It Started With a No

by Laurel_Wolford

Summary:

When Peter gets help to locate his kidnapped nephew, Derek, instead of taking girl!Stiles' no for an answer, he bites her anyway. She turns, but not into a wolf. What has she become and what will that mean for Beacon Hills? What does that mean for Stiles?

Notes:

• Inspired by Sins of the Mother by sifshadowheart

I own none of the characters. They belong to their respective creators:
Teen Wolf - Jeff Davis
Sins of the Mother - SifShadowHeart
The Soul's Scream - Cheyla
There Be Dragons, Harry - Scioneeris

 

Girl!Stiles doesn't go to the Winter Formal with Lydia. She is home by herself when Peter Hale comes knocking in her front door with his laptop in hand.

Chapter 1: Night of the Winter Formal

“Yes or no, Stiles?” 

 

“No,” Stiles responded.  “I don’t want to be like you.”

 

Peter smirked as he held Stiles' wrist in his hand.  “Do you know what I heard just then?” He rubbed his thumb along the rapid pulse point in the teen’s wrist.  “Your heart jumping over ‘I don’t want’.  Seems to me you do 'want'.”

 

Before Stiles could react, Peter grabbed the bottom of Stiles’ t-shirt, pulled it up to bear her side and bit down.  He quickly pulled back and met her furious and fear-filled gaze.  

 

“Thank you for your assistance in locating my missing nephew,” Peter purred as he tucked his laptop under his arm and sauntered out of the Stilinski home.

 

Stiles stood there stunned.  He’d bitten her.  Peter had actually fucking bitten her, even though she’d helped, even though she’d said no.  

 

“No good deed goes unpunished, I guess,” she mumbled to herself.  

 

She didn’t know what she was going to do now.  She’d been sure she’d always be the token human.  Wanted to be, even.  But Peter fucking Hale had taken that decision away from her.  

 

She headed upstairs to take a shower.  She felt dirty in ways that had less to do with the blood on her side and more to do with feeling used - violated, even.  She’d always been raised that no means no.  And regardless of what her heart had done, she’d said no.

 

Tears streamed down her face as she took the hottest shower that she could stand, nearly scalding her skin in the process.  Sooner than she would’ve liked, the water heater ran cold, forcing her to get out.  She quickly put on one of her dad’s old, worn t-shirt and a pair of sleep shorts.  

 

The bite wasn’t bleeding anymore so she didn’t bother covering it.  It would heal.  Based on what she’d discovered, if her body hadn’t rejected the bite by now, it wasn’t going to.  She was going to turn. No sense in wasting first aid supplies, she thought dejectedly.

 

An hour later, still curled in the fetal position on her bed, the pain started.  Scott hadn’t mentioned there being any paid during his transition.  It felt like popping and shattering. Deeper than just inside her chest.  Deep down in her very soul.  

 

Stiles tried to breathe through it, and at first she succeeded.  But soon, the shattering turned into tearing.  Her flesh, she realized.  Claws shredded her nails and skin as they forced their way out.  She could taste blood when fangs ripped through her gums, tearing up the inside of her mouth.  And then her back . . . she could’ve sworn it felt like her back was giving birth. Then nothing.

 

She wasn’t sure how long she was unconscious, but when she woke up she knew she was irrevocably different.  And worse, she knew, down to her soul, that she wasn’t a wolf.  A wolf she could handle - knew how to handle.  But she was something different.  Something . . . more.  And Stiles knew that she couldn’t let anyone know about it.

Chapter 2: Heart to Heart

Summary:

Stiles learns to deal with her new reality and talks with her dad.

For the next two weeks, all she wanted to do was sleep (which she did as often as possible) and eat.  But she wasn’t hungry for just anything; no, she wanted raw meat and fresh fruit.  The fresh fruit, though expensive, was excellent.  The raw meat, though logically disgusting, was heavenly.  She grossed herself out, but knew that physically she felt better so she tried not to think about it.

 

Somehow Scott hadn’t noticed the change in her scent, but then he didn’t really have a handle on his new senses yet, so she wasn’t totally surprised. And she hadn’t been around Derek to know if he could tell a difference or not. To be on the safe side, she bought new laundry detergent - super strong scented laundry detergent; hoping to hide her new scent for as long as possible. 

 

She has spent time working on controlling her shift (unlike her stick-his-head-in-the-sand best friend), extending and retracting her claws and fangs until it felt at least semi-natural.  Her wings (and that was a trippy thought that she had wings now) however . . . She’d washed and stretched them as best she could, but they itched something fierce.  It felt like the skin was too dry and she didn’t think lotion would work.  So she bought some sunflower seed oil and tried her best to oil the part of her wings that she could reach.  It made a night and day difference, so now she just had to figure out how to reach the part of her back and wings that she couldn’t reach on her own. 

 

But the physical issues, itching aside, were not the main problem Stiles had with her new form.  No, that came from her desire to rip and tear everyone and everything around her into tiny little shreds.  Her anger made her feel like she was one color change away from being the Hulk.  Even with lacrosse practice (though other than running - and man, had her stamina increased - she didn’t get to do much actual playing) she didn’t have any good outlet for her rage.

 

She thought about contacting Derek and seeing if he would train her to fight, but tossed that idea out when she remembered that she got him arrested and figured that he wouldn’t want anything to do with her.  So that left her dad.  She had wanted so badly to keep him out of all the supernatural bullshit that her life had become, but she needed his help.  She thought - hoped - that he would understand that she hadn’t asked for this, but she supposed that she could always try her hand with Derek if things went to shit with her dad. 

 

So, two weeks after the fateful night of Winter Formal she approached her dad when he was home for the night.

 

“Dad, can we talk?  It’s important.”  She asked quietly, her shoulders hunched in, her hands nearly hidden in the sleeves of her sweatshirt.

 

Her dad took one look at her and knew how serious this conversation was going to be, so he turned off the TV to give his daughter his full attention.  “Of course, kiddo.”

 

Stiles curled up in her corner of the couch, closest to her dad’s recliner.  “I don’t know where to start,” she began.  

 

“How about at the beginning?” He gently suggested, turning his entire body to face her.  He’d never seen his daughter look so small and terrified to talk to him.

 

“The beginning.  Um. . . okay. . . so it all started the night that Scott and I went out looking for half a body in the woods.”  The next thirty minutes were spent filling in the Sheriff on everything that had happened since then. 

 

“You do realize how crazy all this sounds, don’t you?” He patiently asked. 

 

Stiles flashed her reptilian eyes and held up her right hand with her claws extended.  “Add some credibility?” She asked, only somewhat sarcastically.

 

The Sheriff sat back in his chair, his eyes wide.  “It’s real.” He swallowed loudly.  “Everything you said is real, isn’t it?”

 

Stiles slowly retracted her claws so her dad could watch, then placed her hand back in her lap. “Yeah, it’s all real.  I don’t know what I am, just that I’m not a wolf.  At least I’m pretty sure wolves don’t have wings.” She shrugged.

 

“Wings?  You have wings?  I know you said you did, but you really have wings?”  

 

Stiles pulled the back of her shirt up to her neck and let her wings extend out her back. They were a beautiful, almost paisley pattern of white, peach, and silver.

 

“Holy shit!” Her dad was startled.  “You have wings!”

 

Stiles giggled in spite of herself.  She drew her right wing forward.  “You want to touch it?” 

 

Ever so slowly Noah reached his hand forward until just the tips of his fingers grazed that shimmery scales.  “They’re beautiful, kiddo,” he whispered, in awe of his daughter.  He was tripping the fuck out, but even he could admit that his kid was always special; he just hadn’t realized how special until just then.  He pulled his hand back after a few minutes of tracing along the ridges, spines, and scales.  “You’re handling this whole thing really well.”

 

Stiles folded her wings back into her tattoos and shook her head.  “Not really.”  She admitted.  “I’ve had two weeks to get used to the idea, but . . .” Stiles glanced up at him through her lashes, tears brimming in her golden eyes.  “I’m so scared Dad.  I have no idea what I am or what’s going on with me.”  Tears now streamed down her face.

 

Noah didn’t hesitate.  He got up from his recliner, sat next to his daughter, and pulled her in for a hug.  “I know you are kiddo.  I am too.  But we’ll figure it out together.”

 

Stiles couldn’t help it; she cried harder.  Tears of fear and tears of relief mingled as her father held her together.

Chapter 3: The Warehouse

Summary:

Scott's an idiot and Stiles lets out her inner . . . something.

It had been a month since Stiles had the hard conversation with her father.  A month in which the two had grown closer than ever.  He even helped her oil her wings every few days.  

 

School was . . . interesting, to say the least.  Between the three new wolves that Derek turned and Grandaddy Psycho Hunter the Principal, Stiles was always on her guard.  

 

Scott was still as clueless as ever, though he did tease her about how strong the scent of her laundry detergent was.  But her main complaint was how not subtle the wolves were.  Between Scott flipping lacrosse players over and sniffing them and the new leather makeover of the other three wolves, Stiles was surprised that more people didn’t know about the supernatural. 

 

Stiles thought Scott has been acting strange this past week, more secretive and withdrawn, but she couldn’t figure out why or what he was hiding from her.  And then he unilaterally decided that the two packs should meet up on neutral ground.  Which is how she found herself pulling her beloved jeep into an abandoned warehouse in the derelict industrial part of town, Derek and his pack already there and waiting.

 

“Why are we meeting in an abandoned warehouse, Scott?” Stiles asked as she got out of the jeep.  “It’s creepy.”

 

“Neutral territory,” Scott replied.

 

Stiles rolled her eyes at her best friend.  “You do realize that every place in Beacon Hills is technically Hale Pack territory, don’t you?”

 

“What?  No it’s not,” he argued.

 

“It is actually,” Derek interjected.  “Beacon Hill and the Preserve are both Hale Pack territory.  Have been for nearly two hundred years.”

 

“See,” Stiles replied.  “So why are we here Scott? If it’s to fight then you’re on your own.  There’s four of them and they have an alpha, while you have a . . . me.” Derek and his pack all smirked.

 

“No, it’s not to fight,” Scott answered.  

 

Before Scott could continue Derek turned and caught an arrow that had been flying toward him.  Derek looked down at his hand that held the arrow and tried to understand what was coating the arrow tip and shaft. The he realized that he had lost feeling in his hand and the sensation was traveling up his arm.

 

“Run!” He shouted to his pack, who didn’t hesitate to follow their Alpha’s order.  They ran for the opposite end from where the arrow originated.  By the time they were gone, Derek was on his knees paralyzed from the toxin.

 

But Stiles noticed what they did not - the Scott didn’t seem the least bit surprised.  “What have you done, Scott?”

 

“What I had to,” he replied, chin tilted up stubbornly.

 

“What.  Did.  You.  Do?!?” She yelled.  

 

“They threatened you and my mom,” Scott informed her as Gerard Argent sauntered into the warehouse, Chris and Allison right behind him.

 

“I can take care of myself,” she told him. “And we could’ve protected your mom.  You know this.  You didn’t have to betray everything we stood for.” 

 

“I had to,” he answered defiantly.  Stiles turned from watching Gerard to stare at her best friend.  She knew him, better than anyone.  They’d been best friends, sibs from different cribs, since they were six years old.  And she knew that he was keeping something from her.

 

“Why?” She put her hands on her hips, heart breaking at the realization that her brother in all but blood had betrayed them all, had betrayed her , to the hunters.

 

“I told you,” he started.

 

“No,” Stiles interrupted.  “I want the real reason why you would betray us - betray me.” She walked closer to him.  “Why. Did. You. Do. It?” Her voice is quiet in its anger.  Stiles was hanging on to her temper by her fingernails, wanting nothing more than to shift and rip her brother’s face off.

 

“Gerard promised I could be with Allison,” Scott mumbled.  But her hearing was good enough, and the room was silent enough, that she heard him as clearly as if he’d yelled it. 

 

“She must be one hell of a good lay for you to serve up your sister on a silver platter,” Stiles ground out.  Scott slapped her before she could react.  But she didn’t move.  She was done pretending.  She pulled her arm back and punched him in the temple with all of her enhanced strength.  Scott crumpled to the ground and didn’t get back up.  She could see the rise and fall of his chest, so she knew she hadn’t killed him, only knocked him out.

 

Then she turned her attention to the real threat - Gerard.  “What do you want with us?” She bit out through clenched teeth.

 

“With you,” he smirked, “Nothing.  My business is with the Hale Pack. Their alpha specifically.”

 

“What do you want with him?” She tried again.

 

“I want the bite, my dear,” he smarmed. “And since dear old Scott is unconscious I want you to get it for me.”

 

“Go fuck yourself,” she responded.

 

“Now, now,” Gerard chided.  “That’s no way to speak to the man that’s allowing you to remain alive.  So long as you cooperate, that is.” 

 

Stiles looked around at the scene.  Scott out cold by in front of her jeep, Derek paralyzed on his knees, more than a dozen armed hunters, and Stiles.  And she was pissed.  She knew that if Gerard got what he wanted he would kill her.  If he didn’t get what he wanted he would kill her.  There was no way that this night ended in any way other than bloodshed.  The only question was whose blood would be spilt.  

 

She could feel the fury and rage rising within her.  She was breaking inside. And then she felt something actually break inside her and flood her with power.  She grabbed Derek and threw his immobile body under her jeep and then she attacked.

 

She slashed Gerard across the throat with her claws, she sent Allison and Chris flying into the hunters that were raising their weapons to fire at her.  Then she pounced on the pile of hunters and tore through them like a hot knife through butter.  

 

She didn’t notice the group of men emerge from the shadows, or two of the men join in helping her destroy the hunters.  Not until she ran out of hunters to kill, then she turned her attention to them.  They were speaking to her, but she couldn’t make out what they were saying over the blood rushing in her ears.  All she knew was that they had stolen her prey.  And they would pay for that.  Wings spread wide, she roared at them and then charged.  

Chapter 4: Catching Up

Summary:

Stiles wakes up and has a conversation with her dad.

Stiles woke up feeling better than she could ever remember feeling.  She stretched and let out a jaw popping yawn.  She heard her dad chuckle from her desk chair.  Her eyes flew open.

 

“Dad!” She exclaimed, grinning from ear to ear.

 

He met her smile with one of his own.  “Hey kiddo.  I’m glad to see you finally awake.”

 

“Finally?”  She asked, and then the memories hit her.  The warehouse, the hunters, going ape-shit feral and killing them all.  Then trying to kill the guys that had been helping her.  “How long was I out?” She asked.  “And what happened?”

 

“You were in and out for about two days, then you’ve been completely out for four,” the Sheriff informed her.  “As for what happened . . . You killed all the hunters that were trying to kill you and Derek.  Scott got stripped of his wolf and sent to live far away from anywhere supernatural.”

 

“What? How?”  She was so confused.  Scott was probably glad to be stripped of his wolf, so probably not the punishment it was meant to be.  “Wait, hold that thought.  I just realized I have to . . .” Then she threw off her bed covers and hurried down the hall to the bathroom, hearing her father laugh behind her.

 

“I’ll meet you downstairs,” he hollered down the hall to her.

 

Twenty minutes later, a freshly showered and dressed Stiles entered the front room and sat in ‘her’ seat on the couch.  “Okay, I’m ready.”

 

“So, apparently, when you were bitten all of your . . . creature inheritance . . . didn’t ‘come in.’  You only got the physical changes.  Something happened that night and the rest - your magic - came in.”

 

“MY WHAT?!?” Stiles interrupted.

 

“Your magic, kiddo.” He replied easily.  “I didn’t believe it at first either, but after the things I’ve seen this last week . . . well, let’s just say that your mentor and his circle are very convincing.”

 

“Again, my what?”  Her head was reeling.  

 

“Your mentor,” he explained patiently.  “Once your magic came in he was alerted and he and several of his bonded came and helped you with the hunters.”

 

“I’m so confused,”  she admitted, rubbing her forehead.

 

“I got the full explanation and I’m still confused about it. So at least you’re in good company.”  He chuckled.  She couldn’t help but smile ruefully at her dad.  

 

“Okay,” she breathed out.  “Let’s start with the mentor.  That seems like an easier explanation than me having magic.”

 

“Okay,” he dad sighed.  “His name is Harry Gorgens-Nott and he’s from a realm called Nevarah.”

 

“A realm?” Stiles interrupted again.  “Like a different planet kind of realm, or a kingdom kind of realm.”

 

“From what I understand, it’s both.”  Noah still couldn’t wrap his head around the fact that the men that have been coming and going from his house the past week were from a different planet, so to speak.  “From what I understand, a planet is round and a realm is flat.  That’s the main difference.”

 

“So my mentor is from another planet, basically,” she wanted clarified.

 

“Basically,” he confirmed.

 

“Duuuuude!”

 

“I know, right?”  Noah couldn’t help but chuckle at his daughter - the entire situation actually.

 

“So his name is Harry and two of the guys I tried to kill are his bonded?” Noah nodded.  “What’s bonded mean in this context?”

 

“From what I’ve gathered, it’s basically that they’re married.”

 

“Multiple spouses?  How does that work?”

 

“He should be here soon, and you can ask him yourself.”

 

“Then I’ll put that on the back burner.  You mentioned Scott got stripped of his wolf.  How? I didn’t think that was possible.  Does he remember being a wolf? Does he remember what happened that night?  Does he know that I killed his girlfriend? Does…”

 

“Whoa, kiddo,” Noah interrupted.  “One question at a time.”  Stiles blushed but waited quietly for her dad to answer.  “Yes, he remembers being a wolf, but no he doesn’t remember that night.  He thinks that Allison, her father, and grandfather were killed by a drunk driver on the way to the meeting.”

 

“Seriously? The big bad werewolf hunters were taken out by a drunk human on the way to kill a bunch of wolves?  Oh, that’s priceless.  I was worried that taking his wolf wouldn’t be that big of a punishment since he’s been saying from the beginning that he wanted it gone.  He hated his wolf, but he was sure happy to use it when it suited his purpose.  But if he remembers being a wolf, he’ll remember what it’s like to be able to breathe normally and to play sports and to be sort of popular.   He’ll want to be able to do all of that still and won’t be able to.  He’ll be miserable.  I guess stripping him of his wolf is a good punishment after all.”

