Daily Life of Monster Girls in Alabama

by GoatManofAnime

It's time for a MonMusu fanfiction that takes place in sweet home Alabama, nuff said.

29. Finish Line

Chapter 29: Finish Line

A gentle breeze blowing throughout the forest. The sound rustling of the trees and foliage along lining thev rocky nature trail with the sunlight peaking it's late afternoon rays through the white fluffy clouds. The trickle flow of the pristine Black Warrior stream along the tree lining. Two men stood in the middle of this beautiful scenery. Mahkah Cox doing his warm-up stretches and muttering something in another language and Caleb doing his own stretches and wondering how the hell he got here.

Seriously, wasn't this just supposed to be a date?! Why is he having a tag team race with Lakota Indian man and his three canine liminals?

He begins mentally retracing his steps.

***30 minutes earlier***

"What the hell are you two talking about?!", Caleb uttered incredulously.

"I'm with him. What?!", Zwei added equally if not MORE confused.

"It's very simple! Both of our packs are going to form an alliance with each the other. That way Lyca and I will always be together and we'll be our pack's strength will increase!", Hollo stated.

"Big sis says she and her pack aren't going to be around this territory very long so we came up with this challenge for our packs to unify over!", Lyca explained

"Ok, but why a race though?", Mahkah inquires curiously

"Or, just 'why?' period.", Caleb interjects, "If it's about wanting to stay in touch, we can do that. You said you got Zoom right? I use it for work all the time, we can just do that."

"Noooo, that's not how it works! In order for packs to form an alliance, they must compete in a competition to test each other's skills and prowess. How else can we be sure who the weakest and strongest members are?", Hollo stated emphatically.

"Ask them if water is wet and wait for the dumbest answer?", Drei inquire tilting her head.

Caleb gives her a blank look as the rest look to her curiously; a few of them beginning to let the gears turn in their heads over her question. Caleb decided to shut that down now.

"Ok! Ok! Look, I get this is Werewolf society thing but I hardly feel this is necessary or likely to prove anyone's strengths here. I mean, aside from who's fastest and you two sho'nough got beat.", Caleb stated gesturing between Lyca and Hollo.

"Oh, it's alright Chief. We know humans aren't fast enough to keep up with us.", Lyca spoke honestly.

"Plus, we have a plan for that. Lyca told me how you've been struggling to keep up with her your whole date but you still wouldn't give up despite being a little overweight.", Hollo added with no malice or sarcasm in her voice.

" And he didn't even pass out once. I thought he would the first eleven times, but he soldiered on like true American...walking to burger king.", Drei commented in the most patriotic voice.

"ALRIGHT, DAMN! When did this turn into a roast on ME?!", Caleb stated startling a few of them before refocusing on Hollo, "Shit, now what where sayin'? Something about a plan?"

"Yes!", Hollo emphatically stated bouncing slightly, " It's gonna be a three person tag race. Lyca and I pick two from each of our groups. We tag a pack mate at a point on the race path and the first person to cross the starting point again wins!"

"We know the perfect path too! The first pair will start right over on the tail near camp, then they'll tag the second pair at the bend near the last rest stop ahead, then they tag the last team where the make their way back to the starting line.", Lyca explains.

"Yeah, that's good you guys thought this out but that still doesn't mean we're just gonna drop everything and race around like we're in middle school.", Caleb replies incredulously.

"Actually, I could go for a good run right about now. We Kobold love excersie almost as much as our loved ones!", Rebecca admitted with a hint of excitement.

"Excuse me?", Caleb inquires

"It IS a nice day. I think it could be fun way for all of us to bond. Plus, I think the extra cardio would do me some good.", Mahkah added in support.

"Hahaha, that's the spirit Master! Nothing like a good workout to really bring people together, eh?", Rebecca chuckling proudly but gently patting Mahkah's back being careful not to cut him with her claws.

"Well YOUR definition of a 'workout' is a 20 mile marathon from A to B and back to A. If it was one of those I'd have said no because I would definitely die.", Mahkah stated and shudders from the thought of it.

"Ah! I would NEVER do that to you Master!",Rebecca spoke apologetically.

Caleb gives them surprised looks having hoped that at least MAHKAH would side with him.

"You guys can count me out of this one. I just ate sooooo much quail so I'm not up for any excessive physical exertion right now. I'll just hang back and guard the campsite.", Min Jun says resting his arms over his head leaning back to look cool only to realize there was no back support to his seat and goes tumbling backwards to the ground, "I'm ok!", he stated holding a thumbs up. Mahkah shakes his head with a grin as Drei gives an unamused look.

"Cool, Master and Rebecca are on my team!", Hollo cheers proceeding to happily hug and lick both her pack mates.

Caleb watches amazed at how it weird it is looking at that from the outside.

"Ok, so now Lyca just needs to pick her-", Hollo started but was interrupted by Zwei.

"I'm on Lyca's team!", Zwei stated as everyone turned their attention to her standing in her seat arm raised like an attention-seeking kid in middle school, "I'll race with her!", she spoke in a determined tone shooting a look at Hollo.

"Alright Zwei! Let's do our best!", Lyca says holding both hands up.

Zwei smirks and gives Lyca a High Ten, "Yeah!"

She turns to Hollo with a cocky smirk who simply tilts her head questioningly.

"I'll stay behind. One of us has to watch the campsite.", Drei stated nonchalantly.

"Uhh I'm here too you know.", Min Jun interjects. Drei pauses with a blank stare.

"One of us has to watch the campsite.", Drei reaffirms. Min Jun grumbles as Mahkah and his wards giggle.

Suddenly Lyca appears right in front of him startling him a bit.

"Pleeeeesae Chief!?", Lyca pleaded with her signature bright Amber puppy eyes, "There's no point if YOU don't do it too! I want us to compete together as real mates. We are mates right?"

Caleb blushes slightly at her tone glancing at Mahkah and his wards hoping they didn't misunderstand what she meant, "Lyca...it's not...we just..."

He looks into those soft canine eyes as she begins to whimper just for good measure. He then notices the rest of the camp staring at him expectantly before sighing relentingly. Peer pressure is a bitch.

"Hahh Fine! I'll race too dammit.", Caleb submits as Lyca perks up wrapping her arms around his neck proceeding to lick his neck sweetly. He tries in vain to pry her off.

"huh, so that's what that looks like from the outside.", Mahkah mutters to himself.

"ALRIGHT! It's settled! We both have our teams and Jun and the small cat lady will watch camp and be the judges.", Hollo stated.

"Still a weasel and thanks something else to add to my resume.", Drei commented

Caleb sighs to himself still holding Lyca's tongue lapping face away.

****Flashback over****

'Nope, still doesn't make any sense.', Caleb thought while cursing himself for giving into peer pressure and those damned adorable eyes of Lyca's. Honestly, he was grateful that at least he wasn't racing against anyone one of the liminals since there's no way he'd ever beat them in a race on foot.

'Although, on the other hand...", Caleb thought sarcastically then looking over to Mahkah who was doing lunges. Since he changed into some lighter clothes consisting of loose fitting cargo shorts, sneakers, and a yellow men's tank top Caleb got a better look at the man's lean, well-defined physique. He looked more like fitness trainer than a damn information broker. Caleb grumbles lowly realizing standing next to each other like this they basically looked like a before and after image from Weight Watchers.

"Hey, uhh Mahkah?", Caleb inquires holding a squatting position as Mahkah continues his legs stretch but turns to him.

"Yeah?"

"You...wouldn't have happened to have ran track when you were younger did you?", Caleb inquires listening for his answer.

Mahkah gives a curious look, "Uhh nope. I don't really like track sports."

"Ah. Okay then.", Caleb says feeling a tiny bit better about himself.

"I mean, I DID play football from sophomore to senior year in high school.", Mahkah spoke earning a panicked look from Caleb, "What about you?"

"Uhhh, nope. Wasn't really into sports growing up.", Caleb admitted.

"Really, you kinda look like you could be playing right now.", Mahkah spoke honestly.

"People always assume that about hefty-looking black men but looks can be deceiving.", Caleb says in slight annoyance, "I honestly prefer not to talk about that with Lyca or the rest of the girls."

"Hehe, smart. I told Hollo and Rebecca about it and now they try to make me play a game of football any chance they get. That, ON TOP, of forcing me workout with them but what can you do when ya got two energetic kobold species.", Mahkah shrugs nonchalantly with a chuckle.

"Hahaha y-yeah, lucky I only got ONE hehehhhh...", Caleb trails of as it sinks in just how fucked he his. More fucked than a Ditto in daycare. If his nature hike with Lyca was a testament to his physical fitness then his leg of the race will likely end with him collapsed halfway through wheezing for air. He could just back out but he couldn't disappoint or embarass Lyca. Alternatively, he could muster every bit of energy he has left to try his hardest to win and STILL lose but at least he'll embarass her, but most of all HIMSELF, a little less. He clenches his teeth growling annoyance at letting things her so complicated.

Back at camp, the first racing pair were taking their positions at the makeshift starting/finish line on the trail out of two sticks and a long bandage strip. Drei and Min Jun stood on either side of the trail while Lyca and Rebecca stood got in their sprinting positions.

"Ok, I want a nice clean race( or as clean as you get away with). Orders have been determined at random hat drawing. First leg, is between Lyca and Rebecca. Second leg, between Zwei and Hollo. Third leg, between Caleb and Mahkah. Not sure why I told you stuff you already know, I guess I don't give a shut enough to be theatrical.", Drei commented hiding her indifference.

"Uh, Ms. Drei, can we please start now my arms are getting tired.", Min Jun implored holding his hands together clutching a swirling yellow ball of energy as his arms trembled, "Charging my...*grunt* fox fire like this...is really exhausting."

Drei gives him a dry look then looks to Lyca and Rebecca who were both ready to start, "Alright. On your marks, get set, go. Launch the thing.", she said finished pointing to Min Jun and Lyca and Rebecca took off a sprinting.

"Gah!", Min Jun elicits before firing the ball of energy high above the trees. It exploded like a firework forming the shape of a yellow glowing cartoon fox head. Min Jun panted in relief flopping his arms to loosen his stiff muscles.

"Hey!", Drei called poking her head out from one of the tents, "You have any other meat in here that ISN'T quail or hotdogs?!"

Elsewhere, the other racers are noticing the starting signal.

...

Zwei and Hollo stand near the upper section of the trail closest to the one of the rest areas. They both look up to see the giant yellow cartoon fox face before it slowly pettered out.

"Looks like sis and Rebecca have started!", Hollo stated pumping her fist then pointing to Zwei with a challenging smirk, "I hope you're ready for this! I don't plan to lose!"

"Too bad! Almost nothing in life goes as planned so get ready to be disappointed mutt! I'm not losing to you.", Zwei retorted shooting an unflinching glare before turning her back to her. Despite her declaration, she was worried if she could back up her assertion as it was agreed she wouldn't use any of her wind-based abilities.

Hollo gives a confused look noticing her body language and tone were strangely aggressive.

"Hey, Zwei, you really like my sister don't you?", Hollo inquired much to Zwei's surprise, "You seem really be close to her and she seems to think highly of you. I'd just like to know why."

Zwei refuses to look her way and crosses her, "Look. not that it matters to you, but we just understand each other. She gets me in way even my own sisters don't. In a way only my...my dad...", her voice slightly cracks.

She then notices Hollo staring wide eyed in concern, "L-Let's just focus on the race Ok?!"

"S-Sure.", Hollo spoke deciding not to press further

...

Caleb and Mahkah look up to see the cartoony fox light spectacle.

"Ok, they've started. You ready for this man?", Mahkah spoke limbering himself up more.

