"Alright, students. In just a moment, after crossing this large bridge, we will arrive at the resort. As you can see, Hilla Cure looks beautiful. It's mostly dense woods and I must warn you to not travel in restricted areas. There are scouts, but your actions will be troublesome. If you are interested in tonight, please join. Our first event is a campfire."

Large, painted rustic brown, erosion of a once beautiful object became old and unappealing. Hilla Cure wanted to fix this bridge, but the budget had been to keep the inn floating. It took a pounding from the seasons and constant years of use. An antique feel, but night will deliver a spook factor. It needed cleaning and a lot of love.

The small cracks in the bridge didn't cover the beauty of the island.

If someone wants to witness harmony, look past the outside. Isn't that what they were all taught as children? Looking past the book cover.

Surrounded by clear water, black objects raced about in schools of unison. Their desire to be together, dance together, and play along gave peace to the destination. The fish were thriving. Watching the wildlife live so naturally only meant Hilla Cure was paradise.

Hilla Cure's animal population was abundant. Birds flew in and out of the island. What looked to be deer stood by the water's edge to sip. Crescent eyes widened as lush greens stained in multi-colors blew dead leaves into the surrounding waves.

Trees became bald, but their brightness now lay in beds of worthy pictures. The island changed into a painting; however, this painting was alive. He enjoyed the scenery. The bus crossed the bridge, entered an open wooden gate, and climbed a steep hill. In the distance, the inn.

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9 pm, the time of the campfire had begun. It was a choice to be there, Ahni decided to stay in the room and sleep. He had a long day and blamed all of his exhaustion on the recent social requirements. He met a lot of friends on the bus. Crescent decided to go. Tucked neatly on a long made for three individuals, the brunette sat just shy of two more logs on either side of him. There were more tree stump seats in various locations and pillows on top for comfort. This little area could easily accomodate twenty to thirty people.

The warmth picked up with the chill of wind, brushing against his frame. His only response was to tighten the thin jacket that barely kept him protected. Quivered lips led him to clamp his jaw as his hot breath blew to cast away the shivers.

More students came to enjoy the gathering, all placing themselves in certain spots. Friends sat side by side, chatted, and played around with the cackling fire. Crescent didn't mind that he sat alone. He wasn't interested in being friends with those that were fake. This entire school was filled with mistrust and lies. Men who dabbled in gain more than anything. Mr. Riley too came down, watching the students pour in. He directed them to their seats before he did a head count. A count was mandatory. Some students could sneak off and do things that would put this entire trip in jeopardy. He was weary of allowing them freedom and he had every right to be.

"Is that everyone?" Mr. Riley needed to make sure he wasn't expecting unexpected guest.

"No. One more is coming." 

A calm voice on Crescent's left spoke up forcing Crescent to whip his head and see who occupied the left of his log. He wasn't aware anyone had joined him. Too into his own mind to notice his surroundings. Having a voice suddenly rings inside of his ear scared him a bit. The shiver jolt turned into a slight rise in his heartbeat. A redhead, clicking his tongue and waving at him soon became his glasses reflection.

The awkwardness between himself and Kisha died down but with Saikai, it was still there. Crescent turned his head back to the fire, acting as if he didn't see anyone. The thought of having Saikai so close to him only bothered him in ways that he could ruin this campfire for everyone. He hated when people had the audacity. Don't act like nothing happened, fucker.

Nonchalantly brushing off the other night, Saikai only pissed him off with that welcoming smile. He was drugged and sexually assaulted as if it was a normal thing and everyone had to accept what was given. If Kisha had never come, how would that have played out? Would Saikai have gone further? He seemed more turned on than Crescent did at that time. They had both consumed the chocolate. Any thought beyond that in which he had been through only scared him. Planning on never being alone with Saikai again. That redhead had issues.

The flames became Crescent's source of comfort, body doubled over to capture more warmth. The only thing good about this experience. Crescent watched as Mr. Riley decided upon eating roasted marshmallows. He dug into a duffle bag before pulling out some sticks and multiple bags of marshmallows. Passing each object around to the students, the orchestrated pass soon landed in Crescent's hands. 

He grabbed a few sticks and placed a handful of marshmallows in his lap tucked above his jacket. Sweets were something Crescent enjoyed. He felt happiest and he would often get them for Ahni who too found his palette to favor them. Crescent extended one into the fire, the marshmallow instantly developing singe excited him. He's never had them in this form. Marshmallows were a delicacy on the streets. Eating more greasy, and unhealthy foods packed with carbs and calories were favored just in case they didn't get to eat for a while after. The entire area began to smell of burning sugar and a lovely feeling engulfed him.

