Chapter Text
Earlier…inside Icarus Hall…
“Աստված… ինչպե՞ս են նրանք կարողանում անել այդ ամենը: Ինչպե՞ս է նա կարողանում անել այդ ամենը։ Շարունակել բոլորի հետ, կարծես ոչինչ չէ: դա անհավանական է! Նրանք բոլորն անհավանական են!” (God…how’re they able to do all that? How is she able to do all that?! Keeping up with everyone like it’s nothing?! It’s incredible! They’re all incredible!) Poncho awed as he put on his uniform blazer.
“Yup, they sure are. They’re the perfect example of hard work, grit and determination.” his brother agreed.
“…But-”
“HEY!” he halted him with a stern bark. “I already had one stinkin’ thinkin’ flea latch onto me this morning, you ain’t getting my little brother! The commander said that progress is possible, so long as we’re willing to continue! And we’re going to continue! We have to…it’s our only hope. I know it’ll be hard, but we can do it Poncho. Then we’ll be free.”
“Անվճար.” (Free.) the younger Sladis repeated, and a little smile formed on his face. But once again it was wiped away when Pierce’s ringtone came out of Bowser’s phone. Nervous gulps slid down their throats as the eldest answered the call.
“Good morning o glorious golden one.” he greeted.
“Well blow j*b? What’s that b****’s weakness? I know that dumb training ended already. Pfft, those losers shouldn’t even be wasting their time; either you’re born with it, or you’re not.” the putrid alpha scoffed.
“That’s right, o golden alpha.”
“Of course I’m right! So actually say something useful for once!” he barked, and they began to panic. They weren’t expecting him demanding answers so soon.
“…God I hope this isn’t really a weakness.” he internally prayed, and answered, “Her right leg is a little gimpy; probably from the fencing tournament and from being hurt by the Skelm Wurhuri a couple months back.”
“That thing should’ve eaten her.” they heard him grumble. Somehow they kept themselves from snarling at that callous comment, but their hackles instinctively rose in defense of their soon-to-be new boss.
“So she’s not very fast, is that what you’re saying?”
“Yes glorious one, and the cadets invited us to eat with them today. We can find out more of her-”
“No, you ain’t going over there.” he shot down.
“What? W-Why not, sir?”
“Why not? You already did your job. You found out her weakness. Now you can get your butts back over here where you belong. I’m tired of smelling her stank on ya.”
“B-But, are you sure you don’t want us to find anymore weaknesses?”
“Are you saying I can’t take her!?”
“No, of course not, o strong, superior golden wolf. I just thought that you’d want to utter humiliate and conquer her.”
“Heh, trust me blow j*b. What I have in mind will teach her that I’m the top wolf around here. And that goes double for her airheaded b**** too.”
“Of course. You’re all that and more, o stupendous alpha.”
“Sure am! Now you can quit that stupid ROTC training and get back to Goldfaux training. Heh, aren’t I a great alpha by teaching you two nobodies the ropes?”
“Yes, and were very grateful.” he spoke through gritted teeth.
“That’s right, you better be. I’ll see you two at lunch. We got a strategy to discuss with the elite eight.” he finished, then the line went silent.
“God…the day where we don’t have to talk to him anymore can’t come soon enough.” he thought; every disparaging word Pierce used, and the ones he had to utter in order to maintain the ruse almost made him lose his chocolate chip pancake breakfast.
“Bowser, սա վատ է! Շատ շատ վատ!” (Bowser, this is bad! Very very bad!) his younger sibling panicked.
“I know, I know! We’d better let Captain Silas know what’s going on.” He pulled up his contact info and typed, (Captain, we won’t be able to eat lunch with everyone. Pierce asked for info about Wednesday, and I made up something about her right leg being gimpy. I told him she was slow because of fencing exertion, and any injuries she got from fighting the Skelm Wurhuri. Please please pleeeease tell her I’m sorry for even saying that, and I hope to God it isn’t true! He’s calling off our spy mission and taking us out of the ROTC because he already came up with a strategy to take Wednesday down! W-We’re scared…we don’t know what to do.)
A few tense minutes pass before a response came over. “It’s from Wednesday!” he announced.
(Bowser, Anaru. Silas forwarded your message to me and the rest of our pack mates. Yes, I specifically wrote our, because you two will be a part of it soon.) and that got their hips wiggling. (Do not be afraid. Remember, we swore that we would break this indentured brand. Where do you usually meet Pierce for lunch?)
(We meet up just beyond the green house. There’s a grove of dead, white bark trees.) he texted back.
(How fitting. I know it will be difficult, but try to convince his moronic mind to remain close to me in order to lure me into a false sense of security – thus making it easier to initiate whatever pathetic trap he has in mind. Also, I will ensure that his words will backfire on him once the dust has settled, and you are both free. Now then, come to my room two hours before curfew. I have a plan of my own. And delete these messages as soon as you are done reading them.)
Bowser did as he was told and erased the evidence. “Heh, our inner wolves led us right. Just like papa said. Soon we’ll be free.”
“Անվճար.” (Free.) This time a bigger, more confident smile appeared on his younger brother’s face.
Meanwhile…inside Principal Ritz’s office…
“Grrrrr…sometimes I hate it when I’m right.” he mentally growled as the recording Thing brought came to an end. It was an absolute miracle that he managed to keep himself from transforming and utterly mauling that depraved degenerate – especially with Pierre roaring for righteous fury.
But ultimately...he’d be punishing the wrong werewolf.
He knew for a fact all werewolves learn about lycan laws the moment they are able to comprehend, which possibly meant that someone with a bigoted mindset towards “weaker” furs taught him that it was an acceptable thing to do merely because it was part of natural selection – despite the severe punishment that can be enacted.
“If he did this to Bowser and Anaru…how many others did he do it to? How many students were manipulated into believing his cult-like ideology? Or even threatened to comply once he ensnared them? Did other students share his beliefs and commit these horrible acts too?” he internally shuddered, then asked, “Thing…I apologize for sounding insensitive, but did she or you happen to get a picture of their wounds?”
{No, I didn’t. I should’ve…you’ll need physical evidence as well as a testimony. …I’m sorry.}
“No, no, don’t be sorry. I’m extremely grateful that Wednesday utilized this loop-hole so I can be made aware and help out. That alone is quite becoming of an exceptional alpha.” he praised.