 

“Sounds like it,” Noah agreed.

 

“I know I should be more torn up about it, and about him moving, but he served me up to Gerard.  Gerard was going to kill me after he got the bite from Derek.  And if I didn’t help him, he was going to kill me.  I can’t just forgive that.  And I know that murder isn’t that answer to anything, and for that I’m sorry.  But…”

 

“No, Stiles.  I will never be upset about what you did that night.  I’m upset that you were put in a position that you had to do it, but I’m not upset that you did it.  You saved your life and the life of Derek Hale.  You did what you had to do to come home to me. And I’m more grateful that I can ever put into words, kiddo.”  

 

Tears of relief streamed down Stiles’ face - her father’s absolution lifting a weight off her shoulders that she hadn’t realized she’s been carrying.

 

“I love you Daddio.”

 

“I love you kiddo.  We’ll get through this.  Together.”

 

Stiles sniffled as she fought to end her tears.  “So, did you ever get a name for what I am?”

 

“I did, actually.” Noah replied.  “You’re a dragel.  A ferros submissive dragel to be precise.”

 

Chapter 5: Harry & Co.

Summary:

Harry and several of his bonded show up and have a chat with Stiles and Noah.

A knock on the back door kept Stiles from asking more questions.  She stood as her dad ushered in their guests.  She was understandably nervous, she had tried to kill a few of them less than a week ago.

 

“Stiles,” her dad began. “This is your mentor, Harry Gorgen-Nott.  Harry, this is my daughter, Mieczysława Stilinski.”

 

“Stiles, please.” She informed the group of five men that all looked to be in their twenties.

 

“It’s a pleasure to officially meet you Stiles,” Harry said. “Allow me to introduce some of my bonded.  This is my Alpha Theo, one of our paraya, Ethan, our Healer, Quinn, and our Ace, Hadrian.”

 

Stiles looked at Hadrian and thought she recognized his mask.  “I think I owe you an apology for trying to kill you the other day.”

 

The masked man waved it off.  “No need for apologies. Your reaction was completely understandable given the circumstances.”

 

Stiles blushed, though she had no idea why.  “Won’t you all please come in and sit down? I’ll go bring in a few more chairs from the dining room,” she tried to hurry out of the room to cover her embarrassment.

 

“No need,” Harry said.  And with a wave of his hand three chairs appeared directly across from the couch.  Stiles froze and stared.

 

“Sooooo. . . magic really is a thing that is a thing now.”  Noah chuckled at his daughter.  

 

Harry sat at the opposite end from Stiles’ spot on the couch; Theo, Ethan, and Quinn taking the magic chairs, with Hadrian leaning against the wall in the corner.  Noah and Stiles sat in their normal seats, with Stiles tucking her left leg under her slightly and turning in her seat to face Harry.

 

“Dad said that you told him I’m a submissive dragel,” Stiles started.  “You should know that I’ve never been submissive a day in my life.”  Everyone, including Noah, chuckled at her statement.

 

“In this case, Submissive is a rank, not a personality trait,” Harry explained. “A submissive, or sub, is the heart of a Circle, the one that brings them, and holds them, all together.” 

 

“A Circle?” She asked, confused.

 

“Yes, a Circle. Dragels bond into groups known as Circles, with different ranks taking different types of roles in the family.  The main triad is the alpha, beta, and sub.”

 

“Is an alpha dragel like an alpha werewolf?” 

 

“In many ways, yes.  They are the ‘head’ of the circle, they handle the political and social networking, they are the main provider for the circle, etc.” 

 

“Okay, that makes sense.  And betas? I get the feeling they’re different from beta wolves.” She ducked her head.  “Sorry to keep bringing up wolves,”

“But they’re what you know,” Harry interrupted.  “It’s fine Stiles.  Really.  And you’re right.  They are different.  To start, there’s usually only one per circle, instead of making up the majority of a pack.  A dragel beta is the alpha’s second-in-command, if you will.  They assist with the day to day running of the circle, and they act as a go-between between the rest of the circle, mainly the gheyos, and the alpha and sub.  They also act as a mediator between the alpha and submissive when they, inevitably, disagree.  I say ‘inevitably’ because no one agrees with everyone about everything all the time.  The alpha and submissive are looking at situations from very different perspectives, and that can lead to disagreements and misunderstandings.  Don’t let me scare you, most of the time Theo and I agree on what’s best for our Circle, but when we do disagree . . . let’s just say that we are very grateful for our Beta Charlie.”

 

“Okay, that makes sense. What’s a gheyo?” Stiles asked.  Instead of answering, Harry turned toward Hadrian.

 

“We gheyos are fighters,” the masked man answered.  “Our job is to see to the safety of our Circle.  Our response to threats is offensive, whereas a paraya’s response is defensive.   We have our own hierarchy, a circle within a circle, you could say, known as a suite.  Like a deck of cards.  Each rank has their own job within the suite.  I'm Ace.  I’m in charge and my job is to look at what’s best for the suite as a whole, whereas the King’s job is to look at what’s best for each individual in the suite. The ranks are Ace, King, Queen, Prince, Princess, and Joker.  Brishen, the one that was with me last week, is a Joker.  Jokers don’t fall into the hierarchy of the suite, but they're still gheyo.  It’s a bit confusing until you see it all in action.”

“Very confusing,” Stiltes agreed.  She turned to the dark skinned man sitting in a chair across from her.  “Harry mentioned you’re a paraya.”

“Yes, paraya are defensive fighters, like Hadrain mentioned.  Paraya literally means protector.  We also see to the day to day lives of our circles.  We tend to fuss over making sure everyone is comfortable, has what they need, has enough to eat, has enough cuddles, and so on.  Like gheyo, paraya can also have sub-ranks, depending on how many are in the circle.  Our circle has three hands of paraya, so there’s not much need.  But my parental circle is a parayic coven, meaning they have more paraya than any other rank, and as such the sub-ranks are important for their circle’s harmony.”

 

“I really hope no one expects me to remember all of this,” Stiles rubbed her head, overwhelmed.  “There’s all these ranks and rules, and then all the exceptions to the rules.”

 

“No one expects you to have it all memorized from this conversation.  Before we leave, I’ll give you my first gift, which is a book that goes into an overview of dragels, including their circles and ranks.”

 

“First gift? And thank you, I’d love to have a book that I can reference.”

“First gift,” Harry confirmed.  “As your Mentor I’ll give you several gifts.  Some with specific meaning, like the book, and some just because I like you and thought of you when I saw it.”

 

Stiles decided to just ignore that in favor of getting to know Quinn.  She turned to him, “You’re a Healer.  Where does that fall into the ranks?”

 

“It technically falls outside the ranks,” he answered in his quiet, scratchy voice.  “It’s considered a Non-Traditional Rank.  Which also includes: Advisor, Royal, Mage, Merrow, Carrier, and Companion.  All the benefits of being in a Circle without falling directly into the hierarchy.  Also, may I cast a diagnostic on you?  I want to make sure that you’re all healed and that there’s no lingering issues from the bullets I pulled out of you the other day.”

 

“Bullets?!?  I got shot that night?  I didn’t even feel it.”  Stiles sat stunned.  “Oh, uh, yeah, you can cast whatever you need.”  

 

“It’s not surprising you didn’t feel it,” he explained as his soft green magic washed over Stiles.  “You wouldn’t have felt much of anything in your feral state.  Everything looks like it healed perfectly.”

 

“Feral?  So I did lose my shit and go feral.”  She glanced at her dad who smiled at her in support.  He’d remained quiet as he’d heard most of this information already, though it was nice to hear it again.  But mainly he was just there for emotional support for his daughter.

 

“That’s the closest description for what happened,” Harry took over.  “You’re actually Ferros, which means . . . well, like a werewolf can shift from human to their beta shift, as a ferros, you will be able to shift into that ‘feral’ mindset as you need.  The only worry is that if you shift into without the proper anchors for yourself and your magic . . . you might not be able to come back.”

 

“I’d go insane,” she stated, numb.  “Just like Peter Hale.  All killing machine all the time.”

“Yes,” he reluctantly agreed.  “But, luckily, as a submissive, that is a problem that is inherently solvable.”

 

“How?”  She REALLY didn’t want to turn into Peter.  No sir, not at all.

 

“Once a decade Nevarah hosts an eight week festival called The Hunt.  It is a time for those interested in bonding into a circle to have a chance to meet and bond.  And it’s starting in less than two months Nevarah time, which is two weeks Earth time.”

 

“Why the difference?” She asked.

 

“Nevarah is a nevermore realm.  Which means that it is not connected to any other place. So there’s a time difference between it and everywhere else. For Earth, it is one day here is four days there,” Harry explained.  “And your father has agreed that the two of you will come to Nevarah through at least the end of the hunt, which is about a month Earth time.”

 

“Do I get a say in this?”

“Nope,” Noah grinned.  “I want you as far away from any hunters as I can get you.  Besides,” he softened.  “I want you to be able to learn about yourself in a place you can be yourself.  If, after the hunt is over, you want to come back, I won’t stop you.  Remember, it’s only be a month here.  I have more than enough vacation time to cover that.  And with the hunters gone it should be relatively peaceful here.”

 

“Fine,” she agreed.  “But I’m holding you to the part about coming back if I want to.”

 

“Deal,” he offered immediately.   

 

“I should probably tell Derek so that he doesn’t think we’ve been kidnapped as some sort of revenge plot,” she suggested.

 

“He already knows and is supportive of you going.”

 

“What? When did you talk to Derek?”

 

“Hale stopped by while you were out to check on the two of us.  We’ve had several long chats since.  Harry and company got here during one of them and they had a long chat of their own.  Apparently Mentors are a big deal in the supernatural world, so Harry’s guys got in touch with something called a Were-Council and got Derek assigned a mentor from a pack up near the border of California and Oregon.

 

“Harry’s Mage, Riven, also cleaned up the ‘Nexus Point’ that Derek called the Nemeton.  Apparently the ley lines were all corrupted and messed up, drawing in all sorts of nasty people and beings.”

 

“Were-councils, nexus points, and you ‘chatting’ with a former murder suspect,” her voice dry as the Sahara.  “It’s been a busy week around here.”

 

Noah laughed.  “You have no idea kid.  Now, let’s go get packing. The sooner that’s done, the sooner we can get to Neverland.”

 

Stiles giggled at her dad’s attempt at a joke, more grateful for his support than she could put into words.  So, when they both stood up to head upstairs, so did the only thing she could do to express her love - she hugged him.

Chapter 6: Welcome to Nevarah

Summary:

The Stilinskis and Harry & Co. arrive in Nevarah an some truths are learned.

The portal to Nevarah was trippy as fuck.  There was no other way to describe it.  Watching Ethan wave his hand and her clothes pack themselves had been so cool.  (She couldn’t wait to learn how to do stuff like that.) But magically teleporting between her home planet and an alien realm was shattering her already broken brain.

 

And then she caught her first glimpse of the nevermore realm.  It almost defied description: Volcanos, mountains the extended as far below the surface as they did above, a floating city above the floating realm, and the water - oh the water was gorgeous.

 

“Welcome to Nevarah,” Harry said as the portal touched down. “Let’s get you both registered and then we’ll head to our home.”  He guided the two toward the registration desk.  “Stand here in this square Stiles and place your hand on the pad.” He instructed, then turned to the gheyo manning the desk.  “Mieczysława Stilinski, mentored student of Harry Gorgons-Nott, to stay until the end of The Hunt.”

 

The gheyo manning the desk tried to act like they weren’t startled, but Harry Gorgons-Nott was famous (or infamous, depending on who you asked).  And him having a mentored student was sure to cause waves throughout Nevarah.

 

Once both Stilinskis were registered they got their first look at Nevarah proper.  So many people, and such a variety of colors and shapes of wings that some people had out.  It was breathtaking.

 

Another quick portal had the group arrive at the Gorgons-Nott estate.  Speaking of breathtaking - it was huge!  If Noah hadn’t had his arm around Stiles’ shoulder he surely would’ve lost her to the massive library.  

 

Once all of their things were unpacked in their guest rooms, courtesy of Ethan’s waving magic hands, Harry, Quinn, and Ethan usher the Stilinskis to Quinn’s medical rooms.  It’s a building that is just off the main house, with a covered walkway connecting the two.  

 

“I wanted to do some more in-depth scans on both of you than I could safely do on Earth,” Quinn told them once they were inside and situated on two of the patient beds.

 

He started with Noah.  “As I thought,” he said when he was finished.  “You have dragel heritage - merrow heritage to be precise.”

“What does that mean for me?” Noah asked.  “And what’s a merrow?”

“A merrow is a water dragel, and it means that you have magic potential that can be unlocked.  Unlocking it is not without its risks, but it is possible,” Quinn explained.

 

“ I have magic?” Noah sputtered.

 

“See!  It’s not just me,” Stiles crowed.  “Being told you have magic to totally freak out worthy.” She turned back to the healer.  “You mentioned risks.  What are they?”

 

“To be blunt - death.”  Both Stilinskis sputtered at that. “It’s a very low risk, but a risk nonetheless.”

 

“How low?” Noah asked.

 

“About a five percent chance,” Quinn informed them.  “While low, it is still a possibility, so take time to think it over.  Now, Stiles.”  Quinn turned to Stiles.  “It's your turn.”

A few moments later he spoke.  “You also have some merrow heritage - obviously.  But I’m more concerned about the family seal that you still have.”

 

“What’s a seal and why is it a problem?” Noah asked, trying to ignore the fact that he might have magic.

 

“A seal is like a valve.  They can be good things.  Usually used on young kids to help regulate strong family gifts.  It allows the child to grow up without the added stress that the gift or talent can be.  They usually come off just before or as a child inherits.  But, like your mentor, you’re more exceptions than rules.

 

“The problem is that a family seal can be hiding anything, and trying to hunt for bonded with it on is asking for trouble.”

 

Stiles and Noah sat there absorbing the information for a moment.

 

“Can you remove it?”

 

“Yes and no,” Quinn prevaricated.  “Family seals are designed to only be removed by family.” He watched as both their faces fell.  “However, since you bear a Gajos seal and they are supposedly extinct, we can petition the courts to have it removed.  It will most likely be more painful than if a family member did, but with no other family members left, there’s really no other option.”

 

“Do it,” Noah told him.  “If it’s going to cause her problems to leave it on, then do whatever you have to do to take it off.”

 

“Do I get a say?” Stiles pouted.  “I mean, I would’ve said the same thing, but I feel like I should’ve gotten a say first.” 

 

“Of course you get a say kiddo,” Noah reassured.  “I just want you healthy and whole .  And I want you to have the best chance of success at hunting and bonding as you can have.”

 

“If I get mine taken off, then you get yours taken off,” she argued.

 

“Mine could kill me, kiddo.” 

 

“So could mine, I’m pretty sure.”  They both turned to Quinn to verify.

 

He shrugged.  “It’s about a one percent chance, but she’s not wrong.”

 

“See.  If I have to learn all this magic stuff, I’d rather learn it with you.”  She folded her arms over her chest.  Noah sighed.

 

“Okay.  Fine.  A ninety-five percent chance of success is pretty good odds, I suppose.”  He caved.  Of course he did.  He always caved when it came to his kid.  She gave him those damn Bambi eyes just like her mother did.  And just like with Claudia, Noah couldn’t say no.

 

“Yay!!” Stiles cheered.  “You’ll love it, you’ll see.”

 

“Alright Quinn,” Noah sighed.  “What do I need to do?”

Chapter 7: Under the Sea

Summary:

Stiles & Co head to the Merrow palace.

The next few weeks flew by for Stiles as she learned about herself and how to use magic. Noah had taken to magic like a duck to water. Speaking of water, Stiles wasn’t sure that her dad and Alec getting to know each other was a good idea - for her.  Her dad was already snarky, but Alec just brought it out even more.  Like calls to like, and all that.

 

The trip to the Merrow court was rapidly approaching and Alec was working with Stiles to try to coax out any Merrow form she may have.  It . . . was a work in progress.  They’d discovered both she and her dad could breathe underwater, like Quinn, (which was the best Noah would be able to do since he was too old for his dragel inheritance to come in) but she should have a merrow form.  They just hadn’t been able to bring it out.  

 

Until the day before they left.  Finally, Alec was able to help Stiles shift into her merrow form - an eagle ray. The two spent the rest of the day practicing how to be able to move at least somewhat gracefully.  And to not (ACCIDENTALLY Alec) use her tail as a whip.  (Brishen worked with after that how to use it as a weapon.)

 

“Circle up,” Alec called.  Stiles, Noah, Harry, Wikhn, and Brishen all gathered close to Alec. One watery portal later they were in the King’s private study.  Stiles quickly shifted to her eagle ray form, under the proud look from her dad.  

 

“So these are the Returned,” King Alcandor called out as he entered the room.  

 

Oh boy.  Stiles was NOT ready.  Stiles’ Perception had thought Raspen was the Big Bad, but he looked harmless.  King Alcandor felt like the Big Bad to Stiles’ Perception and on top of that he looked like the Big Bad - all bulging muscles and deep, powerful voice.  And drop. Dead. Gorgeous! Then the dude with tentacle swam in and Stiles had to rethink her definition of Big Bad.  Holy muscles, Batman! And nearly as inhumanly good looking as the King.

 

What did she have in common with the Merrow of these were the prime examples of Merrow?

 

The King flicked her in the forehead to get her attention. “Breathe little one.”

 

Stiles reflexively took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

 

“Much better.  Now,” the clapped his hands together.  “Let’s see how well you’ve adapted to your form.  Give us a spin.”

 

Stiles slowly spun (she really didn’t want to accidentally whip the King) in a circle.

