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.

75. Proper Introduction

Chapter 69: Proper Introduction

The entire room was in an uproar of disbelief and excitement as Caleb stood beside Scarlett starting to become anxious but not wanting to show it. Suddenly, the representative of the Beelzebubs flies up to him.

"ARE YOU SERIOUS?!", She shouted with starry eyes, hovering in the air on her beating wings, We got THE Caleb Bazzell here?!"

"It's pronounced 'Bizzell!' And…yes…that's me." Caleb hastily corrects.

"So YOU'RE the one who saved Sharon and her friends huh? Gotta say, thought you'd be taller…but you're still pretty cute. I can work with this.", The representative of the Pyrow sauntered up to him looking him up and down with a lecherous smirk, her fiery tail swaying with her hips. Scarlett eyes her skeptically, unamused by her attempts at seduction.

"Uhh thanks? Also, what?", Caleb replied, taken aback by her comment.

"Hey is it true you really beat a pack of hellhounds?!", One of the Imps inquires, catching the attention of Caleb and all the hellhounds seated at the table adjacent.

He then notices, to his horror, all the hellhound females and male focused on him intently. The mother's scrutinous, fiery gaze sent shivers down his spine.

"W-Well, no, not exactly "beat them", it was mainly MON agents who stopped them. Plus, Camilla did more than I did fighting them off. I just…survived, somehow, like the rest of you." Caleb insisted, trying to remain as humble as possible while some of Devils appeared either intrigued or unconvinced.

"Yeah! WHILE protecting us all! You even tazed the leader and knocked her down. And I heard from Camilla that you hit one of them in the head with TV!", Hana stated, proudly much to his concern.

"Ayo! What?", The male hellhound, Tristan, shot up, along with some of the females, making Caleb visibly jump, "You really brought down a pack leader with a damn TV?! That's crazy!"

"Ha! They must've been a sorry bunch if even a human could take them down. Still, not too bad.", Spoke a hellhound female, an impressed grin on her face, looking him up and down.

"Damnnn. I bet that Jykùlù(Hellhound language for 'Bitch') was SHOCKED to find out you weren't easy prey! HAHAAAA!", Another female hellhound jokes as some of her sisters groan in annoyance.

"I'm SHOCKED you aren't more embarrassed by that lame ass pun.", Another female chastised as the previous one merely shrugs.

"Hey, Hey, you know what?", The male hellhound points out.

"What, Tristan?"

"Ain't half as bad as the one who got her face ON TV!", He joked before chuckling followed by the rest of his sisters, "HAHAHA this man straight up made her a TV star by making her see stars with a TV!"

As the hellhounds burst out laughing, so do the Imps, Pyrows, Beelzebubs, and a few the Devils join in a fit of laughter as well. Even Sharon and the others, save for Scarlett, couldn't help laughing. Caleb stood, looking around awkwardly and uncomfortably, at the hysterical laughing group.

"RAARF!"

The huge hellhound representative lets a fierce, thunderous bark that shook the entire room and the inhabitants down to the bones. Caleb felt his body trembling and heart racing as he noticed all the hellhounds and everyone else sitting quietly with some also trembling.

"That's enough! Funny as fuck as it is, we got a meeting to get through! We can laugh alllll we want about how dumb they are later. Right now, we got business to get done and I got shit to do!", The hellhound representative authoritatively lectured, then looked at Caleb. She smiles warmly and gently spoke, "Sorry about that sweety, continue."

"Uhh…I'm…just glad we were all able to survive that night. That's all that really matters. I don't really have much else to say.", Caleb shyly replies, rubbing the back of his head as the Greater Devil with black wavy hair narrows her gaze at him. The Manticore also inspects him up and down, like a lion deciding if he was prey or not.

"Aww, no need to be modest, hun. You can brag a little.", Jocelyn playfully remarks.

"She's right! If it weren't for your little trick you pulled on those gangsters, we'd still be in a shit state as some rich assholes sex slave. We, and alot more, are free because of you.", Sharon attests.

"THAT'S—", Caleb stated, becoming frustrated and more embarrassed at being put on a pedestal, "Again, I DIDN'T really do much aside from just what I THOUGHT was right. I had know idea what would happen. It could've been a stupid mistake and I would've died for nothing. I was just lucky."

"But you didn't die!", One of the Beelzebubs stated, pointing at him, "Luck or not, even you can't deny the results."

"Yeah, I mean a lot of us here were sold to buyers for our body parts.", The Imp representative spoke while gesturing to her wings and tail, "ICEP only found us in time because of what happened with the Devils. So, by extension, that makes you OUR little hero too."

"~Ours too.~", The Pyrow representative spoke in a lustful tone as the other Pyrow looked at him hungrily, giggling like horny hyenas. Caleb recoils, suddenly more afraid of them than the hellhounds.

"REGARDLESS…", Scarlet stated with emphasis, trying to get things back on track, "We cannot overlook the big picture here. All of the credit cannot be placed on just ONE person. It would be unfair to our fellow Chaos-Born that weren't so lucky and those that are still suffering."

Caleb and the others look to her inquisitively with a lot of them agreeing with her.

"I agree! ", the black wavy haired devil rose up from her seat, getting everyone's attention as the Manticore raised an intrigued eyebrow, "Despite the, for lack of better term, "second chance" we've been given, we cannot forget the position we are in."

"What position is that?", Sylvia asks, raising an eyebrow, "Also, who are you?"

"I could answer that. Thing is, do you want the name my ICEP worker's overseer assigned to me, or the name I was given at birth? Don't get me wrong, 'Amanda' IS a nice name.", She half jokes with a smile, getting a few giggles. Caleb and Scarlett observe her curiously as she approaches them then stops in front of her, "But I much prefer 'Tubala Cain'."

"Tubala Cain? Wait, from the Cain Clan?", Heidi stated.

"You know her?", Scarlett inquires.

"No but the clan she belongs to are our neighboring clan back home in Regenburg."

"Ahh, Ich kann mir vorstellen, dass es hart sein muss, so weit weg von zu Hause zu sein(I can imagine it being so far from home must be tough.)", Tubala spoke, her voice taking on a German accent as Heidi grins at her.

"Weiß ich es nicht? Wenn ich anfangen würde, meine Beschwerden aufzulisten, wäre ich den ganzen Tag hier und würde Ihnen die Ohren abkauen(Don't I know it? If I start listing my complaints, I'd be here all day chewing your ears off.)", Heidi responds with a chuckle as Tubala laughs alongside her, leaving all the non-German speakers befuddled.

"Ahem, I hate to interrupt European solidarity but can you continue with your point, please?", Scarlett requested, arms folded with a stern gaze.

Tubala makes direct eye contact before grinning, "Of course. What I mean is that while man's deeds are…somewhat commendable in their own way. There are still plenty others of our kin that…were not as fortunate. Myself and my associates here for example are victims of the Malones as well. In fact, we are survivors of last week's riots within their base of operation in Georgia."

Caleb and the others in the room aside from Scarlett, the Manticore, and the devils seated at Tubala's table are taken aback in surprise.

"Wait, seriously?! You guys were THERE during that shit!?", Sharon expressed in surprise.

"Why are you so surprised? We already told you beforehand.", Jocelyn remarks, eyebrow raised.

"Ok, imma be upfront. I might have zoned out a bit halfway during Scarlett's briefing.", Sharon admits as Scarlett shoots her an incredulous glare, "N-Not saying the way you tell it is boring it could just use some…spice."

"Keep talking and she's gonna salt and pepper your ass.", Sylvia half warns.

"Wait, back up! You guys already knew there were devils here from that incident this whole time and didn't bother to say until now?!", The Imps representative stated, slightly offended.

"Listen, I thought it would have been better for ME to introduce them…", Scarlett stated, emphasizing her grievance towards the black haired greater Devil for taking over her meeting, "But, it seems they've already taken care of it. So, do we have any questions?"

"Was it as crazy as the news network made it out?!", The Beelzebub leader inquired curiously.

"Haha! Bitch, you don't even know the half of it.", The Manticore chortles, leaned back with a smug grin as Tubala shoots her a glare.

"And what's your name tomato tail?", One of the hellhound females jokes, seeing the large red bulge with spikes at the end of her scorpion-like tail.

"First off, call me that, and I'll spay you and break your legs. Also, call me Beyla, JUST Beyla.", Beyla replies, glaring at the hellhound who growls at her.

"Hey…", Caleb spoke lowly, getting Scarlett attention as Tubala side eyes him with pure disgust, "I'm…just gonna sit back down if that's fine."

"Sure, that's fine.", Scarlett replies plainly.

"Nice to meet you by the way.", Caleb quickly says to the black haired devil.

"Uh huh. Whatever."

Caleb notices the cold, derision in her tone as she turns her back on him, shooing him away like a dog. He chose to ignore it and took his seat beside Drei who focused her attention on black haired devil.

"Though we can't help but question how does any of THIS help or protect us?" Tubala asked in a skeptical tone, drawing attention from the other Chaos-Born who then looked to Scarlett.

"It gives us a place to gather and converse to express our concerns and find solutions and most importantly work with ICEP here to give us the best way to get our message to other Chaos-Born out the-." Scarlett said but Tubala cut her off before she could finish.

