After the Change (HaloHeroWolf118, DawnShadows)

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mike woke up early and yawned stretching as he sat up in his bed it had been several years since the disease had swept across the world bringing with it change. Many people had been effected by the disease and altered by it, Mike had been one of many who the disease had not effected but his brother had not been so lucky. His mother and father had disowned him after the disease did what it did to him, Mike had shouted at them for hours after finding his brother on his doorstep with all his things packed behind him. Mike had taken his brother in and had supported him through it all and noted Jason was feeling better since returning to school at sixteen his little brother had no one else to turn to save him a few affected cousins. Mike got out of his bed dressed only in boxers and walked to Jason's room down the hall and knocked on the door. "C'mon Jason get up and get ready." he said knocking on the door loudly. He stopped only when he heard the grumbling from inside, returning to his room Mike ran a hand through his sandy blonde hair and looked at himself in the mirror on his closet door. Mike was good looking well toned and broad shouldered with bright emerald eyes. Mike pulled out some clean clothes jeans, AC/DC t-shirt and shoes he sprayed on some deodorant having showered last night before pulling on his clothes. Stepping out of his room he heard the shower going and knew Jason was up, he walked into the kitchen and poured himself a bowl of Grape Nuts.
//////////////////////////////////

Jason woke to the knocking on his door and called out that he was up, yawning as he sat up in bed Jason looked down at his hands. Once they had been normal hands but now they were covered in black fur and tipped with canine nails. The other side of his hands where his palms were were now pads and his ears stood up on top of his head. The disease had turned Jason into a anthro wolf but not everyone had that was the thing about the disease it changed you either based on what animal you hung around with or what animal it chose. He had been lucky though now his brother saw no reason to keep him from going to High School. He was worried as he had not seen many others like him but he could no longer avoid it he had been home-schooled for his freshmen year and was starting that year as a Sophmore. Jason had been different before the change as he had a like for boys rather than girls a fact that he had hidden for years deciding he would come out after getting out of High School only Mike knew and he had been cool about it. He got up grabbed his clothes from his closet and leaving his room for the bathroom. Never wore clothes to bed see it as redundant given he had fur now, he looked at himself in the mirror his amber eyes looked back at him from under his long black and red bangs. Another thing about the disease had been the odd fur coloring it created in some of the ones it changed. For Jason his fur was red and black though in a particular way the red created a tribal like tattoo on his right shoulder and upper back and ending on his left shoulder and the tips of his head fur. He like the coloring he had and had grown use to the tail that wagged lazily behind him. Padding into the shower he started it up. He bathed and dried he was pulling on his shirt as he walked into the kitchen was his brother was just finishing his bowl of cereal. He poured himself a bowl and sat down, "I don't want to go." he said at last after a long silence.

"To bad your going." Jason said which brought an annoyed sigh from Jason, "It going to be okay." he said which brought only a grunt from the young wolf across from him. "There are going to be others like you at the school so it will be okay you might even find you like boys who have been turned." Mike offered trying to cheer his younger brother up.

Jason merely nodded as he munched on his cereal and hoped that his brother was right. Jason looked around the modest little two bedroom his brother had moved them into a few months after he had come to live with him. No pictures of their parents adorned the wall only pictures of them both before and after his change. Mike had done his best for Jason working hard and giving up so much for Jason his thoughts turned to that Mike was right and that he had to make it work for Mikes sake. He felt more Determined to make school work, he finished his bowl and met his brother out in the car.

Mike washed out his bowl and grabbed his wallet and keys from the table by the door, "I'll be in the car when your ready." he told Jason. He strolled to the 1967 Chevrolet Impala and climbed into the drivers seat, the black vehicle had a nice paint job on it with a flaming skull on the engine hood. Jason slipped into the seat beside him and he turned the car on. They drove with the radio on listening to some good modern rock it took them half an hour to reach the school and Jason got out. Nervously Mike had to get out as well just to drop off contact information and so forth. The passed many kids on their way in for Mike it was like going back in time schools always made him feel his age, they waited in the front office for a few minutes. After a while they had everything squared away and Jason was off for his first class, the principal gave make some forms to fill out and Mike did before leaving and going to work.

Jason found his first class room which for him was study hall it was the first day of school and so every one came to study hall first before being given their schedules. Jason took a seat in the back of the class trying to make himself as invisible as possible there weren't that many kids who had been changed like him and the only cute boy Jason saw that had been turned was an Otter.

 

[DawnShadows]

RE: After the Change

Dylan slowly opened his eyes as his alarm went off, reaching out with a furred otter hand to shut it off. He sat up, rubbing at his eyes, the green orbs adjusting to the light in the room. He got up and began getting ready for school, brushing the bit of longer brown fur that hung in his eyes, scrubbing at his teeth, and spraying deodorant on him since he no longer had armpits. He ran his sleeked hands over his fur, making sure his whiskers were straight before putting on some skinny jeans and a loose t shirt. Once ready he grabbed his bag and made his way to the front of the house, only to find his sister was not awake. Quietly he made his way to her room, poking at her sleeping mound gently.

Two beige ears popped out from the sheets that hid her sleeping form, "Yes Dylan?" Her words were heavy with sleep, her body curling tighter in on itself, trying to hold on to what dreams were still tangible.

"I'm going to be late to school..." his voice trailed off, even though he was seventeen he still didn't have his license. At this Annabelle sat up, her German Shepherd form becoming evident as the sheet slipped down. She barely remembered to cling to it so she wouldn't be exposed to her brother, they didn't wear clothes as they slept. Not wanting to risk it Dylan turned his back to her, his long tail brushing against the carpet.

Annabelle looked at the clock, "Oh ****! Alright, I'll be out in five!" She jumped out of bed just as Dylan made his way out, she looked around frantically. Not having enough time to get properly ready she put her under garments roughly, next finding a pair of blue jean shorts and after sniffing the fabric she put on a Sublime loose shirt. Brushing her teeth and fur quickly and spraying perfume on she rushed out of her room, grabbing a pair of sneakers on the way. Dylan was waiting by the door and she tossed him the keys so he could get the car ready while she hobbled, trying to get her shoes on.

