FIC: Aloha: Lei of the Wolf, 6/10 fandoms: Lotrips/CW rps (Colin/Orlando, multiple pairings, NC-17)
Masterpost
Previous ch
Pressed up against the wall, left alone after Dom had rushed to Jeremy’s side when the man fell from the couch; Orlando watched in horror as everything around them erupted in chaos. Where items around the room took flight and were aimed at them like weapons.
Startled when he heard an agonizing scream; he turned to the source, to find it was Jeremy shifting even as Dom protested. Unlike earlier this was agonizingly slow. Each ripple of growth, the break and pull of his bones, hair and teeth echoed painfully loud within the room as Orli watched him shift in slow motion.
Suddenly Orli heard, \\Duck!// even as he felt a hand shove him forward where he dropped to his knees.
Hearing a crash above him, he looked behind him to see the remains of what had been a lamp falling to the floor.
In shock he muttered, “Fuck.”
\\You, have to run. I can hide your scent and give you time, but you have to go now. The cracks are becoming tears; he won’t be able to hold the shield much longer.//
Wild-eyed Orli looked around to see who had spoken; instinct already telling him the voice, a yank, hadn’t come from any of his friends but from inside of his own head. Fearfully Orli swallowed then whispered. “Who are you?”
\\There’s no time to explain. I don’t want to do this, but I have no choice - please, you and the others can get away, but you have to run. They only want…//
Orli finished the sentence, “Colin. NO!”
\\Please, you have to leave without him. I can’t protect him.//
“No, I can’t…Whoever you are; you’re the one that’s doing this. You have to stop it, please. Colin didn’t start this; he was just trying to save Dom.”
The tone dripped heavily with regret as he acknowledged what Orli said. \\I know//
“If you know then you have to help us and stop attacking.”
\\I can’t, you don’t understand.//
Fear and anger rose to a boiling point just as his voice did. “You’re right I don’t understand, but I won’t leave him to be slaughtered.”
A cry rang out and instinctively Orli knew it was Colin. Somehow he also knew Colin hadn’t been physically attacked. As the thought crossed his mind a window opened and he knew Colin was being attacked mentally and that the attack came from the voice that told him to run. The attack was through a vision, a memory of the fight when Colin took the werewolf’s life, only the images were twisted with Colin in his werewolf form, but the other was defenseless in human form and Colin’s beast was out of control.
Orli only saw glimpses, but what he did see was brutal and inhumane, false images of Colin tearing the man’s flesh apart down to his bones. Worse each vicious bite wasn’t meant to kill, but torture his prey -something Orli already knew Colin could never do, but the vision fed on Colin’s fears and Orli’s heart lurched in need to protect his friend. “Stop it!”
\\I can’t.// Then Orli heard a woman’s shout, \\Do it now.// that was followed by a contrite, \\I’m sorry.//
Everything seemed to happen at once as a blur of fur flew pass him and he belatedly realized it was Jeremy. At the same time, Hannah screamed. Orli whipped around to see why and immediately saw the blood at Billy’s temple as he staggered back and fell to the floor. Elijah rushed over, ducking under something only to push up at an invisible weight trying to take Billy’s place, but it was too late.
Outside Orli heard the evidence of their shield falling as deafening growls grew and he immediately understood they were the sounds of battle as Karl, Jeremy and Colin fought to defend them. The sounds were quickly drowned out as a werewolf crashed through the window into the house. It briefly scanned the room before it spotted him on floor. Through ragged teeth its tongue hung out almost smiling; its growl low as it stalked toward him.
Nowhere to run, Orli back crawled until he hit the wall and pressed back as if the wall would give way to an escape door. Suddenly Sean and Dom were there yelling using what looked like long brooms or mop handles. Sean attacked as if he was holding a sword, his moves reminiscent of Boromir fighting the Orcs; where Dom fought with rawness swinging the handle like a baseball bat. At first it just ignored them then Sean’s aim was good enough to provoke it enough to react, throwing Sean’s body between the desk and wall before he slumped to the floor.
Sean didn’t move.
Orli barely had time to wonder where Viggo was when Dom attacked yelling obscenities. He continued to batter the werewolf, but it easily ignored Dom’s attempts and shoved him away as it continued to stalk. With every step its eyes riveted on its prey -him- stalking even salivating like it was starving and he was going to be its first meal in weeks.
Frozen in fear, Orli made the mistake of inhaling, and caught a strong whiff of its rank breath. His stomach turned; he was going to die. Seeing no escape Orli closed his eyes waiting for the predictable conclusion with hopes his death would be swift and prayed - a name popping into his head, Jared and that Jared would be able to help Colin and the others.
Someone’s \\NO!// boomed loudly in his mind.
Startled Orli opened his eyes to see an invisible force effectively pull the werewolf away as if it was nothing but a small pup being yanked away by its owner. Although the werewolf struggled, the force was doing more than just holding it at bay. Abruptly the werewolf’s body shook involuntary until it shifted from beast to man before his body was dropped unconscious a few feet away from Orlando.
A worried voice filled his mind, \\Are you okay?//
Jerkily Orli nodded, but silently questioned, \\Jared?// He didn’t know how he knew the man’s name or why, but suddenly Orli felt a connection to the man, a Jared Padalecki, who was attached to the voice in his head.
Jared only acknowledged with a curt yes.
Orli glanced around the room to the fallen debris around them and knew that Jared was the reason. A piercing howl drew Orli’s attention toward the yard and Colin, “The others?”
Jared spoke, \\I know, stay here.// then he was gone.
Ignoring the order Orli struggled to his feet, he had to help Colin.
Dazed Elijah lowered his arms as the weighted pressure dissipated. “What the fuck.” Looking around, he stared in disbelief at the shambles of the room that closely resembled the aftermath of a tornado. Worriedly he scanned the room for his friends. Behind him was Hannah offering aid to Billy, she answered his question before he had to ask. “He’ll be fine though he probably is going to need stitches.”
Elijah nodded his eyes already on Sean. It was obvious Sean was injured as he limped awkwardly over to Viggo. Where Viggo stood in the same position as when the attack started, the man appeared in overload, stiff and zoning out similar to the state he was in when Karl had arrived. A noise drew Elijah’s attention and he turned to see Orli standing, and realized he hadn’t seen or accounted for Dom.
Panicked Elijah’s heart accelerated.
Then abruptly Dom stood only to make a hasty exit as he ran outside and Orli quickly followed. Frozen, Elijah’s relief quickly faded to stark fear when the door slammed behind Dom and he easily picked up the ferocious sounds Dom was running toward.
Shaking off his fear, he was about to run after them when a werewolf crashed through the front door where Dom and Orli had exited. Its eyes immediately found its fallen companion then it shrieked in rage, turning toward Elijah expectantly.
Sensing the imminent charge of energy; Elijah felt its pain and instinctively knew it was going to strike and charge like a bull. Its back legs lowered in order to spring into action; Elijah felt the warmth of fingers from Hannah’s hand lace with his. They sparked with power just as it leaped.
Elijah swallowed in fear; there was no other thought process other than-stop the beast.
It did; in mid-air less than three feet away struggling against the invisible power holding it.
With a mental push it was flung back crashing into the wall then it was propelled forward only to be thrust back again and again. Behind it, the wall crumbled under its weight before its body slumped forward, unconscious. Like the other it shifted back into human form where it was dropped unceremoniously to the floor.
Clearly shocked, at what they were able to do Elijah turned to his sister. Only she was staring up at him in awe. He glanced past her to find Billy was also looking up at him. Relieved, Elijah sighed grateful that Billy had assisted him.
