Chapter 4
Word Count -:- 5816 Words
Gemma and Dakota slowed down as they neared the doors of the rescue centre. Dakota morphed stretching her arms and legs to try and relax her muscles from the run. She cracked her neck before glancing down at Gemma, who remained a wolf.
"Why are you not changing?" She asked confused and Gemma just shook her head.
"I don't like it... Something feels off about today." She explained, Dakota could hear the growl in her throat as she spoke.
"If you feel safer as is, I will do the talking." Dakota responded as they walked through the doors and over to the desk where they first met Kuno.
A boy walked out of the back room and up to the counter to serve them. When their eyes met, Dakota couldn't help but smile, the deep emerald before her was so alluring. The boy regarded her with a small smile, wondering if Dakota was the same girl who had saved him when Kasanga had attacked him two months ago. He breathed in deep, sighing as Dakota's unique scent washed over him. He shook his head to clear his mind before he noticed Gemma walking beside Dakota.
"Can I help you?" He asked watching as Dakota and Gemma stopped by the counter, the wolf was standing on her hind legs so she could see him over the counter top.
"We got a phone call saying that Mr Aranson wanted to see us urgently." Dakota explained as she continued to stare at the emeralds before her.
"Oh, Kaela and Lutari Dawson I assume?" He asked as he flicked through some documents on the table before him.
Dakota and Gemma looked at him confused and before Dakota could correct him Kuno came out of the back room.
"Dakota, Lutari, It's good to see you again. I see Kaela couldn't make it." His cheery voice brought a smile to the two pups faces despite their confusion.
"It's good to see you aswell Kuno." Dakota said as the two shared a quick hug, Kuno then patted Gemma on the head and she nuzzled into his hand.
"Girls," He said as he stepped away from the two. "This is my son, Bane." He introduced and Bane smiled when both girls looked at him.
"Pleasure to meet you Bane." Dakota said as she held out her hand, a light blush on her cheeks.
"Likewise." Bane smirked back as he lightly kissed her hand, a quick retreat of the limb followed and Kuno laughed lightly.
"I will be back in a second." He said once he stopped, he then headed towards the back door. "Bane, come." He called and the boy turned and followed him.
They entered the back room and the door closed behind them. Dakota and Gemma could see them talking through the window.
"So..." Gemma started before nudging Dakota with a grin. "You like him don't you?"
"Pssh, no." Dakota denied but Gemma just laughed at her.
"Nice try, tell me what you think of him." She badgered, nudging Dakota's arm again.
Bane's hidden wolf ears twitched, he could hear their conversation and was interested in hearing the outcome. Kuno had not long walked off to grab something and he took the opportunity to focus on the girl and wolf by the counter.
Dakota growled at Gemma, annoyed by her persistence before she sighed. "Alright! I think he's hot, happy now?." She said before looking down at her fidgeting hands.
"Hot? That's all you can say about him." She asked glancing at Bane through the window, he was watching something in the part of the room that they couldn't see, presumably Kuno.
"What more do you want me to say? Grams wouldn't approve, she is friends with Kuno, besides Taneu said I've already met my partner." Dakota smiled back somewhat proudly.
Gemma laughed at her and Dakota growled angrily. "Unless you mean family, Taneu, Kuno or Wolf, you've met no one else-" Gemma stated but Dakota cut her off with a thoughtful look on her face.
"I have met three others." She said and Gemma looked at her confused. "Remember the first time we were here. I met a lion, a tiger and a wolf."
"So your saying, that according to Taneu, one of those three is your partner?" Gemma asked and Dakota nodded in affirmation.
"Although I refuse to believe that it's the lion, I would never respect let alone stand anyone who could attack defenceless young with such ruthlessness. The tiger, a beauty she was, I would like to meet her again, I am unsure if its her though." Dakota said as she glanced up through the glass, Kuno and Bane were walking back towards the door.
"And the wolf?" Gemma asked just as the door opened and Bane and Kuno joined them at the desk again.
Bane's eyes trailed to Dakota, having heard the situation and wanting to know what Dakota thought about him being her future mate but the female blatantly ignored the wolfs question, instead her attention was on Kuno who had began talking.
"Lutari, I have contacted Kaela and she will pick you up from Dakota's after you leave here." He said in a comforting voice and Gemma yipped, tail wagging.
Kuno then turned to Bane, he gestured to the folders in his arms and was talking low with him, gaining the boys full attention. Gemma took the opportunity to get Dakota's answer to her previous question. She nuzzled into her hand and when Dakota looked down at her she just grinned back. Dakota shook her head smiling slightly before her eyes trailed back to the two males. Gemma sighed before she nuzzled more forcefully into Dakota's hand, when she was ignored she started licking at Dakota's fingers and was rewarded with a smack on the snout. She growled lightly annoyed before she nipped at the offending hand. Dakota glared down at her in annoyance.
"Stop it." She growled and Gemma shook her head grinning like an idiot.
"I want an answer. You didn't answer me. Please, tell me." Gemma whined as she circled Dakota's legs, nipping at her arms playfully.
Kuno glanced over at the two with a smile, gesturing that he would only be a few more minutes before he turned back to Bane and the boy who had not long joined them. Dakota nodded to him before she went to step away from Gemma's persistent questioning in annoyance. She accidentally stepped on Gemma's tail and the wolf yelped in shock, before snapping her jaw shut to block out the pain, but she didn't realise how close she was to Dakota and her fangs dug into the soft skin of the elders arm. Dakota cried out and Gemma immediately released the flesh between her teeth. Kuno quickly made his way around the desk to check over Dakota's arm while Bane and the other boy turned away, their postures tense. Gemma hacked up Dakota's blood spitting it from her maw, hating the taste before she looked over the wound with Kuno, a sad look in her eyes.
"I'm sorry." She whimpered and Dakota patted her with her good hand.
"It's ok..." Her voice was strained but Gemma smiled slightly and licked the hand patting her.
Kuno sighed before he let go of Dakota's arm.
"This will need care, Bane." He looked over at the two boys and Bane turned around, his eyes focused on Kuno. "Take Dakota to the medical wing." Kuno looked over at Dakota while Bane gave his attention to the other boy.
"Skype could you hold on a few minutes." He said rather then asked and Skype nodded.
"Sure, she can't keep bleeding." He said offhandedly with a shrug and Bane just shook his head at the younger, both boys seemed to have relaxed.
Dakota held her arm tightly to slow the blood flow and Gemma whined upset about what had just happened. Kuno walked over to Gemma and knelt down beside the younger wolf.
"I need you to come with me, Dakota will get fixed up then she will join us." He finished shifting his gaze from Gemma to Dakota and Dakota nodded.
Kuno walked around the counter towards back room with a reluctant Gemma following. Dakota looked down at her arm with a neutral expression, the wound was still dripping blood, but the flow had slowed.
