Chapter 2: Eyes of a Wolf.
Searing dryness branched across James' bloodshot eyes as he blinked.
The blurry concrete ceiling spun, inducing nausea as his pitting gut filled with bile. James groaned, his conscious phased in and out. He winced from the assaulting blinding rays of the fluorescent tube lights. "He...hel..." James' dry throat and mouth stifled his words.
What happen? James's head throbbed as he clenched his teeth together. Raising his heavy chest, his spindly arms wavered as they pressed into the stiff bed. He lifted his body up with groggy movement, and his chest went limp, causing his head to crash inward. Was it a dream?
Coal black bars a few feet ahead sealed him in his cell. The oxygen generator whirred from the ventilation shafts.
James shifted himself from the bed, slipping his legs from the veil of the blood stained blanket, and letting them loom over the side.
A muffled voice rung out, spewing out indistinguishable words.
James' right hand clutched the side of the mattress as the muffled voice went on. Pain? Sirens. He set the back of his left arm on his sweaty forehead, swiping it across. His eyes wavered as they bear against the weight of his eyelids.
Going lopsided, James set his left arm onto the bed. He crashed forward, and impacted into the concrete cold flooring as plastic rap afterwards.
He groaned, sluing his head to the right; his eyes went round, fixating on the IV stand beside him; his breathes hasten, becoming short gasp; and his body tensed from the numbed pain.
Where the fuck am I?
The heart monitor flat lined while the bed alarms blared out.
James blinked, fixating on four sets of feet. Snarling as he slam his wavering hand against the floor, his body refused to budge, and his head wouldn't move. Why am I weak?
The dampen voice became gruff. "C-c'mon Fay, do something!"
"Hey, stay calm! Get the guards, unlock the door, and it'll be okay," Fay said.
"O-okay, sorry." Heavy patter of boots ensued before the prison's door's locks hissed open. Three sets of feet entered, dashing towards the cell. The lock mechanism clicked after the group stepped in.
James' heavy faded eyes trailed up her contours, setting on Fay.
Fay pulled a square device from her doctor's coat. She flicked a switch, and moved it across a few feet away from James' body. "Minor shock." Her voice became aggravated, "Dehiscence some stitches, but nothing major." She let out a huff. "He's fine, get this yellow bellied bastard up."
James' eyes settled on the red eyed grey wolf.
Am I on Corneria?
"A-are you sure he's good?" The gray wolf stared down at James' with quivering furrowed brows. "He's important."
Fay quirked the side of lip, letting out a snort. "One. Never ever doubt me boy! And two, he ain't."
James froze, tensing up. An ape guards hoisted him up onto the bed. It's not a dream! He writhed and trashed, snarling as he strike his left blood soaked stump at the ape's chest.
His eyes went round as his clenched teeth separated. Distraught and despair pitted in James' heart, clawing its way out as he let out a harrowing shriek in agony.
"What happen to me!" James clutched his wavering stump. Shots, fire, blood, searing pain. His flashbacks invaded his unhinged mind.
"Tie him down, I don't want to deal with'em anymore."
Crashing back into the bed, James's muscles strained and burned as he pushed back against his foe. "Where's Peppy! What did you fuckers do!" His chest cramped as the guard shoved their arm onto him. "Get off me!" He clawed the ape's visor off.
James' gagged as the ape throttled him with their arm. His right hand being pinned into the bed by their knee.
"H-hey, that's enough, stop!" The grey wolf set his arm on the ape's shoulder. "Stop!" He winced from their out lash of word.
"Stop being useless and help!"
"I..." The wolf froze, setting his head down with pinned back ears.
James' vision blurred as specs of black formed, snarling with what little oxygen he had . Tight rough straps of leather fasten his limbs and neck to the bed, digging into his flesh, his breathes shorten as his lungs begged for air. I can't die, not here. His heavy body collapsed back, easing up. His eyes dulled as the darkness consumed him.
. . .
Wolf's meek voice spoke up, "S-stop, hey stop!" His body wavered as his heart pounded.
"Ugh, ya ain't nothing but trouble, aren't ya?" Fay glared down at James, she placed the heart monitor's pads to his chest. "You do that again, and I won't be the one here fixing ya up, got that?"
"Hey...be easy on him he's been throu-."
"Danial, stop, I'm not sure why you're showing 'em empathy, but this dog killed our friends." Fay passed Wolf, Stopping behind him. "He may be your idol, but he's still a monster."
That doesn't excuse our actions.
Wolf pressed their lips together, opening his mouth as if to speak, but ceasing his words. He followed behind Fay as the guards did too.
The other entered the pin, and opened it.
"Sorry, you're right." Wolf slid the cell door shut.
"Of course I am, also guys, thanks for the help." Fay gave the two guards a quick wave good-bye before she faced Wolf. "Sorry for being a hard ass at times."
"Yeah..." Wolf's ears pinned back as his tail went between his legs.
"Don't be like that, c'mon."
"Yeah...ahm." Wolf dragged his feet as he made his way to the stool at the opposite end of James' cell. "Are you sure he's okay?" He spun around, collapsing into the seat, and slumping his posture. His eyes fixated on James who groaned.
"Boy, what did I say?" Fay sat her knuckles against her hip.
"T-that he'd be fine..." Wolf reared back, and scrunched up when Fay shot him a cold stoic glare. "T-that you're always right."
And mean.
"Good." Fay smiled as she made her way besides Wolf; she leaned against the wall beside him. "Wouldn't you rather be doing something else?"
"Like what?"
Fay shrugged. "I don't know."
"It's not the fun sitting around, but I'm helping."
"There's other ways of being helpful."
"They needed people to stand guard." Wolf scratched the side of his cheek. Here she goes again.
"No, I mean." Fay played with the side of her red bow tie behind her head. "Wouldn't ya like to work on maintenance or...ugh, something else."
Wolf shrugged as he shook his head. "Na."
"You're as dense as Panther' Yknow?" Fay sat her palm over her forehead. "Why won't you listen?"
"You're confusing me." Wolf raised a brow. Please don't get upset.
