Chapter two

Work went by without incident, and surprisingly Mac didn't ask or say anything more about the night before. Elizabeth figured it was in her best interest not to bring it up.

On her way home she swung by the store, and bought some ingredients to make some home made pizza before picking Donna up. The dinner was emptier then normal as she pulled into a parking space. But for all the commotion in there yesterday it didn't surprise her one bit. With the bells on the door announcing her entrance all the customers did their customary quite and stare as one guy slammed his hand down on the table shouting, "I doona care Brom!"

Drawing her attention she looked in the direction the shouting had come from. It was an man with unruly long black hair and a scraggly beard that went half way down his chest. "Tis no' ma choosen to be here!"

Elizabeth surveyed the room before looking back at the man, and his companions who where nervously trying to calm him down. He wasn't anyone she'd seen before, and with his brogue he wasn't from anywhere near here. He too got the stranger treatment. He and his companions were seated in the opposite corner from her usual seat and everyone else sat as far away as possible.

Sitting in her spot, Elizabeth looked over at them and saw that the man was in a ruffly nit dingy shirt and even dirtier knit trousers. Across from him was Brom Rainaldi, the towns go to man. Who really should be Mayor with as much as people go to him for their problems on everything. An beside him was the kid from yesterday, who beamed when he saw her. Elizabeth groaned as he slid out of the both and practical skipped over to her. "Well hello again Miss Marshall. I see you're off work early the sun's not even down yet."

"Hello again kid. How was your day," asked Elizabeth politely before Eric Koldash's choking caught her attention.

"Again with the kid," asked the young man rolling his eyes before spinning himself around on the barstool.

"Well you didn't tell me your name yesterday. So I don't have anything else to call you except kid or nuisance, but I figured kid was nicer," stated Elizabeth with a I'll kill you with kindness kind of grin.

"I like you Miss Marshall. Sharp witted, brutally honest, and a bitch," stated the kid as he abruptly stopped his spinning. "I told you yesterday I am Mr. Black, but you can call me Daniel. If I may be so bold and come straight out and ask, what are you?"

"I'm an aircraft mechanic. I specialize in aircraft electrical systems, flight reference, and navigation. Why," asked Elizabeth puzzled at the state of the question asked.

To her there was no need to worry that she'd find that question offensive.

Leaning farther in toward her, Daniel looked into her eyes and again asked, "What are you?"

As weird as the question was, his sentence seeming to echo in the back of her mind. Leaning forward inches from the kids face she whispered, "I just told you. I'm an aircraft mechanic," before getting up and walking way from the kid that made the hair on the back of her neck stand up.

Making her way to the other side of the diner. She could see the kid fallowing her from the reflection on the glass window of the dinner. On top of that the grungy man in the corner was fallowing her every move as well, which was just as troubling. Brom was looking between the three of them as if he'd missed something.

Walking around the counter and through the kitchen door she looked over her shoulder. Shutting the door in Daniel's face she smiled to herself as she walked up the stairs to where the Masselli family lived above the diner. "Hello! Donna," called Elizabeth as she entered the families living room where she was promptly attacked by Donna's twin baby brothers.

Laughing Elizabeth fell to the floor under the surprise weight of the two eight year old boys. "We want to go," cried one of them.

"How come we can't go," asked the other.

"We're not letting you up until you say we can go too," stated the twins together.

"You two will let her up this instant young men," snapped Donna's mom as she entered the living room. "It's nice to see you deary. How have you been?"

"I'm doing fine Mrs. Masselli, and yourself?"

"It would be better if I didn't have two hellions who jumps anyone who walks up those stairs. Off with ya now." said Mrs. Masselli shoeing off the boys.

"Did Donna ask if she could stay the night?"

"Yes she did, and I will be honest with you. I don't know about it. She looks up to you being an older woman and all. I think its funny she has a friend that's 30. She being 19 in all. But I think it's good for the both you, ya know. You being new to town and Donna, who rarely likes to go out with anyone, has taken up with you. Just please be the responsible adult, and don't let her do anything that she'll regret. I know she's going out to see that Chris fellow she's be fawning over. But even you have to know his repartition around these parts."

"Yes ma'am I do."

"Oh come on mom you're not given her a lecture too," complained Donna as she walked into the living room toting a duffle bag stuffed to max capacity.

"I'm a mother. Its my job to lecture. I'm pretty sure she understands that too."

Nodding Elizabeth turned toward the stairs as Mrs. Masselli kissed her daughter before saying, "Well you two have fun, and Donna no drugs, no sex, no alcohol, have fun."

"Geez mom," groaned Donna as she followed Elizabeth down the stairs.

"I mean it young lady," shouted her mom after them.

Walking back into the diner she saw that Brom and the grungy man had left, but Daniel was still sitting at the bar spinning a glass of coke in his hands. Ignoring him Elizabeth presided out to her car.

The drive to the house was uncomfortably quite. Donna didn't say two words until they were in the house and the words spilled out. "Mom doesn't like Kiegan at all, and he's a nice guy, but he's not my type. He doesn't like me that way, but everyone believe you are the company you keep, and he's bad company in everyones eyes. I really like Chris and I know he's quite a bit older then me. I'm not two timing, and I don't want you to think I am. I'm not that type of person."

"Breath," laughed Elizabeth tossing her backpack on the floor by the door. "I never said you where, and I don't know the kid. And a six year difference is no big deal, but I worn you from what I know about Chris. You're cruising for a broken heart. Now it's your choice if you date. I'm just going to give you fair warning that, don't get your hopes up that he's the one. He might not be."

"Oh, I was worried you got the wrong impression of me yesterday," said Donna toeing the rug in front of the couch.

Laughing Elizabeth packed the groceries into the kitchen. "Nope, I'm not that kind of person. I hope you like pizza. I figured that's what I'd fix for supper."

"You kidding what teenager doesn't!"

Elizabeth and Donna whiled away the hours talking about boys, and school until it was way past their bad times.

Settling Donna down in the her guest bedroom, Elizabeth headed to hers. Shivering from the cold that clung to her room she walked out the side door, grabbing her flash light on the way. Walking through the back yard to the shed, she slung the tarp off the wood she'd stacked there. Reaching for a log her hand veered for the axe handle when she heard a branch snap in the woods. Bringing the axe up she clicked the flashlight on and scanned the woods where the sound came from. Listening closely she swirled the beam of light toward the sound of rustling leaves.

Within the beam of light was a black wolf scratching the ground with his back feet like he was sent marking. Hunkering down to the ground quickly like a scolded dog he sat frozen in the circle of light. His amber eyes shining in the way only dog eyes can at night.

She'd dealt with red wolves while she was station in Virginia on many of her hikes down in North Carolina. They had released them in hopes of trying to rehabilitate them.

Beth knew wolves were more intimidated by us then we were of them. She normally only got a short glimpse of them before they would vanish into the woods. This one for some reason seemed to be looking at her like she was stupid for standing out in the cold wielding an axe. Of course it was her first encounter with a grey wolf. If grey wolves where anything like reds she hoped it would be on it's own way without bothering to cause a ruckus. Sparing a quick glance around she wondered wear the others where. She'd never seen a red by its self. There was always at least one other close by, but this one was alone. Laying it's head on the ground the wolf whined. Leaves scattered as it's tail brushed them away vigorously.

