Chapter 82: Picture Perfect Romance
…Meanwhile…
The director Beechfauz could be seen in his office talking to someone via Bluetooth earpieces while going through some I.A. project submissions on his computer.
"Listen, you NEED to tell her that his home isn't her kingdom, NOR is HE her king!" Beechfauz firmly advised, talking into the earpiece while typing as the individual on the other end responded. "BECAUSE we don't need her trying to claim kingdom independence in the middle of the fucking state! Do you have ANY idea what a socio-political nightmare that would be?! ...Well, you should have done a thorough read of her profile BEFORE you sent her to her host instead just assuming they were sisters! HER PAPERWORK WASN"T EVEN FINALIZED YET!" he yelled, annoyed at the incompetence and excuses from the newer ICEP agent. "I don't care if they WERE high-priority! We have a system in place for a REASON!"
Beechfauz pinched the bridge of his nose, agitated by this level of stupidity from the new generation, before taking a deep breath to calm himself, "Listen to me, arrange transportation to bring her and her host here tomorrow. We will sit down and better explain the agreement to her. Queen Slimes are known to be fairly reasonable compared to others of the species. YOU just make sure to inform her host to not let her have any physical contact with her AT ALL. Don't want to risk her absorbing liquid of ANY kind from his body. The last thing we need is for her to start dividing. Tell him to put on plenty of body spray, slimes appear to hate the chemicals. Understood? ...Good. And, for the last time, it's Beechfauz!" he yelled, hanging up and massaging his head, "I swear these new agents are getting dumber by the day," Beechfauz muttered in frustration before the landline phone on his desk started ringing, prompting an annoyed eye roll from the director seeing that it was his receptionist on the caller I.D. He answered the phone, deciding to deal with whatever headache this was, "Yes? What is it, Pam?"
"Mr. Bitchface, your 1:15 pm appointment is here. Ms. Moon…of the Fantina Coven?" Pam, the receptionist, spoke, confused by the Witch's strange family name.
A small smile grew on his face, almost not irritated at her getting his name wrong.
"Perfect, send her in…and it's BEECHFAUZ!" Beechfauz stated, again ALMOST not irritated.
Barely a minute later, he heard a few small knocks at his door followed by a soft feminine voice as the door crept open. A small black Witch with short, neck-length black hair and eyes poked around the corner wearing a simple coat.
"Mr…Beechfauz?"
"Afternoon Ms. Moon, please, come in and have a seat," Beechfauz kindly said, gesturing to the gray accent chair in front of his desk.
A warm grin on her face, the black-haired witch stepped inside and took her seat to begin yet another special therapy session with the charming older man.
Now, some might question why the leader of an ICEP facility was doing therapy sessions for a student, well, answering that came in two parts. First, after a few sessions with her primary specialist, they came to understand that she seemed to be most willing to open up to him in particular. So they decided to meet at times when his schedule was open to best support her recovery. Second, Beechfauz actually enjoyed her company. She was a calm, welcome presence outside of the craziness and incessant incompetence of some of the new hires he'd had to deal with lately. The fact that she got his name right without fail was a plus.
"How have you been since we last spoke?"
"I've been fine. I've been keeping myself busy with some garden work and learning new cooking recipes. Oh I even made this dress I'm wearing Mr Beechfauz using that sewing machine you have here." Moon told him as she quickly got up taking off her coat and did a twirl to show off her dress which was mimi strapless floral dress with black base and purple violets on it
"It is very beautiful dress Ms Moon." Beechfauz said to her.
…Back to Caleb…
After dropping Kaiya and Tristan back to their home for the former to change pants and get ready, Caleb decided to return to his apartment as well to shower and change as well; not wanting to go out smelling like Carmine's cooking.
After showering and drying himself off, Caleb was now in his bedroom getting dressed. He stood in his blue boxers laying out a pair of black jeans, a blue t-shirt, and black overshirt. A part of him was feeling nervous. Not because of the date itself, but because he WAS doing it at all.
"So, you're really doing this, huh?" Drei spoke, getting his attention. He saw her standing and leaning against the doorway, back against the wall.
"Look, I know it looks bad, but I promise it isn't."
"Really? Because it kinda seems like you're going on a date with a female Hellhound whose life you saved. Personally, I don't really care who you consent to. I just don't want to get caught in the middle of your jealous housewives drama when we eventually leave, especially with one said housewife with a very short fuse."
"First, Camila has made some good strides with her emotions and second, Moonpie is the one who suggested I give her a chance. I said, 'OK' but only if SHE asked me out. How was I supposed to know it would ACTUALLY happen?"
"Uhh, Murphy's Law? Still, I'm surprised Ms. Marequine suggested something like that."
"Yeah, I was surprised too. She's really changed a lot from that nervous Centaur I remember shakily walking out of that truck like a child on their first day of school and into my home. I'm proud of her…at the same time though…"
"Yeahhh…I've heard of people enjoy something so much they want to share it with others; like snacks. Maybe the same applies to lovers," Drei shrugged, theorizing.
"Am I the snacks in this scenario?" Caleb skeptically replied, pulling up his pants and fastening his belt.
"In this case, more like dog treats."
"Whatever. I'm just going to go out, we're going have fun. Not TOO much fun–"
"Not yet at least," Drei casually interjected, earning an annoyed glare from Caleb, "Not before you get the OK from your current wives, right? I'm assuming the others know as well?"
Caleb paused for a moment and sighed softly, "Not yet but…we're–Moon pie's working on a way to tell them…and possibly, very possibly introduce her."
"Ahh, the old dream harem orientation. Classic," Drei sarcastically replied.
"I'd like to resent that, but unfortunately it's not that inaccurate. BUT this is all mute point since I don't even like Kaiya…romantically. I'm just going out because she asked. Couldn't hurt to at least be friends. That is fine too."
"Ah, so you don't intend on falling in love…even if she loves you?"
"It's…well…if I can help it…" he said, unsure.
"You know, I remember you wanting to 'stay friends' with two other women who fell in love with you. How'd that turn out again?" Drei fake asked, raising an eyebrow.
"THAT was because I was trying, in a very idiotic way in hindsight, to stay loyal to Moon pie! I tried pretending I didn't feel anything for Lyca or Camilla instead of talking to them and just buried those feelings, hoping they'd just go away while I lived my life! Ironic how it took almost being tortured to death to see how wrong I was."
"And you want to repeat that? The burying your feelings, not the torture. Although…"
"No! Listen, what I mean is… I don't feel for her what I felt around them. MAYBE I will, maybe I won't, I don't know. IF I feel it on this date, and IF I…really like her, I WILL talk to Mirabelle, Lyca and Camilla. I owe them that. I promised I wouldn't lie to them anymore."
"Not just them, you know."
"Yeah. Yeah, I know your sisters would be next followed by Sterling though I don't know how he's gonna take it."
At that moment, Drei's stomach started to loudly gurgle, prompting her to hunch over slightly, cradling her stomach with a strained expression on her face.
"Damn! You alright?" Caleb asked in concern.
"Yessss. I'm…OK. I'm…gonna be OK," Drei strained, clenching her teeth, feeling her abdomen clenching.
"You sure? You don't have to tag along if you're not feeling well."
"By, nnngh, 'tag along' you mean 'keep you out of danger from weirdos, killer's or stalkers', then yes, I do," Drei grunted trying to keep her usual straight face, "Besides, it's not my first time dealing with dairy-related disasters. I have medicine for this that I'm currently making. It just takes an hour to brew for guaranteed effectiveness," she spoke as a small, well-crafted teapot was brewing – on low heat – a strange thick green liquid substance on the kitchen stovetop; it smelled like a combination of ginger and paint thinner.
"Well, in that case, I could just go on ahead while you take care of your tummy trauma. Don't wanna keep her waiting but not gonna risk your health and/or dignity."
Drei looked at him inquisitively, knowing she couldn't deny his logic, "You sure you'll be fine?"
"Imma grown-ass bill-paying man with superpowers, Drei. I can take care of myself and watch my back," Caleb assured her, "I'll send a text with my location."
"No need, I'll just use the MON Emergency app to find your location," Drei casually replied, showing her phone with the ugly yellow and black app, "I'll get to you within an hour or so."
"Alright then," he said, fixing his overshirt, then spritzing himself with a little cologne, "I'll see you later then."
"Wait," Drei said, taking out a couple of bungee balls and a few healing medicine vials, "Drink this for injuries and throw these at anyone that annoys you."
"You mean 'threaten', right?"
Drei looked at him plainly, "No."
Caleb raised a dubious eyebrow but chose not to question or argue as he accepted her medicine and weapons-grade adhesive bombs, making a mental note to be careful not to bump his pockets too hard. He made sure he had his keys, wallet, and phone as well then walked past her.
"Alright, I'll see you later, Drei."
"Yeah," she nodded, watching him leave. Maybe it was out of habit or her species' instincts but part of her was urging every nerve to follow him; stay by his side. Protect him. She shook those thoughts from her head. She can't let her instincts take over, not yet at least. Not with just a little over three months left when it would happen. The only silver lining was that he was getting plenty of experience for when the time came. Until then, she'd stay just out of reach…for her and her sister's sake.
At that moment, her stomach grumbled much louder followed by a sharp pain shooting through her lower intestines, signaling nature knocking at her door. She elicited a loud weasel groan then rushed with blinding speed to the bathroom.
"DAMN YOU JOVIIIIII!" Drei cursed to the heavens as she committed a full-on war crime on the bathroom toilet while simultaneously releasing her burdens.
….Back to Scarlett and the others…
All four girls could be seen leaving the boba tea place after hearing the startling news. They could now be seen walking towards the courtyard as a several other liminal students went about their business.
"I mean like…why though? Well, I KINDA get it with the whole 'saved-your-life-now-let's-fuck' cliche but I always thought that was in movies. But It's actually real?!" Jocelyn stated, earning a side eye from Tubala, "Seriously, what is he thinking?"
"Does it really matter? I think this makes his loyalty quite clear. If he's willing to cheat on his beloved Camilla, surely he cannot be trusted," Tubala said, a bit glad this human was giving her the perfect opportunity to sway Scarlett and the others against him.
"Hey, come on, I didn't say THAT! It's just…surprising! We don't even know if it's a 'date' date, maybe it's a…platonic date?"
"Then why not just say 'hanging out' to avoid misunderstandings?" Heidi questioned as Tubala smirked in approval.
"That's not helping, you know. I already feel dumb just saying that," Jocelyn remarked, arms folded in discontent.
"Well, we DO know that Kaiya was the one to ask him. She's always been the quieter one of Amara's pups so mayyyybe it's not anything too scandalous," Heidi pondered out loud.
"Scandalous? OK, you've been hanging around Sylvia too much. Trust me, I'm really, really hoping it's nothing big but well, Amara's description of dating doesn't give me much confidence. It might translate over to Kaiya," Jocelyn said.
"Hmm, what do you think, Scarlett?" Heidi inquired.
Scarlett doesn't respond; ever since they had left the tea shop she'd remained completely silent. As she kept walking, her mind was swimming, thinking of the encounter he and Kaiya had that night at Amara's home. She then thought of her and Caleb's interaction a few days ago and her therapist's advice. She'd been having a hard time comprehending the strange new feelings plaguing her mind like sickness lately. Hearing that he had accepted the Hellhound's feelings so easily…something in her just didn't sit right, it didn't make sense. It even made her a little upset for reasons she didn't understand.
"Yo, Scar!"
Scarlett was snapped from her thoughts by Jocelyn speaking loudly in her ear, causing her to jump, "Gah! W-What?!"
"Heidi called your name like three times. Thought you were tuning her out for a second but I remember that's more Sharon protocol. You OK?"
"I…yeah, I'm fine."
"OK, so what do you think of Caleb dating Kaiya?"
Scarlett's eyes widened, blushing slightly, taken aback, "Well, what difference does it make what I think? I'm not responsible for his life or his consequences. He can do whatever he wants as long as it doesn't inconvenience me."
"That's a pragmatic way of looking at things," Jocelyn plainly spoke.
"I say it's the only way to look at it. Speculate all you wish but the answer is already right in front of us. He is a male. It's just in their nature. They are all greedy, disloyal swines that just want one thing and can never have enough. That Bizzell is no different as you can see," Tubala remarked.
"I don't remember asking you a Chaos damn thing. Why are you even still here?" Jocelyn asked in annoyance.
"How rude. I was merely enjoying a pleasant stroll and conversation with my fellow sisters of Chaos."
"Well, first off, I ain't your damn sister. We didn't grow up in the same harem clan. Second, we're not having the same conversation. You're just spouting ignorant bullshit and calling it an answer," Jocelyn distastefully said.
"How dare you?! As if what I said is REMOTELY untrue!" Tubala angrily shot back as Heidi looked between them both in concern, "The only reason you have any contentions is because of your misplaced gratitude towards that human for his small role in your freedom."
"If by 'small role', you mean saved our lives then no, it's not just that! Caleb's a sweet guy who's done a lot for us and he's never once asked us for anything! Even though some of us are more than willing to show our gratitude. It's just who he is!" Jocelyn contested as Scarlett and Heidi exchanged surprised glances, the former cupping her rosy cheeks and turning away in embarrassment.
"Oh, I get it now. It's not really about him betraying his current lover. It's about him not accepting your offers to fuck him. Disgusting. Have you no pride? Being attracted to FILTH like him?" Tubala spat in revulsion.
"I don't give a damn what you say about me. I've heard plenty of wild nonsense in my old clan, I'm used to tuning out most ignorant bullshit. But you don't even know Caleb like we do so don't lump him in with the guys you've been around who fucked you over," Jocelyn retorted as Scarlett and Tubala stopped in their tracks, shocked by her words.
"You…bitch. How dare you say that to me?!" Tubala went up to Jocelyn, fist clenched with three red magic seals summoned around them like gauntlets, prepared to throttle her before Heidi immediately held her back, "Get out of my way! I'll show this worthless cunt!"
"Yeah!? Come on bitch! Nobody's scared of you!" Jocelyn yelled back, summoning two green magic seals in her palms that emanated greenish-black flames in their centers. Several other students stopped to watch a possible brawl in the courtyard while keeping their distance.
"STOP! Jocelyn, stop! You too, Tubala!" Scarlett firmly stated, her wings spread to block their view of each other, "Not. Here. Not in front of them and not with each other!"
Tubala glanced around and saw the unwanted eyes on her but especially noticing the I.A. security officers approaching, drawn by the commotion. She clenched her teeth and turned away in a huff.
"Whatever, it's not even worth it. Heidi, I will see you later," Tubala said, turning and quickly walking away, shoving a female Wererabbit student out of her way.
"Alright, Jocelyn, what the fuck is wrong with you!" Heidi practically yelled.
"Me?! That bitch is the one starting shit since she got here and I for one am sick of it!"
"It doesn't make what you said right. You know what she's been through. ALL of us," Heidi said, disappointed in her friend's insensitivity looking at Scarlett who remained quiet.
Jocelyn looked at Scarlett, seeing her despondent expression, immediately feeling guilty, "Scar, I…I'm sorr–"
"I'm fine, Jocelyn," she interrupted, her voice a bit cold, "I don't care about who started it. Just…enough. OK?"
Jocelyn's eyes widened, feeling her words sting then sighed in defeat, conjuring a flight spell on her wings, "Alright, I need to get back to work anyway. Later," she said before spreading her glowing wings, floating into the air then stopped and turned around, "And for the record! I DO know what she's been through! You don't see me trying to hurt and belittle others just BECAUSE!" Jocelyn yelled back, her voice cracking and wiping tears away as she left.
Scarlett stood for a moment in thought as Heidi cautiously approached her.
"Scarlett, are you OK?"
"Yes. I'm fine, Heidi," she plainly responded then turned away. "I'm going back to my apartment. I'll see you later."
"OK, Scarlett…" Heidi responded, accepting her wishes, unable to find the right words that could salvage the situation and watching as her redhead friend flew off, leaving her behind, "Ha…what is happening? I thought the point of the faction was to keep us together?"
