Chapter 36: Cards on the Table
A few hours pass this morning in the Bizzell household. Caleb and each of the girls had their baths, got dressed, and enjoyed a nice, hearty breakfast prepared by the food gurus Caleb and Camilla. Of course, the Zyklons joined them for breakfast prior to completing their routine security check around the property.
Caleb, Mirabelle and Camilla informed Lyca and the Zyklons of the important matters they needed to discuss. They decided to allow Mirabelle to go first both because Caleb could almost feel her worries weighing on her and also because he could sense Camilla still needed extra time to mentally prepare herself.
Now every one was seated around the living room with Caleb taking a chair from the dining room and everyone sitting on the couch a recliner.
"Alright Boss, everybody's present. What's this meeting of the 'Knights of the Round Coffee table' all about?", Zwei inquired in a facicious tone.
"I suppose that makes you sir PERVcival.", Drei quips before Zwei shoots a nervous glare.
"Why's that?", Caleb inquires raising an eyebrow.
"Well-", Drei started before Zwei catches her.
"AH BUHBUHBUH! It's nothing Boss! Just a little inside joke. Now then you were saying?", Zwei finished flashing a smile hiding her rosy cheeks as Ein gives her a skeptical look and Drei lightly shakes her head.
Caleb gives an inquisitive look before dismissing whatever that was, " Anyway, Moon Pie? You...ready?"
"Y-Yes Dear.", the Centaur replies raising up slightly as the others turn their attention to her, "I'm sure you've notices, I'm sure all of you noticed that Caleb is going through...changes."
"That's...a bit of an understatement.", Zwei expressed
"I agree, it's not everyday you meet humans with magical abiiities.", Ein added.
" At least legit magic. Not like cold reading, card tricks, or Chris Angel-type shit.", Drei quips sarcastically.
" Guys, we get it, OK?", Caleb hushes them, "But yeah... Moon Pie it's...really hard to ignore."
"Dear I...I'm very worried about you! I don't fully understand how but...somehow your gaining magical abilities. MY abilities. I don't know why they're manifesting right now but I'm afraid of what this means for you or what will happen if you're unable to control them. Or what will happen if another incident like yesterday occurs and other humans begin looking at you as some kind of freak! ", Mirabelle says clutching the hem of her skirt securely.
"That...is a possibility. And if I'm being honest, it did cross my mind once or twice.", Caleb admitted touching the back of his head.
" But you're not a freak Chief! How dare they say that about you?!", Lyca stated with a low snarl.
"Purely hypothetical there Lycs.", Zwei informs as the Werewolf tilts her head questioningly.
" Hahh, I'm afraid of what I'm involuntarily turning you into!", Mirabelle continued, "What happens if Sterling finds out?! What happens when other humans find out about you?! I may have ruined your life!", Mirabelle stated looking down in tribulation as she trembled holding back her tears and gripping her skirt. Caleb walks over kneels down on one knee in front of her so she could see him and gently takes her hand.
" Moon Pie, Moon Pie you didn't ruin anyone's life.", Caleb assures her, "I don't know...what's happening to me but...but I can't be changing THAT much since I still feel like the same guy. Besides I'm getting the hang of the teleporting at least. With practice, I'm sure I can control whatever else might pop up."
"But you don't know when or how they'll pop up.", Drei spoke up, "You have to understand what triggers them to begin with such as what you felt when you conjured the barrier or first became black Nightcrawler. Have you had any other abilities suddenly awaken since we returned yesterday?"
Caleb pauses noticing Mirabelle giving him an expectant look then noticing Camilla shifting nervously. He sighs, "Actually...I did. Last night, night I...found I...have the ability to enter dreams when...I entered Camilla's dreams last night."
Mirabelle, Lyca, and the Zyklons gives varying degrees of shock and interest.
"W-What?", Mirabelle softly asks in surprise, "B-But how?"
"I don't know myself. All I know is I woke up to Camilla tossing and turning in her sleep then I tried to wake her up and...I just...it felt like everything went numb and I just found myself in her mind.", Caleb says as Camilla grips the armchair securely.
"So...you also have Ms. Marequine's ability to enter and possibly manipulate dreams?", Ein inquires.
Caleb gives a surprised look, "Wait, so, you already know about Moon pie's power?"
"Well duhhh we're ICEP agents and YOUR personal bodyguards. Why would we NOT know about it? That's just stupid.", Zwei says in an incredulous tone.
"Yeah...that makes sense.", Caleb admits.
"Not to me!", Lyca stated getting everyone's attention, "Did everyone know about it EXCEPT me?!"
"What n-well...kinda but to be fair I just told Camilla about it last night so up until then, you AND Camilla didn't know so...", Caleb explained seeing the She-wolf eyeing him seriously.
"Why though?! I thinks it's amazing! Why WOULDN'T you tell us?! A pack is only at its strongest when we understand each others strengths and weaknesses. Didn't you guys trust us?", Lyca stated her tone becoming more somber and tail tucking between her legs.
Caleb and Mirabelle feel a pang of guilt.
"Of course we trust you Lyca, and Camilla as well. You have to understand it's important we keep my ability a secret.", Mirabelle says in a gentle but reassuring tone.
"There's plenty of bad people out there that would use Moon pie's power to do who knows what. We just wanted to be extra careful. We're sorry for keeping you guys in the dark for so long. You forgive us?", Caleb says gently tilting the She-wolf's head up.
"I forgive you and it make perfect sense not to let potential enemies know about packs abilities. I just...don't like secrets between us. We're a family after all.", Lyca says in a fervent tone bringing a smile to Mirabelle and the others faces.
"Hehe well said Lyca. And...you're right we shouldn't have secrets. We should...be up front with each other about who we are.", Caleb muses looking around as Zwei tenses slightly. He looks to Camilla who seemed hesitant so he decided to press on in her stead, "Guys, last night, I...didn't just go into Camilla's dreams."
Mirabelle and the others gave skeptical looks.
"W-what do you mean Dear?", Mirabelle inquires glancing at Camilla.
"I also saw her memories. I learned so much about her...more than I...EVER thought I would.", Caleb pauses noticing the curious looks from Mirabelle, Lyca, and the Zyklons then sighs, "I bring this up because there's some things you all need to know abo-"
"Senor!", Camilla stated shooting up from her chair then walking to his side laying a hand to his shoulder with a certain expression, "Gracias. I can take it from here."
Caleb nods then takes a seat as everyone now shifts their attention to the Elder Devil stamding before them. Camilla takes a deep breath.
