Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Querencia (n.) a place where one feels safe, a place from which ones strength of character is drawn.

(takes place before S4, Ep5)

The wooden floor boards creaked lightly as he rapped on the door. After a few seconds, he heard the sound of light hurried movements from the bedroom. “Scott?” he called unsurely.

The door opened, Scott leaning his hand against the frame. “Hey Dad.” he said awkwardly, giving him a small smile.

“Hi, Scott. Um…can we talk?” Rafael McCall said, giving his son a small smile that vanished almost instantly.

Scott blinked. “Sure.” he said opening the door wider. McCall walked in, hovering awkwardly.

Scott sitting down on the edge of his bed watching him. “So…what do you wanna talk about?” Scott asked, playing his hands.

His father swallowed hard. “Well, ah…I’m heading back to San Francisco for a bit.”                      

 “Oh.”

McCall sighed, before continuing. “You see, me and your mother thought it would be best. If your sister came back to Beacon Hills.”

“Sara’s coming back?” Scott said, sitting up straighter, a small smile starting to play on his lips.

McCall nodded. “Yeah, you remember that…incident at her school in San Fran a while back…besides she misses this place, you, your mom. So…I’m fetching her tomorrow.” he said scratching his ear. “Hopefully we’ll be back in time for your lacrosse game. I know she really wants to watch you play.”

“Really?” Scott said smiling, glancing at the small photo frame on his desk.

McCall nodded. “Really.” he answered patting Scott’s back, walking out of the room. “I’ll, er- I’ll see you later.”

“Yeah, later.” Scott said sliding off his bed, picking up the small photo frame. Holding him, Stiles and his little sister, hugging each other outside their home.

~

SAN FRANCISCO: THE NEXT DAY

“Dad! Have you see my hairbrush? I can’t find it anywhere!” Sara shouted, from her bedroom. Zipping up her black duffel bag, she tied up her long dark hair into an uneven ponytail looking around her bare bedroom.

It was neater than it ever had been, but if she were too look closely she could already see a thin line of dust starting to settle.

“It was in kitchen.” he father said, handing her the hairbrush. Sara smiled. “Thanks Dad.” she said, taking it and packing it into her bag, zipping it up.

“No problem, sweetheart.” he said, leaning against the doorframe taking in her empty room. “Can’t believe it,” he mumbled. “Feels like only yesterday you came here. You were so excited to start your new school here.”

“Yeah,” Sara sighed, fixing her ponytail. “I’m gonna miss this place.” she said sadly, though she couldn’t ignore the feeling of relief that followed.

It held too many memories she’d rather forget. 

“Well, we should get going if we wanna make it in time for Scott’s game.” McCall said, patting her back gently, walking back downstairs.

Nodding, Sara grabbed her bags. Taking one last look at the room, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Smiling at it, she adjusted her shirt, before gripping the doorknob.

 “See ya,” she whispered, closing the door, but not before catching a glimpse of her eyes shift from there dark brown to an illuminated purple.

Chapter Text

Sara sighed, wriggling her stiff legs in the backseat of the car. Sliding on her earphones, she flicked though her playlist; selecting the song, ‘Happy’ by Pharrell Williams in hopes to re-boost her spirit.

It takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to get to Beacon Hills, since they left at around 11am and if there were (hopefully) no delays they would arrive at around 2:30pm.

Rubbing her eyes, she glanced at her father, who was pretty preoccupied by the road. His Sherlock Holmes bobble-head going up and down. And up and down, and up-

On the front seat were his classified FBI files on the potential assassins that were appearing in Beacon Hills, like the Mute. After a few more minutes of boredom, she deciding to risk it.

Sliding down on her seat, slowly rising her right hand from the under the seat, the file slowly started to move. Glancing at her father, she slowly continued waiting for the right moment. Pulling her left index and middle finger together (hoping the light purple glow wasn’t too noticeable) she flicked her fingers swiping her father’s bobble-head clean off. 

“Oh crap,” he cursed, glancing down.

Making a pulling gesturing with her right hand, the file flew off the box and into her outstretched hand. Sara smirked, turning the file over to see which one she snagged.

‘The Orphans.’

She remembered them. Teens, adults, elderly, with their heads cut off, blood flowing out like spilled water.

Their cases drove her father mad. There was no pattern to the killings, unless he knew all the Orphan’s victims were supernatural creatures. Which he didn’t, so the pattern was still currently random. They knew there were two of them. With two unique weapons: a poisoned spear and a thermal cut wire.

Flipping through the file pulling out a picture of one of their be-headed victims. Sara sighed, sliding it back in sitting up straighter. Jack Yelendale. He was only 10 years old.

“Sara.” Agent McCall called, the younger jumping up, throwing the file underneath his car-seat. “We’re here.”

Sara smiled, peering out the window at the familiar lush green forest. “Beacon Hills.” she breathed out. ‘Home.’

Closing the car door, Sara stood in front of the house.

Light blue wooden with its clean white paint design with bushes and trees around like a protective barrier. Pulling out her purple suitcase, and her black duffel bag from the trunk, sliding her bag on her back.

Taking a deep breath, she made her way down the path, staring at the door. Sara swallowed hard, giving it three good knocks; wishing she wore something better than her blue jeans and pink t-shirt.

“Coming!” came a shout from inside. Her father’s phone buzzing hard in his pocket.  Sara turned, watching as he quickly picked up the phone, pressing it to his ear, muttering a quiet “McCall.”

The door yanked open.

Melissa McCall was the almost same as Sara remember her. Curly dark hair, the same shade as hers (Sara’s was a little longer than the last time she had seen her mother) dressed in a neat pale blue nurse uniform.

“Sara!” Melissa cried, enveloping her youngest into a bone-crushing hug, that Sara happily returned. “Mommy,” she mumbled, burring her head into her mother’s neck, breathing in her warm scent of vanilla. “I missed you.” Sara whispered.

 “Son of a….Yes. Okay. Sure, I’m be right over.”

“It’s okay.” Sara said, cutting her father off before he could speak. “Go. Someone needs you.” she said, not even lifting her head off her mother’s shoulder.

Agent McCall nodded curtly. “I’ll see you later.” he said, giving a passing wave to Melissa as he jumped in the car, driving off into the distance.

Sara turned to her mother, who was gently brushing her fingers though her hair. “We have so much to talk about.” Melissa said squeezing her shoulder.

Sara giggled, embracing her mother again. “Yeah, we do.”

~

Sara squealed in delight as she ran up the steps her old room, Melissa laughing as she followed her.

Swinging the door open, Sara stepping inside. Her room hadn’t changed much, the familiar lavender bedcovers with her stuffed brown teddy bear still rested in the middle. Mingling with the fresh smells of floral washing liquid and perfume that still lingering in the air.

Tracing her fingers along the wall, Sara paused in front of her once bare corkboard. That now was home to a red ‘Beacon Hills High School’ flag that had somehow made its way to her room.

“Scott and Stiles put that up.” Melissa said, leaning against the doorframe. “When they first started High School.”

“I wish I was there. With them.” Sara mumbled, leaning against the wall. “I missed you all so much. I wish I didn’t leave…I shouldn’t have left.” she whispered.

“It wasn’t your fault, Sara.” Melissa said, pulling her into a hug, stroking her hair. “It was…no one could have known or…”

Sara shook her head.

“Look, I know you think that, but it-” Melissa stopped, her phone letting out a chime. “Shoot, they need me at the hospital-” Melissa mumbled, pulling out her phone, scrolling down the messages.  

“It’s alright Mom.” Sara said gently, slipping out of her mother embrace. “I’ll be fine. When does Scott get home?” she asked, glancing at the clock.

“Well, he’s having a game today. So he’ll stay at school till then.” Melissa said, tucking her phone back into her pocket. “But, no I can say-”

“Mom, it’s okay. I’ll be alright here. I mean, all I’m doing is unpacking.” Sara lied, giving her mother an ‘I’m-not-going-to-do-anything-be-coz-I’m-super-innocent-and-good looks.

She had three years to prefect them and if she could lie to an FBI agent, it gave her a pretty good chance with her mom. Well, like a fairly good chance…Solid 50%

Melissa sighed. “Okay, there’s house keys in the creepy plastic cat downstairs. If you’re hungry there food in the fridge and your favourite mint ice-cream in the freezer. Scott’s game starts at around 5-ish, so if you want to go, just send him a text. Love you.” Melissa called, running down the steps.

“Love you too!” Sara yelled from her bedroom, listening for the front door to slam shut.

Sara sat down on her bed, waiting patiently for the car to drive away. After about 10 minutes of silence, Sara jumped up grabbing her bags from downstairs (well not really grabbing, more holding without touching) and setting them down in her room.

Running back downstairs, Sara pulled out the spare house keys from under the creepy cat, and walked out the door.

Half jogging, half walking to Beacon Hills High. Sara neatened herself up, before bursting through the doors.

 She was instantly hit with the sounds of slamming lockers, chatting and giggling. In short the general chaos of a high school. The sounds hit her like a wave, oddly enough making her feel relaxed. For the past three months she felt like she had been in a permanent funeral, which (she guessed) in some twisted way was true.

Shaking the thoughts from her head, Sara looked around desperately looking for any familiar faces, well Scott mostly.

Searching through the crowd, luck being on her side when she caught site of a light brown-haired boy.

“Liam!” Sara called stepping unsurely towards him.

The boy turned around, almost dropping his bag in surprise. “Liam!” Sara cried running towards him, half tackling him in a hug. Liam stumbled backwards, instantly wrapping his arms around her.

“Sara!” he laughed out, squeezing her tightly. Very tightly.

Liam Dunbar, one of Sara best friends since primary school. After she had disappeared off to San Francisco, Liam had switched schools and went off to Devenford Prep. While they still kept in touch and up to date with each other; phone calls and texts had kept them in touch, it was nothing compared to seeing him.

Liam had clearly changed from being the bold, scrawny 6 year old that Sara met all those years ago. Liam had grown quite a lot in their years apart. He was taller, much more muscular and his hair (if possible) had gotten more incredible.

“I can’t…I can’t believe you’re here!” Liam said looking her up and down, before pulling her into another bone crushing hug.

“I just got here. Like half an hour ago.” Sara said grinning, following Liam as he navigated them around the school. “I can’t believe, you got into the lacrosse team.” she said playfully punching his arm which was like hitting solid rock. “First game of the season, excited?”

“Yeah,” Liam breathed out, averting his gaze. Sara raised her eyebrows. “Ah…I get it. You’re nervous.”

“No, I don’t get nervous.” Liam shot back instantly. Sara gave him a look. “Yeah, a bit.” Liam admitted. “But it’s not about lacrosse.”

Sara paused, her eyebrows furrowed. “So, why are you nev-” Sara paused, as two boys walked past.

“Scott! Stiles!” Sara called, making the two turn.

“Sara? What you doing here?” Scott said, pulling her into a tight hug. Sara wrapping her arms around him, burying her head into her brother’s shoulders. “I can’t believe you’re here.” Scott mumbled. “I missed you.”

“I missed you, Scotty.” Sara whispered, the two finally pulling apart, Stiles instantly pulling her into a hug from behind. “Sparky’s back! Miss me?” Stiles said, ruffling her hair.

“Nope.” Sara said cheekily. Stiles rolled his eyes, feinting shock. “You wound me, Princess.”

“Oh, I’m sure you’ll recover.” Sara said, attempting to fix her hair again. The two of them had changed as well.

Scott’s usual bushy flat hair was now lively and shorter, giving him an older look that matched his new taller, muscular form. Stiles had sprung up too, and long since grown out his buzzcut, his hair now alive, tall and bouncy (a look that her opinion suited him better.)

Scott slung an arm over her shoulders, Stiles doing the same on her left, as they walked.

“Glad your back, Princess.”                                                                                                                  
“Glad to be back, Sherlock.”

~

After spending some time with Scott and Stiles during their free period. She, Mason and Liam were chatting in library about when she would be coming to school.

“Probably next week,” Sara said leaning back in her chair, flicking absentmindedly though a book. “Yeah, but it was crazy what happened to you in San Francisco.” Mason said, tucking some books back into his bag.

Sara swallowed hard, swinging her legs. “Yeah, it-Liam? You okay?” she asked, eager to divert the conversation. Liam was staring out in window, his face screwed up in anger. “Li-”

Liam jumped up, stalking out of the library. “Oh no.” Mason said, jumping up running after Liam. “Liam wait!”

Sara looked out the window, running after the two. “Guys?! What’s so important about a bus?”

~

“Liam, wait. What, no, no, no, no. Liam.” Mason called out running outside, to the bus as a bunch of students came out.

“Brett!” Liam called, walking towards a tall boy in a fitting black shirt. “Ah, here we go.” Mason said worriedly. “What is going on? Who’s Brett?” Sara whispered to Mason, glancing at the two boys staring each other down. 

A small crowd was starting to form. “I just wanted to say...” Liam said, after a few seconds of silence. “Have a good game.” he said, holding out his hand.

“Oh thank god.” Sara breathed out leaning against Mason. Everyone too preoccupied to notice the light purple glow on her fingertips, when she placed her hand on him. “I’m guessing that’s Brett.” she mumbled to Mason, gesturing to the tall, blonde, muscular (what the hell where these teens eating) boy.

The boys laughed. “That's cute, Liam. Is that what they told you to say in Anger Management? Apologize and everything's fine?” Brett sneered, stepping closer to him. “You demolished Coach's car.”

“I paid for it.” Liam growled, staring at him. “Yeah, you're going to pay for it. We're gonna break you in half out there.” Brett hissed.

 Sara bit her lip, debating whether or not to jump in. Liam was close to snapping.

“And it's gonna be all your fault.”

Sara froze watching a small drop of blood, slip though Liam’s fingers. ‘How did he mange to do that?’

“Whoa, whoa, whoa, let's go.” Scott said breaking out from the crowd. He and Stiles running forwards, Scott taking a hold of Liam’s shoulders in a tight, but reassuring grip.

“Hey, what's going on prep students? Welcome to our little public high school. How you doing?” Stiles said, holding out his hand which Brett didn’t take.

“Stiles. That's a firm handshake you got there. Uh, we're very excited for scrimmage tonight. Uh, but let's keep it clean, all right? No rough stuff out there. All right, see you on the field.” Stiles said cheerfully, turning to Scott. “Go.” he said, rushing past Sara and Mason.

Sara frowned, watching the two practically drag Liam away. “Hmm.”

Mason sighed. “Was that weird?” he said, turning to her. Only to find an empty place next to him.

Mason sighed. “Seriously?”

Chapter Text

Last Chapter…
All right, see you on the field.” Stiles said cheerfully, turning to Scott. “Go.” he said, rushing past Sara and Mason.

Sara frowned, watching the two practically drag Liam away. “Hmm.”

Mason sighed. “Was that weird?” he said, turning to her. Only to find an empty place next to him.

~

Following behind Scott, Liam and Stiles half-pressing herself against the lockers and ducking behind doors every now and then. Sara eventually found herself outside the boy’s locker room showers, pressing her ear lightly against the door jumping back at the loud roar that came out.

Pressing her hands and her ear back against the door, she shut her eyes, listening closely.

“Okay, you calm yet?” Stiles yelled. There was another roar in response, the sound of gushing water became louder.

“Okay! Okay!” the voice, Liam panted, as the water was shut off. “That car you smashed. I thought you said that was your teacher's.” Scott said, panting heavily.

Sara’s eyes widening. ‘Did Liam really make-?’

“He was also my Coach. He benched me for the entire season.” Liam replied, the sound of droplets from the leaking shower mingling with his voice.

“What did you do?” Scott asked, glancing at the doorknob. Sara stiffened, if they were what she was thinking they could be, they might hear her.

“I got a couple of red cards.”

“Just a couple?” Stiles said sarcastically. Sara bent down rotating her hand, and gently pulling back, the doorknob slowly turned, opening it just enough for her to crawl inside.

“You gotta be honest with us. What else happened?” Scott said, turning his attention back to Liam. His voice was gentle, soothing even, but it held a quite sense of authority that Sara didn’t know he possessed.

“Nothing.” Liam said, sounding guilty. “I got kicked out of school. They sent me to a psychologist for evaluation.” he mumbled. Sara taking her chance, ducking behind the lockers, setting her eyes on a place two sets away from them.

Luckily if they were what she was starting to suspect, they wouldn’t be able to catch her scent.

“What did they call it?”

Sara silently crawled in, being careful not to go too close that her heart rate would be suspicious, but being able to see what was going on.

“Intermittent Explosive Disorder.” Liam said, looking at his hands. He was soaking wet. Sara shut her eyes. ‘I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I wasn’t there Liam.’

“I.E.D? You're literally an I.E.D? That's great. That's great. You gave powers to a walking time bomb.” Stiles said, giving Scott a thumbs up. Sara’s eyes widened. ‘You gave?”’

“Did they give you anything for it?” Scott asked, bending down so he was at Liam’s eye-level. “Risperdal. It's an antipsychotic.” Liam answered. “Oh, this just gets better.” Stiles commented. “But I don't take it.” Liam added.

“Obviously.” Stiles said, clapping his hands together. “I can't play lacrosse on it.” Liam said, looking up at Stiles. “It makes me too tired.”

“Okay. I think you should bail out of the game. Tell Coach your leg is still hurting.” Scott suggested. Sara sliding behind the lockers, looking at them from the corner of her eye.

 “No, no! I can do this. Especially if you're there.” Liam said, getting up making Sara duck down further. Stiles groaned.

“But, Liam, it's not just about the game. We think whoever killed Demarco might be on our team.” Scott said quickly. ‘Killed? Of course killed.’ Sara thought dryly.

“Who's Demarco?” Liam asked.

‘Good question.’

“The one who brought the beer to the party. The guy who was beheaded. Remember?” Stiles elaborated. ‘Beheaded, that’s the Orphans M.O.’ Sara thought. ‘The Orphans are supernatural hunters. Which means-’

“We think the person who ordered the keg killed Demarco.” Scott explained, there was silence. “Liam? What, you know something?” Scott asked, the sound of sloshing water, giving her some indication that he moved.

“I don't know who ordered the keg.” Liam started. “But I know who paid for it.”

‘Fantastic, this is just bloody fantastic.’

~

“Devenford Prep. The same school you were kicked out off right?” Sara asked rubbing her hands together. Liam, Mason and her watching Brett and his team get ready. Well, mainly Brett.

“Yeah.” Liam said, glancing over at Brett. “I don't care if he's a foot taller than me. I think I can take him.” Liam said, glancing back at Mason and Sara.

“Yeah.”

“Definitely.” Sara said, she and Mason still staring (cough, ogling) at Brett.

“What do you two think you're doing?” Liam asked following their gaze, before pointedly staring at Mason who looked like he was in a trance. Sara smirked, snapping her fingers in front of Mason’s face.

 “What?” Mason asked, snapping out of his daze, glancing between the two of them. “Me? Agreeing with you. I'm being agreeable.”

“You think he's hot, don't you?” Liam said instantly. Mason quickly shook his head. “No! No. Not at all. No way!”

“Lies. Spill.” Sara said smiling. Not noticing a blond-haired boy, from Beacon Hill’s High looking at her with interest.

 “Maybe. Yeah, maybe a little.” Mason said sheepishly. “Called it.” Sara said, pumping her fist, turning to Mason. “You guys would be so cute-”

“He wants to destroy me.” Liam interjected.

“Like he could do that.” Sara replied; her brown eyes illuminating in the harsh light, almost seeming purple for a second, before returning to their normal brown.

Liam blinked, glancing back at his glove, he was probably seeing things.

“Yeah, I think you could definitely take him.” Mason agreed. Liam nodded, taking a deep breath. “And then give him to me.” Mason finished, Sara snorting, covering her mouth to stiffen a laugh.

Liam chuckled, grinning at Mason and Sara; the two smiling back. “No, no just go out there and kick their smug prep school asses, man.” Mason said, waving at the Devenford team.

“Destroy them. And if all else fails, just…whack him with your lacrosse stick.” Sara said easily, tucking some of her hair behind her ear.  

The two stared at her. “You know that’s against the rules, right?” Mason said staring at her dubiously. Liam laughing from behind him.

Sara scrunched her nose. “It is?” she asked, glancing between the two. Mason and Liam nodded. “Huh.” Sara said, looking out at the field. “Yeah, I don’t know much about this game.”

Liam chuckled, Coach blowing a whistle. Giving them a smirked, he pulled on his helmet, giving them a final wave before running to his team. “Good luck!” Sara yelled, before turning to Mason. “He’s gonna be alright? Right?”

Mason let out a breath. “Umm…let’s go sit down.” he said steering Sara to the seats.

 Sara bit her lower lip, glancing back at the field. ‘Why do I feel like this is going to end badly?’

~

“Oh!” Mason cried, covering his mouth. Sara copying his action as they watched Liam get smacked hard by two Devenford Prep players. “That’s gotta hurt.” Sara moaned.

Liam fell to the ground, as Devenford Prep scored. He jumped to his feet, throwing off his gloves attempting to run at them, before being held back by Stiles and Scott, who eventually calmed him down enough.

“Hope he’s okay…” Sara mumbled, watching Liam before he disappeared in the clump of players.  Stiles was in the centre now, tossing the ball to Scott’s girlfriend Kira; who Sara didn’t have the pleasure of meeting yet, but got this helpful information from Mason, who was bringing up to speed on everything she’s missed.

 Kira weaved in and out of the players, then scored. The crowd went wild, Sara and Mason joining them as they cheered.

“Whoo! Go-” Sara paused, furrowing her eyebrows, turning to Mason. “What’s our team name again?”

“Umm…”

After a while, Sara spotted Liam again. He was running with the ball, before being tackled by a Devenford Prep player and a Beacon Hill’s high player at the same time. The three slammed hard onto the ground. Sara almost positive she heard a crack sound.

“Oh!” Mason yelled.

“Are they gonna be alright?!” Sara asked standing up, catching a glimpse of something small and metal.

A spear.

‘Orphans.’ Sara thought, staring out at the field, looking over at the distracted Mason; before discreetly sliding out of her seat.

~

“Guys. Lydia just broke another third of the list.” Stiles said, running up to Scott, Kira and Liam on the field. “Am I on it?” Liam asked. Stiles shook his head. “No. But someone else is.”

“Oh, no.”

~

Sara walked down the empty hallway lined with lockers, her jaw set, as she made her way to the doors. “Where do you think you’re going?” drawled voice from behind her.

Sara turned around plastering a fake smile on her face. “Hey…” she drawled, in a bubbly manner. “It’s Garrett, right?” she asked, smiling at the dirty blonde.

The boy smiled back, leaning against his lacrosse stick. “Yeah. And you’re Sara, hmm? Sara McCall.”

Sara nodded stiffly, swaying on the spot, letting some hair fall over her face. If one thing was true, she was a good actress. “Yeah…that’s my name. What, what do you need? I mean shouldn’t you be on the field or something?” she asked, feigning cluelessness.

Garrett laughed coldly, pressing a small button on his lacrosse stick. A long sharp two tipped spear head shot out, dripping in yellow wolfsbane.

Sara sighed, rolling up her sleeves. “I really didn’t want to get any blood on my shirt. But, I’m guessing I don’t have an option?” she said calmly, dropping the act.

Garrett smirked, twirling the lacrosse stick around. “No.” he said, swinging the spear.

Ducking, Sara sweep kicked him. Garrett hit the ground, spear still tightly in his hand. Before he could get up, Sara jumped on top of him, gripping the spear pushing Garrett further down to the ground.

Adrenaline pumped though her veins. A small smirk playing on her lips as she pushed the spear down further, choking Garrett as he fought to push it back. 

If she were normal (as normal as a supernatural would be) he probably would have her beat, she had no super strength or speed and Garrett in general could have taken her easily.

For once, it was a good thing she was a freak.

Sara would be lying if she said she didn’t miss this, the thrill, the danger.  Adrenaline pumping thought he veins, the power inside her inching to get. To show what it could do.

What she was capable off.

She could feel the metal begin to heat up, glancing down at her hands. They were glowing a faint purple. Garrett seemed too noticed too. Staring at her in shock, as bruises and burns began to form onto his neck and his hands. “What are you?” he choked out, his eyes wide with fear.

Sara threw the spear aside, Garrett coughed, attempting to pull himself off the floor. “Easier than I thought, for a master assassin.” she said standing up, looking down at him.

 “As for the question, Garrett. I would tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.” Sara said ominously, drawing back her foot kicking him hard on the head.

Garrett’s head rolled back, he was knocked out. Pulling down her sleeves, Sara bent down, placing her hand onto his head. “And I can’t have any more blood on my hands.”

~

Later…

 “You're here now.” Scott said, giving his dad a small smile.

“What’s going on?” Sara asked, from behind him, shivering in her thin t-shirt. She had long disposed of her warm plaid shirt. Garrett’s scent was all over it and she’d rather not have Scott find out about her, just yet.

“Um-” Scott started. A deputy walking past with a handcuffed girl, Sara guessed Violet, Garrett’s partner to the door.

Violet’s dark eyes locked onto Scott. Sara glared at her, instinctively edging closer to him. Violet turning her attention to Sara, a wicked smile curling on her lips. “Sara McCall, right?” she said lightly.

Scott instantly pulling Sara behind him (the girl giving the back of his head a look).

“Hey, shut up.” The deputy snapped darkly (a little too angrily to be completely normal). Sara furrowed her eyebrows, watching them leave. ‘That was weird.’

“Sheriff, what is that? Is that the weapon?” Agent McCall asked. Sheriff Stilinski coming over to them. “Yeah. It's a thermo-cut wire.” he said, holding out the evidence bag. Agent McCall stared down at it, glancing at Sara before turning around.

“Parrish, hold up.” McCall called out, the Sheriff and Sara following behind him. Sara catching a glimpse of Liam slipping into the room, talking quietly to Scott.

 Sara leaning against the wall, tuning in to both conversations. Hoping her eyes didn’t decide to act up.

“Where's Kira?” Scott asked, his eyes still on her back.  

“She took off. Stiles told her about Lydia cracking the second part of the Dead Pool.” Liam answered, following his gaze. Sara did her best to remain causal and interesting her what her father was saying.

Scott sighed. “Her mom’s on it.”

“Everyone's on it.” Liam replied. “You're not.” Scott pointed-out. “Not yet. There's still another third, right?” Liam said, breaking his gaze of her, Scott following in suit.

Sara raised her head slightly. ‘Third of what? What’s the Dead Pool?’ she thought, straightening up, when she noticed the deputy, the one that took Violet watching her with interest.

“Thermo-cut wire's... a very unusual weapon, Violet. Now, we've got a file at the bureau on something similar. Used in over a dozen murders.” Agent McCall said, his voice going hard.

“I don't know what you're talking about. I just go to school here.” Violet lied, her eyes flicking to Sara every few seconds.

Sara scoffed, unable to stop herself. “Too late for the innocent card, Vi. Might have worked if you hadn’t tried to kill my brother.” she said, folding her arms, glaring at the girl.

Suddenly dearly wishing Violet had decided to go after her than her idiot boyfriend (would have been a hell of a lot more fun. (and bloody, another voice piped up in the back of her mind))

“Easy, Sara.” her father said, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Your right though, maybe we should call your parents then.” Agent McCall said, copying his daughter’s stance.

Violet’s snarky bitchy expression vanished, her face contorting in anger. “Oh, no... That's right. You don't have any parents. That's why they call you The Orphans.” Agent McCall sneered. Sara smirked at her father.

Violet glaring at him, clenching her jaw, before being dragged away by the oddly familiar looking deputy. Deputy Parrish.

“Bye.” Sara mouthed, giving her a little wave.

 “We need to find her boyfriend, Garrett.” Agent McCall muttered to Sheriff Stilinski, before glancing at Sara, who quickly looked away scratched behind her ear.

Sheriff nodded. “Coach,” he called out. “I'm gonna need both their locker numbers. And someone find me a set of bolt cutters.”

~

“Hey,” Scott called jogged towards her, his hair bobbing up and down as he moved. “Thanks for waiting.”

Sara shrugged. “No prob. What’s in the bag?” she asked, pointing at the small red duffle in her brother’s hands.  “Ummm…Nothing. Just some lacrosse gear.” Scott said quickly.

‘Liar’. Sara thought, but she nodded, giving him a smile.

“Ok. Ready to head home? I’m dying to sleep in my actual room.” Sara said, pushing open the entrance doors, shivering when they stepped outside.

“You okay?” Scott asked, watching her closely. More than he usual would, much like before with Violet.  “Yeah. I’m fine. Pretty crazy, an assassin at your lacrosse game.” Sara said, rubbing her hands together.

“Any idea why they were here?” Sara probed lightly. Scott shook his head. “No.” he said shortly. “Why?” he asked sharply.

Sara glancing at him, his face was relaxed, but his eyes were worried, flicking between her and around her, as if something were to jump and gut her.

Sara shook her head, tucking some hair behind her ear.  “No reason.”

~

Scott swallowed hard as he looked over the second part of the list. Stiles, Lydia, Malia, Kira and Liam staring at him. “Do you think she knows?” Liam asked, finally breaking the silence.

Stiles shook his head. “No, we kept her away from this, she was in San Francisco when it all started. She can’t have known.” he mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Maybe that’s why she’s back.” Lydia said, resting her hands against the table. “The Nematon does draw in supernatural creatures.”

Kira glanced at Scott, who was still staring silently at the list.

“So should we tell her?” Malia asked, voicing the question that everyone had. “I mean she has the right to know that she’s being hunted.”

“Scott?” Kira asked worriedly. He was unnatural still. Scott blinked, breaking out of his daze shaking his head. “No, we don’t tell her. Not yet.”

“You want us to lie?” Liam cried, jumping up. “Scott, I don’t think-”

“We can’t just-”

“Yes,” Scott snapped, making the pack fall silent again. Scott’s grip on his chair tightening. “I don’t like it either, but its better. We can protect her this way. From everything.”

Chapter Text

“I know that I'm a month late.” Melissa said her voice floating up from downstairs, making its way into Sara’s ears. “Three months? Oh. Are you sure it's three months?” Melissa sighed.  

“Okay, I understand. Um, but if you could just turn the power back on even for a few hours, that would be really great.” she said brightly, despite her words. “I have a refrigerator full of food that's going to go bad. And, obviously, I don't have the money to run out and replace 300 dollars’ worth of groceries. So…” Melissa laughed lightly. “I am more than happy to beg.”

Shutting her eyes, Sara walked to her desk, eager to distract herself. Picking up her phone, checking her messages.

Liam: Heading out for a run with Mason. See u before school? J 7:05am.

Sara: Kk, see you soon ;)  7:13am.

Sliding her phone into her pocket, walking out of her room. “Hey,” Sara greeted, catching sight of the red bag underneath Scott’s bed, before jumping on the bed.

Scott stiffed a laugh, patting her head, making Sara groan. “Hey,” Scott said, smiling at her, giving her a one armed hug. “You alright?”

“Yeah, why?” Sara asked, rolling around so she was facing him. “Heard you last night, sounding like you were having a nightmare.” Scott said gently, making Sara’s smile drop.

“It’s nothing.”
“Sara-”

“Planning on school today?” she interrupted, sitting up. “What?” Scott chuckled, raising his eyebrows. Sara pointed at his pyjamas. “Right,” Scott said, jumping up running to his bathroom.

“Better hurry!” Sara called. “You gotta be outta here in five.”

~

“Weird they’re not here.” Sara mumbled to herself, the school bell ringing. She and Scott had been catching up while they waited outside on Scott’s motorbike. It was strange, usually Liam would be here by now. He usually showed up with Mason.

“You know you could hang around here. I’m sure, no one will mind.” Scott said, grabbing his backpack. “Or notice.”

“I would, but I need to head to the station, give a couple of files to the Sheriff.” Sara said, getting up from the bike.  “You’re going to walk?” Scott asked, his grip on his bag tightening.

Sara blinked. “Yeah, that was the plan.” Sara said, pausing when she saw Scott’s face. “It’s Beacon Hills, Scott. The walk from here to the Sheriff station is about the same as me walking to the supermarket in San Francisco. Safer actually.” Sara reassured, pulling on her grey hoodie. “I’ll be fine.”

Scott swallowed, nodding his head. “Okay, but text me when you get there. Or call.” Sara nodded. “Okay.”

“Sara Don’t forget to call.” 
“I will.”
“I’m not kidding Sara.”

“I know.” Sara sang, walking backwards. “Be careful.” Scott said, watching her with mild disapproval.

“Okay.”  Sara said, giving him a mocking salute.

“Sar-

“Goodbye, Scott.” Sara sang, giving him a wave, sauntering down the sidewalk.

~

Walking down the school hall, after his first period (happy that Sara had called him when she reached the station) Scott’s phone buzzed, pulling it out, he pressed it to his ear. “Liam?”

“Sounds like you already know the answer to that, Scott.” Garrett said over the phone. Scott’s looked around, casing the area around him. “Where is he?”

“Come on. Like I'm actually going to tell you that?” Garrett sneered. “I'll give you the money.” Scott blurted out.

 “Yeah, you will. But that's not going to get you Liam back.” Garrett said. “You're going to have to put in a little more effort than that.”

“What do you want?” Scott asked.

“I want the money. And Violet. Or you never see Liam again.”

~

Opening the door, (well kicking it open with her shoe) Sara made her way to deputy’s desks, setting down a box of files. “Hi Sara McCall, I’m here to drop some files for the Sheriff.” she said to Deputy Haigh.

“Will be back soon.” he grunted, returning his attention to his phone. “Okay, can I leave this in his office?” Sara asked, drawing out her ‘o’.

Haigh snorted, saying nothing.

Sara rolled her eyes. Some things never change. “Okay then, I’m gonna go commit a murder.” Sara said, bouncing up and down on the balls of her feet. Haigh didn’t even look up.

“Maybe arson? Or like, intense larceny?” Sara tried. Haigh yawning, scratching his ear, adjusting his earphone’s.

“Alright, then.” Sara said, looking around, wondering if the Sheriff happened to leave his door unlocked.

“Hi, can I help you?” came a voice from behind her. Whipping around Sara was met with the oddly familiar looking deputy from last night.

“I know you,” Sara said, smiling at him. “You were at the school last night, deputy…Parrish right?”

He chuckled. “Yeah, Parrish, Jordan Parrish.” he said holding out hand.

“Sara McCall.” Sara said, taking it. A flush of heat shot though her, like a fire had just starting in her hands, but it wasn’t bad, it didn’t hurt her. It was almost…Protective. Her powers flared instantly, making her jolt up, the swirl of energy eager to burst.

 Sara blinking rapidly, hoping that would keep her purple eyes at bay. ‘What are you?’

Parrish didn’t seem to pick-up on her moment of weirdness, seeming too interested in her name.  “Your Scott’s little sister right?”

She nodded, taking a mental breath of relief. “Yep, that’s me.” Sara said awkwardly, having to squash the urge to hug him. Whatever was going on, her power, her deep instinctual energy, wanted to be near him.

It was safe near him. Annoyingly so. Why couldn’t she have been blessed with normal powers?

 “Stiles and Scott talk about you all the time.”

“Really? Nothing too bad I hope.” Sara said bashfully. Parrish shook his head. “No, nothing bad. By Stiles account you were his partner in crime before Lydia.”

Sara smirked, nodding. “Yeah, still don’t know how that happened. Lydia, being the partner, not me, not that Stiles couldn’t have Lydia as a partner or anything, just suprising…” she said, tucking some hair behind her ear. “Anyway, umm I was dropping off some files for the Sheriff and-”

“Oh, yeah,” Parrish said, unlocking the door taking the box from Sara (before she could protest) “Woah, this is heavy. How’d you get it on a motorbike?” he asked, setting it onto the desk scribbling down a note.

“Oh, I didn’t,” Sara replied. “I walked.”

Parrish nodded. “Well, I got a bit of spare time, you wanna ride home?” he asked, putting his hands on his hips, oddly reminding Sara of her mother when she wouldn’t take no for an answer. 

Sara bit her lower lip, one part of her scream to run out of there, before she did something crazy, the other half wanted to remain in his presence.

“Sure.” she said brightly. “Why not?”

~

After getting Garrett’s scent Scott found him, hiding in between the buses, his lacrosse stick/spear in his hands. “Okay, what do you want?” Scott asked, looking over at Garrett in surprise.

He had dark blue and purple bruises mingled with what looked like burn marks streaked across his neck and his hands. But it was the burn marks that looked strange, they were a deep red colour, looking as if he were still burning.

“You want me to go to Stilinski? I can do that. Or I can talk to my father. He's an FBI agent.” Scott said, pulling his gaze from Garrett’s neck.

 Garrett shot him a mocking smile. “You think I want you talking to anyone with a badge? I'm not getting help from a werewolf because I want him to talk to someone.”

“Then what am I supposed to do?” Scott asked, his voice betraying his desperation. “They are transferring Violet to a federal facility. You are not gonna let that happen.” Garrett said, pointing his lacrosse stick at Scott.

“How?”

“They're going to put her in a car. We're going to follow it. We get ahead of it. You stop it.” Garrett said slowly. “You want me to attack a car? That's your plan?” Scott said exasperatedly.

“You're an Alpha.” Garrett spat. “If you can't stop one little car, then one little Beta is going to die.” Garrett said, drawing out his spear tip, shining with yellow wolfsbane. “I stabbed your boy with a blade dipped in wolfsbane. Once it gets to the heart...Bad things happen.”

~

“So, what brought you to Beacon Hills?” Sara asked, glancing at Parrish after a few minutes of silence, pulling her gaze from the lush green forest that seemed to be passing by them.

The more she stayed with him, the more comfortable she was beginning to feel in his presence. Parrish radiating a kind of safely that Sara only ever experienced from Scott. Maybe even stronger, in any case her supernatural side liked being near him.

“Honestly, I felt drawn here,” Parrish said, glancing over at her. “Like I needed to be here. I can’t explain it, but it’s like-

“Someone’s calling you.” Sara finished, her eyes glazing over. “Like someone is screaming at you, and you know they’re out there, somewhere.” Sara mumbled to herself.

 “Yeah, exactly like that…” he mumbled. “How did you-”

Sara’s phone buzzed, glancing down at ID caller, pressing the phone to her ear. “Hello?” she said, mouthing ‘sorry’ to Parrish, who waved it off, turning back to the road, looking a little stunned.

“Mason, yeah-No, I haven’t seen him not since last night. He messaged me though, about the run you guys were on…That doesn’t sound like him…Okay, thanks Mason.” she said, cutting the call.

“Everything okay?” Parrish asked, concern laced in his voice.

Sara shook her head. “It’s Liam. No one knows where he is…” Sara said, pocketing her phone. Discreetly sliding her left hand at the end of the seat, hoping Parrish didn’t notice the light purple glow.

A tingle shot up her, making having to look down hoping that her eyes didn’t turn purple. Sara turned to Parrish. “Can you drop me off here?”

“In the middle of the road?” Parrish asked. “I know a place where he could be.” Sara said quickly. Parrish sighed, using a face that said he was definitely doing this against his better judgment as he pulled over. She was pretty used to that kind of face.

“Thanks Parrish,” Sara said, jumping out, closing the door. “Wait! Sara,” Parrish called, getting out of the car walking towards her. “I’ll come with-”

“No!” Sara blurted out, whipping around, shaking her head. “No, no, really. I’ll be fine, besides he, he’ll be easier to find with just me. I’ll be okay.”

Parrish licked his lips, rummaging his in pockets, scribbling down something on a piece of paper. “Call me when you find him or when home you get home or for anything you need. Okay?” he said handing her his phone number on an unwritten speeding ticket.

Sara paused, before nodding, taking the paper and tucking it into her pocket. “Thank you, Parrish.”

 “Your welcome. Good luck, I guess.” he said, getting back in car; looking back, one last time before driving away.

Letting out a sigh of relief, Sara bent down, picking up a small stick and placing it onto her palm.

Charging it with her purple energy, the stick twirled around pointing northeast. “I’m coming for you, Liam.” she whispered to herself, walking into the woods.

~

“Hey, there.” came Deaton’s voice. Scott’s vison starting to come into focus. “I was actually hoping you would be out for a few more minutes.”  

Scott groaned, glancing down at himself. A long jagged old looking knife lodged deep within his skin. “Scott.” said Argent walking up to him. “This is going to hurt.” he said, slowly curling his fingers around the knife, yanking it out.

Scott letting out a yell of pain.

“You all right?” Argent asked, helping him slide off the table and stand up again.

“Where's my dad and the Sheriff?” Scott asked, taking a few breaths his skin already beginning to heal. “They're at the hospital. They're both doing fine.” Deaton said, placing a gauze onto the wound. “Hold this.”

“It was Kate.” Scott breathed out. “It was her and the Berserkers.”

“We know.” Argent said slowly. “But they move fast. And they don't leave much in the way of tracks.”

“We have to find her. She's got Violet. I think Violet knows where Liam is.” Scott said frantically.

 “Then as much as this hurt, it could probably also help.” Deaton said, holding up the bloodied Berserker knife. “Can you get a scent?”

~

Sara sighed, running her fingers though her hair. Whoever lost or kidnapped Liam really didn’t want anyone to find him. She had been walking through the forest for hours, the last lights of the sun just disappearing under the thick clouds and the tree tops.

But she would be lying to say she wasn’t enjoying a little herself. She felt the buzz of supernatural energy the second, she and her father had entered Beacon Hills.

Faint, but there beating, active. But here? It was pulsing, blazing. It was electrifying and passionate. It was alive. Truly alive.

‘Elena would have loved this.’ she thought, shaking her head of the thoughts and memories that would come up with her name.

Sara glanced back down at her compass stick. It stopped.

Frowning to herself, throwing it back, onto the ground, she turned in a circle.  “Liam!” Sara called out, walking toward an old well. “Liam! LIAM!”

“Sara!” came a voice, from below her. ‘No, it can’t be.’ Sara thought, leaning over the well, looking down. “Liam!” Sara shouted, covering her mouth with her hand. “Oh my god!”

Liam was hanging. Literally handing, near at the top of the well, still in his running gear, blood and dirt smeared on his face.

“Liam are you okay? Sorry, stupid question.” Sara said, trying to shake away her shock; so she could be helpful. “Okay, just hold on Liam.”

“Don’t really have much of a choice.” Liam called back. Sara rolled her eyes, bending down to the end of the well.

Spotting the last pathetic fibres of the old rope that was probably used to get Liam down there. ‘Its not much, but it’s something.’ she thought. Picking it up in her hand holding the ends of it.

She shut her eyes, hoping what she had in mind would work.

 “Sara!” Liam yelled, in pain. “I’m coming Liam!” Sara shouted back looking down in her hands, smiling to herself. The rope had doubled in size, just what she need.

Tying a bit of the rope onto the small wooden pole on the side. Charging it with her energy so it wouldn’t break under her and Liam’s weight. Tying the rest of the rope around her, Sara climbed onto the edge of the well.

“What are you doing!?” Liam shouted at her. “Saving your life.” Sara replied, holding on tightly to the rope with one hand, Sara dropped down.

The rope stopping just above him, Sara cursed under her breath, glancing down at him. She and Liam were about five feet apart. “Liam, the rope won’t go anymore, you have to climb.” Sara said.

Liam grunted, pulling himself up. “Ahh…” he growled. “Your almost there, Liam.” Sara said, feeling disgusting helpless, as he neared her. “Just one more.”

Liam grabbed the last rock.

His hand slipped.

Forcefully throwing herself forwards, Sara grabbed his hand with her right one, her left still clinging onto the rope. “God, your heavy!” Sara cried, trying to pull him up.

“Sara! The rope!” Liam shouted. Sara glancing up. The rope was on one of its last threads, it was about to snap. Sara shut her eyes, readying herself.

When another hand few out catching hers.

“Scott!” Sara called out in relief.

Holding Sara’s hand, Scott pulled her with one hand. Sara climbing unsteadying on the edge of the well, helping Scott with Liam, the two McCall’s pulling him out of the well. Dropping Liam onto the ground, Scott pulled him into a hug.

Sara sliding onto the ground, Scott enveloping her too, holding them both in tight embrace. Getting up, Sara wrapped her arms around the cold shaking Liam.

“You're okay, Liam. We got you.” Sara mumbled, holding him tightly glancing up at Scott.

“How?” she whispered. Scott said nothing, wrapping his arms around her again, gently kissing her forehead.  

~

Sara sighed, shifting awkwardly in her seat. After Scott had dragged Liam and her into the veterinarian offices, where he worked most of her suspicions were confirmed. ‘Deaton was a druid, Liam was a werewolf and Scott was most likely his Alpha.’

Tucking some hair behind her ear. Sara leaned back, listened closely to the conversation next door.

“I don't want to keep watching people die.” Scott said, quietly. “I'm not sure you have much choice about that.” came an unfamiliar, but oddly familiar voice that she just couldn’t quite place.

“Maybe I do.” Scott replied.

“That's a lot of burden to carry, Scott.” Deaton said softly. “I don't care. No one else dies. Everyone on that list. Everyone on that Dead Pool. It doesn't matter if they're wendigos, or werewolves, or whatever. I'm gonna save everyone.” Scott said.

Sara leaned back in her seat, shutting her eyes. ‘So much for them not being a part of this world.’ she thought, pulling her legs up into the chair, allowing herself to drift off into sleep.

Chapter Text

She was in her room, when she woke. Already changed into warm p.js, and tucked in with her teddy bear lying neatly on her desk. Scott and her mother were far too kind to her.

Rubbing her eyes pulling her legs into her chest, Sara groaned. Life sucked. She just got home and people were trying to kill her. It seemed to be impossible to escape the supernatural. Why did she hid then? What was the point?

Just before she could have one of her amazing internal life crises, mostly consisting of her berating herself of her idiocy. A strange voice very different from Scott’s and Stiles was speaking in Scott’s room.

Walking to the wall Sara pressing her ears against it listening.

“After entering the IP address, you will be connected through a Darknet portal to an untraceable bank. Once logged in, enter your account number to receive wire transfers. The IP address will deactivate with each transfer. You will be assigned a new IP address if you choose to continue down the list. Remember, visual confirmation is always required for payment.”

“You ever made a wire transfer?” Stiles asked, after the voice finished. “Never had enough money.” Scott replied. “So you didn't understand a word of that either?” Stiles stated.

“I don't understand any of this. Why would someone use all this money just to kill us?” Scott mused. “Someone wants you dead, dude. Badly.” Stiles answered.

“But why?” came a voice from behind them making the two jump.

“Oh my god, Sara!” Stiles cried. “What the hell are you doing?”

 “Wondering why you guys have a bag of money under Scott’s bed.” she hissed, sitting crossed legged onto the floor with them.

“And if you were wondering, a wire transfer is a transfer of funds done electronically across a network of banks or transfer agencies around the world, commonly.” she added. “And a IP address is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.” Sara informed them.

The two stared at her, their expression ranging from terrified, surprised and worried.

“Now, can you explain to me, what list are they talking about and why, and how you do you have this money? Hmm?”  Sara asked, glancing between the two.

~
“Okay, so the Dead Pool is a hit list of ‘high risk’ people, and all the professional killers were called in to dispose of them and the reason you, Scott and the rest of your friends were on there is because you solved a ‘perfect murder’ Scott found the money in Garrett’s locker at school, and is planning on giving it to Derek Hale. Who is somehow involved in this?” Sara said, relaying the information that the two gave her.

“Who the money was stolen from.” Stiles corrected. Sara nodded slowly, biting her lower lip. “Okay.”

“You believe us?” Scott asked, not even trying to hide his shock.

“Absolutely not, But let’s pretend I do.” Sara said calmly, pretending not to notice the looks that Scott and Stiles exchanged. “I do have one more question.” Sara said, making the two hold their breath. “Am I on the list?”

The two paused shooting each other looks before. Scott nodded lowly. “You are.”

Sara sighed, rubbing her eyes. “How much?”

“Ten.” Stiles said, not meeting her eyes.                                                                                                                              

“Dollars, hundred, thousand?” Sara listed. “Million.” Scott said, after a few seconds of silence. “Oh. Wow.” Sara said, leaning back. “It’s a lotta money.” she mumbled. Scott scooting over, placing a hand on her back. “You okay?” Scott asked, taking her other hand in his.

