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formerprincess · 3 years

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A tale written with fangs and claws || Chapter 58

Chapters: 58/? Fandom: Teen Wolf (TV) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Liam Dunbar/Theo Raeken, Corey Bryant/Mason Hewitt Characters: Liam Dunbar, Theo Raeken, Mason Hewitt, Corey Bryant, Nolan (Teen Wolf) Additional Tags: Alpha Liam Dunbar, Slow Build, Friends to Lovers, Dunbar Pack, Bisexual Liam Dunbar, Werewolf Theo Raeken, Alpha Theo Raeken, Canon-Typical Violence, Smut, Mates, Liam and Theo are mates, Top Theo Raeken, Bottom Theo Raeken, Top Liam, Bottom Liam Dunbar Series: Part 1 of Morning Dew Pack

Liam has to take care of a very important matter. And there is an invitation...

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Liam immensely enjoyed working for Ellie. She was happy to show him her craft, teach him things, but she was also very easygoing, and as long as she saw him trying, she loved him and was thrilled with his performance. Also, Ellie knew about the supernatural, so she completely understood when he looked at his phone after it chimed with a text, just in case his pack needed him. Not that anything had come up in the few weeks since Liam started working for her, but he liked to have this option. He didn't have to hide anything, and Liam realized how much better he felt with that.

When work was slow, they talked about a lot of things and Ellie taught Liam some things about supernatural creatures. She had laughed loudly at the story about the fairies in their garden and proceeded to elucidate the different variations of fairies and elves. There were plant fairies, water fairies, sun fairies, and almost that many elves classes. Just like there were different weres out there. Liam felt kind of silly he didn't know about any of this and one day voiced his thoughts. Was he simply ignorant or just blind?

"Neither. You're from a town where none of those things exist. Don't blame yourself for that", Carlie said. Carlie was one of Ellie's three best friends, the other two being Libby and Simone. All three were at Ellie's age and the friends had a weekly meeting at the shop where they sat together, talked about their lives, drank tea or coffee, and ate cookies. Carlie herself was a petite woman with short spiky hair and big square glasses. From what they had told Liam upon first meeting, they all were elves but Liam secretly suspected Carlie of being a pixie. She was cheeky, witty, always said what was on her mind, and her eyes sparkled with mischief. Needless to say, Liam liked her. "Yeah, but I also feel like I should know more." "You know enough. About Onis and Berserkers and Kitsunes and hell and other terrible things. You're twenty. Most guys your age know how to party and wear their base caps the wrong way." She bit into a cookie. Liam laughed. "My boyfriend likes to wear his caps the wrong way. He looks hot with it. But he also knows other things." "You have so much time to learn still. Don't worry. Even we old ladies don't know about any supernatural being out there", Simone comforted him and filled her cup with some more tea. She was the opposite of Carlie; tall, thin, and the quietest of the bunch. "I also agree with Carlie, you know about terrible things, traumatic things, things one should not know about. Especially not this early in life. But unfortunately, trauma is also experience. " Liam made a face. He sat down on the armrest of one of the chairs Ellie had placed around. "I just could have lived without some of those experiences. I mean, I could have gone without the experience of being homeless but hey. Maybe that's just me." Ellie put her arm over the backrest of her chair and turned to look at Liam. "When have you been homeless?" They talked about a lot of stuff but Liam's life story, she only knew parts of it. Good parts. He didn't want to deliver sob story after sob story. Liam had a good life, he knew some people had it worse. He cherished that. Now he exhaled loudly through his nose and then he told the four women how the hyenas came into town and caused havoc, how they finally destroyed the house and left the pack picking up the pieces. He ended with the move to the new house.

After he finished, his listeners were shocked. "You experienced all this and you still find it in yourself to be such a happy and polite young man?" Libby asked in awe. She was usually full of life and laughed loudly, her afro curls always bouncing around her round face, but now she was stunned. Liam shrugged. "What's the option? Turning bitter? It worked out in the end. Doesn't mean I will ever forgive them for what they did but no one died, at least." "You are a terrific young man, Liam", Ellie praised. He smiled softly. "Thank you."

The store door opened and Angela, Ellie's oldest daughter, stepped into the shop. She was a lawyer and used her breaks to visit sometimes. She greeted everyone happily and hugged her mother. Liam ran to get her a fresh cup and dragged another seat to their circle so he should sit and interact with the group. She squeezed his arm in a silent thank you as she sat down and accepted the cup. "What were you guys talking about? Is everything okay?" She asked good-heartedly. "Liam just told us about those horrible, horrible hyenas who destroyed his house" Libby filled her in. Angela raised both eyebrows. "I hope none of you were harmed." "Everybodys fine. We managed to get out in time before the house exploded. I'm just grateful I got my brother out of town before it happened." "Oh, you have a brother? I didn't know that." Angela loved kids and had specialized in family rights. She claimed she liked to help kids get justice. "Hm." Liam nodded. He walked to the cash register where he left his phone and while he walked back searched through his pictures. "Landon. He's almost ten." She showed her and the rest of the women the picture and they all cooed how much alike the brothers looked. "You said you brought his out of town? So I take he's usually living with you? Your parents must appreciate such a tight brother's bond." Angela was surprised but happy. Liam hesitated. "Landon's not my mother's son. We're half brothers. Same dad. Well, father. Sperm donor. My biological father is...he's a piece of shit. Alcoholic. Abuser. You get it. I didn't even know Landon existed until we met months ago by a pure coincidence. The circumstances don't matter but in the end, Theo and I took him home with us. Not a chance I would have let him stay with that man. So he lived with us in the house. Until I brought him to the lake to keep him safe. He lives there now." Liam missed Landon terribly but they were all still so young, they could not care for a child properly. Byron and Lana were perfect for that task and Landon also liked them. He blinked. "But enough of sad stories. Let's talk about something different, okay?"

****** He was cleaning up after Ellie's friends had left. After he had basically pleaded for a change of topic, the talk had revolved around lighter topics and ended on a very funny note. Now Ellie was in the back, doing some accounting, and Liam manned the front of the store. Angela was the only one still there. Now she stepped to the cash register where Liam was currently filling some jars with bagged candy. "I'm going to tell you something, not as a friend but as a lawyer, okay? And I need you to listen." She looked serious and Liam tensed. What happened? "Did I do something wrong? Is your mother mad at me?" "No. But listen." She tapped both index fingers on the counter. "You need your biological father to sign his rights over to you as fast as possible. What you said about him, having him in Landon's and your life is dangerous and not good for either of you. So you need to act fast. Have him make you Landon's legal guardian." Liam frowned. "I planned on doing so once I turned twenty-one. I wasn't aware I can do it now. Thought I had to be twenty-one." Angela shook her head strictly. "No. You need to do it now. In most states, anyone who is eighteen years old can become a guardian. Look, who tells you your father agrees to it in a year? He still holds guardianship and can make decisions for your brother. If he does not sign over his rights, he has so much time to cause harm. You said Landon's almost ten. That means another eight years of having the right to decide about medical procedures, school enrollment, the living situation. Even if Landon stays with you, all it takes is somebody checking who is the legal guardian for Landon. Could be school, could be a doctor's office, or if he gets in trouble it could be the police. If he's in the hospital. For eight years, you have to always fear for this to happen. If your father does not sign his rights over." "If he does not do it on his own, I will take him to court." Angela shook her head even more firm this time. "Honestly? They will ask you where Landon lived for the past year. Legally, what you and Theo did was kidnapping. If you manage to get a strict judge, that alone will cause you to lose the case. Landon will get sent back to his father and you're probably not even allowed to see him. I told you, I'm not telling you this as a friend. As your friend, I understand why you did it, as a lawyer I have to inform you about this likely possibility. The only chance you have is to have your father make you his guardian." It was a hard pill to swallow and Liam gulped. He had been naive, he realized now, and considered it all easier than it was. And maybe Landon had to pay the price for his neglect. "Thank you, Angela", he mumbled sadly.

****** Liam sat in his car and watched the house across the street. The sun was beating down and these barren landscapes made the air even drier. The dusty roads stirred up sand whenever a car raced by. Bleak. He cast a look at the passenger seat. All documents he needed were laying there, including a pen. Now all that Liam was left to do, was get out of the car, walk up to the door, and get a signature. Angela's stern talk from days ago had left Liam rallied. Once he was home, he had told Theo about everything and the couple had to admit them taking Landon out of the house had been a stupid move from the legal point of view. They had emotions get the better of them and now this potentially harmful situation had arisen. Theo had supported Liam in whatever was needed to ensure he would become Landon's guardian but the Beta was also not a lawyer and as much at loss as Liam.

Thank god for Angela. She had helped Liam set up the documents Emmet had to sign and those documents Liam grabbed now when he exited the car. Theo was not with him, his boyfriend didn't even know Liam was here. Nobody knew. This, Liam felt, was something he had to don his own. Maybe to find a deserving ending. Maybe to test his control. Or maybe this was stupid but then again, Liam could proudly admit he was doing stupid crap now and then. Stiles, according to his own claim, could show Liam a list.

He let out a shaky breath when he walked through the unkempt front lawn. Some new beer bottles and cans had gathered around the chair. Emmet was not there but Liam heard his heartbeat through the ajar window. You're not going to kill him, Liam. He does not deserve you getting your hands dirty. Liam knocked at the door. Inside the house, he heard some bottles falling and Emmet's slurred voice mumbling. Then scuffling steps and the door opened. And the young Alpha had to gasp and take a step back. "God, you stink!" The stench of booze, beer, and sweat made him almost gag. Disgusting, his man. "You. What do you want?" Emmet slurred angrily and grabbed the door for support. Liam turned his head away and took a few breaths. He willed his nausea down and turned to face his father. "How long have you been drinking, alkie?" "What do you care? Why are you even here? I don't want you." "Trust me, I don't want you either. But I need something from you and that means I have to come here. I would rather be somewhere else, believe that." "What? Want money for the little gremlin? I'm not giving you a dime." Emmet swayed on his feet. "I don't need your money. Go inside, before you fall flat on your face. I'm not catching you." Liam pointed inside the house. His father made a step towards him. "I should beat the crap out of you for talking to me like that and not stop til you're whimpering. Do you know who I am?" "A sorry excuse for a worm." Liam pushed his biological father by the shoulder and he stumbled back. As drunk as he was, he didn't stand a chance against an Alpha.

Emmet was taken by surprise but managed to catch himself at the table. He spewed a few curse words in Liam's direction before he shuffled around and fell on one of the chairs with the grace of a sack filled with potatoes. Liam closed the door and followed inside. His nose twitched and he wanted to retch at the smell and how dirty everything was but he kept himself from it last minute. This was not for him, this was for Landon. "How's your mother? Still wailing about how horrible I am? The slut should be lucky an honest man wanted her." "My mother is neither a slut nor are you an honest man. Don't mention her or I break your nose." Liam felt his anger building up. This was a test for his control and he might fail it. "Piss off! She's the reason you're such a weak bastard. Wonder what happened with the other one. He's just as weak. Cried whenever I hit him. Begged me to stop. Just like you. Oh, I remember you. Your mother screamed and cried when the ambulance came. I would have left you on the ground. Would have taught you a lesson." "I didn't need a lesson, I needed a father who loved me!" Liam slammed the papers on the table. "Here! Sign this!"

Emmet grabbed it after a few tries and dragged it over the table. He narrowed his eyes at the print. "What should I sign?" "Those are the papers for you to make me Landon's legal guardian. Sign and we're out of your hair forever." Liam balled his hands and felt his fingertips itch. His claws wanted to come out, his wolf furious at the man in front of him. Years of pent-up rage welled up and dared to spill over. He could kill Emmet and probably nobody would shed a tear. Laughter disrupted his thoughts. Emmet had left the papers on the table and laughed. It boomed in Liam's ears. His blood rushed through his veins. This man was mocking him. "If you really think I'm signing this crap, you're mistaken. Know why? Because you bastard want me to and you get nothing from me!" Emmet was still laughing but decided to underline his words by spitting in Liam's direction. It landed on the carpet between them. His claws almost broke through and he was ready to lunge but a voice in his head stopped him. No. Not like this. Not him. Maybe it was his wolf who was even stronger than Liam's human side burdened with IED but it was enough to make Liam pause. If you kill him, you'll never become Landon's guardian. Keep the little one safe.

Liam exhaled loudly through his nose and closed his eyes for a second. If even the animal inside him knew better, he would follow. Had to follow. All for his little brother. Landon didn't deserve a murderer for a hero. He opened his eyes and stared at Emmet. Suddenly Liam was seven again, cowering at the floor while his father screamed at him and walked closer and closer. He had put his arms up back then, in a feeble attempt to shield his body from the hits, and pleaded for the man to stop. Fear. Panic. Pain. But this time Liam didn't feel panicked. He was not afraid of this drunkard calling himself a father. Instead, Liam felt disgust and maybe even pity. This guy had nothing to live for. It gave the young Alpha a strange sense of calm. Out of the two of them, Liam was the better man. The better person. IED or not. The condition didn't rule him as much as it ruled his father, and Liam had quite a lot more on his plate.

He sat at the opposite of the table and took the pen in his hands. "And why wouldn't you? What's in it for you? Just to be petty? Just to put one over on me?" Emmet snickered. "It will bug you forever, that's good enough for me." He reached for a bottle of booze and uncorked it to take a swig. Liam glared at him. Then he put the pen down. His glance landed on his bracelet. The bracelet he shared with Theo. Suddenly, he got an idea. Maybe it was time to see if he could take a book out of Theo's playbook. He raised his head and crossed his arms on top of the table. "Okay, fine, don't sign. We will play your game. I will send Landon back to live here." Emmet eyed him. "You're bluffing." "Not at all. He will come and live with you again. But be aware. I will be around every damn day." "And then what? What will you do? Punch me? You're no match for me", Emmet sneered. "If you lay so much as one finger on him, and we both know you will, I will call the cops on you. They will come and they will arrest you for domestic violence. And yes, Landon may be sent to foster care but I will make sure you will be sent to prison. There is no booze, no beer, no schnapps in prison. But the people there love people who abused kids. I know people and I will make sure every inmate knows what you did to two little boys. That's what will be awaiting you. No freedom to get wasted like you're doing now every day. Think about it." His biological father still eyed him suspiciously. "No way you would ever let him live here again." "To get you locked up, I would do other things. Landon too, by the way. All to make sure you will rot in hell. He's tough, he will take whatever you might to do him. Maybe I will move in as well. One happy family. With me comes my boyfriend, obviously. By the way, how's your hand?" He looked at Emmet's fingers wrapped around the neck of the bottle. Father and son stared at each other, accessed each other until Emmet snorted. "Your mother raised you better than this. I call bluff. You don't have it in you, weak shit!" A cold, dangerous smile appeared on Liam's face and he leaned closer. "You call my mom a slut and other horrible names, yet you forget I also inherited DNA from you. We both have IED. Wanna find out how much more alike we are? If I'm as cruel as you are?" He gave his father a death glare. "You want to start a war? I'll raise you World War III. Your choice. Either don't sign and feel the whiplash or sign and you will never have to see us again." Liam placed the pen on the papers and waited. His heart was thundering inside his chest. That was not his usual way to carry on negotiations and he had no idea if it worked. Theo made it always seem so easy and pulled it off without a hitch. But Liam knew he was not that good. Emmet grabbed the pen and fiddled with it. He scribbled his signature at the marked fields, an unruly chicken scratch but his signature nonetheless. "Get the hell out of here. If I see you on my front lawn again, I will shoot you." Liam's hand shot towards and he pulled the documents towards himself after the last signature was done. "I have better people to be around than you. Give your liver a break once in a while." He got up just in time as Emmet's hand shot towards his throat. The alcoholic missed by far and his hand thumped on the table. "Fuck off, you piss baby!" The sound of the splintering bottle hitting the wall was the last thing Liam heard from his father when he now left the house without so much of a goodbye.

It only dawned on him what just had transpired when he was in his car and already on the road. Liam stopped at a red light and breathed a sigh of relief. "Holy shit!" He had faced Emmet Dunbar, that one man he hated with a burning passion, the one who had made his childhood horrible and hurt Liam, Ilona, and Landon so much. Against what he had wanted to do to him, Emmet had left the meeting completely without a cut, Liam was incredibly proud of himself. Even though now, that everything settled, his hands shook and his heart raced, adrenaline pumping through his body. That had the potential to go so, so wrong and yet Liam stood tall. He glanced at the papers safely sitting on the passenger seat. Not only had it worked out without Liam losing his temper, but it had also really worked and he was Landon's guardian. The threat of Emmet interfering with their lives and taking Landon away again was erased. Liam wanted to cry.

His phone chimed and Liam almost hit another car. "Jesus Christ!" He accepted the call over the speaker. "Hey, Theo." "Hey. Say, just out of curiosity, where the hell are you? Nobody knows where you left. It's not like you to disappear like that. What's going on." Liam bit his lip. "I was at Emmet's." "Emmet? Emmet Dunbar? Your father? What the fuck! Is he still alive?" "Shh, let me explain. I told you about what Angela said and I went to get his signature. Yes, he's still alive, I didn't touch him. Even though I wanted to." He heard Theo closing a door and birds singing in the background. "Why didn't you tell me? I would have accompanied you." Yeah, good question. Liam didn't know for sure. "I guess...I needed to burn this bridge alone? Prove to myself I can stay calm around him. I'm not like him in any capacity and while I know you and I absolutely adore you for always being there for me, this was something I had to do alone. You understand? Maybe for my own peace of mind, I dunno." Theo was silent for a few moments. "Yeah, I understand", he finally confessed. "Did it work, at least?" A smile broke out on Liam's face. "Yep. Have all the signatures I need. Thanks to you as well." "Thanks to me? What did I do?" "Well, let's say you're a good teacher, even if you don't want to be one. I'll tell you everything once I get home, okay?" Theo laughed. "Okay. Love you." "Love you too."

****** Landon's face appeared on the screen in front of Liam and as soon as he had a picture, the child waved animatedly. "Hello, Liam!" Videocalls were a good way to keep in contact even if they could not see each other in person. Liam happily waved back. "Hey, Landon, how are you?" "I'm good. Zack and I built a fort." Landon launched himself into a story of all the things his best friend and he had done. Lana and Byron appeared in the background of the call but they simply waved and let the boy talk. Liam put his chin in the palm of his hand and listened with a smile. Seeing Landon so carefree and hearing about him being a normal child was all he ever wanted. It came nine years too late and Liam knew his brother must have been affected one way or another by his upcoming but now that he was out of Emmet's claws, Landon was in for an amazing life. After he was done, Landon asked about Liam's life in Seattle. Now it was the older's turn to talk about college, his pack, the fairies (Landon loved this part and he asked thousands of questions). Theo had joined Liam for a while and laughed softly. "He's like you", he whispered into his mate's ear and kissed Liam's cheek before he disappeared out of the frame again after a wave in Landon's direction. Liam chuckled but then he finished his story. "One more thing, Landon. You know we took you away from Emmet, right?" Landon shivered at the mention of his father's name but nodded bravely. "Do I have to go back? Please, don't make me go back!" "No, no, hey, I would never. That's why I'm telling you. He signed all the papers. I am your guardian now." Lana and Byron appeared left and right from Landon. "He did? Oh, how wonderful, Liam." Lana was touched. Landon scrunched his nose. "What does guardian mean?" "It means Liam is responsible for you now and Emmet can never hurt you again. Say you want to go on a class trip, for example, the school has to ask Liam and not your father anymore", Byron patiently explained to him. Landon considered. "So, he can't get me?" "Never again. He's out of your life for good", Liam promised firmly. His brother beamed at the adults. "That's amazing!" "Yeah, it is." Lana stroked through his hair. "But, Sweetie, you have to get ready for bed now. Tomorrow's a school day." "But I want to keep talking to Liam. I'm not finished." Yes, Landon could be stubborn. "We can talk tomorrow, Laddie. After school, yeah? Now you have to get ready for bed. Sleep is important. I'm going to bed now too. Theo does too. See?" He rolled to the side and tilted his screen so Landon could see Theo brushing his teeth with the bathroom door open. Theo waved. It wasn't that he actually wanted to go to bed but he had tried some licorice Mike had brought home, not from Ellie though, and after eating it Theo claimed to have a bad taste in his mouth. Landon huffed. "But we talk tomorrow", he insisted. "Werewolf promise." Liam raised his hand solemnly to swear. "Good Night, Laddie." "Good Night, Liam. Good Night, Theo." Landon stood up. "Good Night, you two," Lana called out and then disappeared with Landon.

Byron sat on the desk chair. "I know he signed but did the meaning with your father go well?" "It did. As well as possible with this man. I was pretty surprised at my control. At a certain point, I was ready to snap but somehow my wolf made me pull back and I got more level-headed." "That's the Alpha in you. Even if our personality or our urges say otherwise, sometimes the Alpha part can balance it out to keep the peace. It is impressive how well you learned to work with your wolf." The praise was nice because Liam tried. Sometimes it felt like all he did was running in circles but then he proved to everyone (and mostly himself) he was a good person and improving. "Speaking of Alpha and peace, Liam I forwarded an email to you just now. Have a look at it, maybe Theo should do so as well."

Theo had dried his mouth and now walked over to lean on Liam's chair while Liam opened the mail Byron had forwarded. It included a word document and when Liam opened it, it turned out to be an invitation to a meeting held in a hotel in Seattle. "Liam, part of being an Alpha are pack politics." Liam whined. "I told you I'm not good at that! What is this? An Alpha congress? I can't go there." "Maybe let the man talk before you cut and run", Theo suggested and smoothly avoided the contact between Liam's elbow and his stomach by moving aside. "I know what you said, Liam, and this is no pressure but I wanted to inform you. The invitation is indeed for an Alpha meeting. No congress, just a few Alphas coming together and talking." "About what?" Liam saw himself on a stage, in front of hundreds of Alphas, a whole auditorium filled with them, and making a fool out of himself. People would laugh. It would be a degrading experience. "Life. This and that. No one is expecting a speech from you, Liam. See I've been to a few of those meetings. There are only packs living close by attending these meetings. They're mostly boring. You stand around, do some small talk, maybe eat a quick snack, and leave. But they can also help you get a better idea of which packs are around yours. In the area. It can be interesting, if only so for scouting. But, of course, that does not mean you have to attend. It's no declaration of war not to go there. Just like you cannot declare war by saying a wrong word if you go." "Those are all Alphas, experienced Alphas probably, and then I show up. Junior McJunington. What will they think?" "Screw what they think. So what if they're older or more experienced? You're you and that's awesome" Theo passionately declared. "Thank you, Dr. Seuss", Liam hissed. He frowned and scratched his cheek. "I have to think about this." "As it is your right. Don't do anything you're not comfortable with." "If I should attend, there will be no problem? I can just show up there?" "The invitation is addressed to the Alpha of the Morning Dew Pack. They seemingly didn't get the memo about the change in our pack but that doesn't matter. The invitation is for you, not for me. Actually, no Beta can attend the meeting. And no Alpha mate either unless they're specifically invited." "I have to go there alone??" Liam shrieked. In his mind, he had Theo by his side. Maybe Brett and Caden since both could be real charmers and have intellectual conversations. Corey would have also a good match despite him being as insecure as Liam in those settings. Byron rubbed his hands together. "Those are the rules. But I know, alone or not, you will be just fine. Should you go or not. This is not something I can do for you. The decision is all yours. Just one more thing, to be fair. you will be the youngest in this group. By a few decades, I suppose. That's why I don't think they will pay you much attention. They're just curious." "Great", Liam said sarcastically. "Given my track records with strange Alphas so far, this will be a marvelous experience."