{…What’re you going to do now? Or I guess I should ask, what can you do?}
“Legally speaking I have the right to punish Mr. Goldfaux for harming another student, and for deliberating plotting harm against a student as well. However…this is a slippery slope. You may not have wolf honored not to reveal what happened to them, but the rest of the Έκλειψη pack did. If I were to do something, it wouldn’t take long for Bowser and Anaru to put two and two together and realize that Wednesday broke her vow, even if "technically" she herself didn't tell me. …And given what they’ve been through already, that could cause them to close themselves off from anyone else for good – especially since they came to her seeking assistance. Additionally, they are within their right to enact a proper punishment for breaking the vow – including death. For now all I can do is trust and believe that they will be fully prepared for this fight.”
{Are you going to tell Professor Clawmandi?}
“I’m sure he has some inkling as to why they joined the ROTC. Unfortunately he has dealt with situations similar to this; I’ll give him the specifics so he can create a proper training regimen for them. Thing, please keep me informed of any changes that occur so we can coincidentally be on standby in case anything happens.”
{Will do.} he resolutely swore.
“Thank you. I’m also going to call their father and Luke right now; I know for a fact that he’ll want to have Mr. Goldfaux arrested. Or even killed.”
{They can do that?!}
“Yes. I know the age for when a werewolf is considered an adult is different compared to humans, but strictly going by standard U.S. age laws, Mr. Goldfaux essentially branded a child. That’s along the lines of…well…”
{I get it, I get it.} he waved away. He didn’t want to hear that vile word, nor have his new uncle say it. {But…is any punishment possible? They agreed…well…they were persuaded to have it done.}
“That law is universally stone-set. No one can be coerced into it, nor have it be done to them. But…I understand why Bowser and Anaru went this route. Having a runt mentality is a difficult one to overcome. However, now they have an ideal example of individuals unexpectedly conquering all odds despite their limitations. A werewolf that was a late bloomer, and a rather reserved human portrayed as indifferent of others, yet possessing an innate, protective spirit.”
{Surprise is the best weapon to wield.}
“Indeed it is. …**sigh** I wish I didn’t have to shock their father with this news. But this is another wrong that can be made right.”
{And you can bet that Wednesday will painfully make it right.}
“There’s no doubt in my mind that she can. Thank you again Thing.”
{Yup! I'll come back right away if anything changes. Actually, I’ll be right back. Wednesday needs you and Professor Clawmandi to taste test something for her.}
“Is it what I smelled last night while I was doing my patrol?”
{Yup!}
“Then we can’t wait to do so.” he smiled.
{Cool! I’ll be right back!} and he scurried out the window.
“**sigh**…Is it really that hard to treat others with respect? What’s the point of utilizing fear when all it does is sow seeds of discontent and negative anger?!” he quietly growled.
“Rrroroorraar grrrrrorrrrahhh.” Pierre roared.
“Mm hm. He and whoever else is going to learn that lesson the hard way.” he agreed, then pushed the call button on his faculty communication watch.
“Yes Principal Ritz?” his secretary answered.
“I’m sorry to bother you Mrs. Tintanmin, but would you mind putting the “PRIVATE MEETING IN PROGRESS: DO NOT DISTURB” sign in front of my office door please?”
“Of course, and it’s no bother at all.”
“Thank you ma’am.”
He then pressed another button on the mini wrist screen – alerting everyone that he had an urgent matter to attend to until further notice.
“**sigh** I know another wrong is about to made right…but it still sucks.” he thought and dialed a familiar number on his cell phone.
“Hey Jag, I was just about to call you!” Luke excitedly spoke as his face appeared on the screen. “The Nevada DA just set the criminal court date for Gideon and Gabrielle Joplantis; it’s on May 25th. I can set up Ms. Barclay’s civil suit then; knock out two birds with one arrow!”
“You are truly amazing Luke.” he praised.
“Hey, c’mon now. The Arid Avenger is just trying to right another wrong. Just like you, Mr. Fortune.” he replied.
“Well…I have another one we need to correct.”
“…Dang Jag, you really are my client plug. What’s going on now?”
“I have just been informed that a werewolf student has branded two others…possibly more.” he informed him.
The line went silent for what felt like an hour before the lawyer finally uttered, “Are…are you serious?”
“**sigh** I wish I wasn’t.”
“…Ooooh damn.”
“My thoughts exactly.” he commented, and told him the specifics.
“…Damn. Damn damn damn damn.”
“I know, it’s a slippery slope. Bowser’s and Anaru’s lives are in danger due to Mr. Goldfaux’s threats, and the Έκλειψη pack’s lives are also on the line because they made that wolf’s honor. And even if I were to out Mr. Goldfaux and the Vermont werewolf governing body removes his scent from their bodies, I know for a fact that their mental well-being would deteriorate because they’ll view themselves as failures for not being able to free themselves from his control. Not only that, if Mr. Goldfaux’s alphas taught him to have that elitist mindset, they could go after Mr. Sladis and his boys for tarnishing their son.”
“**sigh**…Yup. Seen plenty of that sick, twisted victim blaming; even though somewhere deep in Mr. Goldfaux's conscience he knew what he was doing was wrong, or else he wouldn't have made that threat to protect himself. But…that’s a narrow branch to walk across Jacque. We’re really limited on options.” he worriedly replied.
“…You can say that again, but we have to succeed. Their father begged me to help them. There was no pride to be put aside; all he wanted was the best for his sons. To give them a stable, educational life after all the turmoil they’ve gone through. Grrrrrr…then this happens on my watch.”
“Jacque! Don’t you dare blame yourself!” the were-serval snarled. “You gave them everything and then some with reasonably set conditions. You already know you can’t control anyone but yourself. But I tell you what, you’re setting the example that everyone needs to follow! You did it with the Florida Panthers, and now you’re doing that at Nevermore!”
The were-jaguar smiled at that and replied, “Thank you Luke.”
“Just saying the truth, Jag. You know I got your back; we’re buds through and through. And you can bet that the Arid Avenger and Mr. Fortune are going to turn this whole thing around.” he affirmed.
“That we will.” he agreed.
“So, should I wait to contact the Vermont werewolf governing body?”
“For now, yes. I know we’ve never dealt with anything like this, but based on what Baliyo told me, they don’t PLAY with something this serious. They’ll send like seven S.W.A.T teams out here.” Jacque replied.
“No surprise there.”
“But I am going to call Mr. Sladis right now, and tell him everything. Afterwards, you can give him options for his civil suit.”
“I’ll make sure he gets every single penny that the Goldfaux pack owns.” the experienced lawyer swore.
