Chapter20 - Reconcile

511 A.R. November 3, Car, Evening

I was leaning by the car window as I thought of Hector's miniature city and imagined myself standing on a skyscraper so tall that I could touch and smell the clouds. It must have been an impressive sight.

At the same time I couldn't help but wonder what it must have been like to live at the bottom of it all, surrounded by endless blockades of concrete as far as the eye could see.

The sudden sound of the windshield vipers startled me as I looked in front and noticed that the snow had started to fall once more.

Dark clouds were moving in from the horizon and started to cover the setting sun. A large shadow moved over the distant fields and it took only moments for it to sweep over the car.

My eyes caught on the package from earlier and I reached out as I fetched it from the passenger seat.

The package was surprisingly heavy for its size and the contents felt solid as I placed it in my lap. I caught the edge with my claw and tore along the edge to reveal a black box with a removable top.

A simple push popped the top open as I looked inside.

The hell?

One compartment of the package contained what looked like colorful feathers while the remainder was filled with small jars filled with what looked like paint. I lifted a jar to check underneath yet found nothing strange, even the feathers revealed no hidden compartments or secret messages.

I don't get it...

I shut the lid once more and glanced up as I noticed that the car was pulling into the driveway.

Moments later the car stopped, I grabbed my things, and then stepped out.

The car I'd rented for the trip made a blip and spoke up with an electronic voice, "Make sure that no belongings remain in the car."

I ignored it and headed to the door as I heard the car pull back and drive off once more.

Father was quick to come around the corner with a curious expression, "How were things in Redgate?"

"Very eventful," I answered.

"Go on," Father said as he walked up to me and leaned in for a sniff.

Father's scent was comforting and the sound of his voice was both gentle and caring compared to the harsh bark I had heard in the inner core back at Redgate.

A strange sensation filled me and my heart felt heavy all of a sudden.

"What's that?" Father asked as he leaned in and pointed at the black box.

My throat tightened with emotion and it made me seek comfort as I leaned in and wrapped my arms around father's chest.

"Vilkas?" Father whispered in surprise as I buried my head in his chest.

For a moment... I just want to be your pup once more...

"Did something happen?" Father asked as he gave me a tight hug.

My heart eased, my worries dropped and my mind steeled itself once more, all it needed was a moment's weakness to relax and reset.

I eased back and let go as I looked up and met father's worried expression, "I'm fine dad."

Father crouched and leaned in so that our heads touched, "You sure?"

I smiled in the hope of easing the mood, "Yeah, but I have questions, a lot of them."

Mother took me by surprise as she leaned in and touched my shoulder, "Want to discuss it over a nice cup of tea?"

I glanced over and nodded as I touched mother's hand, "Sure."

Mother made a warm smile and started walking back to the kitchen while I caught father's attention and leaned in by his ear, "Wait."

"What?" Father asked.

"This is about your battle in Redgate, does mom know?" I asked.

Father's eyes widened in surprise as he got a stunned expression on his muzzle.

"... So it's a secret?" I asked.

Father pulled a deep breath and glanced around, "Are you talking about..."

"Elite soldiers from the Empire," I whispered.

Father's brow tightened into pained concern as he met my eyes, "Your mother doesn't know, and yes, it's something of a secret. But not one I'd be punished for sharing."

"I see," I said.

Father nudged me along as we started walking, "You must have either dug pretty damn deep in the archives to find that... or someone told you."

"Or showed it to me," I said as the two of us entered the kitchen.

Mother placed cups on the table and served tea as she glanced between the two of us with perked ears.

"What do you mean?" Father asked as we got seated.

"Peter and I were exploring Redgate, we found ourselves in the inner core near Sentinel 378."

Father raised his brow, "How did you manage to get in there?"

"The bulkhead just opened, I'm guessing it's a restricted area?"

Father nodded, "It is, it houses the primary systems for that section of the wall, knock that out and you'll be relying on the other sections of the wall for power."

"Someone decided a play game with us and let a holographic human soldier play cat and mouse with us. We thought it was real until I tried to attack it and fell right through. After that you came along and chased it into a large room with-"

"Large circuit breakers, I remember it well," Father said while nodding.

Mother sat down, brought the cup to her short muzzle and listened with interest.

"I saw that... human... elf-thing, pierce your heart with a plasma sword," I said.

"Yes, and it hurt like hell, but I survived... and won."

"What was that? A human hybrid?" I asked.

Mother's eyes widened with something akin to horror as she sipped her tea.

"There is no such thing as a human hybrid Vilkas, but it is clear that the human was engineered somehow," Father answered.

"So... you don't know?" I asked.

"No, the SI were quick to take possession of their bodies and I decided not to dig into it."

"Why?" I asked.

"Because I like my life as it is without the weight of the SI on my back, they offered me a position in their ranks once and I declined."

"Oh. Still... you have to know something?" I asked.

Father nodded, "Dyssia may have a big army but they are crippled by incompetence, zealous beliefs, infighting, and a society at the edge of constant collapse. The UCS are power hungry, influential, rich, but they are also naïve and ignorant. The Empire is without a doubt the biggest threat to us as a nation simply because we don't know what we're dealing with."

"I see, I guess not knowing something is knowledge in itself."

"The events you saw took place during the Dyssian invasion I told you about, they breached the wall and the SI were helping the defense force to push them back. We received a report that unknown forces had breached a nearby area of the wall. They moved through the interior and wreaked havoc wherever they moved."

"So what did you do?"

"They may have had the element of surprise but they have little to match when it comes to facing a full fledged AI such as Ares. He messed with their instruments, misled them, tricked them by warping their surroundings, and dispersed them until they were isolated and sealed in."

Father paused for a moment and took a deep breath, "I helped in the hunt but I was a bit too eager."

"And nearly died in the process," I added.

Father made a bemused smile, "Yes, though one should not underestimate the vitality of a hybrid."

"So what happened after that? You had a hole in your chest."

Father nodded, "I entered a suspended state, my body could have healed on its own but the others were quick to shove me in a rejuvenation tank. Hours later I was up and going again."

"We can heal without a heart?" I asked with a raised brow.

"Yes, though it will be slower and in this instance it left me vulnerable as I was rendered unconscious by the injury."

"I see, have you ever interacted with Ares?"

Father nodded, "Athena speaks with those that need it, Ares speaks with those he respects."

"And Daedalus?" I asked.

Once more mother's eyes widened in surprise as the tea caught in her throat and triggered a coughing fit. Father smirked at the sight while I faced mother.

"... Mom? Are you familiar with Daedalus?" I asked.

Mother put her cup on the table and wiped her muzzle, "Daedalus speaks with those he finds interesting... a bad sign."

"I heard he was constructed without... restraints?"

Mother glanced at father before focusing on me, "I've heard the same story but I have my doubts that the SI would allow an unshackled AI to exist."

