Birds singing and morning warm rays spilled through an open set of windows and drifted through the room. The melody reached her ears first and she felt the warm rays settle on her face against her eyes. A soft breeze blew shadows across her eyes as the white sheers danced. Slowly she felt the blackness falling away as her body woke from its long restful slumber. Trying to move her hands, she found them stiff and unresponsive. Her eyes fluttered until she finally managed to pry them open and the bright morning light made her close them again. The brightness was too much of a shock and she managed to lift one arm to shade her face with her hand. Slowly she opened her eyes once more and allowed her hand to buffer the intensity until her eyes adjusted. Her hand fell back onto the bed and she looked up at a ceiling made entirely of wooden beams. Looking around the room, she found it all wooden. The window letting in the sunlight was giant and framed by white sheers. Slowly she planted her hands and pushed herself up. Her body cried with resistance but she bit past it as she forced herself to sit up. 'Kara.' A slow painful smirk crossed her face as the warm of his voice filled her aching body and she looked down at the warm comforter draped over her. A thick, dark hunter comforter stretched the size of the giant bed and she took in the four wooden bed posts framing the bed. She took a deep breath and shoved the bedding away from her legs. Her body shuddered at the temperature difference and she found herself only dressed in a long night shirt. 'What the heck am I wearing?' She could feel his amusement and the growing in his power as he approached. Carefully she swung her legs from the bed and caught the mattress in her hands. Catching her breath, she pushed herself up onto her feet and caught hold of the nearest bed post before falling on her face. The strain brought a painful throbbing to her chest and she placed her hand over the area. A thin bandage rested over the bullet wound and she let out a sigh. "Get back in bed." Slowly she straightened and looked behind her. Joseph stood leaning against the door frame and she almost laughed at the look on his face. He was trying to be stern but seemed relieved to see her and enjoying her displeasure at the same time. The brute finally came to her aid and helped her to the end of the bed before she had to sit back down. He walked over to a pair of shut doors revealed a closet full of the clothes she would much rather be wearing. "Why am I not in one of those?" The man shot her a look and she saw the ghost of a smirk on his face. He grabbed her clean outfit and handed it to her before kneeling in front of her. His hard hand caught hers and she felt him place it over her lower stomach. "Once the pain subsides you'll know." She felt the fear rising out of nowhere and shook her head. Joseph caught her face with his hands and forced her to look at him. "Breathe." "I can't carry another child." "Yes you can." She closed her eyes and felt his mouth brush her forehead. She burrowed into his neck and breathed him deep inside. Waking up a prisoner of her weak body was bad enough. Now she was supposed to be okay carrying a child while mending. "Your father's aid sped the healing along but it wasn't until I detected the new life that we understood why you were healing at such a slow pace." "When did you find it?" "Her." Kara sat back and asked "When did you find her?" "A month ago." She raked a hand through her tasseled hair and asked "How long have I been asleep?" "Two months." "What happened?" Joseph caught her chin and said "Don't worry about that right now." "Mikail?" "He's fine. Outside playing with his cousins." Slowly he stood up and helped her to her feet again. Kara let his strength guide her into the bathroom and he started a warm bath while she took in the room. The tile floor was cool on her feet and the sky lights covered half of the ceiling, allowing natural light to fill the room. The tub was a giant corner tub with a shower head built into the wall above it. Joseph drew her to the tub once it was filled and helped her remove the night shirt. The bandage was pulled back slowly and she looked down at the healing wound. He caught her chin and forced her to look up at him. "Don't do that again." "It's not like I set out to getting shot." His eyes burned pure black and she pulled his mouth down to her. The hunger was there instantly and she slid her arms around his neck as her fingers danced through his blonde hair. Hands slid over all of her exposed body and settled around her hips. He drew her against him and lifted her legs up around his waist. The carnal needs filled her cells and she yanked his shirt off. The movement brought a hiss to her lips and he chuckled as he drew back. Even in a healing state she was too much to resist and he lowered her into the waiting bath. Towels stacked at the edge served as a pillow and she closed her eyes as the warm water worked its magic on her body. "Thank you." He kissed the top of her head and snatched his shirt from the floor on his way out. He walked through their room and slid it back on as he stepped into the hallway. The door was pulled shut and he walked downstairs. The place was packed with the usual visitors and the meeting he had left without a word. The newly formed circle of leaders, the Pack, sat at the table in the shut up library and didn't hide their annoyance when he returned. "You better have a good excuse Joseph." He shot a look the hot headed speaker but refused to take the bait. The agenda of the day was laid out and they worked through the construction plans and housing applications. He listened and commented when he needed but his senses were focused on the woman upstairs. When the meeting finally ended, he walked everyone to the front door and shut it with a little extra force. Raking his hand along his neck, he felt the knots these meetings had come to form and leaned against the counter in the kitchen. Staring out the back patio glass sliding door, he watched the waterfall flow over their old home and felt her the minute she entered the room. Kara slowly crossed the brightly lit room, taking in the wooden counters with granite tops and all the appliances filling the room. Her arms circled his waist and she rested her chin on his shoulder. She saw the old ruins and looked up at him. "What changed?" "Most of our kind still live in the ruins." "Not us?" Joseph drew her around in front of him and secured her against him. Her shampoo filled his senses and he listened to her steady pulse. "I couldn't stay in that place anymore. Nor could you." She looked up into his black eyes and asked "Your family?" "Our family. They're sticking around until they know you are healed or until their new niece is born." Her hands slid over her stomach and she sighed "I didn't mean for this to happen." His mouth slid along her neck and she heard "Don't blame yourself. This isn't a bad thing." He caught her hands and laced their hands together. Together they could feel the small heart beat inside her and she took a deep breath. His head jerked up and his body grew stiff around hers. She looked up at him and found his black gaze settled out the kitchen door frame. The front door flew open and she heard the loud voices approaching. Joseph turned to shield her from initial view and they watched the old pack fill their kitchen. Zeke leveled him with a look but his words failed. He saw the smaller former behind his brother and an eye brow went up. "When were you going to grace us with your presence Kara?" She slowly wrapped a hand around the protecting man's arm and risked looking around his shoulder. The pack stood smiling and Angel ran across the room to take her in her arms. She let the woman hold onto her and felt Gabby join. The two sisters hugged her until she finally returned it and then slowly she was released. "You look amazing." "Thanks?" Gabby laughed and said "Can't tell at all." They smiled their mischevious smiles and walked back to their mates. Zeke held Angel at his side and turned his attention back to Joseph. "Did you have to piss the Pack off?" "I had an emergency." Griffon rolled his eyes and said "You just hate those meetings." Joseph drew his mate back to him and she settled against him as the others took turns examining her. "Kara woke up while I was in the meeting." "I doubt that gives you a reason to skip out." "It's not like I answer to them anyways." Kara looked up at him and asked "Can you guys give us a minute?" Griffon opened his mouth to complain but Zeke said "Take all the time you need. I'm sure Joseph will fill you in." The bunch left without another word and she let out a sigh. Slowly she turned to face her mate and found him leaning against a counter with his eyes on her. "Okay, can you please just start from the beginning?" He drew her up to him again and shifted her shirt to inspect her wound. The skin was almost healed but a small scar had started to settle in. Kara fixed her shirt before he could tend to it and forced him to focus on her question. "Joseph, please." He guided her out of the kitchen and onto the back patio. Two lounge chairs reclined to the side of the door and she took a seat. He walked over to the railing and rested his hands on the cool metal. "We hid in the city after the battle. Michael tended to you while we figured out what to do next. The Pack became the elected circle of leaders that answers to us." "Us?" His black eyes turned back to her and he said "I am not letting you take all of the responsibilites on your shoulders as their leader." "My grandfather never recovered." He shook his head and she slowly stood up. Kara joined him at the railing and took in the open clearing and the giant waterfall. "Why are we here outside the ruins?" "Privacy. You need a place they cannot come to whenever they please." "How do you think that is going to work?" His arms slid around her waist and he growled "They'll listen." She smirked and leaned her head back againt his chest. She could feel all those connections at a distance and felt his hand settle over their daughter once more. "How is Mikail handling this?" "He is thrilled." She felt his arms tighten around her and breathed in the cool air. Feeling him sheltering her and standing in this secluded place left her at peace. She felt the soft stirring of her little one and looked out at the waterfall once more. The setting sun reflected off the cascading water and she closed her eyes. The battle was over for her people's safety and finally she felt at home with herself and the family she has built. "You should get something to eat and get back to bed." "You aren't my father." He groaned and said "Don't bring him up." Laughing, she let him lead her inside and the door was shut as she took a seat at a bar. She sat looking around the house, trying to figure out why their kind decided to settle for the ruins life while they got this beautiful house. Food cooked over an open flame rested in front of her and she worked on small bites while Joseph cleaned up the kitchen. She insisted on washing her own dishes and he waited for her in the doorway as she finished. His arm slid around her waist as they climbed the wooden stairs to their room and she let him lure her back into the warm king sized bed for the night.

Sunlight poured into the clearing and he took a deep breath. The training men were shifting between their preferred forms and their human selves. A few of the men were grumbling and his jaw tightened. The grumbling soon was replaced with a low resonating growl and he shifted his gaze to the approaching spectator. Michael joined him with the guard hanging back out of respect. Michael studied the soldiers and sighed "It seems time doesn't bring acceptance." Joseph shot him a black glance and said "You scream government." "I haven't worked for them since my daughter was 4 years old." "They can still smell it." The man looked at the blonde man and studied his hardened face. There were minute changes to his built from the strengthed phoneix blood. Any scars he had observed were gone and his energy seemed more potent than he remembered. "How's the blood lust?" Joseph kept his gaze on the training bunch and said "Bareable." "Any other side affects?" "A growing annoyance with your questions." Michael chuckled and asked "How is Kara mending?" "She's rested." "You two spent a lot of time merged. The separation going okay?" He let out a sigh and said "Enough Michael. The man looked at him and let out a sigh. Joseph was a granite wall when it came to answers. He scratched his head and heard silence quickly overtake the training yard. The all the soldiers stood at attention and then their leader took off. His body had shifted in a blink of an eye and the black wolf led the chase back to the ruins. He ran until he found himself overlooking a battle field. Smoke was bellowing all around them and his eyes swept the area for Kara. He couldn't detect her wolf anywhere, nor his son's. A black wolf threw an enemy to the ground and met his gaze from the other side of the field. Zeke stepped aside and he saw his son cowering beneath Angel with his cousin and Rachel at her back with Griffon. Gun shots and explosions rocked the battle zone and his soldiers tore through the crowds. The numbers evened the two sides and gave him a chance to pick through the enemy. He kept his senses stretched to find her but still couldn't detect her. A howl filled the area and the chill left everyone in a frozen state. His ears detected the source and Joseph saw Emily standing over her fallen father. Leon was bleeding out with his attacker staring down at his daughter. Joseph picked up his pace to intervene and caught sight of the firebird dropping in with burning talons outstretched. The soldier screamed as his eyes were ripped to shreds and fell back ono the ground. Emily snapped his neck with a quick bite and resumed her position over her father. Michael kept watch from the air and his presence forced the army back enough that he finally picked up on the battle in the far distance. Flashes of metal reflected the setting sun and he heard the scream as the wolf broke the man's armed hand. The soldier kicked her off and she slid across the ground. Joseph felt his legs racing as he watched her go back for another attack and the man scream as she took his knee out. A knife glared in the sunset and he lunged for the weapon. His mouth jerked the blade off course and he bit down until the bones shattered. The man screamed again and watched the black wolf stand in front of his prey. He tried flexing his broken hands but they were useless. He looked to the trees and yelled "Do it now!" They saw the snipers rush into the clearing and begin spraying shots throughout the field. Kara's eyes lit up as the bullets reached intended targets but then they crumbled into ashes. Flames surrounded their kind and Joseph watched as the guns began to combust in the snipers' hands. "I just need to take one of you down." His hackles went up and he searched the shadows for the missing sniper. The smallest glint of metal reflected from the other side of the clearing and he felt the burning heat behind him dissolve. Whipping his head around, he saw her racing across the field and tried to relocate the weapon. Sweeping his gaze for its trajectory he saw Zeke and Angel in its path. "She'll never make it." The laughing idiot drew his attention back around and he sunk his teeth into the man's throat. With a twist of his head the neck snapped and he pushed off the body to gain momentum. The battle field was growing hot and smokey with all the fires. His eyes settled onto her fleeing back and he reached for his brother. "You are in the line of fire. Get out of there." Zeke's eyes never wavered but he backed up to Angel. She disappeared from sight and tossed her daughter onto her back. The little one clung tight with her wolf paws and Angel followed Griffon and Rachel to safety. Mikail remained beneath his uncle as low to the ground as possible. Zeke nudged him towards Angel's escape and jumped in the way of an uproaching soldier. Mikail watched his uncle remove the threat and heard "Move!" He tried to take a step but a bullet hit the dirt next to him. Jerking back, he searched the area for help and barely registered his mother catching his coat in her mouth. "Kara?" "I have him." "Keep going." She pushed her legs towards the nearest tree line and felt her legs fly out from underneath her. Mikail flew to the ground and shook his head clear. A large shadow loomed over him and he looked up. One lone soldier stood with his gun pointed at him. The hand hooked around the trigger and the finger pulled back. The gun shot echoed through the clearing and the fires disappeared. Smoke darkened and the humans withdrew. Mikail slowly opened his eyes and found his mother's coat over him. "Mom?" He dug himself free and heard the rushing paws as he walked around her. Her eyes were closed and he saw the red blood coating the ground. It ran up to his paws and he stepped back. "Mom?" Running around to her back, he used his front legs and shook her. Whimpering, he kept trying to get her to wake up and saw his father finally reach them. "She won't answer me." Joseph nuzzled the soft muzzle and leaned his head against hers. He could feel her with them and looked up to the sky. "Michael!" The smoke began to drift away as the phoenix approached and disappeared as the man approached. He ran his hand through his daughter's coat and rested his hand over the wound. He could feel the damage and allowed his warmth to quicken the power inside her. "She is still fighting. We need to get her somewhere safe." "Can you stop the bleeding?" He pushed his power into the wound and began to repair the multiple tears. Slowly the bleeded receded and he sat back drained. Joseph released his wolf and ran his hand through her coat once more. Mikail nudged her fur and looked up at them. "She needs rest." He looked at his father and released his little wolf. The boy laid his head on her coat and Joseph ran his hand through the black hair. "Kara?" He looked up and found multiple of their kind watching with intent. He didn't hold back the growl and reached as deep as he could to connect with her. Joseph felt the light warm touch and forced her to release her wolf form. "Will she live?" "Who will lead if she doesn't?" "What are we going to do now?" "Won't the enemy come back?" His jaw tightened and he stood up to face all the frightened faces. The entire clan stared at him and he took a deep breath. Looking for Emily, he found her sitting with her father's body and saw her give a single nod towards him. Slowly he sought out his siblings and Zeke nodded once as well. "We leave in the morning." "Where? Where can we go now? They may come back. "They might but I doubt it. This was a desperate attempt to force our submission." "That doesn't matter if we don't have a home!" He took one more deep breath and said "We can either run tail and fend for our own or we can stay together and rebuild. For now we move into the nearest city and recover. We've lost enough. Rest up and then we will come up with a plan." "We? Leon has always guided us." "Leon is dead. Kara is badly wounded. It's time we change the leadership roles and responisbilites." The questions finally stopped and the standing began whispering amongst themselves while helping their injuried friends and family. Joseph knelt next to Kara and slipped her into his arms. Mikail joined him at his side and they began walking through the battlefield in the direction of their new home. With their homeland behind them, Joseph and Mikail walked through the smoldering woods and the rest of their kind slowly followed. "Nice speech. Didn't know the runt had it in him." He shot Griffon a look and the man chuckled. The smile faded as he looked down at the spit fire fighting for her life. The wound had been in the chest area. Hopefully her crazy father was able to heal enough of the wound to give her a chance. If they lost Kara, he knew they would lose Joseph. "The rest of you don't have to stay with us." Zeke joined them as the city came into sight and said a"For now we will remain." The mayor met them in the town square and ushered them into a small vacant house. The bedrooms were on the second floor and he followed the man into the master bedroom. It wasn't much bigger than their old bed chambers and he gently lowered Kara onto the bed. Mikail joined him at the bed as he removed her boots and freed her hair. The boy looked up at his father and took his hand. "She is going to make it, right Dad?" Joseph looked down into the young black eyes and said "We hope." Mikail leaned his head against the strong leg next to him and Joseph ran his hand through the soft hair again. Michael wandered into the room and took a seat next to Kara. His hands rested on her bullet wound and he let out a slow breath.

Damon studied the waiting man in the clearing and let out a sigh. His paws dug into the soft dirt and he forced his muscles to hold. He had sent word to his father when the man had shown up and was ordered to hold his place. Just watching that man left him on edge and he let out a sigh when he finally felt his father approaching. Maximus walked past him and stepped into the clearing in his wolf form. Joseph didn't move as the wolf assessed their surroundings. He could smell the others on him still and his distrust lingering on every inch of his face. Slowly he came to sit before his son and waited for him to make his next move. Joseph's black gaze didn't move from his own and in a blink he was standing on all four black legs. Maximus stood up and headed back towards Damon with his son two lengths behind. Damon filled the gap between them on the walk to the den. He used his presence to push the intruder further from his parents and asserted his position in their small pack. Stepping into the hidden den, Maximus walked down the dark tunnel until he reached Naomi. She sat patiently waiting for the two boys to arrive and looked at her mate. He nudged her neck and rubbed his fur against hers as the two wolves appeared. The youngest settled on her right side in a crouching position and Maximus lingered on her left. Joseph remained standing and stared back at his mother. Her ears were up and she silently rose. Damon stood to stop her advancement but she stared him down until he submitted. 'I don't trust him.' 'I think he feels the same way.' He bit back the growl and returned to his position on the floor. Maximus sat at attention as she approached the black wolf. Slowly she came within striking distance and walked a circle around him. His eyes followed her movements when nothing else moved and she came to a stop in front of him. Her eyes softened as she looked into his dark eyes and slowly nuzzled his neck. He remained stiff at her affection and she stepped back. Sitting before him, Naomi waited for him to decide what he wanted. They held each other's gaze until he finally sat down across from her. 'You are exactly what I imagined.' 'I'm not here about me.' She offered the closet thing to a smile and asked 'Kara?" He nodded once and said 'I owe her to hear what you two have to say.' Maximus finally joined Naomi in front of him and released his wolf form. His hand settled on her head and rubbed between her ears. Joseph allowed his form to relax and stood just as tall as his father. He hated looking at the man, knowing he looked just like him. "Your mother's injuries took a long time to heal. We couldn't find you until it was too late." "You knew I was alive." Maximus nodded and said "Leon ensured us he brought you back and you were given a safe place to live." "Did he mention what happened before he brought me here?" Naomi nudged her mate's leg and sighed 'No.' "Your other children felt I was their enemy. Leon found me almost dead." Maximus's growl echoed in the den and said "They know blood is blood. That is unexceptable." "You left them all. Forced them to grow up without their leader so they changed their laws. Picked a new alpha." "You?" Joseph shook his head with a grunt and sighed "Zeke." "You are the strongest. It has to be you." His eyes hardened and he growled "I was a pup left to die. I didn't matter in their eyes." Damon let out a sigh and shoved between the two. He knew his brother hated them and was done being civil. Joseph had made it pretty clear he wasn't their family but their hopeful hearts refused to accept it. He was just going to have to prove it once and for all for them. "You had a horrible life. We get it. Either settle some of it now or get out." "Damon!" He turned to look at his mother and said "It's time you two let go. He made his mind up a long time ago he was not one of us." Maximus stared his youngest down and growled "He thought we were dead." "You didn't change his mind. This whole time Mother healed you could've sought him out. Instead you settled on me. The sheltered boy. Not the perfect one stolen from you. "Damon." He looked back at Joseph, ignoring Naomi and said "That's right. I'm the one they chose to raise. Imagine what it felt like knowing a good part of their love was missing because of you." "Get over yourself." His eyes flashed and he growled "Come again?" Joseph stepped away from the three and said "You three had each other all this time. I'd consider yourselves lucky." He turned his back on them and shifted back into his wolf form. He could feel his father following but kept his back to him. He had heard more than enough to honor Kara and his son. Now it was time to close that door once more and keep it closed. Running paws overtook his father and Naomi raced in front of him. 'I'm sorry.' She stood in his path, refusing to step aside and her blue eyes stared back at him with a look he hadn't seen. A soft whimper filled his ears and he let out a sigh. Only a few women with that look wore him down and apparently that included his mother. He released his wolf form and she rubbed her head against his hand. Slowly he settled his hand in her coat and she buried her face against his chest. 'I long to hold you my son.' He watched her slowly sit back and said "That will take time." Naomi nodded and Joseph stood up. He walked around her and returned to the clearing. His mind was racing with all the old memories and he tightened his jaw. As he entered the clearing he broke into a blinding run in his wolf form. The speed helped dull the old pain and forced his body to remember its current state and limits. The waterfall came into view and with it he found the one person he needed waiting for him with a fresh kill. Kara rested in the grass in her wolf form and he slowed to a walk as he reached her. She let him like her muzzle clean and rested her head on her legs as he settled down to eat. He finished off the meat and she cleaned his muzzle once he finally joined her. Joseph scanned their surroundings and released his form. He relaxed on his back and enjoyed the cool evening grass on his bare skin. She settled into his side as she returned to human and ran her hand over his chest. "You should join me in the hot spring tonight." His eyes drifted up to hers and he saw the warmth he needed. He hadn't detected her this time and laced their hands together. His teeth grazed her knuckles and she settled her warm breath against his neck. "Tonight we both need rest." A lick on his skin and then grazing teeth sent his blood racing. He sat up quickly and listened to her laughing. She tugged his hand and drew him back down to her. "You need to forget everything else. A dip in the hot springs will help you." His eyes slid over her, claiming her with every sweep, and he growled "I highly doubt it." She smiled and drew his mouth down to her. Feeling his possessive nature demanding compliance, she melted into him and let his hunger drive her past the world's grasp. The strength of such hunger left her protected from any mental onslaught and she could breathe. Hard hands slid along her body, remembering her form and locking it back into memory. "Really you two?" She felt his body jump from fire to ice and the growl was lethal as he looked up over his shoulder. Griffon and and Ace stood grinning like idiots. Slowly Joseph sat up and she slid her hand along his arm to keep his blood thirst at bay. "Pretty sure you aren't strong enough to handle your mate tonight." His jaws snapped and the wolf lunged for Griffon. Ace just laughed as he pinned the idiot to the ground and Kara stood up slowly. She brushed her jeans off with a sigh and looked at the neutral brother. "You wanna break them up?" He shook his head with a smile and said "It's good to see Joseph back to normal." "You men all think with physical force." She walked up to the two and settled her hand on the black coat. Joseph's growling stilled and Griffon let out a sigh. When the wolf stepped off he dropped his arms and took a deep breath. "Was there any reason to interrup us?" He put space between himself and the pissed off male before standing up. Ace watched him brush the dirt off and shook his head. "We knew any conversation with his parents was going to be rough and wanted to cheer him up." "By starting another useless pissing contest." Griffon shrugged and said "They aren't useless." Kara rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. She looked down at Joseph and found his hackles relaxed. He returned to his human form and wrapped an arm around her waist. "Next time she might not be here to spare your life." Griffon laughed and said "Bring it pup." She pushed him away from his idiot brother and they walked into the ruins. Quietly they ascended the stairs and she led him down to her room. "Mikhail?" "Asleep in your bed still." Her hand slid through his and she pulled him inside the bathing chambers. Her hands slid his shirt over his head and she slid her tempting fingers over all the scars still healing. The tenderness was almost gone but she knew he felt the pain deep in his bones. She slowly began to use her mating abilities to heal him and he bit back a groan as each stroke of the tongue took a little more of the pain away. He caught her hair in his hand and jerked her head back. She stared up at him, knowing he needed her to stop, and wrapped her arms around his neck. Her legs settled around his waist and she pulled herslf up. His body was hot and hard against hers, drawing a light layer of sweat to her skin. She tasted his mouth slowly, igniting that primal hunger further and he tugged her head back again. "Kara." She covered his mouth and said "I promise not to kill you."

