The  
MONSTER  
Under The Bed

A story by Jive Guru

		

	For as long as I can recall, Ive never really fit in with regular people. Most think Im a little odd, and thats alright with me. I dont really mind, because in comparison to the average guy my age, they are probably right.   
	You could say that I am a little weird!  
	Im mean, its not like its all my fault though, I have a very good reason why I may come across a little strange sometimes. I dont get much sleep at night for one, in fact most nights I dont really sleep at all. Its been like this for most of my life and Ive gotten pretty used to it. Oh, its not that I dont sleep, I catch quick naps when I can, but I almost never get any sleep at night.  
	I dont sleep at night because Im aware of certain things that most people arent.   
	  
	I know that monsters are real.  
	  
	I know what you thinking; it sounds crazy, right? Possibly insane, and, yes, perhaps even a little paranoid, but its the gods honest truth about it. To be fair, I suppose it isnt simply this knowledge that keeps me awake at night, no; that honor would have to belong to the monster under my bed.  
	So how did my life come to this? How did I come to reach this fantastic conclusion? Well, like Ive said Ive been living this way for a long time now, since I was just a kid in fact. A little kid who only thought he believed in monsters, but who knew for certain he had a problem to solve.

	It all began with some missing socks

	

CHAPTER ONE: MEETING MY OWN MONSTER

	

	Timothy Newton, what am I going to do with you? Tims mother exclaimed as she pushed the bedroom door open with her hip, entered the room, and dropped the laundry hamper onto the foot of the bed with a soft bounce.  
	Timothy looked up from the comic book he was reading at his desk. What did I do? He says in that defensive tone children only seem to acquire when they believe they are in trouble with their parents.  
	His mother put her hands on her hips. I think you know what you did young man! What do you keep doing with your socks?  
	Timothy is genuinely puzzled. I dont know, wear them? he responds quizzically.   
	His mother takes this as sarcasm. She grabs a small bundle from off the top of the pile of clothes in the hamper and tosses them to her only son.   
	Thats the only pair I could find! I want to know what youre up to! This is nothing new to Timothy, who had been noticing this problem himself for days now. Now Ive got to run out and get more socks before you go out in public looking like a sockless little hobo! she shakes her head, her blonde curly hair tumbling loosely.   
	He closes his comic and sets it on his desk. I dont know, Mom! I didnt do anything to them! I just threw em on the floor, and POOF!- Tim exaggerates this sound with a wave of his hands. -GONE! His fingers explode outwards and wiggle like some magical sparkles.   
	His mother is not amused. They should be thrown in the laundry hamper!  
	Acquiescence. Yes, mom  
	Well, whatever your doing make sure it doesnt happen again! Im not wasting money buying new clothes for you if your just going to make them disappear. She empties the hamper onto the bed and tosses it into the corner of the room where it belongs. Now put these away young man, Im going to go start dinner - Its meatloaf!  
	Woo-hoo! Tim says unenthusiastically under his breath as he swivels around in his desk chair and gets up to begin folding his laundry.   
	Im telling you, its not ME!  
	Yeah, yeah, dont let it happen again. Im serious, kiddo. His mother shakes her head again as she leaves his room, closing the door behind her. As soon as the door clicks home, Timothy stops sorting his laundry and picks up his last pair of socks. What am I going to do now? he thinks.

------  
	  
	While he was putting his clothes away earlier that afternoon he had a sudden idea, he had realized that it was apparently only his own socks that were disappearing, and knew for sure that he wasnt responsible for it. He also knew that he wasnt going to take the blame for it, either.  
	He thought maybe it could be mice dragging them off in the night after he left them on the floor at night and brought it up at dinner to his parents. His father put down his newspaper and laughed. Both his parents attested that they did not have any mice in the house. Tim wasnt so certain, and so he came up with a plan.  
	After changing into his pajamas that night, he makes sure to lay the pair of socks he had been wearing that very day down carefully onto the floor in a very specific T shaped pattern beside his bed. They were one of the two pairs he had left. A worthy sacrifice, but after tonight he would know for certain. He added the secret ingredient. A cookie he had managed to swipe from the kitchen before bed. He positioned it gingerly near the socks and then climbed under his covers. After a few minutes he again peaks down over the edge of his mattress at the socks and the cookie, to make certain they were still there as he had left them. They were. Satisfied, Timothy reaches over and flicks his bedside light off.  
	He rolls onto his back and looks up at the dark ceiling of his room. Moonlight from his bedroom window illuminates some tree branches just outside the house, casting sinister claws across his bedroom walls.   
	Tim pulls his blanket up tight around his neck and curls himself into a ball in the center of the bed. Turning onto his side he looks at his clock. 11:05 pm. He closes his eyes and tries to remember that hes not afraid of the dark anymore.

------

	Timothy is awakened by a brief shuffling sound in the darkness of his room. Laying still, he listens more intently. Nothing but an eerie silence. Not even the house had any creaking to add to the ambiance. He was about to close his eyes again when he heard it.   
	A chomp. He had heard a chomp! Something had taken a nice loud bite out of the cookie he had left on the floor. With a ton of willpower, he manages to turn his head to take in his darkened room. He notes the time on his digital alarm clock, 2:15 am. Scanning across his room with his eyes he sees his dresser along the far wall, and he can see his desk by the window. It was then he saw something new as his eyes adjusted to the night.  
	An indistinct dark mass was crouching there in the center of his room watching him watch it right back. A childish wonder, or perhaps madness, took him over suddenly as he sat up in bed slowly, not taking his eyes off of the thing that sat hunched there, not three feet away.  
	Wh-Who are you? Timothy whispered.  
	He saw movement somewhere within the tangle of black shadows and for a moment he swore he saw the mirror-like shimmer from two large feline eyes regard him curiously before being lost again to a veil of darkness.  
	He tried again. Dont be afraid, Im not going to hurt you  
	It was then that the creature before him began to rise up from the floor slowly, a distinct, highly-calculated menace to its posture as it loomed closer to the bedside. It extended an arm outwards towards him and hissed at him like a huge cat. Timothy suddenly dives under his covers and yells for help.  
	A few moments later, he hears shuffling from outside his room and the door latch click open as his mother bursts into the room. After a moment she sits down on the edge of the bed and puts her hand on the lump of his blanket where she assumes Timothys shoulder must be, huddled underneath his bedding.  
	Honey, whats wrong? She manages, concerned, but stifling a yawn.  
	From under the blankets. Theres something in my room!  
	His bedside light turns on at his mothers turn of the switch. Theres nobody here except me, Tim. It must have been a nightmare! Thats all. She states matter-of-factly.  
	Timothy throws the blanket from off his head and looks around. He hadnt heard the monster leave, but indeed, it was nowhere to be seen. He leans over and looks down at the floor where he had placed his test socks. They had moved!   
	Now, there was only one left.  
	Tims mother followed his gaze and saw the lone sock on the floor in a bunch and bent down picking it up. Timothy Newton! I told you earlier to stop leaving these on the floor! Wheres the other one? Disappeared? Tim was astonished. I think perhaps you should be grounded for deliberately disobeying me!  
	Grounded?! But it wasnt me! It was the Monster! He exclaimed and regretted it the moment he did. It sounded utterly ridiculous, of course. Even to a kid.  
	His mother shakes her head and tosses the sock back to the floor without a second thought. Oh boy, you really are a dreamer arent you? First mice and now monsters? She leans over and kisses him on the forehead, then tucks him into bed snuggly. She turns out the light and walks to his door. Good night, dear. Well talk about this again, tomorrow. Go to sleep. Tim watches her as she closes the door. He sees the shadows of her feet hesitate for a moment outside the door, as if she were standing on the other side listening, and then after a time, the hall light goes out.  
	Not if I can help it. He says to the darkness.  
	  
	Silently, a nimble hand slides out from underneath his bed, takes a hold of the remaining sock, and slowly drags it back into the deep shadows below.

------

	The following day, Tims mother wandered into her sons room to refold his laundry from the previous day. Tim had recently picked up the bad habit of simply stuffing his clothes willy-nilly into his dresser drawers the moment she left him alone to do his chores. Indeed, she opened up his top drawer to find a mess of rumpled shirts and pants.  
	Pulling them out, she went to work laying them out on his bed (after making it herself) and after a few minutes she was finished, with a nice stack of neatly folded laundry. Without any socks, of course.  
	She looked down at the side of his bed where she had found his sock earlier that night, but the loner was nowhere to be found. She looked in the hamper. Nothing. To good to be true, of course.  
	Curiously, she leans down by the side of his bed and runs her fingers nimbly over the  carpet, just beneath the edge of his bed frame. The tips of her fingers dip briefly into the inky shadow underneath it before she catches herself and pulls her hand away. Monsters, he says.  
	She sighs. Ruth, Ruth, Ruth, What are you going to do with that boy, now?

------  
	  
	That night, Tim modified his trap slightly. This time, the socks (his last pair) were laid out in an X pattern and set in a different location, he didnt want to arouse suspicion in the beast by placing them the same way again. During the day, while he was busy doing all of his chores, and helping his father do some yard work (since he had indeed been unjustly grounded after all), he had plenty of time to think up a new addition to his plan.   
	Late in the afternoon, he managed to sneak into his fathers photography studio to get his hands on one of his dads old Polaroid cameras that he didnt use anymore. This time he left three cookies. 

	Tonight he would be ready.

	Midnight. Timothy lay awake in his bed, paying close attention for even the slightest sound or movement in the dark. Concealed under his covers he palmed the camera, ready to throw off his blankets and snap a quick picture of that sock-snatching monster the second it made an appearance.  
	The wind blew wildly outside his window tonight, the tree branch claws shook fiercely beyond the pane and the shadows they cast were a crowd of frantic demons scratching away at his walls. Tim didnt care, let them scratch. Tonight, he had more important things on his mind.  
	At 2:07 am he awoke with a start. He had fallen asleep waiting! Luckily he had heard what he had been waiting for all day. No time to worry about missing his cue, he thought to himself as he surveyed his room.   
	The creature had again taken the bait. He lay there, unmoving and wide-eyed, regarding the thing for a moment, as it kneeled down on its haunches facing away from him this time, intent on stuffing its face. It moaned slightly with delight, a fluttery sound barely audible.  
	He felt the camera under the blanket and took hold of it, fumbling the thing into position in his hand. This was it! He took a deep breath and then in one fluid movement, Tim threw the covers off of himself, sat up onto his knees, brought the camera up to his face, aimed and hit the button on the camera. The creature had begun to swivel towards him the moment he whipped off his bedding when the camera flash caught it off guard.  
	The Monster seemed to be momentarily stunned. It stood up, dropping the cookie it held in its clawed grasp and covered its face, hissing, before growling out You little Brat! It moved towards him with a purpose, but seemed to still be seeing spots.   
	Adrenaline surging, Tim stood straight up on his bed, took a leap off of his mattress and landed at his bedroom door. He pulled it open and spun through it, slamming the latch home behind him just as he heard the dull thud of a fist strike the other side, followed by a muffled growl of anger.  
	Did it just speak English? He thought, and then: Did it just call me a Brat? Tim blinked thoughtfully in the darkness before remembering the camera in his hand.  
	Stepping slowly backwards away from his bedroom door, he decided that whatever it was wasnt following him. He turned and made his way to the upstairs bathroom, using his free hand to guide him stealthily along the walls of his home in the pitch black of the night. Flicking on the lights above the mirror and shutting the door, he locked it behind him.  
	The camera had a single Polaroid sticking out of its front slot. Tim snatched it and put the camera down on the sink. Slowly the photograph came into focus as the bathroom light helped develop the image. A grin gradually inched across Timothys face as the picture came into focus.  
	He had done it! He had in his hands physical proof. Proof, that it was not him destroying his socks in the night, that it wasnt mice in the house, that he was, in fact, correct. He had a monster problem. And the problem was a girl!

	She had dark grey skin, nearly black, however not so black that you couldnt make out an even darker speckling upon her cheeks, like freckles or the markings of a lizard of some kind. Her eyes were large golden pools, slashed vertically with deep black slits like a cat. They were thin slits in the picture, from the sudden flash.  
	The monster girl had been caught off-guard, looking back at the camera from over her shoulder, with a tiny chunk of chocolate-chip cookie dangling from her lips, between which Tim could make out a small glistening fang.   
	She had been holding up a hand gingerly catching any cookie crumbs that no doubt would have fallen down her chin, revealing perfectly, her lithe, decidedly non-human fingers, each of which protruded into a sharp, yet strangely feminine dagger-like claw.  
	After looking over the girl for a moment more, Timothy took note of perhaps her least human-like feature. Her ears. She didnt have any! Instead, she had what appeared to be bat-like wing-fins sticking out of the side of her head. They sort of recalled long pointy elf-ears, but were definitely some sort of fin. They were blood red along the inner membrane.  
	He couldnt tell much about her body, as it was draped in a shape-concealing cloak that seemed to distort her edges like smoke, and on her head she wore an impressive head dress, something akin to an Native American chief. Instead of eagle feathers and the like, it seemed to consist of glistening black protrusions similar to a ravens feathers that jutted outwards in random directions. Two fairly large, twisted horns from something Tim was pretty certain didnt even exist on Earth stuck out of the top of it. Along the forehead hung down an intricate beadwork pattern that framed her eyes perfectly. It was this large hat that gave her shadow a fearsome appearance and stature in the darkness, however seeing it in the camera light Tim could tell that the monster wasnt much bigger than he was, in fact she may have been even shorter.  
	He could see two small wings protruding from her back, about mid-way down, although he couldnt be sure that they werent a part of her cloak, they did match the blood red of her ears. They certainly didnt seem large enough to ever support her weight during a flight, at least, not yet they didnt.   
	Then came the final unique detail the picture had to offer. Her tail. It was about a foot and a half long, as far as he could tell, and at the end of it was a small fleshy spade-shaped fin, which again matched her ears.

	Seeing her for what she really was, Tim realized that hed probably never be afraid of her again. She was just a little girl, afraid of getting her picture taken.

------

	Standing in the hall outside of his bedroom door he listened to see whether or not she was still inside. When he didnt hear anything he reached out and turned the door knob slowly, then pushed the door open without entering.   
	As far as he could tell, she had disappeared. Most likely she had left the same way she had the previous night, however she had accomplished that. It didnt involve the door. Tim crept inside and stood at the foot of his bed, which was the closest thing to his doorway. Nothing happened. After a moment he remembered his little setup and moved to where he had set out his socks.  
	He was relieved to find that they hadnt been touched at all. Obviously the monster had gone straight for the cookies this time. Crouching down to investigate more closely he found the remnant of the cookie she had dropped when the camera flash went off. It had a decent sized bite taken out of it.  
	His bedroom door closed shut behind him with a small click.  
	You must be very pleased with yourself. She spoke from the door, which she was now leaning against.  
	Tim sat frozen in place, but he did reply. Well, the picture could have been better. He turns his head by degrees and manages a glimpse over his shoulder. He can see her standing in his peripheral vision, half lit from the moonlight from his bedroom window.  
	The monster sighs. Very cute. Now, where is it?  
	Ive got it right here. He pats the breast pocket of his pajamas.  
	Give it to me.   
	No way! I need it.  
	Theres a brief pause as she mulls over the denial of her simple request. It wont do you any good. She flicks her tail, perhaps unconsciously before adding. -or me, either. Its already screwed up too much!  
	Timothy swivels around on the floor to face her. What do you mean?  
	She turns her face away towards the shadow, but he can still see her feline eyes glinting in the moonlight regarding him sideways. Nobody will believe you! That picture will prove nothing to anyone you show it to.  
	Tim grins. Oh yeah? Why not? Seems to me like Ive got proof that you exist and youre a pretty messy eater! She glares at him and folds her arms around her shoulders. Her tail flicks like a whip. Apparently, making fun of a girls eating habits is a universally bad move, even with monsters.  
	Despite her body language, seemingly undaunted she counters: Have you ever wondered why no one has been able to ever take a clear picture of any of your so called monsters? She adds a lethal dose of venom to the word as she hisses it out.  
	As it happened Tim had wondered that, many a time.  
	Well, its a nice trick all of us monsters-  Again the venom. -know about. A glamour.  
	Tim picks himself up off the floor and sits in the swivel chair at his desk. A glamour? Whats that? Like Magic? Youve got magical powers too? Must be nice! He pulls out the picture from his pocket and holds it out pointing at it. Well, thats a nice story and all, but I can see you, right here! He taps the Polaroid with his finger tip to drive the point home.  
	She pushes away from the doorway and briskly strides towards the picture, she attempts to snatch it out of his hands, but Tim was expecting her to try that and pulls it away at the last second. She moves with it and ends up attempting to half climb over him in the chair as he waves the picture at arms length behind him.  
	Give it to me, right now! She exclaims in a huff.  
	Why do you keep stealing my socks? Tim blurts out as she struggles against him.  
	She stops abruptly and looks down over him, eyes wide, as if she has only now realized what she was doing and how close in proximity they had become. She shrinks away from him, moving over to and sitting on the edge of his bed, opposite him. Her fin-ears at first are extended upwards in shock but droop downwards as if she were a dog in trouble. Is that what all of this is about?  
	Well, duh! says Timothy, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. The girl cocks her head and squints in confusion. Tim clarifies: What I mean is, yes, that is what this whole thing is about. He taps the photograph three times on the arm of the chair and then stands up and takes a step towards her. Its starting to get me in trouble! I wanna know why.  
	She meets his eyes with her own. I err, well she stammers and looks away out of embarrassment biting her finger gently. Tim rocks forward on his feet leaning into her, expectant of an answer when she turns her body defensively and looks at him over her shoulder contemptuously. Fine then! Keep the picture! Its not like it will do you any good, anyway! She finally blurts out accusingly.  
	 Tim deflates and bursts out laughing at her sudden shift in attitude. Frazzled, she rises and harshly pushes past Timothy as she makes her way to the bedroom window. She stops and leans against the wall, looking out towards the horizon. The moonlight shines against her dark skin, giving her a silver glow. She visibly relaxes, the shadowy claws off the trees outside the window dance across her features as she begins to fluidly pull off her monstrous hat, revealing a cascade of fiery red hair as it unfurls down around her shoulders. She dangles the hat at her side its jutting protrusions almost brushing the bedroom carpet. Timothy stops laughing and stands in slight awe, as she finally, gracefully, looks back at him. Her golden eyes seem to look right though him. You wont get in trouble again.  
	Umm, thanks. He replies.   
	She lowers her head, her eyes closed. You arent afraid of me anymore, are you, boy?  
	No. He admits, then adds: And my name is Timothy. Timothy Newton.  
	She flicks her eyes at him briefly before returning her gaze back out the window. My name is Shadow, if you must know.  
	Shadow. Tim looks around his room, hoping something would pop into his head to fill the silence. He spies the third remaining cookie he had planted on the floor, untouched. He squats down to pick it. What about you, Shadow?  
	What about me?  
	Will you be in trouble?  
	She turns, regarding him as he picks up the cookie. I dunno. Her tail flicks. As long as nobody finds out about that picture, I should be alright.  
	No one will. You said it yourself, it wouldnt prove anything anyway.  
	Right. With my glamour Im just another blurry snapshot. She flares the small wings on her back outwards briefly, in some otherworldly attempt at body language which is initially lost on Tim. Perhaps, some variation on a human shrug.  
	Tim looks again at the photograph. But I can see you, plain as day- He smirks. -well, plain as night.  
	Shadow crouches down opposite him on the floor. Its a much more graceful motion when she does it though, somehow. She flicks her chin at the picture in his hand signaling him to show her. He turns it over for her inspection. Of course you can see me in it, you took the picture. She tilts her head and narrows her eyes until they are half lidded. Contemplative. Thats a terrible picture, by the way.  
	Well, I was in a hurry. You understand.  
	Oh, absolutely. I do.  
	They laugh together.  
	When they finally reach a mutual stopping point, Timothy quietly asks her a question. Shadow, will I ever see you again?  
	Shadow watches him then, her eyes flicking slightly back and forth, beaming at him, her pupils wide in the darkness of the room. Her ears rise up, alert, she spreads her wings wide behind her. Her tail undulates back and forth slowly behind her head. She leans forward, her clawed hands splayed out like an arsenal on the floor. Her bare feet, much the same. Was she showing him her inhumanity? What he was asking for? When he meets her eyes again, she smiles, revealing shiny wet fangs. Finally, after what seems an eternity, yet could only be a few seconds: Will there be more erm- She motions to the cookie in Tims hand.  
	Cookies? Tim fills in her blank.  
	She nods.  
	Well, yeah, sure! Why not? He grins and offers the cookie to her, which she accepts. Their fingers mingle briefly before she takes the cookie herself. They share a brief embarrassed look with the other, then begin to laugh, together.  
	

------

	Well, now you know how this whole thing began. That night I stumbled into a secret world where monsters were real. Looking back now, I wouldnt want it any other way. Meeting Shadow changed my life, and I wouldnt trade that for anything.

	At first, I wasnt so sure. Neither of us were, really. That first night, when she finally had to leave, after she crawled back under my bed and vanished into the darkness, I figured that was that. Id probably never see her again, cookies or not.  
	The next night, I slid into bed and was accosted during the night by a menacing black claw that reached over the edge of the mattress and sunk harmlessly into my stacked pillows. I handed it a cookie, and we shared a good laugh. 

	After the first week went by, she didnt even come for the cookies anymore. 

	As the years went by, many changes occurred. When I was fourteen, my parents let me move my room into the attic of our house, which had always been a spare room, though for years it had just been used for storage. They figured I would need more space and also more privacy now that I had become a teenager. Also, it helped put some distance between my own living space and their own bedroom, as my taste in music, movies and other pastimes were getting louder, and lasting later into the night.  
	  
	Having a monster as a friend, I developed an affinity for horror movies, and when I finally had my own hand-me-down television (after my parents upgraded their own) I decided to show a few to Shadow, which she immediately loved, though for reasons much different than you might think. She thought they were hilarious, and she herself developed a special affinity for the Elm Street films, adoring the antics of the great Robert Englunds classic horror icon Freddy Krueger. As well she might, she also used the films I showed her as a teaching aid - to further develop her own scare tactics.   
	  
	Though, try as she might (and try she did, often), she could never quite frighten me. Much to her chagrin.  
	  
	When I was eighteen, after I graduated high school, I began apprenticing with my father, doing photography. We worked weddings mostly, as well as personal clients, family photos and the like. I was never the one taking the actual pictures, of course, I was just the assistant. Though I did take a few here and there, and dad said I had a good eye for it. Sometimes we even worked with models, though Dad would work those alone - Much to my own chagrin! Of course, I wasnt really upset about that. I had my own unique subject of study, it was just that nobody else could see it.  
	  
	Literally.

CHAPTER TWO: AND THEN, A SEA CHANGE

	

	Shadow makes her way along the ancient corridors of the Dark Passageway, the gateway system that connects her realm to that of the human world. Long ago she had grown accustomed to its hallowed halls, lined with pillars of crystalline black onyx set against a broken pattern of dark marbled tile work. Reflections of your image stare back at you, subtly distorted as if you were looking into funhouse mirror as you passed each new section.  
	Every meter, or roughly thereabouts, appears a shallow stairwell carved into the wall leading upwards and onwards to a destination unseen in the murky din above. These alcoves were what led to the various entryways of the Earth.  
	Her footsteps echo in the silence, though she stops abruptly as she hears someone else approaching from the direction she was heading. Out of the darkness ahead, she spies Midnight, another Night Sister just like herself, who also happened to be her best friend. They cross paths, exchanging a curt nod between them as they went about their own business, though a few moments later Midnight stops in her tracks, turns, and speaks out to Shadow who had continued onward down the dark hall.  
	Making your rounds again, sis? Midnight says all too knowingly.  
	Shadow breaks her stride. I am. You know how much I enjoy putting in some extra time up there. She rounds on Midnight, whose smile beams back at her from a few steps away.  
	Yes, especially with that one young lad of yours! Midnight bats her eyes playfully at her friend.  
	Shadow looks about them flabbergasted. Midnight! I told you! What if somebody? She waves her arms futilely and finally latches them at her sides, her hands balled into delicate fists, mindful of her own claws, of course.  
	Midnight approaches her and clasps Shadow about the shoulders with her own clawed fingers. Dont worry! Shadow- She says reassuringly -Ive got your back. Always. Patting her friends shoulder lightly she backs off, runs a hand through her short black hair, pushing it out of her face.  
	Shadow sighs, and relaxes herself in front of her good friend. Im glad. Im not sure I could manage this alone, and youre the only one I trust with such things. Her tail swishes behind her restlessly.  
	Youd better believe it. Nightmare would rat you out at a moments notice.  
	Shadow thinks of Nightmare, her perfect, hot shot, all around golden-girl and oldest guild-sister. Her spider-like demeanor striking fear, even among some of her own Guild-mates. A Nightmare indeed.  
	You should get going! You dont want to be late for date night! Midnight openly smiles to her youngest sister.   
	Shadow regards her with poorly concealed contempt through narrow slits.   
	Im Kidding! Jeez. Lighten up a little, sis. I know hes just some human kid. Besides, your betrothal to Terminus will be coming up soon.  
	Shadows ears droop. Dont remind me.  
	Youll have to go through with it, whether you like it or not Shadow. Its just the way it is. So have your fun visiting with Tommy now, while you can. We both know after your Bonding you wont have the chance to go visiting anymore.  
	I know. I know! whispers Shadow harshly, before turning around and heading once more down the Dark Passage. And his name is Timothy.  
	Midnight watches after Shadow as she drifts off into the darkness. I know its hard, but its time to face the truth, sis. Its time to grow up and say goodbye to your little friend. She thinks to herself.

------  
	  
	Terminus. Gods, why did it have to be him? Shadow mulls over the disturbing thought for the millionth time, as she nears the stairwell she knows all too well. She had known about the betrothal for weeks now, but still couldnt understand why it had to be her, of all the Night Sisters. Why would she have to put aside her duties and lose her best friend, only to become yet another trophy to that arrogant and brash tyrant. For the greater good of the guild. The idea made no sense. By rights, this should have fallen to Nightmare.  
	Reaching the alcove that led to Timothys room, she stops and leans against the black archway, looking up and ahead to what might very well be one of the last times she would be coming this way. To Tim. Nervously, she smoothes out her hair and her dress, not that it made a difference, the slightest shifting or movement would set its ghostly material adrift like a spiders web caught in a gentle wind. She loved to wear her Ghost-silk dress when visiting Timothy, she always smiled inwardly when she noticed him trying to figure out how it distorted so, as if merely looking at it caused it to flutter at the edges. It was also cut short, and she found a perverse glee in the times when Tim noticed it as well, and made not to look.   
	She chewed her lip to quell such thoughts, though her tail seductively flicked the air behind her despite herself. She pulled on her Demons Mane and slowly began to ascend the steps. It was going to be difficult to tell him her news, tonight. But she no longer had a choice. Not anymore.  
	At the top of the stairs was a small cell that led nowhere, although along the top edge, along the ceiling, was a window-like slit across the far wall, which she reached up and took a hold of, pulling herself up and through it. She rolled out onto a padded woven welcome mat which was laid out at the side of Tims bed.   
	It was a little joke he had installed in his room several years past. 	  
	Rising to her feet, she looked about the darkened attic bedroom. Apparently, it was going to be even more difficult to tell Timothy her distressing news, as he was nowhere to be seen.  
	She walks across the hardwood floor to the inset window box seat that overlooked the front of the house. No car was parked in the laneway. He must be with his father at the studio. She thought. No doubt he would be back soon, he had never missed one of their nights together once, not since he was in the hospital for a few days back when he was ten years old. Had it really been so long?  
	Shadow looks back across the room to Timothys oak bookshelf, gets up and pads her way to it, running her pointed index finger along the book spines, until she finds what she had desired. A simple red and black stripped photo album. Pulling it out, she delicately ran her palm across its worn front, she couldnt help smiling to herself. Apparently, it was a favorite of Tims and saw a lot of use.  
	Sliding herself down onto his bed, she makes herself comfortable, stretching her wings out before wrapping them up neatly around her body, their edges hugging beneath her bosom, latching together between them, creating a corset-like affair that accented her shape quite nicely though the middle, she thought.   
	Opening the album to the first page she saw two things. On the inside cover, she found herself, a mere child, looking over her shoulder to the camera, cookie dangling from her mouth, aghast. The picture that had started everything. Looking back now, she had been a stupid and unaware Nightstalker at the time, but in the end it had brought years of unexpected happiness to her life. To the opposite page Tim had secured a small sock. A memento of how they had met in the first place. If only he knew why I did what I did would he be flattered or repulsed?  
	Flipping to the next page she found the second picture of her. When they were about eleven Timothy had finally convinced her to sit down for a decent picture of herself. She did not look very impressed in it, sitting on the edge of his bed, hands folded in her lap, underdeveloped wings jutting outwards at a peculiar and tense angle.  
	A few more pages, a few more years. A snapshot of the night they went out together on Halloween trick or treating for human candy. Tim had dressed up as Freddy, Shadow as Jason Voorhees, the better to hide her true nature from the other children. In the picture, she was hanging around his neck lifting the hockey mask and smiling wide revealing her glistening fangs for the camera as they both squeezed close to get into the shot together.  
	A few photos of her striking fearful poses, wings and claws spread out, seemingly ready to shred some unseen foe filled several pages. A lone picture of her centered on one page was simply herself standing by the window, moonlight shining against her dark grey skin. The photograph made her seem like some beautiful dark angel. Was this how I looked to Tim? She flushed at the thought. The final picture, taken just last year, was a simple moment captured as an experiment while Tim was testing out the timer function on his new camera he had got for his birthday. They sat together at his window seat, his arm wrapped around her shoulders casually, she had rested her head on his shoulder, their hands clasped, fingers entwined, her dark claws amid his pale fingers. They were happy together.  
	Closing the album firmly, Shadow rolls over onto her back and clutches the book of memories to her chest tightly, staring up towards the wooden rafters above Tims room. Her night eyes gleaming with deep ambivalence. Please, come home soon Timothy.   
	The end of her tail curls rhythmically as she lays in wait.