"Come on..." Bane spoke reluctantly before he turned and started walking further into the building, he stopped and looked back at her. "We need to get that fixed."
Dakota looked up at him, her hand still gripping tightly to the wound. She nodded slightly then started to follow him, dully noticing Skype rush past her to walk beside Bane. She looked over her shoulder with worry at where she knew Kuno had taken Gemma.
"Hey, he'll take good care of her." Bane called back when he noticed Dakota's worry and reluctance to leave.
"I know, it's just..." Dakota sighed before she turned away and stopped talking.
Skype and Bane shared a confused look, It was obvious something was bothering Dakota, and even clearer that she did not wish to discuss it. They continued walking in silence and Skype noticed Bane's subtle glances over his shoulder in Dakota's direction and the worried look in his brothers eyes. Bane was about to say something but his voice was cut short when he felt Skype's elbow dig into his ribcage. The elder released a silent yelp, pressing his palm against the quickly forming bruise while giving the younger a scathing glare. Neither noticed that Dakota had stopped till she called out to them, they were near the medical wing now and the boys were confused about the sudden stop. Dakota had her arm wrapped around her torso in a protective manner.
"I will be back in a moment." She said quietly as she walked quickly into the bathroom, lightly shutting the door behind her.
"Alright..." Bane called out but Dakota was already gone.
Skype drew in a refreshing breath now that the scent of blood wasn't so strong, he glanced over at Bane who was also enjoying the fresher air.
Dakota walked up to one of the washers and splashed her face with water before she felt her side with her palm. She lifted her shirt, slightly and was shocked to see a large bruise steady forming across her ribcage.
“What the hell, where did that come from?” She exclaimed as she rubbed her good hand over the slightly purpled skin. It puzzled her but she just sighed. 'Maybe Kuno will know.' She thought before she straightened out her clothes and left the bathroom. She walked over to the two who were talking quietly to eachother.
"Sorry..." She apologized.
"There's nothing to apologize about." Bane assured before he looked at her with hidden worry. "Are you alright?"
"Yeah." Dakota responded and the three of them headed into the medical wing.
Bane and Skype waited by the desk as the nurse took Dakota further into the wing to examine and tend to her wound. Skype looked over at Bane who was watching the nurse and Dakota through the small window on the examination rooms door.
"Is everything alright Bane?" He asked worried and confused.
The elder looked at him, as if just noticing his presence and shook his head.
"I'm unsure if I should wait or not... To thank her, I may not get another chance." He explained and that just made Skype more confused.
"Thank her?" Skype's puzzled voice greeted Bane's ears and the elder sighed.
"Yeah, remember when I told you about my last encounter with Kasanga?" Bane reminded him.
"Oh, I'm surprised she hasn't noticed the scar yet." Skype said, lightly touching the tip of the scar at the base of Bane's neck, visible though his open top button.
"I think she has, It just may not have told her that me and the pup are one in the same. I'm sure I am not the only one with a scar like this." He whispered downhearted and Skype nodded.
"I suppose..."
A silence fell over them, both in their own thoughts. Dakota soon left the room and joined the two boys by the counter, her arm was in a bandage and she held it across her torso. She looked over the two of them for a moment, it was clear that Skype had come for the soul purpose of getting Bane out of here. She smiled slightly up at them before looking off in the direction they had come.
"I can find my own way back, so you two can go if you wish." She spoke turning to look into Bane's saddened eyes.
"You sure?" He asked, voice portraying more sadness then his eyes showed.
"Yes, I'll be alright, It's clear you two wish to leave." She said with a smile and Bane nodded.
"Ok... I hope whatever you brought Lutari in for works out." Bane smiled back and he was stunned when he felt arm's wrap around his neck, pulling him into a tight hug. He got over his shock and returned the hug, wrapping his arms around Dakota's waist. Dakota nuzzled into his chest lightly and Bane shuttered as her nose brushed the sensitive skin of his scar.
"Thankyou for your help, I do hope we meet again." Dakota whispered before she released him.
She quickly retreated in the direction they had come from. Bane and Skype watched her go before Skype pushed Bane playfully and the elder just shoved him back. He smiled facing where Dakota had just left before he and Skype made their way out of the building, using the back exit. Dakota looked back just as the two disappeared and she approached the door where she knew Gemma was. She knocked and waited as she heard shuffling around the room followed by a "Coming!" The door swung open to reviel a smiling Kuno.
"Oh Dakota, your back. Where are Bane and Skype?" Kuno asked as he gestured for Dakota to enter.
"I told them they could leave, they didn't really seem to want to be here." Dakota replied, laughing lightly as she entered.
She sat next to Gemma who had her legs crossed and her arms resting on the table. Kuno sat down on the other side of the table before looking over the two seriously.
"I was just explaining to Gemma about the slight mix-up with your human shots." Kuno explained and Dakota looked confused.
"What do you mean Mix-up, is something wrong?" Dakota asked confused.
"Nothing is wrong, It's just the shots I gave you were from the main office." Kuno explained, Dakota and Gemma looked at each other confused, before returning their attention to Kuno as he spoke again. "The shots in the main office are a potent mixture and are meant for special cases. It was a mix up on my behalf but I do not believe that It will effect either of you too much. And before you worry, Zander and Sasha are safe, they did not have the double up that you have."
"Double up?" Gemma asked after a short silence.
"The shots in the office are for special cases as they are a precise mix of two different DNA. Generally they are used on weaked animals, such as the runt or young with a birth defect, the human shot combined with their breed strengthens their bodys, and allows them to heal to their full potential. Due to my mix-up you both now have a third form. Gemma, along with your Human form your also received the ability to shift into a Jaguar. Dakota, the same is for you, however, Instead of a Jaguar, you can shift into a Tiger." Kuno said as he read over a file that was resting before him. "Unfortunately due to the nature of the shots and their use your forms will not age. I need to give you both a check-up to see what is happening with your young forms, can you both please change for me."
"Is it the same as how we change from Wolf to Human and Vice-versa?" Gemma asked to make sure they did everything right.
"Yes, just will yourself to change and your body will do the rest." Kuno responded without looking up and smiled when a whine reached his ears.
Although odd in colouring and both at the age of three months, a Jaguar cub and a Tiger cub sat before him. He patted the table and Gemma jumped up, slipping slightly before her claws gained traction on the smooth surface. Kuno gave Gemma a quick check-over before he coaxed Dakota onto the table aswell. Once he was sure that both of them were ok he patted them both lightly before sitting back down.
"You may change back now, I do have something else to discuss with you." The two cubs nodded before they shifted back into their human skins and took their seats again. "From this experience, you have both gained a unique ability aswell as your extra form. Dakota, you have gained an ability referred to as Empathy, the best way to explain this ability would be to demonstrate. Gemma show me your arm please." He said and Gemma reluctantly reached across the table.