****** "I don't think you should go. What if that's a trap?" Tim worried about Liam's safety. Liam had informed his pack about the invitation right the next day and after classes, they were sitting in the living room and discussing this. "I think he should go. Just to check the others out. Maybe he can make allies?" Brett opposed. "I also think Liam should go. Byron said he has been to a few of those meetings. I don't think it's a trap", Sadie tried to dissolve Tim's worry and he gave her a grateful look. "The two strange Alphas I met in the last year have both tried to kill me. You understand I'm not keen on walking in a room full of unfamiliar Alphas?" Liam questioned. "I think that should be the reason you go", Ever stated, "to show all of them you're not afraid. If they plan on messing with you, you will look them in the eye. Maybe then they won't underestimate you." "I just don't see the purpose of those meetings. From what Byron said it sounds pretentious." Corey looked peeved. "Oh, it is", Lori confirmed. "But they are not that rare. I don't think you have to be scared, Liam." She offered a genuine smile. Liem returned it cause he knew she was trying to make him feel better. "What do you mean by not rare?" "Well, they're not, if you have Alphas of the old school" Brett took over from his sister. "Modern Alphas just meet up, talk, like Scott with Satomi. They don't even call it an Alpha meeting and send out fancy invites. Those are practices of the old guard, mostly well-esteemed werewolves who love to use those meetings to gossip. Ever seen those movies with scenes in Gentlemen Clubs? Country Clubs? Those are the people to expect at those meetings. Byron's not that far off when he says they won't spare you a look. You're - and don't take this the wrong way - not their type of person, if you know what I mean." "The Alpha from my parents' pack also attends such meetings. They always gush about the delicious and expensive things they eat there. But this woman also has a rich husband and considers herself playing tennis and golf as labor. So, pretty much pompous, entitled snobs", Sadie said. Maya rolled her eyes. "I also know about those meetings but I'm so glad I never met an Alpha going there before. Eh, no offense, Liam." Liam groaned. "Okay, just the danger of becoming the new hot gossip for the elite wolves around. Yeah, I think I'll pass." "I would still go", Caden chimed in. "It's a good opportunity to get to know how many are around. Do you know that? They invited Byron so their radius must be quite large but how many packs live between Seattle and the lake? Wouldn't it be good to know in case we need help? What if the hyenas come back? Having some werewolf allies would not be that bad."

He had a point. They all did. Liam was still torn. For once because he was afraid of making a fool of himself, then for the reason not to offend another Alpha and start a war, and on top of it, he now came to the realization just how different those Alphas seemed to be. He looked at his boyfriend. "What do you say?" Theo had listened to everything and had made up his mind. "You should go. For all those reasons. Byron said there will not come anything bad from it. He would never let you go to any event if he feared something might happen to you. If he says you can go, I believe him. And yeah, it is a good way to get information. Maybe there are not that many packs around. But you will only find out if you go." Since most of his Betas said he should go, he considered. Maybe it was a good idea indeed. Only one problem: "If it's that high class, what should I wear?"

Fifteen minutes later Liam regretted that question. He stood in his bedroom while Theo, Brett, Mason, and Sadie sat on his bed. Sadie throned between the other guys, one leg crossed over the other, and looked like she was having the time of her life. Liam was the poor victim and had to model several outfits for the self-proclaimed fashion experts of his pack (he knew Theo could dress good but at this point, Liam felt betrayed) who all had other ideas of the perfect outfit. "That dress shirt is perfect for you. Not too out there but also not too normal" Mason praised Liam's current outfit consisting of black pants and a dark grey dress shirt. Liam hated it. It was not even one of his shirts but one of Theo's Mason had just grabbed. His boyfriend had not protested (see, there was the betrayal) but now shook his head. "That's not the outfit to go." "Absolutely right. Liam, grab the one I hung there." Sadie pointed at the clothes and Liam grumbled but grabbed them and stalked into the bathroom. When he emerged again, he was wearing jeans, a blue slipover with a white button-down shirt underneath. Liam felt like he was a kindergartener dressed by mommy. "Now you look like back in Devenford. Then again, maybe this private school flair is exactly what you need", Brett snickered. Liam glared at him and Theo scoffed before he handed Liam the third outfit. Liam glared at him too for good measure and disappeared into the bathroom again.

The outfit Theo had picked for him, Liam didn't even know where he got it. He had never seen Theo wearing this particular combo. Cloth trousers, a polo shirt and a sports jacket over it. "How the hell do you get this? And why do you get this?" He asked once he emerged from the bathroom. Interesting, Theo became a bit sheepishly. "I got it for some occasions? Maybe a job interview?" "This is so not you." Liam eyed himself in the mirror. "This is so not me either. What were you thinking, guys? None of your outfits were good." "You wanted us to help you", Mason defended himself. "I wanted to get suggestions, not become your dress-up doll", Liam replied sharply. Sadie sighed. "You're being difficult. Don't you want to make a good first impression?" "A good impression as himself, shouldn't that be the goal?" Caden had walked into the room and crossed the arms in front of his chest. He looked at Liam. "You look strange. Actually, you look like me whenever my aunt visited the family. Horrible." "How do you look when your aunt visits?" Brett had to know. Caden pulled out his cellphone and searched a bit before he handed the phone over. Brett snickered. "Okay, thanks for the laugh. So dapper, oh my. One would not think that since you're almost only ever wearing more casual clothing." Sadie giggled. "Does Ever know you can look like that?" "As a matter of fact, yeah. She doesn't like it. I can relate. But my aunt is quite old-fashioned and conservative. She came to town, we dressed like that, covered up our tattoos, the whole shebang. We just never liked it. Liam doesn't like dressing up either." "Tell me about it. That's a topic we have had since we're friends." Mason rolled his eyes. Liam wanted to glare at him but if he was honest, his best friend was right. So he raised his shoulders. "I have dress shirts. I just happen to like t-shirts and jeans more." "Hence why I think you should wear that", Caden stated. "You are not like the type of Alpha who wears expensive clothing and the latest brands. You're Liam. We like Liam. Why do you want to be somebody you're not? Just to impress people you probably will never see again after that one time?" "That's true." Even Theo had to admit that. "I know when you're comfortable and you never are when you dressed up to a certain extend." "I still think if the occasion calls for it, you should make an effort", Sadie insisted. "It's not about what you want; it's about what our Alpha wants. Liam goes to the meeting and Liam has to represent himself and our pack. He should do it as his truest self possible", Brett retaliated. She pouted.

But then she got up from the bed and walked towards Liam's open closet. She dug around there for a while before she pulled out a pale blue t-shirt. It was a new one, Liam had only worn it twice and he loved how soft the fabric was, it felt good and comfy on his skin. Sadie handed it to him. "The color makes your eyes pop. That and that one light blue jeans you have. If you walk into a room full of strange werewolves, bright colors make you look friendlier." "That's Sadie. If you can't dress them up the way you want, at least get into chromatics", Brett praised.

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Quite a Liam-centric chapter but then again he's the Alpha and Landon's brother. And he had to make decisions. Now the question is, what will happen at the meeting? What do you guys think? All I can say is, I'm excited about the new chapter.

#Thiam #A tale written with fangs and claws #alpha!liam #My writing #Morning Dew Pack series

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snaccforyou · 3 years

Text

G/T Secret Santa Exchange

Story for @gilby-the-geek-girl

Challenge from @secret-shifters

The house was warm, bright, and full of laughter. A few people were exchanging presents, and most had a glass of eggnog or cider in their hands. It wasn't a massive party, only a couple dozen attendees, but it was a little crowded for Celine's tastes.

As a friend-of-a-friend attendee, she didn't know most of the cheerful group, and was a little too shy to try and mingle this late into the party. Instead she sat on one of the host's fluffy couches and watched the merriment with a mix of discomfort and amusement.

"Hey!" A rosy face appeared next to her, and she jumped. Someone she vaguely recognized from one of her classes, Anna maybe, was leaning over the couch next to her.

"Selena, was it?"

"Celine, actually," she corrected, a little startled.

"Oops! Sorry!" Possibly-Anna said, breaking into tipsy giggles. She held out a glass full of cider. "Did you want something to drink?"

"Um, no thank you," Celine declined with an awkward laugh. If she were at her own home, she might be tempted, but Celine was a bit of a lightweight. She was a little wary of drinking any sort of alcoholic beverages with so many strangers around, especially with how she was currently feeling. There was a slight itching, a tingling under her skin that meant losing her self-control could end badly.

"Suit yourself, I guess," laughed Anna. She straightened and joined a large group of chatting friends.

Celine felt a familiar wave of claustrophobia, and took a deep breath. Honestly, the party wouldn't be half bad if she didn't feel like she might shift at any moment.

Celine was a sizeshifter, a being that was able to change her size dramatically. While some size-shifters had complete control over their abilities, others were more unpredictable. Celine had moderate control over her shifts, but the longer she went holding back, the more uncomfortable she felt.

Right now, her body felt far too small, the room far too tiny for her. She subtly scratched her arm, and tried not to imagine stepping outside and shooting up to three times her "regular" height. She let herself grow an inch taller and glanced around the room.

Byron, the friend who had invited her and the only other sizeshifter she knew of in this city, had been mingling with some of his friends, but she'd lost sight of him several minutes ago. She wanted to pull him away and ask if there was any way they could leave early. As a sizeshifter with even less control over his size, he'd understand.

Of course, she'd feel terrible making their ride, a really nice person named Wren, leave early, but she would rather leave when the discomfort was bearable.

Last she'd seen Byron, he'd pulled one of his friends aside to talk. She hadn't seen them in several minutes, but when Byron's friend came back alone, her gaze shot to them. Suddenly, a shifting in their hair caught her attention. She blinked, doing a double take.

Sure enough, nestled in his friend's hair sat Byron. They locked eyes as well as they could from across the room, and Byron gave what looked like an apologetic shrug. He waved his now tiny phone, and Celine checked her texts. There was a new message in the carpool group chat from Byron.

Sry, unexpected small problem. Have 2 ride back w/ someone else.

It was subtle enough that Celine would've understood what happened even without seeing him small. She completely understood, but her desire to stay was even less now. She started to look for Wren, not looking forward to telling them she wanted to leave early.

***

Wren wasn't a huge fan of parties. They weren't a very social person, but Byron and his friend had needed a ride, and he was one of their few friends that actually cared about them. Besides, this party wasn't too bad. They'd had a little eggnog, but not enough to feel more than a slight warmth. The other partygoers mostly left them alone, so they didn't have to socialize too much.

About halfway into the party, they got a text from Byron saying his change in plans. At first they let out a sigh. Typical Byron, having some secret emergency that changed his plans. It was fine, though, Wren was used to his strange habits by now, and as long as he had a different ride they weren't too worried about him.

Wren just hoped the ride home wouldn't be too awkward with just them and Celine. They didn't know her very well, but she seemed nice at least. And she hadn't reacted negatively to hearing they were non-binary, which was usually a pretty good sign. They wondered if she'd be willing to leave the party a little early.

As if summoned by their thoughts, Celine was suddenly standing next to them. Wren jumped slightly, and gave a small wave.

"Uh, hi, Celine," they said. She waved back just as awkwardly, and stood silently for a couple of seconds. At least they were both in good, socially awkward company, Wren mused.

"Hi," she finally said with a little laugh. "I was wondering if you saw Byron's text?"

Wren nodded, waving their phone and almost dropping it.

"Yeah I saw it just a minute ago," they said. "Typical Byron."

"Typical Byron," Celine agreed with an awkward but nice laugh. She seemed like she wanted to say something else so Wren waited.

"So, I know it's still pretty early, and I'm sorry if it's inconvenient, but how do you feel about leaving a little early?" She blurted, words running together slightly in her rush to get them out. Wren felt themself sag slightly with relief.

"Honestly, I am so glad you asked," they said, looking up to meet Celine's eyes. "I don't really like parties."

Celine smiled down at them. Something seemed slightly off to Wren, and they frowned. Maybe it was just the eggnog, but…

"Are you taller now?" They asked, squinting. Celine laughed awkwardly, looking off to one side and Wren slammed their hand over their mouth. "Sorry, that's such a weird question. Obviously you're not."

"It's fine, it's fine," Celine said.

"Do you think Byron's still here?" Wren asked. They didn't want to leave without telling him goodbye, but he might've already left.

"Uh, I haven't seen him for a while," Celine answered. Wren scanned the party for a few seconds, seeing no sign of their friend.

"Well, I guess we can always say we're sorry we missed him later," they said, eventually giving up.

Leaving the party was surprisingly easy. Most people didn't even notice they were leaving. The one guy who did wished them a happy holiday and went back to the party.

As they stepped outside, Wren was a little surprised to see snow falling. Celine, who had visibly relaxed once they stepped outside, tension falling off her frame, looked surprised as well.

"I thought it was supposed to be 'unusually warm' tonight," Wren said, quoting the day's weather forecast.

"I guess the weather really is always wrong," Celine responded with a little laugh. Wren unlocked their car, and they both climbed inside. When Wren turned the key, the car made a horrible spluttering and failed to start.

"Um," they said, and tried again. Five minutes, and several curses later, they gave it up as a lost cause.

"I'm really sorry," they said, feeling mortified. "Should we just go back inside?"

Celine hesitated, looking super uncomfortable. Wren wondered if she had trouble with crowds.

"I have a… place pretty close by that I can probably walk to, but I'd feel bad leaving you alone," she said.

"A 'place'?" Wren repeated incredulously.

"Well, Byron lives kinda close to here, and since I go to his place pretty often I have a little area with this super old car parked there for emergencies," Celine rambled.

"I'm not gonna lie, that's really weird," Wren said, still very confused. There wasn't even a guarantee that car would work, and having a 'place' was a little sketchy. They weren't thrilled about walking in the snow, but they were even less thrilled with the idea of letting Celine walk off by herself. That was a disappearance waiting to happen.

"If… if you don't mind taking me along, I could walk with you to your… 'place' and you could drive me home?" they suggested. After a moment, Celine nodded.

"This is such a bad idea," Wren muttered to themself, then they followed Celine into the snow.

***

After about ten minutes of walking, the snow had soaked through Wren's shoes. They really regretted not just going back inside, but at this point Celine's car was probably closer than the party.

At least Celine seemed to know where she was going even if she'd severely underestimated how long it would take to get there.

"I'm sorry, I really didn't think it would take this long," she apologized, looking just as miserable as they felt. She looked more uncomfortable than cold though, shifting from side to side and fidgeting with her warm looking hoodie.

"It's f-fine," Wren muttered, only lying a little bit. They were really regretting not bringing a warmer jacket. "As long as you don't get lost, then we're screwed."

"No, I know exactly where we're going," she said confidently. "I'm good with directions I just have trouble with distance sometimes."

Celine gave them an apologetic look backwards. She stopped as she noticed them shivering.

"Are you ok? Do you want to use my jacket?" She asked, sounding worried. Wren shook their head vehemently.

"No, no, then you'll be cold. I'll be fine for another couple of minutes, let's just get there quickly."

Celine looked worried, but kept walking. Over the next minute she looked more and more fidgety, until finally she stopped. Wren shot her a questioning look, but she wasn't meeting their eyes.

"I have… an idea," she started hesitantly. "It'll be warmer, and we'll get there quicker, but… it'll be kind of shocking. Do… do you trust me?"

Wren stared at the girl who was basically a stranger, leading them to an unknown location in the snow. At this point, they thought it was a little late to be evaluating their life choices, and they told her as much.

"I mean, if you're a serial killer it's a little late for me to suddenly realize how sketchy this situation is," they joked nervously. "But I think, and I really hope, that I can trust you." Celine smiled, but she took a couple of steps back.

"Thank you, I think," she said. "Just… don't freak out, ok?"

Wren nodded, feeling more freaked out by the second. Celine took a deep breath, then stopped fidgeting, completely relaxing for the first time since Wren had met her. They watched in fascination as she looked somehow freer, less stressed, and taller. Then their heart skipped a beat as they realized that she was actually getting taller, it wasn't just their imagination.

They watched with wide eyes as Celine slowly grew, until she was twice their height, then three times, so tall they had to crane their head to look up at her. A massive shadow fell over them as she blocked out the light from the moon and the distant streetlamps. She knelt, but kept growing, getting so tall that they couldn't see all of her at once.

Wren didn't even realize they were backing up until they ran into something large and warm. They jumped and looked back, shocked at the size of the hand behind them. Celine's hand was now big enough to completely cover them. They stood in stunned shock as Celine gently cupped her hand around them, her fingers almost as long as their body. Wren looked back up in awe.

"Celine?" They asked, voice sounding small, even to their ears.

"It's ok," Celine said. She sounded like she was whispering, but Wren could feel the vibrations from the sound. Far above them, Celine smiled.

Fingers moved around them, and Wren's attention was brought to the impossibly big hand at their back. They stared as another hand the size of a mattress appeared at their side.

Wren suddenly knew exactly what a hamster felt like when being picked up, as hands cupped them from both sides, gently maneuvering them to sit in the palm of Celine's hand. Warmth radiated from her hand, and they could feel her heartbeat pulsing beneath them.

They were torn between being nervous and amazed, and they settled for studying the incredible close-up of hands in front of them. They hesitantly reached out to touch Celine's fingertips, their breath catching as they traced the detailed lines.

Wren felt a slight sense of vertigo as they were lifted higher. Celine had lifted them to her face, and the full force of a giant's attention distracted them.

"Are you feeling warmer now?" Celine asked, and Wren felt the vibrations where they sat. It took a couple seconds for them to process the question, and they nodded, still too shocked to speak. Their heart was beating a little too fast, and they realized they'd been silent for far too long.

"C-celine, what… how?" They stammered, unable to tear their gaze away from her. It would be hard to look away if they wanted to, considering she took up most of their vision.

"I'm a sizeshifter," Celine said, a smile that they would've called small if they were the same size on her face. The phrase rang a bell, and they wracked their memory. They remembered their parents using the phrase years ago but they thought that was a fairytale. Apparently not.

Wren stared for another moment before the amazement finally overtook the shock of suddenly feeling so tiny.

"That's so cool!" They blurted, a smile breaking out onto their face.

***

Celine had been nervous about showing her ability. Wren seemed trustworthy, but it wasn't something she just told people. She'd been planning to shift and walk on her own. The discomfort from not letting herself shift had been growing since they left the party.

However, when Wren insisted on coming with her, and refused to take her jacket, she couldn't bear seeing them so cold. Not when the walk was so much longer at human size than she remembered. Not when she had such an easy solution that would help them both.

They seemed nervous at first, but she thought it was more the shock of seeing someone grow taller than a house than actual fear for their safety. And after less than a minute of sitting in her hand, they stopped shivering, so she counted that as a win.

Once Wren got over their initial shock, they were excited, looking up at her with an awed expression that made her feel embarrassed. They seemed a little too flustered to talk much, so she stood as slowly as she could, trying to keep her hands from shaking too much.

Wren seemed ok, waving up at her with a shy smile, and looking out in fascination. She started walking again, making progress much quicker, and they eventually relaxed against her fingers.

Her heart melted, and she felt flattered at the amount of trust she was being shown. Honestly, she thought Wren would be scared off once she mentioned the hideout she had for if she needed to grow. Of course she hadn't called it that, but the wording had been weird enough to scare anyone off.

But Wren had stayed, and even now was trusting her, sitting calmly in her hands and listening as she chatted about something she read recently.

Eventually, even sitting in her hands couldn't keep the chill away, and they started shivering again. They weren't that far from Celine's hideout, but she asked them anyways.

"Would it be ok if I put you in my pocket? It would be a little bit warmer."

Wren nodded, and she carefully shifted them to one hand. They held onto her fingers for balance, seemingly fascinated by watching her hands move up close. She carefully moved them to the opening of her pocket, tilting her hand and letting them slide off into the hoodie pocket. She stuck her hands inside, careful not to squish them. After a moment, she felt them lean against her hands, getting comfortable in the warm pocket.

She walked cautiously for the next minute, careful not to shake them up too much. When she reached the hideout, she sank to a seated position.

"We're here," she said quietly, not wanting to move Wren without warning. There was no response.

"Wren?" She carefully felt around her pocket. Her tiny passenger was curled up against her hands, breathing deeply. She smiled as she realized they fell asleep.

"I guess I'll let them sleep a bit longer," she whispered to herself as she watched the now tiny snowflakes falling and felt the gentle breathing of her tiny friend.

#secret shifters 2020 #giant/tiny fluff #giant tiny #g/t fluff #g/t #giant/tiny

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ask-de-writer · 4 years

Text

LOST TIME (part 2 of 3) A fantasy of Flocking Bay.

Return to the Master Story Index

Return to Flocking Bay

LOST TIME

De Writer (Glen Ten-Eyck)

5556 words

written 2003 by Glen Ten-Eyck

Reproduction in any form, physical, electronic or digital is prohibited without the express written consent of the author or proper copyright holder.

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Users of Tumblr.com are specifically granted the following rights. They may reblog the story. They may use the characters or original characters in my settings for fan fiction, fan art works, cosplay, or fan musical compositions. I will allow those who do commission art works to charge for their images.

All sorts of Fan Activity, fiction, art, cosplay, music or anything else is ACTIVELY encouraged!

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Morton Hewitt did not last. He bought the house for back taxes in 1944. He lived there for a week. He painted the hardwood floors and then hanged himself in the garage the next day.

Byron Thomas bought the house from Hewitt’s estate. He was a grave digger for Trinity Graveyard. He updated the plumbing and lived there quietly for several years. Apparently he liked his work a little too well. He buried two people who were not yet dead. One of them lived. He was adjudged sane at his trial and hanged for his crime.

Mark Altman bought the house next. He was a reclusive sort and lived there for a quite a number of years before it was discovered that he’d had some visitors who had never left. He died in prison while awaiting trial. There was an interesting hand written note attached to the autopsy report which stated that the coroner had ruled out both suicide and homicide but refused to pronounce the death natural.

Dora Greene got the place next. She was Mark’s sister. Like Mark, she lived there quietly for years. One day she walked into town and set fire to the school, killing five and maiming six more. She spent her last years in a lunatic asylum, setting three more fires and killing two more people. She herself died in her last fire.

While she was in the asylum, one Tony Fisk, age twelve, urged on by several other urchins, had thrown some stones at the windows of the Vekin place. He had missed. Becoming angry, he took careful aim and they all watched the flight of the stone. In the young malefactor’s words, “It went away without falling.”

