myself or her Alpha. She passed on her best qualities to our children.” Ashton immediately recognised the look of pain and backtracked.

“My apologies, Beta Hayden. I didn’t mean to bring up painful memories.” Matthew smiled as he patted Ashton’s shoulder gently.

“It’s fine Alpha Irwin. You may as well call me Matthew, since you’re family now.” Ashton flashed him a relieved smile.

“Then call me Ashton, or Ash.” Matthew nodded as his hand dropped from Ashton’s shoulders. “I lost my dad, before I was ready to take over the pack. He always wanted me mated and secure with my pack before he wanted to step down. He wanted to step down and spoil grandchildren whilst being and adviser.”

“The day we heard about it, a lot of people mourned the loss of your father, Isaac included. He was a great man.” Ashton smiled in thanks at his mates father.

“I see you, with your children and lost mate, and I see my mom, and the difference is so vastly astounding. How did you, survive?” Matthew chose not to comment on how shy the question seemed.

“There could be plenty of reasons why we pushed forward the way we did. It may have been that because your mother felt you were old enough to care for yourself, she fell into her grief. I had two young children relying on me, I couldn’t. When Hope joined our little family years later, I knew that I would always miss Katie, that I will always love her regardless of what happens, but my children needed me and that instinct overpowered the grief.” He explained softly and Ashton nodded in understanding.

“You-thank you, Matthew. You didn’t have to be so honest. You were well within your right to tell me to back off.” Ashton commented quietly and Matthew nodded in agreement.

“I was. But you’re still a young adult who has so many questions. And it may hurt me, but if it helps you understand why your mother went the way she did, then I can take some moments of pain to help yours.”

Ashton’s respect for his mates father doubled as they returned to the pack house, re-entering whilst Cassidy was arguing her point across to her old Alpha and younger sister.

Ashton felt his heart swell.

It was another two hours before Cassidy's phone rang and she excused herself to answer the call.

"Cassidy speaking."

"Luna?" Came a frantic whisper and immediately she was tense.

"Trix? Are you okay little one?"

"They're hunting me, an' I can't find my warrior." She whispered frantically into the phone and Cassidy stormed back into the room, taking a pen and writing on a piece of paper.

'Contact Abel NOW! Trix being hunted by others'

"Trixie, angel, who is it that's hunting you."

"The mean boys, they changed and I can't get home. Luna I'm scared." The soft sob went quiet and even with Cassidy's limited hearing, she could hear the growls.

"Trixie, listen to me. Do you have something like a stick to hand or anything sharp?"

"No." Came the terrified whisper.

Cassidy tried not to growl herself. She turned to Ashton who gave her a thumbs up.

"Okay angel, where are you?"

"They chased me into the forest by school, they laughed when I said you'd protect me."

She could feel the tears build up and she had to close her eyes.

"It's okay angel, Abel is on his way to you, but promise you'll-" Her words were cut off by a terrified scream followed by a series of growls.

Her eyes shot open and stared at Ashton in horror as her worst nightmare became a reality for this little girl.

There was a deafening roar followed by the dial tone and Cassidy screamed.

"NO NO NO!"

Ashton was up in seconds with his arms around his mate.

"Abel is there, he stepped on her phone as he fought the younger wolves off. She's safe."

Tears flooded her face as the group looked on curiously.

"My pack has two humans born to wolves. One had an absolute loving family, the other, the other was tortured."

Cassidy let out a strangled cry and Ashton looked pleadingly to the Alpha.

"Her room is on the second floor."

The pair were gone immediately and silence reigned as Jamie shot off messages.

"The warriors are responding to Abel's distress call. The pack doctor is going to care for her since she doesn't have accelerated healing."

Upstairs, Ashton was receiving the same information, but needed to calm his distressed mate.

It took him awhile but she soon relaxed and nearly cried at his words. Instinct was urging him to state her, please her, reaffirm their bond after the horror he felt.

Yet he got her to talk first, and she told him how that had been her nightmare for years. Her biggest fear becoming reality for a defenceless child.

He knew his wolf needed to remark her, reassure her. But first he catered to her needs. Took her to new highs before finally pushing himself in and sending her to orgasm thrice before they climaxed together, his canines biting into her junction on her neck and she did the same to him, her soft teeth sinking through his skin like butter. He thought nothing of it as she pushed him onto his back, licking and sucking her mark on him, his stamina practically doubling as he reclaimed her again and again, the pleasure and primal urge pushing it against and again till they lay arm in arm, covered in a sheen of sweat as they drifted between the real world and consciousness.

"Never again." Was the only coherent word he could make out before oblivion claimed them both.

Once the week was over and Cassidy had packed up many of her things, she promised to visit as often as time would allow before they were on the way again. Thankfully, the jeep was just them, and Ashton took every advantage with his fingers sliding into his mate and making her call out his name.

They nearly crashed when she returned in kind and he knew had the other wolves been directly behind, they'd have been laughing.

Once they got back to the pack house, Roxanne was there with her new parents to greet them. The young girl flew into Cassidy before she began sobbing and Cassidy held onto the little girl tightly.

"Sh, it's going to be okay little one, I promise." Whilst Cassidy was comforting the young human, Ashton took Rae and Jackson Teller to the side and explained what Cassidy had almost demanded of him. And he couldn't argue her logic on the demands and had complied.