Sara blinked, nodding. “Yeah, yeah I’m okay. Just tired and…crazy day. Liam in a well. Wonder how he got down there.” she chuckling lightly, hoping that laughter might keep her tears at bay.

“Are you sure?” Scott asked worriedly. ‘Damn werewolves and their chemosignals.’ Sara thought darkly. If there was one thing she could hid well, it was her emotions.

And Scott worried eyes made sense to her now.

He could smell her sadness.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Sara said, giving them one of her well-practiced fake smiles. “Though I think Sherlock and Watson need to take a break. The PSATs are in the morning.” she reminded them.

Stiles nodded, giving her a squeeze on the shoulder. Scott smiling at her, though his smile didn’t meet his eyes. “Night.” Sara whispered, walking back into her room.

“Night Sara.”

“Night, Princess.”

Locking her door, leaning against it. Sara shut her eyes sliding down, warm silent tears slipping from her eyes.

~

“Where's Lydia?” Kira asked, glancing at the group; she, Scott, Stiles and Malia at school standing in line for the PSATs.

“She's took it her freshman year.” Stiles answered nervously. “Does that mean I could have taken it some other time?” Malia said, her eyes lighting up. “Malia, you studied harder for this than any of us.” Scott said gently.

“Doesn't mean I'm gonna do good.” Malia replied.
“Well...”                                                                

“Well, what?” Malia asked, glancing at Stiles. “It’s do well, not good.” Stiles corrected.

“Oh, God!” Malia groaned.

“Okay, okay.  You're doing this, because while we're trying not to die, we still need to live. If I survive high school, I'd like to go to college. A good college.” Scott said encouragingly.

“It's only three hours. We can survive three hours.” Kira said hopefully, turning to at Scott. “How’s Sara?”

“Well, she. She’s still having nightmares, but I…I think she’s believing us. Kind off.” Scott mumbled, scratching his ear. “I mean she knows we’re lying, but she’s believing it.”

“Yeah, that’s only because you said ‘high risk people.’ Like what the hell does that even mean?” Stiles said shaking his head at Scott.

“I panicked.”

~

Liam yawned, pulling the covers off him, hearing a light tapping on his window, getting up he pulled back the curtains, unlocking the window.

“Hey, Juliet.” Sara said cheekily, a smile on her face. “Had a good sleep?”

“You do remember we have a door right? Liam yawned, glancing half-heartedly at the ladder. “I do,” Sara said, tucking some hair behind her ear. “But this is more fun.”

Liam smirked, letting her come in. Climbing over the window sill, Sara plonked herself on his unmade bed glancing around the room. “Huh.”

“What?” Liam asked, shutting the window. “Nothing, I just forgot how fun this is. It’s nice." Sara hummed, swinging her legs back in forth. “And you are still disgusting,” she added picking up his lacrosse shirt, giving it sniff. Instantly making a face. “Do you ever put this in the washing?”

“I’ve been asking him for ages.” said Mrs Dunbar from the doorway. The two froze, staring at her, then at each other.

Walking past them, she opened Liam’s window glancing out. “Doors, Sara. They exist.” she said, after a few seconds. “Good to have you back. Breakfast, I’m making pancakes.”

“Thanks Mrs Dunbar.” Sara said, as the door closed.  Liam and Sara sharing a look, before bursting out laughing.

~

“Excuse me.” Sheriff called, walking towards the C.D.C woman that was talking. “Can anyone tell me what we're dealing with here?” he asked.

“Hopefully a false alarm. The details provided have concerned us and your local health authorities enough to order a quarantine. We're going to need your help ensuring that no one gets in or out of the school.” the woman explained.

Sheriff sighed. “My son is in there.” 

The woman raised her eyebrows. “Is this gonna be a conflict for you?”

“Conflict? No.” Sheriff said, folding his arms, glancing at the school. “Stressful? Yeah. All right. What happens now?”

~

“Ah no, no, no!”                                                                                                                                                         

“Boom!” Sara cried, jumping up as the avatar threw the finishing punch. “How did you get so good?” Liam cried, tossing the controller onto the bed. Sara shrugged. “I had a lotta of practice.”

Liam nodded, deciding to take his chance. “In the three months?” he asked quietly.  

Instantly the mood in the room dropped. Sara’s body stiffened, her heart rate rising. “Yeah.” she mumbled, rubbing the controller.

“I know you don’t want to talk about it.” Liam said, glancing at her. “But I-just. I want you to know you can talk to me, Sara.”

Sara nodding stiffly. “Yeah, I know. It’s just hard, Liam. It’s so hard.” she mumbled, running her fingers though her thick dark brown locks. “With everything that happened…” she trailed off, before edging closer to him. “Liam, I think…I may, need to tell you something, something important…I-”

Suddenly Sara’s phone rang out, reaching over checking the caller, she answered. “Mom…What? Are they alright? No, no I’m at Liam’s…Yeah…No, I’m coming…I’m on my way.”

“What happened?” Liam asked. “There’s a quarantine at the school. Some infection broke out,” Sara said quickly, pulling her jacket on sliding her phone into her jeans pocket. “I’ll talk to you later.”

“Yeah,” Liam said, as she ran out. “Sara,” he called out. Sara skidding to a halt, glancing at him over her shoulder.

“Be careful.”

Sara smiled, patting his doorframe. “Aren’t I always?”

~

Opening Braeden’s room door, Melissa walked past Derek to Braeden’s bedside. Needle in hand she injected it into her IV.

“What's that?” Derek asked instantly. “Naloxone. We need to wake her up.” Melissa said, her face set. “I thought you said she needed to rest.” Derek replied.

 “That was before I found out the CDC just put the high school under quarantine with Scott and Stiles still in there.” Melissa said, glancing up at Derek. 

Braeden shot up, groaning in pain.

“Braeden, look at me. You were shot, but you're in the hospital now and you're fine. Do you understand?” Melissa asked, placing a soothing hand on her shoulder.

Braeden nodded.

“Good. Okay. Last night you were in the woods and you came across another pack? Do you know what happened to them?” Melissa asked, rubbing her hands nervously.

Derek glanced at her. “I told you, they were poisoned.”

“No.” Braeden croaked out, shaking her head. “No, they were infected. It was a virus designed to kill werewolves. It did. It killed them all.”

~

“Mom?” Sara called pulling open a door, looking frantically for her. ‘Symptoms. I need symptoms.’

“Mom? God, where are you?” Sara groaned, running headlong into someone.

“Sorry,” Sara said, glancing up at the person, who was staring at her.  “Sara right?” the person asked. Sara blinked, furrowing her eyebrows. “Yes, do I know you?”

“I’m Derek,” the man said, holding out his hand to her. “Derek Hale. I’m a friend of your brothers.”

“Yes, Scott told me about you.” Sara said, shaking his hand. Much taller than she thought he was, dark haired like her and Scott with a cool beard and wise green eyes.

“Have you by any chance saw my mom anywhere? It’s important.” Sara said, pulling her hands into her pockets.

“She went-” Derek started, the elevator dinging revealing her mother, Deaton and another woman who was crying. “Mom.” Sara said, she and Derek jogging to her. Her mother pushing a man who had black vomit on his mouth out of the elevator.

He was completely still.

She didn’t have to be Stiles Stilinski to find out what happened. “He’s-” Sara stated, her mother nodded. Sara sighed, looking down at the body. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered, her fingers lightly brushing against the man’s hand.

It was like someone had plugged jumper cables to his ears and starting shocking him as the man leapt back to life. He started seizing, his claws swishing around like crazy, as he let out a loud growl, his eyes bright yellow.

‘Werewolf.’

Sara jumped back, stumbling into Derek, who had just grabbed her, pulling her back into him. The woman, Deaton and her mother attempted to calm the man.

 “Not dead. He is definitely not dead!” Sara cried.

~

Sara stared at the man, her mother and Deaton hooking him up to all sorts of life support machines. “He’s breathing, but not for long.” Deaton said, glancing suspiciously at Sara.

Sara held his gaze, her eyes empty.

“We need to figure out what kind of virus this is.”

Derek and Satomi walked in shutting the door staring at the body in front of them. Derek occasionally glancing at her, with the same worried look Scott had, though his was more dulled and held a hint of curiosity rather than worry.

“What are the symptoms?” Sara asked suddenly, looking up at the adults. “Fever, ringing in the ears, blindness, coughing up that-black sludge?” Sara listed, when they remained silent.

“All of those things.” Satomi answered. Sara’s eyes widened. ‘Chemist.’

“What is it?” Melissa asked, straitening up. “I think I might know what they have.” Sara said, running her fingers though her hair. “Canine distemper. Well a variant of it.” Sara explained. “It happened in San Francisco the first year I stayed there. It mostly kills wolves, but it can affect some humans.”

‘AKA werewolves.’ Sara thought. “But the virus has been sped up and I think I know by who too.” Sara finished.  

“You mean it's been weaponized?” Derek stated. “Exactly, by a professional killer known as The Chemist AKA Simon Williams. This his MO.” Sara said, folding her arms staring at the body.

 “But, I don’t know what cures it.” she mumbled, the sudden annoying feeling of uselessness entering her again. If she were a strong, she might have been able to cure them.

“It’s okay at least we know what we’re fighting.” Derek said, giving her a small smile. Something that she (she thought) didn’t happen often, because her mother glanced at him in surprise.

“It infected my whole pa-family.” Satomi said, quickly catching herself, the pain and grief plastered onto her face.

“Everyone except for you.” Deaton said, pointing at Satomi. “That's the real question. Did you not get infected? Or are you immune?”

“If your pack was infected, then who was doing all the shooting at the entrance to the woods?” Derek asked, receiving a dirty look from Melissa. Sara rolled her eyes. ‘If only she knew.’

“Apparently another assassin. Personally, I'd rather face a gun than a variant of smallpox.”

“Sounds like you're going to get plenty of chances.” Melissa said grimly.

Satomi said nothing staring at Derek, her eyes softening, Derek glanced at her looking slightly uncomfortable. “Sorry.” she apologised. “I just noticed how much you remind me of Talia. I used to visit her a lot, you know. Do you remember me?” she asked.

Sara felt a hand on her shoulder, staring up at her mother, gently sliding her hand into hers.

“I remember the tea. You always brought that tea that smelled terrible.” Derek said after a pause. “I brought that tea as a gift. Your mother loved it.” Satomi said fondly.

“What kind of tea?” Deaton asked sharply. “What?” Satomi asked, Sara and her mother raising their heads.  “The tea with the smell, what kind was it?” Deaton asked again.

“Reishi. Wild purple reishi. It's very rare.” Satomi answered.

“It's also a very powerful remedy for sickness. Satomi, you didn't get infected because you've been inoculated.” Deaton explained.

“Okay, okay. How rare is it? Can we find it?” Melissa asked, rubbing her neck nervously. “We don't have to. My mother kept some of it. It's in our vault.” Derek said, straighten up.

“Okay, your vault?” Sara interrupted. Derek opened his mouth to answer, but Sara waved him off. “Nevermind, not the craziest thing that happened his week.” she said, turning to her mother. “We need to call dad.”

~

“Shouldn’t one of you get to live?” Simon asked, his gun pointed at Stiles.

“I think I saw them in the library. Or it might've been the cafeteria. It was definitely one of those two.” Stiles lied.

“I'm going to count to three,” Simon said, adjusting his aim to Stiles head. “And then I'm going to kill you.” he threatened softly.

Stiles turned around, facing the gun. “Think you can scare me?”

“No, I think I can kill you. I just thought the countdown would make it more exciting.” Simon said, pressing the gun against Stile’s forehead. “So...One...Two...”

Stiles shut his eyes.

BANG!

Blood sprayed all over Stiles’s face. Spitting and patting, Stiles looked up at his saviour. “Where the hell did you come from?” he choked out. Agent McCall pulled the top of his hazmat suit, his gun smoking.

“Stiles, listen. I got a call from Melissa. I don't know what it means. She said there's an antidote. It's in a vault, reishi mushrooms.” he explained.

“Wait, what in a vault?” Stiles asked, still in shock. “It's in a jar on one of the shelves. She said to tell Scott, it's in the vault.”

~

“I have to get to the school.” Derek said to Satomi, Sara jogging behind him. “Derek can you give a ride? I have to see Scott.” Sara asked, glancing at him. Derek nodded. “Sure.”

“What about the others at Lookout Point?” Satomi asked him. Derek froze, opening his mouth as the elevator dinged. A blonde woman holding a gun, raising at them.

Derek instantly grabbed Sara, pulling her to the ground covering her.

 Satomi ran forwards, expertly dodging the bullets. The sound of a metal something meeting flesh rang out, as the gun clattered to the floor, the woman following.

Satomi twirled around (to what Sara could now see) was a silver arrow, glancing behind her at Derek, Deaton, Melissa and Sara. “I may have learned to control my anger, but I still know when to use it.” she said.

“That was awesome.” Sara mumbled.

~

“I get it you know.” Derek said suddenly, interrupting the strange silence between them. “Get what?” Sara asked, pulling her gaze from the forest to him.

“Sara McCall, daughter of a FBI Agent, lone survivor of the tragic destruction of the Deervlailen Prep School.” Derek quoted.

It was like someone poured acid down her throat. “How?”

“Read it in the paper, well Peter read in the paper and told me how riveting it was. You might have a fan.” Derek said, keeping his eyes locked on the road. Sara was thankful, it allowed her crack a little.

“Relax, I know it wasn’t you fault.” he added.

“What?” Sara blurted out.

“I know it wasn’t your fault, not on purpose anyway.” Derek said pulling up in front of the McCall house. Sara barely noticing the change in destination, spending all her energy, holding in the hot tears that burned behind her eyes.

“I don’t know what you are, but I know you’re not human. Just like I know what happened wasn’t you fault, as much as you think it is.”

Sara swallowed hard, blinking rapidly, feeling the burn behind her eye grow.

“My family died in a fire. Because I brought home my girlfriend, who was just a crazy hunter using me to get to them. Most of them died that day, and I spent a long time thinking that was my fault.” Derek said.

Sara staring at him, a few tears slipping out of her eyes. “I’m sorry.”

“But it wasn’t.” Derek said, turning around meeting her eyes. “It was hers…I don’t know you very well, Sara. But I know your family. I know Scott. And from what I’ve seen and heard. I think you’re a lot like him.”

“I’m not like Scott. I’m not…good…not like him.” Sara whispered, wiping her face with her sleeve.

Derek nodded. “Maybe. But you’re still a good kid.” he said, parking the car. “I know this is hard. It is hard. It won’t be easy and I don’t think it’s meant to be. But, eventually, it will get better.” he said, gently placing a hand on her shoulder.

“You just need to learn how to forgive yourself.”

Chapter Text

After the quarantine incident, there had been a few rather quiet days. Besides the fact that her mother had been trying to snag her at the right time to ‘talk’ about the supernatural world to her.

Sara luckily had managed to avoid the subject of Satomi killing that hunter and after saying Scott explained everything (lie, but at this point…yeah…) about the Dead Pool, she hopefully avoided the conversation until her mother though it was really necessary.

Or until she told the truth…Anyway, Sara had started school at Beacon Hills and had a mountain load of catch-up work that Liam, Mason, Scott, Stiles and Lydia had been helping her with. Even with her unique abilities to remember and things and her speed reading, three months was a lot.

And Biology was evil.

But in the small amount of breathing time she had: finally met Scott’s girlfriend Kira (she had squinted her eyes a lot making her a bit uncomfortable at first, before deciding if she liked her. She did), and Stiles’s girlfriend Malia (They sort of just stared at each other, before instantly hitting it off, making Stiles freak.)

Sighing, Sara tighter her ponytail picking up her yellow highlighter. Pausing when the sound of eight feet entering the house. Shutting her eyes, dropping the highlighter, she allowed the conversation to wash over her.

~

“Is three enough?” Kira asked. “Depends on how many cameras they have. But I think so.” Stiles replied. ‘What the hell are they doing?’ Sara thought.

“Are we really doing this?” Liam asked nervously. “We're doing it. Tonight.” Scott said surely. “But isn't it kind of dangerous?” Liam said, shifting on his feet worriedly.

“It's incredibly dangerous. And borderline idiotic.” Stiles interjected. “Have you guys done something like this before?” Liam asked worriedly. ‘What the hell are they up to?’

“Something dangerous? Or something idiotic?” Stiles said smartly, making Sara smirk from above. Liam glanced between Stiles and Kira.

“I think it's a yes to both.”

 Liam sighed. “You don't have to be part of it if you don't want to.” Scott said kindly. “I'm not scared.” Liam said instantly.

“Then you're borderline idiotic.” Stiles said, placing a comforting hand on Liam’s shoulder, winking at him.

 “If we do this, we don't know what's coming for us. You know that, right?”

“How do we even know something's definitely coming?” Kira asked, she sounding worried too, an emotion Sara didn’t really associate with her. “Because the tape from Garrett's bag said visual confirmation required.” Scott replied.

 ‘So, it’s about Garrett and the Dead Pool.’

“Simon said the same thing. He couldn't get paid by The Benefactor until he had proof that you guys were dead.” Stiles explained. “So the idea is, what if you kill someone on the dead pool, but you can't send the proof?” Scott theorised.

“You don't get paid.” Kira answered. “But how does that get us any closer to The Benefactor?” Liam asked, shifting on his feet. “He still needs to know if the target is really dead.” Scott answered.

Sara cursed under her breath. ‘Oh, no. Don’t tell me…’

“Especially if it's someone high on the list.” Stiles added, glancing at Scott. “So, if he wants visual confirmation-”Liam started. “He's going to have to come get it himself.” Scott finished.

‘Great plan, Scott. Real fantastic. You’re going to kill yourself.’

~

San Francisco: 2 years ago.

‘Well, sometimes I go out by myself. And I look across the water (Uh, uh, uh, uh-uh, uh, uh, uh, uh-uh)

And I think of all the things, what you're doin'.

And in my head I paint a picture (Uh, uh, uh, uh-uh, uh, uh, uh, uh-uh)

Cause since I've come on home (Aaahh, aahh)

Well, my body's been a mess (Aaahh, aahh)

And I've missed your ginger hair (Aaahh, aahh)

And the way you like to dress

Won't you come on over?

Stop making a fool out of me

Why don't you come on over Valerie?

(Pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa) Valerie-e-e (Why don't you come on over?)

(Pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa)

Va-a-lerie yeah (Valerie, Valerie)

(Pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa, pa)

Valerie-e-e (Why don't you come on over?)

Sara hummed, running up the steps to her and her father’s apartment. “Yeah, just like the others,” her father said, when she walked in.

His case files strewn across the table, with a woman with light brown hair, tied into a tight bun leaning over it, inspecting each one.

Pulling out her ear phones, trying to shake the uncomfortable feeling that entered her, when seeing her father. “Hi Dad,” she said, giving a small shy wave. “Hey sweetie,” he greeted getting up from his chair.

“Sara, I want you to meet Elena my partner at the FBI.” he introduced, waving her over. Elena smiled at her. Sara liked her smile. It was warm and while Elena could be no older than 25, her eyes were old and wise. Like they had seen so much.

“Hi,” Sara said shyly taking Elena’s outstretched hand.

The second she did, a wave of electricity seemed to flow though her. Buzzing, shooting though her body.

 It felt like her heart was beating--like her heart was beating for the first time.

And then it stopped. Elena’s looked slightly surprised, but then her smile grew. “It’s wonderful to meet you Sara.”

~

She would be lying if she said, studying felt completely out of the question. After their chat downstairs. Stiles came to her room, pulling her to his house for a ‘Stiles-and-Sara-bonding/studying-session. They had them at least twice a week.

While Sara loved those, she felt the timing a tad inappropriate, which then again meant they were probably planning to kill Scott while Stiles distracted her to avoid those unpleasant questions.

 In any case, Stiles had dragged her there, books, markers, pencils and highlighters and all to study.

“So--Sara? You listening to me?” Stiles asked, flipping the marker in his hands. “Yes,” Sara said instantly looking up at him. Trying not to look at his murder board instead, she loved the murder board.

“Okay, what did I say?”

 “You said, once I’m done with his practice test, you and I can take a break? And watch Grimm?” Sara guessed.

Stiles nodded, seeing slightly put out that she heard that, while not paying attention. “Watch Gilmore Girls,” he said, running his finger though his hair. “Pay a little more attention next time. Okay?”

Sara twirled her pencil around nodding. “Got it.”

~

In a fairly short span of time, she and Elena had become extremely close, even despite the strange things that had started too happened.

Headaches coming at random, books dropping and jars breaking whenever she felt a little irritated. Her dying plants, miraculous growing in an insanely short time. Her dark brown hair and eyes having an odd purple tint to them.

 Despite that having reached a two month span in San Francisco. Sara had adjusted quite well, if she said so herself.

“Hey, Sara!” came her friend Susan’s voice from behind. “Hey, Sue,” Sara said, closing her locker. “How was family game night?” she asked, knowing Susan had a mandatory funny family game get together, which always seemed to end in disaster and was always on a full moon for some odd reason.

“Oh, that it was okay, not that great this time.” Susan said, brushing some of her flaming red hair behind her ear. Sara nodded, as her peer mentor waved her over. “Hi Allison!” she said, her and Susan making a beeline to her.

Allison Argent was a beautiful girl just one year older than her brother. Dressed in the neat white shirt, black skirt and green blazer like the rest of them, somehow she manged to stand out like a glowing light.

Allison smiled. “Hey, Sara. I just heard word that your English class is being moved from room 201 to 207. And that you’re having a sub today, Miss Walden is sick.” Allison informed, her adjusting the hold on her books.

“Thanks Allison.” Sara said, smiling at her. “I don’t know what I would do without you.”

Allison blushed. “Well I know what it’s like being the new girl.” she said, as the bell rang.

“See you later,” she said waving goodbye to the two girls. “Aw, she’s so cool.” Susan gushed, jumping up at down. “You’re lucky.”

Sara giggled. “Yeah, right. Let’s go.”

~

“I still hate this plan.” Melissa said, staring down at Scott’s dead body. Kira, Mrs Yukimura, Stiles and Liam standing around him. “I mean this is pretty significantly terrifyingly. He looks dead.” she said, wiping a tear from her eyes.

“Give me your hand.” Mrs Yukimura said, holding out her own. Melissa paused, glancing at Stiles, who had his hand comfortingly on her back. “It's okay.” Stiles said gently.

Melissa slowly took Mrs Yukimura’s hand, gently placing it over Scott’s heart. Nothing. Tears started to fill Melissa’s eyes.

“Wait for it.” Mrs Yukimura said, after a few seconds. Melissa feeling the faint thumb of a heartbeat against her hand, she let out a shaky sigh of relief. “Is that enough to keep a werewolf alive?”

“Enough for an Alpha.” Mrs Yukimura said reassuringly. “How much time do we have?” Melissa breathed out. “Forty-five minutes.” Mrs Yukimura answered.

“What happens after that?”

“I bring him back the same way.” Kira explained. “No, I mean what happens if he stays like this longer than forty-five minutes?” Melissa asked, glancing at the four.

“No one's told her?” Mrs Yukimura asked, the silence from the teens around her, enough of an answer.

“What? What happens after forty-five minutes?” Melissa asked, staring at her. Unlike the teens, Mrs Yukimura met her gaze. “He dies.”

~

The girls; Susan and Sara laughed, taking the steps two and time outside the school. The sun was just setting and Susan’s father, Owen was going to fetch them from the library for a sleepover.

“That was awesome!” Susan cried, jumping up and down. Sara laughing at her animate friend, she was never still always moving, always living in the moment.

Sara had been surrounded by change for quite a while. But it was this, she decided after replaying this memory over and over again. This was the single moment where her life truly changed forever.

“Sara-” Susan’s words were cut off. And years later Sara would never know what she was going to tell her.

Blood, thick red blood.

Susan’s body fell onto the sidewalk.

An arrow sticking out of her throat.

 Susan was choking sputtering, her body flapping around. Footsteps were approaching, the sound of metal rattling.

Sara was frozen staring at the body. At Susan’s body.

That was the last thing she remembered. Susan’s body. Susan’s dead body. Then Elena. Elena’s sad smile, her wise eyes.

Before the darkness swallowed her.

~

“Is that supposed to look like that?” Liam asked, pointed at the laptop. He, Stiles and Kira in an empty hospital room, watching the hospital’s live security footage, just as one of them one of them started to fuzz out.

“No. No, it's not.” Stiles said, glancing at the laptop, displayed the words: No signal.

“Where is that?” Kira asked, leaning over him. “The roof. Someone's gonna have to check it out.” Stiles said worriedly. “I'll go.” Kira said, jumping up.

“Whoa, whoa.” Stiles said, looking up at her. “This might not just be a malfunction.”

“That's why I'm bringing this.” Kira replied, holding up her sword. “I'm coming with you.” Liam said, running after Kira.

“Okay.” Stiles called after them. “And you're both coming right back. Immediately. Kids.” he grumbled watching them, not noticing a familiar figure walk into the hospital.

~

The air was warm, filled with a variety of smells. Opening her eyes, Sara was in a (scented) candlelit room, on a small comfortable fold out bed. The room was small, the walls covered with pages torn from various books.

The strangest thing though was there was a small tree growing in the middle of the room, its roots pressing and uplifting the wooden floorboards.

“Good, your awake.” said Elena, handing her a cup of water, sitting on the edge of the bed, seeming to have been watching her patiently.

 “What-”

“Shh.” Elena said, forcing the water into her hand. “Take a breath. We’ve got a lot to talk about Sara.” she said gently.

“Su-Susan…I…”

Elena slowly reached out, pressing the glass to Sara’s lips. “She…she didn’t make it.” Elena whispered. Sara’s eyes burned, instinctively shutting out her words as nonsense.

“Keep drinking, you need to be hydrated. Trust me. You’ll need your strength.

Sara took a few more tentative sips of water. “Why?” she whispered.

Elena rubbed her shoulders, tucking some of Sara’s wet sweat-soaked hair behind her ear. “Because now, your training begins.”

~

Reaching the roof, Kira and Liam watched as one of the transformer started to spark and surge. “Looks like someone did something to it.” Liam guessed, as they heard a loud growl from behind them.

“I think somebody did.” Kira said, whipped around pulling out her sword, taking a defensive stance. Liam turned around.

Berserker.

~

Sara looked up, as the power went out. “What the-” she started as low growl came from behind her.

Berserker.

Sara smirked, practically twirling in her black sneakers. “My lucky day.” she said, walking towards it. “Hello, again." she said, her usual demeanour vanishing.

The creature growled, swinging its bone knife at her, narrowly missing her head.

Sara glanced it, looking mildly offended.

“That wasn’t friendly.” Sara mumbled, letting her hands fill her purple energy, her eyes turning her illuminating purple.

~

“I'm guessing the power doesn't go out often in this hospital.” Mrs Yukimura said, she and Melissa walking through the chaos filled hospital. “Only when under attack by supernatural creatures.” Melissa replied, walking into the room where Stiles, Kira and Liam were supposed to be.

The room was empty.

Staring the laptops, a loud bang and a rasping anguish scream rang out from the floor above them. Glancing at the each other the two walked out of the room.

Walking the sound of screaming people, as they ran past them in the opposite direction. Glancing at the each, the low growling of a Berserker walking towards them. Its head bloodied.

“Are you still a Kitsune?” Melissa asked, staring at the large creature. “Technically.” Mrs Yukimura replied, two backing away as the Berserker ran after them.

Swinging at Mrs Yukimura, the creature’s bone knife sliding into her flesh. She fell hissing in pain.

Melissa caught her, immediately putting pressure onto her wound. The Berserker raised his bone sword again, just as the elevator dinged.

Melissa turned around, expecting it to the Scott, Liam, Kira even Stiles.

Stepping out was Sara; holding something in her hand, an eerily calm expression on her face.

“Sara get out of here!” Melissa shouted, holding on tightly to Mrs Yukimura.

Sara said nothing, letting out a short whistle, walking towards the Berserker dropping what was in her hand. A Berserker skull clattering onto the floor.

The Berserker raised its head, turning it’s full attention on her, running towards her.

Sara’s stood her ground. Her hands lit up with its energy, blasting the Berserker with it. It flew back, slamming into the wall. Raising her hand, Sara pushed it back, immobilising it.

Walking towards it, Sara gripped the Berserkers skull, her eyes glowing. Pulling it off, the Berserker slumped, dissolving into a pile of bones and dust. Dropping the skull, Sara jogged over to her mother and Mrs Yukimura.

Placing a glowing hand on Mrs Yukimura’s shoulders a few of her cuts and scrapes began to heal.

 “That one’s too big, for me to heal.” Sara whispered, panting heavily. Her mother still staring at her wide eyed. “But she’s a Kitsune, she should be okay.” Sara continued, jumping up running to the lift.

“Where are you going?” he mother asked. Pressing the button to the highest floor, Sara looked up her eyes still shining with their purple glow. “The roof. Liam and Kira need me.”

~

“Liam, run!” Kira shouted, as Liam was slammed onto the ground his face covered in cuts, bruise and blood. “Get out of here!” Kira yelled. Liam pulling himself off the floor.

“Liam!”

Liam roared, jumping onto the transformer, jumping down onto the Berserker.

Slashing his skull, the Berserker swung, throwing Liam across the roof, almost into Sara who had just burst through the door. Running towards him, Sara bent down gently stroking his cheek. “Sara,” Liam said, his yellow eyes looking at her.

Sara smiled at him, glancing behind her as Kira was thrown into the other transformer the Berserker raising his sword at her.

Raising her hand, the sword stopped pulling back into the Berserker. Sara stood up, her hands alight with power. The Berserker toppled. Throwing her hand out, she flung the Berserker into the transformer.

Walking towards it to finish it off, when a loud roar came from inside the hospital. The Berserker got up, walked to the door and left. “Werejaguar.” Sara breathed out watching the door, knowing they wouldn’t attack anyone anymore.

Feeling Kira’s and Liam’s eyes on her, Sara got up walking towards the door.

“We have to hurry, if we’re going to save Scott.” she said, running her fingers though her hair, suddenly aware of the blood on her.

‘Guess some things never change.’

 ~

After Kira brought Scott back to life, Sara discreetly slipped through the door. Walking home, unlocking the door with her powers rather than the keys.

Walking up the steps. Unpacking and setting the last of her stuff. Sara showered, pulling on her most comfortable pyjamas before going back downstairs.

Taking a mug, dropping a teabag in. Not bothering with the kettle, Sara pouring in cold water. Holding the cup in her hands, she watched the water start to bubble, wisps of smoke coming out.

Sighing to herself the door opened. Her mother came in first, with Scott and Stiles in tow. Gripping the mug tighter, the boiling water started to become more erratic. Pulling her hands away from the cup, Sara opted to rub them on her p.js.

“I guessing you all have questions?” she said, turning around looking at them. “Yeah, you could say that,” Scott said. Sara couldn’t look into his eyes.

“Well then, no time like the present.”

Chapter Text

“I guessing you all have questions?” she said, turning around looking at them. “Yeah, you could say that,” Scott said, Sara couldn’t look into his eyes. “Well then, no time like the present.”

~

“Okay, so what are you exactly? Druid? Darach?” Stiles asked, folding his arm. “Some sort of evolved vampire or something?”

Sara raised her eyebrows. “Evolved vampire?”

“Well it’s not like we have much to go on.” Scott said, Sara’s smirk dropping. “Yeah…” she mumbled, squeezing the cup. “No, I’m, I’m a witch.”

 “What?”

“Which is pretty similar to a darach so, I guess you’re kinda right, I haven’t met any vampires so I don’t really-” Sara continued.

“You’re a…witch?” Stiles said slowly. “I’m a witch.” Sara repeated. “By technically terms.”

Melissa ran her fingers though her hair. “Witch?”

Sara nodded. “Witch.”

Melissa nodded, slowly sinking into her chair. “Okay, how, how does that work?” she asked. Stiles leaning against the counter across from her. Scott sitting on the armrest of her mother’s chair, his dark brown eyes staring into hers.  

Sara shrugged. “I dunno, but it started when I was in San Francisco…”

“First lesson. You tell no one what you are.” Elena said, picking up a bow staff from the rack in another one of her underground rooms. Elena had built herself a large tunnels and rooms that were stocked and filled with enough things and activities that could last 10 years. At first Sara thought it was a bit obsessive, now…not so much.

 “Why not?” Sara asked tying her shoe laces, adjusting her workout clothes. Elena paused swinging her bow staff back and forth in thought. “Do you remember what I told you a few days ago about the supernatural world, about why your friend Susan was killed?”

“She was a werewolf. And hunters kill supernatural creatures, because that’s what they believe is right.” Sara replied quietly, catching the bow staff that Elena tossed at her.

Elena nodded. “Good, now werewolves are more common in the supernatural world, but us,” she said gesturing between the two of them. “Hellhounds, Banshees-”

“What?”

You’ll learn; the point is they are rare. We are rare. If hunters ever got word of us. What they would do to us.” Elena said, looking down. “It would unimaginable. Sara, trust me no matter what you tell no one. Not even your family. You must remember even the people closest to you, can betray you.”

“Elena started training me after Susan was killed. In combat, how to use my abilities, teaching me how to control what I could do.”

“1. Now, even though you are a witch, I will make it clean. You cannot summon cupcakes or make money appear out of thin air. Anyone who’s ever told you that’s what witches can do is an idiot.” Elena said, placing a glass of water in the centre of the table.

“2. We can’t alert reality, or turn back time. Essentially, Harry Potter lied.” she said sitting down across from her, holding her hand above the water making it slowly rise. Sara gasped, leaning closer. Elena dropping her hand the water, fell back into the glass.

“What did you do?” Sara whispered. “I manipulated,” Elena said, leaning back.

“So, you can only move water and stuff?”

“No,” Elena snapped, shaking her head. “Not the right question because, I wasn’t manipulating the water.”

Sara furrowed her eyebrows. “Then what were you manipulating?”

Elena smiled, her eyes glittering. “The energy. That what we can do. We draw power from an ancient source that allows us to control, create and manipulate it’s energy, especially supernatural energy. We draw power from it, and in turn, we protect it from anything that would do it harm.”

“She mentored me, taught me, protected me. She was the only friend, the only person I could trust.”

“Now, there many different things you can do, but like everyone you have your strengths and weaknesses. You’re powers reflect that.” Elena said, setting down another book in front of her. “We all can do the same thing, but some of us are simply more gifted at certain things. This can make us strong, but it also needs to make us cautious.”

“For instance, you may be gifted at healing or the more occult side for our power.” she said, opening on of her books. “More like Druids or-”

“You have spellbooks?!” Sara squealed.
“There’re not spellbooks.” Elena said tiredly.
“They look like spellbooks.”

Elena smirked. “You wanna call them spellbooks, don’t you?”
“Mmmhhm.”

“Alright, anyway, the witches that can heal, are simple more gifted at healing or the occult or whatever, but they aren’t that successful at …say creating fire from energy or turning water into icicles.” she explained, pacing up at down.

Sara watching her pace, chewing on the end her pencil.

“The same goes for witches who are gifted at… the more violent side of manipulation. Similarly to Darach’s. They aren’t as gifted with healing and shields; the like. More the combative side. Both of them, come with its own challenges and obstacles. It’s balanced.”

“Okay, but how do you know which one you are?” Sara asked, setting her pencil down.

“No one really knows. Some say, our environment shapes us. Other’s personality, preference, but some, some believe were are the way we are due to the obstacles we will face, in the future.” Elena explained, seeing Sara’s blank face.

“We draw power from the Nemeton, right?” Elena said, Sara nodding. “Well,” Elena started. “Many witches believe that, the Nemeton gives us the ability to face the challenges we need to face even when they haven’t come to pass yet.

“That’s….that’s a lot…” Sara mumbled. “It is.” Elena said, taking her hand. “But it’s nothing, I believe you can’t handle.

“But I let her down.”

~

Present Year. 6 months ago.

Closing the locker, Sara yawned walking towards her chemistry class room. Setting down her bag and books, Sara slid into her seat, glancing around as the other students entered the room laughing and chatting together.

Just as her teacher, Mrs Livre walked in a loud ‘bang’ sounded out.

‘Gunshot.’ Sara though as she had the rest of the class ducked down. Silence. Then footsteps, fast clipped footsteps running down the school hall, pushing the door open.

The woman ran in slamming it shut, glancing at her.

“Elena?”

“There was a hunter, they came into school. Fired a few bullets. Made a huge scene. Elena showed up…I was in class at the time, when, we heard the shots.” Sara recounted.

“Elena she fought them, can in and she told us to run. She was FBI, so it wasn’t odd or…The kids were screaming. I mean…I don’t think I’ll ever forget that sound.” Sara mumbled. Another shot went off, and it just went quiet. They ran, they all ran. We were on the first floor, right under the basement. I heard Elena scream…so I, I ran after her.”

“But I was too late. She was dead before it got there.” Sara whispered, a stray tear slipping for her eyes. “I-I don’t what happened after, but…when I woke up…I was surrounded by fire…when they found me, they said I was lucky to be alive.” Sara mumbled, smiling slightly. “Gas main, explosion, set off by a school shooter. I knew was a lie. The rest you know obviously….”

“I didn’t really know what happened, but I knew that explosion wasn’t a gas main…” Sara said weakly. “Elena had a small tree that grew from a root of a Nemeton. I thought that if I left it, that, everything and came home…it would just…go away, you know?”

“No more freaky powers, no more weird things happening…” Sara mumbled, shutting her eyes. “Then I find out there’s a big Nemeton in the centre of Beacon Hills and my brothers an alpha.” Sara said weakly.

“I don’t know. When I came home. I just wanted to be normal or at least try…I didn’t want for anyone to know, especially you. Scott because, you’re you. You’re incredible…” Sara said, smiling at him, her eyes shining in the warm lights. The light purple glow in her eyes showing themselves a little.

“And I’m, miss-no-control-runaway-from-responsibility, so… I just, couldn’t have you, either of you hate me.” Sara whispered, shutting her eyes, looking down at the floor. “And, I’m so, so, sorry, for everything. And I know that’s not enough, bu-”

“Hey,” Scott mumbled, walking towards her bending down. Gently, taking her cheek lifting it up, looking into her eyes. “I could never hate you.”

“But I-”
“Never, Sara.” Scott said firmly, stroking her hair. “You’re my sister.”

“Our sister.” Stiles interrupted, taking her hand, giving her a hug from behind. “No matter what.”

“Really?” Sara mumbled, glancing between the two of them. “No matter what.” Melissa repeated, kissing Sara’s forehead gently.

“I know it’s been hard, Sara, but we’re gonna help you.” Scott said, tucking some hair behind her ear. “Really help you.”

“Yeah, I mean I helped train Scott, and look at him.” Stiles said guesting to Scott, making Sara giggle. “I mean, he was a…pathetic werewolf.”

“Was not.”
“Couldn’t even howl right.”
“Stiles!”
“Sounded like a fricken broken Barbie doll.”
“Stiles!”

~

“Thank you.” Sara said, turning to Scott. Stiles was snoring on her other side of her.

The three were snuggled up in the lounge, the TV light illuminating their faces gently, as the credits of Rizzoli and Isles played out. Stiles had dosed off about ten minutes ago (after successful guessing the murderer) leaning against the pillow and Sara’s shoulder.

Scott had one arm resting on Sara’s shoulders, (half supporting Stiles head) next to her, his eyes previously been glued to the TV, before he had heard her.

“For what?”

Sara shrugged. “Everything. You didn’t have to be this…”

“What?”

“Understanding.” Sara said quietly, licking her lips. “I was kinda a lying jerk.”

Scott smiled softly at her. “You’re my sister. I’ll always be here, to try to understand you.” Scott said, casually. Sara paused. “Even if you are a kinda of a lying jerk.” Scott joked. Sara chuckling lightly.

“What?”

Sara smiled, leaning against her brother’s arm. “Nothing, just rare moment when I’m glad you’re my brother.”

Scott chuckled, leaning over kissing her forehead, edging closer so she could lie against him. Shutting her eyes, Sara curled up into Scott-

“What did I miss!?” Stiles half-shouted, jetting up instantly. The tiles sequence for the next episode playing. Sara and Scott laughed, Stiles slowly began returning to his resting position.

“So,” Sara said, glancing between the two. “Since truths are on the table…You guys want to explain to me what’s really going on here?”

Scott pursed his lips, glancing at Stiles. “Well…” Stiles said, scratching behind his neck.

~

Splashing. That’s what woke him. 

Parrish groaned, groggily opening his eyes. Trying to move his hands, yanking on them hard. He was zip tied to the steering wheel of his deputy car.

“Hey! Hey, what are you doing?” Parrish shouted. “Listen...Listen to me! I'm a Deputy with the Beacon Hills Sheriff's Department...”

 “Damn.” said a familiar voice bending down. “I was hoping you'd be out longer.”

“Haigh? What the hell? What are you doing?” Parrish cried.

“You're a good guy, Parrish.” Haigh sighed. “But the list says you're worth five million dollars.”

 “What? I don't know what you're talking about. Haigh, listen... I mean, I barely make $40,000 a year.” Parrish said, in attempt to reason with him. “I only make 36.” Haigh spat, throwing some of the gasoline onto Parrish.

“Haigh, please!” Parrish spluttered, spitting out some of the liquid. “Just stop! You don't have to do this. Look, if you're having money problems...”

“You're worth five million dead, Parrish. Sounds like you got the problem.” Haigh replied, settling down the red container, walking down the empty parking lot.

“Please... Please, don't do this.” Parrish pleaded. “You're just gonna stand there? You're just gonna listen to a fellow Deputy burn to death?”

Haigh stared, plugging in a pair of earphones. Parrish’s eyes widened, yanking hard against bonds.

Haigh pulled out the lighter.

“Haigh, wait!”

Haigh tossed the lighter, onto the seat.

Yellow and red engulfing his vison.

“No, wait! Wait!” Parrish screamed, as the fire burned against his skin. Red, hot. Searing. Pain.
Pain.
Pain.  
Pain.
 Pain.
Pain.
Pain.

“PARRISH!”

~

“Parrish! Parrish!” Sara shrieked, fighting hard against the what was holding her back.

She had to help him.
He needed her.
They needed her.

“Sara! SARA!” Stiles yelled, his voice cutting though her rambled panicked thoughts.

Sara stiffened, suddenly aware that she was in her room. Scott holding her from behind, with Stiles holding tightly into her arms.

“Shhh….shh…its okay, its okay…”  Stiles mumbled, gently letting go of her arms, picking up a towel, gently whipping the sweat from her face.

After a few seconds, Sara had manged to relax into Scott’s arms. “You okay?” Scott asked, slowly releasing her, worried what she might do if he did too quickly.

Sara nodded, glancing at her clock. “Sara?” Scott asked.

6:00 Am.

‘Mom must have already left for her morning shift,’ Sara thought pulling off her covers. ‘She had been taking more of late.’

“I need to go to the Sheriff’s station” Sara croaked out, her throat raw from scream.

 Scott and Stiles shared a look. “Okay, why?”  Stiles asked, gently touching her shoulder, pulling Sara away from her task, as she began pulling things from her cupboard.

“Parrish.”

Chapter Text

“But you're dead!”

Sara ran in pushing the doors open ignoring Scott’s shouts for her to wait; his voice simply fading into background noise.

Parrish practically naked, covered in ash was standing over Haigh, beating him to a pulp. The Sheriff’s department, still with shock.

“Parrish.” Sara breathed out, freezing in the doorway, watching him wondering for a second if she should stop him. She had almost turned Garrett into a burnt crisp, and he just threatened her…should she risk it? Haigh had tried to kill Parrish, she really wouldn’t blame him if he did…she couldn’t hurt him…

“Oh my god…” Stiles mumbled, his words dying on his lips, still holding on tightly to the Sheriff. Sara glancing at him, before back at Parrish. “Parrish, stop.” Sara whispered, the word’s flying out of her mouth, before she could stop them.

Instantly Parrish stood up, glaring down at Haigh, before slowly turning around. His eyes locked with hers. They were different somehow.

“I think you better call Derek,” Sara whispered.

~

“He covered you in gasoline?” Derek asked, turning Parrish’s hands in his. After Parrish had quite literally ‘beat the living crap’ out of Haigh (Haigh was alive, but stuck in the hospital with a shiny pair of handcuffs)

She, Scott and Stiles half-dragged Parrish out of the Sheriff’s station to Derek and Peter’s (Derek’s crazy uncle, who bit Scott and then tried to kill him. Multiple times) apartment, where Lydia (Stiles called her) had met up with them.

“It's the hair and nails, isn't it? The parts of the body that are essentially dead.” Lydia said, thoughtfully. She, Sara, Scott and Derek crowding around Parrish waiting for Derek’s verdict.  “Well, they should be gone.” Derek replied, releasing Parrish’s hands.

“I was set on fire. All of me should be gone.” Parrish said, glancing at Sara from behind him. “Well…” Sara said, making a face. “Not exactly.”

“Not if you're like us.” Scott added, folding his arms. “Like you?” Parrish asked. Sara nodded mouthing ‘I’ll explain later.’

“I don't think he's like us.” Derek observed. “Then what is he?” Lydia asked. “Sorry, but I have no idea.” Derek answered. “But you knew about Jackson and Kira.” Scott said.

“Jackson? The crazy jock that hates you? He’s a were-?” Sara blurted out.

 “This is a little out of my experience.” Derek said quickly, cutting off Sara. “There might be something in the bestiary. Did you try Argent?”

“Wait Argent?” Sara interrupted. “I don't know where he is.” Scott replied, shooting Sara ‘shh’ look.

Sara stuck her tongue out at him.

“Okay, hold on. What's a bestiary? Actually, that's not even my first question. Just... Just tell me one thing. Are all of you like Lydia? Are you all psychic?” Parrish asked seriously.

Sara snorted. “You think Lydia is psychic?”

Parrish nodded. “Yeah.”

“Not exactly.” Scott said slowly.

“Okay. Then what are you?” Parrish said, glancing between the five. Sara sighed, turning to Scott, who glanced at Derek who raised his eyebrows.

“Try not to freak out.” Sara suggested lightly. Scott shut his eyes, facing Parrish, revealing his red werewolf, True Alpha eyes.

“Oh, that so cool.”

~

“What's a Kanima?” Parrish asked, rubbing his hands together on Derek’s couch.

Parrish didn’t freak out. He just sort off, wobbled on his feet and stumbled onto the couch. Scott and Lydia shared a look. “We'll get back to that.” Scott said gently.

“Giant lizard person.” Sara informed. Parrish nodded. “And you are?”

“A witch.” Sara said calmly, leaning back on Derek’s coffee table. “But all I really do is blow stuff up and light things on fire.” Sara said, slowly opening her hand, revealing a tiny purple-like flame glowing from within it.

“I don’t have that much control. So I can’t do anything really cool yet,” she said, closing her hand, extinguishing the purple light. “If it helps, he had no idea what I was either.” Sara said cheekily, inclining her head to Derek.

Parrish grinned, Derek rolling her eyes. “Wait, could he-?”

“No, He’s not like me, I would know. But…” Sara paused. “You’re familiar. Somehow…”

“Just know that everyone like us, everyone with some kind of supernatural ability is on the dead pool.” Scott explained, breaking the silence from Sara’s words.

“But I don't even know what I am.”

“I'm pretty sure they don't care.” Derek commented lightly, Sara nodding in agreement. “How many professional assassins are we talking about?” Parrish asked. “We're starting to lose count.” Lydia said, pacing up and down in front of them.

“But is it still just professionals?” Scott pondered. “I don’t think so, Haigh isn’t exactly the assassin type.” Sara said, tucking some of her hair behind her ear.

“Sara’s right, I don't think Haigh's ever tried anything like this. I think he was taking a chance.” Parrish said.

“That means anyone with the dead pool could take a chance.” Derek said. “But if Haigh had it, then who else does? How easy is it to get this thing now?”

Sara bit her lower lip, glancing at Scott, Lydia and Derek. “What are we going to do?”

~

“Parrish.” Sara said suddenly, looking up. Can I try something?”

Parrish pulled his gaze from Lydia, Derek and Scott, who were all whispering to each other, about ‘something important.’