 

“Good, good. Now, let’s head to the ritual grounds.”  The King led the way out the door, the tentacled behemoth right behind him.  About half way there Stiles stopped dead in her tracks, causing Alec to run into her. 

 

“What are you doing?” He asked.  She nodded her head off to the side.  

 

“I just saw the most beautiful Aqua-kin’e.  All purple and fuschia.  Seriously.  Just gorgeous.”  He’d made all her instincts sit up and pay attention.  To the point where maybe she was more ready than she’d originally thought to hunt for bonded.  Because . . . dayum! 

 

Alec choked on a laugh.  He knew exactly who she saw, but he wasn’t going to say anything just yet.  “Just keep moving.  We really don’t want to keep Al waiting.”

 

---

“Yarad,” Stiles heard the ritual master that was working on her dad call out.  “Noah Stilinski is a descendent of Yarad, no more than two generations.”  

 

But was she done? Oh no.  Her ritual master seemed to be struggling and her magic was NOT happy.  She could feel it trying to escape whatever the ritual master was trying to do.  Finally, after several long minutes, her master called out.

 

“Yarad,” he exhaled.  “Mieczysława Stilinski is definitely a Yarad, no more than three generations.  Her magic has a predisposition for concealment, if that had not already been discovered.  It did not like the ritual trying to make some of it known, no matter how benign the reason.”

 

“The official notification will be sent to the Yarad as soon as we return to the Administration Building,” the first ritual master told them.

 

“And that’s our cue to get you both back on land,” the King announced.

 

“I thought the whole point was to meet them,” Noah questioned.

 

“That was before we were sure it was the Yarad.  The have closed ranks tighter than a clam since your ancestor was stolen.  If you’d like to be able to continue to live on land then you need to go now,” Advisor Kieran informed them.

 

“Okay then,” Stiles sighed.  She’d hoped for more time to find that gorgeous purple merrow, but her and her dad’s independence came first.  

 

Alec called in an eerie repeat of what he’d done just hours before, “Circle up.”

Chapter 8: A Seal Removal & A Party

Summary:

Stiles meets her Third, get a seal removed, and attends a party in her honor.

Harry had one of his older kids (apparently they were unbonded and like to travel) track down the last person to know Claudia to prove that Stiles was the Gajos heir, so that everything could be approved through the courts to get not only the heirship, but the seal removed as well.   (Everything Harry wasn’t saying indicated that they thought this dude might be Stiles’ Third, which was a whole other bag of crazy that Stiles didn’t want to open just yet.)  Apparently being bonded to the King meant that you had to double check that every single i was dotted and every single t was crossed, so that no one could accuse them of abusing and/or going around the system.  Seemed like a pain to Stiles.

 

Eventually, the enigma known as Idris Nightshade appeared at the Gorgons-Nott estate. Stiles had no idea what to make of the man.  He seemed to be all jagged edges and rough demeanor, but that sort of meant that he fit with the Stilinkski family in a weird way.  

 

What followed the meeting was one of the hardest, most heart wrenching conversations of Stitles’, admittedly, short life.  Idris spoke of Claudia’s slight precience and the power hungry clan that wanted her for their own.  Her refusal and their massacring her entire family to prove a point.  A point that she repaid when she slaughtered the Ace that wanted her - not that anyone could ever prove it was her. And then she ran.  

 

Not that anyone in the room could blame her. Not even Idris that she had left behind.  

 

And Idris did, unofficially, confirm that he was Stiles’ Third.  “We’d agreed we’d name our son after her sire and our daughter after my mera.”  That pronouncement rang like a shotgun through the Stilinskis.  They’d know Stiles had a Third, obviously; had even figured that it was probably the unknown Nightshade Joker.  But hearing that - Stiles didn’t know what to do with the confirmation.  Didn’t know what she was supposed to do with it, even what she wanted to do.  

 

Later, she decided.  She’d deal with it later.  She still had a seal removal she had to prepare for.

 

A week later, found Stiles, her dad, and Step-Idris (that was the closest her Earth-raised brain could deal with just now) deep in the Earth courts to have her Gajos seal removed (and to fill out all the paperwork to have her officially named the Gajos heir).  

 

When asked later, Stiles couldn't describe what having her seal removed felt like.  Mostly excruciating pain, but then nothing until she woke.  (She was low-key ticked that she’d missed her eighteenth birthday while she was asleep in the time dilation chamber that the healers put her in to allow her body to acclimate to the change faster (the upcoming Hunt was the deciding factor to speed her through multiple realignment cycles)).

 

But apparently her dad had mentioned that she’d turned eighteen while in the chamber, so Harry decided to throw her a party.  Stiles was pretty sure he was just looking for an excuse to throw a party, but she wasn’t going to complain. So one week before The Hunt was scheduled to start, Stiles found herself at a party in her honor in a realm far from her home.

 

The party was in full swing and Stiles had been dragged hither, thither, and yon by Harry, introducing her to varying family members - both his children and bonded’s families.  She’d been introduced to several of Harry’s kids, many Hartwoods and Prewitts.  She’d met Idan’s sister and the Deveraine twins.  Her head was starting to spin with how many people she’d met, and she knew that there would be more before the night was over.

 

“Taran,” Harry called out.  Stiles turned from where she’d been speaking with Bahn. Only to watch a large, pretty, deadly male stalk toward her mentor.

 

“Mera,” he greeted Harry with a kiss on the cheek. 

 

“Taran I want you to meet my mentored student, Mieczysława Stilinski.  Stiles, this is my son Taranis Maruke.”

 

When Stiles met his eyes she froze, lost in his grey-purple-silver eyes.  Every instinct she had was at attention and completely focused on the man in front of her.

 

“Alpha,” she breathed out.

 

“My submissive,” he echoed just as breathlessly.

 

“What?!?” Harry’s near screech startled them both enough that they broke eye contact.  Harry’s head was turning back and forth between the two of them.  “Seriously?”

 

They met each other’s eyes again and got lost again.  Taranis held out his hand, palm up.  “Would you care to dance, my heart?”

 

“I’d love to.” When she placed her hand in his, her Perception blew through any and all blocks and she got a read on who he was as a person.  Ambitious, a serious temper, a not-so-hidden strain of bloodlust (he was a gheyo alpha, after all), but so, so, SO much love and devotion ready to be heaped on his future bonded.  And it was already turning toward her. To say it was a heady feeling was a bit of an understatement.

 

“Mieczysława,” he started once he’d pulled her into the circle of his arm.

 

“Stiles,” she interrupted.  He gave a slow smirk that made her blush.

 

“Stiles.  Then you must call me Taran,” he offered in return.  “I never thought I’d ever have a soul-bonded submissive to call my own.”

 

“And I never thought I’d have a soul-bonded gheyic alpha to call my own,” she replied.  “I guess we’re both lucky.”

 

“Lady Luck and Lady Fate have both blessed me this night,” his voice was so honest that it made her weak in the knees.  Their bodies swayed together to the music for a few moments before he spoke again.  He brought his large hand up to cup her cheek.  “I’d really like to kiss you now.”

 

“Please,” she breathed.

 

Taran leaned down and ever so gently pressed his lips to her.

 

Shift.  Twist. . . .

 

A small whine escaped Stiles.  “What’s wrong?” Taran immediately asked.  

 

“I felt a shift, a twist, and then nothing.  The whine was for the nothing.  My instincts know there was supposed to be something after the twist.” She rubbed her sternum in confusion.

 

“Easy love,” he grasped her hands.  “When we bond then everything will click into place like it’s supposed to.  Soon, beloved.  Soon.”

 

“You promise?” She asked hopefully.

 

“I promise, my heart.”

Notes:

If you want to read SifShadowHeart's original discussion about the Gajos massacre, it can be found here:
https://archiveofourown.org/works/45904795/chapters/117842593

I recommend reading it - the entire fic actually. It's amazing.

Chapter 9: You too?

Summary:

Enter Ariki Deveraine

Stiles and Taran stayed together on the dance floor for the next thirty minutes before they were interrupted.

 

“Please don’t kill the messenger, Maruke,” a silky voice said behind Taran’s shoulder.  A voice that had all her instincts perking up.  Before she could see the man that had spoken, Taran had her bundled under his left arm as he glared back over his right shoulder.

 

“I’ll save my ire for the message sender,” he promised.

 

“It was your Mera,” the voice informed Taranis, who sighed.  “He said, and I quote, ‘tell him he’s monopolized enough of the birthday girl’s time.  There’s people that she still needs to be introduced to.’”

 

Taran growled under his breath.  Stiles tapped him in his chest.  He glanced down at her.

 

“Introduce me to the messenger and that will count as me being introduced to people,” she suggested, giggling.

 

“Very cunning, my heart.”  He turned, pulling her with him.  “Stiles, this is Ariki Deveraine of the joint Deveraine Circle.  Ariki, this is my Mera’s student and my soul-bonded submissive Mieczysława Stilinski.”  

 

She looked up (and up) at the golden-blond haired man and when their eyes met, she knew.  Just like she had with Taranis.

 

“Beta,” she sighed.

 

“Submissive,” he echoed.  Taran made a choked off noise that she only half paid attention to, too lost in Ariki’s golden silver eyes. 

 

“I’m not introducing you to anyone else that isn’t already bonded into a full circle,” her alpha teased. 

 

Stiles forced herself to look at Taran.  “We should probably go find my dad and let him know, regardless of meeting anyone new.  Well, Dad and my Third, I suppose. I’m still not used to having a third parent.”

 

Both men gave her soft smiles.

 

“You know,” Ariki said as they turned to head into the house.  “I had no idea that I’d end the night finding my soul-bonded submissive, let alone my triad.”

 

“Same,” Taranis agreed.

 

*~*~*

“Daddio,” Stiles called when she caught sight of her dad, hidden in a shadowy alcove with Alec and Idris. “Idris.  Good, you’re both here.”

The two lit up at seeing their daughter, but frowned when they noticed she was holding hands with two towering men.

 

“I wanted you both to be the first to know,” she began.  “I met my soul-bonded alpha and soul-bonded beta.” She resolutely ignored Alec as he choked on a cough.  “Dad, Idris, I'd like to introduce you to Taranis Maruke and Ariki Deveraine.  Taran, Ariki, meet my dad and my Third, Sheriff Noah Stilinski and Idris Nightshade.”

 

“I don’t even know what to say, kiddo,” Noah sputtered.  “Congratulations, I suppose.” He moved forward and hugged his daughter.  “You’re not bonding tonight, are you?” He whispered to her.

 

“No, dad,” she reassured him.  “Probably not for a couple of days.”

 

“Days?”

 

“As much as I hate to say it,” Idris added in, “Open soul-bonds can become painful if left open too long.  A couple of days is probably the best we can hope for.”  Noah’s shoulders slumped in defeat.

 

“Okay,” he conceded.  “But those couple of days better be used to get to know each other.”  He took a moment to glare at the men.  “If you two don’t treat her with the respect she deserves, they will never find your bodies.  Understood?”

 

“Understood, sir,” they replied together.  Stiles Perception caught that they both held a touch more respect for her dad than they already had, which kept her from kicking up a fuss at his statement.

 

“Now that I’ve been thoroughly embarrassed, we need to go tell the other parents.”  She gave her dad another hug. “Love you Daddio.”  And then on impulse she hugged Idris.  “See you guys later.”

*~*~*

The trio came across Harry first, who grinned broadly at them.

 

“You too Ariki?” He asked as he noticed the beta holding hands with his student.

 

“Me too?” he queried.

 

“I already knew that Taran and Stiles shared a soul-bond.  I was the one to introduce them.  With you holding hands with my student I can only guess that you share one too,” Harry explained.

 

“Oh,” he lit up in understanding. “Yes, Stiles and I have a soul-bond.”  He sounded quite proud of that fact, which made Stiles blush.  Seeing this, Taran dropped her hand and wrapped his arm around her waist, his hand settling on her left hip.

 

“Congratulations, you three,” Harry exclaimed.  “Now, the problem I’m having is that I don’t know which of you to threaten.”

 

“You could just not threaten any of us, Mera,” Taran offered.

 

“Don’t be ridiculous Taran. Someone needs the shovel talk, I’m just not sure who,” Harry playfully argued back.

 

“How about if all three of us consider ourselves threatened,” Stiles suggested.  “After all, my dad did already threaten Taran and Ariki.”

 

 Harry pretended to think about it for a moment, then left out an exaggerated sigh.  “Alright, fine.  Consider yourselves properly threatened to take care of each other or else.”  All was silent for a few seconds and then the four of them all laughed.  “Now, Stiles really does need to be introduced to a few more people, Taran, so make sure she meets…”

Chapter 10: A New Home

Summary:

The triad check out the Gajos Estate, Stiles chats with her dad and mentor, then works on her main talent.

The triad spent nearly every waking moment of the next few days with each other, getting to know the others better (or in the case of Taran and Ariki, in a different way).  On day two, they decided to go check out the Gajos estate and check to see if it would be able to be used for their nascent circle.  

 

It was a sprawling estate, easily big enough to fit the military circle that their circle was sure to become.  It was in the Earth territory, but it wasn’t underground like some Earth homes.  There were a couple of tall towers to suit Taran and Ariki’s air affinities, the top of one of the towers was high enough for Taran’s storm affinity to be satisfied.  There were fireplaces in most rooms that would see any fire elementals happy, and several floors under the manor for any earth types.  Plenty of shadowy alcoves to put Taran and Stiles’ shadow affinities at ease.  The only element that didn’t have a place for was Stiles’ merrow side.  And with as strong as her merrow strain was, there was sure to be more merrow bonded in the future.  So, they’d need to figure out a way to accommodate that.

 

(Luckily, the dragel builders/contractors weren’t too busy yet (once The Hunt started and circles started building they’d be inundated with requests), so they were able to get to work on the Gajos estate quickly.  A few of the first floor bedrooms were converted to merrow rooms and a small lake (with accompanying dock) was built.  By the time the first day of the Hunt came around, the Gajos estate was ready to host all the elements.)

 

Stiles and her soon-to-be bonded checked out all the rooms in the manor.  Before long, they found the main resting room. A few cleaning spells by Taranis and Ariki had it dusted and tidied.

 

“We should break in our new home,” Stiles suggested.

 

“Are you sure you’re ready?” Taran asked.  He’d been ready to bond since the moment he met his submissive, but he didn’t want to rush her.

 

“Yes, I’m sure,” she stated firmly.  “I want to finalize the bonds with both of you.”

 

“So do I,” Ariki informed them.

 

“Then let’s christen our new bed,” Taran said suggestively.

 

*~*~*

The next morning Stiles returned to the Gorgons-Nott estate to collect her belongings and talk to her dad.  She found him in the dining room, just finishing up his breakfast.

 

“Hey Daddio,” Stiles chirped.  Noah pushed out of his chair and crushed his daughter in a hug.  

 

“You didn't come back last night,” he said. “I’m guessing that means I have two new sons-in-law?”

 

“Yup,” Stiles popped the p and bounced on her toes.  “And with a few upgrades for my merrow side, the Gajos estate will work for all the elements. The three of us decided that the circle will be the Gajos-Maruke Circle.  Do you want to stay here or do you want to come stay with us?”

 

“I really don’t need to see what you get up to with your bonded and when,” Noah cringed, “So I’ll stay here.  Alec, and even Brishen, have become pseudo-mentors to me so I’m sure I’ll still be welcome.”

 

“Of course you will,” Harry announced as he walked into the room.  “You’ll be welcome here as long as you want and/or need, Noah.”

 

“Thank you, Harry,” Noah replied.  “Now, where are my new sons-in-law?”

 

“We all went to pack our things, so that we could get back sooner,” she informed her father and her mentor.  “And Taran was planning on contacting a contractor and/or builder to do the merrow upgrades.” She turned to Harry.  “I think he said something about contacting Alec to get the name of a merrow builder to make sure it was done properly.”

 

“Good. Otherwise Alec would’ve insisted that a merrow builder go check it over once it was finished anyway.”

 

“You’ll both have to come see the estate anyway and get keyed into the wards, so that you can come visit anytime,” she told them.

 

“Of course,” Noah agreed.  “I’d like to see where your mom grew up.”

 

“It’s gorgeous.  It’s already big enough to house a military circle.  There’s an entire wing, with multiple floors, for the gheyos. Towers for the air and storms.  A nursery, and a classroom for our future kids to be homeschooled and everything.”

 

“It sounds perfect,” Noah told her.  

 

“It’s close.  Once the builders are done, then it really will be perfect.”

 

“We can’t wait to see it,” Harry promised her.

 

Stiles grinned, happy that her dad and mentor were happy for her.  “You wanna come talk while I pack?”

“Sure kiddo.”

 

*~*~*

Stiles was the first of the triad back at the estate, so after unpacking she decided to practice her primary talent.  She had so much more energy and magic now that she’d bonded that she wanted to see how that affected her talent.  She made her way to the casting grounds, just off the manor.  

 

Once the wards were up to contain the magic she sat tailor style on the dirt.  She called two pebbles to her and focused her magic into them.  Once they had finally taken on the substances she wanted she focused on the shape she wanted each to take.  If she could do it well enough, she could use them as courting favors for her bonded.  

 

She poured more magic into the now gemstones and coaxed them into the marquee cut that she desired.  The more facets the more difficult the casting, but she knew with the power-up from her bonding that she could do it.  And she was right.

 

Once she had the gem and the cut right, she focused on what magic to add to them.  Anti-theft and anti-loss were a given, but then she added spells for protection, healing, and general health.

 

With sweat dripping down her face, she held two perfect marquee cut four carat diamonds in her hand; one a black diamond, one a pink diamond.  

 

“You’re amazing,” Ariki said reverently from behind her right shoulder.  She startled so bad she almost dropped the stones in the dirt.

 

“Breathtaking,” Taran agreed.  Stiles stood and dusted herself off.  She quickly pulled down the wards on the casting ground and made her way to her bonded.

 

She then handed Taran the black diamond (with the faintest hints of purple at the end points) and the pink diamond to Ariki.

