Love in the Shadows - 11. Chapter 11: Fierce Flames

After the crystal shower, the duo remained at the campground. Vincent couldn’t explain the sensation he was feeling. This place is different, at least compared to everywhere else I’ve meditated. Checking the bracelet, he was impressed with the progress. One white bead in fifteen minutes! At this rate, I could have it full by Saturday.

He glanced at Mason. The lycan was staring at him from the stage’s edge. “When were you wanting to head back, big guy?”

“Whenever you want. I got nowhere to be, so we can stay as long as you want.”

“I think I could do another half-hour. There’s something about this lake.” He closed his eyes, centered his focus, and channeled energy into the bracelet. The leaves rustled on the trees, and he listened to the water rippling nearby.

Sounds of bones snapping broke his concentration. Before he could stand, soft fur brushed his arm. What the— Vincent saw Mason’s wolf circle him before laying at his side. He chuckled. “Joining in, huh?”

Mason huffed and rested his head over Vincent’s knee. The mage petted him briefly, then returned to the task at hand. Having the wolf against him was soothing. It’s slightly chilly, so he’s keeping me warm. After a while, Mason left and headed towards the trees. Vincent knew the wolf wouldn’t stray far from him.

Just as he expected, the bracelet held three white beads and a gray one after thirty minutes. Just seven more to go! This was a good head start.

Mason trotted out of the woods, panting heavily. As Vincent stood, he ruffled the silver coat. “Yeah, yeah… Ready when you are. Must’ve had fun out there; there’s a bunch of pine needles and leaves in your fur.” He picked out the mess and scratched behind the wolf’s ears. Mason licked Vincent’s fingers before running to the stage. As the transformation began, Vincent looked away. The sight of morphing skin unsettled him.

Clothed, the lycan led the way to the parking lot. Taking the passenger seat, Vincent’s eyelids grew heavy. He wasn’t sure where the time went as Mason’s home came into view. I can already feel the bed from here.

“Go ahead and get comfy,” said Mason as he stepped into the bathroom.

Sitting on the edge of the mattress, he sluggishly pulled off his shirt. Kicking off his shoes, he heard a stream in the adjourning room. My gods, it’s like a firehose! He snickered, finished undressing, and slipped under the comforter.

“What was so funny?”

Snuggling the pillow, Vincent giggled. “Nothing, you big firefighter.”

“Firefighter, huh? No need for name-callin’, I already know you like muscled men with large hoses.” Wearing nothing but boxers, Mason slid next to him. “That’s okay; firemen are hot in my book too.

The man’s touch was addicting, and Vincent wanted more. He wiggled against Mason, getting more comfortable. “Yeah, but I’m more of an EMT fan. Very underappreciated line of first responders, if you ask me. Pretty handsome guys, and they got nerves of steel.”

“Very true. Never gave them much thought.” There was a slight movement in the lower half of the bed. “But enough about them. It’s bedtime.”

***

Dave was ready for his shift. At least after my day off tomorrow, I'll be back on day-shift. He was about to enter the vestibule when the store manager stepped out. Aw man, he's still here? Balls! He's probably got something to bitch and moan about.

"How's it going, Dave?" The manager, Quinn, was a tall, lanky, middle-aged man with gel-soaked, slicked-back hair.

"Ehh, you know. Night-shift. So, you finally got rid of John? About damn time."

"Yeah, but you’re not the one who had to take him to the hospital for a breathalyzer. Anyway, I stayed over to get your opinion on who to replace him. Been dealing with several of the brats on the front-end; they’re beggin’ for the job, but I needed to see if your department had any candidates first."

Dave lit a cigarette as he mentally went through his crew. Eddie wouldn't be bad, but he comes in stoned half the time. Then there's Pam, but she's a downright medical mess. She's gone almost a week every month. "None come to mind right now."

Quinn crossed his arms. "How about that Vincent kid? I've kept my eye on his stocking timesheets. He's a fast fucker, isn't he? Knocks out aisle eight an hour or two ahead of projected time. No one else on the crew can do that with any of the other aisles."

Didn't think about Vincent. He doesn't have any supervisory experience and doesn’t know how to use the handheld scanner, but it puts him on day-shift so I can watch him. Mason would like that. "Almost forgot about him since he's been off. Vincent seems like a good option. He prefers part-time hours, which is what I’m looking for." Dave raised his eyebrow and grinned. "I'll need some training hours though."