 “Sure, what?” he asked, leaning back on the couch. Sara shrugged. “Just stay there…I just wanna...” Sara edged closer, shutting her eyes, taking a deep breath.

Opening her eyes, showing off her witchy purple hues, she stared into Parrish’s eyes. Parrish straightened, stiff and tall. His eyes blank, almost like they were before at the Sheriff’s office.

Like Parrish, but not Parrish.

His eyes began glowing, a deep sort of orange like colour, like flames. For a few seconds the two stared at each other. Sara slowly raising her hand, to touch his eyes.

Parrish suddenly lunged forward.

Sara jumping back, into Scott’s arms who pulled her behind him.

Parrish’s golden fire like eyes vanished, falling back onto the couch, rubbing his head in pain.

“What was that?” Derek said sharply. “I don’t know.” Lydia mumbled, glancing at Sara. Sara straitened up. “I’m okay,” she said patting Scott’s arm gently. “That was freaky.”

~

Sara sighed glancing down at her phone again. It was probably the hundredth time she checked it. Liam hadn’t said a word to her since last night.

“Meredith was only at my grandmother's lake house once. But I think once was enough.” Lydia said, sitting on Derek’s bed.

“How did your grandmother know her?” Derek asked, folding his arms leaning against a pillar. Sara sitting on the floor, next to Scott, leaning her head against his leg.

“She didn't. She found her. Because of another woman named Maddy. The woman she loved.” Lydia said, handing a picture to Scott.  

“I never met her, but I saw her name everywhere. She used to be part of a yacht racing team. There were plaques and trophies in the lake house from all the regattas she'd won.” Lydia said, smiling slightly at the memories.

“How did she die?” Parrish asked, pausing in her pacing.

“How's not the story. It's what happened right before. My grandmother, Lorraine, used to work in San Francisco for IBM.”

“IBM?” Sara asked. Parrish glancing up, mouthing “I’ll tell you later.” Sara nodding, Lydia continuing her story.

“She was there on a weekend, catching up on work. She started hearing this sound... Like rain. But when she looked out the windows... All she saw was blue sky.” Lydia narrated, turning around as if she were actually there.

“But she kept hearing the rain?” Scott asked, folding his arms. Sara looking worriedly at Lydia.

 “And it just kept getting louder. Rain and thunder cracking like gunshots in her head. So loud. She finally just screamed.”

“Like a Banshee.” Derek said.

“She called Maddy, who was planning on taking one of the boats out on the lake. But Maddy said that the sun was shining there too. So Lorraine didn't say anything.”

 “There was an accident?” Parrish guessed.

Lydia nodded. “It took them four days to find Maddy's body. And then it took decades to figure out how Lorraine knew. She started with parapsychologists, like the PhD in their name made it more scientific. They built the study in the lake house according to every pseudoscientific theory they could find. None of it worked. So then she started going to more extreme occult.”

“Occult, how all the best stories start.” Sara grumbled under her breath.

“Things like mediums and psychics, all of them were failures. Until she found Meredith. They found her in Eichen House. This fragile girl who didn't understand the things she heard. They brought her to the study. And they almost killed her. She was hospitalized for over a year. She...never really recovered. My grandmother drove her insane and I drove her to suicide. And all she ever wanted to do was help.”

“My grandmother created the code for the dead pool.” Lydia said, sliding the paper over, showing it to them. “They think she's the Banshee who put the names out in the first place. She left me this message in the same code.”

“But she didn't leave a cipher key, did she?” Scott said hopefully. Lydia shook her head.

Sara sighed, looking down at the code. “Then we’re back at square one.”

~

“Ready to go?” Sara asked, pulling on her jacket (well Scott’s jacket that he carried for her) “Scott?” Sara asked, lightly touching his shoulder snapping him out of his trance.

Scott glanced at her, before slowly picking up Derek’s gun off his bed, tracing his fingers lightly across it.

“Careful with that.” Derek said, walking up from behind them. “Thought you didn’t like guns.” Scott said lightly. Derek smiled, holding out his hand for it.

“Does this had something to do with your eyes?” Scott asked, looking up at Derek. Sara recognised that look. The look of a respect, and awe. The look of a mentor and its student. The look of a kind of friendship that was…powerful, meaningful. As much as it hurt to think about, Sara was glad she knew what that feeling was.

“My eyes, my strength, the healing…” Derek sighed. “All of it.”

“Wait, your losing your werewolf…ness?” Sara asked. Derek chuckled. “Yeah, pretty much.” he said, glancing at Scott. “Whatever Kate did to me…it’s still happening.”

Scott stiffened.

“If the Dead Pool really was made by a Banshee, then there’s something else that you should know about…” he said worriedly. “You name broke the third list. It was a Cypher Key. A-”

“And the other two keys were ‘Allison and Aidan” Derek finished. “Allison?” Sara whispered to herself, trying not to interrupt this…almost private moment.

“I-I don’t wanna make you nervous,” Scott stuttered. “But kinda feels like there might be a pattern doesn’t it. Allison, Aidan…You.”

“Names picked by a Banshee.” Derek said, seeming much more relaxed by this than Scott.

“I-I it could mean that you’re--In danger.” Scott said. Derek smiled. “Scott, Banshee’s don’t predict danger. They predict death.”

Sara stared at him. “Well you’re a real ray of sunshine aren’t you?”

~

“Liam,” Sara said gently tapping him on the shoulder. Liam instantly stiffened, slamming his locker and turning around and walking in the opposite direction.

“Liam! Liam, Liam wait!” Sara said, jogging after him, catching his arm. “Please, Liam can just listen to me. Please.” Sara whisper-yelled.

Liam sighed, turning around, walking into an empty classroom. “You lied to me.” he said, throwing his bag on the floor. “What else is there to talk about?”

“Oh come on,” Sara said, throwing her bag down. “Don’t act so innocent. You didn’t tell me about you being a werewolf and that Scott my brother might I add, is your Alpha!”

“That’s because he told me not to, to protect you.” Liam snapped.

Sara paused, nodding her head. “Okay, that’s, that’s fair.” Sara admitted, as Liam made his way to the door. “But do you honestly think I wanted to lie to you.”

“They why did you?!” Liam growled, his hand on the doorknob.

“Because I was scared.” Sara mumbled, sitting on one of the desks. Liam slowly turned around, standing in front of her.

Sara sighed running her fingers though her hair. “I already felt like a monster after the accident. When I came I said, I would leave it behind me, live a normal life. Pretend it never existed, and well you know how that turned out.” she said, chuckling lightly.

“My brothers a True Alpha, my best friends his Beta, my brother’s best friend who’s like a brother was possessed by a Nogitsune, my brother’s girlfriend is a Kitusne, my old babysitter’s a Banshee and I don’t even know what Malia’s story is.” Sara said, looking down at the floor.

She was almost 100% sure there was a bloodstain somewhere.

“Werecoyote,” Liam said, jumping up next to her on the desk.  

“Right,” Sara said, nodding slowly. “I’m-I’m really sorry, Liam.”

“S’okay. We’ve both been really crappy friends lately.” Liam said, smiling at her. Sara giggled, nodding. “Yep…You forgive me?” Sara mumbled, glancing at him.

Liam paused. “Yeah, but you owe me.” Liam said, taking her hand, pulling her off the desk.

“Deal, what do I owe?” Sara asked, the two entering the bustling halls.

“Bonfire Night, you’re coming with me.”

“Ugh,” Sara said making a face. “I hate parti- Oh you jerk.”

~

Cheering, screaming music and people jumping up and down like nutcases was not Sara’s opinion of a super fun night.

While she never had anything personal against parties; some she kinda enjoyed. But she didn’t really enjoy everyone getting so drunk they couldn’t stand. Maybe it was because of her father, but Sara disliked alcohol to an extreme extent.

A part of her wondered if Scott was feeling as uncomfortable as she was. Shaking the thoughts out of her head, Sara leaned against the table, allowing the screams and music to wash over her.

“Not gonna tell me to slow down?” Liam asked, after a few seconds of silence, besides the overall noise of the party.

“Actually, I was gonna say, ‘Keep drinking’.” Mason said shortly. “I think you should get drunk. And I mean stumbling down, fall on your ass, passed out with your face in a toilet drunk.”

Sara wrinkled her nose.
Liam chuckled. “Why?”

“Maybe then when I ask you what's going on, you'll be too drunk to lie.” Mason answered calmly. Sara snorted. ‘Backfire.’

 Liam’s face fell, turning away from Mason. Sara gently slipping her hand into his empty one, squeezing it.

“I'm not asking this because I want to know. I'm asking because I want to help.” Mason said, seeming to sense Liam’s mild annoyance and sting at his words.

“I'm gonna get another drink.” Liam said, getting up, swaying on his feet. “Yeah... I'm getting drunk.” he said wobbling off. Sara furrowed her eyebrows. ‘Can werewolves even get drunk?’

Mason sighed, turning to Sara his eyebrows raised. “What?” she asked. Mason inclining his head towards the direction that Liam disappeared into.

“Don’t ask me.” Sara said, taking a sip of her water. “I got here like last week.”

~

“Woah, easy.” Sara said, grabbing Liam before he fell. “I’m soo drunk.” Liam sang. “Yeah, you are…” Sara mumbled, looking around catching Scott’s eye, who was holding a very drunk Malia. “How?”

“How much has he have to drink?” Scott asked, setting Malia down at their table. Sara forcing a disorientated Liam to look at her.

“Not enough to get him like this.” Mason said, looking between the two of them. “Something not right,” Sara said, turning to her brother, feeling Liam’s forehead. “Liam’s really hot.”

“Am I? I mean, duhhhh.” Liam slurred, his eyes rolling back into his head. “Yeah, easy cowboy." Sara replied, dropping her hands, turning to Scott.

“Something's happening. We need to get them out of here. I think we're gonna have to, um...” Scott said, swaying on his feet. “Scott?” Sara said, jumping up, steadying him.

“How much did you drink?” Mason asked. “Nothing. Not even a sip.” Scott said, leaning heavily against the table. Sara bent down next to him, checking his eyes. “What’s going on? What can you see that I can’t?” Sara whispered, looking around.

The fire, and the people mingling together in some strange haunted montage. Scott’s eyes widened, gripping Sara’s arm. 

“It's not the drinks. It's the music.” he said getting up. “I have to...” Scott said, shutting his eyes, trying to re-focus. “I have to turn off the music.”

 “Don't let them out of your sight.” Scott said. Sara jumping up. “Scott let me help you.”

Scott stopping dead in his tracks, taking Sara’s shoulder. “No, something…” Scott blinked. “Something’s happening, and I…Protect them. Sara. Keep them safe.”

Sara stared at him, nodding. “Promise.”

~

After a few minutes of silence, to burly security guards came up to grabbing Liam and Malia roughly. “Let’s go.”

 “Hey!” Sara said jumping up. “What the hell are you doing?”

“These are our friends.” Mason explained, running in front of Sara.

“Your friends are overly intoxicated. They need to be escorted out.” The security guard said. Sara’s eyes widened. ‘Not security guards. Assassins.’

“Okay, we’ll go with them.” Mason reasoned. “That won't be necessary.” The assassin said, holding out an arm, refusing Mason to go near them. “I said they're my friends-”Mason started, the assassin pushing Mason to the floor.

 The others grabbing Malia and Liam. “Sorry, Mas.” Sara mumbled, following discreetly assassin’s though the crowd.

Running into the school, entering though the window in the science room to avoid being spotted Sara landed onto the floor, just as the music cut out.

‘Nice.’ she thought, walking into the hall, just as another woman hit one of the assassin’s in the face, Derek behind her.

The three guards ran at them. Running to the nearest one, Sara kicked him in gut, punching him on the nose. Ducked his punch, Sara slammed his head hard into the lockers. The woman and Derek doing the same.

Sara turned to Scott, about to help him up when, one of the assassins jumped up, pulling out a gun. He fired.

Sara stared at the gun, almost watching the bullet move slow motion, raising her hand the bullet froze suspended into mid-air. The man dropped the gun, stumbling back in surprise. “What the-”

Sara raised her other hand, swiping her fingers throwing him into the lockers. The man slumped on the floor, leaving a light dent in the lockers. “Moron.” Sara mumbled, the bullet falling to the floor.

“Did I just catch a bullet?!” Sara cried, picking it up, a large smile flying on her face. Derek nodded, the woman laughing lightly. “I didn’t know I could that! First time!” Sara said excitedly showing the bullet off the Scott, Liam and Malia.

“Look Scott I caught a bullet!” she laughed out, pausing suddenly. “Not the time, and I should not be this excited.” Sara said, reading the room. “Sorry, my bad” she said bashfully, scratching her ear.

“What happened to the gun?” Scott asked, pulling himself of the floor.

“You're covered in gasoline.”

“Oh, yeah.” Scott said, Derek helped him. Sara and the woman helping Liam and Malia. “Oh, by the way,” Sara said glancing at Braeden. “Who are you?”

Chapter Text

It apparently was going to be one of those nights. Sara had figured that out, when Scott came flying down the steps calling to the freshly shower Liam and the just-shower-and-just-manged-to-get –all-the-gasoline-and-blood-out-of-the-ends-of-her-hair-Sara.

‘Man, I need to get a haircut and a vacation.’

“Kira found Brett.” Scott said, entering the living room. Sara sighed, looking down at her warm comfortable pjs. ‘Great now I have to go change. Stupid assassins.’

“They're fine but we've got to go.” Scott finished handing Liam a helmet. “Kay, comeback and pick me up, don’t think your bike can fit three.” Sara said, jogging up the stairs.

“More assassins?” Liam guessed, following Scott to the door. “Maybe a lot more.” Scott said gravelly.

“Different than the ones who just tried to set us on fire?” Liam said.

 “I think so, yeah.” Scott said, opening the door, before turning around glancing at Liam’s face. Liam looking down at the helmet, setting it down on the table. Closing the door, Scott walked back to Liam holding out the red helmet.

“How about I take you home?” Scott said gently. “I'm not like you.” Liam said softly.

“Not yet.”

“I don't mean I'm not strong or I'm never gonna learn how to be in control. I mean everything else. You and your friends try to protect everyone. Have you been doing this the whole time? I mean, how are you all still alive?” Liam said quietly.

Scott paused his eyes losing focus. “Not all of us are.” he said after a couple seconds.

“Let me at least take you home.” Scott said, holding out the helmet. Liam nodded taking his slowly the two approaching the door. “Scott?”

“Yeah,” Scott said, glancing at him. Liam looked behind him at the stairs. “Don’t tell Sara.”

~

After Liam went home due a family emergency according to Scott. (Sara didn’t buy that complete bullcrap, then again Scott was always a terrible liar, which is why Stiles had taught her how to lie) but anyway. They made their way to the animal clinic, where Scott worked at. The second Scott opened the door, Kira ran into his arms, two instantly starting to make out.

Behind them, Sara making an openly disgusted face not wanting to be witness to their moment. Sliding past them, Sara marched into the back room.

“Satomi?” she said, walking towards the woman, catching sight Brett’s surprised face when she came in. “Sara McCall,” Satomi greeted, smiling at her. “I had a feeling I might be seeing you again.”

Sara smiled, taking the older woman’s hand. “It’s wonderful to see you again. How’s-”

“Nikolia, he is externally grateful for what you had done. As am I.” she said. Sara blushed. “I didn’t really do anything-” she said, pausing when Kira and Scott walked in.

“Satomi, this is who I was telling you about.” Kira said, Satomi taking a long look at Scott, a slow smile forming on her face.

“I know who Scott McCall is.”                                                                                                                     

“Are we safe here?” asked the young girl next to Brett; which Sara guessed could be his sister. Scott paused looking around the crowded room, full of werewolves, some of them injured and others just plain terrified.

Sara turned to him, biting her lower lip. “Scott?”

“We're gonna need help.” Scott said, glancing between Sara and Kira. “A lot of help.”

~
A couple of hours later, Scott had (finally) found a ‘safe’ place for Satomi’s pack. A large empty building around the outskirts of Beacon Hill’s. Scott, Kira and Satomi had instantly taken up leadership, helping the other werewolves and discussing strategies.

“Hi there,” Sara said gently spotting the small girl who had been next to Brett; she was holding one hand around her arm, looking around the room in mild confusion. “I’m Sara, what your name?”

The girl glanced at her unsurely looking back at her, her lower lip quivering. “Lori.”

Sara smiled. “Well Lori, do you want to show me your arm?” Sara asked, holding out her hand. Lori nodded, slowly picking up her other hand. On her arm was a deep cut that wasn’t healing, frowning, tenderly taking her arm, Sara inspected it. “I got scratched with an arrow.” Lori explained. Sara raised her hand, not even looking up; not noticing someone watching her.

 “Don’t freak out.” she mumbled, (more for her sake than Lori’s) slowly gliding her hand over it (hearing Lori’s gasp at her purple energy) “Okay, I think the sliver tip in the arrow might have chipped. It might be stuck.”

“I can try to get it out, but it’s gonna take a minute or two.” Sara said, silently wishing she could have been a better healer. “So, Lori tell me about yourself? How old are you?”

“13, but I’ll be 14 in a few months.” Lori said taking a shaky breath. “I go to Devenford Prep, with my brother Brett.”

“Yeah, I know Brett, not personally. More for afar,” Sara said conversationally. Lori raised her eyebrows. “My best friend is Liam Dunbar,” Sara added. Lori’s eyes lit up, clearly recognising the name. “What your favourite colour?” Sara asked suddenly.

“Yel-Ah!” Lori cried, as the shard of bloodied silver few out of her arm. 

Landed on her hand neatly into the palm of Sara’s hand. Instantly the cut on Lori’s arm healed itself leaving just a smear of dried blood.

“Sorry,” Sara said dropping the shard onto the floor. “It’s supposed to hurt less when it’s a surprise.”

Lori giggled. “Thanks,” she said, glancing behind her as someone waved her over. Sara winked at her gesturing to the person. “Go on.”

“Thank you,” said someone from behind her making Sara nearly fly out of her skin.

 “Kill me why don’t you.” Sara grumbled, glaring at Brett, who laughed at her. His smile oddly enough making her grin.

“So, your Liam’s friend, the one at lacrosse game. The one that smells like…flowers and hot chocolate?” Brett said, leaning closer to her taking a sniff. Sara pursing her lips to stop herself from laughing.

“Yeah, you’re her.”

“So do you always sniff people to check who they are?” Sara asked, her eyes glittering in a few rays of the early morning sun. “Only the pretty ones.” Brett replied smoothly, taking in another deep sniff, his smile and relaxed body instantly stiffening.

“What’s wrong? What do you hear?” Sara asked, catching the change in Brett stance. Brett suddenly turned around, running to the front of the building.

“Brett!” Sara whisper-shouted, jogging after him trying to keep her footsteps like his. The other werewolves seemed to notice what he did too. Some of them getting up, Satomi leading as Scott, Sara and Kira followed them in confusion.

Satomi let her arrow loose into the next area of the building, someone grunting in pain in the distance.

A man entered Sara’s vision, his gun out, facing them. Brett flew forwards snarling and growling in front of him. “Wait! Wait! Brett! This is his place. It's his.” Scott explained, pointing at the man.

Brett walked back, standing behind Sara. She knew his face. He looked tired, older, and bearded, but it was him. Chris Argent. Allison Argent’s father. He was a hunter.

 “Scott... If you bring in guests, you could have called.” Argent said, dropping the gun, glancing at the pack of werewolves. “I didn't have anywhere else to take them.” Scott said, scratching his ear.

“I know this man.” Satomi said, stepping forward staring at him. “He may not remember, but we've met before.”

“You can trust him. I trust him.” Scott said, attempting to convince her. “How do we know he's not like the others?” Satomi asked. “What others?” Argent asked, the gun resting on his hips, his eyes sweeping across the group.

“Last night, there was a whole team after them. And they used crossbows.” Kira explained, handing him half of an arrow. “They're hunters, aren't they?” Scott said.

“Not if they're killing for profit. Not anymore.” Argent said, his eyes landing on Sara. A flicker of recondition sliding across them.

“Can they find us?” Brett asked, the question that had been plaguing Sara’s mind. ‘Yes.’

“They might already know you're here. Maybe they're waiting for dark.” Argent explained.

“So we're not safe here?” Kira asked, glancing at Scott. “We're not safe anywhere.” Satomi retorted. “We've been trying to get out for days. Everywhere we turn, we find someone new trying to kill us.”

Argent stepped closer to Scott. “If they're coming, Scott, they're coming for you too. You're still number one on the dead pool.” he reminded him, looking at Scott, but Sara could see one eye was trained on her.

“I know. I know Lydia can get the answer from Meredith. She just needs more time.” Scott replied.

 “Then that's what she'll get.”

~
“Argent.” Sara said, coming from behind, her hands folding behind her back; watching him place the motion sensors in. “Chris Argent. Allison’s father. ”

“Sara McCall.” Argent greeted, inclining his head lightly. “So you do remember me.” Sara mumbled, glaring at Argent.  “Yes.” he said, getting up off the floor.

Sara nodded. “So the Argents are hunters. When Elena told me I really didn’t want to believe it.” Sara said, deciding it better to rip off the plaster all at once.

Allison’s death, still waved heavy on Scott and his pack. She couldn’t imagine what Allison’s father felt.  “Was Allison one?” she asked, glancing up at him.

“No,” Chris said, clenching his fists. “Not when she met you.” 

Sara shut her eyes, allowing a moment of slience, biting her lower. “Did you kill Susan Dabney?” she asked quietly. “No, I didn’t.” Chris replied. He radiated guilt, there was something different about him. Sara nodded, taking a breath. “Do you know who did?”

“Yes.” Argent said, meeting her for the first time, since they began talking. Sara’s heart plummeted into her stomach. “Who?” she whispered, walking closer to him. “Please tell me who?”

“I doesn’t matter.”
“Please,” Sara said, “I just, want to know, that’s it.”

Argent sighed, scratching his eyebrow. “Lefebvre. Adrien and Raphael Lefebvre. Brother and sister. They were twins. ”

“Were?” Sara asked, a vivid image of two brown-haired siblings, dressed in full leather flashing though her mind. “What happened to them?”

“I don’t know.” Argent said, glancing down, at the red light on one of his monitors. “No one’s seen them in months. Last thing I heard was they died. Chasing a witch.” Argent said, looking pointedly at Sara.

“I didn’t kill them.”
“I didn’t say that.”

“I don’t know what happened. I blacked out…I don’t-”

“Sara,” Argent said, gently placing at hand on her shoulder. “Breath.”

Sara shut her eyes, taking a deep breath. “It’s okay. I’m not judging you.” he said, lightly patting her shoulder, turning around to finish fixing in his monitors.

 “I’m sorry, about Allison.” Sara said, Argent’s footsteps pausing. “She….she deserved better. She was really…incredible and kind. She didn’t deserve what she got.”

“She was…she liked you.”

Sara smiled softly, turning around picking up a few more blankets, and walking off.

~

Sara slumped down onto some of the blankets, curling up in them. Pulling out her phone she checked the time. 5:30pm, only a few hours left till dusk, her eyelids burned feeling exertion and burnout hitting her like a truck.

“You okay?” Brett asked bending down, to her eyes level. Sara nodded, though her shoulder felt ready to fall off. “I fine.”

“I fine?” Brett repeated. “I’m fine.” Sara corrected. “That’s what I said.”

Brett shook his head. “No, you said ‘I fine.’” He said smirking. Sara sat up straighter, leaning closer towards him. “I said I’m fine.”

Brett shook his head. “Nope, I have werewolf hearing and-                                                              

“You would have heard me say ‘I’m fine.’” Sara said. “No you didn’t you said I fine.” Brett insisted, sitting down next to her. “No I didn’t.

“Yes you did.”

“No I didn’t,”

“You did.” Brett sang. Sara scowled. “Your ears are broken.”

“Nope,”

“Oh, shut up.”

~

Sara looked around nervously at Braeden, who gave her a relaxed smile as she loaded her gun.

Scott had called in for reinforcements and the new coolest dynamic duo appeared. Derek and Braeden. The dream team. The coolest people ever. She was totally shipping them.

“You okay there?” Braeden asked, glancing at her from the corner of her eye. Sara shrugged. “I’ve been better.”

“It’ll be okay. They’ll be okay.” Scott said, though Sara felt his words were more for her comfort than anything else.

“They've got claws and fangs. But they're not fighters.” Derek said glancing at Satomi’s pack.

“That's why I called you.” Scott said. “Well, try to remember I don't have claws and fangs anymore either.” Derek replied. “That's why he called me.” Braeden added, inclining her head towards Derek.

“Am I the only one still hoping this is all just a false alarm? I mean, it's possible we could wait here all night and nothing happens. Right?” Kira said hopefully.

Sara bit her lower lip, Braeden and her sharing a look. ‘Unlikely.’  

Braeden glanced at Scott. “Scott, you heard anything from Stiles or Lydia yet?”

“Lydia's still talking to Meredith. Stiles and Malia are headed to the lake house. They're trying to stop it.” Scott replied.

“I think we should focus on the word trying.” Sara added. “I mean, there is a small possibility that they may not be able to. I mean Meredith crafted this elaborate plan, isn’t there the possibility she has a contingency?”

The four shared uneasy looks at Sara’s words.

Brett speaking up from behind them. “What if there is no stopping it? What if it doesn't end until we're all dead?”

“Then let's send a message.” Derek said loudly. Sara feeling a speech coming on.

“Let's make something perfectly clear to anyone with a copy of that list. It doesn't matter if they're professional assassins, hunters, or an amateur who just picked up a gun. Anyone who thinks they can hunt and kill us for money, is gonna be put on another list. Our list. They get to be a name on our dead pool.”

Sara awkwardly raised her hand.

“Yes, Sara?” Derek asked, making the rest of them look at her.

“Sorry to ruin this…inspiring moment, but umm…wouldn’t we be just as bad as them, if we put them on our list. I mean, shouldn’t we be the bigger people and not put them on our list, but simply just prove that we are capable and unafraid of defending ourselves if they choose to attack us?” Sara pointed out.

The rest of them stared at her. Braeden’s gun making an auditable ‘click’ sound. “I love this kid.”

“Just asking…”

Chapter Text

Dusk had just fallen, the sun last rays washing over the building as the darkness swept in. Usually this would be the time that movie nights start, chilling with Scott and Stiles over popcorn and the latest Sci-fi that Stiles found. Or paying video games and watching FRIENDS with Liam and Mason. Today was different.

Today brought war.

“Hey,” Scott said from behind her. “Hi,” Sara replied, her eyes not moving from the motion sensors. “Scared?” Scott said causally. Sara shook her head. “No.”

“Are you sure?” Scott asked. Sara furrowed her eyebrows. “Yeah…” she said slowly. “Because I can smell your fear from the other end of the building.” Scott continued. Sara glared at him. Scott looking back with his ‘don’t-lie-to-me’ looks. Sara had quickly realised he saved those for both her and Liam. Jerk.

 “I’m not afraid, Scott. Not of the hunters anyway.” Sara said, pulling her jacket around her tighter, she’d dealt with many before, and as stupid as it sounded, she felt pretty capable of handing them.

“What is it?” Scott asked, tucking his hands in his pockets. “Nothing.” Sara mumbled, pulling on her sleeves.

“Sara-”

“Me.” Sara sighed. “I mean-It’s just…I been having pretty good grip on my powers lately, but…I can still lose control. And I don’t want to do something, I might regret. I’m not like you, I have, hurt and killed people and its something, that I know wasn’t my fault, but…I, I don’t want to be...a monster. Like I am, when I lose it.” she whispered.

Scott smiled at her, taking her hand. “You’re not going to be.”

“You don’t-”

“I do. You know why?” he asked. Sara shook her head. “It’s because, your one of the strongest people I know. Control is hard, believe me I know. But if there’s anyone that can handle it. It’s you.” Scott finished, tucking a few stray strand behind her ear.

She smiled softly, leaning into his hands. “Thanks doofus.”

Scott snorted, sharing her grin. “Anyti-”

A quiet beeping rang out; well quiet to her. Chris’s motion sensors went off. 

“They're coming.”

It still shocked her, that one second of peace and understanding could be ruptured so-abruptly. Yet, she didn’t have time to even breathe: They were here.

“Get back!” Braeden yelled as smoke bombs were thrown in, the assassin’s bursting into the room, gun’s blazing.

Scott pulled Sara to the floor, Kira soon joining them. Scott covering them both from the raining gunfire, half pressing them into the concrete.

Chris seemed to be retaliating. A loud barrage of gunfire raining back down on assassins. Scott shifted, his alpha eyes glowing, letting out a growl, before jumping into the fray, the sounds of other snarls and roars. The werewolves were in play.

It was on.

 Kira grabbed Sara’s hand. “Don’t let go!” she shouted, drawing her sword; the metal glinting in the light of the guns. Sara nodded numbly, ducking her head, a bullet narrowly missed her.

The cold feeling of dread pooled into her stomach; catching that one bullet last night seeming rather pointless now.

“Come on!”

~

Seconds, minutes, hours, Sara didn’t know how long it was, but it felt like forever. The air was filled with gunfire, werewolf snarls, roars and blood.

She had long since lost Kira and Scott, somehow finding herself back to back with Brett. Helping him and a few other werewolves protect Lori and a few other that were far too young to be fighting or far too hurt and tired.

Slamming two assassins into each other, Sara dropped her hands. Picking up a stray knife and throwing it into the air, hitting another in the arm.

He dropped his gun, Sara using her powers to pull it away from him and whacking another out with it.  Kicking the nearest one to her, holding her hands up, Sara telekinetically pushed him back into a wall, knocking him out too.

Spotting another assassin in the distance, rising a gun aimed at Brett. Sara roughly swung her hand as if swatting a fly, sending him flying across the room. Slamming (a little harder than she meant too) into a pillar.

“What are you again?” Brett yelled over the fray, knocking another assassin out, behind her.

Sara opened her mouth to answer, when another jumped from behind him. Raising her one hand, Sara threw the assassin into the ceiling. Dropping her hand, letting her ‘grip’ of him go. The assassin fell hard onto the floor. Sara hearing a satisfying crack of bone.

She definitely broke some ribs.

“Witch.” Sara replied, blowing some hair out of her face. “Why?”

Brett shrugged, glancing at the knocked at men and back at her. “No reason.” he said glancing behind him. “Where’s Lori?!” Brett shouted, looking around frantically.

“She’s not there?” Sara shouted back, bring her hand together, slamming two woman against each other, then slamming them back into opposite walls.

“No! Lori! LORI!” Brett yelled about to run into the main fight. “No!” Sara said, catching his arm. “I’ll find her. You protect these guys.”

Brett paused, nodding in agreement, turning around pouncing on another assassin in the fair corner of their ‘safe zone.’

Sara took a deep breath, taking a second to mentally hype herself up, running into the gunfire.

~

“Get the others back. Tell them to hide.” Scott yelled, when Brett came running. “Scott,” Brett shouted back. “I can’t find Sara or Lori!”

Scott’s red eyes widened, running off back into the gunfire.

~

“Brett? Brett, where are you?” Lori shouted. Sara whipped around, running in the direction of her voice. “Lori?!”  

“Sara!”

“Lori! Are you okay!?” Sara shouted, skidding to a halt in front of the young girl, grabbing her hand. A red light was pointed at her, before she could do anything--Scott came out of nowhere, tackling the man.

“Get out of here!” he yelled. Sara nodded, grabbing Lori’s hand, running back to where Brett and the others were; giving one final look back at Scott.

A few feet from their ‘safe zone’, four men appeared in front of them, cocking their guns.

Sara instantly pulling Lori behind her, about to attack when they fired. Sara shut her eyes, already preparing for the impending pain that she was going to received.

Nothing happened.

Opening her eyes, Sara stared down at the assassin’s laying on the floor.

“Run.” Chris said, from behind her. Cocking his gun, preparing to open fired again. The assassin’s surrounded them. Sara pushed Lori behind her and Argent, lighting her hands with purple energy.

There was no way she was dying in a warehouse that used to make toilet seat covers.

Their guns were raised, Sara and Argent waiting for them to make the first move. The loud sound of a phone chime rang out.

Everyone froze.

The assassin lowering their weapons, dropping them to the floor, raising her hands in surrender motion.

Sara sighed in relief, extinguishing the light in her hands, wrapping her arms around Lori giving the girl a squeeze, stoking her hair, while she cried into her sweater. “It’s over. It’s okay, it’s over.”

~

“Scott!” Sara shouted running into her brothers arms, wrapping her arms around him tightly. Burying her head into his shoulder, letting out a shakily breath. “You’re okay.”

“I’m okay, I’m okay.” Scott said, squeezing her back, releasing her giving her a look over, gently touching a cut on her forehead. “Are you okay?”

Just before she could answer, Kira walked up to them. Sara stepped back a little, giving the two some space. Kira was a little bloodied, and her clothes were torn in a few places, but she seemed alright. “Scott.” she said, the two embracing.

Sara couldn’t help, but make a barf face at Derek, Braeden and Chris, who were talking a few feet away. The three laughing lightly.

Sara instantly turned back, the two stopping their canoodling. Kira turned around, pausing at the site of her. Sara couldn’t blame her, she looked like she came right out of a cheaply made horror flick. Her jeans and t-shirt and leather jacket were stained in blood, not to mention her hair.

Oh, her hair. She should cut it. She needed to cut it. All this washing of blood out of long hair, was actually exhausting.

Kira’s pause ended much quicker than Sara thought, the next second she was pulling Sara into a hug. “I’m so glad you’re okay.” Kira said, squeezing her tightly.

“Me too.” Sara said, as Kira released. “But not like that, ‘me too’ as in I’m happy I’m okay-Not that I’m not happy I’m okay, but I-”

“Sara.” Kira said, cutting her off.

“Yeah?”
“I get it.”

“Okay, phew.” Sara breathed out, scratching her ear, glancing behind her. Brett was animatedly taking to Lori, the younger girl laughing.

“You’re in pain.” Scott said suddenly. Sara looking up, Scott holding her wrist gently. “I’m fine.” Sara said. “It’s probably just a cut or a bruise somewhere.” she said, shrugging her hand out of his grip.

Scott squinted his eyes at her, looking her up and down. Probably trying to do a pull body-scan to see where she was hurt.

Sara rolled her eyes, turning around catching Brett’s eye.

Brett smirked, waving her over to him.

“I’ll be right back.” Sara said, already walking in Brett and Lori’s direction. “Sara-!” Scott called, Sara waving him off.  “I’m fine Scott. You can have Mom look me over later.” Sara said, walking backwards. “I’ll be right back, so I’m giving you some space to…you know….Smooch it up or-”

“Sara!”
“Walking away.”

~

“Hey stranger. Isn’t it good to be alive?” Sara teased, from behind Brett. Brett instantly pulling her into a tight hug. “Yeah, it is.” Brett mumbled, drawing back frowning. “You’re in pain.”

“No-I’m-I’m really not.” Sara said, waving his concern off. “I’m fine. And I can see you are too.” she said lightly. Brett snorting in response.

“How’s Lori?” Sara asked, not having a chance to talk to the girl, after she ran over to her brother. She understood that feeling to be near one, especially after their ordeal. She was glad Lori, like her had been lucky in the big brother department.

“Okay, little shaken up, but…she’ll be alright. You made quite the impression.” Brett said with smirk.

“What?” Sara laughed.

“Yeah,” Brett said, sweeping some of her hair out of his face. “Lori’s been saying how cool you are. I don’t think she’s ever going to shut up about you.”

Sara snorted, unable to hide the smile on her face. “Well she’s a cool kid.”

“Yeah, she is.” Brett agreed, shuffling on his feet. “Thank you, for everything.” he said gently.

Sara shook her head, running her fingers through her hair. “I really, didn’t do much.” Sara said shyly. Brett shook his head. “No, you…You saved my sister. You have no idea, how much that means to me.”

Sara looked down, very happy this place had such crappy lighting. If she was blushing, she wouldn’t dare let Brett see. He did not need an ego boost anytime soon.

“Well, you kinda saved me first and if you didn’t I couldn’t have saved Lori, so really in the long game you really saved Lori.” Sara theorised. Brett rolled his eyes. “Would it kill you to take a compliment?”

“Maybe.” Sara shot back, making his laugh. Sara sighed. “I’m sorry, it’s just…I’m not used to being the person people thank for saving their life’s…I’m not usually the good guy.”

“S’okay.” Brett said, quickly rummaging into his jacket pocket, pulling out a slip of paper; handing it to her. “What’s this?” Sara asked, unfolding it.

“My number,” Brett said, pretending not to see her raised eyebrows and slightly ajar lips. “In case, you need me…to beat up crazy assassins with you or…talk. It’s there.”

Sara smiled, tucking the slip of paper into her pocket. “So you just…keep that there…or?

Brett chuckled, stuffing his hands into his pockets. “Wrote it down this morning.”

“Ah, so this was planned.” Sara said cheekily. Brett nodding, giving her an instant suave-cool-guy voice. “Of course. Best ones are.”

“You’re insane.” Sara giggled.

“Anyone would be when they look into your eyes, baby-doll.”

“Baby-doll,” Sara cried, shaking her head. “Did you just called me Baby-doll, Talbot?”

“It is a classic.” Brett said instantly.  Sara rolled her eyes. “Yeah, it’s official, you’re insane.”

“But you love it.”
“Oh my god…”

~

Sara sat down on her bed, shutting her eyes: Peace.

It had been a while since she had been truly peaceful. Picking up her phone, Sara smiled tapping on Brett’s contact. He was probably out with his pack, rebuilding with Argent’s help or putting Lori to sleep.

She needed sleep too. Setting her phone down on her side table, Sara pulled back her covers, looking up at her ceiling.

“Can I come in?” Scott asked, poking his head though the door. “Sure.” Sara said, not bothering to move. Scott kicked off his slippers, lying next to her on top of the covers.

“You better not put, you stinky feet under my covers.” Sara said, looking distastefully at his feet. “They do not stink.” Scott said, leaning back, adjusting himself in a more comfortable, following her gaze that was glued to her galaxy themed ceiling.

Sara squinted. “Lies.”

“They don’t.”

“You sit on a throne of lies.” Sara said, turning to him. She was smiling. It was different then her other ones. It was relaxed, almost dreamy, but that wasn’t it. It was her eyes that made all the difference. There was something in there, a sort of bright glow that seemed to make every inch of her light up, like a perfectly bright full moon.

Scott gently leaned his head against hers. “Love you, Sara.”

Sara shut her eyes, resting herself against him. “Love you too, Scotty.”

Chapter Text

“Oh!” They all cried, as Liam’s avatar defeated Mason’s once again.

Sara popping some popcorn in her mouth, lying on Liam’s bed. “And the winner is…Liam Dunbar!” she cried, faking an announcer voice. Two weeks, two glorious weeks of no one dying, no one getting shot at and no assassins. It was incredible.

“When did you get so good? You been practicing? Or did you just suddenly get superhuman reflexes?” Mason joked. “Uh... Practicing.” Liam said, freezing for a second, making Sara rolled her eyes.

“Yeah, I've been practicing.”

“And I should be studying.” Mason said setting down the controller on the pillow. “Where are you going?” Liam asked, making Sara her eye’s narrow. “Home?” Mason said, giving Liam a ‘duh’ look. “I got a History test tomorrow.”

“Come on. One more game.” Liam said, shifting his position on the floor.  “Yeah, you said that four games ago.” Mason reminded him, walking to the door.

“Study here. You guys can stay over. Come on, one more game. Just one.” Liam pleaded, making Sara sit up straighter, crossing her legs on the bed.  If there was one thing she knew, it was her best friend. And her best friend was afraid. Unnaturally so.

 “You okay?” Mason asked, starting to catch onto Liam’s odd behaviour. Liam glanced at the floor. “Nnno, you’re right. You should go. I should probably study too.” Liam said, not looking at Mason. “See you at school.” Liam said flatly.

Mason glanced at Sara, she nodded. Patting the doorframe, Mason disappeared down the steps.

“You heading out too?” Liam asked, bending his head over to look at her. Sara shook her head, sliding next to him on the floor. “Do you remember in 3^rd grade when we went to the zoo?” Sara asked. Liam turning to her, raising his eyebrows.

“Do you remember what happened before we went?”

Liam nodded. “Yeah, you tried faking sick for a week just to get out of it.”

“Unfortunately it’s very hard to do that when your mothers a nurse.” Sara said sourly. “Anyway, do you remember what you told me on the bus ride there? I remember, you took my hand like this,” Sara said taking his hand gently, a small smile flickering on Liam’s lips.

“And you said, ‘You don’t want to tell me, that’s fine. But I want to remember, as long as you’re holding my hand. You’re safe.”

“So, Liam. As long as you’re holding my hand. You’re safe.” Sara whispered, squeezing his hand. Liam smiled, pulling her into a hug.

“So, sleepover!” Sara said jumping up. “What should we do first?”

“Make more popcorn and hot chocolate,” Liam said jumping up as well.

“Call Scott, Stiles and my mom so they don’t have all the deputies looking for me again.”

“We could binge watch FRIENDS!” the two said at the same time.

~

Sun streamed into the room, making Sara wonder: why on Earth didn’t they blow it up already. Couldn’t they just sleep? Nap time for at least another six hours?  “No,” Sara grumbled, burying herself deeper into the covers.

“Go away.” she moaned, the sun still manging to blind her. “Stupid, bloody-Ah!” she cried landing on the floor. Hard.  “Sara!” Liam said jumping up, leaning over the bed. “It’s okay, I landed on the floor.” Sara said groggily, rubbing her eyes. “It’s a good floor. Solid floor.”

“Floor?”

“Hey,” Sara said, getting up, throwing her pillow at him. “We would not be having this conversation if you slept in one or two positions, you move constant.”

“So do you!” Liam said, catching it, tucking it under his arm, already trying to fall back asleep. Sara scowled, yanking it back.  “Yeah, but I am not a super strong werewolf who the body temperature of like a 100 degrees. Your hot, I mean, I know I am, but for you it’s just excessive!”

Liam started laughing. “What?” Sara said, squeezing the pillow. “What is……oh, yeah I hear it now.”

~

“Hey Sara,” Malia greeted opening her locker next Sara’s, taking a deep sniff. “Why do you smell like Liam?”

Sara shrugged, leaning against her locker. “Sleepover.”

“Like me and Stiles?” she asked, furrowing her eyebrows. Sara yawned shaking her head. “Similar, but different.” she said, pulling out some books from her locker, tucking them into her bag. Malia leaned against her locker. “How?”

“How was your test?” Sara asked, adjusting her shirt. “Oh, I passed! See,” Malia said, holding up her test. “C-, that great Malia!” Sara said happily.

“Sara,” Scott said, walking up to them. “Hey, Scott,” Sara said, her smile dropping when she saw his face. “What’s wrong?”

“Its Liam.” Scott said, folding his arms. “What happened?” Sara asked, closing her locker.

“He’s acting weird.” Scott said, glancing back at the gym room. “Pushing people away…He almost hurt himself on the lifting weights-”

Sara sighed, pinching the bridge between her nose. “I don’t know. I mean, I know he’s afraid of something. He just won’t tell me what.” she said, sliding her hands into her pockets. “Stubborn jerk ward.”

Scott sighed, scratching the back of his neck. “Check in on him?”
Sara nodded, following his gaze to the gym room. “Of course.”

“Oh, and I uh, wanted to tell you. I’ll be home late. I’ve got a date with Kira.” Scott said, handing her his house key (she lost hers, long story). “Thanks,” Sara said, tucking the keys into her jeans pocket.

“Okay I’ll see you later.” Scott said, giving Malia a smile, patting Sara’s shoulder as he left. “Bye,” Sara said waving him off, turning to Malia, pulling out 20 dollars. “Wanna get milkshakes too celebrate?”

“Did you just-?”
“Yep.”

Malia smiled, her eyes flickering to Sara’s then back at her locker. “Strawberry?”

“Naturally,” Sara replied, a cheeky smirk on her face. Malia grinned grabbing her bag. Sara sliding hers over her shoulder. “Race you.”

~

“So, what are we watching?” Sara asked, jumping onto Stiles bed. “Ocean’s 11, Murder on the Orient Express, Now You See Me?” Sara suggested, watching Stiles set down the popcorn.

“I was thinking, more Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, then slowly move into Ocean’s territory.” Stiles said, sitting down next to her. Malia coming up, throwing her bag on the floor. “What you guys doing?”

“Movie night.” the two said, Sara tossing some popcorn in the air for Stiles to catch. He missed. “Technically pre-game movie night. Big ones after the game.” Stiles added.

“You wanna join?” Sara asked, patting the space on her left. Malia shrugged crawling onto the bed, Stiles sliding in the DVD. “What’s Harry Potter?”

Sara gasped staring at her, before glancing at Stiles. “Rewatch all the Harry Potter movies?”

“Rewatch all the Harry Potter movies.”

~
“Heard anything from Scott?” Sara asked closing Roscoe (The Jeep)’s door, sliding her bag onto her shoulder. “Yeah. Everything’s fine. He said he might be late.” Stiles replied, patting his jeep as they walked into the empty school. “You know the games not till later, right?”

“I know, I just wanna come early to wish you, Liam, Kira and Scott lu-” Sara stopping short, spotting a familiar Devenford Prep player jump out of his bus. “Hey Brett!” Sara called, waving at him. Brett smiled waving back, shooting her a wink.

“Sure it was us you wanted to wish luck?” Stile asked, playful knocking her against on the shoulder.

Sara rolled her eyes. “It’s not like that. He’s really nice, plus almost dying together and fighting together.” she said, clapping her hands together. “It builds a bond.”

Stile shrugged, leaning over to get a better look of Brett. “You sure it’s not the abs?”

“Stiles!” Sara said, slapping him on the shoulder, dragging him inside the high school. “Ow, hey I’m just checking. Just in case,” he said, walking towards the boy’s locker room, closing the door.  Sara paused standing outside the locker room. “Of what? Stiles? In case of what?”

“In case I need to beat him up, or something.” Stiles said, shooting death glare down the corridor. “Give a little, you know—” he said bobbing his head around awkwardly.

Sara chuckled, throwing an arm around Stiles, patting his arm. “I think you took got one too many lacrosse balls to the head, my brother.”

~

“Is Lori coming to the game?” Sara asked, leaning against the bench. The Devenford Prep boys had been practicing on the field and now the Beacon Hill’s Cyclones were out to practice.

“Nah, she’s having a sleepover with her friends tonight.” Brett said, tying his shoelaces. Sara nodded, brushing so hair out of her face, catching Stiles looking pointedly at them. Sara rolled her eyes, mouthing. ‘Stop it!’

“How’s not being hunted going for you?” Brett asked, looking up. Sara pulling her gaze from Stiles, smiling; her rich chocolate brown hair shining in the setting sun. “Pretty good,” she hummed, glaring at Stiles from the corner of her eye. “You?”

“Really good,” Brett said straightening up, leaning his head back. “But I could find a good enough excuse to text this awesome girl who saved my life, it was really annoying.”

Sara snorted, raising her eyebrows. “Really?”

“It was worth a shot,” Brett said smirking. “Can I ask you something?”

“Shoot.” Sara said, swinging her legs back and forth.

“That day, with the assassins. Why were you afraid of losing control?” he asked. Sara stiffened, her heart rate increasing, her swinging decreasing instantly. “You don’t have to answer, if you don’t want to.” Brett added hastily.

Sara swallowed hard, plastering a smile on her face. “It’s okay.” Sara said, smiling, one that Brett seemed to know was fake. Sara licked her lips, glancing up at the sky the last lights of day starting to settle.

“Um,” Sara said, glancing behind her. “Scott should be here by now.” she said jumping up. “I’m just going to go check on him. I’ll-I’ll see you later?” Sara said, running into the school before he could say anything.

Sighing to himself, Brett clenched his fist before getting up and walking away.

~

“Everything's fine. I got a text from him this morning and he said he might be a little late.” Stiles said reassuringly. Sara pushing the doors to the boys locker room open, ignoring the odd looks she received. “Well, how late is late? Is he always late? We're playing Devenford Prep again and this time it's an actual game. He shouldn't be late.” Liam said rapidly.