Moonlight trickled down through the canopy and a nearby creek flowed gently in the background. Crickets sounded their nightly calls and he felt the fur shift next to his leg. Opening his black eyes, he looked down at his anchoring mate and slid his hand through her coat. Her movement drew him from the sleep she provided and he looked around their camp. Her father was nowhere to be seen once more and he let out a sigh. Tomorrow they would be walking back into the ruins and the confrontation was going to push Kara's limits. She was physically worn out from this trip and her mental strength wasn't close to full strength. Too many nights she had protected him from the agony his body still endured to ensure his healing at the expense of her own sanity. The restless sleeping gave clear signs she was close to a mental break. His hand stilled in her soft fur and he sought her mental protection. It was weaker tonight than ever but still holding most of his pain at bay. He took a deep breath and shoved just enough of a hole through her barrier to take some of the load from her. He could feel her stirring enough to protest but kept himself exposed. The extra pain was numbing but he knew he could sleep with it if she didn't carry it all. His fist clutched fur and he slowly released it as he succombed to another wave of sleep. His senses woke once more to a hand on his shoulder and the scent of warm blood. The smell he had become too familiar with and his hand caught the offering. He drew the cut up to his mouth and drank the warmth until he reached that edge of awareness. It prevented him from taking more than a day's treatment but still she was left weak. Closing her wrist with his tongue he slowly looked at her and she wiped the blood from his mouth. He licked her fingers clean and she burrowed her head into his strong neck. The steady pulse echoed in her ears and she felt his arms secure her in his promising warmth and safety. "You know this has to stop." Kara closed her eyes and nodded. She couldn't risk the exposure around their people any more than he could. His body had acclimated finally to the third DNA source and the healing was slowing to a healthier pace. Fingers slid through her free falling hair and she opened her eyes. Their company's presence broke through the quiet morning and she felt the hold tighten around her. Michael revealed himself and she looked up at Joseph. His eyes were leveled with the man but his arms slowly released her. She stood up and expanded her senses while he rose to his feet. Michael studied him as she checked their surroundings and nodded. "You are healing." "That surprise you?" "No. Your shady past probably explains it." He looked away from the man and saw Kara slowly glance back at them. She was pale from the transfusion but ready to walk home despite the mental onslaught she would endure. He caught her hand and felt the steady pulse. His blood chilled and his hand tightened around hers. Kara saw his eyes darken and felt the three approaching presences. Her free hand rested on his arm and she said "We don't have to stay." His eyes remained on the shadows in the surrounding forest and he growled "You two go." Her green eyes remained on his hard face and she felt the squeeze on her gripped hand. His mind pushed her out completely and she let out a sigh. Reluctantly she looked at Michael and started walking. The man looked back at Joseph before following his daughter into the nearby shadows. Joseph took a calming breath as they left and waited. His baby brother revealed himself and then slowly the two long forgotten parents walked out of the shadows. Naomi sat in her wolf form staring at him with Maximus in human form in front of her. Joseph held his father's gaze and his jaw tightened. Damon stepped in front of both parents and said "You look less dead." His eyes settled on his brother but he remained silent. This man had touched his mate and threatened his son. He didn't trust himself around him and the two parents behind him left him more on edge. Maximus cleared his throat and Damon stepped aside. "I thought it was time to meet." "Why?" Naomi's ears went up at the darkened voice and a calming hand settled on her head. She looked from her mate to her first born. Her baby boy stared back at them with utter hatred and detachment. If she could summon her old form she knew she could reach him even just for a second. Maximus looked down at her and shook his head. "Your mother wants to hold you Joseph but to do so could kill her." "You two died a long time ago." Damon's growl was loud in the quiet camp and Maximus waved him off. Joseph was right and they had to bare it. He had witnessed what should have been their deaths and then been taken away to endure who knows what by the government. Leon saved the pup for them but they never sought him out. Naomi's wounds took a long time to heal and by the time she felt safe enough to search for their pup he had been on his own far too long and was grown. "Just hear us out Joseph. That is all we ask." His eyes shifted to the side and Maximus saw the blank look slip into those black orbs. His jaw tightened and he turned his back on them without a word. A black wolf ran away from them and into the shadows. He raced to the waterfall and slipped into the ruins. The arguement took place at the stair base and his family surrounded the two disagreeing parties. Shifting to his human form, he walked up to Zeke and the man shook his head. He was allowed inside and found Leon staring down Michael with Kara behind her father and Emily standing off to the side. Joseph joined his mate and she took his nearest hand, lacing their palms together. He could feel the emotions pounding against her mind as she naturally flooded into his. "How long has it been like this?" She glanced up at him and said "Since we arrived. They only spoke a handful of words before Grandpa started examining him." "Your mother?" "She can't do a thing until he determines the man's fate." "This is her husband." Kara sighed and said "He died. That changes everything." Joseph watched Leon finally break eye contact with Michael and look at them. He let out a sigh and nodded once. "The man can stay but will be under constant supervision while he is here." Emily stepped forward but he shook his head "No. One of Zeke's. You are biased." Her eyes flashed but she held her tongue. Slowly Michael turned back to Kara and nodded. He was a welcomed prisoner as far as the law was concerned and she stepped in front of him. "At least let my mother share her quarters with him." Leon studied her tired eyes and looked back at his daughter. Emily waited patiently for his answer but was still visibly annoyed with his protective approach. Letting out a sigh he nodded and she stepped past him. Michael took her extended hand and she led him up the stairs. Leon watched them disappear and looked back at his granddaughter. His hands settled on her face and she felt his mind drive through hers, ensuring her thoughts were only her own. She held her private life behind an impenetrable wall and let out a sigh when he released her. Joseph pulled her away from the man and she leaned her forehead against his back. He could feel the failing mental strength after that attack and his growl filled the area. "I had to guarantee she was still of her own thoughts." "You know she is nothing but loyal to you." Leon sighed and said "I don't trust that man and he summoned her. I needed to know he didn't plant even a seed of doubt in her." His growl deepened but the hand on his arm kept him from speaking. He wrapped an arm around her waist and walked her passed the man. They climbed the stairs to his quarters and she took a seat on his bed. Her head rested in her hands and he watched as the fire flickered with different intensity levels. "Dad?" Mikhail slipped into his room and wrapped his arms around his waist. Joseph held him at his side and ruffled his hair. "Is Mom okay?" "She's tired." Mikhail hugged him again and walked over to the bed. He wrapped his arms around her and rested his cheek on her shoulder. Kara caught an arm and looked up at her mate. Slowly she nodded and he slipped out of his quarters. He found Zeke and Griffon waiting on the other side of the flap. "Is she okay?" "She's reached her limits." Zeke let out a sigh and asked "What about you?" "I'm fine." "You were rather pissed when you came inside." "Ran into three unwelcomed visitors." Griffon chuckled and asked "Damon still sizing you up?" He shook his head and let out a sigh. Leaning against the nearby railing, he looked down at the other residents walking towards the waterfall. "Maximus and Naomi wanted to talk." Griffon settled a darker gaze on him and asked "What? An apology?" "Maybe. I left before we got that far." Zeke raked a hand through his black hair and said "I'd give them one more chance. If not for you, for Mikhail and for Kara." "I don't trust them." "Why you should? You thought they were murdered when you were a pup." Joseph looked at his oldest brother and said "Look how long it took for me to tolerate you." Griffon chuckled again and said "That last scuffle did seem to settle things." Zeke shushed him with one look and sighed "Joseph, this is your call but they are your parents. They gave up all family to raise you and you were stolen from them. Imagine how they felt losing you. Imagine how you would feel if such a thing happened to Mikhail." "Or if Kara was ever taken from you again." His eyes snapped back to Griffon and the man shrugged. That hit an old fear he didn't want to ever endure again. Letting out a groan, he raked both hands through his hair and let out a sigh. Zeke smirked at his surrender and nodded before dragging their brother away. Joseph watched them leave and walked back into his quarters. He found Kara resting on the bed with Mikhail in her arms and ran his hand through her hair. She stirred just enough for him to feel her with him and his mouth grazed her temple. Silently he left his quarters once more and descended the stairs. The waterfall echoed loudly in his ears as he walked through and he silently headed towards the clearing his brother had first revealed himself.

Michael stared at his grown daughter and the man next to her. He knew that dark look and destested the man and his family. Their intertwined hands churned his stomach and his jaw clenched. He wanted to protect her from the darkness that family brought but it appeared she had made her choice. "I see Leon didn't heed my advice." Kara felt the grip tighten around her hand and said "I chose him." Michael swallowed the digust and sighed "Well at least you have a decent protector, despite the condition he appears to be in." A low growl responded and she glanced up at Joseph. His black eyes were locked with Michael's brown gaze and she slowly stepped ahead of him. Their hands remained linked but she asserted her position to keep both males in check. "You called me. What do you want?" "I wanted to see you. I could feel your power growing and needed to reach out." "I have been fine on my own until now. What changed?" He sighed and asked "Do you know what happens when we die Kara?" "You come back apparently." She sounded annoyed and it left him startled. All this time he had hoped his little girl would still be somewhere inside her waiting to see him again. All that stood before him was a honed warrior from both decisions her parents made. "I didn't want to leave you or your mother. I had to provide enough time for you to get to safety." "I didn't come here for excuses, Dad." Michael saw the grip between them tighten and Joseph shoulder brush hers. He could see the agitation growing in her and her mate was responding. The atmosphere was starting to grow hot and he took a deep breath. "I understand." Kara let out a sigh and said "I'm not wasting my time. Just say what you have to say." "I want to help you control that fire." "I don't need your help." "Yes you do." She finally released Joseph's hand and said "I've done a pretty good job all this time. No thanks." He watched her turn away and the two start walking into the dense forest. He cleared his throat and said the only thing he knew that could stop her. "If you want more children you will listen." They both stopped and he watched them exchange looks before she finally faced him once more. "I'm listening." "The war you are preparing for is not going to be in your favor. There will be casualties but I can teach you how to survive." "How long?" "You cannot be in a rush Kara." She felt Joseph take her hand once more and heard "We have our people to get back to. She can't waste time out here." Michael met the man's gaze and said "Then I will come with you. I can show you on the way." "I'd prefer we wait until we get there. Your arrival isn't going to sit well." He took a deep breath and let it out slowly with a nod. She turned away again and he watched the two shift to their wolf forms. Joseph looked back at him and Kara shook her head. His gaze settled on her once more and she walked on ahead. Michael watched the enormous black wolf look at him once more and nodded slowly. He climbed on the wolf's back and gripped some of his scruff as Joseph took off to catch up. The ride was awe inspiring as he flew through the trees and saw the world in their view. Kara made them stop for the night at dusk and he slid off carefully. She was next to her mate instantly and inspecting his wounds before she let up. Joseph shifted and rested against a tree across a burning fire from him. Kara remained in her wolf form and rested her head on his leg with her gaze on her father. Michael kept his distance as he watched the man run his hand through her soft coat. Slowly the man closed his eyes and Michael watched Kara finally release her form. She carefully moved to the fire and glanced back at him. "Is he asleep?" "Some. He can still sense what I am doing." "He overexerted himself." She smirked and said "That's typical." "For one in so much pain he is recovering fast. Too fast." She heard the old fatherly tone and met his gaze. The man must have picked up on the small amount of phoenix blood in Joseph and her spine straightened. "I did what I had to do." "It's dangerous mixing bloods Kara. It could've killed him." "It was the only option. His wounds were too severe. I barely managed to keep him tied to me." "How much?" "Only once. He refuses any more." Michael sighed and raked a hand through his hair. "You'll have to make him." "What?" He looked at the man and caught his black eyes on them. She was right about him being aware. He had followed their entire conversation and looked ready to interject. "Once phoneix blood is given it takes more than just the initial injection for the body to acclimate to the changes." "I can't." He caught a shoulder and said "Joseph's body will give out if he doesn't take more. He is healing too fast. You should be able to sense that." Slowly she looked over her shoulder at her mate and saw him give a single nod. "How did you give him blood the first time?" "His food." "It needs to be a pure strain. No mixing it. That should reduce the number of transfusions." Kara met Joseph's black eyes once more and watched him close them. She turned back to her father and stood up. He watched her smother the fire until it was gone and met her green eyes. "I can give you tips to making it easier." She shook her head and said "I will be fine." Michael stood as she walked back to Joseph and slipped into the brush to give them some privacy. Kara heard him climb into a nearby tree for the night and shifted as she curled up next to a strong leg. Her soft head rested on his knee and she felt his hand slide through her coat again. 'I'll be fine without it.' 'No he is right.' 'We'll talk about it in the morning.' She looked up at his tired face and picked up on his quiet pulse. The man's exhaustion ate at her just as much as the muffled pain and she let out a sigh as her eyes fell closed. Her mind's walls dropped and she slipped into his chaotic thoughts. The pain still ripped through her like knives and she pushed passed it to wrap around him for the night. He finally allowed her assistance as he drifted into the calm sleep she provided. They slept through the night and at dawn she slowly stirred. Her body was rested but her mind weary from the night's battles. Slowly she rose from beside him and stretched her limbs loose. She released her wolf form and closed herself off to just her senses. She could hear the nearby creek and feel the cool morning breeze fighting off the early warmth of the sun rays. Their breakfast was a good fifty feet away eating grass and she looked down at Joseph. She hadn't hunted much since he started recovering but she knew he needed the nutrition. Shoving the dread aside, she left the campsite and shifted as she stalked the oblivious doe. Her mind had found a way to protect itself while he was bedridden and the anguish the animals emitted bounced off the walls. She strike hard and fast, putting the doe out of her misery quick and drug the kill back to camp. She quietly ate her fill and slipped off again to get a drink. The creek was cool against her paws and she cleaned her face. A single twig snapping brought her ears to attention and she looked over her shoulder. The black wolf approached with blood on his muzzle and she licked it off. He nudged her shoulder and took a quick drink before releasing his form. Kara joined him on the graze and relaxed to persistant sun rays breaking through the upper tree canopy. His strong hand took hers and she slowly looked up into his black eyes. Right now it felt like it was just them, no conflicts, no ailments. She leaned her head on his shoulder and listened to his strong pulse. His warmth surrounded her with security and she nuzzled his neck. The groan made her laugh and she wrapped her arms around his neck as she straddled his waist. Pure black hungry stared back at her and she took her time tasting his jaw and neck while she filled his body with her warmth. She pushed a little more of the pain away and pulled out as his mouth took hers captive. Her pulse jumped at the demand and her fingers slid through his black mane of hair. Every cell cried for him and her heart beat in her ears like war drums. His mouth claimed her for itself and she melted against him. Slowly it traveled down her throat to her collar bone and she sighed. Strong hands sculpted her form, increasing the tempo in her ears and she couldn't help but brush her body against his. She felt his fur brush her skin and then the bite brought a cry. The pain was unexpected but she remained still as he lapped at the running stream of blood. Each stroke of his tongue left her restless and she closed her eyes to the hunger growing rapidly. Slowly she felt the hazy affects of the loss of blood settle in as his tongue swept over the small laceration and closed it. Her head rested against his shoulder and he breathed her in as their pulses slowly returned to a healthy state. He lifted her chin and examined the bite. "Next time I'll try and be more gentle." She smirked and burrowed into his neck. His pulse jumped in her ear and she felt his arms settle around her. She could easily fall back asleep but they still had a few more days before they would be home. "Kara, if it is too much we won't do this." She closed her eyes and sighed "I'll be fine." "The journey home is tough enough for you when you're healthy." She looked up at him and said "I'm fine. A little blood loss isn't going to slow me down." His black gaze swept over her determined face and he kissed her slowly. She felt him finally release her and she allowed her arms to drop away. Slowly she stood and waited for him to join her. They walked back to the camp and he caught her hand just before Michael appeared. The man looked just as rested as she had felt earlier. Joseph shot the man one look and released her hand. "Let's get going." Michael rubbed his neck as the man shifted into his black wolf and Kara slowly joined him. Silently he climbed onto Joseph's back again and they started off in a walk before gaining momentum in another full gait.

Morning sun rays broke through the tree canopy and slid over along the brush. Feeling its warmth on his face, he took a deep breath and opened his eyes. Meeting the morning light, he looked at the woman curled up in his side and ran his hand through her blonde hair. She leaned into his touch and slowly opened her green eyes. Joseph felt her burrow closer to his warmth and wrapped an arm around his waist. "Good morning." Kara smiled and breathed him into her. She listened to his heart beat and savored the warmth his skin possessed. These mornings were far and few in between. Her responsibilites and his recovery left their time together so limited it was a wonder when they got time to themselves like this. "Breakfast?" She shook her head and said "I do not want to move just yet." He smirked and felt her breath teasing his skin. The spike in his blood was strong and he took a deep breath. She did not hold back the laugh as he rolled away with a low growl. The fire was there and she wanted to enjoy it but he was not that healed. He might protest but she was still in the back of his mind and felt the strain his body was holding off. Her blood had sped up his healing but now his body was accomodating the other DNA strands found in that small transfusion. He sat up and looked back at her. "Are you finished?" "You're getting better at finding me." He stood up and said "I always feel you." "The intrusion does not hurt anymore?" "Like bricks but I will not make you stop." He held his hand down and she pulled herself up beside him. His eyes scanned their surroudings and she felt his grip turn into steel. His instincts to keep her safe were stronger than ever and she had to bite back the annoyance they churned inside her. She had been taking care of everyone while he mended and knew how to protect herself but it was his job. That protectiveness was stamped into every inch of him and she knew regardless of her thoughts he was not backing off. "How far are we?" Kara swept the area with her gaze and then risked closing them. She had to release her security fully to him when she reached out like this. Slowly she felt all the thoughts and distractions slipping away and caught the trail in the back of her mind. Her father had not disappeared but he was not making it easy locating him. He knew someone was coming for him and was keeping them on their heels. She felt the distant hesitation and cloudy mind trying to pull out of her grasp. Her mother's warning had not been off. The man's thoughts were not always clear and sane but his drive to find her was still pulling at her. "Kara." She released the hold and opened her eyes with a deep breath. Slowly she looked up at Joseph and then turned her gaze forward. "It's not much further. He's stopped at the moment." "He's waiting for us to get moving." She glanced around the area again and said "You should eat and then we will get going." He shot her a hard look and she sighed in defeat. He had not let up her small appetite since their trip started but she let him have his way. It got him to eat and he was not leary of his food if she ate with him. She knew he was preventing her from slipping more blood into his system and kept quiet. She felt his hold on her hand slip away and watched him shift into his black form. He shot her another black look and she sighed before taking to the sky in eagle form. His distaste for the air born form was clear but he kept silent as he took off in a run. She kept above the tree tops to survey the area and watched him gain speed. His gait stopped instantly and his ears went up. Kara watched Joseph lower into a pouncing form before bursting through the brush after his prey. He brought down a large buck and she perched in a tree until he finished with his fill. He stepped back and glanced upward. Shifting her wings, she glided down next to the carcas and shifted into her wolf form. The first bite was empowering and she let the hunger settle over her. Slowly she filled her stomach and settled down in the grass. Joseph cleaned her muzzle and she returned the gesture. He let her stand and they walked quietly through the brush. She felt the pressure increasing in her head and slowed her pace. Coming to a stop, she took a deep breath and felt Joseph return to her side. "He's coming. ' Joseph pushed in front of her and watched the surrounding brush. Kara felt the power coming straight at them and shoved Joseph aside. The wave of fire engulfed her and she stumbled backwards. "Kara!" "Stay back!" He watched the fire close her off and dug his paws into the dirt. The need to get to her was threatening his sanity and then he felt the change in her. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, drawing the fire inside her. Slowly the flames disappeared and she released a sigh. He shifted from the wolf and ran his hands over her. "I'm fine." She tried to slow his hands down and keep him from losing control. Catching his hands and bringing them to a stop, she watched his eyes settle on the man emerging from the shadows. Michael stared at them with no signs of recognition. "Stay behind me." She stared back at her father and said "I can handle him." Joseph shot her a look and felt her release his hands. She was waiting for the next move and wanted to be prepared this time. Michael settled his gaze on her and began to pace. He flicked his hand towards them and she waved the fire off. "You're learning." "Finished?" He stepped back and she felt his mind settle down. The chaotic pressure was a low ember now and she glanced back at Joseph. His eyes were cold and pure black. Slowly she took one of his hands and he tightened his hold around hers. Michael's eyes narrowed and he growled "Release her." Kara entertwined their fingers and said "You wanted to see me."