Fay threw her hands out by her chest, crashing them into her thighs. "Forget it." She faced towards the door, clasping her lips together as she frown.
Fudge monkeys.
"Are...you okay?" Wolf tapped her arm with the back of his finger. He stared up at her as she faced him.
"Yeah..." She crossed her arms, her voice faltered into a whisper, "I just don't want you to end up like them."
"I won't, I promi-" Wolf cut himself off, his eyes went round as his mouth hanged half open. Frick! Fay's subtle pang expression pierced his heart, sending a sudden jolt of pang throughout his body. "I...forgot, sorry, I didn't mean to say..."
"No, I get it." Fay leaned her head back, pressing it against the wall. "Ya made your choice like she did." She shifted her body, facing Wolf for a brief moment before dragging her head away to the side. "Do you still need me here?" She stared down at the floor.
"Do you want to be here?"
"I asked first." Fay furrowed her brows and muzzle.
I.." Wolf tilted his head to the side, and his eyes darted away. Say you want her here, you dummy! "Ugh." Wolf clenched his fangs together, sucking air through them. You need her! "Umm." He pressed his lips together.
"I'm leaving."
Say it you bumbling baboon!
"Are you sure you want to?" Wolf crooked his head to the left as a timid smile dimpled his cheeks.
"I need to attend to things." Fay shrugged. "Besides." She huffed, letting her shoulders lax. "Someone needs to watch Panther, else he'll get into trouble."
"That's cool..." Wolf's faint sweaty head drooped, sagging by his tense chest. His arms wavered as his breathes shorten.
"Ugh, really!" Fay rolled her eyes before she towered over Wolf, and stamped her feet against the floor. "Will ya just admit ya want me here!" She glared down at him as he reared back and curled up. "Well?"
"I-I'm good, but thanks for the offer." A sliver of his fangs crept out as he smiled. "You...can go, it's okay." He recuperated, leaning himself back into the seat. "I got it under control."
"Yeah." Fay leaned back, giving Wolf space. "Like you did when you tried to fix the toilet for that lady." She smiled. "Or when you tried to use that...ugh, what was it now?" She tapped her finger against the bottom of her cheek. "Hold on." She snapped her fingers and pointed at him. "The trolley!" Fay burst into laughter, slapping her hand against her thigh. "That was a sad sight."
"I...remember..." Wolf's cheeks turned cherry red as a rush of a warm fluffy sensation coursed through him.
Fay's laughter died down into snickers. "Are you." She paused to laugh. "Ya have things under control?"
Wolf nodded, he set his paws behind his head, and leaned into them.
"Now remember" Fay leaned in, setting herself an inch away from the side of Wolf's face. Her voice became harsh, "If anything, I mean anything bad happen..."
"Please run."
Wolf fixated on her with wide eyes, his fur stuck up, and his mouth hung open. She...worries too much. He opened his mouth, tripping over his words as he stammered. "I will." Fay's stoic stare sent apprehensive chills down Wolf's spine.
"Thanks, Daniel." Fay gave him a wave good-bye before stepping out the door.
Nothing bad will happen, I'm sure. Wolf let out a heavy sigh, letting his strained muscles ease as he let out an uncomfortable chuckle. I'm just watching the two most renown pilots in history. His eyes trailed towards James' bed. And the most handsomest man around. Wolf blushed, setting his paws over his warm cheeks. That's...creepy, stop. He shook his head, and set himself upright.
Time slipped by as Wolf paced back and forth, talked to himself about life ordeals, or dozed off.
Wolf snoozed, letting out faint snores while enwrapping himself with his arms, legs, and tail. Ruffling sounds of clothe made his ears flick, his eyelids twitched from each irksome disturbance.
Another sudden faint ruffles of bed cloth.
Light patter of boots followed by a grunt.
Metal bars jostled.
Wolf crept an eyelid open, fluttering as it fought against the weight, he peeked at James' cell first, before dragging towards the right. He set his eye on Peppy, watching him as he placed a hand on the door lock's key pad before retracting his hand back into the room.
Keep it cool, keep it cool. It's just Peppy. A subtle wavering grin stretched across his muzzle. His leg twitched up and down as the tip of his tail swooshed against the floor. How...do I start a conversation with him?
Peppy cupped his hand on his chin, shutting his eyes as he brooded. He nodded to himself before he opened his eyes.
"Hi." Wolf pressed his shoulders against the bars, and gave him a benign wave.
Peppy eyes went round as he jolted back, letting out a blood curdling scream, "Holy-hell!" He slumped forward and clutched his chest, gasping for air.
"Ugh, s-sorry." Wolf clutched the bars, and leaned back, using his feet and hands to keep upright. "Didn't mean to scare you, sir."
"Jeez, are you trying to give me a heart attack!" Peppy gulped, letting out one heavy sigh before leaning back up. "That's not how you greet someone."
But that's how I greet everyone. Wolf tilted his head to the side. "Sorry, sir." His eyes fixated on the ground. "So, ugh, ahm."
"Is this some kind of weird torture?" Peppy stared at Wolf perplexed.
"Nope."
Awkward silent swept the moment.
"Then what exactly is planned for me? You don't just save prisoners." Peppy made his way towards the cell's bed.
"That's classified, sorry, I'm only here to watch." Wolf's ears pinned back. "I'd tell you more if I could."
Oh-man! I'm talking to a member of Star Fox, The Star Fox!
"S-so..." Wolf paused.
Peppy sat down on the cell's bed. "So?"
"So...ugh."
More stabbing awkward silence ensued.
Wolf coughed. "Are you...umm..." He received a raised brow from Peppy. "You wouldn't happen to be...ugh." He tripped over his words.
"This is the weirdest interrogation I've ever been in." Peppy chuckled. "I don't mean to be rude, since you haven't wrong me. But, are you sure you're fit for this?"
Not when it comes socializing.
"Pfft, yeah." Wolf leaned his wavering hand back before he swiped it through the air. "I...am...capable." Wolf paused. Convince him you're worthy of his time! He puffed his chest out, tensing his muscles through his black tank top, and holding himself upright. "I can do things." His posture slumped, and shoulders drooped while Peppy stared at him with doubt. "Okay...I lied, I can't." His eyes darted away I'm such a wimp.
