Ch. 13 - Home

 

Chapter Thirteen - Home

 

It was the first time I had sat on my bed in over a month. Looking about, I got a sureal feeling. The walls were adorn with posters. Two shelves contained books and model planes from before the war. I always had enjoyed planes. Even the bedspread was colorful, a leftover from my childhood. It was strange, though.

Memories were difficult. They were supposed to stay in one spot, but mine squirmed about as if trying to escape. This room, this house; they brought back memories far easier. Too easy. I had a feeling that was what was causing the discomfort. Things were exactly how I left them, yet they'd never be the same again. It was too quiet. Mom should be motivating about, keeping things in her usual state of perfection with boundless energy. Dad should be working on a project in the garage or back yard, swearing occasionally when he smashed a finger. Sis should be watching TV loudly. But it was just me. Silence.

Patrick took a bit of effort, but I'd gotten him to move into the guest bedroom. He had tried to insist on camping out the whole month. I wondered why he stuck around when I offered to show him how to recharge the crystal using Kiya, but he said he didn't trust himself with remembering. I felt a bit cynical towards the thought, but in truth, I was glad for the company. The more people I could stick near, the less likely I was to lose even more of my mind. Everyone needed a foundation, right?

"Yeah," echoed back in my mind, and I smiled. No matter how horrible an act it was, I was kind of glad Dad did it. Jessica had made a world of difference for me. She added, "Aww, you're a sweetheart," before falling silent again. I'd chatted with her in the dream scape again, and she told me that it took a lot of energy to touch upon me enough to say something while I was conscious. That was why she never said much, it would seem. I didn't mind, as we got to talk at night, and she liked watching, she informed. That bugged me, but there was no helping it.

Sighing, I finally shook my head out of daydreaming, and glanced back down at the red and white ball in my hand. Patrick had left with Kari to shop for new clothing for her and himself as well. She asked if we could visit her mother tomorrow as well, to chat. It was fine with me, of course. I rolled the ball in my hands gently. It felt heavy. More than it should have, but I knew it was just apprehension. Kari wanted me to wait until they got back, but I felt like I needed to do this without interference.

I took one last deep breath, then pushed the button on the ball. The beam of red light extended softly, and Kittra materialized on my bed. The beam faded, and her mass took effect as she sank into the mattress an inch. I just watched her, peacefully resting there. Faint marks could be seen that hadn't healed fully yet, and her clothing was in tatters. She shivered and rolled onto her side. I frowned, and tucked the blanket over her.

She smiled gently in her sleep, and I pulled the papers Cuthbert had given me out of the bag on my floor. I skimmed them casually. I must have already read it three times, but things still didn't fully make sense. It was her full file. She murdered and ate her tamer spontaneously, before a taming session. Or after. They deduced that purely by his lack of clothes. She was attacked by the harem when they investigated after he hadn't come out. She butchered all but one of them, before fleeing the site, and leaving her blood soaked blade behind. The only member to survive her attack was the Mousetit the tamer had for chores. It didn't make sense. The tamer had prior offenses on his record, and had been ticketed for abuse on two other occasions. I'm sure the Mousetit wasn't happy, but why would Kittra spare her just because of that? Wasn't she 'food' for a standard Hellcat comparison?

I shook my head warily. The Mousetit, named Shelly, have the report to the police, then promptly requested a level five taming cycle. It wasn't questioned, and that's the end of the story.  Which was frustrating, as it revealed little.

Glancing back down at Kittra, I simply watcher her sleep. She made no sense, when I tried to view the big picture. She was capable of gleeful murder. She was absurdly powerful, but willingly didn't use the weapon she was best with until I presented it to her. She also displayed moments of what seem to be extreme sadness and suicidal tendencies. She was a shameless flirt, but seemed more modest than Kari sometimes. So many contradictions! But despite it all, I felt she was familiar. She could be vicious and vindictive, but it was outdone by the strange loyalty she seemed to have for me, baffling everyone who noticed. She cared for me. Cuthbert told me they did a minor mental checkup after healing her to make sure she was okay, and discovered the last thing she remembered was running alongside the blast and actually cutting it before it got to the building. It blew up prematurely, and she probably saved our lives. Sure, she was tricked into giving our position away, but I think she redeemed herself. I found myself feeling that link between us again, and felt warmer.

That link. I could feel her presence there. No extra sensory. More like it was a gut feeling, a hunch. I guess the correct term was Alpha Bond, but it didn't entirely match the Pokédex description. At least not what I expected. Maybe that bond was influencing my thinking? Maybe I was being too innocent or forgiving? I wanted to believe Karumi had done the same thing with Kittra as Kari, for better or worse. So tinting the truth to go against Kittra. I tried stepping back from my perspective and thinking about alternate meanings or things left unsaid that could change things.

It wasn't easy. She left out that the guy was an asshole. That changes a little. Did he deserve to be murdered and eaten? I don't know. Maybe. The police background report was a little vague as to what his actual offenses were. Short of asking him, Kittra, or Shelly from ten years ago, I was screwed in that regard. I'd just have to believe Kittra.

She stirred. I froze, and simply watched her slowly open her eyes. She looked blankly at the wall for a few seconds before frowning. I sympathized with her probable confusion. She glanced down at the bedspread, then turned her questioning gaze upon me. There was a solid five seconds of blankly staring at each other.

Her eyes softened after, and she looked back down at my blankets. "Keith," she muttered weakly.

"Good evening, Kittra," I greeted softly, not helping but to crack a small smile. She was beautiful, regardless of what happened, and I felt mixed emotions. I was attracted to her.

"Admittedly, I was expecting to either wake up with no memories, or not at all," she added, looking back up at me to stare questioningly at my smile.

I shook my head lightly, then rested against the wall with my back. "I wanted to talk with you," I returned, considering my words a moment beforehand.

She didn't move. She simply laid there regarding me. "I figured. I'm not dead or brain raped, so you want answers," she reasoned, looking away sadly, but sounding indifferent. Or trying to, anyway.

"No. I want the truth," I corrected, causing her to wince. "I read the file. I simply want to know why," I added, causing her to look back at me.

"Why I killed him?" she asked.

"And why you didn't kill Shelley," I clarified, causing her to pale and frown.

She hesitated a few seconds before sighing and drawing her legs up. "It's been a while since I heard that name. Can I ask you what ever happened to her?" she asked quietly. 

I sensed a deeper connection than the police report indicated. "She told the police what happened, then requested a level five and was sent to a ranch. After that, I don't know," I explained.

"Damn it," she muttered, curling up.

I stared at her for a few seconds before asking, "Who is she?"

She remained quiet for a few seconds. "I don't want to hide anything from you anymore. She was my best friend since grade school," she replied. It clicked into place. She was threshold. And changed into a Youma.

"You changed into a Youma, and she thresholded into a Titmouse. Neither particularly desirable. How'd you end up in that guy's harem?" I asked after a few seconds of contemplation.

