Shapeshifter Seductions

The Lonely Hearts Club and the She-Wolf

2012-02-14T07:09:00.007-06:00

HAPPY SHAPESHIFTING VALENTINE'S DAY!

My Muse, the naughty unpredictable minx, nearly went on strike for today's flash scene. It was touch and go, with the first idea being one that couldn't be written as a post because the plot was way too complex, and it would have turned into, at least, a short story.

So, I hope you'll enjoy this flash scene that takes place at the Midnight Stardust Supperclub on Valentine's Day.
~~~~~~

The Lonely Hearts Club and the She-Wolf

"Lonely Hearts Club," Sarielle whispered once she mentally translated the words from her language to the planet's American English language. "That's me."

Ever since leaving on this intergalactic tour of other wolfen shapeshifter worlds, Sarielle had practiced speaking the various languages while studiously learning about the many different cultures. Now she glided along the fringes of the supperclub's dance floor.

Whirling embraced couples, all of them in what she identified as a deep romantic trance, danced to a type of music she found heart-stirring and pleasurable. The playful but elegant notes made her feel deliciously supple.

Sarielle also listened to the lovely silken swish of her long gown as she approached the special area where men, all in full humanoid form, and clothed in what were called tuxedos, took turns partnering the women who, like her, obviously had no man or mate in their life.

What she thought was called a midnight buffet had been placed in this Lonely Hearts Club area. As well, sparkling beverages of all kinds spilled into stemmed glassware. Her nose inhaled a feast of fragrances, especially the quite virile man who began striding toward her as if he'd caught her scent and now hunted her.

Maybe he did. He certainly had the handsome build and the powerful loins of a hunter. Although, Sarielle couldn't distinguish his wolf kind by his smell or his, to her eye, spectacular humanoid appearance.

Further, she wasn't entirely certain of all the dating and mating customs in this geological region on Earth. It had been a constant confusion she'd been unable to sort out during her culture-learning sessions.

****

Dante had carefully explained about the three extraterrestrial she-wolfs that would be joining the Valentine's Day extravaganza at the Midnight Stardust Supperclub. At first, Dh'liam had believed his cubhood pal was pulling his hind leg. It wouldn't be the first time. They'd pulled about every prank imaginable on each other, almost to the day Dante had roared out of Talbot's Peak on his Harley.

Several weeks later, Dh'liam had taken to the back roads on his Harley, determined to explore the vast areas of America that remained mostly uninhabited. What he'd discovered and experienced could easily fill a set of old-fashioned encyclopedias. Now for the sake of his pack, and for those who lived in Talbot's Peak, he'd returned to make certain they remained protected from the monstrous evil he'd encountered -- far beyond the tiger shapeshifter, Shere Khan, and his Yakuza ninjas.

However, at this moment in time, all he wanted to do was protect, and dance with the magnificent she-wolf beauty of extraterrestrial origin. The instant, he glimpsed her heart-shaped face he'd loosed an inner howl, while his cock straightened like it was cupid's drawn arrow.

The otherworldly woman-wolf possessed a petite and svelte figure beneath her fluid, backless peacock-blue gown. Yet more impressive to him, her lithe muscles were power-packed strength, and he knew she could run like the wind.

What captured his notice first was her tumbled wealth of hair, most of it piled artfully on top of her head. At the time, she'd had her back to him, and he'd stared at the cascading curls of rich dark russet, unable to move.

When she'd finally turned around, and lissomely moved in his direction, Dh'liam had forced himself to halt in his tracks. He'd had to fight the urge to stalk her, nip-kiss her neck, then sink his fingers into her tresses.

Determined she would not be leaving his hunter's sight this night, he'd strode toward her. Eyes that were a gorgeous burnished gold followed his progress, and they both halted within a few feet of each other, their gazes fastening on each other.

Without hesitation, he offered her a slight bow. Not one that would take his gaze off her, however. "I am Dh'liam. Welcome to Earth. Welcome to Talbot's Peak. Welcome to my arms. Or, perhaps, you would prefer something to drink and a bite to nibble on before we dance."

A smile teased the corner of her bow-shaped mouth, and he couldn't help but ravish her lips with his gaze. At the same time, she offered her hand to his, the one he'd extended without thinking about it. With a grace he'd rarely known, her hand alighted on his, and Dh'liam held on as if she were his next breath.

"Dancing in your arms is quite delightfully acceptable, Mr. Dh'liam. My feet are anxious to enjoy the dance floor. I am called Sarielle for short." She paused, her eyes pure sparkle. "Is that how you say it?"

"Sarielle," he savored like a meaty bone. "Would that be considered your first or familiar name, my beautiful she-wolf?"

Her puzzled frown halted every cell in his body. "I can't sniff you. You are a wolfen shapeshifter?"

"I am. But I have learned how to hide my scent. A long story," he added. Howls! the love trap had sprung, and he'd been caught. And Dh'liam wasn't about to chew a hunk out of his heart to escape. No way on the Mother's green earth.

"Ah, you hide your scent from enemies. I understand. Sarielle is my chosen name, a first name as you would call it in your culture, Mr. Dh'liam."

He drew her closer. He couldn't resist. "It's just Dh'liam, or Liam, as my friends often call me." When she cocked her head in apparent confusion, he continued. "It's a family name. No Sam, Dave or Harry in our pack."

"Your touch is pleasing, Dh'liam." Her tone was a soft sultry growl, and she moved closer so they were mere inches apart.

With her enchantingly exotic face nearly beneath his, Dh'liam realized she now stood on tiptoe. He felt the heat of her loins against his. Her mating fragrance seared his nostrils. And, as he swept his arm around her slender waist, he became aware the big band era music was transitioning into the romantic strains of a waltz.

"Do you waltz, Sarielle?" he thought to inquire like a gentleman.

"You lead, and I'll follow. We often dance on the galactic cruise ship."

With a low raw growl only for her ears, Dh'liam swung his she-wolf among the other dancers. True to her words, Sarielle matched him effortlessly, and he whirled them around the dance floor in time to the moonspun music.

Her strength flowed against him, a grace he'd hungered for, and never known it until now. Now, this very fierce moment of knowing what he'd needed, what he wanted.

So, Dante had been right in insisting he refresh his ballroom dancing skills. Dh'liam even mentally thanked his sire and dam for all the lessons they'd made him endure over the years, given his family believed in a formal presentation of themselves at times.

As the tempo of the music slowed, she allowed the tightening of his arm. And, when he wrapped both arms around her, she draped herself against him. Her small, long-fingered hands stroked the back of his neck before she laced her fingers, and held onto him tightly.

The thought of her pressed against some other man, regardless of species, boiled Dh'liam's blood. He leashed his stud-possessiveness, willing his focus on Sarielle instead.

He listened to the quickening of her breaths that were almost wolfen pants. He listened to the rapid passionate beat of her heart. He felt the way her loins cradled the large bone his cock had become, and wished it would last forever.

"I crave fresh air," she murmured toward his ear, once the music faded.

Immediately, Dh'liam eased her against his side, escorting her to one of the tunnel exits that led to a small clearing, one surrounded by a stand of majestic fir trees.

"Will the cold temperature bother you, my beautiful she-wolf?"

"I am from a colder region. It will feel refreshing, Dh'liam. Besides, I will depend upon your arms around me."

Once they stood outside in the crisp winter air, she snuggled against him, her cheek pressed against his love-struck, fast-pounding heart.

"Lonely Hearts Club?" he asked, hoping against hope.

Sarielle had been headed toward the area that Dante set up for the women who arrived alone and wanted dance partners. Even though, Dante had explained about their extraterrestrial visitors, he hadn't said if they were unattached, un-mated.

Now Dh'liam had to know.

"Yes, I am a lonely heart." She hesitated, and he felt her quiver in his embrace. "I had a husband..."

"Had a husband?" he roughly barked out as he instinctively clutched her closer against him.

"We were matched. We were to be mates." She shook now, and Dh'liam knew it wasn't because of the cold.

"What happened, Sarielle?" His hands roamed her back, reflecting the urgency he felt like sparks of fire throughout his entire body.

"I was not a good mate to him... I tried. But it was so... ho-hum, I believe you would say."

Dh'liam wanted to laugh, to bust a gut with his howls of laughter. Instead, he buried his nose, his lips in her hair, and wrapped himself around his she-wolf. Somehow, some way, he could convince her to stay with him on Earth. He would convince her to be his mate -- he would convince her that he would never be a ho-hum husband.
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal Valentine's Day ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Say It With ...

2012-02-13T13:40:00.000-06:00

“Now what’s he up to?” Merry wondered, eying the kitchen door. Dash was not a cook. Heck, all he ate were grains, fruits and vegetables, raw when he could get ‘em. A man who could switch to horse form and graze in a pasture didn’t need a kitchen. So why had he shoo’d out the staff and told the hands to keep Merry occupied for a couple of hours?

“You know why.” Lacy giggled and elbowed Merry in the ribs. Lacy’s dad was one of the wranglers here on Merry’s dude ranch. Lacy groomed the horses and made sure the tack was in fit shape for guests to use. “It’s Valentine’s Day. He’s cooking you breakfast.”

“Little late for that,” Merry said. Her breakfast had been several hours ago, before sunrise. “Man’s next to useless in a kitchen. What’s he think he can do in there?”

“Something that'll make you happy, I’m thinking. You know how men get when they’re in love.”

“Sure, I know. How do you? You’re fourteen years old.”

Lacy grinned up at her. “Three older sisters, one married. Look, whatever he’s making—”

“Smile, bat my lashes, and pretend I love it. I know how to handle a lovestruck man.” Or a stud horse, which had come in handy since she’d hooked up with Dash. She gave Lacy a gentle push toward the door. “You get your tail back to the barn and keep out of trouble. I’m going in before he burns the house down.”

“Don’t forget to—”

“Smile. Got it. Now git.” Giggling, Lacy danced out the door.

Dang little brat, Merry thought. Fourteen going on thirty-six. Though given the choice, Merry’d rather deal with her than with a man in a kitchen. Even worse, a boss stallion in a kitchen. He could boil water for oatmeal, she figured he had that much sense. Anything beyond that was asking for disaster.

Best to deal with it quick. Fixing the necessary smile to her face, Merry pushed into the kitchen.

The warm, welcomy smell of baking greeted her. She stopped and stared around, astonished. Nothing burning? No grease fires? No big mess on the table or in the sink? The man was all hoof when it came to something as simple as brewing coffee. And here he’d gone and made her—

A pie?

Dash stood by the oven and stared at her, maybe just a touch less startled than she. He had a cook’s apron protecting his brawny body from the perils of flour and butter. Apple cores littered the cutting board on the counter. He hadn’t bothered to throw them out. He’d been snacking on them while he worked.

“Merry,” he said, his voice several shades off his usual hearty neigh. “You’re supposed to be out riding fence.”

“Jerry took over for me. He said you were acting weird and you’d barricaded yourself in the kitchen.” She stared at the pie. “Well. I guess you’re not making bombs or setting fire to anything.”

“No.” Dash shook out his mane. Lord above, Merry realized, her big boss stud was embarrassed. He thrust the pie at her. “Happy Valentine’s Day.”

Merry picked up a washcloth and took the still-warm pie plate from his hands. She pulled in a long, hearty sniff. It smelled heavenly. The aroma called up distant memories of winter afternoons helping Mama peel apples to help make fritters for the hands. “Apple?”

“’Course it’s apple.” Dash tossed his hair again, like a nervous horse. “I know it’s different for you humans. Chocolate and flowers and that. With us, it’s apple pie. Sometimes a bouquet of alfalfa and timothy. I didn’t think you’d go for that, though.”

“No, the pie’s a good choice.” Her mouth watered like a dog’s at sight of a biscuit. Suddenly something occurred to her. She set the pie on the table. “When you first showed up at the ranch, I offered you lunch. I served you apple pie.”

Dash nodded, with a touch of a grin. “Uh-huh.”

“You must’ve thought I was a slut.”

“I thought you were just another stuck-up, bossy human filly, until you served me up that pie.” Dash’s grin widened. He ambled over to her to rub her cheek with a flour-dusted thumb. “It made me re-evaluate my attitude toward humans, and got me curious enough about you to want to stick around. I’m happy now I did. How ‘bout you?”

Merry nodded mutely. The world, and a woman’s happiness, turned on such tiny events. She’d come a slice-of-pie’s width away from missing out on the best thing to ever enter her life. She looked up into his eyes and could see he was saying the same thing to himself.

She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him hard as she could. Dash’s strong arms crushed her to him. You find a man this good, she thought, you hang on and don’t let go.

“So anyway,” Dash said when they finally broke free, “happy Valentine’s Day. We gonna eat that pie or what?”

“You bet.” Merry grinned. Who needed candy anyway, when she had the sweetest man-horse in the world right here in her kitchen? “I think there’s ice cream in the freezer.”

ShapeShifter Seductions ~ Cupid's Choice Blog Hop

2012-02-10T04:00:00.069-06:00

Welcome Readers to the Cupid's Choice Blog Hop, Talbot's Peak style! If you're just joining us and would like to take the full tour click here to start at the beginning http://justromance.me/

Now sit back and read all about the wildness going on in our fair town...

Enjoy!

~~~
Diva's, Dancing and Wild Giggles!

Paul stood along the side wall of the gorgeous Midnight Stardust Supperclub, per Dante’s instructions, striving to look nonchalant while admiring the room decked out in true Valentine style. That wolf sure had great taste. It was amazing and too darn bad he walked the heterosexual side of life. What Paul wouldn’t give to make big D’s hackles rise.

“Paa-uool,” The husky voiced alpha bitch called out to him with her faithful, but gorgeous, dog growling behind her. “You ready for me?”

Nick was ten times a sexy, rolled into one wicked package. If the rumors were true then surely Paul could entice the desk humping alpha into a game of‘chase and mount’—that is, once he got the male away from the tough bitch in front of him.

“Ziva, doll, are you ready to be swept off your feet?” And dropped into the group of rutting males who made up the Ziva Wick fan club.

“Absolutely.” She took his arm and moved with him to the middle of the room. When he pulled her into an embrace she whispered close to his ear, “No, doll, he still is not up for grabs. Now spin me around the room so I can decide what kind of evaluation to give Dante.”

Mangy whore. Oh, he liked Z well enough, but she knew of his interest in her mate and always made sure he knew she did not approve. She’d also dug up information that he was Mayor Links gossip getter and dirty deeds doer, but that was not why he was working for Dante. His work here was totally personal and the money wasn’t bad either.

“Ziva!” Grunts and snarls from just outside the smooth wood dance floor both warned him of Nick’s dwindling patience and got his motor running. He’d always had a predator/prey fetish.

“One more turn around the floor, Nicky, settle down.”

One more turn, indeed. Paul slid his hand to Ziva’s lower back, or the top of her ass rather, and swirled her around the outside edge of the wood and ended with a push and twirl under his arm. The speed of it all was breath-taking he knew, but he’d never had any complaints. “So did I pass the test, Z?”

“I’m suitably impressed, Paa-uool,”she gasped, with a hand to her chest and a twinkle in her eye. “You might also like to know that a certain Wile E, not his real name I’m sure, was asking questions about the new dancer at the Supperclub.”

Paul could feel the large hands of panic mix with the fine edge of arousal as he pondered Ziva’s news. Wile E Coyo, the name of his online guilty pleasure had come to town.

“Hmmm, interesting turn of events, Paa-uool. “Ziva removed her hand from his and sashayed to her sexy lover. “I can’t wait to see what happens.”

Holy Hermes neither could he…

“Any quote I can add to the next online edition of the G&B about dance instruction or, anything?” Ziva’s grin was evil, just evil. But considering the info he’d given Mayor Link about her last week, he figured he deserved this.

“Me-meep.” Paul whispered before walking away from her wild giggle. He was so screwed.

May your Valentine's Day include dancing, desire and lots of wild giggles!

Serena

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
ROSES ARE RED, VIOLET IS ALLERGIC!

“AAAAHHHCCCOOO!” Violet Epperson, owner of Talbot’s Peak Floral and Sweets Emporium, grabbed two tissues from the box sitting n ext to her. She noisily blew her nose and tossed the tissues in the large garbage can near her. She sniffled, trying to smile amongst the tears flowing down her cheeks.

“Blasted allergies,” she muttered. Three days before Valentine’s Day and her staff assistants were out sick; down with the latest human crud running amok through the next two towns over. The large order of roses center pieces for Dante’s new supper clu b needed completion. Violet’s luck he’d chosen the one flower that set her allergies off worse than any others did. Itchy watery eyes were nothing compared to a re d nose and dark circles rimming her under eye so dark that not even Lamar’s theater pancake makeup covered them. So she looked like hell. She felt like hell too.

“One down and- - -” Violet shuddered. She needed twenty-four mo re vases filled. Her arms and hands itched as though bugs crawled up and down her skin from the inside out. How much more Benadryl could she take and stay awake? Short on sleep, long on another pot of coffee, she tied the red bow around the vase and set it on the next workbench over.

A loud ding sounded from the front of the shop. Great a customer and she had no one to help until her part time help arrived in a half hour. The bell sounded ag ain. Two clients? The shop rarely got this busy this late in the day. Who’d come in? More teenage shifters trying to see what they could get cheap to gift their young love with? Running her hands through her hair, Violet looked in the mirror near the sink where she washed and dried her hands before entering the front of the shop.

As she moved toward the counter, bell on the front door rang again. In walked four more customers. Six clients at once. . .unheard of. Most of Talbot’s Peak residents cared less about sweets and flowers. A few did actually own enough couth to c ourt their human mates in a fashion that seemed rather old compared to today’s standards. Still, Violet wasn’t going to turned down business.

“Can I help. . .” Her words stopped in her throat. Before her stood three of the studliest hunks she’d ever seen. Their hair varied in color only by the slightest variance. Triplets? She swallowed hard. Talk about her hottest fantasy standing before her. She fought placing her hand against her cheek to check for a fever. No, she could drink in the sight and enjoy the eye candy while they shopped. Tonight though, her diary would be burning w ith red ink for sure. What fantasy details she could dream up as she wrote would ignite her dreams and probably wear out the batteries she’d just put in her new vibrator.

Rubbing her sweaty palms on her apron, Violet stepped to the counter. She met the eyes of the male closest to her. He nodded and smiled. “Are you Violet Epperson?”

