#werewolf lucien

[dreams-shape-the-world]

Michael Sheen, giving me the chills in both of these pictures. And the extreme differences in characters. From a leather wearing feral werewolf, to an sweet fluffy angel. How can we not love him?

[guppyscolita]

Guild and Lucien west from Fortnite

But werewolves because the have that vibe imo

[koifishii]

Quick doodle for you all

[sperylion]

Yay, Lucien West

[shadowisles-writes]

Innocent (Part 1) [Elucien]

A/N: Here is the first part of my gift to @kingofsummer93 for the ACOTAR gift exchange <3 A big thank you to everyone behind @acotargiftexchange, this is always one of the loveliest events of the year!

Summary: Lucien had always thought his life would be normal—or as normal as it could be growing up in a werewolf hunting family. All it took was one full moon for the truth to unravel in front of him and force him to make hard decisions. His fate was forever changed, and no amount of trying running from it could prevent it from catching up to him.

Huge thanks to @rosanna-writer for the beta <3

Read on AO3

.

And here I sit alone behind walls of regret Falling down like promises that I never kept - Castles Crumbling, Taylor Swift ft. Hayley Williams

6 years ago - Elain

Elain ran through the field with a shriek. The teenage boy with shoulder-length red hair chased after her, laughing as his longer legs easily caught up with her. His arms wrapped around her and Elain stumbled, unable to slow to a stop. The weight of his body and his own speed drove her off balance, and they collapsed in the grass together.

“You’re going to ruin my skirt again, Lucien.” Elain tried to check her cheerleading uniform for grass stains, but his body on hers covered most of it.

“It’s already too late for this one.” He gave a half apologetic shrug, knowing that she had an immaculate outfit to perform in folded in her closet.

Elain squirmed to look at the short skirt. “Where?”

“Right here,” Lucien grabbed her ass over the fabric and grinned.

“You’re impossible.” She tried to sound stern, but the way she tilted her head up to kiss him gave her away.

Lucien smiled against her lips, then quickly pushed himself to his feet and held his hands out to her. “Come on,” he lifted her until she stood. “I should drive you home.”

“Already?” Elain looked over to the almost empty parking lot. They had stayed long after practice ended, but it didn’t feel like enough time.

“Gotta stay in your dad’s good graces.” He squeezed her hand and led the way back to the locker rooms so that she could pick up her bag.

Elain knew that sulking wouldn’t help, but she was quiet all the way home. It had been four months, and Lucien still wasn’t allowed into her house apart from the occasional dinner. She followed her family to church every Sunday and endured the talks of abstinence and marriage, as if she would even get the opportunity to be alone with Lucien.

All he had ever done was kiss her. Hands wandered over clothes sometimes, but the only time they ever got to be together was the hour they stole after school and practice ended. Often enough, Elain’s father showed up after practice to pick her up and interrupted them, though he’d only ever found them sitting on the bleachers holding hands and talking.

Lucien wouldn’t take any chances and risk her family forbidding her from seeing him, but Elain’s patience was wearing thin. Nesta, of course, was always proper and only seen talking to the boys their grandmother thought would be a good match for her. No one cared enough about Elain to find her a match until Nesta was taken care of, so she was unfairly sheltered instead while Feyre ran wild, too young and headstrong for anyone to bother with her.

“Come on El, it’s not that bad.” Lucien placed his hand on her thigh as he drove.

“Aren’t you sick of it?” She traced the veins on the back of his hand and studied his profile.

“It’s not ideal,” he conceded. “But as long as I get to see you, I’m happy.”

“Don’t you ever get angry?” Elain asked, because she did. She got angry at the world for keeping him from her, for telling her that she was only a child and didn’t know what was good for her when her heart told her Lucien was the one she needed by her side.

“What’s the point?” Lucien glanced over at her and flipped his hand to lace his fingers with hers. “Of course I wish we could have more freedom, but I don’t see another way at the moment.”

“We have a year and half of this ahead of us,” Elain sighed. “I just… I don’t want you to lose your patience.”

“I won’t, never when it comes to you.” He kissed the back of her hand. “I promise.”

.

Dinner was quiet that evening, as it always was. Elain’s grandmother and her father were the only people who ever really talked. The three girls had been raised to know that children didn’t speak at the dinner table, and as they had gotten older the rule had never truly been lifted. Elain never had much to say to her family anyway, only answering questions when she was spoken to.

It was typically uneventful until her father had to leave the dinner table to answer the phone. The conversation was short and impossible to overhear, and Elain didn’t think any of it would matter until he sat back at the head of the table.

“Who was it?” Feyre asked.

“Beron Vanserra.”

Elain’s heart skipped a beat as she looked up from her dinner. The way her father was looking back at her did nothing to reassure her. Beron never called.

She was just about to ask about the reason when her grandmother stepped in. “We haven’t seen a werewolf in this town in twenty years. What would be important enough for him to interrupt dinner?”

Everyone knew werewolves were the most unpredictable creatures. Elain hadn’t heard of one anywhere near this town in her lifetime, and she could only pray it wasn’t about to change. Some towns were riddled with them, but hunting families like the Vanserras had cleared many areas for humans to safely live in.

Beron Vanserra and his oldest sons were some of the rare people who lived after facing down one of those creatures on a full moon. Lucien talked about it, sometimes, though he still had a few years before he would be forced to follow in his family’s tracks.

“It wasn’t about hunting. Lucien was in a car accident, he knows he picks up Elain for school,” he explained before adding, “You can take the bus tomorrow.”

Elain nearly dropped her fork. She couldn’t have cared less about school or the bus as she quickly asked, “What happened? Is he going to be alright?” 

“I assume he’s going to be in the hospital for a few days at least.” Her father reached for the spoon in the middle of the table and helped himself to more potatoes.

“Well,” her grandmother scoffed. “Good thing Elain won’t be getting in that boy’s car again.”

“I’m sure it wasn’t his fault,” she protested, unable to even look at her food anymore. “Can I call them back after dinner? Just to know if he’s alright?”

“His brothers will be at school tomorrow.”

“Daddy-” Elain began to argue, but Nesta interrupted her.

“I have my final project with Eris due tomorrow,” she said. “I was going to have to call to talk over a detail of the conclusion. I’ll ask about Lucien.”

.

Lucien

Everything had happened too fast for him to remember. One moment, Lucien was driving; the next, he was in a hospital bed. He tried to move his shoulder and immediately groaned from the pain that shot through his articulation. His arm was partly immobilized by a splint, and he could only wish they had put it on tighter as he breathed through gritted teeth. The room was entirely white, and the steady beeping by his head was enough of a clue for him to know where he was.

“Oh sweetheart, you’re awake.” Lucien’s mother quickly noticed his eyes were open and reached for his hand. His eyes followed her touch, noticing the IV in his arm and the plastic covering one of his fingers.

At least that arm wasn’t injured, he realized after carefully moving his shoulder to check.  “What happened?” He croaked before clearing his throat.

“You had a car accident,” she explained and handed him a glass of water. “Beron is outside, he’s on the phone with the insurance company,”

Lucien wouldn’t be surprised if his father never came into the room. He didn’t expect him to care beyond the cost of car repairs. Beron hadn’t spent time with him in years, always too busy traveling to nearby towns with other werewolf hunters to care about his youngest son.