"So, you're saying this all is just so we can whine about our problems while others solve them instead. All the while, we're willingly giving away our freedom and chain ourselves to THEIR laws?", Tubala points out, garnishing the attention of everyone in the room. Murmurs could be heard among them as they started questioning just how effective these meetings really are.

"WHAT! That n-" Scarlett tried to defend herself but the Manticore jumped in.

"She's right, you know. Why the fuck are we relegating ourselves to do things by THEIR rules. We've got the power, the strength, what do they have that we can't top?

"The support of MANY other races that WANT to be a part of human society." A voice points out drawing the Chaos-Born to it seeing it was Drei.

"What do you know?! What right do YOU have to speak up here on matters that don't relate to you!", Beyla venomously.

"Only just pointing out a fact before you commit to a "plan", just take into consideration what that would mean for not just you but those around you. You or any other species of Chaos-Born have the potential for a normal, relatively peaceful life. It'd be a shame to throw it away.", Drei finished, as the others looked at each other with some in agreement.

"Don't talk to me like you know me, runt!"

"I don't know you. I just know foolishness when I see it.", Drei commented.

"Hey, come on now!", Caleb softly chastises the wind weasel, not wanting her to provoke the manticore.

Beyla growls at the Karmaitachi, clenching her fist and spikes flared, wanting to shut that tiny mouth of hers.

"Beyla, that's enough!", Tubala stated, shooting a glare at the manticore. Beyla reluctantly backs down sitting back in her chair with her arms folded still glaring at the weasel girl, "Ahem, apologies for associate, she like most of us have a…complicated relationship with humans. We've been hurt, badly, by them in more ways than we want to admit. So the idea of…relying on the humans here for ANYTHING, well you imagine our…reservations."

Scarlett looks at her then takes a deep, solemn breath, "I perfectly understand…believe me. That doesn't mean it can't be different."

"Yeah, regardless of what we've all been through before, what matters is what matters is who we are now and who we want to be. That's the true purpose of these get-togethers."

"We don't intend on relying on humans. That doesn't mean we can't use their methods and tools to advance ourselves while still holding true to the teachings of Chaos.", Scarlett vehemently says, looking to Tubala with conviction.

Tubala stares back at her a moment before shrugging her shoulders, "Ok. If that's what you believe is right.", she remarks before sitting back down, legs crossed over the other.

"Besides, humans aren't all that bad. There's even some that are on good terms with Chaos-borns, like Caleb. Heck, he's the Destined One of one of our friends.", Sharon happily added, gesturing to Caleb, who's eyes widened in shock.

"WHAT?!", Tubala, along with the other Devils at her table jump up from their seats, startling the other Chaos-Born.

"Here we go again.", Caleb bitterly remarks, resting his face to his fist.

"Are you serious?! This HAS to be a joke.", one of the blue-skinned lesser devils stated.

"Someone actually FOUND their Destined One?!", Brunette Greater Devil expressed looking to Caleb with intrigue.

"Hey, Sugar tits! Would you mind clueing us in here?", One of the Pyrows spoke.

"Yeah, what the fuck are you babbling about 'Destined Ones'? You mean he's her mate, right?", Amara, the hellhound mother, inquires, eyebrows raised.

"It's…a bit more than that. Our 'Destined One' is our partner linked to an individual Devil by the hands of Discord. Some spend their decades of their lives trying to find them. Personally, I thought it was just a story told to younglings but…apparently it is real.", Scarlett fully clarifies, shooting a quick glance at Caleb.

"Sooo, basically it's like your 'one true love' or some shit? Pffft, that's fuckin' stupid!", The Pyrow representative bursts out laughing along with her friends, "Hahahaha so you guys just spend you lives trying to get a good dicking from ONE guy!"

"It's more than that! Finding them is like…find a missing part of yourself you didn't know was missing until you found it. At least that how most stories describe it " Scarlett said getting little heated trying get her emotions under control

"SIIIIIMPS!", one of the other Pyrow taunts, inciting more laughs, this time with the Beelzebub, Imps and Hellhounds joining.

"Damn you Devils really are the touchy-feely types.", One the beelzebubs chuckles.

"Who the hell are you calling SIMPS?!", Sharon angrily shot up from her seat.

"Well how else would you describe it? The idea of saving yourself for ONE person you may or may never meet is stupid.", The Beelzebub rep replies.

"Exactly! All the hot guys in the world and I'm supposed to just settle down with ONE guy forever. Please, that's not the Pyrow way. We hook up with a guy of our kin and leave the child rearing to him then go on to the next stud."

"Soo it's the reverse of dad getting milk. He gives the milk, you give him the kid and leave?", One of the Imps asks.

"Only if we're sure he'll be a good parent. That's why we stick around for at least a month…maybe two if the nookie's really good."

"They just shifted the whole deadbeat dynamic.", Drei remarks to Caleb who shakes his head in slight disappointment.

"Tch, I don't expect low-born Fiends to understand what it means to find your Destined One. It isn't just about sex!", Tubala coldly remarks, turning her nose up slightly in disapproval, much to Imps and Pyrows irritation.

"Who the hell you calling low-born, bitch?", One of the Imps stated, offended.

"That's rich coming from a Greater Devil. Don't get high and mighty with us, at least we keep OUR men under control.", the Pyrow taunts, as Scarlett and the other Devils look at them in shock.

"Yeah, how's it feel to have a daddy and still end up fatherless daughters bitches?", One of the beelzebubs jeers, adding fuel to the flame.

"Oh! So we're going there, huh?!", Sharon jumps up from her seat, knocking it over, joined by Sylvia and Jocelyn.

"ENOUGH! ALL OF YOU!", Scarlett shouted, her voice amplified thanks to the spell still being active, forcing everyone to cover their ears.

"Damn, what you mean 'all of you'? We didn't say shit!", Tristan stated as he and the female hellhounds look to her in irritation.

"Doesn't matter. We're all Chaos-Born, period. No one is above anyone so stop this bickering! Show some respect for our culture and we'll respect yours. And you two, I would advise not to speak about our … males. That is a very, VERY sensitive subject.", Scarlett warns the Pyrow and Imps.

'Yeahhh, Camilla definitely wouldn't like that conversation.', Caleb thought, knowingly.

"Still, even you can't argue it'd be a waste to not give other perfectly good males a chance since you never know how LONG it'll take to find them, sweety.", one of Amara's daughters, the one with the jade beads in her hair, adds with her sisters agreeing.

"Soulmates aren't a thing, child. Take it from me, if you can find yourself a mate who can half tolerate you, you can tolerate them, and y'all got common ground, you make him yours IMMEDIATELY! I mean right then and there! No foreplay or nothin pure penetration right there! '.", Amara agrees with her daughter.

"Uhh, ma…think they got it.", One of the hellhound females remarks, getting embarrassed, as do the rest.

"I mean you shove him down on the floor, mount him like a mule, then ride him until the damn sun goes down!"

"Ok, aunty, think they get the point and so did uncle!", Tristan stated, noticing Caleb and the Devil females' weird expressions and the Pyrows looking intrigued.

"I mean, REALLY smash into it! Make sure his body remembers EVERYTHING about YOURS and don't stop even after they say some crazy shit like 'Amara, baby, I can't feel my pelvis or please I can't cum no more! We don't need another litter of pups!', then you–"

"OK! I think we got–", Scarlett interrupts, as Caleb and the others silently thank her for stopping that, only to be interrupted herself.

"LET THE WOMAN SPEAK!.", The Pyrow representative shouted, her breathing hot and laboured as she gropes her own breast.

"Yeah this is important! Please, continue we are listening" another Pyrow added, rubbing her legs together and biting her lip.

"NO! NONONO, Ma, please, for the love of Barghest! They get the point! Pa would agree you don't want them TOO envious and come after him right?" One of the older Hellhound females stated, almost begging using anything she could think of to get her to stop as her siblings appeared mortified.

"Haha, alright, fair enough! Don't wanna make these girls jealous.", Amara chuckles with a toothy smirk.

"Man, come onnn aunty…", Tristan groans as the others express their embarrassment as well.

'I guess moms embarrassing their kids is universal after all.', Caleb thought plainly.

"Enough! Don't treat our culture as a joke!", Tubala stated with clear irritation then look to Sharon, " And you! Where is this Devil?"

"She is…not here."

"Then where is she?!"

"She's back at his house. The two of them live together.", Sharon points out as Caleb gives an incredulous look.

"So since she is not here you don't have any proof? It's a waste of time and you insulted our culture."

"It's the truth! Tell them Caleb! You're close to her, right?", Hana stated, looking at him knowing their pride is at stake.

Caleb was taken aback, feeling all eyes on him yet again as Tubala glares at him dubiously and Scarlett also looks to him, admittedly curious. He then feels Drei tug his shirt a little.

"Might as well give them something, just keep it vague.", Drei discreetly whispers.

Caleb sighs softly, "Well…I'm not sure if it counts as proof but there is something Camilla has that kinda shows our bond. It's like a mark that kinda represents our…relationship.", he explained as the Scarlet and everyone else looked at him with interest.

