"Andy! Where are you?" Kiba's shout echoed in the hallway.

Andy took a moment before opening the door to her room, "What's up?'

"Fearless leader went to stop some rampaging vamps and he's not back yet." The wolf was pacing rapidly, his eyes worried.

Andy froze, "He went by himself? What was he thinking?"

"Said he needed to clear his head by killing something." Kiba scowled at her.

She sighed, "So let's go look for him."

Kiba headed for the door. He had the van started by the time she caught up.

"Where was he going exactly?"

"The park. He should have been back by now. Reports were only a few were out."

"Alright, let's see if we find anything at the park then."

Kiba broke every speeding rule there was in getting there. He stomped on the brakes as they saw a field, empty except for an unmoving body.

Andy got out of the van, rushing toward the body to see if it was Tet.

He lay in a puddle of blood, multiple bite marks visible. His eyes were glazed, his throat savaged.

Andy knelt beside him, "Stay with me, okay?" She took a deep breath then muttered out the healing spell. The light flowed into him, slowly closing the wounds up.

Kiba crouched beside them, face paling. "He's lost too much blood.."

Tet mouthed an apology slowly, his eyes struggling to focus on her.

Andy glanced at Kiba, "Let's stop by the clinic, I can get some blood there and we can set up a transfusion."

Kiba's lips tightened, but he hefted Tet's limp body and ran for the van. He laid him inside, then started the engine and waited.

Andy climbed into the van quickly, then watched outside as Kiba sped off.

Tet reached for her hand weakly. His eyes were sad, tears welling. He tried to speak.

"It's okay, you're going to be fine," she took his hand and tried to comfort him.

He gazed at her for a moment, then his eyes closed. His hand went limp in hers.

Andy froze for a moment before moving to check for a pulse.

Silence met her fingers.

Andy cursed, her medical training kicking in and starting CPR. She muttered out the healing spell again, hoping it would help. No light came out this time, so she continued performing CPR. She continued for a while, no sign of his heart starting to beat on its own. She tried to remember any other healing spells, and finally she remembered reading a passage about bringing the dead back to life. The only problem was, there was no spell listed. She focused her energy, while trying to focus on Tet. Eventually a different colored light spilled out. The healing light was normally a light blue, but this was a deep shimmering gold. The light surrounded him for a moment, until he sucked in a breath of air.

His eyes remained closed, but he was breathing steadily as Kiba pulled up to the clinic. The shifter hurriedly parked, then made his way back to them. "How is he?"

"He's doing better now," Andy stared at Tet for a moment, surprised at her own power. She finally climbed out of the van, heading to unlock the clinic door.

Kiba lifted the unconscious shifter, heading into the nearest room. Laying him down on the bed, the soldier moved out of her way.

Andy quickly set up a transfusion, then sat beside Tet and checked his pulse again to make sure it was steady.

She looked up at Kiba, "He should be okay now."

He nodded quietly, his eyes locked on his friend. "He's not thinking straight. He would have never done this normally."

Andy sighed, "Is it because of everything going on with the war? Or something else?"

"He's worried about the war, of course. Trying to find a way to save us from the kill squad. But it's more about you. You don't even know how you entice us.." His voice went low. "There's a good reason why we don't mix."

Andy raised an eyebrow in confusion.

He chuckled humorlessly. "Your smell.. It's overwhelming to unmated shifters. It takes over our thinking. It's a constant battle not to.." He broke off, averting his eyes.

Andy didn't know what to say in response, so she stayed quiet, looking back at Tet.

"I didn't.. want to scare you." His eyes were yellow, shining in the light. "I'm sorry."

"How are you feeling?"

"Like a gnawed bone. But I'm alive, thanks to you."

Kiba glared at him. "Of all the moronic things to do right now… I should call Boss. Let him make you a rug for his office."

Tet swallowed hard. "I'm sorry, okay? I won't do it again."

Andy looked between them, staying quiet. She stood, checking on the transfusion bag before cleaning up the supplies she'd gotten out.

"Any news on the order?" Tet asked sleepily.

Kiba scowled. "No dice and you know it."

The tiger sighed sadly. "Had to ask. Better come up with plan B."

"You should probably wait until you're fully healed to leave," Andy assessed. She gave Tet a small smile, "And I'll at least make dinner again tomorrow night unless you guys plan on heading out early."

He gave her a smile, then closed his eyes.

Kiba glared at her, then motioned to the hallway angrily.

Andy rolled her eyes and headed into the hall.

"Are you under the impression we're going to be saved or something?" His voice was low and harsh, his eyes gleaming.

"Not really, but at least at my place you guys don't have to split up and go on the run." She sighed, "I'm just trying to be helpful, okay?"

Kiba huffed. "Sorry. Keep forgetting you're new to this." He ran a hand through his hair. "I bet fearless moron in there told you something about getting the order rescinded." He met her eyes. "Kill orders are for the life of the target. We can't escape it. Sooner or later, we'll all be executed. If you continue to help, so will you."

Andy took a deep breath, then nodded, "I'm not just going to stop helping because it could be risky." She looked thoughtful a second, "Also, I'm not sure how I did it yet, but in the van, Tet died and I brought him back with magic. I might be able to bring you guys back if you are found."

Kiba stared at her, stunned. After a minute, he swallowed hard. "For someone who was clueless a few days ago, you sure learn quick."

Andy gave him a small smile in response, "The book my parents had just has good notes in it."

He gave a small chuckle. Then he headed for the back door. "I'm going to check the perimeter. Make sure moron doesn't do anything stupid until I get back?"

Andy chuckled, "I'll try." She headed back in the room to check Tet over again.

His color had returned, his breaths slow and even as he slept.

There was the crack of a rifle firing outside.

Andy cursed, heading to the back door. She opened it and glanced outside to see if she could see anything.

Kiba lay face down in the alley, blood pooling under him.

Andy quickly lifted him, bringing him inside and setting him on a bed. She checked him over before reciting the healing spell, watching the wound slowly close back up.