…Back to Caleb…
Caleb could be seen walking up to the front door of the Hellhound's building, the heat emanating from the ground outside making him sweat a little, and knocked on the claw-mark riddle door. Not even five seconds after knocking, the huge door flew open with Jannali and a few of her sisters right in the doorway, to his surprise. Some of their tails were wagging in excitement with their fiery eyes fixated on him.
"Hi Caleb! It's nice to see you again!" Jannali happily greeted him with a smile.
"Been a while, cutie! Did you miss me?" Alkina added, smirking hungrily, leaning over to show off her ample cleavage.
"Heh, yeah…I guess a few days is kinda long," Caleb responded, glancing away uncomfortably; not due to her obvious advances but by the fact that he couldn't remember hers or even HALF her other sister's names and didn't want to insult them.
"Why would he miss you, Alkina?" Tristan sneakily commented behind her, much to her annoyance, and happily greeted Caleb, "Sup chommie! Thanks for the lift earlier."
"Anytime man. Is…Kaiya ready?"
"I don't know, lemme check. KAIYA! YOUR DATE'S HERE! COME GET HIM BEFORE I DO!" Jannali shouted as Caleb looked at her incredulously.
"Are you kidding me?" Caleb uttered, pinching the bridge of his nose.
"Nope. More accurately, it's before I do," Alkina replied, she and the twins, Jenema and Kehema, circling him like hungry wolves, enjoying his scent and cautious demeanor, gingerly brushing up against him.
"Don't you wanna come in while you wait? We can keep you company until she's ready," Kehema offered with a saucy smirk, tail wagging as she and her twin pressed themselves against him. Caleb instinctively kept both hands up and apart so as to not be touching any of them.
"No. Thank you. I'm fine with waiting out here."
"Ignore them, chommie, they've been excited ever since we got back. Don't pay their thirst any min," Tristan casually said.
"Shut it! How about you mind your business?" Jannali retorted, snarling at him, as he nonchalantly rested his arms behind his head.
"Hey, come on, chommie. It's been a little while since we saw you. Don't you want catch up before you go?" Alkina proposed, mushing her breast to his shoulder.
Caleb took a deep breath, keeping his composure, "First off, it's only been over a week. Second, sorry, maybe another time, right now there's only one person on my mind," he firmly replied, meaning it in a more pragmatic sense as he wanted to understand the nature of Kaiya's infatuation with him to see if there could be something more.
However, in Alkina and her sisters' minds, it felt more like a declaration of loyalty and love towards their younger sister. They couldn't help blushing and smiling, their heads swimming with lewd or romantic thoughts. Tristan couldn't help but find their lovey-dovey demeanor amusing to watch.
"Hey! What are y'all doing? Are y'all bothering him?!" Amara barked loudly, snapping her daughters back to reality. Alkina and the twins quickly stepped away from Caleb, not wanting to face their mother's wrath. Her irate expression then morphed into a warm smile at Caleb as she walked up to him, "Sorry it took so long, sweetie. Are you ready for her? Brace yourself now."
"OK?" Caleb raised an eyebrow.
Amara stepped to the side, revealing her oldest daughter Kreã behind her who also stepped to the other side, striking a 'tada' pose with jazz hands to a clearly embarrassed and stunningly dressed Kaiya.
She now wore a dark blue sleeveless, turtleneck sweater that showed off her thick arms and black freckled shoulders and top portion of her ample breasts and carried a dark gray plaid overshirt. She also wore a form-fitting black skirt with short tight blue shorts underneath—apparently learning her lesson from the earlier incident—drawing notable attention to her wide hips. Even her pigtails were nearly tied with satin blue ribbons while her eyes still hid behind her black bangs, something she had greatly insisted upon.
Caleb looked at her, stunned, and involuntarily uttered, "Wow…you look…beautiful."
Kaiya heard this and blushed heavily, then glanced away, nervous and fidgeting as her heart raced, "Y-You look great too."
"You wouldn't believe how picky this one is, chommie! Took us a while to compromise on a style that suits her," Kreã remarked, slapping Kaiya on the back, making her breasts bounce a bit.
"H-Hey!"
"I tried getting her to wear something with a bit more sexiness to it. Something to make that ass POP every time she takes a step, dammit, hehe!" Amara heartily started with a chuckle as Kaiya looked at her, mortified, "But this what she insisted on."
"Hey, look at it this way, Mama, it was a good call. They both match now," Kreã gestured between Kaiya and Caleb as they both took a moment to examine each other, quickly realizing they were dressed in similar black and blue styles.
"Oooooh, you're right! Y'all look so good together! I think it's a sign that even lord Cerberus approves of your union. Figures my blue-eyed baby would find herself a blue dressed mate!" Amara happily said, shimmying her hips giddily as Caleb raised an eye at the weird little dance.
"Mamaaaa!" Kaiya whined, blushing more heavily then covering her eyes over hands. Her sisters chuckled in amusement, some teasing and messing with her.
"OK, not trying to be rude or anything but we should really get going," Caleb spoke up, trying not to sound impatient, but REALLY wanting to leave.
"Of course! You're not being rude at all, sweetie. She's ready!"
"Yeah, go ahead Kai, don't keep your mate waiting," Kreã encouraged, pushing her sister forward, much to her protest.
"Hey, it's not official yet, Kre. They still gotta consummate," Alkina pointed out as the sisters start hooping enthusiastically and making lewd comments while Kaiya blushed in embarrassment until her face was steaming.
"We're NOT—it's JUST a date. We're going to hang out and enjoy our time together. That's it! Two people enjoying each other's company!" Caleb affirmed, putting their lewd claims to rest, to Kaiya's surprise and relief.
"Ohh, you're one of the 'take it slow' types. That works too, just don't be idle and waste time, you two," Amara advised.
"Understood. Kaiya?" he responded, offering his hand to the shorter Hellhound.
She was reluctant but reached out and took it. His hand was notably smaller compared to her large, fur-covered ones but still felt firm and secure. The feel of her warm and smooth canine-padded palms were quite pleasant to Caleb as well.
Caleb cleared his throat then looked up at Amara, "I'll try and get her back before dark, ma'am."
"Oh, take your time! You're both adults," she waved off then kneeled down until they were at eye level and lay her massive, heavy paw on his shoulder, "Just make sure to treat her kindly. If she comes back here in tears, I'll break you in half," she spoke with a warm smile that quickly morphed into a hellish, toothy scowl showing off wicked, bone-crushing sharp fangs, burning red eyes like the hottest circle of hell, and a monstrous aura that would make even a hardened marine officer tremble in fear.
"U-Understood, ma'am," Caleb stuttered, nodding in fervent understanding, feeling every nerve in his body screaming at him to run.
"Good," Amara replied, her face softening back to her sweet self, "One last thing, no need to hold back too much. All my daughters have hunted cape buffalo their whole lives. Their legs are solid as iron. Kaiya, show him your legs."
"Mama!", Kaiya whined
"Hahaha! I'm kidding, baby! See you later."
"Let's go! LET'S GO!" Kaiya, face burning in pure embarrassment and frustration, dragged Caleb away, much to his surprise at her sudden assertiveness.
"Later, chommie! Have fun Kai, try not to break him too quick!" Tristan teased, waving the pair off.
"HAHA! That's one down! Twelve more to go!" Amara boasted proudly then turned a skeptical side-eye to Tristan, "Well, thirteen."
"Pfft, what? Come on auntie, you know I ain't settling down any time soon."
"Certainly not with THAT attitude."
"Come on Ma, you already know he's not the committed type. He can't even pick a program in this facility to stick with," Jannali remarked, smirking deviously as he lightly scowls.
"You mean like how you should be committed to passing the Florida guys test tomorrow?" Tristan asked in a knowing tone Jannali growled in annoyance, "Ah, who am I kidding? You're likely gonna fail anyway."
"OK, wise-ass, I've been meaning to blow off some steam after studying NONSTOP the last few days. YOU! ME! SPARRING CIRCLE! NOW!" Jannali barked loudly, pointing upwards.
Tristan looks at her unfazed then smirks, "HA! You're on, Jan! Don't expect me to go easy on you.", he emphasized, rotating his arms to loosen his muscles.
"That's funny coming from a guy who likes strawberry yogurt!" she snapped, leading him towards the elevator.
"Hey! You disrespect my yogurt, I make YOU hurt!" he growled, following her along with Kreã and some of his other cousins going to watch. Amara shrugged, going back to her room for a nap.
"Sooo we're gonna follow them, right?" Kehema asked her twin and Alkina, quiet enough so their mother or Tristan wouldn't hear them.
"Definitely, someone's got to keep the troublemakers away that'd ruin our sis' special day. Yep, that's totally the only reason," Alkina replied wholeheartedly.
"Yep. The only reason," Kehema nodded.
"Nothing else, just our sister's safety," Jenema nodded, smiling innocently.
All the while all three were hiding their secret motive to watch the pair mate and possibly try to join them after the first session. Males of most species are typically very receptive after the first round of mating. They couldn't pass up the chance to mate with an interesting human with such potent musk; one of the clearest indicators of good genes.
"Hey! Close my damn door, you three!"
"Sorry Mama!" all three said simultaneously, sharing devious smirks and glowing red eyes, as they put their plan into action.
Further away, Caleb could be seen pulling off the curb, driving down the street with Kaiya sitting in the passenger seat clearly mortified, so he chose not to pry into her business.
"I'm…sorry you had to experience that."
Caleb glanced at her, confused, "What? Your family? It's OK, they're just happy for you."
"Yeah but…did they have to be so…" Kaiya spoke, shaking her head in exasperation.
"Listen, everyone's family embarrassed them in one way or another. It just comes with the package. Hell, I'm no stranger to that," Caleb replied, still having not recovered from his uncle showing off his embarrassing baby photos to the girls.
Kaiya looked at him with intrigue, "R-Really?"
"Yeah. It's just…how families show their love," Caleb spoke, his voice softening as his mind wandered for a second then he audibly cleared his throat, "So, where did you wanna go?"
Kaiya was about to answer but quickly realized, to her horror, she had not planned that far ahead on where their first date should be. She barely even knew what humans DID on dates besides…NOPE, she quickly threw that out of her mind. She cursed herself for not being better prepared if he actually said 'yes'.
"Um I…I'm so sorry but I don't really know what to do," she sadly admitted, ashamed of herself.
"That's fine. We'll just go wherever you typically like to go. What are you into?" Caleb calmly assured, much to her surprise.
"What I'm…into?" Kaiya repeated, thinking for a moment before responding, "Well, there's…one place I really like."
"Great. Here, type it into my phone GPS," Caleb casually replied, handing over his phone.
"A-Alright," Kaiya nodded, accepting the task, feeling slightly more at ease.
….Meanwhile…
At the Fantina Coven, many of the Witches could be seen going about the daily routine of chores, cooking, magic training, spell crafting, and various hobbies. In an apple red dome-shaped house, Mars could be seen with her fellow Witches, including Gala and Nova, going through the study material and applications for job training and trade skill classes.
"Whoa, this is really fascinating. I didn't know humans had their own books for crafting spells. 'Pie-Thigh-gore-rus thee-rem', must be a spell to make our thighs more alluring.", Nova theorized as Gala turned a curious ear towards her.
"It's Pythagoras' theorem, you nitwit.", Mars remarks, "Still, I have to agree, it is fascinating. I'm thinking of applying to this baking class that's available."
"Why do you need a class for that? Your apple buns are already the best in the coven. So soft, warm and sweet", Gala inquired curiously, "They beat out Asteria's every time. Isn't that right, Asteria?"
"Go fuck yourself, Gala.", Asteria flips her off, reading through a GED textbook.
"It's not about being the best in my coven. I really like baking and I want to improve that skill even further. It's one reason I'm grateful for the opportunities Scarlett and the Chaos Faction are helping us receive."
"Yeah and this facility has a TON of opportunities to choose from. Not just with job training and human standard education either. The counseling sessions are really helping out sisters cope with separation from their big brothers; even Moon's been in good spirits lately.
"More than that, she's been positively glowing the last couple days. And she won't stop talking about that Bitchface guy after their sessions.", Gala acknowledges with a mischievous grin.
"Is that…really his name?", Mars doubtfully asks.
"I don't know. Maybe his parents were vindictive. Point is, it looks like our Moon's found herself a new man.", Gala saucily furrows her eyebrows.
"Come on, we don't know that.", Asteria dismissively remarks.
"How else would you describe it?! All the signs are there."
"For her, maybe. Do you or even SHE know if he likes her back? For all we know, their relationship is one-sided.", Asteria points out to the other's surprise.
"Why would you say that, Asteria? You know what she's been through.", Nova expressed.
"Of course but you guys also know Moon is a hopeless romantic type. Why do think she put up with that FIRST scumbag for so long. I…I just don't want her getting hurt again.", Asteria admitted, feeling ashamed for turning a blind eye from her coven sister's pain brought by her first lover.
Mars and the others knew they couldn't deny her concerns nor the guilt from being bystanders in Moon's dark days. They wanted her to be happy but it was very much possible that Moon was trying to rebound.
"We'll just talk to her. Simple as that.", Mars suggests, "Surely she'll listen to some constructive criticism."
"Yeah, just advise to take it a little slow and not to throw her heart or her pussy at just anyone.", Nova assured, getting a few dubious stares.
"Where did you hear something so…vulgar?", Asteria scowls in disgust.
"Our new devil friends, Sharon and Sylvia .", She answered with a proud grin.
"Of course.", Asteria shakes her head in disappointment.
"Honestly though, it would be good to make sure Moon isn't overcompensating. I can't even imagine being in a one-sided romance with a man.", Gala confidently stated as the others looked at her incredulously.
"Are you serious?", Nova questions her friend's obliviousness.
"What?"
"I'm not even gonna attempt to explain everything wrong with your statement. Anyway! Mars, I'm surprised you haven't been going to a therapist.", Asteria changes the subject.
"Oh, well…l've mostly been preoccupying myself with other things."
"But…don't you…miss your big brother too?", a purple haired witch carefully inquires.
Mars goes quiet a moment then responds, "Every minute of every day but…that's why I'm working on myself in the meantime, Constella. I plan on taking baking classes to further improve my skills and get a certification. When he eventually comes home, I'll have an entire spread of baked goods waiting for him! Who knows? Maybe we could begin working on opening our bakery."
"Bakery? You mean like your own store?", Nova asked, intrigued.
"Yeah. It's something we…would talk about sometimes. He always said my pastries were the best he ever had and with liminal-owned businesses becoming more common nowadays…we thought of starting our own together."
"You really think you'd both fare well on your own though. The outside world is a volatile place and its always been unkind to our people.", an orange haired witch spoke, unconvinced.
"Yeah, I really don't like the idea of leaving the safety of our coven just for a slim chance of a new life.", Asteria added, equally uncertain, "I'd rather my big brother and I live together in peace here with you all."
"Asteria, you don't have a big brother. You won't know what he wants when the time comes.", Nova bluntly pointed out as Asteria scowls at her.
"You're one to talk! I don't see you with a mate so your advice is baseless nonsense!"
"What did you say?!", Nova raises up, irritated but Mars stops her, giving a serious glare with ruby red eyes.
"And that's perfectly fine if that's your choice, Asteria. I was just sharing a dream my…darling big brother and I have.", Mars remarks, feeling a slight ache in her chest, "I know it's been harder for us lately but things are looking up and changing for the better. We've just gotta keep moving forward."
Nova and Asteria look at each other a moment, choosing to back down.
"Yeah, you're right Mars. We're definitely doing much better than before. I'm sure the next time our Mistress Fantina returns, she'll be surprised by how much we're growing.", Gala happily remarks.
"I hope she's being treated well though. It's been nearly two weeks since she visited", one of the witches.
"It's fine. Our Mistress can handle herself and there have been times she'd been gone way longer than that."
"Plus, she's living with that big hunk of a male. Her ex-partner who betrayed her, now returned to right his wrongs and profess his secret love held back for so many years! I can only imagine how they're making up for lost time. Ohh the perfect romance! It's getting me hot just thinking about it!", Gala expressed, blushing and shimmying in delight. All the while, getting weird looks from her coven sisters.
