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Stories posted in this category are works of fiction. Names, places, characters, events, and incidents are created by the authors' imaginations or are used fictitiously. Any resemblances to actual persons (living or dead), organizations, companies, events, or locales are entirely coincidental.
Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you. 

Morningstar: The Malaise - 12. Chapter 12 Reprieve

It is what it is...

Morningstar: The Malaise

 

 

Chapter 12

 

 

The sun was certainly up, judging by the brightness bombarding his closed eyelids. So was the wind. The back-and-forth brushing of leaves against glass broke through that serene state of semi-consciousness, nudging Kellar to acknowledge the new day. The warm body in his arms, though, was encouragement to ignore what beckoned outside this cocoon he was sharing with the person he loved. The man who wasn’t his.

Dammit. Why did he let that gut-wrenching thought intrude on such a special time? There was no avoiding the answer. This physical closeness was only going to make their impending separation hurt even more. This guy did not belong to him, yet here he was in Kellar’s arms.

Although he didn’t believe Tobyn was in love with Tilly, the man made a decision a long time ago, and she, or a girl like her, was part of that commitment to Morningstar pack. Kellar’s brain told him they shouldn’t be doing this, but his heart never wanted to let go.

He opened his eyes to view the top of the head using his chest as a pillow. His friend was breathing deeply… contentedly. It felt and sounded so right, but only to Kellar. Tobyn would eventually wake and be embarrassed. Until then, he couldn’t resist planting a soft kiss on sand-colored hair possessing three shades of gold.

Forcing his thoughts from the beautiful man, he let them settle on the previous evening. They had done it. He was a healer who’d actually cured cancer. Holy crap. What an accomplishment to try and wrap his head around. It was a shame he couldn’t share it with the world, but the drain it had on his and Tobyn’s body meant it was something he couldn’t tackle often. He’d never been anywhere close to that out-of-it before, and Tobyn’s colors had dimmed alarmingly.

He also had no doubt he would have failed if not for being able to tap into another person's strength. He’d been dangerously depleted before he’d drawn and converted the energy from his friend. Could he channel like that with anyone? Or just with Tobyn? He was pretty sure he knew the answer, but as with everything else happening, he had nothing concrete to go on.

Maybe, in some small way, he’d played a part in halting the extinction of his species. Adelin now had the chance to help replenish their numbers. Only time would tell what overall impact this healing would have. He smiled inwardly at remembering how Tobyn had called it a miracle. It wasn’t, of course, but for sure it would give the pack hope.

Was there more he could do? Ideas were swirling in his head, but they were only ideas. He had noticed a few things when he was around other shifters, but whether they were significant or not, he had no clue.

As strong as the urge was to leave, to protect his heart, there was one thing he would have liked a definitive answer for. It may not make a difference in his life, but the more he thought of it, the more he wanted to know, for peace of mind if nothing else. Still, even though he didn't want to be dwelling on anything after he left Morningstar... and Tobyn, he didn't think he could handle sticking around. Maybe, sometime down the road, he'd be strong enough to come back and not feel devastated.

Tobyn’s cadence of breathing was changing, so he prepared for their double-edged connection to soon end. He planted one last kiss, feather light, and waited for the inevitable. It wasn’t long before his companion began to stir. Checking his colors, Kellar could see no sign of the tired and inflamed joints he had before they went to bed, and his strength was back to his new normal. In fact, it was closer again to his own robust level. The initial comatose-like nap at Adelin’s, and a good follow-up sleep had set them both to rights.

Closing his eyes, he feigned slumber, giving Tobyn an out from the awkwardness he’d feel at their physical closeness. Slight stretching brought a small groan from the man before more stretching… and then complete stillness. Kellar could imagine the look on Tobyn’s face as he absorbed their entanglement, but kept his eyes closed. The last thing he needed was to see the mortified expression his friend likely wore.

Sure enough, he detached himself and slowly pulled away, taking the throb of his erection with him. Kellar gave him another minute, and then began stretching himself, pretending to slowly waken. He opened his eyes to hazel ones, and ascertained from the look in them that the jig was up. Tobyn hadn’t bought his sleeping act.

“Good morning.”

“Good morning. Sorry I was all over you like that.”

Kellar was going to continue the attempted ruse, but what was the point. It had been proven over and over that Tobyn had the ability to read him in the same way he could read the blond man. “I’m not. It was nice. It helped me get some much-needed sleep.”

Tobyn ignored his attempt at light-heartedness. “I’m sending you mixed messages, aren’t I?” He was studying Kellar’s face with an unreadable expression, but Kellar sensed guilt.