"Ms. Sartana?", Ein inquires noticing Camilla unusually apprehensive demeanor.
"What Señor tells ju is true. He now knows of my...entire past; including...the terrible things I have done and ever awful experience I have endured. Yet...he still accepted me. I don't understand it and...it scares me. It scares me because I don't feel I deserve it.", Camilla pours out her heart as Caleb is especially taken aback by her tone that felt quite familliar for him and the other girls listen intently, "However, I also know I cannot continue on living here while keeping all of ju in the dark about...WHO I am."
"It's ok Cami, you can tell us. We don't need to keep secrets from each other remember?", Lyca affirms.
"I-Indeed. You are our friend Camilla. Whatever is weighing on you, we shall help you remove it.", Mirabelle added supportingly as Caleb gives an approving grin. Ein and her sisters solemnly agree with them.
A small grin crosses the Elder Devil lips for a moment.
"Hahhh, alright, I will start in the beginning.", Camilla says to them before beginning to lay all her cards on the table.
...1 hour later...
Silence, utter, shocked silence befell the room. Mirabelle, Lyca, the Zyklons all speechless staring as Camilla with a very different look in their eye than before. It was a combination of fear, caution, sadness, and a whole slew of other emotions rushing through each of their minds after hearing the Elder Devil's story.
Camilla held nothing back when describing her life in her birth clan, surviving with her mother in the Mexican deserts, her time in Abbadickhead's clan, to being trafficked with the other Devils. She reluctantly told them of the people she's killed; human AND Liminal alike, and the physical and sexual abuse she experienced in the clan and the cartel. At some points it was hard for her to continue so Caleb help comfort her to continue.
After finishing, Camilla sat back down eliciting a long tired sigh from having to recount her past. Even Caleb was feeling exhausted having to experience it all again. Caleb looks around his heart wretching seeing the girls expressions. Lyca with tears in her eyes and ears drooped downward making low canine whimpers. Mirabelle trembling hand clutching her chest and tears trickled down her cheeks. Zwei was utterly speechless with a sorrowful expression on her face. Ein looked at the Elder Devil with complete befuddlement and despondence. Even Drei couldn't anticipate HOW heartbreaking her story would be.
"Camilla...I...I...", Mirabelle started unsure how to responds and instead falls silent again unable to make proper eye contact with her.
"I understand, Señora.", Camilla spoke, "It is...alot to process I am sure."
"Yeah, no shit. Goddamn!", Zwei chided before touching her forehead, "I mean just...goddamn."
"Believe me, I perfectly relate and understand that reaction.", Caleb added as Camilla turn to him dubiously forcing him to elaborate, "It IS alot, and I mean, ALOT to take in and...Camilla was very brave in coming forward with all of you like this. Thank you Camilla."
"S-Si Señor...", Camilla spoke starting to grow concerned over their surprisingly limited reactions. That was until Lyca lunges upward wrapping the Elder Devil in a hug nuzzling her head between her breasts sobbing..
"I'M SO SORRY CAMI!", Lyca bawled looking up a the Elder Devil tears streaming down her face, "YOU MUST HAVE BEEN SO LONELY AND ANGRY FOR SO LONG. No wonder you always seemed so sad! WAHAHAAAHAAAA!"
Camilla pauses before reaching her arms up to console the crying She-wolf.
"Stop!", Ein instinctively stated raising from her seat making Camilla cease her motion as Lyca pulls away and the others turn to the wind weasel curiously, "I-I mean...I don't think you should...you know..."
Camilla gives her a shocked look, "What? Ju don't think I should WHAT?"
"Yes, KINDLY elaborate Ein.", Caleb stated in an incredulous tone.
"Look, it's not what either of you think! It's just...given what you've told us...sigh I'm only taking precaution.", Ein confessed.
"Precaution from what?! Do you think Camilla's a danger to us?!", Caleb stated.
"Can you, based on what you said you've SEEN, deny that?", Drei rebutled jumping in, "Of course, by all accounts, most Liminals can be dangerous to humans but her ESPECIALLY since by her own admission she has KILLED humans; at times in cold blood."
"Honestly, it's shocking ICEP let her be your homestay AT ALL with a background THAT egregious.", Zwei chided in disbelief.
"The only logical answer to why she was allowed to do so is she purposely withheld the details of her history; which IS a criminal offense especially in this country.", Ein explained, "There is no way anyone will allow her to stay here."
A feeling of distress sweeps through Camilla, Caleb, Lyca and Mirabelle at the idea of never seeing Camilla again.
"NO WAY! I won't let them take Camilla or ANY member of our pack away!", Lyca stated fervently raising her arms sheilding Camilla to her surprise. Zwei looks away despondently.
"So now what, huh? You guys going to tell ICEP? Get her deported KNOWING she has nowhere to go?! Take away the ONE thing that makes her feel normal?!", Caleb demanded answers walking up to them.
"Dear-", Mirabelle spoke.
"NO!", Caleb shouted making the Centaur and some of the others flinch in surprise. He notices her hurt expression, "...Moon pie, I...I didn't mean..."
"Mr. Bizzell, please understand we're only considering your and your homestay's safety.", Ein says plainly, "That includes protecting you all from yourselves."
Camilla gulps feeling as if her world was beginning to swallow itself in darkness and uncertainty. She looks to the ones causing her distress of losing her home. Instinctively, her hand twitches while a tiny red magic seals repeatedly forms and unforms in her palm as she internally debates with herself.
"You've noticed Ms. Camilla's...temperament I'm sure. I personally can list several instances where she has come dangerously close to attacking or even killing a person because they enraged her; one of whom was Agent Sterling. Every time she was stopped by one of US. Imagine if she were harassed by a bigoted person and no one was around to stop her. Would she have enough restraint to stop herself? Or would she default to old habits?", Drei says turning her eyes to the Elder Devil, "Even now, Ms. Camilla, I bet you're debating whether to get rid of me and my sisters and run away with as many of your loved ones as possible or...do nothing and lose your home."
Camilla gives a shocked look as the Caleb and the girls turn to the Elder Devil hoping what she said wasn't true. Camilla completely dissipates the seal looking downward in defeat. She begins to lowly giggle to the surprise of the others.
"Heheheheheh. I suppose your right. Old habits have a way of not dying quickly. Though, I doubt ju could EVER understand why that habit formed to begin with!", Camilla spoke bitterly glaring at the weasels, "Ju haven't experienced a mere FRACTION of what I've been through! You've never had to dirty your hands with the blood of vile, contemptible swine as I have! Besides, they all deserved to die! DO NOT PRETEND AS IF JU COULD EVER UNDERSTAND ME!", she spat at Ein and her sisters. The three weasels eyes become stern as shadow casts over their emerald green eyes.