"Before you ask me anymore question, I need to know what happen to James." Peppy narrowed his eyes, stabbing Wolf with a cold glare.
Oh-geez, it is them! They're real. Wolf pointed towards James' cell "He's right next do-"
"James, hey James do you hear me!" Peppy coughed, clutching his chest.
"You need to take it easy." Wolf peeked at James. "From what I heard you guys been through hell." His eyes settled on the ground. "Andross told me he was sorry that'd happen."
"What do you mean?" Peppy wheezed as he leaned back against the wall. "You guys open fire on us."
Wolf shook his head. "No, you guys were the ones who attacked first."
"That's—no wait...I...hold up." Peppy mused for a moment. "Then what exactly where you trying to do?"
"Pigma told you guys to halt." Wolf crossed his arms. "But you guys didn't listen."
Peppy set his finger on his lips, his eyes trailed to the side as he brooded. "I don't remember anything like that." He blinked, focusing on his thoughts.
Poor guy can't remember anything.
"That's the trauma." Wolf leaned back, and tilted his head to the side. "Trust me, I talked to Pigma, he told me everything."
"You'd trust a backstabber?" Brown eyes locked with red.
Wolf's boot rapped against the floor as his brows and muzzle furrowed. "He was doing his job, like you guys were." He eased up. "S-sorry."
"My noggin might have been rattled, but I'm sure he didn't say a thing."
He wouldn't lie to me would he? Wolf lowered his head, and scratched the back of his neck. "Agree to disagree?" He received no answer. "We...got off the wrong foot, let's...ugh, try again." He coughed. "My name is Wolf."
"Nice to meet you, Wolf." Peppy stepped up, heading towards the bars. He extended his bruised charred hand out in front of Wolf.
Wolf's eyes went round as he starred nonplussed at Peppy's hand. Bulbs of sweat emerged from his forehead. His heart raced as it beat against his chest, and a faint sudden pricking sensation coursed through his skin. He curled his quivering fingers into a straining fist.
"It's formal to shake hands." Peppy nudged his hand closer to Wolf as his eyes glazed over Wolf's holstered pistol.
"Umm..." Wolf's eyes darted away, his ears pinned back as his tail curled between his legs. If anything bad happens, run. "I..."
"I don't bite."
He's going to take advantage of you just like everyone else.
Wolf raised a paw besides Peppy's, retracting for a moment before settling it back.
He's going to use you like everyone else!
Wolf's lower lip quivered as he clutched Peppy's hand. His mouth went dry while his body froze.
He's going to hurt you like everyone else!
His heart skipped a beat as Peppy's hand wrapped around his, and squeezed.
Peppy shook Wolf's sweaty quivering hand. "The names Peppy, and it's nice to meet you." He let go, swiping it against his pants. "See? That wasn't so bad, now was it?"
He...didn't abuse me?
Wolf blinked, standing in silence before he spoke out below his breath, "W-why?"
"Huh?
"Oh,ugh." Wolf shook his head, he snapped out of his trance. "It's nice to meet you, sir." He shut his eyes, and smiled for a moment before it faltered. "It'd be better if we met in different circumstances."
It's an act, he's pretending.
"Honestly I'm glad." Peppy smiled and sighed. "Better to have a lighthearted person, than an ass." He made his way back to the cell's bed. "Damn, even shaking hands takes the wind out of me." He chuckled before he grunted as he sat down. "Could you answer me this?"
See! He's using you!
"Sure!—W-well...depends." Wolf leaned into the bars, his muzzle jutting between them. "If I answer it, is it okay if I ask some?" A warm fluffy sense coursed through him. His ears perked up as his tail wagged.
Peppy swayed his head to the left side before he refaced Wolf with a quick nod. "Deal." He nudged himself closer to the bed's ledge, leaning in as he enlaced his hands together below his chin. "What will happen to me and James?"
Wolf's head jolted back. "Well...I guess there's no harm in telling." He glimpsed the entrance door for a moment before he refaced Peppy. "You guys won't die, that's for sure."
"What about torture?" Peppy watched as Wolf shook his head. "Good, had me worried there."
I knew she was wrong, they're not monsters. Wolf slipped his arms through the bars, letting them hang as they rested on a horizontal piece. "Okay, can I ask?"
"Shoot."
"Are you guys really Star Fox?" Wolf leaned his head in closer to the bars as his ears perked up.
"Yeah, we are. Are you fan?" Peppy smirked.
Your number one fan!
"W-well...ugh." A wavering smile stretched across his muzzle, and his eyes trailed to the side. "You can say something like that." His heart fluttered in his chest as his breathes quicken. I'm talking to them, oh my goodness, I am really talking to them! Sweat trickled down his cheeks as his muzzle quivered.
"Well, that's unexpected." Peppy nodded. "This has been a turn of events." He leaned his head to the side for a brief moment as he raised a brow. "Okay, what was the original plan?"
"Those are some hard hitting questions."
"Classified?" Peppy quirked his lip.
"N-no, but..." Wolf sucked air through his fangs, and glimpsed at the door again. "I have to be careful." His face sunk between the bars.
"I'm guessing you'd rather be talking to James."
"Nope." Wolf smiled.
Peppy narrowed his eyes as his face scrunched up. His mouth left agape. "What?" He received another no. "Hold on? What?" He faced away, shaking his head before staring at Wolf with a perplexing expression. "Really?"
Did I break him?
"Yeah, I mean it. You're just as important as he is."
Peppy leaned his head inward, clasping his lips together. He mouthed, "What." His expression lighten up, but he turned away to nod to himself, raising his brows before he refaced Wolf. "That's a first." He chuckled, but his laughter became choked by groans.
Damn, poor guy can't catch a break. Wolf's face slipped between the bars, flailing as his body collapsed. "Ah-shit!" Wedge between metal he fought to free himself, pulling the back of his sweaty throbbing head against the rugged rusted bars.
