A young brunette was walking home, violin case in hand. It was late, as usual when she got done, having lessons for hours after school was over.
She was a few blocks from her house when she heard growling behind her. A dark large wolf was approaching her. She started running but it lunged at her, grabbing onto her arm viciously. She let out a scream, trying to kick the wolf off of her.
She managed to kick it in the nose making it momentarily back off but then it went after her again.
When she was coated in blood and lying limp on the ground, the wolf finally left.
A man skidded to a halt nearby, cursing as he saw her. He knelt, gingerly feeling for a pulse. He paused when he felt a weak beat under his fingers, then carefully lifted and carried her away.
The young woman woke, slowly blinking her eyes open. She shot up though, once she remembered what happened. Pain coursed through her as she looked around in panic.
"Take it easy. You're safe. How do you feel?" A quiet voice asked.
She frowned as she assessed herself, "I hurt. Who are you?"
"Kimito Toya." He stepped out of the shadows and smiled reassuringly at her. "I found you."
She nodded slowly, "Thanks, I guess. I'm Yuri Fujiwara."
He held out a bottle of water. "Nice to meet you. I'm sure you want to go home now."
She winced, "I probably should.. I'm going to be in so much trouble," she sighed.
"Why?" He looked at her.
"For not being home on time."
"You're a little old for a curfew, aren't you?"
"My parents are..strict."
He frowned. "Do you want a ride?"
"If it's not a problem."
He smiled again. "It's not. Come on." He turned and headed for the door.
Yuri followed quietly.
He opened the car door for her, then climbed behind the wheel. "I'm guessing you live near where I found you?"
"Just a few blocks further."
He nodded, his eyes watching the road warily. He followed her directions, pulling up in front of the house.
The door opened and a man exited the house, looking at Yuri and beginning to yell at her before she even stepped foot out of the car.
She sighed and looked at Kimito, "Thank you." Then she got out of the car and tried to explain to her father why she hadn't been home.
Kimito watched for a moment, silently wishing her luck before driving away.
When Yuri finally got to her room, she began pacing, though it was slow due to her pain. She held her head tightly for a moment, trying to calm herself down. Soon, though, she felt strange. After a few moments, she looked up at the mirror and found a gold wolf staring back at her. She tilted her head and found the wolf did too. She backed up in shock, her breathing rapid.
Soon, she was pulled from her panic by knocks on the door. "I don't hear playing in there!"
She moved, noticing she was now back in her human form. She opened the door and raced past her father and out of the house.
She didn't know where she was going, she just needed space for a bit. She ended up finding a small park and sat on the swing.
A pair of dark eyes watched her from the treeline.
A moment later, Kimito emerged and approached her. "Couldn't take the heat?"
She sighed and just shook her head.
He seated himself on another swing. "Sorry."
"For what?"
"You looked really unhappy."
She shrugged, "I'm used to it."
"Maybe so. Still think he needs to chill."
"It's always like that.. Everything is so strict there, all because I'm not my sister," she sighed.
He winced. "One of those sets of parents, huh?"
"She was always the favorite, but I never cared. Until she died.. then suddenly I had to fill her place. I'm never good enough for them."
"Sorry for your loss. But you need to make them realize you're not her." He idly pushed himself back and forth. "Take it from me. They'll end up losing you too eventually when you get fed up. They don't want that."
"They don't care about me. They care about Hina."
"Why do you stay then?" He watched her intently.
"I don't know anything else. I have nowhere to go unless I move on campus."
He dropped his eyes, staring at the sand under his feet.
A few moments later, a shrill howl echoed in the air.
He visibly tensed, his hands clenching around the swing chains.
Yuri looked around carefully, keeping an eye out for a wolf.
"You need to go home. Now." Kimito's voice was cold.
She frowned but nodded, standing and beginning to walk toward her house.
Moments later, something soft knocked her to the ground.
She looked around in confusion, trying to scramble away.
A white wolf stood above her, growling as a darker one stepped out of the treeline.
The darker one opened it's muzzle and howled.
The white's hackles rose and it's knees bent, preparing to lunge forward.
Yuri moved back, trying to escape them. She started feeling strange again and she looked down, finding paws instead of feet. She made a panicked noise, backing up further and hiding in some bushes.
The dark one lunged first, jaws snapping around one of the white's legs and tossing it aside. It started to advance on her, but the white one snarled and leapt on it's back.
The white one started biting, the black screeching in pain before bucking it off. It went flying, hitting a tree with an audible snap.
The black one howled, stalking toward her stunned protector. It locked it's muzzle on the white's throat, the other wolf stiffening in agony.
Yuri watched for a moment before deciding to attack. She bit into the black wolf hard, growling as she did.
The black wolf released the white one, snapping it's teeth at her with a snarl.
She didn't let go, fighting the pain from her injuries.
The black one finally freed itself, blood staining it's fur in a steady stream. With a glare, it fled.
Yuri went over to the white one, gently nudging it with a paw.
It whimpered, then turned human. Blood spattered the clothes, Kimito's face pale and pained.
She tried to help but couldn't figure out how to turn back into her human form. She managed to get him onto her back and began running toward his house.
"Calm.. down. Go home." He slid off and stood unsteadily.
She let out a small growl but turned and started toward her house.
He attempted to walk, but crumpled after a few steps and lay still.
She heard him and shook her head as she looked back. She got him onto her again and took him home.
He didn't respond when they arrived.
She gently laid him down at the steps and tried to push the door. She sighed and realized she probably needed a key but without hands she couldn't help. She just sat down and kept an eye on him for a long while.
Finally, his eyes fluttered open. He woozily sat up, looking at her worriedly. "You need to leave town."
She opened her mouth, just a small angry bark coming out.
His lips curled up slightly. "Taga is not going to stop until he kills you. I've sworn to not allow that."
She wondered, "Who is that?"
He scowled. "All you need to know is he will kill you if he shows up again. You have to leave town for a little while."
She sighed, "I don't know where to go.."