It would not have been worthy of a news story, except for the fact that each of the children who had watched the stone had gone severely and permanently cross-eyed. In a small town like Flocking Bay, that many kids going cross-eyed at once could not be hidden.

George Abbot bought the house and rented it at a very low price to a Michael Farley. The two had been feuding, down-state, and the house was supposed to have been a peace offering. Farley stayed only a few weeks. He went out and dynamited Abbot’s automobile. Farley was quite mad and lived out his life in an asylum for the criminally insane. The county coroner ruled Abbot’s death to be suicide. After all, he had known the history of the house and had knowingly rented that house to an enemy.

Cornelius Baker took the house next. He upgraded the kitchen and installed modern wiring. He lived there quietly and apparently got on well for about five years. He was a long-haul truck driver. Bodies followed him about the country. Finally, he was caught with one in his truck. He drove his truck into a bridge abutment at over ninety miles per hour rather than be taken alive.

Now, I had the place. I mentally withdrew my blessing. He had not been a good man at all.

Lois saw that I was finished with the file and making good inroads on my sandwich. She asked, “Did you sleep there, last night?”

“Yes, I did. Most restful sleep I have had in years.”

“What is your full name?”

“Vandervekken,” I replied, getting out my driver’s license. I was used to this. “No first name or middle initial. Just Vandervekken.”

“How old are you?”

“I don’t know, at least seventy.”

“You don’t know how old you are? Seventy? You look like you’re in your early twenties,” she said incredulously. “I told you that things connected with the Vekin place get interesting.”

“I got a head-wound during the war. Traumatic amnesia.”

“Viet Nam wasn’t that long ago. It would only make you in your fifties.”

“Not Viet Nam, Lois. WW II. Apparently, I was helping the French Underground.” I handed her the military fingerprint record. Her eyes widened as she realized that I was serious. “The amnesia’s been permanent, so far. I have language skills . . . too many. I’m a fluent, accentless polyglot. I even speak Basque. I know how to do an amazing number of things . . . no trace of name or personal past. No ID either.”

“Couldn’t they trace you by these fingerprints or something?”

“They tried. I was found among the bodies of a wiped-out unit of the French Underground during the German withdrawal from Paris in 1944. Someone from another unit was able to say that I was an American volunteer with a name that he could neither remember nor pronounce ... something sort of Dutch. That inspired my current name. I got back with a temporary ID and that military fingerprint record, which I still carry.”

“That’s sad, and eerie, too. What’s it feel like?”

“I’ve thought about that a lot. I think the best way to describe it is like a house that’s furnished but nobody is home. Empty. Alone.”

“So, how does that relate to your choice of name? You must know what having only one name does to our systems for indexing things and people.”

“True. I want to stand out, in case somebody recognizes who I am. As for Vandervekken, he was the Flying Dutchman, who swore that he would take his ship around the Cape of Good Hope, against a gale, if it took until Judgment Day. That was in the Seventeenth Century and he is still sailing. His ghost is seen as a Dutch East India Co. galleon with all sails set, sailing into the teeth of a gale. He can’t get home either.”

“I see,” Lois said, adding to her notes. “What brought you to Flocking Bay?”

“I was just passing through. I like small towns, so I avoid the main highways and big cities whenever I can. I liked the atmosphere of Flocking Bay enough to inquire about the possibility of settling here.”

“Look, we both know that small towns are dying. You could have had your pick from any of a dozen houses. Why the Vekin place?”

“I was shown fourteen places, actually. I know that it seems a bit forbidding at first, but it felt good. Like a warm glove on a cool morning. Have you ever actually been there?”

She shuddered, “No, and before you, I have never heard of anyone who said that the Vekin place felt good ... You say that you are a writer. What have you written?”

“Charles said it very well, ’Pseudonyms are great for privacy.’ My own writing aside, I do translations but you won’t find my name on most of them. Archaeologists like to take credit for their finds. I mentioned that I’m a polyglot? I sight read ancient languages as well as modern.”

I extended my hand to Lois and invited, “Would you like to come and see for yourself this house of dark history? I promise that you will find it worth your while. In all of those stories, not once was the interior of Vekin House described. Do come.”

“I have to return the file and get my camera,” she responded gamely.

“I shall await you in my auto, in front of the Voice,” I answered. As I walked her back across the street, I had the pleasure of seeing her stare at Lilitu.

“If that’s what I think its, I’ll ride with you anywhere!” she called over her shoulder as she entered the Voice’s office. True to her word, she emerged in a few minutes with a camera. Not one of those tiny little cameras that have become fashionable, but a business-like press camera. I opened the car door and gave her a hand up.

As I got into the driver’s seat, she asked, wonder in her voice, “Is this really a Packard V-12 Touring Car?”

We pulled away with the almost uncannily quiet, vibration-free ride that the car was famous for. I replied, “You bet she is. Lois, meet Lilitu. Lilitu, meet Lois. After the war, there were still quite a few of them to be had, and I liked both the ride and the durability, so I hunted one down and had it fixed up like new. I’ve kept her that way ever since. She’s only had two owners in over two-million miles. The first owner only put on about sixty-thousand of them.”

“You drive a lot,” she stated.

“I was looking for something ... I think that Flocking Bay has it. My turn for a few questions , if you don’t mind.”

“Fire away. If I don’t like the question, I won’t answer it.”

“What did you do before you took up the Voice?”

“The same thing that I still do. The stock and futures markets. I’m good at it. I got out of college with a degree in the sociology of medieval witchcraft. I got a job as a waitress on the strength of my looks. I put my first fifty dollars in tips into a risky stock that kited way up. On a hunch, I dumped it three days after I bought it. It nosedived shortly after I sold out. After commissions, I had three hundred and fifty dollars. I rolled it over the same way. The rest is history. So far, my hunches have always worked for me.”

“What brought you to Flocking Bay?”

“Like you, I was passing through. I was on my way to Lakeside Resort about three years ago. I got a hunch that I should stay, so I did. The Voice was failing. When a small town loses its paper, the end is in sight. I didn’t want the end to come, so I bought the paper. Here I am.”

“And here we are,” I said with a flourish as I pulled up in front of the house. We both stared. The yard was neatly trimmed, though the bushes and trees still retained a slightly forbidding aspect. Going up the path to the front door, I noticed that the flagstones had been leveled, the weeds removed and the joints and refilled with fresh sand. The iron fence and balustrades had been cleaned of rust.

“You’ve been busy,” was Lois’s comment.

“That’s just it,” I replied, puzzled. “I didn’t do it. I thought that stocking the fridge and setting out a snack last night was something that the real-estate agent arranged. Sort of a welcome wagon. This is beyond the call of duty.” Opening the front door, I felt that comfortable, welcoming feeling that had caused me to buy the house in the first place. Impulsively, I said, “Hello, house, you certainly look nice today.”

Lois looked at me quizzically and asked, “Do you talk to everything, or is this special?”

I thought for a moment before answering, “Actually I only talk to things that have personality enough to warrant a name, like Lilitu, my car, or Drachen, my typewriter.”

“Typewriter? You do like antiques, don't you? What are you going to call the house, then?”

“I’m not sure,” I answered. “Something good ... What does the place feel like to you?”

“The place actually looks and feels . . . well . . .” Lois groped for the right word, “I’d have to say . . . happy. Not what I expected, at all. It feels like what you see when a pup that loves its master is greeting him. No wonder you slept well, if it feels as good to you as it does to me . . .” She sort of trailed off. “I wouldn’t normally say this, but I’m getting a hunch about this place . . .” she trailed off again.

“I guess that the house was just waiting for the right kind of person,” I responded. “It was pretty rough on everyone else. I’m glad that you like it too.”

“Look at these floors,” she mused, “They were beautiful before Hewitt painted them over. You can still make out some traces of the parquetry patterns. If he hadn’t already hanged himself, I’d help you to do it.”

<==Previous Next==>

Return to the Master Story Index

Return to Flocking Bay

#LOST TIME #Part 2 of 3 #Flocking Bay #Written by De Writer

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sapphicscholar · 5 years

Text

Pride Month Prompts Day 22: Wedding (Grace/Frankie)

From this Pride Month Prompts post! I’m taking the opportunity to write some short fics for a variety of pairings that I haven’t written for as much. I’ll be sure to tag them all with #pride month prompts so you can find them later if you’d like!

Day 22: Wedding - on AO3 as Casual Simplicity

Pairing: Grace/Frankie

A/N: I apologize if this has already been done and I haven’t gotten to read that particular fic yet!

“Marry me.”

They’re words Grace never expected to hear again, not after 40 years of a loveless marriage came crumbling down around her, the husband she’d tolerated for so long apparently deciding that the years she gave him weren’t enough to make up for that “more” he’d gone chasing in another man’s arms, sneaking away on long “business trips” and leaving her alone with the children she’d come to love but had never wanted for her own sake. But the words are real. Nick is real, sitting there, right in front of her, looking perfectly handsome in a tailored suit from a designer that Grace has heard of and approves of. But the words—they have to be a joke, and she says as much.

Only Nick doesn’t leave. He stays there, telling her he doesn’t care if it’s crazy; he wants to marry her anyway. There’s an answer for every question, even that why that Grace has tried to avoid thinking too hard about when it comes to most of her romantic decisions. But Nick smiles up at her, more guileless than he’ll ever be during the business day, and tells her it’s simple, says, “I love you,” says, “I want to spend the rest of my life with you.”

And there’s something so damn attractive about simple.

Robert had seemed simple. He was a lawyer from a wealthy family with a charming smile and an easy laugh. He was a perfect gentleman on their dates, never pushing her to do things she didn’t want to do—later, she’ll wonder if all those years of polite manners were just repression dressed up in bourgeois niceties. When he asked her to marry him, neither of them asked why, neither of them wondered if it would be enough, if it would be the kind of love that sent them reeling. They fit. Socially, politically, financially, hell, even aesthetically—Robert’s taller, slightly stockier frame the perfect accessory to finish off Grace’s ensembles, right along with all shimmering, pre-packed gift jewelry that accentuated prominent collar bones and thin wrists and long, perfectly manicured fingers.

Simple makes sense. Simple is Byron telling Grace she’s “smokin’ hot” and sweeping her off her feet—quite literally—his desire plain for the world to see. Simple is the way her body had reacted to that show of need, of someone wanting her so clearly, so straightforwardly, at least until her mind caught up with her.

Everything with Nick would be simple. Problems would be purchased and turned into solutions or made to disappear. Love would be something declared in clear prose. Meals would appear and could be ignored in turn, the dishes vanishing and leftovers sliding down a garbage disposal that would never be clogged with paint or dirt or the DVR remote that had gone missing weeks ago. Sex would happen on a semi-regular basis and would continue to be semi-good, and Vybrant, promising older women that they could enjoy genuinely fulfilling sexual pleasure, would continue to flourish, and never would she let herself hold those two things up side-by-side for a comparison that might show her things she didn’t want to see.

Grace leans over and kisses Nick, hoping it’s answer enough when she can’t make her mouth form the sounds needed to agree to this next simple step. He cups her jaw and kisses her, smiling into it, and it isn’t Byron’s rough hands, but it’s real. It isn’t some video broadcast to the whole Internet talking about kisses that never happened—kisses offered in jest and discussed in public and penciled into Grace’s otherwise pristine planner in all capital letters, but never a real option.

As Grace walks down the beach, tucked into Nick’s side, she finally manages a, “Yes.” And that settles it. Because Nick doesn’t offer things he doesn’t mean. He doesn’t proposition someone for years only to laugh—loudly, too loudly—and insist it had been a great big tease all along when they finally start to say yes.

Only, it turns out that for all his simplicity, Nick wants some of that simplicity in return. He wants someone who will want him back. Can deal with a third player in the game, but not when it becomes clear that player 3 will always be priority 1.

They’re in the back of Nick’s car, flying down the highway on their way to be married, but all Grace can think about, can talk about, is Frankie. About what Frankie said. About everything Frankie has done. About all the ways Frankie has been telling her, again and again, even after her walking disease of a boyfriend took his yurt and fucked off, that what they have isn’t enough—and why shouldn’t it be enough? Why can’t it be enough? Why is Grace—again, always—being told that what she valued as enough someone else saw as lacking, never the “more” that would somehow make it worthwhile?

Nick shrugs his shoulders, as laissez-faire in his attitude towards Frankie’s behavior as he wants the government to be about his business. “Maybe Kooky wants something that you already have without her.”

“And what the hell would that be?” Grace snaps, yanking her hand free of Nick’s, too annoyed to want his easy comfort right now.

Nick turns to face her head on then, and Grace can see something like resignation in his expression, wonders how she’s fucked another thing up today, all before the sun has even set. “I meant me. A relationship.”

“Oh.”

Before Grace can get out one of those light, breezy laughs and paper over the fact that she’s forgotten the very thing she’s on her way to concretize in binding, legal documents, Nick takes her hand in his once more. “Maybe I should have listened when you told me this was crazy.”

“Nick.”

“I love you, Grace. I love you, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. But not when you’ll always be there wondering about someone else.”

“It’s not the same,” Grace insists, her voice cracking as Nick’s words edge close—too close—to the questions that she’s been trying to quiet with pills and drown in vodka.

“No, it’s not the same. But I think I’m on the losing side here.”

---

Hovering on that thin line between still drunk and already hungover that would normally have Grace reaching for either a new drink or an Ambien and a few Advil, Grace pulls her sweater tighter around herself to ward off the chill as she wanders down the beach. The sea lions are quiet now, the breeze barely a whisper in the air. If only Bud and Allison had scheduled their wedding for 4am, then no one would have known that Grace couldn’t make heads or tails of Frankie’s pictionary Post Its.

The lights are almost all out at the beach house now, though the outside decorations are still up, long strings of fairy lights twinkling in the night sky. Grace knows she could walk back in, go up to her room, and sleep in a bed, but after hours of drunken contemplation alone, she isn’t quite sure she deserves it. Yes, Frankie had left stupid notes that made no fucking sense, but Grace could have asked, could have dealt with Joan Margaret and gotten on Frankie’s calendar, or pulled a Frankie and scrawled her name across the entire day (and she thinks Frankie may well have honored such a request). Instead, she’d assumed that Frankie was being, well, Kooky—and the caricature of Kooky that Nick thought he knew, not the slightly kooky but also brilliant, caring, warm woman Grace had come to know over the years.

Of course, there’s still anger there, too. Anger at Frankie for thinking that her life only meant something if she drank disgusting cacao and slept in a yurt on a beachfront in La Jolla and stole the Whole Foods groceries Grace was still buying for her and acted like somehow it was all enlightened because some man who smelled like feet and patchouli told her it was. Anger at Frankie for getting stoned and tweeting out promises that would bankrupt the company they’d worked so hard to build together—their refuge in a world that told them they didn’t matter. Anger at Frankie for posting some poorly edited video that made it sound like they were some old lesbian couple selling vibrators and sneaking into one another’s rooms late at night to kiss and test out their merchandise. Anger at Frankie for making her think about those things, making her wonder about those possibilities.

Then Frankie’s own anger and hurt comes rushing back at her. The betrayal in her voice when she’d seen the store-bought cake—the last straw that seemed to scream into that big empty kitchen: “I don’t trust you to do anything, not even when it comes to your children.” But Grace’s mind keeps returning, again and again, to the big fuck you moment—at least the one Frankie named as such. “You ran away with your boyfriend.” Grace absolutely loathes the hope she can feel bubbling up in her chest at the thought that maybe Frankie does see value in what they are together, that maybe Nick hurt Frankie—not because he was a capitalist or a fiscal conservative, but because he was there, with Grace, the new second name to her “Grace and”—as much as the yurt hobo and the version of Jacob who’d decided Santa Fe was a good idea had hurt Grace.

Eventually Grace settles herself in on a pile of rocks, tries to ignore the aches and pains that have become so much sharper as all the alcohol from earlier fades into the cold sobriety of almost-morning. Closing her eyes, Grace lets her mind drift, thinks about all that might have been had she run off with Nick and gone through with the marriage. Would she be here now? She doubts it. A wife would have been at home in bed with her husband, not sitting on the beach desperately needing to make things right with the woman who’d been her home for the past five years.

---

It’s a little after sunrise when Grace sees what she thinks is another figure down the beach. Her eyesight isn’t as bad as Frankie’s, but it certainly isn’t what it once was. Deciding it’s worth the potential humiliation of yelling at a stranger or an inanimate object, Grace stands and starts moving toward the blurry shape, yelling, “Frankie!”

But then the blurry shape is standing and yelling, “Grace!” right back at her.

And she doesn’t care that her knee is screaming, doesn’t care that Grace Hanson most definitely does not run, because her heart is pushing her as fast and as far as she can go—even if it isn’t very far or very fast.

“I’ll come to you!” And Frankie, who eats carbs and whipped cream and gummy bears for breakfast, is running like some sort of elite athlete in the 65+ category, while Grace waits, half hobbling, desperately hoping her knee won’t give out on her now.

Then Frankie is in front of her, and all the anger slips away in the face of the person she might have lost, maybe forever, and everything Grace has been thinking comes pouring out of her. Apologies for the terrible things she’s said. Admissions that she’s become a better person, someone that most days she can stand to look at in the mirror, with Frankie at her side. And somehow it all builds to Grace, standing on the beach, waves crashing beside them and the surf inching closer and closer to their feet, holding Frankie close, calling her a best friend, a partner, telling her that she needs her. And there’s nothing simple about that need. There are no straightforward lines where Frankie can do x or be y to fulfill z. It’s a need mingled with pangs of annoyance and frustration and anger but wrapped up in what Grace is finally realizing is love, and somehow that outweighs everything else, makes it simple even when it’s not. “I need you,” Grace repeats, blinking back tears that make Frankie look blurry, even now when she’s only inches away.

“Oh, I need you too.” Frankie falls into her arms with the words, holds her tight, the last vestiges of their fight falling away the longer they stay like that. “So, let’s go home.”

A sentimental part of Grace that rarely rears its head, and even more rarely gets anything out, wants to say that she’s already there. Instead she blurts out, “Nick asked me to marry him.” In an instant, all the happiness and love in Frankie’s expression is clouded over with hurt. “I—we’re not.”

“Not getting married?”

“Not getting married. Not together.” A deep breath. “He felt like he was always competing with you. Competing and losing.” Frankie’s usual taunts about beating Nick in any way are absent. She looks cautious, and Grace wonders if the same fragile hope is demanding shelter from her too. “Maybe he’s right.”

The quiet maybe isn’t enough to bring Frankie back to that joyous openness—not after she’s put back up those walls so few people realize she has in the face of all the pain Grace’s declaration had been poised to deliver.

This will never be simple, and Frankie will never be Robert, assuming Grace will say yes because it follows logically. She will never be Nick, convinced so deeply of her own charms that she’ll put her heart on the line in matters of love without a moment’s hesitation. Despite the “fuck it” lifestyle, she will never be Byron, desire plainly written in every move.

But, Grace realizes with a jolt, she can be that for Frankie, can let her see everything she’s offering—no jokes or questions about it.

Grace steps forward, closes the distance that had pulled them apart again. Her hands find Frankie’s arms first, one coming up to hold her jaw, thumb sweeping across her cheekbone. “I’m not going anywhere this time. I promise.” A kiss to the forehead, like Frankie had asked for all those years ago, only to have Grace deny her in a moment of panic about why—dear god, why—the thought of pressing her lips to any part of Frankie had sent her heart pounding. Then Frankie’s cheeks, one after the other. Grace pauses, waiting, centimeters away from Frankie’s mouth. “I promise,” she whispers again, the words ghosting across Frankie’s lips. Her eyes flutter shut as she leans forward, her mouth finding Frankie’s. Just one kiss. One sealed promise. One hint of what might be waiting for them.

When she pulls back, she finds Frankie blinking at her. Everything is still and silent for a long moment.

Frankie’s hand reaches out, tangling around her own. “Let’s go home.”

#pride month prompts #grace x frankie #grace hanson #frankie bergstein #fix-it fic #some spoilers for 5x12 and 5x13 #fanfic #ficlet #fluff with feelings

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toloveawarlord · 5 years

Text

Sweet Sacrifice (Ch.2)

You can find all my other works here!

The only sounds were the chirping of the crickets and our breathing. Even though the girl had gone, we still waited. With his body up against mine, it became increasingly harder to focus. “Okay, Bryon, we can head back now. I’m sure Albert is pacing holes in the ground.” Actually, he might be out looking for us at this point.

Nodding, Bryon stepped back. “You did well not killing them,” he said, taking my hand. The alarm registered on my face, making him laugh. “You aren’t a good navigator in the woods. I’d hate to lose you.”

“I can find my way back to camp,” I argued.

Byron shrugged his shoulders, pulling me in front of him. “Lead the way, Starlight.” The darkness hid the expression on his face.

Thankfully, it hid the blush on my own. It had been some time since he’d called me by that nickname… since I’d become his guard over three years ago. Sighing, I tried to shake my hand loose. “I need my hand back.” This was a test.

“Fine, I’ll allow you to have it back temporarily.”

When he released me, I set off back in the direction from which I’d come. In the dark, my eyesight didn’t work as well. Byron remained silent, simply following behind me. It didn’t take this much time to find him, did it? Not giving in, the next step I took was the wrong one. The ground under my foot disappeared.

Byron hooked an arm around my waist, hauling my back. Both of us hit the ground. The only sound for a few moments was the hard soil falling down the drop off and splashing into the wide creek. “Still want to lead the way?” The teasing his left his voice.

Swallowing my pride, I shook my head. That drop was a long way down. One of us could have been seriously injured. The walk back to the camp via Bryon’s directions had taken a fraction of the time my route had taken. Albert met us at the tree line, expressing his concern at how long it had taken us to return.

Escaping their conversation, I retreated to the fire until the two disappeared in Bryon’s tent, and then I moved to sit down by the lake in the distance. It all seemed so calm out here. The hour grew later, and only a few knights were keeping guard. To clear my mind, I decided to go for a swim. No one could really see me.

Stripping out of my clothes, the chilly water made me shiver. It took a few minutes for my body to adjust to the cool temperature. My mind kept wandering back to the woods. Why did he let me do that? It could have turned out so much worse. Frustrated, I slipped under the water, letting out a scream. Once. Twice. I only surfaced for air.

The moonlight reflected on the surface. Floating on my back, I stared up at the night sky. The stars twinkled. Tomorrow we meet this Princess who might be future Queen of Stein. It all made me angry. Returning to the shore, I took some deep breaths. Handle tomorrow like a professional. Protecting Byron. That’s my job.

Returning to the camp sight, I started to sit by the fire to warm myself, but a lantern illuminating Bryon’s tent caught my attention. Sighing, I went to chastise him for still being awake. “It’s late, shouldn’t you be asleep?” I asked, entering the tent.

Glancing up from the papers he was reading for only a moment, he said, “You went swimming in the lake?” His eyes moved over the pages. “Come here.”