His wavering eyes locked with Peppy.
This is it, you slipped up like you always do.
Wolf whimpered, clamping his eyes shut as his ears twitched from Peppy's heavy dragging footfalls.
Two soft firm hands wrapped against his straining neck.
"If you do anything, I'l-" Wolf open his searing glisten eyes, tears ran down his cheeks as Peppy clamped Wolf's muzzle shut.
"Knock it off, kid." Peppy turned Wolf's head to the side, giving him a let nudge with his thumb. "I'm going to let go, promise to not yell" He received a nod, and released his clutch from Wolf's muzzle.
Peppy sighed. "You remind me of my kids." Giving Wolf a nudges, he eased his head out of the gaps. "Goofy as can be." He chuckled for a bit before they died down as his expression turned grim. "I miss them."
How is he, so nice?
"I-I'm sorry." Wolf rubbed the side of his head with his palms, and faced away. His ears, tail, and eyes drooped."I didn't know you had kids." He peeked up at Peppy. "I thought you guys would be into mercenary life."
"For James, but not so much for me." Peppy leaned against the side of the wall, rummaging his hand through his pocket. He pulled out a wallet, and opened it. "Glad you guys let me keep it." He set his finger by the plastic screen, smiling as he wallow in his thoughts.
"It must be nice to have a family..."
Peppy stowed the photo away. "Yeah, family comes first." He paused as he nodded. "Say." His eyes met with Wolf's coy ones. "Don't you have family?"
"Is it okay if I see the photo?"
"Eh, ugh...sure?" Peppy retrieved his wallet again, slipping it open, and showing Wolf the picture.
That looks wonderful. Wolf's eyes studied the bliss photo the smiles racked his heart, fissuring it as it crumbled. Why does it hurt to look? He blinked, snapping out of his thoughts when he noticed a kit besides a young brown rabbit. "Your son looks like James...'"
"Hm, ah that's Fox, and that's is." Peppy examined the photo. "It's weird, you both have a crest."
Wolf eyes darted away, he playfully smiled as he waved his tense paw through the air. "I-I'm not trying to look like him." He let out a low unsettling chuckle.
"I didn't say that."
Bulbs of sweat formed on Wolf's forehead as his flushed cheeks strained from the warm sensation. "Oh? Ugh, hey look at the time, I should get back to work." He shut his eyes as he rubbed the back of his head. He took a few rapid steps back before tumbling over his baggy black pants. I'm messing up so bad! He winced as he collapsed onto the ground back first. "Ow..."
Wolf open his eyes, he froze.
James' head leaned up as blue locked with red.
The cold stoic eyes sent shivers down Wolf's spine.
Peppy spoke up, "Hey, kid, are you okay?"
Wolf lie imprisoned by James' glare.
"Wolf? Hey, is something wrong?" Peppy clutched the bars, peeking his nose out as he tried to see what Wolf did. "James? Hey James!"
Why is he looking at me like that? Wolf's stomach contorted as the world spun. He moved his quivering lips, but his words stabbed his throat.
"Can you hear me? James c'mon, talk to me!"
"I'm here," James said.
Peppy set his hand on his chest, letting out a heavy sigh. "Phew, glad you're alive, are you okay?"
"Uh-huh."
"That's all you have to say after what we've been through?" Peppy crooked his lip, and clasped his lips together. "No 'hey Peppy I'm glad you're alive?' " He received no answer. "Hard-ass."
"Na more like-" James coughed, spitting up blood. He groaned. "Why are you conversing with the enemy?"
"It's nice to meet new people, ev-"
"Don't give a shit, he's not on our side, so don't get friendly with him." James snarled, baring his teeth at Wolf.
Wolf's ears perked up as he lifted himself up off the ground, he made his way towards his seat, and sat on the stool, watching the two bicker.
Peppy wiggled his nose "Look, we're stuck in this situation." He set his hands on his hips. "And it's better to hunker down, and make the best of what we have."
"Yeah..."
"You're not going to listen are you?" Peppy set his palm over his forehead, sliding it down his nose bridge as he sighed.
Is this how they function? Wolf scratched the side of his head. They act like...kids.
"Could you listen to me once? Just once." Peppy paused. "You're the reason we're here, if you would've listen to me we wouldn't be."
"Tchah, if you had my back. We wouldn't be in this fucking mess!" James' voice carried out. "You ran, that's what you did!"
"We're facing an army, a damn armada. "Peppy's hands moved as he gestured with his speech."But no." He shook his head. "You won't admit that you're the reason we're in this mess."
James craned his head up. "Is that all you're going to do is blame me?"
"Uh, let me see." Peppy chuckled. "You hired Pigma, you took up the sketchy job."
"Don't blame Pepper, and we would've been set." James coughed. "It'd of been easy money."
Wolf's eyes and ears perked up as he eavesdropping into their conversation.
" 'Would have. ' " Peppy clasped his lips together, sinking his buck tooth into his skin. "But you didn't want to retreat: for what? Still upset about looking bad?" Peppy crossed his arms.
"Tchah." James flicked his nose up. "You don't get it."
Wolf raised his hand up by his chest, pointing up as his other fingers curled in. "Umm...excuse me."
"You know what you don't get, James?" Peppy bobbed his head. "You can't admit you're wrong for once."
"Ugh, guys." Wolf waved his lax hand through the air.
"I'm wrong?" James snarled, pulling against the restraints. "If you wouldn't have run we wouldn't be here." James choked against the leather. "Admit that you're a coward, and I'm the one who has to pick up slack!"
"Hello...?" Wolf's whispered, "Can you guys stop?" He dipped his head inward as the two yelled.
"I slack?" Peppy gripped the bars. "You're never around for kids, I'm always there for them."
This is getting too personal. Wolf open his mouth, ceasing his words when James cried out.
"I'm the one who puts food on the damn table!" He paused to take in heavy breaths. "I'm the reason we have a roof over our heads..."
"I bust my ass day, and goddamn night for you guys..."