Deciding to take her chances she laid the axe down slowly before gathering several logs in her arms. Never taking her eyes off the wolf. She back slowly up to the house before closing the door with her foot. Dumping the wood into the fire place she quickly locked the door and turned on the light. Sniffing the ground from where she once stood she watched as the wolf rolled around as if he hoped her sent would stick to him.

Only once he trotted back into the woods did she turn back to building a fire and hitting the sack.

Waking late the next day they milled around the house chit chatting about unimportant things and telling each other stories and stupid things they did growing up. Mainly Elizabeth told the stories and Donna listened. Passing the time with her normal weekend chores, time seemed to fly by. When it was time both crowded into the master bedroom to get dressed for the party.

Elizabeth chose a simple blue ball gown that ended a little above her ankles. For the original owner, it probable went to the ground, but being six feet tall Elizabeth was just happy to find that it went as low as it did. The halter top was elegantly decorated with fake diamonds and laced up the back. Thankfully God didn't grace her with her mothers endowments. So going without a bra for the night didn't worry her at all. The skirt was the same color royal blue as the top with a mix of a black floral pattern made of some kind of fuzzy material mixed in with the diamond studs. And over laying that was a silky material what covered the undercoat in the back leaving only a small section in the front visible.

Donna's wore a strapless dress in a lovely shade of yellow with silver sequins across the top and down the back on either side of the laces. As she twirled around the room Elizabeth swore she should could double as Belle, and laughed at her thought of Chris being the beast.

Dressed and ready to go both girls piled into Elizabeths car and with-in 30 minutes was in the massive parking lot of the Grey Wolf Resort and Conference Center. Fallowing the stream of ball gowns and tux's they found Chris waiting at the door for them. Walking up to him Elizabeth closed his slack jaw and patted the top of his head. "It's so rude to stare at a lady with your mouth gaping open."

Laughing as Chris swallowed several time trying to find his voice. Elizabeth got behind them both and pushed them through the door into the crowded lobby. "Wow, you look, wow," said Chris as Elizabeth ushered them through the hallway and into the ball room.

"Yeah that's really romantic there Chris," chided Elizabeth moving them to a table that wasn't taken.

"I would have said, you make all the disney princesses look like common peasants," said Elizabeth before dismissing herself and headed toward the drink bar.

Grabbing three glasses of punch Elizabeth spotted the hobo looking guy from the restaurant walking through the door. Wow can he not even change to come to a party, thought Elizabeth as she ducked behind a group of people to avoid his leering eyes and disappeared into the crowd.

By the time she had waded her way back to the table the ice had melted and Chris and Donna where chatting away. Handing them each a glass she sat down and listened to the conversation. Surprisingly enough Donna was being civil toward him. Normally she was tearing him to shreds, but Elizabeth figured it's the ball atmosphere. Every girl wants to be Cinderella, and meet her Prince Charming at the ball. Other then that, Elizabeth knew she pretended to dislike him all because she likes him to much. The wacky world of woman.

Enjoying her own Cinderella fantasy, Elizabeth groaned inwardly as a small hand appeared in front of her. "May I have this dance Miss Marshall?"

"I'm sorry kid. I don't dance," said Elizabeth as sweetly as she could.

"That's fine neither do I," replied the kid taking her hand and giving her a slight tug.

"Go on Beth, we'll both stay right here," insured Donna half pushing Elizabeth out of her seat.

Growling Elizabeth shot Donna a look that could kill. Before following the annoying teenager into the mass of dancing people. Looking down at Daniel when they finally got to an empty spot on the dance floor. She wanted to smack the smirk off his face as he took her hand and placed the other on the small of her back. "You know you're hands are cold," said Elizabeth trying to be civil even though every cell in her body was screaming to get away from him.

"You know what they say, cold hands warm heart," replied Daniel as he glided them around the floor.

"So I've been told."

Looking around the room at all the dancers. Elizabeth tried hard not to look down at her dance partner even as he pulled her closer to him. "That was awful nice of you. What you did for Chris. Agreeing to be a middle man for Donna. So she'd have an escape should she need it," said Daniel bringing her attention back down to him.

"Yeah, well I'm an overly nice person. Plus even though she's mean to him, she really likes him even if he is a community bicycle," replied Elizabeth looking back toward where Chris and Donna were chatting.

"Community Bicycle? I don't understand."

"Ask me again when you're older, and I'll explain it to you."

"You know I'm a lot older then what you think I am Beth."

Stopping Elizabeth stepped away from him. "My name is Elizabeth. Donna only gets away with calling me Beth, because she's the closest thing I've got to a friend here. You on the other hand are not."

"My apologies," said Daniel swooping low in a bow. "I didn't mean to offend you Elizabeth."

Before he could take her hand again the song ended, and Elizabeth backed out of reach. "Thank you for the dance Daniel."

Taking another step back so she could dismiss herself the heal of her shoe landed on something. Hearing a hiss she jerked her foot off of whatever it landed on so quickly, the motion caused her to loose her balance. Falling backward she stumbled over the guy behind her causing her to land hard on her rear. "I'm sorry," gasped Elizabeth to whoever she fell over.

"It's okay, it's my fault for tying my shoe in the middle of the dance floor," replied the man standing up. "Here let me help you up."

Elizabeth stared at the grey hand in front of her face. Looking up she saw it was the cat like man from the diner. "No, No I'm fine," stammered Elizabeth getting up quickly and practically ran off the dance floor.

Making her way back to the table Elizabeth spared a glance over her shoulder to see Daniel and the grey man heading toward her. "Um you two behave. I'm going to get a stiff drink and some fresh air."

Before either Donna or Chris could reply, Elizabeth was out the door and rushing through the hallway as fast as her heels would yet her travel. Finding the back door that led out into a beautifully lit court yard. Elizabeth disappeared into a role of bushes just as Daniel and the grey man walked out the doors. Watching them Elizabeth heart raced as Daniel ushered the grey man back inside and preceded out into the court yard. Is he sniffing the air, thought Elizabeth as Daniel turned in a small circle with his nose turned up? Slipping her shoes off as quickly as she could, she ran down the hedge role just as Daniel walked around the back side if it. Sprinting through the maze Elizabeth cut through a thong of people and in through another door back into the crowded lodge. Wading her way through the thong of people, she slipped into the women's bathroom. Walking over to the sink she wet a paper towel and wiped her face off. "Hot out there on the dance floor huh," asked a woman in a red dress as she washed her hands.

"Yeah, sure is," replied Elizabeth as she watch the woman dab on some perfume.

"Oh wow that smells nice what is it," lied Elizabeth as a thought struck her.

"It's called Love. Would you like to try some," bubbled the woman handing over the small pink bottle.

"Sure," replied Elizabeth spritzing her chest and one spray over her head so that the mist would fall down on her hair and back. "Thank you very much Ma'am."