"Humans are rare in packs, to have two is something which terrifies her. Growing up, her Alpha's son threatened to do to her, what those traitors did to your daughter. It is a fear she has had to live with for years and she feels it doubly so with both of your daughters."

Jackson Teller was a wizened wolf, especially when he learnt from his grandfather's knee all about his pack and his duties. He could immediately see his new Luna's solution.

"She wants us directly in the pack house, doesn't she?" Rae looked stunned at her husband for a moment before turning to her Alpha.

"Yes. At least until the pack learns that this won't be tolerated and any attack will mean that wolf will be considered a traitor and killed."

"Strong words for a young Luna. I take it she understands the repercussions of these new laws?" Jackson did not know about his Luna's previous position and Ashton smiled.

"You've heard of Rosewood pack, Teller?" Jackson nodded immediately.

Rosewood, in his opinion, had risen through the ranks of efficiency and care for pack members. They were well within the top five packs that held such ranks.

"She was their strategist. She's planned for every possible outcome of these laws coming into effect and knows the varying consequences. She's also got ideas in place, ready to execute if said consequences show their head. She wants to head off disasters and keep it to minimal damage. But your children are her main concern right now."

Rae frowned slightly.

"She isn't trying to take them, is she Alpha?" She immediately blushed as her Alpha gave her a calculating look before he smiled.

"No. She has younger siblings who she helped her father take care of when her mother, his mate, passed away. It's natural instinct carrying over to the vulnerable. It probably hasn't helped that her previous Luna doted on the three siblings as they grew up, so it's all she's ever really known."

Rae relaxed immediately.

"Alpha Irwin?"

"Trainer Teller?" Came the amused response and Jackson smiled.

"Thank you, on behalf of my family, for protecting them."

"We'll make genius' out of them yet. Both girls will be sitting in on my meetings with the other Elders to learn. As Cassidy told me, she earned her place in the pack from the kindness of her Alpha and Elders. No thanks are needed for common sense."

That stunned the Teller parents as Roxanne finally allowed her Luna to bring her back over.

“Luna, please, are you okay?”

Cassidy smiled at Jackson and nodded her head, pushing Roxanne into her new mothers arms.

“It’s just, it’s scary hearing it and being utterly helpless. But she was smart and those boys will be punished.”

“If I may? How will you punish them?” Jackson kept his tone polite and Cassidy nodded her head slightly, letting her hand slip into Ashton’s.

“Mr. Teller-”

“Jackson, please Luna.”

“Jackson, what are the laws against treason?” Jackson frowned as his mind went over the instances for treason to occur.

“Depending on the severity, it varies. If they only had knowledge, it would mean exile at least. Actively working against the Alpha could result in death.”

“Your girls are under Alpha Irwin's protection. It was made known last week. You saw the public pack trial. Those boys will be banned from shifting until they are deemed safe. At minimum it means they will not shift for two years. If they fight it, it will result in exile. And this is being lenient considering it was attempted murder.”

Rae Teller felt her blood run cold.

“They deserve it.” She half growled, cradling Roxanne close. Jackson sighed but nodded in agreement.

“Let us settle back in, and we’ll be by to visit young Trixie. For now, head back to the surgery, we’ll see you later.” Ashton instructed and the Teller’s bowed before departing.

Once the door shut, Ashton gently kissed his mate, the sparks making the euphoria bubble through his body. The minx of a mate pushed herself against his hard cock, a smile playing on her lips.

“Is there anyone in the pack house?” She breathed and he paused as he used the link to search out his pack members.

The entire house was empty before he remembered that it was a school day which also meant that the adults would be at their jobs and even the night shift wolves were away from the house.

“No.” He growled before watching in amazement as his mate pushing him against the wall, falling to her knees whilst pulling his trousers down, boxers and all, allowing his cock to spring up and she smirked at him.

“You’ve been such a good mate, let me show you how pleased I am.” She breathed before taking his cock into her mouth and suddenly he was seeing stars as his body reacted, his hands and fingers sliding into her hair as she began to move.

The heat on his cock, along with her ministrations against his balls, it built his orgasm fast before she hollowed her cheeks out and shifted herself allowing him to hit the back of her throat.

“Cassie, oh fuck baby yes, yes, OH!” All his inhibitions vanished as he came, his hips jerking as she continued her motions and he moaned loudly.

As she licked him clean, he kicked off his pants and underwear, growling under his breath as she licked her lips and laughed.

“Good mate.” She teased playfully before he bodily picked her up, throwing her over his shoulder before strolling into the kitchen. He situated his mate on the counter and ripped the clothes from her body, earning him a shriek of surprise, which turned into a moan as he didn’t hesitate and pushed his fingers into her.

Pushing her on his back, he removed his body, sucking both fingers before climbing on top of her, his lips nipping and sucking at her skin, teasing her nipples and causing her to writhe on the counter top.

He travelled lower, biting and sucking the skin as he did so, hickies forming in his wake before he reached her clit and pushed his fingers back into her, making her body arch upwards.

He began slowly, curling his fingers deliberately as he brushed her g-spot and she began begging him, her gasps of his name mixed with the pleas.