Annabelle and Dylan had both been infected by the virus while they were camping with their parents. Dylan had been by the lake, near a family of beavers while Annabelle had been playing with the family dog when they started showing signs. Out of fear, their parents sent them to live in an apartment they would pay for, their children living there rent free. But they weren't their children any more, the most communication they got was a Christmas cared signed with 'From' instead of 'Love'. But that didn't matter, Dylan was now in his Junior year of high school and Annabelle was currently working at an herb store, having studied botany in college. Not much cash was coming in with the rent free apartment, and it showed as they drove in a beat up old car that was falling apart. They had joked that the thing would give out by next Spring, but it seemed like it's clock ended now.

Dylan looked at the time before jumping out of the car, "I'm sorry sis, I would love to help but I'm already late. I wish you luck!" He said as he took off running down the street, school only a block away. Grumbling to herself, Annabelle got out of the car and glared at it before looking around for any helpful face. Finding none in the passing humans she sighed but spotted a mechanic shop right across the road. Timing her adventure she managed to push the car the short distance to the opened garage of the place, putting her hands on her knees and taking a few deep breaths before calling out.

She stood up, "Will someone please come assist me before I scrap this piece of junk myself?!"

Dylan made it to class just as the bell rang, sitting in the seat nearest the door. He took a deep breath before rummaging through his pack and pulling out some material he had to study for the coming test in his history class. He ran a hand through his hair, moving it from his bright green eyes as he gave his full attention to the paper.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

((I don't think they mix classes so I'm bumping Jason up a grade since Dylan is a Junior. Also I have no Idea how Home Schooling works.))

Mike had only just pulled on his coveralls when he spotted the Anthro girl pushing her broken down vehicle, Mike being the knight in shining armor that he was hurried towards her. She was a German Shepard and Mike found her to be attractive he was one of the few humans that found the women that had been affected to still be beautiful. This attraction had gotten him into a few fights when sticking up for the few people he knew who were like his brother. "I'll give you a hand." he said to her as he took a place next to her and helped her push, "Get in and steer." he told her as he navigated her to his part of the garage. Mike straitened up once they came to a stop, looking over the car Mike could tell it had been on its last leg for some time. "You might just have to scrap it anyway." he said and it would be a shame the car though old and rusted was still a classic, "Its not going to take much to get it running but to keep it running is a whole different story." he said to her as he looked over the degraded vehicle. Mike smiled though and cracked his neck, "I do love a challenge." he added before turning his full attention on the owner his eyes running up her legs and coming to rest on her face. "I'm Mike." he said offering her his hand, he had to refrain from making a pet joke like he had with Jason since he knew it might be rude. Many humans didn't like the Changed as they were called many hadn't adjusted well to the sudden onset of the changes the news had covered several incidents that still made Mike cringe. At first people had been secreted away by authorities but that soon ceased once it had spread to far, those that had been taken were released. Mike was one of many though still few who were accepting of the change and for Jason's sake he had held off on poking fun at him. Still he stood there his hand held out in genuine greeting hoping she wasn't the sort who would over think the gesture due to her change.
/////////////////////

Jason was a little nervous having been out of public school for so long he felt rather lost he looked at the otter and noted that he looked older than he was if just by a year. One of the odd things it would seem that he had been bumped up a year thanks to his home-school teacher having provided the school with the recommendation as one of the teachers in this high school. Jason didn't know what he was going to be doing in the class so he just sat there doodling in his note book while they waited for the teacher. It wasn't a long wait but Jason was still as to why he was now a Junior due to some extra credits he had earned thanks to his home schooling. The Study Hall teacher told them to just go over their homework and so forth and since this was Jason's first day he just doodled, often times he'd look up at the otter and couldn't stop thinking he was cute.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle nodded once, still unsure of the human male as he began assisting her. Once safely inside the shop she got out of the car, straightening her outfit and touching up her fur. She wasn't really made up to be out in public, but what much more could she do anyway?

She looked him over before answering, "I'd love to but this is my only means of transportation." She softened though as he said he could get it running again and gave a bemused smile as he commented about loving a challenge. He would enjoy working with her then. She noticed his eyes running up her legs, a rare sight to see in humans, and she couldn't stop her tail from giving two short wags.

She took his hand gently, her voice soft, "I'm Annabelle. Do you know what's wrong with this dinosaur? And how much it's going to cost.." She looked winded as she started imagining how much money it would take to keep this thing alive. She released Mike's hand and opened the hood of the car, peering inside. Since her parents had money her and her brother had managed to avoid being transported to a testing facility, but still felt outcasted none the less.


Dylan paid no attention to the teacher, supporting his head with his hand as he tried to take in all the information. Becoming stressed, he gave up, and placed his head on the desk for a few heartbeats. When he looked up he twitched his nose, making his whiskers dance before he scanned the room, noticing a wolf hybrid glancing at him. He hadn't seen the boy before but after spotting an open seat, and waiting for the teacher's back to be turned, he made his way closer to the boy. A row of desks between them, and a human girl, he waited to make eye contact before waving a paw at him. If the wolf boy was staring at him why didn't he have the right to address the issue? He sat there, grabbing at his tail instinctively, as he waited to see what the wolf boy would do. He half hoped he would get offended and start something, a great way to start off the day, but he also wanted to figure him out. Dylan knew all of the hybrids at school, so if this was a new one he needed to get to know him.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mike sighed as he followed her to the front of her car, "Could be a number of things but if it's run this long without a problem then it might either be the starter or the engine itself." he said as he looked over the engine. His dad had taught him how to fix cars by ear but if the vehicle couldn't turn over at all there was no hope with that, "I'll go over the starter and see if that's the problem it will get you back on the road. As for the cost we're running a special we'll only take your arm up to the elbow." he said trying to make a joke. After he stopped chuckling at his own humor he looked at Annabelle, "Who ever sold you this wasn't being generous." he added as he bent over to get a closer look at the problem area. "Hmmm, it might just be the starter if I can replace that and get you to turn the car on I could listen for any more problems its also the cheapest solution." he said as he pulled out the proper tools from his belt and began to work. "So was it the family pet or the neighbors dog? If you don't mind me asking?" he said as he looked back at Anna, "My brother was camping with my folks when he ran into a wolf and he started to change." he added as he tried not to be rude in his questioning.