 

“These are courting gifts from me to each of you,” she told them, proud of her work.

 

Instead of responding with words Taran swooped in and kissed her deeply and thoroughly.  He then swept her off her feet and carried her into the manor. 

 

Her bonded spent the rest of the afternoon showing her their appreciation for the gift, her talent, and for her.

Chapter 11: Day One

Summary:

Day one of The Hunt

Day one of the hunt dawned clear and sunny - a beautiful day.  Waking in the arms of her beloved bonded triad made it a perfect day.  She got dressed and ready to spend the day by herself, as was tradition. 

 

She knew that she needed to hunt for paraya next, but had no idea where to find them.  Unlike the gheyo section of Nevarah, there was no paraya section.  So she had no idea where to start. She figured that she’d stumble across them, or they’d get her attention through favors.  

 

So after the triad registered for the hunt, she decided to get some shopping done for gifts for her bonded, her mentor, and her dads (she wasn’t ready to call Idris her dad out loud, but she couldn’t help the fact that she was starting to in her mind).

 

Her first stop was Raven Shield Armory.  Taran had gifted her and Ariki matching daggers, so she thought she’d return the favor.  

 

“You have good taste,” a beautiful blond gheyo interrupted her thoughts about a dagger.

 

“Thank you,” she replied with a smile.  “It’s for my new bonded gheyic alpha.  Think he’d approve?”

 

“If he’s smart enough to bond to you before the hunt starts, then he’s smart enough to approve of any gift you give him,” he returned.  “And the lucky alpha’s submissive would be?”

“Stiles Gajos-Stilinski,” she answered.  “And the bold gheyo would be?”

 

“Ziya Arcadios, gheyo Prince.”  He twirled his hand and summoned a pretty metal flower - basil (which she knew, thanks to her education via Harry, meant to send someone well wishes in floriography).  He also handed her a favor to go with it.  A simple business card sized piece of stiff parchment with his information on it and some of his magic embedded within it.

 

“Fair warning, Ziya Arcadios, gheyo Prince, I haven’t started hunting for Aces just yet,” she warned him.  Not off, just that it may be awhile until she got to courting his rank.

 

“That’s alright,” he told her.  “It’s only the first day of the hunt and I’d rather make my interest known before you’re inundated with favors.”

 

Before he could continue, a slightly larger storm type wrapped his arm around Ziya’s chest and hauled him out of the armory.

 

“Those two are a ranked Queen-Prince pair,” the sales associate told her.  “Waiting to bond until they bond into a circle, is the common thought.  Their pit duo name is Maelstrom.”

 

Stiles smiled at him in gratitude for the information.  “Thank you.  Now,  what kind of enchantments can you put on this dagger?”

 

*~*~*

 

Stiles exited Raven Shield with a claim ticket for Taran’s dagger that should be ready in a week, and her first favor/token.  Paraya , she reminded herself, not gheyos yet .  Maybe she’d have better luck in the craft district.

 

So she headed that direction, her wings deciding that they wanted to be out with so many people around (sometimes being ferros was just a pain in the ass).  She allowed herself to wander and check out some of the merchant stalls along the way.  She found gifts for Harry, her dad, and for Idris (she even found one for Idris’ wife Eris).  Stiles finally made it to the craft district.

 

While her instincts didn’t find much to be “on point” for, she had several new ideas for use for her main talent, and she had a greater respect for dragel artisans.

 

She stopped to grab a bite from a booth selling kabobs and kept walking.  She’d been stopped several times by kiddie messengers bringing her favors in return for candy or coins.  But nothing perked her hunting interest, so she headed toward the gheyo section and the pits.

 

Her lack of interest problem was immediately solved when she walked into the main arena and found her lovely alpha refereeing matches.  The other ref was a lovely example of dominant gheyo, yum.  She watched several matches, but was mostly unimpressed.  Harry’s gheyos had apparently set very high expectations for her.  

 

And then she recognized a name that just flashed on the view screen of the upcoming match - Callix Maruke.  Her new brother-in-law.  He had a yummy plant fae in his corner cheering him on, until the fae walked up to her alpha and started talking.  A poke with her perception told her that he was intentionally trying to rile up her alpha until Taran bit out a reply that had him instantly backing down.  Interesting.  

 

After Callix wiped the floor with his opponent she decided that it was getting close to dinner time, so she thought she’d call it a day.  The triad still had to put in an appearance at the Prewitt bonfire that night.  As she turned into the aisle to climb the stairs she ran directly into someone coming down.

 

“Oh,” she started.  “I’m so sorry. I didn’t even look.”

 

“That’s alright,” a smooth voice replied from the step above her.  “I wasn’t paying much attention either.  I was watching my younger sib get ready for his bout.  Zephyr Kuroe, at your service.

 

“Stiles Gajos-Stilkinski at yours,” she responded.  He was very handsome, and based on the feel of him, a paraya.  Who would’ve thought she’d meet a paraya in the pits.  “I wish the best of luck to your sibling.”

 

“Thank you,” he said as he moved to the side to let her pass.  “Happy hunting.”

 

“And to you Zephyr.”

 

With that, she headed out of the pits and made her way back to the Gajos estate where Ariki met her with a tongue-tangling kiss.  They kept themselves occupied until Taranis made it back home.

Chapter 12: Day Two

Summary:

Day two of The Hunt.

One the second day of The Hunt the trio lazily woke late in the morning, sleeping in after their late night at the Prewitt bonfire.  

 

“We should spend the morning going through the favors I got yesterday,” Stiles suggested.  So the three rolled out of bed and got ready for a calm day at home.

 

Stiles had made them breakfast burritos to eat while they went through the favors.  The favors were piled on the dining room table, and there were a lot more than she was expecting.  After magically sorting out close relations (most likely on Idris’ side of the family) she magically sorted the remaining favors into six piles.  She slid the networking/social connection pile over to Taran who huffed a laugh, but dutifully pulled them closer. 

 

The first pile she dealt with made her frown - it was for Alphas. The fact that there were any made her want to hex everyone she got a favor from.  She waved her hand and a list of all the names appeared on it, then she happily burned the pile to ash, then vanished the ashes.  

 

The second pile, Betas, she sorted out those who required a response by the end of the week.  She added their names to the paper and then burned them.

 

“I know you’re not ready for another Beta yet, but feel through all of them and see if any jump out at you, either for good reasons or bad.  We’ll get rid of the bad and put the good on the top of the pile,” Taranis suggested.  

 

So Stiles did just that.  She didn’t find any that feel super good, but she found several that felt yucky to her magic.  She added their names to the list and burned them.  Taranis added a minus sign after their name so they would know that they were burned for a negative reaction to them.

 

Then Stiles pulled the paraya pile toward her.  She started by feeling through them all like she had with the previous pile.  She pulled three out that felt especially nice to magic.  She gave a little trill as she pulled them from the pile.

 

“I take it you like those,” Ariki commented from her right.  “Who are they from?”

 

“One is from Zephyr Kuroe,” she read off the card.  “Oh, I ran into him in the Pits yesterday.  Almost literally."

 

“A Kuroe.  Most likely either a healer or medic,” Taranis voiced his thoughts on her left.  “I approve.  Who else?”

 

“Tyr Cairothe,” she read.

 

“Let me think,” Taranis thought for a second.  “He’s my third or fourth cousin.  And there might be a removal or two in there.  I don’t remember for certain.  Riven’s not super close to his side of the family.  Who’s last?”

 

“Teddy Lupin.”

 

“He’s Mera’s godson,” Taran explained.  “Well, godchild. Teddy’s a changeling.  A Paraya Kalenta, one hell of a baker.  Owns his own patisserie in the craft district. Will Teddy being a changeling be a deal breaker for you?”

 

“No,” she said confused.  “Why would it?”

 

“Because Teddy is sometimes Thea.  Will that be an issue?”

 

“Ooooh,” she finally figured out that he was trying to kindly ask her about her sexuality.  “Nope.  I’m bi or pan, maybe.  I care about the person, not the packaging.”

 

“Most dragels are that way, I think,” Ariki chimed in.  “I know Taran and I are that way.”  Taran nodded.

 

“Okay,” Taran brought them back on topic.  “Let’s set those in a new pile that needs answers.  Were there any that stood out as bad?”

“I got distracted, so I’ll do it again.”  Stiles rummaged around in the pile.  She pulled out one card.  “This one is suspiciously blank, almost as if there’s no magic in it.  My Perception is reading that as they’re trying to hide something.”

 

“I agree.” The person’s name was added to the list (Taran marked it with a minus) and the favor was burned.

 

“Do you want to do the rest of the paraya or do the brief skim through the other piles first?”  Ariki asked.

 

“The rest of the paraya were just blah to my magic,” she admitted.

 

“Then go ahead and burn them,” Taran suggested.  Stiles added their names to the list (but without the minus sign) and burned the rest of the paraya.  “Let’s move on to gheyos.”

 

“I see you met Ziya and Nico,” Ariki drawled as he held up the copper basil she’d received yesterday.  

 

“I spoke with Ziya until Nico hauled him away,” she confessed.

 

Ariki laughed.  “That sounds like them.  Unless he has a problem with it, Nico usually lets Ziya take point on all social interactions.  Nico is a self-professed grump.”

 

“How well do you know them,” Taran asked. 

 

“Well enough that they’d asked me to take a drawer at their place,” he admitted with a shrug. Taran held his hand out for the flower.  He spent a moment feeling the combined magics in it.

 

“If you’re interested, Stiles, we should ask for their schedule and go watch one of their fights.  One of them is Storm and one of them is Air.  My own affinities like that.”

 

“Let’s add them to the reply pile,” she suggested.  Ariki took back the flower and added it and the favor to the correct pile.  Stiles then stuck her hand in the gheyo pile to see if any favors jumped out at her.  She pulled out one.  “This one feels different than the others.”  Taranis noticed the name on it.

 

“That’s because they’re a plant fae and not a dragel.”

 

“Is this the guy that was trying to piss you off yesterday? The one that came in with your brother?”

 

“That’s him.  Shorian.  He’s Callix’s intended Ace.  He’s the reason that Callix finally decided to rank up to King instead of staying a Princess.”

 

“I cannot imagine that man I saw fight yesterday as a Princess.”

 

“He liked the anonymity he had as a Princess.  But, like a true Maruke, he didn’t want to share his Intended Ace with another King, so he decided to rank up.”

 

“A true Maruke?  Is that your way of telling me that you’re possessive, Taran?” Stiles teased.

 

“Very,” he growled. Their eyes locking and their lust rising by the second. 

 

“Do you like the feel of any of the others?” Ariki brought their attention to the matter at hand.

 

“There’s nothing wrong with them, but there’s nothing really right with them either,” she admitted.

 

Ariki magically sorted out all of the Aces from the pile.  “These are the Aces.  Other than Shorian, do you want to go watch any of them fight?”

 

“Not really,” she confessed.  

 

“Then burn them and save the others to deal with later.”  So the rejected Aces were added to the list then burned.

 

“And finally, the Non-traditional ranks,” Ariki said as he slid the last pile over to Stiles. 

 

Stiles felt through the small pile and chirped in delight at one of them.

 

“Daniel Jackson,” she read. “Advisor. Earth Pheolix?”

 

“Huh.  I didn’t know there were any other Pheolix besides Brishen and Inanna in Nevarah full time.  Add him to the reply pile.  Nothing from the rest?”

 

“Nope.  Like the others - nothing wrong, but nothing right.”

 

“Then go ahead and burn the rest.  It was only the first day, you’re bound to get more the further into the Hunt we get,” Taran counseled.

“So, what’s the plan for the rest of the day?”  

 

“I need to do my Perception meditations, since I’ve skipped that last few days,”

 

“Stiles,” Ariki sounded disappointed.

 

“I was distracted,” she told him.  “And you don’t get to sound all disappointed in me when you were half of the reason I was distracted.”  She raised an eyebrow daring him to argue.  Which he wisely did not.  “Then I need to head to the Gorgons-Nott estate, see my dad for a hug and an update, and then spar with the gheyos. You guys?”

 

“I’ve got nothing planned,” Ariki told them. 

 

“I’ll come with you to the gheyos.  I could use the workout.  Which leads me to tomorrow - I’ve scheduled an exhibition match so that you can come watch me fight.  I know we’re already bonded, but I still need to prove to you that I can protect you and our circle.”

 

“Then we will be there to watch you prove it, my Alpha,” Stiles cuddled up to him.  “Give me forty minutes to do my meditations and then we can go.”  She hopped up from her chair and headed off to meditate.

Chapter 13: Day Three

Summary:

Day three of The Hunt - Taran's fight

By 8 am, the triad was up, dressed, and eating breakfast.  By 9, Taran was leaving to make sure everything was ready for his match and to get warmed up.  Stiles did her Perception meditations so that she didn’t have to worry about it later in the day, while Ariki read.  By 10:30, the submissive and beta were on their way.  

 

While she was at the Gorgons-Nott estate the day before, she’d talked to her dad to see if he wanted to go this morning.  He was curious about seeing his new son-in-law in action, and wanted to make sure that he’d be able to protect his baby girl.  Stiles had arranged for Hadrian to escort him and talk him through the finer points of the bout.  Idris was going to be there too, along with any other Gorgons-Nott members that wished to join them.  

 

Stiles and Ariki met up with the group that included her dad, Idris, Hadrian, Riven, and Zach. She greeted her dad and her Third with hugs, then the group was making its way into the Pits.  The groups weren’t sitting together, but she’d wanted to be able to say hello to her dad before the match.

 

Stiles presented the not-plastic (when asked, Taran had assured her that it wasn’t plastic, just a magical parchment) card to the door attendant.  It was purple (just like Hadrian’s), with the Maruke crest embossed in black.  She and Ariki made their way to the seats that Taranis had reserved for the pair.

 

Before long, the referees and a mage came out.  The mage reinforced the warding around the ring.  And then Taranis and High Lord Zandian, Blood Flame, strutted out into the arena.  

 

The match was fast paced and brutal.  When one of the refs called time an hour later, there was no clear winner.  Taran was singed around the edges from Zandian’s flames, and Zandian looked . . . well, zapped is probably the best description, from Taran’s lightning.

 

And Stiles had loved every second of it.

 

She and Ariki made their way down to the floor, where the fighters were being tended to by medics.

 

As Taran stepped away from the medic he was immediately the subject of a woman’s attention - she touched him and tried to rub up against him.  Based on his body language and the feeling coming through the bond, it was very unwelcome attention.

 

“Laci Calamaris,” Stiles heard Taran say when they got close enough.  “I am not now, nor have I ever been, interested in you.  I am happily bonded to my soul-bonded submissive.  Please stay away from me.”

 

Before she can think through what she’s about to do, Stiles pulls Taran behind her and socks the other submissive across the jaw with a solid punch.

 

“Keep your grubby paws to yourself, bitch.”

 

“You punched me,” Laci whined.  She’s rubbing her jaw like that will make the pain fade faster.  

 

She’s just lucky I didn’t use my full strength, Stiles thought.

 

“If you come near my bonded again I will pretty up that ugly face of yours with my claws,” Stiles threatened.  “And if that doesn’t work, then I’ll rip your throat out.  With my teeth.”  She thinks she’ll have to thank Derek someday for that threat. It really is a good one.

 

“I should call the City Patrol on you,” Laci whined some more.

 

“I’ll be happy to do it for you,” Stiles counters.  “I’ll happily pay whatever fine I get for beating your ass into the ground.” Laci flinched.  “Besides, we’re in the Pits.  People come here to watch fights.  I think they’d enjoy watching me put you in your place - on your knees, begging me for mercy,” Stiles growls.  Laci pales.  “Now run along with your tail between your legs, and don’t let me catch you anywhere near my bonded ever again.”  

 

And Laci finally did the smart thing and ran.

 

Taranis swept Stiles into a deep, passionate kiss right there on the arena floor, uncaring of the audience cheering at the show.

 

“You are stunning,” he whispered when he finally pulled back from the kiss.

 

“And you are mine,” Stiles growled.

 

“All yours, my heart,” Taran agreed.

 

A throat clearing next to them got both of their attention.  They turned to face the man that had dared to interrupt them.  Stiles really wanted to take both her bonded home and remind them that they were hers, and to show Taran her appreciation for his fight.

 

“Stiles,” Taran introduced, “Meet High Lord Zandian, Blood Flame.  Zan, meet my soul-bonded Submissive Mieczyslawa Stilinski.”

 

“It is a genuine pleasure to meet you, Little One,” the tall, muscled man said.

 

“The pleasure is mine,” she countered.  Zandian opened his mouth to say something, but Stiles caught what it was going to be with her Perception and interrupted him.  “You should know that I’m part Merrow and as such will have at least a few half-merrow, and/or full merrow in my circle.  If you are okay with and can deal with that, then the answer is yes.  If that will be a problem for you, then do us both a favor and don’t ask the question that you were about to ask.”

 

Zandian stood frozen for a few moments, both over her knowing that he was going to ask to court her and that she’d have merrow in her circle.  He wasn’t sure how he felt about the thought of being in a circle with merrow, but to have her as his submissive it might be worth it.  It was too soon to tell though.

 

“Thank you for letting me know up front, Little One.  I will take some time to seriously consider if that’s something I can live with.”

 

“Thank you for taking it in the spirit in which it was intended, and not as a warning to scare you off,” she replied.  “You fought wonderfully.  You held your own very well against my Alpha,” she told him honestly.  He tilted his head back and laughed.

 

“Most people would have said that he held his own against me, not me against him,” he informed her.

 

“I’m not most people,” she told him honestly.

 

“No, Little One, you’re not.”

 

Taran wound up the conversation, including handing out the promised payments to the refs and mage, as soon as he could to get his bonded out of there and back home as quickly as possible.  The triad spent the rest of the afternoon reaffirming their bonds and just spending a lazy day at home.

Notes:

My head-canon is that Laci is Yanek's daughter.