"Give me some time. Get inside." He unlocked the door, his movements slow.
"Also.. what's going on and why am I a dog?" She chuckled a little.
"You're a wolf, thank you very much." His tone was annoyed.
She looked down and quietly just said, "Sorry.." She watched him enter the house, "I don't want to be a bother. I'll figure something out." She turned to start back down the stairs.
He grabbed her by the scruff of the neck and unceremoniously dropped her on the sofa. "I said get inside."
She just stayed quiet, her eyes watching him.
He dug in a cabinet, pulling out a small bottle. "Open."
She internally sighed but did as instructed.
He poured the contents down her throat. "That should revert you." He pulled out a first aid kit and hissed as he began cleaning his wounds.
After a few moments she reverted. She got up and silently began helping him.
"You don't have to do this." He said quietly, sighing as he pulled a gun from the waistband of his pants and put it on the counter.
"Just trying to help.."
"I should have stopped him before he attacked you. This is my fault." Kimito brushed his bangs back as he wrapped one wrist with gauze.
"I don't see how."
"You wouldn't have been bit. Been cursed. You'd be home right now, as shitty as that life might be, it's better than this one."
"I don't blame you though. And my whole life is a curse, I'm used to it."
"It is my responsibility! I failed…" He sat down with a muffled curse, his eyes blinking rapidly.
"Just rest for now and don't worry about that. I don't blame you, no matter what the reason," she said softly as she made sure all his wounds were wrapped.
"Can't...Have to find him.."
"Just relax. I'll worry about that."
He tried to keep his eyes open. "I can't..if he comes back.." He hissed in pain as he reached for the gun and tried to push himself up.
"I'll manage."
Suddenly he collapsed into her arms, his head resting on her shoulder.
She sighed and got him laid on the sofa. She stood there to make sure he was going to be alright before heading toward the door.
"Don't..go" His voice was plaintive.
She looked at him a moment before sitting down quietly.
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked that. It's just been a long time since I had human contact for any length of time." He cracked his eyes open and sighed. "You don't have to stay. If you stay inside for a few days, I'll get this taken care of and you won't ever have to see me again. I'll drop the cure off when I get it."
"I just don't want to bother you," she admitted.
"It's the other way around." He sighed again. "I should be used to being alone."
"No one really wants to be alone though." She looked thoughtful for a moment before looking back down, "I'm just used to staying out of the way.. If I'm out of my room too much I tend to bother my parents.."
"Their loss." He gave her a small smile. "I'd be sad if you hid that face all the time."
She blushed slightly in response. She then asked, "So.. I'm a wolf because I got bit by one?"
"Yeah unfortunately. It's a virus. Good news, there is a cure. I'll get it as soon as I heal a little. You'll be fine." He took a shaky breath. "Are the painkillers still in there or did I run out?"
She got up and grabbed him a couple and a water before sitting back down. "And what if I want to be a wolf?"
"Why would you?"
She shrugged slightly before looking thoughtful again. "I guess part of it is I've never had or been anything my sister hadn't. She wasn't a wolf, so that's new." She sighed. "I don't know.."
"You want to feel special." He watched her quietly. "I understand. If you really want to be, I think I can find someone to help you learn everything."
She looked down, "I'm just so used to doing everything my parents want.. I've never really thought about what I want before."
He chuckled. "Yep. Definitely have someone in mind."
"Who?"
"I have.. I guess you could call her a friend. She's a wolf, and I joke she became her own spirit animal." He pulled out a phone, typing quickly. "There. She should show up in the morning. Just answer the door before your parents do."
Yuri nodded.
He gave her a fleeting smile. "Wish I could know you better."
"Why can't you?"
"Because I have to take Taga out. And more than likely, he'll do the same to me."
"I'll take him out."
"NO! I won't allow him to kill you too."
"But if I take him down, what's it matter?"
"You..deserve to..live.." He passed out.
She sat there silently watching him for a while.
His hands twitched, his forehead furrowing as he slept.
She sighed and got up, writing him a small note before heading out the door.
There was a knock on her bedroom window the next morning.
She got up and looked outside.
A woman with dark hair interspersed with neon extensions wiggled her fingers with a grin. She wore a leather pantsuit with a tastefully ripped t-shirt which showed off several tattoos on her chest and upper arms.
Yuri grabbed her bag before heading out the door.
The woman surveyed her as she straddled a jet black motorcycle. "Mito wasn't joking. You do look like a high school waifu."
Yuri turned red.
The woman laughed. "Don't worry. When I'm done, your stick in the ass parents won't recognize you."
She chuckled slightly, "Nice to meet you."
"Fuck. My manners have really deteriorated. I'm Davie."
"I'm Yuri.. but you probably know that already.."
Davie tossed her a helmet. "Let's go."
She took a minute to get the helmet on before climbing on the back.
Davie headed into the punk side of town, parking in front of a graffitied storefront. Loud music blared from the open door and she greeted several lounging men and women.
Yuri followed her, looking around in amazement.
"Ro! Makeover for her stat!" Davie addressed a tall skinny woman who chuckled.
"My pleasure. Come on honey, let's meet your wild side."
Yuri gave her a quiet smile and nod.
Ro pulled her into the clothing area, pulling things off the rack. "Dressing rooms are right here." She pointed forward. "Whatever you want to try on."
Yuri looked through the clothes before going into the dressing room. She came out with a green shimmery shirt with black leather pants.
"That's what I'm talking about!" Davie clapped her hands enthusiastically.
Yuri grinned before trying on another top. It was gold with silver points on it.
"Definite club wear. Keep away the touchy feely jerks."
She chuckled before trying on a final outfit.
"A very good start." Davie tossed some lingerie and assorted undergarments into a backpack, then dropped it into her arms. "Now let's see.. Hair, makeup or tattoos?"
Yuri's eyes lit up. "I've never had a chance to do anything like this before.."
"So all of the above." Davie laughed, leading her upstairs into a salon and tattoo parlor. "Pick your poison."
