Werewolf

Chapter 16

It was weeks before Carina sent word about a Council Meeting. In that time, Klara had regained most of her strength and magic as well as her confidence. At first she had been afraid to regain her magic, thinking that Gerrick would come after her heart again. But Randolf promised to train her so she was better equipped to handle him. It took many days to return the magic to her, the process exhausting on the poor wiccan as well as the wolf.

Each day she practiced her abilities, sometimes with defensive spells and sometimes with tending to her little garden beside the house. Randolf loved to watch her work, sleeves rolled up and an apron over her skirts as she smiled and hummed to herself. Carina provided many beautiful clothes to replace the ones Klara lost, taking into account that Klara wasn’t comfortable in the fairy styles. They were more modest, but made of the finest wools that felt like silk. There were a couple outfits designated for fighting practice, the fabric tear and stain resistant. Carina also gave her hair ornaments to help keep the massive waves out of her face so she could work.

He loved discovering new things about her, including that she knew how to hunt with snares and a knife. Her father had taught her out of necessity when they had no money for food. She took to learning new things easily too, and was a very eager student when she asked to learn how to use a bow.

He had made one special for her, since the draw on his was far too powerful for her. She wasn’t very skilled yet, but was determined to become a great marksman by the coming of winter so she could help gather food.

She was also insistent that he teach her how to fight without magic, in case something happened. The wolf had been hesitant, not wanting to hurt her with his strength. After many heated arguments, he consented though. It was difficult restraining himself, both in strength and need. When they battled, her body would be pressed against his, her scent filling his senses and her wild passionate eyes hypnotizing him. Sometimes she took advantage of it and would have him pinned, other times it had the same effect on her.

“You’re getting better.” Randolf remarked after pinning her to the ground. She glared at him.

“You pinned me faster than ever, I’m not better!” He kissed her fully on the mouth.

“Yes I did, but I wasn’t holding back and your reaction time was nearly perfect.” She sighed and looked away. “Darling, I’ve practiced for decades, don’t be disheartened.” Finally she smiled up at him and wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him in close. Smiling brightly she said,

“You’re right,” and flipped them both so that she was now on top, pinning his arms.“I am getting better.” He laughed and shook his head.

Randolf wondered if she’d be up for training after she was done with her garden. He wouldn’t mind a couple sparring matches with her, even if it was just to satisfy his need to feel her close. Klara stood up, brushing dirt off her hands with a contented sigh. “Won’t be long before the vegetables are ripe. Maybe in the spring I will be able to plant some berries.”

“Maybe,” Randolf replied, approaching her and wrapping his arm around her waist. Despite the happiness they clearly shared, Randolf had been wondering for a while if she truly wanted to stay with him. As he held her close, resting his cheek in her hair, Randolf finally found the courage to ask. “Are you happy here, Klara?” The wiccan looked up at him in surprise. “With me?”

“Yes, I am.” Klara sighed, resting her head on his arm. “I feel like…this is the first time I can call a place my home.” Randolf kissed the top of her head, his heart racing at her words. Looking up at him with a brilliant smile she asked, “Is that alright with you?”

“Klara,” he turned her towards him and held both her hands in his. “There is something I have to tell you.” Her smile slipped slightly, her heart skipping a beat. “I can remember being happier than when I’m with you.” Her cheeks blushed. “I want you to stay, forever.”

“Randolf I…” Tears started to well up in her eyes and he balked slightly. Shaking her head she quickly said, “I’m not upset, I’m happy, really!” Laughing she added, “But I need you to ask me properly.” He grinned wolfishly and knelt down on one knee.

“Klara, mein Täubchen, will you…?” He suddenly paused, turning his head at a sound Klara couldn’t hear.

It was then a woman appeared suddenly, stepping out from the thicket. She was of slim build, but the energy she gave off told Klara that this was a creature not to be trifled with. The woman had skin the color of fresh grass with delicate silver vine-like veins. Her body was barely covered by the simple loin cloth and wrapping on her chest. When she stepped out of the shadows, her silver hair caught the sunlight and shimmered, unlike her eyes which were black as night.

“Hello Randolf. Long time no see...”