"A-A mark?", Scarlett repeats.

"What does it look like?", Hana asks.

"It's…kinda hard to explain it in detail–"

"Tch, I knew it.", Tubala sneers at him dismissively, "You're just wasting even more of our time, human."

"...Which is why, it's best I show you.", Caleb finishes his sentence, pulling out his phone. He quickly goes through some photos, specifically ones of Camilla choosing one that didn't show her face or too much of her body out of respect, "Ok, here we go. That's the mark." He said, showing her his phone.

"Give me that! Let me see this…", Tubala creates a blue magic seal, covering the device in blue aura and levitating over to her hand.

She examines the photo as the other Devils and Manticore crowd over her to get a look. Their eyes widened seeing a photo of some woman's pelvic region wearing red lingerie with a glowing uterus-like symbol along with a slender black spade tail around her thigh. She and the other devils are taken aback quite astonished.

"Is that enough proof for you?" Caleb asked as Tubala looked back at him with a slightly frustrated scowl.

"I can't believe it. It's real.", One of the Greater devil utters, amazed.

"So…that's the mark we receive after finding our Destined One?"

" Damn where does she get that underwear? And how is it not ripping from all that meat?!"

"Hey when you're done could you pass that over here?" A Pyrow called out

"PLEASE do not pass it to them!", Caleb pleaded as the Manticore gave a look before getting a wicked smile.

"Here catch!", Beyla stated as she threw it to the Pyrow table, to Caleb's shock. Drei readies herself to leap over and retrieve it as a few Pyrow clammer over each other to catch the device.

Suddenly, the phone stops in midair, covered in glowing red aura then flies over to Scarlett's awaiting hand.

"You will not invade our friend's privacy.", Scarlett spoke sternly as the Pyrows groaned in disappointment.

"Tch, killjoy.", Beyla remarked.

Scarlett takes a quick look at the photo of Camilla's mark for a moment, feeling an odd sensation, then levitates it over to Caleb, "H-Here."

"Thank you.", Caleb sighed in relief, taking his phone and putting it away.

"Awww, come on. I wanna see it too.", Sharon whined.

"Me toooo.", Jocelyn joined with similar energy.

"Maybe later. I don't know what'll happen if Camilla finds out i'm showing you pictures of her and I'm not about to find out."

"Spoken like a true husband.", Drei remarks.

"Spoken like a man who knows not to fuck with a hispanic Elder Devil.", Caleb clarifies.

"Elder Devil?!", Tubala stated in surprise as were the other devils.

"Wait, so she's NOT ONLY your Destined One but an ELDER devil too?!", one of the lesser devil stated.

"Yeah?" Caleb answered

"I didn't even know there WERE Elder Devils in this country. They're so elusive and rare these days.", another greater devil remarks.

"Not to mention scary powerful.", The Imp representative joins in as Tubala looks to her with trepidation.

"HAHA, yep! So you should be careful because messing with him or US would mean dealing with her afterwards" Jocelyn chuckles in a warning tone.

"Please don't use her as a threat." both Caleb and Scarlett said at the same time as two then looked at each other.

"Oh! You guys jinxed! You owe her a kiss on the lips…with tongue.", The Pyrow representative stated as Caleb and Scarlett shot her blushing glares.

"You're also welcome to feel each other's bodies up!"

"Or just having sex right here will work!" another joined in.

"SHUT THE FUCK UP OR I'LL DISINTERGATE YOU!", Scarlett roared in her demonic voice, amplified by the magic mike, as her face shifted into a more demonic scowl quieting everyone. Scarlett then takes a few deep breaths, calming herself as her face returns to normal. "We DO have other matters that need discussing today. If everyone is ready to move forward and not waste any more time, that'd be great."

No one made any objection so Scarlett continued.

'Ok, less worried about the Pyrows. Now I just don't want to make HER mad, sheesh.', Caleb thought to himself.

At the same time, Tubala could be seen eyeing Caleb with contempt yet caution realizing she should definitely keep an eye on him. Why? Why does someone like him have to be here?

…Later…

An hour passed since the Chao-Born meeting started and in that time each of the representatives and their members got a chance to speak on their progress in whatever ICEP sponsored program or education they were in. For the most part, they were adjusting surprisingly well, even the Pyrows proved to doing well in the personal care field in heat therapy and spa treatments. Though most of their practices had to be regulated by ICEP personnel to make sure things stayed professional. While listening to all of them, Caleb kept quiet most of the time and was still wary of the hellhounds and how close. Despite their, seemingly, relaxed attitudes he couldn't shake this overwhelming fear of them. Not only that, he caught the black, wavy hair devil, Tubala, glaring menacingly at him at times, which he tried to ignore by focusing mainly on Scarlett as she conducted the meeting. He couldn't help admiring how passionate she spoke when it came to praising everyone's progress.

Soon the meeting came to an end.

"Excellent work everyone. I will see all of you here during the next meeting hoping to hear about your successes. Until then…", Scarlett spoke, making two devil horns hand signs then crossing both arms into front of her. The same symbol as the banners from earlier, "All Chaos-Born sound off with the Chaos Principles!"

The Imps, Pyrow, Hellhounds, and Beelzebulb all mimic the gesture as Tubala and the others follow along as well. Caleb and Drei appeared a little confused but sat quietly observing.

"Passion for Chaos! Affinity for Chaos! Honor in Chaos! Desire for Chaos! Confidence in Chaos! Benevolence in Chaos! Vitality in Chaos!", They all heartily sound off in unison, putting their hearts into it. Caleb looks around unsure what to make of this but figures it was a religious thing.

With that, each group began going their separate ways with the Beelzebub leader and her associates then flying off back to their living quarters.

Meanwhile, Scarlett and the other Chaos-Born were getting some last minute chit-chat in before leaving. The Imps and Hellhound representatives could be seen talking with Scarlett, Hana, Heidi, Tubala, and the other new devil arrivals. Beyla could be seen relaxing near the entrance with her back to the wall. Caleb took this as an opportunity for him and Drei to leave.

"Haa, glad that's over.", Caleb sighed heavily, feeling a little drained.

"Not yet, we still have to make it back to our apartment and I already smell my concoction wearing off on you.", Drei informs.

"Shit, really? Ok, lets hurry up and–"

Suddenly, the Pyrow representative, Toakala Khan, blocks his path holding a sexy pose to show off her gorgeous body.

"~Aww, leaving so soon, handsome?~", She spoke, hips swaying alluringly as she sauntered up to him with a hunger in her eyes he immediately recognized.

"Y-Yeah, just…thought we'd head out now that the meeting's over.", Caleb hastily replies, taking a step back, only to feel a pair of slender hands and something hot and soft against his back. He looks another Pyrow who smirks lasciviously while smelling his as if he was a freshly cooked meal, "W-What are you–?!"

"I'm just getting to know the hero of the devils personally."

"Yeah some of us haven't gotten a proper chance to know you." Another voice said as he saw three more Pyrow coming over to them, quickly surrounding them.

"Crap, the jackals caught our scent.", Drei comments, looking between the advancing Pyrow.

"~Come on, won't you stay a while longer? Or better yet WE can get outta here and have some real fun.~", Toakala emphasized before pressing her half naked body against him, mushing her to his chest. Her body felt incredibly hot and almost scorching even with his clothes on, "Besides, I don't know what it is, but you just look so much…yummier now. I wanna get a taste."

"Thanks but NO thanks, we really need to leave, right now.", Caleb replies, backing away, feeling uncomfortable.

"~Come on, I'm sure the werecat kid can find her way home by herself. Meanwhile, we can give you a taste of our 'special' massages that aren't available for public use.~", Another Pyrow offer, biting her lip and making a jerking-off motion with her hand.

"I'm 22 and i'm not a cat, i'm a weasel", Drei spoke plainly, catching the attention of the Pyrows, before pulling out her MON badge, "I'm also an MON agent. As such, I'd have to report you all if you go through on your 'special massage' practices."

Toakala and the other Pyrows pause for a moment in surprise at the weasel girl threat.

"Hey! What are Pyrows doing to him?!", Sharon stated, angrily stomping over followed by Jocelyn and Sylvia.

"Nothing, apparently.", Toakala casually spoke innocently, stepping away from Caleb as the others did the same, "The cat midget killjoy over here just throwing cold water on our fun."

"Good! Keep your charcoal fingers off him! He doesn't need to be corrupted by you! That's OUR job!", Sharon vehemently emphasized, pulling Caleb's arm hugging him to her chest as Jocelyn does the same, sticking her tongue out at them.

"You're definition of 'watching my back' is so fucked.", Caleb remarks, dubiously.

"Ayo, what's this about getting fucked from the back?"

The group looks to see seven of the hellhounds approaching them with Tristan, the only male, being the one who asked the question. Caleb immediately gets a sinking feeling of fear seeing the large black kobolds approaching.

"Yeah, what did we just walk in on here and can I be a part of it?", One of the hellhound females, playfully chimes with a toothy grin.

"Sorry, Kreã, no fun over here.", Toakala replies, arms folded.

"We were gonna invite the little hero boy for a good time too.", Another Pyrow sighed in disappointment. "This MON cat is just being a wet blanket."