However Billy shook his head, no; the corner of his lips lifted into a contrite smile. He was about to question Billy, when Billy’s gaze darted behind him, his eyes wild as he choked out a, “No!”
Elijah whipped around, but didn’t see what had inspired Billy’s alarm then Elijah’s heart clenched in fear when Billy demanded, “You have to go after them; they’re going to need you.” He realized Billy was referring to Dom and Orli.
Briefly Elijah locked eyes with his sister’s and hesitated afraid to leave her alone.
She shook her head, “Go, we’ll be fin…”
He didn’t wait for her to finish, and turned, running for the door.
Elijah just made it outside before he skidded to a halt unable to take his eyes off of the scene before him. Although they were all in werewolf form, it was actually easy to see and identify who was who.
The werewolves of the opposing pack were growling viciously, hunched over and looking more like oversized dogs. They were taking turns, as they’d paw the ground stepping forward to snap their jaws, claws striking out before they stepped back then attack again.
Karl was front and center taking their taunts. Like Karl, Jeremy and Colin stood on two legs, their chests heaving as they roared their defiance to the packs taunts.
The pack continued to close in around them until someone’s attack connected and hit Jeremy. Its claws ripped across Jeremy’s chest drawing blood.
Karl stood taller, tilting his head back and roared a hideous sorrowful howl.
In reaction several werewolves hesitated showing their fear; a few even backed up.
The transition from Karl’s howl to his offensive attack was a blur as the alpha barreled his way through the pack.
Seeing Karl in action, Elijah couldn’t deny he was in awe then he swallowed as he realized the earlier fight between Karl and Jeremy was nothing. What his mother might have called roughhousing. In full battle mode, Karl’s prowess as an alpha was impressive beyond anything his imagination could have conjured up.
Behind Karl, Jeremy and Colin each flanked Karl in the mists of a fierce combat.
Seeing Jeremy, the wound across his chest oozing blood, Elijah realized the vision he had seen was coming true.
Something caught his attention and Elijah turned in time to see Dom was being stalked. He was swinging something to deter the werewolf from coming any closer, but it ignored Dom’s attempts. Elijah caught how its hind legs lowered a fraction; it was about to attack.
Instantly Elijah responded, instinct taking over as his hand stretched out and he released a stream of power, his mind screaming, no, to mentally push the werewolf away from Dom - where it hit a tree landing several yards away.
Distracted, Elijah didn’t see the werewolf behind him charge. He only felt its crushing weight. The impact smashing his face into the ground, knocking the wind was out of him.
Moments later, he tried to get up, but pain shot through his body forcing him to stop. Panicked Elijah gasped for air and swallowed against the dry crust, tasting dirt. From a distance Elijah heard an outcry that was ear-piercing, belatedly he realized it was Dom, seconds later the weight that was crushing him, was gone.
Beside him the heavy snarls of vicious battle drowned out everything else, they were too close. Elijah tried to open his eyes to see what was happening, but there was too much debris and dirt flying to see anything. Squeezing his eyes closed, Elijah pushed using his arms to slide and slither his body back to get away from the fighting.
Abruptly hands clamp around his ankles and roughly dragged his body.
Frightened Elijah held his breath when they stopped and turned him over. “I’m sorry, are you all right? Can you stand?” It was Orli. Then he felt another pair of hands and instinctively knew Dom was beside him.
Exhaling in relief, Elijah shook his head, no and mumbled, “My leg.”
Dom cursed but quickly put his arm around Elijah for support as Orli did the same. Together they worked to heave Elijah up to carry him back to the house and out of harm’s way.
Dom leaned in, his voice low in a soft whisper, the words belying his concern. “You’re going to be fine Doodle,” Elijah shivered feeling Dom’s heated breath wash over his skin, “But promise me whenever you do your Gandalf shtick always check behind you, yeah?”
Elijah grimaced when he heard ‘Gandalf shtick’ but quickly let it go. Hearing the love and concern in Dom’s voice warmed his heart and brought a smile to his lips that he vowed, “I promise.”
Satisfied Dom answered, “Good.”
Elijah nuzzled and leaned into Dom’s body, enjoying the heat of their closeness before he realized it wasn’t by design, that Orli was barely holding him. Though he couldn’t see very clearly Elijah turned and reached out before he felt Orli completely let go of him and move out of his reach.
Something was wrong.
Dom easily adjusted his stance when Orli let go and worriedly addressed their friend. “What’s wrong?” However it was what Dom said next that sent a chill of dread down Elijah’s spine, “Where are you going?”
His voice etched in regret Orli replied, “I have to Dom…”
Dom yelled, “Orli stop!” his fear palpable.
“Dom, what’s happening?”
Abruptly from the deep depths of his mind an image appeared that made Orli almost stumble. He quickly straightened out while his grip tightened around Elijah’s waist grateful Dom already had a secure hold of their friend as they made their way back to the house.
At first the image was blurred, his heartbeat erratic as it accelerated. He felt an urge to pant in order to relieve the burn of his lungs as if he had sprinted a mile. The image started to clear and sharpen enough to see the figure before him, a woman. Somehow he knew what he was seeing and feeling was real, but that it was through Jared’s eyes. Then the image was fine tuned and came into focus, Orli could see the details of the woman; she was one of the twins, who had threatened Colin.
“How did you?” Orli heard the disbelief within her voice that quickly turned to venom as she hissed. “You’re not bonded to him.” It was what she said next that confused Orli. “We’ve been betrayed - kill the fur ball!”
He could feel Jared’s fear escalate and Orli’s heart skipped a beat before his own heart increased. Jared raised his hand.
Her words were bitter with scorn, baiting him. “Did you think I wasn’t prepared; that you’d be able stop me?” She laughed and rushed forward to blow a handful of dust in his face.
Jared stumbled back and closed his eyes, but his hand wasn’t quick enough to wave the dust away. His eyes watered when he tried to open his eyes, blinking rapidly in panic.
Teasingly in a sing song voice she answered her own question. “To stop me, first, you’ll have to find me… before I take your heart.”
Orli shuddered at the threat. At the same time his vision started to cloud over as he was hit with a multitude of Jared’s emotions, the most dominate to decipher was fear, as darkness fell. Suddenly Jared lost his balance and stumbled. Intuitively Orli knew Jared’s eyes were open. That the black veil he saw was actually what Jared was seeing-the man was blind.
After a moment of confusion Orli saw movement, her outline and realized he could do something Jared couldn’t- he could see through the veil. Concentrating he focused on the image and gasped when she had pulled out a knife with obvious intent to use it.
Inhaling, Orli internally yelled, ‘On your right.”
Jared heard and reacted, using magic to strike out.
Her eyes narrowed then changed direction to stealthily come around and attack from behind. ‘She’s trying to go behind you, circle to your left, slowly.’ Jared moved as directed.
Orli shouted, ‘Now!’
A volley of magic was thrown. She danced between the shots, one step ahead before Orli could correct Jared’s aim. Silently she moved again attempting to go to his right. By the forth step she stopped, as Jared’s eyes followed her every move.
“That’s impossible; you’re not bonded to him.”
‘To Chad? You’re right I’m not, but I am bonded.’
Shock washed over her face that quickly faded as her eyes met Jared’s gaze to stare intently. When Jared didn’t react, her eyes narrowed, not that Jared knew, but Orli did. Orli swallowed in fear unable to utter a protest, watching helplessly as she leveled a heated glare that he knew was directed at him.
Something in the distance caught her attention and her face contorted in hatred. Her eyes drifted breaking eye contact with him, as she scanned Jared’s face. He watched as her lips stretched into a wide smile that never reached her eyes. “At least the other will be dead - I suggest you leave the islands while you can. If not make no mistake I will destroy you.” She cinched her chin and leveled her gaze at Jared. “First by killing the pretty kitten you tied yourself to.” Backing away she started to shift and only paused before she completely shifted directing her message to Orli. “But know that doesn’t mean I don’t like to play with my food before I eat.”