When her arm was within reach Kuno pinched her hard and she quickly retreated, cradling her arm after hissing at the man. Dakota although she didn't react, looked down at her arm in confusion as she felt the pulse of pain from Gemma's pinch.
"Does this mean that I can feel others pain as if it was mine?" She asked and Kuno nodded.
"Although I am not sure how far that power stretched. It could reach to a stranger or just be among those close to you. Until you are able to completely understand this, I would suggest you be careful. The ability can also be considered a curse, a normal person is never meant to experience the mental and physical pain of others, however if you can train your body. It will be able to withstand the effects and you will grow to have full control over what you feel and who you feel it from." Kuno explained and Dakota nodded in understanding.
She looked down at her arm in thought, 'That must be what happened with the bruise on my rib.' She lightly ran her fingers over the tingling area before looking back up and paying attention as Kuno turned to Gemma.
"Gemma, the ability you have gained, whilst it may seem slightly vulgar is the ability to heal others of any wounds. This ability can only be carried out through the use of your blood, saliva or tears, so I would suggest not using it unless you really need to. I do not think I need to give you an example of this?" He asked and Gemma franticly shook her head, he smiled slightly before continuing. "When I gave you your shots I also took blood samples to check on your health. Aside from the two mentioned abilities, I picked up on afew others, althought I am unsure how you got them. They may have been caused by the shot but they could also have been passed onto you by your birth mother."
Both Dakota and Gemma looked at him confused and he nodded to their silent appears that Gemma has the ability to morph into anything she has previously seen and she also has immunity to any and all abilities force upon her by others. This immune ability can also be used to shield others who the user wishes to protect. The both of you share the ability to hear eachothers personal thoughts and see what the other is seeing at any given time. The thoughts can be contained by building a mental block, once this is achieved the other will only hear the thoughts you wish them too. The sight is naturally contained and the other can only see through your eyes if you will them too." He stopped to see if the two girls were following and they nodded, listening intently as he continued on. “Now Gemma, another interesting branch of your healing power is your ability to raise the dead. This is also a shared ability with Dakota, cause It can only be achieved by using your blood, Type A and Dakota’s blood, Type B, along with the two other blood types that can belong to anyone.”
“Is there anything else we should know about?” Dakota asked once the room fell silent.
"There is one more thing. Gemma with the alteration to your wolf form, I have a gift for you.” He smiled.
“A gift?” Came Gemma’s uncertain question.
“What kind of ‘Gift’?” Dakota asked not bothering to hide her caution.
“A very rare bird.” Kuno spoke answering them both.
“What kind of bird?” Gemma asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.
“Have you ever seen a Phoenix Feather?” Kuno asked and Gemma shook her head.
“Never, have you Dakota?” She then looked over at Dakota who gave her a pointed look.
“Clearly if you haven’t then I haven’t.” Dakota then looked at Kuno.
"Hina." Kuno called out and a young aged woman walked in with a reddish-pink egg in her arms.
She lightly rested the egg on the table, laying a red feather beside it before she then left the room. Kuno picked up the feather and handed it to Gemma.
"A pure phoenix feather." He explained as Dakota and Gemma examined the feather, they were still looking at it when Kuno lightly pushed the egg closer to Gemma. "This egg contains a healthy Phoenix chick and he is all yours." He said in a soft, calm voice.
"Are you serious?" Gemma asked looking at him shocked.
"Just as long as when he hatches, you're the first one he sees. he will be forever loyal, even in death when he is revived from the ashes of his old body. He will always remember you as his master and will be forever loyal. With this you may leave, I do suggest your brush up on your knowledge about Phoenix's." He explained as he rose form his chair.
"Thankyou." Gemma said gratefully, she gave the feather to Dakota before gathering the egg in her arms.
"This feather... From his mother?" Dakota asked twirling the feather between her fingers, marvelling at its softness.
"Yes..." Kuno answered, his mood turning sad.
"Is she still alive?" Dakota asked already knowing the answer by the look in his eyes.
"Sadly no, she is no longer with us, but with the ashes that she never recovered from we made the formation that Gemma received From the alterations in your wolf form you should have the instincts of any mother phoenix. including how to raise your young." He said the last of his words directed at Gemma, he started to walk out but stopped as if just remembering something. "Kaela and Lutari need identities. For your protection I suggest you keep both your lives separate. Gemma, your wolf form is know as Lutari and Dakota, your wolf form is known as Kaela. Just in case you will both need human disguises for your alias. Gemma you should be able to take care of that." He said then he left the room.
Gemma glanced over at Dakota.
“Well... I'm not suppose to be picked up by Kratia till I get to your place so we should probably walk home the same way we entered, but I would prefer to walk in my human form, I mean it’s not like we’re going to run into Bane or any one who we will interact with again.” She joked and Dakota agreed then they left the room.
They started walking for the door, when Bane walked through the front entrance. Gemma shifted into her wolf from without thinking and the egg dropped, no longer supported by her arms Dakota caught it just in time. Gemma sighed with relief before taking the egg in her tail and wrapping it close to her side to keep it warm and safe.
“Why did you do that?” Dakota growled at her stupid action.
“Bane, of all the luck” Gemma said as he walked over to them.
He looked at the Egg safely wrapped in Gemma’s tail and smiled.
“So you’re the one who got Titan and Adena's egg?”
Gemma nodded her head before she nuzzled the egg happily.
“Oh..." He said as if just noticing Dakota. "How’s your arm doing?” Bane asked casually, with hidden concern.
Gemma put her paw over her nose as if to show she was sorry and Dakota smiled.
“It’s fine, I know Lutari didn't mean it, she just acted on impulse.” Dakota explained and Bane nodded.
“Yeah, I can understand that.” He laughed lightly.
Dakota smiled at him, happy that they were at ease. She was unsure how Bane would react to her affection but he didn't really seem to mind.
"So what are you doing back here?" Dakota asked curious, he seemed happy to be free of the center, yet here he was, returning.
“Skype had something he needed to attend to.” Bane explained with a shrug and Dakota nodded.
A short silence fell over the three of them and Bane began fidgeting, unsure what to say or do. Gemma noticed and looked up at Dakota to see if she did also, but Dakota was clueless, she was to busy looking at Bane’s eyes again.
“I've... Gotta go.” Bane finally spoke breaking the silence with his soft voice.
“Ok,” Dakota said, a disappointed edge to her tone.
Bane placed his hand on Gemma’s head patting her lightly, before dragging his hand along Gemma's neck and back as he ran into off. Entering the room they had just left, closing the door lightly behind him. Dakota watched him before turning back as Gemma continued walking. When they were through the doors, they both took in the sun before starting down the street and a leisurely pace.
“He likes you, you know…” Gemma spoke up after a minute or two of silence and she was treated with a glare.
“Don’t be ridiculous.” Dakota muttered, speeding up her pace slightly.
Gemma watched her with a knowing smile, which only ticked the elder off more and they continued on in silence. Dakota silently fuming as Gemma trotted beside her with a huge grin.