Kittra nodded stiffly before sitting up again. "We ran away together. That asshole found us hiding in a cave, unfortunately," she continued, shuddering lightly before adding, "Not much to say, really. We surrendered as we were far from feral, and he beat us both into unconsciousness using his entire harem. We woke up as his."

I listened quietly through the entire thing. He was as I predicted from the police reports. Frowning, I asked, "Why did he turn you into a Hellcat? And why the blade?"

"He had a thing for fire and cats. He'd been looking for a Youma for a while, lucky me. The sword I initially picked up to just piss him off," she explained dryly, but smirking afterwards.

I smiled at her, but was a little confused. "How'd that get to him?"

Kittra sighed. "He liked cats. Behavior and all. I decided to use a blade instead of my more natural gifts. It may seem negligible, but when it's the only thing I could manage to revolt using, I grabbed the opportunity," she furthered, shrugging.

Leaning forward again, I nodded in understanding. She continued, however, "But he gave in and actually had me trained in the blade. I used to practice before thresholding, so I picked it up easily."

"What happened?" I asked softly, looking down. 

I guess part of me knew what was coming, but it still wasn't pleasant. "He hated my relationship with Shelley. Used to rape me in front of her constantly. He crossed the line and I just lost it," she answered, looking away from me then.

"What did he do?" I hesitantly urged her to continue.

Her eyes closed. She swallowed painfully after a few seconds and nodded to nobody in particular. "He finally got pissed and ordered me to eat her while he watched," she trailed off.

"You ate him instead," I finished, shaking slightly.

Kittra said nothing, but watched me carefully. It hadn't been a question, though. I understood now, what happened. There was really only one thing left unanswered.

"Why stop using a blade?" I finally asked, seemingly surprising her minutely.

She hesitated, but shook her head. "I dropped it after murdering his entire harem. When you devote your everything to one skill, well, let's just say they didn't last long. Regardless, I told myself that I didn't want to have anything like it happen again, so I vowed to stop," she explained.

"You must be skilled with only that type of blade. Why did you accept using it again?" I added, conclusion leading to more questions.

Kittra smiled suddenly. "It's the only weapon I'm proficient with, yes. And to protect the only person since Shelley to actually matter to me."

My blush was almost instant, drawing a giggle from her. "I'm honored, Kittra. Thank you," I spoke, smiling back at her.

She suddenly looked taken aback, but recovered rapidly. "I'd stewed so long in my own hate that I forgot what you were really like. Can I ask you something?"

"Of course," I assured, tilting my head towards her.

"What's my status? What's going to happen to me?" she asked immediately.

Heh. Well I had originally been undecided, but I knew what I wanted then, and had lost my fear of the Hellcat. "Cuthbert kept his promise. You're a blank slate, and were returned to me," I informed, watching her eyes widen with amusement.

"I'm cleared?! Wait, where are we?" she asked in disbelief and surprise, looking around my room.

"My bedroom in my house," I replied simply, crawling towards her again on hands and knees.

She frowned towards me as I approached but didn't move. "What are you going to do with me, then, Ma," she started to ask before I pushed my lips against hers abruptly, causing her to issue a squeak and widen her eyes. 

I lingered only a few seconds, but she pulled me against herself, recovering rapidly and closing her eyes. Backing up an inch, I smiled at her softly. "Take care of you and be with you, I was hoping for. If you'll have me, of course," I added after.

Her eyes, wide like saucers, slowly softened as I saw tears build up. "Keith," she muttered softly, smiling again before burying her face against my neck. Smiling, I just let her cry, holding her against myself while simultaneously resting against her. A warm softness crept through me, and I pulled her closer to get more of the warmth. She whimpered softly and held on like she'd be flung to the stars if she wavered for but a moment.

* * * * *

Kari raised an eyebrow towards us as we greeted their triumphant return from the store. I jest of course, as a puny sized town such as this hardly boasts crowded shopping conditions. We only have three stores in town, being a general store, a clothing shop, and technically our small Pokécenter.

"Kittra?" she asked hesitantly after a few seconds.

Patrick frowned briefly, but shrugged after a few seconds and sat a paper bag down on the dining room table. "He knows what he's doing. And he's obviously still alive, so he was right," he pointed out, digging into the sack.

Kittra looked down briefly before shaking her head. "I'd never hurt any of you in a million years," she assured softly.

"Can you explain to them over supper what you told me?" I asked, hoping her story would convince them.

Kittra swallowed uneasily, and glanced back at me. "If y-you trust them," she agreed, looking as nervous as her voice sounded, causing Kari to frown at her.

"With my life.  They won't tell anyone else, Kittra," I reassured her.

Kari surprised me by smiling suddenly. "Thank you, Keith. And he's right, Kittra. You're our friend still, and I figured you had reasons," she added, causing the Hellcat to perk finally and grin.

Patrick suddenly pulled a black and silver object out of the bag, and the sparkle coming off it from the overhead light caught my eye. I raised an eyebrow at the black leather choaker with silver studs. It wasn't his style at all, but he pulled out equally black shirts next, and a couple dark gray pairs of pants. He saw my vacant expression and started laughing. Kari giggled as well.

"I needed some new clothes, and Kari have me this idea," he added after catching his breath.

Kittra looked bewildered. "To dress up like a Goth?" she asked, confused.

I stared blankly at the choker for a few seconds before it dawned on me. "You're covering up the scar," I muttered, looking back up at him.

He nodded slowly, looking down at it. "I got a lot of stares just going shopping. Somehow I think rebellious fashion sense is more socially acceptable than being undead, ironically," he confirmed.

Snickering, I shook my head towards him. "You seem a bit to 'alive' for the typical undead image, don't you think?" I reasoned.

His eyes rolled. "You keep my head attached with a magic crystal?" he reminded.

Kari giggled this time, then dug into the bag herself. She withdrew a couple modest skirts and rather nice T-shirts to go with. "I got some new clothing too, as most of my stuff is still at Mom's. Can we still go there after school tomorrow?" she asked me, smiling.

I nodded gently and returned her smile. "Of course. What are you going to do, Patrick?" I asked, turning to him after a few seconds.

He thought for a moment, before returning, "I'll stick around town and see if I can snag some local ferals for funds."

"At least until we get out of school in a month," I added, frowning.

Kittra raised an eyebrow at my expression, but Kari smiled softly at me. "You have time to decide what you're going to do, Keith," she reminded, heading around the table and slipping my left hand into both of hers.

Her hands were warm, more than physically, and I smiled gently. "Yeah. I've mostly decided, but I should probably focus on graduation for now."

"Before I forget, I am allowed to stay in the guest room, right?" Patrick suddenly asked, pulling the two pokéballs off his belt.

I shook my head in exasperation. "For the final time, yes. You can crash here as long as you need to," I confirmed, as Kiya and Danni appeared in a flash of red light. That reminded me to check for the stone for Danni tomorrow. It should be here by now.

"Just making sure. Wanted to know if I had to check in to the pokécenter or not," he defended, smirking as Kiya looked around.

"Keith's house?" she asked after a few seconds, smiling back over her shoulder at Patrick. Danni remained quiet and looked about, flashing a shy smile when she caught me looking. I returned it, unsure of quite where I stood in her mind.