Orli blanched at her blatant threat.
Almost distantly Orli heard what sounded like a twisted bark that he immediately understood was laughter as she made her escaped.
It was only Jared’s anger and guilt as he stumbled forward falling blindly, hitting the ground hard. Orli’s senses flooded with fear and sorrow for a boy, Chad. Every second that past, Jared’s fear increased ten-fold. This time it was Orli that stumbled again while holding Elijah bringing him back to the present.
Blinking, Orli realized he was back with Dom and Elijah standing on the side-lines of a pack war. Somehow he had to get back, Jared needed him to find Chad, and he had to help.
Without questioning his feelings, Orli let go of Elijah even as his friend reached out. Dom looked over at him questioningly. Any explanation died on his lips. How could he put into words, what he didn’t understand? Orli only knew the urgency he felt, he had to go and help Jared. “I have to Dom…”
Dom’s worry followed him as he ran toward the cars then skidded looking back when he spotted the motorcycle. He glanced over at Colin in the middle of fighting. He didn’t want to leave, but he couldn’t ignore the growing compulsion he had to help Jared. He stopped the key still in the ignition of the red Ducati. Making the decision Orli lifted the machine to straddle it, and quickly throttled it to life before he drove off.
“Dom?” Elijah questioned when he heard a motorcycle while Dom watched dumbfounded as Orli took off.
“Fuck.” Dom muttered just seconds before he heard an ear-splitting howl and turned toward the sound only to see it came from Colin-he had seen Orli leave. That was all Colin’s opponent needed to strike out as the werewolf toppled him wrestling. Until he found aim and clamped his jaw down over Colin’s shoulder tearing into flesh.
Colin whimpered and heaved, struggling to get away, his claws anchored into flesh and ripped down the other werewolf’s sides. Still he was unable to successfully break its strong pin hold. Blood streamed down its clamped jaw.
Dom wasn’t aware he had moved or had even paid attention when Elijah’s gripped his body and begged him to stay in reply to his own frantic babble that he had to help Colin. He didn’t understand until he couldn’t move and had to struggle against an invisible barrier. Elijah was using magic to hold him in place. “No, you can’t Dom, they’ll kill you - I promised.”
Logically Dom knew Elijah was right that there was nothing he could do, but sane logic couldn’t compare to the instinct he felt to go Colin. It was a raw feral need to protect. It was the same instinct as he'd unthinkingly obeyed when Elijah was in danger.
Now it was Colin that needed him, but Elijah was forcibly holding him back. Dom struggled in vane against Elijah’s power and in frustration sharp guttural sounds of pained sorrow erupted from his throat.
Seconds later the sound was answered by another as Jeremy killed one of the beasts he had been fighting and made his way toward his Colin. His jaw widened and savagely latched on to the beast’s neck to pull it off of Colin. At first the werewolf refused to yield, but Jeremy’s jaw cut into its neck slowly killing the beast, demanding he let go.
Between the two of them, it worked. Together they fought and used leverage until Jeremy was able to forcibly make the werewolf let Colin go. Weakened from his wounds Colin could only crawl before he was kicked out of the way by two werewolves in their effort to get to Jeremy.
Colin didn’t move.
Terrified Dom held his breath as the werewolves torn into the man he barely knew. Although it was illogical, it didn’t change a raw truth of what he felt for the man - love.
Dom’s fear heightened as he was left helpless to watch their attack. Still Jeremy deflected, as he fought and refused to release his hold. Then breaking away he reared up briskly shaking holding his prize clamped between razor sharp teeth. Abruptly the werewolf lay limp; its body dropped from Jeremy’s clenched mouth; it appeared to be dead.
Confirming his suspicion the wolf’s body shifted back into its human form.
In shock, the other two werewolves backed off whining over their companion; gently pawing and sniffing at his body.
Dom sensed Jeremy’s eyes on him, and he returned the gaze. Though the picture Jeremy presented was terrifying the very beast Elijah had warned him of his coat covered in blood and gore. Dom ignored it all to stare into the eyes of Jeremy’s beast; startled by his emotions. He felt no hatred or fear toward Jeremy or his beast. Instead he longed to go to him, to ease his pain. Dom didn’t need to read the beast’s mind to know he had little conflict about taking the life of the werewolf in order to save Colin’s life or his - in fact Dom was shocked he shared the primal urge of defense. Dom also couldn’t deny the love he felt for Jeremy or how deep those feelings went. Nor would he deny how important Jeremy and Colin were to him, they were his family. And despite his love for Elijah, Jeremy was his other half.
Acknowledging that truth, Dom felt an overwhelming urge to go Jeremy, but Elijah’s magic refused to budge. Locking eyes with Jeremy, Dom saw the anguish and regret within his eyes. Dom frowned, not understanding why he started to panic. Feelings of dread magnified when Jeremy chanced a glance at Elijah who stood beside him. Dom barely caught Elijah’s nod before he started to hobble away then realized somehow he was being moved, trailing after Elijah; where the shield acted like a cage as he was wheeled away.
Alarmed he turned back to Jeremy who sniffed the air before he turned away bracing for the attack from the remaining werewolves. Dom screamed as he understood Jeremy was saying good-bye, he expected to die. Dom looked over to Colin for help, only to see Colin was still laying there unconscious, but sighed in relief as he was still in werewolf form-proving he was still alive.
Cold dread sized Dom’s heart that he couldn’t think beyond his need to go to Jeremy and he turned his fury on Elijah ranting. Calling him every name under the sun as if Elijah was worse than a slug shit. The taunts quickly flipped to begging and pleading with him to help Jeremy.
In response, Elijah only shook his head, tears trailed down his face, as he repeated over and over that I can’t I promised.
Emotionally raw unable to escape the sounds of the fight behind him, blinded him to everything else other than his goal to get to Jeremy and be by his side. “Promised who? I thought you cared about me. Thought I was someone who was more than a friend” Elijah’s step wavered for a moment, but he kept staring ahead, his body shaking. Dom plunged ahead, ready to plead. “I love you, Doodle don’t do this to me. I can’t, I need him please! I’ll do whatever you want… pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeee”
It did no good other than Elijah shuddered then hung his head, but he kept walking heading toward the house. Dom heard then saw Billy and the others on the porch.
Immediately he called out, begging Billy to help him. At first he thought they were going to come to his aid as Billy and Viggo came forward, but Elijah raised his hand and shook his head prompting them to stand down.
To Dom’s surprise, they followed Elijah’s silent order. Frustrated not understanding why his friends would neglect his plea, and allow Jeremy to sacrifice himself.
At the growls behind him, Dom’s stomach twisted in anxiety. Unable to stop himself, feeling a perverse need to know, Dom turned around to see the two werewolves had attacked. Both were attached biting into Jeremy’s flesh tearing and clawing what they could of the man who held his heart.
In a last ditch effort, Dom called out to Karl though he couldn’t take his eyes off of Jeremy. His hope dwindling, even if Karl heard and came to Jeremy’s aid, Dom wasn’t sure it’d do any good. The scene before him was too horrid. Jeremy’s injuries were massive; he couldn’t stand. They were taking turns, to viciously bite at strategic points then they’d pull back. It was a game; they were toying with their prey by torturing him with a slow death.
Dom spared a brief glance to Karl, hoping he could intervene and help Jeremy, but Karl hadn’t stopped fighting as teams continued to attack the alpha trying to wear him down. All around Karl, the ground was littered with bodies, most were human. Werewolves Karl had killed-still they came.
