---Cassiel's point of view---

  It was a breath of fresh air being back on the landship, literally. The filters pumped out purified air. Free of any dust, stench or originum particles. That, and simply being back to civilization instilled you with a sense of being at ease. While simultaneously hitting you with the long accumulated fatigue now that your head registered you were in safety. The adrenaline tap being finally shut since our survival was no more at risk.

  Having barely just arrived back after our eight-day march to the extraction point I could confidently say that most were spent. The mission was a success of course. We aided Caliburnus and his team, deviating his pursuers. On the flip side though the debacle that ensued while we pulled it off left us without our transports and most of our supplies. In the end having forced us to abandon a group of infected refugees and mobilizing on a march towards the nearest evac point with little in our bags for sustenance.

  It was gruelling. But we all survived, including the wounded. Saria was a stout and determined leader. And Provence the most accomplished survivalist one could rely on. With them, we all made it through that arduous journey.

  The trip back itself once picked up lasted little over twelve hours in the Rhodes transport convoy. As patched up and ration fed as we were the journey was uncomfortable beyond mere annoyance. As if the dirt road was bombed by Reunion terrorists and Ursus sappers alike just to make our return more miserable. The little shut-eye we had was meagre at most. Everyone but the most seasoned operators were grumpy and out of it.

  I had just left the decontamination and medical processing, custom to any mission return. And was walking the corridors of the landship on a leisurely pace back to my dorm, my duties having ended. I was in need of a well deserved drink and a proper rest.

  With most operators wounded or over fatigued from hunger, the situation had forced Saria and I to take extra shifts on leading and keeping watch. My gift helped me regulate my metabolism to endure through it well. But at this point I was feeling near my limit. My sharpness was dulled, I was tired myself. On my way two cute bears approached me as our roads met.

  -Tacet~!

  -Privet tovarishch.

  -Hello Gummy, Istina.

  -Haven't seen you in a while.

  -I just arrived back actually.

  -''It's good to see you again friend. Care to join us for supper?'' Offered Istina.

  I have been acquainted with both of them along the rest of the Ursus Student Self-Governing Group through Istina. Having learned the Ursian language with her in the course of the past year. During that time we formed a friendly bond. It was expected. We both liked to read and we both enjoyed the quiet solitude brought.

  It was later that she introduced me to her group indirectly by inviting me to their den to study. Inevitably I got to meet everyone that way. Including a surprised Zima, who at first seemed about ready to split my head with her axe for my intrusion. But already having the approval of two of the bear girls, and as Istina and Gummy shielded me physically helped the situation.

  Though as Zima looked me in the eyes first and foremost she saw I was not there as a threat, nor to take advantage. She had lowered her axe, accepting to tolerate my presence. That was until we started drinking together. After she saw that I could match her alcohol endurance she officially welcomed me into their group.

  -''Anything good tonight?'' I asked Istina in reply.

  -''Da.'' She answered with a smile. ''There's a special desert being served as well. You liked desert's didn't you?''

  -''I guess I have a sweet tooth.'' And by her demeanour I could tell she would have welcomed me joining in.

  I was tired, more than usual. And as much as I would have rejoiced going straight to bed I had to admit I was still rather famished. Having barely munched on a few rations on the way back. Having hoped to get a proper meal back home. And might as well, I was going straight to my room for rest after anyway.

  -You've hooked me. I'll tag along if you girls don't mind.

  -''Not at all!'' Brimmed the usual bright Gummy.

  A bit later we were sitting in the barely half filled cafeteria.

  -''Well bummer.'' I spoke casually, not really that affected.

  We had arrived too late to get the main course which was well sought after. The canteen was actually clearing out. At the very least we were in time for each of us to grab some of the special desert.

  -''Not going to eat yours with us?'' Asked Istina, already having dug into it first thing after we sat down.