Patrick nodded, but Kari cut him off. "Keith doesn't mind the company, and has the extra guest bedroom for the three of you to use," she explained, catching on to my real reason, it seemed. Staying here by myself after everything that happened was terrifying. I couldn't explain it at all, but just thinking about it have me chills and a headache.

Danni surprised everyone by smiling towards me and saying, "Thank you, Keith."

Her voice was barely audible, but there nonetheless. Patrick smiled first, as I was still staring at her, surprised. "She's grown to trust you, probably after you saved her. Plus she understands my situation a little more, now, he explained, as I finally smiled.

"You're very welcome, Danni. And in truth, Kari's right. I don't want to be here by myself, so the more the better," I admitted, causing Kiya to smile finally, and then grin at her friend.

Kittra suddenly smacked me gently across the back with her palm, claws in, thankfully. She finally remembered her own strength. "Oh come now. Kari and I see here too, and we'll make you forget all your troubles before bedtime, don't worry!" she exclaimed merrily.

My blush hit instantly, and Kari squeaked next to me. "Kittra!" she whined weakly.

Patrick started laughing, and Kiya snickered, and pointed out, "Guess you won't need me anymore, huh?"

Kittra raised an eyebrow, but caught my stern glance and remained silent. "Um, I dunno," Kari muttered, losing her blush a little and looking down towards Kiya's feet.

I mentally sighed and looked away from Kari, silently wondering what had happened. Kittra seemed surprised when I suddenly rested my forehead against her shoulder, and gave me a weird look.

"Kari, no. Kiya can't tame you anymore," Patrick suddenly corrected sternly.

Kittra's eyes bugged out at that, but Kari just looked dejected. "I can take you to the pokécenter after school tomorrow if you need to, don't worry," I suddenly spoke quietly.

"Keith, don't you want to tame her yourself?" Patrick asked, after watching Kari start to shake a little.

I shrugged weakly. "Of course, but I don't want to make her uncomfortable."

Kari's head snapped back to look at me rapidly, a mixture of surprise and wariness in her eyes. I smiled back at her gently, and it shifted to an inquisitive look.

Patrick just chuckled. "Damn, you have an ungodly amount of patience," he muttered, whistling lightly after. I just rolled my eyes and pretended he was teasing.

"It's been a while since I've been in a harem, but isn't not getting tamed by Keith a little strange? You're alpha, but you don't consider feelings or dynamics well," Kittra suddenly spoke up, sounding surprisingly a bit irked.

I frowned and glanced towards her, discovering her glaring at the rapidly wilting Kari instead. "Kittra?" I asked, confused.

She sighed and looked away after a few seconds. "Sorry, Master. I just don't like seeing or feeling you sad," she apologized. Feeling? I realized I did feel slight traces of anger that distinctly wasn't my own.

"It's okay, Kittra. Just ease up, okay? We've all been through a lot," I requested, causing Kari to look back up at me, and Kittra's eyes to soften as she nodded. I felt the anger diminish and smiled, finally getting the Hellcat to look back at me. "And just Keith," I added, causing a smile to form on her lips.

I suddenly felt Kari's forehead rest against my right shoulder, and her hands squeezed my right gently. It was weird. She looked sad still, but I couldn't feel it, really. Not like I could with Kittra. Did I actually have a more developed bond with the Hellcat? Or were both girls fundamentally different in how they projected their emotions? Kari might just be harder to pick up. If it went off personality, it made sense. Kittra tends to wear her moods on her sleeves.

The Hellcat's stomach suddenly let loose a tremendous snarling noise, causing her stubborn expression to wilt somewhat as her ears drooped. "Uh, could I maybe get some food, Keith?' She asked weakly, sounding embarrassed by the noise.

I chuckled as Patrick stared in confusion at her. "We should all get some food, so sure?" I replied, walking towards the kitchen. Kari grinned and took off with the shopping bag to our room when I turned, and ignored my confused glance. Patrick laughed at my expression before I shook my head and continued into the kitchen.

* * * * *

The wind blew gently as the sun drifted below the horizon, darkness dancing along in its wake. It crept along at an achingly slow pace, but seemed to gather in heaps along the tree line of the forest. The shadows of the branches reached towards the town, as if a thousand tentacles wanting to rip the ground asunder.

Two faintly glowing eyes, a pair, glanced out of the shadows and observed. The tall, lightly furred redhead sat in one of the aforementioned trees, staring at the very minute skyline the town projected. Her tail hung low, and she crouched in the cluster of branches, all but hidden from view. The metalic patchwork that covered her skin in spots glittered menacingly in the dying light, as if alive. It appeared as if an unnatural armor, growing from her flesh.

Her lightly clawed finger scratched along the bark of the tree lightly, once. A smaller girl dressed all in black flickered in on the branch next to her. "Yes Mistress?" she asked quickly.

"Did you confirm his location?" the fox-like redhead asked, voice deeper and more hostile than her appearance and size belied.

The smaller girl nodded gently once. "Held in the sub-basement of the police post, Mistress."

"Idiot," the fox-girl muttered as she stood up on the branch, followed by, "Get the transport ready. We hit em tomorrow."

The girl in black bowed quickly before flickering away again.

* * * * *

My bed felt really good after the stress of the day. Adding Kari's gentle touch to the mix, as her hands lightly rubbed along my back, and I might as well be in heaven.

"Mmm, you don't need to do this," I groaned out as Kari found and massaged another knot.

She giggled after a few seconds. "You're tense, and needed this," she pointed out.

Kittra watched carefully, sitting in my desk chair cross legged. "Well it's not the typical manner of touching a pokégirl does unless asked, usually," she added, still seeming confused.

I chuckled this time. "You know I dislike that concept," I reminded.

"Which?" Kari asked, stopping for a moment to crack her knuckles.

"Pokégirl to Master relationships," I clarified, glancing sideways at Kittra.

The Hellcat tilted her head. "I know you dislike the current norm, but I'm not entirely sure as to what you'd replace it with," she commented, sounding a little unsure of herself.

"Closer relationships. Harems being more like a team or family. You're more than just an object or weapon to me," I explained gently, smiling at her.

Kittra returned the smile and managed a nod in agreement. "Still, Kari and you act like, a lot closer," she pointed out, glancing back at the Witch.

Kari smiled and leaned down against my back gently. "I get an indescribable warmth throughout me every time I look at him. I just feel safe and protected," she muttered dreamily, kissing the back of my neck.

I blushed from her words, but Kittra snickered. "No idea what you're talking about. In your current position, you could snap his neck in seconds," she added, laughing.

"Kittra!" Kari growled, as I mentally fell on my face, blush gone instantly.

"What? Aren't we supposed to protect him?" she asked, rolling her eyes.

Kari sighed. "He protects our sanity. Why wouldn't I feel safe in his arms?" she asked, irked now.

Kittra shook her head. "Get a Teddy Bear. Same effect without needing the 'love' to screw with your head."