Jason watched as the otter shifted seats to be just a row and a human girl between them there eyes met and blushing could be seen through fur then Jason was burning pink. The otter waved and Jason waved back giving a nervous but friendly smile, Jason tried to focus on his doodling but kept looking up at the otter now that he seemed to have caught his attention. Jason hoped he hadn't done something to upset the otter he knew people didn't like being stared at but Jason had rarely seen another Changed but his tail wagged a little bit at the prospect of someone like the otter noticing him. He wrote a not in his note book large enough to read from a distance and lifted it up so the otter could see, *Hello, I'm Jason.* it read. His parents reaction to his change as well as that of his few friends had made him rather introverted so he rarely struck up a conversation unless someone spoke to him first. His brother had been the only person cool with the change and his sexual preference his brother was just awesome like that and Jason knew he had held back on doggy jokes for his sake due to his depression over his situation.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle nodded her head once, acting like she knew what he was talking about. She kept a straight face as she followed him around, silently cursing the car for being worthless. Taking him seriously her mouth dropped slightly at the suggested price, her right hand instinctively going to her left forearm. As he laughed in a joking manner she relaxed, offering a pleasant smile when he looked to her.

"Cheapest solution sounds good to me." she said, thinking back to just how much she had left in savings. As he started working she also thought to how she was going to get to her own job since she had the afternoon shift at the herb store. She was taken aback by his question, her ears flattening in aggression before he gave his brother's own back story. She thought back to the German Shepherd that had been like another sibling to her before Dylan arrived, Pancake had passed last year.

She hid the pain in her eyes by focusing on the car, playfulness entering her voice "So that's why you offered to help me huh? Used to us Changed folks. It was the family dog, I have a brother that was changed as well. Like your brother ours happened while we were camping." She spoke of it ever so lightly, as if she was telling him about a new shirt she bought. Most people that had been changed were very sensitive about it, but Annabelle never minded, she took it as an opportunity.


Dylan smiled as the boy seemed friendly, taking out his own notebook to respond to him, the human girl looking uncomfortable. Dylan was friendly with everyone so he wasn't sure of his sexual preference. He knew he was supposed to like girls, he had dated a few of them, but he was curious as to what it would be like to be with a male. He had no idea how to go about that though, so he just kept to being single. Once he finished writing he held up his notebook, written, "Hello Jason, nice to meet you." He adjusted his grip so he could turn the page revealing more words, "Are you new here?" Just then the teacher cleared his throat and Dylan put his notebook down and began writing on it, making it look like he was working.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mike nodded, "Partially, It was more of a surprise for me though since I wasn't there and the first I heard of it was when my parents dumped him on my door step." he said his anger at his parents clear as he glared at the starter as he had to use a bit more strength on it to loosen the last connector. "I dislike people who disown their flesh and blood over a little hair." he said as he got the starter off, "Yep seems like the starter was your problem." he said as he looked over the broken part. "I'll replace this and get you back on the road." he said as he cleaned a bit of grime off his hand, "It was hard at first getting over his new look and refraining from making tactless jokes." he went on as he grabbed the replacement part from a drawer in his tool dresser. "I gave my parents a real earful when I called them up, made me ashamed to call them family." he said as he began to attach the starter for her car. She was lucky he had salvaged that part from another junker like hers it was the only thing that worked and was practically brand new, when he was finished he took out a small note book and wrote something down before tearing the paper out and half folding it before handing it to her. If she expected the amount for the job she would be shocked till she realized it was actually his phone number. "Lets see if that did it." he said as he walked around her and slipped into the drivers seat and turned her key the engine rumbled into life and Mike knew there were more problems with the car.

"Well it is going to need more work but it will run for now." he said getting out and cleaning his hands, "For now she'll run but give me a call if you want to give her a full work over my price is much more affordable." he said smiling his best Han Solo smile.

Jason waited for the teacher to go back to looking at what ever it was he was looking at before responding to the otter. *Yeah just started.* he wrote turning the page, *What's your name?* he asked and waited for a response his tail giving a few more wags as it appeared he was making a friend. When Jason had discovered he was into guys rather than girls his brother was the only one he told, he remained single mostly due to their fathers stance on boys who liked boys. He supposed he should be grateful that Mike had been so cool about it and even taking him in after his change, Jason had forgotten he even had parents mostly saying that Mike was his only family. They had not so much as mentioned him in the last Christmas card they sent to Mike, Jason hoped he could at least make a good friend though his desire was for more than that. So he was just happy to be talking with someone.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle was surprised at the open hostility towards his own parents and couldn't help but have a feel of compassion for him. She listened as he told her his story, relating it to her own ideas and beliefs. Annabelle was a listener and the more she heard about Mike the more she enjoyed his company. She took the paper from him gently, opening it and nearly passing out till she really looked at it. It was his number and she would have been blushing if he had not said it was if she wanted more work done to her car. She smiled brightly as the car turned on, heading excitedly to the drivers side. As he stepped out and merely cleaned his hands off she stood there dumbfounded, wondering why he wasn't giving her a bill.

She smiled at his gentle dismissal, "Well Mr. Mike if you aren't going to let me pay you for your time at least let me take you out for a quick lunch?" She folded her ears back sweetly, her eyes widening as she gave him her best puppy dog look. One of the few benefits of being a Changed. Her tail wagged lazily and her hands clasped in front of her.


Dylan smiled slyly as the teacher stopped paying attention, turning his green gaze back to Jason. He smirked playfully before scribbling at the paper, holding up another page, 'Secret.' As he held it up he gave his best otter grin, his tail curling up to add to the affect. He wanted to keep this as interesting as he could since they still had some time to waste. The next page he held up said, 'What's your next class?' He could tell he would be good friends with this guy, they already were sharing the same humor. He was already making plans of what he would show to him today, telling him who to avoid and who to get school help from, all the cool teachers, and fun clubs. He loved being the first to meet a new student, it was like getting a younger sibling.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mike chuckled as she gave him a puppy dog look, "Now how am I to refuse such a request from someone as beautiful as you." he said smiling as he stuffed the rag he had cleaned his hands on in his pocket. "Shall we take your car or mine just in case something else breaks." he suggested indicating his Impala parked between a Dodge truck and the garages tow truck, "Or we just could walk to the nearby Subway." he offered. Mike was beginning to really like Annabelle she was cute and he even enjoyed how her tail wagged finding irresistibly cute. Mike knew he couldn't count this as a date it was just a friendly lunch and he hadn't been on a date since he had had Jason dropped off on him. Mike waited to see what she decided he gave his mind time to wander and he thought about Jason and how his day might be going.