He lay still, his eyes closed.

She checked for his pulse, hoping to find it steady.

There wasn't one, his skin beginning to cool under her fingertips.

She cursed, trying to remember how she brought Tet back. She focused her mind and soon the gold light surrounded Kiba.

He jerked, his chest rising as he sucked in air. His eyes opened, staring at her in amazement before slipping closed once more.

"What did you just do?" Tet's awed voice came from behind her.

"I saved him," Andy answered, slight shock in her voice at being able to do it again.

Tet slowly approached, his face a mask of shock. "It's true then.. Your father…" He sat down hard.

Andy looked at him in confusion, "What about him?"

"There was talk that the Council employed a necromancer to keep death at bay so they could continue ruling." Tet rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Most necromancers are killed as soon as their gift manifests, in fear of what they might be capable of.."

"So this isn't just a normal witch thing?" Andy wondered.

"I would say no. Most witches can heal and all the other things you've heard about. Necromancers are powerful, able to speak to and raise the dead easily. They can even control people by controlling their life force for their own means." He looked at her. "Starting to understand why your parents didn't say anything.."

Andy sat there taking it all in, "So.. I'm a witch and a necromancer? The book doesn't talk about that really, it has stuff about talking to the dead or bringing others back but I thought that was normal for witches..."

"Apparently so. That book is probably your father's book of shadows. His personal spells." Tet exhaled slowly. "No wonder things are after you and Kadoya assigned us."

"So they want to take me out because I could be powerful?" Andy tried to piece everything together. "I didn't even know about this until those hounds came to the clinic.. They could have just let me keep living a normal life and I wouldn't have had a clue."

Tet sighed and stood. "I'm going to be straight with you. Our boss has suspected someone powerful who has wanted to destroy the Council has been waiting for something. You. There had been no sign of the treaties being broken between the Council until just before the hound attack. Now a full on war, which should have taken months to start, has broken out overnight. It can't be coincidence. Someone wanted your gifts to manifest." He growled under his breath. "You're in even more danger now. You have to find a place to hide."

Andy sighed, "I can't keep working at the clinic then, can I?" She looked around at her workplace with sadness in her eyes.

"Hiding won't help." Kiba's voice was rough but strong. "We were wrong. We thought the hounds were coming to kill her. I think they were under orders to capture her."

Tet cursed explosively. "She's one of three necromancers known to have lived to adulthood. Why didn't I see this?"

Kiba snickered as he slowly sat up. "Other things on your mind probably."

Tet shot him a dirty look, then turned thoughtful. "Anyplace you know where we can prepare if someone or something tries to snatch you?"

Andy shrugged, "Necromancers really don't live to adulthood? And if there's three, I'd guess my dad is one of them. Who's the third?"

Kiba raised an eyebrow. "Killed as soon as powers manifest, remember? The first time dear Tommy raises Fido after chasing cars, he's a goner. Tommy, not Fido."

Tet rolled his eyes. "The third is a legend. Seltain. Supposedly he started the Council. He's said to have lived longer than the oldest vampire there, who is over a thousand years old at last count. No one has ever seen him, so most think he's imaginary. Our boss isn't so sure."

Andy nodded, "Ok, so now they want to capture me and not kill me? For what? Bringing them back to life?"

"Even necromancers can stave off death only so long.. Maybe they want you as their successor?" Tet started to pace as he thought. "If Seltain is behind the Council dissolving and the war, then he probably doesn't want peace. Meaning if he gets his hands on you.."

Andy sighed, "You said he started the Council? Why would he dissolve it?"

"Maybe he's lost his mind. Maybe he's turned to the dark side? Who knows?" Kiba stood, frowning as he stared out the window. "All that matters is he wants you. He's willing to kill anyone who stands in his way, evidenced by the order. Question is, how can we protect you if we can't even walk outside?"

Andy sighed, "I'm sure I can figure something out.. I know there's a kill order out on you anyway, but maybe it's better if I go into hiding by myself? That way you guys won't get hurt if something does happen.."

Both men gave her matching looks of disbelief.

"We're dead either way, so might as well go out fighting." Kiba shrugged.

"I'll give the team the choice of staying or not. But I'm not going anywhere." Tet told her as his phone rang. Answering it, he spoke quickly. "Tell him to go to the house. Here is too exposed. We're on our way." He closed it, looking at Kiba. "Boss wants a face to face."

Kiba's eyes widened. "Shit..I'm never going to hear the end of this." He headed for the hall dejectedly.

Tet chuckled. "Doubt he wants your hide for a rug though. Me on the other hand…"

Andy took a moment before following them.

Tet turned to her. "Might want to put together a first aid kit before we leave. We'll probably need it."

Andy nodded, grabbing a kit and throwing extra supplies into it. It was stuffed and she struggled to get it shut, but finally got the clasps closed before looking back at Tet, "Alright. Are we heading back to my house?"

He nodded. "We'll decide what to do after Boss leaves." He started for the back door, then looked back at her, his smile impish. "Ever wanted to meet a dragon?"

Andy raised an eyebrow, "There's dragon shifters?"

Tet laughed. "Yep. Comes in handy when you want to grill but its raining." He crouched, running quickly toward the idling van.

Andy did the same, holding tightly to the kit in her hand.

Tet quickly slid the door shut as she got in, tapping Kiba's shoulder.

The shifter gunned the engine, pulling into traffic. He watched the side window warily as he drove.

Tet sat down next to Andy, wrapping an arm around her gently. "Sorry about all this. Must be hard to make sense of." One hand ran through her hair slowly.

Andy nodded, "Last week I was just a normal doctor, now I have people after me and I can apparently raise the dead.. It's all so crazy."

He squeezed her softly. "Anything I can do?"

She shook her head and gave a small chuckle, "Unless you could make time stop so I can process everything, not really. Thank you though. For everything you've been helping me with."