Kari rolled her eyes. "I almost feel badly for you if you think that way," she muttered back. Her thighs started to tense uncomfortably, putting pressure on my sides where her knees were rooted.

"I do feel badly for you. Getting felt up by a static charged rodent instead of your Master?" Kittra returned.

Kari's knees dug in and I winced. Damn, she was stronger than I remembered. "Girls! Stop it, before I die, please?" I managed to gasp out.

She let out a squeak suddenly and leapt off me, letting my sensitive sides get some relief. I rolled over on my side, and Kittra started laughing. 

"See? She has a lot of pent up aggression. You should relieve her of some of it," Kittra pointed out after Kari piled off.

I shook my head, and looked up at Kari, who looked guilty. "I'm sorry, Keith," she muttered after a few seconds.

I shook my head softly. "It's fine, Kari."

Kittra suddenly stood from the chair. There was an all too familiar gleam in her eye. "Not yet, it's not. I'll hold her still, you make her enjoy it," Kittra added heatedly.

Kari yelped and her eyes bulged. "Hey! I just got tamed two days ago! We don't need to rush things," She protested, blushing heavily. I laughed then. Kittra was surprisingly good at defusing situations. 

The Hellcat have me an exaggerated wink from behind the flailing Witch. "Don't worry, Master. I'll handle her!" she announced suddenly.

Kari was still stammering when the Hellcat turned and pounced, assaulting her mouth before I could say a word. Kari's eyes bugged out, but her struggling rapidly stopped as Kittra pulled her body gently against her own. All I could do was stare as the girls made out in front of me, tongues now clearly moving past each othera' lips. Kittra was very urgent however, and I wondered how much she needed this as well. Hell, I thought she was joking until now! She wasted no time in pushing Kari backwards and onto our bed, sliding her hands up the young witch's stomach to rest gently upon each breast.

Kari released a muffled groan into their kiss, and I let myself sit down on the edge of the bed while watching. It didn't feel right still, but I knew they wanted me to stay this time. Kittra groaned too as she pushed her lower body into Kari's, and kissed more urgently.

An eternity seemed to pass while I watched them, distinctly aware that my pants were getting a little too small for comfort. Suddenly, Kittra broke for breathing room, and grinned broadly at the flushed and panting girl she was straddling. Kari's eyes flew open to stare up at Kittra, then widened as the Hellcat started swaying seductively on top of her. Mine were also glued to Kittra's chest as she slowly undid her shirt's front, an agonizing button at a time.

Kari surprised me by growling impatiently. Her hands flew up and started undoing Kittra's shirt for her. Kittra only grinned more as she reached down and started pulling off Kari's T-shirt. Kari halted only to get the shirt over her head, before finally opening Kittra's and revealing her bra covered breasts to the room. Kittra seemed surprised this time at Kari's apparent need, as the Witch leaned up, not bothering to unhook the bra, and pulled the material down entirely.

Kittra's much larger breasts spilled out of her bra, and Kari's mouth was licking along the right's underside almost instantly, earning a heated groan. I decided to at least be useful. Moving behind Kittra, I undid her bra for her, and slid it off so it wouldn't get in the way. She surprised both of us by pulling back from Kari and scooting backwards in one fluid motion. I gasped in a mixture of surprise, pleasure, and discomfort as Kittra's ass pushed into my crotch. Her arms snaked around and held me there against her.

"Can you feel it, Master?" she murmered heatedly. Her jean skirt had gotten hiked up, and I was pressed directly against her panties. I could easily feel the heat, and to my surprise, I felt wetness after a few seconds. I glanced down, and saw her juices were seeping through the fabric of her panties and running down her legs!

"You're soaked," I muttered in surprise.

Kari grinned and took the reprieve to slide her pants off. "I think you'll find me getting a bit eager as well," she added, causing the Hellcat to smirk and turn around again. She sniffed heavily, leaning within inches of Kari's panties, and groaned.  Sniffing as well, my heightened sense of smell was flooded with both girls' scent. Kari was starting to form a wet spot on her panties, but I could smell her delicious scent long before needing the verbal cues.

"You smell good enough to eat. I think I'll have a taste," Kittra informed, leaning even closer.

Kari's mouth started to open to reply, but only a moan came out as Kittra's tongue snaked out and slid gently up Kari's crotch. I could clearly see Kari's lips outlined under the fabric in the tongue's wake. Unable to stop myself, I pushed up against Kittra from behind. The Hellcat groaned into Kari's panties, and pushed back against me. "Please, Master. Release me as I take care of Kari?" she begged suddenly. 

My member gave an impatient throb as I heard her request, but my body wasted no time. Kittra resumed licking along Kari's panties as I stripped to just boxers. Not bothering with her skirt, I simply slid Kittra's panties down as I kneeled on the floor next to the bed. She took my cue, or just got impatient, and pulled down Kari's panties as well. From under her body, I got an excellent view of her tongue licking tenderly along Kari's pussy, lapping up the juices that seeped out upon the tongue's manipulation. I groaned subconsciously, and decided to mirror the same thing with Kittra.

She was scalding hot inside her lips, but the ample juices that she released along with her almost scream were delicious. She tasted tangy, with just a hinting of sweet. I licked it up greedily, slipping my tongue into her body looking for more. This time she did practically scream, as she shuddered. "Please, Master! You make your pokégirl so wet. Stop teasing," she asked, glancing back at me. Kari protested as the tongue left her body, and tried feebly to paw Kittra's head back into herself.

I nodded to her, and she smiled again, deep flush across her cheeks making her look even more beautiful. She turned back to Kari and hungrily dug back into her folds, inserting her tongue this time, as I stood and let my boxers fall to the floor. Kari let out a heated whimper, as she held Kittra's mouth to her with both hands. Kittra shuddered, and sped up as I pushed the head of my cock against her soaked pussy, and slid it up and down along her outer lips. She pushed back as far as she could go, and my head slipped inside of her, earning a groan on my part. She was absurdly hot, but I didn't care. She was tight, but her abundant fluids made slowly pushing into her easy. She gasped as I hilted against her, our hips firmly pushing together and the base of my shaft snug against her body. 

For a while, I simply held myself there, enjoying her heat and wetness surrounding my member on all sides. I was inside of her body. It was an aspect I still wasn't used to. For a moment, all I could do was slide her tail aside and stare down at myself disappearing fully inside her body. Urges overwhelmed, however, and I slowly moved halfway out of her before hilting again. She gave a heated moan, sucking on Kari's clit at the same time. Kari went tense, gasping for air as she plowed through her first orgasm, pulling the Hellcat's face to her pussy tightly. Kittra lapped hungrily as the juices flowed, and Kari's walls tightened around her tongue.

The sight was amazing, and I picked up my pace, gripping Kittra's hips tightly as I slammed into her from behind. She let out a mewling noise with my every thrust, and started a throaty purr. That must have drove Kari even more wild, as she rapidly started building up towards number two.