------  
	  
	Tim ran out of the door to his fathers downtown studio. He had been helping his dad setup and develop some photographs from their latest wedding gig and had lost track of the time. His father was staying behind a while longer which left Tim without a ride home, normally only a drive of a few minutes, now he would have to walk it.  
	Tonight they were supposed to meet at ten. Pulling out his phone, he checked the time as he made his way down the street. 10:32 pm and he was only half way back. Shadow would have already been waiting a half hour on him. Hopefully she would not be too mad at him and leave without seeing me. Raced through his mind.   
	Over the years, their night visits together arrived earlier and earlier into the night, what at first could have been anywhere from between two or three in the morning before she showed herself, became Midnight, and a few times even as early as seven in the evening.   
	That one Halloween night came to mind. He grinned, as he passed a few strangers who looked at him funny. Shadow ate all the candy they had collected that night. Hopped up on all that sugar and being able to walk about freely in the brisk autumn air for the first time, she had let her guard down, that slight aloofness she had always worn like a mask was suddenly gone. Rules were broken.   
	That night was the first time she had hugged him. Somehow, he had finally accumulated enough trust with Shadow that she had allowed him to share her real self, an not the monster she played at. Of course, it may have just been the candy.	  
	Several long minutes afterwards he finally arrives home.   
	Walking up the driveway to the front door, he leaps up the front porch steps two at a time, reaches out and turns the handle of the door, opening it with such timing that his forward momentum never ceases for an instant. Pushing off the door (which closes shut behind him), Timothy kicks off his shoes and pulls off his jacket which he tosses onto a wall hook along the interior wall of the front foyer and heads for the kitchen.  
	Passing though the kitchen, he stops momentarily at a cupboard which he opens, considering the contents. He pulls down a box of cookies and makes his way to the rear of the house where the stairs were. Again, he bounds up the stairs two at a time finding himself confronted by the door to his old room (now an office for his mother) to his left. Walking further down the hallway, he passes the upstairs bathroom (where years ago he had huddled to look over a momentous photograph), and reaches the end of the hall, where a window looks out to the side yard he had just walked through a moment ago.  
	Beside the window he pulls open a simple wooden door revealing the plain wooden stairwell leading up to his room in the attic. Practically taking the steps in a single bound, Tim finally stops. Looking at his alarm clock he sees its just about eleven. Not quite an hour late, but when it came to Shadows visits every minute counted.  
	She was nowhere to be seen. Dismayed, Tim tossed the box of chocolate chip cookies onto the bed with a disheartened sigh. That was when he noticed the photo album laying open on the bed. His heart raced in his chest as he investigated it further.  
	A new picture had been added to it. A self-shot Polaroid picture of Shadow looking decidedly unimpressed, holding up a sharp index finger to the side of her mouth, as if silently indicating to him Strike One.  
	A wave of sudden guilt struck him across his chest, realizing he had let her down tonight. For the first time he had allowed her to slip his mind and had paid the price, disappointing his most special friend.  
	Out of nowhere he was blinded by a camera flash.   
	Shocked, he stumbles backwards towards his desk, jostling a few knick-knacks about with a clatter as he catches himself on it. A moment later Shadow drops down to the floor from the rafters, Polaroid camera in hand, where she had been laying in wait for him.  
	Gotcha! she says triumphantly, still fiddling with the camera in her hands.  
	His feeling of guilt gives way to a sudden feeling of immense relief, watching her smoothly rise from her landing crouch, and finally turn her full attention from the camera to him.  
	Tims heart was pounding in his chest. Shadow! Thank god, I didnt miss you! You frightened me half to death, I thought Id missed you tonight! He managed to get out as he stood up straight, smoothing out his own clothes.  
	Shadows ear-fins raised up in a slow realization, and her eyes danced over his face seeing something she hadnt before now. You mean, I actually, really scared you? Suddenly, her face lit up, what seemed a moment ago to Tim like a peculiar sullen expression upon her face melted away. She moved at once towards Timothy, leaping onto him, her arms strung around his neck, her legs around his torso. She trilled with joy. It was a noise she made in the back of her throat that Tim had never been able to mimic correctly. She sounded like a cooing bird.  
	Tim had no choice but to take hold of her. He slid his hands under her, finding a center of balance, which ultimately seemed to be right at the hem of her dress to his astonished delight. She was surprisingly lightweight he discovered, and found her extraordinarily warm pressing against him.  
	Face to face, in his arms she grinned proudly, even wickedly. She let out a giddy Meh-heh-heh laugh, and murmured between them Im SO happy! On THIS night, of ALL nights!... Im just so  
	  
	And then it happened.

	She kissed Tim suddenly. She closed her eyes and sunk her claws into his shoulders pulling him closer. Her wings unraveled from her torso and spread upwards and outwards behind her. Her tail danced rhythmically back and forth to some wonderful unheard music.  
	At first, it was just an innocent peck, however, that peck seemed to go on and on, until at last she drew back, suddenly self-conscious, and more than a little surprised with herself. She opened her eyes and found Timothys still closed. A moment later his opened as well, and he met her from across the tiny universe they now shared with surprise.  
	Her dark face was flushed, Timothys as well. Im sorry, Tim, I dont I She began to apologize when Tim leaned in and kissed her back. For a moment a wave of panic shot through her, but before she knew it, it was replaced by a brand new feeling that spread thoroughly through her. Shadows thoughts melted away until there was nothing else that mattered, except for Tim.  
	Timothy had been surprised to say the least, when, at first, he found Shadows lips on his own. The adrenaline, already running through his system from his previous shock, now worked double time. He didnt even feel Shadows claws dragging against his back. Somewhere in the back of his mind, a thought came unbidden: He knew that this wasnt normal, not nearly, but somehow, it was right.   
	Gradually Tim makes his way across the room, embracing Shadow snugly in his arms. On the way, Shadow, distractedly, hauls her impressive Demons Mane hat off of her head and carelessly drops it to the floor with a clatter of horns on wood, her flaming red hair tumbling about them both as they kiss again and again. Finding the bed, Tim lowers Shadow down to the edge of the mattress, and as her weight leaves him, he slides his hands out from beneath her, running them down her legs, feeling the lithe definition in them, until ultimately they come to rest upon her knees.   
	She disengages her legs from around his waist and dangles them over the edge of the bed, her left hand moves, just so, across her lap, pushing her short dress down and yet also teasing Tim, seemingly daring him to move it.   
	Finding himself now crouching down between her powerful legs, his hands clutching her knees, Tim looks up into her deep golden eyes which peer back down into his almost eerie, ocean blue eyes.  
	Shadow, I - Tim begins, but trails off, not knowing exactly what to say to her.  
	She knows how he feels. In reply, she slips her free hand over his right hand still on her knee, which he in turn takes in his own, their fingers weave together tightly. Tim She says through a warm smile, as suddenly a tear streaks down her cheek. She looks upwards and away blinking rapidly, attempting to will it away before finally closing her eyes.   
	Timothy moves their clasped hands to his cheek, slightly rough with a days growth of stubble now, and lightly kisses her fingers wrapped in his own. He moves then, settling down next to her on the bedside. Brushing a strand of her hair out of her face, he tucks it away behind her right ear, which rises and falls at his touch, tracing his fingers along the contour of her face gently, he uses his thumb to wipe away a stray tear on her cheek.   
	Shadow smiles, and stifles a tiny sob. She puts her hand over top of his, guiding it to her lips where she kisses it gently, holding it to her lips a moment, and then turning into Tim, she buries her face into his shoulder, nuzzling against him. Releasing her hand, Tim wraps his arm about her shoulders holding her delicately.  
	She squeezes his hand tightly, breathes in his scent, her forehead rests upon his shoulder, and after a few moments she whispers into his chest. I cant believe this is happening.  
	Tim makes a sound in his chest, of affirmation. It rumbles in her ear, and sooths her.  
	She unburies her head and looks him in the eyes, which glint lightly with his own tears. She bites her bottom lip for a moment. Soon - She wipes away the last of her tears, - Soon, well have to say good-bye, Tim.  
	Tims blood seems to run cold across his heart. What are you saying? Surely you can stay a while longer? He asked her, but he knew already that wasnt what she meant.  
	Her tail came around his back, underneath his arm and across his chest, to lay above his heart. The spade at the end patted against him there softly. Tonight, yes but -  
	- But soon. Tim finished the sentence for her.  
	She nods slightly, not entirely sure how much longer she had herself. Tim, Im sorry.  
	He brought her hand up to his lips once again. Shadow. Its not your fault. I know there are rules you have to follow. Rules against this sort of thing I bet  
	Well, yes, there are, but its not just the rules, its not you, Tim, its, she hesitates a moment, a duty.  
	Tim lets out his breath slowly. This sounds like the beginning of a bad breakup.  
	Its no breakup, I would love to stay, if I could.  
	Then stay.  
	For as long as possible, Tim. I love this world so much I love you. She realizes it was true. Shed known for a long time, but could never, ever, admit to it. It was impossible, and yet, it was true. Ive always loved you, Timothy Newton.   
	Tim seemed to resolve in front of her. Ive always loved you, Ive loved you since I first laid eyes on you, Shadow.  
	Drawing away from one another so that they were no longer leaning into each other, they clasped both of their hands together again, squeezing each others firmly, looking each other over with bright eyes. Then as if in synchronicity, they both lean forward and kiss each other, this time more passionately, and openly, than even moments before.  
	Shadow began to recline onto her back leisurely, drawing Tim down towards her by his hands, he follows turning towards her to maintain contact, and finally, leaning over top of her. Their hands separate and start to wander in search of more daring adventures, Shadows snake beneath Tims t-shirt, running up the side of his torso. She traces the ribs she finds there, rounding his onto his back, and finally dragging the tips of her sharp fingers gingerly down his spine. His bare skin radiated a heat she discovered she desperately wanted to feel more of than anything.  
	Tims hand had found its way up that unfeasible dress of hers and landed on her hip as she had pulled a leg up onto the bed, pushing herself further into the middle, moving his hand along the curve of her backside, Shadow trills with pleasure urging him onward and even further beyond. He kisses Shadow down the nape of her neck, and, pulling on her sleeve, down her newly bared shoulder.   
	Above him, she sucks on her lower lip with a pointy fang, grinning wildly with anticipation. She squeals with wicked delight when, unexpectedly to her, Tim runs his hand up her ghost-silk dress to cup her breast, pulling the hem of her skirt up her body with his arm, exposing nearly everything it had managed to conceal from him for so long. To cover her sudden exposure, the leg she had previously brought up, swung over her other bare thigh by instinct, and found its way into an intimate tangle with Timothys legs.  
	Despite her enjoyment, this position was doing no favors for her wings. She pushes Tim off of her and onto his back, then cuddles up beside him, giving him a hungry kiss once again, as she stretches out her wings, almost able to reach the rafters above from the beds height and with Timothy beneath her. With her hand on his chest, she clutches his shirt into a ball in her fist and starts pulling it over his head, which he graciously helps remove for her.  
	Resting her head across his well defined bare chest, looking down his body, she reaches her hand out to his belt buckle and starts fiddling with it, attempting to undo it single-handedly. While fussing over its mechanics, she picks her head back up and looks innocently into Tims face who had ceased his wanderings the moment she grabbed his pants.   
	He met her with a look that spoke volumes, and put his arm over her shoulders caressing the dark grey skin now exposed across her back. She flashed a slightly menacing, yet charming grin at him (perhaps sensing some subconscious fear in him), and laid her head back down across his heart, watching her work passively, patiently, listening his pulse quicken, his breathing deepen. Tim curled a strand of her shiny flaming hair around his finger. A moment later his belt came undone.  
	Tim laid his head back on the bed and held in a gasp of breath when Shadow slid her hand down his trousers and took a firm hold of him through his boxers.  
	You humans and all of your redundant clothing! She murmured, only half seriously. This just wont do. And proceeded to work his pants down. Tim again helped her, by helping to wiggle them off with his feet and after a few seconds they hit the floor, forgotten.  
	She sat up, leaning above him on one arm, the other tracing along the rigid lump in his underwear. She seemed transfixed by it, tilting her head about, regarding it at different angles curiously, as her fingers familiarized themselves. Her tail curled and swung about excitedly, the way Tim noticed it always did when she was anticipating something. It was a very good sign, he decided.  
	She decided she had teased him long enough, when, after awhile, Tim grew bold and slowly slipped his hand under her billowing dress, grasping her rear end firmly, and not letting go. She let him out to play. And you call me a monster! She feigns shock, as a silly grin creeps across her face.  
	Tim croaks out What? Ive. never! and attempts to sit up, but Shadow pins him down to the sheets by putting her supporting arm in the middle of his chest and holding it there, smirking down at him. Tim chuckles and shakes his head, closing his eyes as she begins stroking his manhood. He releases his grip on her behind and moves his hand around in circles, feeling her odd, inhuman, smoothness. After a moment he finds his fingers drawn to a deeper warmth below.  
	She gasps, her breath momentarily catches in her throat, as Tim slides home. She arches her back and her grip tightens around him, in turn, causing Tim to push deeper still, sending a wave though her entire body, and through Tims as well. With it, some deep, wonderful, madness takes a hold of them both.  
	Feeling each other now, their eyes meet and without a word they both know its time. Shadow climbs on top on Tim, straddling his waist with her burning thighs. She fumbles between her own legs guiding him across her underside until finally she lowers herself onto him and they become one with each other.   
	She shudders, hers wings splay outwards to their fullest span as she arches her back in blissful agony as she feels him inside her for the first time.   
	Tim begins to move below her, and Shadow spasms slightly, before lolling her head around regarding him from above, she places her hands to either side of his head and leans low over him drawing him into another deep kiss, before she herself begins to move her hips in time.  
	Tims hands flow up the lines of her body, tracing her lovely contours until he reaches the neckline of her outfit, pulling it down her arms, it seems to give way completely, falling around her waist like a loose sash, revealing all. He pulls her down on him, feeling her breasts press softly against his flesh, he wraps his arms about her.  
	Their dance continues. It builds to a crescendo, and yet again, until finally they approach the zenith of their passion. Shadow buries her face in Timothys chest as she revels in her sudden carnal gratification, feeling Tim as he too, reaches his climax.  
	After snuggling together for a long while afterwards, Timothy sits up, Shadow still on his lap, they gaze at each other silently, taking each other in. After a moment, they embrace, Tim wraps her tightly in his arms, breathing in the scent of her hair. Shadow tucks her arms under his, extends her wings out and envelops them both in a cocoon neither wanted to depart again.

------  
	  
	Later on, they found themselves perched in the cushioned window-box seat that over looked the front of Timothys home, Tim sitting sideways with a leg up leaning back against the wall, Shadow curled up against him in his arms, eating cookies from the box he had brought with him. It was nearly 5 am and the sun would rise soon enough. It had been an emotional night and soon it would have to come to an end, possibly for the last time.  
	Im going to really miss cookies. Shadow says suddenly.  
	Tim smiles and moves his hand over her warm chest where it rested. I could throw a box under the bed every once in awhile, if youd like.  
	I would love that. Chomp. Though, with my privileged duties She had already told him the whole story about her unwanted, yet unavoidable betrothal to The narcissistic and overtly self-important Terminus, earlier during the night, after their second round of lovemaking, which, of course, had lead into their third.  
	Tim whispers into her ear, Im going to miss you.  
	Shadow places her hand on his arm across her chest, feeling the tickly hairs on his forearms. Ill miss you, more than cookies.  
	They laugh together again, and then Shadow makes a sudden suggestion. Tim while we have time, I have a favor to ask of you. If you dont mind? She turns her head and looks up at him from below with round-eyed innocence.  
	Anything.  
	I want you to take a picture.  
	Tim beams down at her. Of what? Myself? You?  
	Of us. I want you to have one of us, together. She squeezes his arm, Together, She clarifies. As lovers.  
	Hah! Oh! You mean? Tim nudges her from behind. Lovers?  
	I mean, IN love! she corrects, and elbows him in the ribs playfully.  
	  
	Tim sets up his digital camera on a tripod, double checking that everything is set up correctly, before walking over and standing beside Shadow, who was primping her hair in his full length mirror, making sure she looked as beautiful as possible for what they both supposed, (though did not dare mention) might be their final picture together.  
	  The timer was set, and so they took their positions. Tim stood behind her as he had grown to nearly a half foot taller than her. Shadow took her place front of him. He placed his arm around her waist (her wings, again wrapped around her mid-section) drawing her nearer. She reached out and took his other hand, wrapping her fingers through his locking them together. At the last second they both smiled and looked into the camera.  

	Several minutes later Timothy had printed off two copies of the picture from his high resolution photo printer his father given him the previous year.  
	Here. Tim slipped the photograph into her hand. This ones for you.  
	She grinned, and held it to her chest. Tim thank you. For everything.  
	  
	They stood facing each other as the dawn broke through his window. The time had come for them to say their good-byes. Suddenly Tims eyes lit up like a Christmas tree. Oh, Shadow wait! and he moves swiftly to his dresser, rummaging though a drawer, finally coming up with something. He turns and comes back to her. Here. He took her hand and places into it a rolled up pair of socks.  
	She looks down at them, then back up at him with a warm smile. Wont you get in trouble with your mother?  
	Ill risk it. Your worth the trouble.  
	They laugh together again, much the same way they had on that first night ten years ago. Shadow pockets the photo and the pair of socks somewhere in her dress and then steps into him where they embrace each other for a long time, etching the moment into their memories.  
	I love you Shadow. I always will. Never forget that.  
	I wont, and please, always remember that I love you too, Timothy.  
	They share one more passionate kiss together before Shadow steps away from him. They cling to each other by the hands for one last moment, and then the moment passes and they must let go. She backs away from him until she reaches the bed, where she kneels down and slides her legs into the shadows beneath it. Feeding her body gently down into the bleak void under the bed, she flips around at the last moment, crossing her arms on the welcome mat, and resting her head upon them. She looks up at Timothy as he kneels down by the side of the bed, watching her hang in space.  
	Good-bye, Tim. Ill miss you. She says after a moment.  
	Tim, his arm on the side of the bed, leans down close to her. They kiss one last time. She reaches a hand out to him and runs it over his cheek, down his chin and then returns it to the floor. They smile meekly at each other.  
	Good-bye, Shadow.

	And then she was gone.

	Tim picks himself up slowly off the floor and sits down numbly on the edge of the bed, staring out at the morning sun shining in through his bedroom window. Staring at the sun for too long can make your eyes tear up, right?

	In the Dark Passageway below, Shadow nearly collapses with grief as she reaches the bottom of the stairs. She leans against the black stone archway for support, her tears flowing freely. She shakes like a leaf.   
	After a short time, she begins to drift aimlessly down the corridors of her dark realm, now made even darker. Her mind is a blank, her body numb. All of a sudden she is snapped out of her trance as she hears footfalls coming her way from the darkness.  
	She wipes a few stray tears away and collects herself as best she can when Nightmare appears and stops several feet away.  
	Where have you been, sister? Nightmare demands coldly. You have been summoned.  
	Nowhere, Ive just been  
	I dont really care about your excuses. Ive been ordered to bring you to Lord Terminus. Come. She turns, and walks back into the dark miasma of the tunnel.  
	Shadow glances backwards the way she had come, wishing beyond hope that she could simply rush back into Tims warm embrace, when she hears Nightmare call to her again.  
	Bye, Tim. She whispers to herself, as she begrudgingly begins following after her guild-sister, down the corridor to fulfill her duty.  
	  
	To bond with Terminus.

------

	That was probably one of the best nights of my life, though also one of the saddest as well. When Shadow left me that morning, Ill admit, I cried myself to sleep. I didnt sleep long though, I had already fallen into the habit of grabbing quick naps when I could get them, and no longer required a full nights sleep to feel refreshed.  
	The beauty of my job was, I didnt really have set hours and Shadow and myself had been using that to our advantage for a long while now, choosing our meeting times wisely so that usually I didnt have anything too important to do the next day. Thank god for that.  
	When I woke up later that day, I was sore all over. I checked myself in my mirror to discover that Shadow had left her mark on me; a few scratches down by back, though nothing too serious. They probably wouldnt scar, and it was a sweet pain. 

	I wondered how Shadow was feeling, wherever she was.

	I tidied up my room a bit to keep myself preoccupied, and discovered the old Polaroid camera Shadow had frightened me with sitting on my desk, the photo still sitting in its deck. It showed me, of course, standing in the middle of my room looking bewildered, caught in mid-shock by the flash from a high angle.  
	I picked up the photo album off the floor by the end of the bed (where we had unknowingly knocked it during last nights activities), and immediately added the two new photos to it. The one of myself I decided to put at the front, underneath the original picture I took of  Shadow, years ago. They seemed a good match together like that. I took the last picture of us together and put it at the end. When I finished, I flipped once more through its pages, and, instead of putting it back on the shelf, I set it down delicately on my night stand. I had a feeling I would be looking at it a lot.  
	I sat down at my desk, which housed my laptop computer and tried to get on with my day, but her absence filled my mind. Even if I never saw her again, I would never be able to go back to a normal life. I knew she was out there. 

	I knew they were out there. 

	Little did I know at the time, I wouldnt have to worry about getting back to a normal life for very long anyway.

CHAPTER THREE: A MEASURE OF BLOOD

	

	Timothy comes down the stairs just before noon the next day, and wanders absent-mindedly into the kitchen, walks past his parents (who were both currently at the kitchen table), to scrounge up something to eat. He opens up the large cupboard (below the one he had taken the cookies out of the previous night) and pulls out a box of cereal. Setting the box down on the counter, he pulls down a bowl from another cupboard and grabs a spoon from the cutlery drawer by the sink. Returning to the cereal box on the counter, he opens it up and turns it over his bowl.  
	A rustling of the morning paper his father is currently reading sounds from the table behind him. So, shes gone for good, then? Is that what your saying, son? his fathers asks, glancing briefly over the top of the local business section as he turns the page.  
	Pouring his cereal still, Tim manages to suddenly spill most of the contents of the box onto the kitchen counter when he is jolted by his fathers sudden awareness to his current, and what he had thought, wholly secret, situation. He attempts to maintain. Whos gone for good? Dad? he manages, his mouth has gone dry. He scoops up some of the cereal overflow and puts it back into his heaping mixing bowl.  
	Oh Thomas, dont start. His mother reprimands his father, from over her cup of coffee. Cant you see hes feeling bad enough about it?  
	Oh, Im sure my boys feeling something right now, after- Tims mother must have given him the look, as his father shut up and ruffled the paper, turning the page once again.  
	Tim, numb, walks to the fridge to grab the milk carton. I dont know what you two are talking about.  
	This time it was his mothers turn. Of course you do, dear. Were talking about your little friend, Shadow.  
	Tim pours the milk over his breakfast. Nope, doesnt ring a be- Okay, look, Tim sets the carton of milk down and leans against the counter. How long have you guys known about her?  
	His mother sips her coffee. For years now, dear.   
	Tim turns around and looks at them both, completely astonished.  
	She continues. Oh, dont be so surprised. We know everything that goes on under this roof.  
	Tim feels slightly ill; his stomach churns restlessly, but he ignores it. Instead, he picks up his bowl and sits down at the table beside his parents. He shovels a spoonful of cereal into his mouth, crunching it up minutely, considering carefully what he might say next.  
	Its just a shame you never felt the need to introduce us to such a lovely girl. His mother concluded. So, the guilt trip was her plan, was it?  
	Tim swallows finally. How did you guys figure it out?  
	His father folds up the newspaper and puts it down across the table top. Oh, it wasnt that hard, son. We could hear you two talking, and once you were up in the attic, on that hardwood flooring up there instead of carpet, we heard your footsteps.  
	His Mother. Thats when we figured out she wasnt exactly normal.  
	Tim sticks another spoonful of cereal in his mouth and watches the strangest expression cross his parents faces as they both look at each other momentarily.  
	Sounded like a big animal walking across the floor. Claws on wood. I used to have a golden retriever who made the same sound when I was a lad. His father explained.  
	His mother looks at him funny and shakes her head in mock disgust, rolling her eyes.   
	Shadow was not an animal! Tim slammed his spoon down on the table, which rang with the impact. She was she He looked at them both, wondering if they thought he might be crazy if he said what he was about to, but he didnt have to say anything. Somehow, they already knew.  
	She was the monster under the bed. His mother whispers into her coffee, staring intently at the empty space in front of her.  
	The three of them sat in silence and considered each other from across the table.  
	She was my friend, Tim murmurs quietly after a time. and now shes gone.  
	His father clears his throat. Well, I wouldnt be too sure on that. The heart can be a tricky thing. Tims mother seems impressed, she puts her hand over her husbands across the corner of the table. Sometimes, you gotta fight for it.  
	Tim looks at his father. That could be difficult.  
	Difficult, but not impossible. He replies, squeezing his wifes hand. Just trust me son, if what you both are feeling now is true, then this whole affair isnt over yet.  
	Tim looks both of them in the eyes, they were both smiling at him now as if they could somehow see the future. Yeah right, Timothy thought as he picks up his spoon and shovels another mouthful of cereal into his face, chewing thoughtfully.

------

	Shadow sat on the stool, gazing into the mirror across from her, that was recessed into an ornate table within the veiled parlor she had been granted in Terminus manse. Looking up, she watches in that mirror as Midnight continues to softly run a brush through her hair. Midnight had already been here when that spider Nightmare had practically thrown her in here and left to report to Terminus.  
	She briefly wondered why Nightmare seemed to be following Terminus orders, surely, such an accomplished Nightstalker such as she, would be too proud to bow to some self-styled lord who wasnt even technically a part of their guild - yet. It didnt really concern her much though, Nightmare must have had her own reasons.  
	Midnight glanced up at the mirror after awhile and noticed Shadow regarding her there silently. What do you think? Should I pin it up for the bonding ceremony? She stopped brushing and put her sharp blue fingers though Shadows red curls and lifted them up to sit on top of her head playfully. Oooh, thats a cute look! It really works with that giant frown!  
	Shadow rolls her eyes, her ear fins dip and rise, fluctuating as she looks at herself.  
	How about like this? Midnight holds her hair up into pigtails, it actually doesnt look that bad.   
	Tim would have loved it. Shadow thinks to herself. Whatever. That looks fine, Mid.  
	Midnight grins at her in the mirror. He liked the cute cheerleader type, hmm?  
	Shadow swats at her friend, but cant help but break into a minor grin herself. Oh, Shut up.	  
	Midnight fastens Shadows hair into an alluring pattern, topped by two curled pigtail ringlets off the top of her head. Shadows ears indicated that she liked the look, so Midnight stopped her work, and put her hands across her friends shoulders discovering an immense tenseness dwelling there. Im really sorry, Shadow. I know this is difficult.  
	Thanks Mid. Shadow puts her hand over Midnights reassuringly. You have no idea.  
	No idea about what? a smoothly amiable male voice suddenly cut in. Terminus had slipped into the room unannounced, and now leaned against the doorway.  
	Midnights grip tightens on her friends shoulders at his sudden slithering presence.  
	Shadow pulls her black dress taught across her chest with her hand as she regards him across the tiny room with a surprised courtesy. Lord Terminus.  
	My lady. He bends at the waist, giving her a tight bow with a flourish of his hands. Straightening, he looks at (and seems to drink in) Midnight from the bottom up.   
	Midnight was much the same as Shadow, although whereas Shadows skin tone was the darkest of grey, Midnights was a navy blue. She was taller than her friend, and certainly the more voluptuous of the two. Her wings were gold, where Shadows were red, her raven black hair short and straight. Her tail bore an arrows head instead of Shadows spade.   
	Leave us. Terminus commands when he had had his fill of her.  
	The girls look at each other for a moment. Shadow indicates to Midnight that its okay for her to leave, if she wanted to. Midnight shrugs and saunters slowly towards Terminus giving him the same inspection he had just given her.  
	He was tall, slender, yet somehow held himself in such a way that made him powerful to behold, perhaps it was simply an effect of his formal clothing he had dawned for the upcoming ceremony. Pea green, was the colour of his skin, with black in his wings. His face was long and thin, much like the rest of him, and his chin seemed to go on forever. He had silver hair, which was tied back into a tail at the back of his skull. As the male of their species, he wore his wings in a different fashion, over the shoulder in a faux half-cape. His tail possessed a vicious looking barb at the end.  
	As she passes him, Midnight turns her nose up at him with a harrumph as she exits the parlor, winking back at Shadow who catches it in the mirror.  
	Terminus smirks at Shadow openly from across the room. What a high-spirited young woman your friend is!  
	Shadow swivels on her stool mid-way towards him, and looks at his clawed feet, not really wanting to see him at all, though finally, she concedes to what is to be expected of her and meets him openly. Midnight can be a handful, my lord.  
	Indeed, I dont doubt she could be for an instant. He runs one of his clawed fingers across his absurd chin thoughtfully, openly leering as (no doubt in Shadows mind) some lecherous scenario ran though his head.  
	Shadow feels ill. Is there anything I may do for you, lord?  
	Oh, that is neither here nor there, my dear. You will be doing a great many things for me soon enough. He flashes his own golden eyes at her expectantly. I simply wanted to see you, before we were bonded, and with us, our houses as well.  
	Isnt it bad luck to see the bride before the wedding? Shadow says, then thinking she had said too much, she looks away from him sheepishly, again towards the floor.  
	Terminus smirks. Ahhh! Merely a ridiculous human superstition! Though, to be honest I expect nothing less from you. He cocks his head to the side like the lizard Shadow thought he resembled, almost singing his words as she again looks up at him, her face ashen. It is, after all, why I chose you for the bonding!  
	What? Shadow asked, somewhat more pathetically than she intended. Yes, Shadow was definitely ill now.  
	Yes, it was your superior aptitude in human nature that drew me to you. You see -well, my dear, you WILL see. Given time. He bows to her again. The ceremony will begin soon, until then, my darling bride! Terminus turns on his heel and pushes out of the room leaving a softly wafting veil in his pace at the doorway.  
	Shadow reels inwardly. By spending so much time above, by learning so much and falling in love with Tim, she had inadvertently brought this fate upon herself. Why would such a ghastly man as Terminus have any need of her knowledge of humanity?  
	Shortly after Terminus departure, Midnight re-enters the room to find Shadow standing at a full-length mirror fanning out the hem of her new formal dress. It was still black (which always seemed to work well with her own dark skin tone), and it had much the same cut as her ghost-silk Nightstalker dress, however this new one had a fine lace embroidery to its edges, and a design in its fabric that you could only see when held at a certain angle against the light. It also negated the idea of her Demons Mane head dress, the new dress having a large hood at the back. All in all, her new dress conjured up the image of some sexy grim reaper.  
	Midnight whistles a cat-call at Shadow as she comes up behind her. Looking great, sis!  
	Shadow turns her head and grins to Midnight, despite her predicament. I know! It really IS a beautiful dress! She twirls her waist watching it fan out around her. Its too beautiful, for him.  
	Your too beautiful for him, Shadow.  
	Thank you, Mid. Shadow turns to face the mirror again. You dont have to try and cheer me up. Ive accepted my duty. I will go through with this, for the good of the Night Sisters.  
	I wonder, once our guild is linked to that wretch Terminus Dark Brotherhood, if it will be such a good thing.  
	Shadow considers a moment. Weve been fighting over the same territory for countless ages, with this bonding, with MY bonding, we can finally begin to put that behind us.  
	All at the sacrifice of your own true happiness. Midnight adds.  
	Shadow hugs herself around the shoulders. It is worth it? Isnt it? I mean, the boy-  
	-Timothy? Midnight intercedes.  
	-Yes, Timothy. Shadow didnt want to evoke his name, attempting to distance herself from her feelings. It couldnt possibly work. This has to be the way it is, right?  
	Suddenly, the whole truth dawns on Midnight. Oh gods, Shadow!  
	Shadow lowers her head between her shoulders meekly. Her ears are lowered.  
	Tell me you arent in love with that boy. Tell me you didnt Shadow! Tell me! Midnight takes hold of her youngest sister by the arms and gives her a shake.  
	I- I cant.  
	You DID didnt you? That is some way to say good-bye! My gods, sister Midnight stalks around the room in a huff. Do you realize what this means?  
	It doesnt matter! Its over now. Shadow stomps her foot on the floor, her arms on her hips.  
	Midnight stops and looks at her friend intensely. You had better hope so Shadow. You could be in very real danger if this ceremony doesnt go as planned.  
	Of course it will! Its just a simple bit of blood magic. Shadow explained.  
	Yes, but-  
	  
	A deep gong sounds throughout Terminus dwelling, signaling to any guests to begin gathering in the main courtyard where the bonding ceremony would commence shortly.   
	  