  -I'm pretty worn for today. Prolonging the suffering with some sugar instead of going straight to bed might mess with my sleep schedule. Already abused as it is. I'll bring it back with me.

  -That is true. Zima always bothers me to take care of my health in a similar fashion.

  -Heh, she does it for she cares for you Isti.

  -Da, you are right. She is caring in her own way.

  -''I heard you blokes speaking my name. Have something to complain about, Tacet?'' A boisterous Zima spoke, approaching our table.

  -Nothing that would smear your reputation, o glorious leader.

  -''That's what I thought.'' Zima replied well humoured. ''What's this stuff?''

  -''Edible, from what I can say. Looking around I see others eating it without a fuss.'' I replied.

  -''It's Hibiscus's cooking. Though for once it looks appetizing.'' Added Gummy.

  -''Well don't let me stop you. Istina! I see you went straight for the desert first before the main course.'' Zima mentioned admonishingly, but not making a point to ruin the mood. After all the fact was consumed, Istina's desert was well gone by now.

  I gave a small chuckle at seeing the girls mingle and pull each other's legs. I took a spoonful of the inviting stew, getting ready to feel the warmth, and its spices to please me. The flavour was well achieved for once, though the consistency was a strange one. The choice of meat used eluded me as my tired mind sought to find out wh-

  ---Provence's point of view---

  -''I'm pretty beat myself. I can't wait to eat something warm.'' Provence mentioned.

  -''Well you're in for a luck, I've heard there's a good menu chosen today.'' Replied Texas. ''I won't mind getting some myself. Eating chocolate to keep you awake will sour any sweet tooth.''

  A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  -''I won't mind taking your desert then partner!'' Added an eager Exusiai.

  -''Doctor, thank you for processing us so quickly. You have seen how everyone was when we arrived.'' Provence addressed the Doctor.

  -''Of course, it was the least I could do. You've been through a rough journey.'' The Doctor spoke before Kal'tsit added further.

  -It was fortunate that many of our doctors were available with the lack of too many patients at the present moment.

  -''Will you be joining us?'' Provence inquired to Kal'tsit.

  Kal'tsit and the Doctor stared at each other for a moment. As if an invisible discussion was going. That, or a battle of knives. Provence couldn't be sure which was closer to the truth.

  -''We will accompany you.'' Replied Kal'tsit, a bit more at ease.

  They were five in the group by that point. Followed not far behind by some operators from the same mission heading to the canteen with the same thought.

  Provence's ears beamed up as she saw Tacet already sat at a table. Before she could reach him though she noticed the spoon falling from his hand. And then the one from Gummy's hitting the floor.

  His eyes were wide as if in shock. Frozen like a statue for the briefest moment before he spasmed violently. Sweeping the bowl before him onto the floor, smashing into pieces. Gummy for her part was none the better as she puked, convulsing in a frightening way. Tacet was coughing violently. Acting as if possessed and poisoned at the same time. Both of them were.

  Zima looked shocked before violently slapping Istina's spoonful of the same kind of food from her hand.

  Gummy was shouting, crying violently at this point. While Tacet seemed gripped by an intense pain as he coughed. Grunting violently, and eventually throwing up as well. He clenched his head, as if an intense migraine was killing him.

  ''-What is going o-'' Exusiai dared to ask before she was cut off.

  -''STOP EATING! IT'S HUMAN MEAT! THE STEW HAS HUMAN MEAT!'' Shouted Zima like a maniac.

  Near everyone in that room was in a state of shock. With many dropping their plates or becoming sick to their stomachs.

  -''Doctor! You must shut down the canteen immediately!'' Demanded Zima.

  -''How do you know its human meat?!'' Inquired a dismayed Provence.

  -''Back in Chernobog we were trapped, and we were forced to eat the damn dead! That's how we all know how it tastes like!'' Answered Zima.

  -But Tacet!?

  -I don't know what's wrong with him!