“Yes,” she answered unsure why her throat went dry as hunk number two leaned on the counter and his gaze roved over her like the sun blasting through t he clouds. Her heart beat faster as her nipples tightened under her bra. She could feel the lace of her bra cups slightly chafe their sensitive tips. She swallowed as best she could. “What can I do for you?”

The third hunk joined the other two looking her over as though she were a prize waiting to be claimed. These three could have any female they wanted. Why were they looking at her like they were about to lay siege to her? God, how much longer could she keep from fanning or pinching herself to see if she was hallucinating?

The two other men joined the trio at the counter. Twins, not as identical as the triplets-still close enough for Violet to blink and set her mind to wondering what fun she could have with all five.

“Lamar sent us to- - -” Violet held up her hand, stopping the speaker. She held a finger to her nose as she rummaged in her apron pocket for a tissue. Damn, of all times to sneeze.

“AAAACCHOOOO!” She dabbed her eyes and apologized. “I’m sorry. I’ve got work to finish. So tell Lamar, thanks but I’ll. . .”

The first hunk moved behind the counter pressing his hand to her cheek. “I’m Doctor Ranger from across the street. Lamar said you needed help since your assistants are sick. My brothers are floral designers from New York. They’re visiting.” The doctor pointed to the twins who nodded in agreement.

He continued motioning the other two triplets forward. “This is my cousin Rafe and his twin Axle. We’re here to take care of you. No fuss. No muss. You helped Lamar when he courted Jamie. He’s returning the favor. And believe me, we’re going to take good care of you.”

The next morning, Violet kicked back the covers and winched as she stretched. Three sets of hands reached for her. Lips pressed against her nude back. Another set rubbed against the nape of her neck. The third whispered in her ear, “Come back and ride us more our love.”

Happiest of Valentine's Days! May your love multiply and your fantasies come true!

Solara

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

STRICTLY BUSINESS

Now this was just too much. Tasman glared at the greeting card with the big red heart on it sitting on the middle of his desk. Someone had entered his home office, his sanctum, violated his jealously-guarded privacy, and left him a Vishnu-cursed Valentine.

He knew exactly where to heap the blame. “Guri!” he bellowed.

His youngest brother hesitantly poked his head inside. “Yes, Tasman? Oh. Someone’s left you a Valentine.”

Tasman was taken aback. “It wasn’t you?”

“I?” Guri made a face. “Absolutely not! You’re my brother!”

“But … you and Sanjay take such delight in this country’s holidays.”

“Yes, that’s true. But this particular holiday is reserved for sweethearts. No way Sanjay and I are missing out on that. We’re going down to the coffee shop to hand out chocolate hearts to the ladies. We’re hoping we might—Sanjay says the colloquial te rm is ‘get lucky.’ Would you like to come along?”

Tasman waved his hand at the card. It refused to fall over, as if to mock him. “You had nothing to do with this?”

“I would not give my brother a Valentine. That’s sick. Perhaps it was Rakshasi or Kali.”

“Perhaps. Enjoy your holiday, then. I’ve work to do.”

Guri shrugged. “Happy Valentine’s Day,” he said, and withdrew.

Tasman regarded the card and its big, blood-colored heart. Laying a heart at the foot of one’s lover—yes, he could understand how such a custom could evolve in a barbarous society, and why shifters would so eagerly adopt it. However, like America’s other inexplicable holidays, he had no use for Valentine’s Day.

He doubted very much that his sister or mother had left him the card. Neither was sentimental or romantically inclined. Nor did Tasman have a “sweetheart,” as Guri had termed it. When the time came, his father Shere Khan would arrange a marriage with a suitable tigress. As long as she was mannered and presentable, Tasman assumed he would approve. He swept the card aside and sat to deal with his usual mound of paperwork.

A soft rap sounded on the door, and Leila entered. Tasman barely glanced at her. Leila was his personal assistant, secretary and bodyguard, and as such as much a piece of the office furniture as his desk or chair. She spoke softly, as befit a female, dressed smartly in tailored yet feminine suits, kept her head in a crisis and never raised a fuss over anything.

Until today.

Tasman’s glance became a full-on stare. In place of her usual conservative suit she wore a scarlet dress with a deep V-neck that showed off a hitherto-unsuspected expanse of comely bosom. The dress’s hem rode halfway up her thigh, revealing legs longer than the Ganges. She’d woven a crimson flower into her platinum hair. She smiled at him and nodded a demure good-morning.

Tasman reared back in his chair. “Leila?”

“Sir?”

He found he couldn’t speak. He nodded at her outfit.

“Oh,” she said. “I hoped you wouldn’t mind. It’s Valentine’s Day.”

Of course. Guri’s madness tended to be infectious. So far Tasman had resisted. But Leila? His own executive assistant? “I wasn’t aware you celebrated this holiday.”

“All females celebrate this holiday. That’s what Guri said.”

“I suppose Guri gave you a card?”

She nodded with a little smile. “And chocolate.”

Tasman made an effort and composed himself. It wouldn’t do for a son of Shere Khan to crouch here panting like a randy cub. But dayam, as the Americans said. Leila looked spectacular in that immodest dress. Granted, snow leopards had little trouble looking spectacular in anything they wore, or didn’t wear. Leila had always managed to tone down her sexiness in his presence, as befit a professional.

Not today, however. Today she’d gone full out. She looked—what was the word Sanjay used when referring to females? Hot. Yes. Hot.

“Leila,” he croaked. He swallowed and tried again. “You are familiar with this holiday?”

“Somewhat. Guri explained it to me.”

Vishnu save them both. Well, he had no other sources at hand. “Explain it to me, then. The purpose of this Valentine’s Day.”

“Well,” she began. She tapped her full red lips with her fingernail. Nail and lips had been painted red for the holiday. She looked as if she’d clawed and bitten into some hot, fresh-killed prey. Tasman found it—again he had to grope for a Sanjay-word. Turn-on. A Vishnu-blessed turn-on.

“It appears to be a mating celebration,” Leila said. “Fe males dress provocatively. Males express their appreciation with flowers and chocolate. Apparently the cards are intended to express one’s intentions towards a prospective mate.”

“I see. I wonder why so many human holidays revolve around chocolate?”

Leila shrugged gracefully. It made the dress tug over several intriguing areas. “Chocolate has long been touted as an aphrodisiac. You know how decadent and self-indulgent the monkeys can be.”

“Prey,” Tasman agreed. “What’s the significance of the little naked baby with the wings?”

“Their god of love, I would assume. I wonder that they chose such an innocuous representation, given the nature of love.”

“Well, he is armed with a weapon. That says a lot right there. So.” Tasman swallowed again. “You’re in search of a mate? You should have come to me. I could have arranged a meeting with a suitable male.”

Leila lowered her eyes. “You’re so generous to me already, sir. I wouldn’t presume to impose.”

“It’s no imposition. You’ve been an excellent assistant and I value you highly. You are also … ” He licked his lips. “Hot.”

“Thank you, sir. May I say, you are also quite attractive. Virile and highly desirable.”

“I’m a tiger. That goes without saying.”

“Of course, sir. However, I understand today is the day to say such things. I thought I’d partake in the holiday. The rituals sounded intriguing.”

“Rituals?”

“Dinner and dancing. Cards and flowers. Chocolate.” She flipped back her hair with a careless, and sexy, little toss of her head. When had she learned that? She’d never done it before in his presence. “Sometimes one needs to relax.”

Tasman frowned at the piles of papers on his desk. “True. All work and no play.” He got up briskly. “Well. Perhaps a holiday is indeed in order. Does this Valentine’s Day include lunch?”

“It can. Also strolls in the park. Sometimes hand-holding.”

“I suppose we could manage that. You will accompany me?”

“I wouldn’t want to be seen as presumptuous, sir.”

“Nonsense. We’re both mateless, and this is a celebration. I—” He cleared his throat and amended his order. “I ask that you join me for lunch, and a stroll around the square. Perhaps we could fit in a run through the woods. Would that be acceptable?”

“I believe that would satisfy the holiday’s parameters, sir.”

“Good. Also, I believe we should go to dinner tonight, and dancing at the supper club. Just to be on the safe side.”

“That would cover all the bases. As the monkeys say.”

“All right, then.” Tasman nodded. Again the greeting card and its crimson heart caught his eye. Be my Valentine. Unsigned, of course. Very circumspect of her. No one else besides himself had access to this office. Anyone in the household would have recognized her handwriting.

He’d nearly forgotten what skillful hunters snow leopards were, and how underhanded they could be when it suited them. It was part of the reason he’d chosen Leila as his assistant.

He came out from behind the desk and offered her his arm. “If we’re going to celebrate, we’d best get started. You understand this is strictly business. An investigation of native customs. Blending in with the locals.”

She purred up at him with eyes that said otherwi se. Much like his own just now, he surmised. “Of course, sir. Strictly business.” She added with a grin, “Monkey business.”

Indeed. He would have to thank the monkeys later, for their creativity in devising their holidays. With a lighter step than he’d shown in days, Tasman escorted Leila from the office.

Posted by Pat C.

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The Were-Huntress, Cupid's Victim

Like background music, Selakiah smelled the woman's werewolf lover. The smiling blue-haired barista placed a second cup of Cappuccino, sprinkled with cinnamon, before her.

Without taking her gaze off Zuquotti, the mercenary-for-hire werebeast striding toward the coffee shop from across the street -- not for a fraction of a second, Selakiah thanked the young woman, then lifted the cup and took a small sip.

"Delicious," she praised.

"You're new in town. Planning on staying in our fair Talbot's Peak for awhile?" the barista chattily asked.

There weren't that many customers. Selakiah assumed it was because the lunch crowd had departed. Even though, shapeshifters and supernaturals were the main population of this off-the-beaten-track town in Montana, many of them appeared to have regular jobs and careers. So she'd observed the past three days.

"Depends," she answered. "I'm a working girl... as in private investigator," Selakiah added because of her snow bunny outfit, her generously displayed cleavage.

She felt no compulsion to outright lie. Stretch the truth, yeah. Besides, Selakiah knew the barista was far more than she appeared, possessing obvious psi abilities.

"Investigating someone in town?" the barista casually inquired. The wariness beneath her words was heavy as a lead-lined coffin.

"No. Someone who has recently arrived here. He's headed this way...a-n-d entering now."

The bell above the door tinkled, and the 'cute as Cyndi Lauper' woman spun on her high bootheels. She spoke the usual greeting, and moved toward Zuquotti.

Waiting for the show to unfold, Selakiah sipped her Cappuccino, and told her eyelids to stop drooping. She'd been up for nearly twenty-four hours now, a stretch even for her slayer kind, especially given she'd barely slept since being on the werebeast's trail for the last several months.

Elusive was not an adequate description for the slippery-as-witch-spittle shapeshifter, who was known for his Adonis charm and sexy bad-boy looks. Neither was the word, deadly, when it came to the utterly bloodthirsty way he eviscerated his enemies, and his chosen targets -- most of them other supernaturals. And, of course, the other slayers who had tracked him. A few she'd known.

For the past decade, Selakiah had been hunting the 'beastly beast' as she'd ultimately nicknamed Zuquotti. About five years ago she'd watched as he morphed into five successive forms.

At the time, Selakiah had been crouched atop a small church's steeple seeking a way to deliver a kill shot to the one vulnerable spot on his human body. Before she could leap and drive her long, thin crystal spike -- her family's ancient slaying weapon -- into the hollow of his throat, Zuquotti had sprouted wings, and transitioned into a monstrous lion.

With an earth-shattering roar, he sprang, his great wings driving him. Piercing the the night's darkness with her superior eyesight, Selakiah quickly found his victim. Only this time, the ten foot tall, broad-as-a-tank Draco warrior had obviously gone bad. He was abducting a human toddler, the unconscious child trapped beneath his armpit.

For some reason unknown to her, Zuquotti had one redeeming quality to his character. He would save the young of any species. Selakiah often wondered before drifting into sleep if that's why she hadn't been able to hunt him to extinction, deliver the final blow.

Thinking to save the child herself, she'd lessened her body weight, then jumped and sailed through the air. As if he'd known the exact moment she would land close by, Zuquotti flying-charged the Draco just as he aimed his laser staff.

Before the giant reptilian could shoot the weapon's disintegrating fire, Zuquotti engulfed his shoulder shield with the power of his huge jaws. By sheer strength, he'd forced the Draco off balance, enough so the toddler slipped from beneath reptilian's white scaly arm.

Selakiah had been there to catch the child. Whirling like a dervish she'd retreated far enough away to observe. She'd cradled the still unconscious but unharmed child, and watched as the vicious claw-against-claw battle unfolded.

Beneath the silvery blazing light of the full moon on that winter-cold night, Zuquotti had eventually won victory, but barely. He'd changed into a razor-taloned eagle, striking the Draco's eyes repeatedly. When the reptilian had launched on top of his back, and used his weight and strength to crush the life out of him, Zuquotti had shifted into an enormous warhorse, bucking him off.

Again wings emerged from his back, and like Pegasus he'd flown, attacking with his hooves and raking teeth. Even as the Draco ripped gashes in his underbelly, Zuquotti had morphed into a prehistoric rhinoceros. Protected somewhat by his thick bony plates, he'd eventually trampled the reptilian into a messy death.

Selakiah preferred not to dwell on how easily she'd placed the child in his human arms. For one simple reason, though. He'd known where to return the boy.

Now... with the smile of an angel, and purposefully not looking her way, Zuquotti centered his full attention on the barista. His gaze all too appreciatively took in her red, pink and white outfit. "Ah, yes, Valentine's Day is tomorrow. Miss...?"

"Just call me Marissa."

"Marissa. What a lovely name. It flows from the tongue like music."

She tilted her head flirtatiously. "You know who you resemble, don't you?"

"Why don't you tell me?" the chimera shapeshifter charmingly bantered.

With attitude Marissa planted a hand on her hip. "John Kennedy Jr., rest his soul... only add in biker dude." She paused. "What can I get for you?"

After a smile that could melt hard-frozen butter in the middle of Antarctica, Zuquotti made a show of studying the menu board. "It would seem Cupid's Choice is the right brew for this occasion. If you'll also serve one to the lady in pink, I'll be joining her shortly."

Marissa scrutinized him for a moment, then with a nod, she sang, "Sure thing."

Somewhat thrown off stride because this was the first time, the chimera shapeshifter had directly approached her, Selakiah straightened, and set her cup down. She didn't fear his attack. Zuquotti remained circumspect in how and where he slaughtered. Besides, her instincts weren't shrieking like a banshee.

Not yet, anyway.

Although, as he approached, her hackles raised, and her hand itched to grip her weapon -- ready it for a quick strike to his throat. The woman in her couldn't help admiring the way his Italian suit, a dark navy blue, enhanced his tall, hard-as-steel physique.

He hadn't bothered with a shirt or a winter coat. Why bother since his sculpted chest, attractively sprinkled with dark hair, caused women to stop and stare. Besides, she knew he possessed the ability to control his body temperature.

One clue told her she wasn't in any immediate danger. His dark silver eyes didn't flash with blue bolts of lightning. No, they glinted with a brightness she'd never observed before.

With a sophisticated ease, he halted before her. From a lifetime of practice, she controlled her heartbeat, then slowed her racing pulse.

"My adorable Selakiah, your beauty only increases. I must admit you have been on my mind of late."

Subtly, but devastatingly, he swept his gaze over her. Damn, her peaking nipples.

"Why is that?" she bluntly asked. With a nonchalant manner Selakiah didn't at all feel, she took a long swallow of her Cappuccino, which drained the cup. Still, she never removed her gaze from his eyes, and her fingers kept it gripped like a weapon.

"Your pursuit of me over the years has worked, my Selakiah," he gentlemanly announced as if they attended a cotillion. "I yield to your desire to trap me into marriage."

If he had morphed into a fire-spitting, writhing dragon intent on devouring her as a tasty snack, Selakiah could not have been more staggered, more unprepared. Hell, she would have been more prepared for an evil attacking dragon.

She knew her eyes had flown wide open, that little gasps of breath escaped past her lips. That time must have ceased...

"I had wished to make this a more romantic moment between us, my Selakiah," he continued. With a polished move, and a small grin toying with the corner of his lips, he seated himself opposite her.

"Trapped you into..." she choked out like a frog. She couldn't even say the word, marriage.

"Yes, marriage is quite to my liking. I have reached a new maturity." Even though she knew she gaped at him like he'd lost his monster-chimera mind that didn't halt his next words. "I have always admired you from afar. What man could not? Beyond your fair and fiery beauty, your warrioress prowess over the years has proven to be most delightful, and an ongoing challenge for me."

As Selakiah absorbed his meaning while mentally looking for a quick escape -- it was of course at this critical moment in her life that Marissa appeared beside them with steaming dainty cups of Cupid's Choice, a coffee and cream brew that included a splash of strawberry, raspberry and chocolate liqueur. Selakiah knew the ingredients because she would have indulged in a cup if not for her surveillance of him... Zuquotti -- who must have gone utterly round the bend into a beast's madness for some reason she couldn't yet determine.

His outward appearance gave no sign, and his scent, his smoky, over-the-top virile, inebriating scent, offered no explanation either. "What is it you want?" she blurted out, once Marissa wisely departed.

"Now I wish a new challenge between us. Our marital bed should prove to be even more exciting, more delightful." He paused, his gaze flaring. "More savage."

Simply to contain her shock and gather her runaway thoughts, Selakiah lifted the coffee to her mouth. She let the steam fill her nostrils, then slowly tasted. The gorgeous flavors took over her palate for several moments, even though insanity had definitely found her, and now sought to imprison her.

Zuquotti saluted her with his coffee, his flair natural. After a taste of the brew, his gaze blatantly devoured her cleavage. For an instant, he seared a look at where she'd placed her wand-slim weapon. "Instead of your crystal arrow, beautiful slayer, I have been struck by cupid's arrow."

She watched as his whole demeanor changed to what she could only describe as love-struck. No, she didn't want to admit it, but certainly she couldn't deny he appeared seriously passion-struck over her.

Selakiah wanted to shiver inside. She didn't allow it because he would sense her weakness, know her woman's reaction.

With disbelief setting in, she asked, "I'm not really here, am I?" Her own voice sounded like mist to her ears.

"I have a proposition."

"You can't be serious."

He paused as she took another bracing sip. "You are currently residing at Dante's Pleasure Club. A superb place of protection, by the way. When you return, my Selakiah, you will find a red gown, other garments, as well as accessories."