Dom could see it, they were losing. They were going to die. Once the pack killed Karl and Jeremy, with Colin already injured probably close to death they’d be next.
Defeated he sought out Jeremy, praying to every deity he had ever heard of for some kind of miracle.
Dom trembled in fear as an horrendous roar rang out chorused by a multiple howls seconds before several werewolves were suddenly there fighting against the pack that had attacked them.
One werewolf in particular was as large as Karl; clearly an alpha. He was there at Jeremy’s side attacking the closest werewolf that had just bitten Jeremy. The alpha dominated by grabbing and pulling the werewolf’s head back. He swiped a clawed hand across its neck ripping out the jugular and dropping to the ground dead - its remains shifting into human.
The other werewolf growled, slowly backing away. The alpha pursued, stalking its prey. They snarled at each other.
Dom turned when he heard Jeremy made a rattling noise. Although he didn’t turn around the noise also caught the alpha’s attention, as its ears twitched up and down as if he was listening. The alpha remained focused on the werewolf he was stalking then attacked.
His paws slammed the werewolf’s body to the ground and he quickly bit, killing it instantly. Moments later its body shifted to human. The alpha followed and shifted as he walked over to kneel beside Jeremy-petting fur.
Dom blinked in confusion when he saw skin; his heart stopped.
A lump formed unable to breathe when he saw the alpha’s hand caress skin seeing that Jeremy had shifted back to human. Abruptly the shield holding him back was gone, his feet moving before he could think.
Underneath him Dom’s feet skidded to a stop when he reached the opposite side of Jeremy, falling to his kneels only to see Jeremy’s eyes were closed. The pain in his chest increased his world suddenly crumbled.
He barely heard the man across from him calling his name not even when he forcibly lifted Dom’s face to stare him in the eye. Not that Dom could see anything with his eyes swimming in tears.
“Stop! He’s not dead.”
Dom didn’t understanding and watched dumbfounded as the man swore and dug his finger into one of Jeremy’s numerous wounds only to pull it back out coated with blood. Then he inserted the digit into Dom’s mouth. “Taste it, blood doesn’t lie. He’s still alive, but he’s going to need you more than he’s going to need me. Are you prepared to do that?”
Feeling indignant with a stranger’s finger and worse that it was coated with Jeremy’s blood shoved into his mouth, Dom just stared at him. Then his finger moved making sure Dom tasted the blood.
Suddenly Dom’s senses tilted, and exploded. His tongue reached out to wrap around the digit to wipe and swallow the remaining blood. With each swallow, Dom received a gambit of information. Including the identity of the man whose finger he was greedily sucking on; Jeff, Jeremy’s Sire and Alpha. He was right Jeremy was alive. He was still in danger but alive. Breathing slightly easier, Dom could only nod.
Jeff’s eyes crinkled at the corner and smirked, his voice less strained. “Between us, we can save him all right? But you’re going to have to trust me.”
Dom eagerly consented and bobbed his head with fervor.
Obviously pleased, Jeff slowly pulled his finger out of Dom’s mouth with a pop. “Good.” Then he cupped Dom’s neck up to his jaw, his thumb gently swept up to wipe away a trail of tears. “We don’t have a lot of time…”
Dom cringed and dismissed the deep concern when he heard Elijah interrupt by asking, “What are you going to do?”
Looking up, Dom ignored the fact that Elijah was hurt and leaning heavily on Viggo, or even that they were surrounded by several people - half of whom he didn’t know. Instead Dom unleashed the hurt and anger he felt as he bitterly spit out, directing it all back to where he leveled his gaze at Elijah. “It doesn’t concern you.”
Elijah flinched at the venom in his voice, but Dom didn’t care remembering how only moments ago he had relentlessly begged for Elijah’s help only to have it fall on deaf ears.
Turning away, he reached out and clutched Jeremy’s hand bringing it to his heart as he closed his eyes holding on to the simple fact that Jeremy was alive. Warmth spread between his hand and Jeremy’s that quickly increased throughout his body. He was going to pull back and investigate why, afraid something was wrong, if Jeremy had a fever but Jeff’s voice stopped him. “No, don’t let go and concentrate. Keep your focus on Jeremy; on him healing and being with you.”
Licking his lips, Dom consented instinctively following the alpha’s order recognizing Jeff was using some sort of magic to heal Jeremy. As the heat dissipated, Dom felt the steady thrum of Jeremy’s pulse where it had been weak now it was strong. He only hoped that meant Jeremy was going to make it. Jeff answered his worried question. “Your mate is going to be fine, cub. He just needs you and a lot of rest.”
Grateful Dom nodded until the word, cub replayed in his head. Feeling the heated flush of shame when he finally remembered Colin was hurt lying unconscious several yards away; under his breath he gasped out Colin’s name.
Responding Jeff immediately clasped his shoulder and squeezed. “It’s okay I’ll check on him.”
Jeff stood; by the time Dom looked up he was staring at the man’s arse as Jeff walked over and knelt at Colin’s side. Then he waited.
Patience definitely wasn’t one of his strong suits. To distract himself Dom gazed around him. His eyes flittered over his friends pleased to see them; he quickly took inventory to find Viggo and Hannah appeared to be the only ones that were spared injury. Billy had a makeshift bandage secured around his head and Sean, like Elijah was leaning favoring one leg and cradling his left arm. Karl who stood in front as if he hadn’t been injured yet the man was covered head to toe in blood with claw and bite marks decorating his body. How he was alive and standing Dom didn’t understand. He met Karl’s eyes, but just as quickly the alpha lowered his gaze in somber regret. Dom didn’t need Karl’s words to understand he felt responsible for Jeremy and Colin’s injuries. And at the moment he agreed.
The others once Dom looked past their nudity to focus on their faces; he realized a few seemed familiar and he started to wonder why. Normally he’d be cheeky as he worked to solve the mystery. However right now it wasn’t his biggest concern his only priority at the moment was Colin and Jeremy and making sure that they were all right.
Looking back to Colin from underneath hooded eyes, Dom watched Jeff. At first he couldn’t see anything other than Jeff’s back then the man lean back and angled his body so Dom was able to see.
Jeff’s eyes were closed, as if he was meditating. A hand hovered over Colin’s chest then Dom saw it, a small spark that grew, turning brighter as a glow appeared from the alpha’s hand and started to spread out over his Sire’s body that still lay unconscious in werewolf form.
A moment later the light faded; Dom’s breath hitched in concern however at the same time he wondered if that was what Jeff had done to Jeremy to make him stronger.
Then Dom heard Jeff’s answer. “Yes it is. Trust me cub, he’s going to be fine just like your mate. He just needs to rest.”
Relieved Dom exhaled and bobbed his head in assent.
“What is it Dom?” Elijah asked worriedly.
Confused Dom looked at Elijah wondering what the hell he was talking about and opened his mouth about to give Elijah a piece of his mind when he heard Jeremy’s voice crack.
Immediately Dom dismissed everything else and centered his attention on Jeremy, taking in every inch of his face. He settled on Jeremy’s eyes that slowly fluttered open to reveal soft grey iris’ outlined with a tinge of dark blue staring up at him.
Overwhelmed Dom lost his composure, his body trembling as he released some of the fear and tension that had built up. Although his throat was too constricted to form any coherent words; it didn’t prevent a spew of embarrassing sounds that easily escaped. Almost desperately Dom leaned in close against Jeremy’s neck inhaling his scent.
He felt Jeremy’s hand gently caress over his face down his throat. Dom grabbed his hand and laced their fingers, squeezing Jeremy’s hand bringing it to his lips and kissed the back of his hand almost reverently.