"Haahhh, about as ready as I can get.", Caleb replies as the two of them face the direction they expect their teammate to come from. Caleb wonders how Lyca was doing right now.

...

The family of five from before were walking down the trail enjoying their stroll and doing a little bird watching. The wife stood near the trail edge with one if the little boy's hands pointing at turtles swimming along the river while the teenage daughter tweeted pictures if them on her phone. The husband had one of his sons next to him as the little tyke surveyed the area through his dad's binoculars. The little boy leans forward.

"Daddy, look at the big doggies!", The little boy innocently pointed as the wife smiled at them.

"Big dogs?", The man playfully inquired before politely taking the binoculars, "Where? I do seeYAAAHHHHHH!", the man shouts to top of his lungs upon seeing Lyca and Rebecca barreling towards them before falling backwards on his butt. The two canine liminal perform a vertical leap right over the man and son as the mother, sons, and daughter looked on in shock and amazement.

"Sorry!", "Excuse us, Sorry!", Lyca and Rebecca stated simultaneously leaving the family behind as the wife checked on her passed out husband.

"Bye doggies", the little boys says waving at them before being joined by his brother.

Lyca and Rebecca were neck in neck with each other both of them giving it the best their four legs can put out. Rebecca looks at Lyca out the corner of her eye seeing the She-wolf sprinting with the ferocity of a wild predator in pursuit of prey. Seeing Lyca so wild, natural, and uninhibited; it was exhilarating. Is this what all wolves are like? If so, she liked it, alot.

"WOOAARRRRFFF! HAHAHAHAAAAA", Rebecca barked loudly and excitedly.

Lyca was confused but joins her anyway, "AWWOOOOO! WOOOO! THIS RACE IS OURS BABY!"

"YOU WISH! JUST TRY AND PASS ME!", Rebecca stated enthusiastically.

"GLADLY!", Lyca taunts putting in a bit more gusto.

Suddenly, they could both see Zwei and Hollo in the distance.

"Come on Lyca! You can do it! Tag me! TAG ME!", Zwei stated holding out her palm.

"YOU CAN DO IT REBECCA! You can do it, don't give up!", Hollo encourage holding out her palm.

Motivated by their teammates, both girls pushed forward determined to secure their team's place in the lead. Rebecca pulls up in front of Lyca keeping the she-wolf from passing her as Hollo cheered in support. Refusing to let her team down and driven by Zwei's shouts of encouragement, Lyca pulls out the last bit of gusto she had. She bounds a couple times before launching herself towards Zwei straight over Rebecca. Time appears to slow to a crawl as Rebecca, Hollo, and Zwei look on in shock. Lyca raises her hand and the millisecond she was in arms length of Zwei she slaps her hand. Zwei then takes off running giving a quick 'Good work' as Lyca tucks her head in into her stomach rolling into the dirt. Rebecca slaps Hollo's hand and the she-wolf takes off after the wily wind weasel. Hollo glances back like with a grin of admiration.

Lyca and Rebecca are left panting in exhaustion with the former having a proud grin on her face.

" *pant* *pant* haaaa...wow...haaaa your really fast.", Rebecca panted as she hunched over trying to catch her breath.

" haaa ghaaaa...you haaa too...that was fun.", Lyca panted her chest rising and falling as she lay sprawled on her back.

"Ah...you wolves...you're something else, eh?", Rebecca uttered.

"Heheh *pant*...thanks.", Lyca giggles before Rebecca joins.

As the two of them rest before returning to camp, Zwei was busy trying to keep ahead of Hollo. She sprinted with the style and grace of a ninja (Naruto run) as Hollo ran on all fours slowly gaining on her.

Zwei looks to her right in dismay as Hollo catches up to and eventually pulls ahead of her.

"You're too slowwww! Bye-Bye little weasel!", Hollo taunts before sprinting further ahead as Zwei scowls in annoyance.

She raises her arms tempted to use her wind techniques to give herself a speed boost but she knew if she did they'd automatically lose. She didn't want to humiliate Lyca. Dammit, why did Drei have to go the extra mile and TELL her to be wary of any uncharacteristically strong breezes. Whatsmore, her stamina sucks compared to either of her sister's so she knew she can't keep up this pace for long.

'Shit, at this rate she'll have tagged her teammate before I even get there!', Zwei cursed internally as the grey she-wolf continues to widen the distance between them. She had to do something to turn things around and quick and is once again tempted to give herself a subtle speed boost hoping the wolf wouldn't notice. She shamefully raises her arm up prepared to make her move. Suddenly, she notices the trees around the trail were becoming thicker with outstretching branches lining above. Zwei smirks lowering her arm.

Ahead of her, Hollo smiles upon catching Mahkah's scent realizing she was very close to sealing their win. She looks back to see how far away the weasel was only to find she was nowhere in sight. Not even a glimpse of her trying to catch up. Did she leave her that far behind? She slows her pace to a trot becoming a bit concerned.

"WHAT'S WRONG?! Paws getting tired?!", Zwei stated

Hollo looks upwards and is shocked to see the weasel leaping from tree branch to tree branch like a true ninja. She was simultaneously impressed and annoyed upon seeing she was getting ahead of her. She increases her pace again going into a full sprint.

"HEY, THAT'S NOT FAIR! Your sister said NO wind power stuff!", Hollo complained.

"I'm not! I'm just using my stealth training to it's fullest potential! Besides, I'm still technically ON the trail aren't I?", Zwei chortled mischievously while effortlessly leaping ahead.

"Heh, guess we should've been more specific!", Hollo chuckled welcoming the challenge.

The two raced along coming essentially neck and neck. Ahead, both of them could make out the two humans waiting to be tagged by them.

Zwei then notices the lining of tree limbs cuts off just several meters from where she could've landed in front of Caleb. She curses her luck but still decides on a plan. At the right moment with the right momentum at the right angle, she'll use that final branch for all it's worth.

Ahead, Mahkah notices Hollo sprinting towards him.

"Hollo! I'm here come on! Come on, Hol you can do it!", he shouted in encouragement.

Caleb looks ahead but doesn't see Zwei running alongside.

"Zwei?! ZWEI WHERE ARE YOU?!", Caleb shouted fearing he's going to get so far behind waiting for her.

"Master!", Hollo shouted back shifting to two-legged sprinting stretching her arm out.

"BOOOSSSSSS!", Shouted the voice of Zwei. Caleb's eyes widen in shock seeing Zwei flying towards him arm stretched back either like she's about to give a badass high five or the sickest dunk ever. Even Mahkah and Hollo were both caught off guard.

"WHAT THE FUCK?!", Caleb stated instinctively putting his palms up in defense. Time slows as Hollo and Zwei inch ever closer to their humans before...

*slap*, both girls tag their partners at the same time. Zwei somersaults to the ground before sliding to a haunt on her feet. Mahkah hesitates a seconds taking in what happened before turning and running away leaving a still dazed Caleb standing there.

Zwei notices and immediately turns to him and shouts, "DON'T JUST STAND THERE. GET GOING! *SLAP*", before slapping him on the butt.

"GAH! OK! DAMN!", Caleb stated before taking off as fast as he could after Mahkah.

"*pant* *pant* That...that was so cool haaaaa...I was...a little worried about you...haa for a minute. But...your way stronger than I thought.", Hollo praised while trying to catch her breath.

Zwei pants in exhaustion giving a quizzical look at Hollo, "T-Thanks...haaa you're pretty strong too. Haa...haa...and now...haaa we leave it to our human teammates."

"I just know master's gonna win!", Hollo stated in a certainty.

"Ha, please, Boss has got this!", Zwei replied confidently but, in the back of her mind, she knew it was probably a lie. The BMI gap between him and Caleb is wider than Camilla's hips.

Zwei plops down on the ground to rest before examining the hand she slapped Caleb with still feeling the sensation on her fingertips, 'Dang, that felt pretty good. No wonder Marequines' always checking it out.', she thought with a sultry smirk.

It was now the last leg of the race and Caleb and Mahkah were running down the trails like two high school in physical ed. Mahkah had pull an early lead but Caleb was able to catch up to him; much to the latter's surprise. They were neck and neck passing along the flowing stream to the left and rocky terrain to the right. Barely halfway into their race, Caleb was already starting to feel out of breath. His heart pounded in his chest as his breathing grew more laborious with every time his feet strike the ground. His pace begins to slow but still tries his best to not lose contact with Mahkah.

Mahkah notices Caleb struggling a bit and was tempted to slow his own pace. However, he also sees he was still doing his absolute best to win and did not want to sully the man's dignity by denying him HIS best efforts. It would go against his tribal core values. He increases his pace while managing his breathing and gradually puts more and more distance between him and Caleb.

Caleb looks as the Lakota man leaves him behind seemingly barely breaking a sweat while he looked like he was knocking on heaven's door. His pace slows down considerably and his ears rang from the blood rapidly pumping to his head. As he watches Mahkah put more and more distance between them he couldn't help feeling...inadequate.

'How else can we be sure who's the strongest and weakest?', Hollo's words play in his mind. If he loses, does that make HIM the weakest? Even when the Lyca and Zwei tried so hard?

He looks ahead of him as Mahkah gets further and further out of sight. He's going to win. Caleb knew that from the start. The man does workouts like this for his wards on a regular basis for god sake! Besides, he said himself this race was pointless that didn't change their relationship with Mahkah's group. That's right, this a pointless race.

So why... *wheeze**strike*...why was...*wheeze* *strike*...

'WHY DOES THAT PISS ME OFF SO MUCH?!', Calen screams internal as he ran with all he had wheezing from his lungs burning in his chest and heels striking the dirt. Yes, this WAS a pointless race yet it did prove something. Earlier, he proclaimed that he would protect his wards no matter what comes their way. How can he do that if he can barely run a short distance without gasping for breath?! He thought of the look of unwavering trust in Lyca's eyes. The same eyes Moon Pie would give him. The eyes that see what he is unable to see.

As he ran for all he had, the hoof mark on his chest beginning to glow along with his pupils giving off a purple hue. Lyca views him so highly. She believes in him. At this moment, deep in his pounding heart, he resolved to be the man she sees him as even if he's blind to it! No matter what, he's crossing that goddamn finish line!

Caleb's adrenaline spikes as his second wind hits. His eyes take on a brighter purple hue and neon purple aura pulsates from his body as he transitions from a run to a full sprint leaving a trail of purple light behind. The burning of his lungs and the ringing in his ears became an afterthought as he focuses on his goal. Soon, he was able to see Mahkah again, still running but with a slightly slower pace. The finish line was up ahead. Lyca, Hollo and the rest of them could be heard cheering and shouting in the distance. Mahkah ran with all he had coming very close crossing the finish line while Caleb was a staggering amount of distance behind him.

Caleb grit his teeth refusing to humiliate Lyca like this. He focused on Mahkah position.

"C-COME ON!", Caleb screamed internally. The second his foot struck the ground ...zoom... he finds himself several feet from his former position. Not even fully processing it, Caleb instinctively tries it again ...zoom... and he's teleported several more feet.

At the makeshift toilet paper finish line, Hollo, Rebecca and Min Jun are seen cheering as Mahkah ran towards them about to secure their team's victory. Lyca and Zwei wore concerned expressions as Caleb was incredibly far behind. Drei sat watching from atop a tree surveying for him. Her eyes then widen in shock.

"YOU GOT THIS BRO!", Min Jun shouted encouragingly.

"JUST A LITTLE FURTHER COME ON MASTER!", Rebecca and Hollo cheered.

Zwei and Lyca looked at then back to the trail.