Tossing the wet paper towel into the trash, she ventured out of the bathroom and back to the ball room. Turning the corner into the ball room she came face to face with Grizzle Adams. This night just keeps getting better, thought Elizabeth.

"Well hello lass," purred the man.

"Hello," replied Elizabeth as she met the green eyes hidden behind all the mans nappy hair.

"What is that you're wearing," asked the man as he leaned in so close that she could feel his breath on her neck.

Her stomach gave a strong lurch as her knees suddenly felt week. Confused by her bodies response to the disgustingly disheveled man. Elizabeth forced her feet to move. "Something that stinks," she replied breathlessly making her way around the man as best she could without touching him.

Once away from him she fought the urge to go back. What is wrong with you! She chided herself. She couldn't understand the unnatural pull the man had, and the since of her wanting to be with him. In the state of grunge he was in, she shouldn't want to jump his bones and never leave his bed. But that's what her body was screaming it wanted to do. Pushing the thought to the back of her mind for later analysis. She made her way back to the table in which she'd left Donna and Chris. Fighting her way through a thick cluster of teens Elizabeth stopped when she saw Daniel heading her way. Hiding behind a large couple she pretend to be interested in a painting of a Unicorn running with a pack of white wolves. Tuning out the crowd around her she strained her ears and her prefixal vision to see when Daniel past. But instead pick up a conversation the young women beside her where having. "I know I can't believe she wore Melissa's dress. Mine would have looked so much better on her. But then again she doesn't seem to have the refined taste of people with my class. I guess that's why Brom selected Donna to be her friend."

Brom selected Donna to be my friend, thought Elizabeth turning both ears toward the girls.

"I know I was hoping he'd choose one of us. I mean our fathers are higher in the pecking order then Donna's. I mean her mom and dad are gamma's. At least we are made of beta material," said a girl in a baby blue dress and with her white blonde hair made her look like Cinderella.

"I know any one of use could have pretend to be her friend to keep tabs on the outsider. It's not like it's hard or anything. It's not like we really have to be friends with her. Donna wouldn't have been friends with her if Brom hadn't ordered her to do so. That way she could keep tabs of the outsider," replied another girl in a lavender dress.

"Well good evening Miss Marshall."

Turning she saw Brom making his way past the couple she was hiding behind. "Hello Brom," replied Elizabeth looking back at the young girls who had lost all color to their faces.

"Miss Marshall," gasped the one that looked like Cinderella. "How long have you been standing there?"

"Long enough," said Elizabeth snidely before making her way back through the crowd.

Stopping at the table in which Donna still sat, she choked on her drink. "What's wrong? You look like someone just told you your dog just died? And why are you carrying your shoes?"

"More like what the hell are you wearing," asked Chris holding his nose.

"I've had a bad night so far, and I'm wearing something that stinks," said Elizabeth shortly.

"Hang on Miss Marshall," called Brom as the crowd parted for him like he was Moses and they the red sea. "Has anyone ever told you that you can eat up the ground with that stride of yours?"

"No Brom, no one ever has," snapped Elizabeth so viscously that Brom took an involuntary step back.

"Beth," scolded Donna looking between Elizabeth and Brom with a worried look on her face.

"You know I'm going to be blunt, and Donna you best be honest with me," said Elizabeth shooting baggers at her with an mixed expression between anger and hurt.

"Did Brom tell you to befriend me, because he wanted you to keep tabs on me?"

"Ah, ah, ah, um no why would he," lied Donna as Chris looked away like something else had caught his attention.

Elizabeth shock her head as her heart fell to the pit of her stomach. "Donna did you know you stutter when you lie?"

"Miss Marshall."

"Don't Miss Marshall me," growled Elizabeth making Brom choke on the words he was about to say. "Does your mom know about this?"

"Yes," whispered Donna as she put her head down.

"So all of that was part of an act then," snapped Elizabeth beyond hurt.

"Yes."

"Well then she wont get mad that Mr. High and Mighty here is taking you home and not me," spat Elizabeth glaring down at Brom.

"Miss Marshall-"

"Goodnight," interrupted Elizabeth shoving her shoes into Brom's chest cutting off what he was about to say and stormed out of the room.

Blowing through the front door she swore under her breath when she saw Daniel and gutter trash sitting on the front steps leading to the parking lot. Looking nowhere but in front of her she ignored the two as they stood up. Making her way down the stairs she stretch her legs as far as the dress would allow. To put distance between her and the two people she really didn't want to deal with. Making it to the parking lot she was pulled to a stop as someone grabbed her hand. "Lass what fashes ya," asked the shaggy man.

Elizabeth could do nothing but look at their hands, as this tingling sensation raced up her arm. Just as it got to her shoulder she wrenched her hand out of his and took several steps backward in quick succession. "Elizabeth are you okay? You're paler then normal," asked Daniel stepping beside the man. Looking up at the 6' 5" brick house, Daniel hit him in the ribs. "Shaw you scared her!"

"I dunna mean to scare ya lass," said the man as his accent thickened.

Elizabeth took a couple of more steps back as Daniel took some steps forward. "He looks scary, but he's not so bad once you get to know him. We've known each other our whole lives really."

Looking over their heads Elizabeth saw Brom charging out the door with his eyes set in her direction. "Well that's nice kid, but I really must be going. Have a charming night."

With that she took off like the hounds of hell where on her heels and leaped in her car. Starting the car she throw it in reverse, before it was warmed up. Even though it protested she was out of the parking lot before Brom made it to Daniel and Shaw. Once she was far enough away to feel safe Elizabeth slowed down to the speed limit, if only she could slow her pulse down as quickly.

Arriving home Elizabeth paced her living room floor trying to reason with herself. When reasoning didn't work she went into her room and stripped out of her dress and put on her favorite Eeyore PJ's muttering to herself. "Stone grey men with long tails that wear tuxedos don't exist. 16 year old boys don't track people down like dogs by your scent. An the mafia does not exist in the middle of BFE Montana! On top of that you don't get turned on by grundy guys in knit shirts and pants. That should have been washed two years ago," stated Elizabeth hanging the dress up in her closet before continuing her pacing. "I think the aircraft soap as finally seeped into your brain. Either that or you've electrocuted yourself one to many times."

After pacing a whole on the wood floor, Elizabeth spun around on her heals. "Yes, maybe a scolding hot shower will help clear my head, don't you think," said Elizabeth to her stuffed dog who somehow managed to get into her hands.

Laying it down on the bed she walked into her bathroom and tossed her PJ's on the sink. Standing under the hot spray of water seemed only to make things worse. As her thoughts turned to Shaw, and how he needed a bath. From there the thoughts went to him being in the shower with her, and she wondered what he looked like under those dirt clothes. She knew he was well build if his arms where any indication of the rest of him. His arms reminded her of a blacksmith she once met at the Amish farm they took her friend, Jolene's horses to when she was younger. Back before she jointed the Navy at eighteen.