"And I still can't get you guys off that damn rock." James' voice sharpen, "I promised you guys, I'd take you to Corneria." He grunted, and collapsed back into the bed. "That's why I took the deal."
"But why waste the money on a dreadnought?" Peppy raised his palm in the air before he slapped it against his thigh. "You cou-"
"Because that's home."
"Space?" Peppy crinkled his nose as his brows furrowed. "Home of pirates, and a disaster at every corner." He took in a heavy breathe, and exhaled. "How are the kids supposed to learn?"
"Homeschool."
"And if there's a malfunction?"
"Arwing."
Peppy tapped his finger against his chin. "Well, I don't think that's good environment for the kids. And what if the clamps don't let the arwings launch?"
Wolf's ears and chest erected as he spoke up, "I heard that the Arwing coat can't be damaged! And and, umm, that they're able to travel to planet to planet with ease." He leaned his head up as he set the side of his hand against his lips. "They're capable of handling any situation." Wolf lowered his head, making eye contact with James who glared at him unamused. Wolf averted his wavering eyes as he drooped his poster and scrunched up.
He hates me. Wolf's heart sunk, he wiped the sweat from his forehead, and cupped his hand over his eye, shielding himself from James.
Minutes passed by while the awkward silence ensued. Each minute of enduring James' heartrending glare sent chills down Wolf's spine.
"So ugh." Wolf shut his eyes, and let out a faint breathy chuckle. "How's your day going?" He attempted to smile as the two remained silent and staring. "S-sorry for asking, forgot." His brows wavered. I liked it better when they were asleep.
"Hey, Wolf," Peppy said. "Could you give us space?"
"I...have to be in the room at all time, or someone else will watch."
"Got something to cover your ears?"
Wolf leaned back against the wall as rummaged through his pockets, pulling out his phone, and a cord connected to earbuds. "I'll listen to music while you two talk, okay?" He set it on his lap.
"Thanks." Peppy thumb up Wolf.
"It's nothing." Wolf set the buds into his ears, he pretended to fiddle with his phone before he leaned back and shut his eyes. Why does he trust me?
"Do you think the kids are okay" Peppy set his hand into his pocket, and clutched onto his wallet.
"Told the nanny to watch them." James laughed. "Until we get back." He leaned his head to the side, nudging the constraining strap around his neck. "The bill is going to kill me."
"Hopefully not until I chew you out." Peppy smiled. "You're one stupid mother-fucker," He said playfully. "I told you, bounties are easier."
"Tsk, do you know how much we were offered?" James received a no. "Enough to pay for that juggernaut and. Be set for life."
"You couldn't stop at the training, implants, and the damn Arwing?"
Wolf's ears twitched.
"Pfft, no." James paused. "When you're on a high roll you got to keep going." A wicked green stretched across his muzzle. "The military loves giving me stuff."
"Cuz your cocky." Peppy vigilant eyes settled on Wolf, his ears twitched, moving side to side. "Anyway, at least we're alive."
"If you count being barely put together alive, then sure."
"Shit, are you okay?" Peppy clutched the bars, peeking his nose out as he tried to extend past them.
"Lost my hand, but too damn drugged to be sad." James sat in silence. "You there?"
"Yeah." Peppy paused, he ran his palms through his forehead's fur. "Just need a moment to process that."
"Did you lose your balls in the crash? Shit like this happens, it's nothing."
Wolf dozed off, falling into deep slumber. His body went limp as bits of drool seeped from his maw. Hours passed as James and Peppy chattered with one another until Wolf's alarm went off. His eyes shot open, he fumbled sideways towards the ground, and smacked his tense back onto it, abrupt pain shout through him, he clambered as he set himself upright.
One of these days I'm going to crack my head open.
"Ah, dang." Wolf rubbed the back of his throbbing head, He slipped his other hand into his pocket, pulled out his phone, and shut the alarm off. "It was ni-" James' unsettling eyes pierced his soul. I can't get used to that. Wolf pointed at the door as his posture slumped. "I should go."
Peppy gave him a quick wave good-bye, and James kept to himself.
They're never going to like me. Wolf stepped out of the cell's entrance door, nestling his arms close to his chest as he dragged his feet.
He made his way through the damp cavernous chamber on an elongated metal catwalk. Wolf ran his paw pads against the cold railing. Each heavy step echoed throughout the stalagmite.
Wolf's eyes trailed to the side as he slumped his shoulders.
An apathetic chilling voice spoke out, "Were you able to make progress?"
Wolf raised his head, ceasing his movement, and stared at Leon who's narrow eyes fixated on him. He shrugged. "I think so."
"We need to know what they're doing." Leon slink by Wolf, he didn't bother to look him in the eye. "Torture them if you have to."
"You're the bad cop." Wolf halfway faced Leon. "And I'm the good cop." He pointed at himself, giving him a wink.
"Kindness gets you nowhere." Leon progressed beyond earshot range.
It's better than being cold. Wolf slapped his forehead. "I forgot to thank him." He leaned his head to the side, and let out a heavy exhale. "I'm doing awful today," He said below his breathe, he set his hands into his pockets and went on.
Wolf stepped down three metal stairs into the empty round spacious lobby. His heavy footfall echoed throughout the six corridors attached to it. His ears twitched from the heavy sound of rain which crashed into the glass above, he made it towards a wooden bench, and sat on it.
Each heavy drawled inhale whiffed in the repugnant acidic rain, mixing it with the cool damp air within.
He leaned his back against it, staring up at the glass dome above. Rain waved down it as it bubbled on areas it clumped up on. His eyes trailed the web-like bars supporting it.
Musing on his thoughts, he went into a trance as he tuned out the world.
Just like when I was with you.
Fay's voice reverberated off of the walls. "Daniel!" The clatter of her steps eased to a stop as she hugged him from behind.
"Hey." Wolf smiled as she gave him a tight squeeze, her soft head fur brushed against his cheek. "You..." He crooked his upper lip. "Smell like Panther...and." He shuddered from the faint fragrant smell of lotion.
Fay released her grasp. "Whaaaat?" She stared down at him with a raised brow.
