A/N: Just wanted to clarify something real quick. Animals don't have names for each other (except for dolphins), which is why the characters haven't mentioned each other's names in terms of dialogue.


Zwei and Cubby sat in their usual spot by the pond. Cubby played with a ball of yarn that Zwei brought for him. Zwei on the other hand, was in deep thought. There was something he wanted to ask, except he didn't know how. Then he remembered Yang's advice to Ruby the other day.
"Just wing it…"

So...there's going to be a meetup with some dogs in a few days. Zwei said. He played with the water while he barked. There were a few moments of silence, indicating that Zwei should continue.

Wanna come with me? Zwei asked.

But, I'm not a dog. Cubby said.

I mean… Zwei left that sentence unfinished, allowing Cubby to piece it together. Zwei braced himself for an answer as he continued to mindlessly play with the water.

A full minute past by without anyone saying anything. Zwei was fine with that. He wasn't in a hurry tonight anyways. However, what Zwei wasn't expecting was a ball of yarn to smack him on the back of his head.

What was that for? Zwei quickly spun around to see Cubby feigning innocence.

My snail did it. Cubby said while gesturing towards the snail on the log. Zwei sternly stared at Cubby.

Okay fine! My paw slipped! Cubby said, his red eyes diverted their gaze to the ground.

You're avoiding the question. Zwei softly said.

Cubby suddenly looked guilty.

It's not like I don't want to go, it's just... Cubby paused. What I mean is that it was hard explaining why I had some mud stuck on me to my family when we last pretended that I was a dog. Now this time, they might be suspicious about what I'm really doing. Cubby saw Zwei's face fall with disappointment.

However, if I were to go, aren't dogs supposed to be super intelligent with their smells and all that? Wouldn't they realize that I'm not one of them?
Cubby quickly added.

Well yes, but I think we can make up some convincing stories. Zwei confidently said.

Okay, assuming that the stories are somewhat believable and it works, how do we avoid suspicion with your fellow doggy friends?

Simple, I'll teach you how to be a dog. Zwei beamed at the idea.

Cubby's jaw dropped as he stared at Zwei. You're going to teach me how to be a dog?

Zwei nodded happily. Yep! It's not going to be hard. You're part wolf.

Not really, I'm mainly Grimm.

Yea so? Trust me, it won't be hard. You just need to learn the body language and such. Besides, it might be useful for other things. There was a something mischievous brewing in those dark gray eyes.

Cubby licked his lips and his tail wagged happily. We get more salmon?

Oh yeah, we'd get more salmon.


They stood at the edge of the forest. The moon shone brightly above and there were little fireflies that lit up the field. The grass was tall and buried their legs but other than that, it wasn't much of an issue for them.

Alright, show me what you know. Zwei said as he sat down.

Well there's the happy sign. Cubby said. He sat down and demonstrated by showing a relaxed position. His tail wagged and he stuck his tongue out in a goofy expression. Zwei gave him an amused look.

Are we signing up for a circus? Zwei jokingly asked. Cubby 'pouted' and gave a soft whimper while lying on the grass. His small pointy ears pressed flatly against his head.

Okay that's good. Anymore? Zwei said as Cubby sat up. Cubby nodded and tried to make an intimidating face, but it just looked like he was constipated, which made Zwei roll around in the tall grass, dying of laughter. Cubby took a step forward and growled.

We'll need to work on that one. Zwei said as he stood up.

Right…have you seen yours? Cubby said. His eyes naturally drifted to the scenery behind Zwei, which in this case, was the massive forest.

Hey, I don't need to look intimidating. I just need to hypnotize them with my puppy eyes! Zwei batted his eyelashes but Cubby didn't see. He was too busy staring at the forest.

What's up? Zwei asked.

I thought I saw something. Cubby muttered. His red eyes scanned the forest carefully.

I don't see anything. Maybe you need more sleep. Zwei suggested.

Cubby stared for a little longer.

Yeah, maybe you're right. Just as he was about to turn around, he caught another glimpse of what he thought he saw before. A flash of red eyes lurking in the shadows. A shiver ran down Cubby's spine as he watched the eyes disappear a second later.

Hey! You good? Zwei asked while lightly tapping Cubby on the side.

Yeah, but I think I'll go now. I'm super tired. Cubby lied. Zwei didn't even doubt Cubby at all which just added to the growing guilt. Instead Zwei quickly nodded.

Alright, see you tomorrow then. Zwei said.