Yuri looked around. "How about short hair? Or fun colors?"
"Anything you want. If you want to go bald, I'll do it."
"Maybe some pink or purple? And shorter but not too short.." she looked thoughtful.
"Sit down."
Yuri did as instructed, giving a final look in the mirror before her makeover started.
Two hours later, Davie stepped back. "You like?"
She stared at herself in the mirror. "It's wonderful.. I'm going to get killed when I get home though," she gave a small smile.
"Do you want to go back?"
"Not really.."
Davie grinned wickedly. "Okay, roomie."
Yuri's eyes widened, "Really?"
"Yeah. Me and Ro's third just moved in with her boyfriend. So we have an empty room."
She nodded, "This is crazy.. but fun. Thank you. You've been so nice. I'll try to be a good roommate."
Davie waved a hand. "Life is crazy. And don't mention it. I have only one rule." Her eyes twinkled.
"Okay?"
"No hoarding drugs, alcohol or good movies. We share everything but boyfriends...usually."
She chuckled, "Alright."
"What now? Under the needle?"
Yuri took a deep breath, "What should I get? I've never thought of this before.."
"What speaks to you?" Davie led her over to the wall art.
She looked around for a while before picking a tattoo of some flowers.
"Nice choice." Davie sat her down and got to work.
When it was done, Yuri stared at it in awe.
Her companion laughed as a tall young man came in. She wrapped her arms around him as he kissed her.
Yuri smiled as she watched them then glanced at her phone, dozens of calls and texts from her parents appearing on the screen. She rolled her eyes and shoved the phone back in her pocket.
"I know that look." The man laughed as he parted from Davie. "The nagging devil parents.."
Yuri chuckled slightly, "Yeah."
"Don't worry. Davie will save you." The man grinned as Davie rolled her eyes.
"I'm Yuri. Nice to meet you."
"Kai the incorrigible." Davie ruffled his hair.
"Her fault." He ducked as she tried to smack him.
"Don't listen to him. He's the one who led me down this road of depravity."
"You know you love it." Kai teased as he wrapped his arms around Davie again.
Yuri smiled silently.
"My parents wanted me to be a nun." Davie pecked Kai's cheek.
"My parents just want me to be my sister," Yuri sighed.
"Too bad for them." Davie gave her a smile as Kai rummaged through the nearby fridge.
"Hey, do you have any Orylac left?"
Davie's eyes darkened.
"What's that?" Yuri wondered aloud.
"Strong narcotic painkiller for us." Davie moved to the fridge, withdrawing a purple liquid filled vial. "Mito out again?"
She frowned but stayed quiet.
Kai reddened. "Had another visit from Taga late last night. Had to patch him up when I arrived."
"Will he be alright?"
"If he gets some breathing room to heal. If not.." Kai grimaced.
"Is there anything I can do to help?"
"He won't admit it, but he couldn't stop asking about you."
Davie rolled her eyes. "He's such an idiot."
"Really?"
"Think you got under his skin." Kai grinned.
She turned slightly red.
Davie started laughing. "You still look like a waifu."
She reddened further but laughed slightly.
"I gave her to you to rescue, not make die of embarrassment." The subject of their discussion stood in the doorway looking annoyed.
Yuri gave him a small smile.
"You look happier." He chuckled. "Did your parents have matching coronaries yet?"
"I haven't seen them," she laughed.
"Maybe I should record the fireworks?" He teased.
She smiled, "Hopefully I won't be seeing them for a long while."
Davie growled under her breath as she stalked forward. "Sit down before you fall down."
Kimito raised an eyebrow. "I'm fine."
The punk wolf didn't answer, merely slamming a fist into the other's side and smiling smugly as he hissed and almost collapsed.
Yuri frowned as she watched quietly.
"You're such a bitch." Kimito gritted his teeth as Davie dragged him to a chair. She expertly injected him with a small amount of Orylac, sighing as his eyes closed.
"Will he be okay?" Yuri asked quietly.
"Give him an hour. He'll be mobile. Okay.. is a different story altogether."
"Taga is being more aggressive." Kai began to pace.
"He's always been that way. Even before he turned. But we'll stop him. It's our duty." Davie brushed a hand through Kimito's hair with a sigh.
Yuri had a lot of questions about Taga and who he was, but wasn't sure it was the right time to ask them. She watched Kimito, wishing she could find a way to help him.
"Your parents home right now?" Davie nudged her.
Yuri glanced at the time, "I think they're at work."
"Let's go get your stuff then. That way you'll be free without a fight."
She nodded and stood. "Alright."
"Keep him here, Kai. Don't care if you chain his ass in the cage, you keep him out of Taga's crosshairs until I get back." Davie kissed her boyfriend, then grabbed Yuri's hand.
Yuri followed silently for a few moments before her curiosity got the better of her, "So.. who exactly is Taga?"
"Now? A madman." Davie sighed. "Once, he was a loving, caring person. And my younger brother."
Yuri nodded slowly, "So why is he like this now?"
"He always had a mean streak, though it wasn't always visible. When he was turned, he decided he was superior to everyone and he had the power of life and death."
She sighed, "That must be hard for you."
Davie shrugged. "Harder for Mito. They used to be inseparable."
She nodded again, unsure what to ask next.
"Go ahead. Your questions don't bother me." The wolf shot her a smile.
"Were you all turned around the same time?"
"No. Taga was turned first. We hid him, then covered for his actions for several years. Then he repaid it by attempting to kill us." Her eyes were distant. "We tried so hard to make him see how wrong he was. But he was unreachable, maddened with bloodlust. We never stood a chance."
"Is Kai a wolf too?"
She grinned. "No. He's a dragon."
Yuri raised an eyebrow, "Cool."
"Right? He's amazing." Davie laughed. "He was so nervous when we first met. Imagine that? A winged, fire breathing man afraid of a furry."
Yuri chuckled in response. "And what is Ro?"
"A hawk. Which is the same way she dates. Zeros in on some unsuspecting boy, has her way and then leaves him heartbroken. She's an animal." The wolf's eyes twinkled.