Next~
Previous ch
Pressed up against the wall, left alone after Dom had rushed to Jeremy’s side when the man fell from the couch; Orlando watched in horror as everything around them erupted in chaos. Where items around the room took flight and were aimed at them like weapons.
Startled when he heard an agonizing scream; he turned to the source, to find it was Jeremy shifting even as Dom protested. Unlike earlier this was agonizingly slow. Each ripple of growth, the break and pull of his bones, hair and teeth echoed painfully loud within the room as Orli watched him shift in slow motion.
Suddenly Orli heard, \\Duck!// even as he felt a hand shove him forward where he dropped to his knees.
Hearing a crash above him, he looked behind him to see the remains of what had been a lamp falling to the floor.
In shock he muttered, “Fuck.”
\\You, have to run. I can hide your scent and give you time, but you have to go now. The cracks are becoming tears; he won’t be able to hold the shield much longer.//
Wild-eyed Orli looked around to see who had spoken; instinct already telling him the voice, a yank, hadn’t come from any of his friends but from inside of his own head. Fearfully Orli swallowed then whispered. “Who are you?”
\\There’s no time to explain. I don’t want to do this, but I have no choice - please, you and the others can get away, but you have to run. They only want…//
Orli finished the sentence, “Colin. NO!”
\\Please, you have to leave without him. I can’t protect him.//
“No, I can’t…Whoever you are; you’re the one that’s doing this. You have to stop it, please. Colin didn’t start this; he was just trying to save Dom.”
The tone dripped heavily with regret as he acknowledged what Orli said. \\I know//
“If you know then you have to help us and stop attacking.”
\\I can’t, you don’t understand.//
Fear and anger rose to a boiling point just as his voice did. “You’re right I don’t understand, but I won’t leave him to be slaughtered.”
A cry rang out and instinctively Orli knew it was Colin. Somehow he also knew Colin hadn’t been physically attacked. As the thought crossed his mind a window opened and he knew Colin was being attacked mentally and that the attack came from the voice that told him to run. The attack was through a vision, a memory of the fight when Colin took the werewolf’s life, only the images were twisted with Colin in his werewolf form, but the other was defenseless in human form and Colin’s beast was out of control.
Orli only saw glimpses, but what he did see was brutal and inhumane, false images of Colin tearing the man’s flesh apart down to his bones. Worse each vicious bite wasn’t meant to kill, but torture his prey -something Orli already knew Colin could never do, but the vision fed on Colin’s fears and Orli’s heart lurched in need to protect his friend. “Stop it!”
\\I can’t.// Then Orli heard a woman’s shout, \\Do it now.// that was followed by a contrite, \\I’m sorry.//
Everything seemed to happen at once as a blur of fur flew pass him and he belatedly realized it was Jeremy. At the same time, Hannah screamed. Orli whipped around to see why and immediately saw the blood at Billy’s temple as he staggered back and fell to the floor. Elijah rushed over, ducking under something only to push up at an invisible weight trying to take Billy’s place, but it was too late.
Outside Orli heard the evidence of their shield falling as deafening growls grew and he immediately understood they were the sounds of battle as Karl, Jeremy and Colin fought to defend them. The sounds were quickly drowned out as a werewolf crashed through the window into the house. It briefly scanned the room before it spotted him on floor. Through ragged teeth its tongue hung out almost smiling; its growl low as it stalked toward him.
Nowhere to run, Orli back crawled until he hit the wall and pressed back as if the wall would give way to an escape door. Suddenly Sean and Dom were there yelling using what looked like long brooms or mop handles. Sean attacked as if he was holding a sword, his moves reminiscent of Boromir fighting the Orcs; where Dom fought with rawness swinging the handle like a baseball bat. At first it just ignored them then Sean’s aim was good enough to provoke it enough to react, throwing Sean’s body between the desk and wall before he slumped to the floor.
Sean didn’t move.
Orli barely had time to wonder where Viggo was when Dom attacked yelling obscenities. He continued to batter the werewolf, but it easily ignored Dom’s attempts and shoved him away as it continued to stalk. With every step its eyes riveted on its prey -him- stalking even salivating like it was starving and he was going to be its first meal in weeks.
Frozen in fear, Orli made the mistake of inhaling, and caught a strong whiff of its rank breath. His stomach turned; he was going to die. Seeing no escape Orli closed his eyes waiting for the predictable conclusion with hopes his death would be swift and prayed - a name popping into his head, Jared and that Jared would be able to help Colin and the others.
Someone’s \\NO!// boomed loudly in his mind.
Startled Orli opened his eyes to see an invisible force effectively pull the werewolf away as if it was nothing but a small pup being yanked away by its owner. Although the werewolf struggled, the force was doing more than just holding it at bay. Abruptly the werewolf’s body shook involuntary until it shifted from beast to man before his body was dropped unconscious a few feet away from Orlando.
A worried voice filled his mind, \\Are you okay?//
Jerkily Orli nodded, but silently questioned, \\Jared?// He didn’t know how he knew the man’s name or why, but suddenly Orli felt a connection to the man, a Jared Padalecki, who was attached to the voice in his head.
Jared only acknowledged with a curt yes.
Orli glanced around the room to the fallen debris around them and knew that Jared was the reason. A piercing howl drew Orli’s attention toward the yard and Colin, “The others?”
Jared spoke, \\I know, stay here.// then he was gone.
Ignoring the order Orli struggled to his feet, he had to help Colin.
Dazed Elijah lowered his arms as the weighted pressure dissipated. “What the fuck.” Looking around, he stared in disbelief at the shambles of the room that closely resembled the aftermath of a tornado. Worriedly he scanned the room for his friends. Behind him was Hannah offering aid to Billy, she answered his question before he had to ask. “He’ll be fine though he probably is going to need stitches.”
Elijah nodded his eyes already on Sean. It was obvious Sean was injured as he limped awkwardly over to Viggo. Where Viggo stood in the same position as when the attack started, the man appeared in overload, stiff and zoning out similar to the state he was in when Karl had arrived. A noise drew Elijah’s attention and he turned to see Orli standing, and realized he hadn’t seen or accounted for Dom.
Panicked Elijah’s heart accelerated.
Then abruptly Dom stood only to make a hasty exit as he ran outside and Orli quickly followed. Frozen, Elijah’s relief quickly faded to stark fear when the door slammed behind Dom and he easily picked up the ferocious sounds Dom was running toward.
Shaking off his fear, he was about to run after them when a werewolf crashed through the front door where Dom and Orli had exited. Its eyes immediately found its fallen companion then it shrieked in rage, turning toward Elijah expectantly.
Sensing the imminent charge of energy; Elijah felt its pain and instinctively knew it was going to strike and charge like a bull. Its back legs lowered in order to spring into action; Elijah felt the warmth of fingers from Hannah’s hand lace with his. They sparked with power just as it leaped.
Elijah swallowed in fear; there was no other thought process other than-stop the beast.
It did; in mid-air less than three feet away struggling against the invisible power holding it.
With a mental push it was flung back crashing into the wall then it was propelled forward only to be thrust back again and again. Behind it, the wall crumbled under its weight before its body slumped forward, unconscious. Like the other it shifted back into human form where it was dropped unceremoniously to the floor.
Clearly shocked, at what they were able to do Elijah turned to his sister. Only she was staring up at him in awe. He glanced past her to find Billy was also looking up at him. Relieved, Elijah sighed grateful that Billy had assisted him.
However Billy shook his head, no; the corner of his lips lifted into a contrite smile. He was about to question Billy, when Billy’s gaze darted behind him, his eyes wild as he choked out a, “No!”