Pulling her up, he flipped his mate so she was on her hands and knees and he found the irony of this position considering wolves were apart of the canine family.

But his thoughts derailed as he slowly pushed himself in and she moaned.

His hand pulled her up as he began to thrust, his movement slow as he snaked his arms around her body, one hand alternating with her nipples and his other began working on her clit.

His positions hit her g-spot perfectly and he made her orgasm thrice, her cum slicked across his cock and dripping on the countertop before he began to move faster, their skin slapping together.

His orgasm built as she orgasmed twice more, his fingers working delicately but furiously as he chased his own orgasm, thrusting once more, the force making her come and his canines biting down on her mark, making her body jolt against him.

His wolf was close to the surface and as his seed spilled into her, he paused for another moment before turning his mate around once more and lying her on her back as he pulled out, his cock firm once more as he began to kiss her and pushed back in.

He knew his wolf was in control as a growl slipped out as he thrust over and over, his lips firmly attached to her nipples and fingers working her clit.

She didn’t have time to recover, her body reaching orgasm over and over as he hit the spot perfectly before his own orgasm spilled into her once more, this time his canines elongating and biting firmly until he could taste blood, her cry of pleasure helping his human mind push the wolf back.

It took them a few moments of heavy breathing, unable to move before he pulled himself out, fighting his natural instincts as his mind sought the bond and there it was. His wolf had pushed the pack link to his mate and she was finally connected.

“Not that I’m complaining, but what was that?” She breathed as he kissed her soundlessly. On instinct, her hips ground against him as he did.

“My wolf just pushed the pack link to you. You may not have the shifting genetic, but you have the right DNA. Plus, that was all him. I’m certain he’ll push for pups before long.”

“I think it’s time you cleaned me up, mate.” She smirked and he found himself grin in response. Before he chased her upstairs, they tossed her ripped clothes and cleaned the counter before he growled lowly, chasing after her into their ensuite.

He was more than grateful that he’d reinforced the walls and made them soundproofed as he continued to fuck her, his primal instinct driving the need and stamina.

Cassidy found herself thanking the moon goddess for such an attentive and dominating mate.

Despite their shower, she felt the urge in her bones, pushing her mate onto the bed before she sank down on his cock, her body almost twitching in anticipation as she began to ride him slowly, listening to his moans mixed with her name.

She’d never experienced anything hotter in her life and she began to leave her own hickies on his skin, his hands gripping her hips as she kept the pace slow.

“Baby, please, oh my god please do something.” And in that instant, those words made her feel powerful. Alpha’s never begged, yet here her mate was, begging.

So she began to move faster.

He made her orgasm four more times before she finally picked up the pace, feeling the coil tighten around her abdomen.

As her mate came, sending her into a final orgasm, she bit where she had marked him, and surprisingly her teeth sank into his skin like butter, making him cry out her name as she tasted blood.

She rode out their orgasms before laying herself against his chest, her body moulder against his.

“If the moon goddess blesses us with children, that is her will. I feel ready to create a new family, to spend my life with you as we run the pack and prosper. You are mine and I am yours, my loving mate. And nothing will come between us.” Cassidy murmured to her mate. Ashton smiled.

“Forever, my beautiful, loving, strong mate.”

When the two of them had recovered, Cassidy got dressed, making sure to pick a shirt that hid the majority of the marks on her body. The only one she didn’t hide was the bonding one, knowing that Wolves would expect to see it.

Ashton watched her as she moved about, practically glowing with the amount of love he could feel from her. He began to understand why his mother went insane when his dad died. To lose this feeling? He knew it would drive anyone mad.

“C’mon, time to go visit the Tellers, mister big bad Alpha.” Cassidy teased as she tugged on her jeans, giving him a view of her ass. He laughed as he pulled himself from the bed, dropping a kiss to her cheek as she stood back up.

“Your wish is my command, Luna.” The tease made her flush but she grinned in return as she left their room and headed down to the kitchen.

The kitchen smelled of bleach, hiding the activities they’d done and when Ashton finally came downstairs, he laughed at her confused expression.

“I’d rather not horrify my pack members that do eat in here. Sides are cleaned down and disinfected so no wolves could begin to guess what we got up to.” The smirk on his lips made Cassidy roll her eyes, leaning up to press a gentle kiss to his lips.

“Considering I’m not entirely sure what came over us-”

“Instinct.” She scowled.

“For you maybe. Not a wolf, remember?”

“Sounded like one.” The tease made her blush, turning away from her mate in embarrassment. He could only laugh as he wrapped his arms around his mates waist.

“Pandora explained it well enough. Unless the Moon Goddess shows up on the back field to say otherwise, don’t fret. Now, we have two more humans to visit.” Despite the flushed cheeks, she smiled at him in return as they left the pack house together.

When they arrived at the surgery, Jackson was sat outside, Roxanne settled next to him. From what Cassidy could guess, she was asking him all kinds of questions.

‘She’s asking about what parents are meant to do.’ Cassidy jumped a mile, whirling around to face Ashton who wore a look of shock at her reaction.

“What was that?”

“Have you never experienced a link before?” Cassidy shook her head at the astounded question that left Ashton’s lips.

“The only link I ever experienced was when Alpha-I mean Isaac pushed the link to see the first hand accounts from what I’d discovered with his sons treason. And it was painful for me. I didn’t realise that it was, well, this.”