Cubby nodded as guilt temporarily overcame the uneasiness that settled in his stomach. He hated lying, especially to his friends. He briefly watched Zwei dash off in the opposite direction of the forest, which Cubby was glad of. He sighed as he trudged his way back home.


Cubby weaved his way through the dense forest. He'd done this so many times that he knew the way back home without needing to worry about getting lost. Though this time, he went faster and faster as the seconds ticked by. He had a feeling that someone was watching him.

Just as Cubby spotted the daunting cave that he called home, a full sized beowolf leaped out of a bush, blocking his path. Cubby stared at him, making sure that his gaze and posture didn't falter.

Hello brother. Nero said as he towered over Cubby who remained stoic.

Nero crept closer and walked around in circles around Cubby. Cubby didn't respond, nor did he move. Running away was a sign of weakness and responding could provoke him. He saw what happened to the other wolves and knew the consequences.

What were you doing with that…canine? Nero hissed in Cubby's sensitive ears. His blood ran cold as he could feel the raging eyes pierce into him. But he kept still, as still as a statue as his older brother stopped circling and stood in front of him.

Not going to answer me? Nero challenged.

Cubby dared to look up into his eyes and found nothing in those blazing irises. There wasn't any unfurling anger that could strike a creature down in fear, instead, it was just blank. Then Nero's posture sagged as he turned around and walked towards their home. Cubby stood there in shock since it was the first time that an encounter like this had gone so smoothly. But then his brother turned around one last time, causing Cubby to immediately stiffen.

It is none of my business to know what you were doing with that thing. So your secret will be safe with me…for now. But if I catch you doing anything questionable, then I will not hesitate to tell the rest of the clan. He walked away again.

Cubby let out a breath that he was holding. All he had to do from now on was to be cautious whenever he was around Zwei. "I just hope I don't have to lie to him again." Cubby thought when a bright orange light shone from his left. He cringed as his curious eyes took in the fiery sun that was beginning to rise and start the day. "Oh wow, sunrise looks so pretty. Wait…sunrise? Crap!" A realization dawned on Cubby as he sprinted towards the cave.

He approached the entrance way when his father stepped out.

And what were you doing all night? His father demanded. Cubby froze as he searched his mind for an excuse.

He was with me. Nero spoke from behind. Cubby felt relief flood through his body.

Their father studied both of their faces. Searching, searching, for something to give them away. But when he didn't find anything, he gave them a low growl.

Very well, children. I'll be off for the day. With that said, their father went on his daily hunting.

Cubby gratefully looked at his brother. Thanks.

I meant what I said earlier. Nero said.

I know. Cubby muttered as he walked past him. He had sleep to catch up on.


Zwei noticed a change in Cubby's behaviour, which was beginning to worry him. Not only that, but the meetup was tomorrow at midnight!

They were hanging out at small shallow cave which Cubby had insisted on. Zwei was chewing on a thick stick he found. It helped him think. He looked at Cubby who was the source of his thoughts.

Cubby had a sharp stone in his mouth and was busy drawing something. It was a game they had been playing for a few hours. Cubby made one more stroke before setting the rock down.

I'm done! Cubby said. Zwei dropped his beloved stick and came over. Zwei cocked his head to the side as he stared at the rough sketch. There was a big round creature in the center, wearing a funny looking suit. He was riding a box.

What is it? Zwei asked.

It's supposed to be that Santa dude. Cubby said.

Isn't Santa supposed to be a human? Zwei pointed to the snout on the face and the big furry paws.

How do you know? Cubby quite liked his Santa. He looked like a big cuddly bear that gave warm hugs.

I've seen drawings of him before.

Cubby looked at him in shock. So he's real?!

No he's not. He's more like a fairy tale. Zwei watched Cubby's face fall in disappointment.

Oh, then how does anyone know what he looks like? He could look like a bear too. Cubby asked. He perked up at the idea of Santa being a bear.

Zwei didn't know how to respond to that. In a way, Cubby was quite right. Santa could be a bear for all they know.

Hmm, I suppose you're right. Santa could look like anything. Zwei said. His tail wagged a little faster when he saw how happy Cubby was at the fact that his idea didn't seem as far fetched.

Should we play another round? Zwei asked. Cubby nervously looked out the cave.

No, it's time for me to go. Cubby softly said. He gave Zwei an apologetic look.