"Kari, I know your sexy ass ain't still hungry.", Tristan says with a smirk.

"What can I say? I like dark meat. Heck, maybe the two of you could go at me together. How's that sound?", Kari suggests, making a double handjob gesture at them as Caleb looks to her in disbelief.

"Hey, I'm down buuuut if he's not up for it then you kinda gotta accept it. Mans got his right to his dick and who he gives it to. Ain't that right, chommie('Bro/Bud' in Hellhound language)?", Tristan emphatically replies, looking at Caleb with a smirk.

Caleb tenses a bit, taken aback by his attitude, "I—"

"Yeah, respect his dick rights!", Sharon stated, pointing a finger at the Toakala leader, as Caleb looks and a few others look at her incredulously.

"Ugh, fine, maybe another time then when you AREN'T being prudes."

"Bitch, who you calling crude?", one of the hellhounds females growled.

"She said 'prude', dummy, but either way go fuck yourself ya red hot chili bitch.", another female says, flipping off the Pyrow.

"Nah, unlike you, I don't need to. Catch ya later, cutie, mwah.", Toakala blows a kiss at Caleb before strutting away, swaying her hips, as the others follow her.

"~And I'll see youuu later tonight~", Kari sensually remarks, brushing her flaming tail against the male hellhound's waist, giving him a lustful gaze.. She blows him a kiss and he playfully catches it.

"Hahaha, sorry about that. These Pyrows man, they can get real intense once they've taken a liking to ya. Luckily, I don't mind the heat.", Tristan playfully remarks to Caleb.

"Is…that so?", Caleb remarks, withdrawing a bit, uncomfortable around the imposing hellhounds.

"So, this week it's a Pyrow huh? What happened with that Jackalope girl?", Jocelyn asks, the male hellhound with a smirk.

"She got the jump on him when she started talkin' about marriage and shit.", Kreã, the female hellhound from earlier, remarks gesturing, "He dipped out immediately."

"Hey, I didn't DIP OUT…I just calmly told her I ain't ready to settle down yet."

"And how did that conversation end with you parkouring down her fire escape like Liam Neeson?", another female hellhound dubiously asks.

"...It was a very heated debate. One I admittedly lost in more ways than one."

"Honestly, why are you messing around with these other races when there's PLENTY of single bitches at home?", Kreã sighed, arms folded.

"I am an explorer and an opportunist."

"So was Columbus.", Drei remarks prompting the hellhound to give her surprised looks.

"HaHaa! That fun-sized cat girl roasted your ass pegged Tristan!", One of the females stated as Drei rolls her eyes, not even bothering to correct her.

"The fuck you just say? You don't wanna try that again, bitch?", another female says, eyebrows raised as they burst out laughing.

Caleb eyes widen as the memories of the hellhound boisterous laughing after nearly killing Lyca plays in his mind. An anger slowly starts boiling within him as he tightens his fist. He needed to leave. Now.

"Hey, can you please let me go now?", Caleb asks, trying to pull his arm out from Sharon's grip, getting her attention.

"Hm? O-Ok. Hey, what's wrong?", She says releasing him, sensing a little distress in his voice.

"Hun?", Jocelyn asks, becoming worried.

"Nothing, come on Drei, we're leaving.", Caleb insists before urging the wind weasel. She raises an eyebrow but quickly follows him.

At that moment, the male hellhound slides in front of them, blocking their path with welcoming open arms.

"Hey where ya going, chommie? We still haven't had a proper introduction yet.", Tristan happily stated as the other hellhounds focused their attention on Caleb. He noticed some of them staring at him intently with hunger, tails wagging as his scent spurred their arousal.

"I'm good, thanks. I'll only bore ya'll anyway.", Caleb quickly replies, trying to keep calm enough.

"Whaaat? Dude you're arguably the LEAST boring person here, next to Jiraan.", Tristan insists, gesturing to one of the females with her hair in a large ponytail and wearing rainbow suspenders.

"Eyyyup! Cuzzo's got a point, I really wanna hear more about the guy who could hold his own against our kin.", Jiraan emphasizes stretching her suspenders and letting them slap against her tits, looking at him with intrigue.

"Well I'm not interested in talking about myself."

"That's fine. We can go first to help get it rolling.", Krea says, stepping up to him, putting him more on edge, "I'm Krea, the oldest of this pack here, these are my sisters. That's Jiraan. There's Kehema and Jenema, they're twins."

"~Heyyy~", Both girls waved simultaneously.

"See? Then there's Lowanna, Jiemba, Jannali, Alkina, Darana, Kalina, Alinta–", She sounded off all the siblings' names as each responded either emphatically and nonchalantly. Their hairstyles and outfits reflect each of their personalities.

"Ok! I think I—", Caleb stated in irritation before she interrupts.

"Wait! Where's Kaiya? KAIYA, WHERE YOU AT?!"

"I–I'm right here.", came a softer voice from behind the twin hellhounds, who step aside to reveal, yet another hellhound female.

She was considerably shorter than the others, around Caleb's height, with similar physical features as the rest of her siblings. The only difference was, while her siblings had fairly athletic and muscular builds, she was a bit chubbier but with only slight muscle definition and she was only one with black freckles in her cheeks. She wore a red and black hoodie to hide her chubby body but did nothing to hide her G-cup breasts. Her black, skirt accentuated her curvy figure, giving extra attention to her large, strong thighs and plump rear. Her straight black hair was styled with two low-hanging pigtails that stop at her breasts with two large green hair beads and bangs that cover eyes completely. Her overall demeanor seemed to be more reserved.

"Oh, there ya are. Didn't see ya there…again. Haha! Ahh I'm just playing sis.", Krea said nonchalantly as Kaiya tried to move back behind the others.

"Hehe, blend in with the furniture, this one. Hell, Dara almost sat on her.", Tristan jokes as Kaiya looks away in shame.

"ONE time!", she exclaimed, adding to Kaiya's embarrassment as she pulls her hood over her head.

"Come on, cuz show some enthusiasm. Introduce yourself.", Tristan encourages, reaching out to her.

"I…I just don't—"

"Look, I just want to go back to my room and rest.", Caleb firmly spoke, cutting her off as he turned to leave.

"Hey, hun. what's wrong?", Jocelyn asks him, appearing concerned as was Sharon.

"What is going on over here?", Hana asks, approaching the group.

"Nothing! Ok? I just want to leave now."

"Come on, this is your first day here, right? Enjoy yourself, we need a place here that got the BEST steaks, man. Don't be shy now, we're all friends h—", Tristan assuringly spoke, placing his large black paw on Caleb's shoulder.

Caleb's eyes widen, flashing with purple energy, as memories of Chrolla and her pack from that night play in his mind, sending an overwhelming sensation of fear and anger coursing through his body.

"DON'T TOUCH ME!", Caleb shouts to top of his lungs, smacking his hand away as hard as he could, sending the male hellhound reeling back, much to Tristan's and the others in the room's shock.

"CALEB-KUN!", Hana expressed.

"HEY! What was that for?! You–", Krea barks, going to Tristan's side, before Sharon, Jocelyn, and Hana block her path.

"Wait! Stop!", Sharon pleaded.

"WHAT YOU MEAN STO—", Krea berated before glaring at Caleb but was surprised to see him trembling, eyes filled with fear and anger, and ragged breathing.

Caleb starts to hyperventilate then turns and runs to the exit, passing the Manticore, who gets a whiff of his scent as he passes making her eyes widen, as he shoves through the door with Drei tailing him. At that moment, the other female hellhounds were about to pursue him before Krea blocked their path.

"What are you doing?! He's getting away! He's–", Jiemba contests noticing her older sister's unflinching expression that told them to back off.

"WHAT THE HELL GOIN' ON OVER HERE?! WELL?!", Amara demanded, quickly joined by Scarlett and Tubara.

"That Caleb guy hit Tristan for like NO reason!", One of the hellhound females stated.

"NO REASON MY ASS! They wouldn't leave him alone! They kept pestering him!", Jocelyn defends.

"That's STILL no reason to lay a hand on our cousin! Who does he think he is?! And you, Kreã, why'd you stop us?!"

"I HAD to ok?! I just…", Kreã replies, looking away in shame.

"Hmph, it appears that human has shown his true colors.", Tubala remarks with a smirk, "Not surprising, I could already see it in his eyes when he looked at you Hellhounds. The same look others of his kind give us when looking at a filthy animal."

Tristan and the female hellhounds look at her offended by the comment.

"That's not true! Caleb-kun isn't like that at all!", Hana defended.

"Yeah?! Well, it sure looked that way to me!", One of the hellhounds barked.

"ENOUGH!", Amara barks, instantly quieting her children and both devils, "That's enough outta you girls! Tristan, and ONLY Tristan, tell me what really happened."

"I just…wanted to hang with him and he smacked my hand away. Doesn't hurt too much but…the way he looked at me…he just looked scared. You saw it too, right Kreã?", Tristan asks.

"Y-Yeah…", she replies.

"We were just trying to be nice! Why does he have to be scared?", Jannali incredulously asks.