Ashton felt his heart seemingly soften at the sight of his mate look so bashful at her words.

“It’s probably why my wolf pushed forward earlier. He’s pushed our link to you, so you’re connected to the pack, the other wolves will sense it now. But you have direct contact with me.” A look of understanding crossed her features as she took his hand as they began to make their way towards the Tellers.

“Well at least it won’t frighten the life out of me next time.” She teased him as they got closer, Jackson looking up and bowing slightly to the two.

“Alpha, Luna!” Roxanne greeted happily, clumsily copying the bow that Jackson gave. He chuckled at her attempt.

“I’ll teach you yet, little one.” He murmured and she beamed at him in return.

Cassidy could see the vast difference, and how quickly she’d bounced back from the trauma.

‘Do you think she’ll need therapy?’ She asked her mate through the link.

‘Eventually, but for now the doctor has managed to put a superficial block on her memories. They’re going to pull it back bit by bit so she can process the trauma without going off the rails.’

“How’re you doing, Roxanne?” Cassidy greeted softly as Ashton responded to her.

“M’good. Abel came by earlier, told me that he was gonna teach me n’ Trix how to defend ourselves and escape if we need to.” Cassidy’s heart sunk but she realised that it was another layer of protection.

“That’s good. How about we head on inside and find your sister?” She held her hand out to the young girl who nodded, taking Cassidy’s hand and then guiding her into the surgery.

Ashton and Jackson followed behind at a sedate pace.

“Those two have talked non stop about her. I’m almost certain they’ll want for nothing as they get older, not if Luna has anything to say about it.” Jackson commented and Ashton chuckled.

“Or myself for that matter. They’re smart little girls. One who has taught herself electronics, anther who survived in a harsh world before finding her family. They’ve both got makings of great women and I’m looking forward to teaching them, along with the Elders.” Ashton explained and Jackson nodded in understanding.

“They’ve got a good start, and I have no doubt that if there are any more humans in the pack in the future, she’ll have something set up in place for them.” And Ashton could only chuckle at how right the older wolf was.

The visit with Trix had soothed a lot of Cassidy’s fears. She was dismayed at the scar that ran from the shoulder to her wrist, but the fact that the youngest was still alive was a miracle all the same.

By the time they headed back to the pack house, Cassidy was a lot more relaxed and wasn’t as agitated. She knew it had worried Ashton, but once she’d relaxed upon seeing Trix was okay as she could be, Ashton relaxed as well.

“What will happen to the parents of the wolves that attacked Trix?” Cassidy asked quietly later that night. They were curled up in his bed, one of his shirts covering her frame. Ashton sighed, pulling her closer.

“The worst they’ll get is a slap on the wrist for not curbing their children after the pack meeting. I’m going to remind them that I was well within my right to exile or execute them. That fear, although I hate using that fucking tactic, it will go the rounds and parents will not want to see their children exiled or dead.” Cassidy sighed.

“I know it’s not much, but I can’t come down too hard too fast otherwise they will rebel against me. I’ve been a fair Alpha since I stepped up after my father's death and I know there are many who would want to use this as a chance to complain about me, to go to the Elder Council in an attempt to have me removed as Alpha.” He explained and she nodded her head in understanding.

“I get that. Children can be taught. But it’s the parents I’m concerned about. I was accepted with ease because of my status as Beta’s daughter, human or not. Roxanne and Trix don’t have that. Trix may get more respect when it comes out that her mate is a warrior, but even then there will still be plenty who will see them as weak links, try to get them out. I don’t want them to suffer for something they can’t help.” Ashton pulled his mate closer, pressing his lips against her forehead.

“We’ll work it out sweetheart, I promise. For now, we can focus on the fact that they’re alive and they have the best person looking out for their best interests.” The compliment made her preen slightly, a chuckle falling from Ashton’s lips as he buried his face against her neck.

“Sleep, the world can wait for an evening.”

Feeling the security of his arms around her, Cassidy couldn’t argue his words as sleep claimed her.

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happy-haunts · 5 years ago

Text

Captain Blood (Pt.1)

Captain Blood (Pt. 1)

Chapter one | Constance pt.1 : Constance pt.2

Chapter two | Mister Topper pt.1 : Mister Topper pt.2

Chapter three | Madame Leota pt.1 : Madame Leota pt.2

Chapter four | The Hostess

Chapter five | Captain Blood pt.1 : Captain Blood pt.2

Chapter six | Emily DeClaire pt.1 : Emily DeClaire pt.2 : Emily DeClaire pt.3

Chapter seven | Finale

WARNING THIS STORY CONTAINS THEMES OF VIOLENCE AND ABUSE!

Constance moved toward me first but with a wave of my hand she was knocked back.

“I wouldn’t if I were you.” I lifted my arms on either side of me, “Surely you weren’t just planning to attack me? I thought you ladies had questions!”

Red got up and I waved my hand again but this time nothing happened, she walked toward me as I kept trying to propel her backwards and then punched me in the face, now if I wasn’t a gentleman I would have retaliated.

And I am not a gentleman.

I grabbed her by the throat and slammed her into the wall - we went spiraling through the insulation till we were back in the hallway, Red’s form solid now as I pinned her to the ground.