"Kara" Her eyes fluttered and she rolled onto her side, pushing the voice away. Holding the pillow tighter in her hand, she took a deep breath and felt the pressure settling in her head again. "Kara" She pushed herself up in bed and raked her hands through her tasseled hair. Heat began to rise within and she looked over at her fire pit. Flames lept to life and left her cooling down. She let out a sigh and pushed the bedding off. Climbing to her feet, she felt flames running underneath her skin and walked into the bathing chamber. Stripping out of her clothes, she waded into the hot spring and swam across the spring. The hot water counteracted the fire burning inside and she felt the strain and tension finally release. Stilling her swimming, she allowed herself to sink to the bottom of the spring and let her mind clear. "Kara?" Kicking to the surface, she took a deep breath after breaking water and looked at the intruder. Her annoyance faded when she met Joseph's black eyes and he held up a warm towel. Slowly she walked up to him and he wrapped her in the soft fabric. His hand slid through her wet hair and he breathed her in. "Are you okay?" He wrapped an arm around her waist and walked her back into the bedroom. Her towel rested on the floor and he watched her dress in a pair of jeans and a white long sleeved shirt. She swept her hair up off her neck and pulled on a pair of socks. Sitting on the bed, she began lacing up her boots and he knelt in front of her. "Talk to me." "I keep hearing him." "Who?" Kara put her boot on the floor and sighed. She stood up and stepped around Joseph, looking for courage to speak. "Kara." He caught her arm and made her look back at him. This kind of aggitation he hadn't seen from her in years and it left him uneasy. "Who is talking to you?" "My father." Joseph met her green gaze and wrapped her in his arms. She breathed him in and tried focusing on his heart beat. She needed normal right now and this was the safest normal she knew. "He died." "I know. I was there Joseph." "Are you sure?" She took a deep breath and said "I hear his voice and feel his blood inside me burning." He looked down at her again and said "We need to talk with Emily." Before she could argue he caught her elbow and escorted her from their chambers. She felt him release her once in the hall to keep from drawing attention but his body was only inches away from her to keep her from retreating. Reluctantly she led the way to her mother's chambers and stepped inside. The place felt empty and after checking each room she let out a sigh. "She's not here." "Then we talk to Leon." "You hate him." "He can help you." They stepped back into the hallway and she followed him down to Leon's chambers. The man was listening to reports and they lingered in the corner. She couldn't keep from shifting her weight from leg to leg and Joseph caught her hand. He felt her pulse beginning to race and her skin begin to warm against his. Her eyes closed momentarily but he felt the pressure stabbing at her. After minutes of agony, the room was finally empty and Leon looked over at them. He took a seat and studied Joseph carefully. "I'm surprised to see you. Have your reconsidered?" "I'm not here for you." The man frowned but turned his focus on his granddaughter. She slowly met his gaze and he listened carefully. Her pulse was racing and he caught a bead of sweat slipping down her neck. "Kara, what is it?" She cleared her throat and swallowed the lump forming in her throat. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath and tried to push all the chaos out of her head. "I need to know about phoenix regeneration." Leon stared at her in silence and glanced over at her mate. One hand rested on her wrist but his gaze was on Leon. He was judging the man's words before they came out. "This is about your father." "Just tell me." "Kara, I can assure you there is no traces of him. Your mother searched for years to no end." She stood up and said "You lying." "I am not." "Then how can I hear him calling me?" Leon stood up and placed his hands on her face. Joseph remained by her side in his seat but felt the man's mind press against her walls. She slowly allowed Leon into her mind and took hold of a strengthening hand as he followed the trail of fire in her thoughts. "Get out Leon" The man pulled back quickly and Joseph caught her as she stumbled back. Leon took an unsteady seat and caught his breath. The push driving him out was pure fire and possessive. He knew that voice well and the power behind it. Slowly he looked back at Kara and met her shaken gaze. "I don't understand." "It's him." Leon slowly nodded and let out a sigh. He had no idea how to move forward in locating Michael but he knew his daughter would. "Have you seen your mother?" Joseph caught Kara's shaking hands and said "We stopped there first. She wasn't in." Leon raked a hand through his blonde hair and said "She told me she never found your father but I'm beginning to think she did." "Why wouldn't she tell me?" "When a phoenix is reborn, there can be a period of disorientation and violence. If Emily felt Michael was a danger to you, she would do everything to keep you safe." "She was gone my whole life. How long could he have been back?" "I found him three years ago." They looked towards the door and found Emily standing just inside the room. She seemed distant and met her daughter's gaze slowly. "I was working on reconnecting his memories when Joseph came to me for help. I didn't think I would have stayed away this long but now I see he has found a way to reach you." "I need to see him Mother." She shook her head. "Your father is very unstable. I can't guess whether he is whole or fractured each time I see him until we speak. It's too risky." "He is calling to me. His blood in me is reacting. I feel like I'm burning alive." Emily sighed and said "I cannot allow you to see him until he is better. I don't know if he will get better." Joseph stood up slowly and said "I'll go." Kara looked up at him and said "You cannot fight him off." "I stand a better chance thanks to you." Leon glanced back at his granddaughter and asked "What does he mean by that?" She ignored the question and stared back at her mate. He was serious about leaving after she just got him back on his feet. She shook her head and looked back at her mother. "I'll go with Joseph. I will need you to keep Mikhail safe until we hare back." "It's not safe for you to be around him." "He needs me. I'm going." Emily shook her head in defeat and Kara walked up to her. The woman studied her eyes and nodded. She knew she couldn't stop her daughter and looked back at her protector. "If he tries anything you put him down." Joseph nodded and followed Kara from the room.

His boots came to a stop in the clearning and he took a deep breath in of fresh air. It had been too long since he stepped outside and the fresh air helped hurry along his recovery. Leon stared at him as he relaxed with his new freedom and slowly watched Joseph look back at him. "I think it's time we both see your family." Joseph looked away and said "Maybe for you." Leon watched his jaw tighten as his state of relaxation disappeared and he tried to sense if the man was in pain still. There was no bond or link between them and he was left with only questions. "Your parents have been waiting for Kara's latest update on your recovery." "They don't need anymore." "Joseph. They are your parents." His gaze snapped back to Leon and he growled "My parents died when I was pup as far as I am concerned. These people mean nothing to me." Leon looked away and let out a slow sigh as the man walked back inside. His nerves were racing and he felt the craving to break something settling in. Climbing the stairs, he silently returned to their quarters and stopped at the bedroom door. He watched Kara sleep for what appears to be the first time in quite a while. He knew she would join him in bed but by shielding him from the pain she wasn't getting the rest she needed. "Joseph." He glanced over his shoulder as the skin moved aside and Zeke entered with his other brothers. Griffon stared at him a little surprised to see him on his feet and Ace shook his head. "Finally decided to give your mate a break?" He led them out in the hallway and Zeke said "We're glad you're doing better. Just don't do that again." He leaned his hip against the wall and asked "Worried?" Ace chuckled and said "I think more worried what would happen to Angel if you didn't pull through. She had been a nervous wreck with you being laid up for so long." Griffon sighed and said "Gabby hasn't been much better." "So all the women worried about their litte brother and yet Zeke seems to be the most relieved I can stand on my own to feet again." The two laughed and Zeke shook his head. He settled his gaze on his baby brother and knew the man understood why. "Thank you for taking care of my family." Zeke nodded and asked "What changed?" "Just felt stronger today." The three studied him for a moment and Ace said "Well at least this means Kara can stop and catch her breath." Joseph stared back at him and asked "She continued with the training?" The three slowly nodded and Griffon sighed "Between that loud bunch of babies, tending to you, and slowly creating a bridge between your folks and Leon she has no time to relax." He looked away and stared back at the waterfall. Leon's suggestion made sense now and he felt his jaw tighten. "Are you going to see them?" "No." Ace frowned and said "That's not right." Zeke watched him look back at them and said "Just don't turn your back on them if they approach you. That would be insulting to Kara." He nodded once and asked "Damon?" The three chuckled and Griffon said "He hasn't come anywhere near us since your confrontation." Ace nodded and said "I think you lived up to more than just the big brother image for him. The way you stared him down gave us chills." "I doubt that." Zeke watched the two shrug and "Using Kara to identify him wasn't the nice approach." Joseph met his gaze and said "It wasn't something I would do unless I had no other options." The two stared at each other until Ace cleared his throat and Griffon rolled his eyes. The tension between them about their relationships with their mates was going to kill them all if it wasn't put to rest soon. They watched Joseph look away first and saw him glance down the hallway. He heard Mikhail making his way towards them and found him lingering around a corner in hearing distance. The boy snuck a peek at him and when he didn't blink the boy ran up to him. Despite the protest throughout his entire body he took his son into his arms and held him as he greeted his uncles. Mikhail shifted into his pup form and jumped down onto the ground. "Can we go for a run?" He could hear his brothers protesting and said "I'll try and keep up." Mikhail's tail began wagging as he shifted into his wolf form and walked with him down the steps. The transition was less painful than earlier and he followed his son outside into the clearing.

His face looked relax and he was sound asleep. Leaning against the door frame, she counted every breath he took and took one for her own. Closing her eyes, she left their quarters and stepped into the hall. She swept her eyes over the residents moving around, she leaned against the railing and looked down at her hand. "Mom?" She glanced down at her side and watched Mikhail take her hand. He looked up at her with questions flooding his face and she ruffled his darkening hair. As he has grown he has begun to lose his blonde hair he took from her and was gaining the black mane that flowed through his father's bloodline. "How is he?" She wrapped an arm around his shoulder and said "Resting right now." "Is he going to get better?" Nodding, she stepped away from the railing and said "Let's go get some breakfast." He smiled and said "I'll get something for Dad!" Laughing, she followed him down the stairs and watched the guards glance their way as they slipped outside. The walk into the clearing was quiet and she watched her son take off in his wolf form. Sitting in the grass, she breathed in the fresh air and felt the first stirring in her mind. He was trying to keep distance between them to shield her from the pain that never wanted to leave and she closed her eyes. Her gaze snapped forward and she watched Mikhail drag a catch towards her. Smiling, she shifted and took the kill from her son. He looked proud of himself as they walked back inside and she caught the strut in his step. Rolling her eyes, she followed him up the stairs and stopped outside his father's quarters. "Can I give it to him?" She stared down at him until his pep disappeared and he sat in front of her. His ears fell back a little and she nudged his face. Mikhail nudged her back and took off down the hall towards his friends. She waited for him to leave her sight before slipping inside and carrying the food over to the hot springs. Silently she entered the bedroom and shifted as she approached the bed. His eyes were still closed but she could feel his focus settled on her. Slowly she slid an arm under one of his and helped him sit up. He bit back the groan as he was assisted onto his feet and she helped him into the hot springs. The scent of his breakfast forced him to look away and she guided him into the water. He sat in the water agaisnt a boulder and let the heat work on his body. His gaze followed her as she took the meat from the room and he closed his eyes. The scent of blood slowly lingered back to him and his gaze snapped open. "Kara." She reappeared at the entrance and brought the meat back into the room. He watched her put it back on the floor and waited as she joined him. Her hands slid over his arms as she inspected the slow healing wounds and he caught her wrist. A faint scent of blood lingered on her skin and he saw the healing tear in her skin. "What did you do?" She pulled her wrist free and said "It's okay." "Kara." Her fingers slid through his hair and his thoughts stilled as she worked them into his knotted muscles down his neck and into his shoulders. She checked the wounds over his torso and slowly stopped the massage. "You need to eat." Joseph turned his black gaze on her and she helped him out of the bath. He wrapped a towel around him before taking a seat on the waiting blanket and watched her slip into dry clothes. Silently she worked her hair back into a braid and met his gaze. Her hand slid through his hair on her way out of the room and he shifted. The change strained his healing body and he slowly tore a bite off. The meat flooded his senses and he carefully ate the rest of his breakfast. The bones were scraped clean by the time she resturned with Mikhail and the boy ran over to him. He felt the hands running through his coat and he watched the boy burrow into his side. "I'm glad you ate it. That'll help you get better." He saw Mikhail look back at his mother and heard him let out a sigh. She waited for him to slowly detangle himself from his father and watched him leave the quarters again. He waited until they were alone and climbed to his feet. Kara looked back at him as he walked into the living room and settle by some floor cushions. "Feeling better?" He watched her approach slowly and could feel her examining him slowly. He felt her hand settle in his coat and she settled into his thoughts. She was listening for any reactions and he held her gaze. "What did you do?" "Joseph." His shifting happened faster and he caught her wrist. He could still smell the blood on her skin and examined the healed tear. She felt his tongue slip over the closed wound and let the contact slip through her. His eyes turned back to her and he released her wrist. "You gave me your blood." "You haven't been responding well to your parents'." "I don't need anyone's blood." She stared back at him and said "I am doing what I have to do to keep you alive. Your body has been pushed beyond its limits and you were broken when I got to you. I barely managed to keep you with me bringing you home. Your parents offered their aid without hesitation but they knew it would only barely help." "Is this the first time?" She nodded and he caught her chin. His eyes stared into hers and she felt his resolve slowly settling in. "Not again." "Joseph." "I cannot be dependant to get well off of your blood. It could make things worse." "How much worse could all of this get? You are too weak to go outside and hunt. Your son misses you and so do I." His hand released her chin and he slid a hand through her hair. She leaned into his hand as it settled on her cheek and closed her eyes. She could hear his pulse pounding steadily back to her and felt him pull her to him. His arms secured her to him and she met his black gaze. His mouth settled over hers and she let the taste ease the emptiness in her. "Kara?" She felt him pull back slowly and slid her hand through his hair. Her hand fell away as she stood up and he returned to his wolf form. She pulled the skin aside and watched Zeke settle his gaze on his baby brother. "You look better." Joseph stared back at him and Zeke smirked. He looked down at Kara and she followed him out into the hall. "Angel wants you at the birthing." "I know." "Just don't let my brother keep you locked up to himself now that he is moving around." She rolled her eyes and said "I won't." He left her at the doorway and she walked back inside. Joseph was still in the same spot and she ran her hand over his head. "You need to lie down." His hand pulled her into his arms and she settled into his hold. He slid a hand through her hair and watched her eyes slowly drift closed. Carefully he shifted to his feet and lifted her into his arms. The strain was minimal and he lowered her into bed. She burrowed into the sheets and he brushed a locke of hair out of her face. He dressed in clean clothes and slid into his boots. Carefully he left the bedroom and stepped into the hall. He heard the busy atmosphere from the other residents and walked towards the stairs. Eyes fell on him as he descended the steps and he felt someone approaching from behind. Leon held his gaze and they walked outside.

Kara Her eyes flew open at the voice and she felt the mind stirring within hers. Carefully she separated them with her mental barriers and crawled out of bed. Her body began shivering as she left the warmth and crossed the room. Her boots waited by the door into the hall and she glanced back at the bedroom. Kara! Her eyes narrowed as she felt him stirring more from his deep sleep and she slid out of his chambers. Holding her breath, she saw Zeke heading her way and she slid into her boots. Her hands laced them up just as Zeke reached her and she carefully met his gaze. "You can't meet with him." "If he comes here I won't be able to stop Joseph." Zeke raked a hand through his black hair and growled "This is dangerous. If Joseph catches anything from speaking with him you know he'll kill him." "I know but I imagine Damon just found out about their parents' involvement." She walked down the stairs and heard him growl. Her barriers were pressed against as Joseph became more alert and she bit down on her own strength. Taking a calming breath, she met the approaching black wolf in the clearing. Sweeping their coverage, she noted all the sentinels on watch and leveled her gaze with Damon. "What do you want?" He step shifted out of his wolf form and stood a few feet away. She let him loom over her and appear intimidating for himself. "Why have you been taking blood from my parents?" "They volunteered." He didn't hold back the low growl and her eyes narrowed. She felt the power building and threatening to overtake her barriers. Carefully she put some space between them and tried glancing away from him to keep his image out of her mind. "My father has kept us protected my whole life. Why would he risk our safety to give you blood?" "For your brother." Damon's growl deepened as he let the wolf take over and he snapped his jaws in frustration. "They offered. You need to go." I want to see him for my own eyes "He's detained." Show me Kara! Her vision blurred for a few seconds and she felt the brokenness overwhelm her again. She shook her head, trying to keep control and kept her focus off Damon. "You need to leave Damon." His snarl was louder than normal and she closed her eyes as the volume adjusted itself. The pain was blinding as her vision enhanced with two minds merging and she felt him trying to make her look at the threat. "Damon, I cannot protect you. Go." Take me to Joseph! She closed her eyes again and felt her head turn to focus on Damon. It felt like he was shielding her behind him and she couldn't stop him from staring at his brother through her. Damon held her gaze and watched as it shifted to black. He released his wolf form and reached for her shoulder. She caught his wrist and he felt her grip threatening to crush the bone. "Kara, let go!" Joseph ripped away from her and she released Damon as she dropped to her knees. When only her soul remained she felt empty and took a deep breath. "Run." "Kara, what is going on?" Her head snapped up and she growled "I said go." Damon stepped back a few feet and felt the large wave of power heading for them. She turned to face it and remained in front of him as the black wolf moved slowly into the clearing. He was looking past her at Damon and she tried reaching for him. Joseph His black gaze left his brother and focused on her. She could feel the pain rippling through him and tried to soothe him. "Who is that Kara?" "My mate." Damon stepped closer to her and Joseph released a warning growl. The sound echoed in the clearing and Damon came to a stop. Two black wolves ran into the clearing from the ruins and she watched them stare at the man behind her. "Who are they?" "His back up." Damon took in the stares and watched as the back two wolves slowly shifted. He blinked as he held their gaze and felt like he was staring at older versions of himself. Zeke carefully reached for Joseph's left shoulder and watched the head snap his direction. "He means her no threat." Joseph looked back at Damon and lowered himself onto the ground. Kara approached him and knelt next to him. "Damon is your brother." He leveled her with his black gaze and she let him see the day she was led to his parents and the altercations with Damon. His growl echoed until her hand settled on his head and slid along his spine. Her touch helped take the edge off the pain enough to keep his mind coherent and she sat down against his side. "I've been getting aid from your parents to help you heal and Damon is taking it personally." He stared back at the young man and lowered his head onto her knee. She could feel his stength quickly vanishing again and looked up at Zeke. "We need to get him back into bed. His strength is almost gone." Zeke glanced over at Damon and waved Ace to join him. They knelt around Joseph slowly and she slid her hand along his head. Let's get you back to bed I don't trust him Neither do I but you need to be in bed Kara looked up at the two brothers and nodded once. When their touch could be felt he released his form and allowed them to help him onto his feet. Kara rose to her feet as they headed home and looked back at Damon. His gaze was transfixed on the three men walking away from him and she cleared her throat. "Next time I tell you to leave I mean it." "He was going to kill me." "Only if I had said so." Damon studied her for a minute and shifted back into his wolf form. Kara watched him walk away in silence and let out a sigh. Her body was sore from her mental battle with Joseph and craved a long soaking in the hot springs. She turned towards home and stopped. Glancing over her shoulder one more time, she saw Naomi and Maximus sitting at the edge of the clearing. Damon was lingering behind them and Naomi approached her. Kara knelt in front of the shewolf and let her sniff her hand. Joseph's pain was blinding "He will heal in time." Our blood isn't going to help him anymore than it has in sustaining him Kara let out a sigh and felt the presence barely settling into the back of her mind. She wanted to shield him from the conversation with Naomi but knew hiding him from them would only make it harder on him. "Naomi, I'm not alone." The shewolf leveled her with hazel eyes similar to hers and nodded. Maximus moved up to her side and looked up at Kara. "It will take you to bring him back from death's door." "I can't take that risk." Maximus nudged Naomi to head back and said "It will work." Kara watched the wolves disappear once more and felt the silence release all the tension surrounding her. The sentinels were distant once more and she could feel Joseph slipping to sleep. His guards were barely registering and she took a deep breath. She was going to need to hunt later with Mikhail and possibly her mate. Since his arrival home he hadn't taken any food but she hasn't felt up to forcing him. Today was the first day he was out of bed and it had drained him too quickly. Closing her eyes, she rose to her feet once more and walked back home. Her hunt would wait until after she checked on their son and took a quick dip to loosen her muscles.