"What are you talking about, beastly beast?" Her temper reared up, and Selakiah gave him her most formidable scowl.

"Ah, your nickname for me. I quite enjoy it, and plan to live up to such a billing during our marital relations."

So, he could read her mind, at times, as she'd suspected for the past several years. However, his current game of pretending to be truly interested in her, as in a marriage partner, felt somehow torturous. Selakiah didn't want to ask herself why. But then, even as a slayer, she wasn't exactly immune to her own desire to be loved, to be wanted by the right man.

With her instinct for survival kicking butt, Selakiah struck at one of his weak points. "Legend has it you escaped from an Atlantean lab during the final age when the mad scientists ruled, and were given free rein to create any kind of evil monstrosity. True?"

Imperceptibly, except to her trained eye, he stilled. His gaze flickered, pale silver sparks flashing in the depths of his eyes. "A fair concern for my future bride."

"I'd say so. And I am not your 'future bride'."

He gave her a dashing smile. "Allow me to be your escort at the Valentine's Day celebration at the Midnight Stardust Supperclub, and I will explain my story. To make my offer more enticing..." he leaned forward slightly, and she lost herself in the sheer bold intensity of his gaze, "and to complete my proposition, beautiful Selakiah. If I do not persuade you to be my bride within the protected confines of the supperclub tomorrow evening, then I will surrender my throat to your slayer's weapon."

Astounded because she sensed not one particle of deception, Selakiah straightened so the back of the chair cut beneath her shoulder blades. With her stone cold ability to deal with werebeasts, and as her heart pounded strongly in anticipation of finally sliding her icicle-clear blade deep into his throat, she did the only thing a slayer could.

"I accept your proposition."

His eyes glittered like a dusk sky suddenly taken over by diamond dust -- his desire for her obvious. "Once the club is closed for the night, my Selakiah, you will make your choice."

****

Holding the long-stemmed red rose, Selakiah stood at the entrance of the Midnight Stardust Supperclub. The red gown Zuquotti had provided fit more than perfectly, and felt like silken water as it slid over her curves, as the satin fabric glided against her skin.

Immediately, Zuquotti approached, his stride confident. The simple elegant black tux he wore only enhanced his brand of handsomeness.

"You are more beautiful than I could have imagined, slayer." His small wicked smile teased all of her senses, and warmed her womanly parts. After a slight bow, he offered his arm.

Their evening had begun.
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal and Miraculous Valentine's Day ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

********************************

The Best Gift Ever

“I’m screwed,” Mooney murmured as he read the e-mail canceling his order of twenty pounds of chocolate. He didn’t remember sending an e-mail canceling the order but there it was in his “sent” box. So much for his corny plan to do a solid chocolate mate for Marissa for Valentine’s Day. He’d gotten the idea after watching Marissa crack up watching an old episode of The Simpsons. What was he going to do now?

He had no one to blame but himself for this, of course. Every few months, he made a point of treating Marissa to something edible, sensual and erotic as hell. Last Valentine’s Day, they’d done “Angel Food Beef Cake.” There was no way he could top that now, not with only two days till the big day.

“What’s the matter, babe?” Marissa asked as she entered the bedroom from the adjoining bathroom. Mooney allowed the sight of his still-damp and completely naked mate distract him from his dilemma.

“Oh, nuthin’,” he replied, sounding a bit gloomy even to his own ears. Marissa’s left eyebrow cocked up at that, making her look rakish. Perhaps the jet black towel she was using to rub her brilliant blue-dyed hair helped. The combination was sexy as hell, he thought with a smile. His eyes followed her progress around the room hungrily.

“The chocolate order?” she asked. Mooney jerked his attention away from the silky rose-tipped globes of her tits. Aw, damn. He’d left his e-mail account open and on the order cancellation notice. With another start, he realized the impact of her words.

“You knew about it?” he asked, stunned and just a little sad. “It was going to be part of my Valentine’s gift for you this year.”

“I know, lover,” she said as she straddled his lap, snuggling her bare crotch against his jean-clad and stirring cock. “I love your surprises and don’t usually go digging for info when I know you are planning something, but this year, I had to take a bit of initiative.”

“Initiative?” he murmured against the hollow of her throat.

“Yeah,” she moaned, digging her eager fingers into his hair. “I’ve looked everywhere for info on wolf-witch pregnancies, but I haven’t found much of any use.”

“Pregnancies?” he asked going still.

“You know. Wolves can’t eat chocolate, especially breeding wolves. I’m not a wolf, of course, but I figured there has to be some reason why pregnant wolves can’t tolerate it. Maybe the chemicals in the stuff are harmful to the fetus? So I figured better safe than sorry. I’ll just stay away from eating it till the baby comes.”

“I-I-I… you…” he stammered. Whoa, he thought. Is she really saying what I think she’s saying. Mooney looking into her bright blue eyes, trying to find confirmation. She gazed back at him, nibbling on the corner of her lower lip, and shrugged.

“That is unless you don’t want to have a baby with me. I’m only a couple weeks late, so maybe I’m not, but…”

“Oh, baby,” Mooney whispered reverently. “You better believe I want to have pups with you.”

To hell with finding the perfect gift for Marissa, he though a few hours later. He looked down at her slumbering, well exercised body. He laid a hand gently on her still flat tummy. There was no way in a hundred life times he could top the gift she was going to be giving him in a few months’ time.

Here's wishing everyone a safe and romantic Valentine's Day!

~ Rebecca L. Gillan

February's Calendar!

2012-02-09T17:55:00.006-06:00

A week late and a dollar short. Yes, I know I promised this last Thursday, but I lost one of my dogs and was just not into doing much other than moping last week. It's all good, the hottie is still hot and ready to heat up your February.

With out further ado, I present White Fang Kent, Crime Reporter!

Like last time, just click on the image and it'll take you to the calendar page.

~ Rebecca

Rising to the challenge

2012-02-08T19:31:00.002-06:00

You know your day is going to suck when your bra clasp breaks during your 8:30 conference call. How badly it's going to suck depends on what else is going on around you when that happens. I was taking a sip of hot coffee.

I had just taken a sip and inhaled the fantastic aroma as the spicy, sweet cinnamon late percolated around my taste buds. The SNAP!

I wasn't wearing a normal bra, of course. I was missing Lexor, the love of my life and had put on the lacy little slip of nothing much he'd given me for Christmas. It had a front clasp made of wire that was only sort of tacked on to the fine French lace of the cups. I am a well endowed woman, though you can't tell from the conservative cloths I tend to wear. A large lung full of coffee fumes was just too much for it. Damn.

My name is Dori, by the way. Just Dori. I'm somewhere in the area of 4,000 years old. I don't know exactly as the Ancient Persians didn't keep track of time the way they do now and until this past year, I haven't made a habit of walking in the human world enough to need to count time. After a few thousand years, exact age is kind of irrelevant, anyway. After spitting boiling hot coffee onto my bosom, I was even less inclined to care about my age.

I handled it well, all things considered. The private investigator I was an the line with didn't notice. Or if he did, he didn't comment, so I didn't comment, either. The point of the call was not to discuss my coffee or underwear--it was to find what the hell had happened to Lex.

Lex. The love of my life and at times the bane of it, too. He was about the same age I was but he was Egyptian. If you know anything about males or Egyptians, you'd understand my dilemma. He was Small, wiry, well muscled, and had enough sex appeal to make me forget all about my religiously conservative upbringing. I missed him.

Did I mention that it's my fault he's missing? Well, sort of my fault. My father is actually to blame, but that's not going to matter much to Lex. Nearly 4,000 years ago, when we were both still very young, I had betrayed Lex at my father's insistence. It took me maybe ten minutes to figure out that I had screwed up and almost all of the next 4,000 years to win his trust back. Last summer, my father laid a trap for Lex and used me as bait. I should have realized what was about to happen, but I hadn't. And I haven't seen hide nor hair of the sexy, sinful Egyptian cat god of my dreams since. I really need to find him, too. Partially for my own peice of mind but mostly because he's the only one who can stop the coming war.

Maurice, the Moose Shapeshifter

2012-02-07T04:58:00.010-06:00

Pic from Coast to Coast AM ~

Metropolitan Moose

This moose stood here and watched the walk sign change before he and his twin brother crossed this busy midtown road in Anchorage, Alaska. We have a large population of moose that spend the winter in town and it seems they have adapted well to city living! This guy is probably only three years old.

--Timothy Wood
~~~

Tuesday 'Full Moon in Leo' howls and yowls, shapeshifter lovers.

At first, I planned to post Chapter Twenty-Five of my WIP ~ Her Midnight Stardust Cowboys. However, that turned out to be undoable in the allotted time I had once everything got done that needed doing yesterday. Besides, my brain was worn out from a long, rough day of shopping for the necessities.

So, inspired by the above picture, I found my hero for today's flash scene.
~~~~~~

Maurice, the Moose Shapeshifter

Somewhere his life had taken a very bad turn. Several bad turns to be exact. He'd been chased by rivals far away from his herd. With his body mauled by antlers, hooves and teeth, he'd tried to make his way back so he could, at least, tag behind and keep everyone in sight.

But a hunter with a high-powered rifle had spotted him, and he'd had to race for his life through the densest part of the forest. Even though, he could be heard crashing through the brush for miles around, he'd managed to finally escape before exhaustion sent him to his knees.

When he'd been able to struggle onto his feet again, he'd limped along a deer trail toward the sound of water. Since it had been a fast-rushing, large stream, he'd been able to stand in the winter-cold waters and let himself heal for a short time.

Well knowing the area was filled with trophy-seeking hunters, he'd made himself leave the stream. Although, he'd been on this side of freezing, anyway -- even with his fairly big bulk. At that dismal point, he followed his instincts because there was nothing else he could figure to do.

Bedraggled in appearance and in spirit, he'd traveled due south, snatching bites of lichen, and anything else edible. Not really much food for a bull moose of his size, even with his youthful age.

He thought about using his odd ability, the one that showed up every ten generations or so in his family...and was likely the main cause for why he'd been viciously pursued by his former pals -- why he'd been driven from the herd. However, he couldn't see how changing into his human form would help him out all the much in the deep forest.

Yeah, he thought, that was real, antler-rubbing gratitude for ya. As a human, he'd been able to retrieve special treats for the herd, and bring knowledge to the herd elders that aided in their survival. Now... now, he lost weight daily, and his steps were too slow and on the verge of painful.

When his nose practically dragged the ground from fatigue, he wondered if he should find the nearest hunter and sacrifice himself -- not that any human would want him now, given his poor condition -- yet, it was at that instant, he caught sight of a skunk who was partly morphed, and quickly became a lovely naked woman.

If it hadn't been for his depleted and dire state, so dire his hormones didn't raise worth a good piss, he would have silently trumpeted his appreciation, trotting much faster after her. Even so, a sense of hope grabbed him where he still lived, where his heart still beat, even if the beat was only a sluggish thump-thump.

Picking up his hooves as fast as he could, he followed after her. A feeling of fate arrowed through him as she entered an isolated town that had the strong smell of animal blended with human -- as did the town High School she ambled quickly toward.

Deciding his human form would give him an advantage, he shifted behind the tall bushes, but much slower than usual because of his sad condition. Afterward, he snuck inside where a late night meeting was obviously going on.

Immediately waylaid by the smell of food, he headed for the school kitchen instead of finding out what was taking place at this strange hour. Besides, first things first, he needed to find some clothes.

Now, as he stuffed another raw vegetable filled sandwich into his mouth, he gazed at the form on the table. Maybe, just maybe he'd found a place to stay for the winter, if this survey was to be believed.

Figuring there had to be a pencil, or a pen somewhere, since it was a high school after all, he grabbed the form, and walked with deliberate stealth... just in case... toward the nearest classroom door.

Pencil in hand, he seated himself at a desk where the moonlight shone the brightest. With great care he read through the instructions again. Even then, he hardly dared believe there was actually a community where he might not stand out like a broken antler.

****

Dear Resident:

In order to better serve the people of Talbot’s Peak, we would like to create a clearer picture of our citizens’ demographics so that we may continue to provide the programs and services that best meet your needs. To that end, we ask that you take a few minutes to fill out this voluntary survey. No names are required, and all information will be kept confidential. Talbot’s Peak thanks you for your cooperation.

Lancelot Link, Mayor
Talbot’s Peak, Montana

Species

Human ___ Shapeshifter _X_ Vampire ____ Spirit Being ___God ____ Other ________

If shapeshifter, please specify animal: _Moose_

Age: 18-30 _X_ 31-45 ____ 46-60 ___ 61+ ____

Gender

Male_X_ Female ____ Neuter ____ Hermaphroditic ____Undecided ____ Other ____

Are you

Single_X_ Mated ____ In pack or group living arrangement ____ Other _____

Type of dwelling

House _____ Den/Lair ______ Cave ______ Nest _______Underwater Dwelling ______ Other _Homeless_

Do you

Own a Home _______ Rent or Lease _______ Nomadic/Herd _______N/A

Are you currently employed? Yes ____ No_X, I am willing to work_ Self-employed ____

(Note: “Alpha” is not considered an occupation)

How long have you lived in Talbot’s Peak?

1-5 yrs ____ 5-10 yrs ____ More than 10 yrs ____Born/whelped in area _____N/A

What brought you to Talbot’s Peak? What do you like best about the area?

Luck brought me to this town. There are others like me.

Are you pleased with how local government is currently running things?

Yes ____ No ____No comment since I just arrived.

Comments/recommendations:

If you could help me find a job and a place to stay, I would recommend Talbot's Peak to other humans, shapeshifters, vampires, spirit beings, gods and 'others', as a good place to live.

PLEASE RETURN THIS SURVEY IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE. DO NOT INCLUDE CORRESPONDENCE, DEAD ANIMALS, FECES OR OTHER ITEMS IN ENVELOPE.

****

Maurice wiped his slowly dripping tears on the sleeve of the over-sized plaid shirt he'd found... and borrowed. He forgave himself for his weakness. After all, he wasn't that mature yet as a moose.

Tomorrow morning he could locate City Hall... and if he hand-delivered the survey... maybe someone would get the hint, and help him out. Maybe there was another herd to join. Maybe even shapeshifter moose just like him. Although, he'd scented no other of his kind. So far. But what if... what if there were other moose. And, what if there was a mate for him?
~~~~~~

Remember! The CUPID'S CHOICE Blog Hop starts this Friday ~ February 10-12 ~
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal and Miraculous Full Moon Day ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Dancing with the Stars

2012-02-06T08:53:00.000-06:00

“Which do you think goes better with this?” Paul asked, spinning around on the stage to show off his costume. Jamie hesitated to think of it as a garment, since it looked more like a series of belts just barely strung together over strategic areas. “The stilettos or the boots?”

“Boots,” Lamar said at once, “but they gotta have heels. You can’t wear leather without heels.”

“Y’can’t wear that at all,” Jamie said. “That’s Gypsy’s. She catches you in her clothes, you are one dead … just what kind’a shifter are you, anyway?”

“That’s for me to know, and Talbot’s Peak to guess,” Paul said with a wink. He spun again, and this time added a series of graceful dance steps. Not snake, Jamie figured, but dang close to in the sinuous department. “I looooove Gypsy’s closet. I’m going to move in there.”

“Talk to the lobo rojo here,” Lamar said, leaning on the back of the chair to rest his chin in Jamie’s hair. “He knows all about closets.”

“Is this what you do all day when I’m at work? Hang out at Dante’s and dress up in lady clothes?”

“I’m helping out a compadre. Paul here’s looking for a part-time gig to pick up a few extra bucks. Dante’s taking him on as a dance instructor.”

Jamie eyed the lean young man in the tight leather straps suspiciously. “What kind’a dancing?”

“Mind out of the gutter, chico. Ballroom, for the supperclub. You should see the boy in a tux.” He kissed the tips of his fingers with a loud smacking of lips. “The angels weep.”

“Yeah, I’m pretty close to that myself right now.”

“You could benefit from dance lessons,” Lamar told him. “Then we could go out. You all pretty in black tie and tails, me in that red backless number of Gypsy’s—”

“The strapless one with the sequins?” Paul said. “Hands off that. That’s mine.”

“Y’all are nuts,” Jamie proclaimed. “I don’t dance, in tails or otherwise.”

“You’re telling me,” Lamar said. “Trips over his own paws,” he confided to Paul.

“And this one?” Jamie jerked his head toward Lamar. “Wants me to string him up from the ceiling so I can use him like a stripper pole. In snake form, I reckon. He didn’t specify.”

Paul eyed Lamar with newfound interest. “Really?”

“We’re working on that,” Lamar said. “My lobo rojo’s a shy one. You don’t know the hoops I have to jump through to get the Big Bad Wolf to appear.”

“Maybe you need assistance,” Paul suggested. “Ever considered a threesome?”

“No!” Jamie barked.

“Often,” Lamar said. “Tell you what: you take dance lessons from Paul here and we can skip the threesome. And I’m wearing the backless.”

“Over my dead body.”

“That can be arranged.” Lamar and Paul both whirled, and Jamie instantly shot to his feet, when Gypsy strolled onto the dance floor. She smiled up at the stage, and at Paul. “What a lovely outfit. I’ve got one just like it.”

“Uh—”

“Relax. I just came out of a meeting with Dante. He’s impressed with your dancing, and he’s worked out a schedule for lessons. I suppose they’ll have to be in the evening.” She studied Paul carefully. “Does Mayor Link know you applied for a job here?”

“Not yet.”

“Does Hizzonor know you wear women’s clothing?” Lamar asked.

Paul grinned down at him. “Not yet.”

“Well, Dante knows you’re the Mayor’s assistant, and he doesn’t tolerate spies,” Gypsy said. “That better not be why you’re here.”

“Mayor Link doesn’t know about this. I’m here for the extra money. And to dance.” Paul did a pirouette, coming to a halt with his hand raised toward Gypsy. “Scout’s honor.”

“We’ll see.” Gypsy smiled. “You’ve got the job. If you want to keep the job, you’ll stay away from my costumes, and get out of that outfit right now, or you really will have the Big Bad Wolf on your tail.”

Paul swallowed, long and hard. “Yes, ma’am.”

What A Week

2012-02-04T16:32:00.003-06:00

Sorry to be posting late this week gang! My muse has me buried deep into Nancy and the Werewolf. The heat is boiling and growing with complications.

Then it hit the ear ache from. . .not hell but painful enough that I woke out of a sound sleep last Thursday night. With this crazy weather, hot and cold with no in between, I wasn't sure what was up. My Domestic Partner was on antibiotics for something week prior. I've been down not as bad as he. Doctor had me on rest with limited activities for a couple of days. I'm on the mend but my muse is on me to write and write with a focus on the new series. Sorry, no flash fiction piece for you today.

I do have some news to share. I'll be signing at Romantic Times Book Lovers Convention Book Fair in April in Chicago. Those of us here at Shape Shifters' Seductions are working on a raffle basket for you to enter to win while I'm there. I'll be posting what some of the goodies are soon.
We've got some great items from our Talbot Peak's crew lined up along with some of our other books and trinkets. I'm looking forward to seeing the finished product.

Well back to writing and keep warm, dry, and remember share a book or two with your spices and loves!

Happy Weekend!

SOLARA

A Day in the Life of Mayor Link...

2012-02-03T07:56:00.000-06:00

My dear Mayor Link,

It is with deep sadness and concernthat I pen this letter. I have recently received your "census” letter andI am greatly concerned. That you woulduse community funds to distribute this ridiculous form to the good townsfolk ofTalbot's Peak disturbs me greatly.

Let's start with your firstquestion:

Species

Human ___ Shapeshifter ___ Vampire ____ Spirit Being ___
God ____ Other ____

If shapeshifter, please specify animal ________________________________________

Really Mayor, do you expect us to believe there are vampires, God’s, or forheaven sakes shape shifters living right next door? Would you have me believe that my neighborand good friend, Ella Phant—the woman who recently saved us from the forestfire, goes out at night and changes into an animal beneath the moon’sglow?

That is just crazy talk Mr.Mayor! Ms. Phant is as human as I am.

Now, as to question four –

Are you

Single ____ Mated ____ In pack or group living arrangement ____ Other _____

We are single or married Mr.Mayor and we certainly do not live in packs or group arrangements.

Question five is just plainlyridiculous.

Type of dwelling

House _____ Den/Lair ______ Cave ______ Nest _______
Underwater Dwelling ______ Other ______

Do you really believe somebodycould live in a nest or under water?

Are you pleased with how localgovernment is currently running things?

Yes ____ No ____

I most certainly am notpleased. If this is how you run a town,Mr. Mayor, I will most assuredly be voting for the other candidate in theupcoming elections.

Comments/recommendations:

Please note: every Tuesday night and church basement thereis a meeting you might find of great help in your personal life. Attendance is anonymous and all who are inneed will be welcomed.

A concerned constituent,
Melva Morgan

“Another one from a concernedconstituent, Mr. Mayor.”

Lance rolled his eyes at the arrivalof yet another letter denouncing the census form. He wondered, not for thefirst time, why the hell he ran for this position. “Great…”

“This one called you a drunk,only in that ‘hey, come to a meeting’ kinda way. “

“Who's this one from, Paul?” Lancechoked over the pronunciation of his assistant name. Why does anyone spelltheir name P.A.U.L. and then insist it be pronounced Paaa-uool? There were days he loved his job and day's hehated it, today went in the latter column.

“It's signed Melva Morgan.”

“Of course it is.” He should'veknown Melva would be so vocal. She was also the most oblivious member of theircommunity. He'd actually wondered if she was blind when he'd first taken thejob, but her precise description of a group of kids playing a harmless prank on Nickover at the Gazette cleared him of that perception. “How does that woman not realize her latestparamour is a mole?”

Paaa-uool, snickered behind hishand, continuing to page through the mail.

“He's an actual mole, Paul…”

“Good at what he does, maybe?”

“He’d have to be damn good forher to miss all the dirt under his nails, in his ears and rimming hisnostrils.”Lance peeled his banana, wondering just what the little bugger was sogood at that he had Melva Morgan convinced he was human.

“Ah, Sir…”

“Yep, what is it, Paul?”

“Still no forms, er, dry formsfrom the non-human population.”

“Of course not,” Lance grumbled.“Why would they make it easy? By theway, how's my office coming?”

“About that, sir,” his assistantreplied sheepishly. “The cleaner thinksthe only way to remove the smell is to remove the office.”

“What!?”

“You need to hire a contractor,Mr. Mayor, to tear down and re-build your office.”

Yep, today he really hated hisjob.
~~~

