Day 13 (Part 2) - Nests and Nerves

"Door's unlocked, human," Rex growled, his voice a low rumble as he stepped into the apartment.

Kev, still feeling the pleasant effects of the weed oil, offered a lazy smile. "Hello, Rex," he replied, his voice a bit slurred.

Rex's eyes landed on the water pipe and the bag of oil sitting on the coffee table. A predatory grin spread across his face. "Getting high, little human?" he purred, his voice laced with a suggestive undertone.

He sauntered over to the couch and plopped down beside Kev, his arm casually draping over the human's shoulders. Kev shifted uncomfortably, the tigerman's proximity and forwardness making him nervous.

Rex leaned closer, his hot breath tickling Kev's ear. "If you need to relax before the club opens," he whispered, his voice a seductive growl, "I can help you with that."

He traced a finger down Kev's arm, his touch sending shivers down Kev's spine. "A good little homemaker like you deserves to be... mated," Rex continued, his grin widening. "You could clean up my apartment, and I'd make sure you were begging me not to leave for work every day."

Kev's cheeks flushed, a mix of embarrassment and annoyance coloring his face. He was too high to formulate a witty retort, his mind foggy and his limbs heavy.

Rex, sensing Kev's vulnerability, pressed his advantage. "The wolf hasn't even claimed you yet, has he?" he asked, his voice a knowing purr.

Horns emerged from the bathroom, dressed in the same clothes he'd worn the night before. His fur was still damp. "Howdy, Rex," he greeted, his voice booming. "What brings you here?"

Rex turned, his predatory grin widening. "I could ask you the same thing," he retorted, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Even with the candles, I can smell you were here for a while." He glanced at Kev, his grin turning suggestive. "Human, are you playing with the moose?"

Horns laughed heartily, his chest heaving with mirth. "Rex, you've got the dirtiest imagination," he said, shaking his head. He plopped down on the couch and reached for the water pipe. "I just crashed here," he explained, taking a long drag. "It's my day off, you know."

Rex's grin remained fixed on his face. "Human," he purred, his voice a low rumble, "I'll spend my day off with you too. I'm sure you'll enjoy my company much more than this grass-head's."

Horns exhaled a cloud of smoke, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Don't be so sure, kitty cat," he retorted. "Kev here appreciates a man who knows how to relax and have a good time."

Rex, ever the instigator, leaned closer to Kev, his grin widening. "Human," he purred, his voice a low rumble, "tell us. If it were Fang, would you rather him be lazy and stoned or aggressive and dominant?"

Kev's cheeks flushed a deep crimson, his gaze dropping to the floor. He couldn't meet Rex's eyes, the tigerman's suggestive tone and predatory stare making him acutely uncomfortable.

"See?" Rex crowed, turning to Horns with a triumphant smirk. "The human needs a real man to take care of him."

Horns leaned back on the couch, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Kev's not interested in you, cat," he said. "Can't you tell he's waiting for Fang?"

Rex laughed "If Fang takes too long," he retorted, his gaze returning to Kev, "who's truly to blame?"

Horns shook his head, a hint of disapproval in his eyes. "Kev seems to be good for Fang, haven't you noticed?" he asked, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "He's calmed down a lot since Kev arrived."

Rex scoffed, his ears flattening against his head. "All I've noticed is that Fang is passive around the human," he countered. "He needs to get over this funk and start acting like the boss again."

Horns laughed again. "You're such a hothead, Rex," he said, shaking his head in amusement. "Fang hasn't done anything crazy since Kev arrived. And just because that means you get fewer messes to clean up, it isn’t a bad thing."

Rex, his pride seemingly wounded by Horns's words, rose from the couch with a huff. "In two days, I'll have my day off," he announced, his voice a low growl. "And if Fang is still stringing you along by then, human, I'll just have to show you what you're missing."

Horns, his amusement fading, raised an eyebrow. "Why did you even come up here, Rex?" he asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and suspicion.

Rex shrugged, his gaze sweeping around the apartment with a bored expression. "Boss told me to be here at the start of my shift," he replied, a hint of annoyance in his voice. "Who knows why the old wolf wants me babysitting the babysitter."

Horns chuckled, taking a long drag from his joint. "You got someone good covering for you?"

Rex scoffed. "Everyone on my team is good," he declared, puffing out his chest. "That's the thing about guards, they ain't good if they are afraid of trouble. My security guards are great because they want trouble."

"Well, stop looking for trouble in my bedroom," Kev retorted, a hint of annoyance lacing his voice.

Rex grinned, slowly pulling his gaze away from Kev's bedroom door. "Such a nice little nest, though," he purred, a suggestive undertone in his voice. "Can't help but think about what I could do to you in there."

Kev rolled his eyes, a wave of exasperation washing over him. "Does it ever get boring, Rex?"

Rex looked at Kev, a genuine curiosity in his golden eyes. "What?"

"Being an asshole," Kev clarified, his tone flat.

Rex smirked, a flash of predatory amusement in his gaze. "No," he replied, shaking his head. "And how about you, human? Does it ever get boring being so... uptight?"

Kev sighed, deciding to ignore the bait. He turned to Horns, a question in his eyes. "So, your big day off," he began, changing the subject. "Why are you sticking around instead of heading home?"

Horns took a long drag from his joint, a contented sigh escaping his lips. "I can smoke here," he explained, gesturing with the joint. "Also, the ceilings here are higher. Don't have to duck just to walk down the hallway."

Kev chuckled, picturing the massive mooseman trying to navigate a building with standard ceiling heights, his impressive rack of antlers likely causing chaos with light fixtures and sprinkler systems.

Rex's ears twitched, his attention drawn to the fragrant smoke curling from Horns's joint. "You gonna share that, moose?" he growled, his gaze fixed on the smoldering herb.

Horns looked at the joint, then back up at Rex, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Thought you didn't like smoking on the job, kitty cat," he rumbled. "Said it made you too easygoing."

Rex growled, a low sound in his chest. "If I'm going to be following Fang around tonight, it might be for the best," he conceded, a hint of reluctant wisdom in his tone.

Kev was surprised at Rex's uncharacteristic self-awareness. The tigerman seemed to have a fleeting grasp of his own abrasive tendencies.

Horns held up the joint for Rex to take. "You're probably right," he agreed. "That's why I smoke. Drinking too much just ends with me putting a hole in the wall."

"We know," Rex grunted, plucking the joint from Horns's massive fingers and taking a long drag.