"You're welcome, though I think I've caused more problems than I've helped. I have to thank you for everything you've done. Putting up with us could give you a stroke at the best of times, but right now.. And I certainly haven't helped with taking off and getting myself hurt.." He clasped his hands together nervously. "I don't remember much, just being sad I couldn't stay and tell you how I felt, then everything went dark. But suddenly a gold light appeared and dragged me back.."

"You saw the gold light?" Andy looked thoughtful for a moment before sighing, "You were hurt pretty badly and even though I healed the wounds, you were too far gone.. I tried CPR for a while, until I remembered reading about bringing people back to life. I had no idea what I was doing, but somehow I brought you back.."

He gave her a soft smile. "You're amazing. Can I tell you something? Just don't freak out?"

She nodded slowly, "Alright?"

"I think I'm in love with you." He looked frightened, unlike the man she'd come to know.

Andy gave a soft smile, "We've only really just met.. but I know I like you."

His eyes glittered as his voice grew husky. "This might be a mistake.." He leaned forward and kissed her hard.

Andy smiled, kissing him back. She felt butterflies in her stomach, and she relaxed slightly as she realized how comforting the kiss was.

He drew back, breathing hard as Kiba parked. "Quit necking and let's go."

Andy chuckled, climbing out of the van and heading toward the house.

Tet gave Kiba an aggravated look as he regained his composure. The wolf grinned at him unashamed as he followed Andy.

A white haired man sat at her kitchen table, reading a file calmly.

Andy glanced at Kiba, "Is that your boss?"

His lips twitched. "Boss, big brother. What's the difference?"

Andy raised an eyebrow but nodded. She smiled at the man, "Can I get you anything? Water? Tea?"

"Tea, please." He gave her a smile, then looked over at Kiba. "Reports of your death appear to have been exaggerated, little brother."

Kiba shrugged. "Lucky shot. But I was luckier." He glanced at Andy quietly.

The man's aide snickered, earning him a glance from his boss.

Tet looked down at the floor in an effort to hide a smile.

Andy worked on heating up the water then pouring a glass for their boss. She looked at the other men in the room, "Do any of you want tea too?"

They shook their heads. The man accepted the glass, then spoke again. "Forgive my manners. I am Colonel Tsukasa Kadoya. I run this band of misfits. At least I try."

"I'm Andy, but you probably already knew that," she chuckled softly.

He gave her another smile. "I hope they haven't been too much trouble." He sent a look at Tet. "Kanamoto. I should kick your ass for this stunt, but I don't need a rug. So you're excused for now."

Tet saluted. "Thank you sir."

The aide snickered again, Kiba joining in.

Tsukasa looked amused. "Relax, Tetsuya. What's the situation?"

Tet sat down at the table. "We think we know who's behind this whole thing. Seltain."

The room went silent for a moment, then Tsukasa sighed. "I was afraid of that." He glanced at his aide. "Sit down, Kaito. Drink if you need too."

The aide was pale as he reached into a bag on his shoulder, withdrawing a bottle of red liquid and downing half of it. He sat down, hands gripped tight around it.

Andy watched them all quietly.

"I've had my suspicions for a while now. But to have it confirmed.." Tsukasa glared at the file. "Why now?"

Tet looked at Andy. "Her. She's awakened and he wants her."

Tsukasa raised his eyes to hers. "What are you going to do?"

Andy shrugged, "Haven't figured that out yet."

He nodded silently, then glanced back at Tet. "The Farm is empty right now. You guys would have a better chance there."

Tet's eyes glittered. "Nice idea. I think we'll do that." He met Andy's eyes for a moment, then looked away. "We'll head out at once." He headed for the stairs, Kiba following.

Andy went to her room and started packing a bag. She made sure the book was in there as well as the first aid kit and a few changes of clothes. She glanced around a moment with a sigh, then headed back out toward the kitchen.

Tsukasa hadn't moved. He eyed her bag calmly. "Thought you hadn't decided what to do?"

Andy sighed, "Well, I'm probably in danger here, right?"

He nodded, his eyes locked on her. "You don't have to go with them though. You are free to choose."

She looked thoughtful for a moment, "I wouldn't have any idea where else to go."

He stood and approached her with a small smile. "You're quite brave. I can see why Tet wants you." He looked back at his aide amusedly. "Even Kaito was eyeing you. And believe me when I say you have to be pretty impressive to catch his eye."

Kaito blushed, quickly dropping his eyes to his now empty bottle.

Andy chuckled slightly in response.

A whoosh of air and the tinkle of bells heralded Yamae and Ryusei. They were both bloodied and bruised, falling to their knees as soon as they appeared.

Andy went to them, the blue light spreading over them as the wounds were healed.

"What happened?" Tsukasa demanded.

"Porters helping the suckers. Ambushed us when we went back to base." Yamae's voice was ragged as if it was a strain to speak.

Tsukasa scowled for a minute. "Don't worry about the equipment. You're going to the Farm. Grab your stuff, we leave in thirty."

The two men gave slow salutes and disappeared downstairs.

Andy glanced at Tsukasa, "So what is this Farm like?"

"Training base, fortified defense post. It hopefully will stand up to anything Seltain can throw at us. Wasn't expecting the porters to take sides though. May pose problems." He sighed.

Andy nodded in response.

Tet reappeared, bag slung over his shoulder. The rest of the team were waiting behind him. "We're ready."

Tsukasa nodded. "Carry on. Everything is ready for you. Watch yourselves."

Tet saluted again, then he headed out the door. The other men followed quickly, leaving the house quiet.

Tsukasa gave Andy's hand a kiss. "I hope to see you again when this is all over." He motioned to Kaito who rose and picked up the file before exiting. The Colonel smiled at her. "You might want to hurry if you're going to accompany them."

Andy went outside, calling for Tet. When she got close to him she spoke, "I'm going too. I mean, unless you really don't want me to. I'm just not sure where else to go."

His eyes were soft as he smiled. "I was hoping you'd come. But I wasn't going to decide for you." He took her bag, placing it in the van. Then he extended his hand to her.

She smiled and took his hand, climbing into the van. "How far is it from here?"