Not to let Kittra fall behind, I slipped my hand under her and started fingering her clit as I thrust, pinching on occasion. It didn't take long at all, really. A minute later, Kittra gave out a piercing scream, and I felt her insides latch onto me in a death grip. I widened my eyes as her muscles clenched my cock in a wave motion, as if trying to milk it while locking it inside of her. I gasped and held on as long as I could. It was no use. She just kept going. She ground backwards into me, tail wrapping around my waist as her body sucked me in deeper. Her scent filled the room as she started whimpering, her warm juices flowing down my balls and legs freely. Forty seconds and she was still going. 

I gave in. My cock was already pushed into her as far as it would go. My balls stirred and clenched, as I groaned and released a flood of cum directly into her womb. She cried out lustfully, and reached around to grasp my butt with both hands, holding me inside of her fully as I pumped myself into her. I rode the feelings for almost thirty seconds before gasping and collapsing against her back, the familiar pulsing in my groin finally stopping. It was as if my liquids released her as well, and her orgasm finally subsided, leaving the only sounds in the room as heavy breathing, Kari's occasional whimper, and Kittra's purring.

After half a minute, my eyes regained focus, and my body started protesting. I noticed Kittra had ceased attention towards Kari, and was utterly collapsed, face in my blankets. It would have been a weird pose in any other situation, being face first in the sheets with her rump sticking up. We were still connected, even, and I felt warm liquid running down my legs.

Kari was still whimpering, and seemed halfway built up to her second orgasm. Her right hand had snaked down and she was rubbing her now extremely swelled lips. I frowned, and pushed myself up and put of Kittra to the best of my abilities. Kittra hit a brief shudder in purring before letting her ass fall back down.

My muscles were tired, and I was about out of energy, but the least I could do is help her finish. I felt responsible for it, and wanted her happy too. She suddenly looked surprised and blushed as she caught me crawling up to her. I said nothing and maintained speed until my lips locked onto hers. She groaned into my mouth as my right arm slipped around her, and my left hand snaked its way down her body. I pushed her hand aside, and smiled against her lips as her body thrust upwards to meet my fingers. "Needy girl, huh?" I asked, grinning as I backed away from her face an inch or so.

She gasped and nodded rapidly as I slid a finger within her. Her hands caught me off guard by sliding along my diminished member. I doubted I had another go in me, but her attention felt good regardless. "Yes, Master. Your Pokégirl wants you badly," she gasped out, blushing more. It wasn't like her, which showed how horny she was still.

My world suddenly inverted as she pounced me backwards. I started to protest when she slid down me instead, trailing kisses. My body's complaining turned into delightful fireworks instead as she took my full length into her mouth and swirled her tongue around it. I gasped, and was shocked when I felt myself lengthening again. She started a light sucking as I grew, and I felt her fighting her gag reflex as she tried to let me extend into her throat. She was only partially successful, and coughed after a few seconds.

Smirking, I lifted her head up with my right hand. "Master has Kittra's taste on him," she added, grinning back, and getting me to blush.

"That does make sense," I stammered, getting a giggle. She then leaned forward and down again as she slid, and re-captured my lips with hers. I tasted myself and Kittra, in addition to Kari's usual taste as I took her tongue into my mouth. Her body relaxed against me, the only hard parts being her extremely stiff nipples. Then my eyes widened as I felt her reach back and line me up with herself.

I gasped as she slid back a little, and I was engulfed in wet, tight heat. She'd lost none of her tightness, and felt like a vise on my cock. Lifting herself off me with her arms supporting, she groaned heatedly and say up fully, taking my full length into her pussy.

She must have realized my body was bothering me. She did everything. I just lay there, mind reeling from the sensations, and to my surprise, emotions that were flowing from her! Letting herself rise and fall again, she groaned out slowly, "Keith."

"You two are adorable," I suddenly heard from Kittra. I managed to glance and see she had flipped herself over and was watching us intently while Kari went at it.

Kari made a gasping noise as she urgently sped up, eyes still slammed shut as she squinted. Her insides felt like a furnace, and I could almost count her rapid heartbeat as her walls squeezed my cock. Kittra smiled as she contented herself to just watching lustfully, and I blushed under her gaze.

The feelings were intense, and the emotions even moreso as Kari let out urgent whimperings. I couldn't do a thing as she pinned both my arms to the bed and just rammed herself onto my cock. Her speed was frantic now, and I figured I was going to have bruises tomorrow. Kittra was grinning now and licking her lips hungrily while watching.   Kari raised and lowered herself with gusto, giving a low groan now with every drop. It felt amazing, but admittedly, I was getting a little sore in the hips.

Finally, Kari cried out, walls clenching around me tightly as she started spasming. Her arms gave out and she fell on top of me as she lost control of her movements. Smiling gently, I wrapped both arms tightly around her. Kittra giggled and slid in against us both, resting her head on my shoulder. I glanced back up at Kari as she finally stopped shaking. Her face was a mere inch from mine, and I could see the beads of sweat coming down her forehead. Her eyes looked glazed over. Leaning up, I gently kissed her on the lips, trying to ignore my raging member still solidly locked inside her. She returned the kiss at the same tempo, seemingly sated for now.

"T-Thank you, Keith," she finally managed to stutter out, shivering against me. It caused her pussy to slide up me a little, and I winced. It was so hard that it actually hurt. We shouldn't have gotten carried away.

Kittra frowned suddenly, and sat up. "Kari's smell got stronger, but Keith's didn't," she muttered, raising an eyebrow to me.

Blushing, I looked away from her. Kari tilted her head, but suddenly slid down a little. I hilted again, and gasped at the sensation. "You need some release now, Master," Kari suddenly added, lowering her voice again.

Kittra squealed and dove beyond my sight past Kari's body almost instantly. Kari grinned and slowly started rocking against me. I let out a stiffled groan at the sensation, then gasped outright as I felt a hot tongue sliding along my inner thigh! Kari smirked knowingly as I felt the tongue trace along the line our skin made by pushing together. It kept its slow pace until she got to my balls. That was her target, and I groaned as she carefully lapped along the side of them. Kari sat up on me and moaned heatedly. "You've made your Pokégirls so happy. Please just relax and give me your seed too," she spilled out, massaging her breasts an inch from my face.

Kittra slipped her tongue to the base of my shaft suddenly, and went partially along it and inside Kari! That did it, and a white ball of fire exploded in my mind. Both of my hands latched onto Kari's hips, and I held her there as I flooded her insides liberally. She gleefully purred, and by the time my vision cleared, had lay down on top of me again.

Kittra's head popped back into view, and she used her tongue to lick up the juices that dribbled down her chin. "Damn, that was fun! You should probably know that your hips are looking kinda bruised, though," she informed upon laying down next to us again.

Kari sat up slightly and drowned down at me, but I grinned and pulled her back down into a warm kiss. She seemed surprised, but returned it softly after a few seconds. Just holding her there, I had a sense of warmth expanding through my chest. She was mine. Not in a literal way, but wanted to stay with me. She was all I had left now, from my old life, and I was determined to keep her!