Kev's eyebrows rose slightly. Horns had always been the epitome of laid-back kindness. This glimpse of a more destructive side, albeit hinted at, was unexpected. Perhaps the constant haze of weed smoke was more than just a casual vice.

Rex blew a cloud of smoke in Kev's direction, a smirk playing on his lips. "How 'bout you, human?" he purred. "Do you get feisty when you drink?"

"Not really," Kev replied, his voice slightly slurred. "I'd get sick before I tried to fight someone."

Rex acted genuinely disappointed. "Aww, shucks," he purred. "I was hoping maybe you'd try and hit me some night."

"What?" Kev asked. "So you could restrain me?"

Rex just nodded, a simple, matter-of-fact gesture.

"You know what happened last time I danced with someone," Kev pointed out, a shiver running down his spine at the memory of Pedro's fate.

Rex gave Kev a questioning glance. "What? You think I'm a punk like that llama?"

Kev leveled a flat stare at the tigerman. "Yes."

Rex's playful demeanor vanished, replaced by a flash of genuine anger. "Hey!" he growled, his ears folding back.

"You saved me from the enforcers," Kev conceded, his tone softening slightly. "But other than that... why do you think I'd like you?"

Rex seemed genuinely surprised, his mouth slightly agape. "Look at me," he said, his voice a low rumble filled with disbelief. "Haven't the others told you? I'm undefeated." He lifted his shirt, revealing his striped, furry stomach, devoid of any scars. "You won't find a scar on me. I'll let you look anywhere.”

"Me either," Kev slurred, a lazy smile playing on his lips. "But for me, it's nothing to brag about."

Horns chuckled. "He got you there"

Rex scowled, taking another long drag from the joint before handing it back to Horns. "You just haven't been around long enough, human," he purred, his golden eyes fixed on Kev. "You'll learn soon enough that I can have anyone I want."

"Then why don't you hit on someone else?" Kev retorted, his voice slightly sharper despite the haze of the weed.

Rex considered Kev, a flicker of something akin to genuine interest in his gaze. "I don't need to hit on anyone else," he corrected, a smug look returning. "They just spread their legs for me… But you." He paused, his eyes raking over Kev's body. "That wolf has good taste… and I wanna have a bite too."

Horns finished the joint, a thoughtful expression on his face. "No biting, Rex," he warned, his voice a gentle rumble.

"Why not?" Rex challenged, his eyes narrowing. "The human might like it."

Kev lit a cigarette, his hand slightly unsteady. "You'd probably have to bite me to wake me up," he drawled, exhaling a cloud of smoke.

Rex growled, a low sound in his chest. "'Cause I'd put you in a coma in the first place."

Horns laughed, shaking his head in amusement. "Rex, you should probably smoke some more before Fang gets here," he advised, "or he's gonna rip you a new one."

Rex grinned at Horns, a hint of defiance in his eyes. "That old dog is all bark now." He accepted another joint that Horns offered, lighting it with a flourish.

"Horns," Kev slurred, his gaze drifting towards the moose, "is there any catnip in we can use to keep Rex quiet?"

Rex growled, smoke pouring from his nostrils. "You're so lucky Fang fancies you, human," he hissed. "I'd have you screaming for me in minutes."

Kev rolled his eyes, a dismissive gesture. The tigerman's bravado was starting to wear thin.

"Horns, is Rex always like this?" Kev asked, his voice a low murmur, still feeling the lingering effects of the weed.

Horns chuckled, taking a slow sip of his coffee. "More or less," he replied with a shrug.

"What's that supposed to mean, moose?" Rex growled, his golden eyes narrowing.

"The way I look at it is this," Horns said, gesturing vaguely, putting down his mug. "Rex draws out the people who are looking for a fight." He hovered his massive hands in the air, as if illustrating his point. "They're like moths to a flame, and then..." He clapped his hands together with a loud thwack. "Rex takes care of them."

Rex beamed, a predatory grin spreading across his face. "Brave or stupid," he purred, his gaze flicking towards the door. "Both types are fun to use as a scratching post."

"Sounds like entrapment," Kev muttered, shaking his head.

Horns laughed, a deep rumble in his chest. "If they pick a fight with Rex or his crew, then they were trouble in the first place, Kev."

Rex puffed out a cloud of smoke, his eyes half-closed in contentment. "Don't make it sound so simple, moose," he said, a hint of warning in his voice. He looked down at the joint in his hand. "This is some good shit."

"If you think Ralph's finest flowers are good," Kev offered, a mischievous glint in his eyes, "why not try the oil?"

Rex narrowed his eyes, considering the offer. "I'll pass," he said flatly.

Horns chuckled. "Kev had some, Rex," he teased. "You scared?"

"I'm not scared," Rex retorted, his gaze hardening. "I'm working.”

Horns picked up the water pipe, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Well, I'm not working," he rumbled, taking a long, slow drag. Kev laughed, the tension in the room momentarily broken by Horns's easygoing defiance. After exhaling a thick cloud of smoke, Horns offered the pipe to Kev.

Kev hesitated, then shrugged. "Why not?" he said, grabbing the pipe. "Rex is here to keep me safe," he added with a slightly slurred laugh before taking another hit.

Rex scoffed. "I still don't know why I'm here," he grumbled. "Maybe Fang wants me to take care of you when he wakes up."

Kev coughed out a plume of smoke, his eyes watering slightly.

"Or he's gonna ask Kev what he wants you to do to apologize," Horns said, a knowing look on his face. "Dale said you were pushing Fang's buttons last night."

Rex stubbed out his half-smoked joint, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features. "That horse should just stay behind the bar where it's safe."

Kev giggled, the weed oil amplifying his amusement.

Rex's golden eyes narrowed. "Got something to say, human?"

"Dale's got enough real man to put you in the hospital," Kev slurred, a defiant grin spreading across his face.

Rex loomed over Kev, placing a leg on the edge of the couch, his powerful muscles flexing. "I put people in the hospital every day."

Just then, a sharp knock echoed through the apartment. Rex snapped his head towards the door, his aggressive posture instantly shifting to one of alert attention. He peered through the peephole, his eyes widening slightly.

"Mr. Fang," Rex announced, quickly pulling the door open.

Fang entered, his presence immediately commanding the room. He looked striking in a classic black and white suit, a vibrant orange pocket square adding a subtle touch of flair. His eyes found Kev, and a warm smile softened his features. He walked over and settled beside Kev on the couch, pulling him close and kissing the top of his head.

