UnSeelie Dreams XXII

Shuddering dry laughter rose from behind him and he swiveled around to find Faun watching him. Rage rolled through him as the hoofed creature approached out of no where. Breathing deeply he managed to control his strong emotions and stand his ground.

The carnage was too much to bear but thankfully nearly finished. She was in her last death throes; he didn’t turn to watch, instead he glared as Faun grinned back.

“So lovely, do you not find them fascinating to watch? The hunt is swift and merciless.” Faun’s gaze traveled to the dagger on his belt and he tightened his hold on the hilt.

“What did this hell hole do to me?” His cheek twitched where the parasite lay.

Faun tilted its head but said nothing in response. He wanted to choke the answers from the tall shuddering creature only to realize Faun’s attention was directed on something behind him. The tiny hairs on the back of his neck prickled as he sensed it even though he could not hear it getting closer. He wanted to growl a warning but instinctively knew it would challenge the animal. He stood absolutely still; not daring to turn around.

He assumed it was upon them when Faun bowed its head in respect and lowered its eyes. Fetid hot breath brushed the nape of his neck causing a shiver to run down his spine. He started at the touch. Ready for battle, he pulled the blade and turned to strike but the blow was caught easily by a strong feminine hand.

Sweat broke out on his forehead as he looked into lupine eyes. She growled at the challenge and he quickly glanced away. The dagger fell to the ground as she released her hold on him. Dark sleek fur covered her slim form; small blue green parasites surrounded her eyes and were tattooed on her chest and stomach. She stood only an inch below him but he could feel her intensity and strength radiating from her inner core.

The pack roamed around them, sniffing at him and Faun, their misty bodies disappearing only to reappear as they wandered from person to person. A cool form brushed the back of his legs and he stumbled back trying not to loose his balance. Another rough push sent him to his knees. Their eyes glowed brightly lolled at the fun they were having with him.

“Call them off now.” He demanded as he attempted to stand up. One of the wolves moved to block him, its tongue lolled over sharp incisors. It panted as it knocked him back down again. He noticed a strange white cross mark on its forehead.

The dagger glinted from the dim amber light catching his attention. He cautiously reached out for it but the wolf grabbed his arm in its jaws.

“Shit.” He hissed under his breath. It did not snap down but he knew any extra pressure could break the bones in his forearm. He didn’t dare make a sudden move as it tested him.

“We have need for his humanity.” Faun said.

“If he is not of them, then he has nothing to fear.” Her voice tickled his already jangled nerves.

“Get the damn mutt off me.” He muttered at them, fed up with being ignored. He tried to pull away but it only bit down just a bit harder but not enough to break skin.

“I will leave him in your tender care, dear Lily.” Faun’s face grew concerned and for a moment displayed his emotions. “We must survive.” It spoke softly to the sky.

He cursed them both as Faun walked away and disappeared as suddenly as he had appeared.