Isn't− Zwei stopped himself. There was a pleading look in Cubby's eyes that begged him to understand. Even though Zwei didn't know what Cubby was hiding, he knew that something was wrong and if Cubby needed to go at an earlier time, it wasn't his place to intervene, not when he was absolutely clueless about the situation.

Have a goodnight. Zwei said instead.

You too. Cubby said. He spared him one last glance and it was almost like he was thanking him before turning away.

Zwei watched him leave until he was a tiny speck that was swallowed up by the dark forest. A cold draft blew in, making Zwei shiver. He sat down and ran a paw down the Santa Bear drawing. "I wish that everything will be okay."


Zwei hauled a half empty bucket of white paint. He wasn't sure if Cubby was going to show up tonight after yesterday, but he had hope that he will. He set the paint bucket right outside the entrance of the cave, mainly because the smell of it was way too strong for his liking.

A few minutes later, there was a soft crunching noise that made Zwei poke his head out of the cave to see who it was.

You came.


Zwei quietly hummed a soft tune while painting the bark of a random tree with white paint.

I'm ready. Cubby said. He was covered in mud again, since he wouldn't take the white paint that Zwei had stole.

Good, let's go.


Cubby's nose wrinkled at how strong the scent of mud and grass and all the earthy substances were. According to Zwei, they were nearly there, even though there seemed to be nothing but an endless stretch of trees and a dirt pathway.

Cubby's little legs were beginning to ache. He couldn't help but whine. Are we there yet?

Almost! Zwei excitedly said.

Cubby looked around the unfamiliar area. He hadn't ventured out this far from home before, so the new territory was quite unsettling. A few birds chirped loudly above them, making Cubby jump a bit. Zwei shot him an amused look. Cubby pretended that nothing happened as they continued on without further interruptions.


They soon reached a large gray building that was on the outskirts of town. Cubby stared at it, unimpressed and slightly confused.

This is it? Cubby asked.

Yeah, they're just in there! Zwei said as he happily led the way through a broken window. Cubby made the jump but he was half in and half out. He tried to wiggle in but wasn't successful. Zwei smirked as he watched Cubby struggle.

Need a helping paw? Zwei said in a teasing tone.

Maybe. Cubby grunted as his paws flailed helplessly in the air. Zwei gently bit Cubby's furry paw and tugged as hard as he dared. Without warning, they both tumbled onto the hard cement floor. The commotion was enough to alert the other dogs as they poured into the room.

Well, well, look who decided to drop in. A Dalmatian joked.


The abandoned building turned out to be a once fully operational factory, but it had shut down a few years ago due to bankruptcy.

Cubby followed his guide around the factory as they shared small talk. His guide was a small bulldog, named Marrone. She seemed friendly enough as she chattered on about the amazing food in the grocery store. Whatever the heck that is. Cubby didn't bother asking since he wasn't that interested.

I am starving! I'm gonna go grab something. You want anything? Marrone asked.

Cubby merely shook his head.

Alright, I'll be back as soon as possible! Marrone promised before dashing off into the crowded room.

From where Cubby stood, he had a perfect view of the crowded room. Most dogs were either eating or talking. A few were teaching each other tricks. It was absolutely fascinating for Cubby. His family reunions were nothing like this. Instead they were awkward and uncomfortable events.

Cubby watched the dogs for a few more minutes before growing bored. He would've gone and interacted with the others but Cubby found it hard to try to fit in with them, so sometime that night, he had stopped trying.

Before he could walk away and find something to entertain him, a familiar bulldog came racing back.

I told you I'll be back! Marrone said happily.

Yeah and you did. Cubby said. He looked out the window and realized that a nice walk would be a great idea.

Hey, I want to go out on a walk. Know any other exits? Cubby asked.

Marrone seemed a bit unsure, but after a few seconds she finally nodded.

Yeah, I know another exit. I think it's difficult for you to get through, considering how small you are, but maybe I can help.


They walked down a long hallway where there were very few windows, so the hallway was dark and full of shadows.

Cubby began to tense up, as they walked further and further into the darkness. He felt like he was walking right into a trap. He couldn't even hear the constant barking anymore.

Marrone must've noticed his discomfort because she stopped walking and gave him a concerned look.

We're almost there. Marrone said. She waited until Cubby nodded before leading the way again.

They turned the corner and entered the room on their right. Three massive broken windows greeted them on each wall. Cubby let out a breath of relief at the sight of them.

Choose a window, any window! Marrone gestured.