Jason read the Otter's notes and wrote his reply making sure the teacher wasn't looking as he held it up, *History.* it read. He was very relieved when the bell rang and the class ended, he grabbed his back pack as he put his notebook into his binder and stood up following the crowd of students to the door. He didn't walk as fast hoping he shared the same class' as the otter the way he had smiled and his tail had curled very cute. Jason hadn't had time to drop of his unneeded books in his locker or even find his locker so his back pack was heavy he could ignore the weight but at the end of the day he would be feeling it. He paused at the door to adjust to pull out his schedule and look at it to figure out which class room his history class was.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle blushed then but it was almost completely hidden by her fur. It was a rare thing for her to be given any compliment, especially one from a human. But as he agreed she looked over herself, wishing she had put something a little bit better on.

She said playfully, "If something did break I'm sure you'd be able to-" she was cut off short as her eyes came to his Impala, rushing over to the beauty. Admiration held bright in her eyes as she ran her padded hand across the hood, her fingers lingering on the outer edges of the skull. Unable to resist she laid her upper body on the hood, stretching her arms out as if to give it a hug, her tail wagging wildly.

"It's beautiful!" she proclaimed as she rose, standing back once more to admire it. She noticed some of the other workers watching and lifted her lip slightly, embarrassed they had saw.

Trying to focus she looked to Mike, "Subway sounds great, if you don't mind walking." She didn't add the 'with me' part to her sentence, her gaze straying back to his car.


Dylan collected his stuff slowly, chatting with the two Changeds that had kept to themselves over the period. The three of them cast glances at Jason, Dylan talking quietly before pulling away from them, waving. Dylan was soon beside the young wolf hybrid, looking over his shoulder at his schedule.

"Hey, that's right next to my class. Do you know where to go or do you want me to show you?" he asked, hopeful he would ask for help. Dylan was only this outgoing when it came to Changeds, and only while he was at school. It was the only easy subject he could find to discuss that he knew both of them would have in common.

"Did you just move here too?" he asked gently, moving out to the hallway so the two other Changeds could pass, the girl giggling. The human girl that had been between them made a 'humph' sound as she passed between them, causing Dylan to drop his head. He didn't like interacting with humans after what happened to him, he would give anything to be normal again.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mike smiled at her obvious adoration of his car it was the only thing that made him proud to have a parent, he watched her tail wag and from where he stood her rear moved a little with it giving it an enjoyable shake. "Yeah she a beauty but I prefer beauties with a bit more warmth without need of engine." he said while ignoring his coworkers as well, "We could walk but if you want I'd never say no to giving a cute girl a ride at least once." he said showing off by twirling his keys around his first finger. "I'm not dressed for a fine restaurant but I am a simple kinda guy." he continued, "A soda, Subway and pleasant company I think I'll be just fine." he finished hoping to god he wasn't coming off as cheesy.

So Mike again waited to hear if she wanted to go for a ride to grab the Subway or just walk either way he was having a nice time with a nice girl. Mike looked her up and down again a dirty part of his mind imagining her sitting on the hood of his car in a rather skimpy bikini with a mental shake he brought his eyes back up from her waist to look at the trees which swayed in the breeze. His sandy blonde hair was ruffled by the breeze as he watched Annabelle with his bright emerald eyes.

Jason turned when he heard someone speak to him and smiled when he saw it was the otter, "I've been here a while I took a bit to adjust to the change." he said scratching the back of his furred neck. "I would like some help I haven't been to school since the change a few years ago just home schooled." he said accepting the Otters offer of help. Jason was a bit nervous talking to someone but not as much if the person had been human, "So which way do we go Secret?" he asked calling the otter by the word he had used in place of his name in the notebook. Jason liked the otter and couldn't help but admire his green eyes and whiskers which made him look even cuter by Jason's standards.

"So we which class' do we share?" he asked letting the otter look at his schedule and waiting to hear what he had to say. Jason wondered what the otter thought of him or if the otter even like other males it was a long shot but Jason wouldn't have minded someone to share a deeper emotional bond with other than his brother. Jason hoped there weren't that many bullies in the school even without the change, another hope was that they had a D&D club in the school.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle was tempted, very tempted, but with one last look at the car she turned away, "I'll save that ride for when I need it." She smiled, beginning to head out of the shop. She thought Mike's little cheesy comments were sweet and if this continued well this would be the list human she's had a decent conversation with in months. Annabelle waited for Mike to be by her side before she stepped out onto the street, heading toward Subway.

She looked around at the different buildings and people for a little before speaking, "Why are you a mechanic? Nothing about that seems pleasant." She tried at the conversation, looking at him with her dark blue eyes. She hoped his answer would take up the walk to the shop, she didn't really know what she was aloud to ask him just yet.


Dylan nodded as he recalled his own experience getting back into the school, "Well I'm here for anything you need." He smirked at his new nickname, rather liking the way it sounded. He nodded his head to the right, taking the lead to the History wing. He looked over Jason as they walked, trying to remember the way he dressed so he could spot him later on. At the question he pulled back to get another look at the paper.

"First, obviously, third, and sixth." he said, pleased that they would be spending at least half of the day together. He tightened his grip on his notebook, adjusting the pencil in his hand to behind his ear. As they entered a new corridor Dylan took up a position between Jason and the hallway, forcing the boy closer to the lockers. Several groups of humans stared at them, a few out right glaring at them.

Dylan kept his voice low, "If you can stay away from here as much as possible, the gym is at the end here so the beef heads like to stick around here." Just as he finished speaking a group of what seemed to be football players looked to the two boys, one of them trying to get their attention.

Dylan looked to the classroom closest to them, relieved to see it was Jason's, "Here this is your class. I'll meet you here after this period to take you to third, ok?" He was rushed, trying to usher the boy in as the jocks made their way over. He stepped away from Jason and turned his back to him, keeping their attention on himself.