“No… no you’re not. I have no illusions. We are friends, and that’s how it is. Friends can hold each other,” he said with a grin. “But, maybe they shouldn’t shower together.”

Tobyn didn’t laugh. He didn’t even smile. “We were going to talk last night?”

“We did. You said two words and proceeded to conk out,” Kellar teased. He was not going to let this get heavy.

“Sorry. I was so tired. I wanted to have a conversation, but….”

“You were tired because we cured a young girl of cancer, my friend. We need to be happy about that. Your pack didn’t lose another member.”

“I know. It’s unbelievable what you… my pack?” The room got almost eerily quiet… even the wind outside stilled. “You’re leaving, aren’t you? That’s what’s been wrong. You’re leaving because of me.”

Kellar groaned. “I don’t want to do this, man. Look, it’s not because of anything you did. Would you want to hang around if the situation was reversed? It’s new, and I admit I’m kind of raw, but I’ll get over it.” Flustered, he sat up. “You’re the best friend I’ve got, Tobyn. Really, the first one I’ve ever had in my life. I feel like I’ve known you for years, not days, and if I stick around here, I’ll screw that up. I need some time, is all. Okay?”

Tobyn said nothing. Finally, he nodded. Getting up, he walked naked toward the door, and Kellar’s eyes locked on rolling ass muscles. Without turning, he spoke. “I’ll use the shower in my room. You take the one in the main bath.”

A minute later he knocked softly on the door frame. Kellar’s head was still in his hands, but he glanced up at the sound. Tobyn had put on some boxers, but they did nothing to hide how appealing he was. “It’s pretty late, but maybe we can still get breakfast at the lodge, and talk about when you want to leave?”

“Sure.”

Tobyn turned to go, but didn’t get very far. He turned back around, looking sad. “Kellar?”

“Yeah.”

“I wish things were different.”

“I know that. I really do… and I understand. I’ve never been part of a pack, but I can see… feel what it means to you. You’re committed and you have your reasons. It is what it is.”

Tobyn sighed, nodded, and disappeared.

 

The walk had been uncomfortable with some extremely awkward small-talk before they gave up, falling into uneasy silence. Kellar hated what was happening between them, and dreaded the coming discussion. He needed to leave today. Entering the lodge, all conversation around them stopped. Kellar figured he probably looked like a deer in headlights as he stood in the large, open room. “Hey, everyone,” Tobyn called out to the six... no, seven people having lunch at one big table. The rest of the room was empty.

A big guy who looked to be in his thirties stood up. “Hey, Tobyn. That was a quick trip. Welcome back.” He walked towards them. “This must be the healer Adelin just told us about? Hi, I’m Hutch.” He held out his hand in greeting.

“Hey, Hutch. Kellar.” He shook the offered hand. “Good to meet you. You saw Adelin?” He wasn’t sure if he liked the idea of her being out of bed just yet, but then again, maybe some activity had been good for his recuperating patient. He would have to check on her later.

“Yeah, she was in here a few minutes ago, singing your praises. Tilly too. She told us what you did, and I’ve got to tell you, Kellar, that girl is special to all of us, and we all want to thank you. What you did… man, she looks so good… it gives us all hope things are turning around for us, you know?”

“That’s good… the hope, but, ah, no thanks are necessary. I’m a healer… it’s what I do.” Kellar wanted to run and hide from the faces staring at him. He knew they were expecting him to say more than his lame response, but his tongue felt like it was stuck to the roof of his mouth. Dammit.

“I’d say you’re more than just a healer. What you did was a miracle, plain and simple. Will you join us? Let us show you some Morningstar appreciation?”

Tobyn interrupted. “Hey, Hutch, not to be rude, but Kellar had a pretty tough night. You know what they say about the bigger they are, the harder they fall,” he said with a grin. “Sorry… we’re going to have to take a rain-check. We need to talk and do some planning, so we’re going to sit over by the window today.”

“Oh, sure. Thanks again, Kellar. We’re counting on you sticking around, so we’ll talk another time.”

“Yeah, some other time.” A furiously blushing Kellar looked at Tobyn, who, after a quick glance, turned and walked toward the far side of the room. The set of his shoulders gave away his tenseness. God, this was hard. Kellar managed to return the greetings from the others as he walked past the upbeat table.

Scanning the room after they sat down, it was obvious to Kellar the pack was affluent, or at least had been. Quality surrounded them, from the scattered rugs on the hardwood flooring to the furniture lining the walls, and some really superb paintings. He wasn’t keen to turn his attention to Tobyn, but he couldn’t avoid it. “Thanks for rescuing me. I’m not used to attention.”