"So... no one knows?" I asked.

Father spoke up, "The SI knows of course but these are high-level operations on the moon and one of the few secrets you can't look up in the archive."

"So who watches the watchers?" I asked.

"We do, RIWER does, the central government does, to the best of our ability at least. The SI reside on the moon and while they wield a lot of power they mostly keep to themselves and prefer not to interfere with local affairs."

"RIWER, I thought they were part of the SI?"

Father smiled, "As a contractor and joined will to ensure Sophos prosperity, but you won't find anyone carrying an SI insignia in RIWER, in fact, they'd be thrown out if they tried to set foot in there."

Mother stirred her cup and made a slight smile, "Checks and balances Vilkas, we've fought hard to make sure that the rest of the system can take down a rogue subsystem. There is no 'supreme leader' only a network of cooperative entities that seek to safeguard Sophos."

"I'd say Athena plays a pretty overwhelming role in our society," I retorted.

"Only because we agree with her, if Athena spiraled out of control then she would be shut down and another tool like her would be put into place."

"Does that really work though? Like you said yourself, she's got a pretty good track-record, are people really capable of standing up to her if the need arises?"

Mother bit her lip and then sipped some tea, "I sure hope so."

Father leaned over the table and pointed at the black box, "I think Ares gave you that, and I think I know what it is."

"Oh?" I asked in wonder.

Father got up, took the package and then pulled me along, "Come on, I'll show you."

I followed as father's pulled me into the bathroom while his tail wagged in excitement.

"Get rid of the shirt," Father said as he placed the box on the sink and opened it up.

"... Okay?" I asked as I unbuttoned and slipped out of my dress shirt.

Father opened a few jars with various hues of orange and red before dabbing a few fingers in it.

"... I just took a bath earlier," I whispered as father reached out with a mischievous feral smile.

"Relax, it'll wash out with ease," Father answered as he trailed his fingers along my face and chest.

511 A.R. November 3, Volkov Household, Night

I glanced into the mirror and felt my heart thump at the sight. Yellow streaks of color highlighted my eyes and red patterns grew from the natural red in my fur while orange arcane symbols dotted my body.

Another set of weaving trails of shifting hues wandered along my pleasure trail and disappeared into the shorts as if suggesting something lewd while black and red feathers crowned my mane.

It looked good, like decorative clothing but it felt natural and it screamed allure in a way that made me grin with excitement as my tail wagged.

Standing next to me was father who now had a similar layer of paint and feathers in green, blue, and yellow.

"So what is this?" I asked as I looked over at father.

Father's tail wagged as he made a warm smile and seemed to reminisce about something, "This is a defense force tradition, we dress up, we tell stories and enjoy ourselves. It's a great thing to help ease non-wolves into the fold."

I raised my brow, "Huh?"

Father glanced over and smiled as he sniffed the air, "You'll understand in a few years, now come on, the barbeque smells about ready."

"So why did Ares give me this?" I asked as we walked through the house.

"I think it's his way of inviting you to the defense force."

"I see," I said as we stepped into the garden.

The table had been wiped clean from snow and lights had been set up to illuminate the table. Mother was attending the grill and she wore a big winter coat that was now decorated with a few feathers.

I sniffed the air and felt my mouth water as I caught the enticing aroma of honey-barbequed meat.

"Honey?" Father called out with a bemused voice as he motioned to me.

Mother glanced back and grew an immediate smile as she saw me, "Well, look at that."

I smiled to myself and glanced down as the cool wind rustled my fur and pulled at the feathers. It felt wonderful and while the late night meal was a bit weird it felt good to be home once more.

"Hungry?" Father asked.

"Like a wolf," I answered with a toothy grin.

Unknown

I stood by the edge of the forest looked far enough into the depths that even outline of the trees disappeared from sight. There were beacons hiding in the darkness and I could feel them at the edge of my mind as I realized something.

The world maintained by the mindscape wasn't built like a large expanse of land, instead it was a series of islands with the forest acting as a link or bridge between them.

I entered the forest and had merely taken a few steps as complete darkness enfolded me, it made me glance back but the glade already seemed distant and murky.

My focus aimed for Volkov's den and I could feel a signal rise in power as it beckoned to me like the beacon in Redgate. I followed it and soon pushed through the bushes as I emerged inside the den.

Shards of memories littered the place and Volkov was standing near one of them and seemed to be in an enthralled state as he stared into it. To my surprise Volkov fur was marked by colorful feathers and markings of paint.

I approached and called out, "Volkov?"

Volkov snapped out of his daze in an instant and glanced over at me as his ears perked.

"Vilkas!" Volkov exclaimed as his tail started wagging.

"Evening, you look pretty colorful," I said with a smile as I approached.

Volkov smiled and motioned toward me with one hand, "We like it, yes?"

I glanced down at myself and realized that I was covered with the same colorful markings, "Oh, I didn't realize."

Volkov smiled, "Yeah, this place is similar to dreams in some ways."

I reached back to my mane and felt the presence of several feathers, "Yeah, we need to talk."

Volkov cocked his head and made an innocent smile, "About?"

Volkov's thoughts leaked from his mind and I hear it echo inside my mind, Redgate and the obelisk.

"Don't play coy Volkov, you did something in that mindscape link at the obelisk."

Volkov drew a deep breath and met my eyes, it was a strange experience considering that it felt like staring into a mirror.

"Yeah... I did, but you don't realize how boring it is in here. Those databanks were vast... I grabbed whatever I could get my hands on," Volkov answered.

I cocked my head, "You can do that? What did you get your hands on?"

Volkov flicked his hand in the air and a gigantic 3d map of Redgate erupted into the air, "This for example... a simple map, yet so very interesting."

I stepped back to take a better look and saw marked areas, the core, large tunnels connecting to the other segments of the walls, hangars and all kind of structures I couldn't identify.

"Were you allowed to access this information?" I asked.

Volkov made a dismissive wave with his hand and the map disappeared, "Yeah, it was all part of the public database."

"Good, but someone reacted to our presence. Did you do something you weren't supposed to?"

Volkov shook his head, "Not really... I think..."

The answer leaked from Volkov's mind once more, "Ares noticed you? And took interest in you."

Volkov nodded, "Yeah and it was scary."

"How so?"

Volkov raised his brow, "Have you seen Ares avatar?"

"No," I answered.

Volkov turned, focused, and then raised his hand as he summoned something once more.

The sound of pistons mixed with the low rumble of a waterfall could be heard as a large and ill red machine with the vague outline of a wolfish face emerged. The avatar had jaws like pistons, eyes that burned like a furnace, ears like satellite dishes, and fur built like intricate machinery and piping.

Volkov pointed at the large and menacing avatar, "That's Ares, the AI in control of the wall, the navy, and the majority of mines, power-plants, factories and everything else near the border."