“I know you will.” the principal grinned, and took out his other phone. “Hold on for a sec.”
“You got it.”
It rung a few times before a gruff, soothing answered. “Principal Ritz?”
“Hello Mr. Sladis.”
“…What’s wrong? Are my sons alright?”
“…**sigh** No sir…I’m afraid they currently are not. But I swear to you that I, and others, will ensure that they will be.”
Later that afternoon…at the Έκλειψη Base…
“A-A-AWWOOOOOOOO!” the ROTC comrades collectively howled when they heard the amazing news, and bowled over their new pack mates in a big ol’ wolf pile; fortunately Eugene and Wednesday managed to avoid the onslaught.
“Wednesday, what’s going on? All you said was “Yes.” And where are we anyway? It looks like a secret hideout.” the hummer questioned.
“This is the academy base of the Έκλειψη pack. Flynn, Barkley, Link and Payton wished to be a part of it. Enid and I agreed, and they howled their thanks.” she answered.
“Oh wow! Umm…is it o-okay that I’m here?”
“Of course, though you are all sworn to secrecy.”
“Snitches get stung.” he swore. “But…I-I know you’re pack is an official one…but would it be alright if I became an honorary Έκλειψη wolf? I swear I’ll learn all the werewolf customs and-”
“Eugene.” she interrupted what would’ve been his long list of things he’d do to show his loyalty. **TWEEET** she whistled, stopping their roughhousing revelry. “Apologies Έκλειψη pack, but Eugene wishes to join our pack as an honorary wolf. I am aware that having a human as an alpha and a member of a wolf pack is already rare occurrence-”
“In other words, the Addams brand of awesome abnormal!” Rad grinned.
“He’s right Weds.” Enid smiled, and walked over to the bee master. “Eugene, are you totes serious about joining the Έκλειψη armada? This is a real pack, and you’ll have to follow all the rules. Breaking one can lead to being kicked out, or even death.”
“Yes ma’am!” he replied without missing a beat. “I’d do anything for you guys!”
She smiled and asked, “Έκλειψη werewolves. Is it alright to let Eugene Ottinger to join the Έκλειψη armada as an honorary wolf?”
“AR-ROOOOOOO!” everyone howled.
“That’s that! Welcome to the pack Eugene!” she beamed.
“Not quite yet, mio prezioso lupo.” Wednesday halted. “In order to become official, Eugene must engage in a scenting wolf pile. It is a thorough method of establishing bonds with our pack mates.”
“Y-You mean what everyone was doing before you whistled?”
“Yes.”
“O-Oh, okay.” he gulped.
“Don’t worry, we’ll be gentle.” Enid assured, and they brought him for an upright wolf pile – tickling him in the process with their caressing nuzzles. Soon he was thoroughly coated, and they had his honeycomb, flowery-woody scent on them.
Once they were done, the monochromatic alpha smiled and decreed, “Now it is official.”
“Thank you! Thank you so much!” he beamed, and grabbed onto her like a praying mantis. “This is the best day of my life!” she heard him whisper, and returned the hug ten-fold. All the while the now larger Έκλειψη pack looked on with sheer adoration in their eyes.
Soon they let each other go, and Wednesday addressed the large armada. “Enid, Troy, Radley, Lenny, Cooper, Link, Flynn, Payton, Barkley, Silas, and Eugene. You have chosen to join forces underneath the Έκλειψη name. A name whose inspiration draws from the regal souls all of us possess, and regularly showcase. While others have tried to mold and corrupt it, all of you were able to eclipse your arduous trials and create rare, spectacular sights.”
“AR-ROOOOOOO!” the wolves howled while Eugene reverently clapped.
“Now as per werewolf customs, an armada king must be chosen through a combat trial. I shall participate in the melee for that role.”
“What?!” they exclaimed.
“Silas, that is what was told to me, was it not?”
“Well…yeah. But leader, no one wants to fight you.” he countered.
“Can’t we just take a vote?” Payton asked.
“No. While there are some traditions within lycanthrope society I do not agree with, this one I do. A king must be able to protect their armada until their last dying breath, and I must prove I am able to do so. And no, the Skelm Wurhuri battle does not count, nor does solving the Crackstone case.” she shot down when she sensed Enid’s counterargument on the tip of her tongue. “Lest you forget I was no match for the Hyde last semester, and it was only through the element of surprise that I was able to assist in taking down the Skelm Wurhuri. I have been training since then, and I wish to test my skills now.”
A proverbial lightbulb went off in the cadets’ heads when she said that. They looked at one another – silently having a conversation amongst themselves. When they reached their consensus, Barkley stood up and said, “Alright, I’ll fight you.”
“WHAT?!” Eugene and the former Sinclair siblings exclaimed.
“That is his right.” the captain firmly stated.
“That it is.” Wednesday concurred. They took their uniform blazers off, laid them down on one of the exposed roots, and then walked over to a small clearing not too far from the base.
Enid was about to stand up and fight the brawler herself so she could let Wednesday finish her with a simple little punch, but Silas stopped her by grabbing her wrist. Her sparkling lapis lazuli eyes shifted into a fiery reddish/orange as she fiercely growled in her native language, <Silas! Let me go NOW! It’s my right to fight too!>
<I know it is, but I also know what’re you’re going to do. None of us want to fight her, but she wants to prove herself. Like it or not she is human, and biologically speaking she knows she’s at a disadvantage. Her weaponry skills say otherwise, but that’s beside the point. She needs this to put her mind at ease; that she can be an excellent alpha.> he reasoned, and suddenly the old saying Troy spoke earlier entered their minds. In this instance she was just like Poncho and Bowser – wanting to ensure that she could take care of them, and herself, in the face of monstrous threats. All because she loves them.
<And don’t worry. This is nothing more than a sparring match; we do it all the time during training. I’m guessing she told you that they connected to their inner wolves and how?>
It took them a moment to mentally run through all the info their boss told them earlier. <**GASP** It’s just like me and Rad! Barkley connected to his inner wolf because of competition, and now he wants to test his skills against her!> Lenny realized.
<But…what if he wins? I know he’s a good wolf and all, but I want boss as our king.> Cooper fretted.
<The victor could renounce their title if he/she feels that they aren’t capable of leading, but then another fight would ensue to choose the king.> the future historian answered. <All we can do is hope that she wins, and feels that it’s legitimate.>
Despite Nicci demanding that she interfere, Enid sat back down. “Nicci…I know you’re just following my deepest desire, but Silas is right. We can’t stop her; she needs this, just like she needed to do those “revenge tactics” against everyone who signed her cast.” she reasoned, but it didn’t prevent a nervous gulp going down her throat.