Peacefulness, as the students, chatted and laughed to their heart's content. This was something he could get used to. Often moments where the homeless would get together, he and Ahni would be right there. The picture resembled a large family. Though he hated his own, something inside of him still yearned for it. 

What were these feelings now? He's been experiencing so many new desires since he met Kisha. Wanting to incorporate him into their small family. He's yet to tell him, but all this time, Crescent found his curiosity venturing toward possible outcomes. The ride on the bus only confirmed how naive he had been. His guard was low whenever Kisha had come around.

It was a well worthy break from the horror at the academy. The darkness he's being drawn towards. He knew he was strong, but how strong would he continue to be? When will Ahni be drawn into this? Could he protect him?

Could he utilize Kisha's devotion? Knowing what Saikai did to him, how could he forgive him and tell him everything? The Phantom's right, it was now his move. He had two options. Persevere or fail miserably.

"It's burnt." A voice snapped him from his thoughts, Crescent lost in gaze turned to face the figure. Lit-up by the flames, a light dance over his skin made him glow red, his eyes even reflecting a different shade. The male seemed more interested in his features than focusing on the marshmallow.

With his hair now changed from the flames' touch of red, yellow, and orange, he looked to be lost as well in the dance of element. Weird to see such distinct colors changing the surface of an individual. Crescent wandered how the light reflected on himself.

"It's not." Crescent retorted, pulling the marshmallow from the fire and to his lips, but something told him to look before eating it. Of course it wasn't the little birdy in his head. His crossed eyes scanned over the blackened cube widening. How long did he cook it? It was only a few seconds, right?

"It's just... You're right. I dare you to eat it though." Crescent smirked as he spoke.

"I don't want that." The male called back disgusted.

Crescent smiled at his response, thinking about shoving the burnt marshmallow into the male's mouth when he opened it again. Who would? Flicking it to the dirt, Crescent applied another one, this time keeping a watchful eye on the marshmallow. He burned it just right on one side as the other swelled from the heat. Bringing it up to his lips, a quick inhale.

"You got a stick?" Crescent asked the familiar voice, looking to his side, but what he saw made his smile relax into a dead expression. Kisha was intensely staring straight at his lips.

The same kind of stare animals did when they watched their humans eat food. Crescent envisioned a drooling mutt, lost, begging for table scraps.

"You ok... Kisha?"

"Stick it in..." Kisha whispered a mindless way of words.

"What?" Crescent parted his lips, popping the marshmallow between clamped lips. With his tongue, he pushed it to one cheek before he chewed. He watched as Kisha's expression finally slightly change. His brows shifted downward, and his mouth parted a tad bit.

"What the fuck. That's rude, asshole."

"Looks good." Kisha spoke again in trance.

"I could tell. You look like a starved mutt." Crescent was becoming annoyed. Someone watching him eat something so small was getting on his nerves. It was the eyes that never left a certain part of his body that irked him the most.

"Mm~" Was the only reply he received.

Eh? Crescent retrieved a marshmallow from his jacket. To have the bag being passed around and hands all digging into it wasn't his idea of cleanliness. These were all men and many of them didn't believe in washing their hands when they went to the bathroom.

He popped one into the fire, counted to ten before he pulled the object back. It was a flaming ball he had to give a little blow to put out. Drawing the stick up to Kisha's lips he ushered him to open his mouth, the hot sugar pressed and sticking to Kisha's lips.

"I don't want that." Kisha turned his gaze as well as his head to avoid the grotesque object. The idea of eating that disgusted him. It didn't look appetizing and it smelled funny.

"Then goddamit, what do you want dude?"

Crescent brought the object to his mouth instead, angrily. As he parted his lips he watched as Kisha's gaze returned to his mouth, darting precision. The anticipation written at his gaze gave Crescent enough information.

It was obvious now. Crescent frowned, huffing before he finally figured out what Kisha had meant.

Slowly Crescent pressed the marshmallow into his mouth, making sure to meet it with an extended wet tongue. He released a heavy breath, cupping the ball of sweetness, using his tongue to wrap and pull it from the stick. Slowly, his upper lip came clamping down on only half the marshmallow, goo squirting into his mouth caused him to slurp it.

Due to his mouth being open for too long a small amount of drool developed, dripping down the side.

Crescent attempted to lick it up, making a small groan as he pulled back, chewing only half the marshmallow. His tongue came from his mouth to lick the half-eaten marshmallow. He trailed it slowly, releasing another breath.

"You're talented" He whispered, looking away. Kisha, who had become lost in how erotic Crescent consumed it, cleared his throat.

Crescent smiled mentally. Asshole, and you're obvious. Without a word, he popped the rest into his mouth, chewing with satisfaction.