Elijah whipped around, but didn’t see what had inspired Billy’s alarm then Elijah’s heart clenched in fear when Billy demanded, “You have to go after them; they’re going to need you.” He realized Billy was referring to Dom and Orli.
Briefly Elijah locked eyes with his sister’s and hesitated afraid to leave her alone.
She shook her head, “Go, we’ll be fin…”
He didn’t wait for her to finish, and turned, running for the door.
Elijah just made it outside before he skidded to a halt unable to take his eyes off of the scene before him. Although they were all in werewolf form, it was actually easy to see and identify who was who.
The werewolves of the opposing pack were growling viciously, hunched over and looking more like oversized dogs. They were taking turns, as they’d paw the ground stepping forward to snap their jaws, claws striking out before they stepped back then attack again.
Karl was front and center taking their taunts. Like Karl, Jeremy and Colin stood on two legs, their chests heaving as they roared their defiance to the packs taunts.
The pack continued to close in around them until someone’s attack connected and hit Jeremy. Its claws ripped across Jeremy’s chest drawing blood.
Karl stood taller, tilting his head back and roared a hideous sorrowful howl.
In reaction several werewolves hesitated showing their fear; a few even backed up.
The transition from Karl’s howl to his offensive attack was a blur as the alpha barreled his way through the pack.
Seeing Karl in action, Elijah couldn’t deny he was in awe then he swallowed as he realized the earlier fight between Karl and Jeremy was nothing. What his mother might have called roughhousing. In full battle mode, Karl’s prowess as an alpha was impressive beyond anything his imagination could have conjured up.
Behind Karl, Jeremy and Colin each flanked Karl in the mists of a fierce combat.
Seeing Jeremy, the wound across his chest oozing blood, Elijah realized the vision he had seen was coming true.
Something caught his attention and Elijah turned in time to see Dom was being stalked. He was swinging something to deter the werewolf from coming any closer, but it ignored Dom’s attempts. Elijah caught how its hind legs lowered a fraction; it was about to attack.
Instantly Elijah responded, instinct taking over as his hand stretched out and he released a stream of power, his mind screaming, no, to mentally push the werewolf away from Dom - where it hit a tree landing several yards away.
Distracted, Elijah didn’t see the werewolf behind him charge. He only felt its crushing weight. The impact smashing his face into the ground, knocking the wind was out of him.
Moments later, he tried to get up, but pain shot through his body forcing him to stop. Panicked Elijah gasped for air and swallowed against the dry crust, tasting dirt. From a distance Elijah heard an outcry that was ear-piercing, belatedly he realized it was Dom, seconds later the weight that was crushing him, was gone.
Beside him the heavy snarls of vicious battle drowned out everything else, they were too close. Elijah tried to open his eyes to see what was happening, but there was too much debris and dirt flying to see anything. Squeezing his eyes closed, Elijah pushed using his arms to slide and slither his body back to get away from the fighting.
Abruptly hands clamp around his ankles and roughly dragged his body.
Frightened Elijah held his breath when they stopped and turned him over. “I’m sorry, are you all right? Can you stand?” It was Orli. Then he felt another pair of hands and instinctively knew Dom was beside him.
Exhaling in relief, Elijah shook his head, no and mumbled, “My leg.”
Dom cursed but quickly put his arm around Elijah for support as Orli did the same. Together they worked to heave Elijah up to carry him back to the house and out of harm’s way.
Dom leaned in, his voice low in a soft whisper, the words belying his concern. “You’re going to be fine Doodle,” Elijah shivered feeling Dom’s heated breath wash over his skin, “But promise me whenever you do your Gandalf shtick always check behind you, yeah?”
Elijah grimaced when he heard ‘Gandalf shtick’ but quickly let it go. Hearing the love and concern in Dom’s voice warmed his heart and brought a smile to his lips that he vowed, “I promise.”
Satisfied Dom answered, “Good.”
Elijah nuzzled and leaned into Dom’s body, enjoying the heat of their closeness before he realized it wasn’t by design, that Orli was barely holding him. Though he couldn’t see very clearly Elijah turned and reached out before he felt Orli completely let go of him and move out of his reach.
Something was wrong.
Dom easily adjusted his stance when Orli let go and worriedly addressed their friend. “What’s wrong?” However it was what Dom said next that sent a chill of dread down Elijah’s spine, “Where are you going?”
His voice etched in regret Orli replied, “I have to Dom…”
Dom yelled, “Orli stop!” his fear palpable.
“Dom, what’s happening?”
Abruptly from the deep depths of his mind an image appeared that made Orli almost stumble. He quickly straightened out while his grip tightened around Elijah’s waist grateful Dom already had a secure hold of their friend as they made their way back to the house.
At first the image was blurred, his heartbeat erratic as it accelerated. He felt an urge to pant in order to relieve the burn of his lungs as if he had sprinted a mile. The image started to clear and sharpen enough to see the figure before him, a woman. Somehow he knew what he was seeing and feeling was real, but that it was through Jared’s eyes. Then the image was fine tuned and came into focus, Orli could see the details of the woman; she was one of the twins, who had threatened Colin.
“How did you?” Orli heard the disbelief within her voice that quickly turned to venom as she hissed. “You’re not bonded to him.” It was what she said next that confused Orli. “We’ve been betrayed - kill the fur ball!”
He could feel Jared’s fear escalate and Orli’s heart skipped a beat before his own heart increased. Jared raised his hand.
Her words were bitter with scorn, baiting him. “Did you think I wasn’t prepared; that you’d be able stop me?” She laughed and rushed forward to blow a handful of dust in his face.
Jared stumbled back and closed his eyes, but his hand wasn’t quick enough to wave the dust away. His eyes watered when he tried to open his eyes, blinking rapidly in panic.
Teasingly in a sing song voice she answered her own question. “To stop me, first, you’ll have to find me… before I take your heart.”
Orli shuddered at the threat. At the same time his vision started to cloud over as he was hit with a multitude of Jared’s emotions, the most dominate to decipher was fear, as darkness fell. Suddenly Jared lost his balance and stumbled. Intuitively Orli knew Jared’s eyes were open. That the black veil he saw was actually what Jared was seeing-the man was blind.
After a moment of confusion Orli saw movement, her outline and realized he could do something Jared couldn’t- he could see through the veil. Concentrating he focused on the image and gasped when she had pulled out a knife with obvious intent to use it.
Inhaling, Orli internally yelled, ‘On your right.”
Jared heard and reacted, using magic to strike out.
Her eyes narrowed then changed direction to stealthily come around and attack from behind. ‘She’s trying to go behind you, circle to your left, slowly.’ Jared moved as directed.
Orli shouted, ‘Now!’
A volley of magic was thrown. She danced between the shots, one step ahead before Orli could correct Jared’s aim. Silently she moved again attempting to go to his right. By the forth step she stopped, as Jared’s eyes followed her every move.
“That’s impossible; you’re not bonded to him.”
‘To Chad? You’re right I’m not, but I am bonded.’
Shock washed over her face that quickly faded as her eyes met Jared’s gaze to stare intently. When Jared didn’t react, her eyes narrowed, not that Jared knew, but Orli did. Orli swallowed in fear unable to utter a protest, watching helplessly as she leveled a heated glare that he knew was directed at him.
Something in the distance caught her attention and her face contorted in hatred. Her eyes drifted breaking eye contact with him, as she scanned Jared’s face. He watched as her lips stretched into a wide smile that never reached her eyes. “At least the other will be dead - I suggest you leave the islands while you can. If not make no mistake I will destroy you.” She cinched her chin and leveled her gaze at Jared. “First by killing the pretty kitten you tied yourself to.” Backing away she started to shift and only paused before she completely shifted directing her message to Orli. “But know that doesn’t mean I don’t like to play with my food before I eat.”