"I can't wait to see what their adorable daughter is gonna look like. Maybe they won't stop at one! What if they have like…five?!", Nova added, also letting her imagination go wild which Gala wholeheartedly approved.
"The both of you should look into getting therapy sessions as well.", Asteria plainly remarks.
As they chatted and went over the various classes they were interested in, Mars, despite her pleasant demeanor, couldn't shake her uneasiness of being seperated from her husband. Witches and their Big Brothers were meant to do practically everything together from simple chores to solving difficult problems. To her, and the other witches with Big Brothers, it felt unnatural, unfathomable even, to be apart even if they're in the same facility.
'Nick…I hope you're doing ok. I really, really want to see you…', Mars thought, the pain in her chest growing.
…Back to Caleb…
After some time, the pair arrived at the destination for their first date and, to Caleb's surprise, it wasn't quite what he was expecting. They now found themselves in a larger bookstore that was only a ten minute drive from her family's home called 'Words-A-Minute' or the WAM store as most people called it. Kaiya liked going here to relax, finding it peaceful for her and because of the vast assortment of books she couldn't find back in her home country or online.
As they entered, Caleb took in the sight of tall blue shelves loaded with various forms of literature from atlases updated to include the dozens of government-recognized liminal nations with information related to certain species' cultures, to numerous fiction, autobiographies, and research material, to manga and comics from every franchise possible. There was a section that featured a plethora of board games and card games with groups of humans and liminals playing on large tables. All around, several liminal students and even some human guests visited the I.A. facility could be seen walking about purchasing the merchandise. He noticed a woman wearing a mage's hat and outfit, similar to Jill's, sitting at a table selling an assortment of books related to the study of mana and spells to human visitors. There was a coffee shop area near the back entrance run by two female Wererabbits with several students and a few humans seated as the smell fresh brewed caffeine permeated the entire along with relaxing pop music on the intercom.
He noticed Kaiya taking a deep breath, inhaling and exhaling, relaxing with a grin that brought a small grin to his face too as they proceeded further.
"Nice place. It's kinda got that welcoming atmosphere."
"Y-Yeah, besides the balcony or my room at home, I usually come here to relax. That and I really enjoy their unique collections they have in stock and their coffee is really tasty," Kaiya casually replied, walking beside him, "W-Would you like me to show you my favorite section?"
"Uh, sure. Lead the way."
Kaiya nodded, shyly offering her hand, which he graciously accepted before she dragged him along.
As they proceeded further, Caleb noticed several books all floating and flying around between sections, some even removing and restoring themselves into different shelves or in little stacks. He figured it was some kind of magic, like how Camilla used, but strangely none of the books radiated the usual mana color.
Whatsmore, Kaiya didn't seem bothered by the spectacle in the slightest, even casually tilting her head out of the way of a thick almanac flying by.
"Well, if it isn't Ms. Kaiya!"
A voice from above called the Hellhound woman, getting both of their attention. Caleb looked up, surprised to see a woman floating down from the ceiling with an ecstatic yet mischievous grin.
She was around 5'2", in her early twenties, with short black hair and white square eyes and pupils, a pale complexion, and solid white rectangular marks on her cheeks. She was mostly human-like in appearance save for her arms and legs that were as flat and pliant like paper. Her hands were basically paper cut-out rectangular three-digit fingers and her legs were paper mache with no discernable feet, only white spiral paper strands. She wore a light black store uniform shirt with a stick name tag and plaid black and white skirt. A Paper Dancer.
"Ah! Hello, Ms. Kraft!" Kaiya happily greeted her.
"Heya! It's been way too long!"
"It's been…one week," Kaiya sheepishly replied, forcing a smile.
"Hey, working long hours, time becomes meaningless after a while. Not sure how long, though, probably after the fifteenth. Either way, always happy to see one of my big spenders–I mean VALUED clients!" Kraft said, levitating around them, patting Kaiya's head then smiled at Caleb, "Anyway, so who's your little friend?"
"O-oh um, this is Caleb. H-He's my um…" Kaiya trailed off with a nervous blush, ears flattening down.
"I'm her date," Caleb plainly said, earning a surprised squeal from Kaiya and Ms. Kraft.
"No way! You've landed yourself a boyfriend already?!" Kraft enthusiastically said as Kaiya blushed harder.
"I'm not her boyfriend, we're just on a date," Caleb informed, prompting a startled gasp from Kaiya. Though his honesty made her a bit more at ease for some reason, his words felt like a sharp knife to her pride.
"Hmm? What are you talking about? You're dating so that must mean you're her boyfriend. Simple as that," Kraft asserted.
"That's not quite how it works," he insisted.
"Nonsense! I think you're just too shy to let your true feelings out. I can help with that! I happen to have the perfect repertoire of relationship and romance books you can use as reference! As manager of this store it's my job to make sure customers find what is right for them!" Kraft stated, levitating further up and raising her arms, causing several dating books to fly around her like a cyclone. She then got a mischievous look on face, "Of course, if you guys are also looking for more adult ideas. I've got quite a collection from our non-public section," she emphasized as several books flew around the pair, showing pictures of genitalia and lewd sexual poses, much to their shock.
"No! No, no, no, nope! No, goddamn, thank you!" Caleb exclaimed, slapping away or grabbing each of the sex books and tossing them in a pile. All the while, Kaiya stood with her eyes covered with her hands, her face blushing heavily, "Sorry, but we're not interested."
"Whaaaat? That's impossible. Everyone loves a steaming sex scene, especially when it's one of restrained passion that CANNOT be held back anymore!"
"Listen, Ms. Kraft?"
"Please, call me, Artzhen."
"Artzhen Kraft?" Caleb raised an eyebrow.
"It's a family name," she said with a cheeky grin, making it harder for him to believe her.
"Uh-huh, anyway, none of what we do on our date is any of your business. We just came to browse inventory and hang out. That's it. We'd like to get back to it," Caleb firmly asserted as Kaiya looked at him in amazement at him putting his foot down for both of them.
"Haaa, why do people always hide their true feelings for no reason? I swear humans are–" Artzhen Kraft shook her head before jolting, sensing something nearby.
"Like I said, it's none of YOUR–"
"Hush now!" Artzhen cut him off, placing a flat finger to his lip, adding to his annoyance as her demeanor changed, "I sense a disturbance in the force. The destroyers are back. I must go!" she spoke in a haunted tone, floating away to Caleb and Kaiya's relief.
"What's her problem?"
"Sorry about that. She can be a bit…intrusive and pushy at times but I promise she's really nice," Kaiya assured, putting on a smile.
"If you say so, now, where are any books in particular you were looking for?"
"Oh yes! In fact, I wanted to show you works from some of my favorite sections here," she happily said, tail wagging enthusiastically, taking out a small black and red skull pattern pocket book, "Mama was even kind enough to give me a little extra spending money for both of us!"
"Oh, that's nice but you don't have to do that. I wouldn't feel right having you pay for my stuff."
"T-That's alright! I know $3000 isn't much but we can make it work," Kaiya lightly panicked, not wanting him to think she was being cheap.
"I take it back! And what do you mean 'isn't much'?!" Caleb said in utter disbelief, feeling his wallet shrivel up like a raisin from shame just being around her engorged pocket book.
Further away, in the Star Wars book section named 'The Force', there was a bargain bin filled with old, donated stories books of the famous characters. Two short insect-type liminals were happily tearing out and munching on the pages of these books. One they were sharing was an old novel version of The Book of Boba Fett. They had four white carapass-cover arms with three digit clawed fingers, long silver hair with long bangs obscuring their pale insect eyes, thin white antennae, and pale skin. Silverfish.
"Hmmm, the text on chapter seven is so tantalizing," one of the Silverfish hummed in delight, tearing and munching on the pages like chips.
"I know, right? The flavors are so sweet and rich, you can tell the previous owners read these a lot. Oh, pass me Yoda's Secret War. The cover smells yummy," her friend told the other Silverfish. She proceeded to tear off the worn cover with her teeth, happily munching before the book suddenly levitated out of her hand, to her confusion. It was then followed by the other books and the paper they were eating flying around them. They looked up, horrified to see the one responsible for ruining their meal. The guardian of the store levitated above with a hateful scowl, square eyes glowing with menacing white light.
She spoke in a deep, haunting voice, papers swirling around her wildly, "Your both to pay for defiling the works of George Lucas!"
"Uhhhh, h-hey, come on, t-these are just the bargain bin rejects! Nobody's actually gonna buy any of these!" one of the Silverfish attested.
"Y-y-yeah! These are practically worthless, delicious scraps with no value to anyone," the others added, drooling slightly in hunger.
"I CAN SAY THE SAME FOR YOU IDIOTS!" shouted, quickly forming all the paper into a pair of giant paper mache hands then laundering them at the Silverfish who all cried out fearfully, holding each other tightly.
As that was happening, some shoppers looked on in shock at the scene but most of the shoppers and even the other employees continued on about their business as their Paper Dancer employer boisterously laughed while punishing the 'destroyers'. For them, it was a typical Thursday.
…Back to Caleb…
'You know, I don't really know what I expected from her,' Caleb thought, finding himself smackdab in the middle of a lovecraftian wet dream. All around him were occultist trinkets and novels, large sculpture of Cthulhu, Baul, gargoyles and other eldritch gods along with a plethora of books from the gothic horror genre. There were even tables filled with various trinkets and charms from liminal cultures that still practiced archaic rituals, including small Hellhound god statues.
It turned Kaiya really into the gothic horror subgenre; evident by her currently gushing over the newest addition to the store's inventory she had picked up a while back. It was a reimagining of Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Fall of the House of Usher' called 'What Moves the Dead'.
"I ESPECIALLY love the author's ability to capture that deep, unsettling feeling from the descriptions of the glowing lakes and the image of the fungus laden throughout the Usher estate. It's like with every word I could feel the veiny roots spreading under my skin, taking in my life giving blood as their grotesque bloomage covers every inch of my being and the malodorous scent of decay permeates my now indiscernible corpse," Kaiya spoke with great, albeit very morbid, passion then noticed Caleb's wide-eyed expression of surprise, "Ah! S-Sorry for rambling like that! You must think I'm so weird!"
"No no, not at all, I was just surprised to hear you speak so…bombastically. Didn't expect you to be into the whole horror, melancholy death scene."
"I…I am. Ever since I was a pup I have always been intrigued by stories and tales of the macabre and outlandish that focus on fear, insanity, madness, and decay. You'd be surprised how many folktales in my culture have bittersweet endings. Though, it comes with the territory of being omens of death and destruction. My uncle would also bring me horror novels by Edgar Allan Poe or Oscar Wilde. Funny enough, it's how I picked up the English language faster than my sisters. There's just something…sublime about darkness and the unknowable that always gave me comfort on my worst days. As if, for a moment, all my fears and self-hate are but trivialities in that endless obsidian void," Kaiya poetically muses in a whimsical tone, smiling and hugging the novel close before realization hit her upon seeing him staring at her wordlessly, "Ah! I did it again! I'm sorry, we're supposed to be on a date and I'm just droning on about death and other depressing things!"
Caleb lightly chuckled at her reaction, "It's fine, really. Honestly, I'm glad to see you're really, really passionate about this stuff."
"Y-You don't think I'm a freak? Well, a bigger one than I already am," she asked, her voice morose at the end.
"Of course not. Believe me, I'm used to people going on about their passions. Hell, I know someone who's crazy for Sailor Moon. She can talk BOTH your ears off for hours." Caleb assured while throwing a little shade at his wife.
Kaiya looked at him with intrigue and slight relief, "R-Really?"
"Yeah. In fact, now that you mention it, I remember being really into Edgar Allan Poe poems and stories in my high school days. I remember this one, what was it…The Raven? It's my favorite."
"Oh! I love that one too!" Kaiya happily stated, her tail wagging as she cleared her throat, "Once upon a midnight dreary, as I pondered weak and weary…"
Caleb smirked at her, keeping it going, "Over a quaint and curious volume of, wait for it, forgotten lore," he said, reaching over from the shelf, presenting a large, heavy brown book titled 'Lore', causing Kaiya to chuckle lightly with a smile, "Yeah, this sho'nough gonna have me napping," he added, demonstrating the book's weight, making her laugh a bit harder.
He looked at her, enjoying the sight of her smiling face and adorable laugh that warmed his core a little. Another part of him fought against those feelings, trying to avoid unnecessarily overcomplicating things.
After joking around a little more, the pair spent some time looking through the section with Kaiya picking out five books that interested her. She also got a couple of horror manga Caleb recommended, which he also picked up a few copies for himself to read at night. After that, they went over to the small shop and ordered a couple of caramel frappuccinos with Kaiya paying for them and explicitly noting her severe allergy of chocolate to both baristas. The pair could now be seen sitting at a couple of black accent chairs. Kaiya was engrossed with a book called 'The Reddening', enjoying bitter and almost vindictive descriptions of the characters while Caleb sat next to her reading a Junji Ito paperback called 'Tomie', having no idea what was going on but it was entertainingly scary.
Caleb then glanced over at Kaiya, seeing how engaged she was yet also wondering how she could read, or even see, with her bangs over her eyes. Still, in stark contrast to her hellish, intimidating appearance, she was oddly serene and charming in her own way. He kinda wished she didn't have to cover those beautiful sapphire eyes of hers. It would be a pleasant sight while she was like this.
"Hm? I-Is something wrong?" Kaiya asked curiously, turning her head slightly towards him.
Caleb flinched, blushing slightly in embarrassment at being caught staring, quickly turning his attention back to his book. "N-Nothin'! Nothing at all."
'It'd also help since I'd know when she's looking at me,' Caleb complained internally before sucking down the last of his frappuccino then burying his face in the book..
Kaiya looks at him curiously sensing his uneasiness; his posture was notably more reserved than before and he purposely tried not to look her way. She's always been good at reading body language so she knew he was bothered by something. But what?
Suddenly, as she looks around at their current position, sitting down reading together and drinking coffee, she came to a horrible realization.
'WAIT! IS THIS BORING?!', She thought with a shocked expression, frowning as she buried her face in the book.
Granted this was her first date…EVER and she honestly didn't know what to do but…were they supposed to be doing more than just sitting around reading? They were supposed to be having a fun, memorable time, right? Was she a boring person in his eyes right now? She clutches her book tightly, beginning to worry that he'll quickly lose interest and want nothing to do with her afterwards. She couldn't let that happen! She needed to figure out a fun activity they could both share.
'But what? There's not that much interesting around here, except maybe to play card games and browse inventory. Other than that it's so mundane!', Kaiya bemoaned internally, while Ms. Kraft could be seen levitating both unconscious silverfish tied together in paper chains then tossing them out the back door yelling 'And don't you parasites come back!'. Kaiya closed her eyes to think, 'Come on, think! There has to be something he would find fun we can do!'
"Hey, are you going to the art exhibit they're having today?", a female wood elf student asked her female monoeye friend.
Kaiya's ears stood erect as she tuned into the conversation with a curious expression.
"Yeah girl, have you been inside the one painting of Venice? It is, like, surreal, like sooo authentic and shiz!"
"I know, right? I've been inside the one with Panama City! The party the artist painted was SO amazingly realistic. I could feel the warm sun, beach sand, cool ocean waters and everything."
"Oh yeahhhh, speaking of artists, I hope the hottie with the AC/DC tattoo is there today. I've been trying to get with him, maybe convince him to join me in painting for some fun cause I definitely imagine what we could do in there with no cameras or staff to worry about.", the monoeye remarks, biting her bottom lip.
"Yeah, I know but I swear that painting lady gives us the stink eye whenever we come over and by us I mean you! So maybe it wouldn't be wise to go in HER painting to fuck around."
"Whatevs, I don't need no play-by-play, Okay? I'm just going to do my thing. Maybe be his next muse, ah.", she swoons, rolling her tongue out.
"Ok, New Jersey did something to you and I'm scared of what."
All the while, Kaiya watches them leave as a toothy smile crept across her face.
"IT'S PERFECT!", Kaiya stated much louder than intended, startling Caleb and getting a few strange looks from patrons.
"Gah! What?! What's perfect?!", he questions, confused, wondering what she could have read to react like this
"Caleb, let's go see the art exhibit.", Kaiya responded with a grin, her tail wagging energetically.