The monochromatic warrior rolled up her sleeves and stated, “No holds barred.”
A deep, confirming **GRRROOWWLLL** was his response as he ditched his socks and shoes, then crouched down on all fours. Wednesday noticed that his rustic brown eyes now had golden yellow specks – signaling that he and his inner wolf were completely in-synch.
“This’ll be fun.” she internally smiled, before uncharacteristically charging first. Naturally he dodged to the side, then tried using the momentum to pounce on her with fully-extended claws. Luckily she was able to evade his onslaught. Enid felt her heart beating in her throat as everyone watched them circle each other – never dropping eye contact.
“Grrrruff! Rrugggh! Ruffrrf!” he barked as he did a quick zig-zag motion to try and catch her off guard, but her eyes were on him like a sticky gecko. He seamlessly maintained his stride as he shifted from all fours to being on two, with his right arm co*cked back. But the blow didn’t connect, and the mini fighter used the opening to try and land a side chop to his neck. However, her hand hit nothing but air as he ducked out of the way. The seer sensed what was about to occur, and interlocked her fingers behind her head as he delivered a devastating tackle that launched her off of her feet. It took every ounce of energy Enid possessed not to transform and tear a new one into Barkley when they landed on the grassy ground hard; everyone winced when they heard the air get knocked of her, but the cadets noticed that she cradled her head at the last moment to protect her skull and prevent her from being knocked out. Before he could bludgeon her with a series of hard-hitting hammer punches, she unlocked her fingers and sat up to land a pair of pinpoint, rapier-like strikes on the junction of his pectoralis majors and deltoids.
“ROOORRRROO!” he painfully howled as his arms immediately went limp. But the assassin wasn’t done. The moment he instinctively reeled up off of her, she swept her legs under him – knocking him to the ground. But he landed on his back and flailed his legs about to keep her away - just like they were taught in training.
Though in the end it was futile.
She had years of experience catching wriggling snakes; spastic leg movement was child’s play. She caught his left leg, though not without consequence; he gashed her forearm with his sharp toenails on his right foot. She quickly applied pressure to specific areas of his leg – rendering it limp. She dropped the lame leg, incapacitated the other one underneath her, and pressed two fingers against his carotid artery. A noticeable gulp slid down his throat when he realized what she was capable of doing; if she could paralyze his limbs…then she could stop blood flow to his brain.
“Yield.” she commanded.
A **whiiiinnnnnnneeee*** immediately came out his lips – effectively conceding to the superior opponent.
Silas nodded at the result and declared, “The combat trial is over! Wednesday Έκλειψη Addams is the victor, and is now the king of the Έκλειψη Armada!”
A miniscule sigh of relief and accomplishment left her mouth when she heard the official decree, but for some strange reason her body instinctively reacted to the victory as she tilted her head back and released a primal, “AAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
The armada instinctively followed along, though Eugene’s howl came out much squeakier. Wednesday seemed to snap back to reality as the sound faded away from her vocal chords. “…What…Why did I do that? It didn’t even sound like my normal howl. Have I been possessed?” she thought, but put that aside for now when she realized that she was still on top of her immobilized comrade. “Give me a few seconds, Barkley.” she requested, and pressed specific spots on his chest and left leg – disabling the paralysis.
“Roororoo…t-tingly…” he remarked when she was done.
“Do not move for three minutes; your synapses are resetting their connections. I apologize, but I must remain on top of you until the allotted time has passed. I do not want to risk accidentally moving you even a centimeter.” she advised, then closed her eyes to sense if another spirit was inhabiting her body. Nope, it was only her own conscience. When she reopened them, the rest of the armada was surrounding them and Enid was worriedly whining like crazy.
“Are…Are you alright boss? I-I mean, other than the scratches?” Cooper asked.
“We saw what you did, and heard what you said to Barkley. It’s similar to what you did to Trent, isn’t it?” Silas followed up.
“Yes. What I did to remove the paralysis I inflicted on him was the same technique I used on our cousin. As for myself, I will be fine. As you all know this isn’t my first scratch, and I know it will not be the last.” she assured, though it did little to assuage her co-alpha’s nervous whimpering. She sighed and added, “Though I should disinfect them sooner rather than later. Enid, once I am able move, would you mind doing that for me please? I have a miniature first aid kit in my bag, or you may use your saliva.”
Her wolf readily nodded at that, but noticed she didn’t run to her bag to grab the first-aid kit. “She’s going to clean them herself.” she realized, and mentally smiled at her unabashedly following her instincts. “The allotted time has passed. You may move now Barkley.” she decreed. He tentatively flexed his fingers and toes, and sighed in relief. Once she got up off of him, she held her uninjured hand out to him to help him up.
“Thanks, king.” he proudly smiled and took the offered hand. Link and Eugene were by his side to help him onto his feet, while Enid cradled her co-alpha’s gashed-up arm in her hands and started licking the wounds.
“…How’re you feeling, Bark?” Payton asked.
“Actually, I feel awesome! It’s like I’m re-energized! I bet can do the army fitness test for twenty hours non-stop!” he described.
“Heh, I wouldn’t doubt it.” the captain chuckled. “After leader helped out Trent, he didn’t even break a sweat when he fought against Magnuson. He looked like he could’ve fought ten more guys.”
“Speaking of, wow! Just wow! We already knew you were hardcore Wed-I-I mean king-”
“Link, you may address me however you see fit.” she interrupted him.
“O-Okay. But still, even though it was nerve wracking to watch, it was still awesome to see your martial arts in action! The entire match was incredible!”
“We did agree to have it be no holds barred. While my Tibetan monastery martial arts can incapacitate most of my opponents, I know that all of you have a strong chin so to speak; those attacks would’ve been ineffective in this bout.”
“I don’t know about that, king. Like Link said, you’re flippin’ hardcore!” Barkley praised. “I thought that maybe I’d have a shot of at least tying with you, but nope. I still got a looong way to go to catch up to your level.”
“Do not sell yourself short. You have improved tremendously Barkley. And if I may, try staying on all fours whenever you fight, for that is your nature as a wolf. As you know, if you disable your opponent’s means of moving around, then you will increase your chance of victory. But by staying on all fours, it will be harder to knock you off balance since you will have a lower center of gravity.” she advised.
He smiled and replied, “Thanks for the advice, king. But you know we’re all gonna be trying that during ROTC sparring practice, right?”