“You killed Emily and you’re making everyone in the mansion miserable!”

“Red!” Constance and the Hostess were in the ‘Cast members only’ doorway, I looked as Constance followed her shout with a gasp.

“What is going on?” My body went rigid which gave Red ample time to flip me off of her and pin me down herself, I looked past the red glowing woman to see Emily standing just down the hall - I had to reach her before…

I felt a cold sensation in my chest and I reached out my hands.

“Let me up! Before she-!”

“Before she what? Remembers everything you’ve done?” I was overwhelmed with the feeling in my heart.

“It’s too late, Emily can… passively influence someone with emotions.” Emily waved her hand and smiled.

“Oh that’s just a little party trick, my real talent is that I can cry on command!” Her smile remained on her face as Red and Constance both looked very concerned. Red let me up and we all returned to the Hostesses bedroom - since it seemed we had all calmed down. “So what WERE you two doing on the floor?” Emily nudged my ribs while wiggling her eyebrows in a suggesting manner.

“Why are you so chummy with him? He’s been forcing you to forget the life you lived! And it’s effecting the other members of the mansion.” Red placed her hands on her hips, “And I’m not into guys, especially not murderers.”

“Hey!” Constance shouted.

“Except you, my deadly dame.”

“I already knew he was making me forget, but he had good intentions! I promise!”

“You knew?” I was even shocked, I had thought she would forget no matter what.

“Yes, but that is no reason to fight!” She wagged her finger at the lot of us, “Do you two want to end up like the dueling brothers? Permanently damaging each other for all eternity?”

“No…” Red and I responded in unison.

“What was that?”

“NO!”

“And YOU mister, you need to explain yourself to these ladies! And stop brainwashing me if it’s hurting the mansion! You’re job is to try to keep us all safe, like Terra, alright?”

“Fine…” I rolled my eyes while crossing my arms.

“Don’t give me that tone!”

“Hold on,” Constance chuckled, “Why do you let HER talk to you that way?” I could feel heat filling my cheeks but tried my best to keep my expression taut.

“Why don’t you mind your business?”

“William!” Emily jabbed me in the gut with her finger, “Be nice! Why don’t you just tell them about your mortal life?”

The two girlfriends were laying on their chests on the bed, chins in their hands, and legs kicking back and forth while the Hostess sat on the floor holding a pillow to her chest.

“Yeah, go on William!”

“Tell us!”

I tried to fight the urge to tell them anything, but the coldness in my chest turned warm - turning my gaze to Emily I saw she was eagerly awaiting my story as well.

“Fine…”

❧

I had a painstakingly boring upbringing, learning from the same tutor everyday, practicing the same instruments, and hearing the same criticisms.

“William I don’t understand why you’re slacking, your brothers never had test scores this low.” or. “William I don’t know why you aren’t picking up the violin - Dorian plays it like a professional.” And even, “William I just don’t understand why your papers are so poorly written, Vincent’s writings are just so fascinating.”

My brothers were fantastic at everything as far as my parents were concerned, you would think this would reflect into my two older siblings but… no.

Dorian was the middle child, he never once even mentioned to me how he excelled in certain subjects. No, Dorian rather spent his time asking me about outfit choices and if his hair looked okay - not exactly humble but he wasn’t cruel either.

Vincent wasn’t boastful either, he spent his times musing about the afterlife or what the ghost of our grandmother had to say regarding my parents poor furniture choices. You see my brother believed he could speak and see the dead - which lead him to fantasize about one day joining the afterlife and wearing a noose around his neck.

The start of things changing happened when the town heard the news.

“So I saw Mrs. Hatchaway this evening in town.” My step-mother said as we all were sat at the dining table.

“Did you?” My father was cutting into his pork chops, “Has she considered marrying her daughter to one of our sons?”

“No dear, she told me that the Mayor’s son has passed away.”

“Claude? Why he couldn’t have been much older than Dorian … What happened to the poor boy?”

“Seems he was mixed up in a carriage accident with a slave woman.”

“Such a shame, people are dying more and more these days.”

Vincent nodded in agreement, “Yes the lucky ones get to go out so much sooner.” He leaned on his palm as he popped part of his pork chop in his mouth. “What a blessing to be young and dead.”

“I have to agree with Vincent,” Dorian chimed in as he wiped his cheek while inspecting his reflection in a steak knife. “I would much rather be young and dead than living long enough to get all…” He shuddered with his tongue sticking out. “… wrinkled.”

“Well it’s too late for that, it seems.” I pulled on the corner of my eye - indicating to Dorian who shrieked and looked closer at his knife.

“That is not funny William!” My step-mother scolded. “Apologize.”

“I’m sorry Dorian’s face looks like a raisin.” I shrugged and wiped my mouth with my napkin.

“What a good joke!” Vincent patted my back, “And a very accurate depiction of decaying skin.”

“YOU THINK MY SKIN IS DECAYING?!” Dorian was breathing heavily, “I need to be excused!” He threw his napkin down as he hurried to the washroom, leaving Vincent and I to snicker.

“Both of you that is enough, William I have no idea what to do with you.” Step-mother sighed, her hazel eyes glaring at me. “I would have thought we reminded you well enough to act better.”

I rubbed my bandaged hand while looking down to my empty plate.