Bane entered the room to see his father looking at two folders. He gave the man a confused look as he slouched into one of the chairs.
“Shouldn't you only be looking at one file? I mean Kratia didn't show?” He questioned offhandedly as he glared at the wall off to his left.
“Oh, Bane... Ahh, yeah. I just needed to check something that involved both folders.” He explained glancing at his son over the folders before turning back to the text on the paper before him.
Bane looked at him confused but just shrugged it off. Without looking up again Kuno held out a small piece of laminated paper, which Bane took before looking over it. It was an animal license.
“It’s for the Dakota and Gemma, go and find them.” He said muttered, obviously distracted by what he was reading.
“Don't you mean Dakota and Lutari?” Bane guessed eyeing his father suspiciously.
“Yes, sorry. I'm just very tired, I think I'll have an early leave today.” He chuckled nervous of his slip-up before gesturing to the licence. “I forgot to give it to Lutari before they left. Without it she could get into a lot of trouble for having the phoenix with her.” He explained, Bane continued to look at him suspiciously before the elder man's words sunk in a huge grin crossed his face.
“You want me to give this to her?” Bane asked completely forgetting about Kuno's slip-ups in his excitement to see Dakota again.
“Don’t look to happy about it, I don’t want you getting to close to Dakota.” Kuno scolded in a stern voice and he straightened leaning slightly away at the growl that Bane started emitting.
“Dad…”
“I just want you to be careful around them, you never know what could happen... Even with the years you have had to build up an immunity so-to-speak. Both you and Skype could have lost it earlier, she will bleed Bane.” Kuno cautioned and Bane just continued to growl in annoyance.
“Dad, Jordon bleeds.”
“Jordon also knows of your heritage, Dakota doesn't and I don’t want her finding out you understand.” The growl he released rivalled Bane's and the teen sighed before looking away.
“Yes.” He muttered and Kuno nodded.
“Just be careful around the both of them, I know your friends are safe and I could bet that neither you or Skype would hurt either Dakota or Lutari but I have to keep them safe.” The concerned tone had returned and Bane nodded obediently.
“I know, I'll be careful.” He responded looking down at the licence again. Kuno walked over to and opened the door for Bane.
“Now hurry, they shouldn't have gotten far.” Bane glanced at the name on the licence, ‘Lutari Dawson’. He then shifted, taking the licence in his mouth before running out the door which shut behind him.
Still walking in silence, they were about a quarter of the way back to Dakota's when Gemma glanced up at her. Noticing her calmer mood Gemma decided to try again with the obviously sensitive topic.
“He does.” Was all she said and she stopped when Dakota did. She looked down at the smiling wolf.
"Who does?" Dakota was utterly confused about who Gemma was referring too.
“Bane, he likes you and I bet I can prove it.” Gemma answered smugly and Dakota glared at her.
“Oh really.” Dakota asked sarcasticly and Gemma nodded happily. Her ears lowered at Dakota's growl. "We've already talked about this, I already have a mate-to-be, feelings or not, Bane and I can not happen." Gemma's ears drooped before they twitched, perking again and she looked off to the left with confusion.
Dakota followed her gaze to see a wolf pup trailing down the road, nose to the ground, something clutched in his jaw.
"Speak of the devil." She smiled fondly and Gemma looked up at her confused before she looked back at the pup.
He seemed to be following a scent trail. When he bumped into Dakota's shoe he looked up and wagged his tail in a happy manner.
"You looking for us?" Dakota asked as she knelt down and patted Bane on the head.
He nuzzled into her hand before turning to Gemma and placing the license before the older wolf. Gemma picked it up with confusion before she smiled as she read over it.
"It's good to see you again young one." Dakota whispered as she rubbed behind Bane's ears and he yipped as he continued to lean into her touch.
Gemma looked over at them before she sat down watching the two with confused eyes.
"Is he the one?" Gemma asked and Dakota nodded, not taking her eyes off the brown wolf pup.
"It appears on some unconscious level that Taneu is right." Gemma sighed as she watched the familiarity between them.
Bane glanced over at Gemma with confusion at her words but Dakota just chuckled.
"Didn't I tell you?" She asked not expecting an answer before she looked back down at Bane. "How's that wound little one?" Dakota asked as she playfully rolled Bane onto his back and lightly rubbed against his chest.
Bane began growling lightly and if he wasn't a wolf, Gemma would have said he was purring under Dakota's touch. While patting him, Dakota examined the wound on the pups chest and smiled lightly.
"Healing well I see." She commented and she laughed lightly as Bane rolled out from under her hand and leapt at Gemma.
The older wolf started but lay down as Bane began tugging on her ear in a playful manner. Dakota started to feel a jolt of pain threw her own ear so she pulled Bane from Gemma's back and held him in her lap.
“That’s enough squirt, don’t want you pulling her ear off now.” She smiled as Bane playfully swiped at a lock of hair that fell out from behind her ear.
“He certainly likes you,” Gemma pointed out as Bane nuzzled into Dakota’s chest.
Gemma watched the pup with a critical eye as Bane stopped nuzzling Dakota and began chewing on one of her shirt buttons. The look in her cousins eyes was the same look she had often seen Belinda giving a photo that the woman stored under her pillow.
"So I see, I have no doubts its not the tiger now.” Dakota responded in a soft voice and Gemma looked away from the two with slight annoyance.
Dakota noticed her actions and looked at her confused before Bane pulled her attention back to him by nuzzling into her chin. She smiled before patting him again. Gemma glared up at the sky before redirecting her eyes to Dakota and Bane.
"Mid-day is approaching, we need to get going." She stated looking at the two with a neutral expression and Dakota nodded before she lightly nudged Bane off her lap with her good hand. She patted him one more time before standing to leave with saddened eyes. Gemma made an annoyed noise in her throat before turning back to Bane with a light glare.
"What's your name kid?" She growled and he glared back at her hiding his slightly panicked expression. His eyes flickered to the street sign before returning to Gemma.
"Taru." He responded drooping his ears, as if she had scolded him and Gemma sighed before licking him on the forehead.
"See you around Taru." She responded before starting back off down the street with Dakota walking beside her.
Bane watched them leave with a slight smile before running back to the medical center and returning to the room his father was in.
"Did you catch them?" He asked as Bane morphed into his human skin. The teen sat down with a slight smile.
"Sure did, caught up to them on Taru drive."
Dakota and Gemma started off through the gates and down the street.
"Gemma?" Dakota asked lightly and the wolf's ear twitched in acknowledgement of her words.
"What?" She grunted, glaring ahead of her.
"Are you alright?" Her voice was full of concern and the question confused Gemma.
"Of cause," She replied stunned. "Why would I not be?"
"You just seem to be mad." Dakota responded in a small voice and Gemma looked up at her with confusion before redirecting her gaze ahead of her.