The manager nodded. "I can toss twenty in your payroll. You think he'll be a good fit?"

"Oh yeah. He's crazy fast and the kid got the basics faster than anyone I've ever seen."

"Good, tell him he's starting when you come back to day-shift."

Dave smiled. "Gotcha, but I gave him off until Monday. And he's gonna need every other Saturday night off."

Quinn rolled his eyes. "Is he one of you guys too?"

He chuckled. "Let's say my other boss is dating Vincent."

The manager brandished a cigarette and lit it. "You've brought in a lot of people from your little group, Dave. These Saturdays are a pain in my ass, but I can't argue with the results. They’re the best workers I've seen in my twenty years in retail. If you got any more who need a job, let me know. Front end’s about to lose two full-timers, and I need those spots filled."

"I'll pass on the message. Thanks a lot."

"Anytime. Man, when I found out about all this supernatural stuff, I almost drank my whole liquor cabinet. But y’all seem real cool about everything."

Dave took a long drag. "We aren't what you see on TV. Shifters are just normal people too."

"I understand that. I just wonder why it's kept a secret."

"It would be nice not to, but it's for a good reason. We already have to worry about hunters who kill our kind. Politics would get involved, countries vying for our powers, and there’d be an increased racism issue. The government wouldn't allow for such strife just for us to exist openly in society."

Quinn took a big hit from his cigarette. "Gods, Dave! That’s heavy. I get it, but damn! Gives me a new appreciation for what you all go through."

"We've lived this way for centuries, perhaps millennia. It's just our way of life. Maybe one day, humankind can live happily with lycan in the picture. But that’s just a dream now." Dave flicked his butt out into the parking lot. "Want me to tell Vincent to stop in tomorrow to speak with you, or would you rather me tell him about the position?"

Quinn finished his cigarette and stomped it out. "Either or. So, is Vincent a wolf?"

"Nah. He's human, but he’s something in the supernatural world I haven't told you about. Maybe we can grab drinks and get you up to speed."

"Sounds fine to me. How about next week?"

The two agreed and parted ways. Clocking in, Dave was all smiles. Yeah, Vin as my assistant. That’ll work out nicely.

***

Vincent welcomed the new routine. A hearty breakfast, followed by Elaine’s vigorous training regiment. There were short periods when the alpha left him with his mentor. He said there’s some stuff to do on his farm. With two days before the pack meeting, Elaine wanted Vincent as ready as possible. Is this the right solution though?

His thoughts were cut off as he retreated in the shadows, putting distance between him and the lion. Tightening his grip on the staff, he tensed. It was the first time he faced off against a shifter’s animal form. Compared to when Caleb snuck behind him, Vincent was even more stressed. I know he’d never hurt me, but it’s still a fuckin’ lion!

Caleb pounced. The mage’s first instinct was to slip into the shadows, but he heeded Elaine’s suggestion. Right, frost training. He pulled back the weapon and prepared a swing. Before completing the motion, the lion halted and retreated. What was that for?

“Mr. Gage!” yelled Elaine. “You have to try harder than that! If he swings, he can still miss.”

The lion hummed in response, and Vincent was confused. He looked to Elaine for translation.

She huffed. “Consider it a challenge then. Take down your target without harming him.”

Oh! He didn’t want to hurt me? Tapping the ground with the bottom of his staff, Vincent gestured to Caleb. “C’mon, G-man. I’m not going to get any experience with a ‘fraidy-cat.”

He regretted his bravado as the big cat growled. Caleb crept closer with his head lowered. The mage side-stepped to match the lion’s movements. With no warning, Caleb lunged at full speed. Vincent tightened his hold on the staff. He backpedaled and brought it up horizontally, ready to block whatever came his way. His heart pounded. The animal feinted to the left. What?

Intense pressure on his calf sent him to the ground. He scrambled back to his feet without his weapon and found himself face-to-face with the lion. Vincent couldn’t breathe. The yellow eyes were unwavering.

A clap broke the tension. “Bravo, Mister Gage! While your takedown was impressive, I think it was borderline showboating.”

Caleb flicked his tongue out and grunted.