"Who's that otter boy?" the biggest one called out, Dylan just hoping Jason made it within the teacher's sight by now.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

((I'll edit Jason's bit if its to much.))

Mike nodded and fell into step beside her, "I hope I was being to cheesy." he said as he walked beside her. "Well the one thing my dad ever taught me that was worth anything besides self defense was how to fix cars. We built that car together during my middle school and high school years." he said this was one of the few subjects he could talk about that included his parents and he didn't get angry. "It might be a dirty job but as long as we use cars I'll have work." he said while they crossed the street, "I went to a special school to learn more about working on vehicles, I love cars old ones, new ones, classics, hot rods and even muscle cars." he went on. "Besides it had it perks like meet cute girls." he finished just as they reached the opposite side walk and were passing stores one was a Shoe store and another was a nail salon. "The pays is also good and since I have to take care of my little brother I need it." he ended his story as he opened the door to the subway for her. The smell of toasted bread filled the air of the Subway which luckily wasn't crowded, "So where do work?" he asked shifting the subject from himself.

Jason ignored the jock as he moved into the class room till he felt a strong hand on his shoulder pulling him back into the hall. Jason reacted out of instinct his father's training coming into play as he gripped the wrist of the hand that had grabbed him, in mere seconds he had the jock on his knees holding a broken nose. One of the jocks friends reached his arm back balling his hand into a fist and shooting it forward with a near zen like speed Jason dodged by lazily leaning his head to the right then bringing his head forward in a head but. The third jock had been to stunned to move so two jocks now had broken noses Jason leaned forward to pick up his binder that he had dropped to free his other hand. He walked into the class room with out saying a word but rubbed his forehead as it hurt, his father had been a green beret in the army and had passed his fighting skill on to his sons. He had been proud when Jason had landed his first hit on him and Jason had always enjoyed the bonding experience which had made being abandoned even worse for him. He was often times resentful of Mike because their parents still talked to him acting like he had never been born, he often wished he was still normal and Mike had become the outcast.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle paid close attention to the nail salon they passed, looking in to see other Changeds in there. Her tail wagged once, storing the address away in her memory to return there later. It was so difficult to find a place willing to work on creatures like her, usually she was told to go tot he pet groomers. She perked up as he spoke of taking care of his younger brother, wanting to share but holding back the information for now. Tempted by the aroma of the fresh bread she walked in, smiling as Mike held the door, the only time he would get away with it. She went up to the counter and ordered something not too messy but something that would fill her up as well, getting an iced tea along with it. [I haven't been to Subway in years xD] She waited to answer him until their sandwiches had been prepared, her quick to pay for it, and them finding a seat.

"I work at the local herb shop." she said simply, munching away at her sandwich while still trying to remain as lady-like as possible. "I bet your brother enjoys being driven around in your car." she commented, indicating where she wanted this conversation to go. She would just wait for him to talk about one of the subjects, her questions already piling up.


Dylan stood there completely dumbfounded, in utter shock at what just happened. He looked around at the incapacitated jocks, his gaze shifting to where Jason had disappeared to occasionally. Smiling, he shook his head in disbelief, clapping a few times in Jason's behalf before heading to his own classroom, leaving the humans to tend to themselves. Dylan's thoughts began to wander as he sat in his class, not really paying attention to the teacher, 'Guess dealing with rude people won't be much of a problem for him. I wonder where he learned to do that'. He sat there with his single notebook, his pencil still behind his small brown ear. He supported his chin on his balled hand, staring absent-mindedly at the front of the room. Jason could easily become very popular with the Changed teens, but he still felt there was much more to the young wolf. He really wanted to find that out.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mike nodded as he took a bite of his sandwich after he swallowed he replied, "Yeah he wants to earn his drivers license so I don't have to drive him any more but no one drives my car but me or my girl...if I had one." he said and taking another bite. He wondered why she kept shifting the attention but shrugged it off, "I have a friend who's helping me restore the car that's going to be his." he said reaching for his wallet. He pulled out a picture of a old Mustang it was in a state of transition from wreck to nearly brand new, "!967 Mustang once it's done and he has his license this will be his." he said letting her have a long look at the picture. "I could see if we could restore your car it's a classic and it wouldn't cost you much." he offered Mike did enjoy restoring cars it was becoming a job he'd much rather do but not many people had the deep pockets for it. Mike put the picture away and his wallet back into his pocket as he resumed eating his sandwich, "So working at an Herb store like Cilantro, peppermint and so forth?" he asked as he redirected the conversation to what she did.

Jason spent a the time in the class room taking notes and reading in his history books luckily he hadn't been called to the principal office for his altercation with the jocks earlier. The bell rang and he filed out of the class room with the others, Jason looked at his schedule to find his locker but decided he do it after school since he would have more time then. He waited around for Secret to see if he would guide him to their shared class he saw a few more jocks but they merely looked at him and did nothing. He decided to try and find it on his own checking his schedule often to make sure he got the right room number, he didn't walk fast often pausing to look over except when he paused to take a drink at a fountain.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle turned her head to the side slightly, wondering what game he was trying to play or what he was trying to get at. It was nice to know there wouldn't be a raging female after her head but she wondered if he was trying to reassure her or hint at something. The subject was quickly forgotten as she saw the picture, her tail wagging once more.

"He seems like a very lucky boy." she would have given anything for a car like that when she was younger but now that she had more things to worry about getting a better car was put on the bottom of the list.

She smiled gently, "Maybe one of these days. The rate it's at if I try to keep it alive you'll probably just end up giving it brand new parts anyway." Annabelle munched away at her sandwich, trying to remain as civil during her eating as possible.

She sipped from her drink before responding, "Right. We have a large selection though. Parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme..." she looked around before continuing, making sure no one was listening, "Some under the counter herbs as well, if you know what I mean." She smirked, the marijuana could only be bought if the customer came in knowing they had it, with Mike he might be able to get the word around, low key of course.


Dylan was quick to exit his class room, looking around to find Jason. He had to get his other books, his movements rushed as he shifted the contents in his locker. Having the things he needed, his gym clothes, he was relieved to spot Jason by the water fountain. He walked over, a large grin on his face.