  The realization then dropped for her. About everyone with a length of time at Rhodes Island knew of the events that transpired in Chernobog. And many had a good idea of the horrific and dehumanizing events that have occurred at Peterheim Middle School.

  ''There can't be a doubt... Tacet.'' Provence thought. It happened at the same time, the same reactions, the same trauma gripping Gummy was afflicting Tacet as well.

  His coughs turned into growls that seemed to send shivers down every operator's spine. As he rose he grabbed one of the nearby empty tables. Not for support, not to lean on it. And in the next second he was swinging it whole into the air!

  -''Look out!'' Shouted Texas.

  Tacet growled inhumanely as he threw the entire table. It swung rapidly into the air and smashed into the buffet where the chefs and Hibiscus ducked out of the way. As quick as this bout of sudden strength came it left him. As Provence bore witness how he collapsed on the floor in a pain only he knew of.

  Provence rushed to his side, pulling him around to know he would be able to breathe. He pulled out a handkerchief and wiped his face drenched in cold sweat. He looked delirious and incredibly pained. He could not even talk.

  -''Everyone, exit the cafeteria! Kal'tsit, please attend to Gummy!'' The Doctor spoke before he came by their side.

  -Doctor, how do I help him out of this!?

  -His sanity is gone. Help me get him to the infirmary.

  -''Geuh, don't... need...'' Tacet forced feral words out of his throat.

  -''You're coming with us, want it or not son.'' The Doctor spoke, grabbing him along Provence.

  It was a little later that Gummy and Tacet were brought to the nearest infirmary where they were treated separately. Tacet for one refused a bed vehemently. In the end the Doctor having to settle at laying him on a low couch in a nearby office.

  -His breathing is laboured, but stable. Pupils are dilated. The tremors are subsiding.

  -Doctor, is he going to recover from this?

  -He will now that I administered the injection. At the moment he just needs to hopefully get some rest. I've also noticed deep fatigue symptoms.

  -He was awake most of the time on our return trip.

  -Then he would need it. His mind right now was taxed to the extreme all of a sudden.

  -Shouldn't we bring him somewhere else?

  -No. I'm actually surprised he isn't struggling against it. He's usually stubborn to a fault when it comes to being admitted into medical. Hmmm.

  -Doctor?

  -I have a special request, if you would accept it.

  -Tell me Doctor.

  -Please stay with him. He's about to go into a deep sleep, and that isn't by the help of the medicine I just administered him. Your tail has a calming effect. I would beseech you to remain by his side and keep him comfort. I believe with your help he will recover by the time he will awake.

  -Of course, it's not a problem.

  -Please forgive me for soliciting you just after your arrival.

  -It's alright Doctor, don't worry about me.

  -Thank you, Provence. It would be a waste if we moved him now and woke him. I'll leave you two here in the office, it won't be needed.

  -Doctor.

  -Yes Provence?

  -What is happening to him? Ever since that mission... he's been even more distant. And now this.

  -You know I cannot break doctor-patient confidentiality Provence.

  -Can't Rhodes Island help him!?

  -I'm afraid there is not that much we can do. Not without his will.

  A tense silence stretched between them, all while an unconscious Cassiel lay unmoving on Provence's lap.

  -''I don't see him ending in a good place if he continues like this.'' Provence said, darkly concerned for the man before her.

  -You are not the problem. He wants to be close to you all. He stood close to save each of you though it pained him.

  -... What do you even mean by that?

  -You have to understand that it is not easy to break patterns that have ingrained into the psyche. Especially so when they were carved violently.

  -''Closeness to his own kind eluded him most of his life before being cut outright. And that with other than his kind...'' The Doctor trailed before he continued.

  -Have you ever asked him how he got his scars?

  -No, I haven't.

  -It might touch the root of the problem.

  So did the Doctor of Rhodes covered the duo with a blanket before switching off the lights and leaving the room. The light of the table lamp shone softly as its periphery touched upon the couple. Tacet was gone in a world of dreams as he was held closely by the violet lupa.