Yuri smiled before sighing, "Are you sure I'll fit in with you guys?"
Davie crossed her arms. "Gonna stop you right there. You're one of us. Family. Everything that goes along with that, you've got. You're not alone and you are liked for you. Not what you should be, but exactly what you are right now."
"But you barely know me. Hell, I barely know who I am.."
"Don't care. I even venture to guess I'd like you even if you hadn't been turned. I always wanted a younger sister. Can't makeover two idiot boys."
Yuri had tears in her eyes, "Thank you."
"Hey now, you're going to ruin the makeup." Davie embraced her. "Let's get your life started."
Yuri nodded and wiped at her eyes.
When they got to the house, she snuck in to make sure no one was home before going to her room. She threw a little bit of clothes into a bag and looked around. She didn't have a lot of possessions to grab. Her eyes landed on her violin and she sighed, unsure if she should take it. It had been forced on her, but she did enjoy the music. She finally decided to grab it just in case and headed back out of the house.
Davie grinned. "You play?"
Yuri nodded with a small smile.
"I bet you're wonderful. But no one will force anything you don't want." She waited for her to climb on the cycle, then headed off.
They arrived at a massive compound, the woman typing in a code to unlock the surrounding gate. She parked in front of a large house, then climbed off and grinned at Yuri. "Welcome home."
Yuri looked at it with wide eyes, "It's so big."
"Perks of inheritance from rich parents." Davie grabbed Yuri's bag. "Come on."
Yuri grabbed her violin and followed.
Davie led her to a double set of doors. "If you don't like the decor, we can go shopping."
"I'm sure it'll be fine."
Davie beamed and threw the doors open.
Yuri looked around with wide eyes, "This.. is mine?"
"Yep. All yours, roomie."
She entered slowly, "It's wonderful."
"You really like it?"
She nodded quickly.
"Don't pretend, okay. If you don't like something, speak up. Don't be like Mito."
"Thank you.. for everything. I can't believe this is all really happening.."
Davie smiled softly. "I'm sure what happened was frightening. But you have us now."
Yuri gave a nod before setting her stuff down.
"Well, I don't think you need a tour right now. And we'll stock the kitchenette later." She answered her phone, rolling her eyes. "Give him a Halobuc. We'll be back in thirty."
When Davie was done on the phone, Yuri asked, "Kimito causing trouble?"
"Insisting on trying to leave to find Taga. I swear, for being the oldest, he is the dumbest."
Yuri chuckled.
"You want to stay or gang up with me?"
"I'll go with," she decided.
"Come on then." Davie led her towards the front door. "I'll get keys made and get you the code to the gate. Do you drive or ride?"
"I learned how to drive but normally I just walked everywhere.."
"Another thing on the list then."
Yuri raised an eyebrow.
"Can't live with just your feet, girl." Davie straddled the cycle.
Yuri nodded slowly for a moment before climbing on behind her.
A half hour later, they pulled up to the shop to see a woozy Kimito struggling with Kai.
"Move, dammit!"
Yuri raised an eyebrow as she watched.
"You are a first class baka, you know that?" Davie growled as she swung her leg over to stand. "You're all torn up and you want to go fight again."
"Fuck off, Davina. You know what will happen if I don't." Kimito tried to glare.
"You don't look like you can even stay upright for long," Yuri assessed. "You probably should rest a bit more."
"If everyone would quit drugging me, I'd be fine." Kimito blinked at her.
"We should let him go. He can feed his damned death wish." Kai was exhaling smoke, his eyes glowing angrily.
Yuri watched for a few moments sighing as she did. She looked at Kimito, "Why don't you want to rest?"
"If he kills someone else…" Kimito clenched his jaw.
"Goddammit, K!" Kai struggled to remain calm. "You are NOT responsible for Taga. He made his own choices. You have to stop..I won't lose anyone else."
The wolf looked up in surprise at the anguished words. "It's my fault.."
Kai hissed and let go of him, throwing up his hands and disappearing into the shop.
"Just rest a bit longer, then if you really want to go after him, I'll go with and try to help," Yuri offered.
"NO!" His dark eyes glittered at her. "I won't let him kill you."
"I just want to help.." she trailed off.
Davie marched over and slapped him hard. "Trag, stop being an ass." She continued past him as he rubbed his face with a look of surprise.
"Are you okay?"
"Feel a bit bullied right now." The words were rueful. "She's always been bossy."
"They just care about you."
"She shouldn't. And he's just possessive."
"You don't get to tell people who or what they should care about. So if she cares about you, just accept it."
"It's my fault she is a wolf. Because I didn't stop Taga at the start.. I stole her life."
"First off, she seems really happy with her life. Secondly, it wasn't your responsibility to stop him, it's his fault he's an ass."
His jaw dropped open, his eyes wide.
She sighed, "But who am I to tell you what you should do? If you really insist on going out injured, that's your own choice. But it's also my choice to help."
After a minute, he chuckled and approached her. He dipped his head, gently pressing his lips to hers.
Her eyes widened in surprise before she slowly kissed back.
He grinned softly as they parted. "That was even better than I imagined."
She blushed in response, unsure what to say.
He laughed quietly, then winced as spots of red began to spread on his shirt.
"Let's get you inside and rebandaged," she said softly.
He took a deep breath and nodded.
She put her hand on his arm gently before going inside.
He shakily moved to a chair, his eyes squeezed almost shut. The spots were increasing in size and his breathing was rapid.
She found a first aid kit and carefully began taking care of him and cleaning him up.
He growled softly, gingerly pulling his shirt off. A mass of bandages covered his torso, several of them heavy with blood. "I was distracted and Taga got me.."
She nodded and removed the used bandages. She looked him over for a moment before deciding where to focus the majority of the new bandages. She wiped off the blood then placed the new ones on gently.
He looked at her through heavy eyes. "I. I need to go. Finish this before I die.."
"You need to rest."
He was too exhausted to argue, his eyes fluttering closed.