"Crap, did we push him too hard? I hope he didn't pass out somewhere.", Zwei stated not liking the idea finding her boss unconcious in woods. She then notices Lyca giving a very worried expression, "I-I mean maybe his uhhh shoelaces probably came untied and he just stopped to the them! Yeah! That's plausible!"

Lyca clenches her fists before cupping her hands to her mouth, "YOU CAN DO IT CHIEF!", she shouted to the top of her lungs earning looks from Hollo and the rest.

Suddenly, Drei leaps down landing beside them before handing Zwei her binoculars.

"Ummm, you guys might want to check this o-", before Drei could finish and to everyone's shock, Caleb suddenly teleports out of nowhere right beside Mahkah. The young Lakota man looks in profound astonishment at, not only seeing Caleb catch up with him so quickly, but seeing the purple electrical sparks pulsating from his body as he sprinted by.

Caleb eye's narrow at the finish line some twenty feet away. He strikes his foot to the ground ...zoom... and teleports right in the middle of Lyca and the rest of the group causing them to jump back in surprise. Mahkah slows his pace before coming to a complete stop utterly speechless. Caleb turns to the finish line, bends down and rips the white strip and sticks from the ground as the aura around his body dissipates and his eyes return to normal.

" *wheeze* *wheeze* I...*wheeze*...I win.", Caleb gasped before flopping down on his butt panting in exhaustion.

Everyone stood in dumb silent unsure of what to say. Lyca smiles widely in admiration.

"HOORAY! YOU DID CHIEF! WE WON! WEWONWEWONWEWON!", Lyca cheered Caleb to the ground roughly nuzzling his chest. Caleb gasps struggling to try an pry her off his sweaty body.

"Ah! Lycs, wait! At least let the man breath for a second!", Zwei stated trying to stop Lyca from nuzzling Caleb to death.

Mahkah approaches his wards as they exchanged questioning gazes.

"Hey, Caleb?", Mahkah spoke as Zwei finally prys Lyca off of Caleb. The latter props himself up with his arms turning to Mahkah, "How did you do that?"

Zwei and Lyca ceases their struggle as Hollo and the rest of the group look to Caleb expecting answers; to which Caleb had.

****Back at Mirabelle's group****

"~ohhhhhh, how lovely!", "IN-deeed! Quite the impeccably delightful arr-ANGE-ment I have seen!~", the Monarch-winged and Pink Papillons both swoon admiring the bouquet arrangement Mirabelle created. It was a stunning display of purple cosmos surrounding white tulips with a single blue candytuft in the center. The Nightmare blushes sheepishly at their compliments. Since she's been over her, she been admiring the vast assortments of flowers and herbs. So much, she began noticing certain defects some of the plants; mostly dried leaves, damaged stems, and a few wilting. However, what really impressed the Papillon were her uncanny bouquet arranging skills.

"Hehe, th-thank you but it's nothing to make a fuss over.", Mirabelle spoke.

"~NONSENSE!~", stated the pink Papillon taking Mirabelles hand and looking her straight in the eye, "~You have a WON-derful talent for gardening!~"

"~The compassion and attention you've shown to the flowers we have call-OUS-ly neglected warms my heart. It truuuuly brings a tear to my eye witness such...tenderness.~, Monarch-wings insisted before taking Mirabelle's other hand, "~Theeeeese are the tender hands of a true maiden of nature; So de-LI-cate yet...so strong and...nurturing.~", she spoke sensually stroking her palm while Pinky caresses her other handing looking as though she's about to kiss it.

Mirabelle cringes and blushes deeply before recoiling her arms holding them securely to her chest, "W-WELL! T-T-Thank you...for u-um...y-yes."

"OH my goodness, this is beautiful!", came the deep Southern voice of a female customer. Mirabelle and the two Papillon turn to see caucasian woman gushing over the bouquet Mirabelle put together, "Now, I am having brunch tomorrow with the girls and this would be the PERFECT centerpiece!"

Monarch turn to the woman with a smile, "~Ohh yes, that one was actually put together by Ms...ummm~", she tilts her head in thought realizing she never ask her name.

"M-Marequine. Mirabelle Marequine.", The Nightmare muttered.

"Well ma'am, I have to say you do amazing work. So do I pay you or do I go to that the stand?", the female customer praised before opening up her pocket book.

"I-I-I don't actually work-", Mirabelle stuttered before Monarch-wing jumps in.

"~Ohhh right this way ma'am! I can cer-TAIN-ly take of you. I'm Mandarin, you see, and might I say you have a FIRST-rate eye for presentation.~", Mandarin spoke fluttering her wings making sparkling orange dust sprinkle off. The customer blushes and smiles.

"Oh w-well now huhu...lead the way ma'am.", the customer giggles bashfully before following Mandarin to make her purchase. Leaving Mirabelle alone with Pinky.

Mirabelle notices Pinky grinning sweetly at her and nervously averts her eyes, "W-Well I suppose I should get back to looking."

"Ohhhh? What ex-AC-tly were you looking for before you got...distracted?", Pinky inquires in an uncomfortably lecherous tone.

"N-Nothing in particular just...", Mirabelle trails of before fidgeting and blushing.

"A present, perhaps? Perhaps for...a partner?", She swoons flashing a grin at Mirabelle.

Mirabelle's blushes red as a tomato, "W-W-Well i-i-i-it's...u-uh ummm...", she stutters unable to deny the fact she wanted to bring something nice back for Caleb. What, exactly, she didn't know. Suddenly, Pinky takes her hand snapping her to attention.

"Don't worry, d-AR-liiing, follow me. I know ex-ACT-ly what you need.", Pinky spoke with a wink, "My name is Bae-Bae, you see.", Bae-Bae chuckles sultrily.

'Of bloody course it is.', Mirabelle thought critically before eliciting a yelp as Bae-Bae hurries her along towards the stand of assorted trinkets and jars of colorful liquids.

Over at the Alraune shop, Ein could be seen watching Mirabelle getting pulled away by the Pink Alraune. She winces slightly hoping she would be ok. She then looks to Camilla and Cheryl looking around the ready-made sculptures with the former intentionally keeping a far away and ignoring the latter as possible. Ein resumes around at the several humans and liminals entering are to view wares or just passing through. She had taken this spot since it allowed perfect view of everyone walking around. She was taking extra precaution to watch for any suspicious or strange behavior. So far, things were normal. Well, ASIDE from-

"~Here kitty kitty~", came the voice of the Alraune in a noticeable French accent. Ein elicits a lengthy annoyed sigh, "Awww, what is wrong big kitty? Are you not feeling well?~"

"~Oh? Is ze kitty upset dear Bella? Oh bon sang(French for 'oh goodness'), ze poor kitty.", The other Alraune spoke sadly while accepting payment for the candies from a customer. Ein elicits a low weasel growl.

"For the last time, I. Am. Not. A. CAT!", Ein snarled in annoyance startling a two customers into turning the other way. While this location was great for observation, she unfortunately attracted the attention of the two Alraune attendance. Both of whom greatly adore feline liminals and haven't stopped bothering her yet somehow still able to efficiently service their clientele. However, the worst part for Ein was-

"~oh kitty chérie (sweetheart kitty), are you certain you do not wish to partake in any of our confectionery treats?~", spoke Bella, the Alraune in the blue and yellow polka-dot flower, presenting a green pouch wrapped with yellow ribbon and filled with chewy juice-filled candies. Ein tenses at the intoxicating sweet aroma. Her eyes dart around to the other multicolored bags of sweet delight. Temptation is a bitch.

Ein gulps nervously before averting her eyes, "N-No, I told you that's QUITE alright! I n-need to stay sharp and...uh...f-focused!", She retorts turning het back to them. In truth, she really, REALLY didn't want to go over her calorie count for today. She was already feeling guilty enough having overindulging herself at the cafe'. Her devastating revelation with the bathroom scale a couple days ago still haunted her subconsciously.

"~Ohhhh I see, kitty cherie. Zu have a more refined pallete, no?~", the red and yellow tipped petal Alraune does a crossing motion with her arms. The vines of the table unravel creating a small opening revealing an assortment of beautifully decorated French-style dessert with plant features. Ein eyes widen as her mouth watered from the tantalizing yet inviting aroma of sweetness. The Alraune flashes her a sultry grin, "~Oho bien regardez ici(well looky here), ze kitty is intrigued. I made these myself. Green tea croissant with nectar jelly filling Go on, try a morsel. ", she spoke presenting a small green croissant with orange jam-like substance oozing out the hole. Ein swallows hard the delicious aroma filling her nostrils and the Alraune with her beckoning, warm demeanor pulling her in like gravity.

"~Oho, don't be shy kitty cherie, just take a little nibble. Adelaide's croissants are simply delectable.~", Bella encourages as accepts money from two female customers in exchange for herbal cakes and fruits then waving goodbye with delighted grin. She then picks up one of the fruits, "Incidentally, you should also try this delicious treat of people, Le fruit des prisonniers, or, as you say, 'Prisoners fruit'. Once you taste, you will never have enough. Come, partake of the fruit kitty cherie~"

Both Alraune extend their bodies over the counter presenting the treats to Ein. The nectar glistens on their cleavage and they advance on her with sultry grins.

'Vile temptesses!', Ein screams in her head biting her lip and defiantly turning her head away putting her hands up defensively.

"N-No thank you. I'm s-supposed to be on a diet anyway!", she refuses waving them off hoping for a diversion. She got one.

"Excuse us!", came a male voice. Ein and both Alraune looks to see three young men, two Caucasian, one black, and one Asian. One of the Caucasian guys steps up with a grin looking to his friends who smiled eagerly.

"I uhh...I came to pick some more of that fruit you got. It's real good, I gave some of your fruits to my buddies here!", spoke the Caucasian guy.

"That's the best damn thing I EVER had! Y'all sell'em by the pound? I'll take like...five of them mugs.", the black guy stated.

"Seven for me!", stated the other Caucasian guy taking out his wallet.

The Alraune pull back beaming delighted grins at the young men.

"~Merveilleux( How wonderful)! Of course, Monsieur, there is plenty for all of you.", Adelaide spoke with an adorable giggle.

"~Since you were so kind enough to spread the word of our confections, allow us ze pleasure of giving you only ze sweetest and...ripest of fruit.~", Bella spoke sweetly hugging waist giving a good view of her green breasts covered in glistening nectar. The young men grin with a couple biting their lips hungrily.

Ein sighs in relief stepping away as the men proceed to list their desired confections. She sees them giggling and chatting with Alraune already knowing they were here for more than JUST the treats and decides to keep tabs and them as well. Don't need them getting TOO friendly. Ein returns to her sentry duties watching the patrons actions closely until...

"~Tralalaaaaaaaa!~",came the singsongy voice.

"Oh no.", Ein muttered dreadfully looking to see a Papillon fluttering over to the Alraune stand. She had an outfit similar to Valerie's but with magenta color scheme, striped magenta and white wings, D-cup breasts with tiny freckles on top and on her cheeks. Sparkling magenta dust emanated from her wings as her feet touch the ground.

"~So sorry to bother my dear A-Del-aide and Bella, but dear Valerie has asked to procuuuure more nectar for strawberry sunrise oillll.~ Might I trouble you for some?~", Magenta Papillon spoke.

"~Ahh, but of course Megan darling! It is no bother at all. Ve only need a moment to satisfy out beloved clientelle.~", Adelaide assured petting the Asian man head who smiles like a goofball . The other men sat their large baskets down and blissfully eating some of the delicious fruit. Not even bothering to wash them off.

"~Ohh splendid! Are you sweeeeethearts enjoying out contemporary's mar-VEL-ous confectioneries?", Megan the Magenta Papillon hummed leaning in giving a good view of cleavage.