	Shadow smoothes her dress out and wraps her wings around her waist. She pulls the hood up over her head completing the look. She exhales, and shakes her arms about, attempting to psych herself up. This is it.  
	Shadow, I-  
	Please, Midnight. Everything will be fine.  
	Midnight puts a claw to her lip, pulling on it distractedly. I hope you know what your doing.  
	Im doing the right thing. Shadow nods to herself within her hood and walks to the doorway.   
	Midnight lags behind a moment, noticing Shadows tail trailing after her, stiff and as straight as she had ever seen it. A monumental stress was upon her friend and there was nothing she could do to help her now. Perhaps not ever again. Oh Shadow, what have you done?

------  
	  
	The girls enter the courtyard of Terminus abode together, where they find several denizens of their realm already mingling among themselves. As they proceed further, heads begin to turn towards them as they make their way towards the center of the area.  
	Midnight spots Terminus first, among a group of his own guild-brethren; along with Nightmare oddly enough, and points him out to Shadow, who cuts through the crowd towards him, Midnight following closely behind. As they make their approach, one of Terminus brothers leans into his ear alerting him of her arrival. He turns to meet them face to face, when suddenly both Shadow and Midnight catch a glimpse of a face they were not expecting to see that day.  
	Lady Moonlight, the High-Mother of their Sisterhood. She was pure white, and had striking silver eyes. Her beauty was unmatched, and that reflected in her body language. She seemed to glow in the eternal twilight of their world. Always prim and proper, she seemed to be made of glass, and with every movement she exuded a liquid grace. She turned her head the slightest degree in their direction, acknowledging their presence.  
	Shadow and Midnight both kneel down before her, caught in her gaze.  
	My lady! I was unaware that you would be attending today! I am humbled. Shadow apologizes from her knees, looking at the ground. It was rare indeed to even see the High-Mother, let alone have her personally attend an event of such a common member of her guild.  
	There is a tinkling sound. Shadow realizes that the Lady Moonlight is laughing.  
	Please child, rise up! Today is your day Shadow, and I would not have you kneeling. The White Lady sang to her. You too, Midnight. Please stand.  
	They did as they were told. Terminus actually offered a hand to Shadow who took it as she stood up. Facing towards her (and away from the High-Mothers gaze), his severe mouth was set in the slimiest smirk Shadow had laid eyes on since watching A Nightmare on Elm Street with Tim. My hero. She tried to bury the thought and move on.  
	It appears we have all arrived! Shall we begin the ceremony? Terminus announces to the small crowd that had gathered. Bonding ceremonies were usually not a large affair, they only required a few witnesses and someone to perform the rights. I promise you all, it wont take long!  
	Polite laughter from the crowd. Except Nightmare, of course. She almost never smiled, and today she seemed especially in a bad mood. Instead she attempted to bore into Shadows skull with her eyes. The crowd backed off a ways, forming a circle around Shadow and Terminus, still holding hands.  
	With that, he produced an ornate, jewel-encrusted dagger of black onyx from the sash at his waist. It seemed to be polished to a perfect sheen, refracting a million different lights at once as he moved it about in his hands.  
	Lady Moonlight stepped forward out from the circle with a golden chalice.  
	Shadow could not believe it. The High-Mother would be performing the ceremony herself. She felt weak at the knees.  
	Terminus handed the knife delicately over to Lady Moonlight, handle first, who accepted it with a courteous nod to him. She smiled warmly in turn at both of them standing before her, and then she began to speak:  
	Today we are all witnesses to a grand occasion! The bonding of two souls, together in life. So too, are we gathered here to join together two houses who have for so long been, if not enemies, than sharing in a healthy rivalry with one another.  
	Subdued amusement from the circle.  
	This is a historic day for all of us assembled here and now, at the joining of these two special souls,  
	She points the dagger at Terminus first, then towards Shadow.  
	-and we wish them and their houses, both, prosperity in their future, for all their days. Let the bond be forged! I only require a measure of blood!  
	With that, she holds out the knife to Terminus, who breaks his grip from Shadows hand and wraps it around the daggers blade. His blood runs red down the blades tip. Releasing the knife, he balls his hand into a fist, and holds it over top of the golden chalice which Lady Moonlight offers to him next. His blood drips into the bowl, collecting at the bottom. He looks towards Shadow with what she assumes is his approximation of a warm smile.  
	Next, the High-Mother offers the dagger to Shadow.  
	Oh Gods, what am I doing? She thinks bitterly as she takes hold of the blade. Its sharpened to such a degree that she doesnt even feel it cut into her. She actually seems surprised to find her blood running along the daggers edge.  
	Again, the chalice. She squeezes her blood into it, which mingles with Terminus own.  
	They step back and again clasp hands, each now bloodied, together.  
	Lady Moonlight raises the cup level with her eyes and swirls it around gently, beginning an ancient ritual in the old tongue. She waves the black dagger over top of the Chalice, cutting ancient glyphs into the fabric of the universe itself.  
	A few moments later she stops. Nothing has happened.   
	Murmurs rise up from the crowd. Terminus squeezes Shadows hand in his tightly. It hurts.  
	Finally, after what seems an eternity, the High-Mother speaks once more. There will be no bond.  
	A full rabble rises from the crowd now.   
	Terminus shoots a withering at Shadow, reading as cold as stone. What have you done?  
	Shadow pulls her hand roughly out from his death grip. Ive done nothing wrong!  
	Terminus growls. The blood does not lie, girl!  
	Shadow growls back.  
	ENOUGH! Lady Moonlight raises her voice and the room falls silent. Lord Terminus is correct. The blood does not lie and it will tell us the truth of the matter.  
	It doesnt have to. Shadow hears the voice and is shocked to discover it is her own. I will tell you the truth. She turns to Terminus. Im afraid there is another.  
	Terminus raises his chin and looks down his nose at her. Another? Another?! I was under the impression that you and your Sisters of the Night were barred from interacting with members of the gentry under most normal circumstances!  
	The High-Mother fixes her gaze on Shadow. Her long white tail whips once behind her in distaste. Yes, that is the way of things! That is the reason they must give up their duties when such an arrangement has been made. How in the realm would it come to pass that you would sully yourself so?  
	A tear runs down Shadows cheek.  
	Out with it girl! Terminus demands. I will have his head! We will be bonded!  
	It was not IN this realm, when it came to pass, my lady. Shadow turns her head calmly from Terminus to Moonlight, tears now flowing freely down her face.  
	WHAT?! Terminus rages. He wings unfurl from his shoulders.  
	Oh, poor foolish child. Moonlight whispers as Shadow hangs her head in shame. Youve done worse than simply foul up a ceremony, my child! Youve committed a serious taboo offense! You now face severe repercussions! Her ears were low, as though she did not want to have to say these things.  
	From the crowd, Midnight has been watching this unfold in stunned silence. Upon hearing the High-Mother condemn her friend, she suddenly (in the confusion of the moment), slips away unnoticed. The last thing she hears before she vanishes from the courtyard is the High-Mother commanding Nightmare to have Shadow be taken back to a holding chamber and held there until she could be dealt with accordingly.  
	Swiftly, Midnight makes her way from Terminus chambers and back out into the labyrinthine Dark Passageway. At first she travels aimlessly along the corridors, simply putting as much distance between herself and what she had just been witness to. Then, as she composes herself, she discovers that she knows exactly where she must go. To the source of the problem.  
	Midnight makes her way to her sisters secret stairwell, to the boy they had only dared whisper of in the darkness. Shadows human confidant, her good friend, her secret lover.  
	The fabled Timothy Newton.

------

	It had been a long day, made longer by the fact that, not only did Tim now know that his parents had been privy to his secret life for years, but that now that life was over. Since his cereal brunch earlier that day, he had locked himself upstairs in his room. Tim was not quite ready to face his parents after their admission (and stranger still), their rather pleasant openness and advice about his situation.  
	Why were they alright with Shadow? He wasnt even sure about Shadow. How on Earth could he possibly fight for her? She wasnt even on Earth (as far as he could guess) anymore anyway. Despite the fact that she was by all accounts gone from his life, these thoughts would not stop coming into his mind.  
	Tim looks up from his laptop and out of habit checks his bedroom clock. It was 1:35 am. He wasnt even the slightest bit tired yet, but figured that since his night life was now over, he had better try and get some sleep. He put his laptop into sleep mode and closed the lid halfway down. Pushing himself up out of the chair, he immediately strips off his black t-shirt and tosses it into his beat-up old hamper that hed had kicking around since he could remember.  
	He stops and looks again at the light claw marks down his back in his mirror. Already they looked somewhat better, after he had cleaned them during his long shower earlier on in the day. Tim undid his jeans and let them slide down onto the floor at the side of his bed, as he heavily sat down on the edge of the mattress and bounced.  
	Sitting there on the bed in his black boxer shorts, he looked down and regarded his socks. He grinned to himself as he wiggled his toes in them for a moment, before he pulled each one off and threw it on the floor by the welcome mat he no longer needed.  
	He rolled onto his side and struggled briefly to yank his blankets out from underneath him, and then pulled them up and over his body. He looked at the clock again: 1:37 am. It had just seemed as if an hour had gone by. Switching his light off with a sigh, he closed his eyes and tried to find sleep. Minutes later, he found he simply could not get comfortable. He ended up laying on his back in the middle of his bed, staring up at the rafters above him, his blankets folded down to his midriff because he found them unbearable, his arms folded behind his head.  
	Go to sleep. Tim spoke aloud to himself in the dark.  
	There was no reply.  
	It was only now just coming up to the usual time when Shadow would most commonly arrive, at two in the morning. He didnt know how time worked on the other side, but that seemed to be the magic hour where she could find the time to slip away. Mostly. There were always aberrations, of course.  
	Tim sighed and turned his head to look again at the clock, and that was when he saw the eyes staring at him from over the edge of the mattress. His heart skipped a beat. The eyes squinted at him. They were golden, and yet they were not the same eyes he had become accustomed to seeing watching him in the dark.  
	Shadow? He inquired, squinting; not at all certain.  
	With that confirmation, Midnight knew she had indeed come to the right place. She stood up at the side of the bed, looking down at the young man who presently sat up watching her curiously.  
	Who are you? He asked, recognizing now that she was not the girl he knew.  
	Timothy Newton. Midnight seemed to tell him, and not ask him.  
	Tim leaned back on his arms in bed. Yeah, thats me. So who are you? Whats your deal?  
	He wasnt scared of her at all, Midnight realized standing over him. So it was true, this young boy, this man, (she had to correct her thoughts looking down at him) was the one for sure. The root of her sisters current predicament. Finally, she worked up the nerve to converse with him, something she had never before attempted with a human. The thought of it seemed to run counter to her every instinct, although she knew Shadow would have gladly traded banter with such a person, she had always been so curious of the human world.   
	My deal, human, is simple- She flared out her wings and raised her claws menacingly towards Tim. -Ive come to make you pay for what you have done!  
	Tim got right out of bed and stood there in front of Midnight, defiant in only his black boxers. His hands clenched into fists at his sides, and there was sudden anger in his eyes. They were about the same height now. And what is that, exactly? What am I guilty of? Tell me!  
	Midnight hisses in his face, her fangs exposed. Youve stained my sisters good name! Because of you, human, she is now in grave danger! You must be held accountable! It HAS to be you.  
	I have been nothing but a friend to your sister! I love her! Tim whispers through his teeth at her. I will gladly stand accused of that!  
	Midnight backs off, returning to a semi-calm state, she stares at him with harsh eyes, not because of what he had said, but because he had stood up to her without even flinching. This was certainly no ordinary young man, she could plainly see now. It was no wonder Shadow had been drawn to him so.  
	What would you have me do? Tim asked her as he too backed down and reached for his pants from off the floor.  
	Midnight really hadnt thought that far ahead.  
	You said Shadow was in danger? Tim spoke with a sudden real concern for her, as Midnights accusations clicked with him. What kind of danger?  
	Midnight hesitated. I - Im not sure. This is an unprecedented situation. She could be put to death! Im sure the High-Mother would need to research into the law regarding such aberrant behavior.  
	Take me to her. Tim asks.  
	Midnights ears raise appreciatively, but scoffs at his bravado. You truly are fool-  
	Take me to her. Now. Tim demands. Ill do what I can for her. Ill fight for her, if I have to.  
	You would die for her, if it came to that. Midnight softly suggested instead.  
	Ive gotta try. Tim says to her as he goes to his closet and pulls out a fresh shirt, pulling it on and buttoning it up.  
	Midnight notes the fresh marks along his back before his shirt hides them from view. So, it WAS true then. Midnight softens to him somewhat, knowing fully well that Shadow had trusted this man so completely. She would have to trust him as well, if only for her sisters sake.   
	She folds her wings back around herself and hugs her arms around her elbows loosely. You really do love Shadow, dont you? Even though she is what she is.  
	Tim looks back at her over his shoulder as he buttons up his top button. Shadow is Shadow. Of course, I love her.  
	-and I am Midnight. She finally answers his first question.  
	He smiles and offers her his hand. Glad to finally meet you! Youve actually come up before in conversations.  
	Midnight does not understand the gesture, and responds in turn by sticking her own hand out to him in front of her, avoiding his extended hand.  
	Tim takes a hold of it, much to her embarrassment, giving it two pumps up and down. They lock eyes and Tim nods to her. Midnight cant help but grin, despite her reservations. I hope I was mentioned in a good light, in your conversations.  
	Tim nodded. Of course! Best friends, right? Now I get why youre here; youd do anything to protect your friend.  
	Midnights ears seems to fluctuate, shes very confused. She actually does like this one. 	Theres something very charming about you, Timothy Newton. She muses, running her index finger along under her bottom lip slowly.  
	Please, just Tim. Timothy, only if you insist. He said as he grabbed his camera off his desk, and slung it around his neck. Is there anything we need for this trip?  
	Midnight looks curiously at his camera. What is that, exactly?  
	Insurance.  
	A weapon?  
	Something like that. If thats all, lets mosey! Tim heads for the bed, but Midnight slides in front of him smoothly cutting him off.  
	Wait! There will be no Moseying for you. Humans are not allowed to cross the threshold! She warns him as she hooks her claws around his shoulders preventing him from moving further.  
	Tim hits her with an easy grin. Its a little too late for that, Midnight.  
	Midnights grip tightens considerably around his upper arms, but when he doesnt flinch she gives up, throwing her arms up in disbelief. Youre simply unbelievable!  
	Im just trying to do the right thing.  
	Midnight shakes her head with a frown that blossoms into a slight grin. You sound just like her. Your both foolish!  
	Maybe, but Im still going to try. You said it yourself, I have to be held accountable for my actions. We can be held accountable together, Shadow and myself.  
	Midnight puts her hands on her hips and lowers her head to the floor, her tail swishes back and forth behind her as she considers, then after a moment she raises her eyes to meet his, glaring out from below her brow. Youre a fool in love, but a fool I can get behind. She flashes a menacing smile at Tim who smiles back.  
	Midnight offers her hand to Tim, who takes it in his own, as she kneels down beside the bed. She slides her legs underneath the edge and then feeds herself deeper into the darkness, before turning around and leaning her arms on the welcome mat as if she were resting at the side of an in-ground pool. Tim follows her motions; the same motions he had watched Shadow do so many countless times before. At first he is a little unsure, as he slides his feet under the bed, they seem to fall out over the edge of a cliff. His mind tells him that, logically, they should be dangling out of the ceiling in the room below him, but of course he knew they werent. He knew there was some extremely serious twisting of basic physics going on in the shadows underneath his bed. Midnight drops down first and helps him down slowly, until at last he finds his footing.  
	Tim turns, and sees only the black walls of the cell beneath his bed, and the stairwell leading downwards which Midnight had already mounted. It was very dark here, though despite that fact, he was able to make his way down with Midnight until at last he found himself lost in a seemingly endless hallway of warped mirrors.  
	Here, take this. Youll certainly need it. Midnight pulls something off the wall hanging near the staircase and tosses it to Tim as he comes up beside her at the bottom of the stairs.   
	He looks at it and realizes that its a long cloak made out of that strange material Shadows dress had been made out of, though this one was a full body robe with an angular hood. He pulled it on over his head without question. It only made sense that he would require a disguise to move about down here. Thanks.  
	Dont mention it, in fact- Midnight helps him pull the hood up over his head, and yanks it down low over his face, masking it too, in an eerie darkness. -dont speak at all. Just follow my lead.	She looks around cautiously and then proceeds down the bizarre corridor to the left. Timothy falls into stride beside her as they round a corner heading onwards to Shadow.

------  
	  
	Shadow sat in the corner of the small comfortable cell she had been thrown in, hugging her legs to herself, her head resting on them. She had turned her face away from the doorway. The end of her tail thumped on the floor like a drum every few seconds. In just one day she had gone from the happiest she had ever been, to no doubt, the lowest place she had ever found herself. She had surrendered herself to her duty, and had lost everything.  
	Thump.  
	Her hand throbbed where the ceremonial knife had cut into her, she let her hand dangle out in front of her, her arm braced on her knee. She had tied one of Tims gift socks tightly around her palm as a makeshift bandage some time ago. She flexed her hand now, testing it, the pain of it letting her feel something, at least.  
	Thump.  
	Thinking of the sock, she couldnt help but think of Timothy. A warmth crept through her then that seemed to wash away the empty feeling inside of her. Shadow couldnt help but crack a smile, despite her best attempt to remain stoic. She stirred herself, and got up off the floor where she had been hiding for what seemed like hours, ever since Nightmare had roughly manhandled her by the arm through the doorway, sending her sprawling (practically face-planting) to the floor, catching herself with her hands, opening that damnable knife wound once again. Nightmare left with a look of almost complete self-satisfaction. She was a frightening woman.  
	She sat on the edge of the bed and fished in her pocket for a second, when she found what she was looking for. Pulling out her photograph, she lightly traced the outline of Tims bright smiling face with her pointed finger. Her inner warmth grew steadily. After a time she slumped over sideways onto the padded surface of the bed and curled up into a loose ball, hugging the photo tightly against her chest.  
	I dont regret what we did, only that I ever left your side, Tim, please, please forgive me! She thought as she closed her eyes gently, attempting to steal away into a dream, away from her lonely imprisonment and into his tender embrace.   
	She didnt know how much time had passed while she slept peacefully, clutching that photo to herself, when suddenly she was jarred awake by a voice from the barred doorway.  
	Poor girl! Terminus sneered as he watched her through the door. So alone.  
	Terminus? She sat up, pulling her dress down over her hip, (as it had rode up slightly while she slept) and looked darkly towards the doorway. Indeed, there he was in all his vain glory, Nightmare shadowing him over his shoulder. What do you want?  
	He looked absolutely amused with himself. Why, you of course! Weve been over this already, my dear! he rubbed his chin briefly, with a smirk. And its Lord Terminus to you.  
	Shadow was unimpressed. Well, your out of luck, my Lord! The word dripped with human sarcasm. The bonding has failed, and I stand condemned.  
	If anything, Terminus seemed even more amused with her. He laughed heartily a moment before finally responding to her. It seems you understand nothing.  
	Youre right, I have no idea why you want me at all. Im just a nobody! Why not Nightmare? She already follows you around like a lost puppy.  
	Why would I chase something that I already possess?  
	Terminus turns to Nightmare who leans into him and they kiss passionately in the doorway. Shadow flies out of bed growling at them. You are already bonded? She grabs the bars of her cell and begins to rattle them futilely with rage. YOU BASTARD! I gave up everything for you! How could you do this to me? She lets go of the bars and walks to the middle of the room where she collapses and begins to sob uncontrollably.  
	Terminus revels in her misery. Yes, our bonding was a complete sham, Im afraid. Pity really, as you are a truly beautiful young woman. However, it has served its true purpose.  
	Shadow shoots look of pure contempt at the both of them over her shoulder.  
	He continues. I needed you to be revealed as the loathsome, abhorrent creature you truly are underneath that beautiful skin of yours. I needed the world to know your secrets.  
	Why? How did you ever know?  
	Our houses both fight for the same territories, the bedrooms and boudoirs of the humans above us! Your sisters, those who creep beneath their beds, and my own brothers who haunt their closets. Ive had eyes following you for a very long time, Shadow.  
	Shadow wanted to wretch and again turned away from them. Why did you do this? Please  
	Because you live your life by a different set of rules, as do I! You see, we are more alike than you realize! That is why I need you, and that is why I now have you.  
	You have nothing. I dont know what your talking about!  
	You know exactly what Im talking about. You live to see the human world, you love it, and you hate this dark dismal place, as do I. The ways of this infernal realm are outmoded and they require a change. A change, that you and I might bring about. Together.  
	Youre insane!  
	That may well be, but it doesnt change the fact that you are mine!  
	Never! She spits at him and hisses.  
	Terminus looks to Nightmare beside him and tilts his head, silently signaling for her to take her leave of him. She acquiesces with a slight bow and moves away down the hall out of sight. Terminus leers after her as he watches her walk away. Such a beautiful creature she is- He turns to Shadow with a filthy grin. -and so giving!  
	Shadow wipes away the last of her tears with the sock bandaged around her hand.  
	He continues with his previous thought. Ive done all of this to get my hands on you, and now here you are. Helpless before me.  
	Come in here and Ill show you helpless. Shadow seethes.  
	There are only two options open to you now, my dear. Death, or exile. He wraps his hands firmly around the bars of her door and leans his face close. If death, I might speak on your behalf, offer to spare you in exchange for your servitude in my house. A reconciliation, to appease the failure of our bonding, of course. You would lose your place in your guild and I would have you at my mercy.  
	Despite her dark complexion, Shadow looks pale.  
	If exile, then no one will ever bother to look for you once you are gone. I will hunt you down and drag you back to me and no one will ever know. You will be mine, either way.  
	I will never be yours, ever.  
	You will, or Ill snap your boyfriend in half right before your very eyes, and you can watch while he slowly dies. What bond you do have with him will be broken, and then well Terminus trails off, but not before he slams his claws against the bars of her door, making them ring out.  
	She stands and faces him. Youre a monster.  
	Why, thank you! He bows to her mockingly as he backs away from the door. Well, my dear, I think thats enough for now. Ill let you stew on that for a while longer and see what you have to say for yourself next time we meet.  
	She bares her teeth at him as he walks off, a skip in his step, delighted in his own twisted satisfaction, his mad cackle echoing along the corridors.

------  
	  
	Hearing Terminus laughter echo throughout the hallway, Midnight and Tim duck into the nearest alcove they can find. Tim presses Midnight into the corner and raises his cloak up to conceal them both in the shadows just as Terminus and Nightmare turn the corner and walk briskly by them arm in arm.  
	Midnight blushes, wide-eyed, between him and the wall as Tim presses his body against her, and after Terminus and Nightmare pass she bristles and pushes him off, clearing her throat to rid herself of a sudden odd tension. Shes this way, I heard her yelling at him.  
	You have good ears.  
	We all do down here, its a gift. She says, her own yellow-ridged ears raising up as she listens intently, then takes off in the direction Terminus had just come from.  
	They had made their way through the Dark Passage to the area where the Night Sisters held their captives in somewhat modest comfort. Midnight didnt expect to run into anyone now, since it was technically the middle of the night and any Sister worth her salt would no doubt be busy above, stalking their human prey for the evening. Running into Terminus here was surprise enough.  
	She lead the way to the cell where Shadow had been locked. It was not hard, for it was the only one that was shut tight, rather haphazardly barred from the outside. Peering in, Midnight immediately saw Shadow laying on a bed, facing away from the doorway.  
	Come back to gloat some more? Shadow hissed at them without looking. She had heard them approach the door. Just leave me alone.  
	Midnight clasped her hand around one of the bars. Well, if you insist, sister.  
	Shadows ears perked up and she turned around on her bedding. Midnight! She pulled herself up and sat on the edge of the bed. Where have you been hiding? it came out slightly more accusatory than she intended. Sorry! Im just Its been a long day.  
	For all of us, I assure you, sis.  
	Shadow stood and walked a few steps towards the door, but stopped when she saw the black hooded figure looming behind Midnight. Whos your friend? Hopefully not the headsman.  
	Midnight cocks her head slyly batting her eyes. Well, not the kind your thinking of. She steps away from the door, allowing Tim to step forward, he pulls down his hood as he reaches the door. I believe you two are fairly well acquainted.  
	Tim! Shadow exclaims and then clasps her hands over her mouth in shock. She looks as if she might burst into tears, but instead bolts straight to doorway taking Tims hands as he slides his through the bars to her. They kiss each other through the bars of her cell.  
	Midnight looks away, out of respect, and slight embarrassment.  
	Shadow breaks the kiss suddenly. What are you doing here? Its not safe.  
	Tim was grinning like a fool, but sobered quickly enough. So weve noticed. Was that Terminus just now?  
	Shadow nods. Hes crazy! You have to help me, please!  
	Tim squeezes her hands. Well do what we can. Thats why we came.  
	First things first, lets get you out of there! says Midnight as she opens a panel on the wall locating the key for Shadows door. Ooh, convenient!   
	She pulls the key off of its hook and twirls it around her finger. Move over, lover-boy! She slides into the doorway and pushes the key into its lock. After a twist of her wrist, the door glides open with a metal creak.  
	Shadow stands in the open archway for a moment hesitant, before she rushes out into Tims welcome arms. They hold each other tightly. I never thought I would see you again! She whispers into his chest.  
	Me either. Im glad we found each other.  
	Midnight puts her hands on her hips. Excuse me, but IM the one who found everybody around here, geez!  
	Shadow turns her head against Tims chest  to give a warm look to her friend. Thank you, Mid.  
	Midnight opens her mouth to speak but is cut off by another voice. How sweet! A lovers reunion!  
	They all unexpectedly turned their attention down the hall and found Nightmare standing at the end of it, grinning viciously at them.   
	Without thinking, Midnight took a step towards her, claws bared and ready. Her golden wings flared outwards aggressively.  
	Nightmare didnt even move, she already looked like a weapon drawn and ready to strike, that was just in her nature. Nightmare had always been different from her other sisters. Her skin was blood red, where most of her sisters had golden eyes, Nightmare had black eyes and long black hair. Instead of wings she sprouted two long prehensile spider-like appendages from her back which she held above her now like twin scorpion stingers. Her tail was barbed at the end and truly looked lethal swinging around behind her.  
	Shadow took a step toward her friend, but was waved back.  
	Get out of here! Midnight suggested to her friends.  
	Nightmare flashed her claws at her sides and began walking slowly, surely towards them.  
	No, dont do this! Shadow pleaded to her friend.  
	Midnight looked back at her briefly. Go! Ill hold her off!  
	Nightmare laughed from down the corridor. You can certainly try! She chuckled to herself.  
	Tim got an idea suddenly. He quickly pulled out his camera and pointed it at Nightmare and snapped a quick succession of pictures. The flash went off, and reflected off the dark mirrored walls of the hall. Nightmare screeched and doubled over covering her eyes with the backs of her hands.  
	Welcome to primetime, bitch! Shadow simply couldnt resist.  
	Raaaagh! Nightmare screamed mindlessly as she blindly swiped her claws out towards them.  
	Midnight used the distraction to leap onto the temporarily blinded Nightmare and pin her down, but Nightmare wasnt having it and struggled back against Midnights advances.  
	Midnight looked back over her shoulder. GO! Get her out of here!  
	But!- Shadow started to protest but Tim grabbed her by the arm and pulled her in the opposite direction. They ran down the corridor together, Shadow glanced back briefly as Midnight and Nightmare, still struggling, disappeared around a curve in the wall. After that, she turned and focused on moving forward.  
	They reached an intersection where Tim kept running straight ahead, but Shadow knew where they were and beckoned him to stop and follow her another way. Eventually they looped back around and found themselves back in the Dark Passageway proper.  
	They made their way along slowly, sticking close to the walls. Both Shadow and Tim had pulled on their hoods again as they travelled along silently. Shadow led the way, knowing exactly where she was heading, Tim followed closely behind, completely lost, to him the hallways all looked the same, and there was no sense of direction.  
	On what Shadow assured Tim was the final stretch, they slowed and held hands tightly as they walked along. Tim finally seemed to notice the sock tied around her hand, now that he had had time to focus his thoughts.  
	Your hurt! He whispers.  
	Its nothing, Ill be fine. Shadow looks up at him from under her hood. Its you Im worried about Tim.  
	Me?  
	Terminus knows about you, apparently he has for awhile. Hes planning something. I dont know what, but he seems to need me.  
	Timothy looks down at her from inside his own hood. I need you Shadow.   
	She smiles. A fugitive like me?  
	A fugitive just like you.  
	They stop and chance a kiss for a moment before continuing on.  
	Tim laughs. Hes not the only one who knows. About us. My parents-  
	Shut up, they do not! Shadow punches him in the arm playfully.  
	Tim assures her. No, really! I didnt even tell them. They just knew. Everything, actually.  
	Shadow gives him an unsure look as they walk together. Very odd.  
	Very. Tim agrees, then he smiles at her. Welcome to Primetime, bitch? huh?  
	Shadow giggles. I couldnt resist. She sighs. I hope Midnight is alright.  
	Tim put his arm around her shoulder. I hope so too. She was, nice.  
	Shadow gives him a mockingly lecherous look. Nice huh? I bet. Nice rack, maybe. She suggests and nudges him.  
	What!? I never even thought about- well, now that you mention it! Tim mocks.  
	Shadow shakes her head playfully.