The body fell in front of him and he felt his sides heaving from the exhertion. His lungs burned as his pulse pounded in his ears and he took a step forward. His legs buckled and he landed on the ground as his vision began blurrying. Joseph, we have to keep going He forced his eyes clear and found Ace and Griffon guarding him as he composed himself. Holding in the groan, he forced his legs back under him and he followed Ace away from the battlefield. He could feel the hot blood running down his side and felt each step send shards up his legs. Griffon brought up the rear and kept his eyes on their younger brother. The man was past exhaustion and his wounds weren't mere scratches this time. He checked their surroundings as they kept moving and remembered how horrible the situation was when they had found him. An entire army was pursuing him and had him cut off from any hopes of escaping without a fight. They had watched their brother take the blows as he tore his way free from danger and removed any threats towards his return home. The area was deadly quiet as they kept moving and he watched Joseph stumble once more. When he went down he released his wolf and stared up at the sky, Joseph get up He ignored them as he focused on his breathing and felt his pulse starting to slow. His strength was diminishing quickly and his brothers could feel the weakening in his power. He closed his eyes as his blood ran down his stomach and he reached for Kara. Kara He could feel Griffon settle next to him to try and keep him warm and Ace kept watch. He caught the first indication someone was approaching and watched the wolf race into the clearing. She slid next to Joseph and shifted as she assessed his wounds. Her hands slid over his abdomen and she removed his shirt. She barely kept the cry in as she took in the wounds and she took a deep breath. Slowly she moved her hands over his chest and let her hands glow as she began healing the worst of his wounds. The pain was pounding against her head and she slid her fingers through his damp hair. Joseph He tried opening his eyes but settled to leaning into her warm palm. She looked up at the two guards and glanced around the area. "We need a secure location until he is well enough." Griffon took a deep breath and asked "Can he move?" She glanced back at Joseph and shook her head. They would have to find a way to transport him to safety but it would still be painful for him. She took a deep breath and focused on finding him through all the pain. It was blanketing him almost to the point she could reach him and she kissed his temple. "We need to move him regardless." Ace nodded and said "I'll scope the area." She watched him leave and looked up at Griffon. He was staring at the woods and she shifted into her wolf form. Settling against Joseph's side, she nuzzled her head under his hand and felt him settle his touch into her warm coat. Stay with me Joseph She let her eyes drift closed as she wrapped herself around him and tried to block the pain. Griffon watched them until he spotted Ace returning. Ace nodded to his brother and slowly approached the two on the ground. Kara looked up at him and he watched her lift her head. "There's a hollowed tree not too far from here. We can keep watch until he can make it home." She smiled and watched the two carefully lift Joseph. The pain slid through him like shards and left her senses spiraling from the intensity. She couldn't see how he was keeping his focus when the pain was threatening to drive her mad. They walked quietly through the woods until they reached the tree Ace mentioned and she watched them lower Joseph into the hollow. She settled next to him and watched the two spread out into shadows to keep watch. Rest Joseph. We're safe He slipped into a heavy sleep and she lowered her head next to his face. Her ears listened for disturbances outside and she settled further into his subconscious. She could feel the world falling away as she joined with him and her body felt distant. She could feel him merging with her mind and she joined him in the heavy sleep. "Joseph. It's been a while." He looked over his shoulder and met the soldier's gaze. The man had his gun drawn and motioned for his men to slowly step into view. A few tasers and chains came into view and his hackles went up. He let his growl be heard and watched the leader focus on him again. "How about you just show us to your home and we'll leave you be." He pinned the man on the ground and snapped his neck. His eyes flashed as he looked up at army surrounding him and saw a fool advance. He met the man and dropped him with a crushing bite to his neck. Shifting from man to wolf, he broke necks with his jaws and used their guns against them. Bullets struck him and he felt the tasers burn against his stomach and back as he continued to remove the threat. A sharp pain to his lower spine brought him to his knees and he looked back at a single man still alive. The man had his gun raised and he jumped him. The neck broke and he landed hard on the ground. Her body ached from the impact and she forced her eyes open. She found the sun starting to set and looked back at Joseph. He was still sound asleep and she lifted her head slowly. Griffon? It's clear. Are we heading home? Yes She felt the presence still merged completely with her and she watched Griffon and Ace come into view. They helped him out of the hollow and she followed the men towards home. She could feel the pain shattering him and she took a deep breath Use me to help hold away the pain Joseph It's too dangerous I don't care. You can't keep your sanity much longer. He grew silent as he settled into the back of her mind completely and she barely felt the pain running through him now. The waterfall came into view and she felt him burrow deeper into her at the sound and shook her head to ease the sound. They were greeted with silence and she saw Zeke approaching with Angel and the rest of the pack. Zeke helped ease the weight of Joseph from Griffon and Ace and Angel met her as she left her wolf form. She was a little disoriented for once and she felt him shake it off. "Kara, are you all right?" She nodded and followed the boys upstairs to his quarters. Zeke had him lowered slowly onto the bed and looked back at her. He saw the flash in her gaze and slowly approached. "Joseph." Kara held his gaze and said "Thank you. Please make sure no one bothers us." "Joseph, this isn't funny." "Zeke, you okay?" They looked back at Griffon and Ace and found Griffon smirking. They had picked up on the unanswered side of the conversation and Ace place a hand on her shoulder. Her eyes flashed black as she looked at him and the man pulled his hand back. "Well that is suprising. I figured you wouldn't take such a risk." Kara could feel all three's disproval and the annoyance inside and said "I had to do what needed done. Now please go." Joseph's growl filled all their heads as they left and she rolled her eyes. Once they were alone she walked over to the bed and sat next to him. You look like high I feel it She smirked and carefully stretched out beside him. Her arm slid over his stomach and she burrowed her head into his neck. He didn't move as she breathed him in and she closed her eyes.

"Mother!" She looked over her shoulder as Mikhail raced on all four towards her. Laughing, she swept him up into her arms and felt him lick her cheek. His tail was going every direction and she put him down. She watched him tail after other runts and she shook her head. Zeke and Angel joined her as Mikhail disapepared from sight and she felt an arm slip around her shoulders. "How are you doing?" Kara smirked and said "We're holding together." Angel sighed and said "I do wish Joseph would come home soon." "He will be. I don't see him missing his first niece's birth." Zeke rolled his eyes as they laughed and watched Kara's attention settle on a pair of wolves approaching from the wolves. They kept a reasonable amount of distance and she left their protection. "Kara!" She kept her back to them as she slowly grew closer to the waiting pair of wolves and shifted as she stood mere feet from them. They slowly lowered their heads and looked up at her. Come with us. We need to show you something. She glanced back at Zeke and he nodded as he drug Angel back inside. Kara turned her focus back to the wolves and allowed them to lead her into the woods. She was led alongside of the old stream and found them traveling deeper into the woods than she ventured regularly. The wolves stopped suddenly and she glanced around. Inside Kara followed their point of view and saw an old den partially hidden by fallen branches and debris. Slowly she approached the mouth of the den and stepped passed the covering leaves. Her paws fell on the cold damp floor as she walked away from her exit and deeper into the den. Slight noises drew her ears up straight and she noticed the slight movement coming from the shadows. Her muscles tensed up as the body came closer and she felt her hackles rising as the power brushed against her. Her eyes narrowed as she made out the black wolf and a low snarl met her ears. She responded with her own snarl and she watched him stare back at her with pure black hate. Get out "No." He lifted his head and asked "Who are you?" She held his stare and sighed "Maximus." His ears went back and he stepped away from her. She watched him slip halfway back into the shadows and released her wolf form. Her eyes met his again and she knelt down on one knee to be level with him. "You look like someone I used to know." "Please don't compare me to that old treacherous fool." "How do you know Leon?" She sighed and said "He's my grandfather." Slowly Maximus came closer and took in her scent. He could smell the familiar bloodline mixed with one unknown and then he caughta different scent. It swept through him like a breeze and he stepped up to her. His nose slid over her hand and he carefully sniffed her neck and hair. "How? How do you smell like my son?" She stared into his black eyes and watched him sit down. He kept his focus on her and she pulled Joseph's necklace out from hiding. She watched the wolf study it and focus on the ring resting in her hand. "He gave it to me." "He's alive?" She slid the necklace back around her neck and nodded. The surprise was evident in his gaze and he glanced over his shoulder. She watched a gray brown she-wolf slowly step into sight and lowered her head. Maximus watched her draw closer and stand before Kara. That scent. Maximus nudged her face with his and she met Kara's gaze. They studied one another until Naomi finally sat beside her husband and Kara extended her hand. Slowly the she-wolf placed her paw in the warm palm. A low growl echoed from the entrance and she looked over her shoulder. A young gray wolf was drawing closer and broke into a charge. "Damon no!" He ignored Maximus's order as he jumped for her and Kara met him in the air. Her paw hit his throat and she pinned him beneath her momentarily. He jumped free and circled her with weary eyes. "Damon stand down!" He glanced back at his father and said "She is intruding. I'll handle this." Maximus stood up and tried to get between them but Zeke charged into the cave and threw Damon into the wall. He shielded Kara from the idiot and stared back at Maximus. "Zeke?" "You're supposed to be dead." "You don't sound surprised." He snorted and found Damon trying to sneak another attack in. He threw the pup to the wall again and Kara shoved him behind her. "Enough!" "Kara. I am just protecting you." She stared into his black gaze and said "I don't need everyone one of you boys fighting my battles." Zeke looked down at her and said "I gave my word to Joseph to keep you safe." She flicked him with her tail as she walked away and it left his muzzle stinging. He responded with a warning growl and she approached Naomi. "I'm sorry about that." It's natural for them. Maximus walked over to Damon and watched him look up. The pup slowly rose to meet his father's gaze and felt Zeke focus on him again. "Zeke." He tore his gaze away from the threat and looked at her. She released her form and stared at him. "Who is with Mikhail?" He stood over her with a serious look on his face and said "Angel and the others." She sighed and heard "Apologize." "To a female? No." Maximus snapped at him and growled "She is family." Damon snorted and said "We don't even know her." Zeke approached slowly and watched the pup cower at his approach. Maximus stared down his son and watched the approach stop. He wasn't going to allow the youngest to be bullied by the others. Naomi watched Maximus release his wolf form for the first time in years and walked over to him. He rested his hand on her head and rubbed her ear. "After the attack on our home Namoi hasn't been able to leave her wolf form. It was the only thing that kept her alive while recovering from her wounds." Kara held the mother's gaze and spotted Damon releasing his form. He stared back at her a younger version of her mate and his distrust stirred the longing in her. She felt the hand rest on her shoulder and she looked at Zeke. "I see Joseph isn't the runt anymore." "Runt?" She saw Damon push past his parents and stare up at Zeke. The man held his gaze with annoyance and she heard someone approaching. Damon left his silent disput with Zeke to hault another intrusion and she broke in a run after him. He was inches from Mikhail and she threw her body into his. Damon rolled across the ground and looked up at her. Kara stood over her son with her head down and her fangs bared. Her eyes flashed and he slowly stood up. "Keep away from him." "He shouldn't be charging in here." "Zeke." They watched him slowly approach and she shifted to hold his gaze. He actually stepped back in front of Damon and it startled him. The man was lethal compared to him but shirked when she stared him down. The pup slowly shifted into a young boy and Naomi trotted over to him. Mikhail shifted behind his mother's leg as she approached and Kara watched the she-wolf sniff her son. He looks just like him Naomi looked up at her and she nodded. The she-wolf sniffed Mikhail again and looked back at Maximus. He let out a sigh and approached as Kara picked Mikhail up. The boy wrapped his arms around her neck and stared back at Naomi. "Where is Angel?" Mikhail winced at her tone and whispered "I slipped away when she wasn't looking and tracked you and Uncle Zeke." Kara held his gray gaze and said "You know the dangers." He nodded slowly and she looked back at Naomi. Maximus stood next to her and studied the young boy. "Where is his father?" Mikhail looked at Maximus at the mention of his father and heard "He had to leave for a while." "I can't see my son leaving his own family." Kara held the man's dark gaze and said "He didn't have a choice. He needed time." "Time?" Zeke could feel the anxiety growing as she was forced to discuss her missing mate and growled "Stop harassing her. Joseph left because he found out about Leon and you two." Maximus looked at his eldest and then slowly back at the woman before him. Her son burrowed into her neck but kept an eye on him. Those gray eyes were proof of his mixed blood but he had every trait of his father stamped over his built. "What does he know?" "How the government found you." Naomi's cry drew his hand to her and she met his gaze. He nodded slowly and looked back at Damon. The young man was watching them with distance and the usual annoyance when his siblings were discussed. The jealousy he felt for his full blooded brother was evident in his stare but it wasn't fair. He had grown up under their love and care compared to his older brother and should feel lucky. "I think it's time to go see Leon and set the record straight." "The rest of my siblings are there. You will only ignite a brutal fight." Maximus let out a sigh and met Kara's gaze. She slid a hand through her son's hair and focused on Damon. "If Damon goes in your place it may lessen the blow." "As long as Joseph doesn't find him. If he finds out Damon threatened both of you he'll kill him." Damon snorted and said "I'm not scared of the almighty Joseph." Kara's eyes flashed and she felt Mikhail looked up at the man. His eyes were narrowed and his growl silenced the room. He jumped down from her security and shifted as he approached Damon. The man stared down at him and he stared back with pure hatred. "No one insults my father." Damon stared at him amused and Kara picked the pup off the floor. He swatted at the man as he was pulled away and Maximus couldn't hold back his chuckle. "Very protective. He's a lively spirit for his age." Kara held the struggling pup in her arm and glanced at Naomi. The mother stood in front of her son and Damon lowered his gaze. Maximus held out his hand and slowly she took the gesture. Zeke watched the connection form and waited until Kara pulled back. She held the man's gaze a little longer as she etched his features into her mind and slowly she lowered Mikhail to the floor. He looked up at her and she shifted as she led him outside. He trotted by her back legs as they distanced themselves from the den and moved along the stream. Zeke kept to their rear to ensure their safety from blind attacks and watched them come to a stop in the clearing before their home. Mikhail looked up at his mother and she slowly led the way into the temple.

Mikhail lay resting in his bed and she gently ran her fingers through his blonde hair. His gentle breathing kept her focus on him and she felt a smirk crossing her mouth. The skin moved as she the power enter the room and she met Joseph's gaze. He took her hand and pulled her frm their son's side. She wrapped her arms around his neck and let his mouth slip over hers. "How was his hunt this morning?" Kara smirked and said "He enjoyed chasing some foxes before he settled for rabbit." He glanced at their son and ran his hand through her hair. She leaned into his touch and breathed him into her. He tugged her from the bedroom and into the hot springs. She let him peel her clothes off her and check her for any harm while away from him. Slowly she drew his focus back to her face and ran her hands over his chest. His mouth captured hers and she pulled him into the water. The heat of the water grew as she said her hands over his arms and felt the hard muscles beneath her fingers. She met his black gaze and slid her fingers through his hair. "Kara." "Open your door Leon! " He jerked his door open and stared at the soldiers in front of him. They had their weapons drawn and he blocked their entrance. "I will not hand over my daughter. Be gone." The men slowly lowered their weapons and began falling back. Leon watched them start to leave and heard someone whisper to his comrade. "We can still take the boy at the ruins." He secured his family before shifting and pursuing the soldiers. He ran into the ruins and was met with silence and the scent of blood. Racing up the stairs he followed the smell into the old garden and found Maximus trying to save his mate. The two looked at each other and he heard the weak plea from her. "Please save Joseph." He closed his eyes and left the couple. Guilt built in his chest as he ran after the fleeting army. Her body shook from the pain and she felt the strong arms lift her from the water. Her clothes were slid on and she felt her breathing finally slow. She looked up at Joseph and he slid his hand through her hair. "Are you with me?" She nodded and felt him take a deep breath. His body was tense around her and she found his eyes cold. He must have seen what she saw and she took a slow breath. "Joseph?" He helped her to her feet and said "I need to speak with Leon." She caught his arm and said "You will kill him." "No but he will suffer." She let him leave with a sigh and walked into the bedroom to check on Mikhail. He was still sound asleep and she kissed his temple. Slipping her hand through her hair she stepped into the hall and tried sensing for Joseph. He had separated from her as much as he would risk and she reached for Zeke. The man was with Angel and she felt them being drawn to Leon's quarters. She found other residents picking up on the mounting tension and the overwhelming power quickened her pulse. She found the quarters packed and saw the two staring at each other. "I should kill you." Leon took a deep breath and asked "What did I do?" "You know." "No I don't." His jaw tightened and he growled "I saw you sell my parents out." "How?" Kara pushed into view and Leon met her gaze. He let out a sigh and slowly looked back at Joseph. Black eyes threatened to suffocate him and sent chills down his spine. "I did what I had to do to protect my family." "You let them come in here and kill my parents in front of me! That's why you took me." Leon raised his shoulders and growled "Don't challenge me." Joseph watched him shift into form and felt his pulse calm in anticipation. Leon lowered his head and his fangs flashed. He watched the man shift his weight more onto his back legs and felt his power building to strike. The wolf was watching for a sign of submission but Joseph refused to give in. Leon flexed his paws and his hackles rose higher as his growldeepend. He caught the push off as the wolf charged and shifted as he returned the charge. He jerked to a stop when Kara stood between them and let go of his wolf. Leon remained on all fours and watched her focus on her mate. "Calm down." He stared down at her and she caught his face in her hands. He felt that touch calming the raging storm slowly and she stepped closer. "He isn't worth it." "Thank you Kara." Her gaze snapped back at her grandfather and she said "I am the only reason you are still alive. Next time I won't stop him." She looked back at Joseph and took a deep breath. "I need you to go. Right now you're unstable." He stared down at her as the words settled in and he felt her arms wrap around him. He breathed her in and left the room. She held her breath and found Zeke approaching. "Was Joseph right?" Kara met his gaze and said "We saw it this morning." Zeke stared at Leon and said "If you hadn't interferred my brother would have killed him for sure." She took a deep breath and left the room. Her feet shifted to paws as she raced down the hall and she rushed through the crowd to the waterfall. She found him standing in the clearing and he looked back at her. "You should go back inside." She shifted as she caught his arm and "Don't leave." He smirked and said "I can't trust myself right now. You shouldn't either." "If you go, make sure you come back." He slid his mouth over hers and said "As soon as I can." She let him walk away and let out a sigh. Running paws drew her attention back to the waterfall and she watched her son emerge. He ran up to her and shifted as he threw his arms around her. "Where's Father going?" She wrapped her arms around him and said "He will be back." Mikhail leaned his cheek against her shoulder and she slid her fingers through his blonde hair. Staring out at the open woods, she could feel the disappearing power putting more distance between them and she took a deep breath. "Let's go see Rafe for your lessons." Mikhail shook his head and said "I don't feel like it today." Kara smirked and said "Let's go." He sighed as she carried him back into the temple and she put him onto his feet. She watched him look up at her and he ran up the stairs to meet up with Rafe. Kara let out a sigh and took a seat on the steps. She could hear the whispers and tried tuning them out. "Kara?" She looked up as her mother took a seat next to her and heard "I'm sorry." Kara looked at Emily and said "It's taking every ounce of strength to sit here." Emily wrapped an arm around her and sighed "I can't begin to say anything to cheer you up." "Just don't defend Leon." Emily laughed and said "I know better." "Why would he do it?" "I don't know the exact reason but if my father hadn't protected us you wouldn't be here living and breathing as Joseph's anchor." Kara looked away and sighed "I know. As much as I hate him right now I know." She stood up slowly and heard the laughter coming from upstairs. Emily followed her upstairs and down the hall to the courtyard. They found Rafe teaching the young ones to romp and pin one another.