"Yes ma'am!", "Hell yeah we is!", "Oh yeah, yeah definitely!", "Please take all my money.", all four men voice simultaneously with wide grins and their eyes darting up and down.

Ein sighs in annoyance shaking her head. Megan notices and grins turning to her.

"~Ohh huhuhu, pardon meeee miss but you're facing the wrong wa-ayyyy. The confections are right here.~", Megan spoke sweetly gesturing to the collection of sweets.

"My sense of direction is fine. I'm just not interested, thank you.", Ein spoke in serious tone returning to her post.

"~Not interested? Is there something wronnng?~", Megan spoke tilting her head curiously.

"Alas, ze kitty has been in a troublesome mood. She rejects ze croissants and ze fruit and...she...she has not smiled ONCE since she arrived.", Adelaide spoke plucking off a leaf and dabbing the tear from her eye. Ein scoffs rolling her eyes.

Mandy gasps holding her cheeks in shock, "~Haahhhhhhhh! Oh goodness, this will not do at all!"

Ein sighs, "Look there's nothing wrong. I just watching for-GAH!", she elicits feeling something soft and warm press against her back followed by two dainty hands lightly gripping her shoulders. She looks over her shoulder at the Mandy beaming a comforting expression, "W-What the hell are you doing?!"

"~I just thought a pleasant massaaasage to relax and ease your SEN-ses is what you needed. I was right. Youuuuu are in-CRED-ibly tightly wounnnnd huhuhu.~", Mandy hums mushing her breasts more into her back making Ein tense up.

"~Ahh! Marvelous idea~!", Adelaide stated before the giant petals close around her body and she recedes into the ground to the men's confusion before giant green roots breaks through a crack in the concrete. A bloom forms on one of the vine before transforming back into the giant yellow and red and Adelaide emerges in front of Ein. She reaches up and begins gingerly caressing the disturbed wind weasel's cheek with a nurturing yet sultry expression. Despite her hands being leafy and vine-like Ein noted they were oddly soft and pleasant like normal skin.

"~I shall assist you. Ze satisfaction and happiness of every single patron is top priority~", Adelaide spoke before taking an orange square candy from her, "~Alright kitty, try a sample of one as freshly made treats guaranteed put a smile on zat adorable face~"

"~huhu it's true. I enjoyyyyyyed quite a few this morning. Don't be shy, say 'ahhhh'~", Megan hummed in Ein's ear sending uncomfortable chills down her spine.

"N-N-No! I already said I'm on a diet! Let me go already and stop rubbing me! What's the matter w-eeek!", Ein protests before letting out a squeak upon feeling Adelaide's large breasts mush against her own.

"~l' absurdité(nonsense)! You and I are the same size and zere is hardly need to fear. Our confections are 100% organic made no additives to make your body story excess sugars. Huhu and your body already looks healthy sweet kitty~", Adelaide whispered her sweet smelling breath making Ein's cheeks flush.

"~Indeeeeeed. You have such a beautifully cur-VA-ceous figure and such lean muscles. I'm almost en-VI-ous!~", Megan whispered encouragingly pressing herself more into Ein's back as her waist brushes on her butt and she continues massaging her shoulders, "~Relax, and enjoy the del-LI-cious treat~"

The group of four men is soon joined by other male patrons stopping check out the show while Bella, happy at the influx customers, continues selling them fruit and other sweets

Ein blushes bright red cringing at the two overly affectionate ladies groping and trying to make her eat candy. She squirms trying to break free but... strangely feels her strength waning from their suffocating kindness. If that even makes sense.

"Gahh stop it! Stop it! I EEEH...I don't want the-", Ein protests holding her face away from the candy, "I-I'm warning you! I'm with ICEP, I'm law enforce-Hyyah! Don't grab there!"

The group of men watching while cheering them on and enjoying the sweet treats.

"I fuckin' love this place bruh.", nudge the black man to the Caucasian man taking a bite of fruit.

"I'm coming here everyday I get off man.", the Caucasian man fist bumps him eating some candy as they resume watching the Alraune and Papillon sandwich the thicc weasel lady.

On the other side of the lot, the Kimberly the Triclops watches with a malign stare at the group of cheering men. She then sees the lady she spoke to earlier in her...predicament. Cheryl approaches taking her attention from a ready-made firehydrant stack.

"What going on over there?", Cheryl inquires before noticing Ein, "Is..that ?"

"I'm afraid...THEY have her now. Don't even try to help your friend. She, like many others, have fallen down the proverbial rabbit hole of endless pleasure with no way to ever escape.", Kimberly cryptically spoke staring with cold dead eyes.

"Ohhhhkayyy?", Cheryl trails deciding not to inquire further. She then looks over at the various ready-mades, "So did you make all of these yourselves?"

Kimberly blinks all three eyes rapidly ensuring she wasn't imagining things before grinning in delight of someone finally showing interest in her work, "Why yes I did actually! I started developing a passion for the art form after my trip to France and viewing some of Duchamp's famous works! The simplistic but thought provoking design and reincorporation of everyday items we callously gloss over excites me! Hahhh my dream is to bring works like his back into limelight! I'm hoping to sell a some to collectors or just anyone with an appreciation for works like these!"

"Oh, well that's-", Cheryl started before being cut off by Kimberly.

"Ah, this is one of my favorites! I could tell it's yours too since I caught you ogling it second ago.", She stated excitedly looking over the ready-made stack of fire hydrants, "You see, I made this one as an allegorical representation of how sometimes undervalue the hardships of first response worker's families that blah blah blah blah.

Cheryl quietly slinks away as the passionate goes into long speech not even noticing her leaving. She sees Camilla over by the stand where another Triclops was selling assorted painting. She decides to join her.

"Hmmm interesante ", Camilla murmurs examining the different drawing utensils and color paints and pens. She had never seen such a variety of colors since she usually stuck with a basic grey lead.

"Do you need any assistance miss?", inquired the young blonde Triclops, "I'm sure I can help if you told me what you had in mind. Are you looking for something to do professional work? Or are you a hobbyist?"

Camilla thinks for a moment, "I...tend to draw whenever and whatever catches my interest I suppose."

"A hobbyist then! I have just what you need!", The Triclops lady picks up a small black and red carrying case and unfolds it revealing dozens of assortment of brush pens with varying colored and non-colored water-based ink.

Camilla's eye twinkle with intrigue, "Tan hermosa(So beautiful), so many colores(colors) and sizes."

"I know right? Mine doesn't nearly this many options.", Cheryl chimes as Camilla jerks her head noticing her and immediately frowning. She had hoped she lost the human girl over by the weird junk collection.

"Oh, are you artist as well miss?", The blonde Triclops inquires.

"Shoot yeah! In fact, I'm a visual arts graduate. I really enjoy painting abstract and spiritual concept stuff.", Cheryl spoke whimsically as Camilla looks away in disinterest refusing to acknowledge her.

"That's great! How much do you typically sell for your works?", The blonde Triclops inquired.

Cheryl half-smiles shifting her gaze in embarassment, "Well...I don't exactly...or HAVE had anyone interested enough to buy annnd it doesn't help that there's...barely a job market out their for V.A. majors. Plus, there's the old student loans to pay back so gotta put in doubles at work now and again. Hehehehehehehhhh.", Cheryl finishes with fake laughter hiding real pain.

Camilla gives a puzzled look. The fuck is a student loans?

"Uhh hey I see YOU'RE really into landscape paintings!", Cheryl changes the subject gesturing the various paintings hanging behind the blonde Triclops.

"Ah yes! I painted them all myself! I really enjoy painting wide open plains and harsh desert regions. It's just something about the vast open regions that convey both spiritual clarity AND unforeseeable challenges that really strikes a chord with me. No what I mean?", Blonde Triclops spoke with a wink.

"Yeah, I getcha. They sure are beautiful too.", Cheryl turns to Camilla, "What do you think Ms. Camilla?"

Camilla looks up at the paintings in thought, "Eh, they are fine."

Blonde Triclops gets a pang of annoyance, "O-Oh really? JUST fine? Would you care to elaborate? I welcome constructive criticism."

Camilla crosses her arms somehow doubting that statement before starting, "They definitely look pretty enough but I do not FEEL anything when I look at them. I tend to draw from memory...especially ones that have meaning that's why I feel something. These do not feel like your memories but a copy of another's memories.", Camilla explained as Blonde Triclops felt another pang of annoyance but remained professional.

"Ohhh I see what you mean.", Cheryl says, "I agree, the best pieces are definitely ones inspired by the artist's experiences. Instead of recreating what they've seen in pictures. Oh, t-that isn't to say your paintings are bad in ANY way. I just-"

"No no! I understand what you mean, perfectly. So, are you guys interested in buying anything or...?"

"Oh, right! Well, I am running low on water color paints at home. What about you Ms. Camilla? I think you should definitely get the brush pen kit? So many options AND the case matches your eyes.", Cheryl stated as Camilla gives her a strange look unsure whether or not to take offense. She didn't like the idea of doing ANYTHING the human girl said. However, that case DOES look amazing and she could probably do some interesting things with it.I

"Jes...I would like the case.", Camilla spoke forming an orange magic seal in her palm before what looked like a blue debit card with ICEP symbol and her student picture on it, "Umm...I will be paying with this?"

Cheryl looks on with twinkling fan girl eyes as the Blonde Triclops graciously accepts the card. Camilla herself didn't quite understand how Señor managed to stuff money into a tiny piece of plastic like that.

"Ahh, an ICEP student benefits card. So nice of you to give your homestay some spending money.", Blonde Triclops spoke to Cheryl before swipping the card.

Camilla recoils in disgust before turning to the Triclops, "T-This human is NOT mi caretaker!"

"Hehe, yeah we're just friends is all.", Cheryl giggles sheepishly to which Camilla whips around

"No the hell we are not!", Camilla refuted pointing a finger threateningly at her before the Triclops jumps in.

"Ok! You're all set! Here you go, miss!", Blonde Triclops stated with a smile handing her back her card.

Camilla snatches it away letting it recede back into the magic seal before grabbing her new case of art supplies and quickly walking away. Cheryl gives a quizzical look before turning to quickly pay for her stuff.

"Ok, that's it for me. Thank you. Hey, wait for me Ms. Camilla!", Cheryl stated going off in Camilla's direction.

Blonde Triclops watches them leave with a smile before it quickly fades. She then utters in a low, agitated tone, "Bitches."

Camilla walk quickly trying to get away from that scene becoming more annoyed seeing the human girl tailing behind her like a lost puppy. Why was she so persistent to be around her?! Why doesn't She just leave her alone? She's had to put up with her presence all day but now the human has overstayed her welcome. She clenches her fist. Perhaps a good bashing will help get the message through her thick skull.

"Hi there!", called a voice snapping Camilla violent thoughts. She turns and sees yet another Triclops woman, this one a brunette, carrying what appeared to be giant sketchpads. Camilla looks around finally noticing the collection of pencil sketch drawings of humans, plants, animal, even liminals on display. Blank canvas rolls, panels, strecher bars and panels and boxes of charcoal paper and printmaking papers covered the place. She noticed the drawing all had bizarrely exaggerated proportions and distorted features giving an uncanny and almost disturbing appearance.

"Welcome, my name's Zoey and I'm the owner of this little section. I couldn't help noticing you carrying a supply case from my co-workers stand. You've got really good taste. I use the same set for my work here.", the brunette Triclops woman complimented.

"Ehh...gracias?", Camilla spoke taking in the strangeness of each drawing, "What...IS your work exactly? Why are these drawings so...like dis?"

"You've never seen caricature art before Ms. Camilla?", Cheryl inquired instantly reminding Camilla, to her chagrin, that she still existed, "It's a very expressive art form that allows the artists to fully present everything that makes a person or object unique. It's usually played for satire and ridiculing the subject but it makes you really appreciate those differences by just...PUTTING it all out there hahaha!"