"Camilla, they didn't-", Caleb started before being interrupted
"No! Mr. Bizzell, no.", Ein says shooting a look that told him to let her handle it. The tallest of the Kamaitachi raises from her seat in front of the Elder Devil. Camilla piercing red eyes staring back at Ein's unflinching green ones, "What was that you said about...'never having to dirty our hands with blood' ?"
"Jes...that is ri-"
"WELL SHUT UP CUZ YOUR WRONG!", Zwei shouted glaring angrilly at the Elder Devil to the latters surprise.
"We have killed people before; both liminal...and human. That was part of our job in Beijing's MON devision. In fact, it's one of the specialties of our clan.", Drei spoke coldly.
Camilla along with Caleb, Lyca, and Mirabelle turn to them with surprised looks.
"Y-You guys...what?", Caleb utters
"Boss, come on, you really that surprised? When you first met us, what did you think it meant when Agent Sterling said we 'helped suppress human and liminal terrorist groups'?", Zwei says nonchalantly resting her arms behind her head.
"...W-why didn't you guys ever tell us?", Mirabelle suspiciously inquires.
"Oh yeah, that's a good conversation starter. '~Hi, I'm Drei Zyklon! I killed fiddy men! Literally!~' ", Drei spoke doing her sarcastic Cotton Hill impression.
"But, ya know, NOT literally since we...don't really keep track of...THAT sorta thing-", Zwei shamefully admitted to Lyca and the other's surprise.
"Ok, thank you SISTERS!", Ein commended before facing Camilla, "The point IS miss Sartana is that we understand where your coming from on that level. Taking a life is NEVER easy and most cases it can scar a person deeply. However, it's STILL a necessary, albeit VERY rare, part of life. YOU'VE been exposed to it so much over the decades that you've internalized it AS a part of life period! These aren't the days of wagon trains and cowboys! You CAN'T just kill someone that endangers, threatens, or even agitate you just because you can! Do you expect to do away with every less than polite human or cantankerous liminal that crosses your PATH?!"
"Ghaa, so what?! Ju want me to just STAND OR SIT there and take it?! No matter how much they curse or spit at me I am supposed to lie down and show mi belly?!", Camilla stated angrily as Caleb tries to step in before feeling Mirabelle pull his hand giving him a pleading look.
"That's NOT what we mean and you know it!", Ein retorted firmly holding her ground, "And you know what I think I finally figured your problem!"
"Oh really?! What's mi problema Miss Weasel?!", Camilla snarled glared daggers at Ein.
"Stop fighting you two!", Lyca demanded as tears well in her eyes. Zwei steps in front of her, to the She-wolf surprise. Zwei shakes her head giving her a serious look.
"Your PROBLEM, Ms. Sartana, is you've let your hate control your ability to recognize REAL threats! You've subconsciously rooted yourself in the past and developed tunnel vision. You think that killing is the SAME as taking a life!", Ein reprimanded.
"Ju are going to stand there and tell me what ju have done isn't the same.", Camilla stated incredulously
" No it isn't. When I take the life of a target...i've resolved in my mind that they are to die based solely on their intent. If they have intention to harm, kill, or persecute others or inciting others to do the same and spread their malicious intent, my sisters and I have no choice but to put them down for good. It's never about hate, pleasure, revenge, personal history, monetary gain, or...who the target is as a person. When it's done, it's done. We still...remember a targets face, we try not to forget, we just acknowledge them and move on.", Ein explained as her sisters look to her with neutral yet attentive expressions. Caleb and the girls listen. Despite the nature of her explanation, Caleb couldn't help finding it oddly reasonable. Ein then gives Camilla a stern, "Then there's you."
Camilla eyes widen focusing on the weasel but not responding.
"When you kill, I bet you put all of your emotions into it.", Ein says looking the Elder Devil right in the eye, "All your malice and anger toward these people you see as irredeemable swine."
Drei then jumps in, "By always putting your feelings desire into killing your enemy, you've made it easy for them to hurt you long after they're dead. It's like what our mothers always told us, "If you intend to kill in anger and malice in your heart, do it with TWO blades. One for your targets neck, the other to cut off the arm that did the killing. Both of you will be dead soon but only one of you will suffer longer"
"You learned to take EVERY kill personally and have become too resentful to realize when you've won! Even when the fight is over!", Ein chastised seeing the faint guilt in Camilla's eyes
Camilla looks down in thought wanting to deny any of what they say is true; but she couldn't. The more she thought about it the more she realizes how long she's been carrying a grudge against the people she's killed. The countless sleepless nights she experienced while telling herself 'they deserved it.'
"Ok, you guys, that's enough.", Caleb intervenes not wanting them to gang up on Camilla, "I don't really like the subject of...how to feel after killing someone but I appreciate what you guys are trying to get through to her. However, I said that I addressed this with Camilla last night. All she needs is some self-control. Camilla is trying to change."
"I'm afraid that's only part of it sir.", Ein stated much to the confusion of Camilla, Caleb and the others, "Her experiences through the decades have imbedded vicious habits that would take more than just self-control to break. First off, she has to really want to change. It's easy to SAY it but can she actually do it?"
Caleb tries to retort but gives no answer. He then looks to Camilla noticing to uncertain and slightly nervous demeanor she had.
"Whatsmore, CAN you all still accept her? Knowing the very real possibility of her losing and accidentally injuring or possibly killing one of you?", Drei inquires much to the shock of Caleb, Lyca, and Mirabelle.
The Elder Devil looks them with a sense of dread creeping into her heart. She notices their uncertain expressions and feels her heart aching.
Caleb clenches his fist taking a deep, "Yes..."
Mirabelle, Lyca, the Zyklons and especially Camilla look to him in surprise
"I'll tell you all what I told her. I know she's dangerous. I know what she's done and is capable of doing. I know I'm even a little afraid of her now.", Caleb spoke in a low serious tone then looks right at Camilla, "But I still love her. I still appreciate all the great things about her. I still want her in my life and have NO intention of getting of her. And the same applies to moon pie and Lyca!"
Camilla stares at wordlessly feeling her heart flutter as the Zyklons and Mirabelle look on with surprise.
"T-That's right!", Lyca jumps in, "Cami made a lot of mistakes growing up. We all have at some point right? It doesn't make me love her any less either. Besides, I've never sensed her wanting to hurt any of us ever! She's a caring and protective person and I'm proud to have her as a packmate."