“Yes, he did start it, but Vincent doesn’t know how to tussle with a shapeshifter.” She turned her attention to Vincent. “You can’t freeze up in the face of an enemy, whether they have two legs or four. Fighting an animal can be intimidating, but you have frost magic, which means you have more weapons at your disposal. A staff won’t cut it here. What do you think would be the best solution?”

Vincent folded his arms. I get it. The staff’s too defensive and the opponent’s too fast for me to act. I’d have to strike first. “I’d use a knife.”

“Or another sharp object, like a sword. I suggest throwing shards first to throw them off. Let’s try this again, but use dull weapons please.”

Armed with new knowledge, Vincent dusted off his clothes and created distance between himself and Caleb. Don’t… don’t be scared. Taking a deep breath, he conjured a baton with a sword’s hilt. Close enough. Taking a few swings, he grew familiar with it and prepared for another round. It took several attempts, but he managed to land a blow. Although it wasn’t spectacular, Vincent was proud of his accomplishment.

Elaine stepped down from the porch. “Good work. Did this help, Vincent?”

“Y-yeah,” he panted. “It opened my eyes to new weapons and ways to use my magic.”

“Good. It gave me an understanding of what skills you might have. We’ll keep working on battle training and energy tactics, then lead up to manipulation and reconfigurement.”

Vincent didn't recognize either term. “What’s reconfigurement?”

“It’s an advanced ability; the art of taking formed magic, extracting the spent energy, and turning it into something else. For example…”

She created a simple rod with no hilts, head, or etchings. “Using reconfigurement, you can take ice and change its shape. Come closer. You too, Caleb. This is something mages can use against you.”

They focused on the staff as instructed. Elaine held it out with both hands. “There are two ways to reconfigure. You can use the material you already have which takes less energy, or create more material which will take more energy. Here’s the first example. Watch as the ends shorten.”

The men watched as the rod decreased in size, but were amazed when it slowly turned into a cross. Vincent deduced how to perform the action. It’s more visualization. Hold the object, focus on taking away the energy, then push it back in.

Elaine tossed it aside and conjured a longsword with a flick of her arm. “And now the second type.” She held the weapon upward and closed her eyes. Her eyelids clenched as she hummed.

Vincent stared and noticed her hands glowing with a blue aura. It’s getting colder too! Is she using that much power? He refrained from blinking, not wanting to miss a thing. In less than a second, the blade grew longer. Vincent squinted and tried to understand his mentor’s struggle. Shouldn’t that be easier? It’s just adding to existing ice.

“I see your head moving, Vincent. This technique isn’t just simple visualization, especially the latter shape. When magic’s given a physical form, the energy within it solidifies. To add, take away, or alter its structure is a serious undertaking. This’ll likely be one of the last skills I teach you.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Anyway, I hear Mason’s truck pulling in, and that means it’s lunchtime.”

***

Elaine laid out a variety of deli cuts and cheeses, along with bread and fixings. After creating his sandwich, and before Vincent took a bite, Mason and Caleb snickered. Elaine wagged a finger at them. “Boys, remember Vincent’s a human, and they don’t eat as much as shifters do. If you two plan on making fun, we’ll poke back since you two never learned to eat your vegetables.”

Vincent glanced at his and Elaine’s sandwiches, then compared them against Mason and Caleb’s. The mages’ were balanced with vegetables and mayonnaise, while the wolves' only had meat and cheese. Vincent smiled as the alpha shared a guilty gaze with the enforcer. I don’t mind if they eat more than me. Still shocks me how much they can pack away.

Mason’s truck became the topic of conversation. Vincent and Caleb were baffled by the mechanic’s capability to defrost the vehicle. According to Mason, old man Richard’s garage was littered with space heaters. “That shop was steaming! Every door and window was shut while he worked on the windshield.”

“That old goat never changes,” Elaine chirped. She must have noticed Vincent’s confusion, so she elaborated, “Kip Richards is one of our oldest members, and he’s a wizard with a wrench, but this might be his most interesting fix yet.”

“I’ll say! My truck looks brand new.” He leaned closer to Vincent and smirked. “I asked if he could add a boss bar on your side, but he didn’t have any in stock.”

Vincent took the ribbing in stride. “That’s sweet of you to think of me, but I can handle myself.”