They where well muscled from swinging a hammer all day, or the swinging of the ax for the wood it took to heat the kilns. The thoughts of a well muscled back and corded abs made her wet. Just thinking about rubbing her hands down every crease and role of his chest. Kicking herself for the thought Elizabeth turned the water off and stepped out. Drying herself off she dressed and went out the door in her room that lead to the back yard. Grabbing two logs out of the stack she'd split that evening, she headed back to the house when the security light by her door turned on.

Looking toward the house Elizabeth almost dropped the logs as a black wolf wandered into the light and sat down. "Oh wonderful," said Elizabeth sarcastically as she looked between the wolf and her bedroom door. "This is just what I need tonight on top over everything else that has gone wrong. Just my luck."

The wolf lulled his tongue out at the comment and Elizabeth could have sworn he was smiling at her. Shaking her head Elizabeth took a deep breath and headed for her room. She figured if it was going to act aggressive it would have already. It had plenty of opportunity yesterday night. Walking into her room Elizabeth kicked the door closed and placed the logs on the grates in her fireplace. Dusting her hands off Elizabeth went to get another one as the wolf pushed the door open in which she thought she'd just closed, and trotted in. "Oh come on really," wined Elizabeth as the wolf dropped a stick on the floor several feet from her.

Sitting down the wolf started to scratch at its ears. "Man, take the fleas outside," complained Elizabeth not wanting to move and excited the animal. As she watched the canine scratching. She heard the chinking of metal on metal, like dog tags. Maybe I'm wrong and it's not a wolf? Or maybe a wolf dog, someone's pet, thought Elizabeth as the wolf picked the stick up and dropped it only mir inch from her toes. "Okay wolf if you're a pet, then sit."

With that the wolf sat down and again unrolled it's tongue. "Okay, lay down." when it obeyed she continued, "Roll over. Beg. Play dead. I'll be damned."

Trusting her instincts that told her everything was okay. Elizabeth knelt down and held her hand out for it to sniff. Jumping to it's feet it started licking the hand she offered. Running a hand through it's dingy and matted fur she found two leather strings that held two charms. One was some sort of celtic knot work with some kind of symbols in the middle. An the other was a round dog tag with the name Black on it and a phone number. Scratching his ear Elizabeth got up and headed out for more wood.

Gathering another arm load of wood she passed the wolf dog as it was headed her way. Shutting the door on Black she placed the logs on the others, and lit the fire starter. Picking up the stick she heard Black outside whining. Tossing it into the fire Elizabeth picked up her phone and dialed the number she saw on the tag. Finding that the number had been disconnected, she hit the end button. Wondering if the poor thing had been abandoned by some horrible pet owners. She found herself feeling bad for the dog who was scratching at her door. Try as she might she couldn't ignore the whining no matter how load she turned up the radio, and covering her head with a pillow. Giving in she hit the power button on the radio and got back out of bed. Unlocking the door she pulled it open and looked down at the pitiful creature. "Okay you can stay-" but before she could finish Black bolted into her room and jumped on her bed. "But first you're getting a bath. You stink," said Elizabeth closing the door behind her as Black whined and promptly laid down. "I don't care. No nasty dog is going to sleep on my bed," stated Elizabeth grabbing the leather straps around his neck and pulled him into the bathroom. Closing the door she took the shower head down from it holder and let it hang as she started the water. Black stood cowering by the door as she adjusted the water to the right temp. Looking at the pour thing she placed a hand on her hip. "It's either a bath or out you go, no ifs, ands, or buts about it."

With it's head low and tail between its legs it hunkered to the floor. "Well what is it going to be Black?"

Whining the wolf dog crawled across the floor and over to the tub. Heaving the 200 pound mutt in to the tub. Elizabeth hosed him down before grabbing her shampoo. "Well I hope you don't mind smelling like a girl."

Grunting Black pawed at her body wash that laid on the side of the tube. "What would you rather smell like lilies," laughed Elizabeth laying the shampoo down and picking up her body wash.

Squeezing the bottle, Elizabeth made a line down it's back. Working the soap into a lather on it's back. She put more on her hand and started working it into its chest and belly. Out of no where Black jumped as she ran her soapy hand between it's legs. Causing the stray nozzle to turn from where she had put it and sprayed her in the face. Sputtering Elizabeth turned the water off before grabbing a towel off the rack. "Well I know your a guy now," laughed Elizabeth, laying to towel on the puddle of water on the floor. "Sorry but it has to be cleaned too, and so does the butt and tail."

Leaving his face for last Elizabeth scrubbed every inch of him included the spaces between his toes. Half a bottle of body wash down. Black was rinsed and smelling like Egyptian water lily. Grabbing an towel just in time for him to jump out of the tub and give a good shake. Elizabeth groaned as he spared water all over her bathroom. "Was that necessary," asked Elizabeth drying him off with the towel before grabbing a brush and attacking his matted hair. Black stood perfectly still as Elizabeth brushed him from head to tail until she started on the underside. She couldn't help but laugh as his back leg twitch nervously as she brushed his ribs. "Okay," said Elizabeth when she opened the bathroom door, "You're free."

Bolting out the door Black did a swan dive onto her bed before barring himself in her covers. Shaking her head at his antics. Elizabeth walked over to her dresser and pull out a dry pair of pajamas and tossed them on the bed. Pulling off her drenched shirt she tossed it on top of Blacks head before pulling on her dry ones. By the time Black had shock off the shirt. Elizabeth was already changed and crawling into bed. Pushing Black out of the way she snuggled down under the cover with her stuffed dog.

Turning the radio back on she turned it down until it was nothing but a whisper in the background. Settling down in the crook of Elizabeths legs, Black laid his head down on her knees with a huff. It wasn't no time before both of them where fast asleep.

Before dawn Elizabeth was rudely awakened by someone shoving her. Trying to bat their hands away it came back wet. "yuy," groaned Elizabeth rolling over only to get a wet tongue across the face. "Okay Okay, I'm up. I get it, you need to go out."

Rolling herself out of bed she sat there for a moment with her knees on the ground and her head laying on the side of bed. Nipping her on the rear Black whined before clawing at the door. "Ugh," complained Elizabeth forcing herself up and to the door to let him out. Watching him disappear into the woods she waved him good riddance and went back to bed.

It was well past eleven by the time she finally crawled out of bed. Yawning she headed straight for the kitchen to fix the pancakes. She spent the last ten minutes thinking about. Looking out the kitchen window as she stirred the batter, she didn't see any trace of her visiter from last night. She knew it wasn't a dream because he left the tattle tell signs of his stay. In short he had shed all over her blankets.

An hour later she was dressed and fed. Sitting on her front porch looking down at the barn, and the 20 acres of field that ran on either side of her driveway she sighed happily. It was a beautiful spring day and the sun was shining in all it's glory without a cloud in the sky. Pulling her sock cap down a little farther to keep the cold air out. Elizabeth headed down to the darn. A whinny greeted her as she opened the big barn doors to let in the sun light. "Well good morn'en handsome and how are you," asked Elizabeth.

As her nobel steed stuck is head over the fence the separated the back of the barn containing a riding ring from the stable section in the front.