“I don’t remember it,” Lucien said about the accident. “Was anyone else injured?”

“No, you only hit a tree.”

“Okay,” he breathed out, at least relieved that no one else had been hurt. “Did I hit my head or something?” It certainly didn’t hurt now, but maybe that was what affected his memory. “I just don’t remember anything happening in the car.”

“I-”

“I see you’re awake,” a nurse walked into the room and interrupted before Lucien’s mother could start her explanation. “How are you feeling?”

“Fine, I think,” Lucien diverted his attention to answer more questions.

Something was clearly going on with his mother, but she didn’t speak with the nurse in the room. After several questions and a promise to have a doctor check on him soon, the nurse left them alone again.

Lucien’s mother didn’t meet his eyes until she was sitting beside him again. Even then, it was hardly more than a glance at him. The tight bun that usually held her bright red hair had fallen loose, and her light brown eyes were rimmed with red.

Lucien didn’t remember the last time he had seen her so distressed. She was always put together at home, even in the worst of circumstances she could hold her head up and pretend everything was fine. Three of his brothers had been in accidents that sent them to the hospital before, yet she had never looked this pale waiting in their hospital rooms.

“Are you sure you’re feeling alright?” She fussed with the edge of his bedsheet.

“I’m fine. What were you going to say?”

“There are a lot of things I need to explain to you.”

“Just tell me what happened.” Lucien frowned, her reluctance to say anything only making his worry increase.

She kept staring at the bedsheet for a moment, then met his eyes, took a deep breath, and finally began to explain. “There’s something you need to know about your father.”

“What about Beron?” Lucien couldn’t fathom what that would have to do with his accident. Could he be cheating on his mother? Probably, he was a piece of shit and always traveling, but there was no reason to tell him that now.

“I’m not talking about Beron.”

“What?”

“Let me explain.” She rested her hand on his. “I should have told you this a long time ago, but Beron isn’t your biological father. Many years ago, before I was married to Beron, I met someone. My family wouldn’t have approved, for a million reasons, but we remained in contact through the years, and that man is your real father.”

“How the hell-” The heart monitor beeped faster as he processed the words. “How could you not tell me?” He pushed on his good arm to sit up, betrayal written all over his face.

“Lucien, please—” His mother glanced to the corridor to check no one would come in. “He’s a werewolf.”

Lucien laid back into the bed with wide eyes. He had grown up with Beron’s stories of the creatures, and it was expected he would learn how to hunt them too sooner or later. Every story he had ever heard depicted them as monsters, not people.

They were wild, they did not have feelings, they only killed. It was what he had been taught from the youngest age, it was impossible that his mother could have associated with one, or that he could be one of them.

“I’m so sorry, Lucien. I’ll tell you all you need to know now.” She blinked several times to clear the tears from her eyes. “Last night was a full moon, and you’re old enough that the symptoms are beginning to manifest. That’s what caused your accident.”

“How could you not tell me?” He repeated himself, still too shocked to say anything else.

It was impossible. It was going to destroy his life.

“I thought that because I was human there might be a chance you could escape it.”

“Escape it—they’re going to kill me.”

“Of course they won’t.” More tears rolled down her cheeks.“Your father, Helion, lives far away from here, I called him after your accident. You’ll live with him and learn how to protect yourself, there’s a place for you at the high school so you can still graduate and— I’m sorry, Lucien. I truly am.”

 Lucien’s mind immediately went to Elain. How could he explain himself? She would be terrified, she would hate him before he had a chance to give her an explanation. “I can’t just leave, Elain-”

“Can’t find out.” His mother interrupted vehemently. “It would put you both in danger.”

“I can’t just leave her like that,” he protested, but his thoughts were too frantic for him to figure out what he could possibly say to her either.

“You have to, or you’ll hurt her. Full moons will make you uncontrollable, and you won’t be able to keep it secret. Beron will kill us both, and Elain will be caught in the middle of it.”

Lucien quieted at that and brought his hand up to cover his face. He couldn’t think—could hardly breathe from too much information yet not enough for him to understand it all.

It took most of the day for him to calm down. His mother stayed beside him the entire time, answering every question he had and apologizing so many times he didn’t have it in him to remain angry at her. Beron had always been a horrible husband and father; there was no love lost between them,and he couldn’t really blame his mother for loving someone else.

It would take more than apologies to fix the broken trust between them, but there was no time for Lucien to sulk or reject her when listening was the only way they would both survive. The hardest part was hearing that werewolves weren’t monsters. Lucien didn’t believe he was a monster himself, but would these symptoms eventually make him into one? If werewolves could hide among humans, maybe even fall in love with them, why had Beron lied all of these years?

“Lucien, you need to know-”

“Stop.” He interrupted before she could start another one of her apologies. “I need… I don’t fucking know what I need, but just stop right now.”

“If I could keep you here with me I would,” she whispered anyway “but when lives are at stake-”

“I know they are!” Lucien’s voice rose with anger. “You think I don’t realize what a mess this is? And Elain…”

Lucien sank his teeth into his cheek until he could taste blood. She was too smart for him to just break up with her without an excuse, and it was only a matter of time until she showed up at the hospital. Even with her father opposing her, she was a caretaker, and she would always find a way to be there for the people she loved.

The only way for Lucien to keep her safe would be to make sure he wasn’t one of these people anymore.

[casart]

I felt like doodling my gay monster ocs and introducing them to you all. Here's Lucien (vampire) and Aga (werewolf) and they're in love and enjoy scented candles and horror movies

[laxmiree]

[CN] MLQC Season 2 Chapter 59 Translation [Lucien’s Route (2/3)]

⚠️  SPOILER ALERT  ⚠️

This post contains a VERY HEAVY SPOILER for the chapter that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

"Perhaps we won't be able to see each other tomorrow"... could he have already foreseen tonight's situation?

I will never allow anyone to hurt Lucien.

Translation under the cut!

[Previous Part-> Click Here]

—[Lucien's Route - 6: Crimson Stained Pool]—

Baldhead: Hey, you've all seen it, right? Tonight, we're going to kill that uncle!

As soon as night falls, Baldhead eagerly states his intention. We follow him towards the older man's room, but Mousy looks a bit confused.

Mousy: Why... is there something wrong with that uncle?

Baldhead: How can you be so dumb! That old man is indeed very active in discussions, and just like X said, it seems like he wants to have some control over the conversation.

Baldhead: But later, he didn't raise his hand immediately. Didn't you find that strange?

MC: Mm... it seems like he's a seer who isn't good at hiding his identity, subconsciously excluding himself from the "people who need to be verified.”

Baldhead: Not bad. MC gets it.

Baldhead: That old man is too unfamiliar with the game. He doesn't realize that we are watching every move he makes. Got it?

Under Baldhead's forceful words, Mousy only dares to nod timidly and follows our steps forward.

Tonight's operation was very successful. Everything goes smoothly, from opening the door to throwing the uncle into the pool.

Sweeping away the strange events of last night, the three of us werewolves see a look of satisfaction on each other's faces.

The clear water surface is dyed red again, and the pool emits that inexplicable light before dimming. I look at my two teammates.

MC: Today, I was the first to raise my hand. The others probably won't suspect me too much. So I plan to…

MC: ...take the uncle's place and act as the seer.

✂———————–

The next morning, there's a knock on the door again. I open it and effortlessly slip into the embrace of the person standing there.

