The Mystery of the Beheaded Wolf

[Catcher Reeves]

It looked like another night in La Push, but nothing was what it seemed. This witching hour they would walk through the woods in deadening silence; foot pads lightly treading the soil. It had been an age since they phased and were together, hungry for the wild on a summer night. Their senses heightened, on the prowl; they were dangerous predators once more. His body felt like it didn’t belong; like this or here… running with the wolf.

But they were the alphas in the darkness as his prey drive peaked. Fallen leaves mashed into pulp with every step they took, the eerie forest remembering where they had been. They knew where they were headed, running under the pale moonlight; savage creatures of Quileute legend. A fabled tale of shape shifters, they were the warning to outsiders; the death to wandering humans and the enemy of the undead. They were weaves between the tall thin trees, shadows flickering in the rays of light.

Smells of nature and the aroma of trees exhaling in the evening filled the air and he stopped, eyes glistening like topaz stones. There was a scent, thin and wafting; it was foreign and captivating. There was a mixture of canine masking a foul essence. The Blood of a Vampire. They were no longer the only ones running through this lonely jungle.
Concern peered through his eyes as he turned to share the cautious notice with Seth, an ear twitching to the side.

Buried were their clothes at a deserted tree house not far behind and buried they would be if this turned out to be a strong adversary. They were alone with the stars and he looked to the dark side of the moon. The wolves would’ve been crying to the sky; alerting to unite as a pack but they were remote and desolate. Though he was no longer one with the pack, he had his friend and they would come for him. Steam from their breaths faded as they watched the distance, staying themselves for what was to come. Thoughts passed to Seth as he listened for the stranger; the tips of his fur bristling as his ears flattened. There was no movement in the chilling stillness; The quiet build up distinctly unnatural.

[Claudius Galloway]

Washington, had forest and in those forest were trees. The one thing Claude had learned on his travels the more trees the more chances there were Bigfoots walking around in the woods. Yes he has never seen one and maybe they didn’t exist but in his reality many thing that you may have thought were fiction were indeed true. He himself was something of fiction, a vampire. If vampires could exist he believed more had to be out there.

He wasn’t sure why he ended up on Washington. He had recently been kicked out of a Home Depot for insisting the lumber had a soul and he wanted to see if he could hold séance to see if any of them had ever met a Bigfoot before. That was in Pennsylvania he thought there were more beleivers there but they  were just they like the rest bording no-non belivers. Shun.He was now  on another place where had never explored. 


Placing his brown leather satchel bag at his feet, Claudius allowed his little gray Chihuahua climb out of it so explore the new ground. “Look at this place Blue so many places to search and all of these trees to pee on. Your such a lucky boy.” Claude reached out stroking his companion head gently. He and Blue had never spent a day apart since Claude found him wondering the streets all alone.

The little dog was a land piranha he would bite any had that tried to pet him and draw blood. It was the perfect pet for Claude so he waited till it was night time and he scooped the little asshole into his bag. It took a few weeks to become friends but Claude knew he could train the little raptor wannabe to be his best friend. His time as vampire had never been to great. It was about a year since he had found blue and now all they did was explore.


Claude had be reading a few newspapers of big hair things being seen in the forest around Washington so he just felt like it be there best place to go. He couldn’t deny he loved the chase more then actually finding any significance siting of the cryptic creatures. Yedi, aliens ,the chupracobra,the New Jersey devil its all on Claude's list. The tip top was Lorezo the armadillo, a unicorn and a merman.


Crouching down, Claude ran his hands on the dirt feeling the powdered soil between fingers giving it a sniff before rubbing it off on his dark debut jeans. “ “Aww man all I smell is dogs, I hope there is  a lost one around her because if there is Blue guess whose getting a new friend?” Claude pointed at himself.” This guy.”

[Xion Ateara]

Xion's cold blue eyes were darting all around as he continued to sniff out Seth's trail. He had gotten a text that read, I'm going out with Catcher, if you don't hear from me by midnight...chase me." With a little smiling devil emoji at the end. It was about 12:05 by the time Xion made it to the La Push forest where he began sniffing trees and leaving his own marks in the bark for Seth to find. It wasn't that Xion was worried, this was part of Seth's and Xion's games. The two had been dating for little bit and they took turns playing the most wild game of hide n seek. It was actually the first time Xion could actually say that this was the most fun he's had flirting with someone. They hadn't really been intimate with one another, just some heavy petting. Xion, putting Seth first, didn't want to go all the way until they were both comfortable. He also wanted to take his time in not only courting Seth, but making Seth feel like he was desired in more than just a physical way. Xion, at his core, was a gentleman. Despite his hulking frame he had incredibly soft hands and he also gave the best and warmest hugs, which Seth had made a point to tell him all the time. Seth made Xion absolutely giddy and he only hoped he made Seth feel the same way.

There was a growing chill in the air the more Xion sniffed and scratched around, however, and it made Xion tense up. His steely gray fur ruffled on the back of his neck as he began to slow his pace he didn't know what it was, but he caught a very distinct odor. He'd been familiar with Donna's scent, but this one was different. As far as vampires go, Xion knew he could only trust Donna, Donna had at least proven herself to be an ally to the wolves, that doesn't mean other vampires feel the same way. He snarled, but before he could dart off in the direction of the new vamp he smelt another dog...and then Catchers...and the Seth's. Xion's mind went in all directions, but if Seth were hurt or harmed, Xion would roar and rampage until justice was served for whomever laid their hands on Seth. Xion let out a blood curdling howl and took off like a shot in the direction of his romantic interest, and company.