Have a fabulous weekend!

Serena

Truth is stranger than fiction...

2012-02-01T16:41:00.005-06:00

I was going to post another bit more of the story of Lex and his new best buddy, but then I found this news article. I had to share this lovely... gem. Surly His Gracious Cat Goddliness with understand.

"Love behind bars: Infamous Swedish cannibal hopes to marry vampire"

... Yep, that's the actual headline. You see why I had to share, right?

A little back story. In Sweden, they don't have normal jail terms. They try to rehabilitate everyone, even canabalistic murderers. So Michelle, the killer of a father of four, met Isakin, a man who killed his girlfriend who was the mother of five, who then ate parts of her. I don't knw why the number of children each victim had was mentioned. I don't care. I can't get past the idea of these two meeting in prison--or should that be "meating?"--and hooking up. Ew.

And now for a mental pallet clenser:

What, pallet not clensed enough? Ok, here's another:

There, pallet all clensed. I'll see you next week. And don't forget to drop by tomorrow. It's the first Thursday of the month and you know what that meens: Nw claendar boy!

~ Rebecca

...go renegade on Link's ape ass...

2012-01-31T03:53:00.004-06:00

Tuesday howls and yowls, shapeshifter lovers.

Ever wish you could handle life like a shapeshifter might when they let their animal side rule?
~~~~~~

...go renegade on Link's ape ass...

"Everyone got the form?" Kitty stage-whispered. With her adrenaline rising, she held up the survey form that the ape-idiot, otherwise known as Mayor Link, had recently sent out at taxpayer expense no less.

A hushed, 'quiet before the storm' chorus of " yeah, got it," answered her.

"I got mine!" Sozchy shouted in a defiant whisper. "The Love Wolfess doesn't love this pile of scat."

After a bit of giggle, Kitty cast her gaze over the thirty or so feral pairs of eyes that looked back at her inside the mostly dark gymnasium at Talbot's Peak High School. Dark because it was nearing midnight. "Remember, if you didn't get one and still want to join in the protest fun, there are copies on the entryway table."

"Got mine from the table." Dante's rumbled whisper sent a massive case of sexy shivers through her middle. And elsewhere more private.

"We're joinin' in."

Kitty recognized Zance's twang, then smelled the timber wolf's partner, Dontoya, a black cougar. By her quick reckoning, there were more wolves than big cat shifters present, and, of course, several other kinds of outraged shifters that were ready to go renegade on Link's ape ass.

Feeling a serious giggly sort of high, she announced, "Forms down, clothes off."

Boots hitting the floor, and rustles of garments being stripped off filled her ears as Kitty placed her survey form within reach of her cat fangs. In moments, she'd pulled off, then dropped her comfy granny robe on top of her winter gear.

As she morphed to her cat self, then stretched her muscles, Kitty felt the excitement build around her. She heard the low grunts and growls, the hisses and soft yowls of the others as they shifted. About twenty of those who had shown up were from her personal circle of friends. But with the word spread about the high-school type stunt there were about to pull... well, Kitty had welcomed everyone, even a little ocelot gal who worked at City Hall.

Dante pressed his wolf nose against her shoulder in a kiss, and to let her know he would protect her no matter what. After a feline rub against her Dante's side, Kitty stiffened her stance. She roared a rallying cry... that is, as loud as her cat throat would allow.

With savage purpose accelerating the beat of her heart, Kitty snatched the survey form between her teeth, and charged for the gymnasium's backdoor exit. She'd propped it open earlier, and now the winter cold blasted her furry face as she raced into the night, everyone following close behind.

If anyone in Talbot's Peak proper was up, roaming or prowling around main street at this hour, they'd see, hear or smell her and her rebel posse as they streaked animal-naked toward the steps of City Hall. Maybe, she thought, they should have dyed themselves purple in a sort of salute to the nude purple fairy dude. Of course, getting costume fairy wings attached once they shifted, that would have been a major problem.

***

"Eeeek!" Startled beyond belief, then scared to death at what she witnessed, Phillipa scurried behind the dumpster's front wheel. She'd only just arrived in the shapeshifter mecca of Talbot's Peak, Montana. With not a penny to her name, she'd shifted into her field mouse form to search for tasty tidbits. At least, it didn't take much to keep her from going hungry. But now... omyEEKgawd. Who knew wild packs ran the streets?

With her heart trapped in her throat, Phillipa peeked around the wheel. Several breeds of big cat, a whole pack of wolves, four coyotes, an otter, a couple of skunks, one macho raccoon with a badger beside him... and! a definitely brave jackrabbit... charged toward City Hall.

Following their leader, a large fluffy white cat, the motley pack bounded up the short set of steps. But, why they had pieces of paper clamped in their jaws, Phillipa couldn't summon up even a guess. All she cared about -- it wasn't her they had clamped between their formidable fangs. With the paper flapping or flattened against their throats, they headed for the front door as if it was open instead of closed.

***

Catching a whiff of her inside woman, Lariah, a crow shapeshifter who could find her way into any building, Kitty watched the double doors open. Euphoria flowed down to her paws at their success so far, and she sprinted onto the slick entryway floor.

After sliding, then finding her balance, Kitty slowed her pace, and trotted toward Linky Stinky's mayoral office. She'd scouted out the exact route when banana breath had been on his usual extended lunch hour.

Once inside, as they'd planned, she and her renegade pack dropped the survey forms making an untidy pile in the center of the office -- also newly carpeted at taxpayer expense. Performing the first honors, Kitty moved to the center of the pile, and took up her position.

She raised her tail, and squatted. A satisfying stream of pee whispered onto the survey forms, the sound wonderfully distinctive as it rolled onto the papers before starting to soak in.

Cheering rumbles, yips and other animal hisses of approval surrounded her as Kitty raised her haunches, then daintily strolled off the pile.

"Ladies first," Dante growled, then gave a warning look to all the males lining up for their turn at hiking a leg and letting their piss do the talking.

"Tank up," Kitty yowled, nodding toward the water-filled bowls Lariah had kindly placed on the floor for them. She'd included doses of garlic for that extra bouquet of scent -- smart crow woman that she was.

With a very naughty smile, Kitty leapt on top of Linky Stinky's cluttered desk. She'd rarely been involved in juvenile pranks, not caring for that sort of thing. However, a cat girl had her limits when it came to personal privacy.

After settling herself comfortably to observe, Kitty curled her tail around her front paws. "Do your worst by doing your best," she meowed loudly.

Not that any encouragement was needed. Rivers of pee flowed across the paper pile in the most inspirational of ways. Once the lady shifters had satisfied their rebellious urges, the males took turns lifting their legs and pissing with a vengeance.

"Dueling Banjos," White Fang growled for her ears only. Several of the other wolf and coyote males had tanked up on water, and now competed with the length and strength of their streams. So far, Nick had the other alphas beat.

"Squirt, squirt," Dante rumbled, amusement owning his wolf voice. Once he'd contributed his fair share, he'd come to sit next to her. Now, he observed the scene like a sentinel.

Soon the smell from several varieties of urine saturated the air, not to mention the fire-hose like bombardment the carpet was receiving. Kevin, a coyote shapeshifter, and his cousin, Gavin, squared off opposite each other. As if they engaged in swordplay, they aimed their long streams of pee at each other.

“Cheese it, the cops!” Lariah shouted from the doorway. Pausing, she added, "Oh, and there's a blue dragon waiting on the front steps."

"A new friend," Dante answered as Kitty tilted her head in question. "Xanuvvi insisted on guarding my backside and meeting you."

"Party at O’Malley’s," White Fang growly hollered. "I'm buying. The dragon is welcome too. If he can hold his liquor, and doesn't burp fire."

"The cops are right on time," Kitty mewed to herself. In a leisurely fashion, she launched off the desk.

Dante trotted ahead of her, helping her to avoid the pee-soaked part of the carpet. They followed after her renegade posse now filing out of the room, their gaits unhurried.

For an instant, Kitty halted in the doorway sassily flipping her tail for the office camera.
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal and Miraculous New Year of the Dragon ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Stand Up and Be Counted

2012-01-30T12:59:00.001-06:00

Dear Resident:

In order to better serve the people of Talbot’s Peak, we would like to create a clearer picture of our citizens’ demographics so that we may continue to provide the programs and services that best meet your needs. To that end, we ask that you take a few minutes to fill out this voluntary survey. No names are required, and all information will be kept confidential. Talbot’s Peak thanks you for your cooperation.

Lancelot Link, Mayor
Talbot’s Peak, Montana

Species

Human ___ Shapeshifter ___ Vampire ____ Spirit Being ___
God ____ Other ____

If shapeshifter, please specify animal ________________________________________

Age

18-30 ___ 31-45 ____ 46-60 ___ 61+ ____

Gender

Male ____ Female ____ Neuter ____ Hermaphroditic ____
Undecided ____ Other ____

Are you

Single ____ Mated ____ In pack or group living arrangement ____ Other _____

Type of dwelling

House _____ Den/Lair ______ Cave ______ Nest _______
Underwater Dwelling ______ Other ______

Do you

Own a Home _______ Rent or Lease _______ Nomadic/Herd _______

Are you currently employed? Yes ____ No ____ Self-employed ____
(Note: “Alpha” is not considered an occupation)

How long have you lived in Talbot’s Peak?

1-5 yrs ____ 5-10 yrs ____ More than 10 yrs ____
Born/whelped in area _____

What brought you to Talbot’s Peak? What do you like best about the area?

Are you pleased with how local government is currently running things?
Yes ____ No ____

Comments/recommendations:

PLEASE RETURN THIS SURVEY IN THE ENCLOSED POSTAGE-PAID ENVELOPE. DO NOT INCLUDE CORRESPONDENCE, DEAD ANIMALS, FECES OR OTHER ITEMS IN ENVELOPE.

There Be Dragons About

2012-01-28T00:01:00.001-06:00

“I’m sick of snow! Sick of ice and cold,” Tory moaned, pulling her sweater tighter around her. “The baby has a cold. Sally’s ill and ready to move. I need a vacation.”

Anthony slipped his arm around Tory’s waist, trying to snuggle her closer. “Love, you know I think all of us are ready for a vacation. Funds are too low for us to get away to anywhere warm enough to thaw us out much.” He kissed her cheek and wrapped both arms around her.

Several inches of snow and ice kept patrons away and business was ebbing as another storm worked its way over the mountains. Leisure was great, but forced isolation---well even Josh was grumpy. An unusual thing for him given his love of quiet and solitude. Anthony didn’t know who was crankier, Josh dealing with a colicky infant or Tory putting up with Josh and a sick infant.

Sally’s patience was gone. Anyone who’d come in close contact to her had gotten told off nicely, but with words that left nothing to the imagination. He’d sent her home with strict orders to not come back until the clinic two doors down cleared her for work. Good thing her in town condo occupied the same building. The look on Doc Jeffers face as he walked out of the office after examining Sally told Anthony more than if he’d asked outright Doc’s prognosis.

“We’ve got to do something. Even the hot tub has ice sickles hanging over it. Warmth and heat inside are great. We could use some outside too.” Tory turned in Anthony’s arms. She rubbed her cheek against his chest.

Josh’s sniffles and sneeze echoed up the small hallway separating their living quarters from the office. “I-I-I. . .....” A muffled sneeze sounded outside the door. “I wish shifters were impervious to human illness.”

Anthony smiled. “Been reading the dictionary again?” He knew Josh’s love of learning kept him reading voraciously. With sporadic mail delivery until the newest storm passed, Josh’s reading material was limited. Ten to fifteen magazines arrived weekly. Most of the bar patrons used the address as their mail drop during their treks into the mountains and woods during their animal phases. No one cared how many read their magazines as long as they remained in decent condition for them to use when they returned. Tory and Sally’s book subscriptions came in mid-month. Josh had read two romance novels before starting on the textbooks for Sally’s online college courses.

“No. Doc Jeffers lent me two of his research journals for something different to read. I got through the first article and said no more. Mike Turner came in yesterday with his eBook reader. I found a new stash of books thanks to him. Free reading material is fabulous.” Josh wiped his eyes.

“Speaking of free. . .I’m back,” a husky male voice growled. Mike lumbered up to the bar and waved.

“Hey man good to see you.” Anthony released Tory and walked over to Mike. “I promise your ereader is in working order. Josh didn’t wear it out.”

Mike grinned. “Not a problem. I’ve got another back at my place. I thought I’d never get back over the mountains. Storms left one hell of a mess.”

“Yes, and warmth is but a fleeting thought.” Tory chaffed her hands together.

“Well, I got an idea if your game,” Mike offered. He motioned them closer.

Josh and Tory huddled near Anthony. “What you got going through your head,” Josh asked, putting a finger under his nose hoping the human myth about this stopping sneezes worked.

“My Scottish cousins are in town. All part of the Saint George clan.” Mike held his breath waiting for the connection to happen. Seeing the blank looks on Tory, Josh, and Anthony’s faces, Mike went on. “There be dragons in that convoy approaching.”

Loud air horn honks filled the air. Beams of bright lights lit up the front windows of the bar as bright as daylight. Anthony rushed to the door holding it open as Tory and Josh crowded near him looking at the big rigs pulling up into the bar’s parking lot.

Three long haired medium sized men climbed down from the first three trucks. The fourth and fifth swung their doors open and two tall dark haired women descended, tossing their braids over their shoulders. The sixth and final truck rumbled to a stop. A window rolled down and a voice called out. “Colder than death and far from hell you take us, Michael Turner. I hope this pub has a pint worth drinking!”

A small woman scrambled out of the cab followed by a huge dog. The three men and two women waited until the woman and dog got in front of them and they fell in behind her. Her strut indicated she took no flack and the canine---he resembled a hell hound with his golden eyes and red skin.

“Aunt Addie, would I bring you somewhere that didn’t serve a hale pint of ale and a decent plate of food?” Mike grabbed the pint-sized woman up in a bear hug. As he set her down, he faced Josh, Tory, and Anthony. “Meet my Aunt and my cousins.”

Introductions continued until everyone had shook hands and made their way back inside. Red, Aldine’s mastiff, lay within feet of the door as though he kept guard.

“Now explain, cousin, what is going on,” the woman closest to Mike demanded. Anthony remembered her name being Matilda.

Mike nodded pulling his chair closer. “I’ve got a way to introduce you to the community and also help my friends out. A hot tub party with a barbecue theme.”

Mike almost burst out laughing at the looks passing between Josh and Anthony. Tory had excused herself to look after the baby. Anthony opened his mouth. Mike shook his head and put a finger to his lips.

“Hear me out,” he started, pointing to his other female cousin, Fran. “Matty and Fran are twin flames. And together they can melt the snow off the patio along with defrosting the hot tub.”

Matty and Fran smiled in between bites of food and quaffs of beer.

“Nicholas and Ethan can light the grill or help start a bonfire.” The two men nodded and kept chewing.

Mike continued. “Ashton, well his red hot flame can boil water unless we keep em cooled down that’s where Aunt Addie comes in. She can shield the area and keep the warmth in. Now how about it? Party anyone?”

Anthony caught Josh’s nod and murmur. “May only the hot dogs and burgers be roasted and not ours or the neighbors bums hot tub wise.”

A Dragon and his Booty...

2012-01-27T07:38:00.000-06:00

“One…two…three, six…seven…eight, twelve…twenty-four…” I paced across the dusty cave floor,comforted by the rhythmic sound of her fellow dragons counting their loot. There were very few rules when it came todragons, but, the “A” number one was never come between Dragon and histreasure.

Limbs and lives were lost when a dragons treasure wasthreatened.

Even now Holt sat counting the treasure that matched hisscaly hide — cold hard cash, glittering emeralds, and green M&M’s of everyvariety.

“Hey, Holty…how about a sweet for the lovely lady dragon?”Yes, I do call them like I see them, I am damn lovely, but as I expected myrequest was answered with a puff of nostril smoke and a really hairyeyeball. The look was impressive, butthe smoke coming out of that handsome human face was scary as hell.

“Here, Flame…” I reached out and grabbed the hundred he’dpeeled off the towering mass of bills. “Go away and leave me alone.”

I know I should be surprised, a dragon giving away richesrather than a silly piece, or two, of candy, but I was starting to wonder ifthe candy was being hoarded for someone special. Ever since arriving in this town, litteredwith shapeshifters and rumored to have a link to underwater worlds, the malesin my group have gotten weirder. They’dbecome more introspective and the treasure hording had increased tenfold.

One would think they smelled their mates on the horizon, orin the deep blue.

Another example of oddness is Ice. A gorgeous and I do mean drop dead, legs inthe air gorgeous, blue dragon on the other side of the cave. He stood knee deep in precious metals. Gold, silver, and a wide assortment of othershiny cold bits of wealth surrounded him, but it was the crystal containers andthe mixture of baubles that he counted higher and higher.

“Icicles…I lifted—” Notethat I say lifted, see dragons don’t buy anything, we take it because really,whose gonna stop us? “—this awesome smelling perfume yesterday. It’s ala naturally ingredients and madespecifically not to bother asthmatics, so do you have a bottle I can put itinto? A really nice one, hopefully, witha little ball thingy to make it squirt?”

“Back away from the bottles…NOW.”There was death in the eyes that lifted to mine, my death, and all over a sillycrystal perfume bottle. Yet even as Imoved away he threw me a bar of silver, which I of course took. Treasure is treasure and a good dragon neverignores a new piece…no matter how it is obtained.

Besides, I would need all the riches I could get my hands onto win, and keep, the object of my affection. I turned to the final male of our group, a short, dull brown, andspectacle wearing dragon named Percy.

Percy was what the human world coined a nerd, but I calledhim perfect. He was smart—so smart,sweet, understanding, and tender. He wasalso incredibly clueless.

“Hey there, Percy,” I purred in my dragon way, low andgrumbly, sex infusing every word. “What’cha doing?”

“Thirty-six, forty-eight…” Like I couldn’t tell as hecontinued to count his hordes. More likecrap if you asked me, but I tried to not let it faze me. This would be my mate someday so it would bebest for me to get used to seeing comic books, text books and—oh volcanic fires—matchbooks. What kind of dragon stockpiles matches? He could breathe fire from his nostrils andhe hordes matches.

I had to also wonder, if the rumors were true and there weremore of our kind living beneath the blue, how would Percy manage histreasure? Books would not survive thesea just as matches could not light under water. His treasure would forever remain topside, aswould her sweet Percy.

This town of Talbot’s Peak, with its shifters, humans andword has it gods, would become her home—unless she could convince her sweetieto change his obsession.

“Percy, my love, how do you feel about diamonds?”

“Sixty, seventy-two, eighty-four…”

***

Friday, January 27^th Headline news on the Guts& Butt’s online edition…

Spontaneous combustion, glowing embers or something elsestarts forest fire on mountain face. Thetown would like to thank the Phant family—Ella and her boy’s— for being quickto the site with water. Few trees werelost, but odd rumblings emanated from a cave close by. Use caution for daily runs.