“Oh?” Mason squinted and growled.

Elaine cleared her throat. “So Vincent, have you been thinking about your routine?”

“Y-yeah, I have it planned for the most part. I just need to run a few scaled examples to make sure it’s what I want.”

“Now, Mason, it’s important to let him meditate so try to limit… distractions.”

“I’ll try to keep my paws off him, but I’m not responsible if Vinnie starts it.”

Vincent barely saw the wink and coughed, earning a grin from Mason.

“And another thing,” Elaine added, “you probably haven’t seen a charged mage, so expect Vincent to look a little different.”

“He told me about it at the park. Pale skin, discoloration around the eyes, and whatever his shadow magic’ll cause.”

“Make sure Doc Shaney’s on standby. Vincent will probably be exhausted and will need immediate attention.”

As Mason nodded, Vincent patted the alpha’s thigh. “If it’s possible, can I ask for some accommodations?”

“Of course, Pup. Anything you need.”

“I have a part involving my clairvoyance, but it might be too much for some. Can there be some chairs set to the side for those who can’t handle… say, a rollercoaster ride? I don’t want anyone younger than eight or ten afflicted by that magic. And can you let everyone know to bring a jacket? It’ll get cold with my frost.”

“I agree,” said Elaine. “I’d suggest making that a stern warning. When I performed many years ago, some of the pack ignored Lei and wound up frostbitten.”

Brandishing his phone, Mason typed. “Gotcha. I’ll ban flip-flops while I’m at it. Anything else?”

Vincent shook his head when nothing came to mind.

They sat quietly as Mason typed, only to be interrupted by a notification alert from the device. “Oh, he’s early.”

“Who’s early?” Elaine asked as she cleared the table.

“Forgot to tell you Mom, but Tierney Scott just landed at the airport.”

***

After a thorough scolding, Mason and Vincent left to greet the arriving alpha. Elaine offered to host Tierney, and Mason promised to pass along the message. On the way to the nearby city, Vincent meditated. Every little bit helps. I probably should’ve stayed, but I really want to meet Mister Scott in person.

Half an hour later, they parked in the visitor lot. Mason was quick to point out three men. “There they are.”

They? He saw Tierney and was intimidated by how tall the man was. One of the others was scrawny with black hair and the other a stocky, bald bruiser. Vincent noticed the tattoo peeking out from under the shirt collar. The three visitors stared at Vincent. Shivers shot down his spine. Fuck, that bigger guy looks scary!

Tierney extended a hand in greeting. “Mason, Vincent! It’s a pleasure to finally meet you face to face.”

The alphas exchanged handshakes. “An honor to have you here. Is this your council?”

“The personal one, in fact. My beta, Kaplan Alvey, and enforcer, Dirk Wescott.”

Kaplan, the skinnier and younger man, flicked his shoulder-length black hair and bent his neck to both Mason and Vincent. “Nice to make your acquaintance.”

Vincent smiled. He seems soft-spoken. He watched the hulking Dirk dip his head at Mason. That means he’s a bear, right? His thoughts were hushed when Dirk squinted while staring at him. Biting the inside of his cheek, Vincent knew something was off. He’s just looking at me. Realization struck. I remember this! Is… is he challenging me? Recalling Mason’s warning from earlier in the week, and some of the text from the book, Vincent had to make a choice.

He returned the stare. It’s an act of status. He’s trying to assert himself as a higher class than me. No… he’s just a bully.

“Dirk,” Tierney called out, “what are you doing?”

The bear didn’t respond. Instead, he rolled his shoulders and sneered.

From the corner of his vision, Vincent noticed Mason getting closer. “You don’t have to do this,” he whispered. “You aren’t pack, so this doesn’t—”

“I got this,” muttered Vincent. His statement was clearly heard as Dirk smiled toothily. Cocky, aren’t you? He stepped forward, pointed his palms to the ground, and released a blast of cold air.

Dirk’s body twinged, but he stood tall. “Play as much as you want. You’re just a human.”

His eyes strained. Vincent sent another wave of air, focusing on lowering the immediate area’s temperature. Human. He has a problem with humanity then? Taking one step closer, Vincent pointed a finger at the man’s chest. “Mace, is anyone looking?”

“No, why?”