	They find the staircase to Tims room and proceed up the steps, but when they reach the top they find they are not alone. The High-Mother, Lady Moonlight, stands in the tiny cell that connects below Tims bed. Shadow immediately drops to her knees and bows low. Tim, still on the stairs behind her, shrouded in his hood, stiffens and doesnt know how to react.  
	Lady Moonlights white radiance casts a gentle glow as she stands over them.  
	High-Mother, Shadow murmurs from the floor. Im so sorry!  
	Sorry for following your heart, child? Moonlight moves her silver eyes from Shadow on the floor before her to Tim who still stood on the stairs, seemly locking him in her grip. So, this is the young man who has captured the heart of my darkest angel. Reveal yourself to me.  
	Tim pulls down his hood and stands straight, slightly defiantly, before her.  
	Hmmm! Yes, very handsome, and brave to come here, She smiles wanly. or foolish.  
	Perhaps both, maam, but I needed to come. Tim says to her.  
	Shadow tries to shush him, one does not address the High-Mother so casually.  
	Lady Moonlight is amused. Indeed. That is why I allowed you safe passage. She bends down elegantly now and touches Shadow upon the shoulder. Come now, child. Stand up.  
	Shadow stands, but not before Moonlight had risen.   
	My child, it is time to face your punishment.  
	Tim puts his hands over Shadows tense shoulders, in what he hopes is reassurance. Shadow lowers her head, her eyes closed as she prepares for the worst.  
	Lady Moonlight continues. You are hereby sentenced to live your life, as you see fit, with this young man, to whom you so love, to the end of your days.  
	Shadows tail wags as her guild-mother speaks, and then she looks up at her High-Mother in astonishment. Exile, then?  
	The High-Mother tilts her head ever so slightly and smiles warmly. Of a sort. Im assigning you a special duty - as a Guardian.  
	Shadow and Tim exchange a look between them. Guardian?  
	There are troubles gathering, and I fear I do not have the means to stop them.  
	Terminus. Shadow lets slip.  
	Indeed, child. She moves to the side. However, I now know that you are somehow included in his plot, so I must remove you from play.  
	Shadow bows slightly. He said he will do whatever it takes to hunt me down.  
	Perhaps. We can only wait and see what he does next. Lady Moonlights tail moves slowly behind her in perhaps the most liquid motion Tim had ever seen, besides water itself.	  
 	Moonlight goes on. Now it is time for us to part. Take care of each other, and be mindful of each other. Please, stay out of trouble.  
	She bows slightly to both Shadow and Tim and grants them a serene smile. With that she gracefully descends the steps and vanishes quietly around the corner. Tim and Shadow are momentarily left speechless, then decide to climb back up to his room together.

	They emerge on the other side, and are greeted by morning sunlight shining through Tims bedroom window. Shadow squints as her eyes adjust to it briefly.  
	Welcome home, Shadow. Tim says to her as he opens his arms wide to her. She happily embraces him, wrapping both her arms and wings around him tightly.  
	Thank you for everything, Tim.  
	I didnt do that much.  
	You came for me. Thats all that matters. They kiss passionately for a moment and then both simultaneously find the edge of his bed, where they perch together hand in hand.

------

	Tims parents once again are sitting in the kitchen, when finally Tim comes slowly down the stairs. Tims father, Thomas, once again with his nose buried in the daily newspaper, folds it down when his wife takes his hand as Tim enters the kitchen, loitering in the doorway.  
	Good morning, son!  
	Timothy takes a step inside the room. Good morning. Listen, about yesterday I wanted to thank you guys, for the advice, I mean.  
	His mother and father smile at each other. Its what parents are for, dear. His mother assures him warmly.  
	Tim nods to himself. Well, it worked. Mom, Dad, I think its about time you got to meet someone very special to me. He holds his hand out to the door, where slowly, shyly, a dark grey claw reaches out from around the corner and takes a hold of it.  
	Thomas puts down the paper and his wife squeezes his hand tighter as the young woman appears in the doorway, adored in a beautiful black dress and wrapped up tightly in leathery red wings. Her strange golden eyes look between them both, a mixture of hope, curiosity and fear dwell within them.  
	Id like to introduce you both to Shadow. Tim says at last.  
	His parents stand up from the table slowly and turn to face their guest.  
	Shadow bows slightly, and then raises her hand to them in a small wave. Hello, its good to finally meet you both.  
	Oh, Tim, shes beautiful! Tims mother exclaims breathlessly as she rushes over.  
	Shadow, this is my mother, Ruth.  
	Shadow tilts her head curiously at her. Thank you, Ruth. Im happy you think so. Ruth smiles warmly.  
	His father offers her his hand. Shadow takes it and gives it a shake.   
	This is my father, Thomas. Tim tells her.  
	Hello there, Shadow! Its great to finally meet you! Thomas greets her, perhaps a little overzealously.  
	Hello, Thomas! Shadow bobs her head and grins up at him.  
	Tims Mother, Ruth, offers Shadow a place to sit down at the table. Would you like some tea, dear?  
	Shadow takes a seat politely. Ive never had tea, before. I would love some, thank you! Erm I, well,  
	Yes dear?  
	Shadow meekly puts her head between her shoulders. Her ears were lowered, as though she were embarrassed. Would you happen to have any cookies?  
	Everyone smiles at that. Of course Shadow, of course!   
	They all pull out chairs at the kitchen table, Tim sits beside Shadow and they hold hands under the table top, as Tims mother plugs the kettle in to make some tea, and grab some cookies.

------

	Even though we had thought we had parted for the last time just a night before, we suddenly found ourselves thrust back together again. However, from this point forward we both knew things would be very different.   
	Shadow was no longer merely a visitor in the night, but now (and for the foreseeable future) a permanent fixture in my life. Our lives, truthfully, as my parents embraced her with open arms, welcoming her into our house as if she were merely some distant relative come to live with us.  
	That was really strange, and although it made life simpler, somehow, in the back of my mind, their acceptance of her so quickly plucked at something just below the surface of my thoughts.

	It was as if they had expected this to happen all along.

	Otherwise, life was great. I kept up my job working with my dad Thomas at his photography studio, and everything seemed to simply get back to normal; well, as normal as life could under the present circumstances anyhow.   
	Shadow (who had always shown a great interest in our world), reveled in learning about things she hadnt had the time to figure out when it was just the two of us stuck upstairs in my room. She took a special liking to my mother Ruth, (being the only other woman around, I think!) and had actually found an affinity for baking, surprisingly.  
	However, at night it was a different story. She had been charged by her master as a Guardian and took it very seriously. I knew she was always awaiting the day Terminus might try something. I also knew that (while she hid it quite well) she missed the other side. No one could blame her, of course. She was in exile.  
	I looked out for her as well, in my own way. I hadnt forgotten that she herself was a target. In that way I suppose, we both watched out for each other. Its what bonded partners were for, right?

	And when we were alone, we certainly made the most of that bond. 

	

CHAPTER FOUR: THE OTHER SIDE OF NIGHT

	

	Shadow drifts pleasantly out of sleep, finding herself wrapped securely in the comforting embrace of her lovers arms, and buried beneath the warm sheets of his bed. She opens her eyes and looks over at Tims time keeper. It was only 6:13 am by human reckoning. There was still time before Tim would have to head off for work. She purred in approval at that prospect, and cuddled deeper into his encouraging warmth.  
	In his sleep, Tim slid his hand underneath the membrane of her wrapped up wings, across her firm stomach until he found terra firma, beaching his hand across her ribs, cupping gently, the cleft of her left breast.  
	Shadow inhales sweetly at his sleepy caress, and once again closes her eyes, running her fingers gently up his arm. She feels the tickly hairs of his move under her palm, as her own hand finds and spreads over his own hand. She smiles to herself approvingly as she feels him rapidly well up against her, his throbbing affection rubbing her just right. Lightly, she presses her rear up against him and teases her new playmate by gently rolling her hips rhythmically.  
	Its at this point when Timothy stirs from his slumber, very much to his pleasant surprise. Good morning. He whispers quietly into her ear, intoning it as pleasantly as he could muster, before he kisses her hair.  
	She turns her head up to meet him, opening her eyes to a seductive sliver, and greets his lips with her own. Morning, love. She purrs. Did I wake you? Im so sorry. She wasnt really sorry.  
	Mm-hmm-hmm! Tim softly chuckles to her with a boyish grin. Im awake all right.  
	Shadow bites her lower lip playfully, flashing a fang at him momentarily. Yes, you are, arent you? She wiggles her rear end playfully in his lap.  
	He kisses down her neck, noting her ear-fin rising to full sail (so to speak), in anticipation. And to think- Kiss. -Youve been under the bed- Another Kiss. -all these years! And another.  
	She moves his hand from merely cupping her to grasping her now, their legs become an intimate tangle as she pulls her legs up between his own, spooning. Leaning back into him she reaches her arm up and over to run her fingers through his locks of hair at the back of his head. Facing upwards now, a euphoric grin plastered on her face, she asks: And now that Im on top of it, what would you suggest? That we- she gasps suddenly, eyes flashing with delight, as Tim pushes himself inside her. -make up for lost time? she manages a moment later, breathlessly.  
	In answer, Tim leans into her more. Shadow rolls back over again and digs her claws into his bed sheet for traction. The blankets were becoming stifling and so at a convenient moment Tim throws them off.   
	Almost in response to this, Shadow flares out the one wing she could manage from her current position, and feeling the urge to unfurl the other she pushes Tim off and onto his back, rolling over onto him. She lowers herself slowly into his lap, feeling him slide deeper inside herself as she bore down on him from above.   
	Their eyes locked then, both of them now in a state of unfiltered lust for each other, she began to rock her hips back and forth, grinding on him in a smooth sensuous motion. After a time of watching Tim admire her handiwork, she slowly leans down, her breasts bobbing over him, until at last they press firmly against his ribcage where they begin to kiss feverishly.   
	Tims hands travelled over her body wherever her curves took him, her own hands, once more sunken into the blankets to each side of him.	  
	As their momentum gathered, Tim began to thrust harder from below, sending a mighty sensation through Shadow like a madness. All at once, she seems to lose control of herself to some ancient instinct as she reaches climax, she buries her orgasm into his shoulder, and tasting blood.  
	All at once, (perhaps from the shock) Timothy lunges hard, deeply, inside of Shadow as he reaches his own climax, gripping his round human fingertips into her flesh hard as he lets out a wavering cry of pleasure and pain as she sinks her fangs deep into his trapezoid.  
	A moment later, Shadow seems to find herself again as she feels a sudden shock of new warmth spread into her and the metallic tinge of blood on her lips. Realizing what she had done, Shadow at once attempts to pull away from Tim, but finds no escape, as he wraps his arms around her firmly, holding her to his chest. He strokes her hair calmly and she stops struggling to get up, instead finally wrapping her arms up around his biceps and holding him tight.  
	They both lie there together in silence, her on top of him. Tim; wide-eyed with shock staring up at the bare wooden rafters above the bed, Shadow; wide-eyed with fear at the clock. It was 6:27.  
	Tim Shadow breaks the silence finally.  
	Tim shushes her quietly. Its alright.  
	No, please. She pushes away from him now as he finally loosens his grasp on her. She looks down on him pleadingly, with round sad eyes. Tim, without words, reaches a hand up to her face and wipes away the smear of his own blood from the side of her mouth. She closes her eyes gently and rubs her face against his hand, like a cat petting itself. A tear runs down her cheek. She was sorry, so very sorry.  
	I love you Shadow. No matter what.  
	And I you, Timothy. She wipes the tear away. I just feel, so awful. I dont know what I was thinking.  
	Tim sits up in bed, Shadow still sitting on his lap, and puts his forehead to hers. Dont.  
	Im your guardian, I shouldnt be biting you like that. But theres some part of me, deep down, that just cantwont  
	Tim smiles. It was a moment of passion., Shadow. Its like youre my own sexy Klingon!  
	Shadow reaches behind him and grabs a pillow playfully thwacking him over the head with it gently. Oooh! Please dont compare me with Star Trek right now! She laughs. Im serious! please, forgive me.  
	Tim leans forward rolling her onto her back and climbs on top of her, her legs splayed to either side of him. If you feel so awful, then how about you make it up to me?  
	Maybe I should bite you more often? She suggests jokingly, looking up into his inviting eyes. She realizes Tim had forgiven her, if he had ever been angry with her at all. He had accepted her wholesale, sharp edges and everything else. They kiss each other sweetly then, and again more enthusiastically as they both ease eagerly into round two.

------  
	  
	A little later that morning, the family finds themselves sitting down to breakfast together. Ruth had decided to make pancakes for everyone. Tim and Shadow sit side by side, in what had become their usual morning routine since Shadow had come to live with them three weeks ago. Ruth continued her own routine of pointedly not noticing Shadows tail wrapped subtly around her sons calf under the table. Holding hands, without holding hands. She smirked to herself as she poured some pancake batter into the pan. Thomas again was reading the daily paper, (this time the funny pages) his own usual morning routine, (along with his coffee of course!) He had never really grasped the concept the internet. He believed thoroughly in tradition.  
	The next pancake was ready to be served. Who wants this one? Ruth sings out the question the group.   
	Ooh! Me! Tim exclaims raising his plate from the table.  
	His mother picks up the pan and rather fluidly maneuvers the practically perfect round pancake onto Shadows plate, who in turn looks up at Ruth with a conspiratorial grin. Thank you Mrs. Newton!  
	Hey! Tim slouches, ignored.  
	Please dear, call me Ruth! Mrs. Newton makes me sound old!  
	The newspaper crinkles in Thomass hands as he gives it a flick. It was good enough for my mother!   
	Ruth turns back to the stove and gives him a flick on the arm with the spatula she was using to push the pancakes onto plates. Quiet you!  
	Ow. He jokes, before he takes a sip of coffee from his Worlds Greatest Lover mug.  
	Shadow reaches across the table for the syrup bottle, which she takes and upends over top of her fresh pancake. She starts at one end and meticulously starts to cover the entire thing with the sweet substance, and then some.  
	After a moment or two more of drowning her food, she cheerfully notices both Tim and Thomas watching her, rather bemused.  
	Are you going to have some Pancake with that syrup? Tim teases her. Save some for the rest of us!  
	Shadow puts the bottle down, half empty now, and cuts a piece off with her fork sticking it into her mouth, chewing it dramatically while looking at Tim. Mmmmmmmmmm! she offers as her verdict.  
	Ruth drifts by the table again, this time dropping off the next pancake on her sons plate. Here you go!  
	Thank you! Im famished!  
	Working up an appetite, eh boy? His father pipes in again from behind the paper.  
	Tim and Shadow glance at each other briefly, before Ruth thwacks him again.  
	What can I say? Feels like I have low blood sugar this morning. Tim says looking at Shadow with a nearly invisible grin, before he grabs the syrup and applies a more reasonable amount to his breakfast.   
	Shadows tail tightens around his leg, while she takes another bite of her own meal, otherwise seemingly ignoring his jibe.  
	Thomas puts down his paper as his breakfast is served to him by his wife. Thanks Hun! She leans in for a kiss, before once again returning to the stove top to make her own pancake finally.   
	Shadow finishes her plate, wiping up the excess syrup with her last bite and stuffs it into her mouth. Let me help Mrs. Newt-I mean, Ruth. I can do that for you! She got up and crossed to the stove. Tim once again noticed how his mothers name rolled off Shadows tongue. She seemed uncomfortable saying the word for some reason.  
	Thank you Shadow dear! Your so helpful! I dont know what I did before you came along. Ruth says and surrenders the spatula to her new apprentice chef. She pours herself a coffee from the percolator on the kitchen counter and sits down at the opposite side of the table, across from Tim and just around the corner from her husband.  
	Tim dear, whats wrong with your shoulder? His mother almost instantly noticed when she sat down and had taken a gulp from her cup.  
	Tim supposed he had been rolling it around subconsciously or something. Otherwise there was no way to tell anything was wrong. What? Nothing! Nothings wrong with my shoulder. Im fine! He blunders out a little too quickly.  
	His mother takes another sip. Tim knows that she knows that hes lying. Hes never been able to lie to his mother. Somehow she always knew.  
	Alright, just thought Id ask. She says, backing down. At least she plays along.  
	Shadow comes around the table and serves Ruth her pancake, its not the most perfect thing in the world, but at least it wasnt burnt. She glances across the table at Tim apologetically, but says nothing.  
	Thank you, dear! Ruth says with a smile as she pats Shadow on the arm.  
	Tim takes another bite of his pancake finishing it off. Well, that was fun. Thanks mom!  
	Your very welcome, dear. His mother says as she too reaches for the syrup.  
	Thomas checks his watch. Well, its almost time to shove off.  
	Tim looks at the microwaves clock. 8:25 am. They had to get to the studio by nine that morning to set up for an early appointment.  
	At least finish your meal, Thom. Ruth says, putting her hand on his.  
	Tim watches Shadow smile strangely to herself as they hold each others hands, then catches her when she looks over at him with a strange glint in her eyes. Her smile gains warmth when they lock eyes, then she heads back over to the stove and puts down the pan and spatula.  
	Thomas wolfs down the rest of his breakfast.

------

	A few minutes later, Tim is putting his jacket on to head out to work. Shadow saunters down the hall from the kitchen to meet him at the door. Tim adjusts the collar on his jacket as she holds out a bag for him., which he accepts with a grin.  
	I made you lunch for today! Shadow explains.  
	Thanks Shadow, youre the best!  
	She beams at him approvingly and opens her arms and wings out to him for a hug. Tim wastes no time obliging her and puts his arms around her waist pulling her against him as she wraps herself around him briefly while they had a moment alone in the foyer.   
	Have a good day at work, love! She says.  
	Tim shrugs. Id have more fun sticking around here, Im sure!  
	Thomas enters from the living room suddenly jangling his car keys. Hah, me too, kiddo! Tim and Shadow separate from each other as if they had been caught in the midst of a crime. Oops, sorry you two! He glides between them awkwardly and heads out the door.  
	Shadow titters to herself holding her hand over her mouth, while Tim scratches his head comically. Well, with that I guess Ill see you later, alright? Tim says.  
	Yep! Ill be waiting! Shadow replies. Be careful!  
	Tim smiles. Of course I will! He turns to leave and Shadow reaches for his arm pulling him back around to face her. She leans up and gives him a good-bye kiss.  
	Take it easy on the shoulder.  She whispers to him when they part.  
	Tim smiles at her and nods in affirmation, then turns and leaves the house with a click of the front door shutting softly. Shadow sighs and turns around finding Ruth leaning against the kitchen door frame, coffee in hand.  
	Its hard, watching him go isnt it? She asks Shadow.  
	Shadow nods. It is. Perhaps more than you know.  
	Im pretty sure I understand exactly what your feeling. Im game if you wanna talk about it?  
	Shadow considers momentarily. No, no, Im fine. I just She sighs. Ive been assigned as his Guardian, and its difficult for me when hes not here. I worry.  
	Is that all your worried about? Ruth says mysteriously as she takes a sip from her coffee cup and turns back into the kitchen. Come on, Ill make you some tea.  
	She was doing it again. Ever since she had met Tims mother, something had not sat right with Shadow. There was always intuition, but then there was Ruth. Sometimes it seemed a little uncanny how able Ruth seemed to be at relating to her own instincts. It was absurd, but sometimes Shadow had the distinct feeling that Ruth really did understand her on a level no human possibly could. That somehow Ruth was just like her.  
	But of course, that was silly.  
	Wasnt it? 

------

	Terminus swaggered into the cell, once again trailed silently by Nightmare. His tail flicked behind him, betraying his outward projection of calmness. Inside, he was boiling over with rage. He turned his head coolly, with that disturbing grin etched across it, the same one he always had when he was thinking of some vile thing hed rather be doing.  
	Midnight stirred, her chains rattling, as she attempted to find some semblance of dignity at Terminuss abrupt arrival. It was hard to do when you were shackled to a wall in the corner of a cold dark cell. She glared up at him with a cold dark expression to match.  
	As it turns out, your beloved sister-friend was right about you after all - You really ARE quite a handful!  
	I aim to please. Midnight chances a mocking grin.  
	Terminus puts his hand to his green chin considering her. Still so full of spirit! Remarkable. Well, I would be pleased if you would finally give up this insolence and simply tell me what I want to know!  
	She rattles her chain. Ive told you, I dont know where Shadow is. They ran off!  
	You brought the boy here. You know where they went.  
	They stare at each other from across the cell, Midnight hunched down in the corner, Terminus drawn up tall in a posture of reserved calm, that looked ready to burst.  
	Go put a kink in your tail. She says with a tone of finality. Ill never betray my Sisters, not a one. She glances at Nightmare with open disgust.  
	Nightmares tail flicks once behind her like a whip, but she doesnt rise to the bait.  
	I wouldnt make her mad if I were you. Terminus says as he leans in closer.  
	Midnight turns her head away from him. She simply cant stand to even look at him any longer.   
	Terminus cocks his head slightly to the side with a light chuckle as he watches her squirm when suddenly he simply can take no more of this game. Defiance until the bitter end then, is it? He shrugs indifferently, his tone almost lighthearted, when suddenly in a flash of brilliant rage he reaches out and wraps his long fingers around Midnights jaw, forcing her to face him once more. He squeezes her hard, until she lets out a squeak of pain; her eyes blazing at him with white-hot hatred, but under that also with fear.   
	Midnight, in reaction to this, raises her own hands to his outstretched arm attempting to break his grip on her, but he only pressed harder at her futile attempt.   
	Tell me where Shadow and the boy are! TELL ME! He screams at her, lifting her up from the floor by her throat, her chains rattling, until she stood pressed against the wall, helpless. TELL ME! He repeats, spittle flying from his mouth.  
	Midnight opens her mouth but only chokes on her words. Terminus loosens his grasp on her. Tell me. He repeats again, this time returning to his normal sing-song cadence.   
	Fuck you. Midnight croaks out. Even in this underworld, that ubiquitous human phrase carried some resonance.  
	Terminus grinned at her and nodded his head, perhaps over doing it a little. Alright. Alright. He released her from his grip. She stood, her back against the wall, her legs wobbly beneath her, gasping for breath. She instinctively put her hands to her throat for protection. Terminus stepped back and closed his hand into a tight fist and then drove it into Midnights stomach, doubling her over.   
	She went down to her knees and fell over into a ball, clutching her midsection, the air completely knocked out of her and she fought the urge to retch right there at Terminus feet.  
	 Terminus slowly kneeled down until he sat hunched over her writhing body. Now do you see what youve made me do? Its never right to strike a female, such fragile creatures as you are, but you simply left me no other choice in the matter. He grabbed her by her short raven-black hair and picked her head up off the floor, forcing her to look at him again. She gaped at him as if she somehow had left her body. Tell me where they are, and this will be over.  
	Midnight collected herself enough to spit in his face.  
	He sighed. Terminus let her go, bouncing her head off the hard floor and stood up over her. Then he slid his knife, (the same black onyx knife he had used during the bonding ceremony) out of the sash at his waist.  
	Midnights eyes widened for a moment and then she closed them. Her head was throbbing, the world spinning off-kilter.  
	Terminus looked down at the knife in his hand, held it out loosely above Midnight, and then handed it to Nightmare. Make her talk.  
	Nightmare grinned a savage grin, all fangs. I live to serve you, my lord.  
	Terminus backed away and left the cell, leaving Nightmare behind standing over Midnight, still writhing on the floor. Only then, did he bother to wipe away her spittle.   
	He thought once again at how close he had been to achieving his goals and how Shadow had eluded him. How that boy had managed to take her from him. He needed to know where to locate that boy. Indeed, he had told Shadow he knew all about her secrets, but that was not exactly the whole truth. The was such a good liar, he could jump from one to the next without much thought.   
	The truth was he had only half suspected Shadow of her secret life. He knew her comings and goings, but not where she was going or to whom. He knew she had a great affinity for the human world simply by reputation alone, the way she spoke and knew things other did not. He took a gamble, choosing her for the bonding. If it had gone well, he would have her in his grasp, if not, then he would have confirmation of his suspicions. The joining of their houses would have simply been a bonus, but ultimately not his goal. He had larger ambitions than simply ending some silly feud from the dawning days.   
	When the bonding failed, in a way he was glad, and so was Nightmare, the sycophantic herald who had been sniffing after his power for a long while already. Terminus knew she girl was in love with him, but he needed Shadow. It was only after the failed ceremony when she came upon him and so willingly offered to take her guild-sisters place at his side. He could certainly use her to his advantage now. So why not?  
	Even so, he still needed Shadow, somehow, and so, his back-up plan. Manipulation.  
	Death or exile. He desperately hoped for the death sentence so he might save her from it. He never thought for in instant the old bat Moonlight would ever allow her to return to the boy. The High-Mother was soft, and did not want to see her child, even one who would profane so flagrantly, to suffer. That was unfortunate. Her friends unwillingness to co-operate was even more maddening.  
	No matter, one way or the other he would find them. He would open the catacombs, and change everything. All he needed now was Shadow.

------

	Shadow woke up from a light nap and found it was around noon time. Although she had been waking and seeing Timothy off in the mornings, she was still a creature of the night and found it difficult to maintain a daytime schedule.  
	She sat up in bed and smoothed out her dress. Running her fingers through her hair, she wiggled her ears about, listening to the sounds of the day outside which she still found fascinating, even a few weeks on. The house was relatively quiet though, and after briefly puttering around Tims empty room she again trotted downstairs to find some solace in Ruths welcome (and yet somehow still odd) company.  
	Coming down the stairs from the second floor, she rounded the hallway and into the kitchen, her clawed toes lightly clicking against the linoleum floor. That was when Shadows ears perked up. She heard Ruths voice lightly floating out of the living room, talking in a hushed tone over the phone. Shadow couldnt help but creep to the corner of the far kitchen door to hear her end of the conversation.  
	Of course, its only natural he would. Ruth was saying into the receiver. She pauses to listen to the voice on the other end. Well, I suppose we could have been more careful, but we both knew this would come up eventually. Listening again. We cant hide this from him forever. Now that Shadow is here, I think-  
	Shadow tensed up in the doorway when Ruth brought her name up in the conversation. She must have been talking with Thomas, who else could it be? They would never betray her trust like that. Ruth may have been odd for a human but she was trustworthy, she could feel it. Though it was obvious now she did have something to hide.  
	-I think its time we told him the truth. I think hes ready. Ruth continued. Even if we wait, I dont think I could hide it from her for much longer anyway. I think she already suspects, I can tell just from her body language something is wrong. Ruth listens briefly to her husband on the other end. Of course I can read her body language, do you think Ive forgotten how after all these years?  
	Shadows blood runs cold as goose bumps run up and down her arms.  
	I know you are, I love you too, dear. Pause. Yes. Yeess. Tonight?  
	Whats tonight? Shadow wonders.  
	Well break the news tonight. He needs to know why - and Ill explain it to Shadow as soon as Im off the phone, since shes listening in right now anyway. She titters to herself. Shadows ears droop, knowing shes somehow been caught. I know, have a good afternoon, hun. Love you too! Ruth makes kissy sounds into the receiver and hangs up.  
	Shadow takes her cue as she hears the phone receiver click into its cradle, and shuffles stiffly into the living room, where she finds Ruth sitting cross legged at the side of the couch watching her with a pleasant expression.  
	Im sorry Ruth, I was just coming down to sit and talk, and I heard you talking and I didnt want- Shadow blathers out a half-apology, half-explanation; but is cut off in mid-babble.  
	Shadow, dear, dont worry about it! Its not your fault that youre blessed with such exceptional hearing. She extends her arm out to beckon Shadow nearer than pats the couch beside her.  
	Shadow obliges, planting herself gingerly on the couch beside Tims mother, fumbling with the end of her own tail nervously. How do you  
	How do I know you have excellent hearing? Well, she leans forward, clearing her throat, clearly uncomfortable herself now. Ruth stares off into the middle distance of the room not looking at Shadow as she speaks. I have excellent hearing too. Its how I knew you were standing outside the door just now. We all have great hearing, She looks at Shadow now, beseechingly. On the other side of night.  
	Shadows eyes flash briefly and she nods slowly to herself, as suddenly pieces of a puzzle begin to fall into place. After a moment her eyes are as wide as saucers, a picture fully revealed. You are youre. like me! Youre one of the Night Sisters?  
	Ruth lets out a long sigh, and nods once in affirmation. I am, or was, one might say.  
	But your human.  
	Just a charm. A glamour. She leans back on the couch. A distortion.  
	Shadow rubs her chin. You modified the photograph glamour!  
	Ruth nods again. Smart girl.  
	Shadow continues So that means, everyone sees you as a human but,  
	Thomas knows, of course. I think sometimes he misses my, ahem, natural qualities.  
	Shadow springs up from the couch to her feet suddenly. Oh my god! Tim!  
	Ruth closes her eyes. Tim doesnt know. Weve always meant to tell him, but,  
	Shadow covers her mouth with her hands. The socks! Thats why I was so attracted to them! She rounds on Ruth, almost accusingly. Its his blood! Tim isnt exactly human is he? Thats why Ive always felt a weird affinity towards him, even while he was sleeping. I couldnt bring myself to do anything to him! Ruth has been nodding along in agreement. Its why I kept coming back.  
	Ruth opens her eyes and looks up at Shadow. Your half right. Timothy is a half breed, thats his curse. You kept coming back, because you wanted to. The curse was just a- Hmmm! a conversation starter. Yes, lets call it that.  
	Tim has a curse?  
	Not literally, something in the blood. It attracts creatures like us. His father has it too. Tim, even more so, actually being born of myself and Thomas. She looked somewhat pityingly towards Shadow. I was hoping he might avoid snaring another of us. To save them this life. But when I started finding missing socks in the laundry He told me it was a monster doing it. A Monster! I hoped he was only lying, but eventually, I knew I had to keep up appearances for so long, Shadow.  
	Shadow wraps her arms around herself tightly. Youve known all along.  
	Ive been waiting a long time, to meet you. To tell you Im sorry.  
	Ruth looked as if she was about to cry, but Shadow smiled down on her. Theres nothing to be sorry about Ruth, I love my life here. Im glad it happened.  
	Shadow joins Ruth on the couch again. I feel like as though Ive just met you again. For the first time. Like a fog has lifted.   
	Ruth flashes a smile meekly. Well, not quite. She offers Shadow her hand, who takes it gently in her own. Its not Mrs. Newton, and Ruth is just a pet name really. My real name is Ruthless.  
	Shadow smiles. Ruthless. The name rolls around in her head for a moment and then something clicks, and Shadow nearly jumps out of her seat again. Your Ruthless Blackheart!  
	Ruth blushes and looks away. Is that what they call me now?  
	You were supposed to be the High-Mother of the Sisterhood, hand picked by Lady Nightshade herself, but you vanished without a trace!  
	I was in love, I couldnt possibly stay. I would never leave Thomas.  
	Shadow looked suddenly ashamed of herself. I left.  
	You came back. Ive never even met you before, but I knew you would. For my son. You had been together for so long already. Ruth puts her hand on Shadows shoulder, who leans against her.  
	Tim brought me back, Im thankful everyday. I would have been trapped, suffocating in the dark by a man I loathe, and now I fear because of my actions, that that man will stop at nothing to have his vengeance.  
	Tim is good that way. He gets it from his father. Ruth muses, carefully avoiding mention of any threat towards her sons life.  
	Not his mother? Shadow asks playfully.  
	Ruth shakes her head. Gods no, his mother is a selfish, reckless, rogue! She laughs. By the way, Ive been curious, who did Nightshade pick to replace me as her successor?  
	Moonlight, is the current High-Mother.  
	Ruth smiles wide. Hah! Moonlight huh? Oh, the stories I could tell you about that one.  
	Im more interested in hearing your story, Ruth. Shadow says.  
	Ruth squeezes her around the shoulders in a motherly fashion. Later tonight, dear. Everything will be revealed to you and Tim both. Do you, do you think hes ready?  
	Shadow considers. Im not sure, exactly hes had almost 11 years to warm up to me. To find out now about his own mother about himself She trails off.  
	Ruth nods. Its going to be an emotional evening.  
	Theyve been going around a lot, lately. Shadow agrees.