“I would expect nothing less, for I enjoyed this exhilarating challenge. And best believe that I will devise a strategy to defend against it.” she smiled back.
“U-Um…speaking of challenge, t-that’ll be the last fight…right?” Eugene asked.
“Unless someone within the armada or another king wants to challenge her.” Silas answered.
“Well we ain’t fightin her, and you already know we ain’t gonna let no one lay a finger on her, or anyone else!” Rad snarled, and the rest of the werewolves followed suit.
The monochromatic psychic smiled at their fierce, protective nature, until contemplating confusion painted her features.
All of them immediately noticed her countenance change, and Enid fretted, “Wednesday, are you okay? Do we need to take you to Dr. Doss?!”
“Not yet, mio prezioso lupo. Your natural disinfecting properties are working marvelously.” she assured. “It’s just…the howl I produced once Silas declared me the victor…it was different than how I normally howl.”
“Yeah, it was awesome! <Heh, you sure you didn’t bite her already sis?>” Rad ribbed – getting an annoyed glare from the co-alpha.
“And to be fair, you have been howling for a while; it’s only natural that it would improve and get better.” Troy added.
“Perhaps. But howl pitch aside, it felt as though I was creating some sort of…link. At least that is the essence I felt as it left my throat.”
“Yup yup, and we felt it too! It was your bonding howl – saying that you’re king of the Έκλειψη armada!” Cooper beamed.
“That’s why we reciprocated it; we proclaimed that we’ll follow you no matter what.” Flynn proudly stated.
“And just for the record, we would’ve followed you anyway even if you didn’t howl.” Eugene assured.
“I see.” she replied, then slowly took her arm out of her co-alpha’s hands so she could kneel before them.
Just as they were about to ask what she was doing, she reverently spoke, “Έκλειψη pack. Thank you.”
“For what?” Barkley asked.
“Yeah, for what boss? You know it’s common sense that we would follow you.” Lenny added.
“Be that as it may, this is all new to me. …Old tendencies still reside within me, and I am…afraid that I will make the same mistakes again.”
“…She’s worried that she’ll do something to make us mad…and that we’d leave her.” Enid sadly realized. She knelt down in front of her and softly said, “Wednesday.” A round of quiet whimpers left their throats when they saw their reflection in their leader’s lightly moist ebony eyes. “The only reason you had to develop those tendencies was because people either hated or didn’t want to understand you – they disregarded you, in turn you disregarded them. But I need you to listen to me. It’s okay if you slip up; you’re still healing from all of that, and you’re still learning. You can take all the time you need. And remember, we voluntarily asked you if we could be Έκλειψη wolves. Sure scent and instincts played a huge role, but we still have the choice to go against them. But all of us didn’t, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We respect, admire, and most importantly of all, love you.”
“…I know you all do. Quite honestly none of us didn’t even need to make a wolf’s honor to have each other’s back, or supply infinite praises; we simply did it to strengthen the emphasis. Yet…that is why I am afraid. …I know I’m sounding hypocritical by entertaining the worst possible outcome, but I can’t help it.” she whispered.
“Well, unlucky for that parasitic brain worm, we’re all awesome brain surgeons!” she smiled. “What’s the only way you can be kicked out of our pack?”
Wednesday did a double take at before a small dimpled smile crossed her lips. “Following the egregious, dismissive ways of your former alphas.” she answered with a fiercely, protective tone.
“See?” she beamed. “Your tone alone just screams nothing but the essence of the big three, with some Addams spice to it.”
“She’s right, leader.” Silas chimed in as he, and the rest of the pack knelt before her. “There are two mottos that all werewolves of each respective governing body must swear to: “the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack”, and “the best wolves do not have the sharpest claws, nor the pointiest teeth, they have the biggest hearts.” A true leader isn’t one who forces their authority onto others, but are chosen by those who wish to follow them.”
“A poetic way of saying what all of you constantly express towards me.” she affectionately summarized, and openly wiped away a tear from her eye. “All of you have become excellent brain surgeons.”
“We learned from the best, boss.” Troy smiled, garnering a matching one from the king.
Suddenly the overwhelming instinct from earlier flooded her body – causing another, “AAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” to come out of her vocal chords, and once again it was readily reciprocated. As the bonding sound faded away, the royal raven bowed her head before her court and resolutely stated, “Έκλειψη armada. On the blood of all the Addams’ ancestors, I wolf’s honor to do my upmost in upholding the werewolf’s core principals, support you through your trials, tribulations, doubts, frustrations, turbulence, fears, confessions, anguish, pain, sorrow and joy, as well as eliminate any threat towards any and all that are connected to the Έκλειψη name.”
Tears nearly sprung from her co-alpha’s eyes when she recognized the stanza from her heartfelt prose she privately sang to her after the showcase. She, along with the lead hummer and her new werewolf pack mates, followed suit and bowed their heads before her. “Wednesday, king of the Έκλειψη armada.” she reverently stated. “We wolf’s honor with all our hearts that we will follow you until your last breath, and support you through your own trials, tribulations, doubts, frustrations, turbulence, fears, confessions, anguish, pain, sorrow, joy and healing.”
“Yeah!” Eugene enthusiastically added, but condensed on himself when everyone snapped their heads up to look at him. “…S-Sorry! I’m sorry! I-I didn’t mean to sound so informal!”
The newly proclaimed king stood up and replied, “Why do you apologize for a shared sentiment?”
“Yeah! I was about to pick up boss, carry her to Dr. Doss to get her patched up, and initiate the biggest wolf pile ever!” Rad grinned, as all of them stood up too.
“You may do so in a moment Radley. But first, there is an urgent matter I must discuss with all of you. I apologize for the suddenness, but I must mobilize all of you; a concrete threat has been made against my life.”
“WHAT?! BY WHO?!” the ROTC comrades and lead hummer concurrently demanded.
“Due to the nature of the threat, I cannot disclose who it is. However, I have devised a strategy to take them down. As your king, may I requ-”
“You don’t even have to ask, King Wednesday.” Link interrupted.
“Yeah! Just tell us what you need us to do, and we’ll get it done like that!” Payton assured, and snapped his fingers for added emphasis.
“Thank you.”
“Common sense, boss.” Troy smiled.
“Still, I am aware how power can corrupt those in charge.”
“Then we’ll know that you have some kind of brain parasite, or some jerk possessed you. That’s the only way you’ll ever be corrupted.” Lenny spoke.
“Still, you all have my gratitude.”