Satisfied with the answer, the mage poked Dirk. The contact was brief, but Vincent took the bear into the shadows. He relished the frightened and graying face as Dirk backed away. “Wh-what was… what did you do to me?”

The two continued to stare at one another until Tierney approached Dirk. “Give him his rightful bearing,” he whispered angrily.

After a huff, the bear briefly dipped his head towards Vincent. A growl came from both alphas, but before Vincent could speak, Tierney clenched the back of Dirk’s neck.

The enforcer grunted as the alpha’s voice deepened. “You initiated a challenge to a non-pack civilian in allied territory. This man is the intended mate of the hosting alpha, and the first thing you do’s make an ass of yourself! You will dip your head in proper submission, and you will apologize to both Alpha Wilson and Mated Alpha Bolton. Do I make myself clear?”

Vincent trembled as Dirk’s skin paled. Tierney’s voice was the scariest sound he had ever heard. He nearly missed the bear’s gesture. It… it sounded like it came from the pits of hell!

As the bear lifted his head, he softly spoke, “I’m sorry for improperly challenging you, Mated Alpha Bolton. And I’m sorry for insulting your mate on your lands, Alpha Wilson. It won’t happen again.”

Mason placed a hand on Vincent’s shoulder. “It’s okay, Vinnie. You can drop the magic and relax.”

He realized he was still using his power. Balling his fists, Vincent halted. “Sorry.”

“No need to be sorry. You won.”

I won? Vincent grinned, but felt he wasn’t finished. He slowly advanced toward Dirk. “I don’t know what you mean by mated alpha, but I don’t think I like fancy titles. My name’s Vincent, and I want to thank you.”

Dirk’s eyes widened. “Why?”

“Well, I’m new to shifter customs. You showed me what it’s like to be challenged. I was only told how one starts and ends.”

“I… I don’t know how to respond to that.”

Tierney clapped Dirk on the back. “Despite your beliefs, not all humans are spoiled and ignorant. Some are genuine and kind, and I recommend you accept that.”

The bear turned to Vincent once more and offered a hand. “I’m not the fondest of humans, but my bear recognizes you as strong. Thank you; you’ve reminded me to never underestimate an opponent.”

Vincent accepted the shake. “You’re welcome. I’m clueless about ursus culture, but when I come visit next month, I wouldn’t mind sparring with you.”

“Now that’s a proper challenge,” Dirk said with a grin. “I accept.” He then pivoted to Mason, who stood with crossed arms. “My behavior was unacceptable, and I’ll accept the punishment you have set for your pack.”

“I accept your apology, so long as my mate does.” When Vincent nodded, he continued, “We haven’t completed our bond so technically he’s not a mated alpha yet, but he’s to be regarded as such. As far as punishment, I believe losing your challenge was punishment enough. This was his first challenge, so take that as an extra dose of disappointment. Does that seem fair, Ty?”

Tierney grumbled, “A little weak, but it’s your land. I’ll be having a conversation with my enforcer once we get settled. I take it we’re staying in guest housing?”

“Either that, my place, or Mom just offered hers.”

“I think it’s safe to say your place wouldn’t be the smartest since I have a temperamental delta.”

Feeling like a burden, Vincent chimed in, “I don’t mean to overstep any boundaries, and it wasn’t the best first impression, but I’d like to get to know Dirk better. He’s the first bear shifter I’ve seen, and I think that’s pretty cool.”

Dirk shifted his weight to one side. “I agree. Alpha, I’d like the opportunity to make amends and get acquainted.”

“I’m open to it,” added Mason, “but I only have one guest room. Kaplan and Dirk would be crashing on the couches. Otherwise, my parents have guest rooms to fit two of you.”

The New York alpha clapped. “Then it’s settled; your place it is! Give us more opportunities to discuss dynamics.” The five parted ways after Mason provided Kaplan with the address.

On the drive back, Vincent tried to meditate but the lycan’s low growl broke the silence. “What’s wrong?”

Mason’s grip on the wheel was tight. “Pissed.”

“About Dirk?” He understood the frustration, but Vincent wanted to be the better man. “He apologized and we forgave him.”

“Yes, but I’m keeping an eye on him.”

Vincent snorted. “I think Ty’s doing that for you. He seemed pretty angry.”