Xion had never ran so fast through the forest in all his years. Thoughts raced, as fast as Xion ran, through his mind as to what was going on that he was almost running on bloodlust. He'd never felt so scared and angry that something maybe happened to Seth. This was a new feeling for the gentle wolf as he made his way to a clearing to catch his breath. Panting hard as he did it gave him a moment to pause and to try and use logic. Xion unphased and immediately did the only thing he could, "Dondi 911. The border between La Push and Forks." He took his phone out of the fanny pack he had around his neck and sent the text to Donna. He knew that if anyone was cool under pressure it was her and he needed serious moral support. Xion leaned against a tree his hulking pectorals rising and falling as he tried to catch his breath and level his mind. The cool night air caused his breath to billow and curl into the atmosphere in great big clouds. Finally he was able to regain some composure of himself and start walking until Donna either called or showed up. He didn't know how serious she was going to read into a 911 text at midnight.

Xion stretched his nude frame and continued into the forest until he finally made it to the new vamp. He was playing with a tiny chihuahua. I guess he didn't hurt Seth if he's playing with small dog? Xion thought to himself. He took his fanny pack from around his neck and snapped it around his waist to, at the very least, cover his expansive manhood, "Mind telling me what you're doing in these parts of the woods, leech?" He wouldn't dare call Donna a name as vulgar or crass as leech, but this was not Donna and Donna was not here to stop Xion from wolfing out on this intruder. To be fair, however, this vamp and Donna seem to have the same brazen sense where they can just stroll into La Push territory without consequence. That led Xion to believe that he was a newcomer and unfamiliar with the customs. He'd hear him out, but his patience was already being tested, "Looking to harm any wolves tonight?" Xion said coldly, his ice blue eyes looking this new vamp up and down searching for signs of blood or cuts from a potential struggle. Where are you, Seth? Xion thought trying to make heads or tails of this evening.

[Veronica Call]

Summer was here which meant more time in the woods. Veronica looks forward summer and fall in Washington more than other season. She loved snow and cold but she prefers seventies-eighties weather with cool breeze and sun shining and no clouds insight. Summer nights meant night hike in the woods, watching sunsets at the beach, and sitting around campfire with friends and family, drinking, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. This was couple of many things Veronica wanted this summer. She was back and ready to make plans with her friends.

Veronica hasn’t been on patrol for long time, she doesn’t know when her patrol shift will be but she can’t wait. It feel like it’s been ages since she ran through La Push woods and the smell of pine, wet cool earth, Douglas fir and if she’s lucky, she will smell hint of wild jasmine were burned in her head. Smiling at the thought so wet pine and fir smell, Veronica left her house and ran toward the woods behind her house. Oh how I missed the smell of wet earth and pine. She ran good amount in the woods, she found herself slowing into a walk when was by the treehouse where the guys keep their clothes when they phased back.

The sky was clear, she can see stars clearly and white moon with shadows. It was breathtaking and would’ve loved to lay down on the ground and stare at the sky all night If she could. Veronica would’ve done so much in her power just to have one moment with Axel that would’ve last her a lifetime. Veronica climbed near tree house til she found her perfect spot to sit, look at the sky and view of the woods. She sat on the branch, listening to movements from wolves, and insects noise.

[Seth Rivers]

One thing Seth loved was running as a wolf, love the feeling of the wind blowing his furry sandy fur everywhere. It was his evening to be patrolling, he invited Catcher along. There was almost never anything interesting ever happening around the border these days. He still took his responsibilities as important so Seth would take his orders, run through the woods and eventually report back everything was quiet. He had found patrolling was of always more enjoyable when you could do it with friends.

Running around alone he had often found stupid if they were to find something going at alone it was often a more dangerous situation. Friends meant back up and tonight Catcher’s was his.

As he ran Seth was rubbing up against the trees leaving a trail of Xion to find, it had to been getting close to midnight by now the time he had told Xi, to come find him as his shift would be over. The rest of the night after would be theirs to enjoy. He loved the thill of being chased. It was their own little game of hide and seek. things had been going well between him and Xion, better then Seth expected. His friends had been very supportive. He just wished Xion had gotten the same respect when he was younger. Seth was happy, he was indeed enjoying the bond they were building. 


He had been so distracted with sent marking, it took Seth second to pick up the smell in the air. It was as if the sweet yet disgusting sent was being masked by something else. Catcher had seem to pick up on it fasted then he had.

Looking over at his friend, Seth lowered head giving him a little nod in solidarity with his friend they would have to check things out. Seth let out a little howl of warning and ran to were he had stashed some pairs of shorts and began dining them up. Kicking soil in every direction.


Above him in the tree was Veronica, his brown eyes met her face and he let out a little yip before grabbing one pair of shorts in his mouth and running towards were the smell was stronger. He knew Catcher would not be too far behind.

Getting to the edge of the border, Seth phased and slipped on his shorts he was never really comfortable standing naked in front of any
vampire.

Walking up slowly Seth could hear Xion voice, he’d never seen him like this before acting all tough and protective. It was kind of hot. Not to mention all her was wearing was a fanny pack, which was hiding no part of his fanny. It was not the time to get distracted so Seth stepped up beside Xion focusing on the stranger ahead. He didn’t seem to harmful but you never known with a Vampire.


The first thing that lowered some flags of Seth was this guy had a dog with him. He had never known a vampire to have a pet. Seth placed a had on Xion forearm, making his presence known. “It seems this guy might have stumbled upon the wrong area.”

Seth looked over his shoulder wonder who else would be showing up. Seth had gotten to a point in his life he ask questions before jumping to conclusions. Sure there were bad vampires out there this guy didn’t give him a treating vibe. More strength in members so the more of the pack that showed the better.
"Nice dog be a shame if a wolf came along and ate him"

[Catcher Reeves]

A fearsome howl rang through the woods and he joined in chorus. It was Xion and it was close; the speed of sound as fast as the urgency in the voice. There was worry, anger and it made him snarl as daunting thoughts of danger and preparation swirled. He saw that Seth understood; that it was time to move. Giving one last look at the direction of the scent, he ran after Seth in leaps, bounds of gliding motions through the air and over the brush.
They were still in the vicinity of the tree house where they had a hideout; it was a convenient place to relax and leave their stuff. He hadn’t decided if it was worthwhile to phase back but he could tell that was what Seth was going to do.