------

	My dear, Lady Moonlight! Its an unexpected honor to see you here! Terminus bows graciously to her as he meets her at the entranceway to his extensive quarters. What, if I may ask, can I do for you?  
	Moonlight returns his bow with the slightest dip of a curtsy. Ive dropped by with several urgent matters to discuss with you. On a private basis. She glances deftly around the room catching several members of Terminus sworn brotherhood in doorways and shadows alike.  
	Terminus turns to address the room with a sweep of his arm. Of course! We shall have the utmost privacy at once.   
	By the time he finishes speaking and sweeping the room with a grand gesture, the others have all slunk off, whether they were truly gone or simply hidden (most certainly laying in wait) Moonlight would have to put faith in his word. Faith she did not have in him, though she had no choice but to push on. This was her last resort.  
	He motions for her to join him, welcoming her further into his abode with a gesture of his hand. If anything good could be said about him at all, it was his theatrical sense.  
	She follows, reluctantly (without showing it), and opens on a softer note. Im sorry I could not have managed to see you earlier; or under better circumstances than this. Im truly sorry that the bonding ceremony was a failure. You and yours, would have been welcome allies.  
	Terminus nods solemnly. Indeed, it grieves me to no end that it did not work out exactly as I had hoped. That I could not get my hands on Shadow. No matter. That does not mean a deal is necessarily off the table though.  
	The white lady regards him sideways momentarily. A deal?  
	Terminus stops and turns to face her. I am a still interested in putting aside our differences. In fact, plans are already underway.  
	You speak for yourself Terminus, and it IS a noble gesture, however Lord Pax, your benefactor has deemed-  
	Terminus cuts her off suddenly. It seems you truly have been busy with other matters my Lady. Lord Pax is dead. He seems to let the words slither from his lips. I speak for the Dark Brotherhood now. I alone.  
	So that was it. This Lord business of his, she was hearing about was true. I had not heard the news of his passing. That is such a shame. I did enjoy trading banter with him.  
	Indeed. Such a shame I had to sully my blade with his hearts blood! However the old ways must be brushed aside. He was simply the first to go. Terminus frowns and continues.  
	I would be glad to trade banter with you, my lady! However, that will have to wait. It seems you have other more pressing matters to discuss. What other concerns have you? Terminus asks changing the subject abruptly.  
	Moonlight is slightly taken aback. I She clears her throat, taking a moment to absorb this new information. Terminus was now in control of the Dark Brotherhood, somehow, and not simply scrabbling after it. As Im sure youve heard by now, my Sisterhood has recently lost several members to mysterious circumstances. Circumstances taking place the night of your bonding ceremony.  
	Word has reached my ears, yes. Three of your sisters have vanished into the ether, if Im not mistaken. Some of your best, and that heathen Shadow, you attempted to saddle me with as well! He returns to walking now, leaving Lady Moonlight in the dust before she could react to that jab. She glowered after him and drew upon her well of deep calm, joining him once more as they traveled deeper into his manse. I think we both know where that one has run off to.  
	Moonlight glances at him briefly, but acknowledges no such thing.   
	The others you seek, I believe I can help you locate.  
	Moonlight narrows her eyes. What are you implying? Your willing to help me find them, then?  
	They reach a doorway which Terminus bids her to enter. Gods no, I already know where they are! Come now.  
	She pushes the door open revealing a dark cell. She hears a chain clatter from the far corner as the door creaks open. Midnight looks up at her in some shock from the floor, as the hall light reveals her presence within. My lady! Look out! She hoarsely calls out.  
	Midnight?! What is going on? Lady Moonlight asks accusingly.  
	However it was too late.   
	A sudden rough push from behind forces Moonlight into the cell, tripping her over onto her knees. With a rattle of chains, Midnight attempts to move forward to catch her fall but fails. Lady Moonlight crumples into a pile on the floor of the dark cell. Looking back to the doorway with open contempt at being manhandled so, Lady Moonlight sees her attacker is none other than Nightmare. She shakes her head in disgust and turns her attention to Midnight before her.  
	Midnight! Are you alright? What have these fiends done to you? She turns back once again to her gracious hosts, furious now. What have YOU done?  
	Terminus raises his hands in absolution. Me? Why Ive done nothing but ask a few questions!  
	Midnight rattles her chains violently. LIAR!  
	Id watch that tongue of yours if I were you girl, or else it may be cut out! Terminus snaps and returns his attention to the High-Mother. No, I havent done a thing to your precious Guild-daughter. Her sister on the other handHeh! Heh-Heh!  
	Nightmare! What in the realm do you think youre doing here with this vile man? Midnight is your sister, its against our greatest edicts to harm one of your own guild-mates! Moonlight manages, attempting to remain in control of the situation from the floor.  
	Both Terminus and Nightmare slowly enter the cell as Lady Moonlight pontificates over the rules of her guild. Nightmare closes the door tightly behind her when she receives a small nod from Terminus, who proceeds to cut off the High-Mothers now tiresome babbling.  
	Shes doing her duty, my dear White Lady!  
	Her duty is to her guild! To ME! Moonlight snaps back.  
	Nightmares only duty now is to do the bidding of her bond-mate - Which is ME! He cackles to himself. She is no longer your concern, no He loses his gleeful edge, gathering himself suddenly into a looming presence. Your only concern now should be your own well being, White Lady Moonlight. Lest you wish to become a RED Lady!  
	Midnight screeches at them from her corner. Do not may a finger on my Mother!  
	Moonlight stares at them blankly, in some shock that Nightmare, whom she considered to be one of her greatest students could betray her so readily.  
	Behind Terminus, Nightmare unsheathes a knife and hands it forward to her master. He takes it without breaking eye contact with Moonlight.	  
	What are you planning to do with that? Moonlight questions him, as she recovers from her sad reverie, her gaze now steeled on the knife in his hands.  
	Im going to ask you a simple question, and if you dont answer me, well, I cant guarantee that bad things wont happen to you. Or maybe your guild-rat there.  
	Moonlight looks to Midnight, Who squirms back into her corner as Terminus draws ever closer, his black knife gleaming.  
	Youll never get away with this.  
	Terminus leers. If all goes accordingly, I wont need to be worried about getting away with anything. In the end you will THANK me! He switches his knife from one hand to the other. Now tell me  
	I will never tell you where Shadow has gone. She has been removed from your sad little game.  
	That is truly unfortunate. He bows his head momentarily, no doubt thinking on his feet. Well, if you wont answer my questions, you may still be of some use to me! He reaches out and roughly grabs a hold of Moonlight now pulling her roughly to her feet by the arm, spinning her about and pinning her against him, his knife held delicately to her jugular.  
	Midnight attempts to stop him but again is held back helplessly by her chains. NO! Dont hurt her you monster!  
	Were all monsters down here, or have you forgotten? Terminus mocks her pleas.  
	Moonlight shudders in his arms, but manages a ragged breath and finds her strength. We have not forgotten, it seems you are the one who has forgotten his place!  
	Terminus presses the tip of the knife against the pale white flesh in her neck. My place has never been clearer to me, but before I can reach it I require a sacrifice!  
	Moonlight is caught in his unflinching grasp, but manages eye contact with Midnight. Tell him nothing, my child! No matter what the fool does!  
	Terminus looks over Moonlights shoulder at Midnight. Now! You will tell me where your friend is hiding, or Ill open your White Ladys throat and we can watch her bleed out right here in this cell.  
	Midnight opens her mouth to speak but no words come. She looks with utter forgiveness at her High-Mother. Moonlights eyes widen as Terminus applies more pressure to the dagger drawing a bead of crimson blood down the tip of the blade.  
	Speak now, or this one will forever hold her peace! He growls.  
	  
	The words tumble from Midnights mouth, as freely as her own tears.

	Terminus grins, his mouth a row of glistening fangs. Somewhat surprisingly to everyone else, he actually releases Moonlight from his grasp, pushing her down onto the floor of the cell, close enough that Midnight can catch her fall. Midnight, ashamed of herself for breaking, cradles her in her lap, applying a clawed hand to her Guild-Mothers injury.  
	Im sorry, I SO sorry! I just couldnt allow you to die. Not here. Not like this. Midnight pleads to Moonlight who closes her eyes and seems to deflate.  
	Its no fault of yours, my child. She assures Midnight. Gods help us, and your Sister.  
	Terminus and Nightmare turn and leave the two prisoners to themselves in the cell. Walking back the way he had come, this time with Nightmare in tow, he finds he has regained that certain spring in his step. Finally things were going his way once again.   
	Nightmare! I believe I have a job for you.  
	She nods. Say no more, my Lord. I shall depart at once!  
	Terminus turns and catches her wrist with a devilish grin. Yes, given time my dear! However, Im feeling so exhilarated right now, I think a celebration is in order, dont you?  
	She looks at him then, her hard eyes almost twinkling with lust. Your will shall be done, my Lord.  
	Terminus leers at her. Yes, it most certainly will.  
   
------

	Tim opens the front door, making sure not to jostle the duffel bag full of camera equipment too much as he shuffles his way through, looking back the way he came as his father locks up the car and starts up the walkway after him. Tim turns around to scope out the hallway leading towards the kitchen and find Shadow awaiting him already. The look on her face was questionable at best, he wasnt really sure what she was feeling.  
	Hey Shadow, whats up? Tim asks, fishing for a mood.  
	Tim! How are you? Shadow asks, over top of Tims greeting.  
	They both look at each other blinking for a moment until Shadow cracks a grin and looks away. Alright, so shes not mad at me, Tim thinks to himself gladly as he too cannot help but smile back.  
	Would you two get out of the doorway? A man has to get to the washroom! Thomas interrupts from behind Tim.  
	Tim and Shadow quickly step aside as Thomas breezes by. Hey Shadow! is all he manages to get out as he quickly whizzes past.  
	Good evening! Mr. Newton! She calls after him down the hallway happily. She then returns her attention to Tim whose eyes are studying her.  
	Is there something wrong? Tim asks.  
	Her lip curls a little. Wrong? No, no, nothings wrong - why do you ask? Her ears begin to rise almost imperceptibly.  
	Because it looks like you just ate a bug.  
	Overcompensating. What? No! Im fine how are you feeling? She raises her shoulders, clearly aware of how silly she sounds.  
	How am I feeling? Tim lets the question hang for a moment, then laughs. Im feeling fine, Shadow. He shakes his head slightly and then lowers the bag off his shoulder setting it gently onto the floor.   
	She helps him take off his jacket, and hangs it on a hook on the wall.   
	Im hungry! Hows that?  
	Shadow bobs her head in a slightly inhuman gesture, a way in which Tim had long ago deciphered to mean something along the lines a human might describe as Happy, Yes. After that she went on to clarify.  
	Thats good! Ruth and I made your favorite!  
	Tims face visibly brightened. Moms Meatloaf Casserole? All the goodness of Macaroni casserole with meatloaf added in for good measure. Cant wait, babe! He said putting his hand around her waist. She trilled lightly at him and they grinned at one another conspiratorially. Then they made their way together into the kitchen.  
	Shadow felt so much better now. It had been a long day and she had a lot to digest. It was always so nice when Tim came home. She felt much better knowing he was safe and sound.

------

	The meal was great, but for some strange reason Tim suspected some ulterior motive. All throughout dinner both his mother and Shadow had been acting peculiar, though he couldnt quite put his finger on what the problem was. There was simply an air of uncertainty at the table that night between the two of them and it was starting to get on his nerves.  
	When he was finished eating he simply couldnt take it anymore.   
	Whats going on with you two tonight? He asked, as casually as he could muster.  
	Shadow nearly choked beside him, and he turned to her, attending her as best he could, but she waved him off, and shot a funny look sideways at his mother.  
	Ruth finished chewing her food and set her fork down precisely on the table beside her plate, adjusting it to a perfect 90 degree angle. Then she turned her attention from the embarrassed (but recovered) Shadow, to her son. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words would come. Flustered suddenly, she blinked rapidly, reached out, and took a sip of her drink.  
	Tim watched her to this carefully, then turned his gaze around the table looking at his father who looked pale, but was attempting to act as though nothing were amiss, and then back to Shadow whos own reaction was of utter ambivalence as she looked between his mother and himself.  
	What is it? He probed again. Am I dying?  
	His mother shot him a placating look, and sighed. No dear, your not dying!  
	Tim looked at her, attempting to draw an answer out of her through non-reaction.  
	Finally, she seemed to break, as some unseen wall within her collapsed. Fine. This is going to be hard for me, for us, to tell you. She nods to her husband. However, I think your old enough now, and since you have shown us your willingness to trust us with your own deepest secret- She motions to Shadow, who bolts upright in her chair at being mentioned. -that we should finally, finally, shed some light on our own dark secret.  
	Tim sits there in his chair not believing the solemnity in his mothers voice. He watches as Ruth reaches out and clasps Thomas hand.  
	Thomas then adds, as if prompted by his wifes touch, Im sure youve been curious these past few weeks, at just how easily we were able to meet, and come to accept your lovely young friend here, so quickly.  
	Tim nods. Uh-huh, the thought had crossed my mind.  
	Well, its not simply that weve known about her for a long time, though that is true, its just that for me, personally, the experience of meeting a girl like Shadow isnt new.  
	Tim furls his brow at this. So your sayingwhat, exactly?  
	Thomas looks at his son, somewhat apologetically, What Im saying, son, is that I didnt have any trouble relating to your very peculiar situation, because IVE been in that situation before. I am in that situation now.  
	Whaaa? Tim tilts his head and leans back in his chair. You know the monster under your bed too? then he realized he had used the M word and attempted to apologize to Shadow, but she wasnt angry, she sat beside him looking completely sober, and sympathetic.  
	He looks at his mother, and she looks back at him. She starts to speak, but somehow, by the look in her eyes he already knew what she was going to say and simply couldnt bear to hear it.  
	TimothyI am- Ruth began.  
	Tim cut her off by abruptly, standing up from the table knocking his chair over backwards. No! No! No way! There is no way Im listening to this! I dont believe it! He started to say as he gradually backed away from the table. Everyone else sat frozen in their seats, even Shadow. Even Shadow, who must have known the truth of it already.  
	His mother stood to match him. Her fingers pressed tensly on the tabletop before her. Timothy, please listen to me.  
	If your about to tell me that your some monster, then please, dont!  
	But its the truth! She declares with conviction.  
	Tim takes another step away from the table and leans against the counter. If thats true, then what does that make me, Mom?  
	It makes you my son! She gestures to his father. Our son!  
	Shadow turns and regards him over her shoulder slowly. Tim meets her gaze and sees that she wants him to come and sit with her, to think this through, but he simply cant do that right now. Instead he pushes off the countertop and out of the kitchen, banging up the stairs to find some solitude in his room.  
	Ruth leans over on the table with both hands and sighs. Well, that could have gone a bit more smoothly.  
	I thought he took it pretty well, myself! Thomas added attempting to add a bit of levity.  
	Shadow slowly stood up from the table. Ill go and talk to him, I think he could use-  
	Ruth cut her off. No, Shadow no. Please, Ill go.  
	Shadow nodded her head reluctantly and began to collect the plates from off the table. Dinner was wonderful tonight! She added with subdued cheer.  
	Ruth managed a weak smile, but fixed her eyes on the kitchen door. Thank you, dear.

------

	A short while later Ruth found herself standing alone in front of the doorway leading up to the attic and her son. She hesitated a moment, but then found the strength within herself to do this. She reached out and turned the knob, pulling the door open and made her way up the small wooden staircase.  
	She peaked her head up from the stairwell and found Tim sitting on his bed flipping through a little black and red striped photo album. He didnt look angry, thank god, however she knew he wasnt happy.  
	Is it alright if I come ahead up, Tim?  
	He turned his head from the book to her. I guess so.  
	She does so. Standing there in the middle of his room she looks around for a few moments before once again focusing back to her boy and the photo album he held across his lap. What have you got there?  
	Tim looks down at it and runs a hand along the page. Its Shadows photo album, He looks up at her again well, its my photo album of Shadow. Like a history book. The good times, you know?  
	Ruth invites herself to sit down on the edge of his bed. Do you mind if I take a peak?  
	Tim shrugs beside her. Knock yourself out, I dont think youll be able to see her anyway, some magic spell she told me about.  
	Yes, I know all about it. Ill manage just fine. Ruth says as she gingerly takes the book flipping back to the first page. The first thing she notices is a lone sock attached vertically along the top page, and two photographs clipped to the inside of the cover.  
	Shadow, when she must have been merely a child, and Tim looking much as he did now. Both pictures looking as though they had just been scared to death. Momentous occasions both.  
	She turns the page and sees Shadow sitting much as they were now, years ago on her sons old bed, merely an awkward child putting on a brave face for a friend. Something stirred in Ruth, a familiarity welled up and she couldnt help but smile.  
	This reminds me of when I first met your father. She suddenly started to tell Tim her own story. Your father must have been about seven or eight years old at the time, a magical time really, when one is caught between thinking they know whats real, but having just enough wonder left to hope for something more, just out of the ordinary.  
	She turned another page. Your father, he wasnt like that though. He knew for a fact that something was out of the ordinary the entire time. I toyed with him a bit, back then. It was a game. Eventually he caught me.  
	He got a picture of you? Tim asked.  
	Ruth chuckled. No, no, he lured me out with candy one night, and then threw a bed sheet over me and held on for dear life! I thrashed and thrashed but eventually he pinned me down. We had an interesting conversation THAT night let me tell you.  
	Your first conversation was through a bed sheet while he had you pinned on the floor?  
	Well, conversation might be the wrong word, more like a heated argument. She grinned. He was very convincing; of course, that wasnt all.  
	Do I even want to know? Tim winced.  
	Well, maybe not. Lets just say we found we had a lot in common. And I loved his smell.  
	Tim shuddered on the bed beside her. Okay, okay, too much info!  
	She leaned over and bumped him shoulder to shoulder. Its no different for Shadow, Tim. We have heightened senses, and we know what we like - and your father had it, in spades.  
	And I have it as well.  
	Ruth nods. Its in your blood, yours especially since your  
	Part Monster?  
	Shush dear, really. Dont be rude.  
	Tim shakes his head. Sorry.  
	Thats better! She flips another page, finding a beautiful picture of Shadow standing by his old bedroom window. She had just begun to blossom into a young woman here. This one must have been just before you moved into this room.  
	Tim leans over, slightly embarrassed that his mother would focus on that picture of all pictures. One he took when he had begun to have really weird feelings for Shadow that confused him greatly at the time. If only he knew then what he knew now.  
	I believe it was the last night in there, yeah. Tim agreed.  
	His mother focuses again on the page. Shes a beautiful girl, Shadow, and so much more. You have no idea how lucky you are to have her in your life. Are you two bonded?  
	Tim nods. So Ive been told, weve exchanged blood. Perhaps not in the most traditional way There was no ceremony, as such.  
	Ruth blushes. The age old story.  
	Pardon?  
	Oh, nothing, its nothing. She deflects. How is the shoulder, by the way?  
	Tim shifts and unconsciously raises a hand to his injury. Its fine, she didnt mean to.  
	Ruth tilts her head, her eyes half-lidded, and somewhat dull. Yes she did, she just doesnt know why. Yet.  
	And you do?  
	Ruth looks her son in the eyes in a sagely, mother-knows-best fashion. I have my suspicions, though Ill leave it to you to find out on your own. Its for the best, that way.  
	Tim stands up and rounds on his mother suddenly, who flips the photo album closed on her lap as he begins to speak. Look mom, Its okay! I get what your trying to do, get me to look at my own situation and apply it to your own - and I understand just about everything now,  
	Maybe not everything! She interjects.  
	He continues undaunted. -But its going to take time, to adjust, I mean. Im going to be fine, I think.  
	Just then, two blood red arms burst out from beneath Tims bed and grab him by the ankles; pulling his feet out from underneath him, toppling him down onto his rear.   
	Oh, I think Lord Terminus will have something to say about that, boy!  
	Tim shouts out in surprise as he sees Nightmare grinning at him from underneath his bed and attempts kicking at her. Ruth shoots up from off the bed letting out a scream of surprise, and then attempts to detach Nightmares arms from her son, but Nightmare lets go of him just long enough to push her backwards, sending her off balance, and toppling her backwards to the ground with a loud thud.  
	MOM! Tim shouts out.

------

	While washing the dishes below with Thomas, Shadows ears perk up at the sound of Ruths cry and following dull crash from upstairs. She drops the plate she was drying to the floor without thinking, letting it shatter to pieces, and bolts from the room and up the stairs taking them nearly a flight at a time. She finally bursts headlong into Timothys room to find Ruth alone, only now recovering from her heavy fall to the floor.  
	Tim! Shadow cries, searching her periphery frantically.  
	Ruth reaches out and grabs her by the wrist, pulling her down low. He was taken! A red woman took him! she frantically pointed to the darkness under the bed with tears in her eyes. She took my son!  
	Nightmare. Shadow cursed her former sister under her breath. So Terminus has made his move, and I was not here to stop it. Some guardian I turned out to be. Shadow thought to herself bitterly.  
	She helped Ruth back to her feet as Thomas finally ran up the stairs to join them. Whats going on up here?  
	Our son has been taken back to the other side! Ruth exclaims. I have to go back there and get him!  
	Shadow puts a comforting hand on her shoulder. Its me they want. Ill go.  
	Thomas shakes his head. You cant! Its obviously a trap!  
	Thats why Im the ONLY one who can go, Ill trade myself for Tims safety.  
	Ruth brushes Shadows hand off her shoulder, but holds it in her own. The hell you will. Im not letting you go back alone!  
	Shadow and Ruth look determinedly into each others eyes for a moment and then Shadow agrees, reluctantly. Thomas shakes his head, not believing what hes hearing. You cant just waltz down there looking like that and expect to get very far.  
	Ruth smiles ruefully to her husband. Your right, dear. It looks as though Ruthless Blackheart must finally come out of hiding.  
	Shadow, with looming uneasiness growing within her heart, looks down at the bed, and sees Tims photo album laying open upon it. It was opened to the last page, to their picture. She stares at their own hands interlocked together, very much in love, and clenches her own clawed hands into tight fists at her sides as she realizes what she must do.

------

	With that, we were suddenly plunged back into Terminus scheme. I had become merely a pawn in his twisted game, a means to draw Shadow back to him, though at the time I didnt plan on simply accepting that role laying down. Somewhat irrationally, I hoped that Shadow would not give in to his obvious ploy and give chase, though I knew she inevitably would have to. It was simply her nature.  
	Of course, there was now a wild card in play unknown to Terminus at the time, he had unsuspectingly roused the attention of my mother, a force to be reckoned with in her own right (even before I knew her dark secret!) Had he known at the time, Terminus may have thought about waiting for a more opportune moment to strike, but that was an afterthought he wouldnt have a chance to muse over.

	What was done was done.

	I knew that whatever Terminus had planned was about to come to fruition, the only thing I could manage to do for now was stall for time, and hope for an opportunity to present itself.

	

CHAPTER FIVE: THE HEART OF THE MATTER

	

	Stop resisting, human! Nightmare growled angrily as she wrenched Tims arm, forcing him a step ahead of her as she openly, unceremoniously, escorted him down the corridors of the underworld. This drew odd looks from several curious denizens that they encountered as they made their way along. It wasnt every day a human was trotted up the Dark Passageway, it was  in fact never, as a rule.  
	I wouldnt resist as much if you were a little nicer, you know? Tim shot back at her with open dissention.  
	She throttles his arm again. Quiet.  
	His shoulder was killing him so he decided it might be best to cooperate with his captor for now, so he went along peacefully - though not quietly. Nightmare, right?  
	She sighs to herself. Youre very persistent, boy.  
	Some think thats a good trait to have.  
	Not in prisoners.  
	They walk in silence for a short while, Tim watching his reflection distorting along the walls and looking up into the dark staircases they pass by, wondering absentmindedly where they may lead if he made a break for it.    
	 After the silence hangs between them for a while longer, Nightmare breaks it. Well, human, what do you want?  
	Tim looks back over his shoulder. Whats your deal? Thats what I wanna know.  
	Nightmare narrows her dark eyes to slits. I do as my master commands. Thats my deal.  
	Yeah, but why follow Terminus? Tim chuckles derisively. I mean, why would a girl like you, actually choose that guy? Ive never even met him face to face and I can already tell hes bad news.  
	Hah, you understand so little, boy. As if I had a choice in the matter!  
	Tim sighs. First off, my name isnt boy, Its Timothy. You monsters seem to have a real problem with that.   
	Nightmare tightens her grasp around his arm.   
	Second, Terminus seems to have a choice, from what I understand he chose Shadow!  
	At that, Nightmare swings him sideways against a dark mirrored tile, and pins him there with her arm across his throat. The clawed appendages jutting from her back (which usually trailed behind her like coat-tails), suddenly arch up and around her shoulders to point toward Tims head in an aggressive posture. Yessss! she hisses. -and thats what this is all about, isnt it? Your little whore! Ill be glad when Terminus is done with her.  
	Tim scowls at her, unafraid even now. Youve loved him for a long time havent you? How sad for you.  
	Nightmares eyes grow round and she backs down, pulling Tim off the wall and pushing him back down the passageway in front of her. Save your pity, boy. I suppose in a way I should thank you! Your transgressions have helped situate me quite nicely in the end.  
	You shouldnt thank me for helping to turn you into a hapless lapdog.  
	Nightmare stops in her tracks at that. Tim turns to look at her.  
	He loves me! We are bonded now and forever! she whispers defiantly, the words dripping venomously from her lips.   
	Tim rocks on his heels towards her to make a point. He loves himself. Hes using you.  
	A dark expression washes over her face and she turns him around with a forceful shove. Get moving, and stay quiet, Timothy.  
	Tim acquiesces reluctantly, and they both start again down the Dark Passageway towards Terminus lair. In silence.

------  
	  
	Thud.  
	The thick, aged tome stirred up a cloud of dust after Ruth dropped it onto the coffee table in the living room, and plopped down herself in the middle cushion of the couch, Shadow to her right and Thomas to her left.  
	Shadow leaned forward in slight awe, as what lay on the table before the three of them became clear to her. Oh wow! Its one of the lost volumes of the Encyclopedia Magicka. Theyve been missing for years!  
	Ruth runs her hand over the cover of the book, then flips it open to somewhere randomly in the middle. Ahh! Here it is. She says satisfactorily, tapping her finger down on the page.  
	Shadow looks to where shes pointing and sees that its a spell on sensory transmogrification. Howd you do that on the first try? She asked, somewhat amazed.  
	Ruth smiled knowingly. Oh, its not hard when the book knows what your looking for. She closed the book again, then opened to a different page and ran her finger along it until she saw what she was looking for. The spell had jumped to the new page. See? It changes depending on what your looking for.  
	Amazing! I had no idea the Encyclopedias could do that.  
	Ill have to show you more, you may need to use it yourself. Someday. Ruth said, glancing briefly at Shadow, who tucked her fiery red hair back behind her ear as she examined the page. But enough for now, we dont have the time. Weve got to get going!  
	With that she picked up the large book in her arms and stood up from the couch, hoisting it along with her as she walked around the table to the middle of the living room. Ruth began to speak aloud the words written down in the book, written in the old tongue which most could not speak anymore. She must have picked it up during her tutelage under Lady Nightshade, the previous High-Mother of their guild.  
	As she spoke, she began to waver physically in the light; as if she had suddenly passed through some film of running water between the couch and the far wall of the room. Her skin; a lightly-tanned pink, gave way to a deep golden colour, the same colour her loosely curled hair had been moments before, and still remained. From beneath the hem of the dress she wore, appeared a long sinewy tail with a diamond-shaped fin at the end. It was like it had been there all along and everyone had simply failed to notice it (which of course it had been!) and as quickly as the transformation had begun it was over.  
	Ruth, now Ruthless once more, stopped reading and seemed to solidify again. She closed the book in her hands with a sharp snap as the pages slapped together, and turned to look at her small audience gathered on the couch.  
	Her former humanity had fled, but not the warmth she seemed to generate. Where once she had unassuming green eyes, they had become once more a bright moonlight yellow. She looked as though she were a graceful lioness remade into a beautiful woman.  
	She smiled and stretched her arms out to her sides, hidden beneath the fabric of her dress, rose two other limbs from her torso, her wings returned once more.  
	What do you think?  
	Thomas spoke as in some long lost reverie. Just as beautiful as I remember, even more so! He stood and went to his golden wife where they embraced for a long moment.  
	Shadow smiles to see their easy affection for one another, even as a pang stabs her in her own heart. She hugs herself tightly. Tim, Ill be there soon! Hold on!  
	Ruthless and Thomas release their loving embrace as Tims mother clears her throat. Well have time for this sort of thing later, weve got to get moving.  
	Shadow stands from her seat, her wings unfurled and set in a pose of determination. The look upon her face spoke volumes to the others. She was ready, and willing to do anything, to set things right.  
	With a shared nod between the two women, they were off.