Caleb looked at her ponderously for a moment, unsure where this sprightly energy was coming from but chose to just roll with it, "Ok, lead the way."
…Meanwhile…
Three of Kaiya's sister's—Kehema, Jenema, and Alkina—could be seen walking through the front entrance, getting the attention of a few patrons who try to avoid eye contact with the imposing Hellhound women.
"So, this is where they went huh? It feels a little uhh…what's the word?" Alkina spoke, ponderously tapping her chin.
"Dull?" Kehema guessed.
"Unarousing?", Jenema adds.
"Unappealing?"
"Boner killer?"
"I was gonna say 'boring' but those work better. I mean, I can understand her not wanting to put out TOO early or go with mama's advice but maybe she is going a bit too far. At this rate she's gonna put his arousal on life support.", Alkina remarks as they proceed through the store.
"Well, that's why we're here. Lifeguards on duty. Can't wait to give both his heads CPR.", Kehema hungrily grins.
"What if coming here was his idea though?", Jenema questions.
"You know the same principles apply regardless."
"Hey! Focus, alright? It honestly doesn't matter who's idea this was. What matters is helping to get these two laid; ideally repeatedly, today" Alkina firmly stated.
"With the help of her loving sisters who she'd be happy to share with right? Packs always share the meat they bring home.", Kehema remarks in a matter-of-fact tone.
"Heck, we could probably convince her into sharing him with us. Maybe even make our own pack together like we talked about sis." Jenema said, getting excited at the idea, as Kehema nodded wholeheartedly in approval.
"Huzuni njema(Good grief), you two still plan to share a male despite mom telling all of us we each deserve our own mate", Alkina incredulously asks, concerned for their decision as their mother and aunt have beaten it into their head to NEVER settle for being a 'Number 2 wife' or worse a side piece.
"Yeah yeah, we get it. We just don't want to be separated when we pick our mates. We came outta the womb together, only fitting that we live our lives with a mate together.", Jenema proudly responds, fist bumping her twin.
"That and raising our pups together would be a breeze. We're like double the discipline!"
"AND double the headache. Eh, well hopefully you'll find a guy who's into the idea and can tolerate you two. Not like it's that big a deal back home.", Alkina replies with a shrug, referencing her species' occasional practice of multiple females sharing the same male for one reason or another; mostly because their population of eligible and worthy males has been on a gradual decline the last few decades.
It was one of the reasons Amara brought them all to this country in the first place.
"So, where should we start looking?"
"No idea. This place is way bigger than it looks and that damn coffee smell from the shop is making it harder to track their scent.", Alkina replies, clenching her nose to block the strong scent of coffee beans.
"Well, guess we'll just have to split up until we find them. You take the North, we'll take the South. Ok, break!", Kehema claps hands together, turning to leave but Alkina stops her.
"Hold up there, Scooby doo, don't just go skulking around looking for them you'll draw too much attention. Act natural like any other shopper."
"Gotcha, natural.", Kehema nods,putting her game face on, proceeding to strut ahead putting a little bounce in her walk trying to look cool but gets a few weird looks. Alkina gives a confused and embarrassed scowl, facepalming, before Jemena touches her shoulder.
"I'll…keep her out of trouble."
Jemena follows her twin, swiftly putting an end to her 'cool' girl walk as Alkina begins her own search for Kaiya and Caleb; hoping the pair hadn't started mating yet without her.
Unbeknownst to them, another familiar figure enters the building. It was Drei, now fully recovered from her lactose intolerant lassitude. She looks around the establishment not seeing any sign of her charge.
"Hmm, well it says this is where he is.", Drei mutters to herself, looking at her phone and seeing the signal from the app tracking Caleb's phone to this building. It wasn't precise enough to show where in the building he was though, "Well, it won't be like finding a needle in a haystack. Then again, a needle can't teleport.", she rolls her eyes, crouches slightly, and vanishes with the wind she generated.
…Back to Caleb…
The pair found themselves on the west side of the building standing at the front entrance of what was typically a conference room. Now it has been converted into an indoor art gallery with colorful decorations and the scent of roses from the air purifier. They walk inside to see the entire room filled with large canvas paintings. All of them were of gorgeous scenery from the rocky mountainous range near Machu Picchu to the majestic white misty waters of Niagara Falls. Strangely, the all appeared to have a small kitchen alarm set and ticking on each one. Whatsmore they appeared to be the only people there, which Kaiya thought was odd. In fact, the only person there appeared to be a human man sitting with his back to them in front of a large canvas.
He was tall, had a lean build, fair skinned man with green eyes, auburn hair, neatly trimmed beard and black AC/DC tattoo on his arm. He was dressed in light blue wrangler jeans, dark brown sneakers, brown Van Halen shirt, and dark gray open jacket.
"Babe, I promise I'm not into her…I don't know how to explain it better to her! I've been telling her I'm not interested…NO you can't do that to her… Yes they would….YES they would!", The man argued, seemingly to no one in particular.
Caleb and Kaiya exchange disturbed yet curious looks, thinking he might be crazy. He gestures that they should probably leave but is stopped by the guy.
"Oh hey there! Welcome!", He stated with a wide smile, approaching the pair, putting them on alert.
"Uh, hey. Thanks, you uh…you good man?", Caleb casually and cautiously asks.
"Oh yeah, we were just talking.", He says gesturing to the canvas painting behind him of a beautiful woman with long black hair, silver eyes, porcelain blemishless skin, perky C-cups, and a slim but hourglass figure with defined hips, only a simple white blouse that stopped at her knees and black tights, "This is Lisa, I'm Leonard."
Caleb looks at him strangely, uneasily shaking his hand, "Nice to…meet you? Is that the name of the painting you made? It looks pretty good.", he asks, the paint brushes and splotches of paint telling signs he was an artist.
"Who the hell are you calling 'pretty good'?! I'm PHENOMENAL, you plebeian!", Shouted a woman's voice, startling Caleb and Kaiya.
They were immediately shocked to see the woman from the painting reaching her arms out of the painting and clumsily climbing out of the canvas like 'The Ring' girl. She looks at Caleb with an angry scowl and glowing white eyes.
"Ohh, hell…", Caleb backs up along with Kaiya.
As she was crawling out though, the painting woman's hand slips off the edge causing her to lose her balance and faceplant hard on the floor causing her to yelp painfully with her towel now laying beside her.
"Uhhh…", Caleb and Kaiya expressed in confusion, less cautious than before.
"Lisa!", Leonard stated, going over to help her up, "You ok, babe?"
"Noooo.", Lisa whined, tears in her eyes which he wiped away, careful not to smudge her face as he hands her his jacket which she put on and wraps her towel around her bottom half.
Caleb and Kaiya stood in silence for a moment, feeling very awkward.
After waiting a minute for them to pull themselves together, Lisa and Leonard now stood before them with a calmer demeanor.!Well, one of them was calm. Lisa still glared at Caleb angrily for his comment earlier.
"Sorry about that man. I swear we're totally normal people after a few drinks together.", Leonard joked assuringly.
"I believe you. Sorry, I'm just not used to women crawling out of paintings to kick my ass.", Caleb responds trying to find the humor in this, which it admittedly was. Though, Lisa didn't see to think so.
"Oh, I take it this is your first experience with a Living Painting. Yeah that tends to be the normal reaction."
"Living…Painting?", Kaiya inquires curiously.
"That's right! Liminals like me reside in the Ghost or Undead category. You know, any living dead that was exposed to powerful mana or corrupted by another undead before they died.", Lisa answers as Caleb's eyes widen in surprise, "But, unlike regular ghosts that are created to wander aimlessly about like vagabonds, there are those like me bound to objects like weapons, artifacts, or anything we had special attachments to in life", Lisa proudly spoke.
"Lisa here was INSANELY passionate about painting when she was alive, so much that her soul just…bonded with acrylic paint and this canvas thanks to being exposed to concentrated mana.", Leonard replied as Caleb looks at him intrigued.
"So, you're a ghost that lives in paintings? And you used to be human?!", Caleb asks, now more intrigued and a bit shocked.
"That's really reductive, you know. But yes. Also, don't sound so shocked, I'm perfectly happy. I lost my life but gained a new one with my beloved artist, Leo.", Lisa affirms, cuddling up to her lover.
"I wasn't really trying to condescending or no–"
"THAT'S INCREDIBLE!", Kaiya interrupts, her tail wagging in excitement as she steps up to Lisa, "I've always wanted to meet a real life GHOST! What was it like to die?! What does being undead feel like?! Do you still feel mortal desires like food or sleep? Can you see and talk to other spirits?! What do they say?", She enthusiastically questions, making Lisa a little uncomfortable by her morbid curiosity.
"Uhh, Kaiya? I think you might be scaring her half to death—er UN-Death, I guess.", Caleb remarks, gently placing a hand on her shoulder, snapping her back to reality. She quickly realizes how embarrassing she was being.
"Ehhh, I-I'm so sorry! That was so rude! P-Please forgive me!"
"Easy there little lady, it's all good.", Leonard assured as Lisa side eyes him for that 'little lady' comment, "Speaking of goods, I'm sure you both are here to try out our supply?"
Caleb looks at him confused, "Try out? You mean buy one of your paintings?"
"Of course not! They aren't for owning, they are for experiencing SUBLIMATION.", Lisa emphatically shouted, striking an elegant pose like praising some unseen deity while Caleb and Kaiya looked at her more confused, "Ugh, you still don't get it?"
At the moment, the kitchen alarm goes off on the painting of a Mardi Gras style, getting their attention.
"Oh and it looks like their experience is over. Get out!", Lisa emphatically stated, raising her hand at the painting and making a pulling motion. The painting ripple like water of pond before two figures emerged from the painting; a human male and female dark elf.
"'WHOOOOO THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING! SHAKE IT BA–wait what?", the human shouted enthusiastically as the dark elf woman was twerking on him before they both quickly realized the party was over.
"Hey! Where'd everybody go?!", the dark elf woman asks.
"Sorry, time's up.", Leonard informs much to their disappointment, Hope you enjoyed yourselves. Come back again soon, we're here for another two weeks."
"Alright, we will man, believe me.", the guy confirms as the dark elf woman gives him a knowing smirk, slapping his butt.
All the while, Caleb and Kaiya were utterly dumbfounded.
"Ok, what the hell was that? Did they just COME OUT of the painting?", Caleb expressed.
"Yep! That's what we sell here. Not just art but the experience in the art. I'm a traveling artist and I've been all over the world. Every last portrait you see here is a reflection of those experiences.", Leonard wholeheartedly replies, "And thanks to my baby here, those reflections are now doorways."
"So long as he's using paint I imbue a little of my essence.", Lisa emphasized as concentrated mana infused paint that was the same pigment as her skin dripped from her fingertip.
"Thanks to that, others like you can step inside and experience a part of the world I did; except, you know, more of a 'paint world' version.", Leonard explained as Caleb and Kaiya look at him intrigued.
"Ohhh, I get it. It's kinda like 'Chalkzone'.", Caleb replied in amazement as the Living Painting and Kaiya looked at him ponderously.
"Yeah kinda Guess that makes me Rudy!", Leonard confirmed in amusement, chuckling slightly.
"Hardly. It's a world of paint not chalk, dumbass.", Lisa chimes sticking her head out of her painting so she could scoff at him as Kaiya gives a displeased frown at her rudeness, "So you and your date wanna experience sublimation or not?"
"Go inside a painting? Yeah that does fun, but is it safe?"
"Of course it's perfectly safe so long as you stay within the boundaries of the subject."
"Meaning?"
"Stay away from a scary white void of nothingness. Also be aware that you won't get a phone signal while inside and if you try to take a photo…it'll get very weird and I highly advise against it."
"Question.", Kaiya raises her hand.
"Yes, the Kobold that thinks she's in elementary school.", Lisa sarcastically replies.
"If the painting is destroyed while we're inside, could we die?"
Her question immediately catches the room off guard.
"I'm…legally required by ICEP to say, yes."
"Legally?! Not morally?!", Caleb stated in surprise.
"BUT nothing bad has EVER happened to a single participant as we take every precaution possible to ensure their safety. All of these paintings are under my power and I would never harm a valued customer.", Lisa emphatically assured with a wide smile.
"Plus I'm out here keep eye out for trouble makers who mess with paintings."
"That DOES NOT put me at ease!", Caleb incredulously stated.
" Let's do it!", She stated emphatically much to Caleb's surprise.
"What? Even after what you just said?!"
"Yes but I'm choosing to trust them and their business ethic. I want to enjoy this with you.", Kaiya spoke wanting to do everything she could to salvage this date. At the same time, part of her was excited by the idea of being in a literal world of danger much like her favorite installment from 'Undercover Magic'.
Caleb, sensing the excited almost pleading that reminded him of Mirabelle, goes against his better survival instincts and replies, "Ok, sure. We'll try it but we pull out the second shit get too wild."
"Excellent! That's two people so I'd say a two hundred bucks, each."
"What?!", Caleb gasped.
"What did you expect? This is still a business. Money means nothing to me now but it's crucial for my beloved so pay up or leave.", Lisa replies, arms folded.
"What she MEANS is your generous patronage is very much appreciated. I really enjoy letting couples like you experience the world through my art. Tell you what, how about for an additional $50 each you can go into other paintings of your choosing. We've got five currently empty.", Leonard offers them as Caleb looks at him a bit shifty; he knew a classic up-sale when he saw one.
"That's perfect! Here!", Kaiya stated, whipping out five crisp hundred dollar bills to Caleb's surprise.
"Ok, thank you. That extra hundred…so you can pick two more paintings to experience!"
"Hey, you know you didn't have to do that.", Caleb says, feeling a bit uneasy having her spend so much for them.
"It's ok. We're…here to have fun so let's have fun, ok?"
Caleb's expression softens a little, sensing she genuinely cares about how well their date goes and not about the money. She was making an effort for him. Meanwhile, he was just going with the motions and barely contributing much of himself. A fact he was a little ashamed of.
"Alright! Which of these seven will be the first of your three romantic getaways?", Leonard gestures to seven portraits of various locations on display, timer clocks primed and ready to start.
The pair stepped up and began scanning for a few seconds.
"Hey, how about this one?", Caleb points to a painting of what appears to be a nightclub titled 'DJ Transcenation 2017, Prague'.
"Ok! That looks like fun!", Kaiya approved.
"Heyyy! Good choice! That DJ concert was lit as fuck! I remember wh–"
"Babe, what did we say about reminiscing when it's best they experience it?", Lisa calmly reprimanded as he shrugs, conceding, "As for you two, go on in and have fun.", She emphasized, making a turning motion with her hands as the paint on the canvas turns into a black and purple swirling vortex, to the pair's astonishment.
"Whoa. Ok so…do we just climb on in–", Caleb cautiously reaches his hand towards the vortex before it is quickly sucking and spaghettified followed by the rest of him, "OH MY GAWWWWW—", Caleb cries as his entire body is sucked in.
"CALEB!", Kaiya cries out, instinctively grabbing his legs to pull him out but was quickly sucked in as well.
Leonard picks up the timer, turns the dial for the set time, and places it back.
Inside the painting, a huge crowd of people could be seen dancing and cheering in a large, dimly lit dance floor with repeatedly flashing, choreographed multi-colored light beacons. A DJ could be seen on stage playing loud, fast pounding booming music blasting on enormous speakers that had so much decibel range every party could feel every beat outputted. There was a bar table where buff, shirtless muscular guys were flamboyantly serving a variety of drinks.
At that moment, Caleb materializes right in the middle of the dance floor on his stomach, prompting several party goer's to give him some room.
"What the fuck?! Where am–AH!", Caleb expressed, frantically looking around before Kaiya materialized and landed right on his back, pressing his face to the floor while mushing her breasts against the back of his head.
"Caleb! I got you–eh?!", Kaiya cries out before noticing the crowd of people surrounding them, "AHHH! PEOPLE! WHAT'S HAPPENING?!"
"Mmmph, yeah they are. Can you please get off?", Caleb stated, pushing him up with her breasts still against his head.
Kaiya quickly raises off of him, covering her chest in embarrassment, "I–I'm sorry!"
