The Reedemed Alpha

Liscence

Johnathan

Jonathan

Standing outside on the sidewalk in front of a small boutique he had passed several times each time he came into town for supplies he knew it would do for now for her new clothing.

'Belle of the ball?' Vena read the gold font that was scrawled above the door with an eyebrow raised.

'Yes. The woman that owns this charming boutique is named Belle. I've seen her from time to time on my trips to town. She can help you find some things to buy.'

Reaching in his pocket he gave her a thick stack of folded bills.

‘Here. Shop around. I'm going just around the corner to the courthouse to start on our license. I'll meet you back here in about an hour.'

'Don't you need clothes too?' She asked while slipping the money in the front pocket of her jacket.

'Yes. I'll shop after.'

Looking at the boutique then back at him again she looked as if she wanted to ask something but shook her head. 'Alright.'

He watched her walk into the small store before disappearing inside.

Walking into the courthouse he waited in the lobby for the county clerk.

A small wiry man appeared an hour later from the back of the building and turned his nose up at the sight of Jonathan's rugged appearance.

‘May I help you?’ The man sneered.

Jonathan flexed his knuckles and heard the satisfying crack he approached the desk.

‘Yes. I’m here to apply for a marriage license. I understand judge Duley is here. I’d like to see him as well.’

‘Is he expecting you?’

‘No. But I assure you he will see me.’

‘Very well and your name is…?’

‘Johnathan. Jonathan Villr.’

‘Right. Fill out these forms while I call down to his office.’

The pompous man picked up the desks phone and dialed.

‘Hello judge Duley. I have a man here who insists that you will see him.’

Jonathan could hear the gruff old man’s voice on the other end.

‘His name?’

‘Johnathan Villr.’

The pause on the other end of the phone was as loud as thunder.

‘How long has he been waiting in that Lobby, Arnold?!’

The mans face turned pale as milk.

‘I-I don’t know sir-’

‘Bring him in here now!’

Clearing his throat the man hung up the phone.

‘If you’ll please follow me sir.’

They went behind the counter and through the door leading down a corridor.

The door on the left had judge Duley scrawled across opaque glass.

The man knocked shakily.

‘Come in.’

‘I’ll leave you here. If you need anything i’ll have my assistant bring it.’

Ignoring the man Johnathan walked past him and opened the door.

‘Hello. Fred. It’s been a long time. I must say your help hasn’t improved.’

The large balding man raised from his seat and stuck out his hand.

‘Mr. Villr. I apologize. What can I do for you?’

‘I want a marriage license. I want it fast. As in yesterday.’

Fred Dudley moved his two fingers and tugged nervously at the collar of his shirt.

‘I-i’m afraid those take at least a few weeks-’

‘Need I remind you of the donations I have generously given to your pathetic little town? It was barely breathing when I showed up. We had a deal. I give compensation to you folk, leave me alone. I also believe you’re reaping the benefits of being let into the human faction. Surely you didn’t think knowing the secrets of the supernatural wouldn't come at a price. I think one small favor can be granted as well, don’t you?’

‘Well…I'm sure we can work something out.’

‘Grand. What is needed?’

Fred pulled out a pad of paper and a pen.

‘Both of your names. Proof of Identification. Any marriages previously?’

‘No.’

‘Ages?’

She’s nineteen. We shall say I'm twenty-eight. Her name is Vena.’

‘Last name?’

‘Not important. What’s important is she will take my last name.’

‘Right. I’ll get started on this and sign it. It will be ready by tomorrow. Do you wish to pick it up or send it to you.’

‘I'll pick it up.’

‘Is there anything else I can do for you?’

He stilled before answering.

‘Yes. Now that you mention it. Contact your mayor. I need your police and people to discreetly keep an eye and ear out for any soutsiders inquiring about her, if any should, I need to be informed immediately.’

Fred studied Johnathan curiously before looking away. ‘Is this woman in any kind of trouble?’

Jonathan set his jaw. ‘As long as I'm around, no. But I need to be made aware if anyone is planning to make trouble for her.’

As he strolled out of the building he thought eagerly of the next steps to take in the plan.

He paused as he rounded the corner to find her sitting on a bench outside the store. No purchases were around her. She sat with her arms crossed and a very pissed-off look on her face.