Dust and soil started flying up as Seth dug and kicked at the earth; the smell of his clothes returned with a dankness from the ground. It was uncomfortable to have flecks of dirt against skin and he had left his belongings in the door-less tree house in a heap. As the debris settled, he looked up trying to block out the scent of Veronica as he gaged the distance between her and his things. Therein lay the problem; he didn’t want to go get his shit but he didn’t want to be naked somewhere else either, or in front of Veronica. Why not? It seemed too much to pass up on bothering her. He had no idea why he was so confused but it was irritating and he paced back and forth like a wolf eyeing a feast. The butterflies he felt seeing her happily sitting on the ledge, a vision in the twilight zone, flew away as he realized from her daydreaming that she was musing; he was sure it was about someone he’d rather not think about. No eyeroll needed, he sighed internally and clamped his mouth tightly to turn away, the sides of his lips flipping to show the bottom half of all his fangs in ire.

Finally, he gave her a miserable expression and walked a few paces back where they came before bolting like a spooked horse in the direction of Xion. He was gaining time on the distance he’d wasted when Seth disappeared; the wolf had shifted to human and so had Xion. They were communicating; there was a third voice and a panting breath of dog. A small dog… how deranged, he thought.

Catcher slunk from between a low shrub, spreading the fan leaves apart as he appeared, growling to stand between his friends. He always appeared at Xion's side as though he was a pet, and the revelation briefly lifted his spirits with amusement. This vampire looked more human than he ever imagined possible and there was an odd looking tiny dog, barking and baring teeth at them while its eyes looked like it would bulge out. There was something uncomfortable about tiny dogs; he couldn’t tell what they were thinking. He wasn’t usually this hostile, but his mood was derailed by the love struck look on Veronica’s face over… He trailed off from the sarcastic spiteful thought, licking his nose to stop his aggression and shut his mouth; wolf eyes slanted trying to figure out what might be happening next.

Xion was a mountain that dwarfed this vampire and he was almost certain nothing would go wrong now. Except the chihuahua was still crazy over his presence because he was more dog than person; the atmosphere was ripe with tension that could only be cut with a knife but it was so distracting. There was nothing echoing in the woods except the uncontrollable yelping so he sat down, baffled by the pair and wanting to facepalm.

[Claudius Galloway]

So much had had happen around him so quickly. He was all alone with his tiny toothy pal and now everything in his wildest dreams came true the was a Bigfoot. This was not as big as he expected but what other reason would there be for a hulk of a creature standing in from if him pant less and wearing a fanny pack which barely covered anything. Claude was so excited he brought his hand into a fist shaking it excitedly. It was not as he expected from the books and information he had gathered over the years. Bigfoot was usually, tall, hair and an elsusive creature. This beast had seemed to seek him out.

“Yes. WASHINGTON FOR THE WIN” Not listen directly to what the Bigfoot was saying to him.He wasn't going to ignore the monsters figure. Clude always liked his questions answer so he would give the Bigfoot the same respect. He then looked down at Blue and expressing with his hands his mind had been blown. He never thought Bigfoot actually talked for all he knew they just grunted and made whooping sounds. 

It took Claude a second to compose him to even think about that Bigfoot said. He didn’t think they could talk and it didn’t help it was hairless it was giving him all the wrong vibes.

“What am I doing here I was actually looking for you! Your just not What I expected.” Claude scratched he head ruffling up is hair making it stuck up oddly in many direction. “First thing, where is all you hair. Second if I make a sound like a drying squirrel chocking on a nut can I call more of you in.?” Claude placed his hands around his mouth making a very unconventional sound not sound come out of his lips his companion was so irritating by the noise little dog move closer to the hairless Bigfoot.


After his display of what some would call, shrills of nature, Claude went back to answering the questions that seem to be more important to answer then his. “Why would I harm any wolves I love, the cute fluffy things. If It was up to me I’d sleep in a den and name all of them Ronaldo.” He wrapped his arms across his chest acting like he was giving something a hug. “they just smell so good.”


Claude looked down at Blue who seemed to be barking excessively up that then hairless wonder that he barely saw the man in a pair of black shorts appeared.” OMYGOD you have a boyfriend? Do Bigfoot harvest men from villages and make them sex slaves? I just have so many questions.” Claude what like a kid exited for his birthday this was better then all his birthdays and by this point he has lost count.


His eyes fell back to his chi-raptor when the he heard he might become wolf food and shook his head “No one eats Blue. Blue has been on death row in two states for severing two fingers and a toe.” Just by mentioning a toe Blue ran up and bit the man in shorts on his big toe. Claude just stood there awkwardly. “Sorry. Just shake him off he’ll let go.”

It took Claude a second but he had realized he not introduced himself. “ I'm Claude by the way and I have one more question Shorts. Why the hell is this Bigfoot hairless? isn’t he cold? , and umm icanseehiswiner” Claude placed his hand over his one eye blocking it from his view.

A stronger smell of dog filled the air as a wolf came to stand beside the Big Guy. Claude began to jump up and down trying to get the wolf's attention.“Ronaldo. You want to be my friend?"  Claude stop jumping but continued waving at the wolf, trying to coax him over. "I got treats."He held open a hand full of dog cookies towards the wolf.

[Veronica Call]

Her feet dangled while she sat on tree branch waiting for her wolf mates to return from their patrol. What she was not expecting was fearful howl not too far from where she was. Veronica looked in the direction where the howl came from while chills ran up her spine making her shiver and heart rate to elevate a little. She never felt this frighten of howl and dark forest until today. Looking down, she met her gaze with Seth’s big brown eyes she opened her mouth and closed it not wanting to ask him. She watched him grabbed his shorts from tree house and ran in the direction of the howl. She was ready to jump off of the tree and follow Seth into darkness. Not soon after Seth left, Catcher came in the spot. Cather will always have a soft spot in her heart even if they’re not the same person as they used to be.