~~~

Thanks to my fellow blog mates for suggesting dragon week! I always have so much fun playing with my fire-breathing friends! Have a great weekend!

Serena

Of Lizzards and Toads

2012-01-25T11:21:00.003-06:00

Marv rubbed his eyes. Then he blinked and rubbed them again.
There were dragons raiding his south pasture. What the hell were dragons doing raiding his south pasture?

“Damn lizards. You never see cats behaving like this when they come up on the Chinese calendar,” a silky, irritated-sounding voice mewled. The voice seemed to be coming from that naked barn cat that showed up a few months ago. The cat looked up at him, blinked once, then spoke again, “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of this.”

The next thing he knew that scrawny cat stalked—the only way to describe that walk was to call it a stalk—out of the barn and down to the pasture fence. It would have looked more appropriate on a thousand pound tiger than a ten pound sphinx cat. Marv was a little worried, both about his sanity and about the cat. He’d kind of grown fond of the little bugger. If his prize black angus bull was having trouble keeping the dragons off him, surly that cat was going to end up as an appetizer.

“WHAT IN THE NAME OF SIZMU AND BA’AS DO YOU FLYING GAS BLADDERS THINK YOU ARE DOING?!?”

Wow. Marv stuck a finger in his ear and wiggled it, trying to bring his hearing back in like. If he hadn’t been looking at the cat, he’d’a though the Voice of God had come down from the mountains in the form of a burning bush to berate Moses and the Israelites. It worked, though. Those dragons stopped what they were doing—and promptly fell right out of the sky. Solves the mystery of weather a dragon needs to flap their wings, Marv though, and he snorted. Not that anyone would have bothered asking. Yep, he’d gone ‘round the bend.

“THIS RANCH AND ALL OF its CONTENTS, LIVESTOCK AND OTHER INHABITANTS ARE UNDER MY PROTECTION! LEAVE BEFORE I BANISH YOUR ASSES TO AN ETERNATY LISTENING TO AIR SUPPLY AND WEARING THE BODIES OF STINK TOADS!”

Wow, Marv thought again. That cat was an imaginative, vindictive little shit, wasn’t he?

"PUT THAT GOD BLESSED BULL RIGHT BACK WHERE YOU GOT IT FROM, METHUSITHET! – FINE, BE A TOAD. SEE IF I CARE.”

~ KER-POW ~

Holy shit. That was the biggest toad Marv had ever seen. What the hell was he going to do with a toad the size of a VW? Marv watched in amazement as the remaining three dragons flew off in a lathered rush—but not before putting every single cow right back where they gotten them from. This was quite nasty as two of the cows had already been eaten. With a pop, the huge smell toad vanished and the cat walk back to sit down beside him. They stood there in silence for several minutes, Marv trying to make sense of what he’d just sen and the cat, cleaning its paw like nothing had happened.

“Well, thanks for that, I guess,” Marv finally said, still a bit dazed.

“Oh, think nothing of it,” the cat purred.

“You didn’t have to help out like that—“

“Pshaw! Of course I did. I’m a god. You are mortal. You pay me tribute and I protect you and yours. That’s the way it works.”

“You are God?” Marv asked incredulously.

“No, no, no. I am not God with a capital gee. I am a god, with a lower case gee. And since you are going to ask, yes you have been paying me tribute. You give me milk and coffee. For that, I usually just keep your barn free of mice.” The cat seemed to shrug. “Today, you required a bit more than mouse-catching, but still. Telling off dragons is always amusing.”

“I see…”

“My name is Lexor, by the way.”

“Well, nice to know you Lexor.”

Xanuvvi, Blue Water Dragon

2012-01-24T06:14:00.007-06:00

Pic from ~ desktopnexus.com

Tuesday howls and yowls, shapeshifter lovers.

When I learned it was the Chinese Year of the Dragon, and not just any dragon, but what some are calling the Blue Water Dragon, I entered a slight state of shock. Why, you might ask... then again, it may be of no particular interest to you.

Still... here it is. In my 2012 erotic romance fantasy, WHEN A GOOD ANGEL FALLS, published on August 13, 2008, there is a secondary character, Dragon Leader, Xanuvvi, who is a blue water dragon.

If you interested in an excerpt from the book that stars Xanuvvi, click on over to TITLE MAGIC.

For today's flash scene, of course, I couldn't resist letting you meet Xanuvvi, Blue Water Dragon Leader, before his appearance in When a Good Angel Falls.
~~~~~~

Xanuvvi, Blue Water Dragon

"Why must you leave our realm?"

Queen Crysuthess spoke in her feminine pouty voice. However, Xanuvvi heard her true concern over his leaving, and her wish they remain lovers.

"You know of my alliance with Earth's angelic guardians, my sweetling." Xanuvvi used the power of his voice to stroke her. "The one called Zerr Dann has contacted recently. His mission is crucial to saving us from the dark siders as well as bringing about the salvation of humanity and Earth."

"It is true those of evil intent have already damaged the dimensional wall between our worlds with their use of death-wave weaponry. The fools," she contemptuously added with a dismissive lift of her shoulder. "And yet, how will you fare? There a few dragonkind remaining."

Xanuvvi caressed a strand of her hair, then twined it around his finger-claw, well knowing his touch would soothe the Queen. "Thessi," he addressed her with his pet name for her, "the gathering has begun. There are already ten Rainbow Dragonicas residing at the great caldera -- singing to alleviate Mother Gai's pain, and balance her forthcoming land changes. They are welcoming my presence."

Her sigh could have caused a path through the sea, it burst out with such keening force. "I know it is a matter of positive fate, Nuvvi. Yet... I depend upon your constant strength and wisdom."

Even though, they were alone, she left unsaid what they'd both come to crave, the impassioned strength of their lust-rolling together. He knew why. Their feelings for each other could never be fulfilled.

She would mature and desire only one of her kind for a mate. While he, having glimpsed his far future, being the magickal beast he was, knew another was destined to be his loving mate.

"If you wish for the force we call Good to ascend, and bring the harmonics of benevolence to our realm, then I must leave, my Thessi. I must use my powers to assist humankind, to assist Zerr Dann in his divine mission."

She didn't speak, and he felt her deep contemplations. Her small hand stroked the clawed hand he'd placed on her lovely little shoulder. "One more night... my Nuvvi. Is that too great a wish?"

His answer was to stroke the back of his claw along the sensitive skin of her neck, as she carnal-adored.

***

Spiraling furiously while also whirling the leviathan-sized length of his body, Xanuvvi pierced the dimensional fabric. Since he could not afford to enter the realm of Earth at the thinnest point, the Great Pyramid as it was known in Egypt -- oh, sweet memories of Queen Cleopatra and the grace of her hands upon his scales -- because of what he called the robot-zombie guards of the Illuminatti.

Instead, Xanuvvi penetrated as close to his dragon allies as possible. Forced to hold his breath because of the slime-heavy, sulfurous water of the Yellowstone caldera, he pumped his tail like a rising Loch Ness monster.

Once he finally speared through the boiling nastiness that passed for a form of water, he continued his momentum. Xanuvvi prepared to summon his magick. It had taken the remainder of his physical strength to remain airborne in the dusk, overcast sky.

Even so, he refused to gasp in draughts of the wintry air for two reasons. One, a dragon leader had his pride. Two, despite the utterly ridiculous connection between sulfur and dragons on Earth, he despised the taste of the odiferous mineral, and the thick muck still clung to his muzzle.

Unfurling his wings, Xanuvvi spread them wide to dry the webbing rapidly. A snort of fire from his nostrils would do the job, but that would foil his plan to stay as inconspicuous as possible.

To keep himself aloft, he cast forth a matrix bubble to float within. Getting his bearings, even if he was spotted, was crucial. He wanted to wing with all due haste to the Rainbow's stronghold once he discovered the location.

What, hey! Xanuvvi closed his eyes inhaling wave after delicious wave of the most seductive female scents. Trapped in the heavy moist air, the potent, in-heat perfume responsible for stiffening his breeding staff was being carried on the rising night wind.

But not merely female, no, these mating fragrances belonged to shapeshifter women, most of them wolven. If his nostrils were to be trusted, a whole thriving colony of shapeshifters lived nearby. If his magickal senses were to be believed, there were also many breeds of supernaturals living among them.

Stunned to his fiery watery core, Xanuvvi snapped his eyes open, and stared in that direction. The Rainbows did not expect his immediate presence, and he could mentally commune with their priest -- offer an explanation.

The lure impossible to resist, he aimed his conjured bubble and soon rode a wind-stream toward the colony. Both good and evil, the hero and villain, the drama of the colony played out in the energies he witnessed before his mind's eye.

To his great joy, Xanuvvi also heard the rippling music of a pristine lake, rare on Earth. He could cleanse himself, make a decent appearance, introduce himself to one of his stature. With that end in mind, he sent forth a seeking fire, a frequency that would find the leader, one of the highest nature.

***

Seized with the yen to view the night sky, to howl and speak his secrets to the moon, Dante bounded up the spiral staircase that led from the top floor of his new supperclub, the Midnight Stardust, to the small hidden gazebo atop his subterranean club. He'd recently created the romantic setting for him and his beloved Kitty.

She had adored it, and they'd spent precious time together smooching in each other arms, and gazing at the starry midnight sky through the lacing of branches above them. Now, he needed alone moments -- time to let his fur down, or out.

The supperclub had steadily gained in patrons, and the dance lessons were especially popular. Satisfied that all was going smoothly with his customers and crew, Dante stepped outside, and drew in a lungfuls of the cold crisp air.

The next instant, he spun around, his neck hair bristling, sprouting. Dante growled, the warning from the pit of his belly.

The huge dragon standing about thirty feet away smiled benignly, and didn't move. "Shall we introduce ourselves? I am Dragon Leader, Xanuvvi, of the Blue Water species."

His voice boomed yet somehow the timbre matched the sound of the wind.

With his instincts giving quarter, and sensing no immediate danger, Dante eased his stance. "Dante, werewolf. Is there something I can do for you?"

"Perhaps, shapeshifting lessons are in order. Gaining a human form would be of benefit to my mission on Earth. Perhaps also, you can explain why there is such an abundance of delightful feminine fragrances here."

Dante grinned, his confidence returning. "Tell you what, Dragon Leader, if you can reduce your size I'll give you the grand tour."

"Splendid. That I can achieve. Xanuvvi will do as a form of address. May I call you Dante?"

"Yeah, sure thing." Dante watched as Xanuvvi slowly morphed to a far less imposing height. "Hey, how about this Year of the Dragon," he bantered. "Want to fill me in on all the details?"
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal and Miraculous New Year of the Dragon ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

And Call Me In the Morning

2012-01-23T13:01:00.002-06:00

“I must admit,” Dr. Russell Waller said, “I’ve never seen anything like you before.”

Jerry Salmander wiped his huge honker of a nose with a fistful of tissues. “You don’t know what I got?”

“Oh, I’ve got a pretty good idea what you’ve got. I meant, I don’t get many dragons in here. By ‘don’t get many,’ I mean you’re the first.”

“Yeah, we’re pretty rare. That’s what’s got me concerned. If I bite it, who’s gonna service the ladies?”

“Uh, yes.” Dr. Waller adjusted his glasses. “Would you please stick out your tongue?”

Jerry stuck out a tongue that would have made Gene Simmons hang his head and slink into a corner in shame. Dr. Waller studied it and said, “Mmmm.”

“What’s that mean?”

“It means this may not be a cold, as I first suspected. Have you been running a fever?”

“Doc, my normal body temperature tops 108. How would I know if I had a fever?”

“All right, have you been running cold, then?”

“No, I been right on the money. Except for—”

He sneezed. The poster of the digestive tract hanging on the opposite wall went up in flames.

“Sorry,” Jerry said.

“Quite all right,” Dr. Waller murmured. “If it happens again, try to aim at that corner over there. Excuse me, is your gown … smoldering?”

“Yeah, happens when I get upset. That high body temp. I go through clothes like you wouldn’t believe. One of the reasons I’m a nudist. I thought maybe I’d caught a bug or something.”

“That seems highly unlikely, given your temperature. Most germs would be fried upon hitting your system. I’m beginning to think this is an allergy. Have you eaten any unusual foods lately? Unusual for your species, I mean. Or changed your soap or after shave? Or acquired a pet?”

“Last meal was a bull moose, no, no, and pets are appetizers. I thought maybe dust, so I had some pros come in and clean out the man-cave, but that didn’t—oh crap, here it comes—”

Dr. Waller ducked, a half-second too late. He felt the flash of heat across his face, and the sudden lightness of his upper lip.

“Oops,” Jerry said sheepishly.

“Yes. Well.” Dr. Waller brushed the seared, brittle remains of his moustache from beneath his nose. He checked his eyebrows and found them still intact.

“Your skin’s fine,” Jerry told him. “Just looks a little sunburned.”

“Thank you. Are you dating anyone new?”

“Yes, I am, as a matter of fact. Arlene. I met her at work. Komodo dragon. Best I could do, the real deal being so rare and all.” He elbowed Dr. Waller. “You wanna see her? She’s out in the waiting room. Hot as all get out, know what I’m saying?”

“And virgin, I suppose.”

Jerry smirked. “Not any more.”

“And how soon after you two started dating did you start noticing symptoms?”

“A couple days … oh crap. You think I’m allergic to my girlfriend?”

“Or her soap or perfume or hair care products. Do you find yourself sneezing a lot if you get too close to her?”

“I told you, I thought it was a bug. We go skinny dipping a lot, and the mountain lakes around here are frigid. You been hearing those reports of weird steam clouds rising out of the woods? That’s me.”

“We could do a series of skin tests if you want to be sure, but I’m not certain the samples would last long enough, given your body temperature. I don’t even know if a hypodermic would penetrate your skin.”

“Yeah, we got thick hides, all right. Gotta ward off swords and spears and all. Allergic to my girlfriend, huh. St. George hack my balls off.”

“There’s no reason to let it interfere with your relationship. It could simply be her hair or skin care products, as I said. The two of you will have to experiment. In the meantime, here’s a couple of over-the-counter allergy medications you could try. I recommend you concentrate on stopping the sneezing first.”

“Yeah, that’s a bugger—uh—”

“The corner! The corner!”

Seconds later Dr. Waller stood shaking his head over the scorched and peeling paint on the wall. Jerry hopped off the exam table. “If that’s all you think it is, then maybe I should be getting on.”

“I don’t think you have anything serious to worry about.” Anyone he faced, however, might be another story. “Please see the nurse at the front desk. If this keeps up—”

“Then me or the fire department will be in touch. Thanks, doc.”

Jerry yanked on his slacks and T-shirt and headed out toward the front of the clinic. Minutes later Dr. Waller heard a sneeze, then a feminine scream. Smoke drifted up the hall to the exam room.

“Shapeshifter sanctuary or not,” he muttered, “I never should have left Seattle.”

# # #

Last-minute add-on: I just got my cover for Legacy! It's on my page. I'll be posting it over on Title Magic, probably Thursday. Maybe this'll bring in the Twilight fans. Y'think?

Change Is Coming

2012-01-21T00:01:00.001-06:00

“Once a upon a day, my life worked and then—“ Nisha Griswald threw her diary and pen at the smug poster of some popular teenage star staring at her from her co-worker’s cubicle wall.

Suzy, her cube mate, had it all. Long blonde hair that didn’t frizz when it rained. Straight teeth and limbs that didn’t need shaving every full moon. And her blue eyes- - -damn, she had even a job dating famous stars and singers. Suzy was in Hollywood for two weeks of spotlights and endless hobnobbing with the rich and famous.

And Nisha . . “Well I’m stuck here in Talbot’s Peak minding the press of this lackluster gossipless freebie newspaper.” Nisha rolled her eyes as the office door of Your Local News Press opened. All week, since Suzy announced her trip on the paper’s website, more folks wandered in and out of the storefront where the secondary part of their business ran, a used bookstore. Most tried the pretense of looking for a new book to read or trade their rather used books for others. Others didn’t hide their curiosity and asked what Nisha had heard from Suzy. Nothing, and Nisha hoped she didn’t. Maybe Suzy would stay in California. Her persona reeked of left coastitis, too many quirks and peeves for Talbot’s Peak. Besides, the main newspaper covered most everything. Their rag sheet passed for a quick read on books, local events not covered by the shifter press. Humans wanted their gossip regardless of the unusual citizens that made up their neighbors.

As the office door opened wider, Nisha rose. Maybe someone wanted to place an ad or actually discuss their upcoming book fair. The local library needed help with raising funds for the new children’s wing. Lord, shifters procreated faster than most humans. Must be their large litters or the longevity gene most inherited. Lucky stiffs….or was that non-stiffs….Nisha smiled at her puckish pun. Making fun of herself helped lessen her angst about Suzy’s popularity.

“Can I help - -“ Nisha knew her lips moved but no words came out. Where had this hunk come from? That was one hot tomcat standing before her. Her feline counterpart hissed and yowled as her hormones arched their backs in need. Rowwwwrrrh, he was fine and damn hot. Grabbing the hem of her shirt, Nisha fanned herself briefly, grateful for the counter hiding her actions. His face could launch a thousand---no make that a million felines standing in line waiting to be taken and pleasured.

TT plastered a wide smile on his face as he opened the small office door. What a hell of a job for pride leader! “Thanks Tomas, I’ll get ya,” he mouthed before entering.

Still on crutches, TT wanted nothing more than to go home and recuperate. No such luck. Tomas hadn’t relented in his need to place his spies deeper into Talbot’s Peak community. Kazim had dropped out of sight since marrying a human. And the other spy cells, well a few nights in the interspecies pleasure den and they were less than willing to risk their mates. As he pushed the door open wider, a scent slammed into his nose and straight up his nostrils. Prime feline and fertile at that. Great now he had a hard on to calm down. Where was the she cat hiding? This one had best be of the full animal variety, he didn’t have time for- - -

“Be still my heart,” TT whispered as he caught sight of her. Her mousy brown hair and golden eyes roved over him like a huntress sizing up her prey. He wouldn’t bulk at letting her catch him. Where the hell had that come from? He like his females lithe and curved in soft easy to stroke places. This medium size female made his groin sizzle each time she licked her lips. The last time he’d seen this happen. . .oh goddess have mercy on him….no not like his brother---mated to three females at once. Once upon a time my life worked- - -not any longer his psyche roared. Change is happening.

The Lady in Red

2012-01-20T04:00:00.000-06:00

Image Credit to Whitebook @ DeviantArt, titled A Christmas Story for Rezzan

As it so often happens to me, today's flash didn't start with a 'what are we going to write about Talbot's Peak today, boys and girls', but with a hoarse cry of 'help me out here peeps who wants to play this week'? The friendly TP neighbors were deathly quiet this week. Maybe they were busy, or tired or just comfy cozy dozing and playing with their partners that they didn't jump to answer my call, but I took the hint and moved on to my personal blog and worked on my Thursday Short Story Slam.

I figured something Talbot's Peaky would eventually show up...and I was right. It did show up, just not how I thought it would.

Below is my Thursday post and after the whispered pleas from The Lady in Red to find a safe place for she and her love, it became my Friday post, as well. I forsee a new pair making their way to The Peak, mates looking for help...