“George, perhaps we need to try again, Elizabeth says that usually once isn’t enough.”

“Mary … I don’t know.”

“I wouldn’t worry mother.” Vincent chimed in, “William is still so young - personally I think you didn’t even need to remind him the first time … PERSONALLY I think it was rather cruel you reminded him at all -.”

“Excuse me, I don’t think I need to sit in on this conversation seeing as no one has once asked my opinion on the matter.”

“Sit down William, of course we would like your opinion on the matter.” My father tried his best to be understanding of the situation I found myself in.

I was a bastard.

My mother was a ‘slave’ as the town called her, they also called her a harlot and a temptress. Because apparently my parents COULDN’T have loved each other since they were of two different social classes, no, instead my father was a victim to a devil woman.

And I was the result of it.

But my father persuaded my step-mother to keep me, since I looked nothing like my birth mother. This also meant I never got to know my mother because that woman sent her away.

“I don’t think we do.” My step-mother corrected my father, “He’s hardly earned the right.”

“Just like we had no right to cremate dear Granny.” Vincent sighed, “And yet we did, now everyday when she coughs a little bit of her ash comes out.”

“Shut up, you can’t talk to ghosts.” I grumbled while rolling my eyes, “If you can then why don’t you find the Topper’s? They were ‘mysteriously’ never found right?”

“I don’t think anyone would believe me if I did say.”

“Because you don’t know, is there anything your imaginary friends CAN help with? Other than reminding us we messed up Granny’s burial?”

“Yes actually, they told me we have a visitor during the night in our graveyard.”

Father and Step-mother seemed rather alarmed, “A grave robber perhaps?”

“No … It seems our visitor is mourning.”

“That can’t be, there are no Gracey’s visiting.” Step-mother mumbled, I couldn’t fathom why it was they insisted to take Vincent so seriously! I excused myself from the table again and headed out to the graveyard - at least if there really was a grave robber or something I had somewhere to place my frustrations.

❧

Hours passed while I sat leaned against an unmarked headstone, inside the house I could hear them shouting, father and step-mother.

“You baby him too much! That is why he isn’t excelling!”

“I’m trying! Lord Mary can’t you see I’m trying?”

“Obviously not hard enough!”

I closed my eyes while they screamed, trying my best to fall asleep instead of listening to them argue about what was wrong with me.

I felt something brush against my hand in the grass - making me flicker my gaze open and grab onto someone’s wrist.

“I’m sorry!” A girl dressed in black shouted, she winced as if I was about to strike her.

“Who are you?” I looked at what brushed against my hand, flowers?

“E-Emily …” She whispered, “I just… I didn’t mean to wake you up.”

“What the hell are you doing here anyway?” I released her wrist and leaned back on the headstone with my arms crossed.

“Oh, I’m just placing flowers on the graves.” She gave a sad smile, if I hadn’t have been looking so closely I would have missed it. Her lips tilted upwards but her eyes remained tired and dark.

“Why? They aren’t your family.” She took a seat beside me now, holding a bouquet of wildflowers, her tanned fingers were caked in dirt.

“Because my family is … far away… So I thought I would remember the people here.” Emily traced her fingers over the faded headstone letters.

“How ridiculous, none of these people would care about you when they were living - I wouldn’t give them the time of day.”

“You don’t know that, this one could have been the kindest man you had ever met, and that one with the purple flower could have been an amazing opera singer.” She paused a moment as she considered the two headstones beside each other. “They could have been lovers, but they were only brought together by death.”

“Or they were stuck up rich people who only choose to talk to someone if they’re the same social class.” She bowed her head sadly, picking at her flowers.

“Maybe they were loving parents…” I thought she was trying to take a jab at me initially, but then I noticed the tears watering the flowers in her hands. “Maybe they shouldn’t even be in a grave … Maybe they should be walking through the door, apologizing for taking so long.”

“Hey, are you okay?”

She lifted her head and wiped away the tears with a smile, “Of course! It’s my fault really, I have allergies and here I am picking flowers.”

“Don’t lie to me, was that … did you lose someone?”

“It’s nothing really.”

“Hey! I said don’t lie to me!” She chuckled and gave a sad nod.

“My parents passed away about a week ago maybe? I honestly can’t tell, I’ve been cooped up in my room most of the time … It was my fault though, I insisted they take a night for themselves and then …” Emily hugged her knees. “They had an accident that night.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“It’s alright, it just feels so good to talk about it.” She smiled, a genuine smile, I was almost knocked backwards when I saw it. There is little I can do to describe it, it was a smile that conveyed such a feeling inside me as if I were enveloped in warm arms - as if I was just told everything will be okay, that things will work out.

As if I were falling…

“I’m - um - glad I could help.”

“Will you be here tomorrow night? I’d love to see you again.”

“Y-yeah I’ll be here!” I answered so quickly, what was even the matter with me?

❧

I hardly got any sleep that night - because when I dreamed I dreamed of her, she was in a white sundress in a field of those flowers she picked, Her blue eyes were turned to me as that smile kept me entranced. I walked toward her, taking her soft hands only for her to move toward me and right before she would kiss me.

I would wake up.

I had entirely given up on trying to sleep the rest of the morning so I headed into the dining hall where sounds of the servants preparing breakfast could be heard.

