Losing The Light Of The Moon

Truces and Lies

Chapter 18: Truces and Lies

TATIANA

Taking another huge bite of the cookie, Horacio thought out loud, “So, these cookies—which are even better than my mother’s, a feat I never imagined possible—are not only a bribe, but a I told you so? How did you get Tink and Beast to agree to a truce and agree to this plan of yours?”

“As my son stated earlier, I am a woman of many talents,” I slyly grinned, “ including passing on wisdom that seems to have inspired our Tink. Remember the four horsemen of Mystic Fire?”

“Very well, they were always impressive together,” Horacio thoughtfully replied, “Come to think of it, size-wise, I suppose we do match up.”

“Do I take it you may be inspired as well?” I sweetly replied, “I know of your reluctance in our earlier discussion at the lake. You were afraid a truce would make you appear soft, I believe.”

“Yeah, well, you did save my life again, so if I needed to, I can say I was repaying the favor,” Horacio countered, “Plus, knowing you, this demonstration will be quite the show. Seeing what the four of us can do in battle may have my men thinking I was smart to call a truce.”

“You were smart to call a truce?” I retorted, folding my arms in front of me while leaning back in the chair, “Twisting the truth is your plan, hmmmm?”

“You know as well as I do, Tati,” Horacio mused, “As leaders, sometimes we only have to reveal part of the truth for others to see the right path that should be taken.”

Leaning forward again, I slowly drawled out, “So, that’s a...yes?”

“Depends,” Horacio teasingly replied after popping another piece of cookie into his mouth, “Who else is on this team of yours?”

“Why don’t I tell you while we have Tink and Beast come up to join us?” I satisfyingly countered back with a bright smile.

*************

It was obvious I had not only peaked Horacio’s interest with the four horsemen comment, but deep inside, he did genuinely respect my two young powerhouses...

As she walked into his room, Horacio complimented, “You look really nice today, Tink. I hope your Aunt Tati didn’t force you to dress up just for me.”

“It wasn’t for you,” Beast gruffly stated, his words thick with warning, much like his narrowed eyes were.

Tink calmly took Beast’s hand in hers, squeezing it as she deadpanned, “Thanks for the compliment, o’ Furious One, but you just caught me on a good day. Think you already know I’m more of the in-your-face and action kind of gal than a fashion queen.”

“I do,” Horacio chuckled out, “I can still taste the dirt of one action in particular. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t impressed that day—and ever since.”

Nodding towards Beast, he sincerely added, “I was complimenting Tink, I promise Beast. I apologize if it came across any other way.”

Beast seemed to relax slightly, his eyes both surprised and curious as he lowly said, “You want the truce.”

Looking over at me, Horacio smirked, “Well, Tati has made several good points and, as we all know, she is incredibly relentless when she wants something this badly. Though I’m sure you are surprised I would even consider a truce considering our past.”

Looking around at the three of them, I softly stated, “Life is too short to be spent nursing animosity. Though sometimes difficult to realize and achieve, inner peace and happiness is a much better alternative.”

Clearing his throat, Horacio graciously stated, “Relentless and philosophical...although it is another valid point.”

Standing up, Horacio hesitantly took two long strides towards Tink and Beast, folding his arms in front of him as he reluctantly said, “I think we can all admit that each of us has a competitive spirit and likes to show off our strength and intimidation. And while I won’t speak for you, I can readily admit—I don’t like defeat. I loathe it. So much so, I tend to hold a grudge and, at times, let it get the best of me.”

“You went after Tink,” Beast lowly growled out, protectively pulling her closer to his side. I began to wonder if my kindhearted warrior was having second thoughts...

“My big guy can hold a grudge too, especially when it comes to me,” Tink uncomfortably chuckled out, reaching up to lovingly pat Beast on the stomach as she looked up and comforted him, “But he also knows his Beast bear can handle herself just like I did that day.”

“If it helps, Beast, I was sore for weeks after that last little stunt. In fact, I worried there was permanent damage. Umar was worried about permanent damage too, but mostly from his mate. It’s never pretty when Celestia is angry, and she was furious when she found out what we did. He got quite an earful when he got home and I wasn’t allowed back in the house until just recently,” Horacio kindly told them.

