Bonus 6: The Rival
At the entrance to Big Spring Park, a imposing but elegant figure bathed in the warm midday sunlight stood with the pride of a lion. It was a Centaur woman clad in a navy blue cloak with a strange yellow and black insignia on her horse body and two strap body carrying pouches on either side. She was tall with golden blonde hair styled into Victorian curls, bright ocean blue eyes, and lovely spotless porcelain fair skin. Her human hands with dainty but strong complimented by toned and sexy arms and flat toned stomach. Her horse body was quite athletic and muscular with tone legs and glossy chocolate brown coat of fur. She was quite well-endowed with perky I-cup breasts mostly restrained by a white toga with large cleavage opening. A silver buckle held it together that had a similar insignia as the cloak. She carried a large brown toat bag. She had a gorgeous face that would make most human Victoria Secret models green with envy.
She takes a deep breath taking in the fresh air and feeling on top of her game today.
"Hey there. Haven't seen you in a while.", came the gruff voice of a human groundskeeper dressed in dark green jumpsuit and cap on his head as he rode in a black cart. He looked to be in his mid-fifties with a little grey in his short trimmed beard.
"Ah, the groundskeeper human from before! Yes it has been quite long time. How are you? Is your shoulder doing better?", the Centaur woman replied politely in a noticeable Greek accent.
"Yeah, I tried that exercise you showed me. Been doing a whole. I kinda was wondering if you had left town, I know some folks wondering where that Centaur lady always galloping around here went", the man replied with a chuckled before parking the cart.
"Ναί(Greek for yes)...I have been occupied with finding a suitable Master worthy of my stature. Unfortunately, the subjects my ICEP coordinator introduced me to were...lacking in various aspects.", she spoke in a morose tone.
"That's too bad. Figure a girl beautiful as you would have a easy time catching a young bucks eye.", the man slyly spoke.
"Looks are not everything! It is about substance. A knight's master should be one that embodies the same virtuous spirit a and courageous heart as they. It is an arduous process they take an indefinite amount of time to accomplish. Unfortunately, my coordinator requires me to choose a host soon before my student pass expires."
"Ohhh I'm sorry to hear that. What you gonna do?", the man expressed.
"First, I thought a good dozen or so laps would clear my mind. Perhaps I will find an answer.", She hypothesized.
"Maybe. You know you're always welcome here."
"I thank you!", she stated with a gracious bow of her head, "Ah but before I forget...this is for you."
She reaches in one of the pouches of her horse half and pulls out a container of homemade finger sandwiches.
"A token of my thanks for allowing me to access your grounds.", The Centaur says graciously presenting the container.
"Well ain't that nice.", the man smiled happily accept to gift.
"Also, it is not an inconvenience, I would like for you to give this to that man on the outer edge of the park.", She says gesturing to the homeless man sitting on the outer section of the park near the entrance then hand over the large toat bag, "I spoke to him last time I was here. He's a nice man. I thought this would help him get by for a while."
The groundskeeper accepts the pouch seeing it full of food, water, towels, even a t-shirt and sweat pants with new sneakers.
"Also, please do not tell him it was from me."
"I can do that. You really are a good woman, you know that?"
"I am merely doing my duty. A true knight must always assist the weak and downtrodden. I ask for no thanks only that he is better than how I found him.", the says passionately fist on her heart.
"Don't know anything about that but bless your heart anyway. We need more like you so people can see you really are just like us."
"I agree", she spoke with a small grin, "Well, I shall be off now."
"Alright now, good luck with everything. I've got some work to do here. ", the man stated turning the cart around and driving off as she waves to him.
She turns to the trail a starting with a steady trot as she began to lose herself in thought.
It was true that she was in search of a Master. However, there's another reason she been rejecting the males her coordinator showed her. She already had someone in mind. It was man she heard about in the news awhile back who apparently saved several liminal women from an evil organization and, though indirectly, led to numerous other liminals like her being rescued from a grisly fate. She has been using any time she could get to find this man but any information on him had been espunged; even her coordinator won't tell her. All she has is a name. Caleb Bizzell.
...Meanwhile...
In a small area of the park hidden by a thicket of trees.
"That's it Dear. Keep it up.", Mirabelle praises.
"Ugh, I'm trying but this pressure is crazy.", Caleb strained gritting his teeth.
"Aw come on! We don't weigh THAT much.", Zwei stated.
Caleb could be seen both arms raised projecting a large purple barrier overhead with Zwei and Drei sitting on top of it legs folded inwards. Mirabelle stood to his side.
"No but I can deal without you keep shifting up there. Just pick a position and stick with it.", Caleb retorts in slight irritation as Zwei shifted to lying on her side.
"That's a line to put on a Valentine's card.", Drei comments.
"Focus Dear! You're doing great just feel the energy at your fingertips. Imagine it condensing into a solid wall.", Mirabelle instructs projecting a large barrier around her own body as an example.
Caleb closes his eyes concentrating. The Zyklons feels the barrier getting denser and more solid underneath them.
"Woooow, it's a LOT thicker now. It's not two 'C's it's gotta be at least FIVE 'C's", Zwei jokes poking at the barrier.
"Can you not talk?", Caleb requests.
"Hey, in a fight, sometimes your enemy won't shut up. It's part of their tactic to break your concentration just preparing you for such a scenario.", Zwei replies standing up.
"Keep in mind we're going easy on you. We had SO many opportunities to make Luke and Yoda jokes.", Drei commented.
"I had a list prepared."
"She did.", Drei confirms.
Caleb groans in exasperation.
"Right, so just consider this part of the...mental part of training.", Zwei spoke standing beginning to alternate bouncing on one leg arms behind her back.
Caleb grits his teeth trying maintain control feeling despite to repeated strikes. Mirabelle gives a concerned look.
"Haha, cool my feet get repelled back with each strike. It's a like Ki trampoline!", Zwei chuckled bouncing on the shield as Drei gives her an inquisitive look. Below, Caleb grit his teeth lowly growling his patience wearing thin.
"U-Um Ms. Zwei, this a bit-", she utters.
"I'm back! "I found all the baseballs.", Lyca stated bounding up to the group carrying a bunch of baseballs. She then notices Zwei and Drei sitting atop the barrier, "Whoaa what are you guys doing?
"Helping Boss with his training by trying to break his concentration.", Zwei explains bouncing adding a twirl in every few bounces.
'I'm about to concentrate breaking my foot in your weasel ass', Caleb thought bitterly.
"It kinda looks like fun! Can I join?", Lyca stated tail wagging as Caleb feels a surge of dread.
"Yeah. Come on up!", Zwei stated before Drei somersaults off the barrier landing on her feet.
"Nonononono-ERRGHH!", Caleb uttered shaking his head in vain as the She-wolf vertically leaps upward to Mirabelle concern joing the wind weasel atop the bouncy barrier. Caleb could be seen straining a bit from the two loads constantly pounding like annoying upstairs neighbors that keep dropping weights on the floor. Mirabelle tries her best to get them to stop to no avail.
"Alright, I'm done!", Caleb before teleporting away forcing the barrier to disappear taking the two liminal by surprise as they fall. He teleports back catching Lyca in his arms before she could hit the ground as Zwei instinctively creates a cushion of compressed air beneath her.
"Haaa honestly, you two...", Mirabelle sighs.
"Ehhehe sorry, guess we got a bit carried away", Lyca apologized a bit embarrassed as Caleb held her bridal style before placing her on her feet.
"Yeah sorry Boss, just couldn't resist. But hey, you are at least getting better at control.", Zwei praised hoping he'd forget being mad at her.
"Thanks, not gonna lie, I have been sneaking in a little practice just experimenting.", Caleb emphasized forming a sphere shaped barrier in his palm then morphing it into a pyramid then a star as the others look on impressed.
"That's wonderful Dear! You're truly making these powers your own.", Mirabelle praised.
"Yeahhh but I'm still having trouble with this.", Caleb says at flamelike purple aura radiates from his hand for a few seconds before fizzling out, "I don't know I just can't get it to work right. It kinda just happens when I get too angry."
"Ah, don't worry, we'll keep working on it Dear. Still I would say you're making a right good effort.", Mirabelle assured.
"She's right. At least, you're gaining control over these abilities.", Drei added.
"Yeah, thanks. I'm pretty drained though, think I wanna call it a day. Maybe just chill in the park for awhile.", Caleb says stretching his arms.
"Sounds good to me. Hey Lycs, look what I brought.", Zwei agrees taking out a small yellow Frisbee.
"Yay! The flying disk thing!", Lyca stated happily her tail wagging in excitement.
"Frisbee. It's called a Frisbee.", Zwei corrects.
"Yeah that's right. Wanna play with us Chief?"
"Nnnnah, not today. I just wanted walk around for awhile with Moon pie. If that's alright."