~~~

The lady in red waits beneath thegnarled old tree, sure her love will return one day.

The lady in red listens for hisvoice on the wind, sure she will hear it in time.

The lady in red watches the skyfor his graceful glide; sure she will see it on the horizon.

He’d vowed to love her beyond hisvery last breath.

He would be her champion in thislife and onward into death.

The lady in red worries upon herknees, troubling is his late arrival.
The lady in red weeps among the leaves,firmly entrenched—deep in denial.
The lady in red withers below thebranches, fearful he is lost to her.

She vowed to love him beyond hervery last breath.

She would be his haven in lifeand in death.

The lady in red acknowledges theswift setting sun, their timing long gone.

The lady in red feels the oncomingchange, their places to switch with nary a hitch.

The lady in red resolves toaccept her fate, the moon once again rearranged the mates.

They vowed to love beyond theirvery last breath.

Be they in fur, or in feathers—inlife or in death.

~~~

Stay warm, snuggle & play with your loved ones and have a wonderful weekend!

Serena

Best Friends

2012-01-17T15:55:00.003-06:00

Marv couldn’t explain why it happened, only how it happened. One cold morning last spring, he’d been in the barn, milking a few heifers so he could feed an early calf whose mother rejected him. He noticed this naked little cat watching him intently and shot a squirt of milk at it. The cat sputtered and yowled then began cleaning itself, glaring at him as he chuckled and went back to his milking. When he was finished with his core, Marv realized that the cat was still there and was no longer glaring at him. In fact, the cat seemed to have an interested, almost calculating look on its face. This was silly, of course— cat don’t have human thoughts so they didn’t really have human emotions or get ideas, no matter how much it seemed like they did. He’d shrugged it off and turned way so he could feed the motherless calf.

The next day, the skinny little bald cat was back. This time it was waiting for him with a dead mouse at its feet. Marv stared dumbfounded as the cat batted the mouse to him then opened its mouth expectantly. Bemused, Marv shot the cat a drink or two and thought about how he’d dismissed the thought that the cat was planning something. Maybe someone had trained the little hairless cat to perform the trick. That was certainly more plausible than the cat thinking up a plan to come up with more milk, right?

Flash forward nine months. He now had a barn free of rodents, a yearling calf that no longer needed to be bottle fed, yet here he was still coming out to milk that damn cow every morning, just for the easy company of a scrawny hairless cat. Of course, he now came out with two cups of coffee. He still shot the little cat a squirt of milk in the mouth, but most of the milk went into its coffee cup.

No, he couldn’t explain how his best friend had become a cat and frankly, he didn’t care.

Dontoya Takes a Mate

2012-01-17T04:32:00.010-06:00

Tuesday *middle of the month, can you believe it?* howls and yowls, shapeshifter lovers.

Since I didn't want to stop working on my latest WIP, a Talbot's Peak erotic romance, you all get the benefit... hopefully a benefit... of my most recent penning. That is, if you're in the mood for a short, X-rated Sexcerpt.

Brief note: Penetration has not yet occurred despite 'his rocking thrusts'. And, yes, below is a Jimmy Thomas image available at ~ romancenovelcovers.com ~
~~~~~~

Her Midnight Stardust Cowboys

*Unedited* excerpt from Chapter Sixteen:

Gods, she was killing him with wanting to possess her, with wanting to fuck her beautifully. As he continued his rocking thrusts, her soft mound cushioned his shaft and her hot slick folds rubbed against him, increasing his savage desire to mate.

With restraint still his intention, Dontoya shoved down his inner cougar as the beast yowled and screamed to mate.

"Please," she burst out. "It's been so long...and..." she panted fast, "no man has ever felt this good...this big..."

After tugging on her nipple, Dontoya jerked his head up, and met her fevered pleading gaze. Keeping her head cradled between his palms, he eased his hips back, and aimed his dripping cock.

"God, please be gentle...when you first..." She widened her thighs as much as she could beneath him. "I..."

"It's okay, darlin'. A slow hand, and a slower thrust inside your beautiful, beautiful body."

Dontoya had never meant his words more when speaking to a woman. It relieved him that her tension vanished some as he pressed his smoldering cock's head against her vajita.

The wet hot satin of her little opening shot demand through his shaft, and he pushed, pumping inside her carefully. Ferocious need and a paradise like pleasure sparked through his loins as her small sheath squeezed his cock.

"Yes...yes...yes," she sang soft as a breeze. "Oh, yes." Her hands were frenzied as she swept them over his hips and ass.

With smooth deliberate strokes he lunged deeper and deeper. "Sherilyn. Mate," he growled like the cougar he was.
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal and Miraculous New Year ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Top Chef

2012-01-16T11:13:00.000-06:00

Norbert had to look twice, then add one extra look to make sure he’d really seen what he thought. Yeppur, no mistaking that belly and that rolling stride. One of the greatest shifter chefs of the modern age had just walked into a lowly diner.

Norbert hurried over and went in. The place was just beginning to fill up with the breakfast crowd. His target had a booth all to himself and had already been served his coffee. Norbert slid in opposite, practically shaking with excitement. “You’re Louie Delavecchio.”

The rat regarded him warily. “Yeah?”

“I saw you on TV. You were on King of the Kitchen.”

“Oh, is that all.” Louie shrugged it off. “That was a while ago. Hey, aren’t you that Norbert guy what works over at the new supper club?”

“Yeah, that’s me,” Norbert said, surprised. “You know about that? Me working there?”

“I make it my business to keep up with the competition. Rat, y’know. You’re a—” He snapped his fingers. “Bear?”

“Polar bear. I specialize in seafood.”

“Yeah, me too. That’s why I been keeping an eye on you. I been hearing good things. I tried your red snapper. Delish.”

Norbert knew he must be blushing but didn’t give a rip. “I’m not in your league. I tried out for King of the Kitchen and didn’t make the cut.”

“Yeah, well, keep trying. You got what it takes. I know bears got a rep as vacuum cleaners—it ain’t nailed down, they eat it. That just gives your palate a wider range of experience. Take it from an expert.”

“I know. I used to love the dishes you’d come up with in the quickie challenge.”

“Hell, that was a snap. Any rat worth his tail can make a meal out’a garbage. It’s what we do. Making a meal some other species’ll eat, that’s the tricky part. I gotta keep reminding myself who I’m cooking for.”

“You should have won that show. You got gypped.”

“Nah, I got out-cooked. I kept forgetting the judges were human. Pickier’n koala bears.” Louie leaned across the formica table. “I’m gonna let you in on a secret, kid. You wanna sharpen your skills, cook for humans. Shifters, they don’t give a scat what you put in front of ‘em. They’ll eat a carcass what’s been sitting out in the woods for three days. That don’t mean you get to sit on your tailbone. You still gotta bring your A-game to the plate. Sure, they’ll eat whatever you serve ‘em, but will they come back? You want ‘em to keep coming back. That’s where that pinch of sage or basil in just the right dish makes a world of difference.”

“Have you ever cooked for humans before?”

“Yeah, all’a time, back in Jersey. That’s why everybody here thinks I’m such hot scat. I got used to a higher standard. Apes don’t like what you feed ‘em, they let you know it in no uncertain terms. Ain’t a rat alive wouldn’t rise to that challenge. I don’t like dodging poo.”

Norbert filed these tips away for future reference. “Why didn’t Dante hire you?”

“He tried, but I like being my own boss. It ain’t supposed to be common knowledge, but I’m half owner of Rattigan’s. Don’t tell nobody.”

“I won’t. I’m sorry I butted in on your breakfast like this. I saw you on the street and I just couldn’t help it.”

“S’okay. I like talking shop with a fellow chef. Like I said, they ain’t exactly, wossa word, conny-sewers around here.”

“So,” Norbert said carefully, “what are you doing in this dive?”

“Watch your mouth, kid. This ain’t no dive. Lady runs this joint fed three pro football players on a vegetarian diet. Even the best can still learn from somebody. I learn her secrets, I can name my own price, especially here in this town.”

“Guess again.” Miss Elly herself brought Louie’s blueberry flapjacks to the table. She winked at Norbert. “Still after my recipes, eh, Louie?”

“Who, me? Nah. I just come in for breakfast.”

“Sure you do. Once a rat … ”

“You herbies sure are a suspicious bunch. What kind’a flour you use?”

“Keep guessing.” Miss Elly smiled at Norbert. “What can I get for you, honey?”

“Whatever he wants,” Louie said with a grin. “It’s on me.”

Six Sentence Sunday ~ Meet Dontoya, Black Cougar Shapeshifter

2012-01-15T00:34:00.006-06:00

From the Kougar’s Writing Den ~

~~~ Six sentences, via computer count, from my latest WIP ~~~

Her Midnight Stardust Cowboys

Chapter Sixteen

Emotionally, his Sherilyn wasn't ready for his most passionate lovemaking or for his raw fierce needs. Once her trust grew and their pleasures increased in frequency, in intensity, given her sexual nature she would welcome whatever he wanted to do to her -- however he wanted possess her.

It was all in her heated scent. Her carnal perfume owned his nostrils, and excruciatingly blazed through every particle of him only proving to Dontoya what he already knew. Mate. Their mate.
~~~~~~

Have a Magickal Six Sentence Day!

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~~~~

~~~ Find out more about Six Sentence Sunday at ~ sixsunday.com ~~~

Winter Heats Up Poly Style

2012-01-14T00:01:00.002-06:00

Tongson paused, leaning against the snow shovel he’d been using to clear a path from the patio to the hot tub shed. Neither he nor Tavia knew when Tomas would return. Or if he would. The covert war in Talbot’s Peak was heating up.

Too many days and nights cooped up in the house with colicky triplets wore on everyone’s nerves. Even Mickey and Night Hawk took turns walking the floor with any of the infants needing care. Enough for everyone to edge up to their own point of boiling. Time to create space for release. He smiled as another snowball whizzed by him. The neighborhood children loved Night Hawk’s boyish exuberance and his ability to get on their level and play. One snow-tossing contest after another had ensued in the last week. Warm giggles and laughter rounded the side of the house where Night Hawk hid apparently discovered.

“Hey not down my back. Ooh, that’s cold. You got me.” His warm laugh and calls back at the retreating backs of the youth made Mickey grin.

“I wondered why the Spirits chose Night Hawk for me. Now I begin to understand. We work together in ways that we aren’t even aware of. There is balance and mixing that is essential to us.” Mickey turned at the steps sounding behind her. Tavia carried two of her triplets in each arm. “Here let me take one.”

Tavia slipped her daughter into her arms. Mickey smiled at the wide blue eyes staring up at her. At 6 months old, each of the triplets was starting to show their distinct personalities. Stargazer cooed and smiled with ease unlike her brother Morning Sun with his blonde locks and dark brown eyes. He seemed to wear a frown no matter what. Tongson and Tomas called it his thinker’s look and cover. Nicholas, named for Tomas’s late father, loved to cuddle and smile. His black eyes followed his mothers and fathers wherever they moved within his sight.

“Our elders can see much from the spirit world that we in our now can’t. They are out of the flux of time that affects our corporeal state. I know you understand and yet don’t. Think of the astral projection I’ve been teaching you.” Tavia’s hand ran up and down Sun’s back soothing him. Mickey knew he refused to burp after eating as though he wanted to hang on to everything inside him, good or bad.

“I’ve begun to see how linear time does not affect shifters as it does humans. Many of my human friends understand their mortal nature. They admit envy from time to time. Those closest to me have no jealousy other than wishing they had a family unit as tight as ours.” Mickey raised Stargazer to her shoulder and began patting her small back.

Soon two loud burps filled the room with two smaller ones as well. Tavia turned around and gazed lovingly at Tongson. His long black braid flipped over one shoulder. Several strands of hair escaped the tight weave. Patches of snow clung to his hair. The flakes twinkled and disappeared as the warmth of the room found them. Her smiled deepened as she watch Mickey and Night Hawk. Their eyes met with the same warmth and care as Tongson’s and hers. The young couple fit in well with their family.

“The path is made and the tub heating. Alicia from the village will watch the children if we want her too. Though I suspect we will take them to the shed with us. I readied an area to place their carriers within so they are near and safe while we relax and soak. Tonight maybe the night, yes?” Tongson removed his heavy jacket and flung it over a nearby chair.

Mickey blushed as she glanced toward him. Night Hawk appeared pensive. Expanding their bond to include sexual intimacy amongst the four of them had entered their latest discussions. Before he’d left, Tomas had spent a night with Mickey and Night Hawk awakening Mickey’s sensual side and enjoyment of two lovers at once. Tomas had left grinning after a night starting out alone with Tavia though ending up with them crawling into bed with Tongson swearing they missed him. The mangy feline had snuggled between them asking for hugs. At least he hadn’t tried to kiss him. Tongson smiled and winked as Mickey’s face reddened. What had Night Hawk whispered in her ear?

“Whatever he claimed I know nothing about.” Tongson shrugged and held his hands up in the air.

“I just told her that a repeat of our night with Tomas might happen though quite a few differences would be happening.” Night Hawk grinned and folded his arms across his chest.

Tavia shook her head and moved toward Tongson. “You naughty Spirit Bear. Teasing Mickey so.”

“Who me? As if I was the one who blurted out at dinner last week that you found Mickey attractive and wouldn’t mind sharing her with me. Now Night Hawk, no offense but this bear has no sights on you as a conquest.”

Night Hawk smirked. “None taken. With these two delightful ladies to pleasure and please along with watching them together…..well - - -“

“Just remember spectators might not be invited to participate,” Mickey hastily added, waving her hand at Night Hawk.

Tongson slide his arm around Tavia. “Let’s see where the night takes us.” Two cries interrupted any further banter.

“We might not even get beyond coupling with our four opinionated viewers.” Mickey nodded. Four babies could keep them busy with different needs and wants if they refused to sleep. The night’s outcome was up for grabs for sure.

Nude Purple Fairy Strikes Again! Eek Eek Eek

2012-01-13T04:00:00.000-06:00

"Cripes Jonesy, what is taking you so long? Put the little potato dude in front of thedoor and get your ass down here." Trevorducked behind the greenery and scoped out the houses and businesses inthe general vicinity.

“What'cha looking for, Trev?"

"Shh, keep it down, huh. I was keeping a lookout like Itold you I would. We have more of these little dudes to put in doorways, soshake a leg."

Jonesy lumbered along behind him making more noise thanthree people twice his size. The pout on his dopey face meant he was about tocomplain, again. This is such an easy thing to do, not to mention it was afreaking original Friday the 13^th prank. Why couldn't his cousin getinto the swing of things and just have a little fun?

"Uh, Trev, why’d we have to use the paint again thistime? That shit took forever to come off last time and the turpentine burned likehell… Specially on my ‘nads, man.”

“Hey, you’re the dumb ass who ran through the brambles…”

“I was trying to get away from a unicorn…” Jonesy mumbled.

Trevor rolled his eyes, again with the unicorn crap. “There’s no such thing as unicorns...”

“Yet here I stand nude and painted purple…with fucking wings,man. No such things as these either. ”

“What are you, a seven year old girl? People love the Nude Purple Fairy. Now shut up, whiny, and take this one over tothe door of the G&B Gazette. Pretend to give it a tongue kiss while Isnap the picture.”

“Why do we keep coming back to this town, Trevor? It gives me the creeps with all those animalsounds.”

“Give it tongue, man. Come on.” Trevor snapped thepicture and tallied up in his head all the money he’d make on this baby.

“Why Talbot’s Peak, Cuz?”

Trevor shook his head and laughed. “Why not? It’s small and tucked away from everything, plus we got away with itlast time. You know, Jonesy, I think we’regonna make this town our bitch!”