Camilla gives the She-wolf a small grin. Zwei sighs playfully shaking her head at Lyca's...Lyca-ness.
"What about you Moon pie?", Caleb inquires to her making the Centaur flinch a bit now being put on the spot. Mirabelle looks to Caleb to Camilla who shamefully averts her gaze.
The Nightmare sighs, "Ms. Sartana...I cannot sit here and lie by saying my opinion of you hasn't changed. Even before learning of your past, I was always cautious of you. At first out of fear you take Dear from me. Then, after the kurfuffle with that Angel I realized you were a dangerous, violent, angry individual. I became wary of you for a new reason I suppose. Now that I understand what you truly are and what you're capable of, it makes me fearful for Dear and Lyca's safety, as well as my own.", Mirabelle answers
Caleb and Lyca give each other surprised looks as Camilla looks away with a somber frown.
"...However... *zoom*", Mirabelle emphasizes raising to her hoove before teleporting next to Camilla to the Elder Devil and the others surprise.
"S-Senora?!", Camilla replied in confusion.
"Ms. Marequine, what are you do-?", Ein asks before Mirabelle cuts her off.
"Ms. Ein, you mentioned earlier about Camilla's 'vicious habits that have been ingrained in her over the years' and self-control would be enough to stave them off? I assume that includes a natural reflex to attack when startled.", Mirabelle says looking to Ein to which the wind weasel affirms, "If that were the case, wouldn't she have defended herself instinctively the second I teleported to her? "
Ein and Zwei give her a thoughtful look as Drei raises an intrigued eyebrow and Camilla and Caleb look to Mirabelle curiously.
"I...suppose so.", Ein answers reluctantly.
"I believe she has more self-control than we realize.", Mirabelle says in a serious tone before turning to Camilla, "Listen, Camilla...I...I can never, NEVER approve of how you behaved or the awful things you've done. However, I know if I experienced a quarter of that pain, loneliness, and humiliation on top of losing your only family...I can't fathom what I would have done. I probably would have gone utterly mad...just from loneliness.", Mirabelle confesses with a forlorn expression.
"Senora..", Camilla utters softly.
Mirabelle then gently takes Camilla hands much to her surprise, "And yet, in spite of everything, you are still one of the kindest souls I have met. You've saved my life, Lyca's and Dear's without a second thought. Any time you were violent or ruthless around us, your heart was always on protecting the ones you care deeply for. You're a good person Camilla and, in spite of the trauma you endured, I...I still consider my friend.", Mirabelle expresses as Camilla blushes slightly seeing the Centaur warm, accepting purple eyes.
Camilla smiles warmly at her, "Gracias, Señora. I am happy ju are mi amiga as well."
Ein watches the display looking to her sisters who return her expression; each of them collectively thinking the same thing.
"Well said, the both of you.", Caleb chimes going to their side as Lyca joins as well, "It matter who you were last year, 10 years ago, or in 1833, what matters is who you are now and who you wanna be after that? We're all still moving forward and that's what I think matters most. Camilla...you do have some stuff about yourself you have to work on but we'll help you every step of the way."
"Indeed!", Mirabelle agreed.
"I got'cher back Cami!", Lyca stated pounding her chest with her fist. The Elder Devil felt a warmth grow within her she hadn't felt in quite a long time.
The Elder Devil eyes dart between her Destined one and her amigas/co-lovers realizing that, for the first time in a long time, she truly has a home. Her days of running, hiding, fighting to survive were over. The people before her accept her, regardless of her past and her tendencies. She has to blink a few times making sure it's not a dream before she suddenly feels something warm and wet run down her cheeks. She touches her face surprised to find her tears flowing ceaselessly down her cheeks as she chokes back her sobs. Her legs feel weak before eventually collapsing to the floor on her knees.
Caleb and Lyca catch her as Mirabelle kneels down consoling the weeping Devil woman. Ein and her sisters watch the scene with deep contemplation.
Caleb turns to Ein and her sisters, "Ein, I know you and your sisters are just watching out for us. You're worried about the danger Camilla poses when she's around us. But you heard it from us, we're NOT abandoning her. We're going to help her. Camilla wants to change and as her host and her boyfriend it's my job to support her. Not just me, Moon pie and Lyca are here for her. So...I ask you three...please give her that chance."
Ein and her sisters look between each other before seeing the conviction on Mirabelle, Lyca, and Caleb face then noticing Camilla nervously anticipating their answer. Drei then shrugs and Zwei simply nods.
Ein sighs heavily before turning back to Camilla, "Ms. Sartana...in any other circumstance we would not allow your status as a homestay to continue. We will make an exception for you once since can't legally remove you from the household against the host's wishes. BUT, if we EVER at any given time decide that you are a true threat to the lives of this household or anyone outside of it be they human OR liminal, you WILL be dealt with...immediately. DO. YOU. UNDERSTAND.", Ein warns much to Camilla being taken aback seeing the coldness in the weasel's eyes.
Camilla dries her tears, "J-Jes. I understand."
Ein exhales as her demeanor softens, "Good, I'm glad.",
Ein offers her hand to the Elder Devil who looks up at her now kinder eyes, "Now, come on, stand up. I thought you were a proud and strong Elder Devil.", she teases
Camilla eyes widen then smirks before accepting her hand standing up, "Heh, I am a bit surprised ju noticed from way up on that moral high ground of yours."
"Yeah well, sometimes you can't really see what your looking for from high up.", Ein replies returning a smile.
Caleb then steps up, "So...are you and your sisters going to inform ICEP and Sterling about any of this?", he inquires cautiously.
Camilla, Mirabelle, and Lyca look to the Zyklons who remain silent for a moment.
"Typically, yes we should.", Zwei answered plainly, "buuuut..."
"Buuut...", Drei picks up where she trails, "It's not seventy plus year old testimonial of her violent acts is enough evidence to support that Ms. Camilla is NOW a danger to the Mr. Bizzell and the general public. Since they were committed before ICEP even EXISTED...", Drei trails giving Ein an urging look.
"Sigh, yeah that's kind of the problem with liminals with high longevity, like Dragons or Vampires, it's difficult to gauge their appropriations based on their actions BEFORE ICEP laws were in afffect. However, as long as they are considered "rehabilitated" or "seeking rehabilitation" then...they are allowed to remain under host care.", Ein admitted placing her hands to her hips before giving Caleb a stern look, "Do you agree that Ms. Camilla is seeking rehabilitation under Mr. Bizzell care?"