Camilla gives her a blank look to which Cheryl notices and ceases laughing clearing her throat awkwardly. Suddenly, Zoey speaks up.

"That's right! Boy I CANNOT tell you how long it's been since I've had customers like you...or customers period. Hahahahahaha!", Zoey chuckles her eye twitching.

Camilla and Chery recoil slightly noticing a few caricature drawings of the Papiliion( Valerie) with a giant wide forehead, big buck teeth, balloon boobs, and making a 'sucky-sucky' gesture holding a pickle. Pettiness at it's finest.

"So how about letting me draw you guys? Only twenty bucks per drawing AND I'll even let you borrow some prooooops.", the Zoey offered showing a box with several novelty hats, you giant sandwiches and hotdogs, and a cheeseburger backpack.

"I have no interest in being drawn as one of your cartoon characters.", Camilla says with unamused slightly intimidating glare before raising up her case, "I would like to try these out on your paper."

"O-Oh, certainly I have a few open stands I use for teaching people my craft. Feel free to use one.", Zoey pointed ahead to the five vacant eisel stands and seats. Camilla nods leaving the two behind. Cheryl watches her leaving and thinking to herself.

"What about you miss?", Zoey offers Cheryl taking out some pens.

"Thanks, but I'll pass. I'm just gonna go look around a bit.", Cheryl says before leaving Zoey alone.

Zoey nods before noticing a three other customers viewing her pictures, "Ah! Hello there welcome! Would you like me to draw your pictures.", she spoke cheerfully while discreetly stabbing the eyes out of the Valerie caricature.

Camilla sets up and takes a seat in front of the large blank paper. Adjacent from her, two human women notice her and cautiously step further away before whispering to each other. She ignores them and unfastens the case deciding on which to start with before selecting the red stencil. She closes her eyes to concentrate.

"Ok! You guys ready to begin?", Zoey energetically spoke plopping down in front if the canvas pens ready.

"U-um...yeah but c-can we move...somewhere else. Somewhere more private?", the Caucasian lady in the yellow sundress says in a deep Georgia accent repeatedly looking to Camilla suspiciously. Camilla glances at her in annoyance before returning to her work.

"Uh yeah. Maybe closer to where we came in?", the other light tan woman said in a similar accent watching Camilla carefully.

"I'm sorry but this is the only area with enough space.", Zoey answered curiously, "Is there a particular reason?"

"Yes, I just don't feel safe with...that around.", Yellow sundress lady stated looking to Camilla who continued to ignore her, "There's no telling what it's plotting over there."

Zoey is taken aback but remains professional, "Miss, I can assure you aren't in any danger. I just spoke with her moments ago and she seems like an OK person. And frankly, those kinds of remarks aren't warranted"

"Oh don't gimme that! I have no problem with you people it's some I just watch out for. My cousin down here nearly got killed by some fire-eyed devil dogs they sure didn't seem like OK people. Now, the ones like y'all at least look enough like us.", She spoke then looking at Camilla with disgust, "But things like that there, shouldn't even be let in this country. Everything started going to hell since these demons and...witches and all that mess started pourin' in!"

Camilla clenches her pen her hand trembling with anger as she tried her best to ignore the human and focus on her drawing.

"Ma'am listen it's just-", Zoey tries to interject.

"They don't even produce anything useful like some of the other species. Her kind are wicked and hurt people for fun and have sex with just anybody. Just ANYBODY even if they're married.", the other woman sneers looking Camilla up and down, "Just seduce and corrupt young men folk turning them into heathens just like them!", The woman watches Camilla's reaction and sees the She-devil becoming visibly agitated.

"So you gonna make it leave or not?!", stated the yellow sundress lady as Camilla shot a sideways glare.

"B-But she done anything wrong.", Zoey uttered nervously.

Yellow sundress lady leans in intimidatingly, "Now you listen here, if you don't get her to leave I'm fixin' on callin' ICEP and get them to do it. Good luck selling your stuff after that.", Zoey goes silent as the lady lean back and mutters under her breath going in her purse, "Need to send her ass back to hell where she belongs."

That was the last straw for Camilla as she creates two small black magic seal above the two women, without them noticing, about to strike them both down. When suddenly...

"Heyyy! Sorry for making you wait!", came Cheryl catching everyone's attention as she maneuvers past them grabbing a stool and sitting right in front Camilla. The demoness gives a confused look, "Ok, I am ready when you are."

Camilla gives a profoundly puzzled look as does Zoey and the two women.

"Uhh...darlin' what are you doin'?", Yellow sundress lady inquires

"Getting a face sketch.", Cheryl answered before winking to Camilla, "This woman right here, one of THE best sketch artists around!", she says proudly gesturing to Camilla.

Yellow sundress lady and her friend exchange looks.

"Hun, I don't think you understand what that thing is. I think you should come over here we just talking to triple eyes over here to get it to leave.", Yellow sundress lady suggested.

"Oh I what SHE is, she's an artist and a cool lady.", Cheryl chided with a smirk, "and no thanks, I think YOU should leave that dress is so bright if anyone draws you it'd be a blank canvas."

Yellow sundress lady jaw drops processing what she said.

"Ok, Ms. Camilla, are you ready?", Cheryl flashes a supportive at Camilla before posing with a toothy grin.

The demoness' eyes widen as she processed the situation. She glances at the two ladies and Zoey then back to Cheryl who nods encouragingly at her. She closes her eyes inhaling as the black magic seals disappeared.

"Jes, let us begin.", Camilla spoke before tearing off a page tossing it aside. She focuses on Cheryl taking in every minor detail. She selects five pens, closes her eyes to focus. Her eyes shoot open with sharp intent as her hand whips and darts around the paper at blinding speed. Zoey, the two other ladies, even Cheryl stare flabbergasted at the spectacle. Barely a minute later, Camilla was finished placing the pens away then taking the canvas off the eisel, "How is this?"

Cheryl, Zoey, and the two ladies jaws drop in amazement upon seeing the sketch. Not only did she capture every single detail if Cheryl's head from skin tone to the small mole above her eyebrow but she also sketched the entire background as well; including the three other blank canvases behind her.

"T-That is incredible Ms. Camilla. It's like I'm looking in a mirror! Ah hell even my reflection wouldn't look this good! Where'd you learn to draw like this?!", Cheryl stated emphatically as Camilla is taken aback by her genuine praise.

"I...it is just a hobby I got better at over the years. It also helps that mi photographic is suppurb.", Camilla replies shooting a look at the two ladies.

"That's so cool, I'm so lucky to know someone as talented as you.", Cheryl stated making sure the two women were watching before taking out a twenty from her wallet, "Here, you've earned it."

Camilla gives a surprised look, "I-I cannot accept-"

"No no no!", Cheryl stops placing it in her hand, "You more than deserve it. In fact, I think I'll do another sketch. You up for it?", Cheryl furrows her eyebrow darting. Camilla notices the two women staring dumbfounded and speechless and decides to play along with Cheryl in screwing with them.

"Why of course miss.", Camilla stated with a wide grin showing her sharp teeth disturbing the two ladies.

Cheryl strike a pose with her fist to the sky as Camilla selects her pens, "Can you draw me with like long magic staff shooting lightning?"

Camilla shakes her head, "I'll see what I can do."

With that, Camilla darts and dashes at the same insane speed as before. Zoey and the women stare speechless.

The yellow sundress lady gives a frustrated look, "Well are you gonna draw me or not?!", she yells Zoey who snaps out of her trance.

"Oh, y-y-yes ma'am!", Zoey proceeds to draw the woman with barely half the speed as Camilla while the sundress lady scoffs at the demoness.

Back over at the Papillon's area, Mirabelle stood by the fold-up tables with all the multicolored oily substances, ribbons, hats, and other accessories as Bae-Bae tantalizingly dangles a vial of bubblegum colored liquid in front of the blushing Centaur.

" S-So how does it work?", Mirabelle inquires sheepishly.

"~Ohhh it's quite simple.~", Bae-Bae emphasizes in a sultry tone before opening to vial, "~Herrrrre rub a bit on your fingers~"

Mirabelle reluctantly sticks out her hand as she allows a drop of semi-viscous, sweet-smelling liquid on her finger. As she massages it on her other digits, her eyes widen upon feeling her nerve ending's sensitivity skyrocket. Feeling each with her thumb sent tiny sparks of pleasure through her arm. She looks up in astonishment to Bae-Bae grinning favorably.

"~huhuhu see what I meeean? This little treat is fabricated from concentrate Alraune pollen and marigold extract. The result is a lu-BRI-cating gel that greatly en-HAN-ces the touch receptors you see. Especially, ones associated with pleasure *wink*. Just massage a gen-ER-ous amount anywhere on your skin. Aaaannyywhere.~"

Mirabelle gulps blushing while hugging her chest, "A-Anywhere?"

"~That's right my dear. It's twennnty times more effective than the KY jelly stuff humans use AND it is quite del-LI-cous. Have a taste.~", Bae-Bae informs before Mirabelle does as instructed putting in her mouth and relishing in sweet flavor couple with the pleasurable sensation of her tongue against her finger. Bae-Bae leans in, "~Seeeee? Pleasurable in two ways for you annnd your lover~."

Mirabelle's mind begins wandering to naughty scenarios with her and Caleb almost making her drool before straightening up quickly taking out her little Sailor Moon wallet, "How much?!"

"~Fifteeeeeen dollar per vial. However, because you're so a-DOR-able I'll give a second vial free of charrrrge.~", Bae-Bae replies before Mirabelle takes out a twenty handing it to her then taking the two vials.

"Ms. Marequine!", called the voice of Ein. Mirabelle quickly hides the vials in her bag.

"Ah M-Ms. Ein, there you-", Mirabelle stops upon seeing Ein's...questionable state. Her clothes were wrinkled and strung haphazardly, her hair was a mess, her entire body radiated a strong sweet odor, and she had what appeared to be lipsticks stains on her cheeks, "Goodness, w-what happened to you?!"

"I DON'T want to talk about it let's just get Ms. Camilla and Banks and leave.", Ein half-demanded before noticing Adelaide and Mandy waving sweetly at her. A chill going down her spine.

"Umm, what is those peculiar things sticking out of your pockets?", Mirabelle inquires pointing to the three colored pouches protruding from Ein dress.

Ein tucks them away in embarassment, "N-Nothing important! Let's just finds those two already!"

"~oooh, I could be of some assistance~", Bae-Bae chimes with a wink.

"YOU stay the hell away from-", Ein catches herself, "I mean...thank you but we find them on our own.", she spoke before hurrying Mirabelle away from Papillon.

"~Ok then! Good luck!", Bae-Bae stated before flash a 'you got this' gesture at Mirabelle. The Centaur nods at her.

"Hmmm, where did they go off to last time I saw them they were over by the statues", Ein affirms gesturing to the ready-mades where Kimberly was still passionately carrying on her speech; even drawing a small crowd to the spectacle. She and Mirabelle look around some more hoping to spot them hoping Camilla didn't do anything...drastic.

"I should've got my money back from that triple eyed freak.", came a lady in yellow sundress and her friend passing Ein and Mirabelle, "I mean, this looks NOTHIN' like me!", she state to her friend showing a caricature drawing of herself with large puffy lip, beadie little eyes, and yellow dress.

"And who does that FOUR-eyed skank think she is. Her and her Devils friend. Let's go they ain't even worth it.", her friend chided as yellow sundress agreed. Ein and Mirabelle give each other curious and slightly worried looks before going in the direction the women came from.