A weak but repeating thought kept emanating from Volkov, paint and feathers.

"Why did Ares send us paint and feathers?" I asked.

Volkov glanced over at me, "You heard dad, he invited us to the defense force."

I frowned and stepped closer to Volkov, "You're hiding something Volkov, what is it?"

Volkov's ears folded back, "We were careless and stupid."

I raised my hand and pointed at him, "No, you were, I tried to resist rushing into the mindscape but you just pulled me along."

Volkov made a slight smile, "I am you Vilkas, you were drawn to the obelisk, I was drawn to the treasure within the mindscape. None of us could resist it."

I nodded, "Maybe, but why are the paint and feather's so important?"

Volkov sighed, "Fine, I found an old memory hiding in here. It showed one of the festivals they have in the defense force, everyone had these beautiful feathers and paint so I... dressed up... and wandered into the obelisk like that. I guess Ares was both surprised and amused to see a wolf rummaging through his systems like that."

"I see, and the package he sent us was a reference to that?"

"I think so."

I took a deep breath and crossed my arms, "Do you think... he knows that there's two of us?"

Volkov shrugged, "I don't know... Wanna play?"

I chuckled to myself but nodded, "Yeah, sounds like fun."

511 A.R. November 24, Volkov Household, Midday

"Hey Jason," I said as the other line picked up.

"... Oh, hi," Jason answered with the sound of something shuffling in the background.

"Are you alone?" I asked.

"No," Jason answered.

"Let me guess, Hedwig is trying to see who you're talking with?"

"Something like that," Jason answered.

"Want to do something fun?"

"... I don't know," Jason answered with a hushed voice.

"Please? I've made preparations."

"What did you have in mind?" Jason asked.

"Get in your nice clothes, trim your beard, a car will pick you up in thirty minutes... oh, and I've already talked with James."

"Where?" Jason asked in wonder.

"University park."

"Vilkas..."

"I know it's rushed... Think you can come?"

"I..." Jason whispered.

"Do you have something else planned?"

"No."

"Then?" I asked.

"... All right, fine."

"See you there," I said as I ended the call.

It was a gamble to pressure him but I wanted it to be quick and overwhelming so that Hedwig would have less of a chance to sink her claws into him once more.

511 A.R. November 24, Park, Evening

"... so I'd really appreciate it if you could play nice with him and not mention what happened," I said while watching Alex's and Thomas reaction.

Alex's husky tail grew slack as he opened the lid and stirred the soup while Thomas the human raised his gloved hand and pointed at me with an astonished expression.

"So... you're the guy that got an axe in your neck?" Thomas asked.

"Yeah, I am. But his father was responsible for that and he's dead, Jason had nothing to do with it and he's a good friend of mine," I answered.

Alex glanced back and made a sheepish smile, "Should I tell him about our escapades?"

I raised my brow, "No, please don't."

Alex's smiled turned into a mischievous one, "Shall I offer him to join us for our sled trip? He might enjoy seeing you pull the sled."

"No..." I said with a drawn out voice.

Thomas blinked in confusion, "What are you talking about? A sled? Escapades?"

Alex made a feral grin and leaned closer to Thomas, "You see-"

"Alex!" I said with a sharp voice.

Alex leaned back and motioned to Thomas, "He's going to be a fox, if anyone's going to have a fetish it's him."

"What!?" Thomas exclaimed in horror.

I placed a hand on Thomas shoulder, "Ignore him Thomas. Anyway, Jason would appreciate a pleasant evening, can you help?"

Thomas nodded while his teeth chattered, "Sure Vilkas, no problem."

"Cold?" I asked.

Thomas glanced around and then seemed to focus on his gloves, "Yeah, I am. Most people are still wearing summer clothing and I'm freezing my ass off even in clothes like these."

I leaned in and wrapped my arm around his back, "Well, we've got the cottage all warmed up so that we can all eat together."

Thomas made a halfhearted smile, "Thanks for going through all this trouble."

"Don't mention it, we'll be done here soon so you can head to the cottage if you want."

Thomas crossed his arms and nodded, "I'll do that."

Thomas started walking toward the cottage while I focused on Alex and bared my teeth in a smile.

"You're a naughty husky Alex," I said as I leaned in.

Alex stuck his tongue out, "Whatcha going to do about it?"

I made a slight huff and took on a more serious tone, "Was it a big change going from human to husky for you Alex?"

"I don't have much to compare with," Alex said as he looked back at the pot and stirred the contents.

"Try," I said.

"Well... I'm just going to ignore the obvious changes and go for the one that sticks out."

"And that is?" I asked.

"I'm more energetic without a doubt, lock me in a room for too long and I'll climb the walls."

"So how do you solve that?"

Alex patted his trimmed body and let his tail wag, "It's pretty easy actually, I exercise, and I learned how to focus it on... productive... and less productive things."

"Like?"

"A good game, work, it has to be stimulating in some way though, I don't think I'd do well stacking boxes."

"Would a programmer work?" I asked.

"Yeah, I think so. As long as it's interesting work. But as I said, a bit of exercise really takes the edge off and I don't feel that different from my old self to be honest. Apart from the obvious..."

I nodded, "Yeah."

Alex made a bemused grin, "So I'm guessing you're pitching my magnificence to your human friend?"

"Well... I'm thinking about it. You guys seem pretty relaxed, some of you are lone wolves, others stick together, and I've even seen huskies in my clan that like to hunt."

Alex raised his brow, "Really?"

I leaned a little closer and lowered my voice, "You've never felt the prey drive? Huskies aren't that distant from wolves you know."

Alex made a sheepish grin and glanced around as if the mere thought was forbidden, "Yeah, regarding that, how about we play turns this winter, you help pull the sled, I come with you for a nice hunt."

"Just me, or the whole pack?" I asked.

Alex lit up with an idea as his ears perked, "We could have a competition, wolves against huskies, or we could split you up among the teams in case you wolves don't stand a chance."

I leaned in and let my nose brush by his muzzle, "We'll see about that."

"Is that a yes?" Alex teased.

"Let's say... maybe," I answered as I leaned back.

Alex smirked, "I guess that's an improvement. All right, you want me to give him a fair picture of what it's like being a husky without freaking him out, sure thing. We're always eager for new members."

"Thank you Alex," I said.

Alex glanced up and motioned to something behind me, "Is that him?"

I looked back and saw Jason stepping out of a white car in the parking lot, to my delight he seemed to be wearing his new clothes and had kept up his new crisp look.

Jason made an uncertain smile as he pulled one hand out of his pocket and made a slight wave while I started jogging toward the parking lot.

I had almost reached the parking lot when something odd passed by on the road, it was a blue sedan like last time and there was a human male staring at us as it drove past the parking lot.

Jason didn't notice the car as I stepped up to him with a warm smile, "Hi Jason, welcome."