Kev leaned into the embrace, a wave of contentment washing over him. The lingering tension from Rex's earlier pronouncements seemed to melt away in Fang's presence, a familiar sense of comfort settling in. Even from that very first night, despite Fang's initial intimidating aura, there had been a current of unexpected tenderness, a moment of surprising gentleness when Fang had offered him the bed.

"I dreamt about you last night," Fang murmured, his voice a low rumble against Kev's hair.

"Was I there too?" Horns chimed in, a hopeful grin on his face.

Fang glanced over at the mooseman, a hint of amusement on his muzzle.

"Ignore that space cadet," Rex growled from his spot by the door. "He's been smoking Ralph's oil since before I got here."

"Geeze, I just wanted to know if I was there too," Horns said, feigning offense. "Maybe I had super powers or something." He picked up the water pipe and took another hit, a cloud of smoke swirling around his head.

Rex sighed, his impatience evident. "Why have you called me up here tonight, Fang? The first cars should be rolling through right about now."

"You're guarding Kev tonight," Fang stated, his arm tightening around Kev's shoulders. "Talon is busy."

"Busy?" Kev echoed, looking up at Fang in surprise. "He was just with me an hour ago."

Fang rubbed Kev's head affectionately. "Well, he's got something else to do, so Rex is taking over for tonight."

Kev nuzzled into Fang, a small pout forming on his lips. "Fine," he murmured, "but you're walking me back here tonight."

Fang's tail thumped softly against the couch cushions.

"I don't mind walking you back," Horns offered, reaching for the water pipe again.

Fang's growl was low and warning. "I think you've had enough for now, Horns. Shouldn't you be doing roll call?"

Horns waved a dismissive hand. "Today's my day off, boss," he explained, a lazy smile on his face. "Wanda's running the show tonight.”

"Wanda. Who's Wanda?" Fang asked, a puzzled frown creasing his brow.

"Come on, Fang, the turtle woman," Horns elaborated, taking another hit from the pipe. "Does most of the procurement for Cindy. You just talked with her two weeks ago about the candles."

"Oh, yes… Wanda," Fang said slowly.

Horns chuckled. "You have no idea who I'm talking about, do you?"

Fang growled.

"If Cindy trusts her, then she must be capable," Kev interjected, trying to smooth things over.

"Yes, she must be," Fang agreed, giving Kev's shoulder a final squeeze before standing up and looking around the apartment. "It does look different in here, sense the night…."

Kev, still comfortably numb from the weed oil, smiled dreamily. "A bit more like home," he murmured.

Fang's tail gave a small wag as he walked over to the piano. To Kev's surprise, Fang ran his fingers across the keys, pulling out a quick, surprisingly melodic phrase. "It's out of tune," Fang declared, a slight frown creasing his brow.

"I haven't even noticed," Kev admitted. "Guess my guitar is too."

Fang looked over, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes. "You have a guitar too?"

"Asmodeus got it for me after you introduced us," Kev explained. "He's been very kind."

"Really?" Fang said, his gaze sharpening. "I'll have to invite him over tonight, to thank him properly."

"Don't praise him too much, boss," Horns interjected, a playful glint in his eyes. "That bird will start treating everyone like his musicians."

"I have asked a lot of him, Horns," Fang countered, his tone thoughtful. "You know he could tour the world."

"That bird can't even leave the grounds," Horns muttered, taking another hit from the pipe.

"Watch it," Fang barked, his patience wearing thin.

The wolfman looked at the inebriated moose. "Working or not," Fang said, his voice firm, "that's enough, Horns."

Horns grumbled, "But it's my day off."

"And I'll get you some food," Fang retorted.

Horns's ears perked up. "Food does sound pretty good," he admitted. "Slept all day and haven't had anything since work ended this morning."

"You really should've just slept in my bed," Kev offered sleepily. "That couch is way too small for you."

Fang's growl was loud and possessive. "You slept in here?"

"Yeah, he crashed here this morning," Kev explained. "Probably his body knowing he had a day off and he could actually sleep."

Fang stalked over to Horns and picked up the water pipe. "This is Kev's," he stated, his gaze unwavering. "If you want some, talk to Ralph."

"Kev said I could have some," Horns protested, holding his hands up in mock surrender. "Relax, Fang."

Fang narrowed his eyes. "Why don't you go downstairs," he suggested, his tone leaving little room for argument. "We'll meet you at the table."

Horns stood up, towering over Fang. "If Reepia complains about my order," he warned, "you're telling her to make it."

Fang growled softly. "Fine."

Horns grinned, clapping Fang on the shoulder. "See you down there, boss." With a final nod to Kev, Horns lumbered out of the apartment.

Fang sniffed the water pipe, a grimace twisting his handsome features. "This is really just weed?" he asked, his eyes narrowing slightly.

Rex nodded from the doorway. "Concentrated stuff, boss."

Fang looked down at Kev, a hint of concern in his eyes. "Did you have this tonight, Kev?"

Kev looked up, a sheepish smile on his face. "A little," he admitted. "If I had as much as Horns, I'd probably be dead."

Fang's expression softened. "Are you feeling okay?"

"Yeah, pretty good," Kev replied, a contented sigh escaping his lips.

Fang grinned, a playful glint in his eyes. "Let's get this... evidence... put away, then get you some food." He gestured towards the pipe. "Where does this go?"

Kev reached into his pockets and pulled out his keys, a slight sway in his stance. "Follow me," he said, his voice a bit slurred. He stood up, the room swimming for a fleeting second before Fang's steadying hand appeared on his back. "Grab the goods," Kev instructed with a lazy smile, "and follow me."

He led Fang to his bedroom and opened the closet, revealing the small safe tucked away in the corner. Fang's eyebrows rose in surprise. "When did this get here?"

Kev fumbled with the key, finally managing to unlock the safe. Fang carefully placed the pipe and oil inside. Kev sat down on the edge of the bed, a wave of drowsiness washing over him.

"Max and Cindy got it for me," Kev explained, his eyelids drooping slightly. "Everyone's been really supportive."

Fang looked down at Kev, a tender expression softening his features. He remembered the scared, lost human from his first day and contrasted it with the relaxed contentment before him. He gently pushed Kev back onto the bed and leaned down, capturing his lips in a soft kiss.

Kev's arms wrapped around Fang's neck, pulling him closer. "You know," he murmured, his voice a husky whisper, "we could..."

His sentence trailed off as he noticed Rex leaning against the doorframe, his long tail twitching rhythmically, a knowing smirk on his face.