  Intimate in her embrace as he rested on her tail she could feel his pulse. She could hear his breathing. He was easing down since he laid on her large tail. Her tail bringing such a comfort that shattered his resistance, stealing him into a deep slumber.

  He looked at peace. Bereft of the pain and the shock he suffered greatly from just a short while ago. And she was grateful for it. For she did not want to see him in pain. Her arms closed around the one in her care. She would heal him back if this is what it took.

  Her thoughts wandered to the events that he might have had long ago in his past. She thought of Gummy, and the horrors her and her group suffered in Chernobog. She was more privy to their story than most. And thought if Tacet went through a similar experience... if not worse.

  She's seen what a heavy psychological toll could do to someone. She had witnessed enough messenger colleagues crumbling mentally under the strain of accumulated years. Breaking them, killing them. Making them shadows of their former selves. Or even worse.

  She deeply wished to avert that in the man she was nestling in her grasp, and her tail coiled just a bit tighter around him.

  ---Cassiel's point of view---

  The first impulses of recognition apprised me that I was still alive. I could recognise the blood flow through my ears as my heart beats pumped beat after beat. And more importantly, I could feel that I was laying on something incredibly comfortable, warm, soft to the touch. I laid there unmoving, eyes closed. My feet in the shallow sea of sleep as the tide was slowly receding, leaving me in the land of reality. The feeling of which I laid upon was reminiscent of something. No, of someone. And I could not help but utter her name.

  -''Provence.'' My voice rang softly.

  -''I am with you.'' A mellifluous voice came in reply. A reply that prompted me to leave that shore away from the dreamworld.

  I opened my lids and beheld the lovely lupa above me.

  -''Provence.'' I spoke her name again.

  -''It's alright.'' She spoke soothingly.

  My breathing picked up, and so did my heart. But not in panic, but at an ease tending slowly to the euphoric. I stood there a bit longer, indulging in her care. Wishing I could prolong this heavenly moment with her, with the lupa I so cared for secretly. A knowing buzz of intensity in my chest was slowly growing, worrying me. Slowly but surely... it could get out of control. My trauma of wolves would catch up.

  I forced myself to slowly sit up on the couch, and Provence helped me with silent care. We were now sitting beside each other, her heavenly tail laying spread behind us in length.

  -What happened?

  -''Don't worry. It wasn't what you think you ate. You had a traumatic moment. Doctor and I took care of you. But tell me, how do you feel?

  -I feel... incredibly refreshed.

  -I'm glad, we both had a long nap here.

  -Did I... harm anyone? Do you know if Gummy is alright?

  -You didn't harm anybody. Gummy is alright, she is being taken care of by Kal'tsit.

  -I see, that is good to know. But what did you mean by not being what I think I ate?

  -They checked. Hibiscus just prepared an exotic kind of file from the meat of a burden beast. She just somehow achieved to give it the consistency of... what you thought it was.

  -''I am relieved to hear that.'' I spoke with uneasy words.

  I felt ill at ease, almost ashamed. As if caught with an irredeemable sin that damned my soul. I looked away, already beginning to go deep in my thoughts. But she held me from that, as she grasped onto me. Looking into my eyes.

  -Don't think about it, Tacet.

  -Provence... I want you to know... it was not by choice. When I found out it was-

  -''Don't think anymore on it.'' She spoke as she moved closer to me, wrapping her hands around my arm. As if worried she might lose me to something she feared.

  -We all have our burdens to bear, so leave it behind your thoughts. I want us to leave this room having brought you back to something better, please, Tacet.

  I pondered on her words. She knew, and she understood my plight. She was uplifting me from that curse. I smiled back at her as I realised the purity of her intent.

  -Thank you, for being by my side.

  She smiled, and that way I knew she valued the trust I was giving her. We both left that office renewed in spirit. This lupa, amazingly, having made me feel human again.