"As for what's happening–"
"WHAT'S HAPPENIN' PEOPLE!", came the voice of the DJ on every speaker in the area as the entire room cheered loudly, "IT'S YOUR BOY DJ ROMAN NOODLE WELCOMING THE NEW ARRIVALS TO KARLOVY LAZNE!", The DJ shouted enthusiastically as a blue spotlight shone on the pair, singling them out, much to their immediate discomfort. The crowd enthusiastically cheers, welcoming the newcomers to the party.
It was then he and Kaiya noticed the faces of all the people, their entire bodies really, had unusual textures and patterns reminiscent of crudely painted paper mache structures. The eyes of many of them seemed awfully dull and lifeless despite their jubilant smiles; adding an uncanny layer of creepiness to their appearance. Nevertheless, Caleb decided to try and make the best of a truly bizarre situation.
"Well, you wanna, have a look around at least?"
Kaiya looks at him a moment, remembering why they were here, and beams him a smile, "Y-Yeah!"
…Outside…
Alkina could be seen casually looking at a crime novel section while trying to find her sister and Caleb. All the while, ignoring the cautious and distrustful stares from the other shoppers.
"Kwa ajili ya fuck(For fuck sake) how BIG is this place?"Alkina complained, looking more frustrated by the minute. She then notices a pair of werecat women further down, whispering to each other while side-eyeing her, "And what the fuck you bitches staring at?!", she snarled as both girls elicited a shriek then quickly ran away, dropping the books they carried.
Alkina sighs in annoyance then walks over and picks up the books they dropped, placing them back on the shelves, "Bunch of jackasses. Act like they've never seen a hellhound before. People are just fuckin'...and WHY does this whole damn store smell like fucking lattes?!"
"Haven't you ever heard of 'scent marketing'? It's a fairly effective manipulation tool.", Spoke Drei, getting the hellhound woman's attention.
"I don't remember asking fo—wait, I know you! Your Caleb's little fox friend aren't you? Dyna!"
Drei silently stares at her for a second, "I'm a weasel and it's Drei Zyklon. Now that reintroductions are over, not that I know or care what your name is, you wouldn't happen to have seen Caleb with one of your sisters, have you?"
"Unfortunately, no, there might be a chance they're no longer even in this store anymore.", Alkina answered, still annoyed.
"What makes you so sure? Follow up, why are you looking for him?"
Alkina pauses a moment, noticing the kaimaitachi's skeptical gaze, "Uhh, n-nothing much. I just wanted to make sure the two of them were enjoying their date together and beat away any creeps following them."
"Guess it takes one to beat one.", Drei coments
"What?! Who are you calling a 'creep'?! Why are you looking for him?", Alkina tries to deflect the accusation.
"I'm his bodyguard? It's literally what I'm paid for. Though, right now, I'm not earning my keep but I haven't failed yet. They're definitely still here."
"How are you sure?"
Drei takes out her phone showing her the app, "If he moved anywhere else in this facility I can track his phone easily. His signal disappeared in this store so either he's in a deadzone or phone was destroyed somehow. Either scenario, he's most likely still here so I'll keep searching for clues."
"That's…actually makes sense."
"Duh. If it looks really difficult I'll just have to resort to the unthinkable. Ugh, talking to complete strangers for help.", Drei remarks, shuddering in discontent.
'So his bodyguard's not a people person?', Alkina thought before her ears perk up to the sound of her sisters, Kehema and Jemena, laughing along with a male voice. She smiles and rounds the corner, "Guys! Did you find…them?", she stops in her tracks seeing both twin sisters each clinging to the arm of a tall, average built light brown skinned man and short afro in black jeans and blue Adidas jacket.
"Oh, there you are sis!", Kehema happily stated.
"How's the search going?" Jemena asked, smiling back.
"It's going fucking terribly and even worse somehow. What are you two doing? And who the fuck is this guy?!", Alkina stated, gesturing at the man in frustration.
"Hey, don't be rude to Trevor!", Kehema barked as Jemena nods affirmatively, equally as displeased.
"Hi, I'm Trevor McCollum. These two told me a little about you, nice to meet you.", Trevor offers a hand to her in friendship.
"Yeah, hi Trevor, that doesn't answer my question. What are you doing with my sisters?"
"Oh, it's actually a funny story sis.", Kehema interjects.
…Flashback…
Kehema and Jemena could be seen searching around the autobiographical section looking for Kaiya and her boyfriend.
"You know, I never noticed how many of these human autobio titles all reference overcoming something.", Kehema remarks, holding two random books she pulled off the shelves to compare titles.
"Maybe that's what uncle refers to as the 'human condition'.", Jemena jokingly emphasized with her fingers.
"What condition is that, I wonder."
"Anything from their head to their big fat toe I bet."
"Haha! Big fat toe!? You couldn't thin–oof.", Kehema utters, not looking where she was going, bumps into a human man, carrying a large sketch book and a few books causing him to drop them.
"Hey! Watch it buddy!", Kehema barks at the man who recoils in surprise.
"Me? You're the one who—", the man was about to berate her before noticing how both sisters looked almost identical.
"YOU'RE the one who bumped into him.", Jemena berated her sister bopping on the head "Sorry sir, she tends to get distracted sometimes."
"It's…no problem. Excuse me but…you two wouldn't happen to be twins, would you?"
Both sisters exchange confused looks for a moment at the odd question.
"Yeah, we are. So what?", Kehema skeptically asks.
"I just really love meeting twins! There's just something…amazing about two people with the same face born at the exact same time to the same person. Like planets perfectly aligning.", The man happily stated as both sisters looked at him curiously, "I hope you don't think I'm weird for asking this but…would you mind if I draw both of you?", He asks, taking out a large sketch pad.
Kehema and Jemena exchange looks again, sensing he was genuinely interested in them and not in a creepy…well a little creepy, way. Still his demeanor gave the impression he had pure intentions so they decided to use that.
"Sure!", They stated as the same time, both smiling mischievously.
…Flashback ends…
"Annnnd we kinda hit it off from there."
"Check out the drawing he did of us!", Kehema stated, swiftly pulling out his notepad, much to his surprise, showing a beautiful drawing of both sisters hugging each other and seductively staring; their choice of pose not his.
"Not bad.", Drei casually remarks as Alkina stares at it wide eyed in awe.
"Our little artist Trevor isn't just talented, he's got great taste. He wants to be BOTH of our ICEP host", Jemena says, nuzzling his shoulder to his slight embarrassment
"Wait, what?!", Alkina exclaimed in surprise.
"Well, I am technically visiting I.A. as a part of their 'student matching' program anyway.", Trevor remarks.
"Huh, I thought I noticed a lot more 'civilian' humans on my way here.", Drei pointed out, touching her chin.
"Yeah, it's kind of a new thing I.A. recently started to cut out the middleman and just have people and families that fit a certain criteria meet liminal students in person and maybe become hosts."
"Yep and we're looking to make Trevor here our host.", Jemena happily spoke, tail wagging behind her at the thought.
"I mean…I want to but I'd prefer it if all three of us get to know each other a little more. I'm here until the end of next week."
"Oh? Well that's PLENTY of time for us to ~get to know~ each other.", Jemena replies, seductively fluttering her eyes then to her stunned sister, "Sis, can you tell Mama we'll be home later?"
"What? B-But what about Caleb?", Alkina incredulously asks.
"Who? Oh, right…tell Kaiya to enjoy her extra meal. Bye!", Kehema stated, playfully waving as she, her sister, and Trevor walked away.
"It was nice meeting you!"
"So, tell us more about your home in this 'Rainbow City'. Is it roomy?", Jehmena inquires as they get further away.
"Unbelievable.", Alkina grumbles in bitter annoyance at sisters getting more action than her now.
"At least that's two less creeps to worry about.", Drei commented.
"What the hell is YOUR problem?!"
"Said the problem, anyway I'm off to find my charge. Don't wait up."
Drei leaps away on a mini cyclone, leaving the hellhound female alone. She huffs and walks away in frustration, still trying to find Caleb and Kaiya.
"Mrrghh I can't believe those two. Don't they have pride at all? Hellhound women are supposed to relentlessly pursue their target no matter who or how far they go. No they just lifting their tails for guy they literally bumped into", She complained to herself, going further into a section full of romance drama, "Bad enough they get distracted by some random, artist dipshits but I have do it with smell of fucking coffee beans jamming my nose!? I swear, how to humans stomach that shi–"
Before she could finish, a person bumps right into her, spilling their sea salt caramel frappuccino onto her chest.
"GAH! Cerebus dammit!"
"Oh my God! Ma'am I am sorry!"
"You should be, asshole! Ever look where you're…going?", Alkina glares at the man with a scowl which quickly softens upon seeing the one responsible for her favorite shirt getting ruined was a tall, handsome muscular bald-headed dark-skinned human man. He wore a red and black striped long-sleeve dress shirt along with black pants and loafers.
"My fault. My fault. I got distracted by this book I found in this section. It was so stupid I stopped paying attention.", He remarks, holding a small yellow book titled '101 Romance Cliches for beginner writers', before putting it on the shelf and taking some napkins from his pocket, "Here, sorry about your shirt. It looks really nice on you too."
Alkina looks in surprise, cheeks blushing, before pouting while casually accepting, "Thank you but it…still doesn't excuse you."
"Well, how about I make it up to you? They just put out roast beef sandwiches up there. How about it?", The man casually asks, giving a welcoming smile.
"Bribing me with food huh?", Alkina dubiously remarks, smirking at him, "Make it three and you got a deal."
"Hehe, deal. I'm Deon by the way. Deon Coleman.", He offers his hand to the Hellhound with a smile.
"Alkina. Alkina Cerberjack.", She replies, returning the smile and clasping her large paw to his firm, kind hand as her tail wags.
…Back in the Canvas world…
The party raged on showing absolutely no sign of its momentum slowing down anytime soon. As a more energized and chaotic version 'Day'n'Night' blasted throughout the room, Caleb and Kaiya could be seen at the bar counter together.
After awkwardly making their way from the dance floor and getting out of the spotlight, the pair wanted to find a spot for themselves to somewhat be alone. Or at least away from all the frantically dancing strangers.
"Here you go. A couple of 'Johnny Appleseeds' shots on the house!", Said the muscular bartender in a black tank top and green and blue glow ring necklace.
"Thanks?", Caleb accepts them, wondering if they're actually safe to drink before handing one to Kaiya who quickly.
"T-Thank you." she softly thanked him for the drink.
"What?"
"Thank you!", Kaiya repeated louder, nearly shouting so he could hear before sniffing her drink, immediately taken aback by the strong alcohol scent. She then sees Caleb staring at him before taking a sip.
He gives a look of surprise, expecting the liquid to taste like house paint, instead it was exactly like alcohol but better somehow. The smooth but strong apple flavored beverage practically popped in his mouth.
"Damn, that's pretty good! Bartender, another!", Caleb stated, putting his glass down.
"Sure! Have as much as you want they're free! They're always free here.", the bartender happily stated his sound oddly cryptic near the end.
"You know what? It's so good I'm gonna ignore how creepy that sounded.", Caleb replied with a smile.
Kaiya looks at the smile on Caleb's face then goes back to her drink; not much of a drinker like others in her family. She steals her nerves and quickly throws the liquid down her throat, coughing slightly at the strong appley taste before smacking tongue and noticing the weirdly pleasant sweet aftertaste.
"That's…good!", Kaiya expressed.
"Great! Have another!", the bartender stated, presenting her another shot which she eagerly accepted, downing it immediately.
"Wow, you can really put it away huh? Are you a social drinker?", Caleb asks, a little impressed.
"Not really but how can I not? It's like a sweet, ripe fruit just burst inside my mouth.", Kaiya sweetly remarks, already starting to feel tipsy.
"There's a weird way to say that but fuck yeah!", Caleb emphatically stated accepting yet another shot from the bartender then presenting it Kaiya, "To Johnny 'motherfuckin' Appleseed!"
Kaiya smiled at him then clinked her shot glass to his, "Johnny Appleseed!", she repeated before they both down their drinks slamming the glasses on the bar counter.
Sometime passes on their single glass shots quickly rack up to well over a dozen shots. More than half of which were on Kaiya's side as she felt herself loosening up more and more. Not just her but Caleb also became more talkative as well.
"So, I'm just sayin'... what the hell is even the POINT of knocking if he just gonna come in anyway as if he owns my home! Shit, I swear one day he will walk up to my house and he'll get a skillet or paint swung in his face. Pull a damn Home Alone on his ass.", Caleb remarks, venting a little about Sterling as Kaiya chuckles at his anecdote.
"Hehehe, you sound like Mama when *hic* that ICEP guys from home came to our territory. She was ready to *hic* b-beat those guys asses with the leader's ass…no wait, I-I mean use his…his whole body to beat up all the bad guys like pinatas. Buuut daddy and uncle stopped her so it's all good!", Kaiya spoke, her words slurred.
"Haha! Beat a motherfucker with another motherfucker. I love that image."
Kaiya smiled widely, laughing along with him before accepting another shot, downing it instantly while suppressing a burp. She then takes notice of the dancers on the floor. Specifically how the human females were provocatively rubbing themselves, particularly their posteriors, against the males while dancing. It was strangely hypnotic and kind of fun even noting the male's delighted expressions.
"Hey, what are…those females doing?", Kaiya asks, gently patting his arms to get his attention.
Caleb looks where she's pointing, seeing a few women grinding on the men with an awkward blush, unsure how to explain it to her, so went with the blunt explanation, "Oh…uhh, that's called 'grinding'. It's a dance they do in a lot of clubs like these."
Kaiya looks back at them then to Caleb with slight hesitation, "Do you…w-want to try it?"
Caleb looks at her surprised, making sure the alcohol and loud environment weren't messing with his hearing, "You…you wanna dance like them?"
Kaiya simply nods fervently, holding her small shot with both hands cutely, awaiting his approval.
"I…sure? Yeah, let's…get out there.", Caleb replies, slightly uncomfortable but chooses to do it anyway for her sake.
Kaiya smiles widely at him in excitement, "O-OK!", she stated before grabbing his hand pulling and stumbling onto the dance floor. Her unusual forcefulness surprises Caleb a bit but he decides to go with it.
"EVERYBODY MAKE SOME NOISE! WE TAKING THIS PARTY TO THE STRATOSPHERE!", DJ Roman Noodle shouted as blue dots and flashing blue beams illuminated the entire and the song 'I'm Blue' by Eiffel 65 blasts on every speaker.
Kaiya turns face to face with Caleb and begins awkwardly shaking her shoulders trying to mimic the other females around her. Caleb, never really being much for openly dancing in public and not really being good at it—dancing genes from his dad skipped a generation—he still tried to play along with what few moves he had in his repertoire. After a minute, despite each of their movements being sloppy and chaotic, the pair started to find a rhythm they enjoyed.
'Blue are the streets and all the trees are too! I have a girlfriend and she is so blue!', The song blaired out all around them. As the danced, Kaiya would subtly brush against or gently bump him while he playfully bumped her back. She then takes a bolder step and presses her back against him, shaking her hips wildly as she brushes her plump rear and tail against him.
Caleb visibly tenses at the sensation as she kept dancing, drawing more attention to her hips. Despite her tail getting in the way, it wasn't unpleasant having it brushing his legs. He then feels Kaiya bump her firm, plump rear against his crotch, sending a jolt up his spine.
"A-Am I doing this right? Is this good?", Kaiya shyly asks, hoping he was at least enjoying himself as she grinds her butt into him like the other females. Despite knowing she should feel embarrassed, his presence along with alcohol dulling her inhibitions, made her bolder in her approach..
"Uh, Y-Yeah! You're doing great.", Caleb answered, sensing her sincerity, and makes his own bold move by grabbing her hips, eliciting a gasp of surprise but delight from her. He discretely moves her butt a few inches off his crotch swaying with her movements to her enjoyment. Though, he mostly did this so she wouldn't feel the bulge growing in his pants. She looks back at him with a smile doing a few arching chest bumps making her breasts bounce. He returns the smiles before leasing her hips doing a little 'Michael Jackson-esque' spin then grabbing her hips again prompting a chuckle from her.