Kittra tilted her head, and I snapped out of it and realized I'd been staring into Kari's eyes for almost a minute after the kiss. Her gaze returned mine, and her eyes were still somewhat glazed over as she smiled. Kittra's forehead rested against my arm then, and I suddenly felt she was left out. "I'm sorry, Kittra. Here," I muttered, sliding Kari over to the left side of my body, and attempted to pull the Hellcat onto my right.

She resisted briefly, before getting a questioning expression and moving onto me. "What's this for?" she asked quietly.

Kari rested her head on my chest and just watched, smiling, as I leaned forward and kissed Kittra as well, reaching out for the feelings I'd felt in Kari. Kittra went rigid, and her eyes widened. It was extremely faint, but I swore I could feel surprise that wasn't mine. Seconds passed, and I felt her relax against me as I rubbed her back gently. Her tail partially wrapped around my waist, while I felt her right cheek heat up where it was pressed against my left.

Finally I withdrew, feeling glad for her being here as well. She proved that she wanted to protect me and Kari, even if she didn't fully explain it. Her eyes softened as well, dimming the amber glow in them as she suddenly blushed deeply. "Mmm, what was that for? I've never kissed quite like that,"she asked, seeming unsure.

I smiled at her gently. "Well I didn't want you to feel left out, for one. Also, I wanted to show you that I'm giving you one more chance, okay? Please don't hide anything anymore," I requested, gently, yet absolute.

Kittra's eyes softened, but she nodded rapidly. "I won't hide anything, I promise," she replied quietly.

"Good. I'll try to trust you as well," Kari added.

It struck a little chord in me, and a spike of pain suddenly went through my head. I winced and pulled my left hand off Kari's back, massaging my temple with it. My eyes widened drastically as Kari was suddenly dangling in the air, being held by a grinning, demonic silhouette! She made gasping noises, then flickered briefly. Like an old, pre-war film reel, she skipped about in the air suddenly, before running off and through the wall. Hitting my throbbing forehead, my vision blurred briefly, and the unnatural brightness to the room, and the evil silhouette, both vanished. Kari and Kittra were where I left them, Kari now looking at me in a concerned manner.

"Whoa! That must have been one of those memory bleeds," I heard Jess suddenly mutter in my mind.

I shook my head weakly. "You stop hiding things too," I muttered, feeling unnaturally cold from the image still.

Kari's eyes widened, but she dropped them rapidly and nodded. "I'm sorry again about, well, everything," she muttered.

Kittra watched her quietly for a few seconds. I sighed and looked away. It was so strange. I wanted to hold onto my memories of her before. To trust her again. But why did her being unsure about her feelings bother me? Why did her running away keep haunting me? I told her to! Kittra sat up gently and glanced out the window. My blinds were drawn, but what little street light bled through, illuminated her form gently. I gazed at her side as she stayed quiet.  She was beautiful, really. There was a lot more to her than I thought. Damn. It felt like an eternity ago.

"We've all made mistakes," came, whispered from my mind.

I smiled gently at this. It was ironic. Maybe my own distrust came from my disapproval of myself as well? I've made mistakes too. Wasn't it easier to hide them if I never let anyone near again?

Kittra sighed, snapping me out of my thoughts. "I've murdered a human before. You know this," she suddenly muttered.

Kari rolled tighter against me, and I felt her heart beating slowly against my chest. "I used to be like you, Kari. But something inside changes when you're shown how far everything can fall," she continued quietly, looking out the window.

"You're not murdering us, no?" I pointed out finally, wrapping my left arm around Kari again.

A part of me expected her to and was scared of her. She could kill us both within seconds. Another part of me didn't care, and almost wanted her to. But the third part respected her for her strength.

She actually started laughing. A quiet chuckle, which turned more solidified. Her hand clenched the sheets, and I could see the tears coming down her cheeks as she turned to face me. "I'd rather die," she muttered gently, causing a shiver to go down my spine. She was laughing at herself.

Kari surprised me again tonight, by sitting up suddenly and pulling the Hellcat back down with her. Kittra glanced back and forth between us as Kari hugged her while sliding back against me.

Kittra smiled gently after a few seconds, and relaxed into Kari's embrace, before adding, "Thank you for listening, you two."

"You're part of the team," Kari replied for me.

Kittra chuckled softly. "It will take some getting used to. I'd like to think some now, though," she admitted.

My energy brushed out and pulled the blanket up over the three of us. "We have a big day tomorrow regardless. We should all get some rest," I agreed, causing Kari to giggle.

"We'll let Master sleep, then," she teased in a mirthful manner.

I scowled. "I only accept being called that when you're amidst a mind shattering orgasm," I scolded, causing both girls to giggle.

"Mmm, well you are good at that, Keith," she added, kissing the underside of my chin.

I shook my head, and playfully asked, "That's all you two keep me around for, isn't it?"

Kari laughed. "Of course not! You're a good Teddy Bear too, no?" she reasoned, smirking.

Rolling my eyes, I was surprised when Kittra leaned up and brushed her nose along the underside of my chin. "It's been a while since I've had a Teddy, but I think I prefer Keith. Is that okay?" she asked quietly.

Kari raised an eyebrow, but I understood. "Sleep, Kittra. Everything will still be here tomorrow," I assured, pulling both girls tight.

"Thank you," Kittra murmered before relaxing against me tiredly.

Kari smiled and nodded. "Yes, thank you, Keith," she agreed.

"Good night, Kari. Good night, Kittra," I spoke softly, causing Kari to settle as well.

A long moment of silence followed. Smiling softly, I added, "Good night, Jessica."

It was a mere whisper, but I felt Kari smile, and Kittra clenched her fist against my chest. "Good night, Bro. I love you," she responded quietly, and I felt her smiling softly.

"I love you too," I added gently in my mind. A warmth spread through me, and I was glad she was truly happy. It made me feel less selfish for wanting her company. Slowly, I drifted off to sleep.

* * * * *

The morning was crisp feeling as we walked down the sidewalk. Kari was dressed in her uniform as well, "just to match me," as she explained. She'd seemed sad when she said it, so I didn't push the issue. I was concerned for her.

Our uniforms were reasonably simplistic. Just a basic suit for the guys, and a blouse and modest, knee length skirt for the girls. It was up to us to get shoes along with the uniform, but the school wasn't exactly strict with dress code. Kari had comfortable looking slip-ons, in the same navy blue as her uniform, and knee high socks due to the chill. Dad had insisted on getting me a pair of Derbies when I switched over to the high school uniform. He had always insisted that the first impression was the most important, and that I'd be meeting a lot of new people in high school.

Ultimately, it felt weird going back. After everything that happened, my mind kept going at the same speed, while the pace of life around me slowed to normal again. I was restless. An vague sense of foreboding replaced the standard. School used to be the revolving axel of most things in my life. Now it felt more like a temporary preoccupation, however.

We rounded the corner and went through the gates of the school yard. The building and grounds were ancient, having been here since pre-war times. Our area lacked the funding for refurbishment, so we re-used a lot of things. It didn't really bother me that much. Plus I got to listen to the Divas amidst the student body whine, which brought a little entertainment.