Veronica muffled her laughter when Catcher was pacing back and forth like a confused maniac going in for the kill. She wanted to help him with whatever he needed but that would require playing a charade or him to phase back to human form…naked. She didn’t want to see him naked as they are friends and former crush. Then again I don’t mind at all, it’s not like I’m going to pounce on him. Veronica rolled her eyes at her own thought. If only things weren’t complicated she and Catcher would be on a different level. Thing is, Veronica is trying to be understanding, level headed person that doesn’t rage as much as she used it, she has enough things she needs to work on and last thing she wants is to lash out on her friends who turned into family; a special bond. Her heart sunk at his sad, miserable expression and she feels responsible for that. Why did I have to be this person that I don’t even recognize myself? Could she be partly at fault for torturing him?

Watching him walk away, she stood up on the branch and jumped down; smoothly landing on wet dirt and leaves. Veronica went to tree house to grab Cather’s clothes and ran after him. Whatever was going on, she wanted to be part of it. She loved to be part of everything and wants to know what’s going on with others. Oh my, I became one of those lady who lives of off gossip, drama and wants to know everyone’s business. Veronica groaned at the thought of being one person she didn’t want to be, being in everyone’s business. Vampire scent filled her nose, no wonder the howl was about vampire in La Push territory. Dumbass didn’t know when to stop. She heard vampire talking about loving wolves, fluffy things, sex slaves, Bigfoot being hairless? ”Did this vampire seriously feed off a high human and came here talking about sex slaves and hairless Bigfoot? Man, this thing must be high. Do vamps get high?” She knew for a fact Bigfoot doesn’t exist but hairless one? Can vampires get high?

”OH! OH! OH! OH. MY. GOD. My eyes! My eyes!” Veronica exclaimed when she saw butt naked Xi. First thing her eyes landed on was on his naked Butt as she neared where everyone was standing and now it’s burned into her brain. Scarred for life. ”Put on some clothes, dude!” Veronica whisper yelled at Xion from behind. She kept her eyes on the ground while walking towards them. She stood next to Catcher and scratched top of his head. She looked at vampire who introduced himself at Claude and his small shaking machine chihuahua as blue. She was never a fan of chihuahua breed, shaking like they have shit stuck in their arse, squinting eyes that look like they’re up to no good, for a small dog they’re assholes not to mention they’re tiny and you can easy step on them. ”Why the hell is this Bigfoot hairless? isn’t he cold? , and umm icanseehiswiner” Veronica held her back on bursting out loud from what Claude said. ”Bigfoot uses nair to remove hair every summer. It can get hot for them, you know.” Veronica kept her face straight while teasing about nair and Bigfoot. She didn’t look at Xions direction, didn’t want to be more scarred than she already was from behind. Oh this keeps getting better and better. This person seriously renamed Catcher to Ronaldo. Veronica waited to see what happens next. This was too hilarious for her.

[Donna Duluri]

Donna was enjoying a late night yoga session and by yoga session she was watching The Golden Girls reruns on Hulu. She was getting bored with Forks and while watching the 4 old ladies from Miami was researching houses in California, Italy, Greece, New York, just looking for different places she could play and cause mischief. And then of course leave before people connected the dots to who this "mysterious socialite" was. Donna was always up for adventure and new experiences. When you lived as many lifetimes it's easy to get lost and get bored, but fortunately the timeline for the human experience always changes. Times change, but the seven deadly sins are always around and Donna made it her job to take advantage of them. While she was very aloof and devil may care, Donna was always about fun and the romance of enjoying oneself to the fullest. That's why tonight she was vegging on some deer blood and watching Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and, Donna's favorite, Sophia, "And the card attached would say..." Donna was humming the theme song as her phone vibrated. She was used to text messages at night so this was nothing she had to worry about.

Unfortunately it was, in fact, something she had to worry about. Donna's instincts kicked into overdrive as she read Xion's text. It's worth pointing out that before Donna became a vampire in Italy she was a mother to 5 children. This was, for the sake of continuity, many many years ago. Whenever one of her children were in trouble she'd immediately jump into action. She had 3 boys and 2 girls. Her eldest son and daughter were identical twins. With such a full house, Donna had seen just about everything and raised just about everything else. So her tolerance for "bull" was rather low, but she was a gifted nurturer and a devoted mother. However, as is her namesake, Donna was pained as she lost all of her children when she was turned into a vampire. That fear of loss and worry was exactly what she was feeling as she was reading Xion's text.

She dashed to her closet, slid into black pants, threw on a black turtleneck sweater, her signature sleek black overcoat, black gloves, black heeled running boots and bolted to her front door. There, she grabbed her excavation purse filled with weapons, rations, and things she needed in case of an emergency. Many things didn't alarm Donna, but when a close friend was in peril it sent her anxiety into orbit. She locked her door, opened her car, and sped off to the border between Forks and La Push.

@^@^@^@^

She had parked her car in the La Push high school parking lot. She got out and smelled the air...there was something afoot and she was going to get to the bottom of it. It was Xion's unmistakable howl that made the hairs on Donna's neck stand up. She never thought she'd feel so unnerved before. Nor did she ever think that she'd have such a strong connection to a wolf. She heard a few softer howls coming from a specific direction. Donna sprinted into the forest with her fangs bared and eyes wide. The forest stank with the scent of wet dog, but there was also a vampire scent which stopped Donna in her tracks. It had been a long while since she ran across another vampire in this town. The Cullens were on vacation and the Volturi were hanging upside down in their catacombs...Vamps, however, rarely traveled in packs...whereas wolves, naturally, did. So this was something Donna was NOT expecting. She composed herself and shrunk her teeth back as she got closer to the group. Xion was standing in just a fanny pack, next to him was his boyfriend, and a wolf came up a longside Xion, "Must be Catcher... Donna thought to herself and as the young woman from the prom strode up next to Catcher it confirmed that that wolf was indeed, Catcher. The group was being silly and joking with the vampire and the entire situation was completely foreign to Donna as she was under the impression Xion was in serious danger.