Scratching his jaw she clipped on his lead rope and lead him out. Leading him to the tack room she handed him a treat from her pocket. Tying him to a ring she gave him several more treats before grabbing her brushes. She wasn't in the barn for more then ten minutes when she heard foot steps on the gravel of her driveway. Looking over the horses back Elizabeth frowned as a blonde haired kid pushing a bicycle by the name of Daniel walked into the barn. "Good afternoon Miss Marshall."

"Good morn'en kid," replied Elizabeth going back to her brushing.

"Now he's a sight for sore eyes. I haven't seen one of his kind in many a long years. He's a Friesian right," asked Daniel propping his bike against the door and walking toward them.

Yanking his head up the horse gave a loud snort and flattened his ears as it eyed Daniel. "Yeah I don't care much for him either," said Elizabeth trying to sooth her horse.

"Yes I gathered you didn't," said Daniel giving the horse a wide berth as he walked around it, so that he stood on the same side as Elizabeth.

"Then why do you keep coming back for more. You seem like a smart kid. Why look for trouble," asked Elizabeth walking to the opposite side of the horse and began brushing that side.

"Because you're fascinating," and your were the first time I met you thought Daniel before he continued. "And there isn't much that fascinates me any more Miss Marshall," replied Daniel pulling a chair out of the tack room and sat down.

"You make it sound like your ancient and you've see it all. You're young kid, live a little, and stop poking a hornets nest. How did you find me any way and how did you get here?"

"What do you think the bike was for? Show? Nope, I live right down the road. So what's the horses name?"

Walking back into the tack room Elizabeth tossed the brushes into a crate. Grabbing the hoof pick she ventured back out and began cleaning the horses feet before she answered him. "His name is Jurisdiction."

Finding this humorous Daniel bust up laughing causing Jurisdiction to shy away with a snort. Getting off the ground from where the sudden absents of a horse left her. Elizabeth brushed off her pants. "I'm glad you find that funny Daniel," said Elizabeth picking up Jurisdiction back foot again to finish cleaning it.

"I'm sorry it's just your name is Marshall and were every the Marshall goes she's got Jurisdiction. That's just too funny. Did you name him that?"

"Nope," replied Elizabeth switching hoofs. "I bought him with that name. I'd change it if I wasn't bad luck to do so."

"I can't believe that's what the previous owners named him. You're Joshing me."

"I would say I'd show you his papers, but I don't want you in my house," said Elizabeth snidely finishing his hooves and returning the pick to the tack room.

Grabbing the comb she eyed the kid as her skin crawled. "So he's papered? Is that why you left him intact? What's his papered name? Do you plan on breeding him?"

"Now that's a lot of questions kid? Do you really care. I mean honestly?"

"Are you always so mean and rude," asked Daniel as if his feeling where hurt.

"To people that make my skin crawl. Who follow me around, and track me down as if he had the nose of hound, yes. An on top of that, my horse doesn't like you either, and animals I'm told are good judge of character."

"It's not the character he doesn't like. It's what I am that he doesn't like, but I really do love horse and would like to know."

Pausing long enough for Jurisdiction to pull his tail out of her hand and swat her in the face. Elizabeth ignored the beginning statement of what I am and replied to the last half. "His papered name is Black Magic Jurisdiction. I don't know if I'll bread him, but there is only a handful of Friesian in the States. So I figured I'd leave him intact just in case. I bought him out of Canada three months ago, and he's four years old. Anything else?"

"So is Black Magic the dame or the sir.?"

"His sire was Black Jack. His dame was Magic Maker. Jurisdiction is his given name."

Sitting in silence for a moment Daniel watch Elizabeth put the saddle on Jurisdiction before he was over taken by giggles. "What is it now kid?" asked Elizabeth leaning under Jurisdiction belly to retrieve the girth.

"I was thinking all you need is a dog named Justice and you'd be set," laughed Daniel smacking his leg sending Jurisdiction into a fit.

"I wish you're refrain from that," scolded Elizabeth after she calmed her horse down. "So how far you live from here kid?"

"I live about a mile and a half down the rode here on the right? Why? Do you want to come over," asked Daniel as he face lit up.

"Yeah only to tell you're parents that there kid is a stalker. But do you own a black hybrid?"

"Hybrid? What kind of Hybrid?"

"A hybrid between a dog and a wolf," asked Elizabeth placing the bridle on Jurisdiction.

"No... why?"

"Do you know anyone around here that does or did?"

"Not off hand? Why? I know there are wolves around here ,did you see one or two?"

"No, he had a tag around his neck that said Black on it. It's got a phone number out of Maine that's been disconnected. It was a cellphone number, so I couldn't find a name. I figured if you lived close by maybe you'd know, but never mind don't worry about it."

Jumping to his feet Daniel gave her a forced smile. Elizabeth knew it was forced, because it never reach his eyes as he said, "I think I might know who it was. I'll go check it out and I'll tell ya later."

With that he shot out of the barn, jumped on his bike and was gone before Elizabeth could say parry winkle.

Shrugging her shoulders Elizabeth climbed up into her saddle and headed down her driveway toward the road. Stopping at the end of the drive. Elizabeth debated whether to turn right and ride to the end of the road. Where it ended at Brom's front door, or turn left and see where the Black's lived. Turning left Elizabeth figured she'd had enough of Brom from last night. Not to mention a stab of hurt came back at what Donna had done.

Shaking it off Elizabeth urged Jurisdiction into a trot. In no time she came to a two story brick house that sat way off the hill surrounded by empty fields. Sitting there for a while, a way-word memory. Mac was telling her that this house use to sport high dollar horses back in the day. But when the previous owner died all the horses were sold. Mac had said no horses have roamed the rolling hills of that farm for 30 years.

Getting impatient with Elizabeth, Jurisdiction started prancing in place. His way of saying lets go! Giving him his head Jurisdiction started back down the road.

After a couple of miles Elizabeth found a gravel road she'd never noticed while driving in her car. The street name was hidden behind an old cedar tree. Turning Jurisdiction down the gravel road her cell phone started ringing. Digging it out of her pocket she looked down at a number she didn't know. Hitting ignore she tucked it back into her pocket. Three minutes later it started to ring again. Pulling it back out it was the same number. Again she silenced it, and no sooner then she slide it in her pocket did it go off again. Figuring it must be important and someone she knew for them to call more then once she hit talk. "Marshall speaking?"

"Hey Elizabeth it's Daniel. I found out about the hybrid. They said he's been wonder about this area for a while. He's nice so you don't have to worry about him or anything. So don't shoot him. It seems that everyone thinks someone just dumped him. If you see him again, Brom says you can call him. I can give you his number if you want?"

"How on Gods green earth kid, did you get my number," asked Elizabeth looking around as if she'd find him lurking in the woods somewhere close.

"I got it from Mac. Are you still out riding? Is that gravel?"

"Nosey much? And yes I'm still out riding, and thank you for the information about the dog."

Without further a-dew she hung up on him and called Mac. After what felt like three minutes of listening to the phone ring. Someone finally answered the cell phone, but it wasn't Mac's who said, "Hello?"