She sat down and watched him silently. After a while, she dozed off, all the excitement of the day wearing her out.
A few hours later, she was shaken gently.
Her eyes opened quickly.
"Hungry?" Davie gave her a smile. "We got takeout."
She nodded and looked around a moment.
"He's still asleep." Davie ran a hand through Kimito's hair softly. Her eyes were worried.
"At least it's giving him some time to heal."
"Yeah. Terrified I'm going to lose him though. He feels so guilty.. Thinks sacrificing himself will atone for his mistakes."
Yuri winced, "Hopefully you'll get through to him before that."
The woman chuckled humorlessly. "Not likely. Come on." She headed for the other room.
Yuri followed quietly, getting a small plate of food.
Kai and Ro were yelling at each other as they battled on a big screen in some kind of battle royale game. Davie perched herself on the sofa arm, offering commentary.
Yuri smiled as she watched them. She washed her plate when she was done and sat back down.
"Rejoice! The King has arrived!" A redhead entered the shop with a smug grin.
Kai threw a pillow at him. "More like scream and flee, you imperious jackass."
The new arrival caught it and pouted. "You're breaking my heart."
"Can't break what you don't have." Davie laughed.
Yuri watched quietly, assessing the newcomer.
He raised an eyebrow as he caught her eye.
"Saka, meet Yuri. Yuri, meet our resident pompous blowhard Saka."
"Nice to meet you."
"Likewise. Where's idiot?"
Yuri raised an eyebrow.
"In back. Got himself ripped nearly to shreds. Again." Davie sighed.
Saka growled, then disappeared. Seconds later, he was back and angry. "He ditched us."
Yuri sighed and shook her head.
"I'm going to skin him." Davie growled.
Yuri chuckled slightly.
"I'll find him." Saka headed for the door.
"Mind if I come along?" Yuri asked quietly.
"You can hold him down while I kick his ass."
She smirked and got up to follow him.
An hour later, they were empty handed still. He stopped in frustration, then stiffened and sniffed the air. "Do you smell that? The blood?"
She took a deep breath before nodding. "It's close."
He started running. Suddenly he froze, grunting as she ran into him.
She looked around and froze as she spotted a figure on the ground.
Kimito lay completely motionless in a huge puddle of blood.
Yuri rushed to his side, quickly checking for a pulse. She found a very faint one but knew he wouldn't last much longer. She let out a small sob, wishing she could somehow help him. Suddenly, green light escaped her fingers and began pouring into Kimito. She stared in shock but let it continue.
Saka gasped, sinking to his knees in shock as Kimito's injuries healed. "You-you have the gift.."
"The gift?" She looked up in confusion.
"Every three hundred years, a shifter demonstrates the gift of healing."
She stared in surprise, "It's that rare?"
He nodded slowly as Kimito's eyes fluttered open. "Yu-Yuri?"
"Hey," she gave him a soft smile, "How are you feeling?"
"Okay..I think. Kinda woozy." He blinked as he saw Saka. "Aw hell. Davie called you?"
"Thought you needed a swift kick in the rear." Saka gave him a smirk.
Kimito groaned, trying to push himself up. "I'm in control."
"Unh huh. Seconds away from dying is totally in control."
Kimito froze.
Yuri held out a hand to help him up.
He took it, his eyes troubled. "How am I alive then?"
Saka pointed at Yuri. "New addition has the gift."
Kimito's head swiveled quickly to stare at her in disbelief.
Yuri shrugged slightly, "I don't know.. I just wanted to help and then there was this light.."
"You didn't have to do that. Thank you though." He rubbed the back of his neck, then swayed.
She wrapped an arm around him to keep him steady.
"Come on before your sister skins me." Saka moved under his shoulder and began walking.
Halfway, the wolf's knees buckled as he passed out.
Yuri winced, "Will he be alright?"
"Let him sleep. He needs to replenish the blood he lost. When he wakes, feed him. Alot." Saka hefted him with a sigh.
Yuri nodded quietly and followed him back.
"We're back." Saka announced as they entered.
Davie emerged from the back and went white. "Oh god…is he alive?"
Yuri nodded, "He was hurt pretty badly but he'll be okay."
"Bring him to the storeroom."
"No. Not..staying..going home." His eyes opened, the words slow. "Not safe.."
"Shh, just relax," Yuri said softly.
Saka rolled his eyes and dragged him past Davie and onto a small cot. As he began stripping the wolf, he looked at Yuri. "He's got clothes in that bag."
She quickly grabbed some and held them out.
Saka got Kimito dressed with an efficiency that spoke volumes about his experience at it. When he was done, he tossed a blanket over the wolf and shook his head.
Yuri quietly looked at Kimito, glad he was still alive.
Saka left them alone, closing the door as he did.
"I can't..be here. If they track me, everyone will be hurt. Or worse." He struggled weakly to sit up, trying to reach for his shoes.
She slowly moved the shoes further away, "You need to rest. Let the rest of us worry about all that."
He frowned at her. "You're special..couldn't stand it if you..were hurt…" He sagged, once more unconscious.
She got him resituated before gently running a hand through his hair.
"SHE'S WHAT?!" Kai's voice was shocked.
Yuri winced at the sound.
It went quiet after a moment, then the door opened.
Davie entered, watching Kimito sleep. "I can't thank you enough."
"For what?"
"Saving him."
"I just wanted to help.."
"You did. I just wish you could be with him all the time. I wouldn't worry so much."
Yuri gave a small smile, "Well, I'll help him out as much as I can."
"Was it Taga?" Davie's eyes were locked on her brother as he shifted position.
"I don't know."
The wolf nodded. "If you're scared, you can stay at the apartment. You don't have to be involved anymore."
She shook her head, "I want to help."
Davie knelt to look at her. "You're not required to, you know. Like Mito said, we're supposed to be rescuing you, not putting you in danger."
"I know. Thank you. But I feel like I should help ."
"Can't say I didn't try." she rose with a sigh. "Wanna help cook?"