This man, however, didn't look like a vampire...nor did he act like one, but there he was plain as day. With a chihuahua in tow. The mongrel became focused on Donna as the female vamp obviously gave off the same distinct scent of their owner. The pooch was in his glories getting love and pats from his owner, the young woman wolf and now Donna. The dog was pawing at Donna's boots with his happy little mouth open. She picked the pup up by the scruff and cradled the pooch in her arms, "Xion...I know we use 911 for emergencies...but...this does not a 911 text make." Donna said making her presence known to the crew, "Is this the latest meeting of the mystery gang? Or did I interrupt your latest circle jerk?...No offense dearie." Donna asked being her usual crass and sardonic self but excuseing her sense of humor in the presence of the young woman. It looked like the vamp was trying to offer the wolves dog treats and it just confused Donna to no end, "Can someone please tell me what in Bram Stoker hell is going on out here?! Did I hear you right? You called him big foot?...If he's bigfoot than I'm a mongoose...I know you like to travel light, Xi, but...here..." Donna tossed Xion a pair of black spandex pants and a tactical vest from her bag. Donna was furious, not only was this vampire practically harmless, but she was pulled out of her relaxed and contemplative state by a friend because she thought he was in trouble, when it all actuality...he was just being dramatic.

Donna leaned against a tree waiting for a response, but her eyes were ablaze with anger as she was staring daggers down at Xion, "I expect an explanation...and it better be a good one." She said to the group, her eyes still unblinking at Xion.

[Catcher Reeves]

With all his might, he had clamped his mouth shut, attempting to keep a stern expression and remain emotionless in this form. He was a wolf, they were supposed to be unpredictable and threatening but layers of this façade were shedding the more he listened to this vampire speak. He tried to block out the conversation and focus on the distrust that loomed but the voice only became more ecstatic as questions rolled out in a nonstop ramble.

There was less and less control as the vampire spoke of wolves as cuddly, cute pets and he knew the masquerade was never going to work. It did seem, the vampire had no knowledge of him being a shapeshifter or of any of them being such. It surprised him there was no recognition of their scent and there was no apprehension for even a Sasquatch; this was demented. When the man referred to Xion as a bigfoot, he almost rolled over.
His head had hung just so he could avoid looking at the funny movements that followed every ludicrous question asked of Xion; but each time, he’d end up watching him again. There was a very comedic star presence about this man and he wanted to see what it was really all about; he hadn’t been this entertained in a long time with zero effort on his part. The contrast of Xion's intensity and seriousness with Claude's happy go lucky nonsense was too much.

Every enmity issue they had on this side of the border with the other kind was being sidelined by the hilarity of this man’s confusion or ignorance and he was shaking slightly as he breathed invisible chuckles of interest. The night was still young, and he was already looking forward to this progression of events. He had been panting like a dog which would only encourage this mysterious person but it was really just him unable to maintain a straight face; it was becoming a doggy grin and it was not helping anyone.

There was a scuffle behind him and his tongue retracted, ears turned sharply as he noticed the familiar drift of Veronica. And, his clothes? There was a trace of his own items on her and he was shocked; she brought his clothes and a flicker of happiness triggered from the compassion she was showing him. Relief that he could change back without being naked was something he truly appreciated as he heard the man half whisper that he could see Xion’s weiner and now he couldn’t ‘un-hear’ it. Whenever the guys had been naked with each other, everyone just avoided looking down and pretended everything was nothing; super casual. Not a single one of them wanted to be the first to be awkward because then they all caught it; except Xion. He could’ve been Mr Universe with a string of flexing poses that would have scared this vamp away... or prompted copy cat behaviour...

Allowing himself to forget about the crazy vampire and his mini guardian for a moment, he had held on and was one more second away from getting over it. Then Veronica stood next to him, shrieking about her eyes having seen Xion’s butt and illuminated nude silhouette… and he cracked; he was laughing now, or barking a drawn out half howl. It had taken her over the top reaction for him to realize just how disproportionate the idea of covering the package with a fanny pack was; his eyes were avoiding it just the same as V had been clawing hers out.
Sex slaves?! He wheezed, choking on air, huffing mists in silent hysterics, feeling like there actually may have been some cult in these woods with sister wives but they were the furthest thing from this suggestion; did he just come from a mental asylum? Are they being chased by a psycho? Maybe he’s not far off with sex cult in the woods theory.
She scratched his head and he stopped thinking, looking up at her with puppy eyes. This was the first time since they both met each other again that she touched him the way she had done in the past and his heart skipped a beat at the memories. It was almost like the day they met Lorenzo, the armadillo and he averted his gaze, determined to let it go into the abyss of his brain before it led him on. He was a die hard.

There was something about ‘Nair’, and he didn’t know what that was but assumed in context it was something that made hair fall off. Now he was imagining Xion and Seth bald as a naked mole rat; the ponytail gone. Would they be hairless wolves?! This lunacy was a contagion.
There was pride in how Veronica joked because he believed Claude would fall for every word hook line and sinker; the guy had a naivety that was precious in this day and age. Seconding Veronica’s pranking words, he played along as dog treats were held out to him, sauntering over, docile but still cautiously lurking. He smelled the treats and immediately all components and ingredients were in his mind processing; not exactly appetizing. This was serving the man his own treat for love of wolves.
Catcher circled Claude instead of eating the snack, judging him as he called him Ronaldo, pondering how refreshing of an alias that was and wondering what misadventure he was on to be curious about Bigfoot; nobody he knew believed they were real even though they were just as unrealistic yet in the flesh.

Then he saw her come in a dark smokey breeze, camouflaged in black and blending into the surroundings. Sleek and slender, a cat like prowess, elegance tainted by a dragon’s menace. Her eyes were a blaze of purple fire and her fangs were exposed; he had never seen Donna like this but he thought that every single time he had, and now he was viewing her powerful aura as he stood next to Claude thinking the male vamp would now be quaking in his boots. She was a whole other level of fierce this evening and he was glad not to be on the receiving end of her wrath; he couldn’t tell why she had come since she lived in Forks but they were never short of backup. The exclamations she made were valid but it spliced all their carelessness into shame with a swift strike. This was going to be a ride for Claude; how he would handle this vampiress would reveal clues about him. What if Claude was just a decoy? What if this was an ambush? What if he was a scout? The guy was growing on him…

He dropped lower and side walked back to Veronica as she was holding his clothes, his nose touched her hand briefly; it was too early to stop being apprehensive about this purse dog holding twisted Indiana jones. There was so much going on with more to come; for safe guarding what was his even when they weren’t on the best of terms, he would thank her later.