The warm evening breeze blew overhead branches and left a flickering shadow slipping across her face. She opened her eyes slowly and stared up at the sight with a sigh. The nap was almost over and she would be forced to return back indoors for the evening. Her hand slid over the swell on her stomach and she understood. The brush against her mind brought a smirk to her mouth and then she heard the approaching chaperon. Her mother looked at her when she came into view and waited as she got to her feet. The woman had become a rock during the transition and she let an arm surround her shoulders. "How are you feeling?" She kept her mouth shut when she wanted to groan and let the woman take her back inside. All of their people were settling in for the night activites while she was forced to return to her quarters. When Emily left her in her room, she took a calming breath and counted to a minute. She shifted into her wolf form and padded quietly through the halls to the courtyard. The place was empty and she let go of her form as she approached the fountain. Birds were singing their night songs and she sat down next to the cooling water. Her hand slid through the water and she took a deep breath. The peace in this spot always drew her in the evenings and she looked up at the blue sky. The sunset was starting to burn orange and red across the sky and she glanced back into the hall. Her eyes closed for a moment and she broke into the sky with her wings beating on the thermals. She flew up above their home and slid among the clouds. She wanted to laugh but kept it inside to keep it from filtering through others. As the sun dipped below the horizon, she settled on the ledge above her room and shifted back. She let out a content sigh and watched the rest of the sunset. When only darkness surrounded her, she let herself into her room and closed the escape door. Her hands slid through her hair, releasing it to fall down her back and her shoes landed by the door. She moved to the hot springs and let her clothes pool on the floor. The water released the tension in her muslces and she relaxed on her back. Her eyes drifted closed and she let everything grow silent, shutting out everyone but the small presence brushing her mind occasional. Taking a deep breath, she let herself sink below the surface and swam back to the edge of the spring. She slipped a towel around her as she climbed out and carried her clothes back to her bedroom. The fire sprung to life and filled the room with its dancing light. She sat down on the bed and ran her fingers through her hair, working it into a braid for the night. Her eyes shifted to the doorway as the skin slid aside and a black wolf entered the room. She watched him shift as he approached the bed and she met the fiery kiss the minute his mouth took hers captive. Her hands slid over his covered body and she tugged his shirt off to get to the hard skin. He slid his mouth over her soft shoulder and along the top of the towel resting over her breasts. Her body was screaming for him as she came to her feet and removed his pants. His arms snaked around her waist and he lifted her up with ease. She wrapped her legs around him as he lowered her over him and she threw her head back as the hunger ripped through her with each stroke. He lowered her onto the bed and took his time unwrapping her. His mouth slid over her skin, teasing her breasts and his teeth nipped and tugged her nipples. Her hands dug into his back and the slight tearing of skin added to the passion. His hips quickened into he was pounding against her and she felt her body coiling and pounding between her legs. He met her gaze as his body devoured hers and she kissed his neck. Her mouth worked down his chest to a small nipple and she tugged it between her teeth. He shuddered around her and she wrapped her legs around him tighter. Her tightness left his body so hard and throbbing he had to pull out. She wanted to cry at the sudden movement but felt a moan ripped from her as his mouth clamped over her. His tongue probed fast and hard as his teeth scratched. She dug her hands into his shoulders and felt her hips bucking against him as he brought her closer to the moment of release. The first wave of ecstacy slipped through her and he shoved himself back into her hard and fast. The invasion was like a sword sheathing itself and pierced her to her womb. She couldn't hold back the cry and felt his mouth settle around her pounding pulse as he poured into her. The release broke the resistance and she shattered beneath him. Her body ached and throbbed but hummed with the satisfaction of his lovemaking. She took a deep breath as her pulse started to calm and looked at him. He was watching a small bead of sweat slip down between her breasts and caught it with his tongue. She felt his tongue work a soothing path over her body, easing the effects of their rough play and the small spark of hunger jumped when his tongue was administered to her sensitive skin. She propped herself up on her elbows and watched his stern administration at work. She could see the claw marks on his back and waited for him to finish easing her discomfort. Finally he stretched out next to her and she straddled his hips while working on her marks. His eyes fell closed as her mouth slid along each line and he felt relaxation and taming settling in. When she curled up in his arms for the night, he stared down into her eyes and slid his hand over their unborn child. "Restless today?" Her hand settled over his and said "No. Just talkative." He kissed her slowly and she nuzzled his neck. He could feel that small presence reaching to him and breathed her in. When their child would be born was still up for questions. She didn't exihibit the signs of the animal preganancy, nor the human and it left them wondering how long she would carry. Emily had said she had taken all nine months as a human baby would but Kara's gifts let everything in question. She had started to show after two months and at first they thought it would only taken ninety days but they were into their fifth month and still nothing has cleared up. A small kick against his hand brought his attention back to the baby and she smirked against his warm skin. "He doesn't like being forgotten." "You're sure it's a boy?" She nipped his chin and straddled his waist slowly. He couldn't stop the groan as she took him back inside of her and her hands slid up his chest to his shoulders. Her mouth kissed a slow path from his neck down his chest to his stomach. "Kara." The growl made her smirk and she squeezed her inner walls tighter around him. His hands tightened on her hips and she nipped his stomach. "I'm positive he's a boy." She watched him stare back at her with pure hunger in his black eyes and worked her invisible path back to his neck. His hand gripped her hair and tugged her head back to expose her throat to him. He rolled her beneath him and forced her to endure the same torturous path. She savored their bodies coming together like this and was a little thankful to the extra hunger she was enduring from her hormones. Some nights she only wanted sleep but then there were other nights where she couldn't get enough of him. His mouth stilled on over their child and his head turned to the doorway. She felt his body grow cold and alert while fighting to overcome the hunger. He swung out of bed without warning and she watched the wolf slowly leave the room. Her hormones were screaming as she pushed them aside and sat up slowly. She looked for some clothing and found the towel discarded the only option. "Stay in bed." His tone was commanding and harsh for once and she drew the covers up over her. Her instincts were telling her to follow him but she could feel his resolve unwavering. She curled up on her side and waited as he guarded the entrance. Her body was starting to grow restless and she felt like she was burning up. She looked at the fireplace and found the flames calm. "Kara, what is it?" "I don't know." He wanted to go to her but he couldn't leave his post until he knew the threat was gone. He could feel the change in her and then all connection was cut off. "Kara." Giving up on the door, he moved back into the bedroom and found her curled up on the floor. Her form shifted back and forth between human and animal. He stepped closer and she pushed him back. "Don't." "Kara!" Her body became engulfed in flames and he could feel the third presence screaming. He couldn't stop from pacing in his wolf form and he circled the room, trying to find a way to get closer. "Emily!" He bit down on his resolve and ignored the burning of flesh as he carried her into the hot springs. The water started boiling and he steeled his jaw as the heat threatened his body. Keeping her locked in his arms, he held her in a protective position to hide her from the incoming company and tried reaching through the emptiness for her. Emily entered the room with his siblings and Leon and pushed her way into the hot spring. "Stay back." She took in the burns forming on him and said "I can help." Leon drew closer and asked "What's happening?" "She is going to deliver." The man shook his head and said "This isn't normal, Emily. Something is wrong." The woman carefully rested her hands on a bare shoulder wrapped in flames and said "It's Michael's blood. He said their bloodline have painful birthings. They can't control their skills and many women are hurt." Joseph met her gaze and said "You need to calm her somehow. Our son is in distress." She nodded slowly and searched for some path to her daughter. Pain responded as she began tracing her down and she forced her will through. "Calm down Kara. I can talk you through this." "Make it stop." "You will be fine. Just breathe." "The water is calming." Emily looked at the hot spring and found the boiling gone and only steam rising. She looked back at Joseph and found his focus soley on the woman in his arms. She slowly looked up at him and the fire disappeared from around her. Emily looked back at their spectators and Gabby ushered the men out. Clothes were brought into the room for privacy and the the women left long enough for him to help her to the skin and pile of clothes. She slid into a shirt and he pulled her hair back as the women returned. Emily looked at him and he shook his head. The woman smiled and said "You did your part. Now it's up to us." Kara's grip tightened on his hand and he watched her nod once. Emily took his place at her side and he was pushed from the room. His mind settled with hers, keeping her pain masked the best he could and he found the other men waiting in the room. Leon rested a hand on his shoulder and said "She will be fine. All of the women know how to bring a child into this world." Griffon snorted and said "I have never seen this before. You sure know how to pick a mate, Joseph." His eyes flashed back at the man but he kept silent. He could feel the agony slipping through her but she refused to make a sound. Zeke stood by his side in silent comfort and Ace pulled Griffon into the hall. He kept his gaze locked with the entry to the hotspring and the soothing voices were trying to encourage the child. He felt the moment their son was born and left his companions. Emily handed him the boy wrapped in spare clothing and ushered the others out of the room. She watched him bring the child to Kara as she finished up and washed her hands in the hotspring. The boy's eyes were open and exploring, reminding her of when Kara had been born. "Do you want me to clean him for you?" Kara shook her head and said "I think we need to be alone." Emily smiled and left them. Joseph settled the boy in her arms and breathed her in. He couldn't stop himself from inspecting her, making sure she was okay and she looked up at him. The burns were healing quickly and she gingerly place a hand on a burn resting on his chest. "I'm sorry." He brushed a lock of wet hair from her face and said "I'm fine." Kara captured his mouth in a slow kiss and he let that comfort root him back to reality. The baby stirred in her arm and she was helped up to her feet. They moved to the hotspring and she took her time cleaning their son and found Joseph watching with a look of protector in his eyes. "Relax will you. He is perfectly fine." "He doesn't have a name." She laughed as she brought him out of the hotspring and let Joseph take him. The man watched her stretch and finish dressing. They moved into the bedroom and the baby was settled in the middle of the bed. "Mikhail." Joseph looked back at her and she glanced up at the phoenix carving over the firepit. He met her gaze and she came up to him. Her arms slid around his neck and he breathed her in. He could feel the hunger pounding at her and nuzzled the top of her head. "I will stay behind so you can go eat." "I'm sure your sisters would want some time with their first nephew. You need the hunt as much as me." He studied her for a moment and nodded. He watched her take a seat on the bed while summoning his sisters and joined the two. Gabby trotted into the room followed by April and the two women cooed over the boy. Kara pulled him back as they approached their nephew and she kept a hand on his arm to keep his protectiveness at ease. April looked back at him and said "We won't let a single hair become out of place." His growl made her laugh and he was pulled from the room. The walk to the waterfall was unsettling and he let her guide him further from their child. She breathed in the moonlight and looked back at him. Her hand settled around his hand and she waited for his gaze to finally meet hers. She shifted into her wolf and nudged her head against his leg. He rolled his eyes and settled into his wolf form. She swatted at him and took off into the woods. He could feel her laughter and sense of freedom. It had been so long since she had been carefree and he gave chase.

"Kara, run!" She looked over her shoulder and saw the black wolf tackle the attacking soldier. Her gaze swept the battle field and she saw the fires burning around them. The temple was destroyed and several young ones lay wounded from the assault. Her pulse quicked as she checked each one but found no sign of her child. Someone caught her arm and she met their brown gaze. Rafe tugged her to follow him and she let him drag her to some cover. "Mom!" She caught her flying son in her arms and held him tightly to her. He looked up at her with his black eyes and she kissed his brow. Rafe met her gaze and nodded one time. She sent him a thankful smirk and looked over her shoulder at the battle. Her grandfather was being guarded as he was assisted from the fighting with a limp and her mother had a soldier pinned beneath her paw. Her gaze sought out Joseph and she watched the black wolf tear the throats out of each opponent with his iron jaws. He was covered in their blood and his eyes zeroed in on her. She held her son tighter and watched the man fight his way to them. Each soldier that tried to strike him down was dead in midstride and he padded through the dead until he stepped into the coverage beside her. She didn't hesitate to wrap her arm around him and breathe him in. He checked the boy for any signs of injuries and said "We need to get moving." "We shouldn't let them take our home." He met her gaze and said "There is nothing left here." She wanted to stay and assist the warriors in their struggling but felt the hand catch her wrist. He wasn't giving her a choice and she watched him shift back into the black wolf. He stared back at her and she put their son down to change. The little one was still learning his form and rode on his back as they took off into the woods. His half siblings fell in around them and she felt Rafe take position to her left to keep an eye on her as well. Her paws followed Joseph but her thoughts wandered back to the battefield, conveying the orders to meet up when they had found a secure location. She closed the link to her kind and focused on memorizing the details to their unknown destination for future relaying. "Kara." Her eyes opened slowly and she stared at the thick woods in front of her. She glanced behind her at the man watching her and turned back to the front. The new group of warriors were practicing their new forms and she felt the emotions pressing into her thoughts again. A strong hand settled on her wrist and she met the black gaze. "What is it?" She shook her head and said "Nothing." He wasn't convinced but she knew he wouldn't push it. The dreams had started hitting her when she was awake a month ago and not one of them were the same except for the war. All of them had war between their kind and the government and left the dreaded knowledge of of the future war buried into her bones. A shiver slid through her without warning and his body stepped close enough to warm her with his body heat. She looked back at him and saw his gaze sweeping the area. "Time to head in." She nodded and watched the warriors turn their way. They were still shifting from land to air forms and back but his quiet order wasn't ignored. Zeke approached them with Angel as the men headed into the temple for the night and their presence confirmed the order to any doubters. When the woods were empty, the two headed in and Joseph glanced back at her. She was still blocking him as her eyes swept the area again and he waited for her to make the next move. She never let him see the dreams but he could tell when she had one and it bothered him. They were only supposed to attack her in sleep but lately she has been zoning out for several minutes and he could feel the usual pull on her. Her mind would instantly cut off all contact with him and he wouldn't be able to reach her until she came to. He wanted to know what she was seeing but even if she wanted to share them, she couldn't allow it for her own sake. Green eyes finally returned to him and she shifted as she headed inside for the night. He followed without a word and watched her climb the stairs. Leon was watching them from his quarters and waved him over. He spotted her slipping down the hall to her room and followed the leader inside to his private room. "How was practice today?" "The men are getting the changing down better. It will still take time for them to fully understand their new abilities." "And you? Have you found any other form?" "I don't need one." Leon didn't hold back the slight frown and said "I'm worried about Kara. These new lessons must be wearing on her." "She's holding it together." The man met his gaze and shook his head. He wanted more than the vague answer but wasn't privied to it unless the woman said otherwise. When no other questions came, Joseph left the man and made his way through the hall to her quarters. He stopped outside the entrance and slowly entered. His jaw tightened as he made out his sisters and Emily sitting in the room with her and she kept her gaze from him. Emily smiled up at him and said "We are giving you the night off. Let us take care of her for one night." "Don't." He saw Angel focus on him as that simple request filled his head and she glanced at Kara. The woman picked up on the silent conversation and stood up. He watched his sisters leave without a word and Emily glance back at Kara. "Are you all right with this?" She nodded and watched her mother slowly leave them alone. He remained still as she rose and walked into the hot springs. His eyes followed her clothes to the ground and she dipped beneath the water. Silently he joined her and slid his arms around her. Her back pressed against his chest and he burrowed into her neck. He could breathe her in and forget the weight they were both carrying. Closing his eyes, he let the silence surround them and heard a distant sound. She felt him pull back and slowly looked over her shoulder at him. His presence filled her before she could block him and he met her gaze when he heard it again. "Kara." She closed her eyes and said "I didn't know how to tell you." He caught her face in his hands and said "You did." She looked up into his black eyes and said "This is the last thing we need. I can't protect our people for the war if I can't train properly." He couldn't hold back the smirk and said "I wasn't going to let you train them anyways. I will teach them how to fight the soldiers." "Joseph." His smirk faded and he said "I will not risk you getting hurt." "I know what I am doing." His thumb slid along her cheek and he said "I know but this isn't just your fight." She closed her eyes with a sigh and he kissed her brow. His arms slid around her and she listened to his steady heart beat. His hand slid over her spine and he brushed her hair from her shoulders. He lowered his mouth to the faint scar on her shoulder and slid his tongue along it. She felt the jolt of hunger waken and tried to remain still as he removed the last traces of the mark. His administrations of healing were too sensual to keep from wanting him and when he applied them to her side, she bit back the growl. The man was too tempting when he was seeing to the healing marks like this and the hot water around them made her ever more sensitive. She felt his arms circle her waist to keep her prisoner and she sighed as his mouth slowly worked a path up her stomach. His mouth slid over her breasts and up her neck to her mouth. She met the hunger kiss and her fingers curled into his hair. His arms lifted her off her feet and she circled her legs around his waist. He carried her out of the hot spring and lowered her onto a rug away from the doorway. Her hands slid down his back and his hands sculpted every inch of her. He curved her hips and lifted her bottom just before surging into her. She let him take her over the cliff until he was too exhausted and sated to attempt one more time. Her pulse was pounding as his head settled on her breasts and she slid her fingers slowly through his damp hair. Her body was too satisfied to move and she couldn't find the voice to say a word. Slowly he kissed her and she breathed him in. His hand settled onto her stomach and she felt the slightest stirring of a third presence. He met her gaze and she couldn't hold back the smile. "What?" She kissed him again and said "I thought you were going to be upset." "Not about this. If it had happened before you I wouldn't be happy." "Only because you didn't know what that was." His black eyes sparked and she laughed. All the weight she carried on her shoulders were gone when it just them and his guard was down. His hand on her stomach kept the connection with their unborn fresh in her mind and she wrapped her arms around his neck. He lifted her off the ground without a word and carried her into the bedroom. He felt the fire spark to life against his bare back and lowered her into the warm bed. She curled up in his arms and let his presence devour her. His hand slid through her hair and she held his gaze as his free hand slid over her flat stomach. "Just tell me when you know." "Know what?" "If I am going to have to worry about future challening mates." She smiled and said "I thought I would leave it as a surprise." He didn't hold back the groan and she nuzzled his neck. His arm tightened around her and he felt the tiny presence connect with them again. "Don't make me raise this child myself." He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. It was a fear for most mothers but he knew this fear was from her dreams. "I won't." She curled closer and let his words wrap a layer of security around her. If it was just them when this battle hit she wouldn't be worried and would find a way to handle whatever loss she suffered. She closed her eyes and listened to his steady heart beat until she finally fell asleep. He watched her sleep all through the night and couldn't find the strength to look away. He didn't know how the rest would find out but he was certain the women had known and that is why they were wanting to take care of her. The idea that Zeke and Griffon would find out before him from Gabby and Angel left him silently groaning. He doubted Emily would have been able to keep her mouth shut as well and Leon would be laughing in the near future. "You are supposed to be sleeping." He smirked at the groggy voice and watched her slowly open her eyes. She had slept the entire night without a nightmare and was actually drowsy waking up. His hand slid through her hair and she met the kiss. She straddled his waist and his eyes closed as she took him into her. The woman didn't have to give him any warning before seducing him. It was a genetic flaw in their bloodline to always be at the edge around their mates and she was no exception. Her hands slid up his chest and she took her time riding him. She could feel the pressure and need mounting and quicked her pace. He sat up captured a tempting breast with his mouth and she leaned back to give him more access. His hips took over the quick pace and he pounded into her as she rode him and he played with the captured nipple. Her release left her trembling as he poured himself into her and she wrapped her arms around his neck. He captured her mouth and she slid her fingers through his hair. She slowly pulled back and he groaned as she climbed out of bed. He saw her look back over her shoulder and then shift on her way to the hot spring. He wouldn't say it out loud but she knew he enjoyed these mornings of hunger and teasing as much as fighting and killing. The little tease had found a way to turn his bloodlust into passion for her and built a craving in him that he couldn't fight. She had changed his mindset entirely even before he claimed her and when she had been captured he had given up the notion of ever walking away. He had that time of silence to show him what it would be like and now there was no way he could ever walk away if he lost control. Losing control over his bloodlust was a distant fear these days and it was all because of her. If he felt the slightest itch for a killing she was there physically or mentally and it was gone. His thoughts stopped when a scent hit him and he sat up. Someone was approaching and he shifted as he slid from the bed. He saw her stepping into the room with the towel around her and he bared his teeth. She didn't have chance to step past him before Zeke strolled into the room with a big grin on his face. Her hand tightened around the towel and the man quickly averted his eyes to the growling wolf. Joseph guarded the bedroom as she disappeared inside and Zeke let out a chuckle. He held his brother's gaze and the man watched him stay defensive. "I can still give you a good licking." The wolf snorted with his hackles still up as he disappeared into the bedroom briefly and Zeke shook his head. When the man reappeared, he wasn't any less defensive and fangs were almost visible. "What do you want?" Zeke smiled and said "I got wind of something this morning." "And you thought you had to come in here." The man laughed and said "I hear I am going to be an uncle." He looked away and watched her step into the room. She had her hair up for the lessons later on and a pair of worn jeans and a black shirt. Zeke slid his eyes over her and heard the low growl. "I was just trying to see for myself." She rolled her eyes and said "You should just ask instead of studying me like a rabbit." The man laughed again and asked "Is it true?" She felt the body press next to hers and the hand rest on the small of her back. He wasn't relaxing this time around the half brother and she knew it was because of her. "Yes." Zeke smiled and said "The others will be thrilled." "I'm sure they already know." He shrugged and said "Mates can't keep things from each other, espeically about family." Joseph rolled his eyes and she smirked. He was the exception in this room and that just made Zeke's delight even more. "My little brother is going to be a father. I feel sorry for the poor pup." This time the growl drove the man out of the room and she bit back the laugh. He was back in wolf form and staring at the flap as if daring someone else to enter. She shook her head and slid her hand through his coat. He nuzzled her hand before shifting back. They left her quarters and headed to the steps for their morning hunt.