Chapter 14: Day Four

Summary:

Day Four of The Hunt - a date with Daniel

Stiles sauntered into the cafe just before 11 am.  She was meeting Daniel Jackson, the prospective Advisor. 

 

“Mieczysława?” Stiles turned at not only her name, but the man perfectly pronouncing it as well.  She found a good looking man with sandy blond hair and golden eyes.

 

“Yes.  Daniel?”  She verified.  

 

“Yes.  It’s great to meet you.  Come, I’ve saved us a table.”  He led her to a quiet corner table that allowed her to see the exits.  

 

“You’re American,” was the first thing out of her mouth once they’d sat down.  She blushed.

 

“So are you,” he said with a grin.  “It’s been years since I’ve heard an American accent.  Where are you from?”

 

“Northern California.  You?”

 

“All over, but most recently Colorado.”

 

“How did a Phoelix end up on Earth, let alone in Colorado?” She couldn’t help but ask.

 

“That’s a very long story,” he told her.  “But suffice it to say, that until I woke up in a Healing Clinic here in Nevarah, I had always thought I was human.”

 

“I thought I was human too, until a feral alpha werewolf bit me,” she confessed.  “Also, I have nowhere to be until 4, so if you want to share your long story I have time.  If you don’t, that’s okay too.”

 

“Honesty,” he hesitated.  “Most of it is classified.”

 

She chuckled.  “Does it still count when you’re on another world and you’ve changed species?”  She teased.

 

“Surprisingly, yes,” he confessed.  Her jaw dropped in shock and she thought over why he would know that.

 

“Please don’t tell me you’re part of some secret government program that deals with aliens that come to Earth.”  His jaw dropped.  “Holy shit! You are.”

 

“Was,” he admitted.  “Haven’t been since I woke up here a few years ago.  How did you figure that out?”

 

“It didn’t take a genius to put together the different planets and ‘classified’ and come up with a secret government facility that deals with aliens.  So how did you end up here?”

 

“I’m not sure.  I sort of died from a mission gone wrong, and ended up ascending to become a being of pure energy.  When I descended, I woke up here as a Phoelix, with gold eyes instead of the blue I was born with.”

 

She let out a long whistle.  “Damn, that’s a much more impressive story than a feral alpha werewolf.” She laughed.  “So what did you do for this secret government program?”

 

“I was an anthropologist and linguist,” he told her.  “I was part of the team that made first contact with other races.”

 

“Color me impressed.  How many PhD’s do you have then?”

 

He chuckled.  “A lot.  And I’ve lost count of the number of languages that I speak.”

 

“So an 18 year old high school student is pretty boring to you then,” she said bummed.  

 

“Not even remotely.  I’m very impressed with your intellect so far.  You said it wouldn’t take a genius to make that connection, but I’ve given more clues to people without them being able to figure out where I worked.  And they were college graduates.  Give yourself some credit.” She blushed against her will.

 

“So how long have you been here?”

 

“About 16 years, which is about 4 on Earth.  There was too much to learn here from an anthropological standpoint.  Not to mention, I had to learn how to use my magic and my new wings and talons.  What about you?  How long have you been here?”

“Only a couple of months.  My inheritance came in in two stages.  The physical changes came in when I was bitten by the feral alpha, and then a month or so later my magic came in, I tipped ferros, my mentor showed up and brought me and my dad here.  Turns out my dad is the son of one of the Lost Children of the Merrow.  He was able to unlock his magic, but not the rest of his inheritance.”

 

“You’re ferros,” is what Daniel took away from that spiel.

 

“Actively ferros, yes,” she informed him.  “Is that a problem?”

 

“Oh, no.  No problem.  It’s just rare.”

 

“Not as rare as Phoelix are.”

 

“Active ferros is rarer.  There are, I believe, three Phoelix in Nevarah.  I believe that you are the only active ferros dragel.”

 

“My mentor is bonded to the water Phoelix, Brishen. And the twin uncles of three of my mentor’s other bonded are bonded to the fire Phoelix, Inanna.”  She giggled.  “It’s a very small world.”

 

“Apparently.”

 

“You’re nicer than both of them put together,” she giggled.  “They’re both grumps.”  Daniel laughed.

 

“Probably because I wasn’t born and raised a Phoelix.”

 

“Probably.  How do you feel about watching fights in the Pits,” she asked, apropos of nothing.

 

“I’ve learned to appreciate the skill involved in a good fight when lives aren’t on the line.  Why?”

 

“My alpha, beta, and I are going to watch a 1 to 100 match this afternoon if you’d like to join us.”

 

“I think I would like that, thank you.”

 

After that, the two settled in to eat their lunch and just got to know each other a little better before they met up with Taran and Ariki to watch Nico and Ziya’s match.

Notes:

My new discord: https://discord.gg/D5QMG4FD

Chapter 15: Day Five

Summary:

Day five of the Hunt - Introductions

Friday dawned bright and clear.  But Stiles was nervous.  First their small Circle had to walk for Introductions, and then she had to perform her primary talent for the majority of Nevarah.  The triad got up and ate a hearty breakfast and then got dressed in their formal Walking outfits - they were a pearlescent grey that didn’t lean too heavily toward any one element.

 

Sooner than she would’ve liked, Stiles found herself and her bonded near the Walking check-in area to meet with the Gorgons-Nott circle that would be sponsoring their nascent circle’s walk.  She gave her dad and Harry both hugs, while Taran greeted his parents and siblings.  Then, in what seemed like the blink of an eye, it was their turn to Walk.

 

“Introducing a new circle, sponsored by the Noble House of Gorgons-Nott, the Gajos-Maruke Circle.  May I first present their Beta, Ariki Deveraine.”  The announcer’s voice rang through the arena.  Ariki, used to Walking sauntered out with his head held high, to much cheering from the crowd.  When he reached the halfway point the announcer began again.

 

“Please welcome Gheyo Alpha, Taranis Maruke.”  The crowd went wild.  Apparently Taran was a bigger deal in Nevarah than he’d let on to Stiles.  She’d have to tease him about it later.  Because suddenly it was her turn.

 

“And join with me in welcoming the heart of their Circle, Ferros Submissive, Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski.”  She let her wings out to show their ferros striations.  The crowd cheered loudly, though there were also a lot of murmurs and confusion.  The Gajos line was thought to be extinct after all.

 

Finally, Stiles reached the other side of the walkway and was greeted by her bonded and her dad.

 

“You looked great, kiddo,” her dad told her.

 

“Thanks, Dad.  That was less scary than I had imagined,” she admitted.

 

“Let’s go rest for a bit until you have to go on,” Ariki said.  

 

The four of them made their way up to the Gorgons-Nott viewing box to watch the rest of the Noble Introductions.  Alec shoved a mer-aligned smoothie in her hand the second she sat down.  He really was such a mother hen sometimes.  She loved it.

 

Just over an hour later it was time for the Royal Introductions and time for Stiles to head to the waiting area in the wings of the arena.  Before she knew it, it was her turn.

 

“Please join with me,” Fire Queen Ebony began as the rest of the Royals and Clan Chiefs left the main arena, “In welcoming back to the stage to showcase one of the rarest talents in Nevarah, Ferros Submissive and Gemsinger Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski.”

 

The crowd went nuts.  Stiles had not been prepared for the wall of sound that greeted her as she stepped on to the main stage.  Pushing the sound and her nerves to the back of her mind, she focused and let her magic out to work.

 

With each step she took toward the center of the stage, Stiles called up some of the dirt until she had enough to work with.  By the time she reached the center she had enough for a ball about 6 inches in diameter.  Then she pushed her magic into it and started to manipulate the chemical makeup of the dirt.  Soon she had a shining clear gem that she pulled into nearly a dozen pieces.  She shaped the pieces into tear drop shapes (the more facets, the more complex magic it took).  With sweat dripping down her face and neck she pushed them all back into a single gem. She layered one more spell into the gem.  The with a clap of her hands, the gem burst into a dozen teardrop pieces again that scattered throughout Nevarah.

 

Stiles shakily bowed and made her way off the stage to a standing ovation from the crowd.  Taran and Ariki met her part way and helped her the rest of the way when her legs threatened to give out.  Once they were in the waiting area again, Ariki swept her off her feet and into his arms. Taran led the way out of the arena to the first portal area he came to and ported the three back to the Estate so that Stiles could rest and recover.

 

Later that evening, they went through the gigantic pile of favors that had arrived for her throughout the day.  And included in that pile was a favor from none other than High Lord Zandian himself.

Chapter 16: Days Six - Eight

Summary:

Days six through eight of the Hunt (Saturday - Monday) - Favors and Yarad

Stiles decided to stay home and continue to go through the ever-growing pile of favors that kept arriving at the estate.  Taran and Ariki were across the table from her going through the social/political favors that kept arriving, along with offers of training for her gift.  

 

Stiles was a little nervous, because there was a favor that she liked from an Ace - a merrow Ace.  She was thinking about the makeup of the Aces that she liked and had accepted favors from so far - a Plant Fae in Shorian and the Fire Blood Title in Zandian.  Did she really want to add a Merrow Ace to the mix?  Surely that would be a headache waiting to happen.  But she really liked the feel of the Merrow’s magic.  She was drawn to it more than the other two. Maybe a possible soul bond?

 

Uugghh!!  This was so stressful!

 

Before she could get too lost in her thoughts she got a message from her dad that the Yarad had contacted him and wanted to meet the next day.  He had pushed back the meeting until Monday (at the advice of Alec).  So she and her triad arranged to meet him at the Gorgons-Nott estate and then the four of them would head to the Merrow section of the Hunt and meet with the head of the Yarad clan - Calladan Yarad, her dad’s great-uncle.

 

But back to the matter at hand. 

 

“How badly do you think Zandian will take me having a Merrow Ace?”

 

Taran’s groan was the resulting answer and it left her laughing.

 

---

 

 

Monday rolled around and Stiles was both excited and nervous. Sunday had been a fun day.  She’d had another date with Daniel, who was wearing his teardrop emerald from her talent display on Friday, and she was pretty sure she was going to ask him to join her circle.  

 

But today was about the Yarad.  Her dad’s family that neither of them had known existed until magic became an actual part of their lives. 

 

The four walked into the meeting room, only to have Stiles completely ignore her relative and the Royal that was facilitating the meeting.  (Not on purpose, Dad.)  She made a bee-line for the Merrow that she’d seen when she was down in the Waters before - all purple and fuschia and drop dead gorgeous.  And deadly.  One must never forget deadly.

 

“Hello Little One,” the tall gheyo purred.  

 

“Hello,” she responded, shy now that her brain had caught up to her actions.

 

“I believe this is yours,” he pointed to the aquamarine teardrop gemstone that hung from his necklace next to his trident.

 

“Once you touched it it became yours.  It also means that we’re compatible.”  

 

“You used your display to send the stones to people?” Calladan interrupted.  “Specific people?”

 

“I leaned on my Perception and compatibility,” she admitted, still locking eyes with the unnamed gheyo in front of her.  She was resisting climbing him like a tree by her claw-tips.   

 

Alec walked up to the two of them. “Stiles, this is Mesmyr of His Majesty’s Crimson Tide.  Ace Mesmyr, this is Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski of the Gajos-Maruke Circle.”

 

“I got your favor,” she breathed out.

“I got your reply,” he answered.  “Do you have a paraya yet?”

 

“Not yet, but I’ve been messaging three.  Our schedules just haven’t worked out to meet yet,” she admitted.

 

“I suggest you bond with at least one of them sooner rather than later,” he told her.  “A paraya is a necessity before I’ll bond into your circle.”

 

“I’ll get right on that then,” she assured him.

 

“Could we get back to the reason that we’re here kiddo?” Noah chimed in from his place near Calladan.

 

“Go on Little One,” Mesmyr reassured her.  “I’m not going anywhere.”

 

So, with a sigh, Stiles turned back toward the table and her great-great-uncle.

 

Taranis had one thought: poor Shorian.

Notes:

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Chapter 17: Days Nine & Ten

Summary:

Days nine and ten of The Hunt - Tuesday and Wednesday. Dates and a bonding.

Day 9 - Tuesday

 

Tuesday was a busy day for Stiles - a breakfast date, a lunch date, and then off to the Pits.

 

First was her breakfast date with Tyr; he had to work all day, so it was the only time he had available.  It went better than she’d hoped for.  He even brought her finished dagger for Taran.  He was a Storm Paraya and an artisan. He was wearing the teardrop gem that she had created during the Introductions - a shiny, purple amethyst.  They talked about what he did besides his job at Raven Shield Armory and what she liked to do for fun.

 

He had to leave the restaurant before she did, as he had to be to work soon. As he left, she knew that, like Daniel, she’d like to have him for hers.

---

 

Lunch was a picnic in the park with Zephyr, after a quick stop in the food court of the earth section.  She had been worried that since breakfast went so well that lunch would be a let down.  That couldn’t have been further from the truth.  It went so well that she knew that she wanted to bond with him.  Not quite a soul bond, but it probably wouldn’t take long for it to develop into one.  

 

He, like Tyr, was wearing the teardrop shaped gem on a necklace.  His was a black onyx, with gold at the tip of the teardrop.

 

His element was Shadow with an Earth affinity, and he was a paraya through and through.  He was also a certified medic, which she was glad to hear (their circle was going to be gheyo heavy after all).

 

They talked about what he did for a living (he worked with his family’s healers) and what he liked to do for fun.  The discussed her being raised on Earth and what happened to tip her ferros.  They just spent the time getting to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere.

 

She invited him to join her triad at the Pits, which he gladly accepted.

---

 

Stiles and Zephyr met up with Taran and Ariki just outside the Pits.  The group was there to watch Shorian fight an Air Ace.  Stiles even put money on Shorian winning, even though the odds were 2:1 that he would lose.

 

When Shorian and his king, Callix (Taran’s younger brother), made their way to the arena floor, Callix pointed them out to him.  Stiles waved and Shorian raised his hand in greeting in return.  Then all his focus was on his fight, as it should be. (Though she did notice that Callix was wearing his teardrop gem.  They were too far away from each other to make out much, but she thought that it was obsidian or something like it.)

 

For someone who was supposed to lose, Shorian apparently hadn’t gotten the memo.  He wiped the floor with the Air Ace.  Stiles was actually a little embarrassed for the other Ace, that’s how badly Shorian beat him.  When the match was over Stiles ordered a drink to be sent down to Shorian.  Luckily, Callix had messaged Taran and let him know what Shorian’s favorite drink order was, so that Stiles knew he’d like it. (He did.)

 

The group then headed back to the Estate, with Zephyr joining them.  By the end of the night, Zephyr was fully bonded into the Gajos-Maruke Circle as their first paraya.  They didn’t leave the house at all on Wednesday.

Chapter 18: Day Eleven

Summary:

Day 11 - Thursday - Daniel

Thursday, like most days in Nevarah, was beautiful.  Made even better for Stiles by the fact that she was meeting up with Daniel again.  And today, she was going to ask him to join her Circle.  She couldn’t wait.

 

She met Daniel, who was still proudly wearing his teardrop emerald, at a park with some pastries that she’d picked up from a nearby bakery.  He greeted her with a kiss on her cheek.  

 

After they’d finished their pastries and small talk she got to the real reason that she’d wanted to meet him today.

 

“I really like you Daniel,” she began.

 

“I really like you too, Stiles,” he admitted with a slight blush.

 

“I think . . .” She couldn’t get the words to come out right, so she decided to go for broke and just be blunt with him.  “I want to bond with you and have you join my circle.” There.  She’d gotten the words out.  

 

Daniel sat still, eyes growing wide, a smile creeping up on his handsome face.  “I’d love that Stiles.”  He told her.  “I’d love to be yours.”  She grinned.  

 

“I’d really like to kiss you now,” she confessed. 

 

Instead of answering with words, Daniel leaned over and pressed his lips to hers.  It started off innocent, but quickly became more heated.

 

“Come home with me,” she whispered as she pulled back for air.

 

“I thought you’d never ask,” he teased.

 

They cleaned up their mess from the pastries and made their way to the closest portal area.

---

 

The depth of Daniel’s Earth magic was staggering.  Stiles had never felt so grounded in all her life.  She had a feeling that her Gemsinging talent would be even easier now with the staggering amount of Earth magic running through her bonds.  

 

She also guessed that with four new bonded that her resting period would probably hit her sooner than she had originally planned.  Luckily, she had a paraya now.  Taran agreed to act as the gheyo to watch over him, if she hadn’t bonded in any gheyo by the time her resting period rolled around.

 

Needless to say, she sent a message to Mesmyr to let him know that she’d gotten a paraya (and an advisor as well) since he had said that he wouldn’t bond to her until she had at least one.  She hadn’t seen him fight yet, but she shared a soul-bond with him, so that meant that she could watch him fight later.  And he wouldn’t be a member of Crimson Tide unless he was an excellent fighter, so she wasn’t too worried about it.

 

She’d seen Zandian and Shorian fight, but she hadn’t really had a chance to spend any time with either of them, and neither of them were soul-bonds.  So, that meant that Mesmyr would probably be the first Ace that she’d bond in.  And then, they’d work on building his suite - probably an all Water suite. 

 

It was a good thing they’d already upgraded the Estate to be Water friendly, if they were going to end up with an entire suite of Water types.

Notes:

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Chapter 19: Days Thirteen - Nineteen

Summary:

Days 13-19 of The Hunt - Mesmyr and a resting period

Day 13 - Saturday - Day 19 - Friday

 

Stiles had sent Mesmyr the coordinates to the Estate, so he arrived outside the wards late Saturday morning.  She gave him a tour of the house and grounds to make sure that it would be suitable to him and any other Merrow that joined the Circle.  He was pleasantly surprised that it was up to Merrow standards.  He kept hold of her hand the entire time.

 

She introduced him to the rest of the circle and Taran immediately took him to the sparring ring.  Stiles, of course (and the others) went to watch.  An hour later, her Alpha and her soon-to-be Ace deemed each other worthy of Stiles and their position.