“True. I still don’t like him.”

“Just give him a chance, okay?”

The lycan glanced at him before returning his attention to the road. “All right, but one wrong look or word, and I’ll beat his ass.”

Rolling his eyes, Vincent chuckled. “Didn’t I do that already?”

“Fuck yeah, you did,” he exclaimed. “I’m so proud of you, Pup! Are you going back to meditating when we get home?”

“I can pick it up later tonight.” Setting a mental itinerary, Vincent decided to relax. I’ll be able to get the last few beads filled tonight and tomorrow.

The alpha’s house came into view. Stepping out, Vincent looked behind him to see the New Yorkers parking.

Tierney was quick to his feet. He smiled and sighed, “It’s been decades since I’ve been here.”

“C’mon, I’ll give y’all a tour.”

Entering, Kaplan and Dirk claimed their respective couches by dropping their cases on them. Tierney stayed in place. “Looks like you’ve given this house new life. Vincent hasn’t been around much, correct?”

The mage scratched his head nervously. “We only met a few days ago.”

“Really?” asked Kaplan. “You’ve known each other for such a short time but your bond seems like it’s aged for years. How is that?”

“They’re destined, my beta,” answered Tierney. “If you met your soulmate, you’re likely to connect rather quickly. They’re truly two halves of one soul. I’ve seen a few destined couplings over my years, and the gods put them together for a reason. It’s something to cherish, Kaplan.”

“Understood, Alpha.”

Moving into the kitchen, Mason pointed to the pantry and fridge. “Feel free to help yourselves to anything you find. There are several restaurants in town, and Mesker Park City’s nearby with more options. It’s unclaimed territory, so you don’t need to worry about treading on restricted lands. You’re also welcome to roam my woods; plenty of game for hunting.”

Dirk’s head was on a swivel, confusing Vincent. What’s he doing?

Mason must have noticed as well. “Memorizing the layout?”

“Can’t be too careful,” muttered Dirk. “There’s just the two entrances, right? The front and back door?”

“There’s a third through the attached garage, which is through there.” He directed the bear to a door next to the laundry room.

“Dirk,” Tierney said sternly, “we’re in the country. Consider this a vacation, would you? We’re here to relax and see a mage’s dance!” The alpha closed his eyes and sighed, “Reminds me of mine…”

Vincent’s heart plunged. Did I hear that right? “You’re a mage?

“Of course! Did I not tell you on the call?”

“N-no.”

“Huh,” he said with a grin. “I don’t blame Elaine for keeping quiet since we went to rival schools. Graduated Harvard at the top of my class.”

“A fire mage?” Mason asked. “That suits your status, Ty; Fierce and fiery. Say, got any tips for Vinnie?”

Before Vincent could protest, Tierney beamed. “I think this calls for a demonstration. Mind if we go out back? I’d rather not burn your house down.”

The group followed the alphas to the backyard’s treeline. Between the setting sun and the forest’s shade, Vincent thought the sky was on fire. Tierney motioned for everyone to halt and took a position near the trees. “I think this is dark enough. All right Vincent, the secret to a good performance is to command the stage. Grab the audience’s attention in a way everyone’s forced to watch. Do something that affects them, even if it’s physical. Myself, I prefer to instill fear.”

The alpha closed his eyes, took a deep breath, then reopened them. Vincent gasped as Tierney’s irises glowed red. He watched as the lycan’s chest expanded. He’s… he’s staring right at me.

Vincent yelped and jumped as plumes of fire shot from the man’s nostrils. Tierney stepped forward, followed by another flaming exhalation. The advancing mage looked stoic and all-powerful as Vincent stood in fear. I… I get his statement now. I can’t look away! I’m… I’m too scared to.

The breathing rhythm quickened. After a set of the blazing pillars dissipated, Tierney unfurled his fingers. Small orange spheres formed on the tips, then combusted into individual infernos. Vincent watched in awe. It’s so commanding! He makes this feel so primal!

The mage’s flames burned out. Tierney craned his neck from side to side before throwing his head back. Accompanying the deafening roar, a column of fire propelled from Tierney’s throat. As the magic was extinguished, the alpha kept his head tilted backward.

When Vincent caught Tierney’s glare again, he gasped and stopped breathing. His… his eyes are on fire!