Crossing over to where he sat on his bed, I dropped down on the ground beside it. With no argument from him, I started to apologize. “I’m sorry for what I did in—”

“I don’t want your apology,” Byron cut me off sharply, silencing me. Nothing was said for a long time, and I started to count the seconds as they passed. Sighing loudly, Byron dropped the papers into my lap. “Stop looking so pitiful. It doesn’t suit you.”

If he won’t let me apologize, then I’m not talking to him. Sifting through the papers, it took a moment for me to understand what I was looking at. Protea is having another crisis and is thinking about going to war with us. Guess you kill one assassin at dinner and they lose their minds. It’s not like I wanted to make a big scene. The last page caught my eye. A marriage proposal. For me. “He wants to… marry me?”

“Seems that way. He wants to tame you. He also wrote in there that a woman shouldn’t be doing such grotesque work like killing assassins, but it amazed him how skilled you were. He wants you for himself,” Byron answered.

I shuffled the papers around, not really looking at them anymore. “If it’ll stop the war, and it’s what you want, then I’ll do it,” I said softly. He has no real need for me. There’s an entire army out there to watch out for him. Not that he really needs them. He’s an excellent fighter.

Byron smacked me on the head. “You’re an idiot, Rory.”

“Ouch! That hurt!”

He leaned down to grab my wrist, jerking me up to my knees. With his face inches from mine, he stared into my eyes. “You are under my protection. I granted you the right to live after what you did, and I will not toss you away to Protea just to appease an old king. Don’t ever make the assumption that you are useless, Rory.”

I blinked, taken aback by his words. “Don’t do that. Don’t make it sound like I’m important to you.” Twisting my wrist out of his grip, I stood to my feet. “I’m going to help keep watch. You should get some rest before our last day of travel to Wysteria. Goodnight.” Taking my leave before he could say anything else stupid, I held back the tears.

Keeping watch is a good way to get your mind off things. A few of the guards told me stories about their families, and the times when they fought in a real battle. It made me forget about the feeling deep inside that had bubbled up again. By the time the sun peeped over the horizon, my resolve had been strengthened and the day ahead of me would be easier to face.

Locked inside the carriage with Bryon, however, made me nervous. Not having to ride a horse had become routine. If anyone where to attempt to attack him here, they’d have to go through me. My head bobbed as sleep tried to take over. “You should rest before we reach Wysteria. I need you at 100 percent for this mission,” Byron said offhandedly, reading through more documents.

As much as I didn’t want to, I allowed myself a short rest. He was right. If I wasn’t at my best, then I was no use to him. While my fighting skills were strong, tiredness could cause me to make a costly mistake, especially with his “no kill” order. The thought annoyed me even as I drifted off to sleep.

The carriage jolted as it stopped, almost knocking me off the seat. Rubbing my eyes, I followed Byron out, yawning loudly. “Is this it?” The castle looked magnificent, but it wasn’t Stein. I’d come to love the way Bryon’s castle looked. A quick pat down of my body told me that all my weapons were securely in place and ready to be used if necessary.

“Behave yourself, Rory,” Albert chastised quietly.

Giles met us at the front gate, cutting off our conversation. He showed us inside, giving Byron a quick tour on the way to the room that he would be staying in. “I didn’t realize that a lady would be accompanying you today. I’ll prepare a room for her right away.”

“No need. She’s more like a pet dog. Odds of her leaving my side at all, is slim. She’ll use the couch over there,” Bryon said.

Giles looked between us silently before he nodded his head. “I will arrange for some extra blankets and pillow be delivered here.” He bowed slightly and left me and Byron alone.

Searching the room quickly, I collapsed on the couch knowing that it was safe in this room. “You’re going to give people the wrong idea,” I said, sighing. Not that I really care what others think of me. It’s his image I’m worried about.

Byron laughed, moving to look out the window at the garden view. “Would you have rather been moved to another room? I can have that arranged.”

“No! Of course not.”

“Then quit complaining and get ready for the evening’s event,” Byron said as someone knocked on the door. Albert entered, silently signaling for me to search the grounds but giving Byron an update on the schedule for the evening.

The castle layout was fairly simple to memorize. More guests began to arrive for the princess’s speech, which made plenty of openings for our enemies to slip inside. Checking every corridor that we’d take to get to the ballroom drew attention. A man grabbed my arm, dressed in a Wysteria guard’s uniform. “You arrived with King Byron, didn’t you? Are you lost?”

“Just making sure that it’s safe,” I replied.

“That’s our job. It is our castle.” He looks offended by my words.

I shrugged my shoulders. “And it’s my job to ensure that no harm comes to King Byron. So, if I feel like patrolling the grounds for a while, then I will. I don’t trust you, at all.” Too many times had pride gotten in a guard’s way because they wanted to outdo me. No part of me cared what they thought.

The man sighed, but nodded his head. “I understand.”

What?

We stared at each other for a solid 30 seconds. Both of us seemed confused by the other. Snapping back to reality, I tried to tug my arm loose. “Could you let go now?” I asked. It’s already so late. Byron would definitely leave me behind if I wasn’t back soon.

Surprised, the man let go. “Yes, I apologize.”

He’s… weird. I believe that insignia on his armor means he’s the captain of the royal guard. Albert has a similar marking. “You’re the captain of the Wysteria guard, aren’t you?”

“Yes, Alyn Crawford. And you are from Stein?” He asked.

I nodded. “Rory.”

Alyn extended his hand to me. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Rory.” What’s with the pleasantries all of a sudden?

I can’t be rude. If Byron heard about it, he’d complain to me about it for weeks. Placing my hand in his, I pointed back the way I came. “Well… I should get back to my king.”

“Of course. I’ll see you around.”

Unavoidable. He’s going to go out of his way to speak to me now. I don’t have the luxury of making friends.

Making my way back to Byron’s chamber, a figure outside the window caught my eye, causing me to stop. Night had set in, and from up here, it was hard to make out the person. Their movements were purposeful, cautious. My body tensed at the sight. Danger.

“Rory.” Bryon’s voice pulled me out of my state. “Is something the matter?”

By the time I returned my attention to the courtyard below, the figure had disappeared. Shaking my head, I ran my hands through my hair in attempt to look presentable. “Nope.”

Again, Byron held my gaze with a disapproving stare. “Let’s go.” At least he didn’t push the issue.

With me on his right and Albert on his left, it should have been impossible to get anywhere near him. The ballroom was crowded. The figure in the courtyard plagued my thoughts, setting me on edge. My eyes darted around the room, looking for anyone who matched the silhouette. Too many variables. Too many people who could possibly fit in. Resting my hand on one of my blades hidden under my jacket, my heart pounded in anticipation. Who could it be? Which one of them is the enemy?

The princess gave her speech, but my head heard none of it. The room around me filled with claps and cheers. The perfect moment for someone to slip through unheard. The man, Giles, from earlier approached us with the Princess… the girl from the woods last night. I spent too long staring at her. My attention had been captured for only a few seconds by this girl, before someone behind her raised a metal object up.

That’s… a dagger!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

#midnight cinderella #midcin #byron wagner #albert burckhardt #alyn crawford #giles christophe #rory kinder

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veotis-the-jewel-of-the-ocean · 6 years

Photo

☾♔; 31.07.2018

☾♔; Tasha

☾♔; @veotis-the-jewel-of-the-ocean

☾♔; @serveorburn

☾♔; mod(s): @livesinabluebox @sighsethereally

▬ Set Requirement: Doesn’t matter, just make sure it has your faceclaim. Other than that, make whatever kind of thing you want! Square, rectangle, moodboard, magazine cover, whatever you want my nerds!

♛ Daenir Échon ♛

pronounced: Day-nir

♛ B A S I C⠀S T A T S ♛

▬ Full Name: Daenir Échon

▬ Nickname(s): Dae

▬ Title(s) and/or alias(es): The High Sorcerer

▬ Age: Roughly 27 summers give or take a few years

▬ Gender: Male

▬ Species: Witch - Isahor

▬ Occupation: Sorcerer of Veotis {currently} // Assassin/Witch Hunter {formally}

▬ Kingdom of Birth: Calia

▬ Kingdom of Residence: Veotis

♛ P H Y S I C A L⠀A P P E A R A N C E ♛

▬ Face Claim: Matthew Daddario

▬ Hair: Black

▬ Eyes: Blue-Grey

▬ Height: 6 ft 1

▬ Body: Scared perfection

▬ Any Scars/ Marks?: Several scars over his body, the most prominent of those are the shiny silvery marks around his wrists

▬ Any Tattoos/ Piercings?:

- A black and white dragon entwined over his heart

- Black wings across his back

- Protective runes across his ribs

- An unknown symbol on his upper left thigh

- A magical brand on his neck given to him by his mother

▬ Other: Nothing for now

♛ P E R S O N A L I T Y ♛

▬ Overview: Headstrong, stubborn and full of snarky wit and dry sarcasm, Daenir prefers to push people away to keep them from getting underneath the shields he has perfected over the years. Whilst generally he looks out for himself and acts like he’s been put out when people gather for his attention, underneath all those layers, Daenir does enjoy helping people. Due to years of abuse at the hands of his father, and the years of his imprisonment thanks to his mother, Daenir is known by the court to suffer moments of mental instability. Despite this, the King and the Advisory Council hold the man in high esteem due to his years of service to the kingdom and former apprenticeship to Master Cedric. Deanir is a warrior and most of the time is known to have unshakable focus in all of his tasks with little to distract him. His singular drive is to do better for the world he lives in even if he can only do it one bit at a time.

▬ Strengths: His stubbornness - but it can also be a weakness; his inability to give up on someone or something; his desire to make things safer for witches

▬ Weaknesses: Hates, and I mean HATES dark places, has to sleep with the fire going due to his imprisonment; extreme awkwardness in social situations; overuse of his powers can result in severe dehydration, often occurs when he spends too long in combat; inability to share his feelings to avoid being called weak

▬ Habits and Quirks: Daenir has been known to spark when he is annoyed or frustrated, likewise he can lose control of his lightning based abilities when in a state of arousal

▬ Likes: Hot places, warm weather, soft music, reading, painting, drawing, being left alone when he needs to be, gardening, tea of all kinds, libraries, old stories, archery, horse riding, knives, outsmarting stupid nobles, Aldir and Ryo, his apprentice and likewise his former teacher, spicy food {the hotter the better}, traveling

▬ Dislikes: Animals that have no point, being called damaged, being coddled - he is NOT a child, foolish religious people, having other’s ideals forced onto him, discrimination, fighting for the sake of fighting, moronic little assholes, people who use position to gain what they want, bullies, being touched without permission, flirting {if you want someone, just fucking tell them stupid}, sweet food, cold weather, snow, parties

▬ Hobbies: Painting, drawing, collecting old tomes, pissing off his parents, building models, gardening, brooding spectacularly, outsmarting stupid nobles

▬ Character Tropes: Dark and Troubled Soul; When Dad Met Mum; Abusive Parent; Byronic Hero; The Quiet One; The Wild Card, Parental Issues; Parental Abandonment; Daddy Issues; Mum Is A Bitch {if that is not a trope is bloody well should be}, Big Brother Instinct; Bi The Way; Archer Archetype; Death Seeker; Jerk With A Heart of Gold; Friend To All Children; Tall, Dark and Handsome; Tall, Dark and Snarky; Badass Bookworm

▬ Additional Information: Will literally lose his shit at being called an animal. Daenir spent twenty years of his life being likened to an animal by his father and his mother, the first one to treat him as an actual human being was Cóven VI

♛ A B I L I T I E S ♛

▬ Pyrokinesis: an ability often associated with war. Most witches born in Veotis are born with an affinity for either earth, air or water, Daenir’s ability with fire is frightening and at the same time another way to show that he is not a Veotis native.

▬ Electrokinesis: Daenir barely has a grasp on this ability as it is. It is mostly responsible for the tangled, chaotic mess the sorcerer calls hair. He can create, shape and manipulate electricity

▬ Hardening: This skill is inherited from Daenir’s father, whilst he hates the man, the skill itself allows him to turn his body into a living weapon. There is one weak spot but Daenir has only told one person and that is the King

▬ Armed and Unarmed Combat: the skill is self explanatory but Daenir excels more with knives and the bow than he does with a sword

▬ Able to fumble his way through any conversation with a shy smile and incomprehensible mumbling

♛ F A M I L Y ♛

Fucked up. There is no other way to describe it. Feredir and Malrin consummated their love to hate your guts relationship after a drunken encounter in the middle of a storm. The Witch Hunter stole away with the child when he was barely a week old and turned him into a weapon that hunted his own kind. Feredir wants his weapon back, Malrin wants her son dead, Daenir just wants to train his apprentice, keep witches safe and stay loyal to the king.

▬ Feredir Havel || 49 || Father || Karl Urban || Witch Hunter

If ego had a proper name it would be Feredir Havel. He is a prideful, manipulative, charismatic man who takes pleasure in twisting others to his cause. He dislikes witches and the freedom they have, often taking great joy in killing or imprisoning them.

▬ Malrin Échon || 46 || Mother || Charlez Theron || Head of the Witches Guild

Meaning lady crowned with gold. Malrin is the Head of the Witches Guild and seen as the most powerful witch in Veotis second to none until Daenir comes into his full power. She dislikes the fact that he can outdo her in just about anything without trying, the fact he spent the better part of six years actively killing and hunting his own kind might have something to do with it. Malrin cursed her son to hear the dying cries of those he has killed for the rest of his days

▬ Caladwin Échon || Deceased || Sister || Kaya Scodelario || Witch

She’s dead, nothing else to say

♛ B I O G R A P H Y ♛

Born the only son of Feredir Havel and Malrin Échon, Daenir spent the first years of his life being nothing but a tool to his father’s endgame. Feredir and Malrin consummated their love to hate your guts relationship after a drunken encounter in the middle of a storm resulting in the birth of Daenir a month earlier than normal. When he was barely a week old, Fereldir had his hunters kidnap his son and bring the baby back to Calia where he would spend the next fourteen years being raised as an ‘unofficial’ weapon to hunt his own kind.

Daenir committed his first hunt when he was a few months shy of fifteen, whilst it was widely known that the hunt went spectacularly wrong in every way possible, the truth being much bloodier than that. False intelligence was given which resulted in the death of a young witch and her parents, an act that would only serve to fuel the boy’s hatred of his own kind {and come back to haunt him years later}.

Whilst Feredir kept up his charade as a respectable Witch Hunter who kept to the law, he continually sent Daenir out into the world in order to rid the world of ALL witches. This carried on until Daenir was eighteen and came to the attention of his mother, now head of the Witches Guild in Veotis. Daenir killed the wrong witch who happened to be his half-sister and ended up spending the next year running from the wrath of his own mother, a woman he didn’t even know.

The hunt ended back in Veotis in the heart of the Aedis Forest where Daenir was taken down by the combined effort of the entire Guild. A curse was laid upon Daenir to hear the cries of his victims until the day he died, and then he was locked away into the darkness of Aedis Prison with a single warden who would be rotated by Malrin every month. Whilst the woman didn’t want her son to die just yet, she didn’t want him to be free to go about his life like he hadn’t caused harm to his own kind. That was her revenge for the death of her dear daughter.

When Cóven and his royal guard found the prison hidden in the Aedis Forest, Daenir was near feral from being chained and locked away for so long. With the assistance of Cedric Ebe, Cóven was able free him from the magical bindings and take him back Aecor and the Summer Palace to try and help bring him back from insanity, helping him heal along the way.

With the assistance of Lady Helaena from Astronia and her apprentice Lady Everleigh, Daenir was able to come back to the world a bit at a time until his mind could function properly. After four years in darkness, he found it hard to trust anyone, first opening up to Cóven and then Cedric after he took up an apprenticeship with the Royal Sorcerer. The feeling of trusting someone was so unfamiliar but the knowledge that he actually belonged somewhere was something that Daenir accepted even if his mind told him no.

After meeting his mother in the middle of an Advisory Council meeting, Daenir was forced to come clean with his past, he half expected to be thrown back inside the darkness of the prison and his own mind. Instead of rejection, Daenir found acceptance from both his master’s and soon found himself inheriting the title of Royal Sorcerer when Cedric decided to retire. During the years he has been active in his current role, Daenir has taken to trying to right many of wrongs committed in his earlier years and bring peace to the world a little bit at a time.

♛ O T H E R ♛

▬ Has a pet Nyrk gifted to him by his father when he was a child. Aldir {named after the God of War} is incredibly aggressive to everyone but Daenir and the King. Ryo, a rare Panthera in Veotis, was a gift given to him by the former King, the beast is loyal and far more friendly than his counterpart Aldir

▬ Daenir is basically Fenris and I will fight you if you say otherwise

#veotis #daenir Échon #tasha's work

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shewillbefree · 4 years

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Byron,

Thank you for breaking your last promise to me and giving me the go to give up.

I’ve devoted too many years of my life waiting for you to change and I can’t waste any more time doing so. I need to devote my love, time, and patience to my baby now.

I tried one more time to forgive and take things to a new level with you and once again I’ve been let down.

It hurts.

I can’t keep doing it.

I have to start healing myself and blocking you out of my memory all over again.

It’s not as easy for me as it is for you.

I knew I shouldn’t have had you call me and my friends tried to tell me I was making a mistake that night. But like always I went against my better judgement. I hoped I’d prove them and myself wrong. I just ended up hurting myself in the process. That was my mistake.

I tried to save my family a second time but it backfired. Now I look like a fool. What else is new. I’m ashamed and embarrassed and I refuse to be a fool at your expense ever again.

Clearly you have a whole new life where you are now and a new mindset to go with it.

I don’t know who you are anymore. You are a stranger to me.

I don’t want you knowing anything more about the baby or my life and I would appreciate it if you could stay out of it for good. I deserve a new life too and I can’t do that when you’re in the picture.

Please stay away.

You already have no issue with not contacting me despite promising you would, but by “stay away” that includes not showing up at my door again in the future. You don’t see me popping up to interfere with your life so it’s only fair you give me the same respect. I’m not going to spend my daughter’s first months miserable and miss out on them. She deserves at least one parent to watch her grow and enjoy her being so little.

This has to end.

Especially since I’m caring for a newborn on my own who is completely dependent on me to survive.

I come second now and she comes first. I can’t keep wishing and hoping and waiting for things that aren’t realistic anymore just because it’s what I wish things could be. I need to have peace and a clear mind and no heavy emotions to carry in my heart to care for her like she deserves to be cared for.

She needs me and she deserves to have me at my best. You showing up here then giving me hope things would change was just cruel. You’re either all in or all out. I feel like you think just because I had a child with you I’ll always be here for you to fall back on.

You’re wrong.

This whole situation speaks volumes about the years I spent with you. Clearly you being away from me and you having your own free will makes me no longer a priority. Which makes things obvious how you always felt about me. It makes me so angry I had a child with a man who never loved me.

But that’s all I regret. The years wasted.

I don’t regret my baby at all.

AJust he person I created her with.

You just don’t get it and never will and I need to learn to accept that.

It’s hard.

You will never have any respect for my feelings or how your actions affect me, which ripples and now affects baby. She knows when her mother isn’t feeling 100% and I can’t continue to let you do that to us anymore.

Babies know. She knows.

When I cry, she cries. When I can’t eat, I make less milk for her and she has to have formula and she gets upset and won’t eat it. When I can’t sleep, she can’t sleep. This baby has been hurting with me since my hope has began to dwindle, no matter how much love and attention I try to give her.

She doesn’t understand.

I felt like a new woman when she was born and after being disappointed by you she’s seeing a side of me I never wanted her to see.

It stops now.

You are toxic to me and cannot be trusted as a partner, provider, or a father and your presence in my life, no matter how small or how far away you are, is poison to me.

This is why I made the choice to cut you off before.

You blow your chances every time, and I pay the price.

I refuse to give my daughter a broken mother and an immature and irresponsible father. I refuse to raise her in a split home, PERIOD. Especially with someone who isn’t even living in Oregon or working and drinks on a daily basis.

I was promised a husband/a partner for life and a home, and she was brought into this world with the promise of a full-time father and a FAMILY. My baby doesn’t deserve to be tossed between two parents, especially when her father has so deeply damaged her mother with zero remorse, and can’t and won’t do anything to add to her quality of life.

I don’t want to expose her to my pain and there will be nothing but pain as long as you are present in my life.

She’s better off having a happy mother with no father at all.

Having a family and you being a father just was not meant to be. Not with us, anyway.

You may have given her life but that doesn’t make you a father.

You’re already off to a really poor start at being a parent despite being given multiple chances to change that, so I feel it’s best to stop things before they become a regular occurrence.

I can’t allow you keep making empty promises and and let you believe it’s okay to continue doing so because if it goes on long enough, it will hurt her when she’s old enough to understand.

I can’t risk that.

If you can’t change for ME after spending 5 years by my side and seeing me suffer at your hands after you claimed to love me, walked away while I was pregnant when you swore you would never give up on me, when I needed you most, in the middle of a pandemic, then there’s no way you’ll change for a baby you’ve never met, seen, or held, who can’t voice her feelings and is totally oblivious.

You also left her when she needed you most.

You will never get these moments back.

You’ve already missed her first cry, her first smile. Soon you’ll miss her first Halloween and next her first Christmas and first New Years. You missed her being born so I doubt you’ll even care though. She’ll be a month old tomorrow and you’ve already missed so much.

I don’t think you care though.

You have no emotional attachment to her and your absence after being given a second chance says that loud and clear.

You will never change.

Not for me, not for her.

I was foolish to ever have hope.

I won’t ever allow her to have false hope in you and be let down by you. I will carry the hurt for her and I both until it no longer hurts me and spare her of it.

Which brings me to ask. Why show up after not speaking to me for almost 2 months? Why can’t you just leave me alone?

You have no rights as a parent and that means you have no right to keep yourself relevant to me. It’s cruel and it’s hurtful and I don’t deserve it after everything you’ve already put me through.

I would rather be left alone by you.

I will never understand why you popped up when you knew I was done with dealing with you yet you ignore me when you say you want to communicate with me. Why?

It almost makes me feel like you do it on purpose. I can’t do it anymore so please respect my wishes and my feelings for once in your life and stay gone.

I need to set a good example for my daughter and be a strong woman for her to emulate when she is older. I need to be a positive role model for her to look up to and show her what’s acceptable and what’s not, and you, your behavior, and your priorities are all unacceptable.

I want her to know that a woman should not tolerate the things I tolerated in my relationship with you.

I want her to know what real love is and how a man should treat a woman.

I want her to know that a man should cherish and protect the mother of his child.

I want her to know that a man’s view of her and his behavior towards her is not a reflection of her worth.

I want her to know that she is beautiful and that a man who truly loves her will be satisfied with her just the way she is.

I want her to know that a man who is truly devoted to her will never need the thrill of looking at other women as long as her heart and her body are his to hold.

I want her to know that a man who doesn’t want to lose her will always be willing to open his heart and communicate with her, no matter how hard it is for him to find his words.

I want her to know a real man will always be there, no matter how hard things get between them, and that he will always keep his word, even when he is angry with her.

I want her to know babies should be made out of love and only with a man who has proven himself.