Kaiya, mimicking one of the human women, reaches her arms behind and pulls him close, to his surprise, resting her head to his neck. She grinds her entire body against him, bumping him with her rear while taking in his intoxicating scent. Caleb grew more uncomfortable by the minute but he'd be a liar if he said what she was doing wasn't pleasant. He could feel the curves of her soft body rubbing against him and see her ample breast bouncing with every vigorous undulation. Her soft, large tail somehow snakes between his lower legs, thumping excitedly against them. The heat she radiated along with the sweet scent of apple shots…and something else he couldn't identify sent jolts through every never in his body.
"Y-You're a really good dancer.", Kaiya huskily spoke, her breathing more labored than before and cheeks darker while grinding to the beat.
"T-Thanks. You too.", Caleb responded, feeling her heated breath against his neck and seeing a bouncing dark cleavage.
"I-I feel…something d-down there…", Kaiya mutters, her words slurred.
"N-No you don't!", Caleb stated, panicking a little and thinking of Jar Jar Binks in every bikini possible to 'kill' his excitement.
"I-I do…m-my tummy feels…so hot. S-Something's coming…", She huskily spoke, her grinding slowly down as Caleb looked at her confused and embarrassed. He then feels her remove her arms from his neck and bend over holding her stomach, pressing her butt harder to his crotch, "I…*hic* I don't feel…good."
Caleb confusion morphs to concern, "H-Hey! What's wron–"
He quickly gets his answer when Kaiya audibly wretches, vomiting all over the floor holding her stomach. The music stops, the flights go on illuminating the entire room as the party goers cease dancing to observe the embarrassing spectacle.
"Kaiya!", Caleb stated, rushing to her side, patting her back and securing her to keep from falling over into brownish-green rotten meat smelling messy contents from her stomach. He then notices the floor where the mess lay appeared to dissolving around it, burning a hole through as if it was made of paper.
"Ruined the scene.", One of the party goers spoke as Caleb looked up, shocked to see the man's eyes had turned unsettling vacant as did all the other party goers, the DJ and the bartender.
"Ruined the scene! RUINED THE SCENE! RUINED THE SCENE!", the people around them angrily chanted, their vacantly contorted by vicious scowls as they closed in on the pair.
Caleb, now afraid, pulls a still sickly Kaiya close to him and begins to charge up a Deep Purple energy blast in his palm, pointing it threateningly at them, "Get back! GET THE FUCK BACK!"
Right at that moment, both of their bodies evaporated into a mass of rippling paint before getting sucked into a swirling vortex in space. Their bodies hurdling at uncontrollable speed before they materialize back in Leonard's art gallery.
"OK! YOU'RE DONE!", Lisa shouted, sounding very irritated…and in pain?
"What?! The Fuck?! What happened!" Caleb yelled, the first to recover as he looks around realizing they were back in their world. He then sees Kaiya on ground still clutching her stomach, "KAIYA! Are you alright?"
Kaiya's eyes shot open up on hearing his voice then quickly sat up. She touches her stomach realizing the pain and burning sensation in her throat were gone completely. In fact, she no longer felt intoxicated as if she didn't drink half her weight in booze.
"I-I'm fine now. What happened?"
"What happened?! You RUINED one of my favorite scenes with your puke that's what happened!", Lisa bitterly stated, stomping over and pointing to the large greenish brown colored splatter now in the lower center of the painting, "I had to pull you out to keep you before the Canvas Folk ripped you apart."
"What?!", Caleb expressed in shock.
"By 'ripped apart' she means screamed obscenities at you until you were kicked out. Isn't that right babe?", Leonard assured them, looking at girlfriend to agree, putting them at ease and less likely to tell I.A. security.
"Right! Yep, exactly what I mean.", Lisa says with a wink.
"Well whatever, are sure you're ok though Kaiya?"
"Yes. I…think I might've just had too much alcohol. Though, it's strange, I don't really like I drank any now.", Kaiya replies, rubbing her stomach curiously.
"Yeah, come to think of it, my buzz is gone too. Maybe we don't…take whatever we eat or drink with us?"
"Look at you with the big brain. Correct. Anything you do in there is just a sensation not substance. It's basically like eating and drinking imaginary food. Your brain thinks it's real but your body gets no nutrition whatsoever."
"If
"Ahh, so in theory, if you leave someone in there for a long enough time they'd slowly die of thirst and starvation while under the impression of being in paradise. That'd make an interesting yet effective execution method.", Kaiya spoke out loud, sounding more intrigued than disturbed. Though, it did disturb the others way more.
"Ok, lady, you are seriously freaking me out and that's saying a lot! You are making me overthink the implications of my powers WAY more than I ever should and I DON'T LIKE IT! YOU! Get your girl in check!", Lisa stated at Caleb, infuriated by the Hellhound's morbid curiosity.
"I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to upset you!", Kaiya frantically alogu
"Too late! Your disgusting body fluids have already damaged my beloved's precious scenery! You have any idea how long it'll take to fix that?!", Lisa whined as Leonard and Caleb watched with languid expressions at their banter.
"Sorry, but you can't fault her entirely for that Sweety. I told you not to let the bartenders stay on autopilot. They'll just keep serving without any cutoff.", Leonard casually reminded.
Lisa scoffs, folding her arms, "Hmph, it's not my fault if she has poor self-control. Besides, it was hysterical watching you both drunkenly stumble around on the dance floor. I bet you both thought you looked good! And yes, I did peak in for a bit.", she chuckled as Kaiya glanced downwards in embarrassment.
"Are you done?", Caleb asked, less amused by the ghost woman's teasing catching her and Kaiya's attention, "Because I'm pretty sure we get a scenery change right?"
"That's right, sir! Where were you both thinking of experiencing this time?", Leonard casually replies, gesturing to the remaining paintings.
"Anywhere quiet without a lot of people."
"Hmm, in that case, how about my trip to Barcelona? This is when I toured the Gothic Quarters right off of Las Ramblas.", the artist informed as Kaiya lights up again, ears erect.
"Perfect. What do you think, Kaiya? Wanna check out Spain?", Caleb offers with a smile.
"Y-Yes!", she beams in excitement.
"Welp, you heard em babe.",
Lisa rolls her eyes then makes a twisting motion with her hand. The painting of Barcelona changes into a swirling vortex of colors, "Alright, you both know the drill."
Caleb and Kaiya approach the swirling painting, more cautiously this time and he offers his hand to her. Kaiya accepts as they touch the painting simultaneously. Their bodies are instantly spaghettified and sucked into the painting before Leonard places a pre-set timer down.
Inside the painting, the pair materializes on the stone walkway of a thriving cosmopolitan city lined with trees. They look around in amazement at the architectural delights and beautifully decorated flower stalls. The Spring sun shined down and a gently cooling breeze carried the scent of the flowers, sea salt from the beaches in the distance, and deliciously cooked foods. However, what really bad their attention, especially Kaiya's, was the enormous Gothic-style buildings with gargoyle statues, flying buttress designs, and astonishing artwork featuring demonic beings mentioned in old tomes from ancient times.
"This is incredible!", Kaiya happily expressed.
"You can say that again. Now this is more like it. Peak vacation spot right here. So, where should we go first, the cathedral?"
"Yes please!", The hellhound happily yipped before grabbing his hands pulling him along.
"Whoa, ok ok! Don't rip my hands off now!"
…Elsewhere…
Drei could be seen sitting atop one of the bookshelves, scanning the area, before checking the ICEP app on her phone. The signal from his phone showed up again for a minute then suddenly disappeared again. She track it and what little of his scent she could to a Gothic-style section.
"Haa, maybe I should've just taken up his offer to have him call me.", Drei remarks to herself, turning off the app. She sighed, thinking up her next move to locate him.
"Hey. Excuse me?", came a feminine voice, getting the Karmaitachi attention her attention. She turned to see a woman floating behind her with feet like swirling streamers and arms like paper, Ms. Kraft, "The bookshelves are not for young kittens like to climb. You need some help getting down?", she offered with a smile.
"I'm a weasel and I'm not stuck. I was just using this as a vantage to locate my charge. Speaking of, you wouldn't happen to see a dark-skinned human man and hellhound with long dark bangs have you?"
"Oh! You mean, Ms. Kaiya and her new boyfriend? I saw them a while before I had go deal those HORRID, WRETCHED PAPER-MUNCHING PARASITES but I haven't seen them since.", Ms. Kraft replies, her voice switching soft and gentle to a thunderous almost demonic snarl the back, slightly disturbing Drei.
"Uh-huh…", Drei utters, unsure what that was about nor wanting to know.
"May I ask why you're looking for them? I think they're currently on a date."
"Yeah, I already know. I ju–"
"Whaaaat?! You do? So why would you be trying to find them?! Unless…oh my goodness, you're stalking that man aren't you?", Ms. Kraft expressed, gasping in shock.
"If by 'stalking' you mean doing a job by keeping him out of trouble."
Ms. Kraft gasps in shock again, "You've done it so much you consider it your job?! My word! I've never encountered such a jaded lover in all my days! Oh, how your heart must anguish at your love going unreciprocated! You must be suffering, AGONIZING I say for those words to come out so that he knows the depths of your admiration!", Ms. Kraft dramatically spoke, reaching hands out to Drei ready to embrace her.
Drei stares at her very befuddled, "What?"
"No tears little one!"
"I don't cry."
"I will help you in your endeavor of the heart. We shall craft a confession of love on paper just for him. He must know the true depths of your love for him!", Ms. Kraft proudly assures, summoning several sheets of different styles of paper from hot pink to cute bunny ledgers.
"Ok. I have…no idea what you're going on about and out of preservation of my sanity I won't try to. Bye.", Drei replies, trying to leap away ona generated miniature cyclone.
"Wait! Where are you going?!"
"Annnd this is why I loathe talking with strangers.", Drei sighs to herself, getting far away from the weird paper lady.
"Don't run from your feeI-" but before she could go after her she felt another disturbance that caused her freeze in place, clenching her paper fists.
Further away, the two silverfish girls from earlier could be seen munching on an old set of books called the Hobbit.
"~Hmm, this is way better than the Star Wars set.~", One of them hummed, chewing on a few pages.
"Yeah, you're telling me. Let's try and grab as many volumes as we can before—YOUCH!", The other silverfish advised but interrupted when a book about Judge Judy smacks her in the face.
Suddenly, several pieces of paper start swirling around them as the other silverfish shudders in terror then looks up to see the paper dancer glaring down with pure disdain.
"How many times do I need to teach you this lesson, you parasites?!"
"Can the lesson wait until after lunch? Gah!", one of the silverfish tries to joke with a fearful grin only to be met with a giant compact fist made of paper smashing down on her. She then turns a disdainful glare at the other one, eyes burning with rage.
"M-Mercy! MERCY!", The Silverfish begged on her knees.
"Mercy? Did you show them mercy!", She coldly spoke while forming a massive hammer made of paper then slamming it down on the Silverfish girl. Ms. Kraft smiles deviously, unsettling a few customers nearby not wanting to get involved.
….Back in Canvas World…
Caleb and Kaiya were enjoying themselves in Barcelona, or at least the paint world version. The pair walked through the large alleys, passing and enjoying sights of tall Gothic medieval buildings.
The streets were four squares: the first two serving a political heartland and town hall where many people gathered. The other two encompass the city's architectural ensemble, demonstrating the finest examples of medieval construction. The pair mostly stayed within the latter two areas of the city admiring the upscale modern gothic design, an ornamental decorated in Picasso-style markings, unique almost demonic carvings in the wall and statues featuring visages of demons, gargoyles and even hellhounds. All of it physical testament to the dark and terrifying period marked by harsh laws and reinforced by torture, public execution, and fanatical superstitions. Most of which Kaiya was more than happy to expand upon in great detail and Caleb could only nod along pretending to understand. Many of the 'people' walking about had similar skin textures and eye patterns as the ones from the Prague club world and their behavior and mannerisms reminded Caleb of the 'NPCs' he and Mirabelle create in the dreamscape.
The area was teeming with small shops selling a variety of trinkets and souvenirs from large Barcelona flags and tourist t-shirts to small and cute but overpriced gothic horror figures of various monsters; several of which Kaiya couldn't help but admire. The streets were also crammed with buzzing restaurants, fresh food markets with Catalan, and tapa bars selling exotic drinks. The pair enjoyed the local cuisine, happily provided by the paint cooks at no expense. From crispy chicken croquettes to something called 'Chuletón de Vaca Vieja', which was basically the juiciest, most savory slow-roasted ribeye steak the pair ever had; almost rivaling Amara's cooking.
Their date seemed to have been salvaged. Still, Kaiya couldn't help but be worried if things were going too well.
'Ok, everything is going well again! H-He seems to be having fun. I just can't mess up again.', Kaiya thought as they continued through a dim narrow back alleyway, 'Hnngh, b-but what else can we do together? All we've done so far is eat, walk and look at amazing gothic art! What should we do next though? He probably wouldn't want to dance again after what I did earlier. What else can we do here?', Kaiya thought, becoming worried and looking around trying to find something a bit more romantic they could do together.
"Ok, it looks like we got a bit turned around.", Caleb spoke, looking around, trying to figure out where they were.
Kaiya is brought out of her thoughts, realizing she had been following him the entire time and not paying much attention to her environment.
"I think we came down…that way? I know we passed some kinda bar a few minutes back. What about you? Can you smell anything familiar?", He asked, thinking they could track their way back on the right path. Any other non-canidae girl he asked something like that he's certain he'd get smacked across the face.
"N-No. Strangely enough, I stopped smelling any of the food and flowers when we entered this alley."
"Hmm, maybe that painting lady tailored it so visitors could only smell it on those streets where the restaurants are. Talk about lazy ass design. I guess we're backtracking."
Kaiya nods understandingly then realizes there were next to no people in this alley, only the two of them. A dim back alley in a city known for the macabre? It was just that one mating scene from a horror romance novel she's read. The thought of such a perfect romance spot being right in front of her caused her to blush heavily.
'T-This could be a good spot to show him that I'm serious!', She thought, hyping herself up.
"Hm? Kaiya, you alright?"
"Caleb!", She blurted out, louder than she intended, startling him a bit.
"Yeah?"
"W-Why don't we–"
"Well well well, what have we got here?", an unfamiliar voice spoke.
The pair look to see a trio of what they assume are painting people. All three were young men dressed in baggy pants and had notable gothic symbols tattooed on the arms and necks protruding from loose T-shirts. A few wore shiny gold or silver chains or watches and stood in a slouched, uncaring posture. Caleb, from past experience living in Huntsville and noticing their body language could tell they trouble.
"Oh h-hello? Did you need something?", Kaiya cautiously asked, surprised she sense them approaching.
"I'm looking right at it, Perrita(puppy).", one of them spoke nodding with a lecherous grin as the others hungrily looked her up and down
Kaiya was noticeably taken aback, "E-Excuse me?"
"Why don't you ditch this tonto(fool) and have some fun with us, eh? Bring that big ass over here.", another offers, swaying his knees to emphasize his groin in a sensual manner as his friends hooted and Kaiya recoils unnerved.
"A quien llamas 'tonto', tonto(Who you calling 'fool', fool)?", Caleb bitterly spoke Spanish, surprising the trio and Kaiya, who's had he immediately grabs, "We're on a date so I'll ask nicely for you to move out of our way."
They glare at Caleb with displeased scowls before one of the with short black hair in blue bandana and white T-shirt approaches him.
"Who the fuck you think you are, holmes? Think you can take us?", he spoke stepping up to Caleb then snaps his finger, prompting three more men to run up from behind and grab Kaiya dragging her away.
"Hey! Let me go!"
"Kaiya!", Caleb shouted before the hoodlum in a bandana tries to sneak him with a right hook, which Caleb manages to dodge by a hair.
"We gonna have some fun with her. If you're lucky, maybe you can watch.", he maliciously grinned.
Caleb looks are him with a cold glare, tilting his head slightly.
Outside, as all of this was going down, Lisa could be seen lightly snickering in amusement inside her portrait.
"What's so funny babe?", Leonard inquires, scrolling on his phone.