“You’re welcome my royal raven.” Enid softly replied.
“So, what’s the plan leader?” Silas asked.
“First, I’ll need permission to utilize the RRS.”
“RRS??” the werewolves questioned.
“Royal Revolving Stingers.” Eugene answered. “And I’ve been dubbed the sergeant by the king. Whatever you need Wednesday, my insects are there for you.”
“…Are you sure?”
“Hummers stick together, right?” he smiled.
She smiled back and replied, “You are right. Now, here’s my strategy."
Later that night…
“Crapcrapcrapcrap!” “Սա վատ էՍա վատէ Սա վատէ Սա վատ է!” (This is bad this is bad this is bad!) were the speeding, concurrent thoughts of the Sladis brothers as they sprinted through the penta-quad and up the stairs of Ophelia Hall. When they approached the door, they detected the potent combined scent of the Έκλειψη alphas…as well as the scent of antiseptic and blood.
“OH NO!” they thought, and frantically knocked.
“Come in.” they heard Wednesday reply, and practically barreled on through. Inside they saw their savior calmly sitting in the nest on Enid’s lap; the co-alpha had her arms protectively around her torso. Troy, Cooper, Lenny and Silas were sitting on the massive cushion as well, but Radley was outside on the balcony pacing and swiping at the air. There was no mistaking the subdued aura of rage and concern emanating from the werewolves, though the livid hockey brother was the only one outwardly showing it by growling up a storm.
“Bowser. Anaru. Allow me to explain some new developments before your thoughts can understandably run rampant.” she spoke, and gestured for them to take a seat. They opted to grab couple of nest pillows so they could comfortably sit in front of them on the floor. “First, I’m certain you can smell blood on me. I was not attacked. The wounds I sustained are the result of the combat trial determining the king of the armada.” she explained. While both of them sighed in relief that it wasn’t a deliberate attack, her words finally caught up to them in their minds.
“Wait…armada? Other werewolves asked to join you?!” Bowser asked.
“Indeed; surprising I know.”
“Umm…n-no offense, but its not.” he respectfully countered. “It’s just…it’s such a coincidence that others would join after we asked.”
“Hmm…I suppose so, though in this case it was more of a formality. Flynn Finnagen, Payton Cashman, Link Rohannes, Barkley Everton and Eugene Ottinger wished to join our armada, even though they were already behaving as such towards us. In regard to the combat trial, I have emerged victorious. Therefore, I am officially the king of the Έκλειψη armada.” she explained. “Mind you I did not disclose with them what was discussed last night, only that a threat was made to my life. Naturally they wish to defend me, which in turn will simultaneously help break the brand Pierce placed on both of you.”
“Th-Thank…you.” Anaru spoke as he wiped grateful tears from his eyes.
“I did wolf’s honor, did I not? I know the severity of breaking that vow, and I would never betray your trust.” she affirmed. “Now, what moronic plan did that depraved imbecile concoct?”
Bowser nervously gulped, and answered, “W-Well, he changed his mind about us leaving the ROTC. He wants us to get close to you, t-to earn your trust. T-Then he said he was going to use us to lure you into the forest. Just past the remains of an old, burnt down building.”
“…The town hall ruins.” she realized. “Talk about poetic justice; only he’ll be the one trapped.”
“T-Then the senior members of the pack, the Elite Eight, are going to jump you and beat you up.” All the Eclipse wolves menacingly growled when he revealed that, and Enid tightened her grip on her true mate.
“Once you’re knocked out…h-he…h-he put his hand on his crotch, and said that he and the Elite Eight w-were going to wear you out…til you’re raw."
"Who are the Elite Eight?"
"They're the strongest wolves in the pack, outside of Pierce. They're Ty Higgins, Chandler Urmos, Freddie Ports, Donnell Burrows, Sonny Jackson, Beau Walker, Owen Scatts, and Ray Rice."
"Are you familiar with any of those names?" she asked her pack mates.
"...Ray and Chandler." Enid growled. “When I enrolled, they picked on me a few times because I was a late bloomer. But then one day they suddenly stopped. I remember seeing that they had a few bandages on their faces." she recalled, then instinctively looked over at Troy.
"Lenny and I noticed they were picking on you while you were walking down the hall one day. Lenny, Coop and Rad taught them some manners while I firmly reminded Pierce to leave my siblings alone." he explained.
"...I know we screwed up by following that stupid suggestion, but just because we couldn't be near you didn't mean we were going to let something happen to you." Lenny added.
She showed them a soft smile and grabbed their hands - expressing all the gratitude she could.
As she wrapped her arms around her true mate's torso again, the king asked, "Is there more?"
"...Y-Yeah. He said for our final initiation…a-and as a treat…w-we were…we were going to **gulp** d-drink their seed out of you, s-so we could gain genetic superiority. T-Then he was going to brand Enid, get back at Troy and take over your pack.”
Both of them **YIPED!* and jumped in their seats when they heard Rad’s irate “GRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAHHHHH!” The rest of the pack physically matched his raging temper as the burning red overlay covered their eyes, and their musculature started to expand; it truly looked like they about eviscerate anyone that even looked at them the wrong way.
“Cálmate (Calm down) Έκλειψη pack. Cálmate.” the king softly soothed, tampering their justified animosity. “That went a lot better than the first time they heard this diabolical, perverse plan.” she thought.
“Wha-!? How’re you so calm about this?! H-He wants to…” but the eldest Sladis brother couldn’t even finish that sentence.
They were absolutely stunned when they saw her merely shrug her shoulders. “I’ve dealt with far worse.”
“B-But Wednesday, you don’t understand! Pierce can half-shift!” he exclaimed.
“Half-shift?”
“Y-Yeah. It’s like an in-between his human and lycanthrope form. W-We had no idea he could do that, we just found out! We didn’t even know a werewolf could do that!”
“All creatures are capable of unknown physical feats.”
“Still, this is getting too dangerous!”
“You are correct, this is getting too dangerous. For him.” she smirked.
“Չորեքշաբթի, խնդրում եմ!” (Wednesday, please!) Anaru begged. “Մենք չենք ցանկանում, որ դուք կամ որևէ մեկը վիրավորվի-” (We don’t want you or anyone getting hurt-)
“Bowser. Anaru.” she cut him off. “Fear is the belief in the worse possible outcome. Love is the belief in the best possible outcome. Your love for one another encouraged you to come to me for help. When you did, you showed admirable strength because asking for assistance is a refusal to give up. Believe in that love now. Believe that it will free you from that deranged, depraved male’s control. …Never in a million years did I think I would say anything like that.” she mumbled to herself, but they still heard her. Grateful smiles formed on her pack mates’ faces, and Enid nuzzled the back of her neck.