"Keep our allies and prepare for war? Who will prepare our men?" She heard the question and saw the look in her grandfather's eyes. He was seeing how she truly felt and she took a deep breath. "I will." Emily frowned and said "Absolutely not." "Emily." The woman turned on her father and said "She has been through enough for our people. You cannot expect her to lead scouts outside the safety of our home." "Mother, I will be fine." She looked back at Kara and saw the determination on her daughter's face. It was the same look Michael held many times when they discussed their daughter's future and she had a hard time saying no to that face. Kara glanced briefly at Joseph and he gave one nod. "I take it you won't be far from her." "No." She took a deep breath and looked back at Leon. The man kept his gaze on Kara and she slowly turned back to him. "We can start with small drills at first. We will need to make everyone understand the seriousness of this situation." Zeke stepped forward and said "We will make sure they understand." He studied the alpha and nodded once. The matter was settled but he wished he could hold Kara longer. He saw her walking to the door and wanted to hold her back to question her but he knew better. He may be the leader, but if he so much as distressed her he would be dead. She had formed bonds with all of Joseph's siblings but the man himself was the greatest threat if anything happened to Kara. Joseph caught his studying gaze and they waited until everyone else was gone. He knew the man hadn't known about her plans prior and they needed to lay out their own plan to keep her safe. The man was solely focused on her well-being and he was just grateful the notion of leaving was finally over. "She hid this from everyone, didn't she?" His black eyes settled on Leon and he said "Yes." The man rubbed his chin and asked "When did she develop the ability to hide this stuff from you?" "Since I got her back." Leon sighed and wasn't surprised. They needed to know what all she was put through but she kept it locked up beneath layers of protection even Joseph couldn't break through. He was more intune with her though than anyone else and Leon had picked up on the closer connection between the two. He highly doubted this conversation was entirely private and he didn't blame the man. "Are you okay with this plan?" "It is necessary. Their attacks are becoming advanced." "Meaning?" He took a deep breath and said "They developed a toxin to cancel out our bloodlines and leave us helpless. That is why Angel nearly died." "And why you couldn't detect her right away." Joseph nodded and said "It took a month before Kara could pull up her abilites without strain." Leon rake a hand through his blonde hair and took a deep breath. He had spent many years trying to find a peace ground between their kind and the government but now it looked like all efforts were futile. They had given up discussing matters with him and were targeting the one sole of the bloodline that could destroy or save all of them. "I need to go." Leon came out of his thoughts long enough to watch the man leave the room. Joseph walked down the hall and found the dispute down at the bottom of the steps in the courtyard. The men were arguing over something and his brothers were standing beside her as she tried to get through to them. Kara kept her gaze on the worst of the men and worked on connecting with them, calming their minds long enough to explain the plan. "We cannot leave the women unprotected while out on patrols." "Only a few will be out at a time." One guard growled and said "It's futile. If we are going to be safe, it is inside here and not out there. They will hunt us down like animals if we are alone out there." "We won't be alone." Another guard looked at her with skeptism and she said "You forget that you can take the form of any animal, not just one. You just have to focus and you can become something less bound by land." "What are you saying?" She took one calming breath and said "Not every scout will be on all four legs. Some will be in the trees and some in the sky." "That's impossible. None of us are capable of holding such forms." "You have to train yourself. It is possible." "Show us if you are so powerful." Hearing enough of their doubt, he pushed his way into the front and stood beside her. The men grew silent and stared back at her with some uneasiness. They had all witnessed how he handled Lucian's weak attempts and didn't want to end up like him. "The training will start tomorrow. For now, everyone will resume their usual routine and rest well tonight." The guards seemed more at ease and he looked down at Kara. She was taking in all their reactions but seemed calmed considering the headache she had to be suffering from. He caught her arm and pulled her away from them. She finally turned her green eyes on him and he led her upstairs to her quarters. It was a stress reliever for her to be inside the place she had crafted as her own years ago and he watched her waste no time making her way up outside the temple. He climbed up behind her and found her taking in the free air. She let it out slowly and looked back at him. "Thank you." "They were questioning your position too much for my taste." She rested her chin on her knees and said "They were right. I have to be able to show them it is possible or else this change will mean nothing." "Can you?" A slow smirk caught her mouth and she asked "Want to find out?" "Kara." The warning didn't stop her from taking off in a run to the edge of the rock. He felt everything stop when she dropped below his sight and he ran to the edge. Just as he looked over an eagle flew up past him and circled up ahead. He felt the laughter in his head and watched her flap her wings with utter freedom. What are you doing? Flying. You should try it I prefer the ground Chicken He watched her tuck her wings in and go into a spiraling nose dive to the ground. She pulled out momentarily before hitting the ground and flew up to him. Gently she rested her talons on his leg and looked up at him with her green eagle eyes. He ran his hand through her feathers and felt the pleasure run through her. I think we should head in She shifted back and he saw the teasing light in her eyes. His hand slid through her hair and he captured her mouth with a growing hunger. Her arms wrapped around his neck and he pulled her closer to him. Every inch of him screamed for her but he wanted her safe first. He caught her wrist and walked her back inside the temple. He sealed up the opening and watched her light the firepit with just a glance. The flames lit the darkening room with shadows and he saw them match the glow in her eyes. He caught her wrist and pulled her to him as his mouth slid over hers. Her mind was entirely open to him when she came to him like this and he entered it as his hunger filled every sense. She wrapped her arms around him and felt him begin removing her clothes. She stood exposed for him and he took his time examining every inch of her, especially where he knew her old wounds rested. His mouth ran along her shoulder and down her side to the old torture wounds. She curled her fingers in his hair and he trailed kisses lower and her breath caught her throat when his tongue moved between her legs. A low moan escaped her throat as he worked her into a burning hunger of need and she felt her legs shaking as he finally stood. He captured her mouth and she tore his clothes off him quickly. He lowered her onto her bed and surged into her with agonizing slowness. She needed the quick relief to the unbareable hunger he created but he dragged it out with a slow pace to entice her further. His body worked against hers instead of aiding and it left her wound too tight to breathe. She caught his shoulders when she shattered with her release and he began increasing his pace. He brought her over the edge faster and left her breathless when he finally reached his release. His head rested on her shoulder and she slid her hand through his damp hair. He didn't say a word but she could feel everything inside him. It was heaven for them and she didn't want it to end. He felt the wall pushing him from her thoughts and looked into her eyes. "Kara, don't shut me out." She closed her eyes and said "I need a moment." He shook his head and said "Just let me see what it is." Her green eyes lost their light and he saw some of the weariness settling back in. He wrapped his arms around her as he moved them beneath the bedding to keep her cooling body warm. She listened to his pulse and tried to keep her thoughts from shutting him out. He was able to see the darkness that still lingered in her thoughts that triggered the nightmares but detected something more cold and painful. "What is it?" She looked up at him and said "It's what was the worst about my time away." He couldn't see and sense anything but emptiness and cold and looked back down at her. She had become uneasy if she couldn't feel his presence or his mind at least since then but he had never asked about it. Now he knew why. He felt the lonliness and helplessness they had subjected her to with the nightmares that assaulted her. The coldness that had delved deep inside her with each painful image or memory and the feeling of never escaping left him shaken. "I wish I could have gotten there sooner." His hold on her tightened and she burrowed into his neck. Right now she felt safe and warm but when she had time alone she knew some would come back to haunt her. "No matter how many times I tried reaching for you, I couldn't." He kissed her brow and said "I know. I tried numerous times calling you as I tracked the truck down." A chill ran through her as the memories began to settle in and he rubbed his chin along her head. She was finally willing to show him the damages still clinging to her and they were hard to swallow. The helpessness and emptiness were so strong he was afraid he may never find a way to rid her of them permanently. "Promise me if you ever feel like that again, you tell me." She nodded and said "I hope I never do. I'd been alone growing up to a point. I had lost both parents and raised myself but I wasn't alone. I had you and Leon but when I was with those men, I couldn't find that feeling anywhere inside of me. It didn't matter how many times I tried searching my thoughts I couldn't find it and it frightened me." His hold remained firm and he looked down into her green eyes. He had to find a way to ensure she didn't feel that way again or else he couldn't ever be her mate. He brushed his lips along hers, easing her thoughts again and he watched her close her eyes. She nuzzled his neck, taking in his steady pulse and warmth, and let them pull her into a content sleep. He watched her succomb to the darkness and prayed tonight would be easy on her. Young laughter brought her from her sleep and she opened her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she looked up at the ceiling and heard the running paws. Sitting up in bed, she barely braced herself before being tackled and she held the pup to her. He left his wolf form and hugged her tightly. "Did you have fun?" The boy nodded and said "Dad was awesome!" She smiled and looked up at Joseph. He was watching them from the door and she felt the boy slip from her arms. He slipped through the door and he came to her. His hand slid through her hair and he brushed his lips along hers. Stirring to the growing sensations, she opened her eyes and found the man of her dreams watching her. He looked like he hadn't moved an inch since she fell asleep but she had been aware of him resting with her at one point. His hand slid along her arm and she took a deep breath. "Morning." His chin rested on her head and he breathed her in. She sat up slowly and he watched her stretch her spine like a cat. Her hair fell down almost to her hips and he felt her shift as she left the bed. He followed her into the bathing chambers and watched her clean up. "Coming in?" He rested on the floor in and she came up to him. He followed the patterns the water ran over her skin before she dressed and he pursued her into the other room. She was lacing up her boots and looked ready for an early morning hunt. He retreated into the bedroom to dress and she looked up at the carvings in her walls. She studied each detail and pulled them up in her memories. He walked back into sight and she let him guide her out into the hall. The temple was quiet and calm early in the morning and they walked down to the stairs. Their departure went unnoticed and they walked into the forest. She glanced up at him and knew he was searching for enemies before they could do anything else and she shifted when he turned his black gaze on her. He let her hunt down her food and sought out his own when she was resting in the grass after finishing. He settled down in the grass beside her and watched her enjoy the freedom away from their home. She looked at him and felt the approaching presence from the temple. His eyes narrowed in on the intruder and he let some tension go when he recognized Rafe. The boy was worried about her and she let him join them without a thought. Their friendly bond was very strong and if no one knew the difference, they would be seen as siblings. He saw the alertness fill her and watched her stand as more appeared from the temple. They were hesitant to be out in the open freely and he felt their emotions pulling on her control quickly. She let him shield the worst from her mind through their connection and he watched the men stare at her with apprehension. They were forced into this new training but they had to understand what is bound to happen. Show us She looked at the brave soul and found it Griffon. He glanced at her protector and felt no surprise from him. The pack had vowed to protect her at all costs and this new technique would do just that. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes as the eagle filled her mind. She focused on the smallest details and walked away from them. They watched her start into a run and in a flash she was flying through the air on two wings. Her own elation she kept to herself and Joseph held in the chuckle. The men were amazed and she settled in a branch up ahead. Just focus on an animal you have seen and focus. It will come to you Each male closed their eyes and soon enough there was a wide variety of animals before them. Their suprise radiated through her and she watched them test their new abilities. He kept his wolf form as everyone tested different ones and she remained in the tree. Her senses were roaming the area and with her sight, she was able to detect danger easier than anyone below. They spent several hours walking every male through the process and when the sun was setting she was finally relieved of her duties. The men wanted to keep practicing but Joseph sent them one look and guided her home. Her emotions were raw from all the free ones flying and she needed rest. They walked up the stairs inside the ruins and entered his quarters. People never disturbed them in his and she needed the time away from their people. He guided her into his bathing quarters and she studied it while soaking in the hot spring. No candles had made their way in but he had an opening that let the moonlight in and she floated in the water, letting her own body keep the hot spring warm and theraputic. He had a towel waiting for her as she walked from the water and he wrapped it around her. He walked her into the bedroom and she sat in bed as he arranged the logs in the fire pit. Before he could think of lighting it, they leapt to life with flames and he looked back at her. "I think you should rest those gifts." She drew her knees up against her and he approached. His hand slid through her damp hair and he looked down into her green eyes. He brushed his lips along hers and could feel their bodies responding but kept the hunger at bay. Tonight she needed rest and he had to respect it despite the needs their bond stirred. He drew her under the covers and she curled up in his side. His hand slid along her warm skin and he rested his chin on her head. She rested her eyes and he felt her mind winding down finally. The weariness was lifting as she let sleep wrap its hands around her and pull her under. He entered her mind as it plunged into the darkness and he held on until he was pushed out by sleep.

The sun was disappearing from the temple and he swept his gaze over the crowd of women talking in the courtyard below. They were catching up with her, revealing a bond they had all formed while he had been gone, and he leaned against a pillar tied with the balcony on the temple. Leon came up beside him and shot him a brief look. The man had not spoken to him since they had returned from their long run but he knew the time to answer questions had come. "She developed a pact with all of them." Leon smirked and said "She had to do something since her companion had been sent off to find her aid." "This could be a problem." "Jealousy between your sisters and these women?" "I'm not sure." Leon rubbed his chin and looked back at the man. When he had first set eyes on him the day before he had felt the change in him. The darkness had grown emencely within but some new strength was keeping it in check. He hadn't known what it was but now he did. Kara and him had become closer and from the interactions between the two earlier today, he could tell they were now bonded. Unfortunately it came too late to prevent the loss of one of his best guards but even he knew there would be a time when one male would challenge Joseph for her. She had been turning heads once she became a teenager and these men had been left with open access to her for months while Joseph had been gone. "Do you know what happened to her?" "No." Leon looked down at his granddaughter and asked "She hasn't told you?" "Didn't ask. She isn't ready to talk about it yet." He turned his green eyes on the man again and found Joseph studying the women below intently. He was watching for any danger to her and was ready to strike. Leon chuckled at the slight difference in the man and caught his shoulder. "Those women would never harm her. They respect her too much and many see her as their own daughter. Leave them be and join your brothers on the patrol before everyone turns in." Black eyes settled on him one last time and he left Leon at the railing. He walked down the hall and found Zeke waiting with Griffon and the others by his chambers. They each had a look of future torment on their faces and he shot them a warning look. He wanted to wait until everyone else was asleep so their upcoming brawl wasn't noticed. At least one male walked away bleeding and banged up. They swept the place in silence and when the moonlight provided the only light source, they stopped at the base of the steps to the temple. Griffon started chuckling and he knew it was time for their ridicule. "Mate?" He stood silent and looked at Zeke. The man had received the personal reprimand from her but wasn't letting on how he was taking it. One of their brothers, Ace, shook his head and started laughing. "Little Joseph finally won the girl over." His eyes flashed and he sent him a warning look. He would take the teasing and picking but they would leave her out of it. He hadn't closed any of this off to her in case she was reaching for him and he didn't need her growing tension towards them. "I think she needs to be reminded that I am the alpha of this pack, not her." His eyes shot back to Zeke and he said "And you need to keep your hands off her." The chuckling increased among the others and he held Zeke's gaze. The need to establish authority was going to be too much to ignore and after all the years of resentment he had towards them, this was the perfect time to prove once and for all where he stood. They called him the runt and picked on him based on the small time period of interaction when he was pup. They knew nothing of what he had become over the years and it was high time they learned. Zeke let out one growl and the fight broke out. His jaws snapped at his brother's coated throat and they clashed against each other. A blow to Zeke's jaw left him on his side with a strain of blood coming from near his nose. The chuckling stilled as he stood over the alpha and didn't even appear winded. Zeke stood up and stared back at him. We've underestimated you long enough Anyone else? The others shook their heads with grins and the two released their wolf forms. Zeke took a deep breath and wiped the blood from his face. "Ruthless." His black eyes darkened and he said "Don't forget it." The others burst out in laughter and he shook his head as he walked up the stairs. He entered his chambers without a sound and searched for her. She was curled up in his bed already but he knew she wasn't asleep just yet. She was on the edge of drifting into the ocean of sleep and he walked over to her. Peeling his shirt off and kicking off his shoes, he climbed into bed beside her and ran his hand through her blonde hair. "They didn't stand a chance." He closed his eyes at her voice and said "Zeke learned." She smirked against his shoulder and fell silent once more. He knew she had been waiting for him, in fear the nightmares weren't gone, and he watched her finally sleep. He could only imagine the incident with Lucian was going to plague her subconscious for a while and he felt helpless to aid her. Wrapping an arm around her, he held her to him and rested his chin on her head. All he could give her tonight was comfort and a sense of security as she faced whatever was thrown at her in her sleep. "Kara!" Her head whipped behind her and she felt the blow before she could see the attacker. Her paw swiped at his face and sent him rolling on the ground in pain. She stood up in her human form and found blood coming from her side. Picking up the knife beside her, she ended the fool's life and walked back towards the fight. Her side ached and she felt the blood falling down over her hand as she moved along. She reached the main battle field and found numerous of her people wounded and down. Her eyes swept the injuried until she found someone standing above her grandfather. Leon wasn't moving and was still in his wolf form. She shifted in movement and her paws carried her quickly to his guard. Zeke stepped aside and she found the old man barely attentive. Her hands rested on his side where an ugly wound poured out blood and she tried to find his mind. He was drifting too quickly from her reach and she pressed down on the wound. Her own side ached with the actions but she had to save Leon. He closed his eyes and she felt his body shift beneath her. He caught her hands and she felt the tear slip from her eye. "Take care of them." She nodded once and ran her hand through his hair as his eyes grew still and she felt his lungs stop. She heard the last heart beat and she closed her eyes. Lowering her head, she took in a deep breath and felt the anguish free her inner strength. Fire erupted in a circle around them and her eyes held the flames as she stood on all four black legs. Zeke stood back as she approached the middle of the battles. Fire surrounded every one of her kind, shielding them, and the soldiers stared at her as she approached. She had lost enough. First her father and mother and now her grandfather. Her strength had reached the end and was ready to break into a million pieces. 'Kara' She ignored the reaching voice as she surrendered to every ounce of power burning through her and held her ground. The soldiers lowered their weapons when her fangs revealed themselves and the leader waved for withdraw. She leapt onto him and pinned him by the throat. If they ran it was fine, but she was sending them home with a message. No more would there be any chance of finding a truce between the government and her people. "Please." The man's hands clung to her crushing leg and she stared down at him. She could feel and taste his fear and welcomed it. He needed to feel as helpless as she had. He had to know what it felt like to have everything and everyone taken from you when you were just a child. One hand landed on the ground and she watched him as he began to lessen in his struggle. "Kara!" The voice broke through all the fire protecting her and she stepped back off the man. She stepped a few feet back and looked over her shoulder. Her eyes stared at the ghost coming to her and she left her form as she ran to him. Michael wrapped his arms around her and looked back at her mate. He was winded and dripping with blood but had reached out to him just in time. "Now." Joseph nodded and he disposed of the leader in front of everyone. His eyes burned with the kill back to the soldiers watching in horror and he left his wolf form. Michael watched him approach with his focus on his daughter and she looked up at him. His black eyes were dim with exhaustion and she reached for a thin stream of blood on his face when the shot went off. "Joseph!" Her eyes flew open in horror and she found herself sitting up in a cold sweat. Closing her eyes, she forced deep breaths into her lungs and felt her body shivering without mercy. Her head was clouded with the images and she ran her fingers through her hair to try and assure herself it was just a dream. Two arms wrapped around her and swallowed her in warmth. She turned to him and he held her as her skin slowly began to warm and the shivering settled. "What was it?" "A fight." He rubbed his chin on her head and closed his eyes. Keeping her in his hold hadn't been enough to push the nightmares away this time. She had been sleeping comfortably once they had been reunited and had an entire night of sleep the first night they were home. The underlying remnants of Lucian's death had held onto her stronger than he expected. "What was it about?" "Soldiers sent to kill us." She didn't go into anymore detail and he knew it was because she was still trying to figure out what the dream meant. At least this time it wasn't of someone's past. If it was a possible dream of the future he would have a chance to prevent it from happening when he knew everything. "I need to speak with Leon." He looked down at her and she said "We aren't ready for any of these nightmares I'm having." Her eyes looked up at him with determination and weariness. She needed to stay right here and rest. He could take her thoughts to Leon so she could rest but he knew it was an endless battle. Taking a deep breath, he slowly loosened his hold on her and she burrowed her face into his throat. She listened to his heart beat and let it calm the still rapid one inside her. A soothing hand ran along her spine, ensuring her it was just a dream and that she was safe at the moment. It helped anchor her and she knew if it weren't for him, she would be an emotional wreck. All the patience he has had with her over the years had built her trust in him and left her so dependant on him it still frightened her at times. It was hard to not reach for his mind when she needed reassurance and he had never backed down from it, especially after her kidnapping. The loneliness and coldness she had been put through until he had come for her were worse than any of the injections and cuts they handed her. When their drugs had locked her abilites inside her where she couldn't reach them, she had felt utterly alone for the first time in her life and it had left her weary of silence unless she wished it. He hadn't asked what they had done to her but she imagined he was picking up on it. She couldn't bare to be absolutely alone. Yes she would keep thoughts to herself, out of his reach, but that was only when she was where she could still feel him. No nightmares had plagued her after the kidnapping and she knew it was because of the sense of being safe was back. Before he had found her, she had been trapped in them, reliving things she didn't know or things she had tried to black out over the years. Those nightmares had dug claws deep into her and were fighting her in her plight to be free of them. "Are you okay?" She looked back up at him and nodded once. He knew she was lying but he never pushed her into telling him the truth. His lips brushed her brow and she closed her eyes as she listened to his heart beat again. She could feel the sun rising and knew she had to leave him but she couldn't just yet. Looking up at him, she met his gaze and felt the presence coming close to his quarters. His head snapped to the entrance and she felt him leave her without a word. He left the bedroom and found Zeke standing in front of him with Angel. The woman didn't look pleased and he took a deep breath. Never had he been afraid of his brothers but this sister left him unnerved. She fixed her black eyes on him and he saw the uneasy look on Zeke's face. "What do you want?" Her eyes flashed and she said "You two have gone too far. Do you know how long it took to get that cut shut last night?" A little bit of pride settled in and he said "I warned him." "Like hell! You could have taken it a little easy on him. We know you're stronger than us. We saw it when you first came back into our lives." His jaw tightened and he sent her a warning look to keep herself in check. He didn't need the distress and anger picking away at Kara at the moment. She wasn't ready to fight the emotions off. "Keep your cool." Angel sent him a look to match Zeke's and he felt both of them ready to reprimand him. His guard was up and he felt the easy pulse within ready for the upcoming fight. "Enough all three of you." His eyes shot to her green eyes as she emerged and she stood next to him. Her head was pounding with the rising strength in all three and she sent an accusing look up to Joseph. He knew better than to push his weight around with them. His eyes didn't leave hers and he saw the diguised pain looking up at him. He looked back at the two and saw them watching them. "We can dicuss this later. Right now isn't a good time." Angel took her gaze from her brother and looked at Kara. The woman seemed perfectly fine but she had learned from time spent together the little signs of agony the woman went through. She had always been surprised to see how intune the woman was with their species and sympathized with her. Angel took a deep breath and looked up at Zeke. "He's right." The man looked surprised when she had been insistent to come chew him out in the first place. He looked down at Angel and then back at Joseph. The man had one hand rested on her back and seemed to be protecting her from something he couldn't pick up on. "You can talk this out but please do so as adults and not let your emotions get the best of you." She looked up at Joseph and he nodded once. He knew she had to leave in case they couldn't keep control and she knew which one that would be. She had every faith he would be able to do so but she doubted Zeke had that ingrained strength in him. Angel was more likely to keep most of her emotions in check but still it ate at her. His lips brushed her head and she looked back at his siblings. "Just don't kill each other." They let her pass and looked back at Joseph. Zeke thought she would stand by his side but had left him alone to handle the two of them. He felt a little smug in the situation. With the fireball at his side, Joseph wouldn't be able to get out of the incoming lecture. "Is she all right?" Joseph fixed his gaze on the level headed sibling and said "Give her time." "This can wait so you can see to her." He shook his head and said "I know exactly what she is doing. Now, get it over with." Angel seemed a little distressed at the space between them but the confidence between them about their relationship. She couldn't be away from Zeke if she was hurting or upset for a minute until it passed. Joseph and Kara were connected so differently it sometimes made her envious of it but she always knew what she shared with Zeke was special too. She took a deep breath and said "You should not have taken out your built up aggression on him like that." "You know how the fights are between us. One person always walks away injured." "There isn't a scratch on you." He shrugged and said "Zeke didn't get a chance to strike." She looked back at her mate and he shook his head. The moves he had experienced of their youngest brother had been too quick to detect and it had been settled before he knew what had happened. "I told you he made his point." "I don't like any of you thinking it takes a brawl to settle matters." Joseph looked away and growled "We aren't like you females." She sent him an annoyed look and said "You could take a few lessons from us." "If you ever have a dispute and it involves your mate, I'll be the first to witness your reactions." Her eyes shot up to Zeke and she said "You didn't tell me this was about Kara." He scratched his head and said "If I had you would have only added onto the injury he gave me last night and it was more like we were teasing him." Angel shook her head and looked back at Joseph. His focus was elsewhere and she saw him slowly come back to their situation. He had been talking with someone and she bet it was Kara but she wasn't sure. "What is it?" "I need to go." He slipped past them and made his way down the hall. He had heard her start talking with Leon and had to hear what she needed to say to him. Quickly he slid down the hall into Leon's quarters and found Emily standing beside her father. She seemed uneasy and he looked at Kara. Her eyes sought him out and he took his post by the wall, ready to act if need be. His siblings filed in, representing the security of their home, and he watched her take a calming breath. "Kara, what is it?" She focused her eyes on Leon and said "We need to prepare for a war." He stared back at her a little surprised to hear that from her and asked "What makes you think there's a war coming?" "Just believe me. We aren't ready for any kind of attack." He took a deep breath and asked "What do you think we should do then?" "Start patrols outside of the temple. Keep scouts outside at all times of the day." "And the commitments we have?" "Keep them. We will need all the allies we can get."