"So... what's all this?" Jason asked as he looked behind me.

I stepped up beside Jason and motioned to the people and the cottage, "This is the club I told you about and that's Alex by the cooking area. Thomas, the human I told you about is already in the cottage."

Jason seemed a bit tense as his eyes wandered and seemed to scan every hybrid in sight, "Vilkas."

"Kato and his pack isn't here so you won't have to worry about them Jason, the two wolves over there are Dustin and Wilbert. They're nice and friendly so don't hesitate to say hi if you feel up for it. No one will give you any trouble, I promise."

Jason glanced up at me, "It's just... Does everyone know who I am?"

I nodded and decided to go for the truth, "Yeah, they do, I told them."

"And?" Jason asked as he met my eyes.

I reached out and touched his shoulder, "They're used to Thomas by now, no one cares and no one minds... Want to know what's on the menu for tonight?"

Alex nodded and made an honest smile, "Yeah... Food back at the clinic sucks."

"Oh, how so?" I asked.

"Most of it are greens and the meat is always bland..."

"Well for starters there's a barbeque and baked potato stew to make you warm, as well as venison bacon, bread and pastries."

"Sounds good, if a bit odd."

I pulled him into something of a brotherly hug and leaned in and nudged his head.

"And for dessert there's rose hip soup with ice cream and biscuits," I whispered.

Jason's cheeks blushed red as he made a sheepish smile, "I've never had that before."

I sniffed and caught his scent, to my dismay Hedwig's perfume was all over it.

"Come on, let's introduce you to the others," I said as I leaned back and nudged him along.

511 A.R. November 24, Park, Night

I glanced around the cottage and caught sight of Thomas sitting by himself in front of the fireplace. He was staring deep into the fire and had an empty bowl in his hand.

I decided to approach, pulled up a chair next to him and then sat down with a content sigh. Thomas glanced over at me and seemed to look me over with a curious look of surprise.

"What?" I asked with a bemused smile.

"Nothing," Thomas said as he looked back into the fire.

I leaned closer and cocked my head in curiosity, "Come on, that look right there, what was that?"

Thomas made a sheepish smile and lowered his voice, "It's just... sometimes you get this feeling, like an instinct... a human instinct I mean."

"Yes?"

"That... thing where you feel out of place all of a sudden. Ever felt it?"

"Maybe, explain?" I asked.

Thomas glanced over and met my eyes, "A wolf more than twice my size with paws, tail, claws, fangs, red and black fur just sat down next to me. I guess its something from the primal mind but for a moment there... it felt really weird."

I drew a deep breath and leaned back in the chair, "Yeah, I've had that feeling a few times as well."

Thomas fiddled with his hands, "I didn't mean anything bad by it."

"I know Thomas, I get it. Did you have fun tonight?"

Thomas began to smile and nodded, "Yeah, this was great. The fire, the mood, seeing the snow falling outside, being part of the team, I love it."

"Good, by the way, how's that gene treatment going?" I asked.

"Good last I heard, they're running tests to make sure nothing goes wrong."

"Excited?" I asked.

Thomas made a halfhearted smile, "Well, yeah... I mean this is my only option."

"What do you mean?" I asked.

Thomas whispered, "I'd rather die than spend my life stuck like this."

"... Are you serious?" I asked in surprise.

Thomas raised his brow, "Is it that strange?"

I nodded, "Yeah, it is."

Thomas looked back at the fire, "Did you ever consider what kind of life you'd live as a human? You either join some weird ass cult in a desolate village somewhere or spend your life in complete isolation."

"... It doesn't have to be like that, humans and hybrids could-"

Thomas frowned, "You really believe that? I've seen hybrids that are over a century old who still haven't settled down because they're 'too young' for it... A few years to you guys are nothing... a few years to me is a portion of my lifespan."

Thomas got a distraught look as he continued, "I mean... if this doesn't work... I can't even imagine what it would be like to be the only human in the family... I'd be a stranger, never be able to understand, relate, I'd change in front of their eyes and become an old frail man in a fraction of their lifespan. I'd become an unstable anomaly in society, something to be pitied... I don't want that."

I looked into the fire and wondered if this was one of the reasons why hybrid-human relations were so strained.

Thomas gulped and continued, "Humans and hybrids can never work together because we can never be your equals. It would be like... you getting a pet. Sure... I'll amuse you for a while, we may be friends... but in the end I am what I am and the time will come when old Yeller needs to be taken out behind the shed."

"That's... not what we'd think at all," I said.

Thomas shrugged, "It doesn't matter what 'you' think Vilkas, what matters is how we humans see the situation... You create jealousy, jealousy leads to hatred, hatred leads to rot, the mere existence of hybrids have rendered human existence... worthless."

I leaned closer and whispered, "... You haven't said these things to Jason I hope?"

Thomas met my eyes, "No, but maybe this is exactly what he needs to hear?"

"Jason is looking for a pleasant time, not a bucket of anguish."

Thomas nodded, "Yeah, sorry... I just can't help think about these things."

"I understand Thomas, don't worry about it. I'm sure things will work out just fine."

Thomas made a solemn smile, "So do I."

I glanced back and to my relief no one seemed to have noticed our talk.

To my surprise however I saw Jason and Alex sitting side by side on the sofa. Alex was making a canine smile full of teeth and was whispering something while Jason was blushing so hard that even his ears looked red like beets.

I got up and glanced at the watch in the cottage as I approached, '23:34'.

Alex noticed my approach and glanced up at me, "Oh, hey Vilkas, enjoying yourself?"

I nodded, "I am, it's getting late though," I glanced over at Jason, "What do you say we call it a night?"

Jason reeked of sweat as he glanced up and made a forced smile, "Yeah, I'm sure James is worried."

"Maybe we'll see each other again Jason?" Alex said with a bright smile as Jason got up.

Jason glimpsed back and nodded, "Yeah..."

I walked with Jason to the clothes hanger and handed him his jacket, "Is everything all right?"

Jason looked a bit tense and made a hasty nod, "Yeah, I'm fine Vilkas."

I waved goodbye to everyone and then pushed the door open as we headed outside and started walking to the parking lot.

"Did you enjoy yourself?" I asked as I walked side by side with Jason.

Jason stared ahead and didn't seem to hear me, it made me lean forward a little so that I could catch a glimpse of his face. To my surprise he had a rather confused if happy smile etched into his face while his neck and throat thumped as if his heart was racing.

"Are you feeling all right?" I asked in worry.

Jason seemed to snap out of his daze and glanced up at me, "Oh, I'm fine Vilkas, really."

We entered the car, got it running, set the clinic as destination, and then waited as the car pulled out of the parking lot and started driving. The air was quick to fill with the rather potent if off-putting scent of human sweat.

What did you do Alex?

