Beast World

Chapter 8 – Guardian Beast

By the time Derik reached the other side of the village at Johnston’s house both Johnston and the tribe leader Astro were present and waiting. A new female was a big deal, especially one of Charlie’s calibre. Disappointment flooded his head as they silently all entered the home.

Johnston’s house was built around a tree as the main support. Logs tied together made up the walls of his 2-room abode. The roof consisted of large leaves all intertwined to form waterproof panelling. Without missing a beat Derik gently lay the still sleeping Charlie on the examination bed. As he pulled the furs off her body and tucked her in properly revealing her prefect and pure features a small murmur left her sleeping lips as she furrowed her eyebrows appearing to be upset. Derik heart stirred unconsciously hoping it was the loss of his warmth.

Astro and Johnston looked down upon Charlotte’s sleeping form before leading the way out of the house to chat concerning the situation. Derik relayed the details concerning how he found Charlie and the male he killed. Leaving out the intimate details which could spell his execution he also eluded to her unwillingness to take a male and unhappiness at being brought to the clan. Meaning when she woke it could be an issue.

Astro seemingly not phased, “you did the right thing, she is a spectacular find. I will send Ebson to spend the day with her, hopefully she will accept him prior to the ceremony this afternoon”. Looking at Johnston, Astro continued, “you will check, but if I am not mistaken she is from Earth".

At the thought of his little Charlie in the arms of Ebson anger raged inside Derick's chest. Pushing the thought out of his mind, “Earth?” he repeated in an uncertain tone.

Johnston’s nodded his head, “I believe you are correct leader.” Turning to Derik, “Earth contains both pure males and females, every few hundred years there is an appearance. Best not say anything to her, as she will never be able to return.”

“Breeding her frequently will be favourable as she will be fertile all year-round bleeding monthly". Astro lips pulled into a calculative smile thinking of all the pure cubs that could be born into the clan. Astro turned to leave wanting to summon Ebson as quick as possible.

Unable to control himself Derik called out to Astro, “will you let her choose her own males?”

Shocked that Derik would have any interest in the matter, Astro turned to face him. Standing shorter than Derik Astro looked up at him, “but of course, however I want to steer her in the right direction to benefit the clan. You should offer her your services as a guardian this afternoon since she has perked your interest. I don’t want you around her before then, give her and Ebson space.”

Derik watched intently as Astro walked away turning his suddenly golden gaze on Johnston as his arm was grabbed forcefully. “Derik your eyes, calm yourself child”. Johnston had never seen Derick so uncontrolled since he first found him in the forest. “Speak quickly before Ebson arrives.”

Derik’s anger and possessiveness were manifesting, his little Charlie was provoking extreme reactions from his body, his emotions and his heart. Trusting Johnston completely he was like his father and mother combined, Derik shared the whole story. Nearly marking her and all. “I just can’t get her out of my head and chest since the moment I laid my eyes on her, I can’t explain it”

Johnston pursed his lips looking quite unimpressed. “Go, I will take care of Charlotte. For your sake I hope your mistakes do not come to air ever.”

Before Derik could respond a hulking black wolf appeared behind him. Growling at Derik in an attempt to make him leave. Derik turned on his heels facing the beast with a cold expression full of malice before transforming himself and roaring menacingly in return before walking down the dirt track. Derik decided to go hunting before this afternoon to keep himself occupied. Before getting too far he heard little Charlie shout his name in anxiety. Gaining his speed into a sprint he whined like a cub replaying the words of Astro over and over, “You should offer her your services as a guardian”.