Orli blanched at her blatant threat.
Almost distantly Orli heard what sounded like a twisted bark that he immediately understood was laughter as she made her escaped.
It was only Jared’s anger and guilt as he stumbled forward falling blindly, hitting the ground hard. Orli’s senses flooded with fear and sorrow for a boy, Chad. Every second that past, Jared’s fear increased ten-fold. This time it was Orli that stumbled again while holding Elijah bringing him back to the present.
Blinking, Orli realized he was back with Dom and Elijah standing on the side-lines of a pack war. Somehow he had to get back, Jared needed him to find Chad, and he had to help.
Without questioning his feelings, Orli let go of Elijah even as his friend reached out. Dom looked over at him questioningly. Any explanation died on his lips. How could he put into words, what he didn’t understand? Orli only knew the urgency he felt, he had to go and help Jared. “I have to Dom…”
Dom’s worry followed him as he ran toward the cars then skidded looking back when he spotted the motorcycle. He glanced over at Colin in the middle of fighting. He didn’t want to leave, but he couldn’t ignore the growing compulsion he had to help Jared. He stopped the key still in the ignition of the red Ducati. Making the decision Orli lifted the machine to straddle it, and quickly throttled it to life before he drove off.
“Dom?” Elijah questioned when he heard a motorcycle while Dom watched dumbfounded as Orli took off.
“Fuck.” Dom muttered just seconds before he heard an ear-splitting howl and turned toward the sound only to see it came from Colin-he had seen Orli leave. That was all Colin’s opponent needed to strike out as the werewolf toppled him wrestling. Until he found aim and clamped his jaw down over Colin’s shoulder tearing into flesh.
Colin whimpered and heaved, struggling to get away, his claws anchored into flesh and ripped down the other werewolf’s sides. Still he was unable to successfully break its strong pin hold. Blood streamed down its clamped jaw.
Dom wasn’t aware he had moved or had even paid attention when Elijah’s gripped his body and begged him to stay in reply to his own frantic babble that he had to help Colin. He didn’t understand until he couldn’t move and had to struggle against an invisible barrier. Elijah was using magic to hold him in place. “No, you can’t Dom, they’ll kill you - I promised.”
Logically Dom knew Elijah was right that there was nothing he could do, but sane logic couldn’t compare to the instinct he felt to go Colin. It was a raw feral need to protect. It was the same instinct as he'd unthinkingly obeyed when Elijah was in danger.
Now it was Colin that needed him, but Elijah was forcibly holding him back. Dom struggled in vane against Elijah’s power and in frustration sharp guttural sounds of pained sorrow erupted from his throat.
Seconds later the sound was answered by another as Jeremy killed one of the beasts he had been fighting and made his way toward his Colin. His jaw widened and savagely latched on to the beast’s neck to pull it off of Colin. At first the werewolf refused to yield, but Jeremy’s jaw cut into its neck slowly killing the beast, demanding he let go.
Between the two of them, it worked. Together they fought and used leverage until Jeremy was able to forcibly make the werewolf let Colin go. Weakened from his wounds Colin could only crawl before he was kicked out of the way by two werewolves in their effort to get to Jeremy.
Colin didn’t move.
Terrified Dom held his breath as the werewolves torn into the man he barely knew. Although it was illogical, it didn’t change a raw truth of what he felt for the man - love.
Dom’s fear heightened as he was left helpless to watch their attack. Still Jeremy deflected, as he fought and refused to release his hold. Then breaking away he reared up briskly shaking holding his prize clamped between razor sharp teeth. Abruptly the werewolf lay limp; its body dropped from Jeremy’s clenched mouth; it appeared to be dead.
Confirming his suspicion the wolf’s body shifted back into its human form.
In shock, the other two werewolves backed off whining over their companion; gently pawing and sniffing at his body.
Dom sensed Jeremy’s eyes on him, and he returned the gaze. Though the picture Jeremy presented was terrifying the very beast Elijah had warned him of his coat covered in blood and gore. Dom ignored it all to stare into the eyes of Jeremy’s beast; startled by his emotions. He felt no hatred or fear toward Jeremy or his beast. Instead he longed to go to him, to ease his pain. Dom didn’t need to read the beast’s mind to know he had little conflict about taking the life of the werewolf in order to save Colin’s life or his - in fact Dom was shocked he shared the primal urge of defense. Dom also couldn’t deny the love he felt for Jeremy or how deep those feelings went. Nor would he deny how important Jeremy and Colin were to him, they were his family. And despite his love for Elijah, Jeremy was his other half.
Acknowledging that truth, Dom felt an overwhelming urge to go Jeremy, but Elijah’s magic refused to budge. Locking eyes with Jeremy, Dom saw the anguish and regret within his eyes. Dom frowned, not understanding why he started to panic. Feelings of dread magnified when Jeremy chanced a glance at Elijah who stood beside him. Dom barely caught Elijah’s nod before he started to hobble away then realized somehow he was being moved, trailing after Elijah; where the shield acted like a cage as he was wheeled away.
Alarmed he turned back to Jeremy who sniffed the air before he turned away bracing for the attack from the remaining werewolves. Dom screamed as he understood Jeremy was saying good-bye, he expected to die. Dom looked over to Colin for help, only to see Colin was still laying there unconscious, but sighed in relief as he was still in werewolf form-proving he was still alive.
Cold dread sized Dom’s heart that he couldn’t think beyond his need to go to Jeremy and he turned his fury on Elijah ranting. Calling him every name under the sun as if Elijah was worse than a slug shit. The taunts quickly flipped to begging and pleading with him to help Jeremy.
In response, Elijah only shook his head, tears trailed down his face, as he repeated over and over that I can’t I promised.
Emotionally raw unable to escape the sounds of the fight behind him, blinded him to everything else other than his goal to get to Jeremy and be by his side. “Promised who? I thought you cared about me. Thought I was someone who was more than a friend” Elijah’s step wavered for a moment, but he kept staring ahead, his body shaking. Dom plunged ahead, ready to plead. “I love you, Doodle don’t do this to me. I can’t, I need him please! I’ll do whatever you want… pleaseeeeeeeeeeeeee”
It did no good other than Elijah shuddered then hung his head, but he kept walking heading toward the house. Dom heard then saw Billy and the others on the porch.
Immediately he called out, begging Billy to help him. At first he thought they were going to come to his aid as Billy and Viggo came forward, but Elijah raised his hand and shook his head prompting them to stand down.
To Dom’s surprise, they followed Elijah’s silent order. Frustrated not understanding why his friends would neglect his plea, and allow Jeremy to sacrifice himself.
At the growls behind him, Dom’s stomach twisted in anxiety. Unable to stop himself, feeling a perverse need to know, Dom turned around to see the two werewolves had attacked. Both were attached biting into Jeremy’s flesh tearing and clawing what they could of the man who held his heart.
In a last ditch effort, Dom called out to Karl though he couldn’t take his eyes off of Jeremy. His hope dwindling, even if Karl heard and came to Jeremy’s aid, Dom wasn’t sure it’d do any good. The scene before him was too horrid. Jeremy’s injuries were massive; he couldn’t stand. They were taking turns, to viciously bite at strategic points then they’d pull back. It was a game; they were toying with their prey by torturing him with a slow death.
Dom spared a brief glance to Karl, hoping he could intervene and help Jeremy, but Karl hadn’t stopped fighting as teams continued to attack the alpha trying to wear him down. All around Karl, the ground was littered with bodies, most were human. Werewolves Karl had killed-still they came.