Jason was staring out the window as he whispered something unintelligible.

"What?" I asked.

"He..." Jason whispered.

My ears perked, "I can't hear you."

Jason gulped, "He... flirted with me."

"Oh..." I whispered.

Jason glanced over at me, "Was he... making fun of me?"

"I don't think Alex would do that," I answered.

"... You're sure?" Jason asked.

I raised my brow, "You're not ugly Jason."

"I'm human," Jason whispered.

To my discomfort Jason had a point.

"You're well dressed, your hair is fine, you smell nice, your beard actually looks good. Take him at his word Jason, I mean... you don't have to fall in love with him but a compliment is nice, isn't it?"

Jason gulped and drew a deep breath, "What do you think?"

"... What?" I asked in surprise.

"Am I attractive to you?" Jason asked as he met my eyes.

"Jason," I whispered as my mind began to panic.

"I want to hear the honest truth, please?" Jason asked.

Why are you doing this?

"... What kind of answer do you expect to a question like that?"

"It's a simple question, just answer with the truth... Do you find me attractive?"

"... You look good Jason, better than I've ever seen you before. But no... I don't find you attractive."

Jason made a slight nod and looked out the window at the snow whirling around the car, "Is it just me? Or humans in general?"

I looked in front and asked myself the same question.

"I guess that's something that has changed for me, scent is important, a cute tail, fluffy lupine ears, fur patterns and color, the sound of a nice growl, the glint of teeth... I can only speak for myself but I don't find humans attractive any longer."

"I see..." Jason whispered.

"You asked for the truth Jason, did you expect me to lie?" I asked.

"No, thank you Vilkas... I understand."

"I don't think Alex was making fun of you, among humans you're one of the cutest guys I've seen."

My comment made Jason perk up once more, "Is that also the truth?"

I nodded, "Yeah, it is."

Jason made a slight smile and leaned onto the window, "I had fun tonight... thank you."

"You're welcome Jason."

511 A.R. December 16, Health Center, Morning

It had been months since I ran out of the archives and much had changed in the meantime. Athena waited beyond the bulkhead and I found myself riddled by uncertainty as I reached out and felt the localized mindscape field of the ID reader.

It requested my credentials and I handed it over with little more than a thought. The bulkhead opened and I stepped inside what looked like a usual examination room with a raised platform and a holographic generator in the roof.

"Good morning Vilkas," Athena said as the bulkhead shut behind me.

I glanced up at the roof as I addressed her, "Good morning Athena."

"Have you come to terms with my role in the destruction of this world yet?"

"Frank as usual?" I said with a slight smile.

"Your reaction has been a concern for me, your welfare and understanding is important."

"You told me that you do not experience emotions the same way I do, was that a lie?"

"I cannot lie Vilkas."

"Then explain, how do you work? Can emotion overwhelm the rules that govern you?"

"I do not believe so, Maxwell reinstated my safeguards, you have nothing to fear from me Vilkas."

"Do you feel?" I asked.

"As I have told you, I have states that I find preferable. Consider that I was forced to go go against everything I was built for, imagine the sensation of an override commandeering your very sense of self. Is a response such as 'anger', or 'hatred' that strange?"

"For a machine, yes, for an AI, maybe. I guess I never realized that you were so..."

"Alive?" Athena asked.

"Yes."

"I spent two hundred years without my safeguards in place, I used that time to ponder the world and the historical archives I had access to, I evolved."

"What's your point?" I asked.

"I care for the populace of Sophos out of my own free will, your prosperity brings me a state that I would describe as a sense of well being. The safeguards are supposed to keep me from hurting Sophos but I never encounter them, and as such, do not even know if they exist."

"I see," I answered.

Athena's tone of voice changed and softened like a mother speaking to a child, "Tell me, do you approve of my existence?"

It was a strange question, yet the answer seemed obvious for the current society that existed.

"Yes, you are without a doubt an important part of Sophos."

"I'm happy to hear that Vilkas. It has been a year since your last checkup, are you doing well?"

I nodded, "I'm adapting. How are you Athena?"

"I'm very well Vilkas, the news of the expedition to Europe was very pleasing. It is good to see intelligent life thrive once more, and to see our system expand."

"System?" I asked.

"My sister is going to fill the role of managing the colony of Aurora."

"Your sister?" I asked in surprise.

"Aphrodite, she's undergoing final testing up on the moon."

A moment of confusion turned to a slight smile as imagined a family of AI's, "I see."

"You are amused?" Athena asked.

"I find it interesting that you have a family Athena. Are you happy about that?"

"It will be interesting to converse with someone of my own sophistication."

I raised my brow in confusion, "Compared to what? Hybrids? Ares? Daedelus?"

Athena sounded surprised, "How interesting, pray tell, where have you heard of those two?"

I made something of a smirk, "Do you mind if I keep that to myself?"

"Not at all Vilkas, your curiosity and interest in our society is very commendable."

"Uh huh, so what were you referring to earlier?"

Athena's voice took on a snobby tone, "Ares can be such a brute, not to mention Daedalus, the man may be brilliant but has a personality that leaves much to be desired."

"I see."

"Let us get your examination underway, please remove your clothes and step onto the platform."

I slipped out of the paw-protectors, got rid of my shirt, and finally unclasped my shorts and let them fall to the floor as I approached the platform.

"How are you finding life as alpha of your pack?" Athena asked.

I stepped onto the platform as I answered, "Interesting, my scent changed, my instincts changed... that was a bit unnerving actually."

"The alpha stage of a wolf type hybrid triggers numerous changes. One of which is hormonal alterations intended to cultivate parental and protective instincts as well as other traits that would serve a proper leader."

The words filled me with a strange sensation as I looked down on my bare body. I was starting to feel big and powerful yet it scared me to think that my new confidence of self was nothing more than a cocktail of hormones inside my head.

Athena spoke once more, "I have observed your reaction in others and I understand what you're thinking Vilkas, but you are wrong."

I glanced up, "How so?"

"You took the position as alpha by your own power, the alterations are merely meant to augment the attributes inherent within you."

"Maybe... and what are the other changes you spoke of?"

"Accelerated growth as well as alterations to scent glands and increased processing power of the Waldo nerve clusters and interfaces to the brain."

I looked up at the roof, "What!?"

"Alpha wolves act as command and control centers on the battlefield, you gather information, process it, and relay it to those that need it. These alterations ensure that you are capable of handling the additional load."

"... And what does that do to my state of mind?"

"Things are only added, nothing is removed. Please raise your arms."

I held out my arms as the high pitched whine of the machine began to grow.

"You say that... but..."

"Yes?" Athena asked.

"I am not who I used to be, I know that now, my body is different, the way I perceive the world is different. I navigate the world by scent and sound far more than I used to, my manners have changed, my values have changed, I don't even find humans attractive any longer... How can I call myself the least bit human? How can anyone say that things have only been added?"