"Really? After all you already know about him, you need to ask that?", Scarlett spoke, arms folded doubtfully, "Come on. You know why?"

Kreã and the other females, especially Kaiya, go quiet as realization dawn on them. Tristan gives a despondent look as his paw the human struck clenching it while Amara folds her arms with a pensively.

"Well, it seems your so-called 'hero' isn't so infallible after all. Even he is capable of having hatred in his heart, just like the rest.", Tubala remarks with a haughty smirk as Sharon and the other glare at her before turning to leave, "I think I'll take my leave now, look forward to the next meeting."

Tubala exits with the Manticore and a few of other devils following.

"Be seeing y'all around. Him too.", Beyla says, uttering the last part with a tiny smirk, as her segmented tail swayed behind her.

"What is that girl's problem?", Sharon spoke in discontent, arms folded.

"Sharon, please…", Hana chides her friend then goes to Amara lightly bowing, "Sorry about what happened, we'll…try to talk with Caleb-kun later."

"Thank you, child, but it's fine. I think we'll head on out now too. See you again in the next meeting. Alright, come on, children! Let's get some lunch, I'm hungry as fuck.", Amara commands walking away, bending her head to get through the door as her children follow while saying their goodbyes to the devils on their way out.

"Yeah, we're going to leave too! It's pretty dramatic around here right now! Later!", The Imp representative stated from above, holding one of the windows open letting her underlings flying out one by one then flying out herself.

"Why do they never use the door?", Sylvia points out, confused.

Scarlett lets out a heavy sigh, "I don't know, this whole day is ridiculous."

"Should we go check on Caleb-kun?"

"No, I think it's best we leave him be. I'm sure all of this is overwhelming for him too.", Scarlett replies, remembering his demeanor throughout the meeting. He clearly wasn't enjoying himself.

…While all this was going on…

Caleb burst out the doors of the community center, startling the ICEP person, as he runs past them. Drei bursts out seconds later tailing him.

"Hey! What's going here?!", One of the ICEP officers demanded.

"It's ok! He's just spazzing out! I got it", Drei assured while showing her MON badge then summoning a blast of pressurized air launching her in Caleb's direction. The ICEP workers look at each other in confusion.

Caleb wheezes, his lungs burning and breathing labored, as his legs refused to stop until he got far enough away from that building.

"Hey! You maybe wanna take a break? I can literally tail you all day or until your stamina quits faster than ICEP's HR reps trying to explain basic self control to orcs.", Drei causing said as she casually kept up with him.

Not even responding, Caleb strides quickly slow up as he comes to hault, hunching over wheezing while his chest burned and heart raced. He couldn't utter a word before falling to his knees as Drei lands down beside him on a swirling whirlwind. The memories of that night and Mirabelle's kidnapping flash in his mind mixing together. Chrolla and her pack, the Malones, the hellhounds from just now, then the sound of gunshots coupled with the feeling of hot lead entering his body overwhelmed his senses making him feel sick.

He vomits up his breakfast from earlier onto the concrete, coughing loudly. Drei goes over to and gently pats his back to ease him a little.

"Yeah, just get it all out. Let the mess be someone else's problem, you got enough already."

Caleb finished, finally catching his breath and utters, "I-I just…I just…"

"Look, you don't need to explain the reason for your freak out. Remember, we were given your files, including one's involving the very REASON we were assigned to you. Given what just happened, clearly those wounds run a bit deeper, doesn't it?", Drei says, still petting his back.

Caleb just sat there not saying anything for a few seconds, giving his mind time to catch up, as his breathing slowly steaded before answering, "You have no fuckin' idea."

"I don't, so that's why you need to talk about it in YOUR words. Not just what some file says.", Drei replies.

Caleb looks to her a moment then back to the vomit stained concrete in sadness, "...I can't. Not now at least."

Drei looks at him and sighs, "Ok…but you can't carry on like this. There's always going to be other Hellhounds, Dark Elves, Vampires, and any other race that's hurt you or those you care about. That doesn't make them all the same."

Caleb pauses in thought for a moment, knowing what she says is true, but…

"You think you can make six more weeks here?"

"I don't have a choice, and you know that.", Caleb replies, standing to his feet, "It's the only way I'll see Moon pie and the others again so I'll deal with it."

"How? By pretending it's not there?"

"I said I'll deal with it! Let's just go back to the apartment! I've got a headache.", Caleb stated, not wanting to continue the conversation as he walks ahead.

"Sigh, alright, if that's what you want."

'This is gonna be a loooong six weeks.', she thought to herself.

As they are leaving, a figure draped in a white hooded robe embroidered with yellow Hebrew symbol stood hidden behind on of the buildings observing the pair walking. His striking blue eyes, golden blonde hair, small pointed ears and handsome face with porcelain skin were his only features that could be seen.

He takes out an apple smart and pulls up a screenshot of an online news article of the 4th of July incident along with Caleb's picture.

"So, the rumors are true. He really is here.", The mysterious stranger spoke as the wind blew, showing a brief view of snow-white angel wing on his back.

…Elsewhere…

Sterling and Fantina could be seen coming down the street in his car after leaving the coven. The witches weren't happy about her having to leave them so soon but understood they couldn't help the circumstances.

"I have to say, sometimes magic is more useful than our current technology.", Sterling remarks.

"Are you just realizing that now given some the spells you've seen me use BEFORE you guys make me wear this embarrassing thing?", she facetiously replies pointing to the collar on her neck.

"Fair enough. Still, it's good we have such a great lead into his location all from such vague details. All I need to do is contact Greenly to have agents in FitzPatricks and badda boom, we got him."

"Badda boom?", Fantina raises an eyebrow, "You realize with the Malones gone people like him are more desperate than ever. Even a rat, when it's cornered, will bite back…hard."

"Don't think we aren't being cautious. He's just a lead for our real target in all this. Besides, desperation can be good when used correctly."

Fantina gives him a side eye, "Interesting. I assume the same applies to liminal recruits in tumultuous situations overseas. I notice there's an awful lot of wood elves as ICEP right at time where there's civil war happening between their sister clans."

"Who told you that?", Sterling raising an eyebrow.

"I may not have magic but I can use the internet you know. It helps ICEP try to make humans more aware of social and political issues in liminal countries. All to be sympathetic to them because we're 'just like you' bullshit. Ha!", Fantina laughs, shaking her head.

"Manipulative, a little, but at least it provides incentive and opportunity to bring liminals seeking refuge and a fresh start during those difficult times. It's no different than human immigrants."

"Except you profit more from one than the other.", Fantina remarks.

"Hey, congratulations, you live in a capitalist society.", He sly spoke as Fantina shakes her head in disappointment, "Oh! Look who we got here."

Sterling slows down drifting until he reached the curb before Fantina looks at who caught his attention. She give an 'of course' expression upon seeing Caleb and Drei walking to the apartment.

"Oh, hey, it's Sterling.", Caleb utters stopping in his tracks as he parks on the curb.

"Fancy running into you again, Mr. Barbasol!", Sterling calls out, waving from his car.

A vein on Caleb's forehead pops out a little, "It's BIZZELL, asshole! Don't play with me, i'm NOT in the mood."

"HAHA! Ok, fair enough. So, what do you think of the facility so far?", Sterling says, stepping out of the vehicle while Fantina just sits inside, not wanting to talk with either of them.

"It's…nice. Really big too so I doubt i'll explore everything during my time here."

"That's reasonable considering how busy you're going to be."

"He's not the only one.", Fantina remarks, giving the agent a side glare.

"What?", Caleb raises an eyebrow

"Don't worry about it.", Sterling quickly replies.

"Oh yeah, did you KNOW that Camilla's friends all live here too?"

Sterling gives him a plaintive look, "Ah, is that so? I know they were being sent to A interspecies affairs facility. Though, I didn't know it was this one. I hope they aren't giving you trouble."

"Nah, aside from basically telling everyone and their mother that i'm the guy who rescued them during fourth of July AND having liminals staring me down like a steak at Longhorns, i'd say it's no issues.", Caleb sarcastically explained with mild frustration.

"Oh boy, I suppose that is an issue. Luckily, the deal we have doesn't take that as grounds from forfeiture so you're good as long as no one finds out why you're really here.", Sterling thoroughly explains.

"So, basically, it's HIS problem not yours.", Drei plainly replied, seeing through the veil.

"I wouldn't put that bluntly but…yes. Besides, I'm sure there are still plenty of people OUTSIDE this facility that know of your heroics that day."

"STILL…haaa, I just wish people would forget about that already.", Caleb bemoaned.

"Stop your whining. At least, YOU can leave your room without a fucking chaperone!", Fantina complained, shooting a glare at Sterling who gives a plain stare back.

"Ahem, that aside, maybe you can use that to your advantage. If the liminals you're assigned to know who you are, then it could make things easier for you to get them open up to you. Maybe build some positive rapport.", Sterling suggests.

Caleb was about to retort then pauses, realizing that was a fair bit of logic behind his words. Could he really make use of his notoriety rather than be ashamed of it? Did he even want to considering the KIND of attention he's getting lately.