Opening his eyes, he watched her sleep beside him and lifted his head. The pack was sleeping further up the hill and had their backs to them. The tree protecting them gave them enough shelter from any rain and their respect to her allowed them privacy. He looked down at her again and rested his head beside her again. His body ached from the wounds but he couldn't afford to shift until she woke. He watched her dream, possibly suffer from nightmares, but he couldn't read what was going on inside her mind. She had been given the ability to hide everything and nothing from him by the government. He forced her to allow him to inspect her side every day and the progress was coming along. Each touch however was making it more painful to keep from claiming her and he couldn't keep his eyes off her anymore. She used to be alluring but after losing her, all he could think about was keeping her safe and never out of his sight. He opened his eyes slowly and felt the warmth in his side. Looking down at her, he brushed her blonde hair from her face and studied the ancient scar on her face. She had never been able to get rid of it by herself but he knew she accepted it as part of her at a young age. Sitting up carefully, he examined her shoulder and found it almost completely healed and no sign of a scar forming there. Her side wound had disappeared without a scar and he prayed the same would happen with this cut. Watching her sleep, he looked up at her ceiling and tried not to think about the consequences of their actions. He hadn't been able to hold back the hunger any longer and he knew that was going to make their situation worse to start. It would get better but at the moment, it was going to cause lots of problems with the other residents. He hated to admit it but he was a little thankful for having his half siblings here. He didn't see them as his family yet but he respected the pact they had formed with Kara. She had saved all of their lives and healed Angel when she could have left them all to die. Gabby and Angel had grown close with her over the duration of the trip home and he hoped that bond would help all of them settle in. His eyes shifted down to her just as she woke and took a deep breath. Her green eyes looked up at him and he let his hand slide through her hair. "How are you feeling?" She sat up slowly and said "Like I slept forever." He watched her stretch her arms and roll her shoulders similar to the panther she had become. She shifted as she left the bed and he sat up slowly. He left the bed and moved through her place in his wolf form. She was bathing and letting the water soak into her muscles as if nothing had ever happened. Her eyes came to him as he sat at the edge of the spring with his eyes focused on her. "Coming in?" His ear went up and she smirked. All of the distance between them was gone and she knew he was able to be open and at ease around her. The simpliest action like raising one ear made her want to scratch his fur and kiss his nose. He walked into the water and shifted when he slipped beneath the surface. He came up beside her and she watched the water roll off him. His hand caught her waist and he turned her so he could look at the wound in her side. It showed no sign of reopening after her fight with Lucian and he looked back at her. Her skin was glistening in the candlelight from the water and he brushed her damp hair from her face. Black eyes stared down at her and she wrapped her arms around his neck. His mouth slid over hers, savoring her taste and she slid her fingers through his hair. He trailed a path of kisses down her neck and she closed her eyes as his mouth captured her breast and he teased her with his hand. The hot spring brought her sensitive skin to a new heigth and she felt him pick her up. Her legs circled his waist and she nipped along his ear at the same fevor he stirred in her with his hand. She could feel everything spiraling into a knot and kissed his mouth when he lifted his head. The contact finished the torment and he surged into her. Her hands clung to his shoulders and she rode each movement of his hips, slowly taking control of the pace. He held her tightly, closing his eyes, and let her explore the primitive knowledge she possessed as she brought them both racing to the edge. The climax was mind blowing and left them both fighting for their breath. She leaned her head against his shoulder as he helped her down and held her up while her legs recovered. His mouth slid over her shoulder and he looked down into her lit eyes. "And now?" She smiled and said "I could get used to this." "Not here to boil alive." She walked up to him and said "Just remember I can do so much to you if you push me." He watched her leave the water and wrap a towel around her as she left the chamber. Her skin was almost dry before she disappeared from sight and she towel dried her hair as she entered her bedroom. The bed was in a tassel from the night before and she dressed in a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt. She left her hair down and made up the bed. Feeling the hot gaze on her, she finished making the bed and looked over her shoulder. She found him studying her from the doorway with the towel wrapped around his waist and she tossed him his clothes. He dressed while she slid into socks and a pair of shoes. Taking a deep breath, she took in the feeling of being in clean clothes for the first time in a long time and looked back at him. He picked up his shirt and she caught his hand before he could slip it on. She examined his chest and found the wounds almost non-existent. "Satisfied?" She looked up at him and asked "How are they healing so well? You lost a lot of blood." "I told you I had my genetic code enhanced. It plays on the pure blood." Kara studied his face and said "Too bad that isn't what they did to me." He ran his hand through her blonde hair and said "We'll figure out what all happened. Until then, try not to think about it and spend some time adjusting to being home again." "You mean catch up with my mother." "I didn't say that." She sighed and said "You didn't have to." He pulled his shirt on and they left her quarters. She needed to hunt but he had to check in with Leon and give him an account of everything. Her report would have to come later but not until she was ready to go over every detail that happened. He left her at the stairs and cast a glance to Emily, who was waiting for her at the bottom of the steps. Kara watched him disappear into her grandfather's quarters and walked down the steps. Emily swept her eyes over her daughter and they walked through the waterfall. The sun felt relaxing on her face and she looked back at her mother. The woman was studying her and she shifted. Her form was thinner but she had grown a coat that was brown along the body and white along the tip of her tail, her legs, and chest. Looking at her, she could be seen as a dog and not a wolf. "You seem different." Kara looked back at her mother as they entered the forest and ignored answering the question. She wasn't surprised her mother could see a difference in her but she tried not to think about it. Her senses scanned the area and she found the prey she needed. Emily left her long enough to hunt on her own and they rested in a clearing eating their breakfast in silence. "How is your shoulder?" Kara released her form and sat looking at her mother. The woman returned to her human form and slid the sleeve up to expose her wounded shoulder. Seeing it almost healed, she let go of the sleeve and looked back at her daughter. "Joseph healed you?" "Yes." Emily fixed her with her old green gaze and said "You two became close on the trip home." She drew her knees up and said "We did." "Did he claim you?" "No. He just made sure to never let me out of his sight." Emily smiled and said "I imagine after whatever happened with his distant pack, you became even more close. His brutality towards Lucian was close to uncontrollable. How did you manage to pull him off?" She shrugged and said "I don't know. I just told him not to kill him and he didn't." Her mother stared at her again and tilted her head slightly to the side. Her smile expanded and she looked away. "His possessive tone to me last night means only one thing. You pushed his control too far, didn't you?" Stretching out onto her back, she felt the grass cradle her and the sunrays strike her face between the tree canopy gaps. She looked back at Emily and knew exactly what the woman was getting at. She wanted the entire story that led up through last night. She wasn't ready to talk about it with anyone, especially last night or this morning. Right now she was trying to remind herself it was all real and not just a horrid nightmare that ended in bliss for once. "Kara?" "I protected the pack and him from death. He wasn't happy about it." Emily looked back at her and watched her sit up. Her daughter was different but not all of it was from the kidnapping event. Something had happened last night between her and Joseph and she hoped she was right. "He was injured, wasn't he?" She nodded and said "Took two bullets for me. I was still recovering from the wounds they gave me when they took me and had just woken up the morning it happened. The pack came to our aid when it happened and Angel got hurt. They almost killed her but somehow I was able to keep her with us by connecting with her." "She looks fine." "She healed faster than us. The bullets were coated in some toxin made just for Joseph from his time as a pup in captivity." "He told you?" She looked back at her mother and nodded. The whole extent of his experience with the government she didn't know but she knew enough to understand what set him apart from everyone on the planet. "Between the two, it triggered the power in you from your father." "How though?" Emily took a deep breath and said "Your father told me it only becomes active in one when they are under dire strain or emotional turmoil." "I couldn't hold it back and I didn't want to. I let it take over long enough to eliminate the threat and heal Angel's wounds. Joseph wouldn't let me help him but his are practically gone." "And yours? Where were you hurt?" She lifted her shirt enough to reveal her side and her mother rested her hand on it. Emily could feel the distant wound but was impressed on how well it was healing considering how her scar on her eye shown through. "Did he help you with it?" She shook her head and said "I'm pretty sure he just inspected it but I am not sure what Angel and Gabby did while I was sleeping. They told me I was resting for a long time before I woke. Had to wear off the drugs." Emily ran a hand through her blonde hair and wrapped her arms around her daughter. The torture she went through was unforgiveable and if she ever ran across a hunter she would avenge the crime. Holding her daughter, she could feel the difference in her still and caught the distant scent shielding her. The woman sat back and said "He claimed you." "It wasn't a claim. It was mutual." Emily smiled and brushed the blonde hair out of her daughter's face. Finally she would get relief from the nightmares and be protected from unwanted male advances. "This is why Lucian brushed death so closely." Kara took a deep breath and said "I asked Joseph to not kill him despite how much he wishes the man dead." "The man cannot control his demons in that category. If Lucian tried to claim you against your wishes and violated the trust installed in him to protect you, Joseph has every right to kill him. It's a crime of the worst among our people." She shook her head and said "I wasn't claimed at the time and I could have talked him down one way or another." Emily snorted and said "Kara, you have been claimed since you were four. You two just weren't connected as mates are until last night. He has been your protector all this time and protectors are not chosen for others unless that is their true mate." "But how did Leon know?" "The exchange of glances you two had when you met. You saw what was inside Joseph at that moment and his gaze lingered on you differently than others. He seemed uneasy around you from the moment he met your gaze." She smirked and said "The man has never been uneasy around me. Kept himself at a distance but never uneasy." Emily chuckled and watched her daughter's head snap to the shadows. Her eyes were skimming the brush and she shifted as she moved to her feet. Her ears were straight up at attention and she looked back at her mother. We should go The authority in her voice was a bit surprising but Emily didn't challenge her. They walked back to the ruins, making sure they were not under observation, and stepped through the waterfall. They came in on the scene of Lucian surrounded by the pack. Zeke was standing in front of him with murder in his black eyes and she shifted immediately. "Zeke." He didn't move his eyes from his prey but asked "Are you okay?" She pushed through the restraining brothers and stood beside the two men. Lucian looked back at her and received a blow to his jaw. "You will not look at her you filthy fool." She took a deep breath and stepped between them. Her green eyes looked up at Zeke with pure authority and she finally captured her gaze. "He isn't to be harmed until his punishment is decided by Leon." "He could have killed you." She folded her arms and said "And so could all of you and your brother." The chuckling from Angel and Gabby lightened the air and he relaxed his shoulders enough to let Lucian feel less in danger. She whirled around and face him with the same look and he grew tense again. "You are an idiot." He looked down and said "I couldn't hold it back. You have no idea what it was like watching you day in and day out once Joseph had left." "I don't care. You serve Leon and know better. I was not to be touched by any of you in any way similar to that." His head went up and he snapped "If you didn't have a protector, you would have been claimed when you came into age by one of us." Her eyes narrowed and she felt the power slip down her spine. His head jerked up to the top of the stairs and they found Joseph and Leon staring down at them. She met the black gaze and watched the man approach with her grandfather. She couldn't tell which one look more lethal at the moment and she watched the pack allow them into the center of the circle. Joseph came to her side and pulled her back as Leon circled the man. The contact allowed her to feel all the murderous intentions in him and she held his gaze. He looked back at Leon and they watched the man stand directly in front of Lucian. "You are lucky you weren't killed last night." "I wasn't thinking." "I heard every word you spoke with my granddaughter, so don't play innocent." The man went pale and dropped to his knee. He couldn't look up at Leon without receiving death for challenging the man's authority. "Anyone who harms my family deserves death." "Please sir, it won't happen again." The growl from the throat beside her made her grab his arm to keep him beside her and Leon looked back at him. Joseph was waiting for the command to come and Lucian would be dead in less than a second. The man had every intention of not letting this fool see the next minute of life. "My granddaughter doesn't want your death." Lucian looked up at him and said "I'll do anything to prove my loyalty to you again." Leon looked over at Kara and found her watching with acceptance for whatever the outcome was. He knew she never wished death on anyone of their kind but her mate would be against the sparing of the man's life one hundred percent and so would his family. Lucian saw the exchange and used it as a chance to push through the circle. He broke into a run on all four and made a direct line to the waterfall. When he was almost free a black wolf leapt in his place and he skidded to a halt. Joseph stood menancing in front of him and his gaze was a promise of death. Lucian looked behind him and found the others not moving. They watched as it dawned on him that he had decided his fate himself. He turned his gaze slowly back to Joseph and found the black wolf unmoving as if he was solid stone. Please let me pass. I will leave and never come back. A bare of his fangs sent Lucian's nerves racing and he stepped back. Joseph struck his muzzle hard with a swipe and shoved him down onto the ground. His black eyes burned down at the fool and Lucian didn't dare move. She was never free to claim and never will be I am sorry! Sorry doesn't mean anything to me His eyes grew bigger in fear and he felt the paw press into his throat. The need to crush the life out of him was almost unbearable but he casted a second of a glance at Kara and found her watching but from a distance. She had put up a wall to keep the horror of the man's fear from murdering her head and he stared back down at Lucian. No matter how much he needed to punish this fool he couldn't harm her without it plaguing him. What are you waiting for? He looked back at her and she stepped past his brothers. They tried stopping her but she approached the two and he stepped off Lucian. The wolf rolled onto his stomach and looked up at them as Joseph left his wolf form. I will only kill him if you are okay with it Her gaze held his and she found the desire to kill in his gaze. He had every intention of killing Lucian to avenge her but he was fighting it back for her sake of mind. She felt the frustration in his delayed actions building in him and saw Lucian reach for him with his fangs. Before she could put herself between them, he had Lucian on his back and his throat crushed in his jaws. The wolf lay still below him and she felt the triumph in him growing. The silence surrounding them disappeared when people began whispering and she watched him walk out the watefall. She wanted to follow him but Zeke caught her arm and shook his head. "He needs a moment to compose himself before returning to you." "He needs my help." "The blood lust in him is too strong for you to face at the moment." Her green eyes lit up and she said "I know my mate better than you." She yanked her arm free as the words left him still and she walked through the waterfall. He was getting a drink from the water in the basin and cooling the inner turmoil. His ears went up as she drew closer and he carefully lifted his head. The blood was gone from his coat and she knelt in front of him. His eyes were still burning with the power left in him after the kill and she slid her hand through his coat. You should go back inside She continued running her hand through his coat and slowly framed the wolf's face. His black eyes looked cooly at her and she took a deep breath. There's enough buzzing in there. You need me out here. He nuzzled her hand and shifted. His eyes were still full of power but the hunger inside him had disappeared. She slid her eyes over him to make sure Lucian hadn't touched him and he caught the examining hand on his chest. "I'm fine." "Humor me." He closed his eyes and allowed her tempting touch to finish checking him over. He had heard the rebutal inside between her and Zeke and could have smirked. She wasn't afraid of the alpha and was willing to stake her ground. The grief he would receive tonight on their patrol would be annoying but he was willing to deal with it. His arm snaked around her and pulled her closer. If you are so worried, then you should come with me She stared up at him and smirked. He needed to run to finish shaking the last of the darkness and she hadn't run for ages herself. She shifted before he could stop her and took off. He rolled his eyes and shifted in pursuit. His legs carried him after her quickly and she increased her pace as he closed in on her.