MC: Hmm, I feel like my headache has eased... Is Professor Lucien still acting as the alarm clock in the game?

Lucien rubs my head and, seeing that I am indeed much better than yesterday, sighs softly and holds me even tighter.

Lucien: [chuckles softly] Yes. It's a hidden feature that's only available to a certain little lady who worries me.

I smile and bury my face in his chest. His shirt presses against my cheek, and his warm body temperature melts away all my stress.

Whenever I embrace Lucien, it seems I can break free from my werewolf role and reconnect with the real world.

At this moment, I only wish this moment could last a little longer.

✂———————–

When the butler knocks on the door for the third time, I reluctantly pull Lucien out of bed.

[....is 'doing it' possible in VR. anw man really sneak out so early to sleep together with her hjdfjhdfjdf-]

MC: Alas, it's time to go to the banquet hall for another "meeting" again~

MC: Such a magnificent banquet hall. It would be so nice just to eat and drink inside, but it's always a war of words every time.

Lucien straightens my crooked collar, unable to hold back a smile as he takes over the conversation.

Lucien: [chuckles] Indeed, it seems that in this villa, being the "butler" is much happier than being the "guest.”

Lucien: They neither "lose their life" nor miss the chance to enjoy the sea view every day.

As we pass the uncle's room, I see his name has already been crossed off the door plate. Lucien and I don't stop; we head straight to the banquet hall.

After the luncheon begins, I take a deep breath and stand up.

MC: Everyone, I am actually... a seer.

I say these words rather haltingly. Although I don't look at Lucien, I can feel his scrutinizing gaze.

.......This is really nerve-wracking; I'm so anxious.

Almost everyone present holds their breath, watching me and waiting for my words. I compose my expression, speaking in a serious tone.

MC: On the first night, I checked White Angel. She is a good person, so I didn't rush to reveal my identity.

MC: And yesterday, the uncle was very active but didn't raise his hand immediately, so I found him suspicious.

MC: I checked him last night, and the result showed he was human. I planned to clear his name today but didn't expect him to become the werewolves' target.

MC: Although I haven't identified a werewolf yet, I'm afraid that if I don't reveal my identity today, I might be replaced by a werewolf…

Baldhead: Wait a minute, you say you're the seer? Who knows if it's true or not!

Baldhead: Is there another seer here? If so, speak up!

Baldhead questioned me as I planned to solidify my identity. Sure enough, no one else steps forward.

.......We bet correctly! The uncle really was the true seer!

I try to control my racing heartbeat and calmly observe the reactions of the others.

Angel: If MC were lying, the actual seer would have come forward. There's no mistake. She is the seer.

White Angel is a petite girl. After speaking, she looks at me with a smile, her eyes showing evident affection and trust.

I smile back at her, barely able to contain the overwhelming joy inside me.

Let's let it unfold this way. Now that there's no one to contradict it, no one can expose this "lie" that has become an established fact!

Joker: Anyone could be a wolf, and everyone could be lying.

Joker speaks coldly, pouring cold water on my overwhelming joy without mercy.

Joker: To place all your trust in an unverifiable statement is the height of foolishness.

MC: …..

I secretly grit my teeth. I know that he wouldn't let me off the hook so easily!

I hold back my anger and calmly return a smile at him, but suddenly, a long-haired man on my right side stands up.

Long-haired man: My intuition tells me that MC is lying. We should vote her out!

MC: …..?

Long-haired man: When she mentioned the inspection results, it was as smooth as if she had rehearsed it. Her emotions were clearly acted out!

His eyes are filled with conviction, and his tone is rhythmic and compelling…

If only his rousing words weren't directed at me.

I nervously organize my rebuttal, and even my breathing becomes messy.

How come so many people in this game seem to have mind-reading abilities? How are we ordinary people supposed to keep playing?!

Lucien: Can you listen to my thoughts first?

At that moment, Lucien suddenly breaks the stalemate, standing between me and the long-haired man like a fair and just judge.

Lucien: Voting for execution is the only way to punish the wolf in the game. You can't make a decision based solely on revealed roles or doubts.

Lucien: However, the associated risks cannot be ignored. So, for this vote, please consider which person would benefit the current human faction more.

His words are neither biased nor include his judgment; he simply organizes everyone's thoughts.

I look at Lucien; his gaze is as clear as ever, without any unnecessary emotions.

Because of my prolonged gaze, he even tilts his head slightly as if asking me what's wrong.

I force a smile at him, trying my best to ignore the strange feeling in my heart.

Lucien... he must be secretly speaking up for me, right?

After all, under his guidance, the focus of the discussion has shifted from whether my role as a seer is real or fake to whether the long-haired man or I should be voted for.

The long-haired man clearly did not expect to become a suspect himself, and his voice is filled with frustration.

Long-haired man: I've been a stage actor; you shouldn't doubt my professional judgment! Do you think I can't tell the difference between acting and reality?

After a moment of silence in the room, Zhao Jianqiang, whose nameplate read “Strongman” ("Qiang Lai Le"), cautiously glanced at me and spoke.

[T/N: so……… how do I explain this joke? "Qiang Lai Le" comes from the phrase "你的强来了" (nǐ de qiáng láile), which literally means "Your strength is here." It's a buzzword that roughly translates to "I'm here to support you." This perfectly coincides with Zhao Jianqiang stepping in to support the MC right on time~]

Zhao Jianqiang: But if you're an actor, shouldn't your acting skills be better? According to what you're saying, you yourself seem more suspicious…

Angel: The person that she checked last night died this morning, and she still needs to disclose their identity. If it were me, I would also need to prepare a statement in advance.

Granmeow: Reality isn't a script. It's natural for people to get nervous when they're suspected.

The man with long hair's face turns extremely unpleasant. No matter how much he argues, others only become more firm in their thoughts.

The final outcome is beyond doubt; he becomes today's victim.

This time, people left the banquet hall early, one after another. After all, no one wants to see such cruel scenes again.

I turn around and take a glance. The man with long hair has already disappeared into the pool. I then turn back and walk towards Lucien.

Lucien doesn't mention the "bloodbath" at the banquet. He simply raises his arm, inviting me to join him.

Lucien: There's still some time until nightfall. Do you want to explore the mansion together?

MC: Of course!

I loop my arm through his, deciding to cast aside the worries in my heart and savor the rare moment of being together with Lucien.

Outside the window, the clouds press lower and lower, blending the sky and the sea into one in the mist.

✂———————–

—[Lucien's Route - 7: Unspoken Feelings]—

Lucien and I walk along the intricately decorated corridors of the mansion, occasionally encountering other players who are also searching.

When we run into Zhao Jianqiang, I notice his complexion is a bit pale.

MC: [worriedly] Why do you look so pale? Do you need to rest?

Zhao Jianqiang: I'm fine, boss, just a bit of a headache…

MC: .......I also feel a headache, "Carnival Night" is quite a brain teaser to play.

I make sure he doesn't have any other symptoms for the time being and reluctantly feel a bit relieved. After asking the butler to help him rest, I continue on my way.

Although the mansion covers a vast area, there isn't much valuable information to be found.

Lucien and I stroll to the master's room. The tightly closed door is pushed open, and the heavy, wet sound echoes for a long time.

We both instinctively hold our breath and stand still.