"Hey Jason. Great moves you had back there, where did you learn that?" he tried to control his excitement over the whole experience, leading him to the locker room to get changed. He nodded to the coach but upon seeing him busy he led Jason to his own locker.

"You can share mine today, you'll probably get yours tomorrow." he said, opening the blue door and making space for his new friend. He began getting undressed, taking off his shirt to reveal a slim torso build but a strong chest. He dropped his jeans next, folding them up and putting them in the small compartment. He sprayed himself with a can of aerosol spray he had in there before putting his gym clothes on. He had left his notebook in the locker so there would be more space for Jason to place his things.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mike did in fact having gone through his Junior and Senior year of High School smoking that particular herb. Mike hadn't touched the stuff nor smoked it since he had started working mostly due to having had little down time since he had been on call in his first year at the garage. Being on call meant that you were running the tow truck and Mike didn't want to have any accidents because he was stoned. He nodded when she mentioned the 'under the counter herbs', "It's been three maybe two years since I heard anyone carrying that sort of oregano." he said winking at her. He kept his voice down when he spoke and figured since he had weekends off he'd try to bust out his Green Lantern if things worked out. "I might have to with it but you have my number just call if you need anything." he said placing some emphasis on the word anything.

Shifting gears on Annabelle Mike washed another bite of sandwich down with a drink before speaking, "So how long has it been since you were on a real date?" he asked her watching her closely and treading carefully. "I mean a true date not a friendly lunch." he explained. When Jason had come to live with him he had been dating a nice girl but when she met Jason the way he was she had refused to even step foot in his house afraid she'd turn into a freak as well that had been the last time he'd seen her. He sat there watching Annabelle waiting for her response to see if let him down easy or would give him that glimpse of hope that he might have a shot with her.

Jason's ears flattened against his skull bashfully when Secret asked him where he had learned his combat moves, "My dad was a Green Beret." he answered quickly as he followed Secret into the gym and to the lockers. He watched the otter take off his clothes revealing his pleasant body beneath, Jason followed pulling of his shirt and revealing that he was built like his brother had been at his age he wasn't as broad chested yet though. He had some muscle but not like his brother and it was hidden on the black fur, when the shirt came off the red tribal like markings of his fur were also revealed. He removed his pants and pulled his gym clothes from his back pack and pulled them on hanging his clothes next to Secrets. His back back he had to leave out but his binder he could stash, he was a bit worried about leaving anything of his exposed because of the other jocks.

Jason hadn't brought any spray on deodorant but he had sprayed himself down with some earlier that day and his nose could pick up a faint trace of his own before it was obliterated by Secret spraying his own. Jason pulled on his sleeveless shirt which didn't hide the markings on his upper arms and shoulders, "I hope what ever we do in Gym isn't basketball I'm not very good at that." he said with a nervous smile.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle listened to him, that playful smirk still lightly on her lips. One of her eyebrows raised when he stressed the word anything, a gleam in her eyes as she sipped from her drink, pushing aside the rest of her sandwich. She didn't want to make herself too full incase she was running around during her working hours. Glancing at the clock on the wall she told herself she still had a good amount of time and contented herself with sipping at her drink as she watched Mike.

She chuckled softly, amused at where the conversation had turned, "Too long I'm afraid. In this day and age I can't really go around flaunting my stuff anymore, don't know the kind of men you attract." She crossed her legs, holding her drink to her chest. She had meant it as a joke but wondered how Mike would take it. As a small group of Changeds passed she flickered her ears in their direction, trying to show her point by nodding to the males of the group. Not that she didn't like her own kind just some of them seemed a bit too..animalistic.


Dylan perked up at hearing Jason's dad was a Green Beret, the new term circling in his mind. Not wanting to seem like an idiot for not knowing what that was he shrugged it off, nodding in acceptance while still trying to play it cool. Dylan couldn't help letting his eyes skim over the tribal markings, a small fascination in them coming to light. There was suddenly many questions he was collecting for his new friend.

Dylan smiled at the comment, "Don't worry, I'm not either. But today is just the mile run, nothing too difficult." Dylan was naturally better in water but he could run at a good speed, usually in the group that finishes first. He led Jason out to the fields, a track running around the one set aside for football. It was a decent field, just enough bleachers for most of the town, while the field was kept healthy and the lines bright. The team was practicing in the center, their fairly used equipment linger in piles. A group of students had already gathered near the start, some mingling, some stretching. Dylan was about to start his questioning when a harsh whistle blew, drawing his attention as a sharp 'Oculi!' was barked out by an elderly black man. Within seconds anyone could identify him as a coach, with his track pants and jacket, an omniscient whistle that he enjoys speaking with around his neck.

"Yes, sir?" he called back, holding his stance next to Jason.

"Who is that with you." the coach said, the class joked that he didn't know how to ask questions.

"Jason, sir. He's new." Dylan answered, smiling at the wolf boy.

"Well send him over here." the coach grumbled, looking through his clipboard as if he didn't believe another Changed had been placed in his class.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

"Well you certainly attracted me." he said in response to her saying she wasn't sure what kind of men she would attract, "Though you might wonder what that says about me." he went on smiling reflectively. Mike had been forced into getting used to the Changed due to his brother he disliked his parents for dropping it on him but he had still seen his brother under the fur and with Annabelle he could tell she was a attractive woman under the fur as well. Mike wondered if the situations were reversed would she had even talked to him more than needed, "Though to be fair I was one of those Furries." he admitted shrugging his shoulders. During the change the the small minority of people who had thought Anthro's only possible in drawing suddenly had the real life thing they were the few that openly embraced the changed and offered support to those that had been changed. News reports had covered charities created by those people to help the Changed get equal rights which was an easy fight though long fought. Mike remembered listening to such broadcasts and listening to the interviews, though the years had shown some back lash to the Changed the lack of a cure and growing support as more furries began to voice their opinions and support.