------

	There is a rush of shuffling echoes as Nightmare pushes Timothy into the courtyard. He attempts a final time to resist, but she grabs him by his injured shoulder and drops him to his knees at the foot of a raised stone platform. Looking up, he lays his eyes on Terminus who is standing before him, though facing away. Terminus raises his head as if he had just been rudely interrupted, losing his train of thought and turns his head slightly to the side, not yet giving his new guest the satisfaction of looking upon his face.  
	My dear, this boy is not who I sent you to retrieve.  
	Nightmare bows quickly to him. No, Lord Terminus. But-  
	Terminus lowers his head once more. But! He barks a laugh. But, this may be even better! Now we know she will have to come crawling, and I will be waiting. He turns now, with a grand gesture, surely attempting to give off the impression of a gracious host, and looking, to Tim, more like Gary Oldman in The Fifth Element. A cartoonish super villain.  
	So, youre the one who has been causing me such trouble! Terminus accuses in an overly friendly, yet pointed tone.  
	Tim steels himself as best he can. The one and only! He grins. If Terminus could play so could he.  
	Terminus grins back somewhat mockingly, as Tim continues. The way I see it, youre the cause of all of your own problems. And Mine.  
	Nightmare moves to strike him, but Terminus raises a hand and she freezes.  
	So tell me then, am I the cause of your current problem? That shoulder injury your attempting so very hard to hide from me? He cocks his head to the side. No, I think not!  
	Tim shrugs indifferently. I dont consider that a problem.  
	Terminus leans forward a few degrees, as if about to divulge a secret to a close friend. Perhaps you should! He leans back and gathers his arms behind his back. Perhaps, you should. He repeats for added effect, then flicks his chin at Nightmare behind him signaling her to get him up on his feet.  
	In an instant, she reaches down and grabs Tim by the scruff of his shirt and lifts him back to a standing position.  
	There you are, now lets get a look at you. Terminus muses, as he sizes Tim up and down with a glance. After a moment of consideration he chuckles to himself. I just dont understand what she sees in you, but then again thats expected with Shadow. So obsessed with the human world, she would adopt a pet.  
	Nightmare makes a sound of amused agreement behind Tim.  
	Im no pet.  
	Terminus shakes his head. Maybe not yet! Though because of her very love of the human world, you all very well may be soon enough.   
	Tim furls his brow. Yeah. Shadow was right, you really ARE insane, arent you?  
	Terminus eyes flash in anger, and then return once more to a state of aloof amusement. Perhaps we both are a little crazy? Look at you, in love with a creature that isnt even from the same world as you are, let alone the same species. You let her attack you, and yet you persist in such a relationship? Is that what you would call rational, human?  
	Tim grins. I thought maybe I was a little crazy at first, but now I know we arent so different. Shadow and I can make this work.  
	Terminus shakes his head piteously. Its so sad. You dont even know youve already lost.  
	Care to enlighten me, then?  
	Terminus turns his back to Tim once again. No, I dont think I care enough to do that. Nightmare! See to it the boy is delivered to the holding cell for safe keeping. Since he enjoys the company of monsters so much he can keep the other two preoccupied for awhile. Maybe he can make that work for him.  
	Terminus steps down from his stone soapbox and wanders off into the shadows of his domain with a confidant swagger. Nightmare without wasting any time wraps her claws around Tims arms and leads him off in a different direction, guiding him through a black archway leading into a darkened tunnel. Shortly afterwards they come to a simply built door with a small barred window at face level. Nightmare hauls Timothy to the side of it with one arm and swiftly releases a series of heavy latches before popping the door open and tossing Tim inside without fanfare. The door slams shut behind him and he hears Nightmare outside working the locks before stalking off, no doubt to find her new owner so she could wag her tail and hope for a treat.  
	No doubt, Terminus would probably love that.   
	It was dim inside the cell, but not cramped. Enough for many people to sit inside with relative comfort, though not in the rooms current state. He had only just landed on his rear end when he heard a length of chain clink as it was pulled through a rung in the wall. He looked around but it was nearly pitch black inside the cell. He had pretty decent night eyes though, and quickly he caught sight of two glittering cat eyes silently interrogating him.  
 	Almost immediately, he was greeted by a familiar voice. Timothy Newton. Well arent you a sight.  
	Midnight? Tim inched closer to the figure curled up in the corner of the cell watching him.  
	She purred in agreement. So glad Im remembered!  
	Of course you are! Tim reassured her. I would never forget what you did for me. For Us.  
	She adjusts her position on the floor, the chain rattling. I would do it again, though it seems to have apparently it made no difference anyway - Here you are!  
	You made a big difference Midnight. Thank you.  
	She releases a long sigh as if some long tension had finally broken. Its very strange, but in a way I am glad to see you again.  
	Tim smirked in the dark, though he knew Midnight could see it as plain as anything. Apparently, I have that effect on certain people, or so Ive been told.  
	Midnight shifted again, plainly uncomfortable. Its just nice to see another familiar face before the end.  
	How long have you been captured?  
	Shortly after you two ran off, Im afraid. Im not much for fighting. Not against Nightmare.  
	Do not feel badly my child, I fear there are only a handful of people I can recall who might stand against one such as her. Another voice interjected from off to the side.  
	By now, Tims eyes were beginning to adjust to the dim lighting and he could see movement from a nearby cot.  
	I could have sworn I told you to stay out of trouble! the White Lady mused. At least she still had some semblance of humor left to her, even now.  
	Moonlight? He managed to get you as well? How?  
	Lady Moonlight! Midnight chided him.  
	Lady Moonlight shushes her chained follower. Were all prisoners here Midnight, titles mean less than nothing, now. Then she slowly sat upright and turned to face Timothy. I fear I was careless. I came here in secret, and as a last resort, to find out what Terminus knew of Midnight and Nightmares disappearances I was ill prepared to actually find them here, and off put to hear the dire news he had for me to top everything off. Doubtless, my children outside grow restless in my absence, if Terminus has not already seized control over them utilizing his bond with Nightmare.  
	Tim crosses his arms over his knees and rests his head on them. I guess the only thing we can do is wait and see what happens. I hope Shadow knows what shes doing.  
	Shadow is a smart girl. All of my children are very capable.  
	May I ask you a question? Tim asks her suddenly.  
	The High-Mother laughs softly, and supersedes the supposed question. No, they are not all my actual children.  
	Tim shakes his head. No, I already knew that, or else you might not be such a lovely woman as you are today.  
	From the corner Midnight inhales and holds her breath, attempting not to go into a tirade. Of course no one speaks to her master so openly. Lady Moonlight slinks off the cot and glides liquidly to Tims side, where she lowers herself to the ground beside him.   
	Closer now, and in the direct light beam shining in from the barred window slit in the door, her pale white skin explodes in the darkness, silver eyes darting around Tims face. I can see how Shadow might fall for this one now, handsome and complimentary. Even to such a monster as I. She remarks glibly to Midnight.  
	Tim scoffs. Please, your no monster! Your all such beautiful creatures, no, my question is why?  
	WHY? Midnight reiterates, slightly appalled.  
	Tim looks to her. Yes! Why the deception? Why devote yourself to scaring human children? Why Bedrooms? Why any of this?  
	It is simply the way it has always been, since the dawn ages. Moonlight posited.  
	And what of the dawn age?  
	Moonlight peered at him from beneath her furled brow and finally sat all the way down on the cold floor. A long story, Timothy.  
	Timothy looked around the black cell. I think we have some time to kill.  
	   
------

	The coast seemed to be clear as Shadow poked her head around a corner of the Dark Passageway. She didnt know what to expect when she had finally slid under the bed again and emerged from her loose form of exile.   
	Ruthless shared no such qualms over their safety, and instead she proceeded to simply strut out into the hallway as if she owned it.  
	Well, things certainly havent changed much down here since I was here last. She remarked to Shadow as she looked around. I guess it never really does, does it?  
	No, I guess not. Listen, are you going to just parade around out in the open? What if someone sees you? Shadow seemed to give up her stealthy approach with a shrug and she leaned against the corner, regarding her mother-in-law questioningly. We arent exactly supposed to be here.  
	Ruthless cocks her head slightly to the side and runs her sharp, golden claws across her cheek lightly, as if in thought. Her eyes set on the far distance down the hallway, as far as she could see in the perpetual fogginess of the underworld anyhow. If your worried about spies, Im sure this Terminus- Though, the way she spoke his name sounded more like bastard. -knows perfectly well we will be coming.  
	Shadow pushes off the wall and stands at Ruthless side. He knows Im coming. He doesnt even know about you, yet.  
	Ruthless cracked her knuckles, which popped easily enough as she set her claws into a menacing posture. Hell know soon enough, one way or the other.  
	Ruth! I never thought Id hear you utter a threat! Its sort of scary! Shadow grinned, and set her own claws down at her sides.  
	Why, thank you dear! Ive just never had a reason to before now.  
	Shadow almost lost it hearing Ruth be so sweet and yet so serious simultaneously. Instead, she growled a low sound of affirmation, and nodded agreement.  
	Ruthless set off in the direction Shadows posture seemed to indicate was the correct way to go, and Shadow fell in behind, flanking her to the right.  
	So he knows were coming, that doesnt mean we cant have a plan. Shadow spoke out a few feet further on.  
	Ruth looked over her shoulder at her as they continued moving forward. Well? Do you have an idea?  
	Shadow flared her wings out to the sides briefly, the monster equivalent of a shrug. I do have an idea, yes She tossed her red hair back out of her face with a grimace. Its not the best idea, but its something.  
	Ruthless tail twitched with open interest. Lets hear it then Shadow. Any idea to help us both get my son back is worth hearing out.  
	Well, the thing is Terminus doesnt know about you yet, like I said before.  
	Right?  
	I was thinking, I could go alone first, as a distraction, right? And then you could sneak in just afterwards while his guard is down? Shadow shrugged her shoulders. Its not a great plan, I admit.  
	Its better than nothing! Ruthless conceded.  
	Terminus is very, erm, theatrical. No doubt he will focus all his attention on me once Im there, and his rooms are mostly open. You could just walk in, I bet.  
	No guards? I thought he was part of the Dark Brotherhood?  
	Shadow rocked her head back and forth, mulling the thought over in her head. Its night time, Im sure most would be out making their rounds. Like my own guild, the Brotherhood is not exactly expansive, yet it is powerful.  
	Ruth chews on her lip distractedly. So hell be over-confidant then.  
	Hes very, very confidant. Shadow agreed.  
	What of the red woman, this Nightmare? Ruth squinted her eyes remembering her popping out from underneath Tims bed.  
	Shadow grumbled to herself. Righther. Hrmmmm  
	Ruth grinned. Nevermind. Well just concentrate of getting inside first. Go from there?  
	Shadow looked at Ruth and scratched her head, as look of slight amusement, and disbelief plastered on her face. Reckless rogue, huh?  
	Oh yes. Ruth agreed. Though my instincts have never steered me wrong yet!  
	HALT!  
	Shadow and Ruthless stop in their tracks suddenly, and shoot a quick look at each other as if they had just been caught with their hands in the cookie jar, then they squeak around, looking slowly back over their shoulders.  
	In the moment, Shadow cant help but let slip a classic Scott Bakula Ooh boy! under her breath. Gods, too many late night re-runs!  
	A small group of five Night Sisters had seemingly materialized out of nowhere, several paces behind them. They all had their hoods drawn up, their identities hidden from view.  
	Shadow speaks quietly out of the corner of her mouth. So, how are those instincts working out for you?  
	Apparently, theyre a little rusty. Ruthless returns in kind.  
	The sister in the middle takes a meaningful step forward. Who goes there? Take down your hoods and reveal yourselves!  
	Shadow and Ruthless slowly do as they are told, raising their claws slowly from their sides to their cloak hoods, peeling them back away from their faces.  
	After a slight hesitation, their stalker relaxes and downs her own hood revealing a mess of shiny platinum hair atop a light grey face, speckled with a sparkling array of shimmering freckle marks below large silver eyes. Nightfire, the head of Lady Moonlights personal guard.  
	Shadow!  
	Shadow dips her head meekly in greeting. Nightfire.  
	What are you doing here? I thought  
	Its all true, Im afraid.  
	The White Lady said youve been put into a Guardianship. How rare. Thats why youve been missing? Nightfire said, somewhat impressed. Are you on business, then?  
	Something like that, yes.  
	You should be careful, word going around is that a human was seen earlier! Imagine, a human! Here?  
	Shadow chuckles to herself self-consciously. Yeah, imagine that!, heh. She shoots a look at Ruthless who had been trying not to draw too much attention to herself, hugging her cloak tightly about her, hoping to fade into the shadows.  
	To no avail. Whos your friend? I dont recall seeing her around anywhere. From another guild, maybe? Is she your charge?  
	No, its not like that. Shes Shadows eyes grow round as she hesitates, attempting to think of a clever ruse.  
	Instead, Ruth draws herself up and offers Nightfire a hand, a very human gesture. My name is Ruthless, Ruthless Blackheart.  
	Nightfires eyes glint in recognition and her fellow bodyguards look to each other and murmur. The Blackheart! Nightfire whispers in awe. Youve come back!  
	Ruth plays her role well. So I have, and what of it? Who are you to stop us on our business? In my day...  
	Nightfire practically grovels at Ruths feet. My apologies Blackheart! We are Lady Moonlights personal guard!  
	Ruth angles her head towards Shadow beside her, though continues to watch the group in front of them. The mother was coming out in her the more she went on. And shouldnt you be guarding the High-Mother instead of harassing random passersby in the Dark Passageway?  
	Would if we could, but Lady Moonlight has taken leave of her senses and vanished!  
	Vanished! Ruth repeated.  
	Nightfire looked ashamed of herself for a moment, but shook it off. Yes, Im afraid so. Earlier today. Weve been out tracking her down since.  
	Ruthless regards Shadow knowingly. You dont think?  
	Shadow sighs and rests her hands on her hips, rocking back and forth on her heels. Geez, this has Terminus written all over it.  
	Ruth looks back to the group of young women in front of them. Listen, I think we may be able to help each other out. What do you say?  
	Nightfire looks to her company who all seem to acquiesce. She turns on Ruthless and Shadow with an easy smile. I say we have an accord! It would be an honor to help Ruthless Blackheart, the Lost Mother.  
	Ruths smile seems to glow.

------

	An hour or two passes by in no time at all within the darkened cell, as Lady Moonlight finishes regaling Timothy with a brief telling of their races storied past. And that, Timothy, is how weve come to find ourselves in this eternal game, hidden away in the secret darkness from your world above. It is why we now find ourselves here. Moonlight gestures to the dank walls around them.  
	Tim is awed. Wow! I had no idea It all makes perfect sense now!  
	Midnight shifts in her corner, her chains dragging on the floor with a metallic scratching. Its been that way as long as any could recall, at least until Terminus finds a way to open up the Catacombs, that is.  
	Tim and Moonlight turn their attention towards her. Terminus has already discovered the key, no doubt. That is the very reason why he seeks to lure Shadow here.  
	Is that what this is all about? He wants to unseal the Catacombs, the ancient doorway to all doors that you were talking about at the beginning of the story? Tim seems to finally get the gist of things. And he needs Shadow to do it? Why?  
	The White Lady is about to speak when there is a double knock at the cell door. All three occupants turn to stare at the tiny slit of light pouring in from the hallway outside. A shadow glides in front of the crack of light and suddenly, with a deafeningly slow creak, the door opens.  
	In the sudden blinding light from outside the door, they wince and slowly realize the shape of a woman is standing in the doorway, and then, in another instant she is on Tim, wrapped tightly around him there on the floor.  
	It takes Tim the briefest of moments to realize that it was Shadow, and embraces her tightly, in front of Midnight and Lady Moonlight both.  
	Now were even. Shadow murmurs into his ear from behind.  
	Tim cant help but chuckle a bit, despite himself. Whos counting?  
	Their reverie lasts only a few moments before Timothy hears Moonlight gasp beside him. You! she exhales as if she had seen a ghost, and indeed she had.  
	Tim turns and sees who the High-Mother is practically gaping at in the doorway. Its yet again, another different woman, backlit with light and golden along her edges. He had never seen this golden woman before now, but something in her posture, standing there watching him from the doorway, rang true.  
	And then it hit him.  
	MOM!? he accused and questioned her simultaneously.  
	Ruths long tail twitched once behind her, and she turned her head from him, looking away somewhat embarrassed, but answered. Yes, dear. Its me.  
	Lady Moonlight clamored to her feet in a rush and without her usual elegance, strode to Ruthless and slapped her across the face. That is what you get for showing your face around here after what youve done, and then presuming to rescue me! and then, suddenly, Moonlight raised both her arms to her sides and set her claws, drawing Ruthless into a tight hug.   
	Ruth didnt seem to know what to do with herself, her arms hung out in the space to each of the High-Mothers sides, before finally wrapping around Moonlight gently. Ive missed you too, old friend. She managed after a time. Though, to be honest I only came for my son. Although, I know some young women who will be very pleased to know your alright!  
	Moonlight pushed away and nodded understandingly, then brushes some hair away from her face, regaining some semblance of her self-control. Then after a moment she realizes exactly what her old friend Ruthless has said. SON?! She looks over her shoulder then at Tim and Shadow still down on the cell floor, a clear understanding now in her face. Your son! Of course he would be! Now, I think Im beginning to understand.  
	Midnight clears her throat, which gathers everyones attention. Excuse me! I think were forgetting two important things right now! Number one; How did you two get in here?, And number two; Do you have the keys to this god-forsaken shackle?!  
	Shadow dangles the key ring daintily from between her thumb and pointer finger. Of course! How do you think we opened the door?  
	Shadow tosses Midnight the keys as Ruth talks from the door. Can the questions wait until after we get out of here? The place is like a ghost town, we should probably all be leaving while we can.  
	Clank. Midnights chain hits the floor with finality. Excellent idea! I dont think I heard a better one all week! Standing up from the corner, where she had been helplessly imprisoned, starved and tortured on and off for nearly a week (since she had been most un-cooperative), she made to walk confidently into freedom, but her legs faltered, and gave out from beneath her.  
	Before she could hit the floor, however, she was snatched up by surprisingly strong hands. Ruthless, in merely an instant had moved to catch her, and now threw Midnights arm over her own shoulder for support.  
	Thank you. Midnight whispered, slightly embarrassed.  
	Ruth smiled at her. Its no problem dear, any friend of Shadows, you know?  
	Midnight managed a smile, and made to hobble out of the cell as fast as she could.  
	Not bothering to take a final look back at the cell, everyone gets up and swiftly files outside into the corridor. The empty corridor.  
	Where are all the guards? Shouldnt there be guards? Terminus already knows your coming! Midnight asks, seemingly to the universe itself.  
	Shadow answers. Like Ruth said, It was practically a ghost town when we got here. We just walked right in! I followed Tims scent to the cell. As she spoke, she reassuringly patted Tim on the back with the red spade on the tip of her tail.   
	Now that they were in the light, Tim couldnt seem to peel his eyes away from his mother. Looking at her now, he could certainly see the ghost of the woman hed known his entire life. She had the same face, build and body language, but it was slightly disconcerting to see her now sporting sharp fangs, golden skin, and a  long tail with wings. It was difficult seeing her dressed that way as well.  
	Somewhere along the way from home, she had changed from her everyday human clothes to the infinitely black ghost-silk dress that seemed so popular among the Night Sisters down here. Tim silently thanked whatever gods governed this dark underworld, that her dress wasnt cut as short as Shadows. That was certainly something he could live without seeing.  
	Ruth, who was still supporting Midnight as they made their way back towards Terminus central courtyard (and with it the main gate to his abode) followed up Shadows explanation. This Terminus knows were here. This is obviously some trap, but we really dont have much of a choice.  
	You didnt have to come yourself. Moonlight chides Ruthless. You certainly didnt need to drag Shadow here; thats exactly what he wants! She sighs softly.  
	Shadow reaches out and touches the High-Mothers arm lightly, drawing her direct attention. My apologies, my Lady, but theres no way anyone could stop me from coming here for Timothy. Not even you. Moonlight takes note of the steely look in her guild-daughters eyes.  
	The White Lady shakes her head. I think youve caught something from hanging around with the Blackheart these past few weeks. Do not act so rashly; you may yet regret it, my darkest angel.  
	Shadow blushes at the nickname (Moonlight had one for every member of her flock), but the look in her eyes doesnt falter; instead she turns it on Tim beside her and wraps her hand in his own tightly. I wont, my lady. she answers.  
	Moonlights tail whips languidly once behind her as she walks. She wonders to herself if there is anything she could do to save Shadow from her dark future. What would a real mother would do to save her child? She glances again at Ruthless behind her, trudging along with Midnight, most likely into dire odds.   
	A rash act in the face of reason.  
	Moonlight moves to Midnights other side and helps to prop her up even more. Let me help you, my child. I forget myself.  
	No, no, dont hamper yourself with my burden, my Lady. Please. Midnight pleads. Your safety is more important to us all than my own!  
	Nothing is more important to a mother than her children. Moonlight says. She spies Ruthless on Midnights opposite side grinning openly at her, and winks. Working together now, they make much quicker time down the long, empty, hallway. They walk out into the courtyard, now teeming with the Dark Brotherhood.  
	Terminus and Nightmare stand awaiting them in the center of the area, and like the true gentleman he was, he bowed low with a great flourish at their arrival. Welcome to the party! Im very glad you could join us tonight! He exclaimed to them, as that familiar leering grin slashed across his face.  
	Sorry to disappoint you, Terminus, but we arent sticking around. Shadow replied flatly.  
	His grin fell as fast as he had put it on. Its LORD! Must I always spell it out for you? He shifts his eyes slightly to her side resting his gaze upon Lady Moonlight. Didnt you teach this girl any proper manners at all?  
	The White Lady fired back loudly, her practiced voice easily carrying over the small crowd of young males before her. I taught my guild-daughters to respect those whove earned respect!  
	Terminus laughs at her. Hah! that is rich, coming from you! Youre just a glorified stand in for the Blackheart there! He tilts his head, taking in Ruthless from head to toe. And how you pale in comparison, my, my!  
	Shut your mouth, you bastard! Tim yells out, not caring much for the sleaze Terminus was aiming at his mother. That caught his attention. Terminus leveled his gaze on him with a contemptuous look of aggravation.  
	Silence, boy! He bit off the words. Ill not be addressed by mere vermin of your ilk.   
	Ruth cuts in impatiently. Enough of this! Calm yourselves Now! Surprisingly, it actually worked. Both of them clamped their mouths closed, Terminus sticking his chin out in a pout, as though he had just been slapped in the face. Clearly Terminus was not used to having a woman giving him orders.  
	Shadow stepped forward and pleaded to his ego. Lord Terminus, please, let my friends go free.  
	The tyrant smiled and puffed himself up, his lean frame standing tall. Thats more like it! I knew you had it in you, my dear. He tilted his head, considering a moment and then spoke again. I have no quarrel with any of your associates, they are free to go any time they wish. He sweeps his arm out towards the main gate of the courtyard, and his men slink out of the way like the parting of a sea. The door stood open to them.  
	Without hesitation, Shadow made for the entranceway, as did her friends, but she had not strode two steps before Terminus spoke once more.  
	Shadow, you vex me so! Where do you think your going? I said that they could go, I never said that you were going anywhere. Youre staying right here.     
	Tim took Shadows hand again and held it for all to see. Im not going anywhere without Shadow.  
	Well, well, the stalwart pet stands by his masters side. How noble. He laughs. Then stay! Make yourself comfortable! You shall be here for a very long time, boy.  
	None of us are going without her. Wed never leave her alone with you. Midnight spoke, failing to conceal her contempt for the man in front of her.  
	Are you sure about that? As I seem to recall, you sold her out quite readily to protect your precious White Lady- then he pointed at Moonlight with a broad smile. And you, you practically sold her to me in a pathetic vie for peace! Your Darkest Angel. His words dripped with sarcasm. Hell, you preformed the ceremony! As a matter of fact, yes He slid his oily gaze back to Shadow. Do you remember that, my dear? Look at where we are!  
	Shadow did not have to be reminded. They were practically standing in the very spot where the ceremony had taken place. Of course I remember. This is the place where I almost made the biggest mistake of my life - Bonding with you!  
	Oh-ho! You wound me! He places his hand over his heart and feigns injury as if she had literally stabbed him with words. I would have thought your biggest mistake was spreading your legs for that low creature youve got there by the paw. He jabs his razor sharp finger at Tim, as though he were attempting to stick him with it from across the room.  
	A murmur rises from Terminus brothers, one of open distaste and even loathing. Their harsh whispers of abomination, human filth and other such accusatory slander wash over Shadow, who remains unaffected. Even some within her own circle about her suck in their breath as they are again reminded of her behavior.  
	Shadow stands tall against her accusers. Yes! its all true. If to choose love and friendship, over tradition, or power, is to be judged as abominable than I stand guilty.  
	Tim puts his hands about her shoulders, reassuringly.  
	Terminus rolls his eyes. Ugh! Your making me ill, stop it!  
	Well, the feeling is mutual. Shadow quipped back at him. Terminus didnt like that at all.  
	Enough of this, Ive given you your chance, and youve chosen the vermin. Youre a hopeless fool of a girl, and yet I still have need you. So this little parley ends now. SEIZE THEM ALL! THE GIRL IS MINE!  
	Somehow unseen until now, more members of Terminus Dark Brotherhood had managed to sneak up on them from the rear. At his order, clawed hands reach outwards from behind, grasping at Lady Moonlight, Ruthless and even Midnight who let out a mixture of surprised gasps, and veiled curses as their aggressors hold them tight.  
	Shadow and Tim turn lightly on their feet to steal a glimpse behind them as their friends are seized, and then quickly return their attention back towards Terminus who had stalked up to them in the meantime. His black onyx knife glinted in his hand at rest at his side.  
	Shadow hisses at him and attempts to take a swipe at his face with her claws splayed out ferociously, however Terminus easily catches her by the wrist with his free hand and twists her arm so that she bends away from him. At that, Tim leaps onto Terminus arm breaking his grip on Shadow, who drops to her to her knees when released. Her wings spread out behind her as she flashes her eyes up seeing Timothy and Terminus struggling with each other.  
	They break apart, Terminus is pushed back and stumbles momentarily, Nightmare moves behind him, but he raises his open hand and waves her back. She stops, but is obviously itching for a chance to prove herself.  
	Suddenly, a wailing battle cry fills the courtyard. Pandemonium seemed to break out, as practically the entire guild of Night Sisters came crashing into the square, tearing into the ranks of the Dark Brotherhood from all sides at once. Leading the surprise attack was Nightfire.  
	Nightmare leapt into the fray, heading straight for the silver head of this new force and they eagerly met in battle, their claws locking together. Two of the greatest Night Sisters squaring off with one another.  
	Lady Moonlight was shocked, and also proud of her girls, but she was even more surprised when the grip of her captor loosened on her arms, as he was pushed violently from behind.  
	Terminus was thoroughly unimpressed. If you think this will save you, then you are sadly mistaken! he screeches at them.  
	Tim takes a solid stand in front of Shadow, protecting her as she slowly rises from her crouch behind him. Despite the commotion around them now, she only watches the knife move in Terminus hand.  
	A valiant effort, boy. Ill give you that! Terminus mock-congratulates Tim.  
	Tim smiles ruefully at him. Ill fight you all day, if it means keeping you from getting your filthy claws on Shadow!  
	Terminus chuckles to himself. How admirable, your tarnished little bond is surprisingly strong! Well- He brings up his long knife suddenly with a flash. Let me show you how easily that bond can be BROKEN! Terminus lunges forward, his blade aimed straight for Tims heart.  
	His mother screams behind him, watching it all and unable to break free from the iron grip of the brother holding her at bay.  
	Shadow, just behind Tim attempts to pull him out of the way of the rushing blade, but Terminus swings fast. What little hope she had unwillingly drains from her heart, leaving the icy chill of utter despair in her veins.  
	This is the end, Tim realizes and closes his eyes, but the knife never comes.  
	Suddenly, somehow, Lady Moonlight is there in front of him, Tim realizes, opening his eyes a long moment afterwards. Shes looking at him with a slight smile upon her face, her wide eyes flicking momentarily back and forth between his own. Tim realizes something is terribly wrong though, as he watches a small red circle appear on the front her blazing white dress. Its circumference grows outwards steadily. Oh. She whispers.   
	Tim takes Moonlight gently by the arms, his own blood draining from him in sudden dread realization.  
	Shadow draws a ragged breath suddenly, and cries out as if in pain herself as she too realizes what has just transpired.  
	Ruth squeezes her eyes shut and grinds her teeth, as silent tears stream down her face, while Midnight screams out openly in anguish.

	That moment seems to last for eternity. 

	Terminus stands, his legs apart, wings out, one arm pushed forward, a death grip on his black knife as he himself slowly comes to realize where his knife has planted itself. A mad glare manifests in his eyes as he finally pulls the black blade out of the White Ladys back, it makes a sickening sound as it drags against her bones.  
	Lady Moonlight shutters in Tims arms, and her legs give out from beneath her, she sinks to her knees, Tim guiding her gently, as she lays down onto her back. She looks about the room calmly as if nothing were the matter, as if she were in a dream, until she wasnt.   
	Now it was real again, as Shadow crawled to her side sobbing and clutching her hand. Mothermother she wailed.  
	Moonlight put her delicate clawed hand over Shadows own and squeezed it hard. Do as I say, not as I do, my child. she smiled wanly.   
	Shadow looked down at her with a wavering grimace of a smile. Rashness! She gulped back her tears and managed a sorrowful laugh.  
	The High-Mothers eyes shifted at a sudden movement, and suddenly Shadow was torn away with a frightful shriek. Terminus had her by the scruff of her neck and held his bloodied blade harshly to her throat.  
	Such a tragedy! He mocked. Shame, I cant stay until the end, but I have a date with DESTINY! He gave Shadow a rough shake with his hand jostling her violently, when she struggled against him.  
	NO! Let me go, you BASTARD! Ill KILL YOU, I SWEAR! Shadows eyes were round with blistering anger, as she screamed and let out a growl like Tim had never thought possible from her.  
	It caught the attention a few Brothers and Sisters fighting nearby who slowly stopped when they saw the scene unfolding before them.  
	Tim slowly stood up, wearily facing off with Terminus who started backing away from him, inching towards the doorway of the courtyard. Shadow thrashed against him despite the knife at her throat. TIM! She finally called out and thrust out her hand to him pleadingly.  
	Tim went to move for her, but found he was bound by something, he looked down and found Lady Moonlight grasping his wrist. He looked back to the doorway and found it empty. Shadow and Terminus were gone.  
	Stay with me a moment, Timothy. Please. Dont leave me alone. She asked him when he turned back to her.  
	He swallowed his own needs deep down inside, and sunk down to be near her. She took his hand in her own, and gave it a squeeze. Do not worry, Timothy. Shadow is safe, he needs her alive.  
	Outta my way, coming through! Through the gathering crowd, Nightfire roughly pushed Nightmare forward, who toppled down onto her knees by Lady Moonlights resting place. The battle is won! My La- then she stood, her previous thought cut off by shock. Silence fell over her as she saw her lady bleeding out on the floor, in the lap of a human boy of all things. She knelt down by her masters side. MOTHER!  
	Moonlight looked at up her with sorrowful eyes. Im very proud of you, Nightfire. Charging in here to save me. Alas, I fear, Ive disappointed you. She coughs lightly.  
	Never, High-Mother! Nightfire said bowing her head. It is I, who have failed you!  
	It is no fault of yours, my child. I gave my life willingly, to protect one of my own from suffering similarly.  
	Nightfire looked harshly at Tim. You give your life to save this human boy?  
	By now, the fighting in the courtyard had ended and a crowd of both Dark Brothers and Night Sisters gathered round, shoulder to shoulder with one another.	  
	Let me go, you brute! Midnight cried out loudly, as their captors finally discovered their cause was lost. Terminus had fled, abandoning them to their own fates.  
	Midnight stumbled, briefly, but made her way to Lady Moonlight, Ruthless slowly made her way forward, resting her golden claws on her sons shoulders.  
	Moonlight continued: This young man is no mere human, our blood flows through his veins.  
	There is a surprised sound from her audience.  
	He has bonded, although crudely-. She tightens her grip upon his hand as she speaks. -with Shadow, and theirs, though unconventional, is a strong bond! He is under my protection as well. Why would I not save him? Timothy Newton is one of us! Her voice carries now across the crowd.  
	Ruth speaks next. Thank you, old friend, for saving my boy. It should be me laying there in your place!  
	Nightfire makes a sound of wonder at that. So, that is why?  
	Ruth nods silently, as Moonlight coughs again, this time a heaving fit with a great rasp at the end. She looks around slowly at the faces in the crowd around her and lands on Nightmare, held there on her knees by an armed sentry.  
	Nightmare  
	The red woman turned her face away ashamed. Do not waste your breath on me, I do not deserve it.  
	I once considered you my best student, confidant and strong, and yet you betrayed us all for that awful man. She sighed. Do you truly love him? Truly?  
	I do! she stubbornly holds her head high. Tim groans beside her.  
	Moonlight held her in a long hard gaze. IF you truly cherish that man, than I implore you, please, please go to him and make him give up this plan of his. He knows not what he is dealing with! If you dare seek redemption, youll heed my words.  
	Nightmare snarls lightly and turns her face away from her former master.  
	Moonlight continues on. You know, for a time I had considered you as my heir, as it were, though now that seems unfounded Nightmare glanced back in her direction through hard dark eyes, and then flicked them to Midnight as the High-Mother lolled her head to face her as well.  
	Midnight, are you alright, my dear? She ran the outsides of her forefingers weakly up Midnights arm, and back down to her hand.  
	Im just fine, my lady. Nothing some time wont fix. I She sobbed lightly, a tear running down her cheek. Im sorry, Mother. This is all my fault.  
	No, no, hush now. She opened her fingers and slid them between Midnights so that their hands clasped together. There was a hard lump there and when Midnight looked down at her open palm there lay in it a small silver pendant wrapped in a matching chain. It was a token of Motherhood, passed down from each High-Mother to the next. Thats no way for a Mother to behave, in front of her children. You have to be a symbol of strength, an example to the next generation! A guiding light!  
	Midnight sobbed openly, and leaned down to Moonlight to give her a hug. Im not worthy! This must be a mistake!  
	Moonlight beamed at her. Youll do a wonderful job! I think, no, I hope that I did, and I was no better prepared for the task when I received that pendant from Lady Nightshade, after well  
	Tim felt his mother squeeze his shoulders tightly.  
	Lady Moonlight looked to him, and his mother, to Midnight and Nightfire, Nightmare and everyone else. My time grows short, Im afraid, and now that I have only a short time left I find I have no final pearls to share with you, isnt that always the way?  
	Everyone, even Nightmare chuckles solemnly.  
	Though suddenly there was a new light in Moonlights eyes. She searches and finds Tims face, smiling. Promise me you wont forget about me, Timothy. Make what I did here today count for something. Always. Tell your children about me.  
	Tim grinned sheepishly down on her. Children?  
	The White Lady smiled up at him knowingly. Thats the heart of the matter.  
	  