It was clear Kisha was a closet pervert. These types of people were obvious with their actions, their words subliminal. There are times when they're bold but that's in private. As expected, too many people around to question his image.

From a small walk path in the distance, a lady dressed in the attire of the resort came approaching. The men all turned to give her their divided attention. When Kisha perked up to notice her, so did Crescent, popping another marshmallow into his mouth.

She was a little chubby but her soft features and short curled hair made her beautiful. Her skin was like Crescent's in color, makeup was done lightly to not shadow her natural look.

She stood before the gang, a persona of shyness breaking the air. Her hands clasped in front of her she spoke in a soft voice, standing as close as possible to the fire.

"Welcome, gentlemen. You've come to Hilla Cure. I hope you enjoy your stay. We are happy to accommodate your needs. Any issue and let me or the front desk know."

Crescent watched as the woman gave them all a small smile, looking at each individual.

"My name? Cyrus. I'm one of the longest workers here. During these campfires, we guide you through Hilla Cure's history and the secrets of our island. If you have any questions before I begin, let me know."

She paused, but no one asked. Her pleasant pronunciation. It's been a long time since Crescent got to see the opposite sex. A few female teachers and the nurse were nothing like woman outside of their school. Everyone at Nirvana Academy had a job to fulfill. This last seemed more relaxed and loving of her job. He could listen to her voice all day.

"Hilla Cure was built 100 years ago after an earthquake separated the island from the mainland. We built that bridge, the only way in and out. Hilla Cure is surrounded by its trapped animal population. They come and get stuck here especially the land ones. Founded by a woman named Victoria Aston, she died a few years ago and left Hilla Cure in the hands of her granddaughter. She is buried on this island. Do not disturb her if you come across her grave. Our resort is paradise but recently due to the rumors of our past and the shakiness of one certain animal we have lost tourism. We hope you can help us here. Bring your Nirvana to ours as you stay here these next couple of days. Any questions?"

Saikai raised a hand, the woman extended a nod, allowing his question.

"So, you've lost tourism. What do you mean by rumors?"

She smiled, unable to contain her thoughts. Good question.

"Well, you guys didn't read our history? Since the island's separation, we have developed an unprecedented amount of one particular species. You may hear them howl at night and they scamper around the inns looking for delicious goods. They stay clear from us, but we feed them to make sure they aren't aggressive. They are free to hunt on their own. They come in packs and have flourished here. Hunters have found them in the wild, but here at Hilla Cure, we do not allow that destruction as they are protected by state law. Like to take a guess?"

One man didn't hesitate, calling out the word cat, before the crowd burst into laughter. Crescent too chuckled. A howling cat? He was amazed at how stupid some of these students were. Did they grow up under a rock. There was only one type of animal that howled and it didn't purr.

"Wolves," Saikai's answered casually caused the woman to nod again.

"Yes, wolves. They are one of God's greatest creations. We have so many species here. Have you ever heard of Anthropomorphism? It's a term that was made only a few years ago. An animal takes the shape of a human being. We're used to humans taking the shapes of animals in stories but this is opposite."

Saikai who was nonchalantly shaking his head at everything she spoke.

"Many years ago, it developed when Indian tribes that worshipped wolves began to notice that those animals were dying off. After settlers came on the land, the wolves territories depleted. They encountered each other too often which led to death. People who were afraid of their power began to kill them, sell them, and eat them." A small raise of her hand pushed her hair behind her ears.

Crescent knew the horrors of the past, but he was ignorant to having empathy. Crescent looked over at Kisha, who had found himself immersed in the lady's words. Did his people suffer the same fate? He wanted to know, but he was hesitant to ask. Would Kisha let him in?

"The wolves became desperate and approached the Indians cautiously, knowing that they weren't going to be hurt. Yet, they did not speak in their native tongue. The wolves found refuge in Indian camps and fought alongside them against the settlers. That's when a group of wolves stumbled on a tribe that had a witch doctor. She decided to play God and intertwine their DNA."

The woman tucked her arms beneath her breast, bouncing forward on her feet. As the fire contorted her shadows and she glowed, her eyes began to take in the stares of the men. Horrified, curious. Their gazing mimicked deer lost in headlights, until her expression met the cold unfaltering fixated look of a male that stuck out the most.

It was clear whatever she was saying had his full attention. Broad arms securely tucked in front of him, he sat straight up. His eyes held her without a blink as the pupils seemed to dilate. She felt as if she had moved too quickly, he'd come to pounce on her. She would have easily been lost inside his passion, but her mind was too strong. She had seen this leer before.

Looking away from Kisha, she continued on with her story.

"A wolf that could blend beneath humanity. Are they real? The rumors followed television and the media began to cover some scientific evidence of it being true. For this, Hilla Cure's wolf protection isn't something that the public wants. Knowing that we could be harboring a creature that scares the holy hell out of humans, we've lost our battle financially."