"A few hours." He slid the door closed, then sat down beside her. "You would have been there faster if the porters hadn't taken off."

"Are they okay?"

"Yeah. They just can't stay still for that long." Tet grinned.

Andy chuckled, looking out the front window. She sighed and pulled out her phone, starting to type out an email to her employees. When she was done she shut her phone off and glanced out the window again.

Tet couldn't stop staring at her. His eyes roamed her face, memorizing every detail. He sighed as his thoughts returned to the problem at hand. Seltain must be insane to have started a war between the races. The soldier scowled. He'd be damned if the asshole got his hands on Andy.

Andy looked over at him and noticed his staring, making her blush slightly, "What are you thinking about?"

"You." He gave her a grin. "You're beautiful and I can't help myself."

She chuckled softly, "Thanks."

He shifted closer to her, quickly kissing her cheek. "I wish we'd get there faster."

Andy yawned, then chuckled and leaned against him, "It's been a busy night. It's good to get a small break to rest."

He wrapped his arms around her, resting his cheek on her hair. "Try to nap. It'll be busy before you know it."

Andy closed her eyes, quickly falling asleep.

The smell of something burning brought her awake.

She opened her eyes quickly, looking around in confusion.

She was still in the van, only it was now on its side. Flames were visible in the front and the sliding door was ajar. Shouts were heard outside, then the door was pushed open and arms reached for her.

Andy climbed out of the van, looking around.

Yamae looked her over. "You okay?"

"What's going on?" She reached in and grabbed her bag quickly, not wanting the book to burn.

"Bastards planted mines on the road. We got worried and came looking to find this." He waved his hand.

The other van was upside down, almost burned out. She could see Ryusei and Zal conferring as other team members carried a figure out toward a grassy spot where there were other forms lying under sheets.

Andy headed over, uncovering them slowly.

Tet lay there beside Kiba and a few that she hadn't been introduced to yet. Yamae looked down, his jaw twitching as he looked at one of the bodies.

Andy went to each of them, reciting the healing spell before focusing on them and covering them all in a golden light. She took a deep breath as she focused, trying to make sure the revivals worked.

Yamae gave a low whistle as he saw the men breathing.

Zal approached, eyes hooded. "Yamae, Ryusei's going to take her to the Farm. As soon as you and Ryon are up for it, we'll go in teams." He didn't look at her.

Ryusei took her arm. "Hold on."

Andy nodded, holding onto his arm, wondering what teleporting would feel like.

The bells were louder and the wind swept them away. When she opened her eyes, they were standing in a large room filled with computers.

Ryusei stepped away from her, his eyes hard. "Stay here. I'll get Tet." He disappeared before she could say anything.

Andy glanced around at the computers, unsure what she should be doing. She hoped Tet, Kiba, and the others were doing okay.

Ryusei materialized, supporting a semiconscious Tet. The shifter latched onto her arms as the porter released him.

"I thought you were dead." Tet's voice was low and shaky.

"I'm fine," Andy assured. "You, on the other hand, should lay down and rest."

Ryusei grabbed them both and suddenly they were in a small bedroom. With a jaunty salute, the porter vanished.

Tet rolled his eyes, a small smile on his lips. "Show off."

Andy chuckled, looking around. She sat on the edge of the bed, placing her bag on the floor and grabbing the book from it. She then glanced at Tet, "You should sleep."

He gave her a pout before lying down. "I don't want to."

She smiled softly, "You should anyway." She moved to sit at the top of the bed, opening the book and starting to read.

He chuckled, closing his eyes. Soon he was relaxed and snoring softly. His shaggy bangs lay on his forehead, making him look younger.

Andy watched him for a bit before softly running a hand through his hair.

His lips curved up and he leaned into the touch, curling onto his side.

Andy continued to rub his hair as she went back to reading.

There was a soft knock at the door.

Andy got up slowly to not bother Tet and set the book in the place she'd been sitting. She then went and opened the door.

A young man she hadn't met yet stood at attention. "Is Lt Kanamoto available?"

"I'll go wake him," she answered. Heading back to the bed she gently shook Tet's arm, "Hey, one of your friends wants you?"

He blinked, looking at her. "Send him in." He sat up, scratching his stubbled chin.

Andy went back to the door and opened it wider, "Come in."

The young man gave her a nod, walking briskly into the room. He saluted, handed Tet a piece of paper, and resumed his ramrod straight posture.

Tet took the paper and rolled his eyes. "At ease Captain. Andy, meet Yoshi Tanaka. Yoshi, meet Andy."

The man relaxed, a smile slowly appearing as he inclined his head toward hers. "Pleased to meet you."

"You too," she smiled.

Tet suddenly growled, crumpling the paper in his hand. "Yoshi, put everyone on alert. The Colonel is enroute. ETA three hours."

"Yes sir!" Yoshi spun and left the room at a run as Tet threw the paper across the room violently.

"Why is he coming here?"

"Someone tried to kill him after he returned. Got Kaito instead. The higher ups implied it might be safer for him to join us."

Andy nodded. She gave him a thoughtful look, "So if I'm going to be staying here, care to show me around?"

He gave her a crooked grin. "Your wish is my command." He stood up and embraced her. "First things first though." He dipped his head and kissed her gently.

She smiled and kissed him back.

He exhaled as they parted. "You taste so sweet, like honey." His eyes were glowing as he met hers. "I can barely make myself stop."

She chuckled, "Well, I'm sure we'll have more time for kissing later."

He gave a soft growl. "We better." Then he took her hand and led her into the hall. They walked briskly through the base, him pointing out various rooms. Finally, they stood in front of a large room with double doors.

"Infirmary slash morgue. Fully outfitted with the latest medical advances."

Andy's eyes lit up, "So does anyone actually work here? Can I help out?"

"Base was closed three years ago. We have kind of taken it over when we're in country. Remember, I told you we have no medic on the team? We all know basic first aid but we're not doctors."

Andy nodded, "So basically I'm the only doctor while we're here."