Dom could see it, they were losing. They were going to die. Once the pack killed Karl and Jeremy, with Colin already injured probably close to death they’d be next.
Defeated he sought out Jeremy, praying to every deity he had ever heard of for some kind of miracle.
Dom trembled in fear as an horrendous roar rang out chorused by a multiple howls seconds before several werewolves were suddenly there fighting against the pack that had attacked them.
One werewolf in particular was as large as Karl; clearly an alpha. He was there at Jeremy’s side attacking the closest werewolf that had just bitten Jeremy. The alpha dominated by grabbing and pulling the werewolf’s head back. He swiped a clawed hand across its neck ripping out the jugular and dropping to the ground dead - its remains shifting into human.
The other werewolf growled, slowly backing away. The alpha pursued, stalking its prey. They snarled at each other.
Dom turned when he heard Jeremy made a rattling noise. Although he didn’t turn around the noise also caught the alpha’s attention, as its ears twitched up and down as if he was listening. The alpha remained focused on the werewolf he was stalking then attacked.
His paws slammed the werewolf’s body to the ground and he quickly bit, killing it instantly. Moments later its body shifted to human. The alpha followed and shifted as he walked over to kneel beside Jeremy-petting fur.
Dom blinked in confusion when he saw skin; his heart stopped.
A lump formed unable to breathe when he saw the alpha’s hand caress skin seeing that Jeremy had shifted back to human. Abruptly the shield holding him back was gone, his feet moving before he could think.
Underneath him Dom’s feet skidded to a stop when he reached the opposite side of Jeremy, falling to his kneels only to see Jeremy’s eyes were closed. The pain in his chest increased his world suddenly crumbled.
He barely heard the man across from him calling his name not even when he forcibly lifted Dom’s face to stare him in the eye. Not that Dom could see anything with his eyes swimming in tears.
“Stop! He’s not dead.”
Dom didn’t understanding and watched dumbfounded as the man swore and dug his finger into one of Jeremy’s numerous wounds only to pull it back out coated with blood. Then he inserted the digit into Dom’s mouth. “Taste it, blood doesn’t lie. He’s still alive, but he’s going to need you more than he’s going to need me. Are you prepared to do that?”
Feeling indignant with a stranger’s finger and worse that it was coated with Jeremy’s blood shoved into his mouth, Dom just stared at him. Then his finger moved making sure Dom tasted the blood.
Suddenly Dom’s senses tilted, and exploded. His tongue reached out to wrap around the digit to wipe and swallow the remaining blood. With each swallow, Dom received a gambit of information. Including the identity of the man whose finger he was greedily sucking on; Jeff, Jeremy’s Sire and Alpha. He was right Jeremy was alive. He was still in danger but alive. Breathing slightly easier, Dom could only nod.
Jeff’s eyes crinkled at the corner and smirked, his voice less strained. “Between us, we can save him all right? But you’re going to have to trust me.”
Dom eagerly consented and bobbed his head with fervor.
Obviously pleased, Jeff slowly pulled his finger out of Dom’s mouth with a pop. “Good.” Then he cupped Dom’s neck up to his jaw, his thumb gently swept up to wipe away a trail of tears. “We don’t have a lot of time…”
Dom cringed and dismissed the deep concern when he heard Elijah interrupt by asking, “What are you going to do?”
Looking up, Dom ignored the fact that Elijah was hurt and leaning heavily on Viggo, or even that they were surrounded by several people - half of whom he didn’t know. Instead Dom unleashed the hurt and anger he felt as he bitterly spit out, directing it all back to where he leveled his gaze at Elijah. “It doesn’t concern you.”
Elijah flinched at the venom in his voice, but Dom didn’t care remembering how only moments ago he had relentlessly begged for Elijah’s help only to have it fall on deaf ears.
Turning away, he reached out and clutched Jeremy’s hand bringing it to his heart as he closed his eyes holding on to the simple fact that Jeremy was alive. Warmth spread between his hand and Jeremy’s that quickly increased throughout his body. He was going to pull back and investigate why, afraid something was wrong, if Jeremy had a fever but Jeff’s voice stopped him. “No, don’t let go and concentrate. Keep your focus on Jeremy; on him healing and being with you.”
Licking his lips, Dom consented instinctively following the alpha’s order recognizing Jeff was using some sort of magic to heal Jeremy. As the heat dissipated, Dom felt the steady thrum of Jeremy’s pulse where it had been weak now it was strong. He only hoped that meant Jeremy was going to make it. Jeff answered his worried question. “Your mate is going to be fine, cub. He just needs you and a lot of rest.”
Grateful Dom nodded until the word, cub replayed in his head. Feeling the heated flush of shame when he finally remembered Colin was hurt lying unconscious several yards away; under his breath he gasped out Colin’s name.
Responding Jeff immediately clasped his shoulder and squeezed. “It’s okay I’ll check on him.”
Jeff stood; by the time Dom looked up he was staring at the man’s arse as Jeff walked over and knelt at Colin’s side. Then he waited.
Patience definitely wasn’t one of his strong suits. To distract himself Dom gazed around him. His eyes flittered over his friends pleased to see them; he quickly took inventory to find Viggo and Hannah appeared to be the only ones that were spared injury. Billy had a makeshift bandage secured around his head and Sean, like Elijah was leaning favoring one leg and cradling his left arm. Karl who stood in front as if he hadn’t been injured yet the man was covered head to toe in blood with claw and bite marks decorating his body. How he was alive and standing Dom didn’t understand. He met Karl’s eyes, but just as quickly the alpha lowered his gaze in somber regret. Dom didn’t need Karl’s words to understand he felt responsible for Jeremy and Colin’s injuries. And at the moment he agreed.
The others once Dom looked past their nudity to focus on their faces; he realized a few seemed familiar and he started to wonder why. Normally he’d be cheeky as he worked to solve the mystery. However right now it wasn’t his biggest concern his only priority at the moment was Colin and Jeremy and making sure that they were all right.
Looking back to Colin from underneath hooded eyes, Dom watched Jeff. At first he couldn’t see anything other than Jeff’s back then the man lean back and angled his body so Dom was able to see.
Jeff’s eyes were closed, as if he was meditating. A hand hovered over Colin’s chest then Dom saw it, a small spark that grew, turning brighter as a glow appeared from the alpha’s hand and started to spread out over his Sire’s body that still lay unconscious in werewolf form.
A moment later the light faded; Dom’s breath hitched in concern however at the same time he wondered if that was what Jeff had done to Jeremy to make him stronger.
Then Dom heard Jeff’s answer. “Yes it is. Trust me cub, he’s going to be fine just like your mate. He just needs to rest.”
Relieved Dom exhaled and bobbed his head in assent.
“What is it Dom?” Elijah asked worriedly.
Confused Dom looked at Elijah wondering what the hell he was talking about and opened his mouth about to give Elijah a piece of his mind when he heard Jeremy’s voice crack.
Immediately Dom dismissed everything else and centered his attention on Jeremy, taking in every inch of his face. He settled on Jeremy’s eyes that slowly fluttered open to reveal soft grey iris’ outlined with a tinge of dark blue staring up at him.
Overwhelmed Dom lost his composure, his body trembling as he released some of the fear and tension that had built up. Although his throat was too constricted to form any coherent words; it didn’t prevent a spew of embarrassing sounds that easily escaped. Almost desperately Dom leaned in close against Jeremy’s neck inhaling his scent.
He felt Jeremy’s hand gently caress over his face down his throat. Dom grabbed his hand and laced their fingers, squeezing Jeremy’s hand bringing it to his lips and kissed the back of his hand almost reverently.
Next~