 

Stiles and Mesmyr disappeared into one of the Merrow rooms after that.  An hour later, Taran and Ariki joined them in the damp room to fully bond in the Ace.

 

---

 

That evening, Noah, Harry, Brishen, Alec, Hadrian, and Theo joined the circle at the Estate for a family dinner so that her dad could get to know his new sons-in-law.

 

Stiles was glad to see her dad, after threatening all of her new bonded, relax and enjoy himself.  He loved her, she never had any doubt about that, but part of him had also wanted a son.  Now he had more than he knew what to do with.

 

The group stayed for several hours, just chatting and getting to know each of Stiles’ bondmates.  But, they left just as the sun was setting, around 9 pm.  A yawn from Stiles was what finally got her dad to leave.

 

---

 

Sunday was a wonderful lazy day with her new circle.  She’d dragged each of them into a room at one point or another.  It was no wonder she was feeling tired and run down.  Around 4 pm she stretched out on the couch, her head in Taran’s lap and took a nap.  But her nap quickly turned into her resting period.  

 

So, Zephyr picked her up and carried her to the resting room, where he placed her in the center of the bed.  Taran and Ariki bracketed her, with Daniel behind Taran and Mesmyr behind Ariki.  It took mere moments for the four to be pulled under with Stiles.  

 

Zephyr sent out messages to Noah and Harry, to his family that he was scheduled to work with, and to Crimson Tide (on behalf of Mesmyr) and then laid down and quickly fell into his parayic rest.  Their circle wouldn’t rouse again until Friday morning.

Chapter 20: Days Nineteen - Twenty-two

Summary:

Days 19-22 of The Hunt - Tyr and Teddy

Day 19 - Friday through Day 22 - Monday

 

Stiles woke that Friday morning feeling better than she could ever remember feeling - including her previous resting periods.  Zephyr was still out cold, with Taran watching over him (he’d sent Mesmyr to go soak in the water for a few hours and then they’d trade out).  

 

She immediately contacted her dad to come over for lunch, and Ariki went and picked him up.  Her dad had magic, but he hadn’t gotten the hang of portals yet (or possibly didn’t have enough magic to power one of his own, she wasn’t entirely sure).

 

She also contacted Tyr, Teddy, Shorian, and Zandian and arranged for dates for each of them during the weekend.

 

By the time her dad arrived, Mesmyr was back in the resting room watching over Zephyr, so Taran joined them for lunch, then took some to Mesmyr.  

 

Noah hung out with Stiles while she went through the mountain of favors that had accumulated while she slept.  

 

One of the paraya favors jumped out at her.  When she read the name she almost fell out of her chair - Danny Mehealani.  Danny, like from her high school on Earth Danny.  Lacrosse goalie extraordinaire Danny.  She didn't know how to process the fact that the most popular guy in her high school had sent her a favor.  Especially since he was supposed to be gay.

 

So, she did what any reasonable person would do and sent him a return favor.

---

Saturday started early for Stiles.  She had another breakfast date with Tyr.  They discussed him bonding into her circle.  Apparently he’d arranged for breakfast dates so that he wouldn’t miss any work, because he was planning on needing to take off for their bonding, once it happened.  They decided he would come over for dinner on Sunday to meet the rest of the circle and see what happened then.

 

11 am found Stiles in a patisserie in the Craft District, which was apparently owned and run by Teddy Lupin.  Stiles adored Teddy from the instant that they met.  She figured it was probably another soul-bond.  She also liked the fact that he was part werewolf (it was familiar territory for her) and the fact that Teddy was a changeling.  Stiles hoped she would meet Teddy’s alter ego Thea soon.  It would be nice to have another woman around, even if it was only part of the time.  Teddy was going to come to dinner at the house on Monday night to meet everyone (she hoped that would also include Tyr, but she didn’t want to assume).

 

At two o’clock Stiles met Shorian for a late lunch in a quiet bistro near the gheyo section.  He informed her that he thought she had a soul-bond with his intended King, Callix.  She agreed.  She informed him of the fact that Mesmyr was already bonded in and that she was also courting Zandian.  He wasn’t happy with the fact that he’d have to play buffer and mediator to the Blood Flame and a member of Crimson Tide, but for Callix, and a ferros submissive he would be willing to do it.

 

Stiles came home and immediately cuddled up to Zephyr, who was still sleeping, and took a well deserved nap.

---

 

Sunday at noon, Stiles met Zandian at a casual restaurant near the fire district.  She informed him of Mesmyr and her courting of Shorian.  He wasn’t thrilled with the fact that her first Ace was full merrow.  Especially since that meant that she’d probably have an entire suite of water types.  But he was resigned to it; had been since she warned him after his and Taran’s match.  He mentioned that he had a friend that was a fire mage that he’d like to introduce her to - because she didn’t have a mage yet, and also to bring some more fire to balance his flames.  She eagerly agreed.  Lunch went well and they agreed to court.  He told her that she’d have to bond in Shorian and at least two more paraya before he’d agree to bond in, just to balance out the water (as a member of Crimson Tide there was no doubt the strength of their water was powerful). She informed him that she had two paraya lined up to bond in, probably within the next couple of days.  And then Shorian would most likely be a day or two after that.  He was satisfied with that.

 

Dinner went better than Stiles could’ve hoped for.  Tyr fit it well with the rest of her circle.  And by the end of the night, he was bonded to the main triad.

 

---

 

Monday was calmer for Stiles, she didn’t have any dates lined up during the day.  She spent some time meditating and then in the sparring area with Taran and Mesmyr.  They were both impressed with how far she’d come in such a short amount of time.

 

Dinner with Teddy went just as well as the previous dinner had.  Teddy introduced everyone to Thea, and they all fell a little in love with the gheyic paraya that she was.  By the end of the night Teddy was bonded to the triad and the paraya were all bonded to each other the following day.

Chapter 21: Day Twenty-three

Summary:

Day 23 - Tuesday - date with Shorian and Callix

Stiles woke with a spring in her step.  Her circle had filled out quicker than she could’ve ever anticipated. And she had two more Aces lined up to bond in, with possibly a water paraya as well (depending on how thing went with Danny). 

 

She sat at the breakfast table with the others, reading over a flyer for upcoming events.

 

“What’s the Full Moon Run?” she asked.

 

“It’s an event for werewolves in particular, and werecreatures in general, to get together to run through the forest under the full moon.  Why?” Teddy answered.

 

“Isn’t that dangerous?  That many packs together?  Wouldn’t they fight?” 

 

“It’s not anyone’s territory, so there’s no instinct to defend it.  And while fights have, on rare occasion, broken out, it’s usually safe and peaceful.  No one wants to do anything that could end the Run for good, so everyone’s on their best behavior.”

 

“Did you want to invite the pack from your hometown?” Taran asked.  He’d been asked by Riven to check in on the Nemeton a few times after it had been fixed, and had met the Hale Pack while he was there.

 

“I think I’d like to at least give them the option, if that’s okay,” she answered.

 

“Of course it’s okay.  I’ll pick up an official invitation from City Hall and then go see Alpha Hale and drop it off,” he assured her.

 

“Thank you my Alpha,” she blew him a kiss across the table and went back to reading the flyer. He just smiled at his adorable submissive.

---

 

Later that morning, after Taran had left to pick up the invitation and take it to Earth, Shorian sent a message asking if she’d like to meet up with him and Callix, so that they could be introduced.  She agreed to a coffee date in the mid-afternoon that same day - no point in putting it off.

 

Stiles strolled into the coffee shop just before 2 pm.  Shorian instantly stood from the table by the back wall and walked over to her.  

 

“Stiles,” he greeted.  “I’m glad you could make it on such short notice.”

 

“Shorian,” she returned.  “I’m just glad our last conversation didn’t scare you off.”  

 

He offered her his arm as he escorted her toward the table where Callix was rising to meet them.

 

“Stiles,” Shorian began the introduction, “may I introduce Callix Maruke, my intended King.  Callix, this is Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski, my courting Submissive.”

 

When their eyes met, Stiles knew - just like with his brother - they shared a soul-bond.

 

“My King,” she breathed out.

 

“My future Submissive,” he replied, just as softly.

 

“Well, we knew it was probable that you two shared a soul-bond, but that makes it official.  Let’s sit.” Shorian pulled out a chair for Stiles and helped her tuck in.

 

The three spent the next two hours chatting and getting to know each other, especially Stiles and Callix since it was the first time they’d spoken. By the time she left, she’d arranged for them both to come to dinner the next night to meet the rest of the circle (and for Taran and Mesmyr to spar with Shorian to make sure he was up to the task of protecting their submissive).  She had a feeling that she’d be spending the next night in the gheyo quarters bonding in a new Ace and King.  She couldn’t wait.

Chapter 22: Days Twenty-four - Twenty-seven

Summary:

Days 24-27 - Wednesday - Saturday - Shorian/Callix & Zandian

Day 24 - Wednesday - Day 27 - Saturday

 

Shorian and Callix arrived at exactly 4 pm on Wednesday.  Shorian was immediately dragged out to the training yard where Taran put him through his paces (third blood or one hour, whichever came first; just like had been the rules when Taran fought Mesmyr).  Taran ended up defeating Shorian at the fifty-five minute mark.  Stiles was still impressed that he’d lasted nearly the whole hour. She and her instincts were satisfied.

 

Dinner went really well.  Callix was shy, but he eventually started opening up to everyone.  When night finally fell, Stiles disappeared into the gheyo wing with Shorian and Callix and the two officially joined the circle.

---

Thursday was a wonderfully lazy day for the circle.  Stiles would occasionally drag one or more of her bonded off to one of the rooms to spend some alone time with them.  The rest of the day she did her meditation, worked out with her gheyo, and went through favors.

---

Friday, Zandian came over for lunch.  Because they’d just had a match less than a month ago that ended in a draw, Taran didn’t feel the need to test Zandian like he had the others.  Mesmyr and Shorian, on the other hand, dragged him out anyway.  The fight was two-on-one, but Zandian still made it to the fifty minute mark before he was defeated.  Everyone’s instincts were satisfied that he would be able to protect the circle and their submissive.

 

That night found Stiles back in the gheyo quarters, bonding Zandian into the circle.  Once their bond was complete Stiles felt all her instincts and her ferros nature sigh in relief and slide to the background.  Apparently, she’d bonded with enough strong individuals that her ferros nature was no longer in danger of breaking free.  She had enough anchors to pull her back.  

 

She hadn’t realized how tightly strung she’d been because of it until it receded into the background.  Zandian held her while she cried in relief.  

 

“I don’t even know why I’m crying,” she sobbed into Zandian’s chest.  “It’s just like a huge weight has been lifted off my chest that I hadn’t even realized was there.”

 

“You just let it all out sweetheart,” Zandian comforted her.  “I’ve got you, and I’m not going anywhere.  A few tears aren’t going to scare me off, I promise.”

 

His reassurance, of course, just made her cry harder.

 

Stiles would still keep hunting to fill out her circle, but she no longer felt the drive that she had to hunt to retain control of her nature. 

---

Saturday was another lazy day as people ran whatever errands they needed to run.  But no one had to be anywhere by a certain time, so it was still relaxing.  Taran had completed his bond to Shorian the night before, and drug Zandian off at one point during the day.  

 

She made plans for her dad to come to dinner the following night.  She thought it would be nice to have that happen every Sunday as long as he was in Nevarah; he agreed.  

 

She and Shorian made plans to watch another of Maelstrom’s fights and see if they would fit in his suite.  She thought Nico’s storm element would work better with the Plant Fae than with Zandian’s fire.

 

She also made plans with Mesmyr to go to the Trench (the Merrow version of the Pits) to see if anyone caught his eye that he’d like to court.  He had a few in mind that he thought would fit in well, but he wanted her to see them in action and get her thoughts first.

 

She and Zandian would meet with his mage friend one day this next week, and then the two of them would go to the Pits to see if he found anyone he’d like to court for his suite. 

 

Next week was shaping up to be a busy week.

Chapter 23: Days Twenty-eight to Thirty

Summary:

Days 28-30 of The Hunt - Sunday - Tuesday: Selkie twins and a Fire Mage

Notes:

laceylane89 owns Logi. I just fell in love with the character and couldn't resist adding him in to compliment Zandian's flames. All love and kudos for the character go to laceylane89.

Day 28 - Sunday - Day 30 - Tuesday

 

Sunday was relaxing for Stiles, which she appreciated - knowing it would be the last calm day that week.  Monday she was going to the Trench with Mesmyr, Tuesday she was meeting with Zandian’s mage friend and then spending the afternoon with him in the Pits.  Wednesday would be spent with Shorian and Zandian in the Pits, watching Maelstrom and others.  Thursday was back under water with Mesmyr, and Friday was date night with Taran and Ariki.

 

Dinner with Noah went well.  He was enjoying getting to know his new sons-in-law, and they were getting to know him (and hear stories about Stiles, which mostly embarrassed her).

---

Stiles swam hand in hand with Mesmyr into the Trench.  It did remind her of the Pits, only without a roof.  They found a seat in the stands and settled in for a long day. No one really caught their attention until the twin Selkies came out.

 

They were a King/Queen ranked pair and they decimated their opponents.  Both Stiles and Mesmyr were impressed.  And they were lovely to look at, which was just the icing on the cake for Stiles.  

 

She sent down a snack order to them after their match, which they accepted.  Mesmyr then excused himself to go down and talk to them, with orders for her not to move from her spot - which she obeyed.  Before long, Mes was leading the twins back up to her seat.

 

“Stiles,” Mesmyr began.  “May I introduce gheyo King Tyrnan and his twin brother, gheyo Queen, Tudor.  Tyrnan and Tudor, may I present my submissive Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski.”

 

“It’s a pleasure to meet such fierce warriors,” she said.

 

“It’s our pleasure to meet a submissive that enjoys the fights,” Tyrnan replied for both brothers.

 

“Would you care to join us for a bit?” Stiles asked them.

 

“We’d be honored,” Tudor replied.

 

So the twins joined Stiles and Mesmyr on the bench and then they spent the rest of the afternoon getting to know each other and watching the other fights (no other fight caught their attention).

 

At the end of the afternoon, they made plans to meet back up in the same place on Thursday.

---

Zandian and Stiles walked into a bistro at the edge of the fire district Tuesday just before eleven.  They were met by a man that was every bit as large as Zandian himself.

 

Zandian began the introduction, “Stiles, may I introduce my long time friend and fire mage, Logi.  Logi, may I present my submissive, Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski.”

 

“It is an honor and a pleasure to meet you,” Logi greeted her, his accent vaguely Nordish.

 

“The pleasure is mine, Logi,” she replied.  

 

Logi led them to a table along the far wall, with windows looking out over the lava fields.

 

The conversation between the three of them flowed easily.  Stiles really liked the feel of Logi’s magic.  As strong as it was, it didn’t feel overbearing or stifling; it felt like it wrapped her in a cocoon of safety and warmth.

 

As the meal was ending she asked if he was amenable to being courted by her, to which he quickly and easily replied that he was.

 

After that, Stiles and Zandian headed to the Pits for the rest of the afternoon.  Unfortunately, no one jumped out at either of them as someone they were interested in for Zandian’s suite.  Oh well, there was no rush and they would be back the next day.

Chapter 24: Day Thirty-One

Summary:

Day 31 - Wednesday - the Pits

Day 31 - Wednesday

 

Stiles walked into the Pits, with Zandian leading the way, and Shorian and Callix bringing up the rear.  The four planned to spend the day there wandering from arena to arena looking for a princess for Shorian and a King (or more) for Zandian.  They were also going to watch another Maelstrom match.

 

The morning bore no prospects.  After a quick lunch they settled down to watch Maelstrom take on a Prince/Princess duo that were twin brothers.

 

The fight was intense and fast paced from the beginning.  Zandian was impressed that the Prince/Princess ranked pair was holding their own against the Queen/Prince duo.  In fact, he was so impressed that he asked Stiles what she thought of the pair.  She was equally impressed.  Once the match was over, Maelstrom just barely eked out a win, Stiles sent drinks down to all of them.  Shorian and Zandian left Stiles in the capable claws of Callix and went down to speak with their prospective pair.

 

Nico and Ziya followed Shorian back up a short time later, but Zandian was still down talking to the twins.

 

“Ziya,” Stiles greeted.  “It’s good to see you again.  You fought very well.  Who’s your partner?”

 

“Thank you,” Ziya replied.  “Stiles, may I introduce Nico Morrigan of the Morrigan Warrior Clan.  Nico, may I present Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski.”

 

“You fought very well, Nico,” Stiles told him honestly.

 

“Thank you,” Nico responded.

 

“Please forgive Nico,” Ziya said when he realized that was all Nico was going to say.  “He tends to speak with his sword more than with his words.”

 

She waved away his excuse.  “Actions speak louder than words, I’ve learned.”

 

The two left soon after, once they’d let her know when their next match was.  Zandian joined them soon after.

 

“Well?” Stiles prodded.

 

“They’re interested,” Zandian let her know.  “I warned them that I haven’t found a King or a Queen yet, but they’re still interested.  They are, obviously, both Shadow dragels. So that should soothe both you and Taran.”

 

“It will,” she confirmed.  “I just wasn’t sure if they were pure Shadow.  It’s hard to see their eyes from this far away.”

 

“True.”

 

The group of four got comfortable for the rest of the afternoon.  Close to the end of the day, a King finally appeared that caught Zandian’s attention.

 

“He looks like he’s an Earth dragel,” Zandian muttered, but Stiles still heard him.  “I can work with that.”

 

The dragel in question was giving a beating to a cocky fire dragel.  

 

“Even though he’s handing out a beatdown to a fire dragel?”  Stiles asked teasingly.

 

“Especially when he’s giving a beatdown to an overly cocky fire dragel,” Zandian replied, laughter evident in his tone.

 

“Hmm . . . Tyler ‘Rocky’ Stone,” Stiles pulled up his information.  “A bit on the nose, wouldn’t you say?”