“That’s βασιλικό μου κοράκι.” she lovingly whispered.
“B-But…but Pierce’s ability-”
“Troy. Radley.” she suddenly called out.
“Yes, boss?” the eldest asked as his heated sibling walked back into the room.
“Would both of you, Jack and Nelson mind demonstrating your abilities?”
”Jack? Nelson?? Who are they??” the brothers mentally questioned.
“Gladly.” Rad deeply growled.
“Lenny. Cooper. Would you mind providing cover please?” she requested, and they followed the command without question. They grabbed the blanket on top of the bed and held it up to make a makeshift changing curtain so Troy and Rad could disrobe.
Before the Sladis brothers could question what was going on, resonating “RRROOOOAAAARR!” came out of their mouths before their faces morphed into a canine shape. Lenny and Cooper stepped aside like a pair of magicians revealing a completed illusion – only they revealed a pair of powerful lycanthropes.
Poncho and BJ looked like fish out of water when they beheld the two titanic werewolves, though their compassionate side shined through as they nuzzled against their pack mates.
“Wh-wha…h-how-”
“As I said before, all creatures are capable of unknown physical feats.” she proudly smiled. “And yes, all of them can shift without a full moon – rendering Pierce’s half-shift meaningless. Now then, I strongly implore you to keep this a secret.”
“Of course! We won’t tell anyone, wolf’s honor!” “Գայլի պատիվ!” (Wolf’s honor!) they swore, and crossed their hearts. “But still, w-we don’t want any of you fighting him.”
“They shall not.” she replied. “This is your battle to conquer; we shall merely assist. I have already devised a sound strategy that will ruin him. And the only thing you two will have to do is run.”
“R-Run?!” “Վազիր?!” (Run?!) they disbelievingly exclaimed.
“Yes, for that is your strength. And no, I do not mean fleeing your opponent. You both will lead him to his demise, and run to your freedom.” she resolutely stated.
“B…But-”
“Anaru. Bowser.” she softly halted their rebuttal and walked over to them. They didn’t even flinch when she placed her hands on their shoulders for they could sense the overwhelming protective, comforting essence she exuded. “As I said, all creatures are capable of unknown physical feats. That includes the both of you as well. Trust your inner wolves and do not limit yourselves. I believe you both will be thoroughly surprised at what you are capable of.”
Meanwhile…inside Principal Ritz’s room…
“blowj*b! Pee-cho! What the hell took you so long?!”
“S-Sorry, glorious gold-”
“Whatever, I don’t care! Just sit down already!”
“So, what’s your brilliant, stupendous plan to knock that Addams b**** down?”
“Easy, we’re gonna jump her.”
“How?”
“blowj*b, Pee-cho!”
“Y-Yes golden alpha?”
“I changed my mine. You two are gonna stay in the ROTC and get close to that freak. Make her trust you. Then you’re gonna act like you want to do rugged terrain training or something and lead her to that old, burnt down building in the woods. That’s when we’ll get her.”
“That’s awesome leader!”
“Our glorious golden leader is the wolf with all the plans!”
“Heh, I know, I know. I really am the perfect combination of brains and brawns. Aren’t I a great leader that you all have the slim chance of absorb a tiny bit of my perfection?”
“You sure are!”
“You rock alpha!”
“I know I do. And prepare yourselves to have some fun after we knock her out.”
“You mean we get to-?”
“Yup. But I get first dibs, got it?”
“Got it!”
“Oh wolf, I can’t wait! Lotion and socks just isn’t cuttin’ it anymore.”
“Yeah, I wanna go feral and pound!”
“Heh, don’t you worry guys. We’re gonna wear her out til she’s raw. And guess what blow j*b and Pee-cho.”
“**gulp** Y-Yes sir?”
“You two are gonna move on up in the pack!”
“W-What?”
“Yup! For you final initiation, you two are gonna lick our seed out of her, and gain some of our superior genetics. I won’t fix all of your crappiness, but it’s a start.”
“Heh, look at’em! They’re so shocked by your generosity that they can’t even speak!”
“C’mon, hurry up and thank our golden alpha already!”
“Leave’em alone Ty, it’s understandable that their dumb brains can’t process the marvelous gift I’m giving them. And once you two are done, then I’m gonna brand that airheaded b**** so I have control over that stupid little s**** pack! That'll teach Troy! And I’ll let you guys do whatever you want with’em.”
“Really!? We’ll get to be in charge?!”
“Sure will, you’re my Elite Eight after all.”
“Awesome! You’re the greatest alpha ever!”
“That’s right I am, and everyone will know not to mess with me!”
“Go glorious Pierce! Go glorious Pierce! Golden pack shines above all! Golden pack shines above all!” and the disgusting recording ended with boisterous howling.
“Oh…God…” was the only thing Professor Clawmandi could utter when he, his livid true mate, and their equally livid friend finished listening to the secret recording Thing obtained.
“…I thought the message Mrs. and Mr. Jacobs left for Demetrius was the worst thing I ever heard. This…I-I don’t even know what to call this.” Luke disbelieving uttered over the phone.
“H-How on God’s green Earth can these youths create this depraved fraternity?! How can anyone even THINK that teaching them this is acceptable!?”
[THEY LEARNED THIS FROM THE DEVIL ITSELF! THAT'S THE ONLY EXPLANATION! NO ONE IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD EVER THINK THAT THIS IS OKAY!] Jacque roared in his native language.
“And those nicknames…you don’t think Bowser and Anaru were…”
“Unfortunately it could be possible, but I hope to God they weren’t subjected to that.” the principal shuddered.
“How was the Έκλειψη pack when they heard this…this…gruesome plot?” Baliyo somehow inquired without gagging.
{Furious.} Thing simply signed. {It took Wednesday almost an hour to calm them down. They were going to maul the entire pack until there was nothing left.}
After Jacque translated what he said, Luke snarled, “Shoot, I would too!”
{There’s…there’s more.}
“MORE!?” the pair of true mates exclaimed.
“Wait what?! There’s more?!” the lawyer echoed.
{When Pierce said all…that, he transformed. Not fully into a lycanthrope, but it looked like an in-between form.}
“What!? Can they all do that!?” the professor asked.
“What?! Do what?!”
“Sorry Luke.” the principal apologized, and translated what Thing signed.