Turning his attention back to Tink, Horacio appreciatively stated, “You really are good at nicknames, by the way. In fact, I can’t decide which one I like better because they both are harsh truths. As he has bested me on most occasions, it is well-known that I go after Beast every chance I get on the training field. Knowing you were his mate and for once he was vulnerable, I took advantage of the chance to torment him by going after you at the demonstration. For that, I sincerely apologize to both of you.”

Extending his hand out towards Beast, Horacio earnestly stated, “That’s something I should have been in my apology to both of you that day, but especially you, Beast—sincere. It was incredibly cruel what we did—forcing you to watch—unable to do anything—while we attacked your mate...or tried to, at least. You surprised us both, though—the strength you showed in resisting the overwhelming urge to protect her—instead, trusting Tink and her vast abilities—and of course, your highly unusual vocal outburst of adoration and pride when your mate bested us. I would really like there to be a truce between us if you are willing...and I know Umar will agree.”

Slowly bringing out his hand, Beast placed it in Horacio’s before shaking it firmly, earnestly breathing out, “Better to work together.”

“Especially with what the Dark One has planned!” Tink eagerly exclaimed, reaching out to take Horacio’s hand.

Horacio immediately complied, laughing out, “The Dark One and the King of Fury working together on the same side? Sounds both intimidating and dangerous—right up my alley and truth be told...I can’t wait to see what you have in store for the new four horsemen!”

**************

JILLIAN

I slowly walked down the hallway towards Arturo’s room, bracing myself for today’s torture. As I got closer to his room, however, I realized that he was not alone...

“At least the Howling Winds aren’t part of this integrated army that enabled the Spirit Walkers to remain unscathed last night,” Arturo exhaled out, his tone irate, “Although Soren’s mate is Nicholas’ aunt—.”

“Just remember our exit plan should things go south quickly,” Lucious vehemently interrupted, “I’m not ending up like those men, Arturo. Kristoff and Amelia can seal their fates if they want to with the Crescent Moons. As difficult as they are, I’m regretting our decision to join them in the first place.”

“Agreed, but while Nicholas has the upper hand, Soren is extremely less fortunate than his allies,” Arturo quietly stated, “He has struggled to secure his legacy as Alpha. Two daughters whose mates were not suitable to take over. Until his grandson Mattias, it looked like Umar would inherit the role. He’s always been fiercely loyal to Howling Wind.”

Mattias. Amelia’s vision in the sky—was that his name? WAIT! My mate was the future ALPHA of the Howling Wind pack? Looking at Arturo’s door, I was consumed with shame. Surely the Moon Goddess wouldn’t fate someone like me to him. I was not only from the Blood Horizon pack—a sworn enemy—but tainted as well. As soon as he found out, he was bound to refuse me...

It didn’t matter! Even if I was destined to be refused, I couldn’t let them hurt Mattias! I had to figure out a way to find out exactly what their plans were for him—and somehow, I would help him—I had to help him! Arturo was the key—but getting him to tell me would not be easy...

“Jillian?” Arturo’s grating voice called out, snapping me out of my thoughts and back to my worst nightmare, as he and Lucious were staring at me from the doorway, “What are you doing just standing out here?”

“Sorry,” I shamefully replied, quickly lying, “I couldn’t remember if I took Kristoff’s laundry to his room. It didn’t end well for me the other day when I made him angry.”

“Don’t worry about Kristoff,” Arturo sneered, “I reminded him that you are mine and he was never to lay a hand on you again. No one else touches you but me, Jillian, or they will pay a price worse than death!”

Deciding to plant the first seed in my plan, I slowly brought my eyes up to meet with his, envisioning Mattias as I forced myself to gaze at him in wonder and awe. Easing my way up to stand directly in front of him, I softly murmured, “You really do—you really—care about me, don’t you?”

Lucious leaned down to inaudibly whisper into Arturo’s ear, “Think I’ll leave you two alone now.”

Arturo’s eyes clouded over in lust, his hands cupping my face, huskily breathing out, “I’ve been telling you that for months now—I always protect what is mine, Jillian, at all costs. And you will always be mine!”

**********

HORACIO

I had to give Tink credit—she had a brain for battle. Her ideas were intricate and creative for our newly formed collaboration. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to the demonstration, especially as a member of Tatiana’s little army...

After our lengthy discussion, I asked Tati to stay behind for a minute while Tink and Beast left to say goodbye to Alastor and Vivian.