“Who shouldn't be late?” Coach asked, walking towards the two boy and Sara, who was hovering behind them. Sara raised her eyebrows as the three shared looks. Sara had Coach as her Coach for her soccer team when she was in middle school. She knew what he was like. Who was going to answer him?

After a few seconds, Liam braved the silence. “Scott and Kira.”

“They might be slightly late.” Stiles added, Sara shifting on her feet slightly. Coach stared at the three. “Slightly late is still late.” he stammered. “What are they doing?”

“It’s a good question, which we do not have an answer for…” Sara mumbled, pursing her lips in a ‘what-can-ya-do’ face. “They're doing something that's going to make them slightly late.” Stiles said scratching his neck.

“What could Scott and Kira be doing right now that's more important than playing in the first game?” Coach asked, Liam, Stiles and Sara glanced at each other.

Coach turned to Sara. “Other McCall, where the hell’s your brother?” Sara shrugged.

Stiles sighed. “Oh, Coach.”

~

“Nervous?” Sara asked, as they took their seats on the bench. Liam glanced behind him. “Don’t bother, they’re not here.” Sara said, rubbing her hands together. “They're not?” Liam asked. Sara shook her head. “Yep.”

“Okay, what's really going on?” Stiles asked, glancing at Liam. “Are you nervous about the full moon? It's not for another 24 hours.”

Liam glanced up at the almost full moon. “Liam, you're gonna be fine. Okay? Just try not to rage out on anyone.” Stiles said encouragingly. “You're not worried?” Liam asked, still shooting the sky a few looks. “Okay, I'm mildly concerned. Mildly.” Stiles said, pulling out his phone texting Scott.

“We're gonna lose without him.” Liam mumbled. “No you’re not, because you guys are great players, and you worked so hard. You’re going to fine,” Sara said, rubbing his shoulder, giving it a slap that made him look at her widely. She withdrew her hand, opting to play with her hands.

“Princess’s right, we can be just as good without Scott. Okay?” Stiles said, pulling on his gloves. “I've been practicing. Let me tell you something. I'm getting good. Really good.” Stiles said, getting up.

“We’re doomed.” Sara said, the whistle blowing loudly. “Good luck,” Sara said, jogging to the stands, sliding in next to Malia and the Sheriff.

~

“Oh,” Sara groaned, Stiles slamming on the ground for what seemed like the hundredth time. “I think he’s going to be okay this time.” Malia said, a few Devenford Prep students, tackled him to the ground. “Nevermind.”

“Devenford’s ripping them apart.” Sara mumbled, Stiles was once again thrown into the air, landing on ground again. One of the Devenford players ran to the goal, scoring.

“Come on!” Coach yelled, hissing and spitting: in short throwing a small tantrum.

Stiles came over to them. “Scott and Kira haven’t showed up. I’m gonna go look for them, see if there okay.” he said to the three; Sheriff nodded. “I’ll go with you.”

“I’ll come too.” Sara said, rubbing her hands together. “If its Kate and her Berserkers. I’ll be able to help.” Sara said quickly, making the Sheriff close his mouth, nodding curtly.

“Want me to stay here if he shows up?” Malia asked, glancing between them and the game. “Yes.” Stiles said, the three jumping up walking to the jeep. “See you soon, be careful.” Sara called over her shoulder. Malia sighing, jogging back to her seat.

~

“Whoa,” Sara said, staring at the wreckage that Braeden and Derek were surveying. “What the hell happened?” Stiles asked, coming in. “It was supposed to be a date.” Derek explained, tucking his hands into his pockets. “They were both here?” Sheriff Stilinski said, pointing to the destroyed room.

“And they're both gone.” Braeden said, Sara walked around the room, lightly touching a dried up bloodied pillar. “This is Scott’s blood.” Sara whispered, drawing back.

“Hey,” Stiles said, his phone to his ear. “Scott and Kira. We just don't know where.” Stiles said, listen closely before hanging up. “Mexico. Scott and Kira are in Mexico.”

“Don’t suppose he took her there for their date?” Sara said dryly. “Fantastic. Just what we needed, more things trying to kill us.” she whispered.

Chapter Text

“Here, try that.” Stiles said, tossing Malia a shirt from Scott’s cupboard; Sara watching them from the Scott’s bed, adjusting her white t-shirt underneath her leather jacket, tapping her foot impatiently on the carpet.

“Fabric softener.” Malia reported again. Sara groaned, face palming. Stiles sighed, running into Scott’s bathroom digging though his laundry basket, tossing Malia a pair of Scott’s underwear. “Ugh.” Sara said, wrinkling her nose at it.

“Remember, Scott's life is on the line.” Stiles said, holding out the underwear. Malia glanced between the underwear and Sara, spotting Scott pillow picking it up taking a deep sniff.

“You got it?” Sara asked. Malia nodded.

“Let’s go,” Sara said, jogging down the stairs. “Yeah. That works, too.” Stiles said, dropping the underwear, following them downstairs. Sara pausing, when she saw Liam waiting by the dining table.

“Oh! Liam, go home. You're not coming with us.” Stiles scolded.

“Why not?” Liam asked, glancing at Sara, Malia awkwardly hovering for a minute, before opting to leaning against the counter across from Sara. Sara sighed, turning her gaze to the floor.

“Because it's a full moon.” Stiles said firmly. “And I don't feel like driving all the way down to Mexico just to have you rip my throat out.”

“Nice.” Sara said, reaching over patting Liam’s arm. “I’m sorry, it’s just too dangerous for you.”

“It’s dangerous for you too,” Liam said, talking her hand. “If you’re going, I’m coming too.” he said, turning to Stiles. Stiles scoffed. “No, you’re not, and the only reason she’s coming is because Sara can kill these things faster than we can.” 

“What so I’m the weapon?” Sara cried.

“You can lock me up, right? Chain me down to the back seat or something?” Liam said, cutting off, what would be Sara ripping into Stiles.

“You tore through the last chains, remember?” Malia reminded him. Sara stared at them. “How can you tear though chains?”

“Yeah, we would have to freeze you in carbonite to get you down there.” Stiles said sarcastically. “Okay, then where do we get carbonite?” Liam said brightly. Sara shaking her head. “No, Liam. No.”

The three of them sharing exhausted looks. Stiles shook his head. “Seriously, you haven't seen it either?”

“Clearly there are no werewolf Jedi’s.” Sara mumbled, making Malia snort. “Sorry, you have to sit this one out, Li.” Sara said, giving Liam a final comforting pat on the arm following Malia out.

“Wait! What if we put me in the trunk?” Liam said, jogging after them.

 “You'd get out of that, too.” Malia said, trucking on past Liam, the latter looking like a puppy bouncing around its mother next to her. Sara tried to keep to Malia’s pace. Every second here was one they weren’t saving Scott.

“Liam, you've been a werewolf all of five minutes. You don't have to do this.” Stiles said, stopping, Liam skidding to a halt. “I know I don't, but I want to. There's gotta be bigger chains, a bigger trunk or something. There has to be.” Liam pleaded.

Stiles paused, his eyes clouding over like they always did just before an epiphany. “Maybe there is.”

“Well? You gonna tell us, or are we just going to wait to find out for dramatic effect?” Sara asked curtly.

~

“Prison Transport Van.” Sara said, patting Roscoe the Jeep on the hood.  “That should work.” she said, walking towards it, Derek, Braeden and another man people getting out of it.

Stiles nodded. “Yeah,” he said, calling out to Braeden. “How did you get a prison transport van?” Stiles asked, looking it at down in mild surprise.

Braeden closing the door. “I'm a U.S. Marshal.”

“Really?” Sara said wide eyed. “That’s awesome.” Braeden smiled at her.

“Yeah, I just thought that was just a cover.” Stiles mumbled. Derek pulling up, with another man in tow. “Are we really bringing him?” Derek asked, gesturing to Liam, who shifted on the spot slightly.

“Are we really bringing him?” Stiles retorted, gesturing to the man next to Derek. “Who’s he?” Sara whispered to Malia. “Peter. My psychotic father. The one that bit Scott.” Malia whispered back.

 “Ahh…” Sara said. So this was the famous Peter Hale.

“We're bringing everyone that we can. And considering Scott and Kira were taken the night before a full moon, we should probably get going.” Peter said, glancing over the familiar faces, pausing when he reached Sara’s.

“What's that mean?” Malia asked, there was a certain coldness when she spoke to him. No lost love there. It seemed Malia had relationship akin to the one she had with her own father before she moved to San Francisco.

“If Kate took Scott back to the same temple that she took Derek, how do we know she's not planning to do the same thing to him?”

“What, she wants to make him younger?” Liam asked.

“Or take him back to when he wasn't a werewolf.”

“Maybe she could even take him back into just before he becomes an Alpha, then slap a Berserker skull on him and turn him into a psycho killing machine that kills all of us.” Sara mused aloud.

The group stared at her. Stiles giving her ‘the look’.

“What?”
“What is wrong-I-Nevermind.” Stiles said, shaking his head.

“Anyway…” Peter started. “A werewolf can't steal a true Alpha's power. But maybe a Nagual jaguar, with the power of Tezcatlipoca behind her...Maybe she can. So, if everyone is sufficiently freaked out, I say we get going.” Peter suggested, gesturing to the cars.

“We can't.” Stiles said. “Not without Lydia.”

~

“So your Malia’s father, who bit Scott and Lydia, then tried to kill everyone but died and then was resurrected from the dead by Lydia. Right?” Sara asked, swinging her feet sitting on the hood of Stile’s jeep.

“Basically.” Peter replied, folding his arms. “You’re the witch that killed the Berserkers and blew up that school right?”

“Basically.” Sara sighed, digging into her dark jeans pocket. “Gum?”

Peter glanced at her. “Sure.” he said taking it. Sara took another piece popping it into her mouth. Earning another ‘WTF’ Look from Stiles. Sara shrugged, Peter didn’t really bother her than much. He was a cat. You didn’t both it, he didn’t seem to bother you.

“What's she doing at the school anyway?” Derek asked, after another 10 minutes. “We got Kira's sword,” Malia said holding it up. “But we need something with a stronger scent. Lydia went to get a jacket out of her locker.”

“Nothing.” Stiles said walking back to the group, tucking his phone in his pocket.

“If she has a car, she can catch up to us.” Braeden suggested.
“That's a good point. We'll call her from the road.” Peter agreed.

“No. What if something happened? What if she's in trouble?” Stiles insisted.

“Stiles, I get it. I really do. But Scott and Kira could be dying right now. Or be dead.” Sara said, swallowing the burn behind her eyes down, jumping down from the jeep hood. “We’re wasting time we don’t have.”

“But-”

“Fine. You stay, you find her. We're gonna go on without you.” Peter said, walking towards the car.

“I could call Mason. He has a study group at school. Maybe he could look for her.” Liam said helpfully. “There, that could work.” Sara said, patting Liam on the back.

Stiles sighed. “All right. Fine.” he said, walking towards Malia. Sara falling in step with Liam and Braeden.

“Remember what we're dealing with.” Peter said, pulling on his jacket. “It's not just Kate, it's Berserkers. You might see human eyes behind those skulls. Do not assume that there's any humanity left.” he said, his gaze locking onto Liam.

“Oh. This little one is terrified of them, aren't you? Don't worry, my friend. It is that fear that will keep you alive. A reminder to everyone. You do not fight Berserkers to survive, you fight to kill.”

~

After about 2 hours in the car, Sara glanced at the back where the boys were quietly talking, before gazing back out at the sky. The sun was still shining. Liam pulled on his handcuffs. Rubbing her hands together, Sara let out a breath wriggling in her seat.

“You okay?” Braeden asked, glancing at her from the corner of her eye. “Yeah, yeah I’m good, great, fantastic.” Sara said, swallowing the hard lump in her throat.

“You don’t look it,” Braeden commented smoothly. Sara shut her eyes, leaning back into her seat. “I can’t lose him.” she whispered. “I just can’t. He’s…”

Braeden took her hand, her left still on the wheel. “You’re not going too.” she said gently squeezing her hand.

Sara gave her a pained smile. “I really hope your right.”

~

Night.

The full moon shone brightly in the dark night sky. Sara shut her eyes, as a few beam shone on her face. Her energy bubbling under her skin.

“The moon affects you too?” Derek asked poking his head though the serrated window, from the back.

 Sara nodded, turning around opening her eyes; squeezing them to shake the purple out. “Not like you guys, it’s more of a recharge for me,” Sara said, seeming much more relaxed than before. Her chilled expression instantly shifted, when she spotting Liam’s clenched fist.

“Mainly because of that.” Sara said quickly, making the Derek and Stiles return their attention onto Liam.

Liam’s claws jetted out, gripping the talisman tightly. “Whatever you were gonna teach me...” he growled out, breathing heavily. “I think you better start.”

“Liam, you with me?” Derek asked. Sara watching from the front. Braeden driving faster. Liam nodded, sweating (as Coach would say profoundly)

“We have a mantra that we use. You repeat it, you focus on the words. It's like meditating. You say the words until you feel control coming back to you.”

“Okay. Okay, okay! What are the words?” Liam shouted, his pain making Sara wince. “Okay, look at the triskelion. See the symbol? I have a tattoo on my back, it's the same thing. Each spiral means something.” Derek said, Liam gripping the wood in his hand tightly.

“Alpha, Beta, Omega.” Stiles mumbled.

“It represents the idea that we can always rise to one and fall back to another. Betas can become Alphas.” Derek explained.

“Alphas can become Betas.”

“Can Alphas become Omegas?” Liam asked, Derek nodded.  ‘Like Peter.’ Sara thought. ‘The Alpha that turned into an omega.’

“All you have to do is say the three words.” Derek said slowly. “And with each one, you tell yourself you're getting calmer, more in control. Go ahead.”

Liam growled. “Alpha, Beta-”

“Slower.” Derek said calmly.

“Alpha... Beta... Omega...” Liam groaning sharply in pain. Sara half-pressing herself against the metal divider.

“Alpha... Beta... Omega...”

“Good. Say it again. Remember, every time you say the words, you're getting calmer.” Derek reminded him. “Alpha, Beta... Omega.” Liam said, his voice changing, becoming dark. Stiles crawled onto the seating bench.

“Say it again.” Derek said, the van shuddering uneasily.

“Derek, I don't think the powerful talisman of self-control is working.” Stiles cried. Liam grunted his eyes turning into their powerful bright yellow.

“Liam, say it again!” Derek shouted. Liam roared back, getting up shaking the van violently. Sara gripping her seatbelt. The van shuddered.

“Liam!”

Liam roared in response. Sara gripping her seat, wishing she had 100 more seatbelts. Liam roared, the hairs on her arm sitting up straight. The sound was like the snapping of a peanut shell. Or the sound that her father made when he broke a plate when he wasted the night, Scott slept at Stiles house.

The handcuffs snapped like candy canes. “Oh crap.” Sara whispered, squeezing the seatbelt. Derek trying to hold Liam down. The roars and yells from behind them, making her press herself deeper into the seat, wanting nothing more for it to swallow.

“Derek?”

“I think we're gonna need to go a little faster.” Stiles called out. “A lot faster,” Sara added, as the van gave another violent shudder. “Keep going!” Derek shouted.

The van swerved again, nearly sending Sara out the window. “We're almost there.” Braeden yelled back. The van swinging again, Braeden catching Sara before she did fall out the window.

“Derek!” Sara hollered from the front. “Your manta sucks!”

“Focus!” Derek shouted. “Derek, I don't think Alpha, Beta, Omega is resonating with him.” Stiles reported. “It really isn’t!” Sara yelled, gripping her seat tightly. “You know any other mantras?” Derek snapped.

Stiles paused. “Yeah. I do. Liam, Liam. What three things cannot long be hidden?”

Liam growled, fighting against Derek. Another roar shook out the loudest, that made her stomach do the summersaults, and not the good kind. “Man, I really wish I stayed at home!” Sara whined, digging her hands into the seat.

 “Liam! Liam, look at me!” Stiles called over the noise. “What three things cannot long be hidden? What three things?”

Liam grunted. “Sun... The moon... The truth.” he panted. “That's it. Say it again.” Stiles said calmly.

“Sun, the moon... The truth.”

“Derek?” Braeden asked. “We're okay?”

“Sun... Moon... And the truth.” Liam said slowly, his voice returning to normal. Sara let out a sigh of relief. Stiles patting Derek’s arm. “Pack Mom saves the day!” Sara cheered, glancing back at the boys.

“What?”

“Nevermind.”

~

“I can't believe I did it.” Liam said grinning as they finally drove into La Iglesia. “For a minute there, I thought I was gonna tear the two of you apart.”

“So did I.” Sara added, from the front. “Yeah.” Stiles agreed. “That would've made for an awkward ride home. So, thanks.”

“Think you can bring the same level of control and strength inside La Iglesia?” Derek asked gently. Liam expertly whipped out his claws. “All right. We might actually be able to do this.” Stiles said cheerfully.

Derek pulling open the door. A clawed hand, yanking him out of the van. “Derek!” Sara shouted, she and Braeden jumping out of the van.

The Berserker threw Derek agasint the van hard, Braeden letting off a few shots from her shotgun.

The Berserker dropped Derek aside like a ragdoll, turning its attention to her. The Bersekr stomping towards. Braeden cocked her gun.  

“Wait!” Sara said, raising her hand. The Berserker getting closer. “Wait. Shoot now.” she instructed. Braeden shot, the bullet shoring though her air. Sara shut her eyes, charging it with energy.

 The bullet soared, striking the Berserker hard in the chest. The Berserker stumbled back, the bullet lodged inside it.

Sara curled her open hands into a fist. The Berserker shaking violently, making strange clunking noises as if being tortured. Sara’s head tilted slightly, her purple eyes glittering in the moon light as she snapped her fingers.

The Berserker was instantly burning. Burning alive, rising her left hand forcing it to the ground. The creature burst into flames, leaving behind pile off bones.

Sara dropped her hands, dusting them off, now aware the rest were staring at her. “Did you just…” Stiles started. “Burn it alive?” Sara finished, nodding. “Yeah.”

“To kill right?” Sara said, glancing at Peter, her purple eyes while not as bright as before, still alive in usually brown eyes. Peter chuckled, an almost impressed look on his face. “Now, this is a warrior.”

“Thanks.” Sara said, bending down next to Braeden, lightly tracing a finger over Derek’s wounds her fingers lightly glowing. “It’s not healing.” she mumbled. “I don’t know, it’s just one.” Sara said squeezing her hands hard, trying again.

“It’s not healing…I-I don’t understand. Come on this is simple. Come just this once, please work.” Sara moaned, squeezing her hands again, her nails digging into the palms of her hand.

“How bad is it?” Peter asked worriedly.

“I'm fine, I'm fine.” Derek said panted, blood filling his mouth. “Just get to Scott. Just find him. We'll be right behind you. Go. Go!” Derek shouted, the others hurriedly running into La Iglesia, leaving just Sara and Stiles and Braeden.

“Hey, hey, save him.” Derek said to Stiles. Stiles licked his lips, nodding his eyes still locked onto Derek.

“Go, it’s okay. It’s okay, Sara. It’s okay. Just go.” Derek said gently. He was comforting her, Sara’s heart ached in pain. Scott was losing his friend, his mentor, his Elena, because of her.

“No, Sara.” Derek said, as if reading her mind. “No. It’s okay. Just go.”

Sara froze, her heart pounding hard in her chest. Stiles walked to her, taking her arm pulling her up and guiding in to the temple. “This way, come on.”

Chapter Text

La Iglesia, an old empty temple fully equipped with dark catacombs bones, thick cobwebs, vines and blood. Essentially the beginning of every horror mummy movie.

“Stop, stop, stop, stop, stop.” Peter shouted from the front, stopping sharply. Making everyone else bump into each other.

“We gotta figure out where we are, then we gotta figure out how to find Scott and Kira.” Peter instructed, just as Stiles’s phone went off. “How do I even have service...Hi Dad.” Stiles said, walking off to talk to his father.

Peter glanced back at the rest, giving them a ‘what the hell’ look.

Sara shrugged, something brushed against the neck, letting out a squeal she jumped back into Malia. “What happened?” Peter asked sharply.

Sara looking down, giving a shiver of disgust.  “Spider.” Sara mumbled under her breath, Liam patting her shoulder. She hated spiders.

Peter rolled her eyes. “Seriously?”

“Hey, it was huge.” Sara retorted, showing him with her hands. “Gigantic.”

“It’s this one isn’t it?” Peter said, pointing to a tiny spider that was currently crawling on the floor for its dear life. The three looked at her. Sara scratching the back of her neck. “No?”

Peter scoffed to himself, muttering something under his breath, just as Stiles pocketed his phone re-joining them.

“What do we do now?” Liam asked, looking around the catacomb.

It was like an dusty maze. Finding Scott and Kira, before Kate did whatever she planned to do was starting to feel like Mission Impossible, the first one when it did actually seem impossible.

“Yeah, any bright idea Sherlock?” Sara asked, glancing at Stiles, the shivering slightly. The necks on the back of her neck, standing up end. Wha-

“Duck!” Malia cried, grabbing Sara and Liam to the side, as the Berserker launched itself at them.

“Get down!”

“Go back. Get back!” Peter shouted. The group running deeper into the temple, Sara in lead. “Go! Go, go, go, go!”

~

“Go, go, go!” Peter shouted, as they ran into a large room. Stiles and Peter running to hide behind the pillars, Malia, Sara and Liam running past them. The two nearly chasing straight into some old wooden benches.

“Go find Kira and Scott!” Malia said, tossing the sword to Stiles. “Go!” she ordered. Stiles froze, not seeming to know what to do. “Stiles,” Sara said, turning his attention to her. “We’ll be fine. Just go.”

Stiles licked his lips, turning around and running deep into the temple.

The Berserkers growled, their heavy feet bringing them close to them. Sara stepped back, Malia and Liam doing the same, the three forming a small triangle.

“Remember,” Sara said, lighting her hand with her energy, illuminating the dimly lit room. “Get it to the ground, pull of the helmet and it will die.”

The two nodded, standing on either side of her. Malia clicked her neck, smirking as the four Berserkers waddled in. Malia let out a small snarl. Her clawed fingers looking sharper than usual.

They surrounded them. Sara took a deep breath, glancing between the four. The one nearest one growling at her.

“Three.” Liam counted, clenching his fists.
“Two.” Malia said, whipping her claws out.
“One.” Sara said, drawing back and blasting the nearest one to her.

~

Between the four of them (Peter had jumped in the second after Sara blasted one to the other end of the room) they had manged to take down the other three Berserkers.

The last one seeming to be much more powerful than the rest. Attempting to grab with it with her powers again. The Berserker tossed Malia into her, the two slamming hard into a pillar.

“Oww.” Sara groaned, attempting to pull herself up. Malia springing up with a growl, vaulting herself at it. The Berserker catching her leg and throwing her across the room.

Picking herself up, Sara kicked it in the chest, hoping the weak blast of energy would at least stun it. Peter jumping up, hitting it in the back.

 The Berserker punched Peter in the face, making him stumble back, swatting Liam like a fly and grabbed Sara by the shirt and tossing her roughly to the floor as well.

Peter ran at it punching it in the face again, the Berserker pushing him into a pillar. Liam then ran at it, punching and swiping madly. The Berserker throwing him across the room like he weighed nothing...

Malia kicked it in the abdomen. Peter going for the face again. Sara creeping up from behind it, waiting for it to bend.

The Berserker swatted Malia to the floor. Sara taking her chance jumping on its back, her fingers brushing against the skull.

The Berserker caught her wrists sharply, swinging her around facing it. Sara briefly catching a glimpse of the Berserker’s eyes. “Sc-?” before the words could leave her lips, the Berserker took her hands snapping her wrists.

Sara let out a shriek of pain, the Berserker tossing her to the floor.

Liam let out a roar, his eyes flashing yellow for a moment, running at it again. Malia pulled Sara away, to the end of the room. “Are you-”

“No!” Sara cried, a few stray tears of pain slipping out of her eyes. Malia glanced between her and the Berserker, letting out a growl.

“I’ll be back.” she said, letting out another growl, before running at it again.

Sara groaned in pain, shutting her eyes trying to heal herself. (She was much better at healing other people, and her healing wasn’t that good) But at least it was a full moon and she was in the presence of many supernatural creatures. The energy should be enough, if she focused…….

Sara opened her eyes, slowly rotating her wrist. They still stung, but they weren’t broken anymore.

The Berserker was on its knees. Her head was swimming, her brain felt like mush. Falling to the floor, the Berserker scrambled to get back up. He…Scott. Peter ran picking up a bone knife.  “Take him. Aim for the skull!” he said, tossing the knife to Malia.

The Berserker ran at them, Liam and Peter pinning the Berserker it against the pillar. Sara’s clouded pain filled mind emptied remembering what she saw. “Wait!”

“Kill it. Kill it now!”

“Malia! No!” Sara yelled. Malia raised the knife, launching herself at the Berserker. “No, wait, wait. Malia, wait!” Stiles shouted running into the room. Malia bringing down the knife when Kira appeared sliced the blade with her sword.

Malia stepped back, staring at them.

“It's Scott. It's Scott.” Stiles panted. Malia stepping back, staring wide-eyed at the rabid Berserker. Liam doing the same.

Sara getting up, walking towards it.  “Scott?” Sara whispered slowly reaching out towards him. The Berserker glanced at her, roughly pushing Peter and Liam to the floor, punching Malia in the face, stalking towards Liam.

Sara ran forward, standing protectively in front of Liam. The Berserker paused in its path. “Scott, it’s me, its Sara.” Sara said gently. The Berserker slowly raised its hand, as if about to pat her.

Spoiler Alert; it didn’t. 

Grabbing her by the neck, ignoring the shouts from Stiles, Kira and Liam. Scott raised her up to his new tall eye level. “Scott?” Sara choked, struggling to breath in his tighten grip, her eyes shining. Her body was screaming at her.

To react.
To kill.

But this was Scott.
 

“Scott please.” Sara wheezed out. The Berserker rising his other hand clasping it around her right wrist, her favoured hand, and the one was currently still healing. “Don’t you dare-”

He dared.

Snapping her wrist again, Sara letting out another scream. Scott tossed her into another pillar. Sara forced her eyes open, her vision and hearing blurred vaguely seeing Stiles being thrown to the floor.

“Scott? Scott, don't!”

Scott grabbed Liam slamming him into a pillar, choking him.

“Scott.”

Scott raised his arm, about go for the kill. “Scott, Scott, listen, listen, listen!” Liam yelled, making Scott freeze.

Stiles crawled towards Sara, wrapping his arms around pulling her close to his chest. Sara leaned into him. Stiles’s (while tense) form was still a hell of a lot calmer than her and she appreciated his stillness, calming her shaking form.

 “You're not a monster!” Liam shouted. “You're a werewolf! Like me.”

Scott lowered his fist, slowly setting Liam down. His neck cracked sharply, stumbling backwards. Stiles gently helped Sara up.

Scott grabbed bits of his amour, roughly pulling it off, bit by bit, each bit falling to the floor with a loud clatter. Grabbing his skull helmet, Scott pulled against it.

A golden light cracking the skull, Scott screamed, his red eyes and fangs glowing brightly in the moon light.

“You.” Scott breathed out, his eyes locked on Peter, the rest of them glancing at him. “The only one who knew as much as Argent about Berserkers. About the Nagual. You taught Kate. You helped her. All for power.”

“For my family's power.” Peter replied darkly. Malia slowly stepping away from him.

“To be rightfully inherited by me. Not usurped by some idiot teenage boy, so incorruptible, he won't shed the blood of his enemies even when justified. You don't deserve your power.” Peter said, his eyes glowing blue. “Not power like this.” He growled, shifting into his werewolf form, roaring.

Malia roared back, shifting to running at Peter, who pushed her back into a cement block.

“Oh, sorry, sweetheart,” Peter said, fixing his gaze back to Scott. “We'll talk about this later.”

Kira raised her sword, about to charge. “Kira!” Scott shouted, halting her. Kira glanced unsurely at Scott, stepping backwards, lowering her sword.

Scott stepped closer to Peter. “You were my Beta first, Scott. It was my bite that changed your life. And my bite that can end it.” Peter spat.

“Then, end it, Peter.” Scott replied, his voice deadly calm. “Because you won't get another chance.”

Peter roared, charging for Scott.  Scott roared back, launching himself at Peter.

Sara knew what this was, a fight. A fight to kill.

~

Sara curled into Stiles holding onto him tightly (knowing if she released, she might just intervene and she had a feeling that wouldn’t end well) as Peter and Scott ripped each other apart. Scott more on the defensive.

 “Come on, Scott. Come on!” Peter gloated, throwing Scott into a pillar. “Fight like an Alpha.” Peter said, pushing him against the pillar.

Scott growled, pushing back using the pillar to help him. He pushed Peter against the pillar hard. Peter fell to the floor. Standing over him, Scott began punching him in the chest continuously. The floor vibrating with each hit.

He pulled Peter back up.

Peter head-butting Scott. Hitting him continuously, making Scott fall to his knees. “You want to defeat me? You're going to have to kill me!” Peter yelled, throwing Scott against the wall.

Scott slammed against the wall, near Stiles and Sara. Stiles gripping her arm tightly. He wouldn’t let her help him. Not yet.

Liam stepped forward, seeing to be on the same wavelength as Sara.

Peter reacted fast, grabbing a bench throwing it at him. Liam ducked as the shards of wood flew everywhere. Peter roared again, baring his teeth.

Scott got up. Peter swiped at him, but instead of attacking him, Scott only blocked all Peter’s attacks.

Dodging a punch, Scott hit Peter in the abdomen, knocking him backwards, before sharply up-cutting him. Peter flew though her air, slamming into a wall.

Scott jumped onto the altar, looking down at him. “You were never an Alpha, Peter. But you were always a monster.”

Peter growled back. Scott jumping down, punching him in the face. Knocking him out.

Silence. It so quiet, probably for the first time since this all started yesterday. After a few seconds, the rest of them came out, staring at Scott and Peter.

“Is it over?” Sara asked breaking the silence. Scott turned to them, as the last lights of moonlight illuminating the room, disappeared.  

~

La Iglesia it actually looked beautiful in the early morning sun, with the blue sky and the clouds. It really did look heavenly.

“There's enough yellow wolfsbane to keep Peter out for the trip back. But be careful.” Chris warned them, standing with the Calaveras, Mexico’s best hunters apparently.

“You're really going with them?” Scott asked, glancing at the Calavera’s unsurely.  

“I made a deal with the Calaveras weeks ago. They'll leave you alone. All of you.” he added, glancing at Sara. “But only if I help them catch Kate.”

“What if you can't?” Kira asked worriedly. “I'll find her.” Chris said calmly. “Someone has to.” he said, walking with the Calavera’s into their vans.

Scott rubbing Kira’s arm. Liam, Stiles, Malia and Sara surrounded them. Scott squeezing Sara’s healed hand (thanks to Parrish, strange thing the second Sara hugged him (she didn’t know why she did that) her hands healed almost instantly), watching the hunters leave.

Derek stared at them from his car smiling. Inclining his head to Scott. A sort unspoken connection between the two, she didn’t intervene. This was there weird silent moment/

Parrish jumped into the front seat of the van with Peter. Stiles climbing into the other, with Sara, Scott, Liam, Kira and Malia.

“I’m hungry.” Sara said, after a couple minutes of driving, making the rest grin. “I wonder if Mom’s home yet,” she said, pulling out her phone.

Her eyes widened.

 “Oh crap!” Sara cursed, covering her mouth. “What?” Scott said worriedly (he’d been fussing with her since he remember he broke her wrists. Twice.)

“I forgot to tell Mom,” Sara breathed out. “Oh my god, I’m going to die!” Sara cried, as the other started to laugh.

“She’s going to kill me!”

~

“Then Stiles said that Scott and Kira were stuck in Mexico which was why they missed the game. Uh, so we went down to Mexico to drive them back from Mexico and that's why we all missed practice.” Liam explained to Coach.

 Scott and Stiles standing guiltily behind him. Sara sitting on the bench, watching. Highly amused.

“Cause...We were all in Mexico.” Liam said slowly Coach glaring at him.

 “You took Kira on a date to Mexico?” Coach asked, slowly turning to Scott. Scott stared back at him, like a deer caught in headlights. “It was our first real date.”

“In Mexico?” Coach said pointedly.

“They wanted to do something special.” Stiles said patting Scott on the back.

“Huh. Okay. I believe you.” Coach said, nodding his head to himself.

“Really?” Liam and Sara blurted out, staring at him.

“Absolutely not. But I've had experiences south of the border that would knock the genitals off you boys.” Coach said, glancing at Sara. “And you too.”

“I don’t have-”

“Okay!” Stiles said, covering Sara’s mouth.

“Still, let me be clear to you two. This kid's the best talent I've seen in years. So he's your responsibility now. You boys are gonna stick together. You're gonna look out for each other. And you're gonna have each other's backs. You got it?” Coach said, glancing between the three.

Scott smiled, glancing at Liam who smiled back. “We got it.”

Sara smirked. Maybe coming back home wasn’t such a bad idea after all.

Chapter Text

Seven months. It had been nearly seven months of quiet: where no one died, no one had been seriously injured and there had been no unexpected supernatural visitors. It was amazing!

Letting out a breath, Sara leaning back against the jeep.  Summer had been extremely busy, but in a normal, not getting murdered every ten minutes sort of way. Scott and Stiles had been helping her to control and understand her powers, when she wasn’t doing that, Sara was helping Lydia figure out what the hell Parrish was in between with spending every free moment having fun with Liam and Mason and helping Kira help Malia with summer school.

 Sara couldn’t have asked for more. Scott, Stiles, Lydia and Kira were finally in their senior year, with Malia currently being decided. She, Liam and Mason were juniors and the holidays had been exactly what they were meant to be, relaxing.

“All right, so I found some cool two bedrooms in the Mission District, but they're pretty expensive. A couple in Haight and Ashbury. Also expensive.” Stiles informed them, leaning over a large map.

“What about Berkeley? Don't a lot of students live around there?” Scott asked, glancing at Stiles, his gazed previously locked onto the large bright full moon.

“Yeah, yeah, we could try Nob Hill. But, the Jeep would probably burn through a lot of clutches.” Stiles said, scratching something off with his pen. Scott glanced at him. “You're bringing the Jeep?”

“You know the plan, okay.” Stiles said. Sara mouthing: ‘No one gets left behind’

“No one gets left behind. That's the plan. Lydia's not gonna have a problem getting into Stanford. Kira's thinking USF. Malia's, uh, gonna, you know, she'll figure something out, okay. The plan's perfect.” Stiles said, for what seemed like the 100^th time this summer.

“Or we could also wait until we actually get into college and then figure out where to live.” Scott suggested. Stiles capped the pen, pointing at him. “I have a vision, dude. Okay? And it is a beautiful vision. Don't ruin the vision.” Stiles replied.

Scott chuckled. “Okay, we can check out the East Bay. Haven't looked at Oakland yet.”

Thunder cracked in the distance, making Sara open her eyes looking up at the thick storm clouds above. “Looks like it’s gonna be a big one.” Sara mumbled, shifting uncomfortably. It thundered often in their house when they were younger, whenever it did, she would always end up sneaking into Scott’s room and the two of them would read stories under the bedcovers under the comfort of the torch light.

“You're all right? You're starting to feel it?” Stiles asked, glancing at Scott, reaching out and squeezing Sara’s hand.

“No. Just thinking.” Scott replied.

“About what?” Stiles asked, leaning against the jeep. “Senior year. Senior year, come on, that's, that's... That's nothing. That's going to be easy.” Stiles said smirking.

Sara furrowed her eyebrows. “Isn’t senior year the hardest because you need all the grades you can get to get into college, and you take your advanced classes?” Sara asked, looking up at him sceptically.

“Ummm…No?” Stiles said, biting the end of his pen. Sara scoffed, crossing her legs.

“It's more like something Deaton told me once. You two ever hear of regression to the mean?” Scott asked, glancing at them. Sara shook her head, running her fingers though her newly cut; shorter hair. “Nope.”

“No, I don't think so.”

“It was his way of saying that life can't ever be all bad or all good. You know, eventually things have to come back to the middle.” Scott explained. “So, think about the last few months. Things have been good, right? But not amazing.”

“Yeah, but no one's tried to kill us in six months either.” Stiles added.

“I am very happy about that.” Sara cheered.

“Right. We've been pretty much in the middle for a while. Which means, at some point, the scale has to tip one way or the other. Things are gonna get really good again...”

“Or really bad.” Stiles finished.

“Really bundles of joy you two are. You worse than Derek.” Sara said, another wave of thunder cracking again, lighting shooting across the sky. “Think it's been long enough?” she asked, glancing at Liam.

“Yes!” Liam called from the distance. Sara grinned at Liam, who was chained to a giant tree.

“Hey. Trying to have an adult conversation over here.” Stiles said. Sara chuckled, jumping up walking towards him. Liam sighed. “All right, you're two years older than me. And I'm fine. Just let me go.”

“It's not that we don't trust you.” Scott started. “It's that I don't trust you.” Stiles finished.

“I on the other hand trust you completely.” Sara added, as Scott looked for the key. “But after that last full moon...”

 “It was one slip up.” Liam retorted. Sara snorting, a smile instantly creeping on her face.

“Slip up? A dozen calls to the Sheriff's Department about a ‘monstrous dog-boy’ running around the streets of Beacon Hills naked. That's a slip up?” Stiles said, shooting him a look.

Sara bit her lip, trying to keep a straight face. “Don’t you dare,” Liam said, knowing she remembered that night all too well, watching her face. “Don’t-”

Sara burst out laughing, holding onto Stiles to stop herself from falling. “That-that…was—so, I’m sorry I can’t.”

“Why were you naked?” Scott asked. Sara laughing even harder, walking away again. Liam rolled her eyes at her. “It was really hot out that night, okay. Ju-Let me go.”

“You sure you're okay?” Scott said more concerned than before. Sara walking back her laughter ceasing, but a cheeky smile on her face.

“It won't happen again.”
“You're in complete and total control?”

“Complete and total.” Liam assured them, the three taking down the chains. Stiles dropping them in the bag walking to the jeep with Scott. Sara about to follow, when she glanced back at Liam.

Walking towards him, as he stuffed his hands into his pockets. Sara poked him lightly on the shoulder. “You okay?” she asked, her head tilting slightly, a soft smile on her face.

 Liam nodded, throwing an arm around her shoulder was they walked towards the jeep. “I’m fine, in control.” he said. Sara pursed her lips, smiling.

“Shut up.”

“I didn’t say anything,” Sara cried, looking at him. “You didn’t have too,” he said, his eyes glittering. Sara poked him on the shoulder.“Your right I didn’t.”

“You’re very annoying.”
“That I am.”

“Hey!” Stiles shouted from the jeep, hooting loudly. “Joey and Chandler! Come on, we’re going to be late!”

“Chill out Mom!” Sara called back.

~

“Is it a party?” Liam asked, poking his head between the seats. “It's not a party.” Stiles said tiredly. “Is it some kind of club?” Sara asked poking her head next to Liam, though the gap between the front seats and the back.

“Nope.”

“Then what's at midnight?” Liam asked, accidentally knocking Sara’s head. “Your bedtime.” Stiles replied. Sara moaned. “Come on, just tell us!” she said, rubbing her head. Liam mouthing: ‘sorry’

“No.”

“Why aren't the girls going?” Liam asked. “They're meeting us there, okay?” Stiles said glancing from the wheel to the back. “And just stop asking questions, all right? It's a senior thing. You'll know when you're a seniors.”

Sara sighed, stretching herself out in the backseat. “Can we at least get ice-cream after?”

Stiles paused, drumming his fingers lightly on the wheel, glancing at Scott. “Fine, but only if you too behave.” Scott said, pulling out his phone. Sara smiled, her and Liam high-fiving in the back.

“You guys having trouble with your phones?” Scott asked, just as the jeeps started to sputter the engine and radio turning off.

“Oh. What the hell?” Stiles said as the jeep stopped completely. “You out of gas?” Liam asked. Sara shook her head. “Jeep’s electric.”

“Probably the alternator again.” Stiles grumbled, he and Scott jumping out to check the engine.  Liam looked down, clenching his fist.

“You okay? Is it affecting you?” Sara asked, rubbing his shoulder gently. Liam took a deep breath, leaning back. “I’m okay.”

Sara nodded, reaching down, feeling under the seat. “Here,” she said, pulling out a candy bar, breaking it in half, handing one half to Liam. Liam snorted, taking the half biting it. “How many snacks did you hid here?”

Sara bit her half, chewing thoughtfully. “Five.”

Just then another wave of thunder rang out, making the two of them look behind them. “Guys...” Liam called, when a bolt of lightning hit the road, close to the jeep. “Guys!”

“Yeah, give us a second, please.”
“Sara, Liam stay in the car, okay?”

“But Scott, light-” Sara began as a bolt, struck again in front of them. “-ning”

Just then the engine burst top life. “Good jeep, Roscoe!” Sara cheered patting the seat. Liam raised his eyebrows. “What, you know this jeep has a mind of its own.” Sara mumbled, taking another bit of her candy bar.

Liam rolled his eyes, poking his head out her window. “Can we go now?”

~

“Hey, there’s Malia!” Sara said sticking her head out the window, pointing. “Inside!” Stiles scolded. “How many times do I have to tell you-? Inside the car!”

“But we’re not even-”

“No buts,” Stiles grumbled. Sara sitting back down. “Buzz kill.”

“What did you say?” Stiles said, swerving his jeep to where Malia and Mr Tate were, honking loudly. “Sorry we're late. Hey,” Stiles greeted them. Malia running up giving him a kiss making Stiles moan loudly. Sara and Liam made a face, the two of them poking their head’s out the window. “I'm sorry too.” Liam said cheekily. “So am I,” Sara added, grinning. “Where’s our kiss?”

“You boys do remember I own a gun, right?” Mr Tate asked looking between the three, sending a quick wink to Sara. He had grown quite fond of the small girl in the short time of knowing her. Sara grinned.

“Vividly.” Stiles answered. Mr Tate walked off, muttering something to Malia with a wink. Malia jumped into the back seat, Sara sitting half on Liam, half on Malia. The four staring at her. “What?” Malia asked. “Did you find out yet?” Stiles said excitedly. Malia glanced down at her phone, shaking her head.

“Find out what?” Liam asked, Sara shushing him. “They're gonna email me.” Malia answered. “Is this about summer school?” Liam asked. Malia glared at Sara. “You told him?”

“Why’d you assume it was me?” Sara cried. Malia glared at her. Sara tucked her short hair behind her ear. “Okay, it was me, but he was bugging me about it and I didn’t say much.”

“Yeah, all they said was you had to go to summer school 'cause the principal said your test scores weren't good enough and you might have to repeat junior year.” Liam said causally.

Malia glared at the three, namely Sara before looking out the window. Sara glared at Liam, punching him on the shoulder. “Ow,” Liam moaned, rubbing it. “Idiot.” Sara grumbled under her breath.

“We should've left him chained to the tree.” Stiles mumbled, starting the jeep.

~

“Lia, relax. You’re going to do fine.” Sara said gently, rubbing Malia’s shoulder. They had just arrived at the hospital, to drop Liam and Sara off until her mother’s shift ended, because they apparently couldn’t go with the ‘young, not senior children.’

“They said, they’d email me.” Malia said, hitting the refresh button again. “You studied hard and you worked hard, I’m sure, you’re going to be fine.” Sara said, covering Liam’s mouth before he could add anything.

“- I don't know. That can be interpreted a lot of different ways.” Stiles said to Scott from the front desk. Malia still checking her phone. Sara sighed. “You know, you can only hit the refresh button so many times.”

“Well, like, "Don't worry, we're not exclusive. Go have fun with other guys.”

“No. No way.”

“Malia,” Stiles said, making the girls look at him. “If you were going away and I told you ‘Don't worry, go have fun.’ What would you think I was talking about?”

Sara furrowed her eyebrows. “Isn’t it what you just said?” she asked. Malia shook her head. “No,” she said, turning to Stiles. “Fun like bowling? Or sex with other guys?”

“What?” Sara cried, her cheeks flushing. Malia nodding, looking at her weirdly. “You didn’t know that?”

“No…” Sara mumbled, looking incredibly weirded out, pressing her hands agisnt the cheeks, trying to turn them back to their normal colour.

“Okay, yeah. Now I'm worried.” Scott mumbled, as another man was wheeled in.

“25-year-old male, unrestrained driver involved in...”

“Hey, Mom, where's all this coming from?” Scott sad, stopping their mother, as she was moving back to behind the desk. Sara watching the man being wheeled away. ‘Guess we’re staying here.’

“A jack-knifed tractor-trailer on 115, caused a major pile up.” her mother explained, walking away. “Okay, okay, there's only one way back into Beacon Hills from the airport.” Stiles stated glumly.

“115.” Scott finished.

“Kira's never gonna make it.” Stiles mumbled. Sara placing a hand on his shoulder, sending a wave of calm to him (a new cool skill she learned how to do).

“I can get her.” Scott said, walking to the doors. “You guys head to the school. Lydia's probably already there. We'll meet you by midnight.”

“How are you gonna get to her in the middle of a traffic jam?” Stiles said, patting Sara’s hand. “Yeah, doofus, might I remind you. You’re not Superman.” Sara added, sending him a ‘don’t be stupid’ look.

“We'll make it. Trust me.”

~

“Gummy bear?” Sara asked, offering the packet to Liam. Taking a few, Liam popped them all into his mouth in one go. “How you doing?” she asked, pinching the bridge of her nose, a headache coming on.

 Liam shrugged. “Okay…you think-” he paused, taking in a deep sniff. “What?” Sara asked, leaning forward, she didn’t hear anything.

Liam turned, looking down the hall, jumping up from his chair. “Hello? What’s happening?” she asked. Liam turned a corner. “It’s smells like….something’s burning.” Sara poked her head, watching the Sheriff and her mother discreetly slipped into the morgue the Sheriff carrying Parrish.

“I think I know what.” Sara said, the two got up, seeking to the door bending down listening closely. “He's not on fire, is he?” her mother asked. “Not that I know of.” Sheriff said unsurely.

“You know, maybe it’s part of his healing process?” her mother mused. There was a shuffled then harsh panting. “It's okay. It's okay. Right, Deputy?” she said. “Scott.” Parrish panted.  “We need to find Scott.”

After the adults calmed down Parrish he started explaining who attacked him. “His claws were different. Twice the size of Scott's. More like talons.”

“If that's the worst part, that doesn't sound too bad.” Melissa said, Liam and Sara sharing a look. ‘Yes it did sound alright.’

“It's worse.” Parrish retorted. Sara rolled her eyes. ‘Of course it was.’

“They did something to me. I don't know how to describe it other than it felt as if the life was being drawn out of me through them. Through the claws.” Parrish explained.

 Sara gasping, making Liam cover her mouth, pulling her away from the door. Glaring at her, shaking his head, Liam leaned closer to the door. “And now he's looking for Scott?”

“Which got me thinking about what this guy can do. The rule is you have to kill an Alpha to steal their power, right?” Parrish asked.

“But it’s different for Scott.”

Liam gently released Sara, putting his fingers on his lips. “You can't steal a True Alpha's power.” Sheriff explained. Parrish paused. “I think this guy can.”

Sara and Liam glanced at each other, instantly running to the elevator. “Wait!” Sara called, pushing open to doors, the wind blowing harshly at them. “Liam! How we gonna get there?” she asked, her short hair flying around in the wind. “Not a werewolf remember? I can’t run that fast.”

Liam paused, jogging back. “Umm,” he mumbled, looking around, scratching the back of his neck. “Jump on my back!”

“What! Seriously?” Sara said.  Liam nodding, turning around bending slightly. “Yeah, jump on!”

Sara bit her lower lip. “You sure?” Liam glanced at her. “Scott’s life is in danger.”

 Sara sighed. “Why not?” she mumbled, jumping on, wrapping her arms tightly around him. “You better not drop me.” she threatened. Liam straightening up, getting ready to use his werewolf speed. “Ready?”

“Ride like the wind, Bullseye!”