In the pure white space, all that can be seen are clear waters. Rather than a bedroom, this place resembles an abandoned swimming pool.

The pool water gently ripples as if whispering or subtly warning, exuding an indescribable sense of cold and desolate beauty.

The snow-white walls and the bottom of the pool reflect a cool-toned light, and the space ahead seems like an endless liminal space.

Standing at the pool's edge, I suddenly feel an inexplicable attraction and deep fear, almost uncontrollably wanting to step into the water.

A hand wraps around my waist from behind, lifting me slightly off the ground. My toes trace a light circle in the air before I return to the floor.

MC: ….!

It is only then that I come to my senses and look at Lucien.

His gaze falls on the calm and mysterious blue pool water, then he looks at me and blinks somewhat pitifully.

Lucien: Does this lady want to explore alone and not take me with her?

Whenever Lucien speaks to me in this tone, my heart becomes completely soft.

So, I quickly dip my hand into the pool and sprinkle some water near Lucien.

MC: How could I not? Of course, I have to bring our Mr. Hunter along!

MC: I always feel like this mansion is so mysterious... Maybe there are some secrets hidden deep in this room as well.

MC: Will you go into the water with me to take a look?

Lucien and I intertwine our fingers together, and we slowly step into the pool, letting the cool water surround our ankles.

Step by step, we move forward. The pool water gradually rises to our knees, then our waists, gently pushing against our bodies as if guiding us to go deeper.

Lucien: Be careful, there are steps here.

After stepping over the underwater steps, the water reaches just below my chest. This is nearly the lowest point of the room, and my foot suddenly hits something hard.

Lucien reaches out and retrieves it. It's a metal box filled with yellowed pages that seem out of place in this mansion.

What is even more surprising is that the pages are completely dry, and they recorded some legends about an ancient underwater god and some incomprehensible ancient rituals.

A secluded mansion built by the seaside, with water visible everywhere inside, had an execution method of throwing people into the pool…

A series of clues appeared in my mind, and although they seem all related to my personal mission, they still leave me a little puzzled.

I hide my thoughts and cautiously phrase my question to Lucien.

MC: I don't quite fully understand all this information. Could this mansion be related to some kind of water ritual?

In the boundless pool, cool-toned light dances around us. The surroundings are so silent that only our faint breathing and the rippling of the water can be heard.

Lucien spreads out his hands and reaches into the pool water as if feeling this calm yet eerie expanse.

Lucien: These texts describe an ancient water ritual, and the design of the water channels in this mansion is also related to it.

He gently scoops up a handful of water and lets it fall back down, causing the light and shadows in the water to shift accordingly.

Lucien: I guess that with each person pushed into the water, a part of the ritual is completed.

MC: ...No wonder, when those people fell into the water, it was as if they were swallowed up by something, and the water emitted light!

Lucien: Hmm. So as long as we can draw the design of all the water channels connected in this mansion, we might be able to understand some things.

A meaningful smile appears on his lips, making me unable to resist asking further questions.

MC: Understand what?

Lucien: The truth behind the ongoing werewolf killings in this villa, the consequences of completing the ritual, and…

Lucien: The reason why the mansion's owner has yet to appear.

I am listening intently to his deductions while secretly plotting how to sacrifice everyone in the ritual.

But upon hearing the last sentence, I suddenly feel so guilty that I almost buckle and fall into the water. Quickly, I lower my head and change the subject.

MC: T-this is so dangerous! Let's quickly map out the pool structures in all the rooms and have everyone look for patterns together.

Lucien, who is standing in front of me, says nothing. When I look up, I realize he is silently gazing at me, his expression stern and cold.

Lucien: There is another possibility; perhaps we won't be able to see each other tomorrow.

MC: ….

I understand what Lucien means. Given his role as a hunter and outstanding performance over the past few days, tonight, he will likely be the werewolves' target.

I look at his faint, acquiescent expression, and suddenly, a heaviness settles in my heart.

I know that Lucien must have noticed my unusual behavior long ago.

I have never been good at lying in front of him. He must have already discovered the nights I secretly hid and the moments I was startled by my own cruelty.

I don't know how to respond to him. I should appear worried, but I want to tell him that the vicious "werewolf" never intended to kill him.

I also don't know whether I should continue enduring alone and playing this slightly strange role or be honest with him about everything.

Various possibilities tug at my mind, leaving me frozen in place. I don't know what expression is on my face, but it must be very odd.

A moist finger touches my cheek, and I tremble. I see that Lucien has already come to stand before me at some point.

Immediately after, he opens his arms and envelops me in a hug, covering up the response that I can't weave.

Lucien: [softly sighs, then whispers gently to comfort] Don't be afraid, we will make it to the end.

Amid the hallucinatory light reflections of the water, I am entranced, silently confiding all my anxieties and worries to Lucien through the long embrace.

✂———————–

["Perhaps we won't be able to see each other tomorrow." MAN 🤧🤧🤧 In addition to trying to probe her again, just like when he asked if she would lie to him, he predicted that other werewolves would definitely pressure MC. The outcome of this night would give him some kind of answer, and he couldn't help but secretly feel unease and grievance, which ultimately turned into a soft sigh as he comforted her again. No matter what, he will still respect her choice.]

✂———————–

—[Lucien's Route - 8: Heart Cleansing Cold Spring]—

Baldhead: Why are you thinking about killing Joker again? Did you forget that he was already guarded before? It's all for nothing!

As night falls, Baldhead and I engage in a heated debate over tonight's target for execution.

MC: I revealed myself as a seer during the day, so tonight, the guardian will protect me. Joker is too dangerous, he can't stay.

Baldhead: Then why not kill X? He's so clever. If we leave him till later, it's us werewolves who'll be the victims!

Baldhead: With so many people left, even if X takes someone out with a gunshot before he dies, it might not necessarily be us.

I endure the headache and listen silently, but suddenly, I recall the words Lucien said to me during the day.

"Perhaps we won't be able to see each other tomorrow"... could he have already foreseen tonight's situation?

I will never allow anyone to hurt Lucien.

From the beginning of the game, I've been very clear about my purpose in choosing this game.

Regardless of our roles, winning or losing this game doesn't matter. I want to walk through this game with him until the end.

I take a deep breath, trying to make my voice sound as calm as possible.

MC: You must have noticed that X and Joker have a distinctly different attitude towards me.

MC: Joker always shifts the suspicion onto me, while X often speaks up for me. It should be clear who should stay and who should go, right?

As soon as I finish speaking, Baldhead glances at me sideways, pulling a contemptuous smile.

Baldhead: You’re dressing your selfish motives with such grandiose words. Don't think I don't know—you and X know each other, right?

Baldhead: Every time you explore, you two are always together like conjoined twins, never separate. You just want to ensure he can be in the game for a few more days.

I instantly get angry and can't help but clench my fists. Because of self-righteous people like this, I've been having such a hard time playing!

As the atmosphere grows tense, Mousy weakly raises his hand.

Mousy: Um, how about we give up on these two and target someone we are sure to succeed with? After all, reducing the number of humans is our main goal…

We remain at an impasse for a long time, and in the end, we reluctantly draw lots from the remaining candidates and target the inconspicuous Granmeow.

Before we part, Baldhead stands before me and laughs mockingly without a care.

Baldhead: Now, let's see how the “fake seer" will come up with a story tomorrow!