"I'm alright. Just... Thinking." She said softly and Dakota nodded, then the two fell into silence for their remaining walk back home.
"Why are you not changing?" She asked confused and Gemma just shook her head.
"I don't like it... Something feels off about today." She explained, Dakota could hear the growl in her throat as she spoke.
"If you feel safer as is, I will do the talking." Dakota responded as they walked through the doors and over to the desk where they first met Kuno.
A boy walked out of the back room and up to the counter to serve them. When their eyes met, Dakota couldn't help but smile, the deep emerald before her was so alluring. The boy regarded her with a small smile, wondering if Dakota was the same girl who had saved him when Kasanga had attacked him two months ago. He breathed in deep, sighing as Dakota's unique scent washed over him. He shook his head to clear his mind before he noticed Gemma walking beside Dakota.
"Can I help you?" He asked watching as Dakota and Gemma stopped by the counter, the wolf was standing on her hind legs so she could see him over the counter top.
"We got a phone call saying that Mr Aranson wanted to see us urgently." Dakota explained as she continued to stare at the emeralds before her.
"Oh, Kaela and Lutari Dawson I assume?" He asked as he flicked through some documents on the table before him.
Dakota and Gemma looked at him confused and before Dakota could correct him Kuno came out of the back room.
"Dakota, Lutari, It's good to see you again. I see Kaela couldn't make it." His cheery voice brought a smile to the two pups faces despite their confusion.
"It's good to see you aswell Kuno." Dakota said as the two shared a quick hug, Kuno then patted Gemma on the head and she nuzzled into his hand.
"Girls," He said as he stepped away from the two. "This is my son, Bane." He introduced and Bane smiled when both girls looked at him.
"Pleasure to meet you Bane." Dakota said as she held out her hand, a light blush on her cheeks.
"Likewise." Bane smirked back as he lightly kissed her hand, a quick retreat of the limb followed and Kuno laughed lightly.
"I will be back in a second." He said once he stopped, he then headed towards the back door. "Bane, come." He called and the boy turned and followed him.
They entered the back room and the door closed behind them. Dakota and Gemma could see them talking through the window.
"So..." Gemma started before nudging Dakota with a grin. "You like him don't you?"
"Pssh, no." Dakota denied but Gemma just laughed at her.
"Nice try, tell me what you think of him." She badgered, nudging Dakota's arm again.
Bane's hidden wolf ears twitched, he could hear their conversation and was interested in hearing the outcome. Kuno had not long walked off to grab something and he took the opportunity to focus on the girl and wolf by the counter.
Dakota growled at Gemma, annoyed by her persistence before she sighed. "Alright! I think he's hot, happy now?." She said before looking down at her fidgeting hands.
"Hot? That's all you can say about him." She asked glancing at Bane through the window, he was watching something in the part of the room that they couldn't see, presumably Kuno.
"What more do you want me to say? Grams wouldn't approve, she is friends with Kuno, besides Taneu said I've already met my partner." Dakota smiled back somewhat proudly.
Gemma laughed at her and Dakota growled angrily. "Unless you mean family, Taneu, Kuno or Wolf, you've met no one else-" Gemma stated but Dakota cut her off with a thoughtful look on her face.
"I have met three others." She said and Gemma looked at her confused. "Remember the first time we were here. I met a lion, a tiger and a wolf."
"So your saying, that according to Taneu, one of those three is your partner?" Gemma asked and Dakota nodded in affirmation.
"Although I refuse to believe that it's the lion, I would never respect let alone stand anyone who could attack defenceless young with such ruthlessness. The tiger, a beauty she was, I would like to meet her again, I am unsure if its her though." Dakota said as she glanced up through the glass, Kuno and Bane were walking back towards the door.
"And the wolf?" Gemma asked just as the door opened and Bane and Kuno joined them at the desk again.
Bane's eyes trailed to Dakota, having heard the situation and wanting to know what Dakota thought about him being her future mate but the female blatantly ignored the wolfs question, instead her attention was on Kuno who had began talking.
"Lutari, I have contacted Kaela and she will pick you up from Dakota's after you leave here." He said in a comforting voice and Gemma yipped, tail wagging.
Kuno then turned to Bane, he gestured to the folders in his arms and was talking low with him, gaining the boys full attention. Gemma took the opportunity to get Dakota's answer to her previous question. She nuzzled into her hand and when Dakota looked down at her she just grinned back. Dakota shook her head smiling slightly before her eyes trailed back to the two males. Gemma sighed before she nuzzled more forcefully into Dakota's hand, when she was ignored she started licking at Dakota's fingers and was rewarded with a smack on the snout. She growled lightly annoyed before she nipped at the offending hand. Dakota glared down at her in annoyance.
"Stop it." She growled and Gemma shook her head grinning like an idiot.
"I want an answer. You didn't answer me. Please, tell me." Gemma whined as she circled Dakota's legs, nipping at her arms playfully.
Kuno glanced over at the two with a smile, gesturing that he would only be a few more minutes before he turned back to Bane and the boy who had not long joined them. Dakota nodded to him before she went to step away from Gemma's persistent questioning in annoyance. She accidentally stepped on Gemma's tail and the wolf yelped in shock, before snapping her jaw shut to block out the pain, but she didn't realise how close she was to Dakota and her fangs dug into the soft skin of the elders arm. Dakota cried out and Gemma immediately released the flesh between her teeth. Kuno quickly made his way around the desk to check over Dakota's arm while Bane and the other boy turned away, their postures tense. Gemma hacked up Dakota's blood spitting it from her maw, hating the taste before she looked over the wound with Kuno, a sad look in her eyes.
"I'm sorry." She whimpered and Dakota patted her with her good hand.
"It's ok..." Her voice was strained but Gemma smiled slightly and licked the hand patting her.
Kuno sighed before he let go of Dakota's arm.
"This will need care, Bane." He looked over at the two boys and Bane turned around, his eyes focused on Kuno. "Take Dakota to the medical wing." Kuno looked over at Dakota while Bane gave his attention to the other boy.
"Skype could you hold on a few minutes." He said rather then asked and Skype nodded.
"Sure, she can't keep bleeding." He said offhandedly with a shrug and Bane just shook his head at the younger, both boys seemed to have relaxed.
Dakota held her arm tightly to slow the blood flow and Gemma whined upset about what had just happened. Kuno walked over to Gemma and knelt down beside the younger wolf.
"I need you to come with me, Dakota will get fixed up then she will join us." He finished shifting his gaze from Gemma to Dakota and Dakota nodded.
Kuno walked around the counter towards back room with a reluctant Gemma following. Dakota looked down at her arm with a neutral expression, the wound was still dripping blood, but the flow had slowed.
"Come on..." Bane spoke reluctantly before he turned and started walking further into the building, he stopped and looked back at her. "We need to get that fixed."