~

“There’s Stiles and Malia!” Sara called out, pointing at them. After they reached the school the duo had been running around looking separately for the rest of the pack. Liam nodded, letting out another burst of speed. Sara jogging behind him. “I need-hf-to-work-out-more!”

Liam reached them, Malia reacting instinctively, grabbing him by the front of his shirt slamming him onto the ground. “Oh, my God.” Stiles cried! Sara finally reaching them, panting. “Sara?”

Sara held up a finger, hands on her knees. “Scott-Big Claws-Crazy Guy-”

“Scott's in trouble.” Liam cut in, rubbing his chest, as he peeled himself off the floor. Sara nodded, gesturing to Liam. “That’s, that’s quicker.” 

~

“Scott!” Sara shouted. Malia, Stiles and Liam behind her. The rain was hammering around them. Scott won his knees, the crazy talon wolf man’s claws stuck deep into him. Kira and an unfamiliar werewolf on the ground. Sara raised her hand, ready to throw a blast. Stiles lunging forward, grabbing her hand pulling it down, snuffing out the purple energy.

“Don’t, not yet. You’ll hurt Scott.” Stiles said hurriedly. Sara lowering her hand. Scott groaning in pain. Liam and Malia shifting into their werewolf forms. Kira picking up her sword, the other werewolf getting up. Sara clenching her fists, the energy still buzzing, readying to be released.

Scott slowly started to get up, grabbing the man’s wrist snapping it. Sara could help but wince at sound of bone breaking. The cold reminders of hers snapping an all too painful memory.

The Talon-Wolf-Man, howled in pain, stumbling back as Scott ripped the talon claws out, tossing them onto the floor. “I don't know who you are or what you thought you were going to do, but I'll give you a choice. You can stay and I'll break something else.” Scott threatened. “Or you can run.”

The man turned glancing at the pack.

“I'd run.” Stiles suggested. The man giving them one final glance, stumbling up, holding his injured arm, running into the night.

Scott and Kira joined the four, glancing at the new werewolf who had turned back. “I’d keep the fireball on standby.” Stiles mumbled into her ear. Sara nodding slightly, clenching her fists.

The newcomer smiled at them, it was a strange smile; both comforting, but at the same time, a bit mischievous.  “You don't remember me, do you?” he said, calmly. “I guess I look a little different since the fourth grade.”

Scott stared at him. “Theo?” he said suddenly. Theo nodded, smiling wider. Sara could count his canines.

“You know him?” Malia asked, gesturing to him. Sara still gazing at the Theo. Theo Raeken, the boy who she sat with at the hospital many years ago. It felt like a lifetime ago.

“They used to. Trust me, I never thought I'd see you guys again. Couple of months ago, I heard of an Alpha in Beacon Hills.” Theo said, he definitely looked different from when she last saw him. “When I found out his name was Scott McCall, just couldn't believe it. Not just an Alpha, but a True Alpha.”

Scott licked him lips. “What do you want?”

For some reason, Sara knew this was a beginning. Not just of senior year for Scott, or school. Something bigger, darker, something mysterious and strange, something…new.

“I came back to Beacon Hills. Back home with my family. Because I want to be a part of your pack.”

She didn’t know how right she really was.

~

“No one saw him again, did they?” Aidan said, stoking Lydia’s hair. “No.”

“But that was the start of it, wasn't it? The beginning of senior year. What happened after that, Lydia?” he asked. Lydia sighed, staring up at him. “Oh, you're not Aiden. You're not real.” she whispered.

“Tell me, Lydia.” he said, his voice and face changing into someone, very familiar, Dr Valak. “Tell me what happened to them. What happened to your friends?”

“I... I don't remember.” Lydia mumbled. Liam and Scott, growling and snarling at each other, clouding her vision. “It started just after you began senior year. What happened?”

“I don't remember.” Melissa slapped the Sheriff, her face blank, her eyes alive with burning anger. “What happened to Kira?” Kira looked behind her getting into a car, rain pouring down, glancing behind at Scott.

“Tell me about Parrish.” Parrish stared at her, his body covered in dark ash and soot, his eyes burning with flames into a light orange.

“And Malia. What happened when the Desert Wolf finally found her?” Malia was crouched in a corner of the forest, crying as a dark shadow of a person fell over her.

“Oh and Sara, do you remember what happened to poor Sara?” On her knees, tears streaming down her face, Sara screaming the fire around her beginning to engulf her in a mingle or red, blue and purple hues. 

“I know you remember what happened to Stiles.” Stiles lay still, his jeep upturned fire burning around him, blood sprayed across his face.

“I can't remember.” Lydia whispered, glancing up at Valak. He smiled, gently stroking her hair. “That's all right, Lydia. There are other ways to get to the details.” he said, pulling out a medical drill.

“This special device is designed for trepanation. The medical art of drilling into the human skull. Let me you show you how it works.” he said, turning on the drill.

The sound of it whirling  echoing in Lydia’s ears as he bent down, and started to drill.

Chapter Text

The windows were rattling. The sound of the rain pounding against them, like hammers in her ears. Her heart was going too fast, her breath not coming in fast enough. “No.” she whispered. Gears, gears were turning, the whirr of clog. “No.” Slow breath, drawn and long. In the darkness, the walls were closing in. Closer. The hammering was filling her head. “Scott! Scott!” Closer.

Metal, metal curled around her arms, wrenching her--- “SCOTT! SCOTT!” she screamed, clawing against the person’s arm. She had to run, she had to move. She a had to-

“Sara!” Scott shouted. She froze. The door flying open, her bedroom flooded in light, her mother’s face staring at her, before glancing around the room. The sound of things crashing to the floor. Scott grabbing her mug before it crashed to the floor with his left hand. His rights still on her shoulder, rubbing them gently. “Shhhh…” he hummed. Sara took a deep breath, covering her face with her hands.

“It happened again?” her mother whispered, sinking into the bed, tucking some of her sweaty hair behind her ear. Sara shut her eyes, a few stray tears leaking out. “I’m so sorry.”

“It’s okay,” Melissa whispered back, giving her a small smile. “But I gotta say, you need to put all this stuff in cupboards,” she said holding up a small porcelain fairy, which she set back on her bedside table.

Sara snorted, wiping her eyes. “How bad was it?”

“A few books went up too this time.” Scott said, moving around picking up some of her scattered things littered across the room. Sara leaned back, usual her magic usually took to floating the lightest of things, stay trinkets, leaflets the occasional pencil. “It’s getting stronger.”

Scott paused. “We can handle it.” He sounded sure of himself. Her mother nodding her head, giving her hand a squeeze. But not in a way that was comforting to her, it felt more like they were telling themselves rather than her. Sara sighed, pulling the covers, submerging herself in them. “Yeah, right.”

~

“It happened again?” Parrish asked, setting down a stack of files. “The same one?”

Since her late night nightmarish scream session, her mom and Scott had let her sleep in a little. Since Scott went to early morning vet sessions with Deaton. Stiles had come to pick her up, with a minor detour to the Sheriff’s station. She didn’t complain, it was a chance to see Parrish.

“I don’t know, I didn’t remember it.” Sara replied, swinging her legs, tucking some of her hair behind her ear. “It’s-just so annoying, Jordan. I mean, I’m not a little kid-and I’m being tucking in and watched over, with my nightlight on.” she grumbled, putting her head in her hands. “I-I just feel so…pathetic. Liam doesn’t have this, Malia not even Lydia…It’s just me...”

Parrish shook his head, setting down his pen. “It’s not. Believe me, with everything that goes on here it’s a wonder some of you don’t wake up screaming.” he said lightly.

Sara scoffed, jumping off the desk. A dew months ago, she made it to just below his shoulder, but recently she received a little more height on her, making it to his shoulders instead. Not much, but she did say little.

Parrish sighed, gently squeezing her hand. “You don’t need to feel ashamed, things like this happen. They’ll go away eventually, I promise.” he said, setting down the file. “Maybe you can try something in the mean time? There’s-”

“Parrish!” Sheriff yelled.

“Ooh, somebody’s in trouble.” Sara sang.

~

“So you ran a background check, and all you found was a speeding ticket?” Malia asked, as they walked up the steps to school.

“Speeding ticket signed by Theo's dad eight years ago.” Stiles answered. “Which means what?” Malia asked, glancing at Sara, who was yawning loudly.

“Who speeds?” Stiles asked, looking at the girls. “Everybody.” Sara replied dryly, tugging on her backpack straps.

“What? No.” Stiles said. “People trying to get away from something.”

“Well, how many tickets do you have?” Sara retorted, shaking the sleep from her brain.  

“None.” Stiles said, folding his arms. “How many would you have if your dad didn't get you out of them?” Malia added. Stiles paused. “S-Seventeen.” he said slowly.

“I don't know, Stiles.” Malia said. “I mean, I see why you're worried. He's really hot. He's got like great hair, perfect body. You should definitely feel threatened.”

Sara snorted, when she saw Stiles face, which had morphed from frustration, to shock, to disbelief. “Thank you. Because I do. Now more than ever.” Stiles replied. Sara grinned. “He did help Scott that night though. He can’t be that bad.” she said, tucking some hair behind her ear.

“Unless he’s trying to trick us, lure us into a false sense of security.” Stiles replied, folding his arms, glancing at the parking lot. Sara glancing behind her, watching Theo get out of a car, sharing a few words with the driver, before grabbing his backpack. She had to admit, Malia wasn’t wrong in her quick analysis of him. Theo, wasn’t bad looking. He nice eyes, a sort hazel and a nice smile that was kinda--

 “You want us to torture him?” Malia suggested.  “No, I don't want you to torture him.” Stiles mumbled, looking around. Sara mentally slapping herself. Shut up. Don’t look at him. If Stiles turned out to be right and she ended up liking the guy it would be undoubtedly worse for her.

“I'm pretty sure we can take him.” Malia said, glancing at Sara. “Oh, we can definitely take him.” Sara agreed. “You can torture, I had burn and hid the body. We will need a good excuse to where he ran off to, but I’m sure-”

“Okay, no.” Stiles said, halting Sara and Malia in their murder plans. “I have a plan. All right? There are steps to doing this right.”

“What steps?”
“Yeah, what steps?” Sara asked, trying her best not to look behind her at Theo. Yes, it would be strange for her like him. No. Rather not go down that road. Yes.

“We get the story. Verify the facts. You find the piece that doesn't fit and...and catch him in the act. That's how you do it.” Stiles explained making a face.

“I don’t see what the big deal is,” Sara said, feeling eyes at the back of her head, turning around. Theo, who much have spotted them giving them a wave and a smile. It was a nice smile, she thought to herself. Sara waving back. Stiles whacking her on the arm, glaring at her. “Ow! What the hell?” Sara cried, rubbing her arm

“Don’t wave at him.” Stiles hissed.

Sara rolled her eyes. “Will you relax, it’s not like he’s going to vaporise me.” she grumbled. “And you better dial the suspicious glare to a minimum. I’m pretty sure he’s not blind.” she said, watching Theo walk towards them. “Besides, you catch more flies with honey, than vinegar.” Sara said lightly, walking off into the school.

~

“This is the one I was telling you about. I got it from a rare book dealer in Germany. Cost me two hundred bucks, but it was totally worth it.” Mason said, flipping through the book. “I don’t know, sounds like a good waste of two hundred dollars.” Sara replied, holding her books in her arm.

 “You're still reading about this stuff?” Liam asked, glancing up at him. “I was attacked by an armour-plated giant wearing a bear skull. It left an impression.” Mason said, pausing showing them a page in the book. “Look. Look. Have you ever seen anything like this?” he asked, pointing to a Berserker. Sara bit her lip, sharing a look with Liam. “Uh, no. Never.”

“Nope.”

“And then there's this whole section about the Nagual. Have you ever heard of the name Tezcat...” Mason struggled.

“Tezcatlipoca.” Liam and Sara said in unison, as they walked into history. “No.”

“Nope.”

“Never heard of him.” Sara said, walking into the classroom, sliding into an empty seat. A row in front of Mason, directly behind the last desk where Liam was to sit.

“Take your seats, everyone.” Mr Yukimura (Kira’s dad and their new History teacher) announced.  

“Oh… Great.” Liam grumbled. Sara glanced behind her, grinning when she spotted the person. Mason and her, instantly locking eyes, glancing between the two. “Hey, Hayden.” Sara sang, winking at Liam, earning a glare from him. Hayden smiled at her. Liam looking around for another seat.

“Hey, Sara.” Hayden greeted, blowing a bubble with her gum. “How was your summer?”

“Not long enough.” Sara grinned. “Yours?” Before Hayden could answer, the bell rang, the general rustle for books and pencils occurring. Except for one.

“Liam. You're not gonna just stand there, are you?” Mr Yukimura asked. Liam glanced around, shooting Sara a pleading look. Sara shrugged.

“Maybe.”
“The whole semester?”
Liam nodded, furiously. “Maybe.”

“Liam, have a seat.”

Liam sighed, setting down his things, before wriggling around, making Sara turn again. Liam slowly got up, Sara spotting some gum on his seat. Hayden’s gum. Liam glared at her Hayden scowling. Hayden smiled sweetly. Sara covered her mouth, to stop herself form laughing out loud, turning around to Mason. “20 bucks, that they hook up by the end of term.”

“Done.”

“Gonna lose your money, Hewitt.” Sara said, turning back to the front.  Liam growling under his breath, lightly kicking Sara’s seat. He definitely heard them. Sara bit her lower lip, grinning. This was gonna be a great year.  

“All right, welcome to History 103.”

~

“Sara!” Stiles called, running slamming into Malia’s locker. “How good are you at telling if people are lying?”

“Hello to you too,” Sara said, closing her locker, leaning against it. “I don’t know, okay? I mean, I knew, Josh was lying his ass off when he said he went on vacation to Egy-”

“Awesome--Lets go,” Stiles said, grabbing her arm. “Wait this is-Stiles!” she started.  Stiles ignoring her, dragging her into the boy’s locker room. “Sara?” Scott asked in confusion. Sara yanking her hand out of Stiles grip. “He kidnap you too?” she said dryly, suddenly realising there was another person there.

 Theo smiled at her, Sara shyly smiling back. Don’t look at him, she told herself firmly. Not in the eyes. Stiles walked to the locker on the other end, shooting death glares at Theo.

Scott sighed, leaning against the other locker, across from Theo. Looking around, Sara awkwardly sat on the bench, pursing her lips, as the boys stared at each other in silence.

“Umm…not to interrupt this riveting conversation,” Sara said, after a few more seconds of silence. “But what’s going here?” she asked, noticing Theo’s eyes glancing at her every few seconds. Did he find it weird that she wasn’t looking at him?

“Theo?” Stiles said, folding his arms.

Theo nodded. “Okay, um…I was skating in a neighbour’s empty pool, trying to do a handplant. Nobody was home. I'm not that good of a skateboarder, but I guess I was feeling pretty determined because I completely lost track of time.” he started, glancing between the three of them. “I didn't even realize that was night until the yard lights came on. Like I said, I wasn't very good. On my last try I went down and hit hard. Really hard. I was sitting there at the bottom of the pool and I realized something. I didn’t heard the board come back down.”

“It came at me fast. I barely had a chance to turn around before it bit me. Right here.” Theo said, pointing to his side.

“It wasn't an accident. He wanted to turn you.” Scott said thoughtfully.

“Right. So why aren't you part of his pack then? Why didn't he come back for you?” Stiles probed. “Because by the time of my first full moon, he was dead.” Theo answered.

“Ouch.” Sara mumbled. Theo snorting. “Yeah.”

 “How did you know that?” Stiles retorted sharply.

“I met another one of his pack a couple weeks later. He told me the Alpha that bit me was killed by two of his own Betas. They were twins.” Theo replied. Sara nodding slowly, Ethan and Aidan, twin Alpha’s Lydia dated Aidan, before he died.

“Scott, listen to my pulse. I'm telling the truth.”

“Right.” Stiles said, walking towards them. “Or you just know how to steady your heart rate while you're lying your ass off.”

“He’s got a point.” Sara mumbled.

“Why would I lie?” Theo asked, glancing between the three of them, his eyes lingering a little longer onto Sara. “Because maybe you're not who you say you are.” Stiles replied, playing with his hands.

“Okay.” Theo said, glancing at Scott. “In the fourth grade you had an inhaler. I had one too. I remember this day where I ended up in the nurse's office with an asthma attack. A bad one. I was waiting to be taken to the ER. You were waiting for the Principal. You told me what would happen when you go to the ER for asthma. How they give you oxygen, an IV and prednisone. You made it sound easy. Like everything would be okay.”

“I've been by myself this whole time. Everybody knows that lone wolves, they don't make it on their own. I swear I'm that same kid from fourth grade. I was hoping you are too.” Theo said, the bell ringing suddenly. 

Theo sighed. “I better not be late for class. You're not the only ones I need to make a good impression on.” he said, smiling at them walking out the door. Sara bit her lip, sharing look with Scott.

“Don't give me those looks.” Stiles said, glancing at the McCall’s. “We have to give people the benefit of the doubt sometimes.” Scott said gently. Sara sliding her bag on her shoulder.

“Not this time. All right. I'm right. There's something off about him. I can feel it.” Stiles said firmly.  Sara rolled her eyes. “You can feel it?”

“Yeah, Lydia's the psychic. Not you.” Scott joked, walking away. “She's not psychic. She's a Banshee. Okay? There's a difference.” Stiles replied, catching Sara’s arm. “So? Was he lying?”

Sara bit her lower lip. “I don’t know.” she admitted. Stiles stared at her. “You-you, you don’t know?”

“It’s not that easy! Alright?” Sara snapped back. “I’m still trying to figure it but...it was weird, okay. Some of it was true, but it was a mixed up, and…warped. Almost” Sara said, gripping her backpack straps tightly.

“But, you might be right, Stiles. There’s definitely something to strange about him.” she said, Stiles grinning.

“No, no, no. I said strange, not evil.”

“Okay, okay.” Stiles conceded, his eyes lighting up, dashing down the hall.

“Well, bye then.” Sara mumbled, walking to her next class. Very glad, Stiles had excellent penmanship, when it came to forgery.

~

“What the hell is Stiles doing?” Sara mumbled to Liam, as the two watched him stalk off to his jeep.  Liam glanced at her, wriggling his eyebrows. “Wanna find out?”

Sara smirked. “God, I love you.”

Stiles groaned, starting up his jeep. Liam holding out a piece of paper in front of Stiles face. “What's a Criminal Tremor?” Liam asked from the front seat, looking over the piece of paper, handing to Sara. “No idea. Stiles?”

Stiles snatched the paper from her crushing in. “Doesn't matter.” he grumbled, reversing, his tires squealing. “Stiles?” Sara asked, after a couple minutes of silence.

“What?”
“Can we get ice-cream now?”

Chapter Text

“Okay, that’s definitely suspicious.” Sara mumbled shivering in the cold night air. The moon had rose with Stiles dragging them all over the place, finally ending up where they always did. The forest. Hiding behind a bush. Because why the hell not.

“I told you he was up to something.” Stiles whispered, to the two. “We just spent three hours watching this dude play video games in his bedroom. He better be out here covering up a mass murder.” Liam said grumpily.

“Why are you complaining? I was the one stuck in the tree.” Sara grumbling, running her fingers though her hair, pulling out a few stray twigs that had still manged to tangle its way into her hair.

“Let's find out.” Stiles mumbled back.

~

“You still got his scent?” Stiles asked, after a couple of minutes. “Don't need it.” Liam replied pointing to the ground at Theo’s footprints.

“You know, a murder wouldn’t make such a rookie mistake.” Sara said pointed out.

“Who said he was a good criminal.” Stiles retorted. Sara rolled her eyes, pausing when Liam stopped short. “What? What's wrong?” Stiles asked, walking back.

“I forgot, we were supposed to meet Mason at the school gym.”

Sara shut her eyes. “Shoot,” she mumbled, rubbing her hands together, shaking. “Okay, why didn't you just tell him?” Stiles asked, glancing worriedly at Sara. “Tell him what?”

“Anything.”
“I can't just tell him anything.”
“Why not?”

“Because I haven't... I haven't told him everything.” Liam admitted. “Still? We said it was okay.” Stiles said, glancing between the two.

Sara sighed. “We know, but this is Mason. He’s the guy that freaked out when they changed the recipe of his favourite Fruit-loops. It's a lot to accept. I mean, a Beta werewolf with angry issues and a murderous witch. We’re not exactly the poster children of the supernatural.”

“He watched my dad blow up a Berserker with a land mine. I think the groundwork's been pretty thoroughly laid for acceptance.” Stiles replied. “Scott and I have been through this. Okay? More than once. It's always been better when they know.”

“But what if he freaks out?”
“What if he doesn't want to talk to us?”
“What if he tries to stab me with something silver?”
“What if he dunks a bucket of ice water on me?”

“The water won’t hurt you, Sara.” Stiles said calmly. “I know, but it will be very unpleasant and…gross.” Sara replied, wishing she brought a better jacket.

“Or what if...” Liam started, sharply cut off by a loud thud rang out. Sara whipped around. “What the-” she said, walking back, looking down. Sara sighed, shaking her head. “Oh, you wonderful idiot.”

“What the hell are you doing?” Stiles scolded, looking down at the fallen Liam. He fell in a hole. Again. Sara smirked, another breeze blowing past, carrying the sound of trudging footsteps.

“Stiles! Shut up, he’s here.” Sara hissed, spotting Theo’s dark jacket. Sara quietly skipping over the leaves and twigs to get a closer look. He was slouching over the old bridge in the small stream, where they used to play in during summer a few years ago. His usually lively hair was bowed down, almost in respect.

“Anything?” Stiles whispered, leaning against the fallen tree. Sara shook her head. Liam catching up to them, standing next to Sara. “Try and get his scent.” Stiles suggested. Liam leaning forward, sniffing.

“Get anything?”

“Soap. It's nice. It smells good.” Liam said. Sara nodding. “I know right? He smells amazing. Like jasmine?”

Liam shook his head. “Kinda, like a mix, maybe lavender?”

“Not his soap,” Stiles snapped, glaring at the two. “His emotional state. Chemosignals, remember?”

“Oh, yeah. Okay.” Liam mumbled, leaning forward a little more. “He looks sad.” Sara whispered.

“I...He is sad.”

“Sad?” Stiles said, glancing at Liam. Liam nodded. “Well, not just sad…It's more like…grief.”

“Grief?”

“Look,” Sara said, as Theo pulled something out, gently tossing it into the lake. “It’s a lily.”

“Oh, my God!” Stiles breathed out, his voice going high pitched. “Go! We have to go.”

“What? Why?” Sara and Liam asked. Stiles pulling them away. “Go! Right now. Just go.”

“That's the bridge where they found his sister.” Stiles said, after they put some space between Theo. “Oh my god. Stiles!” Sara gasped, hitting him on the arm. “What the hell is wrong with us?”

“What sister?” Liam asked.

“Tara Raeken. Theo’s older sister, she got lost in the woods during winter, fell into a steam and died from exposure.” Sara explained. “He was leaving a flower for her.” she said, shooting a dark look at Stiles.

“That doesn't sound evil.” Liam commented. “That’s because it’s not.” Stiles hissed. “Oh my god….” Sara groaned, shivering violently. “Its-oh…”

“I know.” Stiles started. “Ah…”

Theo standing above them, jumping from the tree branch, landing in a crouched position, slowly straightened up. “What you guys doing?”

“Hi,” Sara mumbled.

~

Liam growled, instinctive stepping closer to Theo. Sara clenching her fists, the buzz of power all too eager to be released. ‘Control. Control. Control. Control-’

“Whoa.” Theo said, rising his hands up in surrender. “Why do I get the feeling this kid's tougher than he looks?”

“Only when we let him off his leash.” Stiles said, putting a hand on Liam’s arm. “Stiles, we were in Little League together. Why are you so suspicious of me?” Theo asked. Sara finally manged chill herself out.

Stiles paused, digging in his pockets handing Theo two pieces of paper. “Because of these. One's a speeding ticket signed by your dad eight years ago. The other one's a signature on a transfer form to Beacon High. They're different.”

Theo took them, studying the papers. “Huh. Yeah, they do look a little different.”

“No, they're totally different. Signed by two different people.” Stiles interjected. “So my dad's not my dad? Like he's an imposter?” Theo asked, glancing between the three.

“Something like that.” Liam snapped. Sara placing a hand on his shoulder. “Chill out, innocent until proven guilty, remember?” Sara mumbled quietly into his ear.

Liam taking a deep breath, stepping back, still glaring at Theo. Sara holding onto his arm tightly, just in case he lunged. He was still working on his anger.

 “Who do you think I am?” Theo asked, folding up the papers, discreetly putting them in his pocket. Stiles linked his lips. “We don't know yet.”

“Want me to give you a DNA sample or something?” Theo offered. Stiles scowled. “No. I don't have anything from the fourth grade to match it to.”

Theo glanced at his feet. “You know, Stiles, I came back here for Scott...but I also came back for you. Someone like you. Someone who's willing to walk into the woods in the middle of the night to protect his friends. I don't have anyone like that, but Scott does. You all do.” He said quietly.

“I know I'm in the right place. I'm meant to be here. I'm meant to be part of this pack.”

~

Sara nearly threw up her hands in joy, when she spotted the jeep still parked tucked away in its corner. It was way too cold for her, and Roscoe ran extremely warm.

“Find anything?”

The three looked up. Scott leaning casually against his bike. “Nope.” Stiles huffed, opening the jeep door, slamming it shut.

“I fell in a hole.” Liam said. “It was pretty funny.” Sara added, the tension so thick that a knife wouldn’t be able to cut thought it.

“It was the bridge where his sister died, wasn't it?” Scott stated, looking at Stiles though the open window.

 “Yes, it was. Very embarrassing. So we are gonna leave now.” Stiles said, turning the key, as the engine started spluttering, before stopping. “Son of a... Liam, just do me a favour, get in the car and turn the ignition when I say.” Stiles said, jumping out. Liam going in the jeep. Sara hovering just outside it.

 “This isn’t going to end well.” Liam mumbled under his breath. “Yep.” Sara replied, the two staring at Scott and Stiles. “Try not to listen, they need some private time.” Sara said, her phone buzzing.

“Try it.”

Unlocking it, she sighed, scrolling though Mason’s messages. ‘Are you with Liam, he’s not answering. You guys coming soon?’

 “I was right about Peter. Try it again.”   

The engine made another violent voice.

‘Did you guys forget about me?’
‘Still at school, if you were wondering.’

“Try it again.” Stiles shouted, making Sara flinching, before returning her attention to her phone. ‘Hello? Are you guys coming or???’

The engine made another spluttered noise then stopped. “Why can't you trust anyone?”

“Because you trust everyone!” Stiles yelled, punching the jeep, shouting in pain. Swallowing hard, Stiles turned away, refusing to look at them.

“Are you okay?” Scott asked, after a couple of seconds. “I'm fine.” Stiles mumbled. “You could've broken it.” Scott replied.

“It's not broken.”

“Let me see it.”
“I'm fine.”
“Let me see it.”

Sara smiled. “They’ll be okay”.

~

“Hey. Hey.” Liam called, jogging up to Mason. Who was surprisingly easy to find after Scott and Stiles dropped them off. “We are so sorry. We are late.” Sara said, zipping up Scott’s jacket that he gave her.

“Oh, no, you're not late. You missed it. I worked out. For two hours.” Mason snapped, glancing between the two.

“Gonna start gaining some rock-hard abs,” Sara said, attempting a smile, which quickly dropped. “Not the right time, no.”

Liam sighed. “Yeah, we know. We forgot. And we’re gonna tell you why. Actually, we’re gonna tell you a lot of things.”

Sara nodding. “A lot of hard to believe things. Really hard to believe. Which may-” Sara said, cutting off. Mason’s eyes widened.  “There's a wolf.”

Liam nodded, playing with his fingers. “Yeah, I'm getting to that.” Liam said. Sara tilting her head, a smile playing on her lips. “How’d you guess that?”

“No.” Mason said, slowly shaking his head. “There's a wolf right behind you.”

 Sara furrowed her eyebrows, slowly turning around. Behind them, prowling near the buses just a few feet away from her and Liam was a big black furred wolf or coyote, she couldn’t tell the difference.

“That's a wolf.” Liam repeated, staring at it. The wolf growled lowly its sharp eyes locked onto them. Sara bent down, smiling at it. “Oh, hi you cutie.” she purred, earning ‘WTF” looks for Liam and Mason. The wolf growled louder, baring his pearly teeth.

Sara’s smile dropped. “Oh, okay. Maybe if we’re still.”

The wolf snapped its jaw.

“Nevermind. Go, go!” she cried, as they ran into the school. “Move, move!” The wolf chasing them. Liam suddenly paused. Sara skidding to a halt. “We doing this?”

Liam shrugged. “No or never.”

“What the hell are you guys doing!?” Mason shouted from the stair.

Turning around, Liam roared shifting. Instantly the wolf stopped, blinking a few times, looking between them, before turning around and running out of the school.

Sara let out a sigh of relief, patting Liam on the back as he turned back. Slowly turning around, at Mason who staring at them. Liam sighed. “There's something we gotta tell you.”

“You're werewolves.”

Sara pursed her lips, scratching the back of her neck. “Not exactly.”

~

Traaccyy. Trraaccyy. Tracy Stewart. The ground seemed to shift between her feet. The cold wind brushed against her shoulder. Lights flashing in and out of her vison. The floor was hard and cold, much colder than it usually was. Rubbing her eyes, Sara found herself in the street, the half-moon shining down on an empty street.

A bright light went past her, making her squint in pain. Stumbling backwards, freezing when she stepped in something wet and sticky. Slowly lifting her leg, she covered her mouth stiffening a scream. Blood, thick, red, flowing blood.

Swallowing hard, Sara slowly started to follow the trail of blood.

On the street, was a man lying on his back, blood stained on his mouth. His body was covered in deep scratch marks. Bending down, Sara gently touched the man’s face. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered.

Suddenly the man jumped up, gripping the front of her shirt pulling her down to him. “She, she-” he spluttered out, spraying Sara’s face with his blood.

His eyes bloodshot, as he pulled her further down. “Monster.” he hissed darkly. “Mons-” he started to choke, blood pooling out of his mouth, as his grip loosened.

Falling back, his eyes blank and open, the only thing moving was the thick line of blood that slid out of his mouth. Breathing heavily, she slowly stepped back an odd buzzing sound echoing in her ears.

Sara shut her eyes, putting her head in her hands as the sound became louder, like someone was screaming.

“Sara?” Lydia’s voice called out, suddenly everything came into focus. She was in the street, the same one. Behind her a large van, with blood-covered bodies everywhere. Looking down, she lightly touched her thin blue pyjama top, glancing up at Lydia, Malia and Kira.

“Sara, are you okay?” Lydia asked, slowly edging forwards reaching out to her. Sara looked around, her body trembling as the street seemed to be getting closer.

“I-…I-” Sara spluttered out, tears slipping out of her eyes. “I-I, I ju-No-”

“Shh, Shh. It’s okay, it’s okay.” Lydia said, gently wrapped her arms around her, pulling her into a tight embrace, stoking her hair.

“It’s okay, it’s okay, it’s gonna be okay…” she mumbled under her breath, glancing up at Malia and Kira. “You’re okay, Sara…It’s going to be okay…”

~

“I didn’t do it.” Sara said instantly, wriggling in her seat. Car hoods were not the comfiest of places to sit. She kept sliding off Lydia’s.

Kira nodded, adjusting her shock blanket. “We know,” she said gently. “The bodies have claw marks, remember?” Kira paused frowning, taking Sara’s hand. “You’re still shaking.”

“I’m trying-I just…” she sighed, looking down. “I thought I was getting better.” she whispered.

“Hey,” Kira said, placing her hand into Sara’s shoulder. “You are getting better, this-”

“Wasn’t my fault?” Sara guessed, scoffing. “I’m getting really sick that.”

“Is she okay?” Scott asked, breaking through the crowd of deputies, making a beeline for Sara. “I’m okay.” she mumbled, as he wrapped her in a tight hug. Stiles behind him, watching was the medics wheeled away a body.

“Boys.” Sheriff called, waving them over. “Go,” Sara said, gesturing to the Sheriff. “I’m okay.”

Scott sighed, walking to the Sheriff, Stiles shooting her a comforting smile, giving her hand a quick squeeze, following Scott.

Sara sighed, glancing at Lydia, Malia and Kira who were talking to the deputy. Looking up, Sara’s eyes widened when she spotted a flash of something above them. Looking away, Sara counting to five, before glancing back up.

“Theo?” she whispered, squinting her eyes. “Who’s Theo?” Parrish asked, looking over her pulling the blanket tighter around her. Sara shook her head. “No one. Where’s Scott?”

“Out looking for Donovan, the boy who was being transported.” Parrish replied, glancing around, leaning closer to her. “Sheriff thinks Donovan could be like us.”

Sara bit her lower lip, glancing up at the beams. “Maybe-” Parrish’s radio starting to hum. “Scott, is that you?” he asked, walking to the others. Sara throwing off the blanket following.

“Yeah, I found Donovan. He's completely freaked out. He keeps saying some name.”

“What name?” Sheriff asked.

“Tracy. He keeps saying Tracy.”
“Tracy who?”

Sara eyes widened, glancing at Lydia. “Stewart.” Lydia said, glancing at Sara. “Tracy Stewart.”

~

“Tracy wasn't just having trouble sleeping. It was a real disorder. It was night terrors.” Lydia explained, the next morning around Stiles jeep.

“Well, now she's the night terror. Especially since no one can find her.” Stiles added.

Sara nodded, yawning loudly leaning against Malia, who patted her head. “Okay, I know we're all tired and miserable...” Scott said, glancing at Mason, who was looking at wide eyed and jumpy. “Except for you.”

“Oh. I'm sorry. This is all just mind-blowing.” Mason said, glancing at Kira. “You're a kitsune. I don't even know what that is.”

“I'm still learning.” Kira said. “Be happy, he doesn’t know.” Sara grumbled bitterly, leaning on the jeep. Malia poking Sara on the side.

“Liam, Sara we said you could tell him. Not invite him to the inner circle.” Stiles said, shooting them a look.

“Uh, I'm in the inner circle?”

“No.”

“Guys, look, back to Tracy.” Scott said firmly. “She's just one lone wolf. We can find her.”

“One lone serial-killing wolf.” Malia added. “Uh, she only killed one person, you know. The other two were mauled.” Stiles added.

“They’re all in graves. Two are just missing limps and other organs which she ate.” Sara snapped. “Serial killing’s an understatement.”

“Okay,” Stiles conceded. “What do we do when we catch her?”

“I say we put her down.” Malia suggested. Sara nodding. “Solid plan. Take her down, before us.” she said, making the rest share look.

“Intense.” Mason said, glancing at the pack.

“Guys, let's concentrate on catching her first.” Scott said. “We'll figure out the rest later.”

~

Mrs. Finch slapped down their test papers, sliding them over to each one of them. “Crap,” Sara mumbled, glancing at her 45%. Her grades had been an all-time low, since her nightmares starting up again. All of grades had taken a hit, but Bio had been especially brutal. Even though she studied the entire week for it.

“Still suck at Bio?” Liam asked, as the bell rang, Mrs Finch scolding them not to run out.

“Apparently so,” Sara said. Mason came over, the three swapping test papers. “Nice job, Mason.” she said, sliding back the test. “Dude,” Mason cried, glancing at Liam. “How the hell did you get 68? You didn’t even study.”

“I know,” Liam said, sliding his test in his bag. “And I suck at Bio.”

“Well, good job anyway.” Sara said, patting his shoulder, sliding hers into her bag getting up.

“You’ll get it next time, Sara.” Mason said, smiling. Sara shrugged, smiling. “Yeah, well, we better hurry, if you wanna catch the boys’ soccer team.” she said, winking at him, making their way to the door.

“Sara,” Mrs Finch called, making them pause. “Could I have a word?” Sara nodded, turning to the boys. “Go on, I’ll catch up.”

“You sure?” Liam asked, staring worriedly at her. “Yeah.” Sara said. The boys nodding as they walked out. Sara strolling to Mrs Finch’s desk. “Yes, Mrs Finch.”

“Sara, honestly I’m deeply worried about your Biology grade.” Mrs Finch said, instantly making Sara take extremely interested in her desk. “Your grade has dropped at quite an alarming rate, since…you’re…transfer.” she said slowly.

Sara sighing. “I know, Mrs Finch and I am so sorry-”

Mrs Finch raised her hand, cutting her off. “It’s alright, you’re a good student Sara, you work hard. But I think it would be, beneficial for you to get a tutor.”

“Tutor.” Sara said. “Oh, okay. You’re going to tutor me?” she asked. Mrs Finch shook her head. “No, I think it would better to get a peer tutor for you.”

“Peer?” Sara repeated.

Mrs Finch nodded, smiling at her. “Yes, I have someone perfect in mind. He’s in my AP Biology class and is doing very well, in the short time he’s been here. I already approached him about the idea, and he seemed to like it.”

“He? Short? Okay.” Sara squeaked. ‘Please don’t be him. Please don’t be him. Please don’t be him.’

“Yes, I-I. Yes. Thank you, Mrs Finch.” Sara said, walking towards the door, doubling back. “Umm, Mrs Finch. Who, who is he?”

Mrs Finch set down her pen. “Theo, Theo Raeken.”

Sara swallowed hard, forcing a smile. ““Theo. Theo Raeken.” she said, slowly backing away bumping into the wall, knowing of a ceramic dog. “Oh! Sorry, sorry.” Sara said catching the dog setting it back on the shelf.

“Yep, that’s-Great. Great. Fantastic. Thanks, Mrs Finch.” she mumbled, walking out the door, closing it shut. “Shit.”

~

“Theo, Theo Raeken.” Liam repeated, pulling his history book out of his locker. “Stop saying his name, he might just appear.” Sara mumbled, glancing over her shoulder. Theo seemed to be everywhere these days.

“Stiles is going to kill you.”

“What was I supposed to do? Say no? I’m failing. And Mrs Finch didn’t really leave me much room to negotiate.” Sara said the two, walking to history.

Just as they entered the classroom, Sara froze, staring at a girl siting in her usual desk, but that wasn’t really her. “Scott. We need to get to Scott. Now.”

~

“---how about you lead us in a review of last night's reading.” Mrs Finch said, just as Liam and Sara skidded to a halt outside the Biology classroom. “Uh... Sure.”

Liam waved awkwardly trying not to attract anyone attention other than well, the pack. Sara poking her head form behind making wild gestures.

“Scott?”

“Sorry, just looking for the page.” Scott said, glancing back at the two of them. Sara wanted to slap herself, Scott was doing so well in AP Bio and they were ruining it.

“Scott?”

“Yeah, one sec. Sorry.” Scott apologised, flipping the book and a crazy rate, before lightly tapping his ear. Liam and Sara received a few odd looks from Lydia, Kira and oddly enough Theo. And some other girl, but whatever.

“Scott...”

“She's here. She's in History class right now.” Liam whispered. “Tracy.” Sara added in the same hushed tone. “She's here at school. Right now…Okay, We’re gonna get you out of class. I think we’re gonna need back-up.”

~

“Nice idea, with the fire alarm.” Liam said, pulling it allowing the alarm to ring out. “Is it hurting you?” Sara asked, ducking into a corner. Liam shook his head. “No, I’m okay.” he said, rubbing her arm lightly.

“There they are,” Sara said, spotting Scott. “Let’s go.”

“Tracy.” Scott whispered, walling into the History classroom slowly edging towards her. Tracy was breathing heavily, hissing like a feral animal.

Dirt and mud and gunk marred her feet. Blood on her shirt, under her fingernails in her hair. The smell of metal and death. She was gripping tightly into Hayden’s arm. Her eyes strange, so different in comparison to Scott’ and Liam’s. But there was something, strange she felt when she looked at her. When Sara was near her. An ugly, uncomfortable feeling in the pit of her stomach. Tracy was wrong.

“Tracy. “Tracy. Tracy, let go. Tracy.”

“You're hurting me.” Hayden cried out, blood dripping from her arm. “Tracy, let her go.” Scott said. Sara discreetly allowing her hand to fill with a light glow of purple. It was whispering. ‘Kill. Kill it now.’

“They're coming.” Tracy said, releasing Hayden. Her voice quiet. “They're coming for all of us.” She whispered, collapsing on the floor, a pool of silver blood coming out of her mouth.

~

“They're taking her to the Animal Clinic?” Kira asked, running up to Liam. “They can’t exactly take her to a hospital, all sliver blood and all.” Sara said dryly. “They took her to Deaton hopefully figure out what's wrong with her.”

“What's wrong with her is that she killed two people.” Lydia hissed, glancing quickly to see if anyone was listening. “Her father and, according to Parrish, her psychiatrist.”

“Not to mention the other ones she killed on her rampage.” Sara added.

“Isn't there anyone else we can talk to?” Kira asked. “Does she still have her mom? Any family?”

“Alpha.” Lydia said suddenly. “If she's a werewolf, she has an Alpha, right? Anyone know if a new one's moved into Beacon Hills?”

Sara sighed. “No.”

“But there's an old one. One of the oldest.” Kira said, hopefully. “We know her.”

Sara smirked. “And her pack.”

~
“So, he's a werewolf too?” Mason asked, staring ogling at Brett who was training with his lacrosse team. Shirtless. Mason was having a great day.

“Yup.”

“This just gets better and better.” Mason said. Sara grinned throwing a hand over his shoulder. “Then you’re going to love this.” she said swaggering forward, letting out a sharp whistle. “Brett!”

Brett turned, putting his lacrosse stick behind his neck. “Oh my god…” Mason drooled.

~

“Cute. Never seen her.” Brett said, after Liam showed him Tracy’s yearbook photo.

“Could Satomi have turned her without you knowing?” Liam asked. Sara sitting on the one of the benches. “After the dead pool, Satomi's not exactly doing much recruiting.”

“Makes sense.” Sara mumbled, swinging her legs. “That's how it works?” Mason asked, still staring at Brett in awe. “Alpha werewolves just go around biting people?”

“Or you can be born, like me and my sister.” Brett explained, setting his lacrosse things into a bag. “Satomi took us in after our family died in a fire.”

“Seems to be a far too common trend here.” Sara said. Brett scoffed. “Tell me about it.”

“Guys, I think I just found something.” Liam said, flipping his phone around showing them the picture of Tracy.

“What?”

~
‘God, I should have carried a better jacket.’ Sara thought to herself, as she Mason, Liam and Brett walked among the trees. “Sure, you know where you're going?”

“I know where I am.” Liam replied. “So do I.” Brett said, twirling around, shooting Sara a wink. “Middle of nowhere.”

Sara swatting him away, picking up a twig. “Well, if we’re lost, I could just use a locater spell to—”

“Augh!’

“Guys?” Mason called, the three backtracking their steps, looking down into a deep hole. “I think I found it.”

“See the necklace?” Liam asked, looking down into the hole. Mason turned on his torch on his phone. “No, I don't see it.”

“Maybe she came back for it?” Sara suggested, glancing down at the ground. “That’s weird.” she mumbled. Brett and Liam helping Mason out of the hole. “Hey, look at the dirt, isn’t it…weird?”

“Yeah, it is,” Mason said, bending down. “Hey Liam, you fell into a sinkhole, right?”

“It's a hole. What's the difference?” Liam asked, Mason looked down following Sara’s gaze. “Wait she’s right, I mean, look at all these handprints and look at all this dirt.” he said bending down.

“She didn't fall in here.” Brett said. Sara shaking her head. “Nope.”

“She was buried. Buried alive.”

“Intense.”

“Creepy, we need to tell Scott-” Sara said, her phone buzzing in her pocket. “Hello? Wai—--We’ll be right there.” she said, turning to the boys. “We gotta go. There was an attack at the station. Lydia’s in the hospital.”

~

Chapter Text

“You going to do a magic trick?”
“Besides wrecking a bunch of crap, I not that good at magic tricks.”

Sara ran down to Brett’s car, half yanking the door of its hinges. “Come on! For god’s sakes your bloody werewolves! Move your asses!”

“Well, I only know one trick and it's with a playing card.”
“Really? You should show me sometime. I like magic tricks.”

“Come on, come on, come on!” Sara moaned, everything was too slow. How bad was Lydia hurt? What hurt her? Could she have helped? Stopped it? Maybe done better with Scott than running around looking for holes?”

“Sure…” he chuckled. “…How…How you been sleeping?”
“…Okay, I guess. Same old same old…Can’t seem to shake the nightmares…What about you?”

Brett finally pulled up at the hospital. Sara instantly running out of the car, slamming the door behind her. Liam voice hurriedly talking to Brett and Mason, before his footsteps joined hers.

“Still having the same dream.”
“About the Nemeton? And the bodies?”
“Yeah…You?”

Running to the elevator, Sara pressed the second-floor button. It couldn’t be happening. Please don’t be happening.

“It changes, but…but now. I see Scott, Stiles, Lydia, Liam, Kira, everyone. Their all lying…lying in a pile and their blood and there’s something coming…”

Running out of the elevator, Sara ran inside dodging nurses and doctors. Please don’t be happened. Please.

“Coming for everyone…and then…then it comes for me…”

~

“Woah, easy.” Scott said, catching Sara around the waist, pulling her back. “Take a breath.”

“I-”
“Sara, breath.” Scott said slowly. Sara swallowed, taking a deep breath. “Lydia, is sh-”

“Lydia’s alive.” Scott said quickly. “But I don’t know anything else.”

Sara sighed, half collapsing into him, before standing up. “I thought…I thought it was starting to happen-I-what happened?”

“Tracy.”

“What about Tracy?” Liam asked, edging closer to the McCall’s. Sara was more relaxed with Scott, meaning he was not in the potential blast/burn/whatever the hell else she can do zone. Control was something she was still learning too.

“She a Kanima. She attacked the station and Lydia. We didn’t get there in time.” Scott said, Sara rubbing his arm gently, getting a good look at her brother.  He looked awful. And here she was freaking out like some lunatic. Hah, lunatic. Not the time to pull that one out.

“What happened to Tracy?”

“She’s dead.”

“What?” Sara and Liam cried, sharing a look. “Buried twice in her life, that’s got to suck.” Sara mumbled. “Tracy was buried?” Scott asked, stopping short. Liam nodded. “In a hole. Buried alive.”

“And we’re not say, like sandbox buried alive.” Sara interjected. “We mean someone threw her in a hole, at least six feet underground and covered her up in the woods and left her there.”

“To crawl out.” Liam added. “Then we found another hole.”

“Who was buried in that one?”

“I don't know, but I think we're gonna want to find out.” Liam said hurriedly.

“And fast.” Sara added, walking to the rest of the pack. They were all huddled in corner of the waiting room, with Theo (what the hell was he doing here) when her mom approaching them. Some of them, a little bloodied, but luckily none of them badly injured.

“Could have been worse. Theo, nice going on that tourniquet. You probably saved her life.” Melissa said, turning to Sara, Scott and Liam who had just joining them. “All right. She's about to go into surgery. So it's going to be a while. Any other supernatural details that I need to know about or do we just stitch her up and hope for the best?”

“It was the tail.” Kira said, her hands were shaking.

“Yeah, Tracy cut her with the tail, if that makes a difference.” Scott said.

“Um, question?” Sara asked, half rising her hand out of habit. “Does the tail have the venom? Because if it does and Tracy stabbed Lydia with her tail, wouldn’t the venom seep into her body, causing paralysis from within?”

The pack (and Theo) shared look. “I-I don’t know.” Stiles mumbled, running his fingers though his hair. Sara internally cursed, she just gave Stiles twenty new grey hairs.

Her mother nodded. “Okay. I’ll look out for that. Good thinking.” Melissa said, walking off to the operating room.

“But it wasn't just Tracy. There were the others.” Malia insisted. “The guys in the masks.”

“What guys is masks?” Sara asked, looking around at them. Stiles scratched his chin. “Malia’s the only one who saw them.” he said quietly.

“So?” Sara said, feeling as if she missed something. “What guys is masks?”

~

“You sure you wanna stay? Mom said it’ll be a while.” Scott asked, for the tenth time glancing unsurely at her.

“Yeah, well it’s not like I sleep much anyway.” Sara said, shifting in her waiting room chair.