 

“No one claimed gheyos were original,” Zandian laughed. 

 

Once the fight was over, with Tyler the clear winner, Stiles sent down a drink.  Once it was accepted, Zandian made his way down to the arena to talk with him.

 

“Looks like today was fruitful for Zandian.  Too bad I didn’t find a Princess today too,” Shorian commented after Zan had left.

 

“But he’s still missing a Queen,” she pointed out.

 

“That’s true.”

 

“I hope that Mesmyr’s trip to the Trench goes as well tomorrow.”

 

“Me too.  I’ve arranged to meet a Merrow pareya while I’m there, so hopefully it will go as well for me as it does for him.”

 

The four returned to the Estate in good moods, having had an excellent day at the Hunt.

 

Chapter 25: Day Thirty-Two

Summary:

Day 32 of The Hunt - Thursday - time at the Trench

Day 32 - Thursday

 

Stiles and Mesmyr had been watching the fights in the Trench all morning when a shadow fell over her, causing her to look up.  Especially when Mesmyr growled at the newcomer.

 

“Danny,” Stiles greeted enthusiastically, placing a hand on Mesmyr’s arm to calm him.  “I’m so glad you could make it.  Sit and join us.”

 

“Hey Stiles,” Danny replied as he sat next to her.

 

“Mesmyr,” Stiles began the introduction, “this is a friend of mine from high school on Earth, Danny Mahealani.  Danny, this is my soul-bonded Ace of His Majesty’s Crimson Tide, Mesmyr.”

 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Mesmyr,” Danny greeted,  The Ace had calmed when he recognized the name as the pareya that Stiles had scheduled to meet.

 

“Likewise,” Mesmyr replied before turning his attention back to the fight going on.

 

“So. . .” Stiles hedged a bit.  “Did you mean to send me a Hunting favor instead of a Social favor?”

 

“I did,” he replied.

 

“I don’t mean to be blunt, but I’m not sure how else to ask.  I’m a girl,” she told him, as if he didn’t already know that.

 

He laughed lightly.  “I know.  I’m only mostly gay.  It was easier to just say that I was gay for several reasons.  One, I didn’t want a gaggle of girls following me around like they did Jackson,” Stiles nodded her head in understanding that reason, “and I couldn’t accidentally knock up a guy.” Stiles nodded again, Mesmyr did too, indicating that he was listening even if he was acting like he wasn’t.  “But if the right woman were to come along, I’d have no problem with sleeping and/or bonding with her.”

 

“And you think I’m the right woman?”  Stiles was surprised, because Danny had never shown any kind of inclination toward her other than civility.

 

“I’d like to find out,” he answered honestly.  And with her Perception, she knew it was an honest answer.  “You seem like you could be, and from what I’ve seen of your Circle, I’d have no lack of male lovers to satisfy that side of myself.  So, I’d officially like to court you to see if you and I could work.”

 

“I’d like that,” she told him.  And the three sat back and watched the rest of the fight going on in the arena.

---

Toward the end of the afternoon, a Prince caught Mesmyr’s eye.

 

“He’s a member of Crimson Tide,” Mesmyr explained to them.  “His name is Krylor.  I’ve had my eye on him for a while; I just didn’t know when I’d be building my suite so I never approached him.”

 

“He fights well,” Stiles chimed in. “He’s good at anticipating his opponent.”

 

“With your permission, I think I’ll go down and talk to him after the match.”

 

“Permission granted.  What should I send him?”

 

Danny pulled up the drink/snack menu and Mesmyr offered her several suggestions.  She made her selection then sat back to watch him as he soundly beat his opponent.

 

Mesmyr left with instructions to both of them to stay put, and for Danny to guard her with his life.  He took the order with grace and pulled her closer into his side, with his arm around her.  The two continued to talk as they watched Mesmyr speak with Krylor down on the arena floor.

 

It didn’t take too long before Mesmyr was back, a smirk on his face.

 

“He’s interested,” he told him.  “He’ll send you a favor along with his fight schedule to make it official.”

 

“Wonderful,” she clapped her hands together in delight.  Mesmyr gave a genuine smile at her enthusiasm.

 

“Danny it was a pleasure to meet you, but it’s time for me to get this trouble maker home,” Mesmyr said.

 

“The pleasure was all mine,” Danny replied.  “I look forward to hearing from you Stiles.”

 

“We’ll plan a date sometime soon,” she let him know.

 

And then Stiles and Mesmyr were portaling back to the Estate.

Chapter 26: Days Thirty-three - Thirty-four

Summary:

Days 33-34 of The Hunt - pure fluff

Day 33 - Friday - Day 34 - Saturday

Stiles spent Friday doing her meditations, then going through favors.  After that, she spent time in the training ground with her Aces.  They were helping her perfect her form through the katas she had learned from the Gorgons-Nott gheyos.  Once she was sweaty and tired, she hit the water with Mesmyr for a relaxing swim in the lake. 

 

As she sank into the water she realized how much she had been neglecting this side of herself.  All her muscles started to unwind and an itch that she hadn’t even realized was there was suddenly gone.  After nearly an hour in the water she got out to go get ready for her Triad date.

---

Stiles entered the restaurant on the arms of her Alpha and Beta.  Both men handsomely turned out for the evening.  Stiles herself was more dressed up than she’d been (outside of Introductions) for longer than she cared to admit.

 

The restaurant was beautiful, the rounded booths separated by curtains and privacy spells gave the feeling of privacy and intimacy, the candles on and around the table gave the place a romantic atmosphere.

 

The three spent an hour eating and talking, getting to know each other better, and unwind from the hectic pace of the Hunt in general, and the rate at which Stiles had filled out the circle in particular.

 

Once they’d finished their desserts, which they’d shared with each other, Taran asked Stiles to dance.  He led her to the dancefloor that held several other couples and trios, and took her into his arms and led her in a slow dance around the floor.

 

A couple songs later Ariki cut in and took his turn leading her around the dancefloor.  A few songs later and Taran rejoined them, and the two men tucked Stiles between them and moved in a well choreographed synchronicity as they spun her between them.  They made sure that at least one of them was touching her at all times.

 

When that song ended, Ariki sat back down and they began the rotation again.  Until Stiles finally protested that her feet hurt and that Taran and Ariki should dance one song together while she sat and got a drink.  She couldn’t help but notice how gorgeous they looked together.  Two tall, unfairly handsome men wrapped in each other’s arms.  When the song ended they returned to the table to be with their submissive.

 

Soon after, they paid their bill and headed back to the Estate, to one of the smaller bedrooms and the three of them spent the rest of the night reaffirming their bonds with each other.

---

Saturday was relaxing for her as she, Tyr, and Zephyr wandered through the shopping districts.  Teddy wanted to head into his patisserie for a bit just to check on things in his absence, so she wasn’t with them. Though they would end the afternoon there to pick him (and dessert) up.

 

The three spent an enjoyable few hours wandering and talking, just getting to know each other and catching up on anything the others may have missed in their day to day lives.

 

Stiles found little trinkets for everyone in her circle, plus her dad, Idris, and Harry.  All in all, she thoroughly enjoyed the day out with two of her pareya and was looking forward to spending the next day back in the Pits with Shorian, Callix and Zandian.

 

Chapter 27: Day Thirty-five

Summary:

Day 35 - Sunday - A Queen

Day 35 - Sunday

 

It was almost by accident that they stumbled upon his fight in the Pits.  Zandian, Shorian, Callix, and Stiles were later getting to the Pits than they meant to be.  They passed one of the smaller arenas on their way to the main arena and heard a collective, “ooooh” from the crowd.  So they wandered in to see what had the crowd so enthralled.  

 

The Queens’ Contest was thoroughly one sided; the Night Fae demolishing his opponent, an Earth Fae.  Then Callix noticed something around the Night Fae’s neck.

 

“Stiles, look.  He’s wearing a teardrop gem on his necklace,” Callix pointed out.  The four looked closer and to their surprise, he did indeed have a teardrop gemstone on his necklace.  It looked to be a dark lapiz lazuli or something similar.

 

Zandian immediately pulled up the match information table.

 

“His name is Nox and he’s a Night Fae. Queen.” He read off.  “Looks like I found my Queen,” he said.  “I’ll go down and talk to him after.”

 

“Callix, help me pick out something to send him when the match is over,” Stiles moved closer to the King.  “At the rate he’s going it will be over any second.”

 

Callix flipped through the menu.  “Yes?” He pointed at one, showing it to Shorian, who nodded.  “This, and have it spiked with Storm Healer blood.”

 

“Perfect,” she answered as she put in the order.  No sooner had she paid for the drink through the automated system then Nox finished off the fight with a flourish.

 

Zandian then headed down to the arena floor to speak with Nox.

 

The next Queens’ Contest match had started by the time that Zandian came back up to where they were seated, Nox following behind him.

 

“Stiles,” Zan greeted.  “Allow me to introduce Nox.  Nox, this is my submissive Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski.”

 

“I believe this belongs to you,” Nox said as he pointed to the gem at this throat.  Stiles felt a pull toward Nox.  Not a full blown soul-bond, but it also wouldn’t take much to develop into one either.  She looked forward to it.

 

“Consider it a courting gift, from me to you,” Stiles replied easily, having said much the same to Mesmyr and Callix.  “May I also introduce you to another of my Aces, Shorian, and his King Callix Maruke.”

 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all,” the Night Fae bowed slightly to the Plant Fae.

 

“We were about to head to the main arena,” Stiles informed him.  “Would you care to join us?”

 

“I would be honored,” he answered.  And the five of them set off toward the main arena, Zandian and Nox walking in front of her and Shorian and Callix walking behind her.  Even in the crowd she felt safe with her gheyos surrounding her.

---

Family dinner that night went as well as it always did.  Noah, Idris, Eris, Harry, and Brishen were all in attendance.  Discussions mainly centered around how Stiles’ and the Aces’ Hunts were going.  Stiles let everyone know that she had a lunch date with Danny scheduled for the next day, then Tuesday she would be back in the Trench with Mesmyr.

 

Mainly, they all just enjoyed their time with each other and relaxed after a busy week.  Stiles couldn’t have asked for a better way to end her weekend.

Chapter 28: Days Thirty-six - Thirty-seven

Summary:

Days 36-37 of The Hunt - A healer, a date, and a Joker

Day 36 - Monday - Day 37 - Tuesday

 

Stiles purred as she ran her hand through the Non-traditional ranks pile of favors and came up with one the made her magic sit up and take notice.

 

She nearly laughed when she read the name: Altan Gorgons-Nott - Healer.

 

“So, apparently two brothers isn’t enough for me,” Stiles joked with Taran, who was at the dining table with her going through the Social favors.  “Looks like I’ll be adding another of your brothers.”

 

“Who?” he asked.

 

“Altan,” she replied.  “He sent me a favor.  I hadn’t realized how good his magic felt.  It would be good to have a fully trained Healer in our circle too.”

 

“I didn’t think he was ready to bond yet,” Taran said thoughtfully.  “Hmm. . . interesting.  You must’ve made a bigger impression on him than I thought.”

 

“I’ll send him a return favor and we’ll see where things go from there.”

 

---

Lunch with Danny turned out to be a lot more fun than she’d anticipated.  Now that neither of them had to hide any part of themselves, they got along swimmingly (pun absolutely intended).   Stiles explained getting bitten by Peter and Danny explained why he was on earth in the first place (his parents were seekers of the Lost Children on Earth).

 

They stayed at the restaurant for close to two hours before taking a stroll, er, a swim through the Merrow marketplace.  She found something for Noah and a stunning dagger for Idris.  She’d have to come back another time and look for things for her bonded - things that wouldn’t be found in a marketplace on land.

 

Eventually, Stiles needed to get back to her bonded before they worried and sent out a search party.  So the two said their goodbyes with a plan to meet again the next day when she was at the Trench with Mesmyr.

---

Tuesday found Mesmyr and Stiles back at the Trench to watch more matches.  Danny joined them after they’d been there for about an hour.  Tyrnan and Tudor, the Selkie twins, had another match, as did Krylor.  But it was a Joker that caught all of their attention.

 

He was very obviously only part Merrow - the horns curling back from his head being a dead giveaway.  The match information said his name was Zayde and that he was half Merrow, half Battle Faun.  Stiles had never heard of a Battle Faun before.  Danny explained that while a faun is part goat, a battle faun is part ram.  They’re much larger in stature and they’re horns are much larger and stronger.

 

The three sat in awe as Zayde took on two other Jokers in a three-way battle and soundly defeated both of them.  Stiles sent down a drink favor and Mesmyr immediately went down to speak with him.  Danny listened as Stiles gushed over the match and half-jokingly fanned herself as if she was too hot.

 

It didn’t take long before Mesmyr was back with the Joker.

 

“Stiles, Danny, may I present Zayde,” Mesmyr introduced.  “Joker Zayde, may I introduce my soul-bonded submissive Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski, and her courting Pareya Danny Mahealani.”

 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both,” Zayde greeted.  His low voice rumbled and sent chills up and down Stiles’ spine.

 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Zayde,” she said when she finally found her voice.  “You fought beautifully.”

 

“Thank you.  It’s easy to win when I’m underestimated because I’m only a Merrow halfling.  They don’t expect my Merrow side to be as strong as it is.  Nor is there much they can do against the Earth of my Battle Faun side.”

 

“Being underestimated does have its advantages,” she concurred.

 

Zayde stayed with them through the next couple of matches, including the Selkie twin’s. Even Zayde was impressed by them.  Before he left, he gave Stiles and Mesmyr a copy of his upcoming fights

 

Soon Mesmyr, Stiles, and Danny were headed back to the Estate so that Danny could meet the rest of the circle.  Danny agreed to bond into the circle within the next few days.  The pareya were glad to have another of their rank join the circle, especially a Merrow pareya, since they didn’t know how best to care for their water bonded, including Stiles.  Now, Stiles just had to finish filling out her suites and then she was so done with Hunting.  As much fun as she’d had, she was ready to be done.

Notes:

Someone asked for a circle List so here it is.

Parentheses are people that have been introduced for that rank, but not bonded in yet

Sub: “Stiles” Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski [Nameless]
Gheyo Alpha: Taranis Maruke [Nameless]
Beta: Ariki Deveraine [Air w/Earth]
Advisor: Daniel Jackson [Earth Phoelix]
Mage: (Logi) [Fire]
Healer: (Altan Gorgons-Nott) [Nameless]
Companion: ?
Pareya: Teddy/Thea Lupin [Earth w/Shadow - changeling]
Pareya: Tyr Cairothe [Storm]
Pareya: Zephyr Kuroe [Shadow w/Earth]
Pareya: (Danny Mahealani) [Merrow]
Ace: Mesmyr [Merrow]
King: (Tyrnan) [Selkie]
Queen: (Tudor) [Selkie]
Prince: (Krylor) [Merrow]
Princess: ?
Joker: (Zayde) [½ Merrow, ½ Battle Faun]
Ace: Shorian [Plant Fae]
King: Callix [Nameless]
Queen: (Nico Morrigan) [Storm]
Prince: (Ziya Arcadios) [Air]
Princess: ?
Joker: ?
Ace: Zandian [Fire]
King: (Tyler Stone) [Earth]
Queen: (Nox) [Night Fae]
Prince: (Connor) [Shadow]
Princess: (Duncan) [Shadow]
Joker: ?

Chapter 29: Day Thirty-eight

Summary:

Day 38 of the Hunt - Wednesday - Princess and Jokers

Day 38 - Wednesday

 

Stiles was back in the Pits with Shorian, Callix, and Zandian.  They were there to look for a Princess (and possibly a Joker) for Shorian, and a Joker for Zandian.  Tyler Stone also had a match that day, as did the Shadow twins Connor and Duncan.  

 

Tyler was up first and he did a magnificent job of defeating his opponent.  Not long after, they headed to where the arena where the twin had their match, which they won.  The next few matches were Princesses, so the Stiles and her gheyo stayed to see if any caught her or Shorian’s eye.

 

And one did.  A vampire name Stōx.  He was so much faster than his opponent that Stiles almost felt bad.  If she had been fighting someone else she may have seemed like a much better fighter, but against Stōx she looked slow and clumsy.

 

Once the match was over (it didn’t take all that long) Stiles sent down a drink favor and Shorian went down to talk with him.  Stiles watched as Shorian pointed her out to Stōx, who then immediately accepted the drink.  A few minutes later, Shorian was back.

 

“He’s very interested,” the Plant Fae let her know.  “While he’s a vampire, his grandmother was a Shadow dragel, so he has just enough dragel blood to slot into a rank.”

 

“He so fast,” she gushed.  “And his Shadows will work well with Callix’s.”

 

“He seemed nice, though he was still riding a bit high on blood and battle lust since this fight didn’t really give him a chance to expend that energy.  I think he’ll be a good fit.”

 

---

The quartet wandered through the various arenas for awhile, keeping an eye out for Jokers.  When they made their way back to the main arena a match was just starting.  This match was between two Fae - one Dusk and one Fire.  A quick look at the match information let them know that they were both Jokers. So the four settled in to what would hopefully be a good match.

 

Turns out it wasn’t just good, it was amazing.  The two Fae were evenly matched. Back and forth, one gaining the upper hand and then the other stealing it away.  Time was finally called with no clear winner.  Both her Aces were interested - Zandian in the Fire Fae and Shorian in the Dusk Fae - so Stiles send drinks to both of them.  Then her Aces wandered down to the floor to talk with the Fae.

 

When they got back they reported that the Fae they talked to was interested.  Komos was the Fire Fae, and the Dusk Fae was Parker, a changeling.  

 

Soon after, the four headed back to the Estate, now courting all the ranks in the suites.  Now Stiles and Mesmyr just needed to find a Princess they both liked and then Stiles was done actively Hunting.  She still had plenty of courting to do, but the Hunting part would be finished.