[Xion Ateara]

As soon as Xion felt Seth's hand on his forearm he breathed a heavy sigh of relief. He held Seth close and had it not been for the new vamp in front of them he most assuredly would break down into happy tears that nothing happened to his significant other. Xion wasn't accustomed to feelings and had a romantic acquaintance with loss, but the idea of losing Seth really frightened Xion which caused the hulking wolf to be tense this evening. A moment later Catcher strode up alongside Seth. He was still in wolf and as each member continued showing up this vampire grew more and more excited. Xion had met a lot of strange characters in his life, but this guy seemed to have been gunning for more than his fair share of weirdness. First exclaiming about how he'd found "bigfoot." Causing Xion to really look deep within himself to figure out if that was an insult or not, "You must have me confused with another fantasy creature...I'm not bigfoot...Bigfoot has a mustache." Xion responded to this guys hairless comments with his own quips. Xion watched as this guy continued to parade around making silly comments about loving and squeezing wolves because he loves dogs so much, "Elmyra, eat your heart out." Xion thought to himself as this vampire continued to prattle on and on about his love of dogs and his companion Chihuahua, Blue.

Xion knew he was going to catch hell for this from Donna, but at least if she was here, she'd be able to make heads or tails of this situation. Xion was far more emotional and less brooding. He knew that Donna would hate him for a little bit, but come around in the end. At least that's what Xion was banking on. This guy was really becoming a nuisance and Xion was trying to figure out the most diplomatic way to get rid of him until he asked about Seth being his boyfriend, "If you want specific questions answered, google is your friend." Xion said trying not to let a vampire know of his personal affairs, his relationship, or his tribe. With Quil and Sam missing in Action it became Xion's responsibility to take charge. A responsibility he didn't need nor want, but sometimes the cards your handed need to be played and win, lose, or draw, Xion had just about everything he could want. He went where he was needed and he was needed on the reservation with his family.

When the little mutt bit Seth on his toe, Xions wintery blue eyes narrowed on the vampire. He reached down, grabbed the canine by the scruff, and handed the little thing to his owner, "You will control your mutt, or I'll control him for you." He said with a smile. He wanted to immediately gobble up the little dog, but knew that, that just wouldn't end well for anyone. Seth needed his toe checked and Donna was probably already on her way and the last thing Xion wanted was for a fight to break out that Xion may or may not have started by eating a vampires dog. Xion tried to shake off his aggression and anger, but his worry over Seth coupled with the asinine shenanigans of this new vampire was just a lot that Xion didn't want to deal with tonight. He just wanted to be with Seth and curl up on the couch and snuggle. Simple man, simple pleasures.

Veronicas voice took him out of his sweet thoughts about Seth and brought him back to reality, "Please, Veronica, the fewer questions asked the better...besides this one also looks like a vegetarian." Xion said holding his temple with his thumb and middle finger. Xion didn't particularly care who saw his naked body, you've seen one naked body you've seen them all. Veronica's groaning only further pushed Xion to be even more naked, "I'll take the fanny pack off, if that'd make you feel better." He said with a smirk, knowing it'd more than likely turn Seth on. He'd been so worried about Seth that he'd focused all of his anger on this vampire. He slowly started to lower his defenses as the jokes continued to come from the young female wolf. His relationship with Veronica was quaint, they knew of each other, but weren't involved in each others business, but they respected each other when they were in the others presence. Xion was slowly becoming the big brother figure to the younger wolves and he took it all in his stride. He just hoped he knew what he was doing, and if he didn't, he knew Seth would also be there to help. Xion watched as Catcher stalked Claude as he presented the wolf with what looked like doggie treats, "Canine crunchies aren't exactly a delicacy...And his name is not Ronaldo." Xion said trying to examine this new vampires body language to see if he was capable of harming a wolf...and it was looking less and less like he would.

As far as Seth and Xion were concerned their relationship was taking shape very nicely. They had a tremendous amount of respect and adoration for each other. Seth was definitely more impulsive and adventurous than Xion was, but that was also because Seth was a few years younger than Xion, but he was able to keep up with Seth's spontaneous nature and it made for very romantic times for them both. Xion, truly, was smitten and he was definitely finding himself falling for Seth. He just didn't want to scare Seth off by moving too fast. Xion thought it might be time to take their relationship to the next level, but who knew where this evening was going to take the both of them. This new vampire, who's name no one knew, was certainly a wrench in Xion's plans and when he heard the cool voice and caught the sweet scent of Donna his heart virtually sank. She was in a mood and Xion felt the target on his chest. He wanted to let her get it all out of her system as she continued to cut him and the new vampire up with her razor sharp wit. The vampires dog was taken with Donna and Xion just felt her eyes bore into him as she was petting the little chihuahua's neck. Xion gulped. He was going to explain himself and hopefully everything would become crystal clear to everyone, "Well...Short story long...Seth got off patrol at 12. Him and I were going to go make snow angels on the carpet in my bedroom, but then I caught a whiff of this new vampire who is-what's your name by the way? Anyway then I started to worry because I didn't know if Seth was in trouble, so I text you and hoped you'd show up cause I didn't know if you knew this vampire or not...and if you did I thought well I'm not going to be ok if my boyfriend was hurt by a vampire my best friend also happened to be friends with and it was just a lot to handle and then I showed up, and then Seth, and then Catcher, and then veronica...and then finally you...and it's really funny to me...now...that this vampire was looking for Bigfoot and thought I was...bigfoot..." Xion spilled his guts out all over the dirt and company and it was...a lot, but he knew he had to be honest in front of everyone because it was the intelligent thing to do. Especially with everyone...right there, "I'm sorry if I interrupted your evening plans, but...I also didn't know who else to call." He said putting on the puppy dog eyes for Donna hoping she'd forgive him, "And I'm sorry I got worried about you getting hurt...I should be more trusting about your abilities, but...I was worried sick about you tonight." He said turning his attention to Seth. He took Seth's hands in his and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

Xion, of course, making a spectacle of himself, but making his words and thoughts thorough allowed himself to just let it all out. He scooped up the pants and vest and put them on, both fitting him with good comfort. The pants were, naturally, very form fitting, but comfortable. The tactical vest fit his arms, but he couldn't close it, "Thanks" he said sheepishly to Donna, "Now that we're all here and we've all sort of been introduced...what on earth is going on tonight?" Xion concluded wanting to crash from the emotional stress of the evening.