“Besides,” Sara said glancing at Stiles, who was being half dragged by Liam, Kira, and Malia. “Someone needs to stay here. Just case of…anything. Might as well, be crazy witch girl.” she giggled. Scott sighed. “Okay…just call if you need me to pick you up or…” Scott felt in his pockets. “Do you have any-”

“Pickpocketed you fifteen minutes ago.”
“Okay.”

Scott scratched his ear. “I’m going to leave.” he said walking to the door, still looking at her.

“Bye Scott.” Sara waved, boredly.

“I’m walking out the door now.”
“You do that.”
“I’m closing it.”
“See you later.”
“It’s ajar now.”

“Get out, Scott. It’s just pitiful now.” Sara scolded. “Bye.” she said, waving. Scott sighed, mumbling a quiet ‘bye’ before closing the door.

Sara sighed relaxing her chair, slowly looking up. She was not alone. Theo was still standing there. Hand’s in his pockets, awkwardly swaying from side to side. He had been quiet after her mother had congratulated him on his tourniquet. A silent observer. He turned around, catching her looking expectantly at him. Theo glanced around the room. Other than the nurses and doctors working the nightshift that trickled in for files and such. It was complete empty besides them.

Holding her gaze, Theo slowly walked to the chairs, wordlessly sitting down in the one next to her. Sara stared down the hallway, occasionally glancing at the boy next to her. Theo relaxing in his chair, shooting her a grin, when she looked at him.

Sara licked her lips, internally debating whether to ask him what he was doing. On one hand, she would get an answer, on the other hand he might want to have a conversation, something that she wasn’t entirely sure she was mentally prepared for.

“You, okay?”

Theo broke the silence. That was good, now it was his responsibility to hold conversation if it arose.

“Yep.” Sara said, playing with her hands awkwardly. She and Theo never interacted much as kids, which made sense. She was Scott little sister that followed him and Stiles around like a well-trained puppy. It instantly added an uncool factor, even if both Scott and Stiles didn’t ever tell her they minded at the time.

In fact, the only time, they ever really spent time together, was when she was here at the hospital sitting with him. A few weeks before Tara Raeken died. She hadn’t seen him since. Until now. Which is what made it strange: why was Theo Raeken so interested in tutoring her? And why did he always seem to be around her?

“What are you thinking about?” Theo asked, turning around facing her. Sara shrugged, tucking a piece of hair behind her ear. “Nothing.”

“Come on, I can see the cogs turning.”

Sara shifted in her seat, turning around so they were facing each other. “What are you doing here?”

“I told you, came here for a pack.” Theo said simply. Sara shook her head. “No, I mean. What are you doing here.” she said gesturing to the waiting room. Theo chuckled. “Isn’t it obvious?”

“Not to me.”

“Returning a favour.” Theo said quietly, looking up at the florescent lights. Sara furrowed her eyebrows. “I didn’t do anything.”

Theo smiled, saying nothing. Sara frowned. “Damn cryptic werewolves.” she mumbled under her breath. Theo snorted, stiffening a smile. Sara rolled her eyes, least she knew his hearing was working.

~

3 HOURS LATER…

“So, gun to your head M&M’s or…” Sara drew out, picking up the orange packet. “Reese's Pieces?”

Theo paused, popping a few Nerds into his mouth. “M-no, Reese’s Pieces.” Theo said finally. “Really? Would never have pegged you for a Reese’s guy.” Sara chuckling tossing him the packet.

“You?” Theo asked, ripping open the packet. “M&M’s all the way.” Sara replied. Theo tossing her a pack that was on his side. “See now, I can peg you for an M&M person.”

Their silence had lasted exactly 15 minutes and 22 seconds, give or take.

It appeared hospital vending machines, really did bring people together as over the last three hours, between the two of them had eaten about 20 snacks. Mostly chocolate.

The hospital remained as empty as before probably even more as time ticked on. Usually, she would be pacing or worrying about what was taking so long, but surprisingly enough Theo was nice company to have. Conversation was easy and his strangely relaxed form was enough to keep her crossed legged on the floor across from him, talking and eating candy. 

Despite the reason for them being there. It felt so natural. It was if they knew each other forever, instead of a few hours. She was uncharacteristically comfortable with him. As if she were talking to Stiles or Liam. Not Theo Raeken. The mysterious werewolf, who most of them didn’t trust.

No, she was just chilling with Theo. And it felt nice.

“Can I ask you something?” Theo asked, leaning back stretching his legs.

“Yeah?”
“It’s a little weird.”

“Are you really a witch? Or was Scott just kidding?” Sara guessed, smirking. Theo shrugged. Sara glancing around before back at him, her eyes starting to glow their vibrant purple. “What do you think?” Theo sat up straighter, leaning forward a bit. “That’s…amazing.”

Sara blinking twice, making the glow vanish from her eyes. “Don’t look too impressed, it took me a few weeks just to get them under control.” she said gesturing to her eyes, popping a few M&M’s into her mouth.

“How’d it happen anyway?” Theo asked, folding the packet into a square. Sara shrugged. “Your guess is as good as mine.”

“I-”

Theo paused, glancing to the doors. Sara could have sworn she saw his ears prick. Her mom pushing them forward. “Sara-Oh,” Melissa said glancing at Theo in surprise. “Theo.”

“Hi, Miss McCall.” Theo greeted, flashing her a smile standing up. Sara rolled her eyes, doing them same, rubbing her wrists. ‘Clever evil charmer.’

“Hi. Umm,” Melissa said, rubbing her hands behind her neck. “We, we just finished up. And, Lydia’s going to be a little sore, but she’s going to be fine.”

Sara let out a sigh of relief, wrapping her arms around her mother tightly. “Thank you.” she mumbled, her mum giving her a squeeze.

“She’s gonna be okay.” Melissa said, pulling back, rubbing her daughters’ shoulder. “I’m gonna get my stuff, and we can…head home.” Melissa said, her eyes once again drifting to Theo.

“Kay.” Sara said, watching her mum leave. Leaning back, smiling at Theo. “Thank you.” she said, rubbing her hands together. “Thanks for staying it means a-” she paused, looking at his face.

“Returning the favour.” Sara repeated. “I get it now.”

Theo chuckled, stuffing his hands into his pockets. “Thought you never would.” he said, glancing back at their pile of wrappers. “Is it weird that, I don’t want to go home?”

“No.” Sara replied instantly. Looking down in surprise, that was way too fast to be normal. That was embarrassing. “I meant what I said though, you really didn’t have to stay.” Sara added, in attempt to remedy herself.

Theo shrugged. “I wanted too.” he said, tucking his hands into his pockets. They fell into silence.

“We should clean up.” Theo said, making a move to the wrappers. “Oh, don’t worry about it.” Sara said, glancing around quickly, raising a hand at the wrappers.

Gently moving her fingers around, squinting slightly. The wrappers shivered, before bursting into small flames, fizzling out into nothing in a few seconds.

“Woah.”
“Yeah, just don’t tell my mom.”

~

“Hmm.” Melissa said, smiling cheekily at Sara. The grin had been on her face since she watched Theo walk to his truck and wave him goodbye. “What?” Sara asked tiredly.

Her mother didn’t smile like that for just any old reason.

“Theo Raeken. That’s new.”

“Yep.” Sara said opening the passenger seat door, her mum getting into the drivers. “He’s a werewolf.” she added, scratching her ear. “Stiles doesn’t trust him. Or like him. Scott’s…Scott’s being Scott.”

“Good to know.” Melissa said, starting the car, the engine rumbling to life. “He’s nice,” she said, glancing at Sara. “Staying with you.”

“He is.” Sara agreed, leaning her head against the window, a light smile on her face.

“Easy on the eyes too.”

“MOM!”

~

“Chimera?” Sara read, catching a glimpse of Theo’s notebook on the table. “What’s that?” she asked.

After drinking an entire pot of coffee and eating half a muffin. Sara like the rest of the pack, were back at school. Sara having her first session with her tutor (which she wisely decided against telling Stiles and Scott)

Liam being the only one who knew who her tutor in question was. (He wasn’t too happy about it either, his advice to being just failing Bio and picking another elective. She was not pleased with his take on the matter.)

Good thing was everyone else had lessons, leaving only she and Theo with free periods on a Tuesday. (Mason had one too, but he wasn’t likely to stay in the library when he could be watching the boys’ soccer team practice.)

“Multiple sets of DNA in the same organism and not what you’re meant to be doing.” Theo said, closing the book. Glancing at the notes she was meant to be reading over before he helped her ‘understand’ them.

Sara pouted, sinking back into her chair. Theo laughing at her. “Come on, it’s just Biology. Would you rather me be tutoring you in Math?”

“I should be tutoring you in Math. Considering that’s wrong.” Sara replied smartly, leaning back in her seat. Theo instantly turning his attention to the Math’s sum he had been doing.

“Wh-”

“There’s meant to be a seven there, and a one there and…two more zeros.” Sara said, pointing with her pencil in each place. “Oh! And that one’s 563.” she said pointing to the undone sum below it, leaning back in her chair.

“Wow,” Theo said glancing at her in surprise. “Maybe you should be tutoring me in Math.”

Sara shrugged. “Lydia was my babysitter, she had me solving for x when I was seven” she said, leaning back, her eyes skimming over her notes. A wicked smile

Her eyes lighting up, flexing her fingers glancing around the library.

“No.”
“Bu-
“Nope.”
“Buzzkill.”
~

Footsteps, lighter than the Doctors, but still weighted, were approaching. Donovan, remained still, before violently pulling against his restraints, letting out a scream of anger. 

“You're lucky they're allowing me to talk to you.” Theo said, his voice bouncing off the walls giving him a slight echo. “They don't usually do that. They're not giving me much time either.” he added, walking towards him.

“See, these guys, they... They believe in numbers. And their results. They'll weigh the pros and cons and they'll decide pretty quickly.” Theo said, opening the file.

“Decide what?” Donovan croaked out.

“Whether or not you die.” Theo said, stepping into the light. “By the way, this is your psych evaluation for when you applied to be a sheriff's deputy.” he said holding up the file. “Multiphasic Personality Inventory.”

Donovan made an agitated movement, mouthing a string of curses.

“You know what that is? It's a test that assesses abnormal behaviour. It's supposed to be able to tell when you're lying or being defensive or if you're a total psycho.” Theo continued. "Your results were pretty disappointing, Donovan. You scored high on the Psychopathic Deviate scale.”

Donovan made another violent struggled.

“And that...” Theo said, slapping the file on Donovan’s chest. “That's bad. I'm not even going to get into your Anger Expression Inventory. Just this one quote here at the end. ‘Not suitable for law enforcement.’” he read.

“It sucks, right?” Theo said, throwing the file on the floor. “I mean, you never get to be a cop like your dad. But it doesn't matter because...” Theo said, leaning down, clanking up the operating table.

“You've got something else now. Power. Real power. Strength, speed, heightened senses. So what do you do with power like that? I know what you're thinking.” Theo said gently removing the band that held Donovan’s head in place.

“Go after Stilinski. Break his legs, cut off his ears...Pull out his teeth?” he laughed, gripping Donovan’s mouth, the later shaking his head away from him. “Problem is, though, sooner or later, physical pain, it's...its manageable.” he said, letting go of Donovan’s mouth.

“See, real pain is emotional pain. That is the kind of pain that lasts. And if you want to cause Stilinski that devastating, soul-crushing emotional pain...You don't go after him.” Theo said, bending down to Donovan’s ear.

“You go after someone he loves.” he whispered.

Donovan looked up at him, new ideas flashing into his mind. A-

The loud buzzing of a phone, cutting off his train of thought. Theo stuffed his hand into his pocket, pulling out his phone. A smirk forming on his face when he saw the ID caller.

“Hey, Sara,” Theo said his voice changing to a much lighter tone, putting a finger to his lips, quietly shushing Donovan. “What’s up?”

“Okay, I know you said I’m fine, butIamkindaworriedaboutthebiotesttomorrowandIthinkI-” Sara rambled out all in a rush, pacing around her bedroom nervously. “ImeanthisisareallyimportanttestandifIfailthisImightjustfail,thatmeanImightjusthavetorpeatthesemesteroryearor-”

“Sara, Sara, just breathe. You’re gonna be fine.” Theo said, walking a few paces away from Donovan. “Want me to come over?”

Sara paused, glancing around her room, which was filled with papers, markers, pillows and really everything thrown in strange haphazard places. “Er, no. I think I’m okay.” she said, a loud noise (sort of like a mixture of a clatter and a yell) ringing in her ears. “What was that?”

“Oh, nothing.” Theo said, glaring at Donovan. His hand pushing against Donovan’s forehead, the band now stuffed into his mouth. “My dad dropped something.”

“Oh.” Sara said flatly, unable to shake the odd feeling that he was lying to her. “Okay, um…I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Yeah.” Theo said, his eyes still lingering on Donovan. “See you tomorrow.”

~

“Can you put your phone away for five minutes? Scott can howl if he needs you.” Mason said lightly. Liam tucking his phone into his pocket. “I just feel like I should be doing something.”

“Yeah.” Sara mumbled. “Studying.”

“Hey, you already studied your ass off. Besides the keys to acing a test is to study and to relax.” Mason said gently. Sara sighed, running her fingers though her hair.

Damn Mason and his puppy dog eyes. That’s what dragged her out of her warm comfy pyjamas and messy hair into clothes and him brushing her hair, since hers was ‘like a bush, puked up a bird’s nest.’

“And you,” Mason said gesturing to Liam. “You're my wingman tonight. And considering the state of my dating life, I need a wingman, co-pilot and a really hot flight attendant.”

“Dibs co-pilot.” Sara said instantly. Liam made a face. “I'm definitely not your hot flight attendant.”

“Okay, yeah, choices are limited, but at least here, you can get drunk.” Mason said. Sara groaned. “A bigger reason for me not being here.”

“Come on, Sar. I need my badass co-pilot to…man-over me out of the…cold depths of murky hollowed out-”

“Besides what Mason is trying to say, you need to relax. You’ve been…tired and busy. You need to…let loose.”

“Did you just say ‘let loose’?” Sara snorted, glancing at Liam. “You know what I mean.” Liam said, Sara grinning. “Yeah…Okay, okay. I got it. Chill.” Sara said, folding her arms staring at the door.

“Doesn’t look chill.”
“Shut up, Liam.”

Sara standing next to Mason, pulling her jacket, happy she remembered it. The door opened, with (surprisingly) Hayden being the one who opened it. Smiling at Mason and Sara, before catching site of Liam in the back. Her smile vanished.

“I said I'd let you in. Not him.” Hayden said instantly, glaring at Mason. “You said I could have a plus ones.” Mason countered.

“I didn't say plus Liam.”

“I'm his flight attendant.” Liam interjected. “What?” Sara and Hayden said, Sara with a laugh, Hayden with confusion.

“Wingman. Forget it. I don't have to go in.” Liam said hurriedly.

“No, you're coming.” Mason said grabbing hold of Liam’s shoulder, pulling him back to them. “Okay. How about me, Sara, and him...Plus 50?” Mason offered, holding out the money.

“And I’ll try to keep Liam out of your way? How’s that sound?” Sara added. Hayden sighed, snatching the money from Mason, pushing the door open. “Welcome to Sinema.”

~

It was typical club behaviour, bar, people in weird glass cages, flashing lights, besides the cinema themed style and the movies that played silently on the walls.

The music was loud, the bodies around them were moving and swaying and the smells of food, sweat, tears, various perfumes and alcohol rolled off this place in wharfs. In short, a very un-Sara like place.

“We don't look old enough to be here.” Liam pointed out, looking just as uncomfortable as Sara.

“Neither does he.” Mason said pointing to Brett, who was currently dancing very closely with girl. Sara rolled her eyes.

“So, is this club mixed?” Liam asked, watching as Brett changed course, now dancing with a shirtless guy. Sara smirked. “Definitely.”

“Ish.”

~

“Letting loose yet?” Sara teased, from behind him. Liam turned around, glancing at her chuckling slightly.

Mason had half dragged her across the club, but it seemed that the anxiety of the situation had begun to slowly wear off. She looked a more relaxed than before, her shoulders less tense, her posture relaxed with a carefree smile on her face.

She looked happy. It was an emotion that was seldom these days.

Sara was one of those people that were just cute. Not just in the sense of looks, but in the air that she brought. Sara had always carried a light air of innocence with her something that was useful when they were younger, but annoying to him now.

It was hard to figure out what she was thinking in her tortured mind with her dreams that woke her screaming in the night.

“Liam?” Sara asked, bouncing on her feet. “Letting loose yet?” she repeated. Liam shrugged, smiling at the site of Mason and Brett talking.

“They’re so cute!” Sara gushed from next to him. “Yeah,” Liam agreed, glancing between her and Mason. “Wanna dance?” he suggested awkwardly.

Sara laughed. “Liam, you and I both know we can’t dance to save lives.”

Liam laughed, taking her hand. “Well, we can just freak everyone out with our crazy killer moves.”

“Deal.”

Sara laughed, watching Liam do some strange dance that looked like the Running man, sprinkler and some strange criss-cross wiggle with his legs. 

Liam laughed too grabbing her in a hug from behind. Sara leaned into his shoulder-

A cold feeling suddenly entered her, something was wrong. Liam stiffened, wrinkling his noise, glancing around the room. “Did you feel that?” Sara mumbled into his ear. Liam nodded, looking around the room, spotting Brett and Mason.

“Come on,” he said taking her hand. Sara giving the room another look over, a boy meeting her eyes, before vanishing into the crowd.

~

“No, I didn't catch anything.” Brett insisted, folding his arms, scanning the room. “No one else in here's like us?” Liam persisted.  

“I don't know, dude. Maybe. It's Beacon Hills. What's the difference?” Brett whined. “It felt…off.” Sara said, the feeling of something bad happening screaming in her gut. It felt like Tracy. The same wrong uncomfortable feeling in the pit of her stomach. It was wrong.

“It felt different.” Liam added.

“What do you mean?” Brett asked, glancing between the two of them. Sara shrugged, running her fingers though her hair. “I can’t explain it, but…it felt…bad.”

“It felt off.” Liam continued. “It felt wrong.”

~

“So, you go left, I go right?” Sara suggested. Liam nodded. “Anything happens.”

“Yell, I got it. Be careful.” Sara said, turning around walking in her direction. Squeezing though the mixture of dancing bodies, Sara looked around the room. Happy it was dark, her powers would be completely unrecognisable here.

Lifting her hand, slowly moving it across the mass of people, when a hand tapped on her shoulder. Sara whipped around, her energy already starting up a blast.

“Woah! Easy Buffy.” Brett joked, smirking at her. “What you doing? Weren’t you with Mason?” Sara blurted out, shaking her hand out, the energy disbursing.

“He went off with Lucas.” Brett said, taking her hand twirling her back to the centre of the club. “Besides, I didn’t get anytime with my favourite witch.”

“I’m the only witch you know,” Sara replied smoothly, swaying with him. Brett twirling her into him, then back out. It was nice, Brett made her feel normal. As normal she could get-

“Wait, you said he’s with Lucas? Who’s Lucas? What’s he look like? Where is he?”

~

Lucas leaned in kissing Mason. Mason slowly about to raise a hand to touch his cheek, when a bright purple light, threw Lucas into a wall. Sara and Brett standing protectively in front of him. Brett shifting.

“Sara! Wh-?”

“He’s a giant bug that was in the other hole. Move!” Sara shouted, pushing him out of the way. Brett crouching on his knees, Lucas doing the same, his eyes turning pitch black. “Get everyone out.” Brett growled, baring his teeth at Lucas.

Sara nodded, running out the room, Brett launching himself at Lucas.

Sara running to the fire alarm pulling it. “Liam!” she shouted, bumping right into Scott and Kira. “That way.” she pointed.

~

Bursting though the beads, Sara took in the scene, Brett and Liam hurt with the deep scratches, Scott kicking it and Kira drawing her sword. Scott hit the floor.

“Want any help?!” Sara offered, tied between help them and help Liam and Brett heal.

“I got it.” Kira said, running at Lucas swiping her sword at him. Sara ran to Liam, waving her hands over his wound, trying to speed it up.

Lucas swiped at Kira, narrowly missing her, his other hand going for her head. With one hand, Sara threw him into the beads.

Kira giving a smile of thanks, before counting her battle with him. Sara and Liam jumped up. Liam grabbing Lucas throwing him onto the ground. Sara giving him a sharp kick in the face, knocking him out.

Kira suddenly lit up, her kitsune self-illuminating her. Swiping her sword, yelling in Japanese, the katana edging towards Lucas. Sara reacted first, blasting Kira back across the room, into a few stray boxes.

“Sara!” Scott shouted, glancing at Kira worriedly. “What!” Sara shouted back, helping Liam up. Kira slowly got up, rubbing her head, staring at Scott.

“Is everyone okay?” Scott asked, glancing at everyone. “We need to get him out of here. Liam, give me a hand.” Scott mumbled, about to picking him up.

When a thin needle-like pole struck Lucas though the heart. Blood splattering everywhere. The needle withdrew, going back into a strange metal box thing, but Sara wasn’t focused on that.

She was too busy staring at the three things that stood behind it. With helmets of metal covering their faces, dressed up in heavy armour, looking like they came out of some steampunk horror novel.

The guys in masks.

“Why did you do that?” Scott asked, looking up at them.

“His condition was terminal.”

Their voices were echoing, robotic, they didn’t sound human, nothing about them human. They were wrong, Evil pouring out of them like sludge. It made her sick.

“What does that mean? What does that mean?” Scott cried, the masked men moving. They bodies creaking like a broken toy.

“Failure.”

~

Chapter Text

Screaming.

Someone was screaming. Footsteps.

They were running. So fast. It was coming.

Grunting. Slamming against something. Panting, breathing unable to catch breathe. In, out, in out, in out.

Yelling, things falling to the floor.
A scramble.

Metal whacking against steel.

Falling.
Falling
Falling.

 It pierced.

“911, what’s your emergency?”

She opened her eyes. She was in the forest. The cold air blowing past her, making her short locks float, before settling back down.

It was so dark. The tress casting over her like large spiked shadows. A light glowed faintly in the distance. Sara slowly walking to it, the sticks and leaves pricking as she  trended  across.

The light suddenly vanished, plunging her into darkness. Sara sniffed, the hairs on the back of her neck standing up, looking down at the large shadow that cast over hers.

A growl from behind her, as a clawed hand gripping her shoulder so large it could rip it right off.

It lunged.

“No! No! No!” Sara screamed, thrashing around in Scott’s arms. Kira holding her shoulders. “Sara! Sara! It’s okay, it’s okay, it’s okay! It’s us!”

“It’s us.” Kira mumbled, Sara feeling her hands, release her shoulders, rubbing them gently. Sara took a breath, relaxing in Scott’s arm.  “Oh…” Sara moaned, burying her head in Scott’s shoulder. It was embarrassing enough, she had her brother and her mother come in and hold her after a nightmare. It was even worst when her brother’s girlfriend, was there to bear witness.

“I’m sorry.” Sara breathed out. Scott’s warm self, calming her down instantly. “I didn’t mean to wake you up.”

“It’s okay, we were already up.” Scott said, Sara looking up slowly realizing they were dressed. “The alarm in the Animal Clinic went off. Kira and I were just gonna check it out.”

“Okay.” Sara said, getting up grabbing her jacket. “Let’s go.”

~

“Nothing.” Sara said, walking around inspecting the windows. “No sign of anything taken or broken besides the half lizard girl.”

“Tracy.” Kira said standing up. “Is she? Do we even know if she’s Tracy anymore?” Sara replied. Scott making a call on his phone. “Stiles, someone's taking the bodies.” he said, Kira and Sara turning to him. “Stiles? You there?”

“I'm at the Animal Clinic with Kira and Sara. Tracy's body is gone. The lock on the door was broken from the outside. And my mom just told me Lucas's body went missing from the morgue. They've been searching the whole hospital for it.”

“Someone's stealing the bodies.”

“Evil metal men, crazy chimeras, bodies dropping and disappearing.” Sara mumbled. “God, do we just live in a constant horror flick, or is it just me?”

~

“The Dread Doctors by T.R. McCammon.” Lydia read, holding the book, Malia and Sara walking beside her on either end. “Nice name.” Sara said dryly, the ‘Dread Doctors’ on the front cover a splitting image to the ones she saw the other night.

“What?” Malia asked, catching Lydia’s thoughtful face. “I don't know. There's something about it. Has anyone actually read it yet?”

“Just me. And I didn't understand any of it.” Malia said, Sara snorting.

“We should probably all read it.” Lydia said, reaching their lockers. Sara opening hers tipping her books in fishing out the last for the day. Biology, and another study session with Theo.

Not that anyone else knew about that. Good thing her grade was getting up, or it probably wont have been worth it hiding the truth from Malia and Lydia who would tell Stiles. Which would end horrifically.

“Kira's working on that.” Malia added. “Stiles says he can't find anything on the author. He thinks it's a pen name.”

“Something that no one could trace back. Clever.” Sara said, tucking the books in her arm. “That’s what he said.” Malia replied.

"In a small New England town, teenagers are taken in the night and buried alive. Days later they emerge transformed, wreaking havoc and spreading terror, commanded by an ancient order of parascientists known only as the Dread Doctors." Lydia read. “Sound vaguely familiar. How does it end?” she asked, glancing at Malia.

“It doesn't. This is supposed to be volume one.”

“And volume two was never written.” Sara guessed. “I think we're living volume two.” Malia said, Sara frowning glaring at the book. “Great, just what we need, more things trying to kill us.”

“Then maybe the real question is...Is this a novel or someone's prediction?” Lydia said, catching Sara’s eye. “Know any psychics?” Sara joked, glancing between the older girls, whose faces were set.

“Nevermind.”  she mumbled.

~
“You alright?” Theo asked, looking up from his book. Sara nodded, shaking her head suppressing the other yawn that was itching to get out.

“Yeah. I’m-” Sara yawned loudly cutting herself off. “Okay.”

“This is the ninth time you’ve yawned,” Theo pointed out lightly, straightening up. “You get any sleep last night?”

“I don’t sleep.” Sara replied instantly, playing with her pen, hoping the movement would keep her awake. “I mean I do, but…it’s a long story.” she paused, turning around glancing at the building renovations.

The library was undergoing renovations, but Sara couldn’t shake the strange feeling coming off the scaffolding.

Blinking, the library suddenly plunged into darkness. Sara staring directly a body. Donovan’s body, blood dripping off him. A pole threw his heart.

Sara stood up, edging towards it. His eyes opened, blood pooling out off his eyes and mouth. Sara jumped back, her eyes locked onto his body.

“Sara?”

Sara blinked again, looking around wildly. The library was bright again, students walking, chatting. The place where Donovan’s body was empty. The floor clean, his blood not staining anything, but her mind.

“Sara.” Theo repeated, Sara looking up. He was gently holding her arm, following her gaze. “What’s wrong? What happened?”

“I…” Sara paused, shutting her eyes, shaking her head. “Nothing. Nothing. I…I’m okay.”

If Theo knew she was lying. He didn’t say anything.

~

“For providing scientific perspective and invaluable insight...this book is dedicated to Dr. Gabriel Valack." Sara read. “You know him?” she asked, handing the book back to Scott.

“Yeah, he’s in Eichen House.”

“The nut house?” Sara blurted out. “You wanna go in the supernatural nut house? Have you lost your mind?” she said, walking to Scott’s bike.

“It’s the best way to figure out, what’s going on.” Scott replied. Sara sighed. “Okay, your right.” she said, looking up at him. “Scott…I…I don’t have to come right?” she asked shyly.

“No! No.” Scott said quickly. “I don’t want you too. I just, want you know. Just in case.”

“So I can bust you out?”

Scott laughed. “Maybe.”

~

“So, how’s studying being?” Liam said making a face at the word. Sara turned around, quickly swallowing the Red Vine. “What?”

“Studying.”
“Are you serious?”
“Uh, yeah.”

Sara rolled her eyes, glancing back up at Grimm, where Nick had just beheaded another Wesen. “Studying Liam, it’s books, papers and tiring so just watch Grimm?” she mumbled, making a face when one of the Wesen threw Nick into a wall.

“Why are we even watching this, our lives are basically a horror show.” Liam grumbled, clearly still invested in Sara’s study sessions.

“You talk about Theo so much, you should date him. Seriously.” Sara said. “I’m getting more popcorn, you want anything?” she asked.  Liam paused, popping a few M&M’s into his mouth. “Juice…or soda!” he called out, Sara nodding walking out of the room.

Opening Mrs Dunbar’s fridge, pulling out two sodas. Opening the microwaves, sticking in the other bag of popcorn. Typing in the numbers-

“Sara.”

Sara jumped back, looking around the kitchen.

Nothing.

Sara turned around, closing the microwave door.

“Sara.”

“Who’s there?” Sara said sharply, lighting her hand with energy, walking around the kitchen into the lounge.

Standing into front of the TV. Inspecting the rest of the room. Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. Even the air was cool, the breeze gently made the heat more bearable.

The TV lit up. The buzzing off the static being the only sound in the room.  
Sara stared at it, quietly whispers of voices reaching her ears. Bending down, Sara slowly pressed her ear against the TV.

“Maybe you've already guessed that it's not just a book.”
“What is it?”
“A tool. Designed to open your eyes.”
“To what?”  
“To them. The Dread Doctors.”

Metal boots, effulgent her vision. Thick bronze helmets and armor, robotic gloves and gauntlets, dressed to the nines like something out a steampunk convention. Two males and one female, dressed in a way that made them look ancient and modern.

The Surgeon, the Pathologist and the Geneticist.

The Dread Doctors.

“Not entirely human. At least, not anymore. They were scientists once. Scientists who worshipped the supernatural. Tesla said, ‘If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.’
They found their secrets in electromagnetic forces. Ways to prolong their lives, give them power, and most importantly, making you forget you ever saw them.”

“What do they want?”
“Good question, Lydia. Everybody wants something, don't they?”

Valak in a simple T-shirt and pants. He almost looked normal, besides the large gaping hole in the centre of his head.

He turned his head, as if looking right at her and smiled.

“I wrote the book in an effort to find out if anyone else like me had ever seen them before. I thought I could circulate it, an effort to trigger someone...Anyone else's memory.
They'd see the cover, a hint of memory...”

Tracy the old Tracy, was in front of her. Holding out the book in an old ratty bookshop. She held it up to the light, squinting her eyes.

Strapped to a table, the Surgeon raising a hand in his grasp a scalpel. Tracy was struggling her necklace bouncing up and down against her skin as she wrestled against the restraints.

“Help! Help me! Pl-” the Pathologist covered her mouth. The Geneticist holding up a large needle filled with a colourless liquid.

In the corner of her eye, in the shadows a figure shifting uncomfortably, turning around walking away in the distant. Sara edged closer to, opening her mouth to call out.

“They pick up the book, read it.
The suppressed memories surface, and they'd find their way to me to discover more. Just like you did.”

“Did it work with anyone else?”

“Hey! Sara!” Liam said, giving her a violent shake. Sara stumbled back, landing on her behind. Liam bending down, looking at her worriedly. “Are you-? What happened? Are you okay?” he said quickly, half on top of her in his panic.

What was he going on about?

Sara nodded, wordlessly. Feeling something thick and cold on her cheek. Picking up her hand, she slowly touched her cheek.

 Drawing back, looking down at a bloodied fingers.

~

It always seemed to end at hospitals.  The roars and screams were all around her and here she was, stumbling back, slamming into the wall. The Geneticist’s staring down at her, as she edged closer. Her metal boots clunking against the floor, as if reading Sara’s death sentence.

Know, I know what you’re thinking. Why wasn’t she blasting this thing to Kingdom Come?

She was wondering that too.

Throwing another energy blast at it, Sara watching it fizzling into nothing, before it even made contact.

Now being a witch while at times, was a trying experience. It was pretty good. Sara knew she was strong, far more powerful than any normal witch at her age.

And while being a witch was sometimes cool, it came with two drawbacks things: immense power that she couldn’t control and that she was still human. 

She had no superfast healing factor (healing was actually extremely difficult for her), or super strength.

If someone shot her, or electrocuted her it would hurt or kill her.

Because behind all that supernatural power, at her core Sara was beautifully disastrously human.

Meaning that if her powers didn’t work on the Dread Doctors then she was fighting a large ancient robotic superhuman with an IQ higher than hers, powerless.

Not the conditions she liked.

Aiming a kick at her, the Geneticist’s not even flinching. Sara tried again, with her other leg meeting the same result. “Oh, come on!” she grumbled.

The Geneticist robotic hand was wrapping around her throat, slamming her hard against the wall, making small cracks against the concrete.

Dark spots began to form in her vision, the Geneticist helmet blurring around the edges.

‘We never should have read that book.’

~

Earlier…

Sara fidgeted in her seat, glancing between Liam and then behind at Mason every few seconds.

They were getting back there Biology Tests, the first Biology test since her tutoring with Theo began. “Chill out,” Liam whispered into her ear. “You’re going to give yourself a heart attack.”

Sara rolled her eyes, twirling her pencil between her fingers. Liam gently put his hand on hers, stopping her fidgeting short.  Sara made a noise of irritation, pouting at Liam.

“I’m sure you did great.”
“Or terrible.”
“Great.”

“Oh my god, I failed.” Sara breathed out in horror. “Are you even listening to me?” Liam mumbled. Mrs Ramsey finally getting up from her desk, handing out the papers.

Sara nearly jetting out of her seat, the only thing stopping her from flying out of the classroom, being Liam’s light, but firm hold on her.

Mrs Ramsey seemed to walk slower than a turtle, as she handed out the papers commenting light on some of them.

After what seemed like a hundred years, she finally stopping in front of their desk, sliding the paper to Liam first, before s l o w l y handing Sara hers.

Sara picked it up, the rush of dread entering her. She couldn’t pick it up. Mrs Ramsey stood in front of their desk smiling at them. “Well done.”

Sara and Liam shared a look, Sara grabbing her paper flipping it over.

81%
Good job!  J

Sara smiled.

~

“Scott! Scott!” Sara half-shouted, running towards him half-tackling him to the floor. “Look, look, look.” Sara said eagerly pulling out her paper, looking at him earnestly.

Scott took the paper, glancing down at it, a smile creeping onto his face. “Good?” Sara asked, playing with her fingers, a smile still on her lips.

“Great!” Scott said, pulling her into a hug her tightly. Glancing back down at the paper, a proud look on his face. “You did great.” he mumbled into her hair.

“Thanks.” Sara said shyly, tucking the paper back into her bag.

As silly as it sounded, Scott had always been there. Helping her with Math homework, even when he barely understood his own. Going to the soccer games when her mother couldn’t, cooking supper even when if he burnt everything and they ended up buying take-out.

He was the constant. The one she could always count on.

Even when her father had been there, Scott had always been more of a father-figure, than a brother (positions that had been helpfully filled by Stiles and Liam). After her father left, he sort of just took over the responsibility.

When she was older she tried not to put that kind of pressure on him. She didn’t need him to be her dad. But Scott…he never really was one to listen.

“What class you got next?” Sara asked, pulling the straps around her tighter. “Uh, Chemistry. Why?”

“No reason.” Sara mumbled, catching Theo’s eye who was standing up his locker, shooting her a grin. “Still planning on reading the book?” she asked. Not noticing Scott follow her gaze, looking back at here, eyebrows raised.

“Yeah,” he mumbled, looking at her strangely. “What?” Sara asked, glancing over him, his look not going unnoticed.

“Nothing.”
“Scott. Come on, what?”

Scott shrugged wordlessly walking towards Theo. Sara paused floundering the in hallway. “Scott…” she whined.

~

“So, basically, we're looking for abnormal behaviour?” Theo asked, leaning over the balcony. “Anyone acting a little off or a little weird.” Scott answered, standing next to Sara, who was between the two. Looking down at the crowd of students, going to lunch and socializing.

“Isn't everyone a little weird in high school?”

“Yes.” Sara said, watching as Josh and a few other boys’ around him, mimicked mildly offensive hand gestures and laughed obnoxiously. Sara made a face, she was not a fan of Josh.

“Yeah, good point.” Scott said. Sara glancing between the two, unable not to notice the height difference between them and her. She was surprising tiny next to them, god she missed Liam. Next to him, she at least looked normal sized.

“You remember Tracy went on a killing spree after reading that?” Theo said, following Scott down the steps. “Vividly.” Sara said, she would never be able to get Tracy’s fathers face out of her mind.

“You think it's a bad idea?” Scott asked. “I think Malia almost getting run down by a car could've been bad. Well, that's why you guys haven't finished it, right?” Theo replied, glancing at Sara.

Sara shrugged. “Don’t look at me, I haven’t even started.” she said falling back into step between them. “We're going to.” Scott said, though seeming to hear the logic behind Theo’s words. It was a risky plan.

“Scott, I came here hoping to find a pack. I wasn't planning on watching one fall apart.” Theo said worriedly. “You mean die?” Sara said apathetically. “Coz, death’s definitely on the table. I’m not being pessimistic, but considering what they did last time. I don’t think they’ll leave us alive.” she pointed out.

Scott giving her one of his ‘stop’ looks. Sara rolled her eyes, it wasn’t her fault Stiles enjoyed the Addams family and watched it religiously with her since she was three. It had been a stepping stone to their morbid curiosity that continued strongly. RIP Charles Addams.

“The book's all we've got.” Scott replied.

“Then I'll read it too.” Theo said.

“Brave choice.” Sara said smartly. “Considering the dead body track record.”

Earning a glare from Scott.

“What?”

~

“My mom's book club usually has more wine.” Lydia said, looking down at the books on the table. “Well, they also probably didn't read books that cause violent hallucinations.” Stiles said dryly.

“Or have psychopaths from the book come into the real world, and try to kill us all.” Sara added lightly. Earning disapproving looks from both Scott, Stiles, Lydia, Malia and Kira. And one mildly amused one from Theo.

“You are very unhelpful today.” Stiles pointed out. Sara dismissively waving her hand, getting up from her chair, join the circle around the table. “That's why Sara and Malia's here.” Scott said, smiling at the two of them.

“So none of us go running into traffic?” Kira asked worriedly. Sara tilted her head slightly, watching her. Something was wrong. “Or worse.”

“Like what happened to Judy.” Malia said, making them turn to her. “Chapter 14.”

“Maybe I should have my mother read it. She might remember a girl with a tail leaping off the ceiling and attacking everyone.” Lydia said picking up the book.

“Yeah, if it works.” Stiles added, looking pointy at Sara. Sara shot him a weird look, not catching his message.

“But how do we know for sure?” she asked, looking down at the books. “I mean, Valack could have been lying, just to get want he wanted. How do we know the book caused Malia’s resurfaced memory, I mean maybe because she was driving it just triggered it.” Sara theorized.

“Which,” Stiles said taking the book from Lydia’s hand and handing it to Sara. “Is why we need to test it.”

Sara glanced down at the book, in her hands. “Te-What do want me to do with this? Eat it?” she sassed, looking down at the book, her eyes widening in realization. “You can’t be serious.”

“We need to test it.”
“You mean you need a gunine pig.”

“Well, yeah.”
“I can’t believe I’m the gunine pig.”
“Small enough to be one.”
“Stinski-”

“Okay.” Lydia said, cutting the two off from their impending argument. “Sara, you can read the book faster than any of us, and see if it works or not.” Lydia said logically.

Sara sighed, opening the book. “This is a brilliant idea. Give a hallucinogenic book to the walking exploding time bomb.” she grumbled, flicking though the first few pages, until she was at Chapter One.

“Wai-why’s Sara the one who can read the book the fastest?” Theo asked quietly, leaning over to Scott.

“Sara can speed read,” Kira said. Sara taking a deep breath, trying to tune out everything that was happening. Flipping through the book the pages, flying across quickly. Her eyes shining their purple, as she did so.

“Basically she can read anything really fast. If she concentrates.” Kira finished. Sara slamming the book shut, tossing it onto the table. “Judy was done dirty.” she mumbled making a face at the book.

It wasn’t one she would be reading anytime soon.

“I know right?” Malia agreed.

“How do you feel?” Lydia asked.

Sara shrugged. “Fine. Disgusted and disturbed, but fine. Maybe it’s takes some time to work.” she added, seeing Lydia’s worried face. “I’m sure it’ll work.”

“It has to.” Lydia mumbled picking up the book. “What's that mean?” Scott asked, glancing at Sara, before back at Lydia. “I think I saw them during my surgery. When I look at the cover of the book... It's almost like...”

“A memory trying to surface.” Theo said, making them turn to him.

“Yeah.”

“Isn't that what Valack wanted when he wrote it?” Kira asked, Sara and Malia nodding.

“If they did something to me,” Lydia said, walking into the lounge. “I want to know what it is.”

Stiles bent down picking up a printed book. Scott, Theo and Kira doing the same as they went into the lounge. Leaving Malia and Sara at the dining table.

“Let book club begin.” Sara joked lightly, sauntering into the lounge. Malia snorting from behind her.

~

30 minutes later…

Sara moaned, lifting her head, looking around the room. “How far you guys?”

“Not much different since the last time you asked.” Lydia replied dryly, turning the page, not even bothering to look up.

“Seriously?” Sara groaned, falling back down onto her pile of pillows and blankets.

She had almost instantly taken refuge on the floor, in the space between Lydia and Theo. While there was space on the couch, she’d rather not sit with Kira and Scott or even worst Malia and Stiles who were as gross and kissy as a couple could get.

No, the floor was safest place for her.

“You guys are taking forever.”
“Not all of us can speed read.”

“It does not take half an hour for you to not to be done with Chapter One! You guys started two days ago.” Sara pouted, lying back in her pillows.

Lydia sighed, turning the page. “Do some homework?”

“Done.”
“Read a book.”
“I really don’t want to look at another one right now.”

“Take a nap.”

“No!” Stiles, Scott and Sara shouted, making Kira jump up. “That’s a very, very, very bad idea.”

“Why?” Theo asked, looking up from his book. Sara stiffened, Scott and Stiles looking at him.  

“It’s a long story.”
“None of your business.”
“Because it’s nine ‘o’clock, no one goes to bed at nine o’clock.”

The three said at the same time. “And, that’s why.” Sara said scratching her ear, lying back down. The rest of them (Malia, Theo and Lydia still looking mildly weird out) relaxing back into their seats.

It was going to be a long night.

1 hour and 30 minutes later…

Anyone feel anything yet?” Scott asked, looking around the room.

“Tired.”
“Hungry.”

“I think he meant the book.”

“Sara? Anything?” Scott tried. Sara not even bothering to move from her spot. “Bored.”

Kira sighed again, folding a page laying her head down on some blankets.

“You're not giving up, are you?” Scott asked gently.  

“I’m just resting my eyes.” Kira said slowly, laying back down and switching off the light.

2 hour’s later…

“You should get some sleep.” Theo said, leaning against the kitchen counter, across from her. “I don’t sleep, anymore.” Sara mumbled, holding her head up, with her hand.

The other aimlessly twirling her fingers around rim of her mug; watching Theo with mild interest as he slowly began steering the coffee pot away from her with his fingers.

The liquid in the bottom of the mug, slowly swirling around, following her finger.

Kira had fallen asleep, Scott laying her down in his room. Lydia was still glued to her book, Malia taking a nap on Stiles shoulder and Stiles stretching his neck like an angry ostrich, trying to listen and see what they were walking about.

He actually looked quite funny, even though it was mildly annoying.

“Why not?” Theo asked, taking a sip of his coffee, his hazel eyes watching her carefully.

It was still something she was not quite used to yet. Theo always seemed to give her his complete attention, whether they were just talking or studying. It was strange…Almost unnerving, but something she noticed Malia do a few times.

Maybe it was a werewolf thing.  

“You won’t laugh?” Sara teased, raising an eyebrow. Theo snorted, nodding. “Promise.”

Sara bit her lip, withdrawing her hand from the mug. “I’m…scared of the dark.” Sara said slowly looking down at her mug. “It’s stupid.”

Theo blinked, shaking his head. “No, it’s not.” he said, a thoughtfully look on his face. “You know, there’s an evolutionary-.”

“Theo, I get you love it, but it is way too late to be taking about genetics.” Sara said tiredly, a wisp of a smile on her face.  Theo chuckled.

“Okay,” he said sitting down, copying her slant. “You know…we’re all here.” he said glancing back at the lounge. “Lights on, you could take a small nap…if you want.” Theo added quickly.

Sara paused, rubbing her eyes.
She hadn’t slept in almost three days. Mostly running of coffee and inescapable stress.

“Nothing’s gonna happen, Sara.” Theo said gently. “Promise.”

Sara licked her lip, glancing back in the living room. The couch looked so comfy and for some strange reason, she trusted his words.

“Five minutes. Just five minutes, then I’ll…wake up.” she mumbled to herself, deciding to bit her tongue when she saw his mild look of triumph.

“Okay.”
“Just five minutes.”
“Alright.”
“Just five.”
“I know.”

“Okay. Five, five is good.”

~

‘It was strange, watching them sleep.’ he thought, tucking the phone into his pocket. Lydia was sleeping upright, the book propped on the armchair, still open.

Stiles was sleeping against Malia’s legs, his head propped up on a pillow, Malia curled up with Scott next to her, who like Lydia was also sleeping upright, his head against the top of the couch cushion.

Sara was cuddled into herself, sleeping in a curled ball on the armchair he had been sitting on, sleeping awkwardly in a place between the armrest and the chair.

She fallen asleep within seconds, her short wavy choppy hair, sprawled across her face. While she had been one of the first to fall asleep, she was also the one moving the most.

She shifted quite a few times, her eyelids occasionally tightening and her fingers moving, almost readying themselves.

Picking up one of her stray pillows, Theo gently lifted her head, quickly sliding the pillow between the space, setting her down before she woke up.

Sara moved again, leaning into the pillow, some of her hair falling back. Revealing a strange purple light, traveling from her neck into her head. Theo squinted, bending down looking at it.

It seemed to run though her veins, before traveling to the back of her neck, the second it vanished from his site. Sara took a sharp intake of breath, her heart racing, her hands were shaking.

Fear.

Theo straighten up, looking around the room, before sitting down on the floor next to her and falling asleep.

Chapter Text

“You can use factorial notation and your calculator to find entries in Pascal’s triangle. So, the number of ways of choosing r items from a group of n items is written as nCr or (n/r )  or as nCr = (n/r ) = n! / r !(n − r)!. Now,  the r th entry in the nth row of Pascal’s triangle is given by n − 1Cr − 1 = (n − 1 / r − 1)--”

 “n − 1Cr − 1 = (n − 1 / r − 1)” Sara mumbled to herself, tapping her pen against her book. She was rather bored. Mason was busy jotting down all the notes from the board at the back of the classroom. Hayden or Liam weren't in this class, but Sara noticed that one of the boys from the Sinema club a few weeks ago, Cody or something sitting in the in the third row.

Casual friends of hers, Aria, Thea and Nawal were on either end. Aria nearly biting the end of her pencil clean off the more Mrs Flemming spoke. Behind her Josh, and his friends. Usually, class was far more lively, mostly due to Josh passing notes or some kind of background chatter that remained even when Ms Flemming was talking.

But not today. Today was quiet. Somber almost. Like the events of the previous days lay over all of them, rather than just the pack. The lights flickered above her, making a cracking sound drowned by the scratching of chalk.  

“First question, if the probability of throwing exactly 10 heads when a fair coin is tossed 20 times is given by (20/10 ) 0.5²⁰ . We can calculate the probability and describe the likelihood of this occurring-.”

The lights flickered violently. Josh coughing loudly behind her. Sara turned around, watching Josh wipe his hand over his brow, before putting his finger into his mouth, quietly sucking it like one would a lollipop. For a second, she swore she saw a flicker of blue light in his fingers.

 Sara bit her lower lip. ‘Look for anything suspicious.’ That’s what Scott said. That was a bit weird, but suspicious?

“--Anyone? Mmm?” Ms. Flemming said. “Come on, I’m not going to ask again.” she said casting an eye over the class. “Josh.”

Come to think of it….Josh sat at the end of the classroom, near the the plug point…

“Josh.” Mrs Flemming repeated, folding her arms. One of Josh’s friends that sat next to him, poked him hard in the ribs. Josh sat up straight. “Yeah?”

