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After I have my fill of food, Aiolos sits me down by the fire which is just beginning to roar. I am uneasy, but his voice is soothing as he speaks. Needless to say he is full of useful information. If not baggy clothes.
“We head this group of Wilds, Sibyl and I. The Term Savage Wilds having been slapped upon us by people who have encountered us at a distance, but never took to knowing us. There are stories of other indigenous people. Native Americans who once roamed the lands and cared for them, leaving little disturbance in their wake. But the people of this former united country drove them out and their culture died during the warring. Their people being bred out of existence. We wilds are some of what’s left. The Werebears and Werecats here claim Native Blood. As for I and Sibyl, our families came across from Greece many years ago, before the great Civil War that tore this country apart. We remember when it was gainful, lawful, and fruitful. When roads and cars still passed through the lands as easily as you could walk. Sure there were problems, but there was also help. Back then we worked for a conservation center that was part of the Government before the collapse. Together we did what we could to protect the existence of the Weres from the people. We were good at our job.”
“I don't understand what that's got to do with me, or how you could remember something that happened before we were even born. That war was almost fifty years ago. Besides that, I didn’t ask for any of this. Are you going to force it on me or am I free to leave?”
“You may go, but we captured you because you were losing the battle with your wolf's nature. You are not one or the other. You must find the balance. How long have you been on your own?”
“Years. I told you I lost my family.”
“So it's been you and your wolf all this time?”
“No.” I answered simply. “I've been like this less than a year...”
“Really? You are a young wolf, still a pup so to speak, and yet you carry yourself like an Alpha already. That is a wonderful strength. It took me years to work up in the ranks. You could do much good with us. Why not leave your blood oaths and join us? We can give you everything you need. You and your wolf. While there is little room in our pack for one such as you, we have been looking for a female who could begin another pack in Northern California.”
“Really, not into that. Thanks for yer help but ain't somethin' I want. I ain't yer girl.”
“Maybe not now, but perhaps in time. We are patient and it's not like you're not going to be around for a long, long while.”
“How do you mean?” I ask, curious. It is sounding as though I am going to be kept by these strange people. I find myself wishing for my guns, for the protection of my guy clothes and the confidence they bring me.
“You do not know then? Along with the wolf comes other... Benefits, such as advanced healing and an extended life. It's truly a blessing and curse.”
I stare blankly at him. I know I healed fast when I got bit, but extended life... Life is hard enough without more of it. I really wish I'd listened to J.D. Maybe then I wouldn't have felt so utterly shocked and stupid.