The air was chilly, and the sky overhead was overcast. There were a few groups of students outside the school, chatting, but I didn't see anyone I considered a friend. Entering the building drew no attention. Kittra surprised me by asking to be put in her ball for the trip. She'd explained that she wanted to sleep for longer, but I detected it wasn't the only reason. Patrick had been gone already when we got up as well. He'd left a note on the kitchen table stating that he was going to try camping for a couple days to "get back in practice," and hopefully catch us a few ferals for funds. He really must have been serious about sticking around. His crystal was sitting next to the note, with the explicit request to not let Kari recharge it. I should look into somehow working an adapter into it or something. I doubted it would ever be as simple as plugging it in, but maybe I could get it to accept electricity. Then Kiya could charge it and he wouldn't need me.

"Mr. Ó Braonain, welcome back," sounded from behind me as Kari and I turned to enter the classroom. I'd been deep and thought, and realized I had walked right past the principal and not noticed.

Stopping and turning around, I was greeted with the sight of a short, balding individual of lanky build, wearing a three piece brown suit. He smiled softly as we turned, and nodded towards Kari. "Thank you, Mr. Williams," I replied politely, attempting to mirror his smile.

"I've already had a chat with quite a few of your teachers, and would like you to come by after today so I can explain things, if you don't mind," he followed immediately.

I nodded solemnly. "I'll come to your office after class, then," I agreed. Kari shifted awkwardly next to me, and he chuckled.

"Yes, we got the report on your change of status, Miss Prentice. It's totally fine, and if the teachers don't mind, you can sit in and at least listen to the lectures in Keith's classes," he explained softly, smiling harder towards her.

She swallowed hard, but managed to nod curtly before turning and going into my classroom. Mr. Williams sighed, nodding to me once more before turning away. I watched him go for a few seconds before looking down. There was no avoiding it. The police had to report her threshold. I just wish she could have finished school like she wanted.

"You're not in this class, Kari," I heard from behind me. Snapping out of it, I rapidly entered the classroom and headed over to the window, where Kari was standing.

Two boys were next to her, looking curious, when I walked up. Both were familiar to me. The short and plump one with a trimmed crop of black hair was Carl. The taller boy, and redhead, was Thomas. He kept his hair longer, to his shoulders. "Hey Carl. Tom," I greeted nonchalantly, attempting to draw their attention from the silent Witch.

"Keith! You're back, and still breathing!" Thomas exclaimed immediately. Carl turned and grinned as well. I can't say they're best friends, exactly, but they're more tolerable than most. Being interested in business and computers didn't exactly make me popular with the "in" crowd.

I snorted. "Marginally better than not, I'll admit," I agreed, causing Kari to turn back and smile.

"We heard you were captured by a feral pokégirl that the police were after! Is it true?" Carl asked. A couple guys turned to look but I ignored them.

"She wasn't feral, but yeah. If she had been feral, I'd probably be dead," I added.

Tomas' eyes widened, and he commented, "She must have been strong."

I nodded gently. "A Dark Queen. It wasn't the greatest experience," I agreed, sighing weakly. I tried my hardest not to think back to that, and felt Jessica helping to push it back.

"Cool! They're really powerful!" Carl exclaimed in amazement. Tomas kicked him in the side of the leg, but not before I rolled my eyes and walked back over to my desk.

Kari followed me slowly, and gently say upon the floor next to my chair, combing her skirt out gently after adjusting her legs. She then leaned sleepily to the side and rested her cheek on my thigh. She had always been slow at waking up in the morning.

"So you're just hanging out with Keith, then?" Tomas asked politely, him and Carl following us. The three of us sat together before regardless.

Kari sighed and opened her eyes slowly. "I don't exactly have much else I can do," she muttered weakly.

"I still think we should talk to your teachers on the side. You were a good student. Maybe they wouldn't mind?" I interrupted.

"It's not exactly going to get them anything," she returned, glancing up at me sadly.

I brushed her cheek gently and nodded, trying to think of options. "Well it can't hurt to just ask," I pointed out, as Tomas looked back and forth between us. Carl stared fixated at my hand.

"You two are acting really friendly. Did something happen?" he suddenly asked, causing me to roll my eyes. He was more nosey than even Patrick.

Kari chuckled though. "Yeah. I'm his girlfriend now, kinda," she answered, looking back at Carl just as his eyes bugged out.

"Dude, you lucky bastard!" Carl declared loudly, earning a sigh from myself.

Tomas shook his head, though. "Kinda?" he asked hesitantly.

"Well Kittra kinda is too, if you go by that definition, but I like being called girlfriend," Kari added, sounding a little sad again.

Carl tilted his head. "Kittra?"

Kari simply held up her palm to him, a glowing ball of energy forming in it, rapidly expanding out to a full plant, roots extending down her arm.

"Oh hell, you thresholded!" Tomas muttered, frowning over at me as well. I readjusted, sliding my tail through the hole in the back of the chair, and nodded.

"She thresholded into a Witch to heal me, and saved my life," I explained, pulling her against me again. That got her to smile, and look up at me softly.

Tomas nodded slowly and looked sad. "I'm sorry, Kari. I know you were trying your hardest not to," he muttered gently.

Kari smiled towards him, but shook her head. "I had a high percentage chance. Besides, if I hadn't, I never would have had the energy to save Keith. I'd rather be a Pokégirl than live without him," she reasoned.

I blushed at her logic, and Tom smiled instead and nodded. "Dude! You're taming her too?! You lucky bastard!" Carl squealed suddenly.

Kari rolled her eyes, and I mentally slapped my forehead, to Jessica's laughter. "I'll just take that as a compliment, I guess," Kari added, brushing her cheek against my thigh.

Tomas ignored the gesture and shrugged. "Kittra must be another Pokégirl of yours? Can you introduce her to us after school?" he requested.

"If you don't mind waiting for me to get done talking to Mr. Williams," I offered, glancing up at him again.

"I've got nothing going after school. Carl?" Tom asked.

Carl grinned and shook his head. "Where'd you get her? I've never heard the name," he asked.

I frowned. I'd never heard the name either, I suddenly realized. She must either not be from around here, or her first tamer changed her name. I mentally flagged it for asking later.

My desk shook before I could reply, and I blinked, turning to my right. A burly guy stood in front of my desk, left foot up and resting on my desk instead. I glared at the mud coming off his shoe briefly before turning my gaze up to his face. He smelled of almost disguised sweat, and five cans of body spray. The gray tank top he wore had dark stains under each armpit, while his orange sports pants looked like he'd been wading in mud. His face had a chiseled look to it, and to top the appearance off, his rust colored hair was spiked with red dyed tips.

"Something you need, Shaun, besides a shower?" I asked wearily, looking back down at his shoe in irritation.

He chuckled before pulling his foot back. "Glad you're back. Got a few things on the side you can 'assist' with," he finally spoke, voice deep enough to vibrate the desk, practically. I was the only reason he was passing math with a high enough score to stay on the track team. He had usually paid me a modest fee to do key assignments for him. I didn't really care, as it had the added perk of keeping him and his thug friends off my back.