Mike had had to take over raising his brother but he had shown little sympathy for what had happened he treated his brother no differently which was what Jason needed. Jason had moped and whined about his being abandoned but Mike refused to show any special treatment making Jason leave the house if only down to the E-Z Mart for some drinks and an Almond Joy luckily the Change had merely been cosmetic. The Changed could still ingest chocolate with no ill effects which had been the only time Mike had laughed at Jason when his brother had eaten a few Hershey Bars in a suicide attempt of course when the laughter died down they had a serious talk. "I suppose I was the sort you were worried about attracting." he said again shrugging his shoulders and smiling reflectively.
____________________________________________________________________________

Jason approached the coach as he looked down at the list of names on his roll call sheet, "Yes, sir?" Jason said once he had reached the coach. The coach had grey hairs among the black fuzz that was his hair, the coach didn't respond immediately till he came to the name he was looking for. "What's your last name?" the coach asked his eyes looking at Jason with indifference common with some people. Jason hesitated he didn't like using his last name the family name Jason looked up at the coach as his finger began to tap the back of his clipboard, "Grimm." Jason said at last and the coach's eye flicked to the page and back at Jason. "Alright back with the others." the coach said and Jason walked back to the others.

"Alright, you know the drill one mile at your pace but it had at least be a Jog. Jessica, Michelle, Anna I'm looking at you three." the coach said calling out a trio of girls that were obviously the type that rather just walk the mile. He blew his whistle and loudly told them to get to it. Jason watched as a few of the kids took off tearing down the track so they could finish sooner, Jason took up a running pace which kept him in stride with another group of kids who didn't want to expend more energy before lunch. Jason usually let his mind wander though at the moment he kept recalling seeing Secret in the locker room, mentally shaking himself he picked some random thought to pursue while he kept his pace around the track.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle flushed slightly at his comment, hiding it by taking another sip of her drink which was running on empty. She smiled as he continued but was curious as to what that did say about him. Her ears perked up as he admitted to being one of those humans that ran around in fur suits and she couldn't help but let out a small, warm laugh. She was reminded of that group of people that had been there at the start of it though most of them seemed to be hoping the longer they hung around the Changed the higher chance they had of getting the disease. They were nice enough but she had always declined help from them, just because she was covered in fur didn't mean she was any different then what she had been.

Her paw of a hand went out slowly to cover his gently, her eyes bright as they looked into his, "So long as you like me for the woman side of me and not the dog then you are not the sort I was worried about." She withdrew her hand, feeling like she had intruded on his personal space. Finished with her drink she set the empty container to the side, looking at her half eaten sandwich and wondering what to do with it. Not wanting to keep it in the car as she worked she nudged it toward Mike, a playful smile spreading.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dylan smiled as Jason rejoined him, crossing his eyes and twirling his finger near his head in relation to the coach. As he straightened himself he nudged the wolf as the whistle blew, taking off after the fast kids. Their overwhelming energy sparked his own as he kept pace with them, the air feeling strangely nice as it blew through his fur. He wouldn't be able to keep this up for long, but he took every moment in as if it were his last. Dylan had been destined to be a track runner before he became a Changed. He had the endurance and the will for it, but he has since adapted to his new condition. He slowed, the other kids tearing off ahead, and his thoughts flickered to what it would be like if he hadn't been infected. Letting it go he set his pace at a jog until the group Jason was in caught up, matching his pace to his friend's.

"I take it you have gotten better at running with your wolf genes?" he asked, trying to distract himself from the track. He knew he would get the laps done easier this way, his body much rather preferring swimming over running. But he forced himself over that barrier, making his body will what he knew he wanted. A small thought found his way into his mind, that of Jason in the locker room. Wondering where he was going with it he let the thought run, not really paying attention to where his thoughts were going. As the thought progressed it turned to that of himself being near Jason, also minus a few clothes. He frowned at his thought, the image strong now as the two of them got closer, their faces nearing, their lips- Dylan tripped on one of the corners, turning quickly so he landed on his back. His eyes were wide as he was in shock about his own day dream of sort, his furred hands clenched at his sides. He closed his eyes as he sat up, a hand to his head as he tried to soothe himself. He was probably just hungry, the lack of food getting to him. Maybe it was the weather too...

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

((Sorry for the wait I was taking care of some stuff.))
Mark smiled when her hand rested on his and she told him that as long as he liked her for her woman side rather than her dog half he wasn't that sort she was worried about. Mark wouldn't have minded had she left her hand on his for as long as she wanted but he knew he had to get back to work soon having already taken a longer break than he usually did. He noticed when she nudged her sandwich towards him with a playful smile on her face he didn't know what she had in mind but he figured it out as she was giving him the rest of her Sandwich. He reached out and slid the food towards him, "I'll save this for later don't like working on an overfilled stomach." he told her as he finished his own drink. "I should get back to work thank you for the meal and pleasant company. If you ever want to do this again or something more fancy you have my number." he finished as he stood.

He waited for her to get up as well if she was ready her wrapped sandwich was held in his hand when his phone began to ring in his pants. "Might be the boss to chew my ass for taking so long." he muttered as he pulled it out of his pocket the number was that of the highschool. He flipped it open and put it to his ear, "Hello?" he said then a voice on the other end started talking it was the school principal calling to tell him that his little brother broke the noses of two fellow students. That they needed to talk before he left with his brother, "Yes sir. I'll be there." he sighed but he was also smiling. "Well it wasn't my boss but I might be the one doing the chewing out later." he told her giving her an apologetic smile figuring it was rude to answer ones phone when having lunch with a new friend.
___________________________________________________________________

Jason nodded as Secret asked him if he found running easier thanks to his change. It was true many people had received some abilities from the animal they had come in contact with that triggered the change. Reports claimed that certain breeds like insects, fish and amphibians weren't able to effect the virus so contact with them wouldn't trigger it. The government had in fact tried an all new recruitment see as having soldiers with powerful noses could sniff out drugs or bombs thanks to their animal genes. Many people had adjusted better once they realized the gifts they received from their change for someone like Jason who had been average in running was now leading the pack thanks to his change. This however had not been helpful in gaining back some kindness from the other students, when more changed began to appear fights broke out in his school fights that commonly got students suspended and even once arrested. Jason also was a big geek for comics and his favorite were the X-Men so now he thought he tried and be fair holding himself back when he ran. "Yeah I can run allot faster and I'm less winded than normal." he said finally he noticed Secret trip up and fall on his back so he fell back and walked up to Secret.