"Only if you want to be. You're under our protection, not going to make you do anything." He started walking again. "Why don't we get you some food?"

"Well, it seems like you guys really need a doctor. And a necromancer," Andy assessed. "I wouldn't just sit around while you guys needed help."

He let out a throaty chuckle as he pushed open the door to the mess hall. "Then you're now a probationary enlistee. So what's your pleasure?" He picked up a plastic bag full of pouches.

Andy raised an eyebrow, "If you guys can get your hands on real food, I can be your cook too."

"You are multi talented aren't you?" He smiled at her. "Make a list and one of the porters can pick up your stuff."

She nodded, looking thoughtful again, "So that bedroom we were in, is that mine? Or yours? Or are we sharing a room?"

He looked at her. "Do you want to share my room? There are plenty of others available."

Andy shrugged, "I just wanted to know where I'm staying."

"Completely your choice. If you want, I can assign you other quarters." He looked away, looking through the now open bag.

"My own room might be nice," Andy assessed. "For now at least."

He nodded. "I'll have Kiba take care of it." He took something out of the bag, then headed for the kitchen area.

The door opened behind her, Yamae entering. He was deep in conversation with another man who looked eerily similar.

"Hi, Andy." He gave her a smile, the other man watching her intently.

"Hey," she smiled back.

Yamae elbowed his companion. "Don't just stand there."

The other man shot him a look, then turned back to her. "I'm Ryon. Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too," she grinned.

"We have several sets if you're interested. Some have the same abilities, some don't. All of them are more trouble than they're worth most of the time." Tet's grin belied the harsh words and the twins chuckled.

"Maybe next time you get pinned down, we should stop for coffee before saving your ass?" Ryon shot back as his brother smothered a laugh.

Tet laughed. "Want some fresh air? Andy has volunteered to be our cook."

The brothers looked at her with wide eyes. "Does this mean no more rations?"

"Well, as long as I'm not busy in the infirmary, I figure I can cook. So mostly, yes."

Their eyes sparkled. "Thank god."

Another man entered, making a beeline for the refrigerator. He pulled out a pouch of red liquid and inserted a straw. He looked at the four of them. "What's going on?"

Tet chuckled. "Just getting ready to go shopping, Jack. How's everything coming along?"

"Almost finished getting everything squared away. The Colonel wanted to know if she can revive Kaito or if there's a time limit?"

Andy frowned, "I've not read anything about time limits.. I can give it my best try though."

Tet looked troubled. "I hope it works. Otherwise we may have a very angry dragon to calm down."

Andy nodded, "Well, it's not like the body would have started to decay yet, so I don't see a problem in terms of that. It'll probably just depend on what the damage was exactly."

Soon, the honking of a horn alerted them to Tsukasa's arrival.

Andy looked at Tet, "Have them bring Kaito to the infirmary. I'll go get some supplies ready."

He nodded, walking quickly out the doors.

Andy headed into the infirmary, looking around at all the equipment. She finally found a cabinet filled with supplies so she started pulling ones out to at least start cleaning the body.

Tsukasa came in slowly, cradling his aide to his chest.

Kaito was pale, his eyes closed. Several knife wounds were evident in his chest and abdomen.

The dragon laid him gently on a bed, his eyes wet. "Before you try, I need to inform you Daiki is a vampire. I don't know if that changes anything."

Andy looked thoughtful, "I don't think it will affect anything." She grabbed more supplies and started stitching up the wounds. She then recited the healing spell, closing the wounds further. She spent a few moments focusing, trying to feel what she had felt before. Soon the gold light surrounded him.

He began to breathe, a faint tinge of color returning. As the light faded, Tsukasa took one of his hands anxiously.

Black eyes opened halfway. "Tsukasa.." The vampire was weak, his voice barely audible.

Andy gave a small smile, glad she could bring him back. "He probably needs a transfusion to help with the weakness from blood loss. I'll go find stuff to set that up."

Tsukasa's eyes didn't leave his aide as he nodded. "Thank you."

Andy went to find the supplies she needed and came back, setting up the transfusion.

Tet watched quietly for a moment, then slipped out of the room. He started making his way toward his quarters, grimacing as he did. The hallway suddenly spun and he fell, hitting his head on the way down. He lost consciousness, laying still.

"Let me know if you guys need anything. I'll be back in a bit to check on him," Andy informed Tsukasa before heading into the hall. She wondered if she had been assigned a room yet, but headed toward Tet's room to get her book. She noticed a body in the hall, and rushed over to check him over. She frowned when she realized who it was. Muttering the healing spell, blue light surrounded him to help heal him a bit more.

He didn't stir, his heartbeat slow. He was flushed as if feverish, but his skin was cold.

Kiba came running from the other direction, cursing as he realized the situation.

Andy looked up at Kiba for a moment before she tried a different healing spell she'd seen in the book.

"It's genetic. Not sure a spell can help." Kiba hefted Tet over his shoulder, continuing to his quarters. He lay the soldier down, quickly pulling a vial and syringe from Tet's possessions. Filling it, Kiba injected the liquid. He put the items away in a drawer, then covered the shifter with a blanket. "He'll be down the rest of the night probably. He shouldn't have let it get this bad."

"What's wrong with him?"

"His father is a shifter, his mother a vampire. He's the only one of his kind surviving." Kiba watched his friend with a scowl. "The Council is afraid of what he may be capable of, so they assigned him to our team. Probably in hopes he'd get killed. I lied to you about the kill order. It's possible that it might be lifted on us, but not him. You shouldn't get attached because sooner or later he's going to die, either from an attack or his own body."

Andy sighed, staring at Tet in silence. After a minute she spoke, "Well, everyone's going to die eventually, right? Doesn't mean we shouldn't ever get attached in the meantime."

Kiba raised an eyebrow. "You're interesting. Anyway, I was coming to find you. Yamae got your list. Food's in the kitchen." He left the room after looking at Tet a final time.

Andy followed, "Tet said you were going to get me a room..?"