“A bit early for you isn’t it William?” Vincent was already sitting at the table with a glass of orange juice in his hand, beside him was another glass which had already been emptied. “Just in time! Granny was telling me all about your date last night.”

“And was ‘Granny’ watching through the kitchen window?”

“Now William, I would never spy on your entire conversation … Just the interesting bits.”

“There wasn’t anything interesting anyway, just some girl leaving flowers in the graveyard.” Vincent leaned over to me as I took a seat beside him.

“Just a girl that is keeping you from getting any sleep right now.” I felt the heat rise in my cheeks. “I had a love like that once, and then she went to study abroad … Ah what I would do for just one more conversation.”

“She’s not my love and I’m not IN love, if mother and father have shown me anything it’s that love creates nothing but bitterness.”

“You have your own life to live, don’t let anyone keep you from what makes you happy.” I couldn’t help it but I actually smiled to Vincent.

❧

Emily and I met up in the graveyard several times, mostly we would talk about life and the things that bothered us but overtime we transitioned into teaching each other to dance. I can’t say I was surprised that Emily was so light on her feet, but I was impressed with how fast she could pick up any dance. This also lead to her teaching me new songs since her parents used to sit with her when they had a moment of peace, and sing her to sleep. Her voice was lovely … it was lovely in a way that broke my heart, a tune that sounded warm and inviting but beneath it felt lonely.

Amazingly as days moved forward life at home didn’t seem quite as dreary, my father and I became closer - he would often share stories about my mother … About how much he loved her. My brothers and I even grew closer as I asked Dorian for advice on what I should wear to impress Emily, I asked Vincent what things I could talk with her about? His answer of course was to talk about the family since we were in the graveyard, surprisingly good advice.

Step-mother seemed to have gotten worse, she would silence herself at the mere mention of the graveyard girl - as well as I believe she may have overheard father talking about his affair with my mother.

But that day…

I know she had something to do with that day.

“I don’t understand! What have I done?” I screamed at father.

“Your mother and I agree that you’ll be taught proper discipline in the Naval forces.”

“She is NOT my mother!”

“You will hold your tongue! This is why you need to be sent away! You are a spoiled boy and that GIRL has filled your head with fantasies!”

“FANTASIES? Because someone actually cares about me even if I am a bastard? Because she doesn’t pity me like YOU PEOPLE!”

Vincent had stepped into the library where we were talking, “Finally! Vincent tell them! They think I should be sent away!”

“Well William, given the news I heard it’s better for you this way.”

“WHAT?!”

“You don’t understand the spirits-.”

“OH MY GOD! ENOUGH WITH YOUR STUPID SPIRITS!”

“Fine! Let’s not lie to the boy! He wants it outright!” I had never seen Vincent angry before, but he marched toward me and grabbed the collar of my shirt. “You managed to piss off that girl’s grandfather! And unless you want to end up on his list you’ll leave!” He shoved me into the bookshelves and huffed. “I invite death, brother, but I’ll hang myself before I have you die first.” And as soon as he was there he left.

“What about Emily?” I growled while I looked to my parents, “I’ll go anywhere so long as I know Emily won’t be punished.”

“She’ll probably be sent to a convent, same as your mother, for being a harlot.” Step-mother sighed, holding her arms as she looked at me sadly. I wasn’t happy hearing that but a convent was better than an asylum.

“She isn’t a harlot, and I’ll hurt anyone who harms her.”

❧

The first ship I got on I was worked to the bone, sword training, mopping the decks, carrying produce to the galley, and various other tasks before finally given real sailing experience.

Everyday I worked on that ship I grew more and more tired, we hardly got food and hardly got paid, I could see in the faces of my crew-mates that they were exhausted.

I had every intention of making it to Captain one day - to getting my own ship- but due to the conditions I sprang at the opportunity to start a mutiny.

And once we had the ship we were unstoppable!

It’s amazing what one can accomplish with a happy crew, we went from town to town and took what we pleased! I gained a reputation from my ruthlessness - Captain Blood they called me, for the ‘B’ burned into my hand.

Part time I would also take jobs from the Kings, Queens, Mayors, and Moyoresses whom requested I ‘get rid’ of the undesirables in their cities. Undesirables can be a lot of things, homeless folks, thieves, and even gypsies. So it was no surprise to get a letter from the Mayor of Liberty Square requesting my services to ‘get rid’ of a band of gypsies loitering in their town.

I also considered this letter as a way to perhaps visit my parents and see how they had been getting on as of late.

❧

We made port along the river and I made it my mission to visit the mansion first - only to find out … Father and Step-mother had passed away.

Upon asking the town they had claimed someone killed them in their sleep, taking nothing from the mansion other than its former owners. Vincent and Dorian both had their own mansions by now and so this one was left to rot, I found it rather suitable that I might take this mansion in place of my parents - and seeing as I was on my way to speak with the Mayor…

I knocked upon his door only to have a servant woman answer and lead me inside to wait in the foyer.

I inspected the mayor’s pictures on the walls, most were of his son - Claude I believe? I could hardly remember seeing as I hadn’t been back here for years. There was something familiar about Claude though, he had remarkable blue eyes - I could have sworn I had seen them somewhere before? If he hadn’t passed away I surely would have tried to bed the man, he was quite handsome.