Okay, that one! Cubby pointed to the one on the right wall.

He approached the window and saw just how high it was. It was higher than the one he and Zwei used to get in. Cubby tried jumping onto the ledge, but his paws weren't even close to touching the wooden window frame. So Cubby decided to get a running start. He bolted so fast that he could feel some of the mud fly off his body. As he got close to it, he leapt into the air and gravity was doing its job, pulling him back down. But that didn't matter as his paws slammed onto the ledge and he hung there while trying to use his legs to boost him up. But the claws on his paws had barely grown, so he couldn't get a solid grip on the smooth wall. And that's where Marrone came in to help.

What are you doing? Cubby asked as he looked down. Marrone positioned herself right underneath him and she stood on two paws.

Helping you of course! Marrone simply answered as she pushed him.

Surprisingly after a few more minutes of pushing and clawing, Cubby landed on the soft grass. He was out of the building.

Thank you. Do you want to join me? Cubby shouted.

No, there's some amazing food in here. Marrone said.

Alright…bye!

Bye, have fun.

Cubby turned away from the window and decided to explore this part of the forest. He didn't have anything else to do. So on he went, a brave young little beowolf exploring the dangerous forest, that probably only contained trees, grass, and dirt.


Zwei finished his conversation with an old friend, when he noticed that Cubby wasn't in the room. Zwei felt bad for leaving his friend alone, but he had seen him go with Marrone, so he let him be.

But now, after some time had passed, he began to wonder what they were doing. So Zwei slipped out of the room and went to go find them.


Cubby didn't wander too far from the factory. There wasn't much to see other than trees, trees, and more trees. Cubby turned around to head back, but a large shadow fell beside him. Cubby looked at his unexpected visitor; Nero.

Nero didn't say anything, but judging by the cold stare that he was giving, Cubby could tell that they weren't on good terms as of this moment.

What were you doing? Nero hissed.

Here's a better question, what are you doing here? Cubby shot back.

A beowolf always keeps his word. I thought you knew that. Nero said. Cubby brushed off that last comment. Cubby was glad that Nero wasn't as threatening as he was before.

So you followed me? Cubby slowly said. He didn't want to sound too aggressive.

I only did what I had to do. Nero said firmly. His tone didn't leave any room for arguments.

I answered your question. Now answer mine. Nero growled. Cubby didn't flinch at the sudden aggression.

It was nothing. Everyone was just catching up with each other. Cubby said. He tried to sound as casual as possible, except that was quite difficult when his older brother was glaring daggers into him. "Oh if looks could kill, I'd be dead a long time ago." Cubby thought as he waited for another snide remark.

I'm sure that's all you're doing. Nero said sarcastically.

What's that supposed to mean? Cubby snapped.

I mean, if you're really just catching up, why here? Nero asked.

The question caught Cubby off guard, as he racked his brain for an answer.

You don't have an answer, do you? Nero took a menacingly step towards Cubby. It was almost an instinct to step back, but Cubby managed to stay put.

Maybe− Cubby was about to say when several howls echoed throughout the forest. More and more howling occurred. Each one sounded desperate, alarmed, afraid. Nero and Cubby shared a knowing look. "A distress call." was the silent message that they shared.

They bursted into a sprint and shot through the forest with lightning speed. A high-pitched howl− which most likely belonged to another beocub−was heard as they darted through the trees.

Faster! Nero commanded as he picked up more speed. Cubby wondered if that was even possible as he tried to keep up.


They finally reached a familiar part of the forest and Cubby felt some relief that he now knew where they were.

They passed by the pond, which looked so beautiful with all the fireflies surrounding the pool of water.

Cubby was starting to feel exhausted and out of breath, but he knew that they were almost there. "Just a little bit farther." Cubby thought. He saw Nero slow down to a stop but all Cubby could focus on was how much farther he had yet to go.

Cubby could see a small glimpse of their home, but most of the trees blocked his view. Cubby slowed down to a walk. He heavily panted and kept his head down low as he made his way to Nero. A wave of anger brushed past him, which wasn't surprising to Cubby. However, the next wave of emotions that rolled off Nero made Cubby snap his head up.

And what Cubby saw next made him wished he didn't look up at all.


A/N: Thanks for reading ^_^ and thank you to those who favourited, reviewed, and followed this story!

As for the next update, I can't guarantee that there will be one next weekend since it's the holidays! So hopefully there will be an update after the holidays.