"Yes, is Mac Holcomb there please?"

"Yes hang on. Mac phone!"

The line was quite forever before Mac came on the line. "Yeah this is Mac."

"What the fuck are you doing giving out my number without asking me," screamed Elizabeth into her phone spoking Jurisdiction.

"Wow Elizabeth," she heard him say as she reined in Jurisdiction. "He said you'd asked him a question. He was wanting to call you so that he could answer it for you. He was telling the truth wasn't he?"

"Half way, but that's one nuisance I really didn't want to have my number. It's bad enough when he rides his bike up to my house," shouted Elizabeth causing Jurisdiction to skip a beet as he decided whether he wanted to run again or not, but he just snort his displeasure.

"What was that sound," asked Mac quickly.

"It was Jurisdiction. He doesn't care much for my shouting? But you're changing the subject."

"Where are you riding at? I hear gravel are you at home?"

"No, we're not done discussing you handing out my number thing!"

"Seriously Marshall! There's a chase going on, and I'd like to know where you are riding," said Mac sternly.

Looking up at the sky she saw that the sun was behind her as she answered, "We it looks like I'm heading west down Witch Duck Road why?"

"Turn around NOW," shouted Mac so loud that Elizabeth had to hold the phone away from her ear.

"Why?"

"Because they're headed your way?"

"Who's heading my way?" When no one answered she said, "Mac?" looking down she saw that she'd lost service, which wasn't uncommon around these parts.

"Well what do you think? Should we turn around? Mac sound awful worried about someone? He said they were headed this way?"

Riding a little further down the gravel road she found a four wheeler trail that lead away from it. Since there wasn't any "No Trespassing" signs she decided she'd take it. For whoever Mac was worried about driving down the road couldn't come this way so she figured it was safe.

Another hour passed before Elizabeth thought that it was about time she head for the house. Turning Jurisdiction around to head home he took a couple of steps before he locked up. "What is boy," asked Elizabeth patting his neck as he raised his head and snorted loudly, causing the birds to take flight. "What do you see, huh?"

Just then a cougar jumped out of the bushes and took off through the woods on the other side causing Jurisdiction to rear. Not anticipating the sudden movement. Elizabeth over compensated and as Jurisdiction landed kicking out his back feet. She fell right out of her saddle and onto the ground. It wasn't bad enough Jurisdiction unseated her, but she had to land head first into another cougar as it barreled across the road. Narrowly missing a wicked set of fangs as the big cat snapped at her. Elizabeth scrabbled out of the way as hooves stomped the ground where her and the cat once was. The cougar hissed and swatted at Jurisdiction as he reared, stomped, and kicked at the cat narrowly missing it each time. When the horse finally landed a good kick to the ribs the big cat fled with Jurisdiction hot on his trail.

Elizabeth watched in shock as her horse disappeared down the trail chasing after the cougar. When her mind caught up with her Elizabeth dusted herself off and started walking back down the trail. "Well at least he's headed in the right direction. Maybe he'll stop after awhile, or many be he'll just go home. Better, he'll COME GET ME," shouted Elizabeth to no one but herself.

The sun was sinking fast as she made it back to Witch Duck Road. Kicking gravel as she made her way up the road. She heard voices the closer she got toward the end of the woods. As she was approaching the field at the beginning of the road she saw a black blur fly past the opening. Followed close behind by Daniel who sprinted across the road. "Give it up he dunna like you Daniel," called Shaw as he stepped onto the road. "I say leave'em be. He's fine where he is, and we go look'en for the lass."

"No, Brom said to stay here in case she comes out this way," she heard Denial call from somewhere to the left of the road.

"I ain't like'n this sitt'en about. What appen's if she's urt Da? I couldna be liv'en with ma self if she was," said Shaw as Jurisdiction jogged back across the road.

"Stupid horse," shout Daniel from wherever he was.

Stepping back onto the road Jurisdiction pushed Shaw with his nose. Pushing the horses head away Shaw laughed as Daniel continued to cuss the horse. Pushing Jurisdiction away again Shaw managed to turn his head enough for him to see down the road where Elizabeth was hobbling up. Nickering, Jurisdiction trotted down the road toward her. Pulling a crushed horse cookie out of her pocket. She gave it to him before gathering the reins in her hand. Giving him a quick once over she breathed easier when she found him a little sweaty, but not a wound at all on him.

"Bloody hell lass what where ye thinking," scolded Shaw as he came out of now where. "You're bleeding?"

Knocking his hand away Elizabeth mounted back up and tried her best to glare at him. "I was thinking, oh look it's my horse. I don't have to walk home now thank you," said Beth side-stepping Jurisdiction around him.

"You shouldna been rid'in alone lass what would have happen if a cat got cha?"

"The same thing that happened today! Who died and made you boss anyway? You don't even know me!"

"You have to over look her Shaw. She's just as rude to me," laughed Daniel walking down the road.

"Ye is one thing, but I dunna nothin wrong," said Shaw looking between Daniel and Elizabeth.

"Well neither-Wow-," shouted Daniel as Jurisdiction snapped at him like a snake. "Easy killer."

"Well stocker kid, Grizzly adams ya'll have a great night," said Elizabeth spurring Jurisdiction into a run.

Galloping past the truck she figured they were in, she continued up the road until they where passed the Black house. Slowing him down to trot and finally a walk as they rounded the last big bind to her house she breathed a little easier. A half mile later they were walking up her driveway just as head lights pulled up behind her. Continuing up the drive at their leisurely peace the truck finally pulled around her and Jurisdiction. Parking up at the house as she dismounted and went into the barn ignoring the visiter. Unsaddling Jurisdiction she began to scrubby him down with the curry comb as Brom walked into to barn. She wanted to continue to be mad at him. But it's kind of hard to stay mad at someone who despite the goattee was a very attractive man. She could see why he was popular with the ladies. An he had the brawn and commanding presence to make him attractive to men of the town as a leader. Again, Elizabeth thought he should have been mayor. So since she couldn't be mad right now she'd just ignore him. He stood there quietly as she finished brushing Jurisdiction down. "You're hurt," asked Brom finally breaking the silence as Elizabeth limped into the tack room for the horse blanket.

"I'll be okay," replied Elizabeth. "It's just a bruised knee. I landed on it kinda hard."

"You've got blood on you're head as well."

"Flesh wound," said Elizabeth leading Jurisdiction into a stall.

"You keep him locked up in a barn?"

Walking out of the stall toting the water bucket she glared at him. "No but he's sweaty and it's getting cold. I'd rather him not get sick on me, and why are you here Brom?"

"Daniel said you looked roughed up. So I figured it was neighborly of me to come check on you since you're the only one that lives here and all."

Steam rolled off the warm water as it sloshed over the edge of the bucket, Elizabeth was packing into the stall. Clipping it to the wall Elizabeth tossed a couple flakes of hay just inside the door and gave him several scoops of grain before closing up the barn. "Well you checked on me. I'm alive, and now you can leave," stated Elizabeth hobbling up to the house.

"I'm sorry about yesterday," called Brom as he chased after her.