"*gasp* Ms. Ein...look...", Mirabelle says as Ein follows her gaze. Her eyes widen in surprise seeing Camilla sitting at a stool, legs crossed and wings slightly extended posing while Cheryl tried to sketch. They notice Cheryl chuckling heartily about something while, to amazement, Camilla seemed amused even giggling along with her.

Mirabelle and Ein nod to each other understandingly and decided to stay for a little while longer. Ein decided, of course, to survey they from way atop the building the rest of the time.

...

While all that was happening, Caleb's and Mahkah's group were doing some bonding of their own.

Zoom

"Hahahahaha seriously that's freakin' awesome!", Min Jun exclaims as Caleb teleported with him 20 feet down the trail while Zwei, Lyca, Hollo and Rebecca chortled excitedly in amazement as Caleb whoops in excitement.

"Ooh ooh me next! Me next!", Lyca stated bouncing around.

After Caleb's...questionable victory, Hollo became quite upset accusing Caleb's team of cheating, an act, among werewolves, considered shameful and worthy of severe punishment. Things broke out in a short argument before Caleb admitted that he had no knowledge he was capable of that until today. Hollo was reluctant at first, but thanks to Lyca, and seeing the honesty in his eyes, he was telling the truth. She relents citing the purpose of competitions like these were to bring out the best in a pack and it's not uncommon to discover new skills as a result. Essentially, Caleb lived up to that standard and Hollo and Lyca declared their pack alliance a success!

Afterwards, they decided to really look more into Caleb apparent TELEPORTING ability. Caleb himself especially. Shockingly though, it did not take very long for him to start getting the hang of how it works. Annnd abuse the hell out of it.

Zoom, Caleb teleported back to the group with Min Jun hooting excitedly as Lyca and the rest erupted in excitement as well.

"AHAHAA! This is so fucking cool! It's not even that hard to control! I just look and concentrate where I want to go *zoom*... and I'm there! ", Caleb chortled with an excited grin teleporting behind Lyca making her whip around in excitement, "I'm fuckin' black Nightcrawler!"

"Orrr JUST Nightcrawler since he's already...yeah", Drei comments making a circular motion a Caleb's face.

"Yeah I...guess ya got me the-ow.", Caleb winces getting a sudden sharp headache the rubbing his temple. Zwei, Drei and Lyca give him concerned looks.

"You ok man?", Mahkah inquires.

"Y-Yeah I'm good!", Caleb answers assuringly before the best idea pops into his head, "Oh, Mahkah, I wanna do somethin'. This gone hilarious."

Caleb goes over and whispers into Mahkah's ear to Lyca and the rest's curiosity.

"Pfft really?", Mahkah muffled a chuckle to which Caleb smiles widely, "Alright."

Caleb walks away getting a good several feet away from the group as they watched wondering what they were up to. He clears his throat preparing his act.

"Despite their issues, every Pokemon game has something special to offer.", Caleb spoke as if addressing a large crowd, "And Sword and Shield are no different!"

"Pokemon Let's Go is superior!", Mahkah stated.

*zoom* "NOT SCIENTIFICALLY POSSIBLE!", Caleb shouted teleporting in front of him. Zwei and Min Jun smiled widely before bursting in hysterical laughter. They're then joined by Hollo and Lyca who didn't quite get why it was funny but laugh anyway.

"AHHH HE DID THE FLORPUS THING!", Zwei snorted laughing nearly falling out of her seat. Drei watches Caleb suspiciously something in her gut warning her.

"HAHAAAA oh man. I have LIVED!", Min Jun stated jubilantly.

Mahkah and Caleb share a chuckles as well. Suddenly, a sharp headache attacks rips through Caleb's head making him bunch slightly holding his head with one hand. Mahkah and Drei immediately get to their feet as the rest cease laughing and switch to concern.

"Whoa, hey man, are you alright? Here sit down.", Mahkah stated as Caleb follows and sits, "How do you feel?"

"Ughh j-just got headache. Doesn't seem to bad tho-", Caleb pauses feeling something wet on his upper. He touches the top to find his fingers stained red with blood from his nose. Lyca and the others see it and shift into panic, "Ok, that can't be good."

Drei approaches him before getting in his lap, "Hold still.", she requests before cupping her cheeks examining his eyes and face. Lyca and the rest surround them waiting with baited breath. Drei opens her eyes.

"Doesn't look to be anything major. My guess is you likely overexerted yourself. Your body and mind aren't used to the strain of being 'Black Nightcrawler' yet. I suggest stop teleporting for awhile. Drei's orders.", Drei stated giving Caleb some tissue to dry his nose then pulls out a small vial with little green candy-like balls in before popping out two of them, "Eat this, they're chewable. It'll nullify the pain and help recovery some stamina."

"Thank you.", Caleb says before doing as instructed and notes the quite bittersweet taste but deals qwith it. Seconds later, he feels his headache receding much to his and the rests relief. Mahkah presents Caleb a D.D. Pepper to help was it down which he gratefully accepts.

"Heyyy, they kinda look like senzu b-YOWP!", Min Jun started before Drei flings a blue pellet that explodes covering his entire mouth like was of bubblegum.

The group spent the rest of their time together exchanging stories. Lyca and Hollo shared a few light-hearted shenanigans from when they were pups. Eventually, it was time for Caleb and his group to call it a day. Mahkah and his wards unanimously decided they've done enough research in the area and decided to pack up the campsite; with assistance from Caleb's group. Both groups continued along to the very end of the trail where they caught a ride with two of the park rangers back to the entrance of the trail.

As the groups enters the parking lot, Min Jun and Rebecca walk ahead to Mahkah's car( a grey-ish blue Subaru forester) carrying their stuff with Lyca and Hollo coming up behind with their hands full. Mahkah unlocks the trunk and doors for them with the keys.

Zwei watches them load the vehicle as Lyca, Hollo, and Rebecca talking among each. Min Jun could be seen presenting a folded paper to Drei, which she reluctantly accepts prompting a few grateful bows from the fox boy. She then sees Caleb and Mahkah doing something on their phones.

"Alright you got my phone number and my Zoom info?", Caleb inquires.

"Yep, just got it. I'll be sure call when we get into Birmingham.", Mahkah says putting his phone away.

"Yeah, be careful down there it gets pretty crazy, especially at night.", Caleb advised.

"Thanks for the heads up.", Mahkah replies before hearing a loud crash by Hollo apologizing and looks to see his collection of marbles from every state rolling all over the parking lot, "Ah hell, not again! Hang on a minute."

"Need some help?"

"No no, I got it!", Mahkah stated quickly heading over to salvage the mess.

Caleb looks on as Lyca and Hollo try catching the tiny ball while giggling trying not to fall on each other. He then notices Zwei approach to his side without looking at him. A thoughtful expression on her face as she watched the two she-wolves.

"Those two are somethin' ain't they?", Caleb say with a small grin.

"I guess so.", Zwei answers plainly.

"It makes sense though. I hear sisters have a special kind of bond much different than with men. I bet it's like that with you and your sisters.", Caleb says

"Yeah, definitely, but...you know...sometimes...it's good to want something different.", Zwei uttered averting her gaze, "Well, 'different' but also...famiiar."

Caleb raises an eyebrow, "Does this have anything to do with the outburst you had a while ago?"

Zwei crosses her arms, "You sound like Ein.", spoke bitterly.

"I just wanna know what this was about, is all? Why were you telling Lyca to do all that...unnecessary stuff on our date? And why do you have such a beef with Hollo?", Caleb inquired as patiently as he could muster, "Listen, you're my bodyguard but that doesn't mean you can't come to me about something bothering you. You know?"

Zwei goes silent, "I...I just wanted to help her because...she's just like me."

Caleb looks at her curiously , "Go on."

"I don't know how to describe it, when I first met her we just...clicked. Like, we're each others spirit animal, if that makes sense. We talked alot and I realized both of us grew up pretty much in the shadow of our siblings, always getting left behind, and nobody really understanding us. Back home, Ein was always the responsible leader that EVERYONE depended on even among other Kamaitachi families. Drei? She's basically a medicinal genius surpassing even the elder healers in the families.", she spoke looking away.

"What about you?", Caleb inquires.

"I'm just...a clown.", Zwei spoke coldly, "We Kamataichi are alway born in a trio and each have a role to play in the trinity that we're trained to fulfill but...I wanted to be more than just my role like my sisters were. Unfortunately, I sucked at everything else from big solo missions to cooking, but pulling pranks or making others laugh makes me happy. It helped me stand out of my family's shadows. I Heck, it's how I developed some of my own techniques! Even everyone, even my mothers, didn't approve and just told me to 'Stop acting like a child'. Or, 'Be the warrior I'm supposed to be'. Or, 'Don't squander your abilities so frivolously'. Haahhhh...the only one who encouraged me and really understood me was Bàba(Papa). We always had fun together", Zwei smiles for a moment remembering her dad laughing with her, "After he died, I felt so...alone. My sisters and our moms...I know they love me but...you know..."

Caleb's eyes widen as his thoughts turning to memories of his own parents before she continues.

"Lyca...the way she talks, how we get along, it reminds me so much of Bàba.", Zwei spoke looking at Lyca scrambling about with Hollo trying to help a desperate Mahkah catch all the marbles, "She cares about you a whole lot but she not good at expressing how she felt in words. I just wanted to help her show you everything I KNOW she has to offer AND do it on my own without help from anyone!", Zwei trails off looking pensively at Lyca, " You know, I noticed she doesn't like talking about her old life. ...I guess hearing what Lyca went through and finding her sister did almost NOTHING to stop it...I just..."

"I understand. You were following your heart no matter how rough the path it took you. I won't say I APPROVE but I understand.", Caleb replied.

Zwei sighs, "I bet you're tell Ein or Sterling what I did right? Tch, whatever, I was bound to get yelled at over somethin' soon anyw-", Zwei is cut off upon feeling Caleb petting the top of her head. She look up at him in surprise, "W-What are you-?!

"Listen!", Caleb cuts her off in a firm tone, "I'm not telling either of them about this. While...a bit abrasive what you did...it kinda worked. I feel a bit closer to Lyca and...i'll admit some of that advice you gave...was practical. Never thought her hips could sway like that hehe. Basically, you did good today. Thank you.", he praised while gingerly petting her soft ears, "And for the record, it takes a true badass to be a clown in world full of mimes."

Zwei eyes widen at his words reminding her something her Baba would say to cheer her up. She grins enjoying this familiar sensation, "~Haahhh, you mean it Boss?~ That makes me so happy. Hehe I thought you'd be mad for sure."

"Haha who said I wasn't mad?", Caleb spoke in a malicious tone before twisting the weasel's ear a bit making her tense at the pain.

"Owowowowow ouch!", Zwei elicits before he releases her ear.

"Never. Do this. Again. Lyca is a big girl let her love me HER way.", Caleb spoke firmly.

"OK OK geez! Really lured me in with that one huh? I'M supposed to be the sneaky one.", Zwei says rubbing her ear.

"Ha! Not that sneaky. Tell me, you enjoy the show Lyca and I put on back on the trail?", Caleb spoke with a knowing smirk to which Zwei tenses up and blushes beet red.

"Wha-h-h-h-how did you know I was watching the whole time?!"

"I wasn't sure but you just confirmed it. Frankly, it's kinda creepy...yet I'm weirdly not mad at all and that worries me a little. If I'm being 100% honest...I might have been...turned on more KNOWING someone's watching. So maybe I'M the real creep", Caleb shamefully admits as Zwei blushes.

"Hmmm, yeah, but you're pretty cool creep.", Zwei smirks playfully bumping her hip to his as he gives he a look.