	And then, she just kept smiling.  
	  
	Tim closed her silver eyes with a light brush of his fingers, tears now flowing slowly down his cheeks. Goodbye, my lady. Ill swear Ill keep that promise. He vowed to her then, he hoped she had heard him.

	

	The Night Sisters mourned her passing then, and that night, even the Dark Brotherhood mourned for High-Mother Moonlight, the White Lady.

------  
		 

	A little while later, Tim found a quiet time to slip away from his mother. Ruth had become heavily involved in helping Midnight cope with the aftermath of Moonlights death, while Midnight, now thrust into her new role of High-Mother dealt with several other new problems, such as dealing with the Dark Brotherhood.  
	He made his way to Nightmare, who had found a place to hide in the corner of the large courtyard, sat alone on a low stone bench. She raised her eyes from the floor as he approached and glared at him.  
	How are you doing? He asked her. He really was curious how she was feeling now. She ignored him, and simply stared at him for a moment more before leaning back against the wall, her head turned aside, away from him. Glowering.  
	So that was how it was going to be. Alright. Still feeling nicely situated?  
	She bared her fangs and growled low in her throat. Leave me alone, boy. Im in no mood for your incessant chit-chat.  
	I wouldnt think so, after being abandoned by your one true love!  
	She shot him a furious look, but it was clear that beneath that she felt tremendous doubt and pain. My Lord did not abandon me!  
	He abandoned all of you. He got what he wanted, and he left you here to rot without a second thought.  
	He loves me! Were bonded! She sounded as though she were pleading that it were true, an not that it really was. He told me so, when he afterwards when  
	Terminus only told you what you wanted to hear! Hes been playing you the entire time to get his hands on the true prize. Now he has what he needs and here you are. Used and alone!  
	She screamed at him, which drew some concerned looks from some nearby Sisters and Brothers. Tim assured them everything was fine, and they went back to their business, clearly more comfortable ignoring what the strange human boy was doing among their midst.  
	Tim plunked down beside her on the bench. Fine then. Care to prove me wrong?  
	Nightmare brought her claws up and examined them, as though they were filthy. There is nothing to prove.  
	You can prove your not a complete monster. Not like Terminus.  
	We are monsters, foolish boy.  
	It was Tims turn to glare. No, youre not! Youre all just playing a role that was forced onto you.  
	Nightmare had no reply, she simply closed her eyes and tilted her head back in thought.  
	Tim continued. Listen to Moonlights advice. If you really love Terminus, then you should try and help him before this gets any more out of hand. You know theres no way out of this for him now.  
	Timothy She exhaled slowly, exhausted.  
	Help me find him, youre the only one who knows where hes gone. Redeem yourself Nightmare! Redeem Terminus!  
	She sighs, her red fingers which had been tensioned into dire claws relaxed and rested on her lap. Her dark eyes were open, and gleaming.

------

	Stop your struggling! Youre only making things worse for yourself! Terminus asks as he attaches the final rope around Shadows wrist, finally restraining her completely to a column nearby the entranceway to the sealed catacombs, after much struggling from Shadow. He had dragged her kicking and screaming against her will from his lair through the Dark Passageway and finally down into remote rocky cavern, an offshoot practically forgotten by most, and the location of the great ancient sealed doorway.  
	I will never stop fighting, for as long as you live. Shadow replies, her words overflowing with venom as she spit them out.  
	He leans in close with a sneer and she lashes out towards him but is held back just out of reach by her bindings. She seethes at the end of her tether.  
	Such fury! I didnt know you had it in you, my dear. It saddens me now, seeing the depths of your passion turned against me. How much youve changed since last we met!  
	Shadow hissed at him, her fangs bared. You hadnt murdered my mother, then.  
	Terminus grin grew wider still revealing a row of glistening white fangs, and he laughed sadistically. It never would have come to that had you simply fulfilled your duty and bonded with me. You could have been my dark queen, standing beside me now as we face our destiny!  
	You and I both know thats a lie. I may have been your queen, that is until I had outlived my usefulness.  
	Shadow, Shadow, Shadow!. How wrong you are! He shakes his head. You would never outlive your usefulness! He put his hand to her chin. My, how I would love to be bonded to you! I would do such wonderfully awful things to you, to make you pay for all the trouble youve caused me. Suddenly, his other hand was on her thigh and it slid up just under the hem of her dress until it rested upon her hip.   
	She backed herself away from him until she was pressed hard against the stone column behind her. Youve already bonded with Nightmare. Go play with her.  
	Id shatter that bond in a second to have you as my plaything Heh. Nightmare has made herself very useful to me, however ooooh, shes such a bore! Hardly and challenge at all, you see? She enjoys what I do to her! He laughed sinisterly in her face, then pushed himself away from her, turning and walking to the massive sealed archway.   
	Shadow shuddered with relief as he finally took his lewd hands off of her, and found she was quite dismayed at his utter disregard for his bond-mate, and how her loyal devotion meant less than nothing to him in the end. She detested Terminus even more. Never had she met a more thorough monster than he.  
	Terminus reached out and put his hand on the door, his fingers splayed wide and looked up at it with wonder. Once I have control of this, I shall have whatever I desire! And its all thanks to you!  
	Shadow slunk in her tight rope restraints, and regarded him from beneath her furled brow. Why me, Terminus? Youve caused so much pain just so you could get your slimy claws on me Why? Answer me, damn you!  
	Leaning on the door heavily as though he were attempting to push it open with a single hand, he looked down at his feet. It had to be you, because you love.  
	WHAT? Shadow nearly choked. I dont understand.  
	You love! You love the human world, you respect it, youve sympathetic to the other side! The door can only be unlocked with the BLOOD of one who LOVES it!  
	She scoffs at him offhandedly, though inside her veins run cold with adrenaline. You seem to love the door more than I do, why not your blood?  
	Terminus balls his hand into a fist and pounds it dully against the thick door. The doorway is so heavy that his hand beating against it does not even cause it to reverberate. Do you think I have not already tried that? It was then that he went into a monologue, no doubt one he had been practicing a long while.   
	I have no great love for the Human world, no. I simply hate this world even more! So Im going to change the rules! As he spoke, a twisted glee seemed to grow within Terminus, his fervor grew with each moment as he went on and on. I will open the catacombs and take BOTH worlds, make them my own! No longer will we be limited to the bedrooms of pathetic and hapless human children. ALL OF THE DOORS WILL BELONG TO ME!  
	He turned from the door gradually and fixed her with a maddening grin. Well then, my dear, lets not postpone my destiny any longer! Once again, his black blade was in his hand. He held it up to his shoulder, and, limp wristed, dangled it loosely outwards away from him.  
	Youre insane! Shadow screamed at him.  
	Terminus slunk towards her slowly. Weve already been through this song and dance, you and I! I promised you before our ceremony that day, that youd see, someday well, He takes another slow step towards her, a measured, menacing gait straight from their own playbook for heightening the fear and tension of your victims. THAT DAY IS TODAY!  
	Youre completely deluded, Terminus! Tim stated unequivocally as both he and Nightmare descended the roughly strewn stairwell at the mouth of the long disused cavern.  
	Terminus, knife glinting in his hand, turns to face his accuser, just as Timothy reaches the floor and strides towards him, flanked silently by Nightmare, who, to Terminus, looks especially unsure of herself. He doesnt like that one bit.  
	Ahhh, my love! I see youve brought me another present! He calls out to Nightmare. His barbed tail curls behind him as some treachery begins to percolate within his mind.  
	She flexes her claws, once, then twice, before shaking her head curtly. No, my lord. Ive come to- She hesitates for the briefest of moments. -save you.  
	Her lord twists one corner of his severe mouth into an dreadful smirk. Save me? Terminus questions, perhaps a little too innocently. Whatever from, my dear?  
	Tim answers for her. From yourself.  
	Terminus laughs heartily, and shakes his head. What has this boy been filling your head with, my dear? Surely, you havent turned your back on me!  
	Nightmare takes an uncertain step towards him. No, my lord! I merely want to help you!  
	My love, if you really wanted to help me, then youd do something about that boy, and take your rightful place by my side. Do not be swayed by the words of some human rat.  
	Dont listen to him, hes playing with you! Tim warned her.  
	Nightmare, seems to be wrestling with herself, she growls low, and finally after a moment of introspect, looks back at him over her shoulder, pityingly. Im sorry Timothy, but I CANT betray my love! She roars out, spinning around and hooking her claws into Tims shirt, hoisting him up against a nearby wall, pinning him there.  
	Shadow calls out to Nightmare, beseechingly. NO! Nightmare, dont listen to him, please! Terminus is lying to you! The things hes-  
	Terminus was beside her then and slaps her hard across the mouth with the back of his hand. Shadow sharply cries out in pain, as her words were violently cut off. Quiet, foolish girl! You would say anything to save your precious pet, wouldnt you?  
	Shadow! You bastard! Tim yells, kicking his legs out wildly after he heard her cry out, forcing Nightmare to slam him hard against the rocky wall again.  
	Be quiet, if you know whats good for you! Nightmare softly intoned to him, pushing him harder into the wall as she did so.  
	Tim rages suddenly, balling up his fist and (although he did not want to) socks Nightmare in the side of her exposed ribs. She roars again, and throws him hard against the nearby stairs which winds him. He manages to find his footing and turn around again just in time to be throttled by Nightmare, and held down helplessly against the stone steps, her body mass held on top of him. His shoulder is on fire. Shadow! he calls out hoarsely.  
	While that was going on, Terminus put his full attention to the task at hand. Now, where were we? He muses to Shadow, a cruel grin upon his lips. With his free hand, he grabs her jaw and forces her head to the side, exposing the slope of her neck. Shadow struggles against her bonds but cannot move against the madman before her.   
	He drew the knife up to her face and tilted it in the light, she watched the light play off its edges as she watched him sideways and held her breath as she saw him move it towards her.  
	The blade was cold against her cheek where he touched her with it, sending a shiver through her body. He playfully moves the weapon slowly down her face, to her neck, following its lines down over her collarbone, her chest, where he runs the flat edge down her cleavage slowly in some perverse dominance game. No doubt it thrilled him to no end.  
	Well, well, where shall I slide this then, hmmm?  
	She fixes him with a cold look of unfiltered malice out of the corner of her eye, and grits her teeth. Into your own cold heart, you sick bastard!  
	How about we open an old memory, for old times sake?  
	She furls her brow and looks at him questioningly, as he releases her head from his tight grasp. Instead, he takes her by a bound wrist and slides the blade swiftly across the palm of her hand, the same one that marked their bonding with a scar, now opened once more. She winces and groans low in the back of her throat at the abrupt flash of pain.  
	Terminus grins from ear to ear as a streak of red now travels slowly down along his Onyx blade. Its intricacies shimmering red now, as he turns the weapon in his hand, examining it carefully.  
	Thats it?! Shadow exclaims. Thats what this has been all about?  
	Terminus chuckles deeply to himself. Thats all! He turns towards the massive door and strides briskly up to it with a purpose. Directly in front of where he stood in the door, there seemed to be a slotted mechanism intricately carved from the same stone as the door itself which he raised his blade to and fit it inside.  
	From the stairwell, Nightmare retrieves Tim from beneath her and forces him to his knees in front of her, to watch as her lord achieved his goal.  
	There was a moment when it seemed as though nothing might happen, but to Shadows bewilderment, and even Terminus own as he made to step back, there was a deep, deep sound from within the door. Outwards from the mechanism in the center, radiated illuminated lines, previously invisible beneath the seals surface, which drew an impressively intricate symbol across the entirety of its frame.   
	Afterwards, the slot mechanism itself, mounted upon a rounded slab of stone, pushed outwards from the surface and started to turn counter-clockwise slowly, whatever it was doing caused a terrible rumbling within the door itself, and soon it grew so loud that Terminus took yet another step backwards, removing the knife from the slot in the doorway.  
	As he did, the seal split up the center, and each half of the great solid stone doorway began to pull back into its frame. A rush of stale, ancient air thousands of years sealed, blew forth from the opening; its musty smell harkening back to days lost in time.  
	Terminus staggers and falls to his knees, his arms wide. IVE DONE IT! MY DESTINY AWAITS!! He exclaims, and laughs, and howls in the throws of jubilation.  
	The doors slid to a halt, and the dust they had brought forth began to settle to the ground, revealing what lay on the other side.   
	Beyond the door there was a massive stone bridge, that spanned a vast, void-like expanse to either side. In the distance, at the opposite end of the bridges span was yet another door, already open, waiting for somebody to enter it.  
	From that far door there spilled a nearly blinding, ethereal radiance, as though a blazing sun were burning beyond its frame.  
	Terminus rose to his feet, and turns to Shadow, triumph, and something more subtle was etched upon his face, and then he spun to regard Nightmare, and Tim at her feet. Behold the Catacombs, and my FUTURE!   
	Its wondrous, my lord! Nightmare exclaims breathlessly.  
	Terminus holds his arm out to her and beckons her to his side. Come to me, my love, we shall face our destiny, together!  
	Dont do it, Nightmare. Tim whispers, but she was not listening.  
	She did not disobey. Nightmare roughly pulls Tim to his feet, and drags him across the room where she then proceeds to knock his legs out from under him spending him to his knees once more before Terminus.  
	Tim! Shadow exclaims helplessly from her rope prison.  
	Terminus looks down on him, and Tim glowers back up at him. Was it worth it? Tim asks Terminus suddenly. Was it worth hurting as many people as you have, killing as many as you have, to get what you want?  
	Terminus smile rains down on him. I do not yet possess everything I want, boy. He turns to Nightmare who stood by his side, and smiles serenely at her. He offers her his clawed hand. My dearest, there is still one thing I must ask of you, before I face my destiny.  
	She took his hand in her own, squeezing it gently. Anything, my love! I would do anything for you ask of me!  
	He tilts his head and smiles. Youve been so good to me, my sweet. He leans in and they kiss one another, it was a passionate, loving kiss; until Nightmare suddenly shudders in his arms, and they part.  
	She took a wavering uncertain step backwards, away from Terminus then, and moves her hands to her belly where she finds his black knife lodged deeply inside her. She wraps her hands around its handle, as if she did not really believe it was actually there, but it was.  
	Terminus simply looks at her, as though nothing were amiss. Then I ask you to die, my love.  
	But my love, why? I. we our bond! Nightmare sunk to her knees. We are bonded now. and forever!   
	Terminus stands over her as she falls to the ground and writhes in agony, the agony of betrayal. Forever is a long time, my dear, and youve outlived your usefulness! Maybe, you should have heeded your new friends advice more thoroughly!   
	Nightmare shudders violently and gasps one final time for breath, and then, finally, she falls and lies still upon the dusty ground.  
	Terminus does not dwell on Nightmare long, instead he turns and discovers that Timothy was not where he had left him. Tim had gotten up and was attempting to undo Shadows bonds as swiftly as he could, though not quick enough.  
	TIMOTHY LOOK OUT! Shadow warns him as she watches over his shoulder, seeing Terminus stride viciously towards him.  
	Tim lets go of the rope he was working on and hastily leaps to the side as Terminuss claws swipe the empty air where his head had just been moments before. He rolls and gets up to his feet as fast as he can, discovering quickly that Terminus had already managed to overtake him.  
	Terminus spreads his wings out behind him and roars. He sounds like an angry tiger on the hunt, and Tim was his prey.  
	Tim leaps backwards away from him, but Terminus swings his arm down fast and catches him by the ankle, pulling him back towards him on the ground.  
	Shadow was violently working against her bonds, all the while Terminus batted around Tim. She could feel the one he had been working on starting to give away, though it was not enough to break free. Yet.  
	Terminus laughs, as he towers over top of the last obstacle in his way. With his wings spread out behind him he looks huge. This is far too easy! Its a shame you dont have any more friends to valiantly throw their lives away for you!  
	Tim grits his teeth and kicks at Terminus repeatedly, he eventually lands one which makes Terminus release his foot and stagger backwards, Tim scrabbles away from him and once again manages to get up.  
	Now Tim finds that he stood between Terminus and the waiting gateway to the ancient Catacombs. He took a slow, careful step backwards, towards the gate. Terminus sneers at him.   
	Where do you think youre going, boy?  
	I think Im going to steal your destiny from you!  
	Tim turns and bolts for the door. He hears Terminus roar behind him as he passes through the threshold of the first seal, and decides to just keep going. He kept running out onto the bridge until he reached the middle of it and looked around at the inky blackness of which the bridge spanned.  
	It was as if he was between realities. He WAS between realities!  
	And then Terminus was behind him. He reaches out and viciously seizes Tim from the rear by his injured shoulder, which still burned from his short tussle with Nightmare before she had been killed.   
	Terminus saw the boys pained expression and decided that he liked it so much he wanted to see more, so he drove his claws into the flesh of his shoulder, causing Tim to scream out in pain.  
	Tim attempted to fight back, however he was unable to escape from Terminuss claws now buried in his shoulder. He watches as slowly, some blood soaks into his now torn and filthy button-down shirt he had been wearing the day Nightmare took him from his room.   
	  
	It seemed like so long ago now.  
	  
	Tim went down to his knees, as Terminus presses his claws deeper into him once again. The pain was blinding now, and he could barely think straight.  
	Terminus laughs, finally looking around himself for the first time. Its magnificent isnt it, boy? To think, Ill soon be the master of this domain, and beyond! Then he got a terribly wicked idea. Come and take a closer look!  
	He hoists Tim up by the shoulder, causing him to scream out in delicious pain once more, and drags him over towards the edge of the immense bridge that connected the two realms. Pushing him closer to the rail, Tim struggles to fight back, pushing off the edge, but he was weak now, and in no time Terminus won that battle. He pushes Tim hard against the railing, forcing his head and shoulders out into the abyss of nothingness beyond it.  
	A sickening sensation of vertigo kicked in, as every direction seemed to be down at once. If Tim fell over the edge now, would he fall or simply keep travelling outwards forever?  
	This is the end for you, boy! Give my regards to the other side!  
	Terminus lifts him up further, now his whole upper body was up and over the edge of the bridge, Terminus held both his arms helplessly behind him. Any last words, human? No final insults? Idle threats? Deals with the devil? Terminus seemed to be enjoying the moment.  
	Soon he would have everything he ever wanted, including  
	SHADOW! Tim cries out loudly to the void.  
	As if summoned, Tim hears a quick procession of footfalls pounding down the stone bridge towards Terminus and himself, and all of a sudden, Shadow was there.  
	She ran like a gazelle, her long legs pumping as fast as she could muster, she spread her wings and leaped fully as high as Terminus was tall, landing forcefully against his shoulder. Landing, she dug her sharp claws deeply into him, through his tunic and piercing his flesh.  
	Using her momentum to her advantage, she manages to bowl Terminus over, at the same time pulling Tim back up onto the bridge and safely tumbling them all back towards the middle of it.  
	Terminus was already picking himself back up from the ground, as Shadow completes her landing; rolling and bouncing up into a low crouching position, her wings out, arms flowing outwards behind her, her claws poised and ready. Her tail rolled with energy.  
	The day of our bonding ceremony you promised me that I would someday learn your secrets, and now I know. Shadow said. That same day, I promised to show you just how helpless I really was, given the chance. Well, my lord, that day is TODAY!  
	She sprung from her crouch like a spider, and landed once again on Terminus, clinging to his body tightly. She dug her sharp toes into his upper thighs, supporting herself as she practically stood up on him. She held his outfit in one hand by the neck and prepared for a heavy downward slash to his face with her flared claws.  
	Terminus growls in pain as her claws cut into him, and tries to push her off, but shes got a solid grip on him now. She brings her hand down for his face, however he manages to block it with his forearm, watching as her sharp fingers reach out for his eyes.  
	As the pain in his legs from her claws fades in him, he smirks. Shes trying her very best, and yet- POW! She manages to break through his defense and sucker punches him right in the nose. He bares his teeth, and catches her fist on her next strike.  
	She kicks off of him and lands low again, this time she rushes at his legs and bowls him over from beneath. Terminus catches himself with his palms out, and spins around quickly, wildly swinging a fist around before Shadow is back on him again. He catches her in the jaw, sending her sprawling to the ground, with a yelp of pain, she rolls a few times landing face down at the edge of the bridge, her back to him. Her wings jutting out in a mess. She does not move to get up.  
	Tim stirs on the ground, opening his eyes when he hears Shadows squeal of pain, though he finds hes quite groggy, and weak and cannot get up fast enough. Loss of blood. He rolls over and thats when he sees her stumble by. Tims eyes grow wide.  
	Terminus slowly rises, his crimson blood dribbling down his absurd chin from his broken nose, and staggers over to the still unmoving Shadow just there on the ground. He leans down, and grabs her harshly by the shoulder, turning her onto her back over to face him.   
	She moans, and her eyes flutter open and finally focus on him, going wide with dread realization, as he climbs on top of her, and starts wrapping his hands around her throat.  
	To hell with all the wonderfully awful things Id love to do to you; I think Ill just skip to the end now that youve outlived your usefulness to me! Terminus manages to say through his raging fury. Hes shaking with unbridled rage.  
	Shadow starts to choke as Terminus begins to crush her windpipe shut with his bare hands. She looks up at him with wide eyes, and then she squints, suddenly focusing on something new just above his head.  
	Terminus is too focused on his task, and too slow to react, as Nightmare, holding a red clawed hand to her open belly returns to him his black Onyx knife. She plunges it deeply into his back, down straight between his shoulder blades.  
	Terminus reels in pain, and forgetting suddenly about Shadow, he rises to his feet unsteadily, attempting to reach back behind him for the handle of his knife. Nightmare takes his wrist and pulls it back towards her, locking Terminuss arm behind him, then with her other hand, she reaches around and embraces him, thrusting her body against his, ensuring the knife would never be removed.  
	Ive come, to save youmy lord! We shall be. together. forever! Our bond will last, for all eternity! Nightmare rasps weakly. Terminus struggles in her grip but even with her slow stomach wound she is still strong, the best of the Night Sisters truly, and his own strength has fled him as his life blood drains out of his pierced heart in great bouts.  
	Nightmare leans towards the edge of the bridge between worlds, holding her lord, her love, in her deaths final embrace. As if to make certain they will not part, she hooks him with her long sharp appendages for good measure.  
	Terminus looks helplessly down the span of the bridge, to the beckoning ghost light pouring through the doorway at the far end. M-My... d- d-destiny! He screams futilely, before both he and Nightmare tumble over the edge of the railing, and plummet down, down, into the infinite.  
	  
	It was all over in a matter of seconds.

	Shadow rolls onto her side and coughs repeatedly as her breath thankfully returns to her, though shes a little numb from what she had just witnessed. Her throat was on fire, but she could breath. She breathes deeply and clearly finally, she lays there on the stone of the bridge when her ears perks up.  
	Shadow! Tim calls to her from a short distance away.  
	She raises her head off the ground. Tim! My god She pushes herself up onto her arm for support and looks around. She finds Tim propped up much the same way she is, looking back at her. Tim! Are you alright?  
	Im fine, Im fine He groans. Well, my shoulder isnt exactly pretty.  
	I thought I told you to look after it, dummy. She laughed until she coughed again. Ugh.  
	Tim snorted at that. You said it, sister. You alright?  
	Shadow put a hand to her face tenderly. Owww! Its times like these that Im glad my skin is so dark already Her tail beat the ground behind her as it moved. Whap.  
	Though suffering various aches and pains, both of them manage to get up and make their way towards each other. They stand at an arms length apart from each other at first, each appraising the others hurts, and then finally, they cannot stand to be apart any longer. They fall into each others arms and hold each other for dear life, and begin sobbing gently.  
	I thought Id lost you! Shadow says, speaking into his good shoulder when she finds her breath.  
	Me!? I thought Id lost you! Tim replies in turn, swallowing a great jag of emotion.  
	They put their heads together and smile to each other across the small gap. We found each other. Tim whispers.  
	  
	Their lips met then, once, just brushing at first, and then again with an eager enthusiasm.   
	On the bridge between worlds, their love filled the void.  
	  
	When finally they part, Tim looks down into her bright golden eyes with affection. Shadow, lets never lose each other again. He suggests.  
	Shadow nods in agreement, returning his warmth with her own. That sounds like an excellent plan, my love. Giggling quietly, she wraps both her arms and wings tightly around him, never wanting to let go again.

------

	What happened on the bridge between worlds remains largely a mystery to most who would ask, and of the Catacombs themselves, who can say? Perhaps our curiosity got the better of us that day, perhaps not; you wont hear anything about it from me! All that really mattered to us at the time was the need to get home, to sleep, to make love, to take care of ourselves, and lastly to forget. 

	To get on with our lives.

	That seemed to be the thought on everyones minds after the events of that day. Life would go on, but it would never be the same again. Some had more challenges to face than others, though we were lucky in that regard, Shadow and I.   
	  
	We still had each other. 

	When we finally returned home I must have slept for two days straight, Shadow curled up with me in my arms. I woke up one morning and found that she was not there. Investigating further, I discovered (to my delight) the smell of pancakes wafting from the kitchen and upon entering, I discovered her sharing some tea over breakfast with my parents. I sat down beside her and she wrapped he tail around my calf under the table, as she always had.   
	  
	I knew then, that we had found our new normal.

	Our better normal.