"Of course, I'd love accompaning you Dear.", Mirabelle assured in a delighted tone. Caleb nods then turns to Lyca
"You guys have fun just don't go too far. Okay, Fuzzy?", Caleb sweetly spoke petting the top of her head mushing her ears.
Lyca smiles blushing in content at her new pet name as her tail wags even faster actually kicking up a little dust.
"Hehe, come on Chief, I'm not a little puppy.", Lyca tried to complain her smile betraying her.
"Maybe not, but I've definitely got the cutest and sexiest She-wolf this side of South Central.", Caleb coos in her ear.
Lyca blush deepens as she covers her mouth squeeling trying to contain her happiness.
"Ooh, ease up there Boss. Make her any happier we may discover a new for of diabetes.", Zwei pops in.
"Hehe, alright you two enjoy yourself. Don't...let her catch the disk in her mouth, please."
"Sure. Besides, I'm sure there's others things you'd much rather her catch in her mouth.", Zwei says with a sly smirk.
"Yeah, keep talking if you wanna catch these hands in yours.", Caleb replied cracking his knuckles.
"No thanks, I'm full. Cuz I eat smack like that for breakfast.", Zwei chortled before pivoting around on foot, "OK, let's go Lycs."
Zwei and Lyca walk off going about their business as Caleb shakes his head concedingly before turning to Mirabelle and Drei. Only to find was already gone.
"Uhh where's our little weasel that could throw shade?", Caleb inquires looking around.
"She said something be 'shadowing' us while we do our "vanilla couple" thing.", Mirabelle quoted using her fingers.
"Hm, well let's not keep our audience waiting.", Caleb cheekily spoke the top of his girlfriend's horse half making her giggle.
The two of them exit the wooded area deciding to take the walkway. They killed some time making conversation or enjoying the scenery and each other's company. They stopped by the pond to feed club crackers to the geese that were on their yearly migration path South even took a few photos. At one point, Mirabelle wanted to try letting them eat from her palm which Caleb STRONGLY advised against preferring his girlfriend have all her fingers. After that, they found a shady spot with a bench close to the pond where could see a lot of other park goers, human and liminal, going about their business. They even saw Zwei and Lyca in the distance playing catch with a few other canine liminals that joined in on the fun. The weasel throwing the disk to incredible heights thank to her wind powers one them, including Lyca, catching it midair.
"Seriously, it's not the fact that I don't like sub anime. I just enjoy watching because I'm better able to immerse myself by not having to look down read text through twenty-five percent of the episode"
"Exactly.", Mirabelle expresses. The of them were having a conversation about sub anime watchers hating on dub watchers, "I myself was first exposed to the English speaking version of Sailor Moon. I rather prefer it to subtitled. Not that it's bad by any means. Like you said, it's about fully immersing myself."
"Right? But here these sub worshipping, toxic subreddit puritains ready point out the negative traits of every dub show while ignoring the fact there ARE good English dubs. Hell, some complain that English voice actors changing a few lines from the original Japanese is a "form of systemic racism". The fuck?"
"Wha-how?", Mirabelle asked incredulously
"I don't know, I guess a few through away lines are enough the rile the manga and LN readers."
"Sounds like complete rubbish if you ask me."
"Yeah, and not the fun kind where memes are spawned from. I enjoy what I enjoy.", Caleb says in an assured tone.
"Same for me. English or Japanese Sailor Moon will always be the greatest franchise ever!", Mirabelle stated with a proud smile and haughty.
"Uhh what about-"
"The GREATEST franchise ever!", she reitorated.
Caleb shakes his knowing it was pointless to contest otherwise and shrug it off.
A silence befell the two as they look out over the pond as the geese from earlier casually swim by and the sounds made by people in the distance filled the area.
"Dear? There's...may I ask you something?", Mirabelle spoke in an uncertain tone.
"Sure. What's on your mind babe?"
"Well...it's about when my mum visited and...she made us husband and wife right plum on the spot...a-are you really fine with this? Do you...ever feel like you were forced to just so I wouldn't need to leave?", Mirabelle asks feeling guilty.
Caleb looks to her in surprise but question. He glances downward in thought, "No...I mean not really. Not gonna lie, I was caught off guard by the whole thing and kinda rolled with it to save face but...no I wouldn't say forced more like...coerced. If that's the right word."
Mirabelle goes silent looking downwards despondently. He then touches her shoulder getting her attention.
"But that doesn't mean it's not what I wanted. I just couldn't see my life without you so...I decided I'd do whatever it took to keep you in my life.", Caleb admitted.
"But that's what I mean.", Mirabelle stated, "It started because of me...because...I refused to move forward with original goal for coming to this country. I still don't understand how you forgive me for that so easily."
"It didn't happen, that's why.", Caleb replied in a serious tone catching her off guard, "I can't say it didn't upset me but I won't hold a grudge over something you, ultimately, didn't do. I forgive you, if that helps, but really there's nothing TO forgive."
Mirabelle looks to him in thought trying to think of something to contest his statement but came up short.
"Listen, Moon pie, I get how you feel. This is...alot to take in and adjust to...but we will eventually.", Caleb says taking her hand supportively.
"Dear...I don't really know what to do...literally. My species don't really have husbands or even boyfriends by other's standards. I don't how to behave like a wife.", Mirabelle shamefully admitted.
"That's fine, I'm still figuring out how to be a good boyfriend.", Caleb shrugs.
"B-But you are! You're doing wonderfully!", Mirabelle stated looking to him fearing she upset him. Caleb then caresses her cheek.
"Thanks but there's always room for improvement. Anyway, Moon pie, we don't need to stress trying figure out how to act like a "technically married couple" or whatever. Just do things like we've been doing, keep it natural like right now."
"Natural...", Mirabelle repeated in thought.
"Yeah like sitting here, enjoying a nice day out with you...my best friend slash beautiful girlfriend slash debatably legal Centaur wife. Nothing unusual here.", Caleb half jester nudging her should making her crack a smile. He turns his body then tilts her face toward him and plants a kiss to her lips catching her by surprise. She quickly melts into it cupping the back of his head deepening the kiss and eliciting a soft moan.
They part before lovingly staring into each other's eyes.
"Now, doesn't this feel natural?", Caleb say with a smirk.
"Yes.", Mirabelle contently sighed before hugging him, "I love you Dear. I'm truly blessed by the gods to have you in my life."
"Hehe, where'd that come from?", Caleb chuckled.
"Just something I tell myself everyday.", Mirabelle says nuzzling his shoulder as he stroked her hair.
"Not sure about the gods part but I'm definitely to have you too, baby."
Mirabelle pulls off him staring at him longingly, her cheeks flushed pink, "Dear, if we're doing things naturally...I would...love to visit our little training spot earlier...just the two of us...", she spoke with heated breath her hand roaming up his thigh.
"Heh, looks like someone's in the mood but...what if somebody sees us?"
"Dear, trust me they won't, I have just the thing," Mirabelle cooed sultrily with a wink.
"Kayyy? I also gonna need - " Caleb starts when he heard a rattling sound. He turned around and saw on of Drei's vials spinning on the metal bench. He picked it up.
"Yep, just what patient ordered. Thanks Drei!" Caleb laughed, giving a thumbs up. Unseen to him, said weasel was giving a thumbs up from a nearby tree.
"Well, that's settled. Shall we?" Mirabelle smiled, offering her hand.
"Away we-"
"Uh uh uh, not without me!" Drei appeared suddenly, interrupting him, then grabbing his shirt sleeve. Caleb and Mirabelle looked to each other, confused, then shrugged.
"Ahem, NOW away we go," he coyly said, holding Mirabelle hand and concentrating. Immediately, the three of them teleported away from the location.
A couple minutes after teleporting, the couple was already engaged in a passionate makeout session, both becoming thoroughly intoxicated by the taste of the other. They were tangled in each other's embrace, their hands caressing and groping the other, loving moans and sighs filling the area.
Drei sat in a tree nearby, observing their surroundings for any overly curious park-goers.
"Mmmm...Dear...," Mirabelle sighed as she gripped two handfuls of Caleb's rear while he peppered her neck in kisses. Her mouth went agape, beginning to lose herself in his embrace and an unbearable itch grew in her core. One of her hands snaked its way to the front of his pants pulling at the hem which he quickly senses, "Caleb...I need you right now."
"Moon pie...we're still out in the open. Aren't you gonna, you know, do that thing you mentioned?" Caleb pressed, not liking the idea of being discovered by some stranger.
Mirabelle blinked in realization before blushing sheepishly with a grin, "Y-Yes, right, sorry I got a ditzy there. Alright..."