"Alright," she stood after giving another look at Kimito.
A small smile flitted across his face as he curled up.
She smiled softly before following Davie.
Two hours later, he shuffled out, scratching his head. His hair was askew, but his eyes were clear and he was moving normally. "That smells good."
Yuri gave him a small smile, "Good to see you up."
"Good to be up. I'm sorry for freaking you out."
Davie didn't say anything, just put a large plate on the table. She headed for the front and he winced.
"The silent treatment? Fuck, she's pissed." He sat down and put his head in his hands.
"Well, you did sneak off, then almost died."
Kimito swore softly. "She knows why I can't be here. It's too dangerous." He raised his head. "It wasn't Taga. He would have killed me immediately."
"Do you ever think maybe the others don't care that it's dangerous and want to help you anyway?"
"I want.. No, I need to keep them safe. The only reason they haven't been attacked is because the survivors don't know they're still alive. And I'm going to keep it that way."
She sighed, "It's not your responsibility to keep everyone safe. If they want to help you and know the dangers, that's their choice."
"It is my responsibility! If it wasn't for me, none of this would be happening. Almost everyone would be living normal lives.."
"Maybe they don't want normal lives?"
His lips twitched upward slightly. "Doesn't everyone?"
"I don't know, this seems a lot more exciting than a normal life to me." She chuckled slightly. "Just try not to be so hard on yourself. Not everything is always your fault and the others just care about you. Okay?"
He huffed a laugh, then began to eat. After a few minutes, he looked at her. "Can I ask you something?"
"Alright.."
"I could hear you crying when I.. you know." He frowned. "Why?"
She frowned, "Why wouldn't I?"
"Because I'm an asshole? Because you barely know me and we met under circumstances you'd probably prefer to forget?" He shrugged. "Pick one. Or make up your own."
She looked down, "You're the first person to tell me I deserve to live.. most of the time I'm used to hearing I should have died instead of Hina.."
He snarled. "Anyone ever says that again and I will break my promise!"
She shrugged, "I'm used to it."
His eyes were glowing as he tried to contain his anger. "I'd like to make them eat those words.."
She was still looking down, "I tried to end things so I wouldn't have to keep hearing it, but they managed to save me. I thought things would get better after that, maybe they finally wanted me for me, but they never did."
He went silent, then reached for her hand. "I guess I actually helped you, didn't I?"
She nodded slightly.
"Chalk one point for heaven." He said quietly as he resumed eating. "Still don't think I'm worth crying over."
"IT'S ALIVE!" Saka entered, his arms outstretched like a zombie.
Yuri chuckled a little as she watched him.
"Very funny." Kimito threw a napkin at him. "You sticking around?"
Saka shrugged. "I think you'll need help. But only if you want me."
Kimito rolled his eyes. "I am not having this conversation again."
Yuri raised an eyebrow but stayed quiet as she sat there.
Saka sighed. "Alright, alright. Until Taga is taken care of. Then I'm gone."
Kimito grinned. "Unh huh. I'll stock my place with three months of food."
The two stared at each other defiantly.
Yuri chuckled slightly at their interaction.
"Mito..." Davie's voice shook as she entered the room, tears streaking her face.
He rushed to her side. "What happened?"
"Shin..he's dead..wild animal.."
Kimito's face went pale, but his eyes began glowing. "It ends now."
Yuri watched quietly wondering who Shin was.
"Don't. Please, Kimito. He'll kill you. I can't.." Davie sobbed in his arms.
"Is it Taga?" Yuri asked quietly.
Saka sighed and nodded. "He's calling Mito out."
She nodded slowly, "There has to be some way to take him out without getting killed.."
Saka dropped his eyes. "Keep Mito here. I'll go."
"Where will you find Taga?"
"He'll find me." He raised his head. "I'm glad he won't be alone anymore. Take care of him." He slipped out unnoticed with a sad smile.
Yuri was torn between staying with Kimito and Davie and following and helping Saka.
Davie finally wiped her face and left the room. Kimito looked up, freezing when he saw her alone. "Where's Saka?"
"He.. left."
Kimito shook his head. "No..no..tell me he's not confronting my brother!"
She looked down and stayed quiet.
He whirled, racing for the door. "Sonofabitch!"
She stood and followed him, "I'll go with you."
He paused. "Don't you dare die on me. I want you to be able to rub your happiness in their faces after this."
She nodded, "Alright."
Kimito stood outside for a moment, eyes closed. He shifted, staring at her. "Follow me."
She focused for a minute until she felt herself shift, then followed.
They heard the fight before they saw it. Loud yelps of pain and growling were punctuated by the ground shaking.
The large black wolf from her attack howled at her before latching on to a red one's throat and shaking viciously. Weak whimpers came from the other before it went silent.
Kimito howled angrily and lunged forward.
Yuri went to Saka's side, focusing hard on helping him. Light began pouring from her as she healed his wounds. When he looked better, she turned back toward the fight and tried to help Kimito attack.
Kimito snarled, biting on one of the black's rear legs. He pulled backwards, but was unprepared for the claws slashing at him as Taga flipped in mid air. He disengaged, whimpering as blood spattered the ground. He tried to catch his breath, backing up.
Yuri clamped onto the black one's throat, struggling to not let go.
It growled, slashing at her before slamming her into the ground. It's eyes were furious and its jaws came closer to her throat.
Kimito charged him, trying to get her free. He was met by claws that pierced his abdomen deeply. With a pained howl, he reverted to human before going limp.
Taga made a noise that sounded like a laugh before ripping his paw out. He gave Yuri a look of triumph, then began to lower his head towards her neck.
Yuri kicked hard, managing to get him off. She stood and ran toward him, once again going for his throat. She clamped on and pulled back, trying to rip him open.
He struggled frantically, but blood loss was making him weak.
She continued fighting until he went limp. She then quickly moved to Kimito and sat down beside him, pouring light into him. After a long time, she gently nudged him to see if he'd wake. After no response she continued her healing. As the rips in his abdomen finally healed, she felt dizzy and collapsed to the ground beside him unconscious. After a few minutes, she finally reverted.