Fang looked back at Rex, a hint of annoyance in his eyes. "What?"

"Will this take long, boss?" Rex drawled. "I need to tell the boys out front that I'll be busy for a few hours tonight."

Fang stood up, straightening his suit jacket. "No," he said firmly. "Once we're at the VIP table, you should be free to go inform the security team." He looked down at Kev, still lying on the bed, and offered him a hand.

Kev allowed himself to be pulled up, a contented sigh escaping his lips. They left the apartment, Rex trailing behind them.

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Kev looked back, a shiver of unease running down his spine as he saw Rex locking his apartment door. "How'd he get a key to my apartment?" Kev asked Fang, his voice a low murmur.

Fang shrugged, his arm still protectively around Kev's shoulders. "Rex is the head of security, Kev. There aren't many rooms he can't get into."

Rex caught up to them as they descended the grand staircase, his presence a silent shadow behind them, much like Talon's. Kev allowed Fang to lead him towards the VIP table, Skippy offering a respectful nod as they passed. Kev noticed Rex exchange a few hushed words with Skippy before the tigerman finally departed, presumably to inform his team of his temporary assignment.

Fang settled into the booth, pulling Kev close. "Horns," Fang called out, his voice a low rumble, "go fetch Asmodeus."

Horns, his eyes still bloodshot, looked over at Fang, a hint of defiance in his gaze. "Day off, remember?”

Fang scowled after the departing tiger, then looked down at Kev with a sigh. "I'll be right back," he mumbled, before getting up and disappearing into the newly forming crowd.

"This day off thing is awesome," Horns declared, a wide grin spreading across his face.

Kev chuckled. "When's the last time you had a day to do whatever you wanted to do?"

Horns counted on his massive fingers, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Hell if I know," he finally admitted with a laugh.

Just then, Rebecca approached their table, her feline grace a welcome sight. "Hello, Kev," she purred, her gaze sweeping over him. "Where is Mr. Fang tonight?"

"Hey, Rebecca," Kev replied. "Fang just went to find Asmodeus, I think."

"Oh," Rebecca said, pausing. "Should I come back then?"

"No, it's fine," Kev assured her. "I'll take a Cape Cod and the fish. Fang will do a coffee, Bloody Mary, and his steak and eggs."

"Rare and runny," Rebecca confirmed with a knowing smile. "You got it." She turned to Horns. "And you, Mr. Horns? Have you decided what you want?"

Horns nodded, his eyes lighting up. "Pancakes and a stuffed pepper," he began, then added with a grin, "and oysters."

Rebecca pulled out her pad and scribbled down the order, reading it back to Horns to ensure accuracy.

"Tell Dale to make me a drink, too," Horns added. "His choice."

Rebecca nodded. "Of course, Mr. Horns," she replied, before departing towards the bustling bar.

"That was quite the order," Kev remarked, a smile playing on his lips.

Horns chuckled, a deep rumble in his chest. "I let the universe guide my decision."

Kev chuckled. "You're a brave man, Horns."

"Speaking of the brave ones," Horns said, his gaze sweeping across the bar, "where did the little kitty go?"

"Rex went to let the security team know he is my guard dog tonight," Kev explained, a hint of amusement in his voice.

Horns looked over at Kev, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I'm surprised you don't like Rex," he commented. "Thought he’d be your type."

Kev raised an eyebrow and giggled. "He's too forward," he replied, shaking his head slightly. "Where I'm from, relationships between men aren't exactly popular, so stuff like that makes me uncomfortable."

"Really?" Horns said, his ears twitching with curiosity. "You don't seem to mind cuddling with Fang, though."

Kev's cheeks flushed slightly. "That's different," he murmured, his gaze softening.

Horns chuckled again. "Humans are so weird.”

Rebecca returned to the VIP table, a slight tremor in her paw as she placed a glass of water in front of Horns. "Mr. Horns," she said hesitantly, "Miss Reepia has, uh, requested your presence."

Horns stared at the glass of water, his brow furrowed. "What the hell is this?"

Rebecca's cheeks flushed slightly. "Dale said he made it… just for you," she explained, barely containing a nervous giggle.

Horns glared over at Dale, who was polishing glasses behind the bar, a wide, innocent smile on his face. "Thanks for the drink, buddy!" Horns yelled, his voice laced with mock enthusiasm. Dale just laughed and waved in return.

Horns turned back to Rebecca, a resigned sigh escaping his lips. "Sorry, sweetheart," he said, his gaze softening slightly. "But Reepia will have to wait a bit. If she tries yelling at you, just tell her it was Fang's order."

Rebecca still looked apprehensive but her shoulders relaxed slightly. "I'll just wait on some other tables before I head back there again," she murmured, her tail twitching nervously.

Kev chuckled, taking a slow sip of his drink, enjoying the unfolding drama.

Kev had only taken a couple of sips of his drink before Fang returned, a flamboyant figure trailing in his wake. Asmodeus, his suit a riot of colors that somehow managed to complement his equally vibrant feathers, followed Fang into the booth.

"Hey, Asmodeus," Kev greeted with a smile. "Looking sharp tonight."

Asmodeus tilted his beak regally. "Yes, I am," he declared, striking a dramatic pose.

Putting his arm around Kev, Fang addressed the toucan. "Asmodeus, I hear you've been kind to Kev. Got him a guitar and what not."

Asmodeus nodded, his eyes twinkling. "It was for selfish reasons, to be honest," he chirped. "And I'm quite happy to have discovered his human music is so... exotic."

"Regardless," Fang interjected.

"That guitar has helped me kill a lot of boredom during the day," Kev added with a grateful smile.

"See?" Fang said, turning to Asmodeus. "Now tell me, is there anything that I can do for you?"

Asmodeus lowered his beak, his gaze sweeping around the table with a calculating glint. "Did you not hear me, darling?" he said, his voice a melodic trill. "I gave the human the guitar only so I could hear his music."

"I'm fine with that," Kev assured Asmodeus. "What's the point of having an instrument if not to make music for people to hear?”

Fang nodded at Asmodeus. "I know you take the stage soon. If you can't think of anything now, feel free to let it stew for a bit."

Asmodeus's eyes widened, his beak pointing towards the ceiling in a dramatic gesture. "Pipe organ!" he yelled, his voice a melodic trill that resonated through the booth. "A big one! Can you imagine? Me, sitting there, dramatic lighting, the brass pipes raising to the heavens, that first note causing an eruption of life! Earthquakes themselves would tremble before the vibrations on the dance floor!"