[Seth Rivers]

Tensions falling around him a bit Seth was finally allowed to relax bit. Why was everyone make suck a big about what seemed the coolest and most random vampire he had met. They guy was no threat no was his little dog either. He stood in his position beside Xion. Him being naked did bug Seth everyone had their own preferences and if you have a nice body might as well flaunt it. Seth just learned over the years and all the patrolling it was better just to have something hitting around. Not to mention Quil’s experience with Donna’s leather pants. He was smart enough not to let it happen to him.


Seth looked down at his toe and the little dog clapping on. God he hated dogs once and a while you found a cool one. Most of the time it was as they know you have a smell to you and they often tired to see were they fit in the hierarchy. Seth he preferred cat they were just so more sophisticated.


Seth just stood there nothing hurt about it and it didn’t even break the skin. He watched as Xion bent down and passed the stranger now know as Claude the little beast. He almost wanted to make a joke about getting rabies but he held it in with his laugher, almost ready to burst.

Seth just on the whole this situation was hilarious. The others began to show up to this odd meeting of sorts. Catcher, Veronica and even Donna, This was all too much for Seth. The vampire just more and more excited. The guy was like one of those people who seemed to be stuck between both trying to be humorous and serious at the same time. Seth was about to devolve to the level also.


He listen as the guy went on asking the vampire kept going on about hairless Bigfoot, wolves named Ronaldo, offering Catcher dog treats and the Donna showing up it was all too much. Sure the others were spitting out answers for the guy and Catcher was showing interest in the treat. Seth felt a kiss on his cheek and listen as Xion apologized to Donna. It was so sweet that his man cared about his safety so much he get so defensive.“Don’t be sorry Mister, I certainly I can handle myself but back up is always a welcome site it it turned into this.


Seth just burst out laughing. Xion had slipped some clothes now so they took it as a sign he was good to step away and let it all out.

Seth was just laughing, holding stomach and trying to get it together. “ vampires, Bigfoots, wieners , sex slaves, Nair mustaches, a Chihuahua and Catch is name Ronaldo”. Its like a badly written Will Farrell movie, but a movie Seth would watch none the less. His face was so red and it took a minute to compose himself but he did.


Slapping himself on the knee Seth was able to speak again. “Guys if things were different I think I found my new best friend. Claude you’re a riot.” He walked up close to Cather and Cluade, his hand out to the vampire knowing well that the guy could smell the wolf on him.


“There are still explanation to be had fact to be rewritten for you but you can’t be here.” Seth who was always very friendly emphasized that where Claude was currently standing he was on the wrong side of the land shooing him back a few steps. Kept moving him till he hit the borderline which was only about four paces back. “There now you safe and we wolves won’t have to kill you.” Seth didn't say this in a treating tone he just wanted to show Claude how far a vampire could go to the woods.


“Thats me, the big guy back there the girl and your Renaldo…” Seth leaned in close as he was telling Claude the secret of the century. “Werewolves.”

[Claudius Galloway]

Claude was surprised the wolf hand came down beside him to investigate the treats. Ronaldo was huge and fluffy and all what he ever wanted in a pet. He knew that a wolf would be too big if a pet to travel with so there why he picked Blue. He was small enough to put in his bag and run without any trouble. Not to mention he was a fiery little guy most people would want as a pet.

Claude allowed Shorts to guide him back a few paces until he was on the right side of the borderline.  "So is there a no trespassing order or something in place? Can I go to jail?”



What he heard next shocked Claude “No way!” Claude reached down picked up his leather bag and pulled out pen and a note book. It was a multi page metal bonded note book wrapped in a piece of plastic. Across the front said Claude’s Big Book of the Coolest of Cool Things. He always wrote down all new facts and information people gave him to help keep him keep track for what type of creatures he met over the years. He flipped to one page quickly writing down the get about Nair bring used in the summer because of the heat and Bigfoots having mustaches.

Flipping to a new page he scribbled the words Werewolves across the top. “I have never met a werewolf before. I didn’t even think they existed. Were you bitten by one of them and turned?” Claude pointed up at young woman. “Is she the Queen and your are all her babies?”. Claude knew he was a bit strange its been a while since been around people. He was stoked no only found out wolf people existed it was the first time he had been talking to anyone besides his dog in a while.“Why can I only go this far?”



His eyes fell over to Donna holding Blue in her arms. Claude wave smiled and winked her way. “You’re the sexy thing I seen in a while. I’ve one word for you babe. Perfection.” He held out his hands for his dog like a child reaching for his favorite toy.“If you want to keep him you’ll have to beat me in a dance off.”



Claude started dancing, thrusting and gyrating his hips like many men were unable to do due to a lack of confidence. He dropped his book and stated making hand jesters the stopped. “ Umm I’m sorry I never answered you question.” Claude reached into his bag and pulled out a map. “some hobo gave me this map for one thousand dollars and says it leads to a haunted mansion with vampires. Only problem its on that side of the forest.” Claude pointed past were Xion was standing. “Glad you found some pants buddy.”