 

Chapter 30: Day Thirty-nine

Summary:

Day 39 of The Hunt - Thursday - A Princess and a new pareya

Day 39 - Thursday

 

Thursday was back at the Trench.  Stiles and Mesmyr really needed to find a Princess for his suite. It was the last remaining rank to be courted and then Stiles was done Hunting.  She really hoped that today was successful.

 

It was a boring morning from a Hunting standpoint.  The fights were exciting to watch, but none were Princess ranked; they weren’t until the afternoon.  Danny brought them lunch and the three settled in to watch that afternoon’s fights.  About 2 o’clock the Princess ranks began their fights.  The first few were lack-luster.  Then finally, one had Mesmyr sit up when his name was called.

 

“Alteus is a member of Crimson Tide,” the Ace explained.  “I hadn’t realized he was interested in Hunting this season.”

 

“I take it he’s someone to keep an eye on,” Stiles said.

 

“Very much so,” Mesmyr answered.

 

And he was.  Alteus easily defeated the other Princess he was fighting.  Stiles sent down a drink favor and Mesmyr left Stiles in Danny’s capable claws and went down to the arena floor to speak with Alteus.

 

A while later, after the next match had begun, Mesmyr made his was back up to them.

 

“He’ll send you a favor, along with his fight schedule,” he informed Stiles.

 

“Wonderful,” she responded.  “Then that’s everyone.  Let’s get out of here.  You wanna come back with us Danny?”

 

“Sure,” the pareya replied.

 

So, the three left the Trench and headed back to the Estate, Stiles feeling like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders.  All ranks were filled or being courted, so she could sit back, relax, and enjoy the rest of The Hunt.

---

The evening was spent laughing, joking, and cuddling with her bonded and Intended (Danny). Dinner was fantastic, as always.  She had the best pareya a girl could ask for.

 

When it came time to head to bed Danny pulled her aside.  

 

“I’m ready when you are,” he told her.

 

“So am I,” she responded, then leaned in to give him a kiss.  He returned it enthusiastically and all worry that she had about him disappeared.

 

She pulled him into the closest empty bedroom.  An hour later she pulled on her bonds to her Alpha and Beta.  By the time they all fell asleep, Danny was officially bonded into the Gajos-Maruke Circle.

Chapter 31: Day Forty

Summary:

Day 40 - Friday - another teardrop gemstone found

Day 40 - Friday

Taran and Stiles walked in the market, headed toward where they were meeting Logi for lunch, when she ran into him - literally.

 

“I’m so sorry,” a voice apologized.  “I was lost in thought and wasn’t paying attention.  Are you both alright?”

 

“We’re fine,” Taran slightly growled.  That he could tell the man was genuinely apologetic kept his temper mostly in check.

 

“Really,” Stiles reassured.  “We’re fine.  No harm done.  What had you so lost in thought?”

 

“I was trying to figure out who this came from?” He pulled a pendant from under his shirt.  But not just any pendant.  It was one of the teardrop gems that Stiles had created during her performance at the Introductions.  It looked like it was a diamond.

 

“You got one of my gemstones,” she cheered.

 

“Yours?” He sounded confused.

 

“Weren’t you at the Royal Introductions?”  Taran asked.

 

“No, I didn’t get back on realm until that evening.  And this was waiting on my kitchen counter when I got home.”

 

“For the Introductions,” Stiles explained, “ Queen Ebony asked me to Showcase my talent, which is Gem Singing.  So, I used it to send gemstones to a dozen people that were the most compatible with me.  And you got one.  What’s your name?”

 

“You used your Showcase to help you Hunt?  That’s brilliant.  My name is Varstan Evenhauser, and I am an Air Mage.  And you are?”

 

“My name is Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski, but you may call me Stiles.  And this is my soul-bonded Alpha, Taranis Maruke.”

 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both,” said the now-named Varstan.

 

“And you,” Taran responded, much calmer now.

 

“I’d love to stay and talk to you, but we’re actually on a tight schedule right now,” Stiles explained.  “Could I contact you tomorrow and we can schedule a time to get together?”

 

“I’d love that,” Varstan answered.

 

“Until tomorrow.”

 

“Until tomorrow.”

 

Stiles and Taran then took off to meet with Logi.  And Stiles couldn’t help but think, apparently she wasn’t done with Hunting after all.

Chapter 32: Day Forty-One

Summary:

Day 41 - Saturday - Pits and lunch

Day 41 - Saturday

Saturday morning found most of the circle in the Pits, watching Nico and Ziya complete another 1 to 100 match.  This was the third match of theirs that Stiles had been to watch, which means that after the match she was allowed to go down and talk with them.  Everyone but Teddy, who chose to go into his shop to check on things, came with her to watch.  

 

At the halfway mark she sent drinks down to Nico and Ziya, like she had last time.

 

The two were putting on a show and demolishing any and all monsters that the organizers could put together.  Her circle was impressed and loved the show. After the match, finishing all the levels with a time that was near record breaking, she, Shorian, and Callix made their way to the arena floor.

 

“Well done, you two,” Stiles congratulated them as she got close.  “That was a very impressive showing.”

 

“Thank you,” Ziya replied for the two of them. 

 

“Would the two of you like to come to a late lunch with my circle?” She asked.

 

With a quick look at his partner, who nodded, Ziya answered.  “We’d love to.  Give us a few minutes to get changed.”

 

“We’ll wait for you in our seats.” She pointed out the rest of her circle to him and the duo made their way to the locker room to shower and change clothes.

---

Lunch was loud.  Good, but loud.  No one in her circle was particularly shy and that was evident in the level of sound that her circle was capable of when they were excited.  And they were excited.  They all, including Daniel, were amazed at the skill and endurance it took to face a hundred challenges back to back, and to do it in near record breaking time.

 

“Some of your moves were sheer artistry,” Tyr gushed from his spot next to Nico, who had Stiles on, his other side.  And as an artisan himself, he knew what he was talking about.

 

“Thanks,” Nico replied.  He’d opened up a little more once he saw how relaxed the others were about him and Ziya being there.  They’d welcomed him with metaphorical arms wide open and that had helped him relax some.  The pure happiness radiating off of Ziya, who sat between the submissive and future Ace, helped as well.

 

“You both did exceptionally well,” Taranis complimented them from his seat just across from Stiles, with Ariki on his right, in front of Nico, and Zandian on his left, in front of Ziya.

 

“Thanks,” Ziya responded.  “We love 1 to 100s.  They’re so much fun.”

 

“What else do you both like to do - either in or out of the arena?” Stiles inquired.

 

“Nico likes to draw and I like to go flying.”

 

She turned her head to face Nico.  “If you ever feel like sharing, I’d love to see some of your drawings.  Art is not a talent I have, and I’m jealous of those that do.”

 

“I have a few I could show you sometime,” he answered shyly, a light blush covering his cheeks.

 

“I would love that,” she chirped happily.

 

Lunch continued for over an hour, then the entire group, Maelstrom included, went back to the Estate, where Teddy met them with pastries from his patisserie.  It was several more hours before Maelstrom headed back to their own apartment, with plans to see them during the next week being made.

Chapter 33: Days Forty-Two - Forty-Three

Summary:

Days 42-43 of The Hunt - Sunday & Monday - Pits and a date

Day 42 - Sunday - Day 43 - Monday

 

Sunday was calm.  Stiles did her meditations and went through favors. (She ended up burning them all.)  Dinner with her dad, Idris, and Eris went well, as it always did. She sent Varstan a message and the two arranged to meet for lunch on Wednesday.

 

---

Monday rolled around and Stiles went back to the Pits.  They were there to watch two fights: Nox, the Queen, and Komos, the Fire Fae.  This would be the second time watching both of them.

 

And they were both just as impressive as they were the first time around.  She sent drink favors to both of them, and Zandian went down to speak with them for a few minutes each.  

 

It was a nice way to pass the morning and early afternoon.  

 

After the matches, Stiles went home and got changed for her early dinner date with Altan.  She walked through the doors of the restaurant at exactly 5 pm and found Altan waiting for her.  

 

About halfway through dinner, Stiles finally asked about something that she wanted to know since she received his favor.

 

“I thought you weren’t ready to bond into a circle,” she said.  “I remember you telling me that you wanted to wait until you finished your training.”

 

“I did say that,” Altan admitted.  “But it was pointed out to me that I could still continue training even after I bond.  But you might’ve found a healer for your circle if I wait until after I finish.”

 

“That is a very good point,” she agreed.

 

“There was also this,” he said as he pulled a teardrop gem out from under the collar of his shirt.  It has become a stunning aqua-marine colored, transparent gem.  Like a teal diamond or something.

 

Stiles breathed in a small gasp.  “You got one,” she whispered.

 

“I did. I’ve been fighting with myself about the timing ever since.  And when Papa Quinn reminded me that it wasn’t a choice between them.  Choosing to court you didn’t mean that I was giving up Healing.  It just meant that I wouldn’t get as much time off for bonding as most people get, specifically because it’s the Hunt and all Healers are on-call during the Hunt.  And then I knew.  And here we are.”

 

“I’m so glad that we are,” she reaffirmed.  “We can work around schedules and duties; that’s just details.  What I care about is that you’re willing to give us a chance.  I’m so grateful for that.  I’ve missed you since I left Oret’s house.”

 

“I’ve missed you as well,” he shyly admitted.

 

The rest of the lunch date went extraordinarily well.  She really had missed her first friend in Nevarah.  

Chapter 34: Days Forty-Four - Forty-Seven

Summary:

Days 44-47 of The Hunt - Tuesday-Friday - A Queen/Prince, a date, the Trench, and the Hale Pack.

Day 44 - Tuesday - Day 47 - Friday

 

Stiles, Shorian, and Callix met Nico and Ziya at the Pit entrance. They were there to watch matches for Stōx and Parker.  

 

The Princess and the Joker both won their respective matches, and Stiles sent them each a drink favor.  

 

Nico and Ziya went back to the Estate with Stiles and her bonded gheyo.  Stiles spent that night in the gheyo quarters bonding in her new Queen and Prince.

---

Wednesday, Stiles got ready for her lunch date with Varstan.  The two met at a quaint bistro near the Dive.  

 

The meal was excellent and the company even more so.  They talked about anything and everything, just getting to know each other.  By the end of the date Stiles knew that Varstan would be hers, sooner rather than later.

---

Thursday found Stiles, Mesmyr, and Danny back at the Trench.  The Selkie twins had another match, as well as Alteus.  So the three settled in to enjoy the show.  Just as the twins were about to start their match Zayde arrived and sat with them.

 

He was impressed with how well the King/Queen pair worked together. Mesmyr went down and invited them to lunch after Alteus’ match.  They agreed to come sit with them after they got cleaned up and changed to watch the Princess and then join them for lunch.

 

After they watched Alteus wipe the floor with his opponent, the group made their way to a partially submerged restaurant.  Conversations flowed easily and Stiles got to know more about Tyrnan and Tudor (including the fact that they got two of the teardrop gems.  Tyrnan’s was a white pearl, while Tudor’s was a pink pearl).  Zayde seemed to get along with everyone as well.

 

Stiles was glad that lunch went so well.  She was finally filling out her circle.  All she had to do now was attend some matches, go on a few dates, then bond with her Intended.  No more stress about finding the right person.  And the Hale pack would be here this weekend for the Full Moon Run.  She was nervous about seeing them all again, but she was excited too.  She hoped that everything went well for the Run.

---

Friday was a beautiful, clear day and Stiles was nearly bouncing off the walls.  The Hale Pack would be arriving today and Stiles didn’t know whether to be nervous or excited.  Is nercited a word? She wondered.  Her bonded all laughed at her extra energy, and spent the day trying to distract her to varying degrees of success.(asking her opinion on turn out - not helpful; dragging her into the closest bedroom - very successful).

 

Sooner than she wanted, yet it still took too long, Taran was shadow portaling into the transport room with the Hale Pack. First all she could see were the betas - Isaac, Erica, and Boyd.  Then they separated as they turned around and she saw him for the first time since she threw him under her jeep and lost her shit in an epic way.  Then their eyes met and the world tilted, or maybe it was already tilted and suddenly righted itself.  

 

They took a step toward each other before their actions caught up to their brains.

 

“Apparently, you and I need to have a very long conversation,” Stiles’ voice breathless in her daze.

 

“Apparently,” he agreed, sounding just as dazed as Stiles, just not as breathless.

 

A small part of her brain that she really wasn’t listening to, laughed at the fact that everytime we say we’re done Hunting we literally run into a new bonded.  She was too busy paying attention to the part of her brain that was saying Derek was hers and she was Derek’s.  That seemed more important to listen to.

Notes:

Parentheses are people that have been introduced for that rank, but not bonded in yet
● = got a teardrop gem from Stiles’ talent display during the introductions

Sub: “Stiles” Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski [Nameless]
Gheyo Alpha: Taranis Maruke [Nameless]
Beta: Ariki Deveraine [Air w/Earth]
Advisor: Daniel Jackson [Earth Phoelix] ●
Mage: (Logi) [Fire]
Mage: (Varstan Evenhauser) [Air] ●
Healer: (Altan Gorgons-Nott) [Nameless] ●
Companion: Derek Hale [Alpha Werewolf]
Pareya: Teddy/Thea Lupin [Earth w/Shadow - changeling] ●
Pareya: Tyr Cairothe [Storm] ●
Pareya: Zephyr Kuroe [Shadow w/Earth] ●
Pareya: (Danny Mahealani) [Merrow]
Ace: Mesmyr [Merrow] ●
King: (Tyrnan) [Selkie] ●
Queen: (Tudor) [Selkie] ●
Prince: (Krylor) [Merrow]
Princess: (Alteus) [Merrow]
Joker: (Zayde) [½ Merrow, ½ Battle Faun]
Ace: Shorian [Plant Fae]
King: Callix [Nameless] ●
Queen: Nico Morrigan [Storm]
Prince: Ziya Arcadios [Air]
Princess: (Stōx) [Vampire]
Joker: (Parker) [Dusk Fae - changeling] ●
Ace: Zandian [Fire]
King: (Tyler Stone) [Earth]
Queen: (Nox) [Night Fae] ●
Prince: (Connor) [Shadow]
Princess: (Duncan) [Shadow]
Joker: (Komos) [Fire Fae]

Chapter 35: Epilogue - 30 years later

Summary:

Set 30 years into the future.

Notes:

I lost all motivation for this story. So I wrote an epilogue to at least bring some kind of closure to this story.

Epilogue - 30 years later

 

“Making his Hunt debut, please welcome Gheyo Alpha Sebastian Maruke!” 

 

Stiles wasn’t sure how to feel about her eldest child being old enough to Hunt, and yet she was so proud of him that she could practically burst. 

 

Taranis wrapped his arms around her waist from behind and pulled her close to him.

 

“My baby,” she whispered to him.

 

“He’s not a baby anymore, my heart,” he whispered back. “He’s twenty-four.”

 

“He’ll always be my baby,” she mumbled as she leaned back into her Alpha’s embrace.

 

“Please welcome the Gajos-Maruke circle,” the stadium announcer brought Stiles back to reality.  “As they have Merrow bonded, their names will be read with their rank, but they will be surfacing with the Merrow Royals.”

 

Stiles’ circle was lined up and ready to walk.  This was their second Hunt so they were more prepared this season.

 

“Please welcome the Gajos-Maruke Aces: Mesmyr, Shorian, and Zandian.”  The two landwalker Aces made their way out and waved to the crowd as they both strutted across the walkway.  When they were three-quarters of the way across the announcer spoke again.

 

“Their Kings: Tyrnan, Callix Maruke, and Tyler Stone.”  Callix and Tyler stoically made their way across the walkway.

 

“Their Queens: Tudor, Nico Morrigan, and Nox.” The two queens did gymnastics across the walkway, barely missing each other with their moves.  Stiles knew they had rehearsed so much to be able to perform without hurting each other.

 

“Their Princes: Krylor, Ziya Arcadios, and Connor.” The princes waved to the crowd as the sauntered across the walkway.

 

“Their Princesses: Alteus, Stōx, and Duncan.” The princesses just walked, not really paying the crowd any attention.

 

“Their Jokers: Zayde, Parker, and Komos.” The two Fae Jokers waved to the crowd as they made their way across.

 

“Their Pareya: Teddy Lupin, Tyr Cairothe, Zephyr Kuroe, and Danny Mahealani.”  The three landwalking pareya waved and smiled as they calmly made their way across.

 

“And now for the non-traditional ranks.  Advisor: Daniel Jackson.” Daniel waved as he walked casually across the walkway.

 

“Healer: Altan Gorgons-Nott.” Altan gave one small wave as he walked as quickly as he could without making it look like he was hurrying.  But he hated being in the spotlight like he was right then.

 

“Their Mages: Logi and Varstan Evenhauser.” The two somehow managed to make a fire tornado that the two followed across the walkway.

 

“Companion and Alpha Werewolf: Derek Hale.”  The crowd went nuts as Derek shifted into his full Wolf shift.  He was nearly as tall as Stiles was.

 

“And now for their triad.  Beta Ariki Deveraine.” Ariki waved to the crowd then threw himself off of the walkway.  Stiles knew it was coming and she still sucked in a panicked breath and didn’t breathe again until Ariki was shooting upward past the walkway into the air.  He performed an aerial stunt and landed at the far end of the walkway.

 

“Gheyo Alpha: Taranis Maruke.”  The crowd went nuts for Taran; he’d just defended his unofficial title in the Pits the night before.

 

“Please give a warm welcome to the Submissive of the Gajos-Maruke circle:  Mieczysława Gajos-Stilinski!” As she walked she pulled out her wings and let her Ferros striping blaze with power.  The crowd went crazy and Stiles soaked it all in as she made her way across the walkway.

 

When she reached the other side she walked directly into her Alpha’s arms that he’d opened for her.

 

“I love you,” she told Taranis.  “And I love our circle and the life we’ve all made together.”

 

“I love you, my heart,” he replied.  “I’m looking forward to the long life we have ahead of us.”

 

“Me too, my Alpha.  Me too.”

THE END