DING-DONG BING-BONG

The sound on the intercom catches theirs and every other liminal or ICEP personnel nearby's attention

ATTENTION! ATTENTION! THIS IS THE FULL MOON VISIBILITY(FMV) ALERT! AT 7:00 PM, ALL LIMINAL STUDENTS, STAFF, AND WORKERS ARE TO QUARANTINE AS PART OF INTERSPECIES AFFAIRS SAFETY PROTOCOLS! ALL BUSINESS AND FACILITIES WILL BE CLOSING BY 5:30PM AND WILL RESUME NORMAL OPERATING HOURS TOMORROW MORNING. FULL MOON SUPPRESSANT DRUGS ARE CURRENTLY BEING DISTRIBUTED TO ALL DORMS. THIS MESSAGE WILL REPEAT UNTIL 6:30 PM.

"What the hell is that?"

"Weren't you listening? It's the FMV alert that happens every time there's a full moon coming. Every Interspecies Affairs facility has protocols like this in place.", Sterling explains.

"Guess that makes sense. So many liminals in one facility no matter how big is too dangerous.", Caleb acknowledges.

"Honestly, it's surprising you maintain order even among the more stubborn and headstrong species. How do you get them all to cooperate so well?"

"Well, Ms. Zyklon, is all about cooperation and understanding of liminal needs that we–"

"Heyyyyyyyyyy baby! You ready to shack up again tonight? I got a couple toys we can try out.", a male Kakuen cheekily spoke, hanging upside down a tree, to a wererabbit girl.

"Hehehe, sure. I'll meet you before the last alarm, ok?", she replies with a blush.

"HAHA, we ballin'!", the Male Kakuen cheered doing a somersault.

Caleb and Drei raise an eyebrow at the exchange before noticing similar exchanges happening between several other pairs of liminals. Strangely enough, each pair was between two completely different liminal species. They could tell just from their less than subtle behavior that it was more than just camaraderie. Caleb then notices Sterling looking away innocently whistling and pretending not to see anything.

"Uhh, Sterling? What is going on here?"

"Well…"

"It's like he said, "cooperation" and "understanding" liminal "needs". I mean the subtext is right there.", Fantina answers as Sterling was about to retort before she interjects, "That includes sexual needs."

Caleb looks to Sterling in disbelief, "What?"

"Haaa, Ok! Listen, yes we…allow certain conditions where students can…engage in sexual activity during full moon nights BUT it's for a purpose."

"As it always is I'm sure", Drei commented.

"Ahem, and what POSSIBLE purpose could that serve?", Caleb half-demanded.

"Well, for one, it serves as an outlet for lot of their pent up frustrations and improves overall stress from adapting to human practices. Second, it's enforced that ONLY different species liminals can copulate since pregnancies among liminals can only occur between member of the same species…or with a human-liminal pair."

"Wait, seriously?! Is that true?"

"Yeah, it's actually why you'll likely never see any cross-bred liminal species unless one of the parents is human. Don't ask me why that is, even we don't know.", Fantina adds with a shrug.

"I blame evolution but could also boil down to compatibility bias.", Drei points out.

"Compatibility what?", Caleb questions.

"The POINT is…", Sterling says, getting back on track, "So long as the students(and certain staff) are placated, there won't be much trouble or complaints. Crazy as it sounds, it actually seems to be working in other I.A. branches in this country from what i've seen."

"You've seen this before?!"

"Eleven times, as a matter of fact, and some liminals are appalled at the practice."

"Mostly it's the Angels who are the primary whistle blowers. But Angels are gonna Angel either way. Rat bastards.", Fantina bitterly spoke.

"So, you let them fuck without consequence and yet there is not repercussions at all?", Caleb says unconvinced.

"There are consequences for unruly behavior and if any human staff are found to be engaging in activities on campus. Usually immediate termination and jail sentence and the liminal party is forcefully deporte and blacklisted from entering ICEP programs even in other countries.", Sterling explains.

"Harsh."

"But necessary. We need some semblance of control."

"I…guess I understand what you mean, even if it makes me question if this is real life?", Caleb replies casually gesturing to the Kakuen and Wererabbit engaged in a makeout session out atop the large green awning of a nearby bakery while a female dwarf shouts obscenities, waving an aluminum bat demanding they get off her store.

"Or is it just fantasy?", Drei commented.

"No escaping from reality, trust me.", Fantina remarks.

Sterling gives her a look as she shrugs then says, "Anyway, we've gotta get back to the office. You both be careful getting back to your unit. There should be a small package at the doorstep so make sure this little one takes the pills."

"You couldn't word that any other way huh?", Drei raises an eyebrow.

"Unfortunately, no. His speech is limited to his pay grade.", Fantina chimes in.

"Ok, we–", Sterling narrows his eyes at Fantina who returns the expression, "We're gonna go now. Take care and don't fuck anything up."

"Good motivation and bad wording. See ya later and be safe.", Caleb replies.

Sterling gets into his vehicle and drives off leaving the pair to continue onto their route.

"You know he may have a point about using your 'hero' status practically.", Drei says.

"I…I don't know. I'll think about it."

Drei nods acceptingly, "You know i'm flushing those pills in the toilet right?"

"I'd expect nothing less. We got a good two hours before everything closes. Wanna grab something for dinner?"

"Yes."

….A few hours later…

Caleb and Drei picked up some meat lovers pizza and were now in their apartment with just over an hour before the full moon was visible. All the while, liminal couples could already be seen hooking up in their dorms with some still trying to find a partner for the night. Meanwhile others resign to their maidenless selves choosing to take the pills and sleep through the blue ball or the female equivalent.

At this time, Scarlett could be seen flying to her living unit, having brushed off the advances of some liminal guys trying to get with her. She then lands in front of the door.

Knock knock knock

Scarlett knocks on the door of Caleb's apartment breathing a lethargic sigh hardly believing she was doing this.

…Flashback…

"What? Why me?", Scarlett incredulously replied.

"You're literally his next door neighbor!", Hana points out.

"And? What does that have to do with anything?"

"You can see about him more easily than we can."

"Plus, most of us have to work or go to class soon. I'm still trying to finish this fuckin' homework before tonight. ", Sylvia adds, scratching her head in frustration, seeing a question involving the quadratic formula, "What is this bullshit?!"

"You've got the most free time since…well… you know." Jocelyn hesitantly said knowing how touchy that subject is for her.

Scarlett gives her a look, not liking her personal issues getting brought up.

"Come on, he really needs someone to see about him. Camilla isn't here and she's our friend so we owe it to her for looking out for us. Pleeeaase?", Hana pleads, giving Scarlett wide ruby-red puppy eyes, big blue trembling bottom lip, and sparkling skin making her appear obscenely cute.

Scarlett lightly blushes, trying not to look directly at her extremely adorable face, then grits her teeth, "grahhh fine! Alright, just stop using charm magic. I can barely even look at you right now."

"I'm not using charm magic.", Hana replies with a smirk, dissipating a small pink seal as her facial feature revert back to normal, "It's a spell I made to amplify my NATURAL cuteness."

"Duuuude, teach me that later.", Sylvia requests with a mischievous grin.

"Please do not.", Heidi pleads.

"Besides, I'd rather you go and not either of these two."

Sharon and Jocelyn gasp, taking offense to the insinuation.

"Wha?! You really think we would take advantage of his vulnerability right now?", Jocelyn stated.

"What kind of girl do you think I am?!", Sharon added, "I'll have you know, i have the purest intentions at heart and want to help him feel better."

"Oh? How were you planning to cheer him up?", Hana raises an eyebrow.

"First, I grab some petroleum jelly or some other kind of lube. Then–"

"Ok! Scarlett, we're counting on you.", Heidi cuts her off as Sharon puffs her cheeks, arms folded and Jocelyn rolls her eyes.

…Flashback end…

'Haa, ok let's just get this over with then go back to my room." Scarlett thought as she took a deep breath and released it as she knocked on the door.

She then waits several seconds until the door opens and she sees Drei standing on the other side with a mortar and pestle in her arm.

"What do you want?", Drei plainly asks, while mixing the bowl.

"I…l'm wanna talk to Caleb. Is he…busy right now?", Scarlett asks, noticing the weird mushy green paste in the bowl.

She stares at her for few as if studying her a moment, "CALEB!" she yelled, startling Scarlett, as thud could be heard inside room.

"WHAT!?"

"The redhead wants to talk to you!"

'Redhead? Does she not know my name?', Scarlett thought, looking at her dubiously.

Caleb could be heard stepping down the hallway, "What do mean a redhead is…Oh, hey, Scarlett." said calming down some rubbing his head

"Hi, you…got a minute? We need to talk."

"It's going to have to be quick. They just put out a full moon warning for this tonight.", Caleb replied, "Matter of fact, I just about to call home make sure Moon pie and the others know."

"I can take care of that. I'm almost finished with my FMP salve."

"FMP salve?", Scarlett raises an eyebrow.

"Besides, I want to make sure they didn't forget about their protection salve tonight." Drei said as Scarlett looked at her confused before focusing on why she was here.

"I promise it will only be a minute then I will leave."

Drei looks to her quizzically then to Caleb who nods, "Alright, come on in."

"Thanks."