"Yes I do.", Caleb affirms taking Camilla's hand as she does the same.
"Then I suppose that's good enough for us, but remember-", Ein started again
"Sis, come on, they get it already!", Drei cuts her off from repeating herself.
"Yeah stop beating a dead horse already.", Zwei added before noticing Mirabelle give her a surprised look, "Uhh no offense to any equestrian bodied individuals."
"Alright, yeah, but for real though. We truly appreciate what you guys are doing for us. Don't worry, we won't give you any reason to doubt Camilla. Right Camilla?", Caleb says and Camilla nods assuringly, "See? We totally got this.", he emphasizes fists on hips pushing his chest out slightly trying to look more confident.
Mirabelle giggles at his silly display as Camilla and Lyca even Zwei do the same. Caleb looks between them questioningly before refocusing on Ein.
"So we have a deal?", Caleb says offering his hand to her.
Ein sighs before reluctantly taking his hand, "I hope you know what you're doing."
"I almost never do. Doesn't mean I won't do my best.", Caleb replies admittedly earning.
Ein gives an unamused look, "Well it appears we now have another secret to withhold from our superiors."
"Eh, no more than any American finance worker.", Drei commented.
"Plus, it's not like we won't do our best to ensure he keeps his word.", Zwei pointed out shooting a knowing expression at Caleb, "Think of it like...an extra layer to our job as his bodyguards."
"I...guess that is true.", Ein softly spoke appreciating her sister trying to cheer her up.
"Perfect. Glad we got that all cleared up.", Caleb says taking a seat smiling at Camilla confirming that all was well much to Elder Devil's comfort who sits adjacent to him, "Aaand I don't have to finish up a project for work until later so...who wants to help me procrastinate?"
"~I'll get us some procrastination munch(British for snacks)~ ", Mirabelle happily chimes before teleporting to kitchen rummaging through cabinets.
"Thanks bae! Lyca, wanna play some Crosstag?", Caleb invited picking up the PS4 controller from the coffee table.
"Normally, heck yeah, buuut I'm kinda curious about something.", Lyca answered touching her thoughtfully.
"Hm? What's that?", Caleb inquires.
Lyca whips around to Zwei slightly startling the wind weasel, "Zwei, you and your sisters HAVE killed bad people right?! How bad were they? What did they do?"
Caleb and the rest were taken aback by the question. Zwei pauses unsure how to answer seeing the curious but slightly hesitant look in the She wolf eyes.
"Now, Lyca..", Caleb started trying to reign her in.
"I know it's a weird and...uncomfortable thing to ask but I just want to know more about you guys! I want to really understand who guys are.", Lyca spoke honestly.
"I must admit, I AM curious about it as well.", Camilla added leaning against the couch. Caleb gives her a look.
"Well...", Zwei trails scratching her head glancing between her sisters and Lyca as Mirabelle returns with a bowl full of Cheez-it snack mix and strawberry wafer cookies.
"Honestly, it's not that much to tell.", Ein spoke up not wanting to get into it, "It's not that worth getting in to."
"Awww, don't say that. I bet you guys have done lots of cool missions and stuff.", Lyca urges.
"Come on girls, I'm sure they don't want to talk about that stuff right now.", Caleb says not wanting to have another conversation about death and killing people.
"Sir, come on, you're gonna sit there and say you're not a little curious.", Drei rebutled raising a knowing eyebrow.
"Well...I won't deny that...I feel like we should move away from the morbid stuff for awhile.", Caleb replies as Mirabelle teleports in placing the snacks on the coffee table to which Zwei and Lyca immediately begin munching on the snack mix.
"I agree. I am a tad curious myself but would prefer to avoid more...morose subjects.", Mirabelle admitted seating herself next to Caleb.
"Awww don't be like that you two. Feed that morbid curiosity! Plus, like lycs said, can't hurt to know more about the folks who are in charge of your well-being.", Zwei points out popping a Cheetos in her mouth.
"Everyone sat through mi life story with little problema Señor.", Camilla expressed using a blue magic seal to levitate five wafer cookies toward her, "Besides, I doubt they have done anything...too extreme."
Ein and her sisters turn to the Demoness feeling their pride being attacked.
"Camilla don't-", Caleb started before Ein cuts him off.
"Nonono Mr. Bizzell, it's fine.", Ein stated eyes focused on Camilla who realizes she just pulled a pin on a grenade, "Obviously, we should make it clear who we are. We're more than happy to share some missions we've done; excluding confidential information of course. In fact, how about we start with our less...unsavory targets and work our way up.", Ein emphasizes giving a challenging smirk to Camilla.
"Your flexing could use some work.", Drei quipped before Ein pouts in annoyance.
"Sweet! So let me tell you guys about these traffickers in BANGKOK!", Zwei stated emphatically beginning her story while Ein made sure she didn't give out too much detail.
Caleb sighs realizing he was outvoted before noticing Mirabelle shrugging then reaching to her side and presenting him a DD Pepper with a smile. Caleb happily accepts smiling back at her. They look at the Zyklons regaling Camilla and Lyca with stories of their assignments back home. He then notice Mirabelle gaze shifted downwards with a worried expression. He then takes her hand snapping her from her thoughts.
"Hey, don't worry so much, ok? Whatever other changes happen in our life, we'll face it together; like always.", Caleb whispers into her ear before kissing her cheek.
Mirabelle smiles warmly scooting closer until her horsey thighs touch his and leaning against his shoulder before whispering back, "Lali-ho."
"Lali-ho.", Caleb chanted their dreamscape mantra back. Drei overheard them and raises a 'what the hell's that about' eyebrow.
In the back of Caleb's mind, he couldn't deny the uncertainty he had concerning these powers he was gaining and whether or not he could fully control them. He wondered if he could fullfill the promises he made to Ein about Camilla's anger. Then there were the memories he now had of Camilla...and her mother and how the feelings she had in her memories resonated with him concerning his own mom. At least Camilla doesn't know for certain what happened to her mom. Him? He knew all too well what happened to his. And he was responsible. He was weak.
"Que?! How did ju even escape?", Camilla stated in an incredulous tone raising up.
"Oh please, you think we'd go into a stronghold without a contingency? Though it helped that many of the guardsmen were subdued by Drei's paralysis serum.", Ein answers in slightly haughty tone towards the Demoness.
"It also double as a potent laxative if ingested.", Drei comments making Zwei bursts into laughter followed by Lyca as Ein tries to salvage the...integrity of the story. Mirabelle lightly giggles covering her mouth.