Sitting at the base of the steps, she stared at the waterfall and listened to the quiet reports handed to her father. Her irritation and worry was growing more by the day and she was beginning to feel like they would never return. Leon stopped talking as he looked at her and sent his men back to work. He walked over to where she sat and joined her. "Joseph will bring her home." She took a deep breath and said "I don't know, Dad. Something isn't feeling right." He wrapped an arm around her and gave her a comforting hug. She took a deep breath and heard someone running through the falls. Rafe came to them and Leon stood up. "What is it?" I saw them and it wasn't just them Emily joined her father and they watched Rafe look back at the waterfall. She felt the power surround them just as the black wolf stepped into sight. He stopped and waited for Kara to appear and she let out a sigh of relief. Leon left her as his granddaughter shifted and took her in a firm hug. She hugged him back and looked over at her mother. Emily approached her and watched her daughter look back at the waterfall. Joseph waited as the pack slipped inside the temple and their presence stilled everyone. Leon watched each wolf shift and saw them stand beside their brother. "What are you doing here?" Zeke stepped forward but Kara spoke first. "They are with me." Emily looked back at the pack and watched her daughter stand by Joseph. He looked back at her and she turned her focus to Leon. "They aren't welcomed here." Joseph fixed him with a black gaze and said "They gave us shelter." Leon shook his head and said "You know better than anyone that you cannot trust them and their presense isn't welcomed here." Zeke stepped beside his brother and said "We are not here because of you. We are here because of Kara." Emily joined her father and said "She doesn't need your help. She has all of us." Angel let out a low growl and said "No she doesn't. You left her when she was child. Everyone here expects too much from her. We welcome her for who she is." The reprimand silenced all arguements and Joseph looked back at the woman in topic. She was holding her ground and her thoughts were silent for once. Her gaze was holding Leon's and the man wasn't looking away. When he finally looked up at Joseph, he gave one nod and pulled Emily aside to allow them entrance. "You are welcomed to stay as long as my granddaughter wants it." Zeke led his pack into the temple and they watched everyone move out of their way as they disappeared from sight. Leon turned his gaze on Joseph and the man followed him up into his quarters. Emily stood staring at her daughter and took in the scar running along her eye. She slowly approached Kara and took a deep breath. "How are you?" Kara settled her hazel eyes on her mother and said "I've been better." "I've missed you so much." "I know." The woman slowly took her in her arms and the old rift between them slowly became bridged. The old comfort she got in the woman's arms was calming and she closed her eyes. For the longest time she dreaded meeting her mother again but now she felt relieved to have her back. "You've grown a lot." Kara stepped back to look at her and said "I've been through a lot recently." The woman ran her fingers over the scar and asked "Who did this?" She smirked and said "Camille." "What?" "It was when we met. She found me with Rafe in human form with a hunter's trap beside us." The woman didn't look happy but remained where she was. After all these years, her motherly instincts were still as prominent as ever and she hated seeing her daughter hurt because she wasn't around. "And Joseph?" "What about him?" "Did he handle the situation?" Kara shook her head and said "I told him to not let Leon hurt her for protecting her child." Emily ran a hand through her hair and said 'Instead, you welcomed her and her family to live here." Nodding, she walked with her mother up the steps into the temple and they made their way into her quarters. The woman took in all the wall carvings and looked around the place. "What did your grandfather teach you?" Kara took a seat by the fire pit and said "My responsibilities to our people and he explained them." She indicated her markings and Emily looked back at her. The woman knew too much at such a young age but there was nothing but knowledge the woman had wanted. She studied all the different symbols and focused on the one above her entrance. "This one is you." Kara nodded and said "I can control it now." Emily looked back at her and asked "What?" She turned her gaze to the fire pit and looked at the blackened logs. The flames appeared and begin licking them. Emily let out a slight gasp and looked back at her. "How did you do that?" She shook her head and said "I don't know. Since the nightmares began bothering me, I have been effecting the flames with them. Now I can make them do anything." The woman sat down in front of her and asked "How is that?" She held out her hand and her mother took it. Slowly she turned her mother's hand over and the heat began bathing it. The heat transfered until it began to become too hot and she stopped. Emily took her hand back and looked back at her. A flame lingered in her eyes and slowly disappeared. "How did this happen?" "I think the government triggered it. They drugged me and made sure to leave me wounded enough that I couldn't use my power to heal myself more than just keeping myself alive." Emily frowned and asked "How does this relate to Joseph's family?" She took a deep breath and said "We were attacked. I saved their lives. Angel and Joseph were hurt. I don't know how but I knew how to help her using Dad's gifts and something else happened." "What?" She closed her eyes and let the inner strength roll through her until she found the image in her head. Opening her eyes, she watched her mother stare at her in surprise and she let the image go. "That is amazing." Taking a calming breath, she looked at her mother and watched the skin move as Joseph entered. He casted a look at Emily and the woman smiled. She knew that look and silently stood up. Smiling down at her daughter, she left the room and they waited until the skin rested still again. He watched her stand up and she silently stood in front of him. His gaze slid over her as she inspected the two bullet wounds and looked up at him. He had refused her help to heal and she could see why. The wounds were nearly gone but she wanted to help speed the healing process up. "Joseph." "We agreed not to speak about what happened." She shook her head and said "No. You ordered it. We have to discuss what happened." "You acted foolishly and could have gotten yourself killed. Nothing else matteres." Her eyes lit up with annoyance and she snapped "I saved your lives!" "By using power you have no business using." "It's mine to use." He caught her shoulders and growled "It will hurt you until you get the hang of it." His touch overwhelmed her mind with his strength and she held his gaze. She could feel the frustration inside him and it matched her own. He was dealing with all the consequences of her using her second gift and it was going to change everything for them. His family had pledged loyalty to her alone and it forced them to work out their issues. Slowly she caught his hands and pulled his gaze down to her. "I need to be able to use these gifts my father gave me. I don't know what brought them out but I need to learn everything about them and the only one that could teach me is dead." Her calm approach slowed the mounting frustration and he felt the warmth of her hands settle around him. She released him and he let his grip go on her. The power left her as his touch faded and she watched him take a deep breath. "Can you handle this?" She smirked and said "I can with your help." He studied the look in her eyes and left the room. She watched him disappear and let out a restrained breath. Being calm around him was the only option when her mind was overwhelmed. She had developed a way of leaving her mind blank when near him thanks to the government and it gave her time to think about her problems when she was ready. She walked into the bathing chamber and the candles lit as she slipped out of her clothes. Wading into the hot spring, she let the water cover her from sight and soaked her tired muscles. The warmth eased the weariness her new form and powers left deep in her and she ducked under the water. She could feel her muscles rejuvenating and felt the prickle on her skin. Someone was approaching and she quickly left the spring. She dressed in her worn clothes and walked out of the bathing chamber just as her visitor appeared. It was Lucious, one of her guards, and he looked around her room. She watched him look at the place and all her work on the stones. "Can I help you?" He turned his brown eyes back on her and said "I'm relieved to see you safe and home." She watched him step forward and held her ground. Her eyes leveled with him and she hoped it would hold him back. "Can I see for myself if you are okay?" "No." He stepped forward and she let out a low growl. His snarl returned and she jumped just as he shifted in movement. His blow hit her side and she rolled onto her side. Rising on all fours, she ran out of the room and heard him in pursuit. The brown wolf jumped onto her and knocked her down the hall. She stood up and felt her old wound in her side beginning to come back. He approached slowly and she bared her fangs. His loyalty was beginning controlled by his lust and she had to get through to him before he was killed. He jumped at her and she took him with her down the steps. The fight brought spectators and she felt his teeth rake her shoulder as they rolled on the ground. Her claws ripped across his muzzle, drawing blood and she felt the inner fire growing. It begged to destroy him but she fought it back. She couldn't give into the inner animal around her people. Lucious rose to his feet, blood dripping from his muzzle and she stood up slowly. Stand down Not anymore. This little kidnapping means you need a permanent protector, not Joseph Her growl matched his and he jumped. She met him in mid air and the impact threw them back onto the ground. He landed on all four and when she landed, she felt her side give and went down. He walked up to her and she held his gaze. Submit Kara Her green eyes flashed and she stood up slowly. Her growl was echoed by thirteen other growls and she watched Lucious look behind him. He couldn't avoid the blow from the black wolf. Joseph pinned him by the throat and she shifted. He had his jaws around the wolf's throat and she caught her side. "Don't." He shifted his gaze to her and saw the bleeding and cuts. Leaving the frightened animal, he walked up to her and picked her up. He carried her back to her quarters without a word to anyone and walked her straight into the bathing quarters. Her mother arrived as he put her down and he shot her a look. "Get out." Emily held her ground and said "Let me tend to her." His teeth snapped as he growled "No." The woman watched him kneel in front of her daughter and caught Kara's gaze. The woman nodded and Emily left them alone. Joseph ran his hand along the cuts on her face and focused on her shoulder. The bleeding need to be stopped and he worked her shirt off. She caught his hands and made him look at her. "I can do this without your help." "You need to heal properly. I can do that." Her eyes held his and he lowered his mouth to the wounded shoulder. She closed her eyes as the sensations swarmed her and she felt her spine tingle as each stroke of his tongue slid along her skin. Slowly he lifted his head and she saw the light in his black eyes. The fire matched the one burning inside her and he took a deep breath. Every inch of him pounded with the need to claim her and it took everything he had to hold it back. "Your wound will heal properly now." She nodded slowly, unable to actually speak, and watched him turn to leave. Her hand caught his on instinct and he looked back at her. Her hazel eyes were burning and his skin was on fire from her touch. She came up in front of him and he wished she put her shirt back on for his sanity. You aren't going anywhere Her words filled him with power and he felt the warmth they wrapped him with. She pulled his mouth down to hers and the contact left him on fire. He picked her up without warning and carried her into her bedroom. She felt the bed beneath her but could only focus on the mouth moving over hers. The clothes were discarded quickly and she felt his hands move over her, mesmerizing every inch of her. The man looked down into her gaze and asked "Are you sure?" She held his black gaze and pulled him back to her. His body moved against hers and she felt him slip into her mind just before he moved inside her. The pain was masked by their shared emotions and she let his hunger fuel hers. Each movement left her closer to the edge and she wrapped her arms around his neck as he brought her to the tip of the cliff and took her over. The pleasure ripped through her on waves of ecstasy and she held his gaze as they both came back down . His head rested against hers and she slid her hands along his back. He kissed her slowly and she felt him leave her to roll onto his back. She rolled onto her side and looked at him. His gaze was on the ceiling and a slow smirk caught her mouth. "What?" "You held back for so long and I am just trying to figure out why." He sat up and looked back at her. Her hair was falling down her shoulders and he ran his hand through it. Giving in to her was the best feeling in the world but he knew it was going to make it harder on her. She could feel his mind uneased and slid her hand along his shoulder. The skin rippled under her touch and she moved behind him. Her hands worked on his shoulders and she took care to avoid irritating his healing wounds. The massage released the tension buried deep in his muscles and he closed his eyes. The woman was killing him by overloading him with her feel. No coherent thought could form in his head and he looked back at her. She held his gaze and he crushed his mouth to hers. He pushed her back down into the bedding and claimed her all over again. She ran her fingers through his hair as he licked her shoulder and closed her eyes. Every inch of her was exhausted and completely relaxed for the first time in her life. His black eyes looked down at her and he watched her slowly look up at him. She had never looked so relaxed to him and he didn't want her to lose it. "Tonight we stay in here but tomorrow you stay with me." "This is my home." He listened to her slow, steady pulse, and said "It always will be." She felt him roll off and watched him study the room. His hand was slipping through her hair and he looked down at her. "This changes everything, doesn't it?" "It does." She sat up slowly and asked "What will happen with Lucious?" "Hopefully he is killed." Her gaze moved back to him and she said "No." The man sat up and stared at her. He knew she was trying to protect Lucious but the man had crossed a line. He had broken a law and broken his oath taken as one of the protectors of this place. "Kara, he tried forcing himself on you." She looked away and said "I held him off just fine." "He betrayed the trust installed in him." She took a deep breath and felt his hand still sliding through her hair. Annoyance was building in her, removing the relaxed sensations, and she ran her hands along her neck. He moved his hand from her hair and settled it at the base of her head. The massage worked deep into her muscles and she looked back at him. "No obligations tonight?" "We just got back. They can wait until tomorrow." His hand stilled on her neck and he pulled her down to him. His arm secured her to him and he worked his hand along her neck, easing her tension. Her eyes rested on him and he kissed her brow at the top of her scar. "What does this mean about us?" He rested his chin on her head and said "It means I won't be able to ever walk away." She smirked and wrapped one arm across his firm chest. He caught her hand and studied it, remembering the powerful paw she once bore. The woman's powers were growing more each day and were promising to match his quickly. He closed his eyes and breathed in the quiet evening. It felt different sleeping in a bed again after the many nights on the ground. Not once since he broke her free had she complained about being outdoors day in and day out. They hadn't returned home quickly to allow for everyone to heal. His sister healed quicker with her pure blood but the wound to Kara's side and his bullet wounds were more demanding. They pushed themselves until the pack forced them to rest and Angel convinced the others to give them privacy whenever they bedded down.

Fire roared everywhere and wolves were thrown to the ground one by one. The flames rose into the dark sky and she looked to her side. Joseph was standing on a dead body and staring to his right. She made out the human form with a weapon aimed at him and she tried to warn him but something exploded. She hit the ground and tried to clear her senses. The bullet ripped through his chest and he charged the man. His teeth ripped into the man's throat and she stood up as he took up post on the new dead body. His black eyes met hers and she closed hers. When she opened them she stood in her home and heard the banging on the door. Looking around the room, she ran to the door and tried pulling it open. "Dad don't!" The explosion woke her and she opened her eyes with a jerk. Hearing a fire crackling behind her, she looked at the rock cover and rolled onto her back. Looking at the flames, she watched them move like normal flames and not ones effected by her nightmares. She ran a hand through her hair and looked at her human hand. Taking a deep breath, she sat up and felt her side protest. "You need to stay down." The feminine voice drew her attention and she watched a woman with almost snow white hair approach. A bowl of something hot was placed beside her and she studied the woman. She had dark brown eyes, almost coal black, and her skin was dark. "Eat this and get some more rest." "Where am I?" "Safe." She took the bowl in her hands and tried the soup. The heat spread through her system like a flame being ignited and it eased the pain the cool atmosphere left. She ate the soup without a sound and kept her gaze on the woman across the room. As she finished, another woman came in with red hair and she put her dish down. The two spoke quietly amongst one another and looked back at her. The red head approached with a solemn look on her face and knelt beside her. She examined the bandaged wound on her side and looked up at her with black eyes. "You're beginning to heal. The drugs must finally be wearing off." Kara remained quiet as the woman left her and she let out a silent breath. They didn't set her nerves off but she didn't like being in a strange place. Closing her eyes, she pulled her hand up to the collar of her shirt and pulled out the chain. She had lost track of how long it had been since she had been able to hold it and feel the warmth it left in her palm. Her mind reached for him, praying she hadn't dreamed her rescue, and she felt him coming. She opened her eyes and found the two watching her. Their gazes were fixed on the chain around her neck and she lowered it below the safety of her shirt. The place seemed to crackle with power as more than just one presence approached. The massive waves of strength ripped through her like tidal waves and she tightened her jaw. Watching the entrance, she saw six black wolves enter and all them set their black gazes on her. She didn't move and let them try to read her. Their strength was overwhelming in combination and she took a calming breath to keep from wanting to escape it. One black wolf approached and stopped by her leg. You're awake Her eyes settled on his and he leaned closer. She felt his breath brush her face and her eyes narrowed. "Back off." He let out a low growl at her rebuke and she held his gaze. His attitude was for her to submit out of gratitude to them but she didn't know who they were and didn't give into strangers' wants. His teeth began to show and she heard the growl in her head. Looking up, she saw him stand in the entrance in his wolf form and meet this wolf's gaze. The imposer didn't back down and he came closer. Their growls and bare teeth set her nerves on edge and she watched them circle one another. The black wolf swatted at him and he pinned him to the ground. I said to let no harm come to her I was just studying her Touch her and I'll kill you The wolf tried rolling free but Joseph held him pinned at the throat and his growl echoed in the silent room. The other wolves stared without any emotion evident as if they were just made of stone and she watched Joseph finally step back. The wolf rolled onto his feet and moved to the others. He came to her and settled beside her. One black wolf stepped forward and shift. "You should know we wouldn't let anything happen to her." He snarled but didn't respond. The man looked at her with similar features to the man protecting her and she glanced back at the women across the room. The one with white hair was smirking and the red head was shaking her head. "You cannot blame him Zeke. Griffon challenged him." Zeke looked back at her and said "He was protecting us. We don't know anything about our visitor here. Just her protector." Griffon snorted as he shifted and said "That runt would've lost." Kara felt the tension building in the wolf beside her at the ridicule and she remained quiet. Angel shook her head and walked up to Zeke. "You are encouraging his behavior?" Zeke shook his head and said "No I am not." Griffon stared back at him and they watched Joseph shift. He sat with his back to them and looked at her. She seemed better after the length of time she rested and he knew it was time to get going. Don't let them know who you are or what you capable of She didn't acknowledge the order to keep their communication unnoticable but he knew she would obey. She wasn't able to hide the need to get going from him any more than he wanted it himself. The red head approached and knelt beside them. "You have Leon's eyes." Angel came closer and said "And the blonde hair." She felt their closeness not as intimidating as Griffon's and she glanced back at Joseph. He was watching their actions but keeping still. Angel met his gaze and smiled "At least introduce us Brother." His eyes narrowed and he growled "We are not family." Griffon snarled at the remark and stepped closer. Joseph rose silently and held his ground. Zeke stepped between them and stared back at Joseph. "Your opinion is your opinion. Like it or not, we are siblings." "I have no family." Griffon pushed against Zeke's restraint and two other wolves shifted to aid their eldest sibling. Zeke let them move Griffon back and turned his full attention onto Joseph. "Blood is blood." Joseph's black gaze became dark and lethal and he said with a dark tone "Family doesn't try and kill you." He looked back at Kara and she took his offered hand. He pulled her up to her feet carefully and she followed him out of the lair. She remained quiet as they walked until he stopped at an outcrop that over looked the lands below. "Are you okay?" He looked back at her and said "I'm not the one that was nearly killed." "Reunions with your past are hell." Her gaze lingered on his but he saw the distant light in them. She was still shaking off the effects of all the nightmares she slept through after he broke her free. "How long have we been here?" "A couple weeks." She looked away and asked "Why didn't you go home?" "Like I could." Smirking, she looked at him and said "You're terrified of Leon." He shook his head and said "More like Emily." Her eyes narrowed in on him and she asked "You found her?" "Where you told me she would be." Looking away, she took a calming breath and tried to not let the buried emotions come back. She didn't want to face the distrust she felt for her own mother at the moment. Right now she just wanted to savor her freedom and see what those men did to her. "Joseph?" They looked over their shoulders and watched the red head approach and Griffon. The two males stared at each other with distrust and Kara held the sister's gaze. "Griffon." The man sighed and said "I'm sorry. I should have obeyed your request." He didn't respond and the woman held her hand out to Kara to introduce herself. Slowly she took it and met the woman's black gaze. "My name is Gabriella, but they all call me Gabby." Kara shook her hand and said "Kara." "That's a beautiful name. How do you know our baby brother?" His growl was all she needed to release the woman's hand and she looked back at him. He was determined to keep her identity from them but she couldn't figure out why. Griffon stepped slightly in front of Gabriella and held his gaze. "It is an innocent question. Allow her to answer it or answer it yourself." "The last question I answered to any of you was when you almost killed me." "We were naive back then. We grew up." "Your grief for a father you all say you loved caused you to try and kill the last being to ever see him alive?" Griffon growled and Gabriella sighed "We shouldn't have done that. Leon made sure we paid for it." "Not well enough." "What do you want us to do to get you to accept our apology and let us try to be your family?" Joseph's gaze darkened and he growled "Leave us alone." Griffon matched his gaze and Kara took a deep breath. She hated finding out things about other people this way and it made it extremely hard when it was about Joseph. His past was never something she thought about and she knew she should have. He is twenty years older than her but he is the most important person in her life and the shady history of his life would eventually be revealed when he was ready, not like this. Her hand caught his arm and he pulled his gaze away from his brother. Please He allowed her to walk around the other two and they moved down the mountain side further. The sunset fell on them as they came down to a shady green patch halfway down the mountain. She sat down by the base of a trunk and he stood beside her. "I know you're curious." She drew her knees up against her and wrapped her arms around them. He was right but she was also understanding on keeping your past locked away for self preservation. "I won't ask." He took a seat beside her and slowly took a calming breath. Too much had been revealed about his life and now he had no right to keep the rest from her. "We all share the same father. Eath of us have a different mother. Maximus was the leader of our pack and the head of our blood line like Leon. The difference between the two was that my father's ancestors had always been able to transform into animals. They were secret members of the human population that ran in the wilderness most of their lives for the longest time. When the world was changed from all the radiation exposure the power lying in our blood line grew into something dangerous. My father had just become the leader when Leon was the sole leader of your blood line. They had formed a friendship but agreed to stay apart because of appearances. Most people then didn't trust my father because of how must darkness as they called it he possessed. Our pack was established here years ago when my father met Zeke's mother." She looked up at him and asked "Why did he have so many?" "He didn't find his mate until after he had twelve offsprings. My mother didn't belong to this bloodline." Kara looked away and said "She was one of us." He nodded and said "She was one of the only prue breds left in that blood line. Your mother and her were it." "I'm not related to her am I?" He chuckled and said "No. Rafe is." She looked back at him and heard "He is my cousin. Camille was her half sister." "How did she die?" He took a deep breath and said "The same government found us at the temple. I had been born there and was being raised for when my time came to serve Leon. They murdered my father while he bought us time to get away but had a trap laid in the woods for us. My mother was murdered but it wasn't like any human that murdered her." "They ripped her throat out." His eyes landed on her and she said "I've seen it." He looked away and said "After that, they drugged me and took me back to the capitol. Leon found me after they had done some genetic testings and DNA enhancements to learn what I was capable of. He got me out of there and took me to my father's pack." "They attacked you." "Leon heard what they had attempted and got me out barely alive. He brought me to his family and I was given a second family if I chose it. I stayed with them until I was able to live on my own and then I left. I set up a range of different places to settle down at night but kept my service tied to Leon out of gratitude." Kara took a deep breath and looked at him. He slowly caught her gaze and she saw the alert flash in his eyes. He shoved her down beneath him just as the gun shot echoed around them. She felt his body flinch and she watched him sit up. His eyes had grown lethal and she saw the stain spreading against his black shirt. "Joseph." "Stay down." He caught her hand as he rose to his feet and kept her inches behind him. He felt the power surrounding them and knew the pack was settling in. They had picked up on the danger and he looked around. "Hand her over and we won't shoot you again." His snarl was menacing and she spotted the swarm of men coming out of hiding. The leader held his gaze and they stared at each other. "Let us take her and everyone walks away breathing." Kara caught the leader glancing at her and a man behind him raised his gun higher. She tightened her hold on his hand and she felt the second shot jerk through his stomach. His knee buckled and she caught him as he went down. "He'll fire again." Joseph kept his gaze on the man as she assessed the wounds and he felt her skin warm against his. Growls eminated from behind them and he knew the pack was preparing to strike. "She isn't going anywhere." The man waved his hand and the gun was lowered. He chuckled and looked back at the two. "I know those bullets can't kill you but the toxin they were crafted in will supress your bloodline enough to leave both of you defenseless and you won't be able to stop us from taking your ward and murdering the others." He tried pushing himself up but the pain left him motionless and bathed in agony. Zeke stepped up in front of them and lowered his head. Griffon and Angel met her sides and she felt the slow steady power coming from her hands. She looked down at Joseph and he caught her gaze briefly. The unbearable pain was flowing into her and she could feel some of the menacing power disappearing. "Kara, leave them and let's go." She looked back at the leader and heard "We got your blood work back. We've been hunting for you for a long time." A low growl met her ear and she watched the pack flex anxious muscles. The leader sighed and signaled his sniper. The man leveled his barrel with Angel and fired. The wolf went down with a cry and Zeke let out a deadly growl. Angel! She left her wolf form and rested a hand on the bullet wound in her side. Kara took a deep breath and tried to find the woman's mind. Angel, focus on me. Her hands remained on the wounds on Joseph but she focused on connecting with Angel. The woman turned her eyes on her and she felt the connection solidify. Keep your mind with mine. Focus on me. It will get you passed the pain. Angel let out a slight nod and closed her eyes. I'm okay Zeke. His growl lowered but he kept his eyes on the shooter. The leader stared back at Kara and met her gaze. "Ready to go? Her life is lost but if we go, your protector won't die." Joseph's growl grew silent and she felt him sit up. The pain was slowly beginning to lessen and she could see the leader unimpressed. The man glanced at his sniper and they watched the man change ammo. "This one was designed just for you, Joseph." He leveled a warning stare with the man as the gun was aligned with him and she felt the pack step in the way. Zeke moved in the path and lowered his head. Gabby and Griffon flanked him to hide the three from further harm. "Stand down. I'll have him shoot and the drugs will kill you." The growling continued and she heard the low conversation between the pack members. Keep her safe Stay down. We can protect both of you. This isn't your fight You are family and she is keeping my mate with us. I cannot afford for anything to happen to either of you Her head felt like it was going to explode with hatred and worry. She focused her gaze back on the leader and saw him signal the sniper to fire. Jumping over the pack, she stood on all four black legs and her yellow eyes stared at the man. The sniper froze and the leader stepped back. Her fangs flashed and she lowered her head. "That is a suprise." "No one else is going to be harmed because of me." The leader signaled for the man to lower his gun and she lifted her head. She could feel the power eminating from within and watched all the soldiers step back. "This war ends now." The man nodded and said "You're right. No reason to involve others. This is personal." Her eyes narrowed and she watched the man remove a gun. The uneasiness pounded her from all the wolves behind her and she flexed her paws. The leader removed the safety and looked back at her. "When I take you in, I will finally be able to ease the loss of my father for my mother." Her growl left him chilled to the bone and she watched the gun be aligned with her head. She closed her eyes and let the power inside transfer. The gun clattered onto the ground and he let out a cry of pain. He caught his hand and she opened her eyes. He stared back at her and she snarled. "You bitch." Her large paws pinned him beneath her and she stared down into his pale face. His men stared in horror as the large black panther held him prisoner. Her yellow eyes stared down at him and she felt his resentment to her disappear quickly. "You win. Let us go and we'll leave you alone." He tried squirming free and her paw pinned his throat. His skin became white as the breath was taken with his throat crushing beneath her weight. His hands caught at her leg and she pressed harder. When he grew still, she slammed her paw against his head, ripping the side of his face open. Her gaze lifted and settled on the terrified men. They dropped their weapons and she let her eyes flashed. Each body burst into flames in seconds and she turned back to the pack. They stood frozen in place and she walked through them to reach Angel. She was staring at her with awe as she shifted into her human form and settled her hands on the wound. Using the energy flowering like lava inside her, she caterized the wound and stopped the bleeding. "Thank you." She smirked and walked over to Joseph. He stared at her as she held out her hand and he stood up. The pain was radiating through him but he needed to inspect her. She could feel the annoyance in him and knew he didn't agree with her actions. "At least they didn't hurt you." "Thanks to you." He took a deep breath and said "That was foolish." She held his black gaze and sighed "I told you I can defend myself just as well as you." He felt the words die on his tongue when he saw the pack circling around them. Zeke approached her from the side and shifted to his human form. He stared down into her hazel eyes and knelt before her. "I never pledged my loyalty to your grandfather but I give it to you." She watched all of them kneel, including Griffon, and glanced back at Joseph. He was studying them, judging their actions and looked back at her. "I think it's time to head home."