"Take a seat, I'll be back in a sec.", Caleb gestured to the couch before going to the kitchen while Drei went back to her room, keeping the door open.

Scarlett, folding her wing more tightly to her back takes a seat on the couch, getting a bit comfortable before noticing the human man return with two white canned drinks.

"Sorry, still haven't gone grocery shopping, this is all I have to drink besides tap water and there's no way I'd ever be THAT thirsty.", He says, handing her a cold can of DD Pepper he put in the freezer earlier while unpacking.

"That's fine, thanks."

Scarlett accepts then inspects it for a moment before hearing him pop open his lid then take a seat next to her, already enjoying his. She opens the can, hearing it sizzle, then takes an experimental sip. Her eyes widened at the sweet, crisp flavor hitting her tongue following a strangely pleasant burn of bubbly carbonation going down her throat, "This is…actually really good."

"Really good is an understatement. It's the best drink humanity has or ever will create. " Caleb affirms wholeheartedly with a grin then takes a big sip enjoying more of his drink as Scarlett rolls her eyes, "Now, what is it you wanted to talk about?"

Scarlett take another sip then places her can on the coffee table, clearing her throat, "It's about what happened with the hellhounds."

Caleb was about to take another sip but stopped just as the tin was about to touch his lip with a pensive expression. He figured that's why she was here.

"First off, I'm just going to say, it's understandable why you reacted that way. After all, given what we've been through with their kind. Still…it doesn't mean it was right for you to do that."

"If that's how you feel, and I'm in the clearly in the wrong, why even bother telling me at all?", Caleb replied coldly, unknowingly placing his half empty can right next to hers.

"Because the others are worried about you and don't want to see you bitter towards Amara and her kids.", Scarlett answered, ignoring his displeasing tone.

"How are ya'll even chill with them? You forget one of them was about to kill you?"

"By 'one of them' I hope you mean the Hellhound from that night at the motel and NOT one of Amara's pack. They're not the same.", Scarlet affirms, taking a more serious tone, "Don't you think it was hard for us too? When we first met them, the others and myself were cautious around them. After some time, we finally got used to her, her daughters, and Tristan. They're nice people. Give them a chance."

"You say that like it's the easiest thing in the world. You have any idea what i've been through since that night? I…I still remember it. The unbearable heat that came off her body. The sound of pure joyful malice in her voice. The feeling of her claws against my neck. I remember it all but the ONE thing that haunts me most…is the image of Lyca, one of my wi-my students, laying on the ground motionless. Her blood pooling on the ground and her soft whimpers as her life was slowly slipping away as the light in her eyes fading away. All because she tried to save MY pitiful ass life!", Caleb stated, pointing at his chest in disgust, voice cracking a bit taking a deep breath calming himself, " If Camilla wasn't there, she'd be dead. Me alongside her…and there'd have been nothing I could do back then."

Scarlett sat there taking in his words that sounded like her own forcing her to debate as two sides, of ger arguing that she did what she came here to do and she should just leave and the other… the two kept arguing before she finally releasing a sigh, "I…once thought like you did about humans. That you all were the same selfish beings who would take advantage or manipulate anyone, even your own kind, for your own benefit. Even after you rescued us, I still believe that. Even so…I can't ignore the good in hearts like yours. I mean…look at Camilla."

"What do you mean?", Caleb raises an eyebrow.

"I mean, when we first met in the black market as slaves, she had this fierce, unapproachable, even murderous attitude and her eyes were cold and lifeless. I remember she once bit a buyer in the neck and tore his throat open."

Caleb was taken aback by that statement but wasn't too surprised given everything he knew about her already.

"Even when she warmed up to me and the others, she still had this…shell around her. That none of use could get through. However, the last time I saw her at the aquarium, she had this glow about her. She even smiled genuinely and laughed with us. She was almost a completely different person. What did you do to make her come out her shell like that?"

"I just—"

"You know what? Don't answer that.", Scarlet withdraws the question, not wanting to know the risque details, "The point is, it'd…be tragic if someone like you, who could change someone like her, won't give Amara and the others a chance."

Caleb ponders her words for a moment, truly analyzing everything that's happened today, "I…just…"

Scarlett looks to him seeing his conflicted expression and takes a deep breath, "You don't have to force it, alright? If you can't genuinely accept them, on your own terms, then that's your free will, just don't be fake about it. I HATE fake people. Own up to who you are. That's all I have to say."

Caleb lowly sighs, "Ok."

"Good. Also, don't worry about Sharon and the others, I'll let them know you're fine."

"Thanks. I appreciate you stopping by to check on me, really.", Caleb said with genuine gratitude which Scarlett picked up on.

"D-Don't get the wrong idea! I'm only doing this for the sake of the Chaos Faction and don't want this to sour Amara and our relationship! It's not like I came here because I was worried about you!", Scarlett stated, hiding a faint blush, before one of the soda cans from the table and taking a few big gulp, noticing it was oddly sweeter than before.

"Wait, that's…"

"Haaa, what?", Scarlett replied, suppressing a burp, while finishing the drink entirely. Suddenly, she feels a jolt throughout her body and her heart palpitates, to her surprise.

"That was…my can.", Caleb awkwardly points out then gestured to Scarlett's soda still on the table, "That one right there is yours."

Scarlett looks between both soda cans then at the human male, processing what just happened. Realization hit her like a sledgehammer as her face goes beet red in embarrassment.

"W-WHY WOULD PUT YOUR CAN RIGHT NEXT TO MINE, IDIOT?!", Scarlet shouted, crushing the can with great force thanks to her superior strength.

"I didn't do it on purpose! I didn't even notice they were that close!", Caleb defended as Scarlett glared doubtfully at him.

"Can you guys keep it down? No particular reason, I just want you to be quiet. Also, the full moon gonna be out in thirty minutes. Might wanna finish up before you start DIRECTLY kissing."

Caleb and Scarlett look to the weasel incredulously before the Greater Devil shoots him a skeptical glare.

"I swear, she JUST enjoys trolling me. She means nothing else by it.", Caleb puts his hands up in surrender.

Scarlett's expression softens then scoffs, "Tch, unbelievable. I'm outta here."

Right as she gets up to leave, Drei approaches her and hands her a vial of bluish-green liquid.

"Here, you're gonna need this for the full moon.

Scarlett looks at the vial with doubt " Why are you giving me this? I can just take the pills ICEP gives us."

"Ah, yes, I suppose you could. However, this actually works.", Drei says with slight emphasis.

Scarlett inspects the vial again, a bit curious then puts it away in her pocket, if not to satisfy the weasel girl, "OK, fine. Now, if you excuse me, I need to rinse my mouth out.", she says, shooting a glare at Caleb who looks away in shame.

"Come on, it was an accident."

"Shut up. You should still be more careful.", Scarlett huffs before walking out of the door closing it behind her.

"Haaahh, dammit, can I have one stress free day.", Caleb sighed, slumping against the couch.

"Where's the fun in that? Life is all about suffering and respite. Too much peace is boring."

"Well, that explains most problems in the world.", Caleb replied before noticing Scarlett's can of DD Pepper on the coffee table, "Wha? She complains about drinking up mine and doesn't even finish hers, aint that some shit?"

"Are you gonna finish it?"

"What? No!"

"Then you're gonna pour it out and throw it away."

"I never waste DD Pepper.", Caleb attests in a serious voice.

"So you're gonna leave it?"

Caleb pauses looking at the can, "Ok, I'm in a damn conundrum."

Drei rolls her eyes then takes the can, down the rest of it the Caleb's surprise, then wipes her mouth, "There, I protected your stalwart yet idiotic morals", she says before tossing the can away in a nearby trash bin.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome, By the way, I already talked to Ein. She helped out your replacement to give your mates their pills so they won't be hunting for your loins tonight."

"Good, don't her day as a temp to be subjected to that nonsense."

"Are you going to bed early?"

"I can't. It's one of those nights where I don't need sleep all.", Caleb replied, referring to the side effect of his Nightmare of not needing a much sleep as most humans.

"Well, some of us are only corpuscular when it's necessary. Oh and take this.", Drei tosses him a vial of FMP salve which he catches, "In case you start getting the full moon jitters as well."

"Right, don't wanna lose shit and try to fuck everything that moves. Uh, present company excluded.", Caleb joked to which Drei stares at him blankly, "YYYeah, not funny, sorry."

"Your first assignment's tomorrow. Night.", Drei replies simply, walking back to her room.

"Yeah, night.", Caleb replies before the door audibly closes shut then sighed facepalming, "Such a jackass.'

He looks back at the couch for a moment longer in deep thought before teleporting back to his room.

…Elsewhere…

In one of the living unit, mostly occupied by Devils and Imps, Tubala could be seen on the second floor balcony, overlooking the facility.

In her hand were three blue pills given by the humans to suppress her baser instincts. She looked at them with disdain before popping them in her mouth, gulping them down with out even a sip of water. While she hated the fact she was essentially being forced to take something made by humans, but she also didn't want to succumb to her baser desire for spirit energy.

Suddenly, she heard boisterous laughing before the door to the patio slides open, and in step Beyla with a male werehyena by her side, much to Tubala's immediate disgust.