✂———————–

Back in my room, I can't help but angrily pound the bed to vent my frustration.

MC: Damn it, it turns out that he looks down on me!

I toss and turn in anger, but there's nothing I can do because that person is my teammate. It’s only just before dawn that I finally manage to get some sleep.

However, I hadn't slept for long when the door was knocked on. I got up, still sleepy, and found that it was only 6:30 AM.

As soon as I open the door, Lucien walks in, opens his arms, and hugs me.

I initially want to say something, but when he holds me, the exhaustion and headache seem no longer need to be expressed with words.

I can't help but nuzzle his shoulder and mumble as I start to speak.

MC: Why is Professor Lucien the alarm clock going off so early today?

His chest is pressed close to mine and trembles like a resonating violin. Lucien's voice carries an unconcealed note of laughter.

[a fox wagging his tail happily when he finds out in the morning that his wife still wants to play with him.jpg. still, in addition to happiness, he is even more worried about her because it must be hard for her to protect him🤧]

Lucien: When I woke up this morning and found I was still alive, I felt that the little lady might have some troubles.

Remembering the argument with my teammate last night, I have the illusion of being completely seen through by him. So, I look up and poke the smile at the corner of his lips with my fingertip.

MC: It seems Professor Lucien is very happy?

Lucien shakes his head, his long fingers running through my hair, bringing a feeling of comfort to my heart.

Lucien: [in a gentle tone] Although I'm very happy, I'm more worried about you. How are you? Does your head still hurt?

Seeing me nod, he gently presses my forehead, the pressure so comforting it touches my heart. I lie quietly on him, unable to help but sigh.

MC: It's much better now, but... this game is more challenging than I thought. I don't know who I'll have to check next.

Lucien speaks softly by my ear.

Lucien: [whispers softly] Sometimes, to achieve a goal, it is necessary to sacrifice an unstable presence.

Upon hearing his whisper, my relaxed body feels as if it's been jolted by cold water, bringing me to full alertness.

An unstable presence...? This phrase sounds like a subtle hint, making me feel that Lucien truly knows something.

I can't help but look at him, and in those always captivating eyes, there is now only a gentle yet turbulent undercurrent reflected.

Outside the window, raindrops hit the glass, leaving behind glistening trails. After days of cloudy weather, the rain finally fell on the island.

✂———————–

The thunderous sound of waves crashing against the rocks comes from all directions, shaking the entire villa as if it were about to swallow the isolated island whole.

In the banquet hall, I stand up amidst the heavy and terrifying sound of ocean waves.

MC: Last night, I checked the Ferocious and Superior Baldhead. Unfortunately, he is a werewolf.

My accusation sparks a heated discussion, and I stand firmly amidst the flurry of voices.

Just as Lucien said, sacrifice is necessary, especially if it means sacrificing a "bad person.”

Baldhead: Nonsense!

Baldhead's face is full of disbelief as he pushes back his chair and stands up, his chest heaving violently.

Baldhead: This is a setup! I've always been human! How can you say that? You are the wolf!

I know, but so what? Aren't you curious about how I, the "fake seer," will perform today? This is my answer.

I look at him expressionlessly, my tone cold.

MC: As a seer, I'm merely stating the results of my checks.

Baldhead: You!

In the thunderstorm, the flickering cold light covers Baldhead's face, making his expression appear even more ferocious.

A twinge of fear arises in my heart, and I hear Lucien beside me start to speak thoughtfully with his calm voice.

Lucien: Hmm... I see.

Lucien: In the previous rounds of voting, he seemed to use emotional statements to guide the situation but quickly withdrew, avoiding decisive comments.

Lucien: His votes were also decisive, without any hesitation.

Lucien: This way of disrupting the situation without leaving any evidence does indeed seem like…

Lucien swallows the unfinished end of his sentence, and this pause clearly gives people more room for imagination. The others look at Baldhead with increasing conviction in their eyes.

Zhao Jianqiang: He... is the werewolf, isn't he?

Angel: There's no mistake. I trust MC.

More and more people believe that he is the wolf, the evil wolf mingling among the good people.

Baldman’s face is flushed red with anger, and I can even see his teeth gritting through his gaze.

Joker: Even if he is the wolf, you are not necessarily the seer.

Joker suddenly speaks, standing up while leaning on the back of the chair. His emotionless tone clearly conveys his distrust.

Joker: There is also a third possibility.

The Joker squints his eyes, his gaze circles between Baldhead and me, and finally returns to me.

Joker: It’s a dog-eat-dog* situation, a wolf kills another wolf.

[T/N: while 狗咬狗 literally mean “dog-bite-dog”, it's more of a metaphor for the struggle and fighting between bad guys]

MC: ….?

Joker: All of you subconsciously ignored a possibility. The real seer might have already died, and she is a fake.

Joker: If you later find out that the seer you firmly believed in is actually a wolf, there will be no turning back.

On the surface, I smile disdainfully, but in reality, I feel exhausted. He has guessed everything correctly.

Joker really should have been dealt with earlier! He will be executed tonight!

I don't dare let his words go unchallenged for fear that the people present might turn their suspicion towards me, so I can only speak up with “righteous indignation”.

MC: ....After saying so much, where is the evidence? It can't all be your subjective conjecture, right?

MC: Since I revealed my identity as a seer, no one has ever tried to "compete" with me for this identity.

MC: And Baldhead has never made any notable speeches; even if there were a vote, it would never come to him-

I take a deep breath, desperately and silently think of my words, then say them out loud with conviction.

MC: If we are all wolves, as you say, we should be biding our time and hiding our strength even more——

MC: Instead of throwing mud at each other at this moment, causing unnecessary losses to our own faction, right?

I speak convincingly, while Joker remains aloof, indifferently throwing a word.

Joker: Whatever.

In the end, those who were initially hesitant still tend to trust me.

The attendant drags the constantly struggling Baldhead toward the pool. Until the moment he falls into the water, he stubbornly looks at me, his eyes filled with hatred.

I do not respond to his gaze; I simply watch as the clear pool water is once again stained bright red.

✂———————–

—[Lucien's Route - 9: Lectures About "Dreams” (Non-story/a.k.a Stage part)]—

The closest dream represents the most distant thing.

✂———————–

[Next Part-> Click Here]

[blockedragon]

Damn it, I thought I'd be rid of these things once I left High Rock!

Oh just my luck, a swarm.

OHGODSOHGODS, IT WAS A NEST! OHGODSIORPHANEDTHEMI'M SORRYIWASJUSTTRYINGTODEFENDMYSELF, I-

I'll have him hold onto the eggs. They'll be uh- safe in the backpack. Yeah. (if they hatch in there they'll imprint on him instead and be his problem)

Oh shit, free dog!

...Okay, so I have some good news and some bad news. The good news? We may have two free dogs in a few days! The bad news? ...This is because I've contracted Lycanthropy. We've either gotta haul ass to the nearest shrine or invest in a very large kennel

Alright, now we just need to find the lady Isran sent us after, wipe out that Namira cult, and then we can finally finally leave and find out where that 'Sam' fellow went- gods damn it, not this again!

We'll at least the night can't get any worse, right?

What do you mean 'there's two of them'?!