“I know.” Tobyn stared out the window. “It’s going to be choppy out on the lake.”

“I’ve never been on a boat.”

“Really? We should take a boat out.” Tobyn hesitated. “Or not.”

“Tobyn….”

“There you two are. I missed you for dinner, but I found out the reason this morning. Adelin looks wonderful,” Elinor exclaimed as she breezed up to them. Kellar stood up and was immediately engulfed in a hug. “My son was so right about you. I’ve never seen an actual miracle before. Thank you. Morningstar is indebted to you.” She released him after kisses on both cheeks, and turned to her son. “You did great, Toby, going out and finding us such a powerful healer. This is the first positive thing to happen to our pack in a long, long time.”

It was his friend’s turn to get one of those motherly hugs, and Kellar watched with mixed feelings. They were all expecting him to stay. I wish they would stop thinking it was a miracle.

“Are you joining us for breakfast, Mother?”

“Oh, no dear. I had breakfast hours ago, but Marjorie is bringing me tea when she delivers your breakfasts. I asked her to cook up the full platter for our heroes. Sit, sit. So, what are your plans for the day?”

Kellar jumped in quickly. “We haven’t decided yet. Maybe your son will take me on a little tour after we eat.” He gave the blond man what he hoped was a subtle pleading look, and Tobyn raised an eyebrow. The last thing Kellar wanted was to engage in a conversation about leaving with both of them at the same time. It was going to be difficult enough as it was, and frankly, his instincts told him he'd be no match for Elinor.

“That sounds like a good idea. If your wolf is up for it, maybe you could take him for a run over to the gorge, or spend some time at the lake?”

“We’ll figure it out, Mom.” He sent Kellar the slightest of eye-rolls before changing the subject. “So, anything new around here?”

“You were only gone for two days,” she remarked with a grin. “Although, there is something that did happen. Digory has run out of patience. He wants to retire from the garage and work part-time in the livestock division, and you know what that means.”

“Closing the shop?”

“Unless we can produce a mechanic out of thin air, yes. I can’t blame Dig; he’s been holding on way longer than he wanted to, but he’s gone through two apprentices, and neither one can do the job. Losing the business income is bad enough, but even worse is that we’ll have to pay for all our vehicle and equipment maintenance now.”

Kellar interjected at this golden opportunity. “I know a mechanic.”

Elinor turned her attention to the big man. “Is he a shifter, dear, because we can only have our own kind work the businesses? It’s too dangerous to work so closely with humans. We can never take the risk of exposure.”

“I understand that, and yes, he is.”

“He is? Wonderful. Can you vouch for him? Or his pack?”

Kellar could see the confusion on Elinor’s face, and Tobyn was watching him speculatively. “I can’t actually vouch for him. He did a good job of fixing my truck, but he, ah… he didn’t seem to like me. I’m pretty sure he lives alone. I thought all of us did.”

“What do you… why did you think shifters were loners?”

“I’ve only met two, and they both lived in isolated areas by themselves. Neither of them liked me asking questions about our kind, that’s for sure.”

Elinor looked from him to her son. “Do you think this is a sign packs are disbanding? Maybe they’re all from the same pack. Why would there be lone wolves? It’s against our nature.”

Tobyn was still staring at Kellar. “There’s only one way to find out. Where does this mechanic live?”

“He has a garage about 45 miles north-east of my place, so about two and a half hours from here… maybe a little longer.”

Elinor looked shocked.” How could he be that close and we not know about him?”

“I don’t know, Elinor. He’s in an out-of-the-way place, but I know he’s only been there about a year… at least, I think he’s still there. He fixes everything from snowmobiles to four-wheelers to full-sized vehicles. I’m pretty sure he does boat motors too, because I remember seeing one in his shop. I have no idea whether he does farm equipment, though. If you think about it, Morningstar didn’t know about me either, and I’m not much farther away than him.”

“That’s true… the fact is we haven’t been looking for others until now. Maybe we should have been,” she said, almost to herself. “Well… what do you think, Tobyn? He sounds like exactly what we need.”

“Yeah, he does. Maybe we should go talk to him. Kellar, do you think you could take me to meet the guy?”

“Yeah, sure, but I don’t think that will work. He ran me off last time with a shotgun. Said I asked too many damn questions, and he had nothing to say. He insisted he just wanted to be left alone, and to get my truck fixed somewhere else next time. Elinor, maybe if you came with us, as one of the pack leaders, he’d be more inclined to talk.”

“Are you saying he’d be more likely to talk to a woman?” She gave a little snicker, and Kellar laughed.

“A pretty one, yeah.”