"Heyyyy, why are ya all alone out here?", Beyla asks.

"I was enjoying the night air before these wretched pills kicked in. What have you brought into my living space?"

"Aww, come on babe, that ain't no way to talk hahahaha. Me and your friend here are just gonna have a little fun.", The hyena man chuckles.

"Damn right!", Beyla says with a toothy, predatory grin slapping his butt hard making him yelp.

"Rahh, you're incorrigible.", Tubala sneers in disgust.

"I'm fun. What's wrong with having a little fun especially the humans basically let us go wild on each other like this on nights like these. Best part is I'm getting it on MY terms. Don't you find that liberating?"

"You have a very warped perception of freedom."

"Come on, babe, your friend's right. You should try and live a little, blow off some steam.", The hyena man says, stepping closer to her with a lecherous grin looking her up and down, "Actually, hahahaha, you're kinda hot, whaddya say to making this a three way? Huh? You down Bey?"

As he spoke, Tubala grip the wooden armrests tight enough to make them crack.

"I am but, hehe, you're gonna be split in three ways if you don't get away from that one."

"Hahaha, whaddya me–"

The wood audibly snaps, getting the hyena man attention as her turns, only to get a wooden armrests jammed right in his dog-like mouth, gagging him as he looks at her horrified by her vicious, demonic red-eyed scowl in utter repugnance. She shoved the wood deeper in his mouth as he gags louder.

"How does it feel having something you don't want shoved down your throat? Does it hurt? Feel humiliated? Well, that's a TENTH of what I've endured.", Tubala growled in her demonic voice before yanking the wood out his mouth, making him stumble back falling on his back coughing violently.

"Hahahahah! Damn, guess that's a no then.", Beyla laughs hysterically.

"Gyack! Cough cough! Ryagh! You're both fuckin' crazy!"

"Ahhhh, quit your whining. Now get in that bedroom and strip!", Beyla orders.

"F-Fuck you bi–AH!", He stated before a large fist goes flying past his face, landing beside him.

"I'm not asking. Get in that room, now. And if I don't see an erection by the time I walk in, you're losing it.", She menacingly threatens, holding her spiked tail over his crotch.

"Eeekk! Y-Y-YES MA'AM!", he cried running for his life to the bedroom.

"Heh, and that's how it's done."

"Did you forget WHY I freed you that day?", Tubala inquires giving her a serious glare, "It wasn't out of the kindness of my heart. I needed your power."

"Pfft, obviously. You couldn't kill all those Malones yourselves after all.", Beyla smirks in satisfaction then notices her unflinching expression, "Don't worry I haven't forgotten what you're really after BUT it doesn't hurt to enjoy a good fuck sometimes. Or have the Malones clients destroyed all feeling down there?" Pointing at her crotch

"Watch your mouth before I tear it off!", Tubala threatens conjuring black and red energy claws covering her hand.

"Alright alright, I'll stop.", Beyla waves off, unfazed by the threat, then stops, "Oh, but you know what? I'd rather take that human male, Caleb Beazazel or whatever, for a ride. He smells delicious. I wanna see what the hero of the Devils can do. Too bad I don't know where he sleeps...yet."

"Enough!", Tubala stated, clearly irate after hearing that humans name.

"Ok, grouchy bitch, I'll deal with you later. I'm about to get my freak on!"

As she walks away, hips swaying sassily, as Tubala glares intently at her rippling mana claws. She slices the wooden chair into five smoldering black segments with a cold expression thinking of that human.

"He's no hero of mine.", She spoke irately, eyes glowing menacing red.

…Meanwhile…

Scarlett gets in her unit breathing heavily, locks the door, then rushes to her bedroom throwing herself on the mattress screaming all her frustration into the comforter.

'Why did I DO that? What's wrong with me!?' Scarlett thought, berating her actions.

She intended to just ask him how he was doing right at the door then LEAVE. Or, if not him, just get confirmation from the Kamaitachi.

However, the second she caught his scent from opening the door…it was like her priorities shifted instantly. Sure, it IS for the Faction's but…she was really concerned for him and wanted to make sure he was ok. Seeing the pain in his eyes as he described what happened to him, it was like she saw a part of herself. To think, he's been suffering…just like her.

Scarlett then turns over on her back, taking care not the press too much on her wings, staring at the dark ceiling in thought.

'I did the right thing, didn't I?', She questions herself, thinking of their conversation. She sighs before removing her clothes, getting ready for bed. Her undergarments consisted of black and red, lace panties and bra that was accentuated by her fair skin and sexy hourglass figure. She removes the pin from her hair, letting long crimson hair down. She tended to avoid changing in front of mirrors when possible.

Then her mind shifts to accidentally drinking from his can, remembering the taste. His taste. It was…pleasant.

Scarlett's eyes shot open, face blushing red, then realized, to her shock, her hand had instinctively drifted down between her legs. She rips her hand away and snatches a nearby pillow and smothers her head.

"FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCKING DISCORD DAMMIT! WHAT THE FUCK AM I THINKING! FUCKING PIECE OF SHIIIIIIIIT!", She screams into the pillow, muffling much of that. She sighs heavily, "What the fuck?"

At that moment, she feels her body pulsate, following by an uncomfortable heat of arousal growing in her center before spreading throughout her body. Lewd thoughts of Caleb start creeping into her mind, driving her to breed with the male and collect his essence. She slaps herself to drive away those thoughts then grabs her phone checking the time.

"Shit! Ten minutes until visibility!", She cursed before rushing to her dresser for the sleeping pills.

She stops upon remembering the vial of salve Drei gave her, remembering the weasels words. She looks at the blue pills sitting on the dresser with contemplation before reaching in her pocket for the vial and opens it. She curiously smells it, raising an eyebrow at the scent she could only describe as wild grass and sunflowers.

"I swear, this stuff had better work.", She said, putting the viscous liquid in her palm then rubbing it on her arms, neck, and chest.

Within seconds of seeping into her skin, the lustful heat slowly overtaking her was gradually being suppressed and her prurient thoughts became clearer. Scarlett examines her body in surprise then looks at the almost empty vial in disbelief.

"Heh, well shit. Guess I can sleep soundly for once.", Scarlett lightly chuckles, lying in bed, getting comfortable.

At that moment, a thumping and creaking sounds followed by the loud, muffled moans of a liminal pair going at it caught her sensitive ears coming from the unit above her.

"Maybe not.", Scarlett utters with a grimace before covering her ears with her pillow, turning on her side facing the wall. She stared pensively, knowing he was right in the unit next to hers, "Wonder if he's able to sleep through all this?"

As she wonders this, she doesn't notice the single strand of hair among her red main, which has changed to completely white.

…Meanwhile in Caleb's room…

A flash of purple light illuminates the room before vanishing only to reappear again and again. The source of this was Caleb lying in bed, practicing conjuring and dissipating his energy barriers at will. It was one of a few constructive activities he had to pass the night away. An empty vial of Drei's salve sat on the nightstand allowing him to concentrate without the full moon affecting his mental state.

"Hoooo, ok, one more time.", Caleb sighed taking a deep breath, raising both arms to the ceiling focusing as his eyes take on a purple glow and light purple aura covers his body. Two rippling dense barriers form around his limps, as he focuses. Slowly removing his arms and hands from the barriers while still holding the shape of both arms and finger. He practices moving the fingers of the conjured limbs puppeteer with his real hands, "Index, middle, ring pinky, thump, clench, open. Ok, good, again. Index–"

At that moment, he heard a thumping from the other room followed the muffled but loud moans of a woman coming from the otherside of his bed. It breaks his concentration causing barrier to dissipate and Caleb brings his arms down in defeat. The woman let's out a shrill cry, bumping against the wall startling him as she cries out stuff like 'Yes' or 'Harder'.

"Of course.", Caleb shakes his head with scowl at the ceiling. He then reaches over the nightstand, grabbing his Bluetooth earbuds and puts them in his ears. He then opens up Spotify on his phone and selects the song 'Day 'N' Night by Kid Cudi' turning the volume all the way up, drowning the lovers out while vibing.

He turns on his side, staring at the wall, getting an odd feeling of someone staring back at him.

'Just my imagination. Now then, lets try this again.', he thought, conjuring a purple barrier around his hand then reshaping it into another hand.

As the song continues, so does the night. The full moon hung high in the sky as liminals of various species were copulating like beasts in different living units of the facility. Clearly, the ICEP personnel were earning their paychecks this week.

.

.

.

.

.

..

.

.

.

WN

Sup Fam! How y'all doing? Here we are again on yet another Independence Day weekend and another chapter of my series centered AROUND events on the 4th of July. Truly remarkable.

Not much to report aside from life in general but we're holding on and I hope y'all are too.

Hope you guys enjoyed this chapter. Currently working on the next so hope to have that out soon. Thank you Sandshrewmaster and my beta readers as usual. As always, hug your parents, drink water, get some sleep, sip from your own cans, and I will see y'all next time. Peace FAM!

'My-Mind' by ProducedbyMelv plays in the background

PS: Yes, I do know this is the 69th chapter. Could you tell? Funny have everyone's getting fucked except the MC this time around.