~~~

Have a wonderful Friday, everyone! May you all find your own nude purple fairy today. :D

Serena

Best Book I've Read in a Long Time!

2012-01-11T23:18:00.004-06:00

I would like to think I am a logical, rational woman. But then a book I've been waiting on pins and needles for gets released and nothing gets done 'till I've finished reading it. This is why I hate the industry standard of releasing books on a Tuesday.

Yesterday at midnight, my pre-ordered copy of Krestley Cole's newest installment, "Lothaire" showed up on my Kindle. I knew it would, so I took a nap after work on Monday and stayed up late so I could read a few chapters. I have spent most of my "free time" (including time I really should have been sleeping) reading that book. I just finished it about 45 minutes ago.

This book was everything I had hoped it would be. Ms Cole's paranormal romance series called "Immortals After Dark" just keeps getting better and better rather than petering out like so many long-running romance series tend to do. I think the main reason for this is that she lets her bad guys be bad but still have some redeemable qualities that her good guys can fall in love with.

The title character of this newest book, an evil vampire named Lothaire, is a complete despot. By the end of the book, he's still a bit of a despot, but his spunkey Bride, Ellie, spends the whole book forcing him to change his ways enough that he learns to love, be a little selfless (at least toward her family) and most importantly, to stop assuming he his God's Gift To Women. Add Ms Cole's established cast of sarcastic seers, bat-shit crazy bad buys, lunatic Valkaries, combined with her signature hilarious one-liners made "Lothaire" a read I just couldn't put down. I sure hope this trend continues, because as usual, she set up the next story of the series in the last chapter and it looks like it could be the best yet!

Steampunk Comes to Talbot's Peak, Montana

2012-01-10T05:08:00.013-06:00

Full moon howls and yowls, shapeshifter lovers.

I've been busily penning a new WIP titled, Her Midnight Stardust Cowboys. And, yep, the erotic love story of Sherilyn, and her two shapeshifting cowboys, Zance and Dontoya, takes place in the area surrounding Talbot's Peak, Montana.

Since I've got tons of stuff to do tomorrow, I'll make this short and sweet, and simply say, here's my first flash with steampunk elements.
~~~~~~

Steampunk Comes to Talbot's Peak, Montana

"Dark powers arise," Khamalia heard as she ran hunched over toward the mammoth-sized chest near one of the five towering masts of the steam-powered cloud galleon.

Like a wraith she silently slipped behind the chest most likely used for rigging. Its size concealed her well enough, and at her back the polished wood of a deck cabin also kept her hidden.

This was her one chance to escape the marriage her father had arranged to a horrid potentate with numerous wives. She didn't exactly blame him. The crates of gold, already delivered, assured the survival of her immense family and their extensive lands in a time when corruption ruled. When those with the blackest hearts ruined the lives of those who were honest in their trade and affairs.

Before the hour struck, Khamalia had managed to dress in her brother's sturdy outdoor clothing, even finding a pair of his childhood stealth boots. At that moment, she decided a higher power watched over her, and an unknown destiny awaited her.

"The wind is fair, and at our backs. Adventure claims us." Captain Zriker, also the pilot, boomed his words loud enough to carry across the top deck of the glistening and magnificent galleon.

The sound of his commanding voice also triggered the giant-to-tiny wheel mechanisms, as Khamalia thought of them, and they whirred into action. The distinctive hiss and rush of steam began, rising to mid-morning's brilliant blue sky.

Khamalia only knew Captain Zriker's voice, and that of his all-around mechanic and navigator, Lord Drevik, because she'd dared move near enough to listen as they conversed with her brothers during one of her family's dining entertainments.

"Lift off is achieved. To the sun, then to the stars, and onto another world," Lord Drevik sang as if he played the lead in an opera.

Knowing her only hope was to remain undiscovered until they sailed so high she could not be safely lowered into the arms of the authorities, Khamalia nearly held her breath. She clutched her knees tight turning herself into a ball as the air-worthy galleon ascended, slowly at first, yet faster as the great gears spun with ever-increasing speed.

She'd traveled on airships before, however none so powerful and resplendent. Certainly not a galleon that could journey through several dimensions. While Captain Zriker and Lord Drevik were renowned for the exotic goods they brought back for purchase, it was well known their true passion remained exploration of other worlds.

After Captain Zriker spoke several commands to the galleon, the immense sails unfurled. Shimmering in the sunlight, they moved angling to catch the full force of the wind.

The great bursts of steam being generated formed a gentle mist around Khamalia, and she risked a peek above the chest. In their heavy leather gear, their knee-high laced boots, their goggles and thin helmets, with their sidearms and fighting blades, the two men cut dashing figures.

They surveyed the galleon's whirling and pumping apparatus with an eye for anything amiss. Apparently satisfied, they devoted their attention to the sky kingdom they traveled through.

Once the galleon emerged above a layer of delicate clouds, and sailed at a rapid clip, cold seeped through Khamalia's woolen garments. She huddled against the side of the deck cabin, shivering. Soon violent tremors took over body.

Khamalia hugged herself trying to gain any warmth at all. As she attempted to decide whether to hide herself inside the chest, or reveal her presence, she heard the confident stride of either Zriker or Drevik moving quickly toward her.

Her heart tripped madly, and she froze not from the cold, but from sheer uncertainty. What would they do with her once...

"What a little fool." Captain Zriker's stern, arrogant voice addressed her. "Boy, get up. At once."

Not daring her gaze on his, Khamalia pressed her mitten-covered hands against the polished wood, then managed to gradually push herself onto her feet. The strong winds sliced the cold through her now.

"Your name, little fool."

When she didn't answer -- there was no use since her lips trembled and her words would have been garbled -- Captain Zriker seized her chin forcing her gaze to meet his. The startling color of his blue eyes, like beautiful clear glass, blazed inside her, and for moments she burned. Khamalia welcomed the warmth.

"What have we here?" Lord Drevik demanded in his imperious yet gallant timbre.

"I do believe we have a stowaway. One who refuses me the courtesy of a name."

"Ah then, a name we shall have. Then we will put the little bugger to work as payment for--"

Khamalia failed to hear Lord Drevik's final words. With her toes turning numb and her fingers aching terribly from the searing cold, she felt her head empty to nothingness. She knew she collapsed before the greedy arms of darkness embraced her.

***

Captain Zriker caught the lad with ease, his usual outstanding reflexes to the rescue. Only the soft curves that landed in his arms were that of a woman, a woman who felt particularly splendid. It had been her garb that fooled his keen eye.

"The lad would not be accustomed to the thin air at this altitude." Drevik kept stride with Zriker, and they moved inside the deck cabin. "A hot toddy once he revives will chase the blood through his veins. I'll attend to it."

"Our stowaway is a woman. I believe I recognize her face. In a few moments I'll recall who she is." Zriker strode toward the nearest bunk. It was imperative he warm her as quickly as possible, and the bunk had been equipped with its own heating device.

"A woman you say. Well, this is an unexpected, yet quite exciting turn of events. I shall concoct the toddy to her more delicate flesh."

After stepping on the brass peddle to start the warmer, Zriker placed his soft unmoving bundle onto the bedding. Her lips, tinted with blue, indicated a lack of oxygen, and he immediately switched on the atmosphere enhancer, then removed his gloves, goggles and helmet.

"Exceptionally charming, her features," Zriker remarked to his long-time friend and exploration partner. Both of them had been outcasts in their families, black sheep if you will, despite their superior talents as men, and now their current state of being materially rich.

"Even more exciting then. Perhaps, our need for feminine company at Dante's Interspecies Pleasure Club will not be required this time."

"Perhaps not." Zriker spoke above the tinkling sound of glass as Drevik prepared the medicinal toddy, an expertise of his.

After seating himself beside the woman who appeared to be about to awaken, Zriker removed one of her mittens. He pressed her fragile hand between both of his, and searched his excellent memory for her name, and for where he'd seen her.

She tossed her head, her eyelids fluttering. "You are quite safe, miss. We will not harm you. I promise."

"No... no... no," she uttered softly yet desperately. Her head whipped from side to side. "No, I won't marry him. I won't."

Reliable as always, his memory served up her name, plus where he'd briefly met her.

"Oh great Soren's ghost," he barked toward Drevik. "We will be accused of stealing Sultan Pharuque's latest bride."

There was a bit of a pause before Drevik spoke. "All to the good I say. Never liked the boring chap. He's about as bright as piece of winter sod. No wonder... what is her name?"

"Khamalia is her familiar name."

"No surprise our Khamalia bravely boarded as a stowaway. I say we keep her."

"It may be her only chance at avoiding horrific consequences." Without thought, Zriker removed her other mitten, and began warming her icy cold hand between his palms.

"The toddy is nearly complete. How fairs our lovely guest?"

At that precise moment, Khamalia blinked, gazing at him. Her eyes were as bright as amethyst beneath the midday sun. "Please...please, don't return me. I beg of you."

Captain Zriker knew there was not one chance on heaven and any Earth he'd explored that he would ever return her.

***

Johnny growled under his breath as he cleaned off one more table at Dante's biker bar. Thinking about what he could be doing instead, he grumbled and snarled as he continued bussing the empty tables.

Sure, he'd wanted to sneak in as an underage patron, impress Lola and hang out with the tough-as-hide crowd. That would have been a trophy kill for shit certain.

But to his everlasting and secret shame, Dante had ripped his furry butt a good one, and proven he was a werewolf not to be messed with. Ever.

"Never again," Johnny muttered to himself. Noticing the clock as he set the tray of dishes next to the giant humming dishwasher, he yelled, "Break time."

"Yeah, sure, kid. Just get you and your ass in here on time." Norbert, a polar bear shifter who'd spent many a year as a merchant seaman, and now cooked up his specialties, gave him the eye, the one that said, "I'll make you a tasty snack if you even think about crossing Dante."

"Yeah, yeah. Be back." After jerking his apron off, Johnny flung it close to the back door, then swung outside. Hell's own shit, the full moon blazed above him, and he was missing madness night out with his pack of buddies.

Pulling out his last cigarette, he lit it quickly and took a draw. The smoke had barely entered his lungs when he stopped cold and stared. Since the moon shone like a giant spotlight, Johnny didn't think his darn good eyesight deceived him.

In fact, he shit swore he saw a flying galleon cross in front of the moon, then begin to descend near the area where he'd entered the tunnel leading to the Midnight Stardust Supperclub.

What the scat fang?

He yelped as his ciggy burned his fingertips. Who would believe him anyway? Crap the shit, what had his life turned into? Turning, Johnny made his way inside just as Norbert lumbered toward him fast, a meat cleaver clenched in his hand.
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal and Miraculous New Year ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~~~~

Not the Same Old Story

2012-01-09T13:16:00.000-06:00

Ray Nardo skipped out on his 8th period study hall to saunter over to the TPHS auditorium. He had a permission slip from Mr. Smalls, the English teacher, but preferred not to show it unless forced. Sure, everybody already knew he had a part in the spring musical, but it wasn’t something a cool dude cared to advertise, and Ray counted himself among the coolest of the cool.

He stepped inside the auditorium and saw he wasn’t the only class-jumper taking advantage of Mr. Smalls’ generosity. The artsy bunch, put to work on scenery, went at their New York City backdrop with gusto, and the occasional actual perspective. Ray waved to the paint-spattered ladies up on the stage, and got a few waves in return.

This year’s musical was West Side Story, adapted for a Talbot’s Peak audience as a tale of the herbivorous Jets fighting a gang war with the invading predator Sharks. Since Mr. Smalls insisted on casting to type, that put Ray in the Shark camp. This had pissed him off royally, because everybody knew the best singing roles were on the Jet side. To add insult to injury, the teacher cast Leo Jenks as Bernardo, the only decent Shark part. Ray still hadn’t forgiven either of them. Sure, Leo was one hell of a dancer, but Ray knew he had the better voice. What did a coyote bring to the table that a fox couldn’t, anyway?

With Tony and Riff denied him thanks to species bias, Ray ended up as Chino, the only other Shark with a speaking part. Better than nothing, but only by a hair. It did have one thing going for it: at the end, Chino got to shoot Tony. Ray was looking forward to that.

No singing, some dancing. Suck it up, Nardo, Ray told himself. He needed this, and not just for class credit. Someday, he and his garage band would be filling arenas. The high school musical was his first step in learning how to perform in front of an audience. Being able to sing and play a guitar wasn’t enough in the age of viral videos. You had to put on a show.

On his way to the stage Ray stopped to touch base with his buddy Brock Wolverton, seated on the aisle with a seriously-furrowed brow as he went over his script. He’d been cast as Officer Krupke, mostly due to his imposing physique. Thank the shifter spirits the part required no singing or dancing. The big wolf could pass, run and block like a pro footballer; musical theatre, not so much. “Yo, Brock. How goes it?”

Brock growled at his script. “Can I still get out of this?”

“Not if you want to pass English. Look, you’re playing a cop. You just have to snarl at a bunch of herbies. You can do that.”

“If they’re carrying a football, yeah. I think I’d rather flunk English.”

“You’ll do fine.” Ray patted Brock’s broad shoulder. “Is Leo here? Or Mr. Smalls? I want to work on my choreography.”

“I think Leo’s backstage with some she. Mr. Smalls isn’t here yet.”

A shouted oath drew their attention to stage right. Brock bared his teeth. If he could reproduce that look on opening night, Ray thought, he’d be a winner. “Looks like the happy couple’s at it again.”

No need to ask for clarification. Teddy Simms, the production’s Tony, hadn’t bothered to hide his disdain for his leading lady since rehearsals started. Okay, so the girl wasn’t exactly in the Angelina Jolie category. She was stocky and round-faced and only had a stub of a nose, in spite of smelling like a fox. Her pale skin, silvery-blonde hair and colorless eyes made her look like a ghost. In fact, she was pretty colorless on all fronts, and Ray hadn’t paid much attention to her.

Until she started to sing.

Holy Joe. Now there was a voice that could pack an arena. He stood mesmerized while she ran through her portion of “Tonight.” He paid no attention to her baggy sweater and dull cargo pants. His mind’s eye saw her fronting his band at Superbowl halftime, and record deals up the tail. Judging by the rapt looks on the faces of the others in the auditorium, everyone agreed with him.

Everyone but Teddy. “Bored,” the hulking elk announced, and stalked off up the aisle, leaving his Maria to stutter to a halt in confusion. She didn’t even shout at him to get his grass-eating tail back there, as any self-respecting predator would have done. Her white balloon of a face crumpled, on the verge of tears.

Instantly Ray dashed down the aisle and vaulted onto the stage. Nobody with a voice that awesome should ever be miserable. “Hey,” he said. “Don’t let the weed-whacker bother you. Even if he wasn’t a herbie, he’d still be a major dick. I don’t know how he got the part of Tony in the first place. Oh wait, sure I do. He’s Mr. Smalls’ nephew. That makes him a dick times two. He’s probably pouting because your voice is way better than his and he knows you’re going to steal the show.”

None of this made a dent in her expression. “I just wanted to rehearse. I know I’m a carnie and all, but it’s just a play.”

“And he’s just a dick. Forget him.” Ray held out his hand. “Ray Nardo. Chino in the cast. At least you get to sing.”

She stared at his hand but made no move to touch it. Hoo-kay, let’s try round two. “I don’t remember seeing you around school before,” Ray said.

“We just moved here from Alaska. My parents thought the musical would be a good way to meet people. Our old home was pretty remote. We’re Arctic foxes,” she explained.

Aha. That put her lack of color and compact build into perspective. “How about if you rehearse with me?” he said. “I know all the songs, and most of the lines.” The Tony role had been his aim, until Mr. Smalls had walked into tryouts with Teddy in tow. Shooting him, if only pretend, was going to be a joy.

The girl’s round face brightened in a smile. For a second she looked as beautiful as her voice. “Would you? I really need to practice.”

For answer, Ray switched on the CD player with the arrangements. He found “Tonight” and started singing. Hesitantly at first, then with confidence, “Maria” joined in.

Trout in a bucket, this frozen fox girl could belt out a tune with a skill Eddy Vedder would have cried for. Ray added dance steps and found her as light on her feet as the ghost she looked like, baggy clothes and squat body notwithstanding. Screw Teddy; put her in makeup and costume and she was going to steal the show from everybody.

All too soon, the music ended. They stared at each other, holding hands, panting and bright-eyed. Loud applause from throughout the auditorium brought them back to earth. The scenery-painters gave them a standing ovation. Even Brock was clapping. The girl looked around, startled and wide-eyed. “Get used to it,” Ray whispered. “You’re a star.”

“Not bad, Mr. Nardo,” Mr. Smalls’s high-pitched, smarmy voice said from behind him. “Although it’s not your role. Where’s Teddy?”

I thought I smelled elk patties. More diplomatic words made it out of his mouth instead. “He had to make a trip to the can. I was helping—” Scat. He’d never even asked “Maria” her name.

“It doesn’t sound like Callista needs any help. That was magnificent, my dear.” Mr. Smalls beamed at her before adding to Ray, “Your dancing needs work, Mr. Nardo.”

“That’s why I’m here. Look, as long as I’m here, why can’t I at least understudy for the Tony part? Teddy could snap a leg or something”—one could only hope—“and Phil really doesn’t have the range for it. Nobody needs to know I’m a fox. It’s not like we’re going to shift on stage or anything.”

“True, but Phil is a horse, and I want to keep the cast divided between carnivores and herbivores. It adds verisimilitude to the acting.” Not to mention keeping precious nephew Teddy in the starring role. “Perhaps next year, Mr. Nardo.”

Yeah, and perhaps wolves would eat salads. Ray held his tongue until Mr. Smalls was safely out of earshot. “All elks are dicks,” he pronounced. “Hey, listen, if Teddy keeps on being a douche and you want to work on your lines or whatever, why not come over to my place? We’ve got a garage with great acoustics. My band practices in there all the time.”

She smiled again, less brilliantly but still dazzling. How could he have thought her plain, with a smile like that? “I’d like that.”

At that moment, in the pinnacle of bad timing, Leo Jenks reappeared with his she of the moment in tow, and called the “Sharks” together for dance rehearsal. Ray quickly blurted his address, twice to make sure she got it, then skipped over to join his castmates. His heart also skipped in a syncopated beat, and music ran through his mind.

Callista … I just met a girl named Callista …

New Series In the Works

2012-01-07T12:27:00.008-06:00

Pardon the guy with the cigarette. My hero in the first book of a two book series I am working on doesn't smoke. Troy Adams is one sexy shape shifter in police uniform in Calder's Grove. His next door neighbor Nancy Stewart is keeping her lust below radar level until she ends up in Troy's care broken ankle and crutches not withstanding. She has her own secrets she's keeping hid, a few furry relatives are in route to visit with her human mother who knows nothing about the family's well kept secret. Book One's working title is Nancy and the Werewolf

Book Two brings Chaz Maxxon, Troy's best friend and Calder's Grove's top auto mechanic into contact with Nancy's Tante Nata, short for Auntie Naughty as the family calls her. Nita Carmichael needs a male who won't flinch at her kinky and lusty desires. Chaz has a few ideas of his own since his break up with his girlfriend. Can a demi-shape shifter and a full blooded one find happiness without breaking the other's will?

Enjoy the excerpt below from Nancy and the Werewolf, book one of Werewolf Kisses:

“Troy, what are you doing here?’ Nancy smiled as she spotted her neighbor sitting at the end of the bar as she exited the kitchen. Her voice carried through the now quiet establishment.

Troy looked delicious in his police uniform. Tight pants that cupped his pert ass and showed off his long lean legs along with his long fingers had her wishing she’d been the one to see him running nude as a few of the Cribbage bunch swore they’d seen the last full moon. She knew what those legs looked like in shorts, running shorts that left little to a woman’s fertile imagination. His sweat soaked t-shirt had hung to him like a second skin outlining his pecs and washboard abs. If she didn’t get her mind out of his pants, well- - -fanning herself wasn’t an option. Troy’s smile lit up his face all the way to his eyes. They twinkled like the white lights on a Christmas tree or two stars in the dark sky. Their golden brown irises glowed when he laughed. God, having the hots for her neighbor was going to get her in trouble. And not in a good way. Last thing she needed was more embarrassment.

“Franny, my cousin, called me. You know her as Francine or Thumbs as her pack mates call her.” He flashed a thumbs up, his smile widening. “Chaz has your car down at the shop already. He towed it about an hour ago. Franny said I had to see you home. Only Calder’s Grove finest would do.”

Nancy swallowed hard. She’d asked the women to not match make. Why was Thumbs doing this? “Thanks I can call a cab. No need for you to take time from your patrol for me.”

Troy sat his coffee cup on the bar. Nancy’s fidgeting with her apron ties as it lay on the bar told him more than if she’d looked him in the eye. All five-foot-three of her gave off heat laced with pheromones that screamed fertility. Eager and ready to jump his bones if he was willing. Oh, and he was ever so willing. The one time he’d dropped hints at taking her out, Nancy had put him off faster than a she wolf in heat could run leading a group of horny males on a merry chase. Since then Troy had watched and waited, knowing that Nancy accepted folks without prejudice. Brant’s remark on how she’d acclimated to waiting on shifters and their raw meat needs indicated her ease with things that weren’t her experienced norm. That triggered more than a passing interest in Nancy. Getting her to treat him more than a friendly neighbor was another thing.

Dial D for Dante

2012-01-06T04:00:00.000-06:00

"Come back sshere you worfless little puss." Theslur in the old man's words warned Lola Longing that he was in the middle ofbinge and she'd be smart to stay in her cat form, and spend a few nights in thegarage. "Shoulda bagged s’you up as a kitten and dropped s’you in the flarkingfountain. Damn catzz!"

Lola slunk further into the night—the darkness, a perfectbackdrop for her black fur. Only her blazing green eyes could give her positionaway at this point, but as she intended to keep them closed for, at least, afew hours she wasn't worried. She longed to find the peace she hadn't had sinceDante returned her to the belligerent drunk she was unfortunate enough to have fora father.

William Longing’s marriage to her mother made him one of thefew humans in Talbot's Peak to know about the town's shape shifter population.That fact alone should have made him enemy number one, but being laid back andeasy going, plus his ability to hide his inebriation made him fairly well-liked.It didn't hurt that he also ran the only liquor store in town and could get thebar owners damn good deals on wholesale liquor.

Curtains parted at the front window on the little two bedroomhouse and Lola knew the twin green orbs searching the yard were from the womanshe loved most of all. Two steps brought the little black cat out into thelight just long enough for her mother to see her and know that she was safe. Foras many years she could remember, Lola's mother, Linda, had been restrained bya brutal and undignified shock collar.

Life had always kind of sucked around Longing's household,but now that good old Willie had started associating with some really nastycats, yucky kazoos or something, it had gotten worse—almost deadly. They'dagreed that it was finally time for Lola to seek out help. Through quiet calls,coded letters and secret meetings they'd found out from her mom's secondcousin, Kitty, that some time ago, Dante proved instrumental in providing for Kitty's own protection.

When Johnny started talking about breaking into Dante's newdance club, Lola had seen it as a chance to make a connection with Dante. Shehated using Johnny that way, considering feelings for him, but she was desperate.Unfortunately, as it always was with Johnny, once they’d been caught, hewouldn't shut up long enough for her to get two words out.

Dante had dropped her off at home first, and assured goodold Willie, that Lola was off the hook. He knew Johnny was the ringleader, andso Johnny would pay the penalty—community service and then a low-paying job.

Lolaknew that Johnny would never show up to make good with Dante, he preferredplaying it fast and loose. Normally, that would be a problem, but not thistime. Lola would be showing up and she would offer to do whatever Dante neededif he would only help save her mother.