"Oh nothing, that guy and his Hellhound just ran into one of my romance scenarios. The back alleys of Barcelona."
"Back alley of Bar…oh, oh no babe? Don't tell me you're back on that 'damsel in distress' shit again. Remember what happened last time."
"Hey, it's not my fault that guy was so weak! Besides, I toned down the aggressiveness and scaled back their strength abit. And, for the record, 'damsel in distress' is the ultimate aphrodisiac!", Lisa stated before closing her eyes focusing her power and looking into the Barcelona painting.
"Just make sure they don't get hurt, ok?", Leonard pleaded, not wanting another complaint from ICEP.
"I…don't think you have to worry about that.", Lisa remarks, surprised by what she was seeing.
Back inside the painting, one of the men screams as he's thrown right into the solid stone wall. The blue cap man, who's mouth was now bleeding, rushes Caleb swinging a plastic-looking knife. Caleb immediately redirects his attack, grabs his arm, elbow jabs his jaw, then judo throws right into his friends knocking them both to the ground.
At that moment, one of the other guys goes soaring over Caleb's head screaming then faceplants in a wall several meters away landing in a collection of trash bins. Caleb turns to see Kaiya, effortlessly throwing the men off her.
One of them tries to rush her with a broken beer bottle. She dodges and delivers a strong uppercut to his abdomen, knocking the air out of him as he hits the wall unconscious.
"S-Sorry! But I told you to let go!", Kaiya berated, more out of annoyance than anger.
"GOT YOU BITCH!", Shouted one of the thugs, rushing her with a large plastic-looking knife from behind.
Kaiya jumps up, somersaults backwards, grabbing the man's shoulders mid-air while giving Caleb a good view of her plump, curvaceous thighs then kicking the man so hard he's sent flying towards Caleb. He side steps, letting him crash into the other two men like bowling pins as Kaiya lands on her feet fixing her skirt.
"Damn!", Caleb expressed, staring at her in astonishment and impressed.
"Oh! I'm sorry! I almost knocked him into you!", She sincerely apologized much to his confusion.
"It's fine, let's just go before these NPC ass niggas wake up."
"O-OK."
Outside, Lisa wore a somewhat stunned expression hardly believing such an unassuming guy was actually that strong. Then there's the chubby hell puppy who kinda ruined the scene of her being rescued by pulling a 'Fiona' from Shrek by saving herself.
"Well, that'll be annoying to fix later.", Lisa said in a mildly annoyed tone realizing she was going to have to fix those 'NPC' guys later.
"Told you your little 'damsel in distress' scenes cause more problems than either of us need. If you're gonna do that we should at least tell them about it.", Leonard lightly chastises.
"That would defeat the point! It's no fun if they don't think there is any actual danger. Besides, I remember you enjoyed that little 'game' we used for them.", She remarks, flashing a saucy smirk.
"Your creativity scares me at times. I love you for it.", Leonard smirks back before an alarm clock goes off, signaling a customer's time was up. Lisa, with an annoyed expression, proceeds to yank them out of the painting titled 'Burning Man 2011'. Emerging was the monoeye and elf women from earlier. The former on her knees, mouth agape and suggestively rocking her head and the elf sensually dancing still believing the LSD was in effect. They quickly realize all pleasant sensation had ceased.
"Eh? What's going on?! Where's George?!", The monoeye expressed disappointment, looking around and realizing the…salty taste in her mouth was gone too.
"George is gone. Now leave.", Lisa coldly stated, gesturing towards the door.
"Haaa, very well. It was nice to cut loose for a while. Thank you Ms. Lisa.", The elf graciously spoke with a slight courteous bow. A complete and utter stark contrast to the freak she behaved like in the Canvas World from what Lisa witnessed. She makes human sorority girls from Florida look like saints. This true for all painting inked her essence, giving her almost kaleidoscope vision into each canvas world simultaneously.
"You're welcome. My painting's are wonderful though you do own thanks to MY painter as well without him it wouldn't be as glorious of experience." Lisa said proudly while emphasizing that Leonard was her's to make it clear to someone their
"In that case, why don't you and I pick up where George left off, Mr. Artist?", the monoeye lustfully remarks much about her friend's embarrassment and Leonard's discomfort.
"Get out.", Lisa spoke calmly but her entire body radiates a malevolent black aura, eyes glowing with burnt white light. Her body grows in size, hair whipping about like wild tendrils, and teeth ground sharp like knives. Her voice shifts into a growling almost demonic distortion that makes every inch of their body tremble, "Or I'll make sure his next artwork is inked in your blood."
Both girls shriek in horror, holding each other before quickly rushing out of the room. Lisa immediately returns to her previous appearance, sighing in annoyance.
"I really hate taking that form."
"She had it coming. Besides, even as a horror beyond comprehension you're still beautiful to me.", Leonard remarks, wrapping his arms around her, making her giggle in delight, lovingly nuzzling his neck.
…Meanwhile in (Fake)Barcelona…
Caleb and Kaiya managed to find their way out of the alleyway and were now headed up a stone walkway back to main street, hopefully.
"Seriously, you were amazing back there! I did not know you could fight like that!", Caleb praised.
"I-It wasn't that special. I was just doing like mama taught us. My sisters are way stronger than me. Besides, you were even more surprising. You can…certainly hold your own.", Kaiya replied with an embarrassed blush.
"Yeah, well, there was no way I was about to let myself get jumped by Spanish Ed Edd n' Eddy, aight? I have some dignity. Plus, I couldn't let them hurt you! You're my date.", Caleb replied with a sharp gaze that made her flush harder and her heart raced, "Actually, I hope we didn't go overboard. Didn't really check if they were breathing."
"Well, they're not real people, they're paint constructs. Actually, is it really murder if that's the case?", Kaiya pondered out loud.
Caleb looks at her a moment, "Please don't make me question the moral ambiguity of this world."
"S-Sorry! I-I didn't mean it like that!"
"I know, just teasing you. Think i'm getting acclimated to your morbid mouth.", He teases with a giggle.
"D-Don't make fun of me…", Kaiya huffs with a light growl which Caleb found cute, making him chuckle. Kaiya finds her little scowl melting away, replaced by a smile.
"Hm? What's that up ahead?", Caleb spoke, pointing up ahead to the entrance of medieval-style courtyard with a large temple directly behind a huge gothic cathedral called 'Carrar Paradis' surrounded by large nine-meter high columns; a leftover structure from the days of the Roman empire, "Wanna check it out?"
"Ok."
The pair proceed through into the courtyard full of lush green, freshly cut grass and rose bushes lining the gray stone walkway. The smell of roses permeated the surroundings along with a light breeze carrying salting ocean air. As they entered the 40 meter tall surprisingly spacious temple, they took notice that, despite it largely remaining unchanged for thousands of years, it had a few modern structures and updates added to encourage higher tourist viewing. One of which being a huge pink-colored water fountain with a statue of Venus surrounded by Cupids along with stone seats near the opening of the column overlooking the beach below. They figured it was a creative liberty made by Leonard.
"Wow, this is an amazing view.", Caleb remarks, taken aback by the grand yet humbling scenery.
"Y-yeah…", Kaiya expressed, taking it all in as well. She looks around at the isolated environment as realization dawns on her.
"You wanna rest here for a while?"
"Yeah."
'This place is perfect! If there is any place to do it, this is it! P-Please, Cerberus, please nothing go wrong this time. PLEASE!' Kaiya thought feeling desperate, needing to make this moment count.
The pair take a seat on the stone seats facing the oceans and the flowing pink waters of the fountain behind them. Caleb inhales the salting air, calming his mind as Kaiya looks to him seeing how relaxed he was, strangely making her relax. They sat there enjoying the ambience for a minute before Kiya decided to make her move.
"C…Caleb? I-I want—", she uttered softly before Caleb interrupts.
"Kaiya? What made you ask me out on a date?"
Kaiya pauses, surprised by the question, before taking a deep breath, "W-Well…I-I really, really like you and…I want to be your mate. I-I know this may be considered forward for humans but…I think I'm in love with you."
"You…love me? You realize this is like…the third conversation we've had, right? We've barely known each other for more than two weeks. Hell, I JUST remembered today your last name was Cerberjack—", Caleb doubtfully replies but she cuts him off.
"I don't care!", Kaiya shouts, clenching her fists, "I don't care about any of that because…I just know…I feel it. That night on the balcony and even right now, this second…I can feel it in my heart. You're the one for me. I fear I'll never meet anyone like you again.", She fervently spoke, scooting closer now facing him.
"If that's what it's about then…you should know I'm really nothing special. I'm sure someone as awesome as you will find somebody way better than me.", Caleb replies, wanting to drive that belief from her head.
Kaiya fervently shakes her head in disbelief, denying the statement wholeheartedly, "No! Even if…what you say is true, it doesn't matter if I meet someone better…because NONE of them are you and never will be.", she says, her voice cracking as tears roll down her cheeks past her hair.
Caleb is visibly taken aback, unsure of just how to respond.
"I…I already know about you current mate and…I'm perfectly fine with sharing you! I just…I just ask that you love JUST as her. I love you but…I won't be second best to anyone no matter how strong she is!", Kayai states, not just for herself, but not wanting to disappoint her mother.
Caleb looks at her in surprise but understanding her conviction then cautiously asks, "And…you're really ok with that?
"Yes. Hellhounds are no stranger to occasionally sharing mates; especially in recent years. Whether it's two or even ten other females, it makes no difference! So long as we find the male in question truly exceptional.", Kaiya responded, surprising him even more.
"You're seriously willing to do all that just to be with someone like…me? Why? I'm not really…exceptional."
"You are to me! I love your compassion, strength, and loyalty. Even your personality and way of thinking are a lot like me and the way I think.", Kaiya scoots closer gently taking his hand in her own.
"And… you sure you're in love with ME and not my actions? I saved your life but…you aren't really obligated to do anything…this drastic."
"That's NOT what this is about!", Kaiya stated, sounding a bit offended as Caleb recoiled in shame, realizing how bad that sounded, "The only actions I fell for were you showing me what a kind person you are. Despite having every reason to hate me and my kind. That's why I'm begging you, please believe me when I say…I love you, Caleb Bizzell.", she resolutely spoke,bringing his hand to her ample chest, resting it between her warm, soft cleavage. He flushes about to pull away but stops upon feeling her heart pounding against his hand. It was soothing yet strong, similar to Mirabelle's. She scoots even closer until their bodies are touching and he could feel the soothing heat from her fur.
Caleb could sense the passion and slight desperation in her words. She was truly giving everything…for him. He knew, from his experience with Mirabelle and the others, her feelings in this moment were earnest.
Caleb took a deep breath, prompting a worried look from Kaiya, as he collected himself, "Youreally mean it huh?"
"Yes! E-Even if…you don't love me the same way back I still…I still…", Kaiya struggled to finish, feeling her heart aching before she felt his firm palm gently cup her face.
"Kaiya, I want to be one hundred percent honest with you. As it stands…I don't feel that same way you do.", Caleb spoke as Kaiya began to feel her heart breaking before he continued, "BUT, if i've learned anything, things change in ways you can't imagine or control. I've seen more of who you are today and…I strongly believe I'll fall for you too in time."
Kaiya mouth goes slightly agape in awe, heart racing, "S-So does that mean you'll accept me?"
"I already have. We're already dating, aren't we? Now we're dating with intention.", He slyly emphasized the last part, whispering in her canine ear, letting it reverberate in her head.
Kaiya smiles widely at him, her tail wagging happily and face blushing heavily, she then happily yips, "Yes!"
Caleb lightly chuckles then looks off down at the beach, "Gotta say, you really went above and beyond for a first date. I was expecting to just chill in the book store."
Kaiya's tail stops wagging and she pauses in surprise, "W-What? What do you mean?"
"Uh, what do you mean? 'What do I mean'", Caleb responded confused.
"W-Weren't you bored just reading on our date? D-Dates ARE supposed to be fun, exciting and memorable right?"
"I mean, yeah but not really. A cafe book date isn't exciting, doesn't mean it can't be enjoyable. In the end, it's about us both enjoying each other's company.", Caleb points out.
"B-But isn't that boring?"
"To me? No, why would I…wait, is that why you wanted to do this Chalkzone world hopping thing? You thought our date was getting boring?"
"N-No, that's not it!", Kaiya stated, afraid she upset him, her ears folded in shame, "I..I was afraid…you think I was boring and want nothing to do with me."
"Why would you think that?", Caleb curiously asked.
"I saw you staring at me when I was reading and…I thought…", She trails off, beginning to feel stupid.
Caleb looks at her questioning what she meant before it hit him, "O-Oh! That. Uh…that wasn't what you think. I wasn't staring because I was bored or anything?"
Kaiya raises an eyebrow behind her bangs, "T-Then why were you staring?"
Caleb looks away, hiding his embarrassment, "Honestly…I was thinking you'd look even more beautiful with your eyes uncovered. It's a shame to hide them."
Kaiya was visibly taken aback, feeling her heart skip a beat and her words failing to describe how happy she felt.
"Sorry, if that was insensitive. I understand WHY you hide them but…"
"Do you…really like them that much?",Kaiya inquires, watching him expectantly.
"Yeah.", He responded, before feeling her body press more into, her breasts mushing into his arm, "W-What are—", Caleb is struck silent upon seeing her bright blue eyes flickering with azure flames covering his field of vision as Kaiya held her bangs over her head with a loving smile.
"You're right, I don't like showing them in public…but I'm fine with showing them to my family. Going forward, I won't hide myself from the male I love. You can see all of me whenever you want.", She lovingly, her words caring and undeniable warmth that reached Caleb's core.
He smiles back, caressing his hand along her cheek while she happily nuzzles his palm, "I'll take you up on that."
Kaiya croons, staring back into his chocolate brown eyes, her plump, dark gray lips parting as she stared hungrily at his lips. She instinctively drifts closer to him as Caleb senses her intentions, hesitating for a second then remembering his promise to Mirabelle. No sex and no tongue, for now. He leans forward, pressing his lips against hers, prompting a jolt to shoot through their nerves. They both melted into the very pleasant sensation, embracing each other and the taste of their new-found lover. Her lips tasted sweet with just a little of the smoked beef from earlier lingering. Kaiya hummed, enjoying the taste of his full lips, reminiscent of combination meat and fresh baked bread.
At that moment, the pair hear what sounded like a ringing from an alarm bell as their body quickly dissolved into multi-colored liquid paint and quickly pulled through a rippling portal back to the real world.
The pair materializes in the art gallery in front of the painting they were just in, still embracing one another, as the time went off. Lisa slaps the timer, silencing it.
"Time's up you two! Looks like you two enjoyed yourselves.", Lisa slyly remarks having peaked in on them, prompting to turn away recovering her eyes as Caleb shoots a glare at the Living Painting, "Tell me, how'd you like my little surprise scenario? Hope the boys didn't scare you too much.",
"Bae.", Leonard warned, arms folded.
Caleb and Kaiya exchange looks then smile at each other.
"Nah, luckily your little cartoon villains we weak as fuck. Everything else, fantastic."
"It certainly was an amazing city. Thank you so much for the experience.", Kaiya happily added.
"Well that's good. Not part about my creations being weak, fuck you, but I'm glad you enjoyed yourselves. SO, ready for your final painting adventure."
"Actually, I don't think that'll be necessary.", Kaiya politely stated, much to the confusion of the others.
"Wait, are you serious?", Caleb questioned.
"Yes, I think I've had enough exploring for one day. I'd like to get back to our REAL date with real food now", Kaiya assures as her stomach grumbles on cue. A feeling Caleb couldn't help but relate too considering all the food they ate was basically air.
"In that case, let me refund you for the unused painting.", Leonard offered, taking out her money.
"That's fine, you can just give our spot to the next customer."
"Y-You sure about that?"
"Yes.", she nods assuringly as Leonard and Lisa look at her skeptically. Neither of them were going to tell her how to use her money but found her devil-may-care attitude strange.
"Well, alright then. Let's get outta her and find us some good books to enjoy together." Caleb says, accepting her decision, taking her large hand into his with a smile.