The Centaur closed her eyes in concentration as purple energy emitted from her body and the purple mist from her tail grew thicker. Drei observed curiously as the mist started swirling around the couple, blanketing their whole bodies in an opaque purple cloud. It quickly dissipated revealing the now invisible pair. Well, ALMOST invisible. Their bodies had a distinctive shimmer that reflected light allowing them to blend into the surrounding environment. They were practically unnoticeable a unless one would look very closely.
"Huh. That's a neat trick," Drei commented, touching her chin intriguingly.
Caleb looks at his nearly invisible rippling arms in amazement, " Holy shit...it's just like Predator."
"Impressed?" Mirabelle cheekily remarked as Caleb looked at her rippling form, able to tell from our long shape she was smiliing.
"Hell yeah. I didn't know you go full on Predator stealth mode whenever you want," Caleb said, observing the two of them before a thought occurred, "Wait, can I do this?,"
"We'll figure that out later," Mirabelle replied as she hugged him mushing her breasts to his chest wantingly, "Right now, I'm just excited for you to shag me with that nigh invisible cock of yours. Here...feel for yourself," she sighed, taking his hand and guiding it between her front legs. Caleb eyes widened, feeling how hot and wet her front lips were.
"Damn, Moon pie. You're this wet already?" Caleb whispered, beginning to stroke her lips, making her trembling and moan at his touch.
"Y-Yes. My phany behind me feels even more so. Y-You can choose whichever you'd prefer. As long as I get this," Mirabelle spoke with lustful gaze starting to unfasten his belt and pants. She gasped, feeling the bulge in his boxers as Caleb softly groaned at her touch. She then whispered in his ear, "Tell me what do you want?"
"Nnngh, alright...I want to take you from behind...right up against that tree," Caleb answered huskily, pointing to the tree behind her.
Mirabelle's heart pounded, her face burning bright red with a delighted smile; not that it could be seen, of course.
'Well, at least he's becoming more honest," Drei thought with a shrug while observing the surroundings.
****Lemon*****
Seconds later, Mirabelle stood with her back to Caleb, her hands pressed against the back of a pine tree. She looked behind in anticipation at the rippling form of her lover who was applying the vial of spermicide to his crotch. When done, and ignoring the usual burning sensation, Caleb patted her sides before finding the hem of her skirt and lifting it up over her rear. He then grabbed her human-like horsey rear making her gasp in surprise. He moved her underwear down, surprised by how damp the crotch area was.
The sweet scent of her soaking wet pussy was already spurring his lust further. He instinctively lined his nearly invisible rippling cock over her entrance, making her squeal a bit louder than expected.
"Shhhh, Moon pie! Gotta be reaalll sneaky," Caleb advised, halfway leaning on her back, " Don't want people thinking this place is haunted by two horny ghosts."
"O-Ok...huhuhu...," Mirabelle covered her mouth with her hand, excited by the scenario. She secretly wanted to try something like this from one of the romance novels and manga doujins she's read.
Suddenly, Caleb thrusts himself inside her with very little effort, inciting a muffled shriek from the Centaur. He started at a moderate pace enjoying the insanely smooth velvety sensation as her walls clamped on him possessively. He dug his fingers into her ample bottom, speeding up as her muffled moans grew louder. Mirabelle threw her head up barely in ecstasy, eyes rolling upward at the extreme pleasure and clutching the tree with her free hand. Her juices created a fleshy clapping sound every time his hips collided with her cheek as the rest trickled on the grass. He felt the rippling of her velvet fur covered ass while he held he wispy out of the way.
"Haaa...y-you so intenhaaaa! D-Do you love you rear phany that much?" Mirabelle moaned softly, her mouth agape with heated breath between her fingers.
"I do. Hnngh it feels even better than the front. Still love them both cuz they apart of you," Caleb grunted, pounding her harder and inciting loving moans from the Centaur, "Ahh, Moon pie I'm close."
"Me too. Go ahhh ahead and cum whenever you want. Fill me up to the brim!" Mirabelle moaned out, trying to control the volume of her voice, which was coming out as disjointed squealy moans.
Caleb leaned his upper body slightly against her back, pounding her as deep as he could reach. A few solid thrusts later and he exploded inside her, filling her core with his seed. Mirabelle covered her mouth with both hands, muffling her orgasmic screams of ecstasy as their climaxes mixed together.
****Lemon tea****
A few minutes of basking in afterglow, Mirabelle dispelled her cloaking technique and the pair began straightening themselves and each other up to look more presentable.
They proceed to step out back onto the trail looking around to make sure the coast was clear. They smiled and giggled at one another, believing they got away with their dirty deed.
"Oh, Moon pie...," Caleb grabbed her attention, reaching at the top of her head and removing a leaf that got stuck in her hair, "There we go."
"Thank you, Dear," she replied, smiling sweetly and taking his hand, interlocking her fingers with his. He smiled back with a slightly embarrassed chuckle.
"Congratulations," Drei said, appearing behind and startling the couple, "You've achieved Sneak level 100 and invented a new Hentai tag."
Caleb and Mirabelle blush at the comment looking to each and chucking lightly in embarrassment.
"Heh, well then, I guess this calls for little reward. You girls wants to hit up the snack bar for some ice cream., Caleb offered.
"Sure, that sounds like heavenly.", Mirabelle accepts.
"Hellish for me since my species can't really eat ice cream. Makes us constipated.", Drei replied.
"Really? I've seen Zwei eat it before.", Caleb says raising an eyebrow.
"But you've never heard her pay for it afterwards.", Drei commented.
"Ooookay then, chicken tenders for you.", Caleb changes the subject putting the image out of his head.
"Bitchin'."
...Meanwhile...
"Haaa...ok. Think I'm calling it. I could use a rest and something to drink.", Zwei says wiping the sweat from her forehead.
"Aww, OK then.", Lyca spoke in slight disappointment before turning to the 5 other Kobold(2 males 3 females), "Bye everyone!"
"BYE!", The collection of dog people all happily stated waving at them before gathering together to start a new game.
"Who were those guys anyway? They just came outta nowhere.", Zwei says as they walked away. She overdid a bit and ended up exhausting herself.
"No idea. They were really fun though to play with though.", Lyca says with a happy smile her tail wagging.
Zwei looks to her an smirks, "Heh, maybe they saw you and your skills and couldn't help joining in."
"Hehe I guess so. It kinda happens sometimes, at least, ever since I started living here. When I'm having fun by myself, sometimes people I never met like to join in. I don't mind it."
"Huh. Maybe you just have a natural ability that draws people in."
"I don't know about that. I just...like having fun and it's always better with others. Especially with my packmates, like you Zwei.", Lyca cheerfully beamed at the weasel.
Zwei blushes in embarrassment taken aback slightly before returning her own slightly forced smile, "T-Thanks, Lycs."
As much as the young Karmaitachi enjoyed moments like these, it also reminded her that they wouldn't last forever. Eventually, when all said and done, this is their temporary assignment and she, along with her sisters would have to part with Lyca and the others. It hurt but Zwei knew it was the way it is. Trouble is...the more looked at the She-wolf, the more of often she question would she be ok with that when the time came?
They soon arrived at a rest area with several metal picnic tables and only one other person there. A woman and her baby.
"Alright, you wait here. I'll got get something to cool off with.", Zwei says before going off to another direction
"Kay.", the She-wolf replied watching her leave then simply looks up to the cloudy blue sky in thought.
*generic crying baby sound*
Lyca ears perk up. She turns around to the human female and the screaming infant as the mom hastily searches through a large yellow bag full of baby stuff.
"Nonono where is it? Shh shhhhh it's OK. It's ok baby I know.", The gently bound rocks the baby in her arm while desperately rummaging through the bag. The baby suddenly dips backwards wailing forcing the mother to support stop searching to support the infant from behind. At that moment, the bag turns over spilling the contents of the bag so over the ground to the mothers frustration before the baby wails even louder. The woman fights back tears and starts rocking the baby trying her hardest to calm the infant, "I know I know.", she says through strained sob.
"Excuse me."
The woman looks up surprised by the black furred Werewolf girl standing in front of her.
"H-hey, I-I-I'm sorry. She's just tired right now and I just...LEFT her pacifier at home I guess.", the woman says throwing her hand up.
"It's alright, I perfectly understand. My name's Lyca."
The woman looks to the She-wolf, "Angela...this is Ophelia."
The baby, named Ophelia, starts screaming louder as Angela tries to find the bottle then sees it was on the ground. She shakes her head throwing her hand up in an 'of course' gesture.
Lyca then takes a seat next to the woman and asks in concern, "You look like you could use some help there."
"No no that's fine.", Angela says giving a suspicious look, "I can..."
"I know this is your first time...raising a pup I mean.", Lyca speaks understandingly to the woman surprise, "You can always tell. You look really tired from the look of your eyes."
The woman doesn't respond as couldn't deny her claim.
"Alright I brought the-", Zwei stated before noticing the She-wolf sitting next to human woman and her infant and concern kicks in, "Lycs?!"