Asmodeus took a deep, theatrical breath before abruptly sitting down again, reining in his dramatic outburst with a visible effort.

"I don't know if we can install something like that," Fang replied, a thoughtful frown creasing his brow. "But thank you for letting me know there are still things you want. I'll ask Cindy about it in the morning after closing."

Asmodeus waved a dismissive wing. "It is fine either way, darling. What I gave away in no way matches the price of a pipe organ."

"The price of Kev's happiness is even greater than that," Fang said, his gaze softening as he looked at his assistant. "Think about it. You may go."

Asmodeus stood with a dramatic flourish. "Gentlemen," he declared, his voice a melodic trill, "enjoy the performance tonight." With a bow, he exited the booth.

"See?" Horns chuckled, shaking his head. "Asmodeus can't keep things in perspective, asking for an instrument the size of the elevator."

Fang began to reply, but his words were cut short by a sharp hiss. Reepia approached the table, a small slip of paper clutched in her hand, her eyes blazing with fury. She waved the paper in the air. "Pancakes?" she snarled, her gaze fixed on Horns. "Is this some fucking joke?”

Skippy, ever the watchful guardian of the VIP section, quickly stepped aside as Reepia approached, her small stature radiating an intense fury. Horns visibly shrank in his seat under her glare, his usual booming confidence replaced by a nervous cough.

"Yeah, Fang," Horns stammered, his voice a weak imitation of its usual rumble. "Pancakes. Like... wow."

Reepia whirled on Fang, her eyes narrowed to slits. "This is the Chief of Staff? Blasted off his ass?!" she hissed, her voice a low growl. "What's wrong with you, Fang?"

Before Fang could respond, Reepia's attention snapped to Kev, her gaze accusatory. "This is your fault, isn't it?"

Kev, still feeling the pleasant haze of the weed oil, chuckled sheepishly. "Yeah, my bad."

"I knew it!" Reepia declared triumphantly.

"Reepia," Fang barked, his patience clearly wearing thin. "Sit down."

Reepia shot Fang a venomous glare before grabbing a nearby chair with surprising force and plopping down, her arms crossed and her jaw clenched. She lit a cigarette, her teeth grinding audibly.

"Reepia," Fang began again, his voice a low rumble, "this is Horns's day off. You know how hard he works."

Reepia's gaze flicked to Kev, still smoldering with indignation. "It is your fault," she muttered.

Kev sat up a little straighter, trying to appear more sober than he felt. "Yes," he admitted. "I brought up the day off thing." He glanced over at Horns, who was now completely engrossed in the crowd forming on the dance floor, seemingly oblivious to the brewing conflict. "He's not the Chief of Staff tonight," Kev added, his voice a bit slurred. "Just a happy customer.”

Reepia crumpled the slip of paper into a tight ball and tossed it with surprising force, hitting Horns square in his massive chest. Horns jumped slightly, more surprised than anything, a startled "oof" escaping his lips.

"Hey, happy customer," Reepia snarled, leaning over the table, her eyes blazing. "I'm going to stab you."

"Not again," Horns mumbled, shrinking further into his seat.

"Pancakes!" Reepia hissed, her voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. "You want red ones? Blue ones? Big ones? Small ones? The fuck? You should know better. It's like saying I want eggs. What type of eggs? What if someone said you needed to hire an employee? Wouldn't you like to know a bit more? Well, sorry, you gotta fuckin' guess now. And if you don't get your shit together when you order off-menu, I will find you." Horns had practically disappeared into the plush cushions, his eyes wide with a primal fear. Reepia took a long drag from her cigarette, the cherry glowing ominously.

Fang laughed. "This is why we don't have you in front of our happy customers, Reepia.”

"Happy customers are useless," Reepia spat, her eyes still narrowed at Horns. "I want hungry customers. I want thirsty customers. They'll be happy when they leave."

"Why not both?" Kev interjected, trying to defuse the situation with a placating tone. "All customers that don't pick a fight should be fine."

Reepia sighed disgustedly, rolling her eyes. "Then I'm going to get my knife," she muttered, pushing herself up from the table, "because this idiot ordering pancakes is picking a fight."

"I just wanted some pancakes," Horns mumbled, his voice barely audible.

"What type?" Reepia hissed, leaning down towards the mooseman.

"Fluffy," Horns squeaked, his eyes wide with a mixture of fear and longing. "Stacked high, with that little butter square on top... and lots of syrup."

Reepia stubbed out her cigarette with unnecessary force, her nostrils flaring. "So boring," she declared, her gaze sweeping over Horns with utter disdain. "You disgust me.”

"Reepia, if this is about Ralph, don't take it out on Horns," Fang interjected, his voice a low rumble.

"I'm working," Reepia snapped back, her eyes flashing. "Don't say that name to me." She shot one last venomous glance at Horns before stalking away, the sharp click of her steel-toed boots echoing across the floor.

"Ugg," Horns groaned, relaxing back into his seat. "Why does she always have to be so rough with me?"

"She's only that honest with people she knows can take it," Fang replied with a shrug. "Besides, you might have deserved a little bit of her wrath."

Horns chuckled, taking a long drink of his water. "Maybe," he conceded.

As they waited for their food, the dance floor came alive. Asmodeus, now seated at a grand piano, led a string quartet in a mesmerizing performance, the elegant melodies weaving through the club's vibrant energy.

A few songs later, Rebecca returned, skillfully carrying their plates. "Here you are, Mr. Fang," she said, placing a steaming steak and eggs before him.

"I was wondering where she was," Fang murmured, his gaze following Rebecca. "You ordered for me."

"For us," Kev corrected gently, a warm smile on his face.

Finally, Rebecca placed an odd assortment of food in front of Horns: a stack of fluffy pancakes, a vibrant stuffed pepper, and a small plate of glistening oysters. "And for you," she announced with a cheerful smile, "the happy customer special."

Horns's eyes lit up. "You're amazing!" he exclaimed, diving into his unusual meal with gusto.

Kev laughed, shaking his head in amusement. "Thank you, Rebecca," he said, his voice filled with genuine warmth. "You're great as always."

Rebecca smiled, her tail swishing playfully. "I'll be back if I see your drinks are empty," she promised, before heading back towards the bustling bar.

They settled into a comfortable silence, the sounds of the music and the happy murmur of the crowd filling the air as they ate their meals.

After eating, Kev leaned into Fang, a playful glint in his eyes. "So, what's on the agenda tonight, big guy?"