She chuckled again. “You know, I haven’t left this compound in ages. Let me see if I can clear my schedule. Maybe we could go make this man an offer tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?”

“Yes, if that’s okay with you?”

He nodded, with a quick glance at Tobyn. The man’s expression was unreadable, but Kellar sensed he was both pleased and worried.

“I don’t know about this. If he’s a wolf living alone, and he chased Kellar off with a gun, it might not be safe to approach him.”

“You mean for me to approach him. Tobyn Berenger, I do not need protection from the world. I think your friend is right. A little feminine persuasion might be in order. If he’s cute, I might even flirt a little.”

Kellar found her playfulness amusing, and while the mechanic may have been cantankerous, he hadn’t appeared to be crazy at the time. He foresaw no danger to Elinor.

Tobyn gave an over-the-top exasperated sigh, but he smiled at his mother. “Okay, road trip with my mom. This should be fun.” He surveyed Kellar for a few seconds before letting a grin escape. “You’re going to pay for this.”

Kellar shrugged, and gave him a smirk in return. This could end up providing him with some important information, and maybe even some insight into the overall plight of wolves, but it was too soon to know. There were a few things niggling at his brain. They needed to talk to this lone wolf in person. If nothing else came of it, he might at least know where other packs were located, and that would help Tobyn’s quest.

With perfect timing, two sweetly-gushing women brought them a breakfast feast. What was one more day spent with the beautiful, sandy-haired man? Kellar could handle it. He had to.

Much thanks to my editor, Timothy M., and to all those who read and support this story. Thank you.
Copyright © 2017 Headstall; All Rights Reserved.
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Stories posted in this category are works of fiction. Names, places, characters, events, and incidents are created by the authors' imaginations or are used fictitiously. Any resemblances to actual persons (living or dead), organizations, companies, events, or locales are entirely coincidental.
Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you. 

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Gary,
Although I'm not a follower of this genre , werewolves, and other sci fi topics, I decided to pick up the story, based on my enjoyment of your other works......I must admit that I have truly connected with the characters and have enjoyed the story so far.....I am touched by Tobyn's dedication to his pact, his duty to do what is right and expected of him......Boy, does that concept hit close to home.....I remember making a conscious decision to do the same thing when I was a young man. Life is not always black and white, and while I did finally accept the fact of my sexuality, I do not regret making those life altering decisions from my youth. I have children and grandchildren that would not have existed had I not made those choices.
Times have certainly changed....for the better I believe....and today options exist that did not exist for me. I sometimes wonder just how things would have turned out had I made other choices....but who doesn't look back on their journey and wonder....WHAT IF?
Anyway, I'm rambling......just wanted to let you know that again, you have done a remarkable job in creating a story with characters that not only are decent but strong in spirit and conviction..............:)Mike

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On 07/07/2016 03:03 AM, Defiance19 said:

Elinor strikes me as a very perceptive woman. No doubt she will suss out what's up between the two on that car ride. Whether it surprises her or gives her an aha moment, remains to be seen. Either way, will she share her son's dedication to the pack, or will she provide them with an alternative. This could be interesting..

Which makes me wonder why no one has even thought about surrogacy yet. Is that not how this pack works. Must you be mated, earth mates or not? And Tilly cannot be the only fertile female in the pack, and Tobyn the only virile male, so what is the role of the others. Even if Tobyn has alpha genes or the like, the urgency here is to grow the pack. But, they're sick and pups now won't be wise, but if Kellar can help heal them then everyone can have at it like rabbits no? Or maybe the pack is too steeped in aging tradition to even consider surrogates.. But times have changed... I'm thinking out loud Gary, but feel free to steer me back on course..

 

In the meantime Kellar is trying to be so brave and strong. Running away from his earth mate certainly seems like the best option, except that it isn't.. Look how the universe is conspiring to keep them together. First the mechanic....

 

Nice chapter Gary.... Can you post the next one tomorrow?

Elinor is indeed perceptive, but she does have a lot on her mind, so we'll see if she impacts the situation between her son and Kellar. As far as surrogacy, I will say there is more too it than there would be for non-shifters... as I've said before, they are a traditional race, and they are quite isolated... there is more on what is going on in the next chapter... at least, I think it's the next one. :) . I like you're thinking out loud, and you're right about where they are at... Good pick up on that fate seems to maybe be playing a part... yeah, the mechanic... Kellar was very happy to contribute, so we'll see if he's helped the situation.... thanks for another awesome review, my friend... cheers... Gary....