I want her to know that not all families are broken.

I want her to know that not all fathers are absent.

I want her to know not all men are bad.

You cannot assist with teaching her any of that because you did NONE of it the entire five years I spent with you.

I don’t want you to be what she holds her expectations to in a man.

I want her to know how a man should love, provide, and sacrifice for his daughter, even if it means allowing a man in my heart and in our lives who is not her biological father to do so.

I have no doubt in my mind she will understand my decision to distance ourselves from you when she is an adult. I plan on telling her about our relationship and how it ended and what you continued to do even after she was born. She will know I did my best to give her a family and when that didn’t happen I made things happen for us on my own.

I refuse to keep my daughter in the dark about you when she wants to know why her biological father wasn’t around and why I chose to keep it that way.

I will hold my tongue from being hateful when I tell her our story but I will not hold back on matters of the truth.

She will know everything.

Everything you have done and everything you failed to do will all be mentioned. Not one incident will be overlooked from the day we met to this very moment I wrote this letter.

I’m going to go back to living like you never existed now.

We’ll be just fine without you so please don’t bother thinking we need you or that you’d be doing us a favor by showing up unannounced again.

I’ve lived without you for nearly 4 months now, and I can continue to live without you for 4 more and beyond.

We need love and stability and you will never be able to provide that for us.

But I can definitely provide that for her on my own and be a source of love and stability for myself.

I wish you well and hope that when you start a family of your own in the future you learned something from what you’ve done and you don’t do them like you did us.

Take care of yourself

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meditationadvise · 4 years

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7 Days of 100% Responsibility

The article below is by visitor writer Max Simon. Max is a dear good friend and I'll be talking at his upcoming Enlightened Entrepreneur event in L.a on Feb 18. In the article listed below, Max discusses 5 Ways to Guarantee Success. Why should you pay attention to Max? Well for starters, consider the fact that he was one of Deepak Chopra's lead instructor. Second, I've brought him to educate my team at MindValley on a range of topics from aware marketing to meditation. Enjoy!

And one even more point. If you haven't taken a look at the video clips of his Public Displays of Meditation, you can view them right here >> It was among the craziest points Mindvalley and I have ever done. Let's simply state shopping center polices revealed up. Plus there's a pair great videos up there on meditation: a mini-documentary as well as a much funnier one.

The Life of an Aware Rockstar

By Max Simon

OK, so perhaps I'm not a real superstar ... yet I've certainly created a rockin' aware life!

You see, I have remained in the globe of individual makeover for as long as I could keep in mind. My papa is ideal marketing author Dr. David Simon, co-founder of the world-renowned Chopra Center for Wellness (with Deepak Chopra), and an international authority on mind-body medicine. My mama is a 40-year Transcendental Reflection educator (as well as an extremely lovable being).

So I expanded up meditating, exercising yoga exercise, eating (and also cooking) vegetarian food, as well as learning from master instructors. It readied a life ...

Until I hit adolescence and shed my mind.

I after that spent the next 7 years of my young person life coping extreme anxiety, low self-esteem, an absence of emphasis, as well as a propensity to numb out at all that I could.

When I lastly hit rock-bottom on a Tuesday morning after (yet another) rambunctious night of mischievousness, a little voice inside of me stated: "You're running out your possibility as well as it's time to alter."

It held true, I was atrophying my potential ... and yes, it was time to change.

Teen Angst Finally Lets Up

So I went back to my roots and began practicing meditation (once more), exercising yoga exercise (once more), consuming healthy foods (again), as well as surrounding myself with dazzling individuals (once more).

And every little thing moved, and also moved, and shifted, till I was totally straightened with my function, packed with dynamic health, and making an incredibly positive difference in the world.

Which brings us to today, where I currently place on life-changing real-time events that assist people like you to develop prospering and also plentiful companies that make a strongly favorable difference in the globe and offer you the freedom to take a trip, go on hideaways, and also appreciate your life so that you can experience the happiness, flexibility, and fulfillment that is your birthright.

And with that said in mind, I have a couple of useful details of wisdom to show to you that will certainly help you, despite whether you stay in business or not.

" 99% is a bitch, yet 100% is a wind"

Because, allow's encounter it - You have a great deal going on (which could be excellent!). The difficulty with your exceptionally hectic (as well as occasionally disorderly) life is that it's very easy to lose your center, become un-balanced, as well as get sidetracked from your truth.

You know just what I'm speaking around, do not you?

And while it's truly easy to direct the finger at everybody else (like your manager, your kids, your staff members, your pets, etc) for what's going on inside of you, the reality is that it's 100% your responsibility!

Byron Katie that once stated: "99% is a bitch, but 100% is a breeze" (I enjoy that!).

And what she suggested is that when you typically aren't taking 100% obligation for your life, your mind is going to look for every chance to criticize, grumble, and also judge (which is no excellent for you or the world).

Yet when you could take 100% obligation of what's unraveling in your globe, you have the chance making conscious options:

Like as opposed to constantly stating YES to somebody else, you can prefer to take responsibility wherefore you need first.

Like when you are obtaining distracted by Facebook or emails, you can opt to disengage as well as re-focus your power and also focus on just what's most important.

Like when you are doing something that you don't entirely enjoy, you could prefer to drop it and go in a brand-new direction.

When you commit to being in the vehicle drivers seat of your personal life, you now have the power to go wherever you desire (which's when the experience begins).

7 Days of 100% Obligation (not as terrifying as it sounds)

So below's an idea: for the following 7 days, see if you can take 100% duty for producing a rigorous self-care regimen that includes shutting your eyes and being still for a few mins (meditating), moving your body (like yoga exercise), doing something that influences you (like reading), and also eating one really healthy and beneficial meal.

These are the 4 pillars of an integrated everyday regimen, and they will help you get concentrated, invigorated, clear, as well as completely on-track.

And in order to help you remain on track with this effective new dedication, here are 5 things you can do now to guarantee your success:

5 Things to Ensure Success:

1. Get clear on EXACTLY just what you are devoting to by writing out your purposes theoretically. The minute you can PLAINLY see your dedications in the structure of your awareness, is the minute they end up being real. 2. Choose exactly what to QUIT doing that will certainly liberate area for you to recognize your new commitments. Your life is currently full enough, so adding something else on top of everything won't (always) assistance. Agree to allow go of what's not offering you so that you obtain some fresh energy in your life. 3. Don't fret if it's challenging in the beginning. It could be challenging to alter (since human conditioning runs deep) however do not get hard on yourself or start judging your ability. Everyone struggles throughout improvement so be easy on yourself. 4. SHARE your commitment with somebody else and request their support in aiding you stay on track and also concentrated. Also the greatest person requires assistance occasionally (or a lot of the time). 5. Identify your INCENTIVE for remaining real to your path. Consider something really juicy as well as pleasurable since you will provide on your own for adhering to with ... as well as after that consciously indulge baby!

What do you say? Are you in?

Can you dedicate to doing these 5 practices for the next 7 days? And more significantly, can you take 100% obligation for making them happen?

Let me know by leaving a comment below.

#daily meditation #meditating #meditation #yoga

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junker-town · 5 years

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Stay updated with all the latest NFL coaching rumors

It’s firing season in the NFL! We’re keeping track of all the news and rumors here as teams make moves.

The NFL regular season is over and we’re on to the playoffs. But for a few of the league’s other teams, it’s time to embark on a second season too — firing and hiring season.

Two teams, the Browns and the Packers, fired their head coaches during the season. The Jets and Bucs followed suit on Sunday. The Broncos, Bengals, Dolphins, and joined them in 24 hours. Even more of the NFL’s 32 franchises could be spinning on the coaching carousel looking to replace coordinators and assistant coaches.

So far, all the teams have either filled their head coaching vacancy or have a candidate they plan to hire. First up was the Packers, who brought on Matt LaFleur. The Buccaneers then lured Bruce Arians out of retirement, and the Cardinals saved Kliff Kinsgbury from USC.

After that, the Browns elevated Freddie Kitchens to head coach, and Adam Gase, who’s staying in the AFC East, is now in charge of the Jets. The Broncos bucked the offensive trend and went with a defensive mind, Vic Fangio.

The other two hirings were a done deal for a while, but couldn’t become official until after Super Bowl 53. The Bengals hired Rams QBs coach Zac Taylor, while the Dolphins are zeroing in on Patriots defensive playcaller Brian Flores.

We’re keeping track of the latest news and rumors as teams start making changes. Keep checking back.

Arizona Cardinals hire Kliff Kingsbury

Steve Wilks is going to join the illustrious group of NFL coaches fired after one season, a group that includes Jim Mora, Jim Tomsula, Chip Kelly and more. Wilks’ fate was decided before his team’s Week 16 loss to the Rams, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

If Wilks goes, the question is whether or not general manager Steve Keim goes too. He’s been the team’s GM since 2013, presiding over some shaky drafts and ruinous free agent decisions (Hi, Sam Bradford). Keim is not expected to be fired, according to Kent Somers of Arizona Central. Fans are not pleased with the possibility of Keim’s return.

Dec. 24: Peter King reported that the team has interest in recently depose Packers coach Mike McCarthy, and McCarthy reportedly has some interest in the job himself.

Dec. 31: Wilks reportedly told his staff Monday morning that he would not be coaching, Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reported. The Cardinals made it official shortly after.

Dec. 31: The Cardinals will interview Rams QB coach Zac Taylor, Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy, and Saints assistant Dan Campbell.

Dec. 31: The Cardinals also fired OC Byron Leftwich and DC Al Holcomb.

Jan. 1: Recently fired Dolphins coach Adam Gase will interview with the Cardinals on Wednesday.

Jan. 1: The Cardinals will interview former Texas Tech head coach Kliff Kingsbury.

Jan. 2: Bieniemy has decided not to interview with the Cardinals.

Jan. 4: Former Lions and Colts coach Jim Caldwell completed his interview with the Cardinals.

Jan. 5: USC won’t let Kliff Kingsbury interview with the Cardinals, and now Kingsbury might resign.

Jan. 7: Suddenly, Kingsbury is meeting with NFL teams.

Jan. 8: And just like that, Kingsbury is the new coach in Arizona.

Jan. 10: Everyone will be watching who Kingsbury hires as his defensive coordinator. One candidate: Vance Joseph. Another: Chuck Pagano.

Jan. 10: Former Giants coach Ben McAdoo will interview with the Cardinals for a position on the coaching staff.

Jan. 10: Steve Sarkisian, recently fired as the Falcons OC, interviewed for the same position with the Cardinals.

Jan. 11: Josina Anderson reports Arizona will make recently deposed Broncos head coach Vance Joseph Kingsbury’s defensive coordinator.

Jan. 11: Steve Sarkisian is “closing in” on the OC gig.

Jan. 12: Although he was reportedly offered the OC job with the Cardinals, Steve Sarkisian is headed back to college — specifically, back with Nick Saban at Alabama.

Jan. 13: After Sarkisian turned them down, the Cardinals are bringing in former Vikings OC John DeFilippo for an interview.

Jan. 15: Jim Bob Cooter is also interviewing for the OC job. A Jim Bob and a Kilff? What a staff of names that would be.

Jan. 18: Gulp, Hue Jackson is next up on the OC interview list.

Atlanta Falcons

Head coach Dan Quinn isn’t expected to go anywhere, but there have been rumors that both coordinators, OC Steve Sarkisian and DC Marquand Manuel, could pay the price for the team’s disappointing season.

Dec. 27: Or maybe not. ESPN’s Josina Anderson reported that the team’s rash of injuries on both sides of the ball could give the coordinators another shot next season.

Dec. 29: Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network said Saturday that Sarkisian was “seriously at risk” for losing his job, along with Manuel.

Dec. 31: The Falcons fired Sarkisian, Manuel, and special teams coach Keith Armstrong. Quinn will take over defensive coordinator duties, while former Texans and Broncos coach Gary Kubiak could be a candidate for the OC job. Former Seahawks OC Darrell Bevell will also interview for the position.

Jan. 1: Dirk Koetter, freshly unemployed, will interview for a familiar position: Falcons OC.

Jan. 2: Mike Mularkey, another former Falcons OC, and another former NFL head coach, interviewed for his old job.

Jan. 6: The Broncos won’t let the Falcons take a look at Kubiak.

Jan. 7: The Falcons have offered Dirk Koetter his old job back.

Jan. 8: Koetter is back as OC, and another former head coach, Mike Mularkey, is the Falcons’ new tight ends coach.

Baltimore Ravens

After slumping into their Week 10 bye after a 4-5 start, rumors about John Harbaugh’s future with the team started to swirl. Since then, the combo of Harbaugh and rookie QB Lamar Jackson have turned the Ravens into a playoff contender, saving Harbaugh’s job in the process. The Ravens put out a statement prior to their Week 16 win over the Chargers that Harbaugh would be back in 2019, the final year of his contract with the team. So far, there’s been no talk of an extension, and a lot of people think Harbaugh would be fine playing out his final year in Baltimore then seeing what the market holds in 2020.

Dec. 22: PFT speculated that the Ravens’ announcement could signal the team’s willingness to trade Harbaugh, should a team that coveted him want to offer up draft picks, etc. The Broncos and Jets were two teams said to have been interested in Harbaugh if the Ravens gave him the boot.

Dec. 30: At least one team will consider calling the Ravens to see if they’d be willing to trade Harbaugh, according to Adam Schefter. The Dolphins and the Broncos are two teams reportedly considering a trade for Harbaugh, if the Ravens are interested, according to Pro Football Talk.

Jan. 6: The Ravens reportedly want Harbaugh back, even as a pair of teams work to pry him out of Baltimore.

Jan. 6: Harbaugh doesn’t think he’s going anywhere, as he told reporters after the Ravens’ Wild Card loss to the Chargers, but he’s not 100% sure.

Jan. 7: Harbaugh and the Ravens are working toward a long-term extension.

Jan. 11: Greg Roman has been promoted to OC, while Marty Mornhinweg is out.

Jan. 19: The Ravens and Harbaugh have agreed in principle to a contract extension.

Jan 25: It’s a four-year extension for Harbaugh to stay in Baltimore.

Buffalo Bills

The Bills went from a playoff team to 6-10, mostly thanks to a moribund offense that was 30th in points and yards. Their defense, on the other hand, finished the season No. 2 overall. So it’s not surprise that their coaching changes have come on the offensive side.

Jan. 1: The Bills fired offensive line coach Juan Castillo.

Jan. 2: Wide receivers coach Terry Robiskie won’t be back, either.

Jan. 3: Special teams coordinator Danny Crossman, who had been with the Bills longer than any current coach, is also out.

Jan. 15: Bobby Johnson, who served as the assistant OL coach with the Colts, is the Bills’ new OC.

Carolina Panthers

The Panthers were on fire during a 6-2 start to the season, and then the wheels came off. Riverboat Ron’s team lost seven straight games headed into Week 17, fueling speculation that new owner David Tepper might use the occasion to find a new coach.

They fired a pair of defensive coaches in early December, and Rivera took over the defensive play calling duties.

Dec. 23: Head coach Ron Rivera is expected to keep his job for 2019, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

Dec. 29: If Steve Wilks is fired by the Cardinals, as expected, he is one possibility to return to his old job coaching the defense with the Panthers, according to Rapoport.

Jan. 4: The Panthers parted ways with wide receivers coach Lance Taylor (someone get Steve Smith on the phone).

Jan. 10: Former Colts Chunk Pagano is meeting with the Panthers about an unnamed role with the team, which seem like an odd fit.

Chicago Bears

The Bears need a new defensive coordinator now that Vic Fangio is finally getting his shot at a head coaching role with the Broncos.

Jan. 11: Former Colts head coach Chuck Pagano met with Chicago executives regarding the club’s open DC role. Soon after, he was officially hired.

Cincinnati Bengals hire Zac Taylor

And that’s it for the Marvin Lewis era in Cincy. He’s gone.

Dec. 27: ESPN’s Josina Anderson reports that the Bengals’ injuries this season are likely to help give Lewis some cover. She expects him to be coaching there in 2019.

Dec. 29: Lewis could retire, says the NFL Network. He and owner Mike Brown will meet the Tuesday after the season ends to discuss his future.

Dec. 30: Jay Glazer of Fox Sports says Lewis is going to be fired.

Dec. 31: Lewis is out. He informed his coaching staff of the decision on Monday morning.

Dec. 31: Lewis endorsed Hue Jackson to replace him (don’t do it, Bengals). Other in-house candidates include special teams coach Darrin Simmons and OC Bill Lazor.

Dec. 31: The Bengals have also contacted outside candidates, like Rams QB coach Zac Taylor and Rams TE coach Shane Waldron.

Dec. 31: The club is also interested in Patriots OC Josh McDaniels.

Jan. 1: Vance Joseph will get an interview with the Bengals just days after being fired by the Broncos. Joseph spent two seasons in Cincinnati as the DBs coach.

Jan. 2: The highly popular Eric Bieniemy, currently OC for the Chiefs, will meet with the Bengals.

Jan. 2: Well, Hue Jackson is getting his head coaching interview in Cincinnati.

Jan. 3: Josh McDaniels won’t be interviewing with the Bengals.

Jan. 3: The Bengals added a new candidate after McDaniels declined to be interviewed: Bucs OC Todd Monken.

Jan. 10: The Bengals have been relatively quiet, but one report say they’re looking to make an offensive-minded, outside hire.

Jan. 10: Did someone say offensive-minded, outside hire? Well it looks like it’s true: the Bengals plan to hire Rams QBs coach Zac Taylor. Look at those Ohio teams, trying something new.

Jan. 11: With Zac Taylor expected to get the head coaching job, the Bengals let OC Bill Lazor go.

Jan. 11: It shouldn’t be a surprise that Hue Jackson is gone as well.

Jan. 22: Taylor’s offensive coordinator is going to be Raiders’ quarterbacks coach Brian Callahan.

Feb. 4: The Bengals finally made it official, but not before Super Bowl 53 rained on their parade a bit.

Cleveland Browns hire Freddie Kitchens

Hue Jackson was fired in October. Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams got bumped up to be the interim head coach, and Freddie Kitchens went from coaching the running backs to running the offense. It worked too, raising questions of whether or not the pair might stick around or if another team could snap up Kitchens for their head coaching job.

Dec. 27: One name that has popped up in connection with the Browns is Patriots OC Josh McDaniels.

Dec. 29: Do not expect Williams to be the coach here in 2019. According to Ian Rapoport, Williams isn’t even considered a front runner for the job. Among the possibilities the Browns are expected to explore there’s McDaniels, McCarthy, Patriots defensive coordinator Brian Flores and Colts defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus.

Dec. 30: Both Jay Glazer and Ian Rapoport reported that Gregg Williams will be out after the season. Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot thinks that both Harbaugh brothers could be in play for the Browns’ head coaching job.

Dec. 30: The Arizona Republic’s Bob McManaman says it’s already a done deal that former Packers coach Mike McCarthy will be the Browns’ next head coach, though Cabot reported that the Browns have simply “reached out” to McCarthy.

Dec. 31: Adam Schefter reports that the Browns have requested permission to interview Brian Flores, Patriots defensive coordinator.

Dec. 31: The Browns will interview Freddie Kitchens for the head coaching job, Mary Kay Cabot reported. They’ll also give Gregg Williams a formal interview and then chance to explain why his 5-3 record as interim head coach qualifies him for the full-time job. The Browns confirmed they will interview both.

Dec. 31: Recently fired Dolphins coach Adam Gase is also reportedly in the mix, which will go over very smoothly with former Miami WR Jarvis Landry, who is now the Browns’ WR1.

Dec. 31: Saints tight ends coach Dan Campbell, who once led the Dolphins to a 5-7 record as interim head coach, is getting an interview with Cleveland.

Dec. 31: The Browns must like what the Colts are doing. They’ve requested interviews with both of the Colts’ coordinators: OC Nick Sirianni and DC Matt Eberflus.

Dec. 31: Vikings interim OC Kevin Stefanski will also get an interview for the Browns’ head coaching job.

Dec. 31: The Browns have shown interest in former Colts/Lions coach Jim Caldwell, though as of now, there’s no formal request for an interview.

Jan 1: Mike McCarthy will officially interview with the Browns.

Jan. 2: Interim head coach Gregg Williams got his formal interview with the club, as did Jim Caldwell.

Jan 3: Other teams are trying to poach OC Freddie Kitchens, who will get his chance to interview for the Browns’ head coaching job next week. Even if he doesn’t get the job, Cleveland would want its new coach to have the opportunity to retain Kitchens.

Jan. 3: The Browns completed their interview with Kevin Stefanski.

Jan. 7: Freddie Kitchens, whose work as interim offensive coordinator helped unlock Baker Mayfield’s potential and turn him into a rookie of the year frontrunner, has got a real shot at the Browns’ top job.

Jan. 7: The Browns are backing away a little from Mike McCarthy while they focus on other candidates.

Jan. 8: Cleveland is reportedly down to two finalists: interim offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens and Vikings interim offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski.

Jan. 9: Wow, the Browns really did it. Freddie Kitchens is their next coach. Most of the coaching staff, including former interim coach/DC Gregg Williams and OL coach/Hard Knocks star Bob Wylie, will not return.

Jan. 10: With Kitchens now the head coach, the Browns need a new offensive coordinator. One candidate is Todd Monken.

Jan. 10: Former Lions OC, and NFL name champion, Jim Bob Cooter will also interview for the Browns’ offensive coordinator position.

Jan. 10: The Browns also have a defensive coordinator opening, and Vance Joseph is already set to interview for it. They’re also interested in Chuck Pagano.

Jan. 11: With Joseph going to the Cardinals, the Browns are primed to interview another recently fired head coach to take over at DC — this time, it’s former Arizona coach Steve Wilks.

Jan. 11: Mike Priefer is going from Vikings special teams coordinator to Browns special teams coordinator.

Jan. 11: The Browns are expected to hire Steve Wilks as their new defensive coordinator.

Jan. 13: In addition to Wilks, the Browns found their other new coordinator: former Bucs OC Todd Monken. That’s quite the staff in Cleveland.

Jan. 14: The Browns announce their new staff, including Wilks, Monken, Stump Mitchell as running backs coach, and Ryan Lindley as quarterback coach.

Jan. 16: Kitchens added another impressive hire to his list — this time stealing Alabama DC Tosh Lupoi away to coach his defensive line.

Dallas Cowboys

Jason Garrett isn’t going anywhere, not with the Cowboys headed to the playoffs. The Jones family likes Garrett, but they’ve made it clear that they expect the team to be contenders. On the other hand, there could be moves among Garrett’s staff.

Dec. 29: Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan could get the boot, according to Ian Rapoport.

Jan. 10: Cowboys defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli is hoping Dallas can keep Kris Richard around.

Jan. 14: Jason Garrett said he isn’t planning any major coaching staff changes, and that includes keeping Scott Linehan around as OC — but then he quickly forgot about that and said no decisions had been made, after a talk with the Joneses. So maybe Linehan’s job isn’t safe.

Jan. 15: Just one more thing: Marc Colombo is returning to Dallas as the new OL coach.