He grinned, leading her down the hall to a door. "Here. Made sure we're all bunked in another building so we don't disturb you."

Andy raised an eyebrow, "You didn't have to do that, but thanks."

"Believe me, you'll appreciate it later. Some of us keep odd hours and our choice of hobbies can be loud." Kiba chuckled. "Though maybe we should throw a party..?"

Andy raised an eyebrow, "That definitely sounds interesting. I should at least meet everyone around here, right?"

Kiba laughed, throwing his head back with a howl. "We'll discuss it when fearless moron is awake. If you need me, I'll be in the next building over." He headed away from her, turning the corner and disappearing.

Andy grabbed her stuff and put it in her room, then headed to the kitchen to start prepping the meals for the next couple days. She then made some food, waiting to see if anyone would show up. She quickly ate her own plateful, then headed over to the next building to let them know to come eat. She knocked on the door, unsure what to expect.

Ryusei opened it, Yamae poking his head around him. "What's up?"

"I made food if you guys want any."

They looked at each other, grinning. Ryusei whistled loudly. "Chow time! Get it before we eat it all!" They vanished as the others appeared.

"If they do, I'll just eat them." Kiba muttered under his breath before smiling cheekily at Andy and heading for the kitchen.

Andy went back slowly, watching the men go ahead of her.

They were quiet, filling plates and getting drinks as they looked around the room.

Yamae approached her, glasses off. "Is it true Tet's sick again?"

Andy nodded, "Yeah, he's in his room."

"Damn. That's the sixth time this month." He clapped a hand over his mouth as he realized his mistake. "Shit! Ignore that okay? Kiba will kick my ass if he knows I let that slip." He quickly ported to a table and sat down, avoiding her gaze.

Andy sighed, thinking about everything. Was Tet really that sick? Was there anyway she could come up with a better medicine or even a cure? Between her magic and knowledge of medicine, there had to be something she could do.

She started washing the dishes as she continued to think.

The men left, thanking her as they did. Soon, only Kiba was left. He was sitting in a corner, nursing a drink and scowling at her back.

When she was done, she noticed him. "What's wrong?"

"You. The way you fit in like a missing puzzle piece. It shouldn't be like that." He tossed his drink in the trash. "Tet has never forgotten his medicine, not until we got this assignment. He can't think straight when he's around you and that's dangerous. Especially now. How have you managed to bewitch everyone so easily?"

"I'm sorry. It's not like I'm trying to," she frowned. After a moment of silence, she wondered, "Would it be better for everyone if I found a different place to hide out? I don't want to cause problems for anyone.."

"He won't allow that. He's claimed you. You're stuck like the rest of us." He gave her a feral smile. "Just know if you cause his death, I'll be the cause of yours." He stalked out of the hall, his boots echoing on the floor.

Andy stayed there a while longer, wondering if she'd made the right decision by coming here. She finally got up and headed to the infirmary to check on Kaito.

Tsukasa looked up as she entered. "He's sleeping still." His eyes narrowed as he saw her expression. "What's wrong?"

She shook her head, "It's nothing." She checked Kaito's vitals and made sure everything was stable.

"You're worried. I can smell it. Is it about Tet or something else?" Tsukasa looked at her.

"I am worried about him, wondering if there's anything I can do to help. Wondering if I've made anything worse by coming here. Also, I'm not entirely sure, but your brother doesn't seem to like me very much."

Tsukasa gave a nod as he understood. "My brother is quite possessive, even for us. He's been Tet's best friend since we were children. He's always protected him, whether it was from bullies, the military or the Council. He's probably feeling helpless seeing Tet's getting worse. Don't take it personally."

He stood, stretching his legs. Then he resumed his seat. "As far as Tet goes, unless you have a spell to fix DNA.. He's lived longer than his siblings, but everyone knew he had a limited lifespan. I know he's much happier doing this than living in a sterile lab."

Andy sighed, "I don't feel I know much about spells, and I've only done the ones in my book, I've not tried creating any yet.." She looked thoughtful, "Would you mind if I take blood samples from you and Kaito? I want to see DNA differences between shifters and vampires, then analyze Tet's DNA.."

He smiled, rolling up his shirt sleeve. "Go ahead. As far as Kaito is concerned, I'll authorize it. Somehow, I have the feeling you just might find the answer."

Andy took the blood samples, then started analyzing them. She spent hours in the infirmary lab, looking through microscopes and taking notes, completely lost in her work.

Two hands suddenly covered her eyes.

Andy looked confused for a moment, "Tet?"

His chuckle came as he dropped his hands and turned her. "Heard you had locked yourself away looking for the secrets of DNA.."

"Well, as a doctor it is important to analyze differences, especially if I'm going to be treating people who aren't entirely human. It's really quite interesting." She smiled, "And if I just happen to find a way to help you in the process..."

He froze. "What are you talking about?"

She took his hand, "You know what I'm talking about."

He tensed, shaking his head rapidly. "No one can help me. My body is destroying itself. It can't be stopped." He closed his eyes.

"I'd still like to try," Andy answered. "Between my medical knowledge and magic, I might be able to figure something out. Can I have a blood sample please?"

He opened his eyes, searching her face for something before slowly nodding. He sat down on a stool.

Andy grabbed the stuff to get the sample, then gently stuck his arm with the needle. When she was done, she said the healing spell and quickly closed the little hole up. Then, she went back to the microscopes and started setting up new slides with the new blood sample.

He sat quietly, staring at the floor until the alarms began sounding. He reached for the radio on his belt. "Sit rep!"

"We've got hounds and suckers on the grounds. Chatter suggests porters are coming for her." Kiba's reply was short, sounds of fighting behind him.

"Understood. Defensive positions." Tet replaced the radio and looked at her. "We need to hide you somewhere."

Andy looked thoughtful, "I haven't tried them yet, but there's barrier spells I could try.."

"Do it. I will not lose you to Seltain." He pulled his pistol and left the infirmary.