Well, lads, we made it. And after this week-long, "single-day trip" where we were accosted by Minotaurs, Goblins, and Durzogs, fought several dragons, were trapped in a haunted house with Molag Bal, were mauled by Harpy swarms twice, contracted lycanthropy, found Isran's friend, and mascaraed half of Markarth by rooting out a cannibal cult, I think we can all agree on one thing... WE ARE NEVER VISITING THE REACH AGAIN!

[hischildrenofthemoon]

𝑾𝑬𝑳𝑪𝑶𝑴𝑬 ♱☾ 𝑪𝑯𝑰𝑳𝑫𝑹𝑬𝑵 𝑶𝑭 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑴𝑶𝑶𝑵

𝔄𝔲𝔱𝔥𝔬𝔯'𝔰 𝔑𝔬𝔱𝔢

𝑵𝑬𝑪𝑬𝑺𝑺𝑨𝑹𝒀 𝑾𝑨𝑹𝑵𝑰𝑵𝑮

Hello, there!

This is a side blog run by @ebiemidnightlibrarian, focusing on my OC'S (Original Characters), their respective stories and universe.

𝑰𝑴𝑷𝑶𝑹𝑻𝑨𝑵𝑻!

These stories are 100% mine, that is, I created, started and will finish them the way they were planned within the proper time. That said, I do not consent anything originally posted on this blog being copied/pasted/translated/or any other form of reproduction, to any site other than here, on this blog, without my permission. In short, not even over my dead body.

Thank you in advance for your attention and I hope you enjoy these stories made with great care and effort.

𝖙𝖍𝖔𝖗𝖓𝖊𝖉 𝖗𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖘 𝖎𝖓 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖌𝖆𝖗𝖉𝖊𝖓 𝖔𝖋 𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖑

Meet Ebie's Children of the Moon!

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝖁𝖊𝖓𝖊𝖓𝖆𝖙𝖚𝖘

���𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 lorian carfell will curse your soul

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 lorian carfell ♱☾ carfell aesthetics ♱☾ lorian aurelius carfell ♱☾ aurelius carfell

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕿𝖊𝖓𝖊𝖇𝖗𝖆𝖊

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 haester grimald is a creature of the night

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 haester grimald ♱☾ haester aesthetics ♱☾ haester malakhai grimald

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕸𝖆𝖑𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖈𝖙𝖚𝖘

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 father romero is haunted in every sense of the word

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 mateo romero ♱☾ father mateo romero ♱☾ romero aesthetics ♱☾ father romero

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕷𝖚𝖓𝖆𝖊

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 henry prescott was bitten by a werewolf

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 henry prescott ♱☾ prescott aesthetics ♱☾ henry grant bradshaw-prescott ♱☾ sir henry prescott

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕴𝖓𝖈𝖔𝖗𝖕𝖔𝖗𝖊𝖚𝖘

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 sebastian blackwood is tormented body and soul

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 sebastian blackwood ♱☾ sebastian aesthetics ♱☾ sebastian amadeus blackwood ♱☾ lucien darvell corvin

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕷𝖚𝖓𝖆𝖊

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 madeleine holmwood is hunting a werewolf

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 madeleine marion holmwood ♱☾ madeleine holmwood ♱☾ the werewolf's hunter

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝖁𝖊𝖓𝖊𝖓𝖆𝖙𝖚𝖘

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 abigail mortimer is doomed by the narrative

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 abigail katherina mortimer ♱☾ abigail mortimer ♱☾ abby mortimer ♱☾ the warlock's bride

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕿𝖊𝖓𝖊𝖇𝖗𝖆𝖊

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 charity beckford is a vampire killer

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 charity melissa beckford ♱☾ charity beckford ♱☾ cherry beckford ♱☾ the vampire's killer

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕴𝖓𝖈𝖔𝖗𝖕𝖔𝖗𝖊𝖚𝖘

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 helena hawthorne lives in a haunted house

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 helena circe hawthorne ♱☾ helena hawthorne ♱☾ lena hawthorne ♱☾ the ghost's soulmate

♱☾ 𝔐𝔞𝔦𝔫 𝔄𝔯𝔠 ♱☾

𝕾𝖆𝖓𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖘 𝕸𝖆𝖑𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖈𝖙𝖚𝖘

𝔭𝔩𝔞𝔶𝔩𝔦𝔰𝔱 sister agnes fears the one who lies beneath (technically not her own playlist, but the concept is the same)

𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 agnes fremkel ♱☾ sister agnes fremkel ♱☾ agnes mariah fremkel ♱☾ the shadow's chosen

𝔤𝔢𝔫𝔢𝔯𝔞𝔩 𝔱𝔞𝔤𝔰 thorned roses in the garden of evil ♱☾ children of the moon aesthetics ♱☾ the one who lies beneath ♱☾ serpentarium ♱☾ aleyna carfell ♱☾ naberius carfell ♱☾ the grimald brides ♱☾ hestia grimald ♱☾ lenore grimald ♱☾ andras grimald ♱☾ henry x madeleine ♱☾ lorian x abigail ♱☾ haester x charity ♱☾ seb/lucien x helena ♱☾ mateo x agnes

[msweebyness]

WereMiraculous- Some Significant Humans

Hey y’all! This is a little post I made to tell you about some important characters in my werewolf AU while we wait for the recess pack! @artzychic27 @imsparky2002

Lucien Rebois:

From a family of notorious werewolf hunters, Lucien and his crew are undoubtedly the bane of the four DuPont packs’ existence. They pose a frequent threat and have even managed to injure a few of the wolves. Lucien has a massive vendetta against non-humans and wants to wipe out as many as he can, and there’s also the fact that he’s an arrogant and misogynistic dickhead. It’s also definitely not a plus that Lucien is obsessed with Marc and wants to claim him as a little pet to keep for himself.

Caline Bustier:

Get ready, her story’s a bit extensive. Caline was a researcher of the paranormal, who, back when the Akuma Pack was around 8-9 years old and their sibs were like babies, was in charge of caring for and studying them while they were held in a research facility. Over the time she spent with them she grew very attached to the then pups, almost seeing them like her own kids, and they in turn grew to trust and love her in return. So when she found out after a year or so of them staying in the facility that they were being inhumanely experimented on…well, let’s just say she may or may not have stabbed a few people, stolen a company truck and left with them. So basically now the akuma pack has their human mama who takes care of them and just so happens to be a nationally wanted criminal for her actions in protecting them. She usually brings them food and things they enjoy she managed to swipe. They often feel a bit guilty that it’s because of them she can likely never have a normal life again, but she always assures them she doesn’t regret her actions to save them.

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reblogs!

[mirielsart]

POV: The year is 1885. You come back to your hometown from a twenty years trip abroad you'd been planning for centuries. A bunch of smelly mutts have taken over the place. Fun fact: the dress is inspired by an engraving I found on the internet. Late 19th century fashion was so cool.

[bitronic]

me: i play fortnite for the lore

the lore:

[hellboys]

i always thought my favorite type of monster was a werewolf but looking at my milf history apparently im a lot into demons/demonic creatures

[mika-no-sekai-blog]

As Halloween is getting closer I was thinking about which costume suits whom. For me Azriel and Cassian are clear - vampire and worewolf and nobody can convince me otherwise 🤗

One of these two, Lucien and Eris, could be kitsune. Or both.

But here comes a real dilemma:

What about Rhysand? Reaper? Headless horseman? Demon? I can't come with anything suitable. What do you think would suit his character the best? I'm really curious.