“Well, that went even better than I anticipated,” Tatiana happily declared, “Tink really liked your suggestions. I think she will quickly see the experience and knowledge you and Umar bring to the table.”

I couldn't help but let out a heavy roll of laughter, “You do love getting your way, don’t you? You’re all giddy and glowing!”

As I said the last word, I looked at Tati’s beautiful face and it was—it was glowing. Her glittering platinum curls bouncing all around her delicate cheeks, her wide bright smile, and her eyes—they were genuinely dancing as the flecks of hazel glistened within her brown irises. She was absolutely stunning...

“I saw your face light up plotting with Tink,” she delightedly countered, “I’m not the only one excited about this group we are forming. I am looking forward to discussing it further with Umar. Hopefully, he will be as open to it as you think.”

“My involvement will be enough for Umar to quickly see the benefit,” I grinned, “He respects my judgement and honestly, will be glad the feud is over. He prefers peace—especially at home.”

“Well, I should go,” Tatiana pleasantly replied, “It’s getting late, and I have to work on plans for our demonstration—and obtain the services of our other members.”

“That won’t be hard,” I chuckled, “The rest of your choices love and adore you. I’m sure they too will jump at the chance to be a part of your wickedness.”

“Wickedness?” Tatiana slyly grinned, “I prefer mischievousness.”

“Same difference,” I knowingly smirked before quickly adding, “You’re good at both...and at baking. Feel free to pop in and bribe me anytime with those cookies. My door is always open to you.” My wolf and I both hoped Tati would come to visit often, both of us feeling so relaxed and at ease whenever she was in the room.

A burst of musical giggles echoed the answer we sought, “I’m glad you liked them. It’s good to know I have a weapon at my disposal if I need one, but I’ll try not to be too wicked and make more social visits with them instead.”

“Sounds perfect,” I slowly breathed out, hoping that Tati would do just that.

***********

TINK

Laying across Beast’s chest, I reached out and grabbed another one of Auntie’s cookies off the plate on the floor. As I always did, I broke it half to share with my huge hunk of testosterone, “You were right, big guy. Tonight was definitely a kitchen destruction kind of night. I was doubly hungry—for you and for these.”

“Helps you think,” Beast thoughtfully replied, then laughed, “and gives you energy to survive my magic fingers. Finish the plate—I’m not done with you yet.”

“Ha-Ha, very funny, o ’insatiable one!” I sarcastically retorted, “Don’t make me invoke the ‘you can only say four words again’ punishment!”

“I’m happy about the truce,” Beast contentedly breathed out, taking another cookie off the plate, and performing our normal sharing ritual.

“Me too!” I excitedly exclaimed, “The new four horsemen—I can’t wait! Overall, this has been an excellent day. My favorite was surprising you, though.”

Gently twirling one of my curls with his finger, Beast sweetly said, “You looked really pretty today, Clemmie.”

“Thanks, big guy,” I lovingly replied, “I’m glad you liked your surprise. I really liked it too. Auntie was amazing. She knew exactly what to do. She kept me comfy and not all fru-fru. She’s even going to make me some more stuff like that so I can dress up a little for you.”

Lifting me up to look him in the eyes, Beast ran his hand over the braid on the side of my head. At first, I was surprised at his serious tone as he whispered out, “You don’t have to dress up for me, Clemmie. What made it so pretty to me was you liked it. Like I said, I love all your Tink-styles. I love you, all my heart forever a lot!”

There it was—he hit me in the feels again—like only my Beast could...

“Glad I didn’t restrict you to four words, big guy—I really like the thirty-eight you just used,” I breathlessly murmured, leaning down to softly kiss his lips, softly breathing out against them afterwards, “Man, I love you! All my heart, forever a lot!”

Slowly, a wide grin crossed my big guy’s face before he pressed his lips against mine for a long lingering kiss that ceased any further words or thoughts to enter my mind—though that didn’t last very long at all...

Reaching up, I broke yet another handle off the cabinet behind us, which is why we now had a stash hidden in a drawer. As he continued his arousing attack down low, Beast let out a low satisfied moan after I rasped out against his lips in ecstasy, “Ohhhhh! Those magic fingers! I really, REALLY love those too! I’m all YOURS, my huge hunk of testosterone! It's bang-bang time, baby!”