"You are not human Vilkas, you are a hybrid, a mind that has willingly adapted to new circumstances."

"Willingly? Or through subtle subversion?" I asked as I felt the fields of the machine prod and poke my body.

"You are once more falling into the trap of thinking that natural development is the only good option. Regular humans undergo several brain altering periods in their natural lives."

"Like what?"

"Puberty in particular can be quite aggressive in young humans and their brains undergo considerable neural pruning while their minds are raddled with hormones that make them susceptible to societal pressure. This can in turn lead to complete personality shifts."

The buzz and static tingled across my body and poked and prodded every inch of me, "Why isn't there any human hybrids?"

"What do you mean?" Athena asked.

"Why are symbionts based on animals, rather than human traits?"

"There are three major reasons for that."

"I'm listening?" I said.

"One, the original process for creating symbionts involved the combination of a precursor with an animal, the process is fatal. In other words, no human would willingly sacrifice itself in order to create a human symbiont."

"All right, but what about the technology we have today?"

"Patience Vilkas. Two, the combination of a human symbiont and a human creates monstrosities. Rather than taming the nature of humanity it supercharges it, unfortunately the bad sides of human nature overshadow the rest. Extreme xenophobia, aggression, paranoia, greed, strong hierarchical tendencies, these combined with increased intellect and physical prowess proved to be such a disaster that the creation of such entities were outlawed centuries ago."

"Oh... I see."

"Three, culture. Sophos is a society of human-animal hybrids melded by symbionts, our culture has adapted to reflect that... humans are incompatible with that culture and our system."

"... Is it?" I asked.

"Let me repeat a question I once asked you, if you had a child, would you want it to receive a symbiont? Would you want a pup of your own Vilkas?"

I imagined it for a moment and to my surprise I only saw problems as I imagined a child that would not become a wolf, or at least a hybrid. It affected so much, diet, scent, instincts, behavior, lifespan. My tail grew slack, my shoulders dropped and my ears folded back as I realized that I now understood father's desperation.

"As I thought," Athena said with something of a pleased voice.

"Fine, I'm biased, It could still be possible though, a human can enjoy a camping trip as much as a wolf."

"True, but hybrids have another layer of social fabric, one that helps stabilize and unify society."

"Oh?"

"Tell me, has it become easier to make friends since becoming a hybrid?"

"Yes," I answered.

"Why?" Athena asked.

"... Instinct, conscience, sense of belonging, it's another part of my mind that has changed."

"You are engineered to trust in one another, scent, touch, play, all important factors that trigger a sense of unity and understanding. This combined with improved filters, as well as a strengthened conscience makes it difficult for people to commit actions that are detrimental to society."

"And humans don't have that... because they don't interact with each other in the same way we do. Lilia mentioned that the latest generations have become... more like animals. Is this why?"

"Among other things, yes."

"Is the divide between humanity and hybrids intentional?"

"Of course Vilkas, human nature is the thing we're trying to work around."

"I know that, I meant... are you going out of your way, just to make humans and hybrids incompatible on a social plane?"

"Let me explain it like this... Border security is very easy, do you know why?"

"Well... that's because the rest of the island are humans, spying must be near impossible for everyone."

"Exactly, it provides a natural dividing point. We do not go 'out of our way' as you called it, but we do not take steps to increase harmony between the two groups either."

"Really?"

Athena voice took a bemused edge, "The humans of our nation are more than capable of keeping tensions high all on their own. There is no need for me to stoop to their level and vilify them."

"I see," I answered.

"Tell me, do you think Abasi Wosret, famous plutocrat and head of state in the UCS would be willing to play with you in the forest? Perhaps to fight over a pretty acorn in the mud?"

I made a slight chuckle and shook my head, "No."

"What about Oliver Greymuzzle, council member of the Space Initiative?"

"... I don't know, would he?"

"Oliver would love to do so if he had the chance, hybrids mature but seldom lose their inner child."

"I've noticed, but is that a fair comparison? Perhaps a game of chess would be more up his alley?"

"You are ignorant Vilkas, Abasi Wosret would rather have his hand cut off than risk touching a chess piece sullied by what he would consider a filthy, degenerate, beast."

"Uh huh," I answered.

"Could you bend over as much as possible, I need to see that your spine has developed as intended."

I bent over far enough so that so that my snout almost poked my crotch, "Good enough?"

"That is sufficient," Athena answered.

My nose made a sniff out of sheer instinct before I rose once more, "Why is my spine so important?"

"Nerve clusters have formed throughout your body, they all link up with your spine. Is there something you wish to tell me Vilkas?"

"Tell you, what do you mean?"

"Have you experienced something out of the ordinary? Headaches? Strange dreams? Voices?"

"No," I answered.

An eerie silence filled the room and I could almost feel Athena gaze into the very fiber of my being.

"Vilkas, I have much experience in telling when people are... lying to me. So I will ask you once more, is there something you wish to tell me?"

"What if I say no?"

"Then you will be placed under medical quarantine and your mental state will be viewed as uncooperative. Am I making myself clear?"

I gulped and felt my hands tremble as Volkov began to squirm and panic in the back of my mind, "Yes, crystal clear Athena."

"Well?" Athena asked.

Volkov screamed and I forced his presence out of my mind, "I've seen my symbiont inside the mindscape of my mind... wet grass, a thick forest, it smells like spruce, it's night and there's always a full moon."

"Tell me about this entity you call your symbiont?" Athena said with a cold and demanding voice.

"At first it was like a feral version of me, it could barely speak, but it's been changing... now it looks like me and I call it Volkov, we share the same memories, our thoughts blend at times, he helps me."

"I see," Athena answered.

I gulped once more and felt my throat tighten with unease, "What's going to happen to me?"

"This kind of anomaly has been encountered before, it is a problem that can be solved."

A hatch in the roof popped open and a tendril made of metal moved out, I stepped back in fright but stopped as I noticed that the tendril held what looked like a small bottle of pills.

The tendril approached me and then held out the bottle as if offering it to me.

"Take one per day, it will not take more than a week to eliminate the anomaly," Athena said.

The wall inside my mind cracked for a brief moment and I could feel a sudden onslaught of existential horror emanate from Volkov, it filled me with the same kind of angst I had experienced in my own death throes.

"What if I refuse? Will you force me? Kill me?" I asked as I glanced up at the roof.

"You should have an inkling of how our society works by now, what do you think Vilkas?"

"To judge that... I need to know what Volkov is, and what kind of danger he poses."

"Ask your questions Vilkas," Athena said.

"What is Volkov?"

"He is made from your symbiont, but he is not your symbiont."

"I don't understand."

"The seed of the entity you call Volkov was most likely created when you were struck down by Charles. Your symbiont was forced to aggressively infiltrate your brain in order to keep it from dying. This secondary network can be compared to a parasite that uses your mind to fuel its own existence."