Horns, his gaze already fixed on the dance floor, swaying slightly in his seat, declared, "I'm gonna dance!" He stood up with surprising enthusiasm, promptly tripping over the edge of the VIP rope, but quickly regained his balance, offering a sheepish grin back at Fang and Kev before turning and heading, with a slight wobble, towards the throng of dancers.

Fang watched Horns disappear into the crowd, a wry smile playing on his lips. He turned back to Kev, his gaze softening. "Well," he murmured, his voice a low rumble, "I think that gives us an idea of what Horns's agenda is. As for ours..." He leaned in closer, his arm snaking around Kev's shoulders, his amber eyes sparkling with a familiar warmth.

Kev looked up at Fang, his warm smile softening the wolf's somewhat rugged features. The lingering buzz from the weed oil loosened his inhibitions. "Do you want to go for a walk?" he blurted out, then quickly took a sip of his drink, a wave of embarrassment washing over him at the thought that Fang might interpret his invitation as something... dog-like.

However, Fang's expression remained warm, a hint of curiosity in his amber eyes. "Where would you like to walk, my dear?" he asked, his voice a low rumble. "Around the grounds? I've heard you enjoy the pool."

Kev shook his head, a playful glint in his eyes. "Let's go somewhere else," he suggested. "I can walk the grounds anytime."

Fang nodded, a smile returning to his lips. "That sounds nice," he agreed. "It's been a while since I've gone out to stretch my legs." He looked up, his gaze scanning the bustling barroom. "Where is Rex, anyway? He should have been back by now..." A low growl rumbled in his chest. "Let's go, Kev. We'll find Perry.”

As they left the VIP section, Fang's low growl directed an order at Skippy. "You watch my assistant here while we walk."

Skippy's gaze flickered towards Kev, a subtle protectiveness hardening his features. "Yes, boss," he replied, his posture immediately becoming more alert.

Fang draped a possessive arm over Kev's shoulders, his large hand resting reassuringly near Kev's neck. Together, they began to navigate the throng towards the front entrance, Skippy trailing a few steps behind. Kev felt a strange sense of ease amidst the press of bodies. The usual anxiety that prickled his skin as he moved through the unfamiliar crowd seemed dampened, the lingering haze from the weed oil and the undeniable force of Fang's presence creating a protective bubble around him. It was like being a salmon swimming upstream, yet shielded from the turbulent currents by the overwhelming charisma of the powerful wolfman beside him. The vibrant energy of the club, usually a source of mild unease, now felt like a backdrop to the comforting weight of Fang's arm.

They passed through the heavy doors into the twilight, the last vestiges of sunset painting the sky in hues of deep purple and fiery orange. Torches, mounted on ornate iron stands, lined the entrances and walkways leading from the bustling parking lot. A steady stream of cars, their headlights cutting through the dim light, could be seen pulling in, a few particularly sleek and futuristic-looking vehicles queued near the front door, their wealthy occupants eager to begin their evening at Club Fang. Valets, their movements a well-rehearsed ballet of efficiency, scurried back and forth, whisking the expensive cars away to their designated spots.

Perry, the owl man, stood at a polished wooden podium not far from the door, his head resting on his folded arm, his gaze lazily observing the arriving vehicles. Suddenly, his hand shot out, seemingly at random, into the air. A pair of keys, glinting in the torchlight, landed neatly in his waiting palm. He glanced at them briefly before bending down to place them on the podium.

"Perry," Fang called out, his voice a low rumble. "Go get the car."

Perry straightened up instantly, his bored expression vanishing at the sound of Fang's command. He turned, his sharp eyes locking onto his employer. "Any preference tonight, sir?"

"Driver's choice," Fang replied, his tone impatient. "Just make it snappy. I'm going out for a walk."

Perry nodded, his movements now swift and decisive. He turned and yelled, "Hey, Tessa, come take point!" An opossum woman, her fur sleek and her eyes sharp, hurried over to the podium. "I'll be back eventually," Perry said to her with a knowing grin.

Tessa laughed, a soft, hissing sound. "Have fun, Perry."

Perry nodded again, then with surprising agility for his size, he crouched low and leaped into the air, his powerful wings unfolding and carrying him in a swift, silent flight over the top of the mansion, a direct shortcut to the rear garage. A few of the arriving guests stopped in their tracks, pointing and murmuring in astonishment at the sight of the flying valet.

Fang growled, his patience clearly wearing thin. "The excitement is inside, not up there," he stated, his voice a low rumble that brooked no argument. "Move along." The few beastfolk who had paused to watch Perry quickly averted their gazes and hurried inside, eager to avoid the wolfman's displeasure.

"Kev, leaning on Fang, said, "Why is flying illegal?"

Fang looked down at Kev, a wry smile on his lips. "Jealousy."

Kev looked up, a knowing glint in his eyes. "You know, I kinda figured it would be something like that."

Fang grinned and looked back up. "If I had wings, I would fly."

Kev nodded. "Me too."

After only a minute, Perry arrived in one of Fang's classic cars, its black paint gleaming under the torchlight. Perry skillfully weaved between the other valets and parked in front of the entrance. Kev followed Fang into the back seat. Before Fang shut the door, Skippy approached and asked, "Uhh, boss?"

Fang growled, a low rumble. "Sit up front," he instructed, closing the door.

Kev leaned into Fang, watching as Skippy joined Perry in the front. They exchanged a quick nod. Perry pulled out into the parking lot, cutting off a few impatient drivers and pedestrians alike. Kev watched as the club disappeared from view, the exit now empty while the entrance road remained bumper to bumper with arriving guests. Perry only slowed as the security checkpoint came into view.

A panther woman stood in the road, holding a glowing baton, signaling for them to stop. Perry rolled down his window. The panther woman approached and leaned down, her eyes meeting Skippy's in the rearview mirror. She glanced into the back and said, "Mr. Fang, there is something you might want to see."

Fang growled, his patience wearing thin. "It can wait. I'm busy at the moment."

The panther woman winced. "Rex is talking with someone you wanted to see."

Fang's eyes narrowed. "How badly do I want to see this person?"

The panther woman hesitated. "Rex is asking very, uh, detailed questions."

Fang looked down at Kev, a conflicted expression on his face. "My apologies, Kev," he murmured, "but I'll be right back."

Kev, still nestled into Fang's warm side, mumbled sleepily, "I can come with you."

Fang rubbed Kev's back reassuringly. "No, you wait here. This shouldn't take too long." He exited the car, the panther woman following him towards the small security checkpoint building.