Kai ran toward them, several other men following. They grabbed the three and raced back to the store. Davie and Ro took charge of Yuri's care, leaving Kimito and Saka to them. A frantic fight began to save three lives.
Yuri slowly woke, her eyes opening and trying to focus.
"Hey, don't move. How do you feel?" Davie held her hand softly from the chair beside the cot.
"What.. happened?"
"You ended it. Kai says you were passed out beside Mito."
She nodded slightly. "How are they?"
"Saka's stable." Davie gave her a small smile. "He'll have issues proclaiming his greatness for a while, but he'll be fine."
"And Kimito?"
She dropped her eyes, clasping her other hand around Yuri's. "I'm alone now. But it's okay. I'm safe and that's all he ever wanted."
Yuri's eyes filled with tears and she struggled to push herself up.
"You should rest." Davie tried to push her down again.
"I want to see him.."
The other wolf sighed, then helped her off the cot and into another room.
Kimito lay there, eyes closed. He'd been cleaned up, and if not for his pallor, could have been mistaken for sleeping. His hands were clasped on his chest.
Yuri stared down at him for a few minutes, tears streaking her cheeks. She wanted to help him more than anything so he'd wake and she could see him smile again. Soon, the green light began pouring into him again. Yuri looked confused for a few moments unsure what was happening.
He sucked in a breath, his back arching. With a cough, his eyes flew open and he stared hazily at her. "Are we dead?"
She shook her head, unable to speak due to the shock of him reviving.
Davie gave a small sob, locking her arms around his neck. She buried her face in his shoulder and he gave a small chuckle.
"It's okay Davie. Everything's okay now."
She responded by squeezing tighter.
He gasped, tapping her arm. "Need..to breathe, sis.."
Yuri gave a small chuckle as she wiped her eyes. She then swayed, catching herself on a chair. After steadying herself she turned and walked to the door.
"Where are you going?" Kimito finally disengaged Davie, sitting up hurriedly.
She shrugged and turned to look back at him. She leaned on the doorway as a wave of dizziness took over.
"You need to rest." Davie led her back to the other cot. "Don't worry about anything."
She nodded slowly before her eyes slipped shut.
She woke again feeling a bit stronger, pushing herself up.
"Mind if I eat your parents?" Kimito drawled from beside the bed.
"Why?"
"150 calls, 80 texts and one threat of arrest for kidnapping."
Yuri raised an eyebrow and shook her head, "They need to accept I'm done with them."
"Not sure that's possible. I hung up after he said he was on his way with the police." Kimito stretched his legs. "He sounded serious."
She looked down, "They're going to make me go back.."
"You're a fucking adult. They can't. And if they try, they will have a seriously pissed off pack to deal with." Davie entered with ice cream sundaes. "We will fight if we have to."
"I don't want to be the cause of any issues.." she said quietly.
"They are the cause, not you." Kimito lifted her chin and kissed her softly. "So don't worry, I won't need antacid from an upset stomach. But they will get it through their heads that you are free."
"Thank you."
"After everything, I should be saying that." He stuck a spoonful of ice cream in her mouth with a grin.
She chuckled and smiled at him.
There was the sound of shouting in the front, Ro's voice angry. "This is harassment! You have no basis!"
Davie and Kimito growled in unison.
Yuri stood and slowly headed up front to see what was happening.
Several cops were hassling the group hanging out in the store, searching them. Another was threatening Ro with his baton while Yuri's father stood there.
"Leave them alone." Yuri said sternly.
"Miss, are you unharmed?" One of the cops asked.
Kimito snorted and rolled his eyes.
"I'm fine."
"Your father here reported you had been kidnapped."
Several of the group laughed in unison.
"I wasn't kidnapped. I left. I'm twenty, I can leave home if I want."
"You may be twenty but you're my daughter and you'll do as I say! Hina would never disrespect me like you have. And look at you, you hardly look like yourself anymore! You're a disappointment to our family name." Her father shook his head, "It's all this boy's fault. He's corrupted you. Now come on, your mother is waiting."
Kimito began growling, his hands clenched at his sides. He took a step forward, the cops tensing. "How dare you? You're a petty, heartless bastard who has made Yuri's life hell. And you have the nerve to blame me? I've known her three days! She's one of the kindest people I have ever known and you .right!"
Her father ignored him and stepped forward, grabbing Yuri's wrist. "She's my daughter."
Yuri tried to pull away from him which made him angrier. He yanked her arm, making her almost fall. She kicked at him to try to get him to let go which made him whirl around and backhand her.
Kimito flipped, launching himself at her father with a growl.
"Kimito, don't. The police are right here, you don't want to get arrested." she said quickly. "I'll just go and make this easier for everyone.."
"You're an adult. You don't have to listen to him!" Kimito yelled as two officers restrained him. "Don't let him steal this away from you!"
She nodded and looked at her dad, "I'm staying here."
He growled and backhanded her again, this time knocking her down. "Hina would never do this. She'd listen to me."
"You'd never treat her like this though!"
"Because she'd be good. It should have been you instead. Then we'd be a perfect family. But instead, I'm here fighting with you." He shook his head again, "You're dead to me. Just like you should be." He left the store leaving Yuri sobbing on the floor.
The police released Kimito, then chased after him when he tore out after her father with an enraged yell.
Davie knelt and wrapped her arms around Yuri. "What a bastard. Good riddance. Life's too short to deal with trash like him. I just hope Mito doesn't kill him."
Yuri continued to cry for a while before getting up and heading outside.
Kimito was in the backseat of a patrol car, his lip bleeding and one eye starting to swell. Her father was nowhere to be seen.
Yuri watched Kimito for a few moments, then took off.
Kimito hung his head. He was such a fuck up. Yuri was done and it was his fault. He remained silent as the car started and drove away.