“Are you paying attention?” Mrs Flemming asked. Sara eyes drifting to the lights, which started to flicker more rapidly now. Josh blinked, his fairly confident demeanor, almost reserved. Distracted. “Sorry, Mrs Flemming,” Josh mumbled. “It wont happen again.”

Mrs Flemming pursed her lips. “It better not.” she said firmly. “Andrea? Could you try the sum on the board, please.”

The flickering light relaxed slightly. Mrs Flemming sighing. “Gotta get that fixed.”

Was she being paranoid? Maybe. But after a two more classes with Josh, each accompanied with their strange electrical issues, and unnatural silence and disinterest with his friends. She had a feeling she’d found the next chimera.

~

“I don't know, dude. Everyone at Devenford's pretty abnormal to me.” Brett said, watching Liam prep himself to score.

“I really wonder what is normal to you,” Sara mused, leaning back against the bleaches, watching the girls soccer practice. It had been a year since she played. She’d been on the school team at her old school, but since Coach’s leave of absence and the constant threat of death over her head, she thought she’d take a bit of a break.

“Don’t we all, Baby-doll.”

“Ugh.” Sara said, light swatting Brett on the arm. Mason smiled. “All right. What else is there to look for? There's heightened strength, smell, hearing, speed…” he  listed.

“Uh, able to see in the dark.” Brett added.

“Glowing eyes. Eyes that reflect the light. Visible scorpion stingers protruding out of limbs?” Mason said. Brett smirked. “Yeah. Or three foot lizard tails.”

“Don’t forget flame-resistant, hearing dead people’s voices, having like a thousands mouths and fangs in your hands-Oooh,” Sara said, making a face when the goalkeeper for Liam was fell back into the goal. “That’s gotta hurt.”

Brett made an ‘ouch’ face. “What's up with those two?”

“Sixth grade.” Mason said. “That's not the best year for Liam's anger management issues. There was a... This fight in the hallways. Liam and this other guy. Hayden sort of accidentally walked into it.” Mason said, opening up the school yearbook on his phone. “And this is her yearbook photo.”

“Ah, damn.” Brett winced. “Yeah. Ow. What did she do to him?”

“That.” Sara said, holding out her phone with Hayden’s yearbook photo. Brett and Mason laughed. “Yeah, laugh now,” Sara said with a smile, tucking her phone back into her pocket. “Hated each other since then, never hear the end of it from both of them.”

“Does anyone here have asthma? Anyone got an inhaler?” someone yelled, running out onto the field. Sara got up, watching Liam race into back into the school. “Brett-”

“It’s Scott.” he said. She was moving before she knew it,  jumping down from the bleaches. racing down the stairs after Liam. The hallways was packed with students, Sara pushing past most of them, to get to Scott’s lockers. The crowd thinned slightly, when she reached his locker. Liam struggling with the locker combination.  

“Its 3101, left hand side at the back-” Sara gasped. Liam unlocking the lock, racing with the inhaler into Mrs Finch’s classroom. Closing the locker, pushing past the crowd of people that had gathered out of the classroom. “Move, move, move!” Sara snapped, pushing past a few people. “Scott?”

Scott was still gasping, shaking his inhaler taking a puff. Liam holding tightly onto his shoulder. Sara rushed in bending down, gently touching Scott’s shoulder. “You alright, Scott?” she mumbled, helping him to his feet.

Scott shook his inhaler, taking another deep blow from it. “Yeah, yeah, I’m alright.” he wheezed.

~

The lights continued to flicker, all though her English class, and Josh…it looked like he was eating it. The electricity that it. She didn’t know what supernatural creature did that, but she didn’t feel has confident to find out by herself.

With the others in class and Mason elsewhere (probably in the library or out on the fields with Brett again) Sara decided to attempt to track down Malia or Lydia. “Hey, Ma-” Sara attempted spotting Malia down the hall slipping into the weights room. “Malia!” she called, jogging after her down the corridor.

“- you've got something else in mind, I'm okay with that, too .”

“Hey, Mal-” Sara paused.

 Ok. This was awkward.

Malia had pinned down Theo by use of the weights he’d been doing, causes the weight to remain stiff in place, causes it to creak and crack, and even from where she stood, she could see the metal almost mold into Malia’s fingers. Theo was also shirtless. Not that it really mattered, but somehow it added to the awkwardness of the whole situation.

 “Ah-Am I intrup--I can come back later-” Sara said, her hand already making for the doorknob.

“Just leaving.” Malia grunted, her eyes still fixated on Theo, releasing the weights. Sara flinching at the loud bang. “No, wai-I-wa” Sara started, but Malia already stormed out, slamming the door behind her. “Nevermind.” Sara mumbled, awkwardly hovering by the  door.

“Do wanna-- should I just-” Sara said, gesturing between the door and Theo not feeling it safe to really look at him. For some reason, she felt rather trapped like a predator and prey of a extremely awkward situations. She would have rather been actually trapped. It was nothing to do with Theo of course, she had also seemed to be a rather self-conscious person. Whether that was good or bad she didn’t really know. “I should go-”

Theo smiled. “It’s fine, come on, what’s up?” he said, standing up. Sara bit in inside of her cheek, released the doorknob. “Oh, umm, Mrs Ramsey  wanted me to give this to you,” she said, rummaging in her bag, pulling out a piece of paper. “I think it’s something to sign for your transfer or something,” she said, happy she had a excuse. And people said forgetfulness was a bad thing.

“Ah,” Theo said, taking the paper, looking it over. “You got a pen or-”

“Oh, yeah,” Sara said, scratching in the bottom of her bag, producing pen, handing it to him.

“Thanks,”Theo said, taking it, sitting down on one of the pieces of weight equipment. Sara copying him, slowly sitting down on another, staring at the small box behind the door.

“Oh, not there.” Theo said, grabbing her arm, sliding his hand along her waist, guiding her to one next to him. “Probably won’t, but it might fall on you.”

“Ah,” Sara said, looking up, sliding her bag off her shoulder. “Death by weights seems kinda unappealing.” she said, letting out a breath. It was a werewolf thing, all of them ran far warmer than normal humans. Maybe because Theo had been working out, or maybe because of skin-to-skin contact with his shoulder brushing lightly against hers as he wrote; it felt like she was sitting next to a heater.

“Probably not the best way to go.”

“Better than being burned alive though.” Sara mused, the though of Haige sprinkling gasoline on Parrish a few months ago floating into her mind. “If I had to choose. I think it would be longer. Messy. But getting rid of the evidence shouldn’t be too bad, since there wouldn’t be much of a body and identification would be difficult too--nevermind.” she said. “So what’s new with you?”

God, why couldn’t she just be normal.

“Nothing much. How was the test?” Theo asked, a smile still playing on his lips.

“Not to bad.” Sara said, holding out the paper. Theo took it, chucking to himself, patting her on the back, handing the paper back to her.

“Good job, keep going, you might not need me anymore,” Theo said holding the pen out.  “Well I had a good teacher,” Sara said, taking her pen from him. “And you of course,” she added. Theo smiled. He had a nice smile. There was something so perfect about it, in fact if she had to describe Theo, perfect felt like the right word.

Uniformed grades, consisting of A’s. Perfect hair that never seemed out of place. Muscular and toned and strong, athletic yet lean.  A smile that could charm anybody. A type of  ‘All-American’ stereotypical kind boyish handsomeness that made him look youthful, yet mature simultaneously. Confident, yet not arrogant. Patient, and insightful. Intelligent and charming.   

Perfect.

Maybe that’s why she couldn’t find herself trusting him, not completely. He seemed too good to be true.

“What?” Theo asked, a smile still playing on his lips. He seemed quite amused that he caught her staring at him. She had to resist ducking under a table.

“Nothing,” Sara said, dearly praying to every god and deity she knew that her heart-rate, chemo-signals and any other thing that a werewolf may pick up, was in check. It would be much harder if he got the wrong idea. And far worse if she were to actually like him. No. No. Don’t go down at road. Just don’t. No.

“So, did you get any of them yet? Resurfaced memories, I mean.” Sara asked, biting her lower lip. Theo getting up, moving around the weight room, going to the machine he’d been at with Malia. Theo  sat down, presumably doing his sets. “Nope, nothing yet. You?”

No. Nope. Don’t go down at road. No.

Sara shook her head. “Nothing. I don’t get it. I mean, Malia got her resurfaced memories a few hours after she finished the book, but it’s been nearly been a day since I read it and, nothing.” Sara said, crossing her legs, cupping her face with both hands. “And I’m the one who lost hours at a time, even before they showed up.”

“Maybe your focusing on it too much. Don’t put too much pressure on it.” Theo said, seeming to do the opposite, the machine making a creaking noise once again.

“Little hard not too.” Sara said. The lights in the weight room flickering suddenly. “Speaking off, I think I may know who the next chimera is.”

~

“Where's Kira?” Scott asked.

“Still at the library.” Malia said, jogging down the steps. “Stiles and Lydia are at the hospital.”

“Liam’s out, Mason too,” Sara said coming down the hall, falling into step between Theo and Malia. School had ended a few hours ago, but well, they never really went home when school ended anymore, she supposed. Liam had gone to Sinema to talk to Hayden, Mason had disappeared, likely researching something or homework.

“What are they doing at the hospital?” Theo asked.

“Lydia's trying to figure out what happened to her during the surgery.” Malia explained. Scott furrowed his eyebrows. “How long are they gonna be there?” Scott said sounding strangely worried.

Malia shrugged. “They said they're just waiting for the power to go back on?” Sara stopped dead. “Wait the power?” Malia nodded. Scott and Theo sharing a look.  

“He’s there, Josh,” Sara said quickly. “I think he’s like some kind of Eel-Werewolf Hybrid, able to siphon electricity. That’s why the lights are flickering all day, he’s absorbing it.”

“Hospitals have multiple generators for him to feed on.” Scott mused. Theo nodded. “Makes sense.”

Malia blinked. “Wh-”

~

“You guys try to find Stiles and Lydia.” Scott ordered, to the three of them. “I'm gonna find my mom.” 

They split up: Theo going to the roof, Malia the bottom floors and Sara the top floors. After a fairly uneventful sixth floor, she pressed the button to the fifth. The fifth floor was strangely quiet. The hallways were empty, the vending machine and waiting room chairs lined in pristine. Hospital’s were usually cold, but second she stepped out of the elevator, the temperature seemed to drop.

Her foot made a squelch, like it knew already she stepped into something disgusting like Liam’s room. “Urgh.” Sara muttered, lifting her foot up.

Blood. Thick blood, a mingle of crimson red and black.

The fist slammed into the wall, sprinkling cement and paint onto the floor. If she hadn't ducked it, her head would have likely been in worse condition than that wall. She smacked into the floor, crawling backwards.

The woman’s fist creaked back, like mechanical wheels shifting back. Her thick boots and coat stamping against the floor. Hospitals. It always seemed to end up at hospitals. She could hear noises above and below her, roars and screams.

They were here.

The Dread Doctors. More specifically for her, the Geneticist. Sara threw a energy blast, the light purple energy fizzing out, dissipating before it made contact.

She jumped to her feet, throwing another stronger energy blast at it, watching it fizzling once again. Aiming a kick at her, Sara’s leg hitting what felt like solid metal. The creature not even flinching. She tried again, with her other leg meeting the same result. “Oh, come on!” she cried, the Geneticist grabbing her leg, slamming her into the wall.

Reaching out, Sara telekinetically taking hold of a waiting room chair, throwing it at her. The doctor tossed it aside like she’d throw a tissue. Her metal boots clunking against the floor, as if reading her death sentence.

Clenching her fists, gathering her power to her fist, she launched herself at the Geneticist, her knuckles connecting with metal, the power in her hands fizzing to nothing. The doctor’s robotic hand wrapping around her throat, slamming her hard against the wall, making small cracks against the concrete. She screamed, kicking and pushing against the hand, which tightened around her throat.

Metallic taste of blood was on her lips, dark spots began to form in her vision, the Geneticist helmet blurring around the edges.

“ Susan Dabney?” she asked quietly.

“Last thing I heard was they died. Chasing a witch.”

“Elena started training me after Susan was killed.

We draw power from it, and in turn, we protect it from anything that would do it harm.”

She was the only person I could trust.”

“We draw power from the Nemeton, right?”

“There was a hunter, they came into school.

She was dead before it got there.”

“ Gas main, explosion, set off by a school shooter. I knew was a lie. ”

Her lungs were burning. Her whole body was alight, the weight of the shackles on her wrists, digging deep into her skin, sending stabs of pain, that shot up to her skull and every movement.

“You think this is over?” her voice hissed. She looked up. Elena…Elena…what why?

“I never wanted to hurt you.” Elena whispered, the gun pressed against her forehead. “But, you can’t be helped. You can’t be saved.”

She clenched her fist. No. No. This wasn’t real, this wasn’t… Yes it was. She felt salt grace her lips, she whole body was vibrating. She clenched her teeth, forcing herself to look at the woman, cold eyes. Dead eyes.

“I don’t want you to worry, your school had a gas main leak, there was a explosion, a few casualties, kids working for the science fair. You’re dad should buy it, you love going back there for soccer practice.”

“Why…why-” she chocked out. “Why?” she whispered, her tears in her eyes, blurring the image of the woman in front of her. She worked with her Dad. She, she took her statement for her friend Susan. She told her, she showed her, she wasn’t normal.

“Am I doing this?” Elena scoffed. “I’ve seen your future, what your capable of…trust me. I’m doing you a favor, you’re a monster, not a witch, not a child.” Elena hissed. “Monster.” 

She could taste the metallic powder in her mouth, mingling with the blood in her mouth. She’d taken two bullets. The pungent stench of death hung over her like a petrol smoke. She shut her eyes.

She screamed. She didn’t think she’d ever forget that sound. Blood had pooled out from the the top half of Elena’s. The gun had clattered to the floor, the sliver reflected Elena’s face, froze forever in twisted hatred.

She took a deep breath, dropping her hand; slowly standing up. The pipes below were hissing loudly, from the cut of energy from her hands. She could them coming, there footsteps pounding against the concrete, the rattle of the machine gun. She wiped her face, the red blotches looking like constellation of stars on her hand.

“Lefebvre. Adrien and Raphael Lefebvre. Brother and sister. They were twins. ”

Full leather, brown haired, for a few seconds, she just stared at them. Feeling the familiar burn behind her eyes. Purple met brown. She smiled. “Who’s next?”

~

“SARA!”

Stiles?

She was flying though her air, slamming into something hard that wasn’t exactly a wall, but didn’t feel like Stiles. “Hey, hey, Sara you ok?” Oh Theo. Well that explained it.

She felt Theo’s hand on her shoulder, stepping in front of her, facing the Dread Doctor. Stiles’s arm on hers , standing in the middle of the elevator, holding it for them to escape.

“Yeah, I’m great. I just love being thrown across a giant room into a rock solid werewolf. Love it. Thanks.” Sara wheezed, staggering to her feet. The hospital floor slowly coming back into focus. “Let’s go, round two.” she mumbled, forcing herself to her feet.

The Geneticist pulled out a large very needle like object, moved closer towards them, blurring as she moved.

Her head exploded in pain, Sara half-falling onto her knees. “You know what, all yours big guy,” Sara said, clapping Theo on the arm. “I’m just gonna pass out here really quick.” she said, her head moving on its own accord towards the floor. Stiles grabbing her half-picking, half-throwing her into the elevator. “Theo!” he shouted.

Whatever fight occurred was loud and fast, the sound of a werewolf roar, scratches before Theo nearly slammed into her. The elevator doors shutting with a loud bang. The metal gears struggling against the Dread Doctor, before eventually going down.

“Sara, Sara, Princess, hey, you okay?” Stiles mumbled, Sara feeling his hand on her hair. “Yeah,” she coughed, pushing herself against the wall. “Head hurts.” she said, feeling something sticky on her hand. “Oh, shit!” she yelped.

Josh. It was sobering to see a dead body. The buzzing pain dulling slightly, clearing her view. Stiles and Theo, both crouched down, with some blood on their clothes, with a dead Josh, the blood from his slashed throat already starting to dry. Theo and Stiles glanced at each other, both of them looking quite pale. Well, Stiles more than Theo.

“Oh, I got a fright, I though he was alive for a sec.” she gasped, leaning against the wall, shutting her eyes, running a hand though her hair. “The Doctor’s got to him?” she said, finding it slightly odd that the Dread Doctors kill was so…messy this time around.

Stiles licked his lips, nodding. “Yeah, yeah, we were too late.”

Sara nodded. “You guys alright?” she asked, glancing between them, before back at Josh. The Doctors didn’t kill was so…messy. Her eyes drifted to Theo, who wiped his hands on his hands, the traces of blood still lingering on them. Stiles stood up. “Yeah, fine.” he said, his eyes flying between the body and herself.

“You knew him?” Theo asked. Sara bending down, closing Josh’s eyes. “Classmates, first year with him. That’s about it really.”

“Sorry,” Theo said gently. Sara shook her head. The words leaving her mouth before she could even stop them. “Better him than us.”

~

“Back to telluric currents?” Stiles asked. Scott pulling out a map, laying on the table. Scott stood back, gazing down at the map. “If the Dread Doctors didn't like coming into Eichen House because of them, maybe we can use them to protect Hayden.”

“Good idea, they seem to be the only thing that affects them.” Sara said, leaning over the map. “So, besides Eichen, where's the strongest convergence?” Scott pointed to the map. “We're standing on it.”

“You want to hide her in the high school?” Stiles said, staring at Scott like he’d lost it. “For how long?”

“If we have to, all night.” Scott said. “Liam convinced Hayden not to say anything to her sister yet. She's working a double tonight, and she thinks Hayden's staying at a friend's.”

“But it's just a school though.” Stiles said. “You know, it's not exactly a fortress.”

“Lydia's got an idea for that. Remember how Valack quoted Tesla?” Scott said, leaning on the table. Stiles nodded. “Frequency and vibration.”

“She thinks he wasn't saying that just to sound smart. She thinks maybe it was a clue.” Scott continued. Stiles furrowed his eyebrows. “To do what?”

“Disrupt their frequency.” Scott explained. “Parrish took three cell phone jammers from the station. He thinks he can broaden their range of frequency. It's a long shot, but it's the best we've got right now.”

“Sounds like a good plan.” Sara said, tracing her fingers over the map. “So, what about us? What are we going to do?” she asked, gesturing between her and Stiles. Stiles ran his hand over his face, like the very thought made him nauseous. “Well, I’m going to Animal Shelter to watch the body.”

“With Theo?” Sara said, leaning back in her chair. “You hate him, you really wanna be stuck in a car with him all night?”

“Why you want to come?” Stiles said pointedly. Sara pursed her lips. “No. So, I’m guess I’m with you?” she said to Scott. Scott scratched the back of his neck. “Actually I thought you might want to sit his one out.”

Sara unconscionably touched her neck. The the Geneticist hand that curled around it, choking her again, getting tighter, tighter. Her face morphing into Elena, squeezing. “Yeah, yeah, I think I’ll sit this one out.” she mumbled.

The bell rang, Scott squeezing her shoulder, taking the map with him to his next class. Stiles threw his backpack onto the table, pulling out a chair. “You got class?”

Sara shook her head. “Not yet. Why?”

“We need to talk.”

“Yeah, sure-” Sara paused, her phone vibrating on the table. “One sec.” she said, seeing the ID caller, moving  to the bookshelves out of Stiles’s ears. “Hey, what’s happened? Are you okay?  Is the body gone?” she said quickly.

“Everything’s fine, body’s still here,” Theo said. Sara sighed. “Oh, good…” biting her lower. Wait, why was he calling her then? “So…”

“I was actually calling to check in on you. Seems you beat me too it though.” he said lightly.

“Oh, sorry.” Sara said, scratching the back of her neck. He chuckled. “Are you alright?”

“Mm…Better than yesterday.” Sara said, leaning against the bookshelf.

“You don’t sound like it.”

“I just…have a lot on my mind that all.” she said softly.

“Like what?”

Sara sighed. “Dread Doctors, chimeras, resurfaced memories, homicidal lizards, dead bodies being magically whisked way in the dead of night, just to start.”

She could almost see Theo’s smile. “Hopefully, we’ll figure out the dead bodies in the dead of night.” Theo said, the sound of moving echoing in the background.

“You’re not lonely are you? It must be weird, sitting at watching a dead person.” Sara mused.

“Weirder than running in the woods looking for holes?”

Sara chuckled. “You have a point.”

“I don’t want you to worry, get some rest-

“Worried abou--Hey!” Sara yelped. Stiles snatching the phone out of her hand, cutting the call.  “Stiles!” she snapped, making a grab for her phone. “He’s going to think I hung up.” she said, trying to snatching the phone out of his hand.

“I can’t believe you!”

“That’s my line, I can’t believe you did that!” Sara said, snatching the phone out of hand. A few people giving them dirty looks. “Sorry,” she lowering her voice to a whisper. Stiles pulled the phone out of her hand again. “What did I say, you can’t trust him.”

“Just because I’m nice to him, doesn’t automatically mean I trust him.” Sara hissed.

“Oh, really?” Stiles said, hands on his hips. Sara scoffed. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Sara asked. Stiles bent down slightly. “Studying.”

Sara gasped. Liam.

“Rat.” Sara  snarled. “I’m going to kill him.”

“You really think you can hid that from me.” Stiles hissed. Sara’s face sank, pouting. “I wasn’t trying to…at first.” she mumbled. “And it wasn’t like I asked for it either.” she said biting her lower lip. Her eyes lighting up, snapping her finger. “Think of it like this, if he trusts me, you have a person on the inside, you know.”

Stiles scoffed.

“What?”

“You can’t do that.” Stiles said, shaking his head. “You don’t have it in you. You’re not a incarnate of evil. You can’t even lie to me. He’ll probably just use you as a way to get to Scott.”

“I managed to keep a secret and lie to everybody when I first got here.” Sara said, folding her arms. Stiles copied her stance, raising his eyebrows. “You proud of that?”

“Okay, I either can’t lie or I can, you need to pick one!” Sara said, running her hand though her hair. “What did you want to talk to me about anyway?”

“I was thinking about last night-”

“Ah, after I was near choked to death and saved, by Theo.” Sara said, tucking her phone into her jeans pocket. Stiles ignored that, nodding. “Yeah, you couldn’t use your powers at all right?”

“Yep.”

“What if you couldn’t because you weren't on the right frequency?”

Sara paused. “You think its somehow connected with telluric currents?”

Stiles shrugged. “Its possible that maybe the currents and you are connected. Maybe the frequency the Doctor use and what you use are different, that’s why they negate each other.”

“But they didn’t just negate each other,” Sara said, playing with the end of her sleeve. “I was just powerless. Like I was drained, but…” she shuffled her feet slightly. “It might be more than that.”

“Your resurfaced memory.” Stiles said, rubbing a hand over his face. “You got it when you saw them.”

“I got it when she choked me.” Sara said softly. He stared at her for a few seconds, like last night, where words didn’t need to be spoke to be heard.  “It was bad, wasn’t it.” Stiles said.

She took a deep breath, feeling her chest tighten at the thought. “Yeah.” Stiles nodded to himself, sliding back into his chair, pulling out one next to him with his foot. “You wanna talk about it?”

“No.” she said, sitting down in the chair next to him. “But I think you’ll may be able to help me.”

~

“How pathetic is that?” Sara said, throwing a paper aeroplane watching it sail across the room, onto another table. Stiles shook his head. “There are tones of cases where memories where re-written or changed-”

“I know, but I should have known.” Sara said bitterly. “I only had good memories of that place. I just, I just can’t believe, I wanted someone to care for me so much, that I made it up. Like a fairy tale.” she whispered, smiling to herself. “You know the worst part? I remember it all. Killing her, killing people…and I don’t regret it.”

Stiles looked up sharply.

Sara smiled, playing with the edge of her paper aeroplane. “I didn’t like it…I don’t think I did. But, I know I did what I had to do. I did what I had to do to survive.” she said, her voice going quieter as she spoke. “But…it felt…good.”

“But Scott, he won’t understand. I don’t anyone ever will, unless they’ve done the same.” she said, straightening the aeroplane wing, throwing it.

Stiles watching it sail though the air, he was staring at the plane, before looking back at her. It was unsaid, but there was a understanding and acceptance that was felt in the air between them. The bell whistled loudly.

Sara breaking her gaze from Stiles, grabbing her bag, pushing back the chair. “Come on, I got English.” she said, forcing a smile on her face. Stiles didn’t move, looking up at her. “If you could, would you do it again?” he asked softly.

Sara paused, sliding her bag on her shoulder, picking up the aeroplane. “If I had to go back, do it again,” she smiled, crushing the aeroplane in her fist. “No…I’d do far worse.”

Chapter Text

“Got the stuff?” Sara asked, not even needing the answer when Mason handed her a box of books. “Take that as  a yes.”

“There’s another box in the car,” he panted, jogging back, pulling out another box. Sara smirked. “You know, when I asked: hey got any books on witches? I didn’t expect this much.” she said, walking to the living room, setting down the box the carpet.

“Oh, these are only the most important ones,” Mason explained, dropping the box on the floor, sitting down cross-legged next to Sara. “I figured we’d work our way down from here.”

“Makes sense,” Sara said, opening the first box, pulling out a large brown book with yellowing pages. “Stiles thought telluric currents may be a answer, but it occurred to me. I can’t exactly fix, what I don’t entirely understand.”

“I though you had a handle on your powers.”

“Me too,” Sara mumbled, flipping though the pages. “I don’t think I have much of a handle on anything anymore.” she mumbled. “You weren't there, Mason…I was…useless.”

She threw energy blast at it, watching it fizzling once again.“Oh, come on!” she cried, the Geneticist grabbing her leg, slamming her into the wall.

“...powerless….”

Robotic hand wrapping around her throat, slamming her hard against the wall, making small cracks against the concrete. She screamed, kicking and pushing against the hand, which tightened around her throat.

“weak…”

 dark spots began to form in her vision, the Geneticist helmet blurring…changing…
She could taste the metallic powder in her mouth, mingling with the blood in her mouth. The pungent stench of death hung over her like a petrol smoke. She shut her eyes.

She flinched, unconsciously rubbing her neck. “I couldn’t help anybody, let alone myself against the Doctors.” she said, opening a book. She couldn’t even fight against Elena…she still felt the gun, cold metal pressed against her forehead. The burning hatred in her eyes.

“I never want to feel that way again.”

Mason took a breath, clapping his hands together. “Then there’s only one way to do this.”

SaRa’s LiSt oF PoWeRs

“A list? Really?” Sara said, setting the piece of paper down. Mason smiled. “Come on, it’s in every superhero movie, to figure out the powers, the hero needs to try everything to see what they can and can’t do. It’s textbook.”

Well he had a point there. “Alright, where do we start?” she asked. Mason tossed her a book. “Speed reading?”

Sara flipped thought he book, throwing it back to him. “Speed-reading, easy.”

SaRa’s LiSt oF PoWeRs

 speed-reading

“Telekinesis,” Sara said, levitating a few candles into the air above her mother’s kitchen table. Mason touched the candle, Sara making it twist and turn in her air. “Awesome,” he said, already scribbling it down. “But how much can you lift exactly?” Sara raised her hand slightly higher, making about ten more candles lift in the air, a few of her mother’s books and trinkets lying on the cupboards and side tables.

Mason grinned. “Nice. And how heavy?”

Sara paused. “Huh, I dunno.” she setting everything down gently, raising her hand towards the bookshelf, slowly lifting her hand up. “Bookshelf…ok. Not too heavy.” she said, setting it down gently.

“Are you sure?” Mason asked. Sara nodded. “Yeah its alright. What do you want me to lift?”

“Your car?” Sara said dubiously. Mason folding his arms staring at the sliver car. “Yep, just be gentle.” he added. Sara bit her lip, walking out onto the driveway. “You sure it’s a good idea?” she said, looking up and down the street.

“Course.” Mason said, in the kind of way that made her feel like he was lying to her face.

“Alright, I’ll give it a go,” Sara said, wigging her hand, slowly lifting them up. At first nothing happened, before the car began to wiggle slightly, slowly lifting up into the air. “Okay its moving, moving…Falling!” she said, feeling her pull falter and twist, gravity taking the reins. “Mason. Mason.”

“Set it down gently!”
“I’m trying!”

SaRa’s LiSt oF PoWeRs

speed-reading

Telekinesis

“Something to work on, but yeah,” Mason shrugged. Sara stretched her arms. “Next?”

“Okay, you can light candles, easy enough.” Mason said. Sara closed her hand, making the flames on the candles blow out. Opening her hand, the candles lighting again. Mason tapped his pen against the notebook. “What about something bigger?”

“Bigger?”

“Okay, think Prince Zuko, come on!” Mason said, ducking behind her. Sara took a breath, curling her hand into a fist, punching the air. “Nothing.”

“Try again.”

Sara stepped back, throwing her fists in rapid succession. “Nothing’s happening.” Mason poked his head out from behind her. “Again.”

Sara sighed, punching the air hard again. “Nope, nothing’s happening.” she said, dropping her hands. “I don’t get it. I totally lit a Berserker on fire once…I don’t know….maybe it was a fluke…it was a full moon…” she mused to herself.

Mason walked around, inspecting the air and her for a minute, going into the kitchen, opening one of the bottom draws. “Maybe its something else,” he said, holding out a blowtorch. Sara jumped back. “Woah, woah, where did you get that?! Put that away!” Sara said, edging away from him.

“It’s worth a shot.” Mason said, pressing the handle, a jet of blue flames blowing out the end.

“No its not, you are not lighting me on fire!” Sara snapped.

“Parrish was flame-resistant!” Mason said, checking his phone quickly before stuffing it back into his pocket. Sara scoffed. “I’m 100% sure, I’m not.” she said, eyeing the blowtorch as if it were going to jump up and start throwing flames. Mason linked his lips, holding it up. “Just give it a go.”

“No.”  
“One try.”
“No.”

Mason sent down the blowtorch. “Alright, how about this?” he said, digging into his pocket, pulling out a lighter. Sara glared at the lighter. “You had that, and you wanted to use a blowtorch on me?!”

Mason shrugged. Sara sighed, holding out her hand. The flame erupted, just licking her skin, before she pulled her hand back, hissing in pain.

“Not flame -resistant then.” Mason said, turning off the lighting.

“Yeah, nope.”

~

SaRa’s LiSt oF PoWeRs

 speed-reading

Telekinesis

Pain infliction

Pain infliction  (gave Mason a small headache) not small

Elemental Control (kinda)

Healing???

Premonitions in dreams ??

Premonitions in dreams

Pyrokinesis

Siphoning

Psychometry???

Psionics

“Okay, I think that’s enough testing for today.” Sara said, closing the notebook, tossing it onto the couch. “What do you want to do now, hmm? We could watch a movie? Better than waiting by the-” Sara paused, watching Mason check his phone again. “Phone…” she said, playing with the ends of her jean’s pockets. “You can go, you know. I’ll be fine on my own.”

“Wha? No, Movie? Yeah, um-” Mason said, scratching his head, shoving his phone back down into his pocket.

“Come on, someone’s being trying to get your attention all night,” Sara drawled, smiling. “You really helped me out. Go have some fun. I’ll text you if something goes wrong. Promise.”

Mason bit her lip. “You sure?” Sara hummed. Mason smiled. “I’ll call you-” Mason said, already barreling out of the door,  sending a quick text.

“Okay, hey, Mason,” Sara called. Mason turned, sticking his head though the door. “Yeah.”

“Thank you for helping me.” she said gently. Mason smiled. “Anytime, bye!” he waved. Sara smiled, waving back. “Bye.”

Closing the front door, she went back into the living room, picking up the books, going upstairs to her room, setting them in the corner with the notebook. Going back downstairs, she gathered the candles, opening the left living room cabinet.

“Oh.” she mumbled, one falling from the box, rolling under the table. Setting the box in the cabinet, she crawled under the table, picking up the candle. Opening her hand, she lit the wick, the warm glow filling the room.

Maybe it was a moment of insanity, but she placed her finger into the flame. Not expecting a lack of burning or tears on her part. The flame danced between her fingers, weaving in and out, like her purple energy would. Leaning closer to the flame, letting it grow in her hands, the heat gently kissing her face.

Warm, comforting-

Burning. The heat was suffocating, smoke alighting her lungs. Stones and rumble crunched under her head. Lifting her head, to the smell of burning rubber, blue…she saw-

“STILES!”

~

“STILES!” Sara shouted, he was still, his jeep upturned, still burning. “STILES!” she yelled, running towards him, sliding on her knee, lifting his head up. He was alive. Trying to lift him up, drag him out of the wreckage. He was stuck. Blood was sprayed across his face, from the side…Theo.

“Theo!” Sara called, taking of her jacket, bunching it up, setting it under Stiles’s head. “Theo!” she said, going to the other side. Sure enough, he was laying there, knocked out cold, blood running down his chin.

“Theo, Theo,” Sara said, bending down, shaking him. “Hey, hey, wake up, wake up!”

His eyes shot up, grabbing her wrist. “What-?”

“Stiles.” she breathed out, still yanking on his sleeve. “Help me get him out.”

Theo nodded, the dazed look in his eyes vanishing, pulling himself to his feet. Sara ran to the end of the animal clinic, pulling out the fire extinguisher. Running back to Stiles, she opened the fire extinguisher, blowing it over Stiles and the jeep. Theo pulling him out of the wreckage. Sara threw the extinguisher down, holding Stiles’s head.

“Stiles. Stiles.” she tried, taking his hand in hers, squeezing it tightly. “Stiles!” she said, feeling the familiar burn behind her, now purple eyes. His eyes shot open, coughing harshly.

 “Its okay, its okay.” she mumbled, rubbing his back. “It’s okay.” Stiles took a few wrangled deep breathes, still coughing. “You’re okay.” she mumbled, not really sure if she was saying it for his benefit or her own.

“The body.” Theo said, a some of his blood rolling down his chin onto his shirt. “The body’s gone.”

~

“We should get you to the hospital. You took in a lot of smoke.” Theo said, setting the jeep down gently. Sara rubbed Stiles back, he’d been quiet for a long time, sitting down on the small step that lead to the animal clinic, her leather jacket over his shoulders. The blood still on his face.

“I'm fine.” Stiles said, in the kind of voice that told her he was not ‘fine’. Sara licked her lips, the heat from the flames still present in the air. “Theo’s right, you took a bad fall too, let alone smoke. We shou-”

The jeeps radio screeched on, static echoing out. “Dispatch: Suspect in 1-8-7 is in custody and en route to station. Suspect's name is Yukimura, Kira.”

“What's a 1-8-7?” Theo asked. Stiles staring at his radio. “Homicide…Should get to the Sheriff’s station.” he mumbled, grabbing the handle of his jeep. Sara taking him by the arm. “No, we need to get you to the hospital first.”

Stiles shook her off. “Not imp-”

Sara grabbed his arm again, pulling him down her height. “We’re going to the hospital, whether you going conscious or not, your choice.”

“Sara-”

~

Waiting, was the worst part about hospitals. It was mind-numbing and all consuming. Taking up all your head space, yet leaving no thoughts of value behind. It didn’t help they were on the floor where the Geneticist had appeared before her. Every time she looked, she felt as if she were being watched. Seen by them, heard by them.

Her footsteps echoed across the floor, the heavy metallic boots. She could hear the whirrs and purrs of the gears. She passed though the doctors and nurses, her blurring gloves and mask.

She covered her ears. She was dreaming this, right?

The metal boot came closer, the banging like drums. She moved from the chair, edging backwards. Closer. The boot slammed against the floor. Her lungs had closed off. The metal boot came closer.

Breathe.

She couldn’t breath.

 She couldn’t.

The Geneticist hand that curled her neck, shoving her head against the wall. Her fingers pressing against her neck. She couldn’t breathe. Breathe. Breathe. Breathe Something grabbed her shoulders. Fight? How? Run? Breathe!

She felt the wall again, cool like glass against her back.

“Shh, shh. It’s okay. It’s okay.” he said, his voice sounded distant, but it was there. “I think your having a panic attack-”

Yes, she was. She hadn't had one in years. Since she was child. And the scariest thing had been her father stumbling in wasted. When she ran to Scott and hid in the corner of the room near the radiator, holding him as tight as she could, listening to his heartbeat.

“Take deep breathes, right?”

She nodded, taking a deep breath, shutting her eyes.

“Okay, just hold my hand, it’s alright. It’s safe.” he said, taking her hands in his, holding them tightly. Another was on her shoulder. She was next to the chair. She took another deep breath.

“It’s okay, it’s okay. It’s safe. It’s safe. You’re safe.” the hand just graced her cheek, stroking her hair gently. It was warm. It pull her into it’s chest, stroking her hair. She could hear its heartbeat. It was different from Scott’s, but it was comforting all the same. She took deep breathe.

She wondered if werewolves did an organ transplant if the organ just regenerated like Deadpool, or if it lost its power in an un-supernatural host. If they didn’t, that would be really cool. She was sure if it did, Scott would donate and regrow his organs like mad. Made sense.She would rather be off-brand Deadpool than off-brand Scarlet Witch at this point.

She felt her heartbeat match his, the suffocating feeling slowly starting to disappear. He smelled all smoky, and sort of bloody, and at the moment he was strangely still. It reminded her of Malia. She also had moments where she went completely still, like a predator on the hunt, alert of every sudden movement. If he was a wolf, she probably would have seen his ear prick.

She slowly opened her eyes. “I’m fine.” she said, releasing her breath, leaning against the wall.

“You sure? Theo asked. He still had blood on him. It had stained the front of his t-shirt a deep ruby colour.

She sighed, nodding her head. “Yeah, here,” Sara said, slipping her hands out his his, searching her pockets. Theo left hand was still holding her shoulder. They were next to the waiting room chair, crouched down, between one of the chairs and the large plant, blocked away from the rest of the hospital.

Finding it at the bottom of her pocket, she pulled out a handkerchief. Theo smirked, staring at in her hands. “Why do you have that?

“Force of habit.” Sara said, holding it out to him. “Take it, you got a little blood…everywhere.” she said, gesturing to her own face. He took the handkerchief, taking her hand, pulling her to her feet. She gave herself a small hug. She was okay.

Theo had washed the blood off himself, using water from the water cooler, wiping his face before sheepishly handing the cloth back. She took it back, pausing. “You’re bruising.” she said, running her thumb gently across his chin, feeling the tender skin. “Why, why are you bruising?”

Theo smiled, lightly touching her hand. “It’ll heal.” he said softly.

“Yeah, but it should have already.” she said, pulling his face closer to hers, turning his cheek to see the bruise better. Werewolves could heal broken bones in a matter of seconds. Cuts and bruises would vanish in less that time. So-

“What the hell did this?” she mumbled to herself. What on earth could have caused one to be bruised, enough that even after about a hour after being hit it was still there?  

Logically, some other far stronger creature. Strong enough to flip a jeep, smart enough to go unseen, smart enough to not get caught, able to take on supernatural creatures easily-

“What are you thinking about?” he whispered into her ear. She glanced up at him, her cheek bumping against his. He was very close to her…she didn’t notice…Her breath hitched, feeling the air almost fall to the bottom of her stomach.

His eyes were soft, little flecks of brown, almost golden in the light. Her finger had been  tracing across the bruise, his skin was warm, smooth even with the light stubble at the---“Hmm?” he mumbled, leaning closer to her, a smirk playing on his lips.

“Huh?” Sara squealed, her daydreaming shattering around her, slamming  her hard back into reality. “Oh, sorry,” she said, letting go of his cheek. Stepping back, putting her hands into her pockets, mentally slapping herself. Don’t look at him. Don’t look at him. No. No. Her heart was racing and she didn’t want it to. Don’t go down at road. Just don’t. Thank god for Stiles.

“Stiles,” Sara said, quickly taking the chance to move from Theo’s side. “You okay? Is he okay?” she asked Dr Dunbar, Liam’s father. Dr Dunbar smiled. “He’s fine, just some mild smoke inhalation, but luckily nothing else.” he said, turning to Stiles. “If I may suggest getting a new car-”

“Its a jeep. And I’m not getting a new one.” Stiles said shortly.

“It was sentimental value.” Sara said, patting Stile’s shoulder. “Come on, lets get you home. Thank you Doc.”

“Anytime, Sara.” Dr Dunbar said, waving her and Stiles goodbye, before going on his rounds.

 “You’re going to take me home?” Stiles asked.

“Theo is.”Sara said shortly. God, she was never going to recover from this, this was not the time and besides she didn’t even like him. That much.

“You should get some sleep.” Theo said, leaning against the kitchen counter, across from her. “I don’t sleep, anymore.”

“Nothing’s gonna happen, Sara.” Theo said gently. “Promise.”

“Nothing much. How was the test?” Theo asked, a smile still playing on his lips.

“Not to bad.” Sara said, holding out the paper. Theo took it, chucking to himself, patting her on the back, handing the paper back to her.

“Good job, keep going, you might not need me anymore,” Theo said holding the pen out.  “Well I had a good teacher,” Sara said, taking her pen from him. “And you of course,” she added. Theo smiled. He had a nice smile

“What are you thinking about?” he whispered into her ear. She glanced up at him, her cheek bumping against his. He was very close to her, she didn’t realize how close he was. “Hmm?” he mumbled, leaning closer to her, a smirk playing on his lips.

Okay. Maybe she liked him a little. Just a little bit. Like 5 out of 1000…or 100…10, no 100. Yeah.

“Sara-” Stiles started.

“What? What happened? What’s wrong?” Sara said quickly, taking his arms. Stiles looked at her, looking strangely dazed and mildly disgusted at the same time. “You have a type.”

Sara furrowed her eyebrows. “I’m B positive, but I’m fine…”

Stiles shook his head. “No, you have a type.” he said. She blinked. “Type of what? No. No.” Sara whispered-yelled, giving the hall a once over, hoping and praying Theo wasn’t in earshot. “I do not!”

“Yes, you do,” Stiles hissed back, looked quite maddened.

“No, I don’t! I don’t! Don’t say that!” Sara whined, looking around frantically.

“They kinda look the same too-

“That’s not, they do not--No.” Sara snapped, dragging him to the elevator. “Anyway, you always talk about patterns. Two’s not a pattern.”

“Didn't you have a thing for P-”

“S tiles .”

~

They’d only gotten a few hours of sleep at the Sheriff’s house, when her mother and Scott had filled them in. Dead chimera had been found in her mothers house with Kira’s sword sticking out her chest. Kira had been arrested and Mr Yukimura had taken the blame for the chimera’s murder. They were at the station.

But that wasn’t the most important problem now.

The Dread Doctors showed up at the school and took Hayden and Liam, a few hours ago. Took them. They took them. Malia, Lydia, Scott, Parrish, were, they were…Liam and Hayden. They took them. It was easy.

They took them. A place that couldn’t enter and took them.

Easy. It was so easy. If they could do that…they could come anywhere. A shiver ran down her spine, unconsciously moving closer to Theo and Stiles. The wave of uneasy, bubbling into her stomach, making her feel queasy. The Geneticist hand around her neck--she shook her head. No. No. She couldn’t be emotional. They didn’t need that now. She couldn’t. She wouldn’t.  

Coming in though the back entrance, due to the front behind covered in police tape, she sank to the couch, shutting her eyes. She needed to relax and focus on her breathing. Not thinking about how her friends, Hayden and Liam, who she’d known since childhood were probably going though unspeakable torture.

“Hey,” Malia said, coming down the steps, gently touching her shoulder. “You okay? Your heart rates-”

“Fine. Where’s Scott?” Sara said shortly, sitting up. Malia was still in the clothes from yesterday. The early sun just touching the furniture. “At the station, he’s checking up on Kira. Lydia and Mason are upstairs, their with Corey.”

“Corey?” Stiles asked.

“One of Mason’s friends.” Sara said. “Why?”

Malia folded her arms. “They think he’s one of the chimeras.”

Sara smirked. “That tracks, they do have a thing for highschool kids.”

The door opened, Scott slamming it shut. Sara got up, standing between Theo and Stiles. Scott setting his helmet down on the table. He was strangely stiff, and oddly chilling. Not in the fearful sense, but she could feel his power, she could feel the Alpha, the werewolf in Scott.

“Hey, is Kira okay?” Stiles asked. Scott bypassed him silently. Stiles froze, looking after him. “Scott?” Theo said. Scott moving past him without look, going upstairs. Sara ran after him. “Scott? What you doing? Scott?”

Scott walked into his room, Corey sitting on his bed, with a book on his lap, Mason and Lydia talking to him. “He's right. We don't have time for that anyway.” Scott said, advancing on Corey.

“No, Scott, don't!” Lydia cried. Sara gasped. Scott’s claw deep into Corey’s neck. “What is he-?”

Lydia grabbed her arm. “Don't get too close.” she said, the other trooping up, standing at the doorway.

“What is he doing?” Theo asked. Lydia pursed her lips. If disapproval had a face, it was that. “Tapping into Corey's memories. It's usually something only Alphas do.” Theo edged closer, a strange glint in his eyes, different from what he normally looked like. “Is it as dangerous as it looks?”

“Probably more.” Stiles said, like everyone else, their eyes locked between Scott and Corey.

“Does anyone know if it's working? Mason asked.

“Looks painful enough.” Sara said. Mason giving her a mildly panicked look. “Sorry,” she mumbled. After a few more minutes of  silence, Scott yelped, tumbling backwards, Stiles and Theo catching him, pulling him the side of the room. Mason and Lydia doing the same for Corey.

“Is he okay?” Scott breathed out. Sara taking Scott’s shoulder, helping him leaning against the drawers. “Are you okay?”

“Is he okay?” Scott repeated. Sara glanced behind at Corey, who was feeling behind his neck. “Yeah, he’s fine.”

“What the hell did you do to me?” Corey yelped, grabbing the back of his neck in pain. Sara rubbed Scott’s back. “See? Fine.”

“You'll be all right.” Scott mumbled, holding tightly on her arm, taking a few deep breathes. Letting go of her arm, pushing her away looking around frantically for something on the drawer.

“There's blood.” Corey whined.

“You'll heal.” Scott said shortly, rummaging around mindlessly, knocking things onto the floor.

“Scott…” Stiles started.

“He'll be fine!” Scott said loudly, everybody falling silent. Scott went back to looking for something on his desk.

 Sara gently touching his shoulder. “Scott, Scott,” she said softly, pulling his attention back to her. “What are you looking for?” she asked slowly.

Scott made a writing notion, Sara instantly grabbing a notepad from his cupboard. Scott snatching the notepad in her hand, scribbling something down. “Listen..I think it worked. I saw something. There were tunnels. Pipes along the walls. There were these huge blue pipes at the entrance. Two on both sides.” he said, showing Stiles and Lydia the crude drawing.

“Wait a second I know this. I've seen this before. That's one of the tunnels I used to skateboard in.” Stiles said. “Remember my dad caught me one time and told me to never go back?”

It's the water treatment plant.” Lydia said instantly.

That's where they are.” Scott said, staring at the drawing. “That's where we'll find Liam and Hayden.” he said, throwing the pad onto the bed, racing downstairs. Stiles, Malia, Mason on his heels.

 Sara picking up the notepad, biting her lip. Water-treatment plant… “Hmm.” she hummed, jogging down the stairs, Theo, Lydia and Corey behind.

“Scott...Scott,” Stiles said, following him. “Slow down. Just think for a second, okay? Mason shouldn’t be going.” Stiles added. Mason flew to Scott’s side.“Liam's my best friend. I'm going.” Mason said firmly. Stiles scoffed. “Oh, did you suddenly get super wolf powers? I wasn't aware of that development.”

“Well, if you're not going, I could use the help.” Scott said. Stiles shook his head. “No, I'm coming just as soon as I talk to my dad. They're moving the body and he wants to make sure that this time no one steals it.”

“How's he gonna do that?” Malia asked.

“I don't know. But whoever took the last one was strong enough to flip my Jeep.” Stiles said.

“Meaning it has to be something supernatural taking them.” Sara added. Malia pointed at Theo. “We can bring Theo.”

Theo sighed, glancing at her before behind him. “Maybe I better stay here. You know, in case the Doctors decide to make a house call for Corey.”