“…Oh my God. Another werewolf can transform without the full moon besides the Έκλειψη pack!? Even if it' only half-way, that’s really really bad! Can they all do that?!”
{No, just him.} and they sighed in relief.
“Jacque, I know that Wednesday and the others wolf’s honored not to tell anyone, but this is becoming far too dangerous! We need to put a stop to this now!” the professor strongly implored.
“Yeah Jacque! I know regular laws protect werewolves if they’re defending their pack mates from a threat, and we already know that the Έκλειψη pack will shred all of them to pieces. But if their alphas play that sick, twisted victim mentality card, they could sue them up the wazoo for emotional distress! Or even enact rightful retribution since the courts can’t!” Luke followed up.
{Wait! Don’t do anything! Wednesday’s got it covered!} He told them what the plan was, and how she became king.
“An armada? Wednesday is king of an armada?!” the lawyer exclaimed.
“Heh, I knew it!” Baliyo grinned. “Looks like I’ll be calling them the Έκλειψη platoon after all!”
“Are armadas still a thing!? I thought the werewolf governing bodies essentially replaced that.” he questioned.
“It certainly isn’t as common, but they can still form. And even though I’m not surprised whatsoever that all of them wanted her to be the king, it’s still extremely rare that the convening werewolves would willingly forfeit the combat trial.” the professor remarked.
“That explains why she needed stitches after lunch.” the principal recalled the low concern medical message he received earlier from Dr. Doss. “But…I understand why she wanted to go through the combat trial, and why Barkley essentially sparred with her. She knows that biologically speaking she’s physically at a disadvantage, though her skills with weapons say otherwise. She needed that mental reassurance that she can be an excellent alpha. I can also understand why she catered her plan the way she did. Poncho and Bowser also need to know without a shadow of a doubt that they can protect themselves, each other, and uphold the were-creature big three.”
“Very true, and it does play into their main strength. Their speed during our re-evaluation was most impressive.” Baliyo commended.
“Still, that whole plan sounds like it came straight out of Rambo.” Luke commented.
“You’re right about that, but it isn’t anything new. I read in her file that in fifth grade she caught a group of troublemakers that were harassing her little brother in a tree net laced with poison ivy.” the principal disclosed.
“And let me guess. The parents of the troublemakers made a huge fuss to the school, and she got expelled.”
“Yup.”
“And that’s what I’m talking about! I bet all those alphas will see their pups as perfect little angels despite the mountain of evidence against them!”
“Well, I can tell you that the werewolf governing body won’t see them that way once we present the audio and visual evidence that will be recorded that day. At the very least they will be expelled from Nevermore.” the professor assured.
“…If they’re even alive to be expelled.” Luke shuddered.
{Oh don’t worry about that. Wednesday already knows that they’re needed alive in order to win the civil cases and suck every last penny from them.}
“Heh. A detective, a prosecutor, a highly skilled special-ops agent and a king. Now that’s a deadly combination.” Luke commended.
“And loved all the same by her pack mates.” Baliyo smiled.
“Alright, sounds like all we need to know is when the attack will happen.”
“Indeed, and Baliyo will be the one to apprehend them out of nowhere – given that he enjoys running through the woods during his free time.” Jacque pointed out.
“Yes, yes! It creates the perfect coincidence so no harm will befall Wednesday in regards to the wolf’s honor she made! That’s brilliant Jacque!” he lauded, and nuzzled against him.
“Heh, I’d expect nothing less from our sneaky swamp cat.” Luke fondly remarked.
“Thing. Please relay to Wednesday what we’ve discussed. And as soon as you know when they’re going to launch their attack, please tell us.” the were-jaguar commanded.
{Done and done!} he replied with a thumbs up.
“Thank you. But before you leave, are you able to stay for a while? Or does she need you for another espionage mission?”
{No, I can stay. What’s up?}
“First, does the rest of the armada know?”
{No. I know technically I can tell them, but there’s no way I can calm them down. Especially in the off chance their inner wolves make them transform.}
“Understandable. It’s hard enough keeping Pierre at bay.”
“The same can be said for Sãhasí as well.” Baliyo added.
“Shoot, I can even feel Dasan acting up!” Luke chimed in.
{…Hold on, you can hear yours Luke?!} and Jacque translated his question.
“From time to time; cases like this really rile him up. Since he’s a part of me, I never really considered giving him a name until Jag and Bali named theirs. That’s when I realized he isn’t really me, y’know?”
{Yup, I understand.} he replied with a thumbs up.
“Speaking of names, do you think you’re able to pick out Pierce’s Elite Eight from the roster photo list?”
{Yes sir!}
“Luke.”
“Say no more Jag. You and Thing get those names, I’ll get the night brew going, and I’ll have the paperwork all done by tomorrow night.”
“You’re amazing, Arid Avenger.” he lauded.
“You already know I got your back, Jag.”
“Then let’s get to it. And Thing. Once we’re done, please let Wednesday know that the treats she made were simply stupendous.” the were-jaguar lauded.
“They most certainly were!” the professor concurred.
{Heh, yes sirs!}
“Treats? What treats?” the were-serval asked.
“A special Addams family delicacy for werewolves, but I enjoyed them as well.” Jacque answered.
“Do you think she’ll be willing to make some more? You know how much of a sweet tooth I have.”
“These were more on the savory side, though there is a touch of sweetness. Similar to caramel. It was truly divine!” Baliyo wonderfully described.
“Now I really want to try one! Thing, would you mind asking her for me please? If she needs ingredients, I can chip in.”
{No need. She made plenty for her uncles and pack mates. I know she won’t mind setting some aside for you. She might end up making another six batches to celebrate our victory.}
“Nothing like the sweet taste of victory. Thank you Thing.”
{Will you be at Nevermore after the attack happens, or should I give’em to Principal Ritz and Professor Clawmandi so they can give’em to you?}
“No, I’ll be there. Besides, if they’re as good as Jag and Bali say they are, I know they can’t keep themselves from eating my share.”
“HEY!” the true mates countered.
“Oh c’mon, you know I’m right.” and they didn’t refute it. “Plus…I’d like to stretch out my legs during the full moon if that’s okay.”
“Of course it is. And speaking of, the Skelm Wurhuri investigation should be done by the end of the week. Hopefully it comes back that there aren’t any more threats in the area and we can let the students safely run free during the full moon.”
“Thank you Jacque. Now let’s get crackin’ so Bowser and Anaru can enjoy running around being free!”