Dakota looked up at him, her hand still gripping tightly to the wound. She nodded slightly then started to follow him, dully noticing Skype rush past her to walk beside Bane. She looked over her shoulder with worry at where she knew Kuno had taken Gemma.
"Hey, he'll take good care of her." Bane called back when he noticed Dakota's worry and reluctance to leave.
"I know, it's just..." Dakota sighed before she turned away and stopped talking.
Skype and Bane shared a confused look, It was obvious something was bothering Dakota, and even clearer that she did not wish to discuss it. They continued walking in silence and Skype noticed Bane's subtle glances over his shoulder in Dakota's direction and the worried look in his brothers eyes. Bane was about to say something but his voice was cut short when he felt Skype's elbow dig into his ribcage. The elder released a silent yelp, pressing his palm against the quickly forming bruise while giving the younger a scathing glare. Neither noticed that Dakota had stopped till she called out to them, they were near the medical wing now and the boys were confused about the sudden stop. Dakota had her arm wrapped around her torso in a protective manner.
"I will be back in a moment." She said quietly as she walked quickly into the bathroom, lightly shutting the door behind her.
"Alright..." Bane called out but Dakota was already gone.
Skype drew in a refreshing breath now that the scent of blood wasn't so strong, he glanced over at Bane who was also enjoying the fresher air.
Dakota walked up to one of the washers and splashed her face with water before she felt her side with her palm. She lifted her shirt, slightly and was shocked to see a large bruise steady forming across her ribcage.
“What the hell, where did that come from?” She exclaimed as she rubbed her good hand over the slightly purpled skin. It puzzled her but she just sighed. 'Maybe Kuno will know.' She thought before she straightened out her clothes and left the bathroom. She walked over to the two who were talking quietly to eachother.
"Sorry..." She apologized.
"There's nothing to apologize about." Bane assured before he looked at her with hidden worry. "Are you alright?"
"Yeah." Dakota responded and the three of them headed into the medical wing.
Bane and Skype waited by the desk as the nurse took Dakota further into the wing to examine and tend to her wound. Skype looked over at Bane who was watching the nurse and Dakota through the small window on the examination rooms door.
"Is everything alright Bane?" He asked worried and confused.
The elder looked at him, as if just noticing his presence and shook his head.
"I'm unsure if I should wait or not... To thank her, I may not get another chance." He explained and that just made Skype more confused.
"Thank her?" Skype's puzzled voice greeted Bane's ears and the elder sighed.
"Yeah, remember when I told you about my last encounter with Kasanga?" Bane reminded him.
"Oh, I'm surprised she hasn't noticed the scar yet." Skype said, lightly touching the tip of the scar at the base of Bane's neck, visible though his open top button.
"I think she has, It just may not have told her that me and the pup are one in the same. I'm sure I am not the only one with a scar like this." He whispered downhearted and Skype nodded.
"I suppose..."
A silence fell over them, both in their own thoughts. Dakota soon left the room and joined the two boys by the counter, her arm was in a bandage and she held it across her torso. She looked over the two of them for a moment, it was clear that Skype had come for the soul purpose of getting Bane out of here. She smiled slightly up at them before looking off in the direction they had come.
"I can find my own way back, so you two can go if you wish." She spoke turning to look into Bane's saddened eyes.
"You sure?" He asked, voice portraying more sadness then his eyes showed.
"Yes, I'll be alright, It's clear you two wish to leave." She said with a smile and Bane nodded.
"Ok... I hope whatever you brought Lutari in for works out." Bane smiled back and he was stunned when he felt arm's wrap around his neck, pulling him into a tight hug. He got over his shock and returned the hug, wrapping his arms around Dakota's waist. Dakota nuzzled into his chest lightly and Bane shuttered as her nose brushed the sensitive skin of his scar.
"Thankyou for your help, I do hope we meet again." Dakota whispered before she released him.
She quickly retreated in the direction they had come from. Bane and Skype watched her go before Skype pushed Bane playfully and the elder just shoved him back. He smiled facing where Dakota had just left before he and Skype made their way out of the building, using the back exit. Dakota looked back just as the two disappeared and she approached the door where she knew Gemma was. She knocked and waited as she heard shuffling around the room followed by a "Coming!" The door swung open to reviel a smiling Kuno.
"Oh Dakota, your back. Where are Bane and Skype?" Kuno asked as he gestured for Dakota to enter.
"I told them they could leave, they didn't really seem to want to be here." Dakota replied, laughing lightly as she entered.
She sat next to Gemma who had her legs crossed and her arms resting on the table. Kuno sat down on the other side of the table before looking over the two seriously.
"I was just explaining to Gemma about the slight mix-up with your human shots." Kuno explained and Dakota looked confused.
"What do you mean Mix-up, is something wrong?" Dakota asked confused.
"Nothing is wrong, It's just the shots I gave you were from the main office." Kuno explained, Dakota and Gemma looked at each other confused, before returning their attention to Kuno as he spoke again. "The shots in the main office are a potent mixture and are meant for special cases. It was a mix up on my behalf but I do not believe that It will effect either of you too much. And before you worry, Zander and Sasha are safe, they did not have the double up that you have."
"Double up?" Gemma asked after a short silence.
"The shots in the office are for special cases as they are a precise mix of two different DNA. Generally they are used on weaked animals, such as the runt or young with a birth defect, the human shot combined with their breed strengthens their bodys, and allows them to heal to their full potential. Due to my mix-up you both now have a third form. Gemma, along with your Human form your also received the ability to shift into a Jaguar. Dakota, the same is for you, however, Instead of a Jaguar, you can shift into a Tiger." Kuno said as he read over a file that was resting before him. "Unfortunately due to the nature of the shots and their use your forms will not age. I need to give you both a check-up to see what is happening with your young forms, can you both please change for me."
"Is it the same as how we change from Wolf to Human and Vice-versa?" Gemma asked to make sure they did everything right.
"Yes, just will yourself to change and your body will do the rest." Kuno responded without looking up and smiled when a whine reached his ears.
Although odd in colouring and both at the age of three months, a Jaguar cub and a Tiger cub sat before him. He patted the table and Gemma jumped up, slipping slightly before her claws gained traction on the smooth surface. Kuno gave Gemma a quick check-over before he coaxed Dakota onto the table aswell. Once he was sure that both of them were ok he patted them both lightly before sitting back down.
"You may change back now, I do have something else to discuss with you." The two cubs nodded before they shifted back into their human skins and took their seats again. "From this experience, you have both gained a unique ability aswell as your extra form. Dakota, you have gained an ability referred to as Empathy, the best way to explain this ability would be to demonstrate. Gemma show me your arm please." He said and Gemma reluctantly reached across the table.
When her arm was within reach Kuno pinched her hard and she quickly retreated, cradling her arm after hissing at the man. Dakota although she didn't react, looked down at her arm in confusion as she felt the pulse of pain from Gemma's pinch.