Kev looked through the window and asked, "So, where do you put everyone's phones once they go through the metal detectors?"

Skippy glanced back, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Phones? We don't take 'em."

Kev leaned over, surprised. "But how do you keep people from using them inside?"

"They don't work," Skippy replied matter-of-factly.

Kev waited for an explanation, but Skippy offered none. Perry, however, glanced back from the driver's seat. "When you enter the grounds, a screen pops up on your phone that says 'Club Fang.' You can't do anything with it until you leave the grounds."

"Then what are the metal detectors for?" Kev inquired, still puzzled.

"Oh,," Skippy said with a shrug. "Old school cameras, tape recorders. I remember one time Rex confiscated a paint set and a canvas."

Perry laughed, a soft hoot. "Glad you boys are keeping us safe."

"We find needles every once in a while, blades once in a blue moon," Skippy added. "Most of the customers know better."

"I appreciate what you do," Kev said sincerely. "Can't be easy trying to tell if someone is a threat or just a bit too drunk sometimes."

Perry chuckled. "Well, being a valet is technically more dangerous, much higher chance of injury. Some people drive like animals."

Skippy looked over at Perry and quipped, "Yeah, you." Perry and Skippy shared a laugh.

A sharp rap on the window interrupted their conversation. It was Rex, standing outside Skippy's seat, his expression impatient. Rex beckoned Skippy with a curt finger.

Skippy quickly exited the car. They exchanged a few muffled words before the kangaroo headed towards the security checkpoint building, and Rex opened the car door, sliding into the front seat next to Perry. Rex adjusted the seat, his gaze fixed on the road ahead. "What," he grunted, his tone impatient.

Perry kept his eyes forward. "Didn't think I'd ever be driving you around, Rex."

"Yeah, me either," Rex replied, a hint of annoyance in his voice. The car fell silent, the only sound the low hum of the engine.

After a minute, Kev broke the silence. "So, who's Fang talking to?"

"A troublemaker," Rex stated flatly, his jaw tight. He glanced back at Kev. "Speaking of trouble, where's the moose?"

"Horns is at the club still," Kev replied. "Enjoying his day off, I hope."

"Good," Rex muttered. "One less liability I have to worry about.”

"I don't know why Fang insists that I need a bodyguard," Kev said, a hint of annoyance in his voice. "He's more than capable of protecting me."

Rex scoffed, rolling his eyes. "You're so clueless it's cute, human."

"Enlighten me," Kev challenged, raising an eyebrow.

Rex glanced out the window. "You already look quite light."

Fang entered the car, breathing slightly heavily, his expression a mix of determination and lingering anger. He looked at Kev and pulled him close, his arm wrapping around the human's shoulders.

"Everything alright, big guy?" Kev asked, concern lacing his voice.

"Yes," Fang replied, his jaw tight. "It will be."

Perry glanced at Rex, who was still looking forward, a muscle twitching in his jaw, and put the car in drive. As they rolled down the road, Perry glanced at Fang in the rearview mirror. "Where to, sir?”

"Anywhere you want to go," Fang replied, his arm tightening around Kev.

Kev thought for a moment. "I don't know the city other than where you've taken me," he admitted. "Why don't we go to the park? It's basically your property, right, Fang?"

"The park it is," Fang agreed, his voice softening. He looked up at Perry. "Sorry, Perry, not much excitement tonight, but if you wanted to do a lap on the perimeter road, that would be okay."

Perry glanced over at Rex, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "How do you feel about headlights off?"

Rex looked over at Perry, a slow grin spreading across his face. "Are you nuts?"

Perry chuckled and pulled onto the perimeter road, the tires crunching on the dirt and gravel.

Perry stopped the car abruptly and flicked the headlight switch off, plunging them into near total darkness. "Give me a minute," Perry murmured, a strange intensity in his voice.

Kev looked up at Fang, his brow furrowed in confusion. "What's going on?"

"I'm not sure," Fang replied, "but it feels... exciting."

"Really," Rex scoffed from the front seat, a hint of unease in his tone.

Perry rubbed his eyes, his pupils now large and luminous in the faint moonlight filtering through the trees. "If you're scared, you can get out, Rex."

Rex glanced back at Fang, his golden eyes narrowed. "You really trust this bird?"

Fang growled, an edge in his voice. "Yes."

"Welp," Perry said, a manic grin spreading across his face, "times up." He slammed his foot on the accelerator, the car lurching forward and speeding down the winding perimeter road, swallowed by the darkness.

Kev gripped the armrest, his knuckles white as the car barreled down the dark perimeter road. The trees lining either side were mere blurs in his peripheral vision, the oppressive darkness ahead offering no warning to the sudden twists and turns Perry was executing with unnerving precision. He squeezed his eyes shut for a moment, a knot of fear tightening in his stomach.

He chanced a glance to his side and saw Fang, his head thrust out the window, a primal howl tearing from his throat and disappearing into the blackness. The sound, though wild, held a strange note of exhilaration. In front of Kev, Rex was a tense silhouette, leaning intently into the dashboard, his golden eyes seemingly able to pierce the impenetrable darkness, anticipating curves and obstacles that remained invisible to Kev.

Perry, despite the reckless speed, maintained a deceptively relaxed posture. Only the subtle adjustments of his hands on the steering wheel, the almost imperceptible shifts in his weight, betrayed the minute calculations and lightning-fast reflexes that kept the car hurtling through the night with a terrifying yet somehow smooth momentum.

Fang pulled his head back inside the car, his amber eyes meeting Kev's in the dim light. "Remember the last time we were on this road?" he murmured, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

Kev grinned and leaned over, giving Fang a quick peck on the cheek. "Last time I was here was earlier today, actually."

Fang looked down, a puzzled frown creasing his brow. "What do you mean?"

"Remember the other night?" Kev prompted. "Sabrina said she wanted to find the IT department?"

Fang's tail stopped its rhythmic thumping against the leather seat. "But she's in a chair. How did…"

"Talon's van," Kev explained with a shrug.

"Boss, should you be talking about the IT department in front of this valet?" Rex interjected sharply from the front seat, his gaze fixed on the dark road ahead.

"Rex," Fang growled, his patience wearing thin, "I trust Perry to drive while Kev is in the car. What is more sensitive than that?"

Rex glanced over at Perry, who remained focused on the dark road ahead, seemingly oblivious to their hushed conversation. Rex grumbled under his breath. "Bringing all sorts of feathered freaks into the fold. Keeping that toucan here was crazy enough."