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On 07/07/2016 01:51 PM, flamingo136 said:

Gary,

Although I'm not a follower of this genre , werewolves, and other sci fi topics, I decided to pick up the story, based on my enjoyment of your other works......I must admit that I have truly connected with the characters and have enjoyed the story so far.....I am touched by Tobyn's dedication to his pact, his duty to do what is right and expected of him......Boy, does that concept hit close to home.....I remember making a conscious decision to do the same thing when I was a young man. Life is not always black and white, and while I did finally accept the fact of my sexuality, I do not regret making those life altering decisions from my youth. I have children and grandchildren that would not have existed had I not made those choices.

Times have certainly changed....for the better I believe....and today options exist that did not exist for me. I sometimes wonder just how things would have turned out had I made other choices....but who doesn't look back on their journey and wonder....WHAT IF?

Anyway, I'm rambling......just wanted to let you know that again, you have done a remarkable job in creating a story with characters that not only are decent but strong in spirit and conviction..............:)Mike

Thanks, Mike, for your kind words, and for giving this story a chance. I never saw myself writing in this genre, although I am a fan of it. You and I have quite similar stories, and you're right... life is not always black and white. It certainly isn't for Tobyn. Like us, he's doing what he feels is right. I have no regrets either, Mike, but I do play 'what if'... and I don't wish that on either of these two men. Kellar is such a kind person, who has held onto his vulnerability and innocence despite an unfulfilling childhood. I hope you stick with me on this... and I like it when you ramble... thanks for the great review, buddy... cheers... Gary....

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Will Kellar and Tobyn get together? I think so! From what I’ve read about true mates, they will feel sickly once they are apart. Couldn’t Kellar heal the other males and let them start repopulating the pack? It doesn’t necessarily have to be Tobyn. And what’s the deal with the lone wolves? That is definitely against their nature, but we can see that since Kellar is a healer then perhaps he doesn’t have to belong to a pack, mates excepted of course!

 

At any rate, I like the drama that’s been created between the two, and the healing aspect of it all is fantastic. This story is going to be one of the best on GayAuthors, and I thank Headstall for starting it. Monday evenings are my Lycan evenings, and I enjoy the updates then. Headstall: please continue this story and write more!

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On 07/08/2016 01:45 PM, patrickjason said:

Will Kellar and Tobyn get together? I think so! From what I’ve read about true mates, they will feel sickly once they are apart. Couldn’t Kellar heal the other males and let them start repopulating the pack? It doesn’t necessarily have to be Tobyn. And what’s the deal with the lone wolves? That is definitely against their nature, but we can see that since Kellar is a healer then perhaps he doesn’t have to belong to a pack, mates excepted of course!

 

At any rate, I like the drama that’s been created between the two, and the healing aspect of it all is fantastic. This story is going to be one of the best on GayAuthors, and I thank Headstall for starting it. Monday evenings are my Lycan evenings, and I enjoy the updates then. Headstall: please continue this story and write more!

Wow. Thank you, patrick, for such a great review! You raise some great questions, but I can't answer them. You'll just have to keep reading to find out :) . I'm so glad you're enjoying the story, and I thank you for the very kind words. You made my day, buddy... and there's a lot more story to come... cheers... Gary....

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Reprieve - such a good title for this chapter and applicable to several situations. Of course the first case was the one I feared, that someone would find our boys in bed together. But thankfully they were allowed to wake up and deal with their closeness and the awkward truth of how they both feel. No reprieve there, only Kellar's sad acceptance 'it is what it is.' Yet that sentence could also be used by Tobyn if he would only draw the right conclusion and act accordingly. But not yet...
The second reprieve was Kellar being rescued from unwanted attention from other pack members. They are genuinely happy, grateful and welcoming, but of course this only adds to his pain. Then a thrid reprieve is avoiding the upsetting of Elinor by saying he is leaving, but this reprieve won't be for long - even if Tobyn tries to extend it.
But of course the most important reprieve is deciding to stay two more days in Tobyn's company. Kellar certainly does not want to leave his new friend and Tobyn doesn't want him to. They are both trying to come up with ways to stay in touch, in spite of Kellar saying he needs to get over his attraction. Now that we readers know is futile, but the boys have yet to realize. So I guess they sort of got a reprieve from that moment too - and another chance to hold each other while sleeping.
In spite of the inherent pain, this was a great chapter. Sorry about the lateness of my review.

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On 07/12/2016 11:22 AM, Timothy M. said:

Reprieve - such a good title for this chapter and applicable to several situations. Of course the first case was the one I feared, that someone would find our boys in bed together. But thankfully they were allowed to wake up and deal with their closeness and the awkward truth of how they both feel. No reprieve there, only Kellar's sad acceptance 'it is what it is.' Yet that sentence could also be used by Tobyn if he would only draw the right conclusion and act accordingly. But not yet...