"You okay?" he asked offering a hand to his new friend. He wondered what had caused Secret to suddenly trip and fall like that though with no sign of anything on the track he just fell back on thinking Secret had tripped over his own feet. He waited for a response and while he waited he breathed in he could detect the scent of the other kids the grass of the foot ball stand the stale fading scent of corn dogs from the snack shack where they sold snacks during games. He could even smell the pot smoke from where a few kids had skipped class to hide under the bleachers and smoke a joint or two. He remembered the smell from when he had gone into his brothers room at one time during his senior year of high school the haze had been thick as his brother was in mourning over a bad breakup.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle stood when he did, smiling and nodding at his suggested request. She ran that thought over in her mind and didn't see anything wrong with the notion, she would call him when she felt like enough time had passed. And she saved up a bit more money to go some place nice. She laughed softly as he tried to guess who was calling him, as he answered her gaze shifted to the clock. She had to get going anyway, she had just enough time to go back to get her car and get to her work a couple blocks away.

"Oh no, did one of your coworkers do something?" she asked playfully, her smile shining to her eyes as she led the way out, "Or was it your brother?" She set an almost brisk pace to get back to the car shop so she would have some time for herself before she started her work but she kept her gaze on Mark, her smile turning almost apologetic. It mirrored, 'Sorry I'm rushing you, I had a really good time but you know, life is calling'.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dylan looked to his friend's outstretched hand, his heart stilling and returning to normal. He closed his eyes as he took it, trying to push the thought that had taken over his mind away. As he pulled himself up with Jason's help and steadied himself the coach blew the whistle to signal class was over.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Come on, let's go get changed." he said, his lithe otter body tensing slightly. He didn't want to be reminded of what had occurred, and putting them into the actual situation wouldn't help smother it. He took a few deep breaths, keeping his gaze anywhere but on Jason. He had never had a thought about a male like that before, so it scared him to have his mind give that subject light. What made it worse was that it was one of his friends, but he figured he wouldn't have had it with a guy he didn't even know. 'Look at me! Trying to justify what happened!' he thought, mentally scowling at himself. He remained quiet up until they reached the locker, his heart racing once more.

"What did you want for lunch?" he asked, his gaze hard as it kept to his open locker. He sighed, trying to relax as he felt his friend would think he was acting strange, and undressed once more, quickly grabbing his pants and slipping them on. Hoping the feeling had subsided he looked to Jason as he pulled on his shirt.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Mark easily kept pace with her as they left the sandwich shop. "My brother got into some trouble." he told her shrugging somewhere he knew his brother had had a good reason to do what he did. He was new though and he could talk the school into going easy on him. "Thanks for the tip about the herbs." he said to her in a gratefull and casual tone. Thay were soon crossing the street her car where they had left it and his as well. He had been instructed to arrive after school as the principal had already sent one of his 'Hall Monitors' after his brother. He followed her to her car but he left her side to put the left over sandwich she had given him in his cooler.

Mark made a mental note as he put the sandwich down about looking through some old boxes. He closed the door to his car and started for the garage and waited for her to pull out. It had been a pleasant encounter and the reveal of a possible connection had been a pleasant footnote to him. He knew not tot expect a phone call for a while this not being the first time he had given a girl his digits.
________________________________________________

Jason followed Secret without a word till they reached the locker room he was glad this class was over while he liked activity he would much sooner choose to laze about. Jason removed his gym shirt and shorts this meant having to pull off his shoes he paused to put on some more deodorant. "Pizza or Cheeseburger." he said with a shrug as he pulled on his pants and shirt, "You ever going to tell me your real name?" he asked at last switching the subject suddenly. Jason noticed a piece of paper safety pinned to his back pack the fact that it had to be for him was obvious since he had written his name and last name on the shoulder straps. He sat on one of the benches and removed it, it had the principle's name on it and was a order to come to his office after his last class.

He waited for Secret to dress and answer him as he stuffed the note into the side pocket of his back pack. He would hope the school would not have called his brother so he could just avoid it by ignoring it. He just had to meet his brother not say a word and they would leave school. He pulled on his shoes once Secret was doing the same.

 

[DawnShadows]

Annabelle's eyes widened as Mark told her the reason of the phone call but as he continued on she decided not to press it. She was thankful that Dylan never got into trouble, she would totally freak out on his otter butt. She smiled pleasantly and nodded in response to his statement, wondering if he ever would come by for something.

She felt strange as he left her side, as if they had spent much longer together than a mere lunch. Not knowing what she was waiting for she got into her car and started it, her tail waving as it still worked. She watched Mark leave his car, letting her eyes feast upon the work of machinery that it was before smiling as he waited by the door. She backed up, waving to him as she passed, and got on the road. She might be a little late to work but that wasn't on her mind. She might have to break her car more often if that was the kind of service waiting for her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dylan smirked at the wolf's question, "Aww, but I much rather prefer 'Secret'. You sure you want to know?" He finished getting dressed and led the way out of the locker room, guiding them to the food court. He looked around the enclosed area, wanting to get their food and get outside as fast as possible. There were a few tables outside but he didn't mind sitting in the grass. Jumping in the shortest line he waited patiently until he got to the front. He ordered a chicken wrap and a bottle of water, saying thank you when he received it, paid for it quickly, and waited for Jason so he could lead them outside. He moved to the back of the room, the doors that led to the outside eating area were open. A group near the door called out to him, greeting him and looking curiously at his companion. Dylan smiled and rolled his eyes, looking at Jason to see if he had picked up his name from the group of Changed.

 

[HaloHeroWolf118]

Jason just shrugged at Secrets response, he followed the Otter to the food court and got in line behind him getting a cheeseburger instead of a chicken wrap. His ear swiveled in Secret now revealed to be Dylan's direction as he paid for his lunch, "Really your names Dylan and you wanted to go with Secret?" he asked playful annoyance in his voice. One of the girls in the group near Dylan who was a changed frowned slightly she was a rabbit and she had a brown spot of fur over her right eye she said something about there being way to many predators in the school. Jason chuckled, "With your species you'll outnumber us quickly enough." he told her this got some laughs but not from the girl who just hmphed and walked outside. "So where now Secret?" Jason asked still using the other name for Dylan.