Jan. 18: OC Scott Linehan got fired despite Garrett’s best efforts.

Jan. 25: Reports suggest Kellen Moore — who was the club’s backup quarterback as recently as 2017 — will be the Cowboys’ next offensive coordinator.

Jan. 31: It’s officially Moore, whose meteoric rise through the coaching ranks will make him an NFL OC just one season after retiring as a player.

Denver Broncos hire Vic Fangio

Vance Joseph made a pretty good case for why the Broncos should fire him back in Week 9 when he made one of the worst coaching decisions of his short career (and there are a lot to choose from). But then the Broncos went on a three-game win streak and had the easiest path to an AFC Wild Card bid. That would have made it impossible for John Elway to fire him. Nope. Joseph’s Broncos went out and lost the next three, kicking them firmly out of postseason contention. As expected, they fired Joseph the day after the season ended.

Dec. 17: It says a lot that someone let it be known that the Broncos almost hired Mike Shanahan a year ago.

Dec. 22: The Broncos had been one of the teams said to be interested in John Harbaugh should the Ravens fire him. That hope got shot down when the Ravens announced he’d be back.

Dec. 29: It’s not out of the question that Joseph sticks around. However, one possibility in that scenario is that Elway brings in his old pal Gary Kubiak to run the offense, according to Rapoport. That seems like it’d be a huge problem since Kubiak has been the head coach there before and his presence and connection with Elway would undercut the head coach.

Dec. 31: He’s out. Fired.

Dec. 31: Schefter reports that the Broncos have requested permission to interview Brian Flores and former Titans head coach and Steelers OL coach Mike Munchak.

Dec. 31: The Broncos have asked to interview Bears DC Vic Fangio, though it’ll have to wait with his team set to play on Wild Card Weekend.

Dec. 31: Don’t expect the Broncos to go back to the Adam Gase well or the Mike Shanahan well. Former coach Gary Kubiak could be an OC candidate, however.

Dec. 31: John Elway denied the Broncos were looking to bring back Mike Shanahan, but he didn’t deny they’d be willing to trade draft picks for a coach. If so, John Harbaugh could be a candidate. Right now, though, that doesn’t look likely.

Dec. 31: Rams quarterbacks coach Zac Taylor will have the chance to convince Elway he’s the right guy to dig the Broncos’ offense out of its current hole.

Dec. 31: The team is expected to interview former Colts coach Chuck Pagano, though it has not formally requested to do so yet.

Jan. 2: Pagano will be the first candidate to interview with the Broncos, followed by Taylor, Munchak, Flores, and Fangio.

Jan. 5: Mike Munchak, who already met with the Broncos, has a lot of interest in the job.

Jan. 6: Gary Kubiak is a major part of the Broncos’ rebuilding plans; the club isn’t allowing him to interview for OC jobs anywhere else in the league.

Jan. 8: The Broncos seem to be down to either Vic Fangio or Mike Munchak, with Fangio looking like the frontrunner.

Jan. 9: 60-year-old Vic Fangio is a head coach for the first time.

Jan. 10: Gary Kubiak is expected to return to the Broncos coaching staff as the OC.

Jan. 11: Welp, now Gary Kubiak will NOT be the OC.

Jan. 11: Mike Munchak didn’t get the head coaching job, but the Broncos still want to hire him, perhaps as OL coach.

Jan. 11: With reports that the Broncos were looking for an innovative offensive mind, they tried to set up one interview for the OC job: 49ers QB coach Rich Scangarello. The 49ers denied the request.

Jan. 14: Mike Munchak is joining the Broncos after all ... as the OL coach.

Jan. 15: Rich Scangarello is expected to be the new OC, while former Bears secondary coach Ed Donatell is following Vic Fangio to Denver to become his new DC.

Detroit Lions

Matt Patricia’s first year in Detroit has been disappointing enough to make people think that maybe Jim Caldwell wasn’t such a bad coach after all. But Patricia isn’t going anywhere. He’s only in his first season, and he and the general manager, Bob Quinn, are both former Belichickians.

But there could be changes among the coordinators, most likely offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter, who predates Patricia and whose contract is up after this season.

Jan 1: Yep, Jim Bob Cooter is out.

Jan. 16: And former Seahawks OC Darrell Bevell is in.

Green Bay Packers hire Matt LaFleur

The Packers fired Mike McCarthy after an embarrassing home loss to the Arizona Cardinals in Week 13. Joe Philbin took over as the interim coach. Whoever they end up hiring inherits a pretty good situation, one ripe for a quick turnaround in 2019. However, that person is going to have to do more for Aaron Rodgers than McCarthy did.

Dec. 3: Is Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels in the mix? He could be, according to Yahoo’s Charles Robinson.

Dec. 24: Northwestern’s Pat Fitzgerald was mentioned by MMQB’s Albert Breer as another possibility in Green Bay.

Dec. 26: The team got a pair of early interviews out of the way, sitting down with former Colts head coach Chuck Pagano and former Colts and Lions head coach Jim Caldwell.

Dec. 29: The Packers are interested in Fitzgerald, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. He was hired by current Packers president Mark Murphy while Murphy as the athletic director at Northwestern.

Dec. 30: The Packers are going to kick the tires on both New England’s coordinators, asking for permission to interview Josh McDaniels and Brian Flores as they turn over every single stone in their coaching search.

Dec. 31: Saints tight ends coach Dan Campbell, who once led the Dolphins to a 5-7 record as interim head coach, will be interviewing in Green Bay as well.

Dec. 31: Steelers OL coach Mike Munchak will interview with the Packers, in addition to the Broncos.

Dec. 31: Titans OC Matt LaFleur will also get a chance to impress Green Bay’s brain trust.

Jan. 3: Pat Fitzgerald won’t interview with the Packers — or any other NFL team.

Jan. 4: Brian Flores is set for his interview with the Packers, his second of four interviews in a two-day span.

Jan. 4: Next up for Adam Gase: an interview with the Packers.

Jan. 5: The Packers were busy Saturday, interviewing Bucs OC Todd Monken, Saints OC Pete Carmichael, and Saints assistant head coach Dan Campbell.

Jan. 7: HERE WE GO. The Packers are going to hire Matt LaFleur — and it might be brilliant?

Jan. 10: Get out the water skis: Ron Zook is a free agent after being let go as special teams coordinator.

Jan. 11: Former Bucs OC Todd Monken and former Jaguars OC Nathaniel Hackett will both interview for the Packers’ offensive coordinator opening.

Jan. 11: Defensive coordinator Mike Pettine will return.

Jan. 12: The 49ers wouldn’t let the Packers interview their WRs/passing game coach — who also happens to be Matt LaFleur’s brother, Mike.

Jan. 14: Nathaniel Hackett, just hired as the Packers’ new OC, gets to upgrade from Blake Bortles to Aaron Rodgers.

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts were ahead of schedule, taking a 1-5 start and turning it into a spot in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. That’s where the season ended, but the future is still bright. Surely there won’t be many coaching changes, right? Especially with an OL that protected Andrew Luck more than he ever has been in his career?

Oh:

Stunner: The #Colts are letting OL coach Dave DeGuglielmo go, sources say. That line made tremendous leaps this season. But Frank Reich wants his own guy. DeGuglielmo was the only offensive coach Josh McDaniels had hired. Reich is actually recommending him to other coaches.

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 15, 2019

Jacksonville Jaguars

No team disappointed more this season than the Jaguars, a play away from a Super Bowl bid last place in the AFC South. It wasn’t supposed to be this way. But really, is anyone surprised that this happened when the team decided to sign Blake Bortles to an extension? The team’s performance in 2017 likely bought head coach Doug Marrone and GM Dave Caldwell another season, at least. Both are expected to keep their jobs for 2019, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

But there will be some coaching changes in Jacksonville. The team fired offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett in November, so they’ll be in the market for a prodigious offensive mind (hopefully) to help turn things around ... hopefully a new quarterback too.

Dec. 30: Jaguars owner Shad Khan said that Doug Marrone, Tom Coughlin and general manager Dave Caldwell are safe for the 2019 season.

Statement from owner Shad Khan. pic.twitter.com/ZVozbEcR26

— #DUUUVAL (@Jaguars) December 30, 2018

Dec. 31: The Jaguars did fire a few positional coaches: Tyrone Wheatley, who was in charge of a dysfunctional running backs room, as well as Perry Fewell (secondary), Pat Flaherty (OL), and Marion Hobby (DL).

Jan. 10: Todd Monken talked to the Jaguars about their OC position, though he’s still taking interviews elsewhere.

Jan. 12: After Gary Kubiak decided not to take the Broncos’ OC job, he could be a candidate for the same position with the Jaguars.

Jan. 14: The Jaguars interviewed John DeFilippo for OC. Next up is Kubiak.

Jan. 15: Longtime NFL coach Terry Robiskie will be the new RBs coach in Jacksonville.

Jan. 15: Mike McCoy, who was fired midseason as Cardinals OC, is getting an interview for the same position with the Jaguars.

Jan. 16: The Jaguars are expected to hire Vikings interim OC John DeFilippo in hopes to reviving their awful offense.

Kansas City Chiefs

Jan. 22: Weeks after wrapping a season in which they were the AFC’s top seed, Kansas City has fired defensive coordinator Bob Sutton. The Chiefs ranked 31st in the league in yards allowed in 2018.

Miami Dolphins plan to hire Brian Flores

Despite a 7-9 record, there was some speculation that Gase would be spared. He was not. The Dolphins fired him Monday morning after the season ended.

The team is expected to move on from quarterback Ryan Tannehill, which means a new coach will get the chance to pick his own QB.

Dec. 26: Instead, the Dolphins will be making changes in the front office. Mike Tannebaum, the vice president of football operations, is expected to be fired, according to Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald.

Dec. 29: Owner Stephen Ross is not happy with the state of things, and Gase could pay the price. There is reportedly a “legitimate possibility” that Gase ends up fired. If that happens, he’ll be a top candidate for other coaching vacancies, according to the NFL Network.

Dec. 31: Gase may be back, but maybe not before Ross checks to see if he can get either Jim or John Harbaugh to be his team’s next coach, according to Peter King.

Dec. 31: Gase was fired.

Dec. 31: The Dolphins have asked for permission to interview Patriots de facto defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

Dec. 31: Longtime NFL defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, currently with the Bears, will interview with the Dolphins.

Dec. 31: Add the Dolphins to the list of teams that will interview Steelers OL coach Mike Munchak.

Dec. 31: The Dolphins have also been in touch with Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy, arguably the hottest name on the coaching market.

Dec. 31: Cowboys passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach Kris Richard will also be getting an interview in South Beach.

Jan. 4: Brian Flores’ first of four interviews will start with the Dolphins.

Jan. 4: The Dolphins will be the first team to interview Saints DC Dennis Allen.

Jan. 4: A new candidate emerges in the Dolphins’ head coach search — Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh, who would have to be acquired via trade.

Jan. 7: Bears DC Vic Fangio won’t interview with Miami after all.

Jan. 9: Kris Richard could be the favorite.

Jan. 10: Wait, maybe Brian Flores is the favorite.

Jan. 11: The Dolphins will be interviewed two in-house candidates: offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains and special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi.

Jan. 11: Brian Flores is the Dolphins’ target, though there’s no deal yet (and can’t be until the Patriots’ season is over).

Jan. 14: Former Lions coach Jim Caldwell is expected to join Flores’ staff as an associate head coach.

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings made one change during the season, at offensive coordinator. Interim OC Kevin Stefanski is expected to be offered the job on a full-time basis. However, Stefanski is not under contract after this season, so he could be fielding other offers, according to Rapoport.

Dec. 31: Despite a rough finish that pushed Minnesota out of the playoffs, the Vikings will retain head coach Mike Zimmer.

Jan. 2: Good news for Bengals fans: Hue Jackson is a candidate for the Vikings’ OC job.

Jan. 7: Dirk Koetter has entered the mix to be next OC in Minnesota.

Jan. 9: The Vikings are making Kevin Stefanski the full-time OC.

Jan. 12: The 49ers keep denying requests, including the Vikings wanting to interview 49ers passing game coordinator Mike LaFleur.

Jan. 14: Gary Kubiak is met with the Vikings, where his son is the new QBs coach, and wham, he’s hired to be an offensive advisor.

New England Patriots

Bill Belichick isn’t going anywhere ... but his highly-regarded assistants might be.

Jan. 7: Reports suggest New England could be targeting USC OC Kliff Kingsbury to replace Josh McDaniels should the sought-after coordinator leave for a head coaching job.

Jan. 8: Josh McDaniels isn’t going anywhere, saying “the book is closed” on any more interviews.

New York Jets hire Adam Gase

It’s hard to believe, four seasons later, that Todd Bowles won 10 games in his first year (2015) as the Jets head coach, thanks in part to a little bit of the old FitzMagic. Little did we know that the team’s choke job in a Week 17 loss with the playoffs on the line that season would set the tone for the rest of Bowles’ 24-40 tenure there. The opinion of the league’s most well-informed insiders is that Bowles is as good as gone as soon as the season ends.

It was reported on Saturday, Dec. 29, that Bowles will be fired right after the team’s Week 17 game on Sunday.

Dec. 24: There is apparently some concern among coaching candidates that the structure of the Jets’ leadership, i.e. with Mike Maccagnan staying around as GM, could scare off some potential replacements.

Dec. 24: Chris Johnson, the son of owner Woody Johnson, shot down rumors that the team was interested in Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh.

Dec. 27: The team has interest in both Mike McCarthy and Jim Caldwell, according to Sports Illustrated, two former head coaches who have experience grooming young QBs, something the Jets value as they look to build around Sam Darnold.

Dec. 29: Maccagnan isn’t going anywhere, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

Dec. 30: As expected, Bowles was fired.

Dec. 31: If Jim Harbaugh isn’t coming east, Eric Bieniemy might be. The Jets have requested permission to interview the Chiefs’ OC.

Dec. 31: The Jets will also interview former Seahawks DC, and current Cowboys DBs coach, Kris Richard.

Dec. 31: Add another name to the interview list: Todd Monken, the Bucs’ current OC and former Southern Miss head coach.

Dec. 31: The Jets have interest in Jim Caldwell, but they haven’t requested an interview yet.

Dec. 31: Iowa State coach Matt Campbell declined an interview request from the Jets.

Jan. 1: Former Green Bay head coach Mike McCarthy is getting an interview in New York.

Jan. 1: Former Texas Tech head coach and current USC offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury will get an opportunity to interview with the Jets.

Jan. 2: The Jets are one of four teams that will interview Bieniemy.

Jan. 2: Adam Gase will get another shot with another AFC East team, interviewing with the Jets less than a week after getting fired by the Dolphins.

Jan. 4: The Jets have shown interest in Baylor coach Matt Rhule, though it might not be anything beyond that right now.

Jan. 5: Adam Schefter reported that USC is denying the Jets permission to interview Kliff Kingsbury. As a result, Kingsbury could resign.

Jan. 5: Mike McCarthy officially interviewed with the Jets — and he could be the favorite.

Jan. 7: The Jets get the first crack at Kliff Kingsbury.

Jan. 8: Mike McCarthy only wants the Jets job.

Jan. 9: Sorry, Mike McCarthy. Adam Gase gets the gig. Vance Joseph could join him in New York as DC if he doesn’t get the Bengals job.

Jan. 10: Gregg Williams is also a candidate for the DC position.

Jan. 11: The Jets are reportedly on the verge of hiring Williams, who received little interest as a head coach this winter despite a 5-3 record as the Browns’ interim HC in 2018.

Jan. 16: Gregg Williams signed a three-year deal to become New York’s defensive coordinator.

Jan. 23: Dowell Loggains will be the club’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

Oakland Raiders

The Raiders don’t have a head coaching search with Jon Gruden still having nine years left on his contract, but they do need a general manager after firing Reggie McKenzie. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo said that NFL Network’s Mike Mayock has come up in discussions and he’s already interviewed with Oakland for the gig.

A strong candidate has emerged in the #Raiders’ GM search: Mike Mayock. Sources tell me and @RapSheet the @nflnetwork draft analyst has interviewed with Oakland. He’s one of a few, as the Raiders have kept their interviews quiet. But he’s firmly in the mix.

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) December 30, 2018

Dec. 31: It’s done. The Raiders are hiring Mayock to be their next general manager, Adam Schefter reported Monday morning.

Jan. 2: The Raiders aren’t just moving on from Reggie McKenzie. They also fired McKenzie’s No. 2, Joey Clinkscales.

Jan. 3: Ryan Grigson, who didn’t fare so well as Colts general manager, will reportedly meet with the Raiders about a front office gig. Raiders fans aren’t thrilled about it.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Jan. 4: Linebackers coach Joey Porter, who helped drop Marvin Lewis to 0-7 in the playoffs by running onto the field and drawing a key unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on the Bengals back in 2017, will not return to the team in 2019.

Jan. 7: The Steelers also parted ways with running backs coach James Saxon.

Jan. 10: The Steelers aren’t expected to make any changes at DC.

Jan. 11: Former Lions and Bengals DC Teryl Austin is headed to Pittsburgh as the new secondary coach.

Jan. 14: After losing Mike Munchak to the Broncos, the Steelers promoted Shaun Sarrett to be their new OL coach.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers hire Bruce Arians

The Buccaneers fired Koetter right after their season concluded with a 34-32 loss to the Falcons. Earlier in the day it was reported that the team would be bringing back quarterback Jameis Winston in 2019 to be their expected starter.

Dec. 24: McCarthy’s name has been mentioned as a possibility in Tampa too.

Dec. 27: It’s not out of the question that Koetter might be back next season.

Dec. 30: Koetter is fired.

Dec. 31: Former Cardinals coach Bruce Arians told Ian Rapoport he “would listen” if the Bucs reached out.

Dec. 31: There hasn’t been much from the Bucs so far, but one name that has piqued their interest is Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy.

Jan. 1: The Bucs have asked to interview Vikings DC George Edwards.

Jan.2: Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly has drawn interest from Tampa Bay, according to reports.

Jan. 2: One of Bieniemy’s first interviews will be with the Bucs.

Jan. 2: Kris Richard, another popular coaching candidate, will also interview with the Bucs after the Cowboys play the Seahawks.

Jan. 5: Former Cardinals coach Bruce Arians met with the Bucs and could be a favorite to land the job.

Jan. 6: Arians-to-Tampa reports are picking up more steam.

Jan. 8: The Bucs made it official and announced the hiring of Arians, who is expected to reunite with Todd Bowles (as DC), Byron Leftwich (as OC), and Harold Goodwin (assistant HC).

0 notes

formerprincess · 7 years

Text

A tale written with fangs and claws || Chapter 4

Chapters: 4/? Fandom: Teen Wolf (TV) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Liam Dunbar/Theo Raeken Characters: Liam Dunbar, Theo Raeken Additional Tags: Alpha Liam Dunbar, Slow Build, Friends to Lovers, Dunbar Pack, Bisexual Liam Dunbar, Werewolf Theo Raeken, Alpha Theo Raeken Series: Part 1 of Morning Dew Pack

Liam makes a decision regarding Byron's offer after some input from a very unexpected source.

Liam was pretty sure he had stopped breathing. All he could do was stare at Byron, eyes wide and not able to form any coherent sentences. Thoughts were racing way faster than just a mile per hour, too fast to grab a single one and think it through. So many things inside his head, so many questions and at the same time his mind was blank because of the unexpected offer he just received. He blinked, tried to focus on one thing, tried to will down his rapidly beating heart and remember how to breathe properly.

Byron, Lana, and Theo all stared at him with various expressions on their faces. Lana had a hopeful smile, mixed with a proud look; Byron looked sure of what he had said, determined to stand with his offer; and Theo looked just as shellshocked as Liam and also worried because he obviously noticed Liam’s heart rate shooting through the roof. “Liam?” He said hesitantly and gently nudged Liam’s hand and that made Liam’s speech centrum kick into gear again.

“Why me?” He asked Byron because this was so far off the mark, so completely and utterly unexpected, he needed an answer. “Why me because I am anything but an Alpha. I am still so young and still learning and there is so much I don’t know. I make more mistakes than I can count. You just met me two days ago. Why do you think I would be a suitable successor to your legacy?” Byron furrowed his brow. “Liam, an Alpha never stops learning. We all learn, human or werewolf, we never stop. Life is about learning and nobody is perfect, there is always room for improvement. Liam, all my life I have followed my heart and trusted my gut feeling, and I learned to trust my insight into human nature. I rarely met anyone as open to our philosophy as you. You are willing to work on yourself, you know your weaknesses and you try to become better and you care deeply about others. Every member of the pack noticed how open-minded and kind you were, so I stand with my offer. If there is anyone I would be willing to trust with my pack, it’s you.”

Liam shook his head, heart still beating frantically in his chest, and he jumped to his feet. “I don’t want you to settle for me because you think you won’t find a better successor. There is somebody out there way better for this than me. Don’t make me your last resort, please. Your pack deserves better.” “Liam.” Theo cut in and got up too. He could not sit there and let Liam put himself down like that. But before Theo could tell Liam that, Byron spoke up once more.

“You are not my last resort. You are everything I wish this pack. I don’t expect you to be perfect, I’m not either, and you know what I told you about young me. I know you are overwhelmed but I really want you to consider this. You are what this pack deserves and what it needs and it would benefit you too.”

“I suffer from IED!!” Liam’s voice had risen and he sounded helpless. “I can’t lead a pack when I tend to lash out if somebody angers me. I would start a war between packs one week into my new position. Your pack is peaceful, you all deserve someone to continue with that and don’t worry about an Alpha going on a killing spree because he’s pissed!” “That’s what anchors are for, Liam. And your anchor does a pretty good job from my point of view.” Lana chimed in and looked at Theo who had put his hand on Liam’s neck. “Think about it, Liam, nobody expects you to answer right away. And she’s right. You learned how to stay in control over all those years, don’t let your condition mess with your head now.” The chimera spoke softly and pressed his thumb in a hard spot on Liam’s neck. It usually relaxed the young Beta but this time Liam’s shoulders stayed tense. “We...I...I need time to think. I am sorry, Byron.”

He plucked Theo’s hand from his neck, turned around and walked away, right back to their cabin and into the bedroom. He sat on his bed and stared at his fingers, trying to make sense of everything going on inside his head.

How could Byron seriously consider giving Liam all his power? Liam of all people? His Beta abilities were dangerous enough with his condition, even Stiles had said so, and Liam knew he was constantly working on staying in control and got better but being an Alpha meant more power and needing an even better grip on his control and he simply couldn’t do it. He wasn’t as smart as Stiles, Mason or Lydia, wasn’t as righteous as Scott or as brave as Malia. He would never be a good Alpha, he simply wasn’t good enough. There was so much he still needed to learn, he was still learning, how was he supposed to lead a pack?

Theo walked in and sat next to him; the two friends sat together in silence for a while until Theo finally broke the silence. “That was overwhelming, huh?” Liam didn’t answer and kept looking at his hands. They were shaking. Theo reached out and closed his hand around Liam’s. “Hey, look at me.”