The second reprieve was Kellar being rescued from unwanted attention from other pack members. They are genuinely happy, grateful and welcoming, but of course this only adds to his pain. Then a thrid reprieve is avoiding the upsetting of Elinor by saying he is leaving, but this reprieve won't be for long - even if Tobyn tries to extend it.

But of course the most important reprieve is deciding to stay two more days in Tobyn's company. Kellar certainly does not want to leave his new friend and Tobyn doesn't want him to. They are both trying to come up with ways to stay in touch, in spite of Kellar saying he needs to get over his attraction. Now that we readers know is futile, but the boys have yet to realize. So I guess they sort of got a reprieve from that moment too - and another chance to hold each other while sleeping.

In spite of the inherent pain, this was a great chapter. Sorry about the lateness of my review.

You got 'em all, Tim. And you're right. The biggest one is their impending separation has been delayed. They are in for a world of hurt... and not just from Elinor :) . 'It is what it is' does apply to them both as they are both resigned to their fate... interesting word, fate... thanks for another great review, Tim... I'm glad you liked it... cheers... Gary....

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I find Morningstar reminiscent of groups from novels I've read in the past - most notably where aliens stranded on earth have their own small enclave hidden away, where only they live and no one knows who they are. In that respect they might seem like a cult or a religious sect - but it is simply a matter of expedience. To be discovered would mean forced disbandment, or even destruction.
So it seems kind of natural to me the way they treat Kellar. He is not of their group - their pack - but he is one of their people. It's like an ex-pat American in some foreign land, wandering into a little neighborhood where other ex-pat Americans have taken up residence. Once they know who he is, they will be all over him, welcoming, wanting news of home, and other Americans he has met in his travels. You've done well translating this mindset to this story.
The interesting tension between Kellar and Toby continues. I think this little side trip to talk to the mechanic is going to be important. Kellar already knows that Toby is his soulmate - Toby feels something, but has yet to pin it down and give it a name. But that the attraction is mutual seems apparent. There almost needs to be a third party to see the magic between these two, to help it be born - and who pays more attention than a mom?
Let me go see...

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On 11/08/2016 03:22 PM, Geron Kees said:

I find Morningstar reminiscent of groups from novels I've read in the past - most notably where aliens stranded on earth have their own small enclave hidden away, where only they live and no one knows who they are. In that respect they might seem like a cult or a religious sect - but it is simply a matter of expedience. To be discovered would mean forced disbandment, or even destruction.

So it seems kind of natural to me the way they treat Kellar. He is not of their group - their pack - but he is one of their people. It's like an ex-pat American in some foreign land, wandering into a little neighborhood where other ex-pat Americans have taken up residence. Once they know who he is, they will be all over him, welcoming, wanting news of home, and other Americans he has met in his travels. You've done well translating this mindset to this story.

The interesting tension between Kellar and Toby continues. I think this little side trip to talk to the mechanic is going to be important. Kellar already knows that Toby is his soulmate - Toby feels something, but has yet to pin it down and give it a name. But that the attraction is mutual seems apparent. There almost needs to be a third party to see the magic between these two, to help it be born - and who pays more attention than a mom?

Let me go see...

What an interesting review, Geron. Thank you. I think you've summed up the pack and its intricacies and mentality very well. I like the comparisons very much. The tension between our boys is building... it appears something will have to give. Kellar is in a vulnerable position, with fear for himself pitted against his care for Tobyn. There is so much at play, and these two are so young... life experience is at a premium for both... I so appreciate the support as I unfold this story... cheers, my friend... Gary....

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I agree with Spikey that, in this chapter, Morningstar seemed to have a religious culty thing going on that instantly made me feel uncomfortable. However, I acknowledge that Morningstar is not a group of people living on a compound being brainwashed by a cult leader somewhere in the woods - this group contains shifters, therefore the premise is completely different. Maintaining privacy and being set apart from the rest of the human population is necessary for their survival. Not to mention the need to contain, diagnosis, and heal the malaise. When Kellar first informed Elinor that he knew of a shifter mechanic, I thought he might be volunteering himself, which would have been cute, although we know that he doesn't want to hang around too long. :)  Let the adventures continue!

Yes, Mac... it's all about their survival. I remember Spikey's review, and my initial thoughts. These are indeed a contained group who haven't seen an outside shifter in a very long time. Are they pushy? Yeah. But Kellar is an aberration. They don't know, nor can they fathom a wolf choosing to live alone. They feel sorry for any shifter that would have to live that life. Overzealous? For sure... but it is an intrinsic part of shifters... they claim him and they welcome him. As far as the mechanic position, there is something else on Kellar's mind :) . Thanks for the awesome comments, my friend... cheers... Gary....