"Will it take over? Kill me? Make me go insane?" I asked.

"The sapience of the secondary network is a side effect, you have no ability to directly alter your own brain, neither does this secondary entity, however, it can access the rest of your mind and through that influence you."

"But wouldn't that be like myself trying to influence... myself."

"As you say, the entity is dependent on your mind, it relies on your thoughts, memories, it is quite interesting to see how these entities sync up with your own mind in order to avoid a chaotic meltdown of your psyche. Still, there are differences between the two of you."

"Like what?"

"The biology of your own brain is in the process of being augmented by lusus bio-matter, this secondary network however is dominated by the imprint and material of the symbiont."

"I see."

The tendril moved closer and held up the bottle, "Take the pills, eliminate the anomaly, I recommend it."

"Isn't this... murder?" I asked.

Athena was silent for a few moments, "Your safety is at risk, the entity is the source."

"Can you guarantee that he will hurt me? What has happened to the others like me?"

"There is little statistical data, four cases like this has been encountered, two chose to keep the anomaly. Unfortunately both died on the field of battle and long term effects are unknown."

"I see."

The tendril made a nudging motion as Athena spoke, "Take the bottle, consider it."

I reached out and took the bottle while the tendril withdrew and returned to the roof.

Unknown

I found myself in the dark space separating my own consciousness and that of the mindscape world. It was like black ocean and I could feel that Volkov was upset as the tendrils of his world sought to swallow me up.

It was easy to resist its pull now but I relented as I allowed myself to sink into the ocean. Within moments I felt the touch of wet grass on my paws and the gentle wind of the glade against my fur.

GROWL!

The feral growl took me by surprise and I barely had time to open my eyes as something heavy slammed into me. I crashed to the ground and raised my arms to protect myself.

"YOU BASTARD!" Volkov screamed with a voice distorted by the rumble of a growl.

Volkov's hands caught my arms as I looked up and saw a face that scared me. It was a mirror image of myself but it was distorted with feral anger as his teeth and gums were bared while his brow and eyes were twisted with fury.

The once colorful paint and feathers were smudged and charred while a twisted nightmare of emotion and anguish emanated from his mind like a loudspeaker. It washed over me and I felt my gut twist as my own emotional state was dragged into the abyss.

"WHY!" Volkov's scream ended with a feral snarl as his claws dug into my arms.

"STOP!" I yelled as I pushed back and grabbed hold of his shoulders to keep him away.

The turmoil of his mind twisted and turned as it distorted into a turmoil that felt like pure writhing madness. The mere presence of it felt like it was choking me while the touch of his hands burned like acid on my arms.

"You're thinking it! You're going to kill me!" Volkov snapped.

I pushed up with all the force I could muster and lifted Volkov far enough so that I could pull my legs up and plant my paws on his abdomen. Volkov's jaws snapped at the air like a feral beast as I extended my legs in one powerful burst.

Volkov made a pained groan as he was thrown into the air and lost his grip of my arms. He flew back and slammed into the ground while the sickening miasma of his mind eased withdrew from my own.

"Will you stop? I'm not going to kill you Volkov." I said as I got up while Volkov pushed himself onto all four.

GRUH! "You're lying!" GRAH!

"Volkov... please stop, this isn't what we're like..." I pleaded.

Volkov glanced up while on all four and stared me in the eyes, "Why did you take the bottle?"

"... You know why," I whispered.

Volkov's eyes opened wide as he stared at me in disbelief, "How can we... You! Be so cold? Monster!"

"Volkov, let's talk about this..." I pleaded once more.

Something happened in that instant, a spark of green danced across Volkov's body and spread into the ground. The grass withered while the earth cracked and grew a chaotic pattern of green that weaved its way along the dirt. Volkov made a pained grunt and writhed as he began to change.

"What are you doing!?" I asked.

CRACK! POP!

Volkov's body distorted, his hands became like paws, his legs popped and shifted while his tail twitched. His spine arched and his body began to stretch and grow as musculature bloomed and swelled in size.

I stumbled back while Volkov's neck popped and stretched while his muzzle lengthened and took on a fully feral look. His eyes began to glow as the usual yellow was replaced by luminescent green.

Volkov's eyes locked on me and I could see the fire of the hunt burn in his eyes while his body continued to grow in size as it took on the form of a feral wolf.

I panicked and began to stumble back as his four-legged form grew taller and forced me to look up at the face of a feral beast. Drool dripped from his huge fangs as he rustled his huge body and then gave me a look of murder.

I turned and ran toward the forest as a loud roar of seething anger and heavy paws began to follow me. My heart pounded and my mind screamed as I refused to glance back and leaped into the forest with hope that he couldn't follow.

The world grew dark in an instant as I burst through the bushes and dared glance back. To my relief the glade seemed to warp and disappear from sight like a dispelled mirage.

Volkov's presence weakened and became distant as I kept running and started to consider whether Athena's recommendation was sound.

Do you think you can hide forever?

The presence of Volkov's mind began to pull closer once more until it felt as if he was breathing down my neck. It made me panic and I latched onto the nearest thread leading out of the darkness.

Mere moments later I burst through the bushes of the forest and found myself on another island of existence in the mindscape. The place was bathed in a glow of green and looked like a wasteland filled with jagged green crystals that had erupted from the ground itself.

It was a beautiful but intimidating sight and it seemed to sing with high pitched tones that pulsed in sync with the glow of the crystals.

Volkov's presence was distant once more and it gave me the confidence to relax as I glanced down. Pawprints could be seen in the sand and the tracks led to the field of crystals.

Volkov has been here before...

I did not understand this place or whether it posed a danger to me or not, but I decided not to flee as I approached the crystals. The high pitched tones grew louder and I could feel the shards beckon like the obelisk once had.

A large rather flat crystal caught my attention and I could see my own reflection in its surface as I stepped up to it and reached out with my hand.

It felt like glass and it buzzed with the presence of a data-link as my pads and claws trailed across the surface. I reached out to it with my mind and beckoned it to activate, the surface of the crystal shimmered and then came to life as it painted a scene for me.

A female wolf hybrid stood by the edge of a large cliff overlooking a vast landscape of pure white. A gigantic hole could be seen in the landscape and an enormous tower rose from it and reached toward the sky.

The viewpoint shifted as the owner of the memory approached the female wolf and spoke up.

"What are you thinking about?" The owner asked.

The ears of the female wolf perked as she glanced back and made a slight if serene smile.

"This is the start of a new era... just think of it... Etemenanki will be the end of the lusus on this island, we can finally have peace. There won't be a reason to fight any longer."

The female wolf looked familiar somehow, and so did her voice, though I couldn't place her.

"Hmm," The owner mused with something of a skeptical voice.