[Veronica Call]

It wasn’t everyday that Veronica met crazy, lunatic vampire. That too who are adventurous, carrying tiny companion and looking for Bigfoot. Then again, this vampire, Claude, is clueless about how things run around La Push/Forks or Washington state itself and clearly didn’t know much about werewolves. He’s about to hit lottery tonight. She watched Catcher playing with the vampire and shook her head. Leave it to him to do something like that. Ha! Would’ve been funnier if Claude had threw a stick and both Catcher and shaking machine would ran after it and fight who would return it back. Veronica chuckled at her own thought and imagined how it would’ve been.

Veronica rolled her eyes at Xion and shook her head. ”Darling, you’re barely covering your Weiner any way. I can name one person that won’t mind that at all. Go ahead and take the risk…if you dare.” Veronica winked at Xion, she was bothered by the nakedness only because she sees him as a older brother. She respects and loves him but she doesn’t interfere in his life. Her attention shifted to Claude…he was nice and innocent. A character, a goofball and what seems like an animal lover. He wasn’t a threat like others were who would feed off of humans just to live. She sensed another vampire…behind them, Veronica watched Xion move towards new vampire that had joined them as vampire leaned against a tree. This is the same person that was talking to Natasha and the gang at the prom. She looks like a good vampire and taking sense to drunken pack. She was glad that someone was there to look after them who weren’t part of their pack…an outsider who is neutral. Thank freakin god, he finally wore some clothes, she thought to herself and looked at the sky. Maybe there was hope after all. This night to turn around.

With Catcher back next to her, her hand immediately went back to side of him to pet him. It bring her comfort when she’s close to him; she doesn’t know why or how but it always has. ”Seth, do you make everyone your best friend? Might as say he will be your partner in crime." Seth is a goofball and sweetest person to be around. He’s like a brother for Veronica; He was more of a brother than her cousin right now. She has no idea what’s going with her cousin nor wants to see him. She rather hang out by herself or with Seth, Natasha and Catcher. ’Is she the queen and your are all her babies?’ Veronica laughed, a belly laugh with tears running down her face. ”Oh no no no. No one is king or queen and these are my family.” She is the queen but of her life not others. ”Oh you naive vampire. There is no such thing as haunted mansion with vampires. Even if it were real, shouldn’t this be on the newspaper or website, email subscription…or something like that for vampire wold?” Veronica hated watching horror moves, going to haunted houses, doing anything scary was out of the question. But going to this haunted mansion might be fun….scary but fun.

[Catcher Reeves]

He couldn’t take it anymore; there was too much going on not to say anything. Catcher was unable to contain curiosity about the map and why anyone would give a homeless person that amount of money to get something that is most likely fake. Veronica was petting him and he side glanced at her as she spoke, a gaze of limerence, noticing that unsure tone she used referring to a haunted place. He was well aware she wasn’t a fan of gore or horror but she had to admit, it would be something thrilling in real life; he was the complete opposite, still searching for something that made him feel afraid and alive but knowing the end would find him. This is going to be a lot of fun… no, it wasn’t like he wanted to prank her or scare her but… maybe it also was. Maybe he would ultimately be scared too.

He pulled his clothes out of her grasp with his teeth and dragged it behind a bush next to Veronica, dropping all his stuff and staring at Seth as he laughed inwardly when Veronica asked if Seth made everyone his best friend. He was about to ask Seth the same question. His head was poking out as he stood on four limbs feeling relieved he wasn’t the only one Donna would think was foolishly attracted to her; Claude took the cake on that one. It was the best thing he had ever seen someone do in front of her and he knew no one would top it. He was more than eager to see how Donna was going to take this from Claude.

Watching Xion wear Donna’s pants reminded him of what happened with Quil and he almost snickered about everyone taking Donna’s clothes and stretching them out or ripping it like the hulk in this case. Xion did a hell of a job explaining everything in one endless breath and he almost thought everyone would be convinced to be friendly now; they would all just go get coffee and be done with it but then someone just had more surprises up his sleeve. Xion would finally have time with Seth; he had occupied him for awhile most days since being back but at least Seth's truck was almost done.

So the vampire Claude had no clue about the border, it seemed fair and believable. He was once an outsider who didn’t know the rules of this place too so it made sense they at least attempted to get him to understand instead of engaging in a battle. Then he realized Claude had called Veronica a wolf mother thinking everyone was her children and he almost couldn’t breathe; probably sounded like a wounded dog.

Emotions overrun, transforming was fast, instant and he turned into his human self in the brush. When Claude asked about jail, he just raised his eyebrows in surprise that a vampire would even care and started putting on his underwear and t shirt. He checked that his wallet, phone and even accessories were still in the pockets and started to rearrange them on himself; sitting on the ground. It was very confusing to phase with earrings and he always had to take them off or they just broke off so he only put one loop back in. Then again there wasn’t anyone to ask about these things.

Standing up from the bush so his pants would pull up easier, he buckled the belt and put on his dark blazer, leaving it unbuttoned. They had been doing something else before Seth had patrol and after dropping Seth at Xion's he was going to wander around town, but now he was truly glad he didn’t dress like a punk tonight. Since he had nothing better to spend time on, he was arguably the most enthusiastic person in the crowd to follow Claude by torchlight into danger.
After all, he was witnessing some sort of phenomenon; a dance off challenge against Donna for a dog. Claude was twisting around, gyrating and he felt like this was something he had seen before but couldn’t put a finger on it; choreographed moves, was he in some show?

Putting on his shoes, he tried to step out over the bush, unsteadily trying not to crush the big leaves; chains and beads swinging around his neck, he whispered to Veronica "thanks…" then he smirked and asked her "bigfoot’s wife or mom?" teasingly. With what she answered Claude, he was going to think they were all related now like some weird alien nest. Her reactions were always hilarious and it made him have a sense of normalcy with her; he had missed it, he missed her. No matter how many deaths he would die he wouldn’t forget. He chuckled and tousled his hair, putting a hand in his pocket and the other up in a casual hello signal at Claude, eyes as smiling as the curve of his mouth; he was now ‘Ronaldo’. ”We should see if that map is true, or you just lost a thousand bucks.”