"Here, I'll help you.", Lyca sweetly offers opening her arms to the woman.
The woman was reluctant but then looks into the kind Amber eyes of the canine feeling the warmth she exuded. Against her better nature, she decided to trust the She-wolf and hands over the screaming infant.
"Lycs what are you...doing?", Zwei says before stopping in her tracks by what happened next.
Lyca does a soft canine yips cradling the baby in her arm. She waggles her clawed fingers in front of the infants face as the child's sobbing dies down. The baby coos looking up at the smiling angelic face of the She-wolf. Zwei and Angela are dumbstruck by what they were witnessing.
"Whoa...Lycs how did you...?", Zwei inquires curiously.
"Oh, among Werewolves, it's customary for the weakest of the pack to look after the pups of her superiors when their away. I've basically been raising pups since I was a pup.", Lyca says with a toothy grin as the baby cooed at her holding her finger. She looks to Angela, "Listen, it's hard in the beginning since you don't know what your doing at first. That's ok. I can you've been trying your best for her...even when you have to do it alone."
Angela stares at the Werewolf girl as the tears fall on their own.
"Thank you.", she spoke through her sobs, "It's just...been so hard since Gaven started his new job, and the move and it's just been me at home and..."
"It's ok. You're really strong to hold out this long. You're a great mother.", Lyca assured beaming a warm smile at the woman.
Angela wipes her tears smiling back at the She-wolf as Zwei stood silent hardly believing what she was seeing. She looks to Lyca gently rocking the baby as it fell asleep in her arms and smiles.
...Back to Caleb...
The trio arrived at the snack bar. A mid-sized area with a several round picnic tables and the small store in the center. There were several liminals and humans either to seated together apart. Caleb and the girls approach the counter where two human females were working the bar dressed in green and white uniform.
"What can I get for you?", she spoke in friendly tone.
"I'll have that chicken club sandwich and a Diet and...what about you Moon Pie?", Caleb inquires.
"Hmmm that looks good.", she replied pointing upward to the menu, "two chickpea salad sandwiches with ice lemon tea."
"Alright, and cookies and cream ice creme waffle bowl for me and lemon custard with whip cream around the bowl for this sweetheart.", Caleb says gesturing to Mirabelle.
"You know me so well.", she cooed with a grin.
"Annnd and an order of 12 of the freshest chicken tenders you got for my ninja weasel."
"That's pretty reductive.", Drei commented, "I would also prefer honey mustard if you have any, please."
"Aww sure thing sweety. She's cute, and so polite. How old are you?", the woman spoke.
"Old enough to order for myself and face capital punishment for murder.", Drei replied plainly as the woman was taken aback and looks to Caleb.
"She's 22. She just looks 12 but acts 30. Ok, how much will that be?", Caleb inquires.
"Oh...um let me see here...uh 22.32.", the woman answered typing into the register.
"Ok, hmm actually we should get something for Zwei and Lyca. They should be hungry by now. Make that, two more 12 piece tender meals", Caleb replies taking out his wallet and paying 50 bucks.
"Alright, 46.90...thank you sir. We're just finishing their order. It should be about 25 minutes for yours.", the lady says handing Caleb his change and gesturing to the human man with a small breed Arachne girl glued to his back hugging his neck.
"Ok, we'll wait. Let's find a table.", Caleb replied then looks to Drei, "Can you call your sister so she and Lyca can join us?"
"Already texted her.", Drei replies showing her phone in hand.
They find a table in a shady spot near some trees away from the group tables.
"Oh, is there perhaps a washroom nearby?", Mirabelle inquires
"Yeah, it's right over there. Actually I kinda need wash up before I eat too."
" Hehe we sure have a habit of getting...dirty when we're alone.", Mirabelle spoke in a sly tone.
"Gross but true.", Caleb replied before looking to Drei was looking at her phone.
"Too easy. Go. Clean.", she waves off before the Animaniacs theme plays on her phone. Caleb and Mirabelle off to the restrooms as Drei looks up casually observing them.
...Close by...
The Centaur from earlier could be seen galloping down the trail as bystanders observe in awe with some taking pictures or recording with their phones. She drew the attention of quite a few men drawn in by her assets bouncing wildly with every stride she made. She soon slows her pace before coming to a hault as she pants soft wiping the sweat from her forehead. She had just completed her laps around the park.
While letting her clear her mind, she still didn't know to do about her situation. She's then brought out her thoughts by the sound of her stomach growling.
"Perhaps a meal and a rest will give me some clarity.", she sighed to herself.
"Excuse us!"
The Centaur turns to see a group of human(at least five males) approaching her.
"You are soooo pretty! Can we get a few pictures with you?", says a human female teen with 3 of her friends.
"Certainly, but...no kneeling shots, please.", The Centaur replies aware of males attempts at 'shots at certain angles'.
...Back to Caleb...
He was just coming out of the restroom, surprised by how much they'd been retrofitted for use by SEVERAL body types. He approached the table where Drei was waiting for him.
"Oh good, thought I'd have to pull a Mr. Turner on you," Drei commented.
"Liiike you could lift a battering ram," Caleb jeered.
"I accelerate my body from zero to fifty-five miles per hours in 3 seconds. I AM a battering ram," Drei replied, raising an eyebrow.
"Yeesh, more a furry cannon ball. Anyway, where's Moon pie?"
"Still in the restroom."
"Ah. Hmm going on 20 minutes. You heard from Zwei yet?" he asked, checking his phone.
"Not yet, but they know where we are. It shouldn't be long before they arrive."
"Kay, I'm gonna go check on our food," Caleb said, walking over to the stand. He noticed a few guys crowded around the counter. Getting closer, he saw why. They were crowded around this tall, blonde Centaur lady. He then noticed her well-endowed figure, already guessing the guys wanted more than just tenders.
"For the LAST time, NO! Now please go away!" the Centaur demanded, sounding irritated.
Caleb shook his head before going up to the crowd. Seeing as they were blocking his way and probably wouldn't let him through if he asked, he decided to take a gamble.
"Yo! What the he'll going on here?! Why are y'all ganging around my homestay?" Caleb snapped, trying to sound as hood and irritated as possible. The young men looked to him with mixed expressions as the Centaur gave him a surprised and confused look. Caleb pushed through, standing in front of her and glaring at the crowd.
"You her host?" one of them asked skeptically.
"Nuh uh, don't be answer my question with another damn question! I asking what are all y'all doing bother her when we trying to eat? If she want to be left alone, then LEAVE her the fuck alone or I will call MON down here! And you better hope they get here on time cuz I swear to GOD if I found out one of y'all did something to her..." Caleb ranted, fuming, as a few guys stepped back with a couple watching him cautiously sizing him up.
"Alright man, chill. Alright?" ones said and backed off, then walking away quickly with a few others. A couple lingered a bit longer, giving Caleb dirty looks before walking off too. The Centaur stared at him, intrigued by the human male. When they were all gone, Caleb deflated.
"Haaaaa fuck me. So sorry about all that..." Caleb said, not to the Centaur, but to the cashier lady, "How's my order coming along?"
"O-Oh, yes. One moment sir," she said, proceeding to gather up the bags for his food.
"You're lucky most of those guys were closeted pussies," Drei spoke. stepping up to him hands to her hips, "How often does your 'hood' voice actually work?"
"More than you'd think but it helps when you look like a brawler and the guys are as you said," Caleb replied.
"A couple did look like they wanted to kick your ass though. I imagine that's why you brought up MON," Drei said, arms folded and raised an eyebrow.
"Yeah, I knew you'd body them if they tried anything," Caleb said.
"It's part of my job but don't make it hard by needlessly picking fights," Drei said, raising an eyebrow.
"I know. I won't abuse my- "
"E-Excuse me?" the Centaur woman spoke up, getting their attention.
"Oh, wow, sorry forgot you were still here. Heh, some people can't take a hint huh? Like they'd never seen a Centaur before. You ok?" Caleb jested. making small talk.
The Centaur looked at him curiously before answering, "I am but I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I agree people of my status tend to attract others' attention," she lamented, resting her hand over her ample chest, making it jiggle slightly.
"Ya don't say," Caleb and Drei plainly replied simultaneously.
"Ms. Lambos!" called one of the ladies at the bar, sitting a bag on the counter.
"Ah, yes. That is for for me," the Centaur said, thanking the lady and taking her food. Caleb paused upon hearing name. He could've sworn he'd heard it somewhere.
"Would the two of you like to join me?" the Centaur asked politely, "Oh, a thousand pardons, I never asked how to address you."
"Ah, well I'm-"
"Bizzell! Caleb Bizzell!" interrupted the female worker placing the bags of food of the counter. Ms. Lambos paused, her eyes widening in surprise, registering what she just heard.
"Uhh yep, basically what she said," Caleb said, taking both bags of food by the straps.