Suddenly, Lyca and Hollo come bounding over.

"Hi Chief! What are you and Zwei talking about?", Lyca beams sweetly.

"Oh! Nothin' much, just...talking about how much fun we had here.", Caleb smiles petting Zwei's head again making her flinch before feeling the gentle caress of his fingers. She sighs in relief.

"Yeah, today was soooo much fun.", Hollo stated before focusing on Zwei, "I really enjoyed racing with you Zwei. I'm glad to have you as a pack mate.", She says before wrapping Zwei in a big hug nuzzling her cheek lovingly.

"Thanks for being my sister's friend.", she whispers into her ear surprising the wind weasel. She releases her as a small grin spreads across Zwei's face. Hollo turns and hugs Caleb.

"Hollo! It's time to go sweety!", Mahkah calls out from the SUV.

"Okay!", She shouts back before turning Caleb, "You all take care now! We'll be back again soon! Can't wait to meet the rest of your pack!", she says sprinting off join Mahkah and the rest. She leaps right through one of the wide open windows as Min Jun ducks for his life. She begins waving out the window saying her goodbyes before Mahkah and the rest join in. Caleb and his group wave goodbye as their new friends pull out and leave the parking lot.

Drei then approaches the group holding a folded up paper, "Well my soul now belongs to The Aether. Can we leave now?

"Yeah, just gotta sign us out at the ranger office.", Caleb says turning before being stopped by Zwei.

"Don't sweat it Boss, I got it.", Zwei assured before dashing off as a sharp gust of wind blew past them.

"Alllllright then, let's get the engine started."

"Hey Chief, what are those on your shirt?", Lyca spoke pointing at his chest.

"My shirt? Whatcha me-", Caleb looks down shocked to see the his entire shirt and part of his cargo pants littered front to back with small holes, "Wh-What the...batshit hell?!"

"Heyyy! There's some on mine too!", Lyca stated gesturing to her crop top and jean shorts littered in holes even exposing her perky nips to which Caleb advised for her to cover.

"Did she...why would she...?!", Caleb uttered looking in Zwei's direction. He then feels a tug on his pants and sees Drei with her outfit covered in tiny holes.

"I am so sorry...but it appears Zwei... really likes you.", Drei spoke cryptically, "and the more she likes you the more holes you get.", She said raising her arms showing she had even more holes on the inside of her dress, " It's a habit of hers. Ein and I need to check our clothes almost every morning. Every morning for friendship holes."

"Well ain't we sweet? Give her compliment she turns ya into a Swiss cheese hobo.", Caleb replies.

"Don't be ridiculous. We're more like sponges." , She then takes out a small sewing kit selecting a needle and thread, "Now hold still. Unless becoming living pin cushions is your kink. I don't judge. "

After Drei fixed their clothes, they group headed back home. Lyca rode shotgun and Drei took the backseat while Zwei, conveniently, decided to take tail them from above. The evening sunset illuminated their way as they bid temporary farewell to the nature trail. Lyca leans her elbow out the open window enjoying the feel of the wind against her ears. Her thoughts drift to the conversation with her sister.

...flashback...

Lyca and Hollo sat together on a large boulder by the flowing stream.

"It's so hard to believe.", Hollo spoke thoughtfully.

Lyca gives her a puzzled look, "Hmm, what is?"

"It's hard to believe how much you've changed Lyca. You were always so...frail. So afraid to speak to others in our pack. Now, your fighting enemies twice your size, you're all muscly, and you're an Alpha of your own pack!", Hollo stated in amazement.

"Actually, Mira is the Alpha of our pack but Chief loves us all equally.", Lyca corrected.

Hollo eyes widen, "Wait, you're...not the Alpha?"

"Well...Chief doesn't really believe in pack ranking he just sees us ALL as his family.", Lyca replies.

Hollo pauses, "Wow...that sounds just like Mahkah and me.", she spoke sweetly before a frown crosses her face, "Lyca, I'm...I'm so sorry. Our siblings and pack mates were always so cruel to you and...and If only I did more to help you. Maybe if they saw you getting a little stronger maybe you wouldn't have had to leave and-", Hollo is silenced by Lyca hugging her.

"It's ok sis, I don't blame you one bit. I don't even blame them. Besides, it's a good thing I left. I got to meet new people, see new things, learn about video games and movies, and...I met Chief, and Mira, Cami, Chief's uncle, and Zwei and HER sisters. The reason I'm stronger now...is because, since that night with the big fiery wolf, I wanted to become stronger to protect him AND my family. I love him, I love all of them, and I love you too sis.", Lyca spoke beaming the sweetest smile.

Hollo chocked back her tears before wiping them away smiling back at her, "I waited so long to see you again."

The two embrace lovingly their tails wagging happily in unison. Hollo pulls away and immediately gets an idea.

"Lyca! Let's merge our packs! Let's have a race together and really test our skills!", Hollo stated.

"Y-Yeah! That sounds like a great idea!", Lyca stated pumping her fists, "It'd be great having you as a pack mate again!"

"Yeah and the best part we'll have puppies from our Alphas in the SAME pack!", Hollo exclaimed blushing slightly as Lyca blushes as well grinning and tails excitedly at the thought of having puppies with Chief.

...end of flashback...

As Caleb drives down the road, he notices Lyca grinning eyes closed with a longing expression tail beating beating against the seat. He raises and eyebrow questioning but decided to ignore it and just kept driving.

...

At the same time, Mirabelle's group were preparing to head home as well. They waited on the corner waiting for their trolley with Cheryl.

"Annnd, ok I have you saved into my phone.", Ein stated putting her phone away, "Again, Ms. Banks, it's been a pleasure having you as part of our group."

"Thank YOUUU guys. You guys made my weekend ALOT more exciting. We should definitely do this again some time.", Cheryl stated while hold a stack of rolled up sketches Camilla drew.

"Indeed, that sounds brilliant.", Mirabelle agreed before looking to Camilla who wore a thought expression clenching her new artist case with three rolled up sketches papers sticking off, "What about you Camilla? Did you have fun?"

Camilla snaps from her thoughts looking to Mirabelle, "Jes...it was...fun."

Cheryl smiles at her to which Camilla quickly averts her attention away. Suddenly the Liminal trolley could be heard approaching.

"Ah, looks like the trolley's here. I hope everyone has everything and didn't leave anything behind.", Ein spoke before everyone checks their clothes finding they had all their stuff. The trolley pulls in front of the group and the doors open. They step back allowing riders to get off first. As they wait to board, Cheryl walks up to Camilla.

"Hey, Ms. Camilla?", Cheryl inquires as Camilla turns her head looking from the corner of her eye, "Ignore those women from earlier, they're just bitter at the fact they don't have a fraction of the artistic talent you have. Hell, I'M a bit jelly. But thank you again for letting me keep these.", she stated gesturing to the three rolled sketch papers, "I'm surprised you even wanted to keep mine when they're so..."

"Stop your babbling girl.", Camilla spoke surprising Cheryl and the others, "We both drew as we saw each other. If I didn't want them WHY would I keep them? Do not sell your talents short either girl."

Cheryl eyes twinkle before smiling at her, "Y-Yeah, you're right. Thank you."

"Hmm", Camilla hums to herself before boarding the trolley. Mirabelle and Ein follow behind her and take their seats closest to the window. They wave to Cheryl, who does the same, as the trolley pulls off driving down the street.

Camilla places her bags beside her relaxing her back against the seat. She then unfolds one of the sketches Cheryl did of her. Though a bit crude, she managed to details of her body well. A small grin crosses her lips.

"Oh wow, that's a wonderful portrait Cheryl made of you Camilla.", Mirabelle compliments leaning from the side.

"Hehe looks like you made a friend today Ms. Sartana.", Ein stated furrowing her eyebrows.

"Pffft, I would HARDLY go that far.", Camilla replied rolling up the sketch, "She is...alright. Certainly more tolerable than other humans I've seen today."

Mirabelle grins happily at her statement.

"Besides, I would say JU were muy popular with the butterfly and Alraune today. Made a little horny boy fan club.", Camilla smirked devilishly as Ein tenses up in shock, "Oh jes, I could hear eeeeevrything Señora kitty hehehe."

Mirabelle gives a questioning look as Ein blushes beet red in embarassment and frustration. She proceeds to berate Camilla making angry weasel sounds with some of the passengers give them weird looks as Mirabelle tries in vain to calm Ein. Camilla crosses her legs leaning back with a smirk of not giving a shit.

...Later...

Everyone arrived home safe and relatively sound with Mirabelle's group arriving just after Caleb's got settled in. They spent a couple hours talking about how their days went. They talked everything from Lyca's sister to Mahkah's group to their meeting with Cheryl and the overly affectionate Papillon. Caleb even showed off his new teleporting ability much to Mirabelle's group shock and amazement. Feeling exhausted, Caleb decided to take a shower and turn in early while he let the girls help themselves to his entertainment center and whatever he had in his kitchen. Luckily, Ein and Mirabelle made sure Zwei and Lyca didn't get too chaotic as they settled on playing some Blazblue: Crosstag and watching a few comedy shows on Caleb's tv. Camilla eventually turned in for the evening as well along with the Zyklons doing the same after helping Mirabelle tidy up. Mirabelle says goodnight to Zyklons before Lyca and Mirabelle go off to their rooms.

Inside Caleb's room, the young man lay asleep in bed. He was softly snoring, his chest heaving up and down. Suddenly, unbeknownst to him, a figure appears, it's body obscured in the darkness, as it crept up to his bed not making a sound. They knelt down to the side of his bed and proceeded to unbutton his blue checker-pattern pajama bottoms. He decided to go topless tonight leaving chest and abs already bare. The figure smirks in satisfaction gently pulling out his limp member proceeding to stroke it with her tender fingers until it was fully erect as Caleb stirred a bit in his sleep. The figure stops and then proceeds to take off their purple t-shirt allowing their large braless D-cups to bounce freely. They take out two small vials of pink liquid and proceeded to pour a generous amount on their breasts. Instantly, their soft flesh reach unfathomable levels of sensitivity causing them to bite their bottom lip stifling their whimper before positioning themselves over Caleb's towering member. The second they wrap their flesh around his member, Caleb's eyes shot open.

"Waahaaaa! Wh-Moon Piyaahhhaaa?", Caleb elicits a sharp moan as he waves of pure ecstasy bombard his lower region. He quickly raises himself up getting a good look at her thanks to the faint light from the window.

"~Huhuhuhu sorry for waking you Dear. I ahhhh just couldn't wait any laaaahh-nger to give you your present.", Mirabelle moaned sultrily servicing him with a wet boob job. She sighs in bliss as his meat stick churning her extremely sensitive flesh lubricated by the sweet smelling pink liquid, "Plus, I wahhhhnted to pick up where haaahh we left of this morning."

"Well haaa y-you decided not *pant* to waste time huhhhhh?", Caleb moaned looking down at his girlfriend devotedly undulating her pink oil covered flesh against his manhood, "Holy shit this feels good. Haahh what kinda oil is that?! Smells like bubblegum."

"I ahhhh purchased it today. It's supp-ahhhh-osed to make the skin quite *pant* sensitive and heighten pleasure sensors. It's really effective.", Mirabelle hums quickly dangling one of the vials then placing it away. Her eyes glazed with lust as her boob flesh feels like it's melting like butter onto her lover's cock as her harden nipples sending surges of electricity through her body.

"Yeahhh no crap. This is wayyy better than usual. H-Here let me help you out.", Caleb utters shifting his legs over the side of bed allowing better access between his legs.