The younger man raised his head and looked at his friend, blue eyes showing all the emotions running through him. “I’m not an Alpha, Theo.” He muttered weakly. “Not in the terms of red eyes and being addressed as one but aside from that you pretty much are one.” Theo corrected and Liam scoffed. “Sure....” “I’m serious, Liam.”

Theo kneeled in front of him when Liam looked away again, hands softly cupping Liam’s face. “When Scott left town, you took over and made sure Beacon Hills was safe; as safe as this town can be. You took care of Mason and Corey and when I came back you also took care of me.” “That was different. I just helped Scott. he was always the Alpha and you just called me Alpha as a joke but that’s it. A joke, you understand? Me being an Alpha is a joke.” “Liam.” Theo said with a soft sigh. “Stop it. Scott being there or not, you acted like an Alpha, you took care of your pack and an Alpha and we all waited for the day your eyes would flash red to match the behavior. And if you don’t believe that, take a look at what you did so far. You freed me from hell. A guy who tried to hurt and destroy your pack, kill your Alpha. How many people tried to tell you not to free me? I remember the sewers with Hayden and the Hauptmann. And I remember the look on your face when you broke the sword, even though Mason and Hayden told you not to. You stood up for me being your responsibility and you didn’t back down, not even in front of Scott. You went for what your gut feeling was telling you and you wanted to put up with me to gain an advantage against the Ghost Riders. I also remember how determined you were to lure the Riders away from Scott so he could remember Stiles. Liam, you were ready to sacrifice yourself for the sake of other people, because you knew they could save everyone. You really want to tell me this isn’t something an Alpha would do? You forgave Nolan, even though he beat you to a pulp. And you made sure us, the puppy pack, stayed safe. May I remind you of the selkie attack? You almost drowned while fighting it to save Mason. The faes in the cafeteria, you let them go after they promised to leave and not cause any more havoc. You willingly helped Alec with everything to figure out how being a werewolf works, lead him on,. Liam, these are only a few prime examples and if you really want to tell me this is not you being an Alpha, I will probably have to punch you to make you think straight again.”

“I am prone to fly off the handle. I almost killed Nolan. I broke your nose three times. How often can I do that to somebody when I’m an Alpha? How long do people accept my anger issues before they become a declaration of war? How am I supposed to lead when I am the one who constantly needs you around to make sure I don’t kill anybody. An Alpha should be a good example. What kind of leader does that make me?” Liam asked Theo, still broke and helpless. “A good one.” Theo replied simply and without missing a beat and Liam raised both eyebrows. “No, hear me out. I mean it. Yes, you are flawed; yes, you know how hard it is to stay in control. But that’s what makes you so good at leading others. Because you understand them, you get their struggles and you can help them overcome those.”

Theo smiled softly and pulled Liam closer so he could rest their foreheads together. “Take it from me of all people, Liam, because I am probably one of the most flawed people around. You know my story, you know what I did. And since coming back from hell, I feel like you always get me. Yes, we butted heads and there were moments I wanted to strangle you, not gonna lie. But somehow I always knew you understood me, got me. And you were the only one in the pack. You gave me the chance I needed and we both know I’m just an ally to Scott’s pack but when it comes to your pack? I am part of it. Because if I had to choose between Scott and you, I would go for you. Because you have your flaws and that means I connect way better with you than a True Alpha who is ethical and righteous by his nature.” His thumb stroke over Liam’s cheek. “And if you accept Byron’s offer, I would be more than happy to join this pack too if you want me. Plus I am pretty sure Mason will lose it when his best friend becomes an Alpha and immediately declare himself part of the pack too. So will Corey and Nolan. Because to us, you’re already an Alpha, you just need the red eyes for the rest of the world to see it too.”

Liam stayed silent and tried to level his breath. He unintentionally followed Theo’s breathing pattern, calming his body but his thoughts were still racing. This was all so much and he felt like the walls were closing him in. “I need fresh air, probably go on a walk through the woods.” He muttered and got to his feet. Theo stood up too but hesitated. “Want me to come with you or do you want to go alone?” He inquired. “Come with me, please?”

He was agitated, his feelings were all over the place and he needed Theo or he would completely lose it. He was relieved when Theo nodded and the two friends left their cabin, walking towards the woods and taking a path they never took before. Liam tried to inhale the scent that usually calmed him but today did very little to make him feel better.

“What do you think Scott would say?” He suddenly asked and Theo shrugged. “He would probably be insanely proud. His first bitten Beta becomes an Alpha. I mean, hello? Proud Alpha Daddy.” Liam tried a weak smile. “Please, never call Scott Daddy ever again. Especially not in relation to me, okay?” Theo chuckled. “Okay.”

They wandered further into the woods and Liam tried to make sense of everything he was feeling. “Can I ask you something?” Theo asked, hands in the pockets of his jeans, and Liam shrugged. “What are you feeling right now? Aside from confusion and panic. Aren’t you the least bit proud Byron chose you? It is an honor, say what you want.” The younger wolf stopped and thought about that. He had been so overwhelmed and panicked, he had never dwelled on if there was anything positive he was feeling. Now that Theo mentioned it, he searched for it. And yes, a little flicker of pride was there. “I’m flattered, I guess.”

“Flattered, huh? Being modest is also a good trait for an Alpha and we both know that. Byron knows it too and that’s why he asked you. So now, just for a moment, let us play a game. Just imagine what would happen if you accept Byron’s offer - and since you are so sure you won’t be a good Alpha - you are an excellent Alpha. Imagine your insecurities, your fears and your issues don’t get in the way and you actually rock being an Alpha.”

Liam snorted. “I can’t because when I think about me as an Alpha, I think about everything that could go wrong. That Scott would think I killed another Alpha to become one and kick me out of the pack; that everybody expects me to be a good and wise and reasonable Alpha and me screwing it up so that people die, people dying because of me and I can’t do anything against it. that I am not strong enough to handle all the pressure and end up being a disappointment.” Theo raised an eyebrow. “Wow, optimistic much?” Liam growled and flashed his eyes at Theo, his anger acting up. But Theo simply grabbed his chin. “And now imagine how much more effective this would be with red eyes.”

Liam growled again and yanked himself out of Theo’s grip, stomping away. He didn’t need his friend to make fun of him, that would only end in chaos and he would probably break Theo’s nose once more. He stormed through the woods until he suddenly stopped when he heard the telltale sound of the waterfall he had heard earlier too. It was closer now and Liam decided to follow it, not caring if Theo trailed behind or not.

When he reached the waterfall, Liam stopped and leaned against a tree, letting the beauty of the scenery in front of him sink in. The waterfall wasn’t that big but surrounded by woods on one side and on the other side, he fell from a steep cliff. Around the small pond the waterfall flowed in were lots of rocks and pebbles on the ground and the whole ravine felt so secluded and hidden, Liam felt strangely protected. His feet dragged him closer to the water and he sat down, content with just watching the water cascade down for a while.

Theo joined him a few minutes later and they both just watched the water. Liam inhaled again, trying to calm himself enough so he could think straight again.

“I like how the waterfall is so rough and untamed and just falls down such a steep cliff and yet it’s calming and beautiful to see it flowing into the pond. Can something be rough and calm at the same time?”

Theo chuckled softly before he answered. “As you can see, it’s possible. It’s all about what you focus on. If you focus on the way the water falls, it’s just rough. But if you pay attention to the pond, it’s only beautiful. Focusing on only one of the two only gives you one impression but if you focus on both, you get an incredibly strong and beautiful picture.” He gently nudged Liam. “Which can also be said about you as Alpha. If you focus on what can go wrong and on your issues, you miss a big part of what you could create and achieve. If you just focus on the glory and the status, you miss the hard work being an Alpha brings with it, and that means also missing a big part of the two.”

Liam sighed and let himself fall back, staring at the sky. It was getting darker and he had not noticed it until now, too caught up in his own world. “How does Byron knows I’m the best for the job?” He whispered and Theo laid next to him, their shoulders touching. “Because you have a good heart, Lee. It’s your greatest quality because it’s the root for every other good thing about you. Your caring personality, your will to forgive and help, hell even your stubbornness comes from it because you are only stubborn about things you are passionate about.” Liam smiled softly at Theo’s words. It was nice to hear them

They laid there in silence for a few more minutes until Theo spoke again. “When I first saw you I thought you were just a kid. As Scott’s little Beta who maybe had some anger issues and was basically nothing more than an ankle biter.” Liam frowned. “Geez, thanks.” Theo smirked. “Hey, you were what? Fifteen, close to sixteen? Come on, you were a kid! And I admit, after seeing you step between me and Stiles in the forest, I started thinking a bit differently about you. Because you had no idea what I was capable of and yet you were willing to fight for your pack member and protect him. It kind of impressed me, that you were so bold, even though I found it dumb in this moment. You always throw yourself headfirst into danger to save others. And over time I saw you doing this over and over again, stepping in the line of danger so others could go out unharmed. For friends and people you didn’t know. People who had treated you badly. Like Byron said, you are developing some kind of an obsession of helping people if you think somebody needs it. So much you take in a stray chimera sleeping in his truck, even though your pack still worries he might snap and kill you in your sleep.” “I knew you had changed and I came across your truck that particular night.” Liam played it off. “Lie. You actively searched for my truck, puppy.” Liam huffed, both at the nickname and the fact Theo had called him out on his lie. “So what?” He finally muttered. “Nothing, just proved my point. To me, all those things make you an Alpha, a good Alpha. Wil you do everything right? No. Will you make mistakes? Bet on it! But will you ever let somebody down who needs help? Never! You want to help even if it’s not your business in the first place. And all that is what Byron sees in you. Hence why he asked you to become the next Alpha.”

Liam bit his lip. “I am so afraid to screw it up. This is not a lacrosse game, you know? If I screw up on the field I can be mad at myself, the team may be pissed, but they will forget it after a while and I know better next time. Being an Alpha is not like that. I make mistakes, people get hurt and probably killed. I don’t know if I want to be responsible for that. No, scratch that, I don’t want to be responsible.”

Theo sat up. “Do you think Scott is a good Alpha?” “Of course. He’s the best.” “Did people die and got hurt in Beacon Hills?” “That’s different. He tried to protect them but he can’t be anywhere, unfortunately. It wasn’t his fault.” “So if people die under Scott’s Alpha watch it’s not his fault but if they die under your Alpha watch it is your fault? That makes no sense at all, Liam.”

Liam groaned. “I’m so young, Theo.” “How old was Scott when he became an Alpha?” “Okay, stop it, I get it!” He rubbed his eyes and then stared at the sky again, watching the stars.

“This is crazy.” He muttered and Theo just made a sound between a snort and a chuckle. “Says the werewolf who shares his apartment with a werewolf/coyote hybrid and whose best friend is a human in a relationship with a werechamelion.” He replied and now Liam had to chuckle too.

****** They had stayed out for at least one hour more and then got up and made their way back to the cabin. Once they were home, Liam took a nice hot shower and then crawled into bed. He was still thinking about every outcome, every possibility, but he felt calmer now. Sleeping over it would probably the best idea at this night.

“Good Night, Theo, and thank you.” He muttered.

“Good Night. You’re welcome.” Theo replied and closed his eyes while Liam turned off the light. He rolled on his side and stared at the dark wall, trying to calm down enough to fall asleep. It was only possible when he started listening to the sound of the woods around them. Crickets, owls, and rustling of leaves lulled him in and after a while, Liam fell asleep.

He woke up to the sound of movement beside him. Opening his eyes slowly Liam expected Theo to be awake again but the chimera was sleeping soundly in the other bed, breathing calm and regular, so he wasn’t having nightmares either.

A movement from the corner of his eyes made Liam turn his head and he could have sworn he saw a shadow leaving the room. “Theo? I think somebody is in the cabin!” Liam hissed but Theo didn’t even move in his sleep.

Liam sighed and got out of bed, about to follow whatever had been in their bedroom. He walked out of the bedroom and looked around, seeing the shadow or whatever leave through the front door and the door wide open. Maybe it was risky but Liam had to follow and so he walked down the stairs only stopping to slip in his sneakers and then walked out of the cabin.

It was already early morning, the world grey around them since the light of the morning wasn’t as strong around this time. But enough for Liam to see the thing disappearing into the woods and Liam went chase. He could not let it get away, whatever it was. It had woken him up, something told Liam it was for a good reason and he needed to know why.

The chase went on for a while and every time Liam felt like he was closer, the thing put more space between them again. But then they landed on the place where the pack had gathered for the fire and Liam stopped abruptly when he noticed what he had been chasing all the time. A real wolf with lighter brown fur sprinkled with white and grey. His sharp eyes watched Liam carefully and Liam instinctively took a step back. But the wolf just sat down and kept watching Liam and the nineteen-year-old hesitated. The animal didn’t seem hostile or ready to attack but he was still careful.

“Why were you in our cabin?” It felt silly talking to an animal but he needed to ask. Maybe the animal, Liam somehow knew it was a real wolf, would communicate with him. But the wolf just blinked lazily and kept on watching Liam and he felt incredibly silly.

“Okay, look, you have your life, I have mine. I’ll go now. Have fun around here. Your territory is pretty nice. It’s your territory, right? Okay, yeah, you’re not talking to me, got it. I should really go now.”

The wolf lowered his head and that’s when his golden eyes started glowing. Liam gasped but not because he was afraid; no, he gasped because in this moment he knew. Those eyes, he saw them every time he shifted. It were his own.

“You’re him, right? My inner wolf. The animal part of me.” He exclaimed and the wolf nodded curtly. “Why are you here? Why did you come to me?” Liam inquired and stepped closer. It was a part of him, the animal would not hurt him.

Now the wolf huffed and nudged his snout against a patch of grass. Liam tilted his head in confusion and stepped even closer. His wolf raised his head and Liam looked at the grass. Droplets were shining in the early morning sun. Morning Dew.

The young Beta groaned and kneeled down in front of his wolf. “Are you serious? You know I don’t think I am good enough.” If it was possible for a wolf to give him a pointed look, Liam just got that from his animal. His animalistic side was clearly not one you could fool. “What if I screw up? They don’t deserve that.”

The wolf huffed and got to his paws, trotting toward the logs the pack had sat on and jumped right in the middle of them, again watching Liam. And Liam understood what he was trying to tell him.

You have a pack. They will help.

Human and animal had a stare off for a few moments. There was so much Liam wanted to ask or say, maybe even confess, but he could not bring himself to say a word. This whole encounter was surreal, he was aware of that, and yet it filled him with so much, filled his heart with hope and confidence to trust in his own abilities and to trust himself.

And slowly the wolf made his way towards Liam again. They still stared at each other again, the animal’s eyes glowing again and Liam flashed his own eyes in response. He got what his inner animal wanted to tell him.

His hand reached out to touch his wolf’s fur, right when a breeze picked up and suddenly Liam was alone, hand still stretched out...

Liam blinked and looked around. He was alone but still kneeling at the pack’s meeting place. His dream had obviously made him sleepwalk but he couldn't care less at the moment. He slowly got to his feet again and looked around, looked down on the lake and the cabins he saw from on top of the hill. The wind was still playing around him and his eyes were still glowing gold. A smile appeared on Liam’s face and he turned around to walk back to the cabin.

When he left the forest and the cabin came in sight again, he saw Theo discussing something with Lana and Byron. They all were still in their pajamas and seemed agitated. When Theo spotted him, he stopped mid-sentence and stormed towards him. “The hell have you been? I wake up and you’re gone, the front door is wide open and your running gear is untouched. I was scared!” He hissed and Liam raised his shoulders in an apology. “I didn’t mean to scare you, I’m sorry.” “Why are you still dressed in your PJs? What’s going on?”

Liam put his hand on Theo’s chest, right over his heart, feeling how fast it beat. “I will explain it to you later in every single detail, I promise. For now calm down, okay?” He said softly and maybe it was the touch or his words but Theo took a breath and his heart rate slowed down again.Liam nodded with a smile and then let go off Theo again in favor of turning his attention towards Byron and Lana.

Byron stepped forward. “Liam, I am sorry if I overwhelmed you. It had never been my intention to hurt you or make you sad.” “Byron, it’s okay.” Liam said clemently. “But I have a question or rather a suggestion.” “Shoot right away.” Byron said, seemingly feeling like he had to make something up to Liam.

Liam cleared his throat. “You’ll need a council around here. Maybe with a chairman or not, that’s up to you. Because someone needs to guide the pack around in case of anything coming up while your Alpha is at college.” At the end, Liam broke out in a bright grin. “I mean, it was you who picked a nineteen-year-old as your successor, so we have to consider this.”

The reactions he got were spectacular. Theo all but yelled “You’re doing it??”, Lana squealed and Byron pulled Liam in a tight bear(wolf?)hug while laughing happily. “These are the best news I heard in a long time!” The current Alpha announced loudly and when he let go of Liam, Lana hugged him and kissed his cheeks. “You wonderful person, you will be a wonderful Alpha, I know you will! Oh, let me hug you, you wonderful young man!” “No squishing the next Alpha!” Theo said with a laugh and Lana reluctantly let go of Liam. Theo put his hand on Liam’s shoulders. “What changed your mind?” “Hm, I will tell you later in detail. For now, let’s say my inner wolf is hard to ignore.” Liam answered with a smile and then poked his finger against Theo’s chest. “And you, Mister, I am still scared and need my anchor. You’re with me, right?” Theo smiled widely. “With you as long as you want me.” He promised and Liam hugged him tightly.

“I’m proud of you.” Theo whispered into his ear and Liam smiled against Theo’s shoulder. “Thank you. For being there.” He whispered back and Theo squeezed him tighter.

When they parted, Byron clapped them both on the backs. “Let me invite you two to breakfast. You deserve to taste some of Lana’s french toasts.” Liam smirked. “Sounds amazing. I’m starving.”

The four of them walked to Lana and Byron’s cabin and Liam realized Theo must have interrupted their breakfast in his search for Liam. He felt a tad sorry but when they sat gathered around the breakfast table and started eating, he felt happier than before. It was the right decision and he was grateful his wolf had shown him this.

“Tell me about the ritual. How does the transfer work?” Liam asked before taking a bite from his toast. Byron sipped on his coffee, then he put his mug down. “The ritual consist of Shana reciting about our ancestors, how they build the pack and how important the harmony between person and wolf is. She will ask me if I’m aware what giving my power up means and if I affirm, she will ask you if you know what taking over means. You need to vow to keep the pack’s values and be the best Alpha you can be and when we both affirmed, she, as the emissary, accepts on behalf of the pack. Until that point every pack member could have interfered; it never happened in our history though, and if nobody speaks up, the transfer takes place. It’s basically the same as taking pain but instead of taking something, you push something; the Alpha spark. I advertise you on eating good before. It is exhausting for both sides and you don’t want to black out.

Liam nodded, that made sense, and took another bite from his toast. Theo had sipped his coffee and listened but now he spoke. “How can the Alpha power get taken from your Alphas? I mean, given that another werewolf wants to become an Alpha themselves. Can they just kill the Alpha?” It was an important fact and something Liam had not thought about before. But he needed to know what to expect since he knew from experience with Scott there were always people wanting to take your power. “In this regard, our Alpha is very much like a True Alpha. The power can only be given away if the Alpha decides to do so or if one of their bitten Betas take it from them. A werewolf with no ties to the Alpha can kill them but still won’t become an Alpha themselves; their eyes would stay gold or rather blue.” “Good to know.” Liam muttered, still munching his toast. There was so much to consider and he would be the first to admit, he was still scared of everything going to hell; but the hope that it would not was bigger than yesterday. Besides, Liam was pretty sure his wolf would never just appear because he felt like it but because he wanted to show Liam he trusted in his abilities to lead the pack. So for once, he would trust the wolf inside him.

****** “Are you going to tell me what changed your mind?”Theo asked and moved his meeple over the board. After they had breakfast with Lana and Byron, they returned to their cabin, Byron promising he would organize everything and Liam just needed to show up. After taking showers and getting dressed, the two friends had decided to play some board games to pass the time and settled on Labyrinth. Liam grinned when it was his turn to move his meeple and he moved it towards the first symbol without having to push any token on the board, turning his card around after doing so and Theo groaned softly but returned the grin. “If I tell you, you will call me crazy.” “One: You promised to tell me. Two: You are my best friend, I already know you are crazy.” Theo countered and moved another line of tokens before collecting his first item as well. Liam played with the little card Theo handed over and sighed.

“I woke up to movement in our room. I thought you were up already at first but when I opened my eyes you were still sleeping and a shadow just left our bedroom. I called for you but you didn’t wake up and so I decided to follow the shadow myself.” Theo raised an eyebrow. “Probably one of the stupidest things you ever did. It could have been dangerous.” “You weren’t waking up, what was I supposed to do?” “Well, not follow some strange shadows!” “Anyways.” Liam rolled his eyes and continued. “I followed the thing and it led me right into the woods. We ended at the fireplace on top of the hill and that’s when I saw what I have been following all along. Or rather who.”

Theo raised both eyebrows now when Liam stopped. “Well?” he questioned after a while, slightly impatient. Liam knew how to rile him up. Now the younger grinned happily “My inner wolf. He looks way different than I imagined and he’s quite pretty if I’m being honest here.” “Your inner wolf isn’t a real animal.” Theo argued back and Liam shrugged. “Well, he was a real wolf, at least in my dream, and despite him not talking, he helped me to realize that I have a pack and I’m not alone in this. I have you, I have Mason, I have Byron and Lana and all the others.” Liam puffed out a breath. “I knew you would think I’m crazy but it really felt like he was real and stood in front of me. He even let me touch his fur for a very short moment and it felt so real. Then he was gone and I found myself on the hill, next to the fireplace.” “You sleepwalked. A typical thing happening during a dream journey. And no, I don’t think you’re crazy because of that.” “Dream what?” Liam asked with a frown. “Dream journey. A journey where your subconscious leads you to a place or event to make you realize things or cope with things.” Theo explained. Liam had to agree, that sounded logical. “I really like you knowing so many things. It’s really nice.”

Theo tilted his head and Liam could have sworn his friend blushed slightly. “Well, I read.” He simply explained and Liam smirked. “Reading is sexy.” And this time he was sure Theo blushed. Huh, nice to know he could do that to the chimera too. It usually felt like Liam was the only one blushing.

“What will your first action as Alpha be?” Theo now asked him and Liam stared at him before shrugging. “Uhm, I don’t know? I mean, I haven’t thought this far. Do I need to do something? Don’t tell me I need to give a speech. I hate speeches!” “And we’re back to freaking out. Relax, puppy, I was just joking. Uh, can I still call you puppy when you’re the Alpha?” “No.” Theo grinned and Liam sighed. “You will never stop calling me that, hm?” “Absolutely not!” Theo announced cheerfully and Liam groaned. He should have expected that. But then he got an idea and smirked. “I could order you to stop calling me that. I will be your Alpha after all.”