"I would love nothing more. I even have quite a few suggestions! Have you ever heard of 'Blood Meridian'?", Kaiya said, enthusiastically smiling back, as they walked out.
"Ok, they're in the list of top ten weirdos we've had here."
"They seem really good together though. I hope they're happy together.", Leonard casually remarks.
"Yeah, me too. Plus, gotta admit, their life energy was some of the best I've tasted in awhile", Lisa agreed, licking her lips. Little did any of the customers know, the longer they stay in her paint worlds the more of their energy she absorbs to sustain herself and the surplus of mana can be used for more of Leonard's paintings. It was one reason she and Leonard agreed the cutoff time was thirty minutes to keep from overdraining their clients.
"Hello? Is anyone in here?", came a male voice, getting their attention. They turn, surprised to see another human man, Trevor, with, not one, but TWO hellhounds, Kehema and Jemena by his side.
"Is this that art gallery we've been hearing about?", Jemena inquires.
"Yep, you guys are in the right spot.", Leonard affirms.
"Is it true we can really go inside of the painting and, like, do WHATEVER we want?", Kehema asks.
"That's right, missy! And lucky for you three, we have a prepaid special going on right now. You get to visit one painting…for half of at just a hundred bucks.", Lisa replies, intentionally neglecting to mention the previous customer paying, much to Leonard dismay.
"That all?! Shit, let's go!", Kehema excitedly stated, whipping out a couple fifties.
'What is with all these rich Hellhounds?!', Leonard incredulously thought.
"Perfect!", Lisa stated, taking the money then gestures to the available paintings, "Alright pick on and get ready to EXPERIENCE sublimation!"
…..
While that was going on, Kaiya and Caleb could be seen heading back to their previous seats, hoping the books they picked up were still there. Luckily for them, they were. In fact, it doesn't look like anyone's tried to sit there since they left.
However, they were more surprised to see a familiar face seated at a table near the chairs the previously used.
"Hahahaha! Seriously?!", Alkina heartily laughs as does her new companion Deon across from.
"Yeah, you can bet he never wore red around the Minotaur EVER again!", Deon affirmed with a chuckle, sipping his frappuccino.
"Alkina?"
Alkina looks, to her surprise, to find her sister and Caleb, standing nearby.
"Oh hi Kaiya. Hey, Caleb. It's funny to bump into you here.", Alkina casually remarks, knowing full well it wasn't a coincidence.
"I-I guess so?"
"Oh, right! Sorry. Caleb, Kaiya, this is my new…friend Deon, he's looking to become an ICEP host. D, this is my baby sister Kaiya and her new mate Caleb.", Alkina says as Kaiya blushes in embarrassment and surprise.
"Hey, nice to meet you.", Deon graciously spoke, casually shaking Kaiya hand then Caleb's, "What's good brother?"
"Not much, man, just out with my girl on a date.", Caleb casually replies making Kaiya blush at being called 'his girl' in public.
Deon looks at them with a grin, nodding in approval, "Yeah, I know how that goes. Looks like we both found a couple of beautiful hellhounds at this place."
"C-Come, D! You're gonna make me blush over here.", Alkina swoons, her tail wagging happily at his words.
"There you are.", they heard Drei's voice as she descends on from a small cyclone of air. "Where have you been? I've been searching all over for you."
"Would you believe it if I said we were in Prague…and then Barcelona?", Caleb half jokingly replies as Kaiya giggles knowingly. Alkina and Deon look at him very confused by his answer.
Drei stares at him plainly, "You know what, considering it's YOU that seems plausible.", she said, deciding to get to FULL details later, "Anyway, all this tracking and talking to weirdos has worked up my appetite."
"Oh, cool, we were grabbing some food somewhere after we paid for these books.", Caleb casually replies.
"Most sensible thing I've heard all day.", Drei answered back.
"Alright, well we'll leave ya'll to yourselves. Nice meeting you.", Caleb politely spoke to Alkina and Deon.
"Nice meeting you too, brother. You too, Kaiya.", Deon happily spoke, fist bumping Caleb.
"Furahia mwenyewe dada. ~Najua hakika nitafanya~(Enjoy yourself sis! ~I know I sure will~)", Alkina says with a saucy smirk as Kaiya gives her sister a dubious smirk back.
"Hehe, what's that mean?"
"Oh nothing, just a thing we do in my pack. Anyway, you mentioned you work out?"
"Yeah, I go to the gym every morning. Been most focusing on quads lately.", Deon casually answers.
"Ooooh, strong lower body huh. Good to know." , Alkina's devious smile widens, her red eyes burning hotter with nefarious intent.
…Later…
After leaving the bookstore, the pair, and Drei, decided to finish their date with a hearty meal from a nearby kebab and grill stand owned by a male dwarf. They joked and chatted the entire time, enjoying each other's company. In that time, Kaiya ate over a third of her weight in beef and lamb skewers almost rivaling Drei—who took a pile of kebabs half her size further away so as not to completely 'third-wheel' their date while keeping an eye out for more weirdos. Despite his insistence to pay for his portion, Kaiya still paid the entire bill. A slight blow to his pride but a few nuzzles from his Hellhound date made it bearable.
It was nearly six in the evening as the sunset over the facility. After leaving the shopping district, they could now be seen standing at the entrance of Kaiya's home with his car running behind him.
"I…I had so much fun today.", Kaiya sweetly utters with a smile, placing her large paw atop his hand.
"I did too.", he replies, staring back with a smile.
"Caleb, I've…been meaning to ask. When those painting people surrounded us in that club…I remember seeing your hand glowing with purple flames.", Kaiya spoke, caressing the top of his hand.
Caleb looks at her surprised and worried, thinking he messed up, "That was…I can explain–"
"It's ok.", Kaiya assured with a smile, "I promise I won't tell anyone. Besides, I know you only revealed that part of yourself to try protecting me. It's just who you are.", she said, bringing his hand that emitted the flames, nuzzling his palm.
"It's a long, complicated and very weird story which I'll tell you someday."
"That's fine. I enjoy a good story even the weird ones.", She replied jokingly.
Caleb couldn't help but smile, "Hehe, you're something else, you know that?", he says, gingerly uncovering her bangs from her burning sapphire eyes making a smile grow on her freckled cheeks. He could see the raw, honest emotion in her gaze. Similar to Lyca, her eyes were full of pure, devoted, unconditional love.
"Y-You know, you could stay the night if you want. My bedroom is quite big so…I wouldn't mind sharing with you.", Kaiya offered, blushing heavily and staring with anticipation.
"Thanks for the offer and I'm…sure you have the purest intentions at heart but no.", Caleb plainly replies much to Kaiya slight dismay.
"O-Oh…alright then."
"Aww, don't give me those sad puppy eyes. I didn't mean 'no' as in NEVER. I mean not yet. Dating with intention, remember?", He raises a poignant eyebrow.
Kaiya eyes widened before lighting up happily, "O-Oh! Right, of course! Sorry, I was…getting ahead of myself."
"It's ok.", he assured, petting the top of her head, making her giggle, before staring at each other a moment. They both lean forward, enjoying a tender kiss together with Kaiya placing her hands to his shoulders, pressing herself against him as his other hands caress her back before separating, "I'll see you soon. Say hi to Tristan and the others for me."
"Mhmm.", she nods.
As they go their separate way for now, Drei could be seen observing from above with an intrigued expression. That's when she notices one of her vials in hand. She didn't even remember taking it out and simply put it away with a sigh of annoyance.
'Last thing I need is to be fighting my instincts more than I already am.', Drei thought as she watched him get inside his car and pull away from the hellhound building, "Hopefully, she's the only new face he'll be adding while we're here.", she utters to herself before vanishing with a gust of wind.
…Elsewhere…
Tubala could be seen heading back to her living unit.
'Today has been…utterly bothersome.', She thought, turning the key to her door. Between the humiliation she experienced at the gym to the dealing with the foolishness of her fellow devils, she has just at her limit. Then she finds out that 'Bizzell' human has officially started to court one of the daughters of the Hellhound pack leader. That human filth was surely trying to ensure they would follow his commands should he need them. He managed to turn her failure into his advantage. It's clear he's more conniving than she thought and that alone she couldn't stand for.
She flings open the door and turns on the light only to find the entire living room in complete disarray. There was garbage, empty cheap beer cans, and bits of snack chips all over the floor and furniture had noticeable claw marks, wet stains, and she'd fur and scales all over cushions. She clenches her fists in frustration at her unrefined roommate's terrible habits.
"Maybe I'll take out some frustration when she returns. I wonder if Manticore tails grow back when they're chopped into pieces.", She maliciously spoke as red aura flares around her body.
Suddenly, she gets a knock at her door. She exhale through her teeth letting her aura die down then answering the door to deal with likely yet her another headache. She, much to her immediate discontent and disgust, is greeted two I.A. personnel–a male human and female Mantis.
Good evening Ms. Cain, how are you?", he politely ask which Tubala was buying in the slightest.
"Fine until twenty seconds ago."
"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.", he expressed in fake sympathy, "Anyway, we are here to talk about your lack of attendance in any education or job training programs or even application to a host family? Is everything ok?"
"Everything is fine I simply don't see value in such things.", Tubala dismissively spoke
"Well, the issue with that ma'am is that students in the facility must be involved in some education or employment program. Otherwise, we'll have to do an evaluation on finding the best solution for you personally. I understand your…unique circumstances have given you some trust issues when it comes to humans. However, you must show that you're willing to apply yourself and if some form of assistance is needed, we'd be more than willing to give it." , The male agent assured to which the Mantis nods.
"Are you saying I'm incompetent? That I need your help to succeed?", Tubala questions, glaring daggers at the human male, behind her back discreetly conjuring a red magic seal in her palm.
The mantis woman steps up, "He's saying that, DESPITE what you've been through, you must show us you're willing to improve yourself with our many opportunities we are offering. You have had three weeks to show on your own that you WANT to be here. Yet you've gone to no classes, no therapy sessions, or applied to become a homestay. If you continue like this we'd have to cancel your stipends and begin looking for a host on your behalf." mantis said staring her down ready act if she
Tubala grimaces, clenching her fist wanting to unleash her power on them but she notices mantis eyes and could see eyes of a fighter starting to doubt that she could end her quickly; at least not at close range. She then takes a deep breath, then looks at the identification badges on their uniforms.
'Mark Figgis. Meilin Gray.', Tubala thought, making a mental note for later. She then puts on a gracious smile for them, "You're right I'm sorry I have been taking my time here for granted. I promise, I will look into that education program."
"That's all we ask ma'am. Don't forget, if you need to talk about your situation we have professionals on staff.", The male worker assured as his partner merely stares at her, watching her closely.
"Thank you.", she nearly strained out, forcing a small grin.
"Of course, you have a pleasant evening ma'am." Mark said as Tubula closed the door afterwards as he and his partner walks away he released a sigh. "I swear she was bull shitting us at the end but we did our job and gave her the warning. What she does now isn't our problem. If she decides to keep wasting time here and get kicked out, that's her fault."
"She wanted to attack us. If she did she would have found out what it means to deal with a 'real' warrior." Meilin said stoically as she grabbed his arm protectively pulling him close.
"Whoa, easy now. We're still on duty you know."
Tubala stood behind the closed door as her body radiated a malevolent black aura with an enraged scowl at having pleasantries with that filth. Still, it didn't matter to her, she'll deal with them all later; especially Caleb Bizzell.
'And I have just the tool and the perfect leverage to show them all who is REALLY in control.", She smirks widely.
…Back to Caleb…
After returning home, Caleb immediately hopped in the shower while Drei could be seen in the living room watching a show on TV using his Prime video account. It was called 'House MD'; one of the very few American drama shows she liked.
"Haa, today's been a long ass day. I'm so tired.", Caleb spoke, walking into the living room, feeling more refreshed after the shower and wearing plain black and blue sweatpants and a gray T-shirt.
"You are the one who decided to go on a spontaneous date inside a literal ghost painting after the assignment.", Drei casually pointed out.
"Eh, I have no regrets. At least we finished the assignment early and now we have the weekend to relax."
"I imagine wife number 4 is going to be joining you?", Drei asks with eyebrow raised.
"First off, we're nowhere near there yet. Second…probably not? I mainly just wanna relax after the week we've had."
"I don't object to that.", Drei remarks, pressing play as the episode starts. It begins with her favorite character/ main character in the show, Dr. Gregory House.
"Whoa, is that 'House MD?'", Caleb happily asks, catching Drei's attention.
"...Yes? You know about House?"
"Uh, yeah! I used to watch it all the time in college. Christian got me into it during his nursing training before he changed major. It's one of my favorite shows ever. Which episode are you on?" Caleb happily asked her, taking a seat next to her.
"Season 5 episode 12. It's called 'Painless'", Drei answers still surprised by his excellent taste, "I'm surprised you even like shows like these."
"Not all, just House in particular. Honestly, I'm more surprised you like it. I thought you didn't like anything to do with American healthcare."
"Ordinarily yes, however, this show strangely speaks to me because of one man in particular, Gregory House."
"Really? He's, like, my favorite character. That man just don't give a damn but is still the type of professional I'd put my trust in."
Drei eyes widen then glances away, "He's my favorite too. For those reasons you mentioned but also because he's a genius among geniuses yet very misunderstood. He just has the resolve to use any means necessary to save lives, regardless of ethics or legality. Too many so-called healers are held back by meaningless constraints like money, laws, and beliefs. Healers should be allowed to save lives that deserve saving.", she finishes, digging her claws into the couch a little, chasing away some bad memories.
"And in that aspect, I'd say you both are people anybody with sense would gladly entrust their lives too I definitely would.", Caleb casually assured her as she looked at him intrigued, "Ohh shit, can you rewind that part? I love it when House just casually roasts his staff."
Drei pauses, then gives a very small grin pointing the remote at the screen, "Sure."
He and Drei then spent the rest of the night watching and enjoying House MD. He, not needing sleep that day, while Drei eventually fell asleep on the couch from fatigue, teleported her to bed even tucking her in. Not knowing what else to do, he chose to read the book Kaiya suggested called 'Blood Meridian'.
…The next morning…
Caleb could be seen in the kitchen, casually making breakfast for himself and Drei as she slept, while reading. He was currently half way through the book, becoming more disturbed each chapter.
"Damn, this Judge Holden guy is fucked up…", he expressed, finishing cinnamon pancakes, eggs, and turkey sausage he got from the store. A kettle of tea was also broiling.
Suddenly, he hears a knocking at the front door. He turns off the stove and teleports over to the door. He peeks through the window, not able to make out many of their features besides large black bat-like wings and slender devil tail.
They knock at the door again sounding a little impatient.
"I'll be right there!", he stated cautiously going over and opening the door, "Oh, hey Scarlett, morning?"
"Hey.", Scarlett replies, her tone unenthusiastic and her demeanor uneasy before sighing," Listen, we need to talk."
Caleb looks at her ponderously, "Sure but are you ok? You look a little uhh… tense."
"I'M fine, it's about you actually. Can I come in?"
"Alright I was just making some breakfast. Would you like some?" Caleb offered
Scarlett hesitates a moment then notices how good it smells and she hasn't eaten since yesterday anyway, "Yes."
He lets her in his home, wondering what it is she needed to talk to him about this early. Yet something deep inside him was telling him it wasn't for some friendly neighborly visit. He was in trouble.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
WN
Sup fam! Hope you all enjoyed the chapter. In case you couldn't tell, I snuck in a few books I'm currently getting through, including Blood Meridian. Who knows, maybe I'll get inspiration from it and the others for THIS book. This chapter was supposed to come out before end of February which is why I set a few Hellhounds up in this chapter with some of my awesome af brothers( No really, they're based on some of my actual brothers).
A…LOT has been happening on my end that I won't bore you with the details too much but uh…March is looking kinda shitty for me this year. Still, I'm a survivor and always will be. I believe things will be better sooner or later.
Welp, that's about it from me. Thank you to Sandshrewmaster and my beta readers. Make sure to check out my deviantart page where my fans have sent me some lovely fan art. One of two are JJK references! Also, don't forget to hug your parents, drink water, get some sleep, don't fuck any portraits, and I'll see y'all next time. Peace Fam!