Caleb chuckles a bit as well starting to get more engaged with their stories.
The next couple of hours Caleb and the girls sat in the living room listening to the Zyklons talk about some of the assignments they had prior to coming to America. At first, Caleb and Mirabelle were a little disturbed by their nonchalance in describing how they killed their target but soon became invested. Maybe it was Zwei and Drei's impetuous storytelling skill or Ein's and Camilla's discretely throwing shade at each other but it made each assassination story more engaging. Some of them involved assassinating radical political and domestic terrorists that threatened host families and ICEP owned businesses and activities as a whole. They dealt with radical liminal protest groups involved with kidnapping human children or attacking/abducting humans for...forced copulation. A few of which were commited by a breed of Lamia called Bunyip, that are actually the natural enemy of the Kamaitachi race. Needless to say, Ein her sisters reeeaallly needed to reign themselves in on those missions to avoid going...overboard in arresting them. Others involved Ein and her sisters taking down leaders of a Triad operating throughout Thailand and Beijing that were involved with liminal trafficking and resource extraction , aka 'hunting' for liminal parts. It was missions like these that exposed them to some gruesome sights. The horns, tails, wings, furs, organs, scales, sometimes entire skins put on display in black markets sold as decoration or "medicinal" properties. Halfway through, Ein and her sisters demeanor became colder when they talked about one instance where they found the blades of their fellow Karmaitachi on display being sold as decorative weaponry or kitchen cutting knives. Zwei even mentions they were scythes belonging to a rival Karmaitachi clan.
"I...I'm so sorry.", Caleb spoke genuinely to the Zyklons as Mirabelle, Lyca, even Camilla looked shocked to hear that.
"Don't be. It didn't distract us from our intended target.", Drei replied dispelling any pity they had for them. Caleb and the others give her surprised looks.
"They WERE still a rival clan of ours, but still, NO Kamaitachi deserves that fate. These are our pride and joy. They're part of our identity. Our soul!", Zwei spoke extending and brandishing her scythes before retracting them back in fur-covered arms, "Worst part is the leader had abducted several of their kits from that same clan preparing them to be sold overseas."
" They abducted their children?!", Mirabelle exclaims.
"Yeah Drei and I had the ringleader back into a corner and the bastard uses one of the kits as a meat shield.", Zwei replies with disgust in her tone.
"But then along came Ein. She shot her shockwave blast took him down in a flash. It snapped the link to his spinal cord.", Drei chimes as Caleb raises an eyebrow at the way she said that.
"Yes, thanks Drei, it's what I was aiming for. Anyway we managed to rescue the other children, thank the gods, and they were taken into Beijing's I.A. care services. Several of the workers were detained and that was the end of it.", Ein replied noticing Camilla looking at her introspectivly, "And before anyone asks, no, I didn't feel any satisfaction or anger afterwards. We defeated out target, saved whoever we could, put away the straggler criminals, it's done."
Camilla simply looks away in thought. She knows if it were her and she had her way she would've butchered him along with his cohorts involved.
"Wow, you guys must really have nerves of steel to be able to deal with all that.", Caleb says
"Not nerves of steel, more like...a will like the wind.", Zwei replied waggling her finger, "Never know when things can go from a gentle breeze to raging typhoon so it's best to adapt but never lose sight of your goal. That applies to anything really but assissination especially."
"Having an international license to kill doesn't hurt either.", Drei points out much to her sisters surprise before both cover her mouth.
"BUT it doesn't mean we'll in anyway abuse that government sanctioned authority.", Ein informs trying to eliminate any suspicions, "I...hope this doesn't affect our relationship together."
Caleb rumenates for a second, "It DEFINITELY makes me see you three in a different light. At the same time though, I kinda trust you guys even more now that I have a better idea who you are. It's weird but...I even feel a lot safer with three badass wind ninjas at my side."
Ein and Zwei blush slightly at the compliment as Drei discretely smirks accepting the praise.
"Heyyyy. Don't forget about me too Cheif! I won't let anyone hurt you! You can count on that!", Lyca complains in annoyance at being overlooked.
"Hehe, yeah I know, thanks pup.", Caleb sweetly replie petting the top of her quickly calming the She-wolf, "Haven't forgotten my 'Big Rowdy Wolf'."
Lyca giggles at her new nickname with a blush her tail happily wagging before she goes straight to nuzzling him. Zwei watches with intrigue and blushing longingly.
"Me too Dear! I'll always be by your side no matter how utterly daffy things get.", Mirabelle devotedly stated hugging his arm as Caleb thanks her petting the top of her head making her croon sweetly. Ein watches with a slight blush on her cheeks.
"I as well mi Amor!", Camilla solemnly proclaimed quickly raising from her seat, "No matter who or when our enemy may come, they will not lay a FINGER on mi familia!"
The Zyklons turn to her noticing her tone was different than usual; instead of vicious malice it was more like...a genuine desire to protect. Camilla notices them staring at her.
"I...promise I will not go overboard however.", Camilla clarified.
Caleb then raises up and teleports in front of the Demoness, "I know you won't devil darlin'. You're not the kind of person to break your word. Heh that I sho'nough know.", he compliments reaching up petting her head even tracing the tip of her horns making her shudder. Camilla croons lovingly touching his arm.
"Huh, 'Mi Amor'? That's a bit of step up.", Drei commented in a knowing tone.
Caleb turns to her stepping back from Camilla a bit, "Well...yeah...but so is about everything else these past few days."
Drei gives him a skeptical look.
"He's not wrong.", Zwei spoke with a shrug.
"Yeah... it's been an interesting week. Can't imagine what happen if Sterling found out about any of this.", Caleb dreaded as the others agreed.
Suddenly, as if fate been tempted, they hear a knock at the front door catching their attention. Ein gets up answer it.
"Oh, good day Agent Sterling! ", Ein spoke just loud enough to warn Caleb and the rest without sounding suspicious. They each scramble to different parts of the living room as Caleb flips the tv so that everything appears natural. Sterling enters the house coming into the living room. He notices Caleb, Lyca, Zwei and Mirabelle invested in whatever was on tv while Camilla occupied herself with a random book she snatched up and Drei...had left the room entirely.
"Afternoon Mr. Bizzell.", Sterling greeted.
"Oh hey Mr. Sterling! How you been?", Caleb smiled pretending to be surprised to see his agent. Ein joins them with a nervous smile on her face.