~~~

So I composed this post with my new Dragon software and my wrists are thanking me already! What a hoot to actually speak my writing...things come out way different when I say them, plus I can go somewhat faster, I love that! As for accuracy, it's pretty darn good...even with names. :)

Have a great weekend!

Serena

January 2012 Calendar Boys - "Jamie and Lamar"

2012-01-05T01:00:00.001-06:00

(click on the photo to download your copy)

Happy January, everyone! And what a bitter, cold one it is, too, if you happen to be on the US East Coast! Here's a little something to warm you up: a Shapeshifter Seductions calendar featuring some of the hunkiest man-candy Talbot's Peek has to offer.

This month, we have Jamie and Lamar's "Adam and the Serpent" scene from Pat's Calendar Boys post. This is a down-loadable PDF file. You can also print it, but it uses 11" x 17" paper, so keep that in mind.

Keep an eye out for next month's Calendar! I'll be posting it the first Thursday of February.

~ Rebecca

Foiled!

2012-01-04T01:00:00.000-06:00

You know when you start a project that should, on the surface, be fairly strait-forward? I have spent much of my spare time over the last month making 3D pictures of some Talbot's Peak hunks for a ShapeShifter Seductions calendar.

.... and my computer just ate about half of the files. So what do you think:

A) I give you the calendar one month at a time so I can make new ones.

B) I give you the full year's worth right now but with 3 months per hotty.

Oh, and here's a sneak peek. This is Jamie and Lamar doing "Adam in the Garden of Eden."

The New Year, 2012 Predictions by Gypsy Red Wolf

2012-01-03T06:24:00.008-06:00

New Year greeting-yips and tail wags from your Gypsy Red Wolf.

Tonight the dog star, Sirius... really the wolf-soul star... rules the midnight grandeur of our Montana sky. Our beloved Mother Moon, growing ever more pregnant with light, enters the sign of Venus-ruled Taurus from the sign of Mars-ruled Aries.

This means the fierce flames of inspiration meet the beauty and love inside each one of us. During this year of 2012, our creativity is born anew, and our hearts will be on fire with love. This bodes well for those who are mated and those who are seeking their right mates.

To enter this year's blaze-sparkly vibration of love from the Sacred Universe, a never-ending swirl around each and everyone of us, join me at the Midnight Stardust Supperclub. Along with my performance every Saturday night at the Interspecies Pleasure Club, I am now one of the ballroom dance instructors.

My precious loup-garous, my precious ones of every breed-type and beautiful stripe, I promise the elegant, the enthralling, the enchanting pleasures of gliding within your loved one's arms at Dante's new supperclub. It is all what we need during this evil-raging, staging-of-chaos times by those who have succumbed to their darkest natures -- those cunning rabid beasts who battle to destroy the Light shining inside those of us who walk with the Mother Wolf Goddess.

Yes, yes... my crystal ball summons... once again, my howling and yowling friends, and all those who have made Talbot's Peak their new home this year... so many of you, and I welcome everyone with the embrace of my heart... it is time to gaze into my trusted, from the time of the ancients, wolfen-ancestral crystal ball... now un-clouding as if a winter storm passes and blue skies appear.

Time once again to put pen to paper in the old-fashioned way. Digital bytes interfere with the higher vibrations of our star-sparkling universe... ah yes, the predictions are piling up like our recent heavy snowfalls, I see.

Only for you, dearest readers of the G&B Gazette, I will reveal the secrets of the coming new year -- the much maligned, yet media-celebrated year of 2012. Don't believe the movies by the way, my wise ones. Garbage and chewed bones in, garbage and bone fragments out, as they grunting-say. ~yip-yip giggles~

Ah, my shapeshifter and supernatural brethren, has not the past year flown by, fast as riding the great swift wings of a golden eagle? And that brings us to my first prediction. Ascension. A mystical, airy purple-nude-fairy word, yes, to be sure... however...

We will rise as eagles. Or we will plummet like arrows who have missed their target. This will be true for you as a lone wolf individual, or as a member of the community pack. Only caring for each other and hunting for the benefit of all will allow for a well-fed spirit and a well-fed belly.

For, we have arrived at the apex of many cycles in time. It will be as if winter, fall, summer and spring converge and all the forces of nature crash together becoming one magnificent and tumultuous season. One never to be forgotten. Our wolf songs will be howled to the bright full moon with deep emotion, and someday in remembrance.

Yes, as has been forecast by many, severe land changes are here. I see the gnashing fangs, the ripping claws of Mother Earth. She will be cruel at times. She will also be loving and benign to those of us who remain connected to her energies, to those of us who dance and run with our wild spirits upon her surface.

Ah, loud howls of warning, dear ones, I see rough, trying periods ahead for many of us. Now is the time to hunt, to forage whenever the weather offers a friendly paw. Now is the time to prepare and store like our squirrel neighbors. Do so, and every difficulty will be overcome.

Picture me suddenly leaning closer... my crystal ball is brilliant, bold in what is being revealed. Yes, yes, there it is! Despite the feisty snarling year of 2012, be of good hope. Our handsome alpha champions of Talbot's Peak charge forth to savagely protect us, once again.

I am watching their strong fangs flash, ferocious as slashing knives. They are triumphant against every enemy. Even though, yes, in truth there are too many of our foes to count.

Truth, another giant trend for this New Year of 2012, slays the most wicked on Mother Earth like a squadron of hungry and ruthless dragons. Watch for it.

As a final note, my furry, feathered, skin and scaled brethren, our Brother Sun is entering a fickle, not-for-the-faint-of-heart cycle. Beware, and dare to prepare the caves and shelters of your choice.

As always, I remain available as your personal psychic advisor.
~~~

Your Gypsy Red Wolf

~ Psychic to the Furry, Feathered, Amphibian and Scaled Shifter. Humans now included ~
~~~~~~

~ Have a Magickal and Miraculous New Year ~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~~~~

Irresolute

2012-01-02T12:21:00.000-06:00

“Hey, did you miss us? We’re back! I don’t feel tardy. Van Halen’s `Hot For Teacher’ on 105.7, SHFT in Talbot’s Peak. You’re listening to Tabbs and Fuzzy on the Morning Hair Ball, back live after our post-Christmas break. Bet a pack of you were coughing up hairballs yesterday morning. Huh, Fuzzy?”

“What day is this?”

“It’s Monday. You look a little fuzzy, Fuzzy.”

“Are we in the studio?”

“One of us is. Tell you what, folks, while Fuzz-man screws his head back on, give us a call and tell us your New Year’s resolutions and how they’re working out so far. Morning Hair Ball, you’re on the air.”

“Duuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuude!”

“Skimeister! How they hangin’, bro?”

“All the way to the ground, dude. Whoooo!”

“Oh scat, is that Ski again? I thought we banned him.”

“Fuzz dude! How’s that tail? Waving high or stuck between your legs?”

(Urps) “I’m gonna hurl—”

“Oops. I think Fuzz rang in both 2012 and 2013 the other night. Ski-man! Any resolutions for the new year?”

“Hell yeah, dude. I’m gonna drink more. I mean not drink more. Wait. I gotta think about this.” (Hangs up.)

“Don’t hurt yourself. You okay now, Fuzz?”

“I think so. There’s only two of you now. How did I get in this morning?”

“Cerise drove you here. She walked you to the door and everything.”

“That’s not right. She’s not a morning person.”

“She looked damned happy, all things considered. Hold on, we got a caller. Morning Hair Ball, you’re on the air.”

“Hey, Tabby.” (long, sexy purr)

“Well, hell-o, kitty. How’s the new year treating you, darling?”

(Giggles) “Okay, I guess.”

“Howzabout those resolutions? Need any help breaking them?”

“No, I’m good. I wanted to lose weight this year, so I dumped my boyfriend.”

“Sooooo, you’re single now?”

“Yep.” (giggles)

“Well, sweetie-whiskers, we can’t have you going into 2012 all by yourself. How old are you?”

(giggles) “I’m legal. The cops said so.”

“Okay, I can work with that. You know I’m a tabby tom. What kind of kitty are you?”

“I’m an ocelot.”

“Exotic. Me likee.”

“I dunno, man. Your stripes and her spots, your kids are gonna look like a Rorschach test.”

“Don’t ice this for me, Fuzzy. She sounds hot. What’s your name, dumpling?”

“Gloria.”

“Ooooooh yeah. G-L-O-R-I-AAAAAAY! How about your claws? Keep ’em nice and filed?”

“You should see the trees out in back of my place. The bark’s all shredded.”

“That’s the way I like it, uh-huh, uh-huh. Are you—”

“Oh scat. Oh scat, Tabby.”

“Not now, Fuzzy. The master’s working here.”

“I think I proposed to Cerise.”

“You WHAT?”

“Uh … I’ll call you back.” (hangs up)

“New Year’s Eve. We were at this party, and it was open bar, y’know, so I … I think I may have asked Cerise to marry me. I don’t know for sure. Half the night’s pretty hazy.”

“Fuzz, what do you want to do that for? There are too many shes out there just begging for a hump. Why tie yourself to just one?”

“I dunno, man. It’s the wolf gene. We look for one mate and that’s it. Oh gawd. She’s a jackal. She eats all the leftovers. I’ll starve.”

“Deep breaths, Fuzzball. You can still get out of this. Morning Hair Ball, you’re on the air.”

“Dog, you’re getting married? Helluva way to start the year.”

“Tell me about it.”

“Here’s what you do. South America. Lose yourself in the rain forest.”

“Won’t work, man. Her nose can spot a carcass three miles off. I wouldn’t stand a chance.”

“South America. Just sayin’.” (hangs up)

“Yeesh, Fuzzy, you sure know how to bring down the new year. Morning Hair Ball, you’re on the air.”

“Nyah nyah, nyah nyah, Fuzzy’s on a leash.”

“So’s your alpha, scat breath.”

“Hey, bite my—”

“Yep, it’s 2012 and already rockin’ here in Talbot’s Peak. You’re listening to the Morning Hair Ball on 105.7, SHFT. Here’s a tune for the Fuzz-man and everybody else who did something stupid on New Year’s Eve. Nickelback, ‘Bottoms Up.’ Enjoy.”