"You know what I charge," I muttered, causing Carl to chuckle, and Tomas to shake his head. He had always considered Carl and I as being too nice to the jock. Carl had a similar arrangement, but for history instead.

"Yeah yeah. On another note, I hear you're Kari's Tamer now," he added, grinning down at her. She looked away from him instantly, in a dismissive manner, suddenly finding the wall to my right far more interesting.

I sighed. "Yeah, and?" I gestured impatiently.

"Sweet. I've been wanting to plow her for years, but assumed she was high maintenance. How much?" he asked.

"Excuse me?!" Kari suddenly asked, looking disgustedly in his direction.

I blinked wearily. "I'm not sure I heard you right. How much for what?" I asked, eyes narrowing.

"For one go at her, dude! Just one. Half an hour tops," he clarified.

I'd never been so tempted to maim someone in my life. I admit, he used to frighten me, but I at least felt confident with my new skills enough to defend myself. "Go to hell!" Kari growled.

"Now now, you're not human anymore. You can't say no," Shaun mocked, reaching a hand out to cup her cheek.

I caught his wrist rigidly with my left hand. "I'll do the deal with your homework, but with everything else, fuck off," I snarled out sternly.

He looked smug as he attempted to rip his hand back, not realizing I had magical telekinesis locked onto his wrist as well. He got a perplexed look about him as he failed to even budge my arm. It shifted to surprise when I pulled him a foot forward with it. "Got it?" I added, glaring.

"Yeah, okay, just let go!" he whined, looking truly surprised.

I released his hand, and returned my attention to Kari, who was smirking mirthfully at me. Grinning back, I pulled her up and into my lap as I sat there, holding her as she pushed against me gently. Shaun stared irritably at me for a few seconds before shaking his head and turning away. "You've definitely changed, Keith," Tomas pointed out, smiling as well.

"I'm not sure if it's in a good way," I added, squeezing Kari gently around the stomach as she settled into my lap.

Carl laughed and shook his head. "I'd say your life has definitely improved," he stated.

My head did a minor throb again, and I fought back the feeling as I rested my chin on Kari's shoulder. "Just different," I muttered weakly. Kari must have sensed the thoughts in my voice, and gave me a gentle peck on the cheek.

"Settle down, everyone! We have a lot to cover," suddenly was called out from the front of the classroom. The teacher had finally gotten here, I guess. Carl and Tomas turned away and took their seats next to me. I stared blankly at the teacher, but worriedly decided that I couldn't remember what his name was. What the hell? My head hurt again, and the nausea came back. 

"Chill, Bro. Your memories are a mess still. Don't try to push them," Jessica muttered inside my mind, and I felt her pushing back the feelings.

I nodded gently, and let Kari slide back off my lap again so I could take notes. She contented herself with kneeling on the floor next to the desk, head in my lap for the remainder of the class period.

* * * * *

"So, Mr. Williams?" I asked after a few minutes of sitting in silence while he looked through papers on his desk.

His office was moderately sized. About twelve feet my fifteen. It was mostly sparse, with two plants and a shelf of books. A few metal cabinets were behind him with labels stuck to each drawer. I didn't pay much attention to them.

He sighed, closing the folder on his desk gently, before looking back up at us. Kari shifted uneasily in the chair directly to the left of mine.

"Spotless," he muttered suddenly, catching me off guard.

I frowned, before asking, "What is?"

He chuckled lightly. "Your record. Mostly A and B work. No noticeable unexcused absences. No deviant behavior. Spotless," he clarified.

I raised an eyebrow. "That's good, no?"

He chuckled again, weaker this time. "Quite. The police recorded in great detail where you were. A month is bad, but you have a solid reason for it," he confirmed.

"Yeah, believe me. I'd rather have done the month of school, than be beat up, tortured, and lose loved ones," I affirmed, trying and failing to hold back the bitterness.

Mr. Williams nodded slowly, and looked back down at his papers. "I never doubted it. Your teachers all agree. You have a week after school gets out. You can take your exams then. You pass, you graduate. It shouldn't be difficult," he informed.

I considered it, and nodded. "I shouldn't have issues," I agreed, relaxing in my chair. Better than I was expecting.

"We'll also let you walk with the rest of the class," he added.

I couldn't help but laugh at that one. "It hardly matters, no? Everyone who would have liked to watch the ceremony for me is dead," I reminded, staring speculatively at him.

"Keith," Kari muttered next to me, sliding her hand onto mine.

Mr. Williams remained silent for a few moments before sighing and glancing over at Kari. "Unfortunately, Miss Prentice, I don't have that great of news for you," he muttered.

Kari smiled and nodded to him. "I know, and expected as much," she returned.

"Your membership with the school has been legally dismissed. Your status has been changed to that of a Pokégirl under the current ownership of Keith. I really am sorry," he formalized.

She stared ahead for a few moments, before squeezing my hand harder. "You'll always be you to me, Kari," I reminded, causing her to smile and rest her head against my shoulder.

Mr. Williams nodded and smiled towards us. "You two are lucky to have each other, if nothing else. That's all I really had. Do you have questions?"

I shook my head and stood. "Not at the moment. If I think of any, I'll ask tomorrow," I replied warily. Maybe it was empathic bleed from Kari, but I suddenly felt tired and just wanted to get home.

The principal nodded. "Take it easy then, you two. I'll see you tomorrow," he spoke as I headed towards the door, Kari sticking very close to my side.

"You too," I called back, as we went down the hallway.

"Brutal, Kari. I'm sorry," suddenly came from my right, as Carl caught up to us, Tomas lagging behind a little.

Kari shook her head softly. "I knew it was coming, and had already prepared," she assured, still not letting go of my hand.

"You have our most sincere condolences. Is there anything we can do?" Tomas asked, catching up to Carl.

Kari smiled finally, but shook her head. "Aside from the company, nothing you aren't already doing," she returned. I made a mental note to talk to her in private later tonight about it. Hopefully she'll open up to me. She was as quiet about things as me, so I was concerned.

We headed outside in silence. The sun hid behind the clouds, and the wind from the North was a little chilly. I silently wished it would warm up soon. The schoolyard was largely empty save for us. We headed around the side of the school and angled in the direction of my house.

"Yo, Egg Head!" I suddenly heard screamed from alley kitty corner from the school.

Sighing, I realized that was probably directed at me, and glanced in the general direction. As anticipated, Shaun and three other jock-looking types exited the alley and headed towards us. "I'll pick up your homework tomorrow, chill," I groaned, wishing we'd taken the long way now.

"Not why we're here," Shaun replied, having crossed the street and was now standing in front of us, fifteen feet away.

I shook my head. "Then what do you want?" I asked impatiently.

"Kyle?" he gestured, looking towards his left. A taller boy stepped forward. He was in punk attire, and had longer black hair to compliment. He grinned in a way that made me want to take a shower or two, and then raised his left arm up. I stared at the single Pokéball in it.

I raised an eyebrow, but he suddenly announced, "I challenge you to a Salvage Battle, no restrictions, for Kari!"

Chapter 13 - End