[sperylion]

More Lucien West cause I F** can!

[shadowisles-writes]

Innocent (Part 3) [Elucien]

A/N: Hello friends! Part 3 is finally here and in typical fashion it's not the last part it's supposed to be and a 4th part is in the drafts and hopefully coming soon <3

Summary: Lucien had always thought his life would be normal—or as normal as it could be growing up in a werewolf hunting family. All it took was one full moon for the truth to unravel in front of him and force him to make hard decisions. His fate was forever changed, and no amount of trying running from it could prevent it from catching up to him.

Read on AO3

It's alright, just wait and see Your string of lights are still bright to me, oh Who you are is not where you've been You're still an innocent - Innocent, Taylor Swift

Elain

Every soft jingle of the bell above her door made Elain’s head jerk toward it. It had been two days, and the customers pushing it open were never Lucien, but she couldn’t control herself. She had seen him for mere minutes, yet it was like she was sixteen all over again, walking through the halls of their old school after he had left and chasing every glimpse of red hair with her eyes. For months she had fooled herself into hoping she would see him again, but that shade of red always belonged to one of his brothers.

Elain wished she could remain closed off and erase his brief visit from her memory, but her head was swarming with questions. Mostly, she wanted to know how he had gotten such a brutal scar on his face. Sadness had radiated off him that day, but all she had felt was hurt and anger. 

When he had left, the only thing that had allowed Elain to bury his memory deep within her mind was knowing he would never come back. For years, it had been enough, but seeing him unraveled all of the lies she had told herself to hate him. Now that the memories had resurfaced, Elain wasn’t sure how she had ever managed to forget about him.

And so, her head snapped toward the door of her shop every time she heard it open. She was exhausted from being on high alert, her heartbeat kept on turning frantic and no amount of work could distract her.

“Good afternoon, darling,” a man called out as he walked through the door.

Elain jumped as she turned around and exhaled slowly as she recognized her friend.

“Hi Pete, how are you doing today?” She forced a smile on her face.

“I’m good, but you look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Peter rested his forearms on the counter and tilted his head to take her in. His fangs were visible when he spoke, but Elain had gotten used to seeing them a long time ago.

Coming from a town where werewolves were hunted, Elain had needed time to adjust to them openly roaming around this city. Peter had been her first encounter, and after laughing at her for a good half hour for being scared, he had taken the time to answer each of her questions.

Werewolves weren’t the uncontrollable creatures she had been taught they were, and becoming friends with a few of them had quickly desensitized her.

“Ah, something like that,” Elain chuckled, the image of Lucien in her shop still fresh in her mind. “How’s Sarah doing with the baby? You must both be tired still.”

“We are, I’m running some quick errands and I wanted to get her flowers. Hopefully it doesn’t make her cry when I get back.” Peter cringed at the thought.

“I’m sure it’ll even out soon.”

He sighed and nodded. Peter was a caretaker, always bending over backwards for his wife, but there was nothing he could do against the hormones that made her cry. “The baby sleeping through the night would sure help.”

Elain stepped out from behind her counter and began looking through her bouquets for something her friend would like. “Just wait until he gets old enough to howl at the moon with you.”

“God I hope there’s time for that,” Peter laughed and followed behind her, his eyes also scanning the bouquets.

“How about this one?” Elain pointed to a composition full of bright orange blended with softer tones that leaned into pastel yellow.

“Can’t go wrong with orange when it comes to Sarah, you’re a gem Elain,”

“It’s almost like I knew you’d be coming when I made it this morning,” she picked up the bouquet and got ready to wrap it up.

It only took a minute for Peter to pay for the bouquet and hurry back to his wife and newborn. Elain had thought she was successfully distracted until he was gone from the shop and silence settled in once more.

Her thoughts were free to run wild again

Her eyes remained trained on the door for long minutes, scanning the crowd of passersby on the street for the shape of his body. It was hard to believe that after all those years he would come into her shop once and never show his face again.

When evening fell and the sun lowered to bathe the city in a golden light, Elain finally breathed. There was only an hour left before she closed up, and it was rare she would get a customer during that time. Occasional, one or two people walked in, but on most evenings she used this time to tidy and get ready to close up.

Elain was sweeping some fallen bits of leaves from one of her stands towards the back of the shop when she heard the bell again. Immediately, her eyes shot up and her heart hammered against her chest.

There he was. He looked better than the last time she had seen him, dressed in clean navy blue pants and a well ironed white shirt. It must still have been warm outside, because the sleeves were rolled up and his long hair was up in a tight bun. One small strand fell from the top of his head, and Elain got the urge to brush it away from his cheek.

“What can I do for you today?” She was proud of herself for keeping a steady voice as she set her broom aside and wiped her hands on her apron.

He didn’t even pretend to look at the flowers, walking straight to the counter and tucking the strand of hair Elain was staring at behind his ear. “I came to apologize.”

“I haven’t seen you in six years,” Elain forced herself to shrug. She looked for ways to pretend to be busy, but there were none. “What could you possibly have to apologize for?”

“Leaving the way I did.” He held her eyes, his tone completely serious.

Elain felt her heart flutter at the intensity emanating from him. It had been the same when she was a teenager, she had blushed and stumbled all over her words before they started dating. She wouldn’t lose herself to the butterflies in her stomach again.

“We were sixteen, Lucien, I’m sure you’ve gotten well over that, and so have I.”

“I guess you’re right, but it looks like we live in the same city now.” He motioned to the shop around them. “I thought it might be strange not to talk at all.”

“It doesn’t have to be.” Elain sounded too casual to her own ears, and it was no surprise when Lucien cocked his head knowingly.

“Or maybe you still don’t want to talk to me.”

“Oh I wanted to talk, Lucien,” she scoffed, unable to help herself. Elain had been stewing in her rage and confusion since she had seen him again. “Six years ago. You didn’t, and now neither do I.”

“You don’t want to know why?”

“Not at all.” She gave him her best glare, but he’d always said she was no less terrifying than a fawn could ever be.

“Alright, if you say so.” Lucien shrugged so obnoxiously Elain knew he didn’t believe her. “I live a few streets from here, if you ever change your mind. It’s the yellow house with the olive tree.”

Her blood boiled, telling her to scream there was no way she’d change her mind. Why would she want to talk to him after what he’d done? Why should she care after all these years?

Lucien smoothed his hands over his clothes before he turned around and made to walk out of her shop. Elain watched, determined to remain silent, but she couldn’t stop herself before he reached for the door. There was one question that had been nagging her endlessly since she had caught her first glimpse of him.

“How did you get that scar?” She blurted out.

There was nothing but concern in her voice, but Lucien stilled. He turned with a blank look on his face, probably looking for a way to avoid answering her insensitive question. “I’m sorry,” Elain said when the silence became too heavy. “That was really rude of me.”

“It’s a long story.” Lucien eventually said.

“Of course,” she nodded. “You should probably get home, and I have to close the shop so…”

He took the dismissal with a half smile. “Have a good night, Elain.”

She barely managed to wish him the same before he disappeared in the dimly lit street.

There was little left to do before she could lock the door to the shop and drive home. Her mind was thrumming with their conversation, repeating every word over and over. There was so much to agonize over even all these years later that she couldn’t remember if she actually stopped for a red light before she reached her house.