"Should of showered." Wolf refused to face her, his eyes remained towards the ground. Great now the image is stuck in my head! He cringed, wrinkling his muzzle as he stuck a sliver of his tongue out.
"Ugh, I don't get what ya mean." Fay sat beside him. "Did you hit your head or something?"
Wolf set his paws over his nose. "You two always have to be up front about it."
Fay's eyes narrowed as they trailed away, her grin dimpled her cheek, and her brows furrowed. "What?" She shook her head.
"Y'know." Wolf played with his hands. "You guys...with the whole fuck buddy thing."
"You're apart of it too."
Not in that kind of way. Wolf scratched his cheek. "Yeah, but..." He ceased his words.
Fay shrugged. "Why are ya weird about it? It's just sex." She leaned back, set her ankle over her knee, and lapped her extended arms on the bench.
"Complicated." Wolf blushed as bulbs of sweat formed on his forehead.
"You two haven't done it?" Fay tilted her head her head forward as she faced him. "Is it bec-"
Wolf whispered. "I'm..." He scrunched up his quivering body, setting his hands between his lap. "Still getting used to myself."
Fay's voice weaken, "You're not having any health problems?" She set her hand on Wolf's shoulder.
Wolf shook his head. "The implant working." He faced Fay, her pang frown and poignancy eyes met with his."I'm okay, trust me. You don't have to worry." He faux a smile.
"I'll always worry about you." Fay hugged Wolf. "You're my baby brother."
"I'm older than you." Wolf let out a faint pang laugh.
"In years, but not in heart." Fay let him go, her eyes fixated on Wolf's white crest. "You're really growing that out." She ruffled the back of his head fur.
"Maybe." Wolf's lips wavered as he smiled and nudged Fay's hand. He let out a heavy sigh. "Do...you think I'll." His voice faltered into a whisper, "Look manly?"
Fay covered her mouth before she snorted. "More like a punk."
"In a badass way?" Wolf's posture and ears perked up, his eyes widen.
"Hmm." Fay tapped her finger against her cheek. She clasped her lips together as she wiggled them. "Twerp."
"Rude." Wolf crossed his arms, he faced away. His fur stuck up from her responds.
"Aww, you want to be as cool as your hero" Fay poked his shoulder. "Huh?" She received no reply. "You're so cute when you're mad. It's okay if you want to look like..." She twirled her finger encircles in front of herself. "Jack? Jenson? Janus?"
"...James..." Wolf's face burned as his heart raced. He's just so cool. His eyes lax as he fantasized about him. "He's amazing isn't he" He set his wavering hand over his cherry red cheeks.
"He acted like a rabid dog." Fay snapped her fingers in front of Wolf, ceasing his attention. "What do ya like about'em?"
Wolf slumped his posture. "I-Inspiration..."
"H-he's the reason I wanted to be a pilot."
And...everything I want to be.
Fay narrowed her eyes, her playful expression turn grim.
"Do you want to be like him?"
Wolf blinked, he stayed silent.
"Even after what he did? And what happen?"
"I..." Wolf leaned his head to the side, and ran his fingers through his head fur. "This isn't the place to talk about it."
"Just answer me."
"Y-yeah...I do." Wolf sank his fangs into his lip, and his eyes darted away.
"You're such a klutz, ya know." Fay huffed. "ya literally trip over yourself. And I've seen ya fight. Plus, ya freak out too easily." She received silence from Wolf. "I'm not trying to belittle you or anything." She paused. "Be real, and just stay here with me and Pa."
Useless. You can't help anyone.
"I can't." Wolf curled up into a ball.
"Why?"
You can't help anyone! Couldn't then, and not now.
"I..." Wolf stared off into the empty room. His ears twitched from the heavy downpour of rain. "Can't."
You're so goddamn useless!
"That doesn't make sense." Fay scooted herself closer to Wolf; her arms wrapped around his trembling body. "You can be with me..."
"I want you to be safe."
You're running away again, coward, it's all you do is fucking run. Just like you did with your mo-
"I have to help." Wolf blinked away the moisture in his burning eyes.
"Please don't." Fay squeezed Wolf.
I can't, I have to help. Wolf dug his claws into his paws, warm liquid seeped from them, sliver of his fangs appeared from his muzzle. His heart stabbed his chest as short rapid breathes escaped his furrowed maw. It's all my fault if I don't.
"Daniel." Fay patted Wolf's tense back. "I don't want you to end up like the others."
"Please stop."
"Just stay with me, don't be stupid!" Fay's eyes shot open as her pupils shrunk.
Wolf shoved Fay against the bench, making short distance between them. He shot up, snarling. "I get it, but this is my choice." His ears and tail pinned up as his claws were out. His body eased, and his eyes watered at her harrowing expression. "I'm sorry." He scrunched up, sending his nails into his arms.
Distraught depression surged throughout his racked mind.
All you do is hurt everyone.
"Thanks asshole." Fay snapped up, but before she could storm off Wolf spoke up.
"I didn't mean it." He reached his hand out towards her.
"Oh?" Fay said sarcastically, "Well, I don't mean to be pissed off at ya then." She set her palm against her chest. "I'm just being me, like you being you." Her heavy footfalls echoed throughout the chambers. "Tired of trying to help ya."
Wolf's extended arm collapsed beside him, and his voice weaken, "I'm sorry." He stood in silence.
dragging his heavy feet, he made it to a catwalk behind the bench. Each step echoed throughout the chamber.
As he progressed deeper lively chatter within the cell block reverberated down the corridors.
Ape and lizard children ran throughout the high-spirited narrow town, yelling and screaming. Each room decorated with bright red and blue blankets which sheltered the inhabitants within.
The smell of fresh baked goods tickled Wolf's wet nose. The sanctuary warmed his cold body as he made his way.
Stalls of food, jewelry, hunting gear, and supplies filled the cells.
Marketers yelled out, "Freshly cooked angler meat!" Or. "Right from the green house! Fresh fruits and veggies!" Or. "Baked spiced season bread!"