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Well I have a read many chapters now one after another just like eating candy lol. You have a real skill with writing! I hope these two realize they need each other and are good together. This is one hell of a good trip. Cant wait to read more lol.:great:

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2 hours ago, Albert1434 said:

Well I have a read many chapters now one after another just like eating candy lol. You have a real skill with writing! I hope these two realize they need each other and are good together. This is one hell of a good trip. Cant wait to read more lol.:great:

Your words are so encouraging, buddy... keep them coming lol. Thank you for what you say about my writing... it means a lot :D  Cheers... Gary....

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The first two times I read this chapter, I wondered why Kellar saw the chance to mention the shifter mechanic as a golden opportunity. I was surprised he wanted Elinor to come along, but he does like her a lot and it would prevent more of those uncomfortable silences in Tobyn's company. I think the readers who speculated that Elinor might see the connection between her son and Kellar are probably right, but I doubt Kellar has considered this, and he certainly wouldn't expect her to interfere, even if she could tell Tobyn to stop being an idiot. :lol:   So all in all, throwing the mechanic and a road trip into the story felt strangely abrupt, even if it did postpone the leaving and give Kellar the chance to be dropped off on the way back.

Spoiler

But I needed to trust you, because every detail has significance in this story, right ?

 

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59 minutes ago, Timothy M. said:

The first two times I read this chapter, I wondered why Kellar saw the chance to mention the shifter mechanic as a golden opportunity. I was surprised he wanted Elinor to come along, but he does like her a lot and it would prevent more of those uncomfortable silences in Tobyn's company. I think the readers who speculated that Elinor might see the connection between her son and Kellar are probably right, but I doubt Kellar has considered this, and he certainly wouldn't expect her to interfere, even if she could tell Tobyn to stop being an idiot. :lol:   So all in all, throwing the mechanic and a road trip into the story felt strangely abrupt, even if it did postpone the leaving and give Kellar the chance to be dropped off on the way back.

  Reveal hidden contents

But I needed to trust you, because every detail has significance in this story, right ?

 

Yes. :)  . This one went well, I thought. :D  Taking a leader to convince the grumpy mechanic just made good sense, as did trying to find out about this lone wolf. :) 

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7 hours ago, Headstall said:

 trying to find out about this lone wolf. :) 

 

I'm still waiting to find out who the other shifter was that Kellar met before Tobyn. Maybe in book 2 :P 

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7 hours ago, Timothy M. said:

 

I'm still waiting to find out who the other shifter was that Kellar met before Tobyn. Maybe in book 2 :P 

There is a story there, and yeah, if there is Book 2, it will be in there, or... :X    :P 

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6 hours ago, patrickjason said:

You know I still miss the Monday night chapter additions of this story.  I certainly hope book two happens.

Hey, Patrick! It's so nice to hear from you, buddy. To be honest, I miss Morningstar Mondays too, and I'm hoping the same. I'm not ready at this point, for such a big undertaking, but someday I hope to be. Thanks for the support... keep in touch... Gary.... 

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On 1/20/2018 at 2:04 AM, Timothy M. said:

 

I'm still waiting to find out who the other shifter was that Kellar met before Tobyn. Maybe in book 2 :P 

 

Oh, you've lost the plot or you're teasing... it was Fendral, silly.

 

On 1/20/2018 at 10:02 AM, Headstall said:

There is a story there, and yeah, if there is Book 2, it will be in there, or... :X    :P 

 

Not you, too?  I will love the next book, I'm sure, do to your skills, but you shouldn't tease your Robin with what he forgot.  ~chuckle

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8 minutes ago, Y0rite said:

 

Oh, you've lost the plot or you're teasing... it was Fendral, silly.

 

 

Not you, too?  I will love the next book, I'm sure, do to your skills, but you shouldn't tease your Robin with what he forgot.  ~chuckle

He he. Was it Fendral? Hmmm. Could have been... or... maybe not. Maybe we've yet to meet that second shifter. :X  :P  :D 

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So, onto the review:  Ah, when fate seems to be conspiring against you 'getting out of Dodge,' huh, Keller?  :gikkle:   I have a feeling that the chaos theory is going to play a big part in our boy's best-laid plans, too many pieces and people in play now.  Which doesn't mean it will go well, but it won't go according to the black and white stark reality they are choosing.