Yuri found herself at the park, sitting on a swing for a few minutes. Her mind raced, trying to figure out what to do next. She'd screwed up things with her family and all she did was cause trouble for Kimito. Her mind was stuck on her father's words. Maybe it would be better for everyone if she wasn't here..
"Penny for your thoughts?" Kai's voice spoke behind her.
She looked down, "Just thinking about everything."
He smiled ruefully. "You know, Mito beat me to it. I was ready to flash fry him if he hadn't left.."
"I'm not worth the trouble."
"That's him talking. Not you." The dragon sat down beside her. "You are so worth it." He raised an eyebrow. "Want to know what I see when I look at you?"
"Hmm?"
"A strong, intelligent woman. One who was thrust into a frightening situation, but didn't flinch. Who took on a mad wolf aiming to kill her when she didn't have to. A woman who is not afraid to change despite the people closest to her trying to destroy her spirit. A woman who has managed to turn Mito into a puddle of goo by batting her eyes and can go toe to toe with Ro and come out on top."
Yuri sighed,"I see a worthless girl who just causes trouble for those around her."
He hissed angrily.
She looked down again and stayed quiet.
"If you mean the cops, that's not your fault. We're regularly harassed. And it ain't Mito's first time being arrested either. We actually have a running bet over whether his job or the store gets him more jail time in any given month." Kai grinned at her.
She sighed, "Alright.. Still not sure I believe all the good things you said about me though."
"We'll just have to keep telling you until you do." Davie wrapped her arms around Yuri's neck. "Mito's been released. He's being a jackass though and refusing to come back. Says you are probably going to kick his ass."
"Why would I?"
"He went after your dad after you told him not to. Got arrested."
She shook her head, "Where is he?"
"His apartment. Least what he said." She held out a bag. "Give him these."
"What are they?"
"First aid refills. Tell him if he continues to get himself beaten to a pulp, I'm going to start charging him house visits." She smirked as Kai began laughing.
Yuri nodded and stood, "I'll see you later then." She started off toward Kimito's apartment. She lightly knocked on the door.
"Go away. I'm broke and not interested in your wares." His voice was soft, the words slightly slurred.
"Delivery."
The door was pulled open, the wolf leaning against it in confusion. "What del-" He froze as he saw her.
She held out the bag, "From Davie."
He ignored it. "Come to tell me what a mistake I am?"
Hurt crossed her face, "I just wanted to check on you.."
His face fell. "Sorry." He slid his right arm behind his back slowly, trying to be inconspicuous. "You're okay, right? How's your face?"
"Just a little sore. I'm better physically than mentally at the moment," she admitted quietly.
"Let my sis baby you. You'll be fine in no time." He blinked at her quietly.
"So how are you?"
"Me? Fine. Not my first trip with the cops." He said flippantly and smiled. His eyes darted anxiously to the floor as something splashed at his feet.
She raised an eyebrow in confusion.
A puddle of red met her eyes as Kimito attempted to close the door. "Go have some fun."
"What happened?"
"Just putting things right. Nothing important." He leaned heavily against the door.
She frowned, "You're hurt and need help."
"It's nothing important." He straightened with effort, keeping his arm hidden from view. "You should go relax and get your mind on what you want to do now." He picked up a bottle of whisky and took a long drink.
"I want to help you."
He shook his head. "Shouldn't waste your time.." He swayed, then fell backward, revealing several slashes across his wrist.
She quickly focused on healing them up before moving him to the couch.
"I said..don't bother. I'm fixing things." He reached a shaking hand for a bloodstained razor blade.
She stopped him, "You have a sister and friends who care about you. You have so much to live for."
"They don't need me anymore. I made them safe.." He took another drink from the whisky.
"They love you and care about you! They don't just need you for keeping them safe. They want you for you." She shook her head, "If anyone isn't needed it's me."
"Don't you dare say that! Didn't you hear what I told your father? Every word was true. You just gained your freedom. You have the ability to live on your own terms now! The world needs your light. There's a reason you have the gift. You just have to find it." He stared into her eyes defiantly. "Don't you even think of throwing..your life away.." He trailed off, coughing violently as a green substance began to trickle from his lips.
"The world needs you too. I need you.." she said quietly as she began trying to heal him.
"Why..?"
"Because.. you're important to me."
His eyes struggled to focus on her. "I'm a nobody."
"Not to me."
He gave a tiny smile as he relaxed into the cushions. "Sounds nice.."
"What else have you done other than cutting and drinking?"
He gestured to a bright green powder. "Added..it. Biggest dose and still have time to write this." He pushed a notebook toward her. Song lyrics were scrawled under the heading arrival-sailing.
She shook her head and continued pouring energy into him in hopes it would help.
"The bag..pink antidote..if you want.." His eyes were closing, his voice faint.
She went and got it, pouring it down his throat.
He lost consciousness.
She pushed energy into him for a while longer then just sat beside him, watching him in hopes he'd wake.
His hand twitched first, then his eyelids. After a minute, he blinked his eyes open. "You..really care about me.."
"That is what I said."
"Actions and words don't always match."
"Mine do."
He gave a small smile. "You must be disappointed."
"Why?"
"I attacked your father to free you, then run and hide. Do this shit."
"I'm not disappointed. I just wish you would feel worthy of living and happiness."
"Why are you trying so hard?" He slowly sat up.
"You saved me."
"That's it?" He shrugged. "I still care about other people..usually."
She was quiet for a moment before kissing him hard.
He yelped, then melted into the kiss.
When she finally pulled away, she looked down nervously.
He licked his lips slowly. "Wow..I liked that.."
"Really?"
"Do it again..makes me feel alive."
She looked up and searched his face for a moment before giving him a small smile and kissing him again.
He hummed happily, deepening it and wrapping his arms around her.
She tangled a hand in his hair as they continued to kiss.
He made a needy sound in his throat.
She ran her other hand down his chest teasingly.
Growling softly, he pushed her shirt off, eyeing her hungrily. "I want you so much…"
"I want you too."
He stood, grabbing her hand and leading her to the bedroom.