Each succulent display and smell watered Wolf's mouth. Just a taste. His stomach growled. Okay, more than that. He made his way towards a butcher shop. His eyes trailed along the wooden table with thin slices of meat on it. "Having a rough patch?"
"Due to the rain much has been spoiled. We got lucky, most of it wasn't tainted," The old hunched lizard said.
The smell of cooking peppered meat made Wolf gulp. His ears flicked from the faint crackle of fire. "Smoked?" He received a nod. "How much is there?"
"Enough for a meal."
Wolf rummaged through his pocket, he pulled out his phone. "How much."
"Three thousand."
Flipping through his phone's pages, Wolf came to his account. This sucks... It read: -200 credits. "Ugh, I'll just buy something cheap."
"Wait, are you the pilot we've been hearing about?"
"Yes? You're talking about the winner in the simulator?"
"Wolf, correct?"
He nodded. "Yeah, that's me."
"Then please have some." They went behind their curtain, chattering with the cook. They came back with a meat wrapped in cloth. "Take it as a thank you."
Wolf blinked, his mouth hanged open. "I...didn't do anything." He hesitated to accepted the drenched cloth. "Are you sure?" He received a nod, and took it.
"You'll be leading our hopes." They bowed their head, setting their palms against their knees. "May the stars guide you, and the Mother of the heavens keep you safe."
"Thanks, I won't let you guys down." Wolf paced away, a warm smile dimpled his cheeks. They're proud of me. He unwrapped the cloth, and picked up a piece. "Do...I deserve this." He took a bite, savoring each chewy tangy spiced piece. He shut his eyes as he did.
I deserve to treat myself, I did good today.
He gulped the mushed chunk down. "I know where all my credits are going." He grabbed another. This is what I live for.
"Hey Wolf!" Andrew's voice cried out.
"Hm?" Wolf pivoted himself around to face him. He chewed his food as he stared at Andrew, raising a brow at the two young snow apes hiding behind him. Wolf spoke with his mouth full, "Hey?" He studied Andrew's formal red getup.
"I wanted you to meet my cousins since you live in the area." Andrew nudged the two boy's backs, heading through the traffic area from one side of the corridor over to Wolf. "Come on, there's nothi-"
"Why does he look different?" One of young kids asked.
I should of expected that. "Ugh." Wolf gulped his food. "I'm a wolf."
"W-wolf?" The other said. "You look weird Mr."
Wow.
"He does, but." Andrew bent his knees to pat him on the head. "Don't be mean to strangers."
Seriously!
"It's not my fault he looks funny." He hid behind Andrew. "Isn't he the enemy?" He narrowed his eyes. "Havwent we read a book saying wolves are bad?"
"Oh yeah?" Wolf's brows narrowed as his tone sharpen, "The one about the 'big bad wolf? ' " He took another slice of meat, gnashing it between his fangs. "Because that story is about me!"
"Hey now, be kind to them." Andrew stood up, crossing his arms.
"But the wolf died at the end."
Searing ire surged through Wolf's veins. He clenched his teeth together, and glared at the smiling child. "I don't die."
The kids stared at him unamused.
Sheesh, what did I do? Wolf's eyes darted away as he grumbled. He wrapped the bag, setting it into his pocket. "So... who're the runts?"
Andrew sat his palm towards his right. "This is Aldway." He waited for him to speak. "It's okay, you can say hello."
Wolf sighed before he bent his knees, coming to their eye level. He smiled and waved.
"I don't like him, he looks evil." Aldway clutched onto Andrew's pant leg.
"I guess they're not accustomed to canines." Andrew pat Aldway's back. "Apologize."
"I'm sorry you're ugly Mr."
Note to self: Never have kids.
Wolf struggled to hide his agitation in his voice. His fur stood on its ends. "Nice meeting you, kid." He faced the other while he faux a playful smile. "And you are?"
"It's okay, tell him your name." Andrew gave the other boy a pat on the back.
"I don't want to."
"Now, now, where are your manners?"
"Dad said to not trust canine." He pointed at Wolf. "He's one."
Wolf's ears pinned back, he stood up. "Yeah..."
Their conversation halted as the outside chatter consumed the silence.
Andrew scooted his cousins aside. "You guys can head home, go on now." He waved them away with the back of his hand, and faced Wolf. "Thought it'd be nice for them to meet you."
"They're just kids, it happens." Wolf shrugged, his head tensed from a slight throbbing pang. He crossed his arms. "So..."
"Yes?"
"Have you been practicing?" Wolf raised a brow.
"Ha." Andrew leaned back, and set his hands on his hips. "Why would I? I'm already on the team."
"Yeah...but."
Andrew's lip crooked. "But what?"
"You've been falling behind." Wolf faced away, he scratched the back of his neck. "You're not taking it seriously."
"I bust my ass getting there." Andrew set his white gloved palm on his chest. "And I deserve a break, and you can't talk you missed a month of practice."
"I'm saying you need to work a bit harder, and I had surgery..." Wolf stared up at the ceiling. "Our lives are in each other hands, so..."
"I work just as hard as you." Andrew pointed at Wolf, his eyes narrowed. "I deserve a break too."
"This is war, you can't pl-" Wolf's pupils shrunk while Andrew bombarded him with snobbish questions.
"Why do you nag at me like my Uncle?"
"Why do you think you're the boss?"
"Why don't you stop pretending you're such a badass?"
Andrew crossed his arms. "We've got years before we even make a move." He grinned. "You're the one who's playing around."
Wolf's blood surged with ire, his muzzle wrinkled as his brows furrowed, and he clenched his fist. "I didn't mean to upset you, but you do need to work on your, umm...piloting." Wolf winced when Andrew's nerve-racking gaze refused to budge.
"I...need to go."
Andrew said bitterly, "Oh—sorry for holding you up." He gave him finger guns, alternating them as he pulled them back and forth. "Have a good one." He slipped away into the crowd.
It's just one thing after another. Wolf stewed as he progressed through the market, making his way to the darker side of the cells; little to no inhabitants remained in the chilling area.
The isolation made him smile.