Andy tried to remember the spells, reciting the words aloud until a shimmering barrier surrounded her. She then recited an invisibility spell so she wouldn't be found.

Tet saw Kiba battling a hound and jumped into the fray. Once it was down, they stood back to back as a group of vampires approached. They glanced at each other, then attacked.

A shimmer of light heralded a porter and Tsukasa fired his pistol. A body dropped onto the infirmary floor and he quickly scanned for others. Finally the sounds of fighting stopped.

Andy glanced out at the body, going over to check them over.

The porter was dead, his grey eyes staring. A bracelet around his wrist beeped once, then went silent. Blood covered his shirt.

Andy lifted him up into a bed, first closing his eyes, then checking his wounds over and reciting a few healing spells. She then focused, and the glow of golden light surrounded him.

Tsukasa raced over. "Get that bracelet off now !"

Andy looked up in confusion, but did as she was told.

The soldier quickly broke it into pieces, then immersed it in the sink. Finally, he exhaled sharply and looked at her. "If his heartbeat had restarted with it on his wrist, it would have exploded and killed us all." He scowled as the porter's eyes blinked open.

"What? How?" He looked at them in confusion.

"How what?" Andy raised an eyebrow.

"I was dead.." He sat up, his eyes widening as he saw the bracelet was gone.

"I saved you."

"Why?" He looked at her quietly.

"I'm a doctor, it's kind of my job to save people."

"But I was supposed to take you..to him." The words were slow, filled with loathing.

Andy was quiet for a moment, "Well, obviously if you try to, I'll fight you. But I'm not just going to just let everyone die. You sound like you don't even want to be doing that."

"He'll kill me if I don't.." The porter kept looking at his bare wrist.

"I'm not going that easy, but I'm sure you can find a way to hide from him."

He nodded silently as Zal slowly stumbled in. He weakly saluted, then spoke. "Defenses held, sir. All attackers defeated."

The vampire held a bloody hand to his side, trembling with fatigue. His blond hair was blood spattered and he had an oozing bite on his neck.

Andy approached him, saying a few spells. Blue and green lights covered him, the wounds closing and fading.

He gave her a grateful smile before he passed out.

She caught him and quickly carried him to a bed.

Tsukasa looked at her. "You ready to help? I'm sure they're going to need it."

Andy nodded, "Yeah."

"Let's go find them." Tsukasa headed out of the infirmary cautiously. He ran into Yoshi who had a body in his arms. "Take him in."

Andy glanced at the body, unsure if she should follow to help find more people or stay to help this one.

Tsukasa touched her arm. "I could bring them if it's easier?"

Andy nodded, "I have the supplies here to help clean them up and do any stitching that needs done. It's probably better to work in here." She turned and followed Yoshi watching him lay the body on a bed. She checked him over, reciting spells then cleaning him up. His heart rate was low so she hooked him up to a few machines to keep track of it. She then glanced at Yoshi, "Are you hurt?"

"It's nothing. Don't worry about me." His eyes were glued to the man she'd just healed.

Andy sighed, focusing and letting the blue light shine over Yoshi to work on healing any injuries.

Yamae materialized shakily, his arm wrapped around a still Ryusei. "Help him.." The porter had blood streaming from his scalp, but he didn't seem to notice.

Ryusei wasn't breathing, bloody slashes extending from his collarbone to his abdomen.

Andy helped get Ryusei into a bed, stitching him up before focusing her powers into him. He finally started breathing again so she looked at Yamae, stopping the bleeding and checking him over for any other wounds.

"I'm okay." The porter tried to smile.

Andy focused for a moment until blue light surrounded him and started to heal him.

She suddenly felt exhausted, then realized she hadn't really slept since she was in the van. How long ago had that been? Over a whole day? She shook her head, it didn't matter, she had to stay with it to help the team.

Tsukasa came in, carrying a body as Jack carried another in. He caught her eye, shaking his head. "Don't try to bring them back. Unless you are stronger than Seltain, there's nothing you can do." He slumped into a chair sadly.

"Why? What happened to them?" She looked them over.

Kiba and Tet lay still, viciously torn open from chest to abdomen. Their bodies were bloodsoaked, leaving them as pale as the bedsheets. Kiba's face was frozen in a snarl, his eyes staring sightlessly. Tet's face was peaceful, as if he'd accepted death.

Andy closed the eyes before going to get supplies. She spent the next couple hours stitching them back together and cleaning their bodies of the blood. She then started with all the healing spells she knew, before hooking up transfusion bags. Then, she spent a while focusing on them. It took a while longer than normal, but eventually the golden light appeared around them. She felt herself growing weaker but continued to focus, refusing to give up.

The two men sucked in breaths simultaneously as Tsukasa gave a gasp.

"No wonder Seltain wants you…" He gave her a look of amazement.

She closed her eyes a moment, trying to push away the exhaustion. She ended up swaying a bit before leaning against one of the beds.

"Yoshi. Get her to bed before she collapses." Tsukasa shook his head at her. "No arguments. You need to rest before you burn yourself out."

Yoshi gently picked her up, heading out and towards her room. Once there, he laid her down and covered her. "Sleep. Don't worry about anything. We'll protect you."

Andy nodded slowly, barely keeping her eyes open. She finally shut them and was asleep in seconds.

She woke, noticing the sun shining through the window. She slowly pushed herself up, trying to process everything that had happened.

"Feeling better?" Tsukasa spoke softly from his seat at the end of the bed.

She took a deep breath before nodding, "Yeah. How is everyone?"

"Most of them are cleaning up. The porter you saved has asked for asylum and I'm inclined to grant it."

"He doesn't seem that bad," Andy answered.

"According to him, Seltain has enslaved several Council members with his powers. That's in addition to others he's attached those bracelets to."

"Is there a way we can save them?"

"Destroy Seltain. But in order to do that, you'd have to be in the same room. And I am terrified of that happening."

Andy nodded, "Did the porter know what Seltain wants from me exactly?"

"He wants your powers. He wants to strip you of all your abilities."