"C...Caleb Bizzell...?" Ms. Lambos uttered in thought.
"Anyway...no that's fine but thank you. We're kinda waiting on some friends and...it's kind of a us thing today, you know," Caleb brushed her off, walking past her with Drei beside him.
Lambos stared blankly in thought before the realization hit her. She whipped around, galloping over to their table as Caleb placed the bags down.
"Wait! A-Are you...the Caleb Bizzell from the American independence day incident?! The one who saved several innocent liminals from a vile group of criminals?! The one whose actions led to dozens more exploited liminals being rescued?!" Lambos pressed him enthusiastically with starry eyes, getting up closer to his face with each question.
Caleb mouth hung agape, unsure how to respond to the sudden questions before stapping back, "I...wouldn't exactly put it like that but yeah. Frankly, I was hoping by now people would've forgotten it already and moved on."
"FORGOTTEN?! Why would anyone forget such a noble and galant deed?!" Lambos stated, flabbergasted.
"Not the words I'd use to describe it but whateher their collective boats. Now can we please drop that? I'm trying to have lunch with my homestays...as soon as they get here," Caleb sighed, not wanting to discuss the topic again. He tried to maneuver past her.
Lambos blocked his path again, staring at him with determination, "I'm sorry but I simply cannot! Do you know how long I have been looking for you?!"
Caleb gave a confused look as Drei narrowed her gaze at the Centaur.
"Looking...for me? Why?"
"And for what purpose specifically? Explain," Drei demanded, stepping from the table and positioning herself between the Centaur and Caleb.
The Centaur responded by sitting her bag down then bending her front legs in a kneeling position, placing her right hand over her heart, and bowing her head. Drei raised an eyebrow as Caleb appeared equally confused.
"Caleb Bizzell! I, Aurelia Vasiliki Lambos, eldest daughter and knight of the 1st Calvalry, and reinforced by the doctrain of Chiron, ask that you become my master!" she stated firmly with the fevent aura of a knight.
Caleb and Drei looked to each other, trying to process what was happening.
"What is happening right now?" Caleb asked plainly.
Aurelia raises her head, " The Interspecies Exchange program has allowed me to search for one worthy of being my master! None have come close to the standard that embodies the virtues of Chirons: kindness, courage, and wisdom. Until you. I cannot search forever so it is my request to serve you as my noble master!"
Caleb looks to her unsure how to even respond.
"Huh, this a surprise," Drei said, touching her chin in thought.
"That's putting it lightly. Can we back up, please? What are you talking about?", Caleb inquired.
"I wish to serve as your knight! As per my creed I dedicate my heart, soul, mind, and body to you!" Aurelia stated proudly, placing her hand to her chest and bowing slightly, allowing an eyefull of mountainous cleavage.
Caleb gave a blank look, lightly blushing before swallowing and inhaling, "Ok, now I'm even more confused."
"I believe she's saying she wants to be your homestay slash personal simp," Drei commented.
"'Simp?' Is that vernacular for 'simpleton?'. How rude! I merely wish to pledge my eternal loyalty to a master of noble worth and stature just as my ancestors have done for millenia!" Aurelia contested, slightly offended.
"...Ok, my bad, she's a Giga-Simp," Drei said to Caleb.
"Ah...How dare you?! Such a disrespectful little girl!" Aurelia snapped, stepping up to Drei who glared at her, beginning to extend her wrist scythes
"Ok! That's enough of that you two.", Caleb says stepping in as Drei calmly withdraws her blades as the Centaur steps back still glaring at the weasel girl, "Anyway, my answer is no."
Aurelia eyes widen as she takes a moment to process his words, "Huh? W-Why?!"
"Look, it's not like wouldn't want to under any other circumstance, but I already have a few homestay as is. One of them...let's just say it...it'd be best if that didn't happen.", Caleb explained, hoping she'd take the hint.
"What? Why? I'm sure whoever they are-", Aurelia assures before being cutoff.
"I'm back, Dear!" came the sing-song voice of Mirabelle, getting their attention. Aurelia's mouth went partially agape, eyes widening in shock. Immediate dread shot through Caleb as she trotted up to them, eyes closed in bliss, "I hope I didn't keep you waiting-"
Mirabelle stopped mid sentence, opening her eyes and noticing the other Centaur. Her smile vanished as Aurelia's expression shifted to pure disgust. Mirabelle was frozen in shock and fear, too afraid to look away from the bigger Centaur staring her down.
"What...are you doing on this land, HEATHEN?!" Aurelia spat viciously, her demeanor taking a combative feel.
Mirabelle flinched, her whole body trembling, "I...I...I..."
"You have SOME nerve to show your vile face on this land! Begone from here at once if you value your wretched life!" Aurelia stated, glaring hatefully and approaching Mirabelle, who instinctively backed away. She was at least one or two feet taller than Mirabelle with a much larger build. Overpowering her physically would be no trouble.
Suddenly, Caleb stepped in front of Mirabelle, throwing his arms up protectively
"HEY! You to chill and back the fuck up!" Caleb barked at Aurelia, much to her surprise.
"W-What are you saying?! It is you who needs to step away from HER! Do you know what she is?!"
"Yes! She's my gir...grrreat homestay," Caleb said, catching himself as Drei raised an eyebrow at his sudden Tony the Tiger impression, "So I appreciate it if you wouldn't yell at her!"
"Great!" Aurelia snapped, "She is a HERETIC and a craven! Her, and others like her, are traitors to our Olympian doctrain and the teachings of Chiron. She in particular are descendants the descendants of a wench who sold her soul to the dark goddess Nyx in exchange for otherworldly power. That power corrupted and nearly destroyed the Chieftain of my ancestor! That THING behind you is a demon with a Centaur blood!"
Caleb listened to the blonde Centaur berate his girlfriend, becoming angrier. He could feel Mirabelle clenching his shirt and tightly trembling. Drei looked to Caleb curiously.
"Look, I don't know much about your religion, I don't really care for religion in general, but all I know is I'm not going stand here and let you badmouth Moon pie! I'm not asking, I'm TELLING you to leave!" Caleb stated, taking Mirabelle's hand, making her flinch before realizing it was his, of assuring she was safe.
"D-Dear...", Mirabelle uttered softly.
"'Moon pie?' Are you associated with this heretic?! Is SHE the home stay you mentioned?" Aurelia said in disbelief as Caleb glared at her, then noticing the two of them holding hand, "Wait...don't tell you're having relations with her!"
The Centaur asked loudly enough that it caught the attention of a few people at the snack who began observing the scene more closely, to Caleb and Drei's worry.
"What?! No!" Caleb denied, noticing a couple bystanders slowly approaching the scene, "Will you just listen so I can explain?"
"No need! I understand perfectly what is happening!" Aurelia snarled, stepping forward and grabbing Caleb's shoulders to his surprise, bringing him face-to-face, "She has bewitched you, hasn't she?! She's used her sorcery to charm you!"
Caleb and Mirabelle were taken aback by the accusation.
"Getting a sense of deja vu here," Drei commented inquisitively, rubbing her chin.
"You're not the only one! Listen, I'm NOT bewitched. I'm not charmed, I'm not possessed, I'm not under a voodoo witch doctor's curse or some other bullshit," Caleb attested.
"That is exactly she'd want you believe. We've delt with her kind before! Charming and manipulating OUR stallions for their perverse intentions like my dear, sweet uncle. It's because they know that NO sane man would be ever want hideous purple freaks like them! And now one of them is manipulating such a noble man...I knew I was right to seek you out as my master!" Aurelia stated, taking a determined stance.
"W-What?!" Mirabelle looked to Caleb desperately, hoping it wasn't true.
"Moon pie. Listen it's not lik- WAH!" Caleb tried to explain before being yanked away toward the blonde Centaur, who proceeded to hold him tightly against her. Mirabelle was shocked at the sight as Drei went to the eavesdroppers, assuring there was nothing to see and advising them to move along while asserting her MON authority.
"Mmmph what are you do?!" Caleb spoke, attempting to push himself, but was too strong. Her arms were like iron bars.
"I'm going to free you from her spell on my honor as a knight! Then, perhaps, you'll even reconsider my offer? I promise I can protect you from fiends like her," Aurelia said, hugging him tightly and mushing his face into her ample bosom. Caleb flushed at her silky flesh against his face but continued to struggle, trying not to be taken in. Mirabelle looked on, speechless and horrified by the idea of Caleb being stolen away by this much prettier Centaur. She couldn't let that happen!
"S-Stop it..." Mirabelle snarled, shuddering as she clenched her fists. Aurelia looked to her, seeing the nightmare look on her face with a watery eyed scowl.
"What did you say?" Aurelia said, eyeing her.
"Y-Y-You release my dear this instant. O-Or..."