"A bit tired. We've been having an influx of new host families lately along with training newer agents for field work. I haven't had much time to check on my other clients these last several days. I was just passing through here and wanted to see how everyone is adjusting under your care and maybe do a brief cultural assessment for you and the girls.", Sterling explained yawning a bit as he took out his 2-in-1 laptop. He turns back noticing Mirabelle and the others seemingly avoiding eye contact with him, "Is...everything alright with you all?"
"O-Of course we are! W-why would you assume we weren't?", Mirabelle replied trying to sound surprised.
"Yeah, we're just in the middle of good show right now.", Zwei affirms.
"A good show?", Sterling replies in a skeptical tone.
"Uhh yeah, it's actually one of those new shows on Netflix that came out a little while back called...uhh 'Soul King'. It's getting some great reviews and we just HAD to check it out.", Caleb finesses his back turned to the tv.
"HAD to check it out", Lyca emphasizes his last statement adding to the hype.
"It would've been plain criminal NOT to give it a look.", Mirabelle added as Camilla peaks up from the book she was pretending to read.
"And...your watching it right now?", Sterling inquires raising an eyebrow.
Caleb notices Ein shaking her head and decides to answer, "Yep."
Ein facepalms herself.
"Uh huh because you guys do realize your watching Food Network right?", Sterling replied.
Caleb and the girls turn to see a lady on tv cooking a platter of flame broiled Southern-style steak as as they went after being caught in a lie. Caleb takes a deep breath before turning to Sterling.
"Well yeah! It IS a cooking anime. What better way to immerse ourselve by looking at cooking shows then making mental comparisons?", Caleb affirms bullshitting his way out.
"T-That's right! I hear some of the scenes are bloody over-the-top with...food-gasms?", Mirabelle added as the other girls give her a questioning looks.
"So yeah! Food-gasms in the show are crazy and we just wanted something to compare it to.", Caleb jumps in helping them face.
Sterling raises an eyebrow but decides not to press any further, "Oookay. Alright, so let me just finish setting up so you and the girls can begin the assessment.", Sterling turns back to his 2-in-1 getting it sought up as Caleb sighs in relief.
"Oh cool, is that the new 2-in-1 from AT&T?!", Caleb changes the subject but also genuinely interested in the device.
"Yep! Got it last week actually.", Sterling replied. The two men chat about the device as the girls breath a sigh of relief.
"FOOD-gasms?", Zwei whispers questioningly to Mirabelle trying to hold in a chuckle.
"I-I'm sorry, I panicked!", Mirabelle quietly whispered back blushing in embarassment.
...
Sterling conducted his cultural assessment for the Bizzell household. It was relatively simple. He would ask Caleb questions on what he had learned about each of his homestays. Sterling was surprised at how much information Caleb could provide on Camilla's species, some of which even ICEP wasn't aware of. He assessed their individual cultures and social practices but also inquired on their preparedness for social interactions outside of the household without chaperone to which they both knew the answer to. He questioned Caleb on certain interests and skills the girls possess in case they even want to join ICEP sponsored workplaces and internships. He then spent some time questioning the girls to assure Caleb was fulfilling his responsibility as host in educating them on basic American culture. He quizzed them on basic Alabama laws, how to use certain municipal services, even had them sing the first half of the American national anthem. Mirabelle did well but Lyca seemed to confuse the national anthem with Sweet Home Alabama by Lenard Skynrrd. Camilla do ok as well but needed to work on the use of certain municipal services. Lastly, he assessed their happiness and whether they felt safe under Caleb's care. Needless to say, it was a RESOUNDING 'yes'. When they were finished, Sterling packed up having everything he needed.
"Well, Mr. Brazell, I thank you for your cooperation and your continued service the program.", Sterling spoke packing his stuff.
"It's BIH-zzell, and you're welcome.", Caleb spoke with an annoyed growl to Sterling's amusement.
"Ms. Ein, Zwei, Drei, keep up the good work.", Sterling praises.
"Of course, sir.", "Can do.", "There's no other kind", they each answered respectively.
As Sterling was walking towards the door, he suddenly stops halfway and turns to them, "Ah, one last thing, I want to know what kind of progress you've all had? Have the 'field trips' been helpful in this little 'project' of ours?"
Caleb pauses at the question before looking between each of the girls before simply answering, "Well...yeah, I would say so. I...we definitely feel a little closer to each other."
Mirabelle and the rest voice their agreement and were backed up by the Zyklons.
"Excellent! Glad to hear things are coming along! I WAS a bit worried considering...everything that happened.", Sterling spoke trailing off for a second before clearing his throat, "Ahem, anyway glad to see you're all making progress. Is there anything else you think I should be aware of?"
"Nope! That's about it!", Caleb assures the government agent.
"Are you sure?", Sterling inquires in a suspicious voice catching the attention of Caleb and the girls.
"No? Not a all", Caleb answers.
"Alright, you guys take care then.", Sterling spoke unassumingly turning around while discretely moving his 2-in-1 to his palm, "YEET!"
Sterling suddenly throws the 2-in-1 from behind much to Caleb's horror.
"Shit! *zoom*" , Caleb elicited before teleporting and catching the tablet in hand, "What the hell Sterling?! Why would...you..."
Caleb trails off noticing Mirabelle and the other's horrified expressions then realizing he instinctively teleported himself from behind the kitchen counter to where the tablet would've landed. He then notices Sterling giving him a smug grin.
"Well...thank god that worked."
Caleb rights himself realizing he'd been caught, "Ok, listen this is...totally explainable. Sorta. But look-"
" , I know.", Sterling says much to his and the other's surprise, "Yesterday, I heard from a few I.A. worker at that aquarium for the aquatic liminal cultural exposeè about an incident involving a group of Devils and some rowdy human men. But what stood out to me was one black man, they're words not mine, who was with the Devils using some kind of "teleportation" and "energy projection" magic. Now, their description of this man were...vague but knowing your track record for this stuff I guessed it must've been you."
Caleb and the others look between each other slightly unsure what to think.
"Yeesh, am I really that predictable?", Caleb questions sarcastically rubbing the back of his head. As Mirabelle begins to panic worried about what's going to happen to then now.
"So I'll ask again, is there anything else you think i should be aware of? Mainly, everything you know about these powers", Sterling inquired.
Caleb and the others exchange looks realizing they don't have much choice.
"Ok, it's like this."
Caleb and the others spend the next ten minutes telling Sterling every they knew about his new Nightmare abilities, including when he entered Camilla's dreams(while not giving TOO much detail of course)
"I see.", Sterling spoke leaning against the nearby wall, "Well, I'd say this is quite the extraordinary occurrence."