It was small, compared to the other neighborhoods in the city, but it was enough and Elain was proud to own it. The outside was made of rough stones all in shades of gray leaning into beige, with windows and doors all built in wood that gave her home the appearance of a rural cottage.

Apparently, it was one of the oldest buildings on the street, the only one that withstood the storm that ravaged most houses before Elain was born. She was thankful for it and every sign of wear she could see inside. Her house was a home, full of memories and history she hoped she would add to one day.

Elain walked up the three steps that led to her door and gently pushed it open. She waited for the usual feeling of comfort to wash over her, but her mind was still high strung on Lucien. There would be no resting for her until she made peace with his presence in her city.

How long had he lived here? Did he suddenly move and coincidentally choose a place close to her? Or had he always been here and in the years that Elain had taken to build her shop they had simply never crossed paths?

She had too many questions and not enough answers. Remaining busy was the only way to prevent madness from settling in, so she began cooking and paced through her kitchen whenever she needed to wait. She couldn’t focus, her thoughts filled with Lucien and whatever explanation he had meant to give her earlier at the shop.

She ate mechanically, chewing and swallowing without really tasting her food until her plate was empty. She resisted until the end of her meal, then forced herself to do her dishes and eventually let out a groan of defeat. 

Unable to help it any longer, Elain got into her car and began to drive to Lucien’s house. The streetlights bathed the road in a warm light, but the full moon high in the sky made everything look colder than usual.

His neighborhood was close but far wealthier than hers, the houses three times as big. It only meant they were easier for her to identify with Lucien’s vague description.  She drove slowly through several streets before she finally spotted a yellow house in front of which was an olive tree. It was unmistakable next to the other houses, the olive tree resisting through the years despite being in the wrong climate. Lucien must have had a real way with plants to be able to keep it alive.

A car was in the driveway, so she pulled up behind it and gathered her courage as she walked up the three steps leading to his porch. Elain didn’t give herself time to chicken out and knocked.

The wait was excruciating, but there was light coming from the window, so she counted down the seconds until it was appropriate to knock a second time.

No one answered.

Someone was home. She was sure of it with the car and the light turning off in one room then on in another. Elain was done waiting, she was getting cold and she needed answers.

She slammed her fist against the door again.

Everything between them had happened six years ago, and she was sick of having to make up answers for his behavior in his mind. The Lucien who had broken up with her in that hospital had been a different person from the boy she fell in love with and she was determined to prove it, even if it was only to get a little bit of closure.

She was just about to pound against the door one last time when it swung open.

A wide eyed, shirtless Lucien was the first thing she saw. The sight of his bare chest was distracting, but Elain stepped forward and got ready to ask questions when he interrupted.

“You can’t be here.” He tried to shut the door, but she was already halfway in.

“I need to talk to you please.” Elain made it inside and heard the door click shut behind her.

“Get out.” Lucien’s voice came as a growl this time.

“No.”

He staggered back two steps. His chest grew with each breath he took, as if his entire body was elongating and broadening. Some part of Elain knew she should have listened to his order, but there was a fascination that kept her eyes trained on the changes in his body

Within seconds, his body grew a whole foot. His shoulder became wider and the shape of each of his limbs changed. Elain tried to move but her back only met the door that had shut behind her. She was trapped, watching as the changes affected his face too. It grew longer, fangs appearing past his lips and fur beginning to cover every inch of his skin.

Lucien was a werewolf.

Elain nearly panicked. She had never been face to face with one of them transformed, but running would likely make her look like prey and she had no idea how much control Lucien had over himself on a damn full moon.

No wonder he had told her she couldn’t be at his house.

His house . His house, in the middle of other humans, which meant she had startled him and he may not be able to hold back shifting, but he was probably not fully murderous either. Elain took her chance and slid down to the floor, kneeling and looking down as not to appear threatening in any way.

Not prey. Not a threat. She could hear her heartbeat at her temples, but she didn’t dare move or meet his eyes. Lucien growled, the sound of claws resonating from his hardwood floors as he stepped closer to her.

“Lucien,” she whispered his name, because there was nothing else she could say. She repeated it again, softer as he approached and placed his massive paws on the floor by her thighs. “Lucien.”

He stilled above her, his scarred eye an inch from her face. She tilted her head up slowly and watched him closely, not daring to breathe anymore, but Lucien had lost his threatening stance. He remained above her for several moments, the sound of his heavy breathing covering the beat of the blood at her temples.

“Lucien,” Elain murmured again and something like recognition sparked in his eyes.

Slower than it had happened the first time, Elain watched his features change.His body morphed back to its human shape, the paws by her thighs shifted back into familiar hands and his face settled back into normal.

“Lucien,” Elain breathed out in relief one last time as he kneeled in front of her.

“You’re okay,” he gasped, his hands cradling her cheeks. “You’re okay.”

“Of course I’m—”

Lucien’s chest shook with a sob and he pulled her tight against his naked chest. “You’re okay,” he kept on murmuring, hands clutching her as if he had to reassure himself she was still there.

Elain was speechless, but she closed her eyes and felt the warmth of his skin against her cheek as she carefully put her arms around him to hug him back.

“You’re okay, you’re okay,” he murmured with every breath.

“Of course I’m okay,” Elain could feel each thud of his heart, still racing with each scattered intake of air.

She listened carefully to the broken breaths he kept on taking until they came to him smoother. It took time for his chest to rise and fall at a somewhat steady rhythm.

“Lucien,” she whispered carefully.

“I’m sorry—Are you… Are you alright?” He pulled back just enough to look at her, one hand cradling her cheek while the other slid down her left arm. His fingers came to rest on the inside of her wrist, as if he had to keep feeling her pulsing heartbeat to reassure himself.

“I’m fine, are you?” Elain was more worried about him than herself with the way he was acting.

“I guess so.” Lucien nodded with no apparent plans to let go of her.

They stared at each other for far longer than what was comfortable. Elain was the one to clear her throat carefully, because if they were going to keep sitting on the floor like this, they might as well have a conversation. “You’ve got a long story to tell it seems.”

“I’m sorry,” he breathed out. “I’m usually more in control than that. I wasn’t expecting you.”

“It’s alright, I’m fine,” Elain reassured him again. “I assume it’s hard for you to think clearly when the moon is out,”

“Yeah, I’m sorry if I scared you.” Lucien reluctantly let go of her wrist and pushed himself back to his feet before he offered her a hand.

Things were no less uncomfortable once they both stood, but it gave them a semblance of normalcy.

“You didn’t,” Elain said. “You seemed more scared than I was.”

“I-” Lucien exhaled slowly and braced himself, his hand subconsciously coming to touch his scar. “I hurt someone I cared about, three years ago.”

The pain in his eyes was so obvious that Elain felt the need to give him a way out of this conversation. “Do you have some tea? Maybe we should take a minute and sit down, or something.”

Lucien turned on his kettle and busied himself with pulling out two mugs. He wrapped the string of the tea bag around each handle to prevent them from falling in. Elain watched him prepare that and counted the minutes by stealing glances at the clock. He looked lost in thoughts, as if there were too many events for him to organize in his mind before he could begin talking.

Elain followed him to the couch silently, took a seat first and accepted the hot mug when he handed it to her. Lucien sat on the other side, his tea gently sloshing in his cup because his hands were shaking. It took a deep breath to steady them.

Then, Lucien looked up at Elain and told her everything.