"Or you'll WHAT, heathen?! You'll use your dark magic on me?!" Aurelia snapped, glaring menacingly at Mirabelle before pushing Caleb to the side, "Go ahead! Show him, show EVERYONE, the demon you really are!"
"Ok, YOU need to fuckin chill! Moon pie don't listen to her!" Caleb ordered.
"I-It's alright Dear. S-She isn't taking you from me! I-I'd like to see her try!" Mirabelle shakily stated, glaring up at the blonde Centaur.
"Wha? What are you tal- "
"Is that a challenge?!" Aurelia said, stepping up to the nightmare glaring down at her, then stomping her front hooves hard to the ground making her chest jiggle.
"Y-Yes!" Mirabelle affirmed stomping her hooves in the similar fashion with the same result.
"Moon pie?" Caleb said in disbelief.
"Then a duel! It just so happens there is an obstacle at this park commissioned by ICEP we can use. We shall find out who is worthy to stand by this man's side! If I you win, I leave this park and give up on him. If I win, you are to release this man to me, leave his home and return to whatever festering pit you came from!" Aurelia stated with a thunderous voice.
"How is THAT remotely equal?! Moon pie is not gonna agree to something so-" Caleb started incredulously.
"I accept!" Mirabelle fevently stated.
"You what?!" Caleb replied in shock.
"Fine! Meet near the visitor's pathYou have 15 minutes to prepare! Be ready!" Aurelia said, smirking, "Oh...and if you use any of your tricks and magic during I win by default."
"Fine!"
"This is INSANE!", Caleb stated, throwing his hands up.
"Excellent. Farewell, my soon to be master," Aurelia smiling at him sweetly as Caleb recoiled. She shot a look at Mirabelle before turning away in a huff as few curious people followed her.
Caleb was left confused then looks to Mirabelle, who was staring at the blonde as she left with a determined look. He then heard the rattling of a plastic bag and Styrofoam case and saw Drei next to him, eating her tenders.
"Really?" he questioned.
"What? I'm still hungry," she shrugged.
...15 minutes of preparation later...
Caleb and the girls were able to find the obstacle course. It was a large are consisting of log hurdles, log pendulums, ramp climbs, scuttle hops, and tire steps. A small crowd consisting of humans and liminals gathered to see the two Centaur about to square off. Drei could be seen observing her phone with a curiously raised eyebrow before tapping on her phone dialing a number.
'...Sup little sis?', came the voice of Zwei, 'I just saw your text. We're in the middle of something but make sure to save our food, please."
"I can't believe I'm saying this but food is the least of our troubles. I just saw your message too. Why is Ms. Kessler cradling a human baby?", Drei inquires
'Amazing right?! Who knew Lycs was a natural born nanny. Ms. Stewart over here even asked if she would like to babysit sometimes even PAY her!'
"That's great development but I need you over here now. Caleb and Mirabelle are in a duel with a tall, blonde Greek Centaur with voluptuous tits and a fat ass!", Drei says in a serious tone.
'...uhhh...', Zwei trailed.
"...Am I on speaker?", Drei inquires.
'Yyyep..', Zwei reluctantly answered.
"Wait, what? Chief and Mira are in trouble?!', came to voice of Lyca who made sure not to wake the baby.
'THAT'S what trouble sounds like to you?', added Angela incredulously.
'We'll be right over.', Zwei replies before hanging up.
Drei hung up her phone as she approached Caleb and Mirabelle. The latter appeared to be limbering up, stretching her arms and legs.
"Moon pie, what were you thinking?!" Caleb exclaimed.
Mirabelle glanced downwards slightly ashamed, "I...I just...I just couldn't stand the thought of losing you to someone like her. I'm doing it for you."
"For me? I don't care about her! At least after how she treated you. I don't want any of this."
"Really? Isn't it every male's fantasy to have two sexy females fight over him or something?" Drei commented to Caleb's annoyance.
"Hell no. Only beta male dipshits and assholes who drive Mustangs would get off from that shit. Whether it's a man and two women or the other way around, pitting people to fight for your overvalued, tenuous affection is fuckin' sick!"
"Well La Dee Da, somebody's gonna impress the Instagram girl at Starbucks .", Drei added.
"Whatever, anyway, come on Moon pie...what's this really about?" Caleb inquired sensing there was something deeper troubling her.
Mirabelle glanced away knowing she was caught and decided to come clean, "I guess...I want to show her I am MORE than deserving to be with you."
He sighed. "Ok, I understand what you mean but come on Moon pie. I care about you and choose to love you with all my heart, WHY does it matter what some stranger with her prejudiced head up her ass says? Let's just forget about her and go about business," Caleb replied, trying to convince her.
"I-I can't do that, Dear," Mirabelle replied.
"Why not? You're seriously gonna go along with this craziness? You don't have to do this. You have nothing to prove!"
"I have EVERYTHING to prove!" Mirabelle retorted with a serious expression, "I can tolerate her belittling and vilifying me for what I am; I've lived with that all my life. However, she mocked our bond, Dear! I simply cannot let that stand."
"Moon pie..." Caleb said in confusion before Drei nudged his thigh.
Caleb went silent a moment before looking away, not sure how to respond. Mirabelle then placed a hand on his chest with her mark.
"Please say I have your support, Dear," Mirabelle pleaded, staring at him.
Caleb hesitated a moment then gently clasped her wrists, "You always have my support. I think just think this is ridiculous. Hahh...but if it means that much to you...i'll be right here cheering for ya."
"Thank you, Dear."
"You do know I am the one supervising this whole thing. I'll stop it if things get outta hand," Drei assured as Caleb nodded understandingly.
"Heretic!" Aurelia called from across them, pointing at Mirabelle, "You shall see to the might of a TRUE descendant of Chiron! For I, Aurelia Artemis Lambos of the Lambos clan, shall defeat you and free that young man from the curse you've bestowed to him! Let these wonderful people bare witness to..."
"Ok, I think it's about time for us to get this over with," Drei said tuning her out as Aurelia continued her monologue in the background.
"THAT I can agree to. Good luck baby, you got this," Caleb encouragingly spoke, massaging Mirabelle horsey ears to help ease her. She sighed, resting her head to his hand as Aurelia continued her rant with them, ignoring her.
"Right!" Mirabelle stated with a determined purple flame in her eye.
Aurelia watched the two of them grimacing at Mirabelle's content expression and wanting to wipe that smugness from her face.
The two Centaurs then took their positions as at the starting point. Several humans and liminals stood by, observing the spectacle from the sidelines with some recording on their phones, even a couple were live streaming. Caleb stood off to the side near the group but wanting to be to himself. Their conversation moments ago made him remember their first date when they were harassed and attacked by those two racist fucks. He wanted to deny it but knew if things were reversed he'd do the exact same thing for Mirabelle.
Drei created a mini tornado levitating above the obstacle course, then used a small megaphone she commandeered from a park ranger cart.
"WELCOME TO THE FIRST AND PLAUSIBLY LAST CENTAUR GAUNTLET! OUR PLAYERS TODAY ARE AURELIA LAMBOS AND MIRABELLE MAREQUINE!" Drei announced as the crowd cheered, "IT'S SIMPLE! BOTH WILL TAKE TURNS RUNNING CLOCKWISE RELAY THROUGH THE COURSE BACK TO THE STARTING POINT! THE ONE WITH THE BEST TIME IS THE WINNER! SAID WINNER WILL RECIEVE A REWARD IN THE FORM OF BRAGGING RIGHTS AND ONE CHAD!"
"Fuck you.", Caleb grumbled lowly.
"Heh, you surprise me Heathen. I thought you'd have fled like a coward or attempted to weasel your way out of this," Aurelia jeered.
"I TAKE EXCEPTION TO THAT!" Drei yelled in the microphone, annoying Aurelia.
Mirabelle gave Aurelia the side eye, "In any other circumstance, you'd be right. However, I have reason to stand here and face you."
"...And that would be Mr. Bizzell who you've charmed into being loyal to you? Are you that desperate?"
"I've done no such thing. I love him and I will do anything to be with him. He feels the same for me," Mirabelle spoke sweetly.
"Ha! As if anyone would ever love a hideous, traitorous, lecherous demon like you. You are nothing! You're just a worthless heretic," Aurelia taunted, "I cannot wait to free that man from you. I can show him what a real woman is like."
Mirabelle clenched her fists wanting, to retort but chose to let it pass, "We'll see."
Caleb watch Aurelia navigate the course, becoming more worried for Mirabelle.
"Boss! There ya are!" Zwei yelled, running up to him and carrying some kind of bag.
"Hey, Double Z, just in time. Wait, where's Lyca?"
"Right here Chief! Are you ok?! Where's Mira?" Lyca asked in panic, going up to him.
"Yeah, we're alright. Moon pie over there about to start. Uhh, Lyca, whose baby is that?" Caleb asked, noticing the She-wolf cradling a baby in her arms.