Opening the door Elizabeth looked down the steps at him. "I understand the Godfather has to know everything around this town."

Closing the door on her unwanted guest, Elizabeth inwardly cussed when Brom stopped the door. "Miss Marshall will you please give me five minutes."

Opening the door Elizabeth hit the timer on watch saying, "You have five minutes starting now. You better make it quick."

Walking away from the door Elizabeth turned around when she didn't hear it close behind her. "What are you doing," asked Elizabeth as Brom tapped on the wood slat that resided under the door. Standing up he tilted his head in the same way a dog would when they didn't understand somethings. As if changing the perspective would change the way it seemed. "Is that salt?"

Walking over to the door Elizabeth looked down at the door frame. "The person that sold the house, said the guy here was a nutter and he carved these groves under every door and window seal. She told me he thought their were demons that roamed this mountains. I don't know about the demon. I do know that sea salt placed at the doors and windowsill, is said to keep evil spirits out of your home. So in memory of the previous owner whom I'm told died in this house. I filled all the channels with sea salt and I bought some Plexiglas to go over it so that it's now part of the house. Now it can't go any where and I wont get bugs in my house. Feel sorry for the termites though," stated Elizabeth walking back toward the kitchen. "You've got three minutes Mr. Rianaldi."

Stepping into the house Brom closed the door behind him and looked around the living room. "Man you really have a thing for horses and unicorns huh?"

There wasn't a nook or cranny of the living room that didn't have some kind of equine in it. "You've got horses everywhere. Daniel would love this. Has he been in here yet?"

"No and I don't plan on inviting the brat in anyway. You have a minute left Brom," shouted Elizabeth from the kitchen.

"I think you got the wrong impression yesterday," said Brom finally making his way into the kitchen.

"No, I think I've gotten the right impression of you Mr. Rianaldi," snapped Elizabeth thunking her empty glass of tea on the counter.

"Here let me see you're head," asked Brom trying to move her hair out of the way.

Stepping quickly away she repositioned the wet dish towel she was holding above her right eye. "You're out of time Mr. Rainaldi. The door is this way."

Walking back to the front door she held it open for him. "The only reason I asked Donna to befriend you. Is because you seemed to take to her the first time I saw you in the dinner. I was keeping tabs on you because, as you can already tell this isn't you're normal town Miss Marshall. That's it, but Donna's friendship to you is genuine. You really hurt her feelings last night."

"Well I shouldn't be treated like a terrorist. An this town is a normal as any," snapped Elizabeth.

Brom leaned against the door frame leading into the kitchen. "Daniel says you can see Bryan for what he his. Everyone sees Bryan as a middle aged man with black hair, grey eyes and kind of lanky. Only some people, a select few really, have seen him with his grey skin, black eyes, cat like ears and tail. He's not the only strange person here that hides behind a human glamour. That's why I needed to keep tabs on you. No one can know of Bryan. If they did they'd cut him up just to see how everything worked."

"An who say's I can see this so called Bryan," said Elizabeth as if it was of no importance. "Or even think such a person exists?"

"You stepped on his tail last time. Which means is glamour doesn't work on you. Most people walk around him without knowing why. They don't even get within arms distance. Even on a crowded dance floor. Everyone gives him wide berth without thinking about it. It's the magic of the glamour he casts. So that it keeps everyone out of tail distance. You saw him the other day in the dinner too. I knew that day that you are not what you seemed, when you ran into him. No one accidentally runs into him. On top of that your expression was priceless."

"You weren't there that day. I would have noticed you," stated Elizabeth finally closing the front door.

"So you admit seeing him, and I was in the kitchen talking to Donna's father."

"Fine! Okay, I admit seeing the guy with the tail," growled Elizabeth storming back into the kitchen.

Opening the refrigerator Elizabeth pulled out the left over pizza from last night and popped it into the microwave. Refilling her glass of tea she placed it on the table and grabbed another glass. Filling it up she handed it to Brom before getting her pizza and taking a seat at a card table that doubled as a kitchen table. "What is this for," asked Brom holding up the glass.

"It's used to wet your whistle and quench your thirst," replied Elizabeth between bites.

"How did you make it in the Navy with such a smart mouth," laugh Brom taking the chair across from her.

"How do you think I got the smart mouth? But I gave you that because I have this sneaky suspicion that I'm not getting ride of you any time soon. I figured if I don't feed you, you'd get hungry at some point and go home, but I'm to nice to not give you at least a glass of sweet tea."

"How thoughtful," said Brom bringing the glass to his face. Sniffing it he cautiously took a sip.

Rolling her eyes, Elizabeth hastily swallowed the bit of food she had in her mouth. "I'm a bitch Brom. Not a murder, or a vindictive wench. It's just tea."

Nodding in agreement Brom took several gulps before setting his glass down. Silence filled the kitchen as Elizabeth ate her lunch/ supper, or would that be lupper. Either way she could debate on what to call her meal later.

Setting her dish in the sink she sat back down at the table and stared at Brom. "So are you going to spit it out, or are you going to sit at my cheep ass card table all night long staring out the window."

Turning his attention back to Elizabeth he looked deep in her eyes. "Miss Marshall, what are you?"

"What do you mean, what I am? Daniel asked me the same thing the other day. He didn't care much for my answer, because he asked me again."

"And what did you tell him?"

"I told him I am an aircraft electrician."

"That wasn't what he was looking for. See there are humans, Fae like Bryan, and werewolves like you saw the other night, and so on. He wanted to know what you are. If you were human you would have answered his question in the manner in which it was asked. So Miss Marshall, what are you?"

"Okay I wont deny that Bryan exists, but I don't know if he's a fairy creature or not. And I don't know about any werewolves."

Taking a beep breath Brom shock his head as his face went grim. "Miss Marshall I'm only going to tell you once. So please listen carefully. Please don't lie to me. I can smell a lie, literally. It has a distinctive bitter smell that almost burns the nose. Daniel told me you saw the fight between Sèitheach and my Beta, Charles. Mac also informs me that the surveillance video prior to it being cut off is missing. So not only do you know we exist. You've got video evidence to the fact. So I'm asking you again Miss Marshall, what are you?"

"Well, one Mr. Rainaldi for one I don't take threats well," said Elizabeth as she stood up and glared over the table at him. "Two I'm as human as anyone else in town."

"Well most people in town aren't human Miss Marshall, and where is the cd that has the security footage on it. May I have it please."

"Yeah right, and Daniel is the devil, and what makes you think I'm going to give it to you?"

"No Daniel is a not the devil even though sometimes I wonder. And you should give it to me because I said please."

"Um no," said Elizabeth making her way out of the kitchen and back to the front door. "You have worn out your welcome Mr. Rainaldi"

Walking out the door, Elizabeth knew Brom would have permanent wrinkles on his head from scowling at her. If he honestly believe she'd hand that disk over. "I hope you do realize I'm not giving up Miss Marshall."

"I didn't figure you would Mr. Rainaldi."

"Please, it's Brom Miss Marshall and just so you know Daniel Black is a vampire who turned 2830 this year, and doesn't much care for you're kid references."