 

Keller has others counting on him already, even if groups and expectations make him nervous.  He will not be able to stop worrying that he needs to follow up with Adelin about being on her feet too soon.  He already knows how hard it will be to convince Elinor, the 'real mom' that readily accepted him, choosing to avoid the conversation for now.  He might be determined to leave, but he's surrounded, and the longer he stays, these relationships will grow.  So often, it's the big-hearted smart ones who, when finding out more in order to help, find themselves tangled up and loved by others whether they like it or not.

 

It might not fix anything, and it may hurt worse because both Keller and Tobyn are trying to do the hard thing for the greater good.  However, fate and more information to this mystery of the malaise could change the big picture.  You've got us.  I mean, readers trying to use our real-world solutions to make this fictional world of lycans and earth mates better.  The climax is gonna make me cry, I just know it, good or bad.  Gary, you have the slow burn and layers building at a perfect pace.  This is the book that makes it almost impossible to put down because the stakes are high and we just gotta know what happens next, a disaster or a reprieve.  I'm off to find out more.  :read:  ~ Ms. V

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18 minutes ago, Y0rite said:

So, onto the review:  Ah, when fate seems to be conspiring against you 'getting out of Dodge,' huh, Keller?  :gikkle:   I have a feeling that the chaos theory is going to play a big part in our boy's best-laid plans, too many pieces and people in play now.  Which doesn't mean it will go well, but it won't go according to the black and white stark reality they are choosing.

 

Keller has others counting on him already, even if groups and expectations make him nervous.  He will not be able to stop worrying that he needs to follow up with Adelin about being on her feet too soon.  He already knows how hard it will be to convince Elinor, the 'real mom' that readily accepted him, choosing to avoid the conversation for now.  He might be determined to leave, but he's surrounded, and the longer he stays, these relationships will grow.  So often, it's the big-hearted smart ones who, when finding out more in order to help, find themselves tangled up and loved by others whether they like it or not.

 

It might not fix anything, and it may hurt worse because both Keller and Tobyn are trying to do the hard thing for the greater good.  However, fate and more information to this mystery of the malaise could change the big picture.  You've got us.  I mean, readers trying to use our real-world solutions to make this fictional world of lycans and earth mates better.  The climax is gonna make me cry, I just know it, good or bad.  Gary, you have the slow burn and layers building at a perfect pace.  This is the book that makes it almost impossible to put down because the stakes are high and we just gotta know what happens next, a disaster or a reprieve.  I'm off to find out more.  :read:  ~ Ms. V

Oh... I like the idea of the chaos theory being at play here. :)  You make excellent points, Ms. V.  The trouble is, Kellar doesn't see himself through the pack's eyes. He's smart enough, as you said, to know Elinor wants him to stay, and that other members want a healer, but he doesn't know how big their hearts are. Meh. One more day couldn't hurt, right? :rolleyes:  I think you have it exactly right. He is going to get tangled up in pack concerns, and yes, that is going to make him hurt all the more. It has to, unless Tobyn has some sort of epiphany, and it doesn't look like that is going to happen. 

 

It's so great when a reader tells you you've got them. It's nice to have company when things get tough. :)  Seriously, your words are very kind... I love this book, but I might be a little biased... lol. Cheers... Gary....

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46 minutes ago, Headstall said:

He he. Was it Fendral? Hmmm. Could have been... or... maybe not. Maybe we've yet to meet that second shifter. :X  :P  :D 

 

Yep, of the two he met before Tobyn, Fendral and now the mechanic, which we didn't even know that much about him until now, you sneaky thing.  ;)  Between how he's described these two, it's no wonder he thought wolves were loners, even though real wolves aren't.  I obviously misunderstood both of your teasings.  Sometimes, I wonder if I'm somewhere on the autistic spectrum when I miss social cues and emotions is writing.  This wonderful story and the great comments are giving me a run for the money.  LOL  :gikkle:  ~ Ms. V

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11 hours ago, Y0rite said:

 

Yep, of the two he met before Tobyn, Fendral and now the mechanic, which we didn't even know that much about him until now, you sneaky thing.  ;)  Between how he's described these two, it's no wonder he thought wolves were loners, even though real wolves aren't.  I obviously misunderstood both of your teasings.  Sometimes, I wonder if I'm somewhere on the autistic spectrum when I miss social cues and emotions is writing.  This wonderful story and the great comments are giving me a run for the money.  LOL  :gikkle:  ~ Ms. V

I question myself on the same thing. :)  Lots of stuff goes over my head, and then I get this 'lightbulb' moment. :)  Sneaky? Me? Okay, maybe a little bit. :P  The comments are great though, aren't they? They really make me think... and as far as that other shifter, I admit nothing. :X 

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