"That's an interesting way of putting it.", Caleb put plainly.
"Please Sterling, you have to keep this secret! I don't know how or why this happening!", Mirabelle pleaded, "I...I just don't want to make Caleb's life any harder!"
Camilla and Lyca give her surprised looks as Caleb approaches her to the side and petting the top of her head.
"Moon pie, no! You're not! I don't blame you for any of this and I believe you if you say you don't know. We'll just have to figure it out as we go.", Caleb assures lifting up her chin to make eye contact.
"Señor is right, Señora! There is no point in remaining afraid of the unknown. The best we can do is help him understand these powers.", Camilla informed not wanting Mirabelle to keep punishing herself. Mirabelle gives them both uncertain looks.
"Glad you brought that up Ms. Sartana.", Sterling says strutting over to them, "It's definitely important to understand cases just like Mr. Bizzell here."
Caleb and the girls turn to him with a puzzled look.
"What do mean 'cases like me'?", Caleb inquires with slight suspicion.
"Let's just say you are not the only human to experience...extraodinary changes. We don't quite understand the phenomenon but certain hosts have exhibited some above average, and in rare case, superhuman abilities after living with their students. Whether it be enhanced physical strength and speed even senses such as smell and hearing when hosting Canine or Feline liminal breeds or hosts with aquatic liminals like mermaids now able to hold their breath for over an hour underwater. I even heard of a case in Alaska where a man gained limited cryokinetic abilities upon hosting an Ice Queen for almost a year. ICEP researcher speculate that continued exposer to liminal breeds with...certain needs subconsciously forces the human body to adapt to theses needs. They're thinking of calling it...Metagenesis."
Caleb and the girls look between each other questioningly.
"Uhhh...no offense Sterling but that name sounds retarded.", Caleb says incredulously as Camilla, Lyca, the Zyklons, even Mirabelle nodded in agreement.
"Hey, I didn't come up with it. Plus, it's still not official what they'll call it.", Sterling defended.
"It doooes kinda explain how our dad managed to keep up with our moms for so long.", Zwei rumenated.
"It also helped that they went easy on him...usually.", Drei added.
"Aaanyway, what I'm saying is in this constantly changing world with powerful beings like yourselves becoming part of society, humans have to change as well.", Sterling says steering the conversation back to it's destination.
"So...i'm not the only one with powers like this? This seems like the kind of thing ICEP wouldn't want the general public to know about.", Caleb contested.
"Right you are! As of right now, we've contained this information from leaking out since knowledge of this phenomenon would hurt rather than help liminal human relations. In the same way individuals would exploit Liminal resources and ability the same applies to this case.", Sterling rebutted glancing to Caleb's homestays before turning back Caleb.
"You, Mr. Bizzell, are simply another unusual case of the effects of humans cohabiting with liminals. Though yours is an especially unusual case given the...rarity of the species you've adapted the abilities of. Sooo..."
"Ohhhhh hell, I THAT tone again. I think I know where this is going." , Caleb dreads already sensing what the agents intentions are.
"I was hoping you would. I want you to help with documenting your personal experience wit h having Nightmare abilities. We need more understanding of cases like you for research. It's no more work than what you currently do with collecting Nightmare information. Consider it a side project along with our little private project with your girls", Sterling urges furrowing his eyebrows.
"You don't miss an opportunity do ya?", Caleb spoke giving him the sideeye.
"Nope. Besides it's kinda your fault for apparently being the perfect test subject. It seems every visit you manage to surprise me with new, incredibly beneficial information.", Sterling replies, "Also, don't worry, I'm going to keep your changes between us...for now. What I suggest is you get those powers under control to avoid any more...incidents. Sneak some practice in whenever you can."
Caleb and Mirabelle look to each other thoughtfully.
"Sigh, seriously you HAVE to remember, there's only so much I can do to help whenever you make a 'mistake'. If you don't want to draw too much attention, I strongly suggests getting a handle on those powers. Ms. Marequine, I expect you to show him all you know.", Sterling urges Mirabelle who simply nods in understanding. Suddenly, his phone buzzes. He picks it up seeing who it was, "Oh! Time to head back to the office."
Sterling hurrries over to front door with Caleb following to see him out. When he was halfway out the door, he turns to Caleb.
"Don't forget now Mr. Bahzell.", Sterling warns in a more serious tone.
"I won't. I just wish you'd stop forgetting my damn name.", Caleb replies in a sout tone.
"Not likely. Okay, thanks again for cooperation and continued service. Oh, and thanks for catching this. It was CRAZY expensive.", Sterling waggles his 2-in-1 in hand before getting in his car and pulling out of the driveway.
Caleb goes back inside and is greeted by Mirabelle standing with determined look on her face.
"Uh Moon pie?"
"Dear! I believe we should do as Sterling suggests and test your capabilities.", Mirabelle stated.
"O...kay? But can we wait a little later? I wanted to finish running some specifications on these parts I designed and send them to-"
"NO! We're doing it right now!", Mirabelle asserted much to his surprise even though her 'Determined face' was really cute.
"Huhu. ~Well, ju heard the woman Señor.~", Camilla watches leaning over the chair with a smirk.
"I wanna help Chief train too!", Lyca jumps in.
"Let's definitely start with that barrier thing you mentioned! I haven't seen what it looks like myself.", Zwei urges.
"I've got some freshly prepared healing salves so your free to go a little rough on him.", Drei comments present six vials locked between her fingers like Wolverine claws.
"The hell you mean a 'little rough'? What is your definition of a 'little rough'? ", Caleb questioned glaring nervously at the weasel girl.
"Just enough for you to protect your paper-thin male pride.", Drei replied snarkily.
"Okay Dear! Follow my lead.", Mirabelle instructs putting her hands in front of her generating a purple barrier of energy.
"Hahhh, alright fine but lets do it outside.", Caleb laments his decisions before leading her out to the backyard. His day just got more interesting.
WR
Sup Fam! How's everybody doing since I last updated? I been doing...moderately Ok. Uncle past away the week before Halloween and I find out mom's not doing any better. The fam is still grieving and doing our best in these troublesome times. Now finals are around the corner for me so kinda need to focus on those. Other than that, Goatman is ok and still alive!
Hope you liked this chapter. It was tough writing this one so I feel like certain elements could've been stronger. Oh well, next chapter is sure to leave you in tears. I can guarantee that *chuckles menacingly*
Welp, that's about it. As always, PEACE FAM!