"Does this mean that I can feel others pain as if it was mine?" She asked and Kuno nodded.
"Although I am not sure how far that power stretched. It could reach to a stranger or just be among those close to you. Until you are able to completely understand this, I would suggest you be careful. The ability can also be considered a curse, a normal person is never meant to experience the mental and physical pain of others, however if you can train your body. It will be able to withstand the effects and you will grow to have full control over what you feel and who you feel it from." Kuno explained and Dakota nodded in understanding.
She looked down at her arm in thought, 'That must be what happened with the bruise on my rib.' She lightly ran her fingers over the tingling area before looking back up and paying attention as Kuno turned to Gemma.
"Gemma, the ability you have gained, whilst it may seem slightly vulgar is the ability to heal others of any wounds. This ability can only be carried out through the use of your blood, saliva or tears, so I would suggest not using it unless you really need to. I do not think I need to give you an example of this?" He asked and Gemma franticly shook her head, he smiled slightly before continuing. "When I gave you your shots I also took blood samples to check on your health. Aside from the two mentioned abilities, I picked up on afew others, althought I am unsure how you got them. They may have been caused by the shot but they could also have been passed onto you by your birth mother."
Both Dakota and Gemma looked at him confused and he nodded to their silent appears that Gemma has the ability to morph into anything she has previously seen and she also has immunity to any and all abilities force upon her by others. This immune ability can also be used to shield others who the user wishes to protect. The both of you share the ability to hear eachothers personal thoughts and see what the other is seeing at any given time. The thoughts can be contained by building a mental block, once this is achieved the other will only hear the thoughts you wish them too. The sight is naturally contained and the other can only see through your eyes if you will them too." He stopped to see if the two girls were following and they nodded, listening intently as he continued on. “Now Gemma, another interesting branch of your healing power is your ability to raise the dead. This is also a shared ability with Dakota, cause It can only be achieved by using your blood, Type A and Dakota’s blood, Type B, along with the two other blood types that can belong to anyone.”
“Is there anything else we should know about?” Dakota asked once the room fell silent.
"There is one more thing. Gemma with the alteration to your wolf form, I have a gift for you.” He smiled.
“A gift?” Came Gemma’s uncertain question.
“What kind of ‘Gift’?” Dakota asked not bothering to hide her caution.
“A very rare bird.” Kuno spoke answering them both.
“What kind of bird?” Gemma asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.
“Have you ever seen a Phoenix Feather?” Kuno asked and Gemma shook her head.
“Never, have you Dakota?” She then looked over at Dakota who gave her a pointed look.
“Clearly if you haven’t then I haven’t.” Dakota then looked at Kuno.
"Hina." Kuno called out and a young aged woman walked in with a reddish-pink egg in her arms.
She lightly rested the egg on the table, laying a red feather beside it before she then left the room. Kuno picked up the feather and handed it to Gemma.
"A pure phoenix feather." He explained as Dakota and Gemma examined the feather, they were still looking at it when Kuno lightly pushed the egg closer to Gemma. "This egg contains a healthy Phoenix chick and he is all yours." He said in a soft, calm voice.
"Are you serious?" Gemma asked looking at him shocked.
"Just as long as when he hatches, you're the first one he sees. he will be forever loyal, even in death when he is revived from the ashes of his old body. He will always remember you as his master and will be forever loyal. With this you may leave, I do suggest your brush up on your knowledge about Phoenix's." He explained as he rose form his chair.
"Thankyou." Gemma said gratefully, she gave the feather to Dakota before gathering the egg in her arms.
"This feather... From his mother?" Dakota asked twirling the feather between her fingers, marvelling at its softness.
"Yes..." Kuno answered, his mood turning sad.
"Is she still alive?" Dakota asked already knowing the answer by the look in his eyes.
"Sadly no, she is no longer with us, but with the ashes that she never recovered from we made the formation that Gemma received From the alterations in your wolf form you should have the instincts of any mother phoenix. including how to raise your young." He said the last of his words directed at Gemma, he started to walk out but stopped as if just remembering something. "Kaela and Lutari need identities. For your protection I suggest you keep both your lives separate. Gemma, your wolf form is know as Lutari and Dakota, your wolf form is known as Kaela. Just in case you will both need human disguises for your alias. Gemma you should be able to take care of that." He said then he left the room.
Gemma glanced over at Dakota.
“Well... I'm not suppose to be picked up by Kratia till I get to your place so we should probably walk home the same way we entered, but I would prefer to walk in my human form, I mean it’s not like we’re going to run into Bane or any one who we will interact with again.” She joked and Dakota agreed then they left the room.
They started walking for the door, when Bane walked through the front entrance. Gemma shifted into her wolf from without thinking and the egg dropped, no longer supported by her arms Dakota caught it just in time. Gemma sighed with relief before taking the egg in her tail and wrapping it close to her side to keep it warm and safe.
“Why did you do that?” Dakota growled at her stupid action.
“Bane, of all the luck” Gemma said as he walked over to them.
He looked at the Egg safely wrapped in Gemma’s tail and smiled.
“So you’re the one who got Titan and Adena's egg?”
Gemma nodded her head before she nuzzled the egg happily.
“Oh..." He said as if just noticing Dakota. "How’s your arm doing?” Bane asked casually, with hidden concern.
Gemma put her paw over her nose as if to show she was sorry and Dakota smiled.
“It’s fine, I know Lutari didn't mean it, she just acted on impulse.” Dakota explained and Bane nodded.
“Yeah, I can understand that.” He laughed lightly.
Dakota smiled at him, happy that they were at ease. She was unsure how Bane would react to her affection but he didn't really seem to mind.
"So what are you doing back here?" Dakota asked curious, he seemed happy to be free of the center, yet here he was, returning.
“Skype had something he needed to attend to.” Bane explained with a shrug and Dakota nodded.
A short silence fell over the three of them and Bane began fidgeting, unsure what to say or do. Gemma noticed and looked up at Dakota to see if she did also, but Dakota was clueless, she was to busy looking at Bane’s eyes again.
“I've... Gotta go.” Bane finally spoke breaking the silence with his soft voice.
“Ok,” Dakota said, a disappointed edge to her tone.
Bane placed his hand on Gemma’s head patting her lightly, before dragging his hand along Gemma's neck and back as he ran into off. Entering the room they had just left, closing the door lightly behind him. Dakota watched him before turning back as Gemma continued walking. When they were through the doors, they both took in the sun before starting down the street and a leisurely pace.
“He likes you, you know…” Gemma spoke up after a minute or two of silence and she was treated with a glare.
“Don’t be ridiculous.” Dakota muttered, speeding up her pace slightly.
Gemma watched her with a knowing smile, which only ticked the elder off more and they continued on in silence. Dakota silently fuming as Gemma trotted beside her with a huge grin.
Bane entered the room to see his father looking at two folders. He gave the man a confused look as he slouched into one of the chairs.