"She's mine!" stated a Caucasian lady coming up to him, carrying a bag then offering her hand, "I'm Angela."
"Hi?" Caleb confusedly replied, shaking her hand, "Why does Lyca have your baby?"
"Oh, your homestay's been helping me with her. My daughter just loves her," Angela said with a smile.
"Turns out Lycs is quite the nanny. She even wants to know if Lycs can babysit for her with pay," Zwei added as the baby cooed, prompting Lyca to smile and gently bounce.
"Wow. That's amazing sweety," Caleb complimented as the She-wolf blushes feverishly.
Suddenly, the sound of the crowd cheering caught their attention. Lyca, Zwei, and Angela then noticed the blonde Centaur on the obstacle course.
"Oh right! What's going on here?" Zwei said, "Drei was kinda vague on the details."
"Basically, it's like this."
Caleb quickly summarized. Zwei and Lyca, even Angela, looked to him surprise.
"What? That's crazy!" Zwei stated before looking the blonde Centaur seamlessly breaking records, "You think she has a chance?"
They watched as Aurelia quickly got over the large ramps and immediately transitioned into leaping over the hurdles with the grace and precision of a gazelle as Drei commented on every move she made. She especially kept the guys' attention with every move causing her assets to flail wildly. She made it to the log pendulum, effortlessly dodging and evading the swinging hunks of wood before moving to the tire scuttle. It was tough to trot her way through without a misstep but she managed to pull it off and give the guys on the sidelines a nice tit bouncing show. Finally, it was the six meter long jump over a sand patch. The crowd watched in awe and excitement as she majestically soared over the pit with her curly blonde locks shining like the sun before landing on the other side completing the course. The crowd applauded and cheered as Aurelia took a moment catch her breath.
"AND SHE'S STUCK THE LANDING FOLKS. LET'S SEE, HER TIME IS...ONE MINUTE TWENTY-TWO SECONDS?! MOVE YOUR PUPPY CHOW LOOKIN' ASS OVER SEABISCUIT YOU'VE BEEN DETHRONED!" Drei announced in the megaphone.
Aurelia flipped her hair with her hand with a prideful smile at the praise and admiration from the small crowd; the loudest coming the guys. She then walks up to Mirabelle who stood dumbfounded by the spectacle she just witnessed.
"What's wrong? Having second thoughts are we?" Aurelia taunted in a smug tone as she wiped her forehead, "It is not too late to give up now."
Mirabelle wasn't able to make eye contact, feeling her confidence wavering.
"WOOOO LET'S GO MAREQUINE!" came the voice of Caleb, getting both Centaurs' attention.
"SHOW 'EM WHAT YOUR MADE OF TWILIGHT SPARKLE!" Zwei joined in.
"YEAH! YOU CAN DO IT MIRA!" Lyca shouted but accidentally startled the baby, making it cry then started gingerly bouncing to calm her, "Oh, sorry, sorry little pup."
"I'll just take over to the benches away from all the loud noise," Angela said. Lyca agreed, handing her over.
Aurelia gave a look of surprise and confusion at Caleb and the others as a small grin forms on Mirabelle's lips. She felt a surge of determination.
"No," Mirabelle said, getting Aurelia's attention. She looked at her with passion and drive surprising, Aurelia, "I won't give up."
Mirabelle then positioned herself at the starting point, silently thanking Caleb.
Aurelia folded her arms skeptically eyeing Mirabelle and looking at Caleb in thought.
"ALRIGHT MAREQUINE!" Drei shouted in as Mirabelle took a deep breath and focused. She then took off, kicking up dirt and mist from her tail with incredible speed that shocked everyone, especially Aurelia. Before they knew it, she had already cleared the ramps and was getting over the hurdles. She jumped with such speed and precision that it appeared as if her hooves never touched the ground; even leaving a trail of purple mist following behind her like laminar waves
Caleb watched in awe as Lyca and Zwei, along with members of the crowd, cheered for her. She got to the pendulum, one of the parts Caleb was most worried about. However, to his and Aurelia's astonishment, Mirabelle managed to avoid each swing, moving with such fluidity that she seemed to phase through each swinging log.
The more Aurelia observed her movements the more they felt familiar to her. That's when it hit her. Those strong but precise moves were similar to her uncle's movements on the training grounds!
'But how? How can this be?!' Aurelia raged internally.
*Sidenote: In actuality, Mirabelles adeptness for skillfully maneuvering through obstacles stems from the generational trauma of constantly being hunted and needing to quickly evade capture that all Nightmare are born with. The subconscious fear in back of Mirabelles mind of failing to secure her mate triggered her natural flight response which, in this case, translated into "athletic prowess"*
"HELL YEAH! Make this court your bitch Twilight! ", Zwei cheered cupping her mouth with both hands as Aurelia looks to her then to Mirabelle.
Mirabelle arrived at the tires shocking Aurelia even more by effortlessly bouncing from opening to opening with great precision. Each bounce, of course, had the effect of making her breasts flop about as the guys on the sidelines oggle her even pulling out their phones for pics. Caleb casually and vindictively signals to Drei who flicks a few sticky pellets covering all their phones in gooey substance ruining them. Finally, Mirabelle gets to the long jump. She increases her speed, charges low, and, with all her strength in her hind legs, propels her forward soaring majestically. Caleb's eye widen mouth agape seeing her beautiful and...powerful she looked in this moment. She barely clears the jump coming to a screeching hault kicking up dust forcing Aurelia to shield her eyes.
"AND SHE JUST BARELY STICKS IT FOLKS. ONE WRONG STEP AND SHE'D HAVE LITERALLY BIT THE DUST. OK, HER TIME IS AT..."
Caleb, the girls, the crowd, especially Aurelia went quiet a second before...
"ONE MINUTE NINE SECONDS! WE HAVE A WINNER!", Drei stated into the megaphone as the crowd erupted into cheering and clapping. Lyca and Zwei cheered bouncing around ecstatically hugging and Caleb smiles widely clapping and shoutng.
Aurelia stared in shock at Mirabelle as she held her chest, her breath ragged.
"Bloody hell..." Mirabelle gasped wiping her sweaty forehead before taking a deep breath and straightening herself up. She brushed the dust from her skirt.
Aurelia expected Mirabelle to say something but was surprised when Mirabelle silently walked away from her.
"Oh my God that was amazing!" a girl and her friends from the crowd exclaimed as she and several other people approached Mirabelle, "Can we get some pictures with you?"
"I never heard of a purple Centaur woman before now I seen it all," chortled a man who resembled a lizard.
"Where are you from?" inquired one of the young women.
"Can I pet your fur?"
Mirabelle embarassedly and nervously looked around at the crowd bombarding her with questions from all sides, beginning to panic.
"OK back up! Back right on up! Let the woman breathe!" Caleb ordered, pushing through and putting himself between the crowd and Mirabelle.
"ALRIGHT! Disperse! This student is under the special care of MON as a protected species. No unauthorized photos! Definitely no touching!" Zwei stated before Drei descended down beside her.
"INDIVIDUALS WHO FAIL TO COMPLY WILL BE ARRESTED UNDER ICEP LAW!," Drei yelled in the megaphone, as everyone in her radius covered their ears.
"Damn, girl! Is there a volume nob on that thing?" someone inquired in annoyance.
"YES THERE IS A VOLUME KNOB ON THAT THING! NOW STEP AWAY!" Drei stated in the megaphone at him as some people in the crowd walked away in dissatisfaction or disappointment.
"Moon pie!" Caleb said in a cheerful tone and smiling widely, "You were amazing!"
"I...I was? I thought I was just making a fool of myself out there," she said doubtingly.
"Are you kidding?! You were AWESOME! When you like like jumping real fast over the things! And when dodging the swingy things! It was so cool!" Lyca stated with admiring eyes.
"I think you might've broken some Centaur athletic records! I don't know if they even exist but I'm sure you broke them," Zwei praised, patting the side of her lower half.
"R-Really?" Mirabelle said curiously.
"I'll admit, you had me worried there Moon pie," Caleb admitted before gingerly petting the top of her head, "You really do surprise me."
Mirabelle smiled softly at the praise from her lover, "...Thank you, Dear."
"Excuse us, sir, are you her host?" a teenage girl asked with her friends beside her.
"Yep, and proud of it too regardless if she won or lost," Caleb replied as Mirabelle rolled her eyes playfully.
"Now don't be getting all cheeky on me now Dear. At least pretend to have some higher standards," Mirabelle said, trying to sound annoyed but couldn't hide her grin.
"He's five-nine. They can only get as high as the shelf he can reach," Drei commented.
"You're one to talk half-pint!" Caleb shot back.