“Captain Blood.” Came a deep voice from the entrance to the dining room, standing in the doorway was a large man with white hair and a white beard.

“Ah, Mister Mayor! A pleasure to make your acquaintance, I heard you had a problem with a little band of gypsies.”

“Just one.”

“One? From the letter it seemed you were referring to an entire band?”

“The issue of the group has been dealt with by other disgruntled townspeople, however there is one that is still pestering my town.” His eyes seemed to glance to the stairs for a moment before he looked back into my own. “The town has begun referring to her as the canary, normally something so minuscule as this could be handled myself but…” He closed his eyes with a frustrated sigh, “Evidently she’s convinced those of the law and citizens alike that the structure of this town and class systems are to just be ignored, which is why I’ve turned to you for help in this matter - a man with murder in his blood surely can bring her here so I can see to it she is dealt with accordingly?”

I scratched my chin a little as he spoke, this wasn’t just any regular job where I could find new homes for some unfortunate people - it seemed the Mayor was more concerned with keeping his position as the top of some class system.

“I’m not sure I completely agree with your logic, one person can’t overturn how a society is ‘structured’ overnight, and besides towns change! People die off! Some things are inevitable!”

“No!” He stepped toward me but composed himself almost immediately after, “We should not let a born criminal roam the streets impacting those around with lies, the lies should be stopped and the criminal punished accordingly.”

“Do you not trust your own people to think for themselves, Mayor?” I crossed my arms over my chest and leaned back onto the wall decorated with his family portraits. “I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase ‘you can lead a horse to water but cannot make them drink’, correct?”

“Horses can be broken.”

“I don’t think you understood what I was saying-.”

“I understand that you are not willing to proceed with my request, and if you will not change your mind Captain I would prefer if you would leave my home.”

“Well that is the other interesting thing, I am looking to purchase a plot of land here, that abandoned mansion specifically.” I nodded in the direction of, what I could assume was the mansion next door.

“I already have a gypsy pestering my town Captain, I do not need your kind as well.”

“How about this, you let me purchase that mansion and any of my men that stay back with me are yours to pay to find this enchanting canary girl for you? After all I have some rather sketchy lads in my outfit I’m sure one of them has so few morals as to fulfill your request.” This made the Mayor consider me for a moment.

“Alright, agreed.”

“I do have one stipulation, no murdering, you see murder in a little town like this can get so out of hand and I don’t need the heartache of my men going through that - not to mention this canary business is so tedious, so if that stands to reason with you?”

“Why of course, Captain, I would never wish to be so corrupt as to attempt a murder.” His smile didn’t convince me much but I could only really take this man at his word.

“Good enough for me, now if you excuse me I have a mansion that needs renovating.”

❧

I worked tirelessly with my men on building the mansion, bringing wood, wallpapering, and polishing old marble. It was a sight to behold - if my parents could see it now.

And that night as celebration we snuck into the town- I could hear the gypsy caravan’s music in the distance, I think I got through two houses with a sack full of silvers and gold when I heard my men laughing in the distance as well as another voice.

“Got a whale of a tale to tell you lads! A whale of a tale or two! Bout the flappin fish and the girls I’ve loved on nights like this with the moon above! A whale of a tale and it’s all true I swear by my tattoo!” I rounded the corner and almost laughed, my men were clapping and singing with a little gypsy girl. “There was typhoon tessie!” The girl hopped up on a lamppost across the street, “met her on the coast of java! When we kissed I… bubbled up like molten lava!” She acted like she fainted into the arms of the men and hopped back onto the streets, flipping around her yellow dress as she danced and sang. “Then she gave me! The scare of my young life! Well blow me down and pick me up she was the captain’s wife!” And then the men were all singing.

“Got a whale of a tale to tell ya lads! A whale of a tale or two! Bout the flapping fish and the girls I’ve loved on nights like this with the moon above! A whale of a tale and it’s all true! I swear by my tattoo!” I was leaning on the lamppost watching now but I figured I needed to intervene before someone woke up and saw a girl who was possibly 5’nothing dancing with pirates who were 6’0” or more.

“Alright!” I called out to them with a chuckle, “Get your shit back to the ship and get out of my sight, I need a word with our entertainer.” The men all laughed and said their goodbyes while the girl waved them off with a large smile on her face, she looked to me now and held out her hand. As I approached I got a better look at her, her dark brown hair was framing her face as some wisps kissed her red lips, her blue eyes were almost illuminated with the blue held within, warm brown skin that was being hugged by her dandelion yellow dress, and falling from her hair were white wildflowers.

“Hello, I’m Emily.” I shook her hand as well as lifted her knuckles to my lips.

“Captain Blood, a pleasure to meet you.” She withdrew her hand and gave a rather bashful smile, considering she was just having a midnight concert with pirates. “My dear, I thought they taught girls to stay away from pirates?”

“I guess I don’t listen very well.” She shrugged and then placed a hand on her hip looking me up and down. “And what about you?” I was taken aback.

“Me?”

“I just thought a pirate captain wouldn’t be so scared to dance.”

#captain blood #the haunted mansion #madame leota #the hostess #william gracey #vincent gracey #fanfiction #disney #disney parks #disneyland #disney world #wdw #pirate #we wants the redhead

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