“Shouldn't you only be looking at one file? I mean Kratia didn't show?” He questioned offhandedly as he glared at the wall off to his left.
“Oh, Bane... Ahh, yeah. I just needed to check something that involved both folders.” He explained glancing at his son over the folders before turning back to the text on the paper before him.
Bane looked at him confused but just shrugged it off. Without looking up again Kuno held out a small piece of laminated paper, which Bane took before looking over it. It was an animal license.
“It’s for the Dakota and Gemma, go and find them.” He said muttered, obviously distracted by what he was reading.
“Don't you mean Dakota and Lutari?” Bane guessed eyeing his father suspiciously.
“Yes, sorry. I'm just very tired, I think I'll have an early leave today.” He chuckled nervous of his slip-up before gesturing to the licence. “I forgot to give it to Lutari before they left. Without it she could get into a lot of trouble for having the phoenix with her.” He explained, Bane continued to look at him suspiciously before the elder man's words sunk in a huge grin crossed his face.
“You want me to give this to her?” Bane asked completely forgetting about Kuno's slip-ups in his excitement to see Dakota again.
“Don’t look to happy about it, I don’t want you getting to close to Dakota.” Kuno scolded in a stern voice and he straightened leaning slightly away at the growl that Bane started emitting.
“Dad…”
“I just want you to be careful around them, you never know what could happen... Even with the years you have had to build up an immunity so-to-speak. Both you and Skype could have lost it earlier, she will bleed Bane.” Kuno cautioned and Bane just continued to growl in annoyance.
“Dad, Jordon bleeds.”
“Jordon also knows of your heritage, Dakota doesn't and I don’t want her finding out you understand.” The growl he released rivalled Bane's and the teen sighed before looking away.
“Yes.” He muttered and Kuno nodded.
“Just be careful around the both of them, I know your friends are safe and I could bet that neither you or Skype would hurt either Dakota or Lutari but I have to keep them safe.” The concerned tone had returned and Bane nodded obediently.
“I know, I'll be careful.” He responded looking down at the licence again. Kuno walked over to and opened the door for Bane.
“Now hurry, they shouldn't have gotten far.” Bane glanced at the name on the licence, ‘Lutari Dawson’. He then shifted, taking the licence in his mouth before running out the door which shut behind him.
Still walking in silence, they were about a quarter of the way back to Dakota's when Gemma glanced up at her. Noticing her calmer mood Gemma decided to try again with the obviously sensitive topic.
“He does.” Was all she said and she stopped when Dakota did. She looked down at the smiling wolf.
"Who does?" Dakota was utterly confused about who Gemma was referring too.
“Bane, he likes you and I bet I can prove it.” Gemma answered smugly and Dakota glared at her.
“Oh really.” Dakota asked sarcasticly and Gemma nodded happily. Her ears lowered at Dakota's growl. "We've already talked about this, I already have a mate-to-be, feelings or not, Bane and I can not happen." Gemma's ears drooped before they twitched, perking again and she looked off to the left with confusion.
Dakota followed her gaze to see a wolf pup trailing down the road, nose to the ground, something clutched in his jaw.
"Speak of the devil." She smiled fondly and Gemma looked up at her confused before she looked back at the pup.
He seemed to be following a scent trail. When he bumped into Dakota's shoe he looked up and wagged his tail in a happy manner.
"You looking for us?" Dakota asked as she knelt down and patted Bane on the head.
He nuzzled into her hand before turning to Gemma and placing the license before the older wolf. Gemma picked it up with confusion before she smiled as she read over it.
"It's good to see you again young one." Dakota whispered as she rubbed behind Bane's ears and he yipped as he continued to lean into her touch.
Gemma looked over at them before she sat down watching the two with confused eyes.
"Is he the one?" Gemma asked and Dakota nodded, not taking her eyes off the brown wolf pup.
"It appears on some unconscious level that Taneu is right." Gemma sighed as she watched the familiarity between them.
Bane glanced over at Gemma with confusion at her words but Dakota just chuckled.
"Didn't I tell you?" She asked not expecting an answer before she looked back down at Bane. "How's that wound little one?" Dakota asked as she playfully rolled Bane onto his back and lightly rubbed against his chest.
Bane began growling lightly and if he wasn't a wolf, Gemma would have said he was purring under Dakota's touch. While patting him, Dakota examined the wound on the pups chest and smiled lightly.
"Healing well I see." She commented and she laughed lightly as Bane rolled out from under her hand and leapt at Gemma.
The older wolf started but lay down as Bane began tugging on her ear in a playful manner. Dakota started to feel a jolt of pain threw her own ear so she pulled Bane from Gemma's back and held him in her lap.
“That’s enough squirt, don’t want you pulling her ear off now.” She smiled as Bane playfully swiped at a lock of hair that fell out from behind her ear.
“He certainly likes you,” Gemma pointed out as Bane nuzzled into Dakota’s chest.
Gemma watched the pup with a critical eye as Bane stopped nuzzling Dakota and began chewing on one of her shirt buttons. The look in her cousins eyes was the same look she had often seen Belinda giving a photo that the woman stored under her pillow.
"So I see, I have no doubts its not the tiger now.” Dakota responded in a soft voice and Gemma looked away from the two with slight annoyance.
Dakota noticed her actions and looked at her confused before Bane pulled her attention back to him by nuzzling into her chin. She smiled before patting him again. Gemma glared up at the sky before redirecting her eyes to Dakota and Bane.
"Mid-day is approaching, we need to get going." She stated looking at the two with a neutral expression and Dakota nodded before she lightly nudged Bane off her lap with her good hand. She patted him one more time before standing to leave with saddened eyes. Gemma made an annoyed noise in her throat before turning back to Bane with a light glare.
"What's your name kid?" She growled and he glared back at her hiding his slightly panicked expression. His eyes flickered to the street sign before returning to Gemma.
"Taru." He responded drooping his ears, as if she had scolded him and Gemma sighed before licking him on the forehead.
"See you around Taru." She responded before starting back off down the street with Dakota walking beside her.
Bane watched them leave with a slight smile before running back to the medical center and returning to the room his father was in.
"Did you catch them?" He asked as Bane morphed into his human skin. The teen sat down with a slight smile.
"Sure did, caught up to them on Taru drive."
Dakota and Gemma started off through the gates and down the street.
"Gemma?" Dakota asked lightly and the wolf's ear twitched in acknowledgement of her words.
"What?" She grunted, glaring ahead of her.
"Are you alright?" Her voice was full of concern and the question confused Gemma.
"Of cause," She replied stunned. "Why would I not be?"
"You just seem to be mad." Dakota responded in a small voice and Gemma looked up at her with confusion before redirecting her gaze ahead of her.
"I'm alright. Just... Thinking." She said softly and Dakota nodded, then the two fell into silence for their remaining walk back home.