Wolf's heavy footfalls echoed throughout the chamber. He rubbed his cold hands against his quivering crossed arms. I just want to curl up in bed and die. He yawned, letting his tongue hangout. "Homes sweet home."
He came to the end of the chamber, the cell to his right had a tattered red cloth on its entrance, Wolf nudged the cloth, peeking his head in. His heavy weary eyes dragged towards the yellow sticky note on his covered wooden worn dressing table's mirror.
He stretched, popping his back and arms. He opened and closed his fist as he clenched them to remove the air bubbles between them. He leaned forward, setting his palms onto the desk, his eyes tracked the words on the sticky note.
It read:
Dear Wolf.
If you are reading this that is good, now keep reading for I Panther Caroso will want you to read for what I have to say. You are reading this, yes? If no then how dare.
Wolf narrowed his eyes as the writing became scrawls of gibberish. He blinked. "What?" Jolting back when thick black arms wrap around his chest, he froze as they pulled him into their warm hulking body. He tensed while sharp claws pricked his quivering skin.
The acute woe coursed through him as he gulped. Beads of sweat trickled down his standing fur.
"Are you going to say hello?" Panther set his soft muzzle against Wolf's pinken cheeks. His warm breathe dampen his fur.
"C-could you for once greet me normally." Wolf let out a purgative sigh, setting his quivering paws on Panther's flexed arm.
"I can't have fun with my prey?" Panther squeezed tighter, pressing him into his chest.
"Prey?" Wolf rolled his eyes. "I'm not one of your floozies." His eyes shot open when Panther ruffled his head. "S-stop!" His lower lip quivered. "I've had a long day."
"What are you then?" Panther released Wolf from his grasp. He set his warm paws on Wolf's cheeks, and rubbed them as he squished them. "A fluffy boy?"
Wolf clenched his jittering teeth. "I-I'm...not feeling it." He scrunched up, crossing his arms. He eased up, and shut his eyes when Panther's bulky hands massaged his strained back. "Stop, please."
"Do you want me to?" Panther set his paws up in the air beside his chest.
"N-no...please keep going." Wolf's eyes lax, he let out a little whimper while Panther stroked his head fur.
Why must I be starved for affection and contact.
"Did something bad happen?" Panther loomed over Wolf as he gave him another tight hug. He set the bottom of his muzzle on top of Wolf's head.
"No..." Wolf hunched over when Panther snuck his paws below Wolf's shirt to rub his back. "S-shoulders." He let out a moan. "Right there." His body melted in Panther's hands. "How'd you learn toOOOOooo." He wiggled his body. "Be so good?"
"Practice." Panther smiled. "When you have everyone going head over heels." He paused, taking in a deep breath, and flicking his brow. "You learn a thing or two."
Wolf twitched his nose, taking a whiff of Panther's thick musk. The balmy flowery smell eased him. "You showered." A warm sensation built between his legs from each soothing touch against his chest.
He pivoted around. "Can I be hugged?" Wolf rested the side of his head against Panther's shoulder. "And...keep your hands above the waist." He wrapped his arms around him.
"As you wish." Panther kissed Wolf's forehead before he snuggled him. "Is there anything else you desire, yes?"
"A relationship."
Wolf squeezed Panther's chest, nuzzling the side of his cheeks against his, Wolf's body sweated from the absorption of Panther's body heat. His heart pounded, synchronizing with his as Wolf breathes quicken. He gulped, slipped his hands onto Panther's chest, and gazed into his yellow eyes.
"I love you." Panther rubbed his nose against Wolf's wet one.
You don't deserve to feel good. Wolf's faced away. "I'm sorry I can't say it." His stomach knotted up.
Panther nudged Wolf's muzzle, pulling him in for a gentle kiss. Their eyes shut as they held each other. Their lips parted. "Do you feel like we're not?"
"Y-yeah." Wolf lowered his head against Panther's chest. His ears and tail sagged. "You...told me you just wanted to be friends with benefits." He shut his eyes and sighed. I'm an idiot, stop getting close with people.
"I can stop." Panther scratched the back of Wolf's ear.
I can't tie you down with me.
"No, don't." Wolf slipped out of Panther's grasp. "It's okay." He crossed his arms, and stared down at the ground. "Don't worry."
I'm a disgusting selfish creature.
"I'll always worry about you." Panther set his hand on Wolf's shoulder. His eyes went round when Wolf shoved it away. "Is something wrong?"
"I'm fine." Wolf wrapped his arm and tail around himself. His eyes narrowed. "Can I be alone?"
Please don't leave, I don't want to be alone.
Panther froze, a sliver of his mouth left open. He shut his eyes and nodded.
Please don't go. Wolf clenched his teeth.
"Be well, my love." Panther hesitated to move. "If you need me send me a message." He slunk past the blanket. His feet pattered against the pavement, faltering as he made distance.
This is all my fault. Wolf writhed, lowering his head for a moment before he jolted back, and set his wavering fingers over his mouth. Stop messing everything up. He sat on his bed, placing his hands over his shut eyes. He whispered to himself.
"It's okay, just breathe." He inhaled then exhaled. "It's just a bad day that's all it is."
Wolf extended his fist out, opening and closing them as he took in deep breathes.
It's because you're broken.
His heart ached from the sharp pitting sorrow. Burning moisture welled in his eyes, but refused to leave, his vision blurred. Wolf's quivering chin strained while his throat burned.
Wolf plummeted his back onto the bed, and ran his hand through the covers. He stopped on a bulge beneath, slipping his hand into it, he snatched it out. He clutched with both hands onto a stuffed animal fox missing an eye.
He hugged it, holding it close to his wounded heart.
You're a good person, it's not your fault. It's because of the war.
It's okay to cry, let it out, you're not weak or worthless.
Searing tears ran down Wolf's cheeks. He leaned forward to move his blanket over his cold body, and set the toy besides his pillow. He starred into its one black beady eye. "I can't do anything right."
You can, and you have. You're strong and stable.
You're doing the best you can.
And that's good enough.
Wolf shut his eyes, snuggling his blanket with a half hearted smile across his face.
"...Thanks Mom..."