	

CHAPTER SIX: BY STARLIGHT

	

		  
	See Dad? I told you it wouldnt be that bad! Tim laughs as his father manages to set foot on the ground, after finally squeezing through the slit-like hole near the top of the tiny alcove beneath his bed.  
	Shadow bobs her head and giggles. Good job, Mr. Newton!  
	Thomas sighs, and adjusts his shirt pulling it back down into place. Itd be easier if I wasnt lugging all this camera equipment myself, you know? He shifts his equipment duffel that hung down at his side, and quickly inspects the camera dangling from a strap around his neck.  
	Tim grins and shrugs at him.  
	Ruth, who had opted once again to take on her more familiar human guise; leans in close to her husband and straightens out his tie for him, just like she always did. There you go dear, now you look just perfect! Now lets get moving, we dont want to be late! She gives him a quick kiss, and he smiles, raising his eyebrows, after she turns and primly makes her way down the narrow steps. He follows after her like a giddy school boy.  
	Tim grins and shakes his head as he watches them head down into the Dark Passage, then turns his full attention to Shadow beside him. Well, shall we? He offers her is arm.   
	She combs a length of stray hair out of her face and tucks it behind her ear-fin, then accepts his arm graciously. By all means, lets not keep them waiting!  
	They walk down the steps together, arm in arm, and join up with Tims parents who are waiting at the bottom.  
	Today was a very special occasion, everyone had been invited to attend Midnights official coronation as the new High-Mother, and in some respects it was the first of its kind. This celebration would also mark a new time of peace between the Night Sisters and the Dark Brotherhood, who had nominated their new Lord very quickly after Terminus death. They did not seem to miss him at all, to the surprise of no one.  
	Apparently, word around the realm was that Midnight and this new Lord had been in talks (which were going very well!) for the past few days, hoping to establish a more open and agreeable relationship between the two guilds. The talk of a merger may even have been whispered once or twice, if you bothered to listen long enough.  
	Everyone was dressed up for the occasion, Tim looked quite dapper in his formal suit, which even Shadow had to agree with, when he wouldnt stop posing for her. A tailored black suit that fit him just right, which he had bought to look professional for wedding photography sessions and things of that nature. Underneath, he wore a deep red dress shirt; visible at the collar and cuffs of his sleeves; to match his date, he said. He wore a simple black tie, Windsor knotted all by himself, (indeed he could tie his own ties.) and finally, on his feet he wore a pair of highly-polished, black wing-tips, with pointed toes.  
	Shadow had dawned her usual black, low cut ghost-silk dress, wrapped her wings about her mid-section, of course, which added a splash of blood red. For a change up, over top of that she had borrowed a black, medium length light overcoat from Ruth, which had a fine lacey quality to it, and some intricate beadwork woven to it as well with wooly tassels at the bottom, (which danced around when she walked.) It tied closed only with a single knotted bow just under her bosom which let it flow out gracefully as she moved. It looked like something that had jumped straight out of the 30s, but it worked beautifully on Shadow. In her fiery hair, Tims mother had fastened a black velvet rose decoration at the last minute, which somehow really pulled the ensemble together.  
	The seemingly out-of-place family made their way steadily down the Dark Passageway, led happily by Shadow, who loved to play tour guide. Every once in awhile Thomas would stop a moment to investigate this or that, (as this was his first time being invited down to see the world where his wife had lived for most of her earlier years) and Shadow would gladly stop and explain what it was, if she could.  
	As they went, they ran into several other denizens travelling along the Dark Passage as well, and they received a wide array of reactions, ranging from complete avoidance, to one occasion where a daring, yet friendly and very talkative younger member of the Dark Brotherhood moved in close to Ruth to investigate her, asking her questions until finally, he had to split off down a separate corridor with a wave good-bye; his tail running wild behind him. Ruth laughed, flattered, and wrapped her arm around her husbands waist for the rest of the walk.  
	Eventually, Shadow led them out of the Dark Passage and into an open expanse, somewhat similar to the courtyard where Terminus had taken up his residence, though this new place had a much more feminine touch.  
	Welcome to Sisters Hall, residence of our High-Mother, and the place we Sisters call home. Shadow proudly announces to the Newtons as they walk underneath the arched entry.  
	Ruth lets out a refreshed sigh. Ahh! Its been too long! It looks just the same as I remember!  
	The place was surprisingly bright, with curtains hanging down from high above, and draping into the corners. Great tapestries adorned the walls, each a different colour with a unique artistic rendition of a different winged-woman upon them. No doubt, each a past High-Mother. There was a huge central fountain system, which fed down into smaller basins here and there about the whole room, where several young women (and for todays occasion even some young men) sat around conversing to one another, and going about their own business.  
	Across the way, they noticed a familiar face making her way towards them and after a moment they were greeted by Nightfire with a slight bow.  
	Shadow! Lady Ruthless! Friends, Im happy you could make it! She briefly looks Thomas over appraisingly with her eyes (especially the camera around his neck), but finds no fault with him, despite his obvious humanity. She already knew Tim, of course, and bid them enter.  
	Oh, Im no Lady, Nightfire. Ruth backpedaled. Just an old rogue.  
	Nightfire tilts her head, her short platinum locks moving out of her face, and dawns a conspiratorial smile. Ahh, but youre a mother all the same, so a Lady you shall be, to me.  
	Lady Blackheart, then. Ruth smiles back with a wink.  
	Nightfire bobs her head. Actually, now that youve arrived; Lady Midnight would like to have a word with you, if you wouldnt mind? She motions to the women.  
	Ruth and Shadow trade a quick glance with each other.   
	Of course not! Shadow answers.  
	Thomas clears his throat. Excuse me ladies, but may I get a photo before you take off? He holds out his camera suggestively. For posterity, of course!  
	His wife smiles. Oh! of course; for posterity! she answers sarcastically.  
	Nightfire is momentarily apprehensive, but nods and gets in close to Ruth, who puts a friendly arm around her shoulders.  
	Stick em out, girls! Ruth jokes, which earns her a sheepish grin from both Shadow and Nightfire.  
	Thomas shakes his head and takes a shot. Ohhkay then! Very nice! Thank you, ladies.  
	Youve welcome, dear! Its just a shame youll never be able to show anyone.  
	Thomas shrugs with a playful snicker. Its okay, Ive got a whole binder FULL of these shots at home. Im used to it!  
	Tim and Shadow look at each other and crack up.  
	Ruth blushes heavily and gives him the look, as she runs her fingers absentmindedly through her hair. Thomas!  
	Bye dear! Have fun visiting! He grins at her cheekily.  
	Ruth crinkles up her nose at him in a cutesy manner. Okay, lets go see the High-Mother-to-be! then she turns back and addresses her son. And Tim, please, dont go running off on your own and almost getting yourself killed, okay? Will you listen to your poor mother?  
	Tim ducks his head between his shoulders with a bashful smile. Ill try not to, but I cant promise anything!  
	Stay! Good boy! Shadow puts her arm around his back and gives him a peck on the cheek.   
	Thomas snaps a photo of them.  
	The three women take off, leaving father and son behind with a bag of camera equipment.  
	Well, we might as well start setting up! Thomas says to his son.

------

	Midnight seemed to be beside herself with worry as Nightfire led Shadow and Ruth into the soon-to-be High-Mothers chambers and excused herself, leaving them alone together. Shadow immediately went to her best friends side to offer her support.  
	Midnight, whats wrong? You look like a nervous wreck! Shadow exclaimed as she sunk down beside her.  
	Midnight was perched on a cushioned stool, looking at herself in a full-length mirror set on the wall. She had changed into a long flowing robe, that seemed to be something she had discovered among Lady Moonlights possessions upon moving into this suite. It was very beautiful on her. Across her lap, she held a hair brush in her hand, though had not seemed to have actually used it yet. She held her wings out stiffly, and uncertainly, and her tail looked as though it had been frozen stiff and straight.  
	She looked from the mirror and down at her friend with round-eyed terror. Shadow! Im not sure I can go through with this!  
	Shadow smiled. Of course you can! What are you talking about? She put her hand on Midnights hand and held it lightly.  
	Just look at me, Im practically ready to jump out of my skin! I dont have any of the grace Mother had, and- Midnight stopped herself in mid-thought, and looked back at the mirror. Well, just look at me!  
	Shadow patted her friends hand and then relieved her of the hair brush. Your just getting the jitters, that all! Youre gonna be awesome! she stood then, and ran the hair brush experimentally through Midnights short black hair.  
	Midnight exhaled through her nose and seemed to begin to relax a bit, as she took some solace in the company of her close friend. The cathartic brushing rhythm helped to sooth her ragged nerves as well.  
	Ruth smiled at the two friends from the doorway. Youll do just fine Midnight! Everyone must start from somewhere, and your worries will vanish in time, I guarantee it.  
	Midnight looked at the reflection of Ruth in the mirror. Maybe, I just seem so wrong, for the part, I suppose?  
	Shadow shot Ruth a worried frown in the mirror, then went back to concentrating on her friends hair. She had decided to give Midnight some light curls by spinning the brush outwards at the ends of her hair. It was a striking look, sure to turn the heads of any warm-blooded Brothers that may have been in attendance. Midnight did not seem displeased, her tail curled happily behind her.  
	Ruth chuckles lightly. You remind me so much of Moonlight, when she was your age. Back then, she was a brash young thing, who was prone to run at the mouth, often without thinking first; which landed her in trouble many times with Lady Nightshade. However Nightshade must have seen something in her, indeed, as they saw so much of each other, back then.  
	Shadow laughs. Hah, thats Midnight alright.  
	Midnight blushes, and stuck her tongue out at her in the mirror.  
	Ruth continues. What Im saying is that Lady Moonlight turned out alright, and so will you. Your spirit will only help you in the long run. Your grace will come with time.  
	Thank you for your kind words, Ruthless. I feel much better now.  
	Its not a problem, dear, and please call me Ruth. And certainly not Lady!  
	Midnight smiles brightly, clearly enamored at Ruths familiarity with her. Actually, Ruth, if you wouldnt mind I have something else I would like to discuss with you. Concerning the ceremony?  
	Sure. Ruth consented, with a curious tilt of her head.  
	Midnight swiveled around on the stool and dug her hand deep into the pocket of her robe, pulling out her silver Motherhood Pendant, which she dangled at the end of its chain. I would be honored if it would be you who might present this to me, during the ceremony, that is. She ended her request with an tiny awkward smile.  
	Ruth came away from the door and went to Midnights side where she scooped up the silver pendant in her hand. Its intricacies shimmered in her hand as it rolled around in the light. It would be my pleasure, dear!  
	Midnight relinquished her grasp on the chain and Ruth bent down to her where they shared a short friendly hug. They separated from each other smiling.

------

	Shadow returned back to the main courtyard of Sisters Hall, leaving Midnight and Ruth to attend to some business pertaining to the ceremony, and found Timothy busily setting up an adjustable tripod for his fathers camcorder, with which they were going to be recording the upcoming ceremony. At least; he was attempting to set it up.  
	A group of young children had curiously gathered to check out the human, no doubt this may have been their first encounter with one as they were still too young to join a guild proper.  
	Shadow kept well away, leaning up against the wall of a tall fountain watching with a grin.  
	Tim worked away all the while, seemingly without paying them much attention. The kids snuck in closer and closer until finally Tim reared up from his work with a jokey Raaawr! complete with his hands up making threatening claws with his round human fingers.  
	The group of kids jumped and giggled, running in circles around him as he began to slowly meander after them. Eventually, Tim caught one in his arms and swooshed the child up tickling them, until the kid let out a wail of childish laughter. Tim was having just as much fun as the kids.  
	 He seems to be handling the children quite well. Came a sudden voice from Shadows periphery.  
	She glanced behind her, and there stood a middle-aged, yet rather handsome, elegantly dressed Dark Brother whom had not been there a moment ago, or so she had thought. Yes, he is, isnt he? Looking back at Tim he was now on the ground with the children crawling all over him hooting and laughing. Seeing him, there was a warm fluttering sensation deep within her then, and she couldnt help but let an equally warm smile melt across her face.  
	Again the man, just behind her left shoulder now. Hes quite the catch, Id hold onto him if I were you!  
	Shadow blinked and regarded the man over her shoulder. Your not offended by his humanity?  
	He smiled then. Offended? Dont be silly. Beauty and the Beast is one of my favorite stories.  
	I think you have it backwards.  
	The man shrugged. Do I? Well, whos to say Beauty could not be the Beast, Hmm?  
	Shadow rounded fully towards the man now, regarding him with growing curiosity. Its a human story, how do you even know about that? Who are you anyway?  
	He put a claw to his forehead. Ahh, silly me! I forget myself sometimes. Im still quite new to this entire thing, you see! My name is Lord Mortis, freshly anointed High-Father of the Dark Brotherhood, at your service! He bows to her briefly.  
	Lord Mortis? Ohh! Shadow bows back hurriedly. Im sorry! I had no idea, your grace.  
	Lord Mortis touched her shoulder gently. Now now, please just call me Mortis, Im not fond of such honoraries. I like to think Im no better than anyone else.  
	Shadow laughed. How refreshing!  
	An easy smile grazed Mortis lips. Well, my Brothers certainly thought so. Then he winked. Terminus was not well loved, not even by his own Brotherhood. His ascension to command was highly dubious to begin with.  
	Shadow withdraws and wraps her arms around herself at the mention of Terminus. She could still feel his hands wrapped around her throat.  
	The High-Father frowned. Im sorry, it must be hard for you. All youve been through recently.  
	Shadow nods distantly; only half listening, and then shakes her head. No, its really not. Not really. Terminus was an awful man, and Im glad hes gone.  
	Mortis leans in closer. Well, I hope I can put you at ease. I wish you have nothing but good fortune, Shadow. In all of your future endeavors.  
	Shadow smiles meekly, wondering what he meant by that.  
	The children squealed delightedly, drawing Shadows attention away from the new Lord for a moment. She catches them just as they run off; apparently satisfied by their first human encounter, leaving Tim alone to get back to his work.  
	Glancing back to Lord Mortis behind her, she discovers that he has vanished without a trace. Oh, hes good. She remarks admirably, having fallen victim to a perfectly timed phantom exit technique.  
	Taking her leave of the fountain where she now stood alone, she went to Tims side as he kneeled down setting the tripod into its position. Hows work going?  
	Tim shot a friendly look her way as he stood again; attaching a mini camcorder to the tripods apex. Hey, Shadow! Im just finishing up right now, actually.  
	Shadow turned her waist back and forth, making the wooly tassels at the bottom of her long dress twirl around her rhythmically. She smiled at him. Since your finished, would you care to go for a walk?  
	Sure! Id love to! He quickly zips up the camera bag in his hands and drops it carefully at the base of the camera setup. Thats going to be safe here, right?  
	Shadow nods. I highly doubt anyone will touch your equipment, we dont really have much use for it down here, anyway.  
	They held hands and Shadow led Tim along. So, how do you like Sisters Hall?  
	Tim looked around with an enthusiastic grin. Its really beautiful Shadow. So different from those murky caverns.  
	Shadow shrugs lightly. We do what we can to liven the place up.  
	Tim looks pointedly at her, turning his wide grin on her. So, who was the guy you were talking to just now?  
	Shadow looked down at her tapered claws, as though she were checking her fingernails nonchalantly, it was a strictly human gesture that she had picked up by observation, considering she did not actually have fingernails. Jealous? She asked him, with a sly smirk on her face.  
	Tim scratched his hair with his free hand. Well, no; not really! Should I be?  
	They stopped walking. They had reached the edge of an intricately carved fountain.  
	Shadow turned and looked up at Tim, coyly. Well, he is a Lord.  
	Oh! Well then! Tim replied.  
	Dont worry, Im not into older guys. I think your safe. Shadow concluded.  
	Tim saw the warmth in Shadows eyes as she gazed at him in that moment. They joined their hands together and were just about to kiss, when a chime sounded across the courtyard, interrupting them. The coronation ceremony would be starting shortly.

------

	Everyone was settling into their seats. Several rows of pews had seemingly been setup in the courtyard for the occasion, facing towards a small amphitheatre where Midnights coronation would take place.  
	Tim and Shadow found their seats together side by side in the front row, and as they were making themselves comfortable, Ruth appeared out of the crowd and took her seat beside Tim.  
	Wheres Dad? Tim asks her. He hadnt seen him since hed wandered off to look for a good place to take some pictures of the event.  
	Oh, you know your father. Hes around here someplace. Just follow the flashes.  
	Tim looks at his mother. I dont think hell be using flash, its pretty well lit in here.  
	Ruth makes a dont be a smart-aleck to your mother face at him.   
	Tim grins and looks around to see what he could see. He saw that Lord guy Shadow was talking to also sitting in the front row, though several places away from them. He found Shadows hand and gave it a little reassuring squeeze. Shadow looked at him and smiled sweetly, though somewhat distractedly, as she almost immediately went back to looking at the little stage where Midnight would be appearing soon. She was excited for her friend, Tim understood that quite well.  
	Suddenly, Thomas was there too. Sorry, sorry, I was just checking the camcorder. Everythings running smoothly. We should get the whole thing on tape! He whispered as he took his own seat on the other side of Ruth. He had his camera ready too. No flash.  
	The audience grew quiet, as Midnight entered the courtyard, led to the stage by Nightfire she stepped up quickly and walked to the center, turning then to look out upon her audience. Her eyes quickly danced over the crowd, from the back to the front. Scanning the front row she smiled, seeing her friends all there to support her.  
	Midnight began to speak. At first, she spoke gently, wavered a moment, and stopped, clearing her throat. She looked to Ruth who waved her on subtly, with a smile and a nod. Beginning again, Midnight took a deep breath, and this time, in a clearer and more confidant manner, she took her first steps towards Motherhood.  
	My friends, my children, she folds her hands together. Today is a special day for us. All of us! Not simply for my own Night Sisters, but also for the Dark Brotherhood as well! It is a historic day, one not seen since ages past, for today we come together to honor the memory of High-Mother Moonlight, or as she had come be known, the White Lady.  
	Behind Midnight as she spoke, a new tapestry was unfurled, bright white, upon it a beautiful rendering of Lady Moonlight in silver threadwork.  
	It was her sacrifice that sewed the seeds we continue to nurture today. Both of our guilds have come to face a fresh start; a new day, and on this day, with my official coronation, I pledge to all of you here today, that it would be my honor, and privilege, to strive towards a new and lasting peace.  
	She stands there a moment, unsure of how to proceed, when Lord Mortis rises from his seat and claps to her enthusiastically. He grins widely and openly, as Midnight blushes and bows to him from the stage, as soon everyone joins their applause with his.  
	Ruth comes forward from the crowd and steps up onto the stage beside Midnight as the applause dies down. Low murmurs rose from those not privy to who she actually was, reacting mostly to seeing a mere human take the stage during such an important event. It was simply unheard of. Today really was a historic one.  
	Ruth bows low to Midnight, who in return bows back lower still - so low, in fact that she goes to her knees solemnly before the human woman, her eyes closed gently.  
	The murmurs from the crowd turn to dead silence as Ruth produces the Motherhood Pendant from her pocket and holds it out for all to see. She carefully clasps it around Midnights neck, and touches her on the shoulder affectionately.  
	Midnight opens her eyes and rises as gracefully as she can muster to her feet.  
	Ruth takes Midnights hand in her own and raises it high above her head. Im pleased to present to you, the beautiful Lady Midnight, your new High-Mother!  
	They both bow low to the crowd together then, as once again a great applause rises from the audience, warmly congratulating Midnight on her day.  
	Ruth steps aside quickly and is helped off the stage by Nightfire, who had been standing watch just off to the side during the procession.   
	Midnight smiles out at the crowd and after a few moments she raises her hands, signaling that she was ready to speak with them once again. Lady Moonlight was a proud woman, a strong woman, and just. She loved her children very much, and I would be honored if someday I came to be regarded as even half the Mother she had been. I should be so lucky!  
	However; Lady Moonlight was not without her faults, and it is with a heavy burden in my heart, that with my first official duty as High-Mother, I must be forced to correct a grievous oversight on her part.  
	The crowd was silent then, unsure what Lady Midnight may have had in mind.  
	Midnight came forward to the edge of the stage, and beckoned Tim and Shadow to please rise from their seats. They did, reluctantly, as they were bidden; unsure as to what Midnight had up her sleeve.  
	Midnight spoke to them, alone. My friends, please forgive me for what I must do! It grieves me to no end that I must do it, however, after much consideration, I find the bond you both share to be null and void, and I cannot officially recognize it. I am deeply sorry.  
	Shadow shudders, and reaches out blindly to her side, finding Tims hand shoulder for support. They were both ashen.   
	What are you talking about? Shadow implores, almost on the verge of tears suddenly. I thought but  
	Midnights sorrowful expression melts away then, into the rich grin of a masterful prankster. So, lets make it official! She winks playfully.  
	A stray tear runs down Shadows cheek as she looks up at her friend with surprise.  
	Midnight herself helps Tim up onto the stage. Tim then helps Shadow climb up in turn. Together, they circle about and gaze out over the large crowd that had gathered in the courtyard of Sisters Hall, even beyond the arranged seats. It was a veritable sea of silent cats eyes staring back at them curiously.  
	Tim looks down and finds his parents in the front row, his mother was cupping her mouth in her hands, her eyes glazing up with tears of joy. His father snapped another photograph, as he had been doing the entire time.  
	Strangely, he caught they eye of Lord Mortis (though he did not actually know his name yet) who gave him the slightest nod of approval.  
	Tim looks at Shadow beside him and shares a smile with her. She bats gingerly at her eye, attempting to wipe away her own tears of joy and smiles back at him. He gently runs his thumb across her cheek, catching another stray.  
	Turning to Midnight then, they discover that she had produced a small golden knife, and a golden chalice from somewhere within the folds of her flowing dress.   
	A stray thought came to Tim suddenly, Midnight had come a long way since Tim had first encountered her, back when she had threatened to kill him for staining her sisters good name. Tim grinned from ear to ear.   
	Midnight spoke to them, ignoring the crowd for the time being, although certainly, the rapt  audience could hear every word. Today, we are witnesses to a grand occasion! The bonding of two souls, together in life! Two souls of such incredible variation, and yet two that burn so brightly together!  
	She points the tip of the knife at each of them in turn.  
	As my first act, I offer you both unending prosperity in the future. A future you both will face together, now and forever! Let the bond be forged! All I require is a measure of blood.  
	She offers Tim the blade of her knife.   
	Tim did not know the ins and outs of the ritual exactly, though from the implications of the knife and chalice (and knowing of Shadows scar) he knew what was expected of him. Reaching out he takes a hold of the knifes sharp blade, and surprisingly, painlessly, his blood begins to flow.  
	Lady Midnight offers him the chalice next, which he gladly dribbles his blood into.  
	The process is repeated after the knife and chalice are turned on Shadow.  
	Tim and Shadow clasp their bloodied hands together between them securely, their blood mingling together right there between them, as well as in the golden cup.  
	Midnight raises the cup upwards and swirls it, much the same way she had watched Lady Moonlight do it so many weeks prior. From her memory, she begins to speak the old words; words she had spent half the previous night attempting to commit to memory so she might do this for her friends.   
	She waved the dagger back and forth over the chalice as she spoke and where last time nothing had happened, this time there was magic.  
	The blood was now sparkling water, of the purest kind.  
	Midnight looked down into the cup in her hands, and up at Tim and Shadow, impressed with herself and somewhat amazed at the transmogrification. You must each drink of this.  
	Tim did as he was told, he took the golden chalice from Midnight and peering inside saw the water down at the bottom. He drank, and offered it to Shadow with a smile.  
	Shadow took the cup from him and downed the rest without even looking to see what was there. Her eyes were only for Tim then.  
	Midnight retrieved the chalice from Shadows grasp and raised it up as if in a toast. The bond is STRONG! She announces to the crowd, who all begin to clap surprisingly feverishly, Midnight included, for the odd couple before them.  
	Tim and Shadow look deeply into each others eyes, and share a loving kiss together right there on the stage in front of the everyone. Their bond really was strong.

------

	 As the celebration was just getting underway, Shadow took Timothy by the hand and led him out of the crowded courtyard, away from prying eyes, and deeper into the inner chambers of Sisters Hall to clean and take care of their matching wounds.  
	She led him into a fairly cramped corridor, only wide enough for two people to walk abreast of each other comfortably, and as they moved down its considerable length, Tim took notice of each doorway they passed. Simple archways carved into the walls, each seemingly unique in their own special way, personalized over time it seemed, and each sectioned off with door beads, obscuring whatever lay beyond. These rooms were the only ones Tim had noticed so far, in all of Sisters Hall, which seemed to have an analogue for a closed door at all. These rooms were private dorms.  
	Shadow was taking him home.  
	She stops outside a particular doorway, decorated with a black and red beaded curtain, adorned here and there with ribbons and bows and looks back at Tim. We can clean up in here. Come on in. She said, pushing aside the beads with a light clatter.  
	Alright. Tim said, slipping past her through the door.  
	Shadow entered after him, the beads swaying closed behind her. As she made her way further into the room, she slid her hand gently across the back of Tims shoulders suggestively; looking back at him as she passed by, her eyes half-lidded.  
	The look she had gave Tim goose-bumps, as his hair stood on end. He knew from experience what that look meant, and he buried an coy smirk.   
	Putting that aside, Tim looks around the room. It was cozy, actually, and not unlike a small apartment. The main room was fairly open, and had a dropped area in the middle where several large cushions were arranged. You could sit along the edge, or get very comfortable towards the center.   
	Shelving seemed to be built directly into the far wall, and was divided by a small doorway which led to another room beyond, most likely a bedroom. On the shelves were some ancient looking books, several thick candles, that looked as though they had seen their fair share of usage and a few other knick-knacks she had collected over the years.  
	He smiles to himself when he spies an old plush Freddy Krueger doll leering out from the shelf beside her bedroom door. He had given it to her years ago as a birthday present, and it was nice to know she had held onto it all these years.  
	You have a really nice place here, Shadow, very comfy! He compliments her.  
	Shadow had wandered over to a small basin set into a countertop along the right-hand wall of her room and ran some water over her hands. She looked back at him, the same come-hither look set on her face. Thank you, love; Ive done what I can with it over the years.  
	Tim goes to her then and squeezes in beside her. She yields some room, allowing him to stand shoulder to shoulder with her as he too plunges his hands into the water. It was warm. Tim would have to ask her sometime just how they managed to achieve some of the things they had. They did not seem to have electricity, and yet there were orbs of gently throbbing light illuminating the walls here and there. Tim was hard-pressed to believe they might have been magical, but in this realm anything may have been possible.  
	Shadows hands touched his own then, which drew his full attention. She delicately ran her smooth hands over his, washing away the dark line left across the palm of his hand. She worked silently and intently, and when he was clean she clasped his hand in her own lovingly.  
	Grabbing a small rag from nearby she gently dries his hands, then her own and looks up at him. Well need to bandage that, so it doesnt get dirty.  
	Tim gave her a playful nudge with his shoulder. Do you even have bandages down here?  
	Shadow cocks her head with a sly smile. No, not exactly; but I have the next best thing. She pulled him away from the water basin by his hand, towards the doorway to her back room. Follow me.  
	Tim laughs. Do I even have a choice?  
	Nope! Shadow says playfully.  
	She leads him through the doorway where Tim discovers that he had been right. The backroom was her bedroom. As he looked around briefly, he noticed a few black cloaks hanging on her wall, her old demons-mane head dress mounted on a hook as well.   
	There was a bed set length-wise around the corner against the wall and that was when his smile widened. Above her bed, mounted on the wall, Tim saw a fairly large collection of little fabric tubes of varied colour and designs, arranged side by side in an intricate checkerboard-like affair.  
	  
	He had finally found his missing socks.  
	  
	Mom would be thrilled. He manages, amused. I always wondered what you did with them for awhile I thought you might have been eating them!  
	Shadow punches him lightly in the arm, and proceeds to wrap her arms about herself in defiance. Whaaat? Ewww! No. Its just I She looks embarrassed and turns away from him. I took them because they reminded me of you. I didnt know WHY at the time, but you were. special to me. Even back then.  
	Tim blushes. Its sweet, dont be embarrassed. He wraps his hands gingerly around her shoulders pulling her against him. She practically purrs in his arms and she crosses her hands across her chest, resting them on his forearms. Her tail waggles playfully between his legs.  
	They really helped me out, when we were apart. They made the waiting easier.  
	Tim made a reassuring sound in his chest. You dont have to wait anymore.  
	No; I suppose not. She grinned in his loving embrace.  
	Now, about those bandages? Tim asked softly into her ear, which raised appreciatively at his nearness.  
	Reaching into her pocket she produces another pair of socks. It was the pair he had given her the night they had first made love. She laughs. These also make excellent bandages.  
	Shadow pulls his arm down then and breaks free of his grasp, turning them both and pushing Tim gently down so that he sat down on the edge of her bed. Kneeling down in front of him, she takes his injured hand and deftly ties one of the socks firmly around his hand, knotting it across the top.  
	Tim takes the matching sock from her and binds it around her hand, tying it the same way.  
	She had that coy look in her eyes again. That should take care of that she intoned casually, running the point of her clawed index finger up his thigh. You know Ive always been a fan of human tradition, and- A warm smile spreads across her face. -traditionally, a marriage is not really final until its consummated. Her deep golden eyes flick upwards to gaze longingly into Tims haunting blue eyes, alive with anticipation.  
	Tim gazes back, and grins. Well, Im all for tradition, you know  
	They clasp hands together then. Tim helps to pull her to her feet and Shadow slowly rises, and then lowers herself gracefully onto Tims lap. They put their heads together and look to one another across their little universe with love in their hearts and minds.  
	I love you, Timothy Newton. I always will.  
	I love you too, Shadow Newton. Ill love you by day; Ill love you by starlight.  
	Shadow giggles. God, thats corny.   
	You love it! Tim whispers.  
	I do. Shadow whispers back.  
	They kiss then, slowly and with a sincere heartfelt passion. Their hands, already clasped together tightly, shift together, until her black claws were mingled between his fingers. Their passion grew then and they lowered down onto her bed, reveling deeply in each others tender embrace.

	Their bond; their love, would be everlasting.  
	

EPILOGUE

	Shadow awoke pleasantly from her peaceful dreams, once again wrapped snuggly in her husbands arms. She smiles, knowing it was Saturday and that today she would have him all to herself.  
	She could tell Tim would soon rouse himself, as even now he moved his hand gently, gently over her belly affectionately in his sleep. He always did just before he woke up, as if somehow his unconscious mind were reaching out to ensure that, yes, it was not dreaming. 

	That she was real.

	She did not mind at all, as she cuddled up against him readily, feeling his reassuring warmth against her back.  
	Tim awoke with an easy grin, as she nuzzled him lightly. Good morning, love. He whispered into her ear lovingly from behind. How are you this morning?  
	Shadow smiled, and trilled happily when he kissed her on the ear afterwards. Good morning, dear. I couldnt be better than I am right now. She turned her head up and met her husbands waiting lips with her own, sharing a loving kiss together.  
	Ouch. Tim said afterwards, half jokingly.  
	She tasted his blood on her lips again. Im sorry love, I cant help it.  
	Tim tightened his embrace around her as she put her hand across his. I know; dont worry about it, Shadow.  
	Shadow decides its time to get up after all. Rolling to the edge of Tims bed, she slides her legs down on the floor and stands up gracefully in a singular, beautiful, motion.   
	Tim watches with a sly grin, his head propped up by one arm as Shadow stretches her lithe body out before him there in the middle of the room. The sun; only just rising, shone through his window seat, shimmering over her smooth nakedness for a few moments before Shadow reached out and grabbed her silk dressing gown off the back of his desk chair. She drew it on over her shoulders, not bothering to fasten it closed just yet.  
	Shadow was in a good mood, and she began to hum a happy, tuneless song to herself, swaying her hips from side to side.  
	Tim slid silently out of bed and went to her then, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind. He kissed the nape of his wifes neck and she laughed, crossing her hands gently over top of his own, where they rested over her round belly, where their child still slumbered peacefully.

------

	For as long as I can recall, Ive never really fit in with regular people. Most think Im a little odd, and thats alright with me. I dont really mind, because in comparison to the average guy my age, they are probably right.   
	You could say that I am a little weird!  
	Im mean, its not like its all my fault though, I have a very good reason why I may come across a little strange sometimes. I dont get much sleep at night for one, in fact most nights I dont really sleep at all. Its been like this for most of my life and Ive gotten pretty used to it. Oh, its not that I dont sleep, I catch quick naps when I can, but I almost never get any sleep at night.  
	I dont sleep at night because Im aware of certain things that most people arent.   
	  
	I know that monsters are real.  
	  
	I know what you thinking; it sounds crazy, right? Possibly insane, and, yes, perhaps even a little paranoid, but its the gods honest truth about it. To be fair, I suppose it isnt simply this knowledge that keeps me awake at night, no; that honor would have to belong to the monster under my bed.

	To tell you the truth; I dont really mind that, either.

	Ive been living a life most regular people wont be able to relate to, and thats fine.  Let them think whatever they want. I think its been a pretty extraordinary one as they come, full of interesting characters, developments, excitement, jump scares, sometimes even real scares, but mostly its been filled with a lot of love; and I wouldnt give it up for the world.  
	   
	Even now, I look forward to what strange new things may yet come. Though looking back on it now, back then I could only dream of how much my life, no; our lives; both Shadows and my own, were about to change. What would tomorrow bring?

	Oh, If only we knew!  
	  
	  
	  
However, thats a story for another day.