"Quiet, Rex," Fang snapped, taking a deep breath and rubbing Kev's arm reassuringly. "The club is a meritocracy. If there was an avian who I thought could do your job better, I would hire them to do it."

Rex grumbled again, but remained silent.

Fang turned back to Kev, his gaze softening. "Now, you were saying?"

"Well," Kev began, a touch of sheepish excitement in his voice despite the previous rebuke, "Talon's van was a bit of a wreck, but it got us around the perimeter road just fine. Sabrina was complaining about the lack of AC, and then I remembered seeing an old well near the road, no weeds around it. Talon and I thought it looked a bit too clean, so we went to check it out."

Fang’s arm, still around Kev, tensed slightly. “The well?”

“Yeah,” Kev continued. “Concrete tube, lights at the bottom. Talon went down first – just flew, which was cool to see. Then Sabrina, then me with a rope ladder Talon found. It’s a whole setup down there! Servers, big computers… Sabrina was in heaven. And then Kaiote showed up.”

Fang’s concern was palpable. "What did Kaiote do?" he asked, his voice a low, serious rumble.

Kev shifted slightly. "Nothing. She seemed… surprised, maybe a little scared at first, especially when she realized Talon and Sabrina were there. But she was nice about it. We could tell we weren't supposed to be there once she arrived, though, so Talon got Sabrina and we left pretty quickly."

Rex hissed from the front seat, a sound like air escaping a punctured tire. "She didn't hit the alarm. I've been over this with her. Unauthorized access to IT is a direct alert."

Fang’s gaze, which had softened slightly listening to Kev, hardened again, though not directed at the human. "Kev, the IT department is off-limits," he stated, his tone firm but not angry towards Kev.

Kev looked down at his hands, which were still intertwined with Fang's. "Sorry," he murmured. "We were just bored during the day and wanted to explore a bit. Talon hadn't met Kaiote yet either, and he wanted to know all the managers."

Fang sighed, a long, weary sound that seemed to carry the weight of his responsibilities. He rubbed Kev's arm gently. "No, it's my oversight. I should have introduced Talon to the managers properly, like I did for you." He looked out at the dark, rushing trees. "Another thing to add to the list.”

Kev shifted uncomfortably. "Well, the introductions are done now," he said, trying to sound light, "no need to think about it too much."

Rex grumbled from the front seat, a low, guttural sound.

Fang's head turned sharply. "Is there something you want to say, Rex?"

Rex twisted in his seat. "Oh, of course not, sir," he sneered, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Just spill your secrets without even telling me."

Fangs eyes narrowed. "What I tell, to whom, is my business."

Rex’s head snapped forward, and he yelled, his voice cracking with frustration, "Well, it's my business too! You want me to do my job, well, you got to let me do my fucking job!"

The car was plunged into a thick, heavy silence. Kev could feel Fang beside him tense, every muscle coiled like he was about to pounce. Before Kev could even think of a way to diffuse the explosive atmosphere, Perry spoke, his voice quiet but carrying a distinct edge. "Don't yell in my ear when I'm driving, Rex."

Another few moments of strained silence passed, punctuated only by the sound of the tires on the gravel. Fang finally spoke, his voice dangerously quiet. "Rex, apologize to Perry."

Rex stared stonily ahead. "If his feelings are hurt, he can take it up with Horns."

"My ear hurts," Perry corrected calmly, not taking his eyes off the approaching main club road. "Not my feelings."

Fang’s voice rose, though still controlled, each word sharp. "Rex, I told you to apologize to Perry."

The car finished its loop around the perimeter road, returning to the winding asphalt path that led up to the club. Perry flicked the headlights back on, the sudden brightness making Kev blink. Perry paused for a moment, letting his eyes adjust to the light before he started driving again.

Rex scoffed. "Why bother with headlights if you don't need them?"

"Not everyone can see in the dark," Perry replied evenly. "If they don't see me coming, how can they swerve out of my way?"

"I still haven't heard an apology, Rex," Fang said, his voice flat and cold, a promise of retribution hanging in the air.

Rex let out another low growl, a sound of defiance that vibrated through the car.

Kev, feeling the tension escalate, gently rubbed Fang's arm. "The park is close, right?" he said, his voice soft and deliberately cheerful. "I can't wait to see it."

Fang was still glaring at Rex's silhouette in the front seat, his jaw tight. Kev squeezed Fang's leg, a small, insistent pressure. "You should take me to your favorite spot in the park," he murmured, his eyes fixed on Fang's profile.

Slowly, Fang tore his gaze away from Rex. He looked down at Kev, the anger in his eyes receding, replaced by a flicker of something softer. "It's alright," he said, his voice still a bit rough. "My favorite spot is a bit odd… Why don't I bring you to the fountain? There are usually buskers."

Rex coughed pointedly from the front seat. They were pulling up to the side of the road now. The entrance to the club’s winding driveway effectively cut the sprawling park in half. This side road, maintained by the club, led into the deeper, less manicured sections of the park. Perry pulled the car to the side and turned off the engine.

Rex took a deep, deliberate breath and got out, walking around to open Fang's door with a stiff formality that was almost comical.

Fang helped Kev out of the car. "Welcome to my grounds, Kev," he said, a sweep of his arm indicating the vast, dark expanse of trees around them. "These used to be hunting acres but," Fang looked up at the bright skyline of Dala'Bon peeking over the treetops, his voice tinged with a hint of melancholy, "hunting isn't very popular anymore."

Perry walked around the car, twirling the keys on his finger. "Any timeline, Sir?"

"No," Fang replied. "Just stick around and be ready for us. We are going to the fountain."

Kev stepped closer to Fang, looking up at him earnestly. "Fang, let's go to your favorite spot," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "I don't care if it's odd. I want to see things that are important to you."

Fang looked down at Kev, a small, almost hesitant smile touching his lips. The sincerity in Kev’s eyes was disarming. "You'll wish you saw the fountain," he chuckled, a hint of warmth returning to his voice. "But okay.”

Kev took a deep breath, the cool night air scented with damp earth and pine. The park unfolded before them, a tapestry of winding paths that disappeared into the shadows of an old-growth forest. Wrought-iron lampposts, their light soft and golden, punctuated the darkness at regular intervals, illuminating the pathways and the occasional bench or trash can nestled amongst the trees. A few beast people strolled along the paths, their forms indistinct in the distance, their quiet conversations a murmur in the stillness of the night.