A/N
This story is unedited so apologies for grammatical and spelling errors if any.
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Fiora (POV)
At the dinner table, amidst the flickering candlelight, the question finally escaped my lips, laden with the weight of uncertainty. "What are you?" I ventured, casting a tentative glance towards Zack.
With a deep inhalation, Zack composed himself, his voice assuming a hushed, contemplative tone. "Are you prepared to confront it?" he inquired, his words drifting like whispers on the breeze.
I took a moment to gather my thoughts. His words felt like a warm embrace, offering me the space and time I needed to prepare myself for whatever revelation was about to come.
As I sat there, contemplating his question, I realized the gravity of what I was asking. It wasn't just about understanding Zack's identity; it was about understanding myself and my own identity to accept the truth, whatever it may be.
Finally, summoning whatever courage I could muster, I nodded in affirmation. "Okay," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'm ready."
With a nod of understanding, Zack took another deep breath before speaking. "I'm not entirely human," he began, his voice steady but tinged with vulnerability. "I'm a part human, part wolf."
His words hung in the air, leaving a weighty silence in their wake. But instead of fear or uncertainty, I felt a curious sense of acceptance wash over me. In that moment, Zack's revelation didn't change how I saw him; if anything, it deepened my appreciation for the complexity of his existence.
"So you're a Werewolf?" I queried, my curiosity piqued by the revelation.
"Ahh... I recall now, that's the moniker bestowed upon us by human civilization... Yes, if you wish to employ such a designation," Zack responded, a blend of annoyance and amusement evident in his voice.
"Sorry, if that was offensive," I interjected apologetically making my eyes as doe as possible.
"It's not your transgression. You are not from our realm, thus I hold no expectations," he replied simply.
"In that case, what term do you prefer?" I inquired, my curiosity unabated within me.
"This question could consume the entirety of the night, but I shall endeavour to elucidate to the best of my ability. If you feel tired by the discourse, do not hesitate to interject; we can divert our attention elsewhere. Does that arrangement suit you?" Zack proposed, awaiting my assent.
I nodded in agreement, prompting him to continue his explanation. "Very well... Let's begin...Our realm is delineated into three principal domains: The Shapeshifters, The Magic Holders, and The Manipulators. We, as shapeshifters, occupy one of these domains, while you, as a magic holder, inhabit another. The realm you originate from comprises the Manipulators."
"Why 'manipulators' It carries a negative connotation, They are not evil" I objected, my annoyance palpable as I thought of my parents being categorized as such.
Zack chuckled softly. "Manipulator is not inherently pejorative; humans have imbued it with negative nuances. In our realm, manipulators are revered for their high intellect; their prowess lies within their minds. Many calamities have been averted owing to the ingenuity of manipulators. However, their exceptional capabilities also engender peril. In their relentless pursuit of innovation, they often delve into the realm of the absurd, yielding outcomes both magnificent and catastrophic. This Is the primary reason why both the other realm is kept hidden from them"
I nodded in understanding, motioning for him to proceed with his elucidation. His smile carried a subtle hint of mischief as if to suggest that my initial offence had been misplaced. Ignoring the implication, he continued his explanations unabated.
"As for the nature of our shapeshifting abilities, they are defined by our capacity to manipulate specific elements," he clarified in response to my questioning gaze. Seeing my uncertainty, he offered an example to illustrate his point.
"For instance, in addition to my shapeshifting prowess, I possess the ability to manipulate and create crystals. Similarly, Mr. Black has mastery over anything related to mercury, while Mrs. Rebella shares my affinity for crystal manipulation. There exist manipulators of silver, gold, iron, and a myriad of other elements," he elaborated, seeking to provide clarity.
As the conversation delved deeper into the intricacies of their abilities, I found myself grappling with a growing sense of confusion.
"So, you all can create these elements?" I questioned, furrowing my brows in confusion
"No, I can create and manipulate crystals. Others possess the ability to manipulate them, but not create them," he clarified, his patience unwavering despite my evident bewilderment.
"And who exactly are these 'others'?" I inquired, seeking further clarification.
"There exists a hierarchy among shapeshifters: Alpha- Beta- Omega- Delta," he further explained patiently, though my impatience was palpable as I awaited his elaboration.
"So, Alphas can both create and manipulate their respective elements, while those of lower hierarchy can only manipulate them," he elucidated, striving to paint a clearer picture of their abilities.
"Ah, so essentially you're capable of transforming coal into diamonds, if I've grasped the concept correctly," I remarked, seeking confirmation.
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"Yes, indeed, but such a feat would exact a heavy toll on an Alpha, potentially resulting in three months of recuperation. Consider the strain on those of lower hierarchy," Zack explained, his demeanour brimming with a sense of satisfaction and amusement.
"So, basically, you're just a shape-shifting canine with a side of bipedal action and a useless power of element manipulation?" I blurted out, unable to contain my curiosity.
Zack's response was like a rapier in the air, cutting through my attempt at levity. "Yup, just like your tendency to morph into a clueless human flamethrower," he shot back, his pride showing signs of injury.
His comeback hit harder than I expected, and I couldn't help but wince. "Ouch, that stings," I muttered, trying to salvage the situation.
"Right," Zack quipped, his tone a mix of sarcasm and defensiveness as he turned away, nursing his water like it held the secrets of the universe, leaving me to ponder the depths of my foot-in-mouth syndrome.
As I observed Zack's pouty expression, a smile tugged at the corners of my lips, though I refrained from apologizing for my earlier remark.