"Vampires can't come out during the day Mr. Rainaldi," said Elizabeth snidely before slamming the door in his face.

Walking back to her bed room. Elizabeth shucked her dirty clothes before getting into a warm shower. Sitting on the edge of her bed doctoring her skinned up knee she heard the sound of crawls on wood. When the whimpering started she already guessed who had come calling. Letting Black in she looked him over to see if she needed to bath him again, but he looked fairly clean considering he was outside all day.

Putting away the cotton balls and alcohol, Elizabeth ventured into the living room. Browsing through her video store size collection of movies she decided on a war movie. Considering that's what she felt like she went through today it fit right in. Curling up on the end of the couch she patted her feet, "Come on Black, get up here."

Leaping on top of her, Black squeezed himself between her and the couch. Resting his head on her belly Elizabeth absently scratched his head while she watched her movie. It was late by the time her and Black ventured off to bed. Replaying the days events as she lay looking at the wall. It wasn't surprising that they passed into the dream world.

Elizabeth found herself sitting by the banks of the river that ran along the edge of town. A full moon shown over head and the howls of wolves echoed across the valley. Standing up she walked through the empty streets until she came to the dinner. Walking through the door she found herself in the middle of the ball room at the lodge. People were laughing and joking all around her. Then they turned their amusement and jokes toward her. Not wanting to be a spectacle. Elizabeth headed toward the exit when she saw Daniel in the corner. He was dressed in the horrible outfit that most people associate with vampires. An like the Count, he had a girl on both arms. Even though a 16 year old kid didn't really accomplish the pimp look. He was trying his best. Watching him a bit longer. Elizabeth gagged as Daniel grew fangs and ripped one of the girls throat out. He then he started feasting on the blood pouring out of the wound. Looking back it wasn't a lady at all but a deer.

Running through the closest door she flung it open. Elizabeth found herself in the middle of the woods on the trails she was riding on earlier. Walking through the woods. She walked around a bend in the trail to find Jurisdiction fighting off one cougar as another lay on the ground mauled and bleeding. "No," screamed Elizabeth as the cougar leaped on Jurisdiction leaving deep gashes down his back.

Out of no where the mountain lion turned and leaped at her. Screaming Elizabeth through her arms in front of her face. When nothing hit her she uncovered her face to see Black fighting off the lion as Shaw ran toward her. "Beth are you okay," asked Shaw grabbing her by the shoulders. "Lass you need to wake up now. Please wake up," asked Shaw as he shook her.

She watched his green eyes fade way as her bedroom came into focus. Sweat was rolling down her head as she push the whimpering Black off of her. Rubbing her face, Black licked her affectionately. Pushing him away Elizabeth got to her feet. Slipping on her Eeyore house shoes, Elizabeth grabbed her house coat and headed down the hall way. Heading toward the door she tripped over Black who somehow managed to block her way. "Geez Black, can you be anymore in the way," grumbled Elizabeth getting back to her feet. Whining Black pawed at her bare legs before licking the red marks he made. "I'm okay Black," said Elizabeth scratching his jaw. "Just a bad dream, but I need to go check on Jurisdiction."

Walking around him again he raced ahead of her blocking the door. "Ah now quite. I'm not going back to bed until I check on him," stated Elizabeth hauling him out of the way by his collars. Surprised at how strong the little bits of leather where, Black was not a happy camper as she forced him out of the way. Slipping out of the door leaving him inside pulled her housecoat closer around her. Heading out to the barn Elizabeth yanked the big door open and flipped the lights on. The barn was quite, but blood coated the gravel area between the stalls. Quickly running to the stall Jurisdiction was in she found it empty. Panic filled her as she raced from stall to stall looking for her horse. "Jurisdiction," yelled Elizabeth sprinting to the back of the barn to see if he was there. Spinning around Elizabeth, rushed toward the tack room snatching her spot light off the shelf. Leaping throw the doorway she fond a cougar dragging itself into the barn. It was covered in blood and deep grooves etches every inch of its body. Knowing iron shoes could not cause all those slashes. Elizabeth grabbed her shovel and walked carefully over to the dying cougar. Elizabeth watched in shock as the cougar seem to melt and turn into a red headed women. "Please, he's after you're horse. It's all my fault," whispered the lady right before she passed out.

"Fuck," swore Elizabeth as she ran over to the bleeding woman and felt for a pulse.

Finding a small one Elizabeth didn't know if she needed to run for a phone, find her horse, or stay with the girl. "Fuck fuck fuck," chanted Elizabeth pacing the barn. Looking at the girl and then the tack room Elizabeth grabbed one of the extra blankets. Laying it beside the woman Elizabeth rolled her naked body over onto the blanket. Pulling the unconscious red head into the tack room she locked the door behind her. Sticking the key in her pocket. Elizabeth picked the shovel back up and headed for the house. Black was making a hell of a racket from the house and she hoped he wasn't breaking anything. Half way to the house, Elizabeth heard Jurisdiction squeal as he streaked out of the barn kicking his heals up. Close behind him was a much bigger mountain lion then the woman had transformed from. Racing back to her frightened horse she way-laid the cougar with her shoved as it raced past her. It only stayed down for a split second, before it was back on feet and leaping toward her. Swinging the shovel like it was a Louisville Slugger, she caught the cat in the ribs. She could have sworn she heard some of its ribs break, but it rolled to its feet and growled at her. It's tail twitching angrily behind him. Elizabeth readied herself for another attack. Walking backward toward the house. She knew she had to get to a phone and something more lethal then a shovel. The cat leaped at her several more times, but dodged her swings effortlessly. Wheels where turning in both the cat's and Elizabeths head. With every lungs the cat tried to maneuver himself between her and the house. With every counter attack she rushed toward the house, before taking a diffusive stance. Swinging at the cat again, she over swung sending her off balance giving the cat the chance it was looking for. Kicking out in time the cat got a mouth full of house shoes as she hightailed it for the house. Throwing the door open she dove under Black, as he flung himself out the door and on top of the mountain lion that was on her heels. Screaming Elizabeth curled up in a ball as the colliding bodies landed on top of her.

Crawling out from under the fighting mess of fur and claws. Beth ran to her bedroom and scoured her room for her blue jeans. "Fuck!" shouted Elizabeth as she heard something crash in the living room.

Looking under her bed she pulled her blue jeans out and shoved her hands in the pockets. Pulling her phone out she hit some buttons before grabbing a sword off the dresser, and dashing back into the now quite living room. Looking at the sword the though struck her that she didn't own one, as a small voice said, "Hello? Elizabeth!" Remembering the phone she put up it to her ear. "Hello?"

"Elizabeth what's wrong? Elizabeth," came Daniel's voice over the phone.

Before she could answer the monster she saw at the airport darkened her doorstep. It's teeth shown white as it snarled at her, and it's eyes glowing like the very pits of hell where behind them. "Oh Lord," said Elizabeth dropping her cell, as the beast tackled her. The last thing she remembered was someone screaming, "Sèitheach," before her head hit the wooden floor.