Andy nodded slowly, "Is that even possible?"

"If he kills you ritually, hell yes. And with his powers, he could take control of you and you'd do it for him gladly."

Andy sighed, "So what do we do?"

"Keep you as far away as possible until such time as you can resist and kill him." Tsukasa moved to the window with a sigh. "He won't stop. There will be more attacks until he gets ahold of you. But we will protect you. He won't have you as long as one of us remains alive."

"I don't want you guys to keep getting hurt, or killed, because of me. Won't it be safer for everyone if I hide somewhere by myself?"

He turned to face her. "You think he cares if we're with you or not? He wants to rule over all the races and if you don't submit, he tramples you. He'd kill us even if you were dead because we won't accept him. So no, it's not safer. Plus Tet would just follow you."

Andy sighed, "Alright.."

"Where is she?! Let me see her!" Tet's voice was near panicked.

Andy climbed out of bed and went to the door, opening it.

Tet's eyes met hers. Yoshi was supporting him at the same time as keeping him from the door, but now he almost fell as Tet sagged weakly into his arms.

Andy went to him, putting a hand on his shoulder, "How are you feeling?"

"Weak, but better now that I've seen you." He laid his cheek on her hand softly. She could feel him shaking from the exertion.

"Let's get you back to bed, okay?"

He nodded, struggling to stay conscious. His breathing was harsh and labored. "Need my medicine.."

Yoshi looked at her. "I'll get it." He released Tet and headed down the hall toward the soldier's room.

Andy wrapped her arm around Tet and led him into her room, "Lay down, you need to rest."

Tet sank into the mattress, his eyes closing as Yoshi arrived with the vial and syringe. The other man watched sadly as his friend shook. "He's dying, isn't he?"

Andy sighed, "I'm working on trying to help him. Speaking of, I should probably get back to the lab.."

"I'll stay with him." Yoshi measured a dose from the vial and injected it, watching as Tet stilled.

Andy nodded, giving Tet a final glance before heading toward the infirmary. She entered, heading back toward the lab and looking over the notes she'd already made. Hours went by as she tried different things both medical and magical.

Tet's mind strayed, images of the present and past intermingling. He cracked his eyes open, his heart skipping a beat as he saw his mother. Suddenly her face morphed into Andy's and the shifter felt his blood race. "Andy.. so much to tell you.."

"Hush, Tet."

He could feel a cloth on his face and he leaned into the coolness, feeling some of the fire in him diminish. "Say you won't leave.." His eyes slipped closed again as he lost consciousness.

Yoshi sighed, continuing to wipe Tet's face. His temperature had skyrocketed in the intervening hours and the fellow shifter felt his heart sink. His friend was fighting a losing battle against his own body and he feared nothing could prevent the defeat.

Andy finally headed back to her room, entering slowly. She checked Tet over, saying a spell to help lower his temperature a bit. She glanced at Yoshi, "I might have a cure, but it involves me doing magic I've never done.."

"Please try.." Yoshi locked eyes with her. "If we lose him, this entire squad is doomed."

Andy nodded, placing a hand on Tet's chest. She muttered a bunch of words which Yoshi couldn't understand before a large intricate blue circle appeared around her hand. She pulled her hand away, the mark staying on Tet's chest for a minute before it slowly faded away. She watched him in silence, praying it worked.

His breathing sped up and the flushed skin returned to normal. The tremors slowed, then stopped completely. He appeared to be deeply asleep now.

Andy smiled, hoping the spell would keep working.

Yoshi exhaled in relief. "He doesn't realize just how lucky he is."

"Hopefully the magic seal lasts. It's the first one I've done and first spell I've created myself.."

"Fingers crossed." He handed her the half full vial. "You should probably research this just in case."

She nodded, "I'll work on it soon." She pocketed it. "Where does he get this medicine from?"

"Jack makes it. Apologies for not being a doctor. All I know is, it contains DNA or something from vampire sources."

She nodded, looking back at Tet.

Tsukasa entered quickly. "How is he?" His voice was tight, hand clenched around his cell.

"Alright for now, I think," Andy answered.

The dragon nodded before turning to Yoshi. "Some of my informants say Council members are on their way. If they are being controlled, this will probably get ugly. Get everyone ready to fight."

Yoshi saluted and rushed out the door.

Andy looked at Tsukasa, "Is there anything I can do to help?"

"Make sure the infirmary is ready. Do you know defensive magic? If not, you may want to shield yourself again."

Andy nodded, "I'll see what I can do." She glanced at Tet, "What about him? Just let him keep sleeping?"

"Do you think he can fight right now?"

She frowned, "I'm not sure."

"Can you hide him?" Tsukasa looked up as Kiba entered slowly.

"I'll do some protection and invisibility spells before I head to the infirmary."

"Colonel, Tabitha Xalman is asking to see you and Andy.."

"Who is that?" Andy wondered aloud.

"Head witch of the Council. Kai, that's the porter you rescued, says she's in league with Seltain. We don't get along because frankly she's a bitch. And not in the sense of takes no shit. I mean bitch as in wishing she'd both melt and get a house dropped on her."

"So what does she want with us?"

"Well, I am the CO of this outfit and you're the one Seltain wants. Bet good money she's going to try diplomacy first, then try taking you by force again." Tsukasa scowled. "Tempted to shift and flash fry her as a warning."

Andy sighed, "So are we meeting her or are we just telling her to shove it?"

"I'll let you decide. You're the one she really wants to talk to."

Andy looked thoughtful, "I guess let's see what she has to say."

Tsukasa looked at Kiba. "Put her in the conference room."

The wolf nodded, exiting the room.

"I..should be there too." Tet's voice was tired. His eyes cracked open and he attempted to sit up.

"Don't worry about it, just rest," Andy said gently.

He reached for her hand, fear in his eyes. "Please be careful."

She squeezed his hand, "I will."

He nodded once, his eyes closing.

Tsukasa took a deep breath, then looked at her. "Shall we?"

Andy nodded, "Let's go."