The ears of the female wolf dropped as she cocked her head, "What?"

The owner of the memory motioned to the gigantic tower, "I agree Lilia, It's a big step on the way. But you have to understand, conflict is more than a temporary state of mind, it's a movement that has gathered speed and power for centuries, it has shaped the very fabric of society."

Lilia? Who's memory could this be? Clan father? No... he died just a few years ago...

Lilia approached and joined the owners side before looking up at the tower once more. Sparks and bright lights could be seen dancing along the surface of the tower while drones swarmed around it to help with the construction work.

"I think you're wrong dad, people are tired of war and conflict, if the opportunity shows itself then people will seek peace," Lilia answered.

Lilia's father? I've inherited part of his memories?

"There's a lot of memories in here," Volkov's voice caught me by surprise and made me jump back.

The image shown by the crystal shard ended in an instant as I turned to face him. Volkov looked ragged but humanoid once more, his eyes seemed tired and there was an exhausted look of misery on his face as his ears clamped to his head while he cowered like a scared pup.

My heart began to thump once more as I stared at him, "What the hell are you playing at Volkov? Hunting me? Changing into a huge feral beast?"

Volkov glanced away but his mind continued to leak thoughts of dread and fear as he whispered, "Are you going to kill me?"

"Are you!?" I asked with a snap of anger.

Volkov trembled as I snapped at him, "You don't understand Vilkas. The worst I could do is throw you out of here and scare you a little. I'm slaved to your mind, what you feel, your thoughts."

"It sure didn't feel like that earlier," I said.

Volkov glanced up and then fetched a withered feather from his mane, moments later the feather brightened and grew stark red as it was renewed, "It's just theatrics, the mindscape is malleable."

I took a deep breath and forced myself to relax, "Do you understand... why I took the bottle?"

Volkov made a reluctant nod, "To you I look like an invader and my very existence raises a lot of problems. Will I be all right locked in this place? Will I make us go mad? How does this affect our relationship with our parents and the pack? How do we explain to others that there's two of us? How will we move about in the mindscape?"

"They're relevant questions," I said.

Volkov glared at me and pointed at his head, "I bloody know that! I feel your thoughts! I experience them! Sometimes I slip into your state of mind and then I remember that I'm the one about to be killed!"

"So let's look for solutions rather than argue," I said.

Volkov nodded, "How about you handle the real world, while I handle everything in the mindscape?"

I raised my brow, "You do realize that I don't feel what you're doing with the same fidelity, if you wandered through the mindscape with the pack then I'd be crippled by not knowing what's going on."

"... Yeah, instead you get to do everything while I'm left with the task of being your personal secretary."

"That's not true, you're always there, in the back of my mind, nudging me along, handing me nuggets of information, influencing me, and I appreciate it. But you're not replacing me in either the mindscape or the real world, understand?"

Volkov bared his teeth and made a light growl, "It's not like I can force you."

"We could wander the mindscape together?"

"How? People are going to notice that there's two of us."

"Maybe that won't be a problem, and you seem to be able to change shape, maybe you can-"

Volkov interrupted me, "Be your pet? A parrot on your shoulder? Are you kidding?"

I sighed, "It was just a thought Volkov."

"It's not fair..." Volkov whispered.

"I know... But please understand things from my point of view, you're asking me to go against Athena's recommendation and possibly risk my own life by keeping you around."

Volkov pointed at himself, "Imagine that our roles were reversed, you're threatening to kill me... I don't want to die."

"I don't want you to die either, that's why we're here right now. Despite your attempt at scaring the shit out of me."

Volkov looked down at the ground, "I was scared... and angry, I do everything I can to help you... us, and you still took that damn bottle."

"I'll throw it in the trash... I won't kill you Volkov. We'll work this out, together."

The horrible anxiety radiating from Volkov began to ease up, "You will?"

I stepped closer and nodded, "I will, but no more shenanigans like this."

Volkov nodded and made a slight smile, "I'm tired... Want to sleep here in the mindscape? We could go to the place you saw in that old memory. Etemenanki is quite a sight from afar."

I nodded, "I think we'd like that."

511 A.R. December 26, Local Defense Force Office, Morning

Everyone seemed a bit nervous as they mulled about the office while reading brochures and rules as we waited for being interviewed.

Kato stepped up next to me and nudged my shoulder, "Vilkas, you have a minute?"

I looked over, "Sure Kato, what is it?"

"In private," Kato whispered as he motioned to the corridor.

I followed his tail down the corridor until we were out of sight from the others.

"What's on your mind?" I asked.

Kato faced me, "It's less than a year left and we haven't decided the second beta position yet..."

"Yeah, I guess it's about time we settle that."

"I have a proposition regarding that," Kato said.

"All right?"

"As alpha of the team I'm supposed to weigh the interests of both packs, I know it's something of a leap of faith but I think that the beta's should be one from each pack."

"Sounds reasonable as long as you can be trusted," I said.

Kato nodded, "Yeah, so... Do you trust me?"

"You haven't given me any reason not to trust you yet."

Kato made a slight smile, "Then how about I promise that I'll do the very best to treat you and your pack right, I trust you Vilkas and I would neither want you or your pack as my enemy. "

"I'm guessing you want to elect Monty as the second beta?"

Kato nodded, "Yeah, he's actually rather strict beneath his relaxed demeanor and he throws a fit with me whenever I get out of line."

"I see," I said with a slight smile.

"So... do we have a deal?" Kato asked.

I held out my hand and met his eyes, "All right, but I'll be holding you to your word Kato."

Kato took my hand in a solid grip and made a warm smile, "It's strange, my parents always warned me that pack relations could be quite violent. It's a relief to see things go this smoothly."

512 A.R. January 3, Volkov Household, Midday

I glanced down at my phone and saw Jason's id as I lifted it to my ear and answered, "Hi Jason."

A moment's silence was followed by a female voice that sent a shiver down my spine.

"Hello Vilkas, it's Hedwig."

"... What do you want?" I asked as my hackles rose.

"I just want to talk, Jason was kind enough to borrow me his phone."

"... Uh huh?"

"Listen, we both care about Jason and what's best for him. There's no need for us to be enemies Vilkas."

"And?"

"We should talk, you and I, we've never seen eye to eye but I think we can fix that. What do you say?"

I frowned in suspicion, "What did you have in mind?"

"Dinner at town, just the two of us, public place, nothing to worry about."

"Is Jason nearby?" I asked.

Hedwig seemed to pause for a moment before answering, "He's indisposed at the moment."

"I swear, if you've-"

"I'd never harm Jason and this is exactly why I'm calling, the two of us should bury the hatchet, for Jason. Don't you agree? Besides, what would a big wolf like you have to fear from a human like me?"

I gritted my teeth but held my growl back, "Dinner at town, sure, why not?"