A male off in the crowd burst out laughing, finding fault in her story.

"So you're telling me. Shit like that exist nowadays? Some voodoo priestess could so easily change our world? Animals and humans do not mix man... If that's the case, I'll fuck a kangaroo and make children. Superstitious bullshit."

The woman shook her head in denial, but Mr. Riley stepped in, hushing the male. He wasn't conducting himself properly.

"You said these were rumors right? They could very much be false." Mr. Riley spoke up.

"Yes. The locals now believe we are an island of bad omen. They want the wolves dead as the media portrayed them to be worth loads of money. They say the wolf human hybrids can live for over hundreds of years, and their aging is quite different from normal beings. They'll soon take over the world if not contained. We offer books on the witch doctor and some insight on the legends in the library. I only ask that you make a donation before entering. It's expensive to run this place."

Crescent looked down at his fiddling hands. The last bit of her story stuck to him and he could do nothing, but notice her words. Just as he came to this island looking for a getaway, he felt he had hit another bump in the road. Everything thus far started to make sense.

Wolves with the ability to change into humans because of some Indians and a witch. So the wolves live in hiding, but their actions must be more animal-like because how could a wolf act-- A shudder filled his body.

His mind suddenly flashes to a familiar image on the table in Saikai's and Kisha's room. The gape of that wolf.

Crescent's attention wandered to his left hesitantly, his lips parting in shock. There was no one more animal he's ever met than...

Looking directly at him, Kisha locked on the concerned look beneath the fire reflected glasses. Rumors were not just rumors when everything began to add up. He felt cold suddenly. That same coldness that he felt that day those eyes ignited a desire within him he couldn't contain.

That night what felt like hands crept at his skin by just a gaze. It was inhuman. The way when they first met, those eyes made him feel like he was prey. He couldn't escape, he wanted to, but they engulfed him. Kisha's gaze has been evolving ever since, but they never strayed to resemble the soul of a human. Recently he began to take on a famished look. He was aching, but it all seemed more sexual than anything else.

Everything in his mind screamed for Crescent to speak, but his jaw clamped shut. Anthropomorphism, rung out. The awkward energy boiling between them, Crescent felt what he had been doing was a grave mistake. Just leave it alone! He wanted to.

"Shows over boys! Don't forget your donations."

Saikai called from behind Kisha, who broke their stare. He tapped his friend on the shoulder, whispering something before he knocked his head over and began walking away from them.

Kisha stood up as well, ready to leave but a warm, shaking grab suddenly stopped him at the wrist.

"Do you believe... that?" Crescent was unstable, gaze all around Kisha for answers. He wanted him to deny it. Tell him it wasn't true. Things like that weren't possible in the modern world. It has to be some fairy tale. Wolves running around as humans. A witch? The only god he knew most was of one the Christians worshipped. The one his aunt spoke to every night.

Something like this couldn't be real, right.... right?

If she had told this story to him before he joined Nirvana Academy, he wouldn't have believed it, but after everything he's seen, his mind again forced him to believe in something silly.

Her story was merely the icing on the cake.

"You do."

Kisha spat back weakly, jerking his arm from Crescent as he walked away with Saikai in tow. A quick glance from the redhead and the two left the campfire behind. Crescent's heart felt it had halted. The way he uttered those words sounded unsure, and the whispered manner of Kisha's usual tone broke.

For the first time, Kisha seemed uncertain; crushed composure.

He was upset? Crescent brought up his hand to cup at the center of his chest. Though he was terrified of it all, why had he felt something else? It was like he hurt someone important to him. Those times where he made Ahni cry unintentionally, it hurt and now he has hurt Kisha.

The soft sounds of feet against rock filled his ears and his mind went blank when a figure blocked the light in front of him. He wanted to get up and chase after the two, but the adrenaline in his limbs locked him in place. The woman who had just told the story was now kneeling. Her movements fluent, the knocking of hair from her cheeks and her hands placed neatly at her knees.

Her shoes dug into the dirt from her weight with her balance as if she had done this effortlessly before. Crescent looked her over in shock, tilting his head to try and understand what she was doing here.

"You alright?" She's hesitant to ask after witnessing such a commotion, but the concern in her eyes left her spilled emotions.

"That friend of yours. Could you tell me about him?"

((A/N

Hilla Cure is but an island, but they are forced to learn of a dark history!

Crescent expression accuses Kisha without words and the defensive Kisha only hates the judgemental eyes.

But... Is it really Crescent's fault or are those ice-blue eyes... To blame?

Don't be afraid to tell me what you think by commenting.❤️❤️

Drop a vote if you liked. 👍👍))