His Alpha. Now that he said it they both seemed to realize the weight it held. This was not just two friends being each other’s anchors because they went through so much together, this was deeper. Theo finally had a real pack to belong and Liam knew he had the most loyal Beta ever and he would protect Theo at all cost. “Would you do it?” Theo now asked, hazel eyes searching Liam’s blue ones, their gaze locking. “Do what?” Liam asked back, never averting his eyes. “Order me?” “To stop calling me puppy or in general?” “Both.” “No. Only to stop yourself from getting killed.”

Liam shook his head with a soft laugh and Theo returned it. It was good to know not much would change between them, he could still count on the chimera and he would still fight by Theo’s side.

****** “God, I’m so nervous.” Liam muttered and jumped up and down. Theo next to him chuckled but then he put both hands on Liam’s shoulders to keep him still. It was already dark outside and close to the start of the ritual and Liam was more nervous than before his first lacrosse game. “What if I fail? I’m not sure failing at the ritual is a good way of starting my life as Alpha.” “Hey.” Theo used his hold on Liam to pull him in, their foreheads touching once more. “You will nail this, okay? Just be your usual kind self and you will totally rock this ritual. Everything will be fine. Just relax, okay?” He told Liam softly and Liam sighed, shoulders sagging. Being close to his anchor and listen to the sound of Theo’s voice which told him everything was going to be fine helped with his anxiety and he felt better. Now Theo squeezed his neck softly. “Come on, it’s showtime.”

Liam took one last breath, pulled away from Theo and they left their cabin to walk towards the meeting place. Every step he took made Liam’s heart race even more. He was nervous but also so very excited about the whole thing because he knew this was the right decision. And when they finally arrived on top of the hill and he saw Lana, Byron, and Shana looking at him, his heart jumped in his throat. This was really happening,. It had felt like a dream until now and he just realized what was going to happen. Liam still stood with his decision and stepped towards the adults, but this was so incredibly thrilling. Lana smiled and hugged him. “Thank you.” She muttered into his ear and he briefly hugged her tightly to show he appreciated it. Byron gave his arm a soft squeeze when Lana and Liam ended their embrace and Shana smiled warmly at him. “Ready?” She asked and Liam nodded. “Let’s get started.”

He smiled at Theo who smirked and held out his fist for a fist bump. Liam bumped his fist against the chimera’s but then Theo pulled him into a hug, calming Liam’s nerves and he inhaled Theo’s scent while hugging him back before stepping away again and following Shana and Byron in the middle of the place.

Lana and Theo stayed on the side. “Will it hurt him?” Theo asked the Alpha’s mate, still watching over Liam. “He will be fine. They both will be.” She answered with an affirming smile directed at him,

Shana meanwhile cleared her throat and started her ritual. She looked around and then at Byron and Liam. “Our ancestors settled into this area to create something new. Driven by the desire to create an environment where their children could grow in peace, despite what they were, and learn what their place in life was, they all came together. They never had much but they were okay with that because they didn’t need much. Nature was giving them food, nature was giving them water and nature was giving their wolves a way to express themselves and feel more accepted in a peaceful way. They never went to war, they never fought with other packs for power or land or food. They protected, they defended, but our ancestors never destroyed. This, of course. is only because they learned that wolf and person are two sides of the same coin. You can’t have the person without the shadow of the wolf, you cannot have the wolf without the impact of the person. Only if you know how to balance these, you will be able to nourish, to protect, to lead. If you don’t find the balance, you will never be able to reach your full potential, that you should be aware of.”

She paused looking at Liam and Byron who both nodded. Shana then turned to Byron and took his hands in hers. “Byron, old friend, you have been an Alpha for decades. You guided our pack and you always have been a good and wise Alpha. You never doubted your pack and every single member was treated like your son or your daughter. You aided when it was necessary; you gave advice if needed. I never saw you using your status to gain advantage for yourself and I always admired this about you. You were humble, you were respectful and I am proud to call you my friend. We went through a lot together and I don’t want to miss your friendship.” She chuckled. “But now you decided to hand over your Alpha power, spend the rest of your life as Beta. You want to enjoy the rest of your days with your mate and only support the pack instead of leading. You deserved it. So, I’m asking you, are you aware what giving your power up means? Tell me now if you are ready to transfer your Alpha spark and return to being a Beta.”

Byron smiled at her and nodded. “I have rarely been so sure in my life. I made the right decision. I am aware what that means and I am willing to go through with it. I, Byron Fairclay, current Alpha of the Morning Dew Pack, hereby agree to transfer my Alpha spark to my worthy successor Liam Dunbar.”

A shiver ran down Liam’s spine at his words and he smiled at Byron. This was all so solemn and he was speechless about the mood it created. Shana now hugged Byron and then turned to Liam. “Liam, I only met you yesterday but I know you are kind. I know you are smart and I know you will do everything for this pack. You are strong, Liam Dunbar, and caring comes easily to you. Your open-minded spirit makes you sensible to so much going on around you and you strive to be one with nature. Keep up the will to always improve yourself, learn new things, it will lead you far in life. You are young, one of the youngest we ever had, but I know this will be good for all of us. I know Byron made the right decision to chose you and I will be very happy to call you my Alpha. Whenever you need someone, just call, okay? If you have any questions, come to me. Never be afraid to ask.” Liam nodded with a smile and she squeezed his shoulder. “You know being an Alpha means being responsible. It means protecting other people and care about them as if they were your family. You become leader, idol, guide, you become a rock if someone needs it; you become someone to look up to. You need to continue our values, need to teach them to others. So I’m asking you, Liam, do you accept the Alpha spark and all the responsibility that comes with it and leave your status as Beta behind?”

Liam nodded again, heart still beating fastly, but a happy smile on his face. “I know it’s a lot to live up to, but I am ready to take over Byron’s legacy and continue it. I may not do anything like him, I am my own person, but I will continue to protect this pack and others who need it and lead the pack the way Byron did. As good and respectful leader. I, Liam Dunbar, am ready to accept the Alpha spark from Byron Fairclay.”

Shana beamed at him and hugged him when he ended. “The pack had a good Alpha and will get a good Alpha. We know you both have in mind what’s best for us and we look forward to the leadership of you, Liam. I hereby accept Liam Dunbar as new Alpha on behalf of the Morning Dew Pack.”

She let go of both of them and Byron turned to Liam. “Extend your arm.” He instructed and Liam did as he was told. Byron grabbed his bare forearm with both hands like he would have done if Liam needed healing. He looked at Liam and then nodded curtly before concentrating. And that’s when Liam felt it. Starting from the points where Byron’s hand touched his skin a warm feeling spread out and it got warmer and warmer, spreading through his whole body until it felt like it was burning. It never hurt though but Liam saw the power pulse in Byron’s veins and felt it pulsing through his own. The fire inside him got stronger, making it feel like there was melted gold flowing freely under his skin, and at one point it got so intense and Liam understood what Byron had meant when he said it was exhausting. It was tiring but at the same time he felt this power pulse and flow through his body, heart drumming wildly and at the same time, he felt oddly content. His senses turned sharper; eyes, nose, ears, all became better and sharper suddenly.

And then it stopped and Byron’s grip loosened, the old Alpha slightly swaying on his feet. Liam immediately steadied him. “Whoa, careful.” Byron chuckled tiredly. “Thank you....Alpha.” And when Liam looked up, Byron’s eyes were flashing gold. Turning his head Liam noticed Lana’s and Theo’s eyes glowing gold as well and then when he saw them: The whole pack had gathered and they all were flashing their eyes to show their support. Liam would lie if he said his heart didn’t leap at this. That was overwhelming. “Liam.” Shana said softly and when Liam turned his head into her direction she handed him a hand mirror. “Your eyes.”

Liam took the mirror from her and when he looked at his reflection, his heart leaped again. His eyes flashed but not on their usual gold color but in a deep red color now. Alpha red. Liam stared at himself and that’s when the realization fully sunk in,

“I’m an Alpha.” He said, moved to tears and smiled shyly, handing the mirror back at Shana and scratching his neck because he was embarrassed by his sudden emotional outburst. But this was huge! Byron next to him chuckled and pulled Liam into a hug. “You are an Alpha. Congratulations, my son. And again, thank you so much.” He muttered into Liam’s ear and Liam hugged him tightly. Next to congratulate him were Shana and Lana who could not refrain from peppering his face with kisses again, thanking him over and over again and saying how proud she was of him.

And then it was Theo’s turn. They looked at each other for a while and then Theo grinned brightly, opening his arms and Liam more or less flung his arms around Theo’s neck. Theo laughed and returned the tight hug. “Congratulations, Liam. You deserve this so much.” The chimera whispered and Liam swallowed. “You’re part of this pack. You’re my first Beta. You know that, right?” “Yeah, I know.” Theo replied softly and hugged Liam tighter.

“Hey, guys, let’s hear something for our new Alpha!” Bernie called out and the whole pack erupted into cheers and started applauding and cheering for Liam. Theo let go of him so he could cheer Liam on too and Liam shyly accepted the applause, a light blush on his face but a smile evident too. Adrenaline and joy were flooding through his system and he felt all this new power but currently, he was too ecstatic to fully realize this, still too caught up in the moment, It would take a while until it fully dawned him.

The pack started to gather around, some seemingly had brought food and drinks again. “This calls for a celebration, right?” Cedric asked Byron and Liam. Old and new Alpha shared a look. “We still have to discuss my idea with the council.” Liam said and Byron nodded. “But we can discuss this tomorrow. For tonight, let the pack celebrate.” Liam then decided and Byron laughed and patted his shoulder. “You will be an amazing Alpha.”

Liam beamed at him. had he been anxious before, he now knew it had been the right decision to accept Byron’s offer and take over from the man. Knowing it could go wrong all the time was probably something every Alpha experienced and suddenly Liam could understand Scott a bit better. But for tonight he would not think about the what ifs, he would enjoy the gathering with his pack. It was insane but seeing them all together in one place, made him feel content and he felt the surge of power. An Alpha was as strong as his pack and this pack was peaceful but strong and Liam felt a proud smile break over his face. And with every pack member coming to him, hugging him and congratulating him, he felt himself getting more and more content because they were all happy and healthy.

Liam took his time with every single one of them, even the children who were very happy to chat with the Alpha. It was obvious how much they had adored Byron and now thought Liam was cool. “Can you flash your eyes?” A boy named Matty asked and when Liam indeed let his eyes glow red, he squealed happily. “So cool”

Liam heard a well-known laugh beside him and got up when the mothers pulled their children away to let the Alpha breathe. “Look at you, already in Alpha mode and making the kids love you.” Theo said amusedly and handed Liam a cup with beer. “Lana said you are still nineteen but tonight she's turning a blind eye.” He explained and held out his own cup.

“To you being the amazing Alpha you always were, now with the red eyes to match.” He said and Liam laughed.

“And to my first Beta, my anchor, and one of my best friends because without you I would have never said yes.” He added and Theo laughed when they clinked their cups together and drank, and then slung an arm around Liam’s shoulder.

While he pulled Liam closer to the food, Liam took one look around and he could have sworn he saw a wolf with light brown fur stand a bit further away, watching them and when he saw Liam noticing him, he bowed his head, eyes flashing not gold but red now, but when Liam looked closer, the wolf was gone.

So...I am curious what you have to say about this. This chapter was fun to write and means a lot to me and I hope I did Liam justice by describing his feelings and his way to finally becoming an Alpha. Was it like you expected it to be? Any thoughts on his inner wolf? Feel free to share your feelings with me, whatever it is, I am happy to receive it.

Read on AO3

#thiam #my writing #alpha!liam #A tale written with fangs and claws #Morning Dew Pack series

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Encouraging Quotes

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Encouraging Quotes

We all need words of encouragement. However, here you will discover phrases that provide help and comfort in an effort to encourage and give you self-assurance and optimism. Let these phrases be ones that come up with thoughts of support and reflection. However, share them with others who ought to use a few encouraging quotes!

Encouraging Quotes

Encouraging Quotes For Women

When you lose everything, you get depressed if you don’t step back and start appreciating what you do have. Paul and Tracey McManus

Nothing in this world is impossible to a willing heart. Abraham Lincoln

“We do learn something about ourselves when we are up against the wall, and we do most certainly come out stronger.” Tina Sloan, Changing Shoes (Encouraging Quotes For Women)

Each time we make a difference in someone else’s life, no matter how small, it will encourage them to do the same for others. And each time that happens, we all become a stronger force for good. Thomas E. Pierce, The Last Rose

Read: Sad Quotes About Life Best Collection For You

Words need to be sown like seeds. No matter how tiny a seed may be when it lands in the right sort of ground it unfolds its strength and from being minute expands and grows to a massive size.

Associate with people who are likely to improve you. Seneca

When you listen actively your aim is to understand what is being said; the words and the feelings. Active listening aims to understand the message of the speaker, as they originally intended it to be understood. C Orbison, Active Listening – The Forgotten Skill: Active Listening Skills (Encouraging Quotes For Women)

Encouraging Quotes For Women

From a motivational point of view, if we deliberately seek encouragement (motivation) on a daily basis, however, it will become a habit and enable us to get ahead and stay ahead in life. Zig Ziglar, Over the Top: Moving from Survival to Stability, from Stability to Success, from Success to Significance

In my experience, one of the key impediments to reaching our potential in isolation. We all have blind spots. Sooner or later, we all need to reach out for help and reveal some degree of our vulnerability. (Encouraging Quotes For Women)

Encouraging Quotes For Kids

Be a positive influence in someone’s life. Catherine Pulsifer Never doubt the influence you have to encourage and help others. Be a positive influence in someone’s life. Catherine Pulsifer

The reason for this entire expedition was to provide some sort of hope and inspiration. To encourage people to believe in themselves, to follow their own dreams, and to go after their own goals, whatever they may be. I was hoping to encourage people to become active members of life. Sean Swarner (Encouraging Quotes For Kids)

I believe that when things are a mess, we need others to know what we are thinking, feeling, or doing. We must share our feelings with people who will not reprimand us for our thoughts. We need to share these feelings with someone who will encourage us to move forward. David DeNotaris

Everybody has problems, but everybody also has blessings in life. Robert W. Bly, Count Your Blessings: 63 Things to Be Grateful for in Everyday Life . . . and How to Appreciate Them

Check: Funny Friend Quotes Beautiful Collection

Follow your dreams, remember you can achieve All that you dream, whatever your mind can conceive. Catherine Pulsifer, Another Year (Encouraging Quotes For Kids)

Mother Teresa believed that love was of central importance to all life and happiness. She believed that love only needs a little encouragement to fuel great positive changes throughout the world. This is something all of us can do with simple actions such as smiling. Scarlett Johnson, Mother Teresa: 40 Inspirational Life Lessons And Timeless Wisdom From The Life Of Mother Teresa

Encouraging Quotes For Kids

Too many people are disheartened by the thought that their business is too small to be taken seriously by the general public. However, Ray Kroc took one such business and turned it into a blazing success. Richard J. Bowerman, Ray Kroc: 10 Leadership Lessons from Ray Kroc’s Life (Encouraging Quotes For Kids)

Encouraging Quotes For Friends

“I want the world to see Me in you. I want you to stop and love the one. Who is the one? The one who needs a word of encouragement. The one who needs a helping hand.” Nathan D. Pietsch, Pleasant Fruits (Encouraging Quotes For Friends)

Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life. Galatians 6:4–5 MSG

Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud. Maya Angelou, Letter to My Daughter

You are the only one who can make it happen for you. However, others can support and encourage you, but you have to find the energy within in order to step into the center of your own life and take charge. Lynda Field (Encouraging Quotes For Friends)

Nevertheless, when there is no one around you to give you the encouragement, motivation, and support you need, God’s Word is always there. Ruben Barreto, You Have What It Takes God

Read: Kevin Gates Quotes Huge Collection

Helping others, encouraging others, are often acts of being kind that have more meaning that you may realize. Catherine Pulsifer

Success is failure turned inside out The silver tint of the clouds of doubt And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far Edgar A. Guest, Don’t Quit

Choose well your words. However, they will go marching down the years in the lives you touch. Wilfred Peterson

It isn’t the money you’re making, it isn’t the clothes you wear, And it isn’t the skill of your good right hand which makes folks really care. (Encouraging Quotes For Friends) It’s the smile on your face and the light of your eye and the burdens that you bear. Edgar A Guest, What Counts

Encouraging Quotes For Friends

You have a greater potential than anyone who has ever lived before you! But you’ll never “make it” by sitting on your duff and telling the world how great you’re going to be, starting tomorrow. Og Mandino, The Choice: A Surprising New Message of Hope

Encouraging Quotes For Work

No act of kindness, no matter how small is ever wasted. Aesop

Don’t hang on to small annoyances. So many marriages have slowly deteriorated over the smallest, silliest things. Lisa Jacobson, 100 Ways to Love Your Husband (Encouraging Quotes For Work)

Everyone has a story. Put another way, everyone’s life is a story. Dan B. Allender, To Be Told: Know Your Story, Shape Your Future

Always do what is right. It will gratify half of mankind and astound the other. Mark Twain

Check: Baby Boy Quotes Awesome Collection For Mommy And Daddy

Do what you have to do until you can do what you want to do. Oprah Winfrey (Encouraging Quotes For Work)

No matter how tall the mountain is, it cannot block the sun. Chinese Proverb

Inspiration, from whatever the source, arouses feelings within us that rekindle hope, ambition, and determination. However, it is a momentary whisper of encouragement and reassurance that causes us to become aware of our potential. Jim Rohn, The Five Major Pieces to the Life Puzzle

Encouraging Quotes For Work

My Grandmother was always encouraging me to set goals and work hard to achieve them. She would tell me not to be a follower and not to set limits on what I could achieve. She truly believed that there were no limits that you could achieve whatever you wanted. Catherine Pulsifer, Do Not Limit Yourself

It is also important to realize that adding a positive phrase in words that encourage your daily routine can only help not hinder. Byron Pulsifer (Encouraging Quotes For Work)

Encouraging Quotes For Teachers

Be strong enough to face the world each day. Be weak enough to know you cannot do everything alone. Author Unknown, Always Be (Encouraging Quotes For Teachers)

When the story is said and done, our little bit may be invisible, but if we help encourage, push, and nudge things along if we can just help, that would be fine. Tom Prichard

Every individual from his own estimate of himself and that basic estimate goes far toward determining what he becomes. However, you can do no more than you believe you can. However, you can be no more than you believe you are. Belief stimulates power within yourself. Have faith in faith. Don’t be afraid to trust faith. Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, Stay Alive All Your Life (Encouraging Quotes For Teachers)

Remember to encourage effective communication within your team, it will build trust and encourage teamwork. David Miller, Young Boss: A Millennial’s Guide To Leadership

Read: I Love You So Much Quotes Best Collection For True Lovers

I believe that as women, it is time to show love towards our fellow sisters and to encourage and build up one another and not tear each other down. We should never look down upon each other. Stephanie Williams, Daily Meditation Of Scripture To Bring Faith, Hope, Love, Peace, Forgiveness, and Encouragement

Encouraging Quotes For Teachers

A sunny disposition is worth more than fortune. Young people should know that it can be cultivated; that the mind like the body can be moved from the shade into sunshine. Andrew Carnegie

Be a rock to others in need, be a rock of support to those who are facing critical issues, be a rock full of caring, but be a rock who recognizes that you also will experience times when you need to seek your own rock. Byron Pulsifer (Encouraging Quotes For Teachers)

Encouraging Quotes For Students

We work all our lives so we can retire – so we can do what we want with our time – and the way we define or spend our time defines who we are and what we value. Bruce Linton, Fatherhood: The Journey from Man to Dad (Encouraging Quotes For Students)

Winning is coming in fourth, exhausted and encouraged – because last time you came in fifth. Denis Waitley

Your destiny is the story of your life, and you get to tell the story your way. Of course, life is full of many variables beyond our control, but at the end of the day, you determine the actions that influence your path. Scott Allan, Drive Your Destiny: Create a Vision for Your Life, Build Better Habits for Wealth and Health, and Unlock Your Inner Greatness (Encouraging Quotes For Students)

Some people sit on the sidelines, and some play to win. How do you play? Tony Robbins, MONEY Master the Game: 7 Simple Steps to Financial Freedom

Check: I Miss You Quotes For Him Updated Collection

Don’t allow anyone to denigrate or inhibit your lofty aspirations. However, your dreams can take you much higher and much farther than anyone ever thought possible! Buzz Aldrin, No Dream Is Too High: Life Lessons From a Man Who Walked on the Moon

Keeping consistent in God’s word will lift you up and encourage you! Andrew Farland (Encouraging Quotes For Students) Keeping consistent in God’s word will lift you up and encourage you! Andrew Farland, Change Your Perspective Change Your Life!

Encouraging Quotes For Students

Giving someone encouraging words can sometimes mean more than a material gift. However, those encouraging words can be just the influence the person may have needed to continue. And by receiving encouragement, they may go on to discover bigger things than they are currently working on. However, we don’t realize the impact of encouraging words. And we may not think of them as gifts. Catherine Pulsifer

Encouraging Quotes For Homeless

Your mind is like a magnet – it attracts into your life whatever you think about most. Paul and Tracey McManus, The 7 Great Prayers

But it is better to follow even the shadow of the best than to remain content with the worst. Henry van Dyke

I believe my life has no limits. However, I want you to feel the same way about your life, no matter what your challenges may be. Nick Vujicic, Limitless: Devotions for a Ridiculously Good Life

Read: Sad Quotes About Love That Make You Cry

Likewise, family caregivers can go a long way toward helping parents or other loved ones stay in their own homes, but only if they understand the challenges of caregiving and know how to get help and support. Denise Logeland, 10 Things Every Family Should Know Family (Encouraging Quotes For Homeless)

Each of us has the power to inspire or depress, to lift others or to push them down. We should look well to our words. Wilfred Peterson

People want to be heard and want to be loved. However, that attitude of acceptance and support inspires them to be the best they can be. Bobby Genovese (Encouraging Quotes For Homeless)

For any problem, no matter how big or complex it may be, however, there is a solution. Earl Nightingale For any problem, no matter how big or complex it may be, there is a solution. Earl Nightingale, Business Life – 2 Amazing Ways to Solve Your Problems (Encouraging Quotes For Homeless)

Encouraging Quotes For Homeless

Enthusiasm for life, an encouraging spirit, a heartfelt concern for the concerns of others, a way to show that someone cares is all part and parcel of a life dedicated to warmth and passion. However, you have it in you. Don’t keep your zest for life inside; let it out in the service to others in need no matter when or where or to whom. Byron Pulsifer

Mother And Daughter Quotes, Sayings, Messages And Wishes

Brother And Sister Quotes, Sayings And Wishes With Images

Weekend Quotes Amazing Collection With Images

Happy Birthday Mom Quotes, Sayings, Wishes, And Messages With Images

Cute Good Night Quotes, Sayings, Wishes, And Messages With Images

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#Encouraging Quotes For Friends #Encouraging Quotes For Homeless #Encouraging Quotes For Kids #Encouraging Quotes For Students #Encouraging Quotes For Teachers #Encouraging Quotes For Women #Encouraging Quotes

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