"Happy you like love haahhh...y-you're going enjoy this even more.", she in a sultry before licking the very tip of his member tasty his precum as Caleb throws his head back in delight. She giggles teasing him a little more with her tongue before taking in as much of him as she could. Her head excitedly bobs up and down as she swirls her tongue lenjoying the unique taste of the bubblegum oil and precum. The mixture sent waves of ecstasy through her mouth.

"Haaa...Haa...moon pie", Caleb utters stroking her head lustfully seeking more pleasure which she happily obliged.

Suddenly, the door cracks open.

"Psst, Chief are you asleep?", came the voice of Lyca. Mirabelle ceases her motions as she and Caleb become annoyed at having their buzz killed. Lyca peaks in her eyes aglow from her night vision and immediately notices the pair, "Oh! Mira's here too, that's perfect."

Mirabelle and Caleb give each other puzzled looks.

"W-Why is that perfect?", Caleb inquires.

"It means we can have a communal mating session. It's customary in pack afterall for Alpha pairs to mate with secondary ranks. And Chief already made it ok by doing that stuff with me earlier.", Lyca explained.

"W-Wait, you did what?!", Mirabelle stated in surprise.

Caleb pauses collecting him then exhaling, "Allow me to explain."

He then spends a couple minutes explaining what he did with Lyca.

"Oh my...I...that is...something...", Mirabelle uttered taking all the information in.

"Are you mad? I know I...should have told you earlier.", Caleb apologizes as Lyca sits on the floor like a scolded child.

"Indeed, you should have.", Mirabelle says, "However, I'm not mad in the slightest. In fact, I'm glad you've deepened your relationship even more. It... still feels a bit strange but...as long you're still in love with Dear I'm fine with whatever you do."

Caleb and Lyca sigh in relief.

"In fact, I AM quite curious of this 'communal mating' so let's try it", Mirabelle stated before Lyca hops up excitedly.

"This is so exciting.", Lyca giggles bouncing giddily.

"What do we do first Lyca?", Mirabelle inquires with grin.

"Hmmm, not sure, why don't we let Chief start. He seems to be a natural at this stuff.", Lyca narrows a lustful gaze at Caleb.

"Agreed, THAT he is.", Mirabelle concurs turning the same gaze at Caleb.

"Don't I get a say in this...and I'm not getting to sleep soon am I?", Caleb sighed as both girls slowly and sadistically shake their heads no.

"Don't be a prude Dear, just think of it as a...'bonding experience.', Mirabelle quips in a snarky tone furrowing her eyebrows. Caleb gives her a dry look.

Caleb slaps his hands together deciding to just roll with it like a man, "Aight, fuggit, Moon pie gimme the oil vials.". he says before she give him a vial and both girls take their positions.

'When did my life become tags on Hentai haven?', Caleb thought swirling the vial of liquid.

...A few minutes later...

"HAAHHHH!", "NNNGHAAAH!", both girl screams of ecstacy fill the room. Mirabelle's skirt was pulled up over her horse back exposing her plump rear pussy while Lyca had taken her shorts all the way off and tooted toned butt showing her pussy. Between them Caleb used both open palms to massge plenty of oil onto their clits simultaneously. Their loins had immediately became a magma crater of pleasure as the oil kickstarted their sensitivity into maximum overdrive. They flailed, gasped and shriek in delight gripping Caleb's mattress for support to combat to surges of ecstacy. Even Caleb could barely contain his moans as his palms has become catylists that sent waves of ecstacy through his arms. Soon, Caleb started to find his rhythm with the girls. He inserts one finger each to their love canals sending them both into louder screams of pleasure. It's realllly convinient the walls are sound proof now.

"*pant* *pant* HNNNGAHAH...Chief. Dis ish amazing. It's a MILLION times bebber than earlier!", Lyca panted tongue out drooling slight and tail twitching and he scrapes her walls churning her juices and the oil into her pulsating flesh.

"HAAHGgh! I..I didn't AAH think it would be THIS strong AHaaagghh. I'm already going mad! My phany(british for 'vagina') is melting into mush AHAAHAA!", Mirabelle shouted clenching the sides of her head and her hip rock back and forth drenching wanting to feel even more.

"G-Glad ya'll ah like it. Cuz It's...about to get more intense up in here.", Caleb uttered before inserting his middle and ring fingers into each of them. The girls throw their heads back shriekoing as Caleb vigorously pumps them both with the precision of engine pistons stirring the love juices into dripping puddles onto the carpet. The sloppy, wet sloshing as he prodded and scraping their pussies coupled with their disjointed gasps and moans in sheer unabated pleasure fill the room.

So much so, that they didn't even notice the pair of lime green glowing eyes watching them from the cracked door.

It was Zwei standing in her PJs consisting of an oversized white t-shirt with Chinese symbols that reach down past her knees and nothing else. Having wanted to come back to return Caleb's PS4 controller she accidentally took only take catch ear to the sounds of pleasure down the hall and has been watching ever since. She smirks watching Caleb go to work on the wolf and horse. Quite impressed he's handling two at once fairly well. It wasn't long before she felt the familiar itch in her loin and reaches down to scratch it.

'Hehehe, round two baby.', Zwei thought smirking as she touches herself.

"OH gods! NNNGHA It's too much! Dear, I'm cumming!", Mirabelles stated digging her nails into the blanket.

"AHHAA Me too! Me too! L-Let's cum for Chief together Mira! Together! Watch us Cheif!", Lyca stated deliriously taking Mira's hand who accepts.

"OK LYCA! H-HAAAHHHHHHHH!", "NNNAHHHHHGGH!", both girls shouted as their heavy orgasms hit simultaneously spraying all over Caleb's arms, carpet, and part of his face. The two girls collapse their limp bodies on the bed as Caleb take the opportunity to wipe off his arms and face with the shirt draped on the chair. He pauses in thought before discreetly tasting the sweet mixture of their love nectar on his finger. His body lightly trembles at the sensation as purple glow appears then fades in his eyes.

"Haaa...that was phenomenal Dear.", Mirabelle hummed raising up.

'Yeahhh...my insides are still all tingly.", Lyca utters rolling over on her back.

"Heh, g-glad you girls liked it so much That oil...is some crazy strong shit. So you guys wanna stop here or...?", he spoke moves over to them only for Mirabelle to stand up gripping his arm.

"Stop? what ever for Dear?", Mirabelle inquires her purple heart filled pupils staring lovingly as she pressing her breasts against him.

"That's right!", Lyca added clinging to him as well looking up with Amber heart filled pupils, "~Now it's your turn.~"

Caleb gulps before both girls push him to the bed allowing his throbbing rockhard to stand before their eyes. Mirabelle takes the left, Lyca the right as they crawl up to his waist grinning lascioviously.

"~I've still got a little bit left in this vial JUST for you Dear.~", Mirabelle teases dangling the vial into view as Lyca pants in excitement. Caleb eyes widen realizing he was in danger. She opens the vial pouring it's contents onto Caleb bare member and some on his abs.

Caleb immediately feels the his manhood reach dangerously high levels of pleasure and sensitivity. He arches groaning in unbridled passion the second Mirabelle drags hot, wet tongue from shaft to tip. Lyca follows her lead before lingering on the tip and taking the head in her mouth swirling her tongue around then proceeding to bob her head humming blissfully. Mirabelle lets Lyca have his cock and focuses on massaging Caleb's oil covered abs with her breasts.

"Haaaa...HAAAAAA fuck...HhnNNNhhholy fucking shit.", Caleb moans huskily looking down at Mirabelle and Lyca both wholeheartedly pleasuring him. He reachs and gently stroking the tops of their heads much to their delight, "You haaa...you girls. I love you girls so much!"

"We love you too Dear!", "MMHMMPH!", Mirabelle and Lyca answered.

'Me tooooo.', Zwei thought still masterbating to the scene.

...Elsewhere...

The door opens to a hotel room and a familiar fanatical loli goat woman enters before shutting the door. A red aura appears as it locks itself. She chucks he small shoulder strap bag on the single bed. She sits on the bed hands in her lap and sighs. Her mind going back to her conversation with Mama Rose'.

...

'Seriously? Do we really need to rely on them? Need I remind you they're barely even part of the organization. Not to mention they are unruly as hell.', Fantina stated to the elderly woman sitting at her desk enjoying her rigatoni dinner with a bottle of Vodka. Several human men in black suits and red rose pins on their suits stood by beside her.

'Ahh, but need I remind YOU that my brother-in-law is in some redneck hospital because of his own vendetta and because you failed to stop him. We not only lost access to our superior firearms but now ICEP is closing in further on our trade routes. I hold you both equally responsible for that! Why does he keep you around anyway? He just brought you home like stray cat saying you are very skilled former ICEP agent but you do laze around and try to add more victims to this pedophile cults of yours hahehehe.", Mama Rose' finishes with a chuckled taking a swig of vodka as the men behind her laughed.

Fantina glares furiously wanting to reach for her scythe. She stops feeling a presence behind her and glances to mirror above seeing a pair of glowing green eyes attached to a ripping red goo. Of course, she always has her 'pet' with her.

"You listen to me koza suka( russian for 'goat bitch')! I will give you one chance to redeem yourself. Go to their hideout and convince them to do the job. Don't worry, when money speaks, not the species, people listen.', She spoke as one of the men presented a red briefcase. One Fantina knew to well.

'But that's...that's Nikolai's entire fortune! ', Fantina stated in shock.

"No worries, I'm he would do the same or do want all his efforts to go in vain?"

Fantina wanted to retort but knew doing so would be pointless, "Where are they located?"

Mama Rose' looks to one of her men and they approach Fantina handing her a map with a marker showing the path to follow.

'Sources say they are based here in Georgia somewhere in that location. If you fail, you leave my business. And when i say leave, I mean leave.', she emphasizes as Fantina notices the red goo had slink past her dissolving part of her cloak before reforming behind Mama Rose in the shape of a red slime girl with menacing green eyes.

...flashback end...

"Fuck!", Fantina cursed kicking the bag off the bed with her hoof. She groans in frustration clenching her eyes as she plops down on the bed staring up at the ceiling. She lies there taking short reflection of her life so far and wonders how it came to this. Was it before joining ICEP? Starting her crusade? Meeting Nikolai and joining the Malones? ...Sterling? That last thought made her remember seeing him in that parking lot weeks ago. If he saw her, what would he say now.

She raises up shaking her head, "No. It doesn't matter now. Nikolai may not be here but I not giving up on my goal. I'll use the Malones just a little bit longer until then. But first..."

"I have to pay you assholes a visit...Komanda Monstra(Monster Hitman Team)"

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WR

Hey Fam! How's everyone been doing today? ...Ok, imma be honest i meant to upload this chapter last week but...things have kept me busy. I've had to return home. My mom has been very sick lately. NOT with what you think though, I promise, she tested negative. But, doctors did find some unusual growth in her lungs and lymph nodes on her neck that have made it difficult to breath at times. Last Thursday, I awoke at 3am to...her almost dying. I called 911 but it looked like she was going to go right then and there. She kept telling me all this stuff and...sigh. That experience shook me and I wasn't able to do...anything for a while but worry about her. I lost watched my grandmother die when I was 12, then I watched my father die when i was 16, I WASN'T about to watch my mother die at 25. Right now, she's doing ok. My siblings, everyone else in my family, and myself are awaiting the results from the doctors. We're praying it's benign and treatable. We all love her.

I'm sorry...to unload all that baggage on you guys. You came to read a good story but it's more than that to me. I do my best to show that in each chapter with every character. I'm still writing Camilla's chapters and they will be up soon. I'll do my best to keep that promise. That's all I have to say for now. I hope everyone is staying safe in these tumultous times. But know, as long as i'm writing, everyone has a home here. All lives matter at the end of the day.

See you next time, Peace Fam.