"Hey! She is a four-foot-four QUEEN! Put some respect on her crown!" Zwei defended, leaning against Drei and placing her elbow on her sister's head like a table. Drei stepped aside, letting her sister fall.
Aurelia stood silently in thought, trying to comprehend what was happening. It was impossible. There was no way she could have lost to someone like her! Those movements of hers were so similar to theíos [Uncle in Greek] Octavius! How can that be?! She...She must have cheated somehow! It was the only possible explanation.
"I was always told that you heathens are full of tricks," Aurelia spoke, catching Caleb's attention, "You used some sort of illusion during the race, didn't you?! I knew your movements appeared strange!"
"You mean they were from someone with clearly better maneuverability than you or is that too much for your mind to comprehend?", Drei asks in a skeptical tone.
"Why you-", Aurelia hisses at the weasel girl.
"Hey! Mira's no rotten cheater! She beat you fair and square!" Lyca barked, defending her pack mate.
"Don't you bare your fangs at me, mongrel!" Aurelia shot back, glaring at the she-wolf before looking right at Mirabelle, who flinched, "That heathen has you all under her charms and going to break it starting with Mr. Bizzell!"
"Ok, I've had enough out of you!" Caleb stated, going up to her, "We finished your bullshit duel, now leave us alone!"
Aurelia was taken aback, "You...you cannot POSSIBLY be serious. You would take this heretic over a knight of my pedigree? I need a home soon. I'm allowed to choose my master but I can't take forever. I can be a great asset to any home but first I must know my master is a worthy person with a good heart. You shown me you are that and more yet you waste it on her!"
"Look I'm telling you to ju- " Caleb started before she interrupted him.
"I can be of far more practical use to you than some unnaturally colored reprobate! If you become MY rider I am certain you will not regret it!" Aurelia stated passionately, almost desperate, a hand over her chest.
"Man, this lady doesn't take no for an answer," Zwei said, folding her arms, "Hey Boss, you-"
Caleb ignored her, turning to Mirabelle who gave a curious look. He then hoisted himself up on her back much to her, the others, and especially Aurelia's surprise.
Mirabelle eyes widened and a blush spread across her cheeks, "D-Dear?"
Caleb straightened up his back, using her sides for balance, and looked straight at Aurelia.
"I'm already somebody's rider," he said in a serious tone while leaning into Mirabelles human-like back and caressing her neck. Mirabelle lightly shuddered at his touch as her ears twitched in excitement.
"N-No way...she lets you ride her?" Aurelia spoke in disbelief.
"Uh, phrasing?" Drei points out.
Caleb whispered in Mirabelle ear to which she nodded. Mirabelle went into a gallop then teleported away from the group, catching everyone by surprise before reappearing several feet away in a full run. The two of them galloped around the outside perimeter of the obstacle course teleporting then reappearing as the girls watched the pair. They teleported again, coming to a slow trot up to the group.
"Does that answer your question?" Caleb inquired.
"Yes...more than enough. Goodbye," Aurelia said bitterly before turning to leave.
"Whoa, really? Just like that you're giving up? That's all it took?" Zwei asked in confusion.
"You do not know what it means for a Centaur to allow themselves to be ridden, do you? It is THE most sacred act among our race; more so than even one's chastity. For a heathen like her to allow him to mount her, it proves he truly isn't being controlled," Aurelia explained coldly.
Caleb sighed, "Yes, finally, I'm glad you understand now."
"Yes, I understand. I understand you are not at ALL worthy to become my master! You are no better than this heretic," Aurelia spoke in a venomous tone, glaring at him.
"...Yeah...alright..." Caleb said, accepting that he couldn't win, "Her name's 'Mirabelle' by the way. I appreciate it if you use it.
"Whatever. Listen well, 'Mirabelle'!" Aurelia stated, pointing right at her, making her flinch, "I refuse to lose to you again! Next time we meet, I will be stronger with a master, ten, no, TWENTY times better than your pudgy excuse for a master!"
'Oh ok, so much for 'nobility and stature'," Caleb thought, rolling his eyes.
"Hey! Why don't you get down off your pedestal! Can you even see down past those watermelon tits? Zwei contested.
Aurelia recoiled with an embarrassed blush, covering her chest then huffed, turning away, "Ugh, I am finished. I will not waste one more second with you...you incorrigible swine. Goodbye!"
"Ok! We hope every goes well for you!" Caleb called as she angrily trudged away.
"Fouskóste ton ton kólo sas!" Aurelia spat, getting further away. Mirabelle recoiled with a displeased look.
"What did she say?" Lyca said, raising an eyebrow.
"Sh-She told Dear to...blow it out his...you know," Mirabelle answered, not wanting to actually say it.
"Wait, you could understand her?" Caleb asked.
"I know a fair bit of Greek, yes."
"Huh, interesting. Well, I'm glad that's over," Caleb sighed.
"Seriously, who was that mean lady?" Lyca inquired, still glaring in the direction Aurelia went.
"Aurelia Lambos, she said. I feel like I've heard that name before though," Caleb said as Mirabelle's eyes widened in realization.
"You ok there? You look like you seen a ghost," Drei said, noticing the sudden paleness in her face.
"Y-Yes, I'm just really tired. That's all. Do you still have our food, Dear?" Mirabelle asked, trying to change the subject.
"Oh, yeah I actually had the lady at the snack bar hold everything for us," Caleb replied.
"Ah sweet, I'm actually starving. Hope you saved me and Lycs food too," Zwei said.
"Chicken strips!" Lyca cheered.
"I already ate mine but I'm getting hungry again," Drei said.
"Figures. Alright gang, lets go before the tenders get cold...er."
"Oh! Can miss Angela and her pup join us, Chief?" Lyca inquired in a hopeful tone.
"Who?" Mirabelle tilted her head curiously.
"I'll explain in a little bit. Sure you can Fuzzy," Caleb replied. The She-wolf squealed before going off to the picnic tables with Zwei tailing her.
Caleb was about to get off Mirabelle back but she stopped him.
"Wait, don't get off just yet."
"You just said you were really tired," Caleb replied.
"A bit but...I want to stay like this longer. Please?" Mirabelle spoke softly, looking back with pleading eyes.
"...Alright, Moon pie, just for you I'll stay on your back," Caleb said, patting her shoulder, "Heh, I sure did learn a lot about you today...and Centaurs in general."
"Perhaps more than you bargained for?" Mirabelle said in a somber tone, walking back to the snack bar. Even though she could just teleport them, she'd rather enjoy the time with him.
"Pffft, please. You think I'm not used to assholes like that? That's just the price you have to pay for living in this world," Caleb replied his tone turning cold near the end, which Mirabelle and Drei noticed. He then reached up and patted her head, "But sometimes it's a price worth paying. Right?"
Mirabelle looked back, smiling at him lovingly, "Hehe, right."
They quickly glanced around, making sure no one was watching. Mirabelle tilted her head back and shared a quick kiss with her lover.
In the back of her mind, she thought of her so-called father that Aurelia shared the same name with. She decided not to worry; Caleb and the others as there was no proof of their connection. That was what she hoped at least. For now though, she just wanted to enjoy the rest of the day with her friends and husband.
...Elsewhere...
Aurelia could be seen walking away mumbling to herself I agitation feeling angry about how things turned out today. She felt humiliated at her loss to a filthy Nightmare, finding out her ideal master was a complete fraud, and how that Nightmare could replicate her uncle's moves so flawlessly. On top of all that, she was right back were she started. No host and running out of time.
She sighed in exasperation wanting to hold my hope she really would find master better than that apostates. One...with a scent as alluring as Bizzell.
Actually, now that she thought about it, she could smell strong traces of a musky scent on that heathen belonging to him. It was almost like...
'No...i-it can't be. That's still illegal in this country. But...", Aurelia says to herself before remembering how...close the two of them appeared. Would they really go that far?
"Heyyy! It's you again!", came a voice that snapped her from her thoughts. She looks to see a homeless man with dingy clothes and tattered boots sitting near the out of the park entrance with a small red tent and her satchel of supplies from earlier. He smiled at her, "One of those park guys came by earlier said you dropped me some stuff off. Thank you so much this...this just so kind of you."
"Ah, well you are welcome, but I thought I requested he not tell you it was I who sent it?", Aurelia says slightly displeased.
"Ehh, don't worry none. Probably just couldn't keep it secret and wanted me to know so I could thank you myself.", The man replied.
"I suppose.", Aurealia halfheartedly spoke.
"Somethin' wrong?"
"You could say that I...made an enemy today. One who's kin have greatly hurt my family in the past.", Aurelia replies in a bitter tone.
"That right? Well, in that case I wouldnt worry too much. If they hurt you and your family, then that's they karma they have to carry. You keep living a good and honest life and don't worry about them. That's their debts to pay."
Aurelia eyes widen at his words feeling a sense of clarity, "Yes. Debts to pay. And pay...they shall."