"Now I understand why you seem to relish that pouty face of mine; it's rather endearing, I must admit. The more I see it, the more tempted I am to provoke it," I remarked, a playful lilt in my voice as I chuckled softly.
"At last, a genuine giggle," Zack remarked, his tone lightening as he acknowledged my amusement.
"Please, do continue," I urged eagerly, my curiosity still ablaze despite the lateness of the hour.
Zack shook his head, his expression betraying weariness. "No, I'm afraid I must call it a night. One cannot absorb the intricacies of a new world in a single evening. There is much more to learn about shapeshifters, but the knowledge you seek pertains to magic holders, not shapeshifters," he explained as he rose from his chair.
I protested defiantly, determined to prove my capacity for retaining knowledge. "I have an insatiable appetite for knowledge and can retain a plethora of information, just try me," I insisted, donning my most persuasive doe-eyed expression.
Zack affectionately patted my head before delivering a firm "No," his smile simultaneously gentle and resolute.
Feigning indignation, I pouted, my expression a facade of mock anger. To my surprise, Zack's response was unexpectedly mischievous. "I can offer you something else if you prefer," he suggested.
A devilish grin dancing in my head, while maintaining an innocent facade, I responded with innocence in my eyes. "Could I perhaps meet your wolf form?" I inquired, curiosity mingled with mischief in my tone.
Seemingly attuned to my underlying intentions, Zack countered with a question of his own. "Do you wish to encounter Theo, or are you preparing to meet Zack after the transformation?" he inquired, his words laced with an air of anticipation.
Turning my head away in a manner reminiscent of a mischievous child caught in the act, I inquired innocently, "Who's Theo?"
Rather than providing an immediate response, Zack simply beckoned for me to follow him outside. As we stepped into the crisp night air, I was greeted by the breathtaking sight of the moon casting its silvery glow upon the pristine blanket of snow. The full moon bathed the landscape in an ethereal light, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Entranced by the beauty of the scene before me, I couldn't help but marvel at the enchanting combination of the full moon and freshly fallen snow. It was a sight unlike any I had ever witnessed, filling me with a sense of wonder and awe.
As the sound of tearing fabric shattered the tranquillity of the night, my attention was abruptly diverted. Turning towards the source of the disturbance, I beheld Zack undergoing a swift and seamless transformation. In the span of a heartbeat, he shed his human form, and before me stood a magnificent creature—a white wolf with piercing arctic blue eyes that seemed to gleam in the moonlight.
Spellbound by the sight before me, I stood rooted to the spot, scarcely daring to breathe as I beheld the wondrous spectacle of Zack's metamorphosis. It was a sight both awe-inspiring and surreal, a testament to the extraordinary nature of the world I had stumbled into.
As the majestic wolf regarded me with an expression that seemed to convey both curiosity and understanding, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for this magnificent creature.
"Hello snowberry" Startled by the unexpected voice, I frantically scanned my surroundings, searching for the source then, as my gaze settled on the majestic white wolf before me, a sense of bewilderment washed over me.
"You can speak too?" I questioned incredulously, my voice tinged with disbelief.
The response came swiftly, the voice carrying a hint of offence. "I'm not mute," it retorted sharply, causing me to press my lips together in realization.
Suddenly comprehending that the voice was not external but rather resided within my mind, I regarded the wolf with wide eyes. "You possess psychic abilities?" I asked, my curiosity piqued by this newfound revelation.
"It's complicated," he murmured, his voice carrying an air of mystery that sent shivers down my spine. "Let's keep it that way. I possess a psychic ability."
His words hung in the frosty air, punctuated only by the soft crunch of snow beneath his weight as he settled in front of me. Despite his fluffy appearance, there was something unsettling about his presence, something that made me uneasy in a way that Zack never did. Perhaps it was the strangeness of conversing with an animal.
I remained silent, my gaze fixed on the ground as I absentmindedly toyed with the hem of my shirt, feeling the chill seep into my bones. Suddenly, he rose to his feet, causing me to jump in surprise, and gracefully encircled me, drawing me close to his warm belly. As he settled back down, I followed suit, grateful for the shared warmth amidst the cold winter landscape.
"I love fluffy things" I cooed, pressing my cheek against the plush texture of his hair, while my voice became child-like
He emitted a low groan. "Please, Lavender, refrain from doing that. There may be consequences."
His voice deepened, carrying a weight that hinted at discomfort. "Are you in pain?" I inquired, concerned.
"No," he responded curtly.
"Then why can't I do it?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
"Because if you do it then you'll be in pain" As his words hung in the air, a subtle darkness danced within his eyes, warning me not to proceed further. It took me a moment to grasp the implication, and when I did, embarrassment flooded my cheeks, prompting me to straighten my posture with newfound resolve. He chuckled at my discomfort, relishing in it, yet his laughter warmed my heart in a way I couldn't explain.
In that moment, I truly looked at him, delving into the depths of his gaze where myriad emotions swirled, reminiscent of the day we first met. His eyes spoke volumes, each glance a kaleidoscope of feelings. Yet amidst the complexity, a headache began to form, I swiftly turned my eyes away, seeking solace as I nestled comfortably against his belly. Closing my eyes, I hoped to find relief from the headache that started intensifying, allowing the gentle rise and fall of his chest to soothe me.
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A/N
Word count:- 2000
Hello, my lovely readers, I hope you all are doing well
Here, is the 15th chapter of my book
I hope you all liked it and have a great day ahead
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Thank you
Love you
bye:)
Until next time
Happy reading 💐
Date:- 22/03/2024