“Scott, Stiles is right.” Lydia said slowly. “We need to slow down and think.”

“I am thinking…” Scott said worriedly. “About how Liam and Hayden could already be dead.”

“You could've hurt him, Scott.” Lydia snapped. “Really hurt him.” she said. Scott sighed. “I have to find Liam.” he said, already out the door. Sara sighed.

“Hey, text me. For anything.” Stiles said to Malia. Malia nodded. “I got it.”

“Anything at all. Okay?” Stiles added, but they were already gone. Sara smiled awkwardly at Corey. “Would you like some tea?”

~

It’d been about a hour. It felt like a month. “Sara?”

“Hmm?” Sara said, throwing her rubber ball in the air. Lydia caught the ball, sitting down next to her, cupping the mug of coffee in her hands. “What’s is it?”

“Something’s bugging me.” Sara said, Lydia tossing her the ball, Sara throwing it up again. Lydia sipped her tea. “What?”

Sara caught the ball. “Water treatment plant, the currents…something doesn’t really make sense…I mean how did they get into the school-unless…” she paused. No, no, could it really-?

“What?” Theo asked, leaning over the couch.

“Wait a second,” she said, going upstairs. Digging though the hundreds of books, Mason and brought her and the map of telluric current, she went back downstairs, sprawling the map and book onto the table.

“Yesterday, Mason and Stiles, were talking about telluric currents. We guessed that the reason my powers don’t work on them, because I draw power from the supernatural, which vibrates on a different frequency. The Doctors have electromanginc powers, right? So, the reason they don’t work at times, is because of the high concentration of telluric currents which disrupt the electromagnetic pulses.” Sara said, opening a marker, circling Eichen House, the school and a few other places. “The doctors couldn’t enter Eichen house without Kira disrupting current. So, how did they get Liam and Hayden?”

“By vibrating on a different frequency. Obviously,” Sara said to herself. Theo nodded. “Okay, what’s that have to do with Liam and Hayden?” he asked.

Sara pointed the water treatment plant on the map. “The water plant has telluric current's. Not as high as the school, but stronger compared to here and here for example.” she said pointing out the places.

“If the Doctors have a lab, they need to be in a place where they are able to maintain their frequency. Somewhere that doesn’t have a massive convergence of telluric currents, but-”

Lydia pointed on the map. “There’s a blind spot.”

Sara glanced down. “Which means, the tunnels that Scott saw, may be between here and here.” she said, drawing a long mildly disfigured rectangle. “Thus this surrounding area.” she said, drawing a larger circle. “Just need to narrow it down…” she said, tilting her head towards Corey; who was pretending that he wasn’t listening.

“What?” he said. Sara closed her marker. “Don’t play dumb, your already in a terrible situation, you might as well help us out.” she said hopefully. Corey scoffed.

~

“Come on, Corey, help us out, please.” Sara sang softly to herself, resisting every urge to smack him across the face, channeling all her aggression into squeezing the life out of the pillow in her hand. She thought she was a fairly patient person, but after half an hour of trying to nicely convince Corey, she was leaning towards impaling him with a sword in her mother’s kitchen.

 Lydia rubbing the back of his neck with a swab. Corey staring into space, not meeting anyone eye. “It healed, didn't it?”

“Yeah. Completely.” Theo said. Sara glaring knives and daggers at him. Corey got up. “Okay, then. It's been fun. Especially the part where a werewolf forced his way into my brain with his claws.” he said.

Sara flicking her wrist, the door locking itself. Corey whipped around. “You can’t keep me here!”

“Can’t I?” Sara said, leaning on the table. Lydia gave her a look. Sara folded her arms, leaning backwards. “You wanna get your head cut off, it’s your problem. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.”

“Wha-?”

“Sara’s right,” Theo interjected. “I don't think leaving is such a good idea, Corey. You know, Lydia's a Banshee. It means she can tell when someone's close to death. Lydia, what happens if he walks out that door?”

“It's bad.” Lydia said, not sounding very convincing. “Very bad.” Corey scoffed. “I'll take my chances.”

Sara sighed, swinging the pillow, back and forth. “Where is Stiles bat, when you need it…” Sara mumbled. She was sure she could knock him out with this though, if she just added enough force-

“Then give us a better chance at finding our friends. What else did you see? Come on, Corey, there had to be something else.” Theo said. Corey gripped the door handle tightly. “There was the hospital and...they took me outta my room.”

“And then where?” Lydia asked. Corey sighed. “The tunnels. Like I already told you. That's it.”

“Yeah, nothing after that?” Theo said doubtfully.

“No.” Corey said firmly. Theo edged closer to him, Lydia flanking his side. “ Well, there has to be more. Think. Corey, for one minute, just... just think.”

“Yeah, what do you want huh?” Sara said. “Incense, diffuser, candles, something to light up your ass and give you a sense of urgency?” Corey scoffed, rolling his eyes, making head way for the door.

“Okay, okay, I’m sorry,” Sara amended, raising her hands in surrender. “Look, I know this doesn’t really matter to you, but--these are our friends, and all the time we’re wasting here. They could suffering as much as you have. Please if you can try and remember something, anything that might us find them…and we’ll leave you alone.”

Corey shifted uncomfortably. “There was a basement.”

Lydia’s eyes snapped to Corey’s. “Where? Like, in a building?”

Corey nodded. “A house.It was old, covered in dust and…There was a broken stone wall with a large hole in it. Like a bomb went off.”

“Wait, what?” Sara said, getting up, going to her map.  Theo glanced at Lydia. “Lydia, the werewolf with the talons...The one who attacked Scott. Didn't Parrish say that he smashed through the wall of a basement? Wasn't it something like that?”

“No. It was exactly that.” Lydia said. Sara jogging to her map. Sure enough, it was in her estimated area of where the Doctor’s were hiding.

“2218 Astoria Lane.” Sara said, tossing Theo his car keys. “Let’s go.”

~

“You alright? You’re quieter than normal.” Theo said, glancing at her from the corner of his eyes. Sara shifted in her seat. “My friends are likely behind tortured in unspeakable manners, so, not really in a talkative mood.” she said quietly, watching the houses and the tress pass them. Theo leaned back in his seat. “Might make you feel better.”

Sara paused, considering it. “Yeah, no.”

Theo sighed. “Okay,” he said, a the car filling with silence, besides the hum of the engine. “I heard you thinking about trying out for soccer again?”

Sara looked up. “Where did you hear that?” She hadn't even told Scott or Liam yet, the only person she told had been-

“Mason told me.”

“Mason talked to you?” Sara said skeptically.

“Well, I heard him talk about it.” he said sheepishly. Sara smirked.“You know, it’s rude to eavesdrop, Theo.” she teased. “I figured it might be nice to play again.”

Theo shifted in his seat, his left hand on the wheel. “Yeah, you know, I remember you in our Little League. You were pretty competitive.”

“I was not…” Sara said. Theo raised his eyebrow cheekily. “Didn’t you make some kid cry?”

“Okay, I didn’t make him cry.” Sara scoffed. Theo raised his eyebrows. Sara crossed her arms. “Technically. It wasn’t may fault he couldn’t pass the ball- I mean, that’s literally what the games about-”

Theo chuckled, turning his attention back to the road. She bit her lower lip, forcing herself to looked out the window, rather than him. Clever. Distracting her with something as trivial as that. Though she couldn’t help, but wonder how he remember all that after so many years. They didn’t even know each other then…

“You and Liam were friends before then even, right?” Theo said, seeming to know the answer already. “How’d that happen?

“Yeah.” she said, tucking some hair behind. “Since, what…before first grade? There was this, daycare that I went to. Liam went to the same one. Couple kids were picking on me for a few weeks, I was the smallest, so…I never told anyone, my mom and dad were having their issues and I didn’t want to bother them or Scott and Stiles.”

She smiled. “His first day there, Liam saw them picking on me and ducked a container of fish food on their heads. And then the fishbowl, with the fish.”

Theo  laughed. Sara giggling. “We got kicked out after that. I didn’t see him for a while, until we went to school. No-one sat next to him. So I did. We’ve been friends since then.” she mumbled, her face falling. “If Liam dies, I…”

 “He’s not-” Theo said, glancing at her, taking her hand in his, squeezing it tightly. “He’s not.” 

She nodded, strangely feeling rather odd the longer he held her hand. “Oh, its right there,” Sara said, pointing to the old building. Theo pulled into the driveway, the two getting out.

 It was sort of what you could expect a depleted house and building next to it to look like; old, smelly, creepy. “Looks cosy,” Theo said.

Sara snorted, shutting the door, already going up the drive. “Okay, lets head around back--”

Theo grabbing her arm suddenly, pulling her behind him. Sara stumbled slightly, Theo still holding tightly onto her arm.

“What are doing?”

“Maybe I should go first,” Theo said, looking at the house. “Just in case.”

Sara opened her mouth to argue, shutting it reluctantly. “Yeah, fine.”

Theo nodded. “Stay behind me.” he said, jogging around the back. Sara strolling behind him.  

“Liam? Hayden?” Theo called.  

“Theo, wait... Don't!” Liam shouted. Sara running inside, jumping back, narrowly avoiding Theo, who’d been thrown from a large electric fence, knocked out cold.

“Well, that’s just great.” she said, bending down, checking his pulse. “He’s fine. Liam! Hayden! You guys alright?”

“Sara,” Liam breathed out, edging towards the gate. She pulled off her jacket, bunching it into a pillow, gently placing it under Theo’s head. “Hey,” Sara mumbled, standing near the gate, making sure not to touch it. “You alright?”

“Could be better,” Liam said, smiling tiredly. Sara grinned back, calling out to Hayden. “Hayden! You okay?” Hayden grimaced, but nodded, holding onto her side. Sara let out a sigh of relief.

“Think you can blast or something?” Liam suggested. Sara licked her lips. “I could try,” she said,  stepping back from the gate, lifting her hands, feeling the surge of energy on the tips of her fingers. Her purple eyes drifted to the gate, falling on Hayden.

Kill it. Kill it now. Her hands moved on their own accorded, slicing though the air. Like a knife cutting though butter, it slide down her body-

“No.” she mumbled, dropping her hands. “No. I don’t want to hurt you.” Sara said, looking around the empty room. “Maybe there’s a off switch, or a plug or--There’s Theo.” she said, gesturing to him. “I have Theo.”

She bend down, shaking him hard. “Theo. Theo. Theo!” she hissed, taking his hand in hers, squeezing it tightly, feeling the familiar burn-

It was faint. She wouldn't have noticed it. Wouldn’t have felt it. It was faint, but it was there, the same uncomfortable, wrong feeling. The same twisting in her gut, when she was near Lucas at Sinema and Tracy. The same burn and painful feeling. The same angry power that insisted upon killing them. Killing the chimeras.

Kill it. Kill it now.

She jumped back, his hand slipping out of hers. Theo slowly getting up, holding his head.  Her hands were shaking. Kill it. Kill it now. But Theo…

Theo wasn’t a chimera. Theo was werewolf. Theo got bitten in a swimming pull doing handplants…“Sara? Hey, hey, you okay?” Theo said softly, gently cupping her cheek with his hand. She blinked, nodding. “Yeah.” she mumbled.

“Theo, you all right?” Liam called out. Theo’s hand gently let go of her cheek, holding his head. “Yeah.” he grunted. “Yeah, I'm fine.” he said, getting up.

“You think you can get help?” Liam asked, glancing at Sara, who was still sitting on the floor, looking more dazed than helpful. Theo followed his gaze. She could their eyes on her, but she couldn’t bring herself to meet them.

If Theo..if…that meant…if…but…

“I am the help.” Theo said, grabbing either side of the fence. The electricity shot though them. Sara shutting her eyes, covering her ears from the sound of the voltage and his yells before the fence slammed on either end.

It didn’t make any sense.

She slowly lifted her head, watching Theo walk inside, helping Liam and Hayden. She got up, helping supporting Liam, not trusting herself to touch Hayden as yet.

If he was a chimera, why was he helping them?

~

The drive back was quiet, besides Liam and Hayden having a hushed conversation in the backseat of Theo’s car. Sara stared straight ahead at he road, her mind going a mile a minute.

More than one explanation. Right? Her powers could be going even more haywire than they already were…Theo could be a chimera, maybe, the doctors were looking for him…maybe, maybe….

She glanced at him. Theo, who’d been smiling to himself as Liam and Hayden kissed in the backseat. His eyes flickered to her, he gave a her a soft smile. Sara pulled on a smile, unable to ignore the twisting feeling in her gut, suddenly feeling rather guilty..

Theo…how could she think he would harm them? Theo…who she’d sat with the day Lydia nearly died…Theo who saved Scott’s life…Theo saved Stiles life…Theo saved Malia, Lydia, Liam, Hayden…Theo who she owned her life too.

It felt like a age when they finally reached home. Lydia worriedly checking if they were okay, Kira who had come back home fussing over them. They’d been gone hours. Scott wasn’t home yet. Her eyes drifted to Hayden. She needed to know. She needed to check.

“Hey, Hayden,” Sara mumbled, sitting down on the couch. Hayden lifting her head off the couch. “Could I try something?” she asked, holding out her hand. Hayden nodded tiredly, taking it. Enclosing her hand over Hayden’s, she shut her eyes, focusing hard on healing, waking.

She felt it again, a block. Wrong. Wrong. Kill.

Sara let go of Hayden’s hand. “Sorry,” she mumbled, suddenly feeling rather odd. Cold. Despite sitting right next to Hayden she felt miles away from her. Miles away from herself. Hayden furrowed her eyebrow. “You okay?”

Sara nodded. “Yeah, fine. Get some rest okay?” she said, getting up, letting Liam take her place next to Hayden’s side.

Sitting down on her armchair, Sara’s eyes drifting to Theo. He did help Scott that night though. He can’t be that bad.” she said, tucking some hair behind her ear.

She gazing at Theo, who pulled Scott in a hug.

“Unless he’s trying to trick us, lure us into a false sense of security.”

Scott slowly hugged him back, his arms tightening around him. He looked so…broken…lost…they all did…everyone. A distance, had somehow grown over them, between Kira and Scott, between Malia and them…between Scott and Stiles…even Liam…there was been a change when he returned with Hayden…she’d changed too…

They were in the same room, yet everyone seemed miles away from one another. Fractured. Theo’s eyes met hers.

They were not warm, like when he looked at her during their study sessions, when his hand stayed on hers just a little longer than needed. They weren’t understanding or kind; like when he wedged himself between her and the hospital, holding onto her, whispering quiet reassurances, when she felt like she was dying.

They weren’t desperate; like hers when she held onto his hand, terrified at the thought of her best friends dying. Or filled with relief...when he’d saved her, again and again. The kind of feeling that felt reserved for others, but felt…different when she was with him…

They were just cold. Cold and dark, like that night almost seven years ago. The coldest night of the year. She’d seen those eyes before, just for a second when she was just a child, and he was just Theo Raeken. The son of a family struck with tragedy.  

“But, you might be right, Stiles. There’s definitely something to strange about him.” she said, Stiles grinning.

“No, no, no. I said strange, not evil.”

She had a really bad feeling she’d been wrong about Theo Raeken all along.

Chapter Text

“It’s you. Isn’t it? The success. The first Chimera.”  

Smart. It had been her defining characteristic since she was a child. Sara is a very bright child. Yes, Sara is very smart, very intelligent young lady. It must have been true. It was said or written at every school meeting or report card. She didn’t actually remember much about grad school, her mother and father were going though their messy divorce. Stiles mother, Claudia had passed away and the Sheriff had been struggling, so Stiles had more sleepovers with them than usual.

More often than not, she’d sit on the floor outside her Mom’s room, when she needed a moment to herself to cry. She never wanted to leave her alone. Listening to the low sounds of TV coming from Scott’s room where he and Stiles sat in some attempt to give him a break from the abyss of guilt.

It didn’t help that the kids at school had chosen her as their latest prey at school, after one for her father’s drunken incidents filtered into their ears. She felt powerless, useless, unable to help them. She never wanted to feel that way again.

One thing she did remember was, an incident in fourth grade. Some other kids asked her for help with their homework, which led to a cheating incident, all of them copied of her, turned theirs in early and threw her homework under the bus. In the end everything had been resolved and she hadn't gotten into any trouble, except Stiles berated her on being too trusting. She promised to do better.

When she came home after San Francisco, after the hunters, Elena. You would think she would have know, learned her lesson. She wished she did.

A FEW HOURS EARLIER:

“Something's changed. And I think it's because of me.
And I don't know how to fix it.
My asthma is back.

I'm not sure how, but it came back.
 Just as bad as it used to be.

So now, I keep my inhaler on me all of the time. Just like I used to.”

She spent more time looking over her shoulder than anything else these days. For the Dread Doctors, for the next chimera, the next thing trying to kill them. She didn’t exactly know what she was waiting for, but she knew it was bad.

She kept to herself, not really knowing what was more maddening. Bottling it all or coming clean to Scott. Telling him she was murderer, that she didn’t feel remorseful, that she didn’t have a choice. That she’d do again, if she had too.

She didn't know how to tell him that she dreamed of his death by her hands. That the untameable power inside her wanted to burst out of her system, like it had with Elena, with Garrett, the Berserkers in La Iglaisa, Tracy…and now Hayden. So now, she kept to herself in hopes of keeping herself in check. An illusion of control.  Just like she used to.

“And it's been five days. We haven't seen any new Chimeras, and we haven't seen the Dread Doctors. We all go to school, pretending like nothing's happened. But everyone seems to know.
You just walk down the halls and no one's smiling.
 No one's laughing.
You get the feeling that everyone can sense that something's coming. They just don't know what is, or how bad it's going to be.

“So I was thinking about using the wavelength’s to maybe it might-what’s that?” she asked, setting down her notebook. Liam pulling the red duffel bag away, setting it on the other side of the desk. “Nothing.” he said stiffly.

He didn’t even look her in the eye, his gaze set across at the garbage bin, during their free period. She tried to ignore the animosity in the air, but it became thick and heavy over them, like a thundercloud. Sara cleared her throat. “I understand that maybe, keeping Hayden safe, seems difficult for us-”

Liam scoffed. Sara ignored it. “But you can at least tell me what you’re planning to do, because maybe I could help-”

“Help? You? Really?” Liam snapped, the anger that had been bubbling to the surface, bubbling over. “You can’t even help yourself. You’re too afraid to do anything.  You could have found and gotten us out that day without anyone getting hurt.”

“I didn’t let you out, because I didn’t want to end up hurting anybody.” Sara hissed. Liam shook his head. “Hurt anybody? You can’t even protect yourself.” Liam said, picking up the bag. “All you do is run and hide. Like a coward.”

She heard the door slam. It wasn’t as loud as sound of her heart snapping in her chest. She bent her head low, squeezing her eyes shut, not daring to look up. If she did, she’d may start sobbing and she couldn’t-not now. Her brain tried to rationalize that it was his anger, the supermoon. Her heart…told her opposite. Liam even said that, thought that…she truly must be a coward.

Every time I feel like I should do something about it, I
 find myself reaching for my inhaler. Like, I'm going to take a hit of it and, and come up with some brilliant solution on how to save everyone.
But I don't know what to do. I don't think anyone does.

She didn’t wake up screaming. Maybe because she just didn’t end up sleeping. Instead she’d lie awake and read, read books on witches, werewolfs, banshees, anything and everything she could get her hands on. Something to help. Help her identify the chimeras, help her figure out what the hell was going on with Theo, what the hell the Dread Doctors were doing…something. Anything.

Maybe that's why no one's really talking to each other.
 Sometimes we don't even notice each other.
But I think some of us are okay with that.
Because not talking makes it easier to keep secrets.
And I don't know if anyone's really lying about things.
Maybe it's more like lies of omission.

“Hey,” Sara said, closing her bedroom door. Scott shutting his, schoolbag already slung over his shoulder. They hadn't really spoken in a few days. There was a strange air of awkwardness between them. Like both wanted to say something, but they were too afraid to say it. Saying nothing at all seemed better.

“Hey, are you okay? You’ve been really quiet recently.” Scott said, pulling his school bag over his shoulder. Sara ‘ah-ed’. ”Yeah, yeah I’m ok…” she said, scratching the back of her neck. Scott nodded. “I didn’t really get to tell you, but good job, finding Liam and Hayden-”

“Oh, well I didn’t really do much-” Sara mumbled. I didn’t do anything at all. Scott gave her a soft smile. “Well, you and Theo make a pretty good team.” Scott said lightly.

Sara bit her lip.There was like a 50% chance, Theo wasn’t who he said he was and she was close to blurting it out and may possible cause him to hate her for the rest of his life. “I suppose…”

Scott shifted on his feet. ““You know, Stiles told me about the tutoring.”

Her eyes widened. She completely forget to tell him. “Oh…right-um”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Scott asked, he said it like it didn’t really matter, but she could feel the hurt in his voice.

“I’m sorry, I just…I didn’t want you to worry, and I knew Stiles would be all weird about it. And then, with everything, I just forgot.” Sara mumbled.

“No its okay,” Scott said gently. I just…I want you to know, you can tell me anything. I’m here.”

Theo is lying. Lying about his past. Lying about how he was turned. If he was turned. He may have killed Josh. Theo may not be the good guy. And she She kinda sorta liked him. Stiles might have killed Donovan.  

She murdered Elena and a group of hunters in San Francisco. And he and eveyone else…they’ll hate her. Her powers are going haywire and she didn’t know what to do. She might lose control again. And she was terrified. Of the Dread Doctors, of the dream…of herself.

She didn’t say anything like that.

She just nodded, pulling the strap of her bag up on her shoulder. Scott pulled her into a hug, Sara wrapping her arms around him, holding him like he may just vanish into thing air.  Whatever happened to her, she could handle, but she couldn’t lose him.

She couldn’t lose Scott.

Maybe the worst lie is to Stilinski. Because no one's told him about Parrish yet.

Then again, no one's told Parrish either.
He doesn't seem to remember taking the bodies. And we think that he's only really dangerous if you try to get in his way. If Stilinski knew the truth, he'd definitely get in his way. So Lydia and Stiles are trying to find the bodies, which means finding the Nemeton. They're driving around, searching all of the woods. But the last time that we found this thing, three of us had almost drowned in ice water.

Perigee-syzygy. The supermoon.

It had been a common term in her books, big things, big magical things seemed to occurring during, before and after the Perigee-syzygy. I know, informative. In any case, Perigee-syzygy was a technical term for a Supermoon. Syzygy refering to a straight line between the Moon, Sun and the Earth. Apparently the syzygy, it causes a total solar eclipse or a total lunar eclipse.

From what she read, the Perigee-syzygy would likely increase everyone, everyone that is supernatural’s abilities. Werewolves being the most effected. The larger moon would make them far stronger and more powerful than anything seem before  if harness correctly. Which meant a power upgrade for all of them.

Even herself.

We're not the only ones looking for Chimeras...Stilinski's got everyone looking for the next target. Questioning anyone who's a genetic Chimera. Anyone who's got two sets of DNA. No one really knows what they're looking for.

She’d never stolen medical records before, but she’d done so a few days ago. Theo’s medical records to be exact. She’d gone over them so many times she knew his blood type (O, universal doner) his entire history with his asthma and every other nook and cranny. But after his sister’s death and the Raeken’s move, there wasn’t much. Asthma had stopped after he turned and he didn’t seem to have any other problems.

Like Stiles had said a few weeks ago, Theo had a spotless record. He was the perfect person. Stiles and Liam were right, there was something off with Theo Raeken. She didn’t know what, but something, something’s just didn’t add up.

Some think it's a serial killer. Some probably know it's worse. The two Chimeras that we know about, Hayden and Corey...They're both doing okay. Actually, better than okay. They're healing faster and getting stronger. They don't need our help. And I don't think they'd want it anyway. I still haven't heard from Kira.
And I'm getting more and more worried about Deaton.

I know something's coming.
 And all I can think about is how good am I going to be if I can't even breathe?

It attacked her at random. More often and more violent than ever. Where her heart couldn't stop and her breath did. The world blurred in front of her, leaving only a stabbing pain in her chest. She did her best on her own, to try and manage it, try and control and ground herself back into reality.

Malia, Scott, Stiles and Theo always found her, just before it got really bad. Like some kind of sixth sense. The Sara Trackers. But she knew they were monitoring her, her chemo-signgals, her heart rate. She only really had to be careful around Theo, she didn’t want him to possibly suspect, she suspected something. Despite her suspicions, she was grateful to hold his hand.

She hadn't spoken to Liam, not in days, not since they had their argument.  Mason had been distant too, though it was more due to his infatuation with Corey. Hayden  and Liam were now joined at the hip too, meaning they also didn’t talk as much, besides in class. To be honestly, she was happy they didn’t, the fear of harming her scared her more than anything else. But, it was lonely without them.

~

“So, if this place is so important, how come you didn't want to show it to me before?” Parrish asked, glancing at Lydia in the passengers seat. It had been pretty weird, Lydia had nearly dragged her outside after school with Parrish waiting in his car. She didn’t think she’d be very helpful finding the bodies, considering she and Stiles already tried locating them with her magic.

Not that it worked. Right now, a tin can was more useful than her unstabilized witchy abilities. At least you could chuck a tin can at one of the Dread Doctors.

“Well, the problem is it's not easy to find.” Lydia said, leaning her head against her hand, looking out the window. Sara snorted. “Tell me about it.”

Parrish furrowed her eyebrows glancing her in the backseat. “Should we put it in the GPS?”

“Unfortunately,” Sara said, poking her head between them from her place in the passengers seat. “Its not something you can find with a GPS or magic, or metal detector, or werewolf-I-ness-”

“So, how are we going to find it?” Parrish asked. “Because I don't remember ever being anywhere near a giant tree stump.”

“Giant temperamental potentially murderous tree stump,” Sara added, leaning back into her seat. Lydia sat up. “I think you're already starting to remember.”

“How do you know that?” Parrish said, taking a right turn, moving from the main road to a dirt one.  Sara glanced out of her window. “Yeah, we’re in the middle of nowhere.”

“You just took a right turn.” Lydia said, her eyes drifting to the sign on the road, which read DANGEROUS. Like that wasn’t a given at this point.

“Muscle memory for a giant magical tree stump,.” Sara said, sprawling herself in the back seat. “That’s great.” 

After they parked and awkwardly followed Parrish around, while he wondered aimlessly, Sara wishing she’d brought her math book with her so she’d be able to finish her homework.

“Anything look familiar?”  Lydia tried, after their third walk around. Sara pointed to a large tree with long wiggly looking branches. “We passed that tree a few times.”

Lydia sighed, the same sorta of sigh she gave when she made a stupid mistake in her homework. Sara pursed her lips awkwardly. Lydia patted her shoulder affectionately. Parrish shook his head. “Nothing. I'm trying, but it all looks like woods to me.”

“Maybe you're thinking about it too much. Maybe it's something you need to feel.” Lydia theorized. Sara snapped her fingers. “Oh! I know, you should go to sleep.”

Parrish frowned. “In the middle of the woods?” 

Sara shrugged. “I mean, that’s when you start to feel strange and have that dream, so maybe--”

Lydia suddenly launched herself forwards, aiming a punch at Parrish. He caught her hand, chuckling. “What was that for?”

“To get you to stop thinking.” Lydia said, throwing another punch, Parrish dodging it easily, smiling. “Oh, is this supposed to motivate me?”

“No.” Lydia said, throwing another punch, Parrish ducking, Lydia hitting him on the arm. “It's supposed to get you to stop..thinking!” she cried, kicking him in the stomach.

“I don’t think it’s working!” Sara chimed. Parrish stumbled backwards, falling onto the ground. Smirking, he got up, giving Lydia a come at him gesture. Lydia aimed another kick, Parrish ducking it, narrowly missing Lydia’s punch to his cheek. She pushed him back, blocking his attempted jab, using her other hand to hit him hard against his chest.

Parrish stumbled backwards. Lydia continuing her unrelenting attack, aiming another kick that Parrish dodged, Parrish blocking them with ease. Lydia manged to get a hit in, kicking Parrish’s block hard, making him stumbled back, throwing a punch. Parrish catching both of her arms.

“That looked pretty cool but…,” Sara chirped, bounding up to them. “No tree stump.” Parrish sighed, releasing Lydia’s arms. “No tree stump.”

Sara gasped loudly, pointing though the trees. “Look!” Parrish whipped around. Sara taking her chance, punching him in the face. Parrish smacked into the ground, face first into the leaves.

“Sara!” Lydia cried.

“What?” Sara said, shaking her hand. “I thought that was the plan, you distract him and I-” she said, imitating her swing. “You gave me a look!”

“Not a knock him out look.”

Sara blinked.“So I completely misread the situation?”

Lydia nodded.

“Aw man. Jordan, I’m so sorry, are you okay?” Sara said, helping him up. Parrish laughed, ruffling her hair. “It’s fine. Hell of a right rook.” he said, touching his jaw. “How-?”

“Scott had was incredibly social awkward, had asthma and was like super tiny, before he became werewolf. Stiles’s is his best friend. My dad’s was known as the neighborhood drunk, my best friend has anger issues.” Sara listed. “Someone had to know how to throw a decent punch in the house.”

Parrish smirked, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Come on, we should-” he paused, the grip on Sara’s shoulder tighten. She felt it too. A buzz of electricity, the cold hair, becoming humid and heavy. Her purple eyes flickered, starting at a tree stump, just a few feet away. A tree stump with- 

“Pile of dead bodies, pile of dead bodies.” Sara repeated, as they made their way back to the truck. “Pile of dead bodies, I mean, I give up with this town, why-”

“Just relax,” Lydia said calmly. Sara stopped dead, looked aghast. “Relax? Oh sure, its not like my worst nightmares are coming true…oh wait, it is.”

“I need to call it in.” Parrish said, looking and feeling Sara’s panic. “No, I need to turn myself in.”

Lydia shook her head. “ I don't think that's such a good idea.”

“Everyone's going to die. It’s just going to be us. Alone. I’m probably going to get my head torn off, by, by some-beast or something-they always go for the small ones first. It’s in every horror movie-I don’t even like horror movies-I’m too scared to even watch Grimm at night by myself-I mean--why-”

“Sara-

“You just told me I'm the one taking the bodies.” Parrish said. “I've attacked other law enforcement officers. That's a criminal offense. I shouldn't even be near you.”

“Stop it!” Lydia said shouted. Sara and Parrish stopped talking. Lydia took Sara’s arm. “Everything is going to be fine.” she said firmly, before glancing up to Parrish. “And I'm not afraid of you.” Lydia said firmly.

“I’m not either.” Sara added.

“I'm afraid of me.” Parrish mumbled. That, that she could relate too. Sara patted his shoulder. “I know. Your probably not going to believe it, when we tell you, your a good guy. But, I know I can trust you. Lydia trusts you too. Even if your scared, can you trust us too?” she asked.

Parrish sighed, one of his signature sighs that he was doing this against his better judgement. “Okay. I will.”

Lydia nodded. “Whatever’s happening seems to only happen when there's a body. Other than that you're still a pretty nice guy. And you're a pretty good deputy.” she said, taking his other arm.

“I'm a very good deputy.” Parrish said. “ And I'd like to stay that way. Flipping over Jeeps and attacking colleagues doesn't exactly fit with "protect and serve." I'm covering up the bodies of murder teenagers.”

“I mean technically your not covering anything, you’re just dumping them by a tree.” Sara said. Lydia shook her head. “You're not covering them up…” she paused. “Actually, maybe you are.”

“What?”

Lydia’s eyes widened, nodding as she spoke. “It's the same thing we asked Stilinski to do with Tracy. You're not covering up bodies. You're covering up the supernatural.”

“What's the difference?” he asked.

“Maybe you're keeping the secret safe. Maybe that's part of what you do.” Lydia mused. Sara nodded. “Lydia’s right, maybe your like the supernatural big scary dog that barks at everyone to keep them out.”

“I'm a deputy.” Parrish said dubiously. Lydia shook her head. “You're not just a deputy. And you aren't one of the bad guys.”

“Lydia, you just showed me that my dream was real.” Parrish cried, gesturing to the tree. “But you haven't heard the rest of it.”

“Wait, what?” Sara blurted out. “Whats the rest?

It was so dark. The tress casting over her like large spiked shadows. A light glowed faintly in the distance. Sara slowly walking to it, the sticks and leaves pricking as she trended across.

The light suddenly vanished, plunging her into darkness. Sara sniffed, the hairs on the back of her neck standing up, looking down at the large shadow that cast over hers.

A growl from behind her, as a clawed hand gripping her shoulder so large it could rip it right off.

It lunged.

“Every time I carry a body to the Nemeton, I put it down and add to the ones that are already there.” Parrish said slowly.

“How many?” Lydia asked. Sara feeling herself start to hyperventilate. Oh, this was not good for her anxiety.

“Hundreds, Lydia. Hundreds of them.”

“Okay, I’m freaking out now.”

~

“You’ll be okay?” Lydia asked, Sara jumping out of the backseat Lydia walking her up the driveway of her house. Sara nodded. “Yeah, I just, need to check something, I’ll check in with Scott and Stiles and meet you at the station,” she said, unlocking the door, glancing back at Lydia. “Just make sure he doesn’t do anything stupid,” Sara said, their eyes drifting to Parrish in the drivers seat, leaning against his wheel.

Lydia nodded. “Got it.” Sara smiled. “See you soon.”

“Sara,” Lydia said, grasping her arm tightly. “Be careful.” she said softly, a strange faraway look in her eye. Sara patted her arm gently. “Always.”

Lydia blinked, the look in her eyes vanishing, before she took a deep breath, walking back to the car. Sara waved them off, before going inside, up to her room. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she was missing something. Something right in their faces, something…she paused, going into the kitchen, tidying up the last remains of the breakfast dishes.

Her mother had been busy at the hospital lately, a lot of long nights and early mornings, Stiles and the Sheriff haven't been coming over as much either, meaning their was just her plate of toast crumbs and Scott’s egg’s and toast and their mugs. Setting the dishes on the drying rack, she picked up a cloth wiping the counter, a few black crumbs of pepper falling onto the floor.

Sara got the broom scooping them up and throwing them in the bin, before she washed her hands again--could…no…maybe? The idea was ludicrous.

They would know, wouldn’t they? Then again, she never had much interaction with mountain ash, and who’s to say in small doses, placed in ideal spots…maybe…she ran upstairs, throwing her room door open. Where? Where would she hid something like that? Her books and ornaments usually flew around and broke from her nightmares. So, it’d have to be close, but something that didn’t normally float. Her eyes drifted to her pillow. There.

She touched the pillow, sliding her hand under the pillow cover. She felt something a pouch, it was thin and she felt something leaf-like and sand-like, drawing back pulling out a green leaves. She sniffed them, feeling strangely light-headed, but that wasn’t her main concern, not compared to the purple dust that coated her fingers.

No. She ran into Scott’s room, checking his pillow, purple dust on her fingers. Wolfsbane. No. She moved to the side table drawer, emptying his drawers, pulling out his other inhaler. Wolfsbane. No. How? What? How?

It was a out of body experience. Every possible question was answered, any other explanation meaningless. It had been him, all along. It had been him…she couldn’t.

She hadn’t even registered she’d moved downstairs, hadn’t even registered the door was open.

Until she saw the Mountain Ash. She felt his eyes on her, not warm, not friendly like a wolf catching onto prey, sharp and deadly.

“It’s you. Isn’t it?” she whispered. “The success. The first Chimera.”

For a second, there was silence. For a split second; she wanted to be wrong. She wanted be wrong. Let her be wrong…please…please…She didn’t hear his footsteps. They were light, soundless. She could see him, walking out of the shadows though the mirror. A familiar leather jacket, jeans and t-shirt. She shut her eyes. Theo. Of course.

“Have to admit I’m surprised. I really thought it’d be Stiles that figured it out first.” Theo said, scratching his head. “And honestly,” he chuckled slightly. “I thought you completely trusted me.”

She sighed. “I should have known.”

“Chimera?” she read, catching a glimpse of Theo’s notebook on the table. “What’s that?” she asked.

I should have known you were too good to be true.

“I don’t see what the big deal is,” she said, feeling eyes at the back of her head, turning around. Theo, who much have spotted them giving them a wave and a smile. It was a nice smile, she thought to herself.  

What are you doing here?”

“I told you, came here for a pack.” Theo said simply. She shook her head. “No, I mean. What are you doing here.” she said gesturing to the waiting room. Theo chuckled. “Isn’t it obvious?”

“Not to me.”

“Returning a favour.” Theo said quietly, looking up at the florescent lights. She furrowed her eyebrows. “I didn’t do anything.” Theo smiled, saying nothing.

I should have know you were too nice, too kind…

“Everything’s fine, body’s still here,” Theo said. She sighed. “Oh, good…” biting her lower. Wait, why was he calling her then? “So…”

“I was actually calling to check in on you. Seems you beat me too it though.” he said lightly.

“Oh, sorry.” she said, scratching the back of her neck. He chuckled. “Are you alright?”

I should have know you were too easy to talk to.

She pouted, sinking back into her chair. Theo laughing at her. “Come on, it’s just Biology. Would you rather me be tutoring you in Math?”

“You won’t laugh?” she teased, raising an eyebrow. Theo snorted, nodding. “Promise.”

She bit her lip, withdrawing her hand from the mug. “I’m…scared of the dark.” she said slowly looking down at her mug. “It’s stupid.”

Theo blinked, shaking his head. “No, it’s not.”

“Nothing’s gonna happen, Sara.” Theo said gently. “Promise.”

I should have known you were too perfect.

“What?” Theo asked, a smile still playing on his lips. He seemed quite amused that he caught her staring at him. She had to resist ducking under a table. “Nothing.”

She felt Theo’s hand on her shoulder, stepping in front of her, facing the Dread Doctor. Stiles’s arm on hers , standing in the middle of the elevator, holding it for them to escape. “You know what, all yours big guy,” Sara said, clapping Theo on the arm. “I’m just gonna pass out here really quick.”

“Good job, keep going, you might not need me anymore,” Theo said holding the pen out.  “Well I had a good teacher,” she  said, taking her pen from him. “And you of course,” she added. Theo smiled. He had a nice smile

“What are you thinking about?” he whispered into her ear. She glanced up at him, her cheek bumping against his. He was very close to her, she didn’t realize how close he was. “Hmm?” he mumbled, leaning closer to her, a smirk playing on his lips.

“Sara? Hey, hey, you okay?” Theo said softly, gently cupping her cheek with his hand.

“If Liam dies, I…”

 “He’s not-” Theo said, glancing at her, taking her hand in his, squeezing it tightly. “He’s not.”

“Okay, just hold my hand, it’s alright. It’s safe.” he said, taking her hands in his, holding them tightly. Another was on her shoulder. She was next to the chair. She took another deep breath.

“It’s okay, it’s okay. It’s safe. It’s safe. You’re safe.” the hand just graced her cheek, stroking her hair gently. It was warm. It pull her into it’s chest, stroking her hair. She could hear its heartbeat. It was different from Scott’s, but it was comforting all the same. She took deep breathe.

“You know him?” Malia asked, gesturing to him. Sara still gazing at the Theo. Theo Raeken, the boy who she sat with at the hospital many years ago. It felt like a lifetime ago.

I should have known you wouldn’t have liked me.

Not really.

She felt her throat close, her hand was shaking, she pull it close to her chest. She felt her eyes burn, not with power, not the tickle that told her they were purple instead of brown. But she couldn’t cry. She wouldn’t. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction.

But it hurt.

It hurt…

“My mistake.” she said quietly. “I suppose putting you six feet may also be one,” she said, clenching her fist. She needed the rage, the anger inside that was not her own. Come on. Anger. Please. Be anger-be furious. Be strong, please. Please.

Theo laughed. “Man, I have to say what surprised me most after coming back here, is finding that little Sara McCall is bloodthirsty.”

She turned around, clenching the inhaler in her fist.  “I’m not so little anymore, Theo.”

He nodded, looking her up and down, smirking to himself. “You’re right, your not.”

It was silly. She shouldn’t feel…this…aching in her soul. They weren't friends, they weren't close in any sort of way, they weren't anything…Why did it hurt? Why did she feel like her heart was being ripped from her chest? Why did it feel like empty, yet splitting? It cut deep into her skin, like Liam had just a few hours ago, except this felt like knives piercing her chest.  

She looked up at him. She wished she was Liam, she wanted his anger, his rage…she just felt…used.

“Wolfsbane in the inhaler,” Sara said, tossing it to him. He caught it, turning it around in his hands. Sara shook her head. “You’re a coward, using that to weaken Scott.” she said, watching him stiffen.

She struck a nerve, she knew she did. Sara stepped closer to him. “Guessing you were too scared to really take him on, huh? You getting someone else to do your dirty work? Or is your job, hmm?” she stepped closer. “Being the Dread Doctor’s lapdog?”

Theo sighed, the flicker anger on his face vanishing. “I know what you’re doing, Sara,” he said, setting the inhaler onto the side table. “I know it doesn’t look it.” he said, his hand sliding up her neck, his thumb rubbing the edge of her jawline. “But, I’m trying to help you. I’m trying to help all of you.”

She scoffed, smacking his hand away. “You’re right, I’m sure you can help everyone by hurtling yourself off a bridge.”

He smiled again seeming to be incredibly happy to be threatened. “I always knew you were different from Scott. I didn’t really know how, but see it now. You’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, your not afraid to make the hard choices.” he said, dropping his hand. “You and I, Sara, we’re survivors. The only difference is, you’re afraid. Because you know what you’re capable off, and you know it doesn’t exactly fit into Scott’s idea of what’s right.”

“Really bad idea to start this kind of speech now.”

“Come on, Sara. Be honest with yourself, you’ve got blood on your hands probably more than anyone else, and you and I both know you’re not afraid to get more.” 

Sara smiled. “You’re right, I’m not. And I’m more than happy to spill yours.”

“I know,” he said softly. “But, not yet-” he said. It was so fast-she didn’t even--couldn’t even. The needle had already slid into her vein, darkness already pooling her in eyes. Her body going limp.

“I’m sorry to do this, Sara,” he said, the room going dark. “Don’t worry, I’ll keep you safe.”

~

She woke with a start, on instinct attempting to make a move. She couldn't move-she couldn’t. She couldn’t move. She was…where was she? The room looked mildly familiar. The tree? She was in Theo’s house, room, fake room, house, she supposed. That--he chained her to a radiator. She tried to move her hand, but like the rest of her body it remained still. She was paralyzed.

“Relax.” Theo said, coming inside his bedroom, holding his hands out in surrender. “You’ve only been out a hour,” he said, bending down, moving some loose strands of hair out of her face, tucking them behind her ear. “The venom should wear off in a few hours. No one knows you’re here, not even the Doctors. So, you should be safe.”

“I can’t move and I’m chained to a radiator.” Sara said, the crushing heavy feeling making it hard for her to breath.

“Just a precaution” Theo said, closing his room window, before picking up a blanket, throwing it over her. “I’d rather not have you running around trying to kill me today, or worse tell Scott or Stiles. With the supermoon tomorrow-”

“If you even touch Scott-”

“I think you and I both know, that threat’s not gonna work.” Theo said shortly. “I’ll come get you in a few hours.” he said, standing up, picking up his TV remote, turning on the movie channel. “In case you get bored.”

“I hate you.” she whispered. She meant it. Theo paused at the door, giving her a smirk. “No you don’t.”

~

The late afternoon sun sank, the moon began to rise, peaking though the dark clouds. The Kamima vemon was strong, keeping her weighed down, stuck. Yet again, she was helpless, to warn them of the danger. The traitor on the inside.

Paralyzed and chained. Once again, sitting outside the door, powerless to help while her mom cried. Powerless to help when they needed her…this was her fault.  She was as much a coward as Theo.

The air shifted. She felt it, the temperature drop, the lights flicker. Her eyes flickered to the door, hearing the familiar heavy metal clunk of boots.The door creaked open.

She knew what was there. The Dread Doctors.

~

  “No! No! No! Please! No!  No! No!

She slipped in-between consciousness, the heavy stomps echoing in her ears.  

“Success?”

They began to blur, fuzzy black shapes, that creaked and whistled. She reached out her hand, unable to touch the other hand that lay limp next to her.  Someone…who…

The electricity shot though her spine. Her body was on fire, burning from the inside out, the constant screams in her ears.

She shut her eyes. She felt one of the doctor’s force her right eye open, sliding a long needle though it.  

“Imminent.”

 ~

She could hear the rain, it pounded though the ground, vibrating her bones. The thunder ripping though the air. The lighting-burning her--the storm--no--not lighting, not thunder, not rain.

“ La Bete. La Bete. La Bete. La Bete… ”

He was here.

“ Success. ”

~

Thoughts??? 

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Chapter Text

2003  - age six

She’d been a child, when she heard the cries in her sleep for the first time. She hadn’t know what had caused them, or why she felt the screams so deeply in her soul, that she’d awake screaming and crying in the middle of the night.

It happened for nearly a week. Her mother cradling her in her arms, desperately trying to understand why she was crying so much. She didn’t feel what she did. Then again, neither did she. She hadn't known of the pain and the sacrifice of two young lovers in the dead of night. But she felt it. She felt it tear into her soul, and pulling out her heart, leaving her raw and swimming in anguish that was not her own.

Sara McCall had not known the of the power that had been awaken. The Nemeton needed a human sacrifice of a virgin, giving the magical tree the boost of power it craved once again. Paige Krasikeva brought the supernatural power back to Beacon Hills, and had awoken its guardians.

The Hellhound, the Witch and the Banshee. Guardians of the supernatural. Harbingers of death.

~

“Liam had almost killed Scott. Kira was still gone. Malia was trying to find The Desert Wolf. Sara had been taken by the Dread Doctors…”

“You were missing.”
 “And Sheriff Stilinski was dying…”

~

It’s had been about a year after that when she met Derek’s mother; Talia Hale for the first and the last time along with another woman. She never knew her name, but her face drifted though her thoughts, the beautiful women, with dark hair weaved in intricate braids looped with gold. Dressed in a long white dress that made her deep dark brown skin glow, like some mythical being. She was like a princess, an angel. At least, that’s what she thought.

2004

She’d wondered off from Stiles and Sheriff Stilinski, for what reason, she couldn’t recall. She guessed, she was just drawn there. To the large tree stump in the middle of the forest. She didn’t know how she found it.

It felt, it felt like it found her.

She remembered climbing on it, lying down taking in the beams of sun and the lush forest. She shut her eyes, listening to the sounds of the birds chirping, the warm breeze kissing her cheeks. She didn’t know how long she lay there. She never wanted to leave. She was more than happy to stay there forever under the trees.

Her eyes fluttered open, the snapping sound of something  just a little way from her. She peered over the edge of the tree stump. Her eyes meeting something cute.

It was a coyote. A small,  fluffy light brown one, with a tiny battered up looking doll clutched tightly in its mouth. She sat crossed-legged on the tree stump. “Hi!” she waved. The coyote blinked back at her, with its strangely blue human looking eyes.

Her mom always told her to not pet the wild animals, something about babies or rabies, either one. It still never really stopped her from trying to take everything cute and furry into the house to have as a pet.

She slowly crawled over on the tree stump, laying on her stomach reaching out a hand to the coyote. “Come on, come here, it’s okay. I’ve very nice, I promise.”

The coyote set the doll on the ground, slowly edging closer. Sara had to hold her breath in excitement, almost feeling it’s little nose on her hand. The coyote sniffed her, looking her right in the eye, before making a strangely terrified noise, snatching  the doll up in its jaw, and racing back into the forest.

“Oh…bye-bye…” she mumbled, waving in the spot it had been in. Sara sighed, rolling onto her back, pouting. Coyotes were cute. A pet coyote seemed cool, it could sleep on her lap and everything.

A harsh gust of cold wind slammed into her chest, the trees branches becoming claws, the sound of desperate screeches above her as hundreds of crow few to the other end of the forest. She couldn’t pin point it, but it twisted the comfort of the tree stump, the tree stump feeling painful to be lying on, the air agonizing to breath in.

“What are you talking about?”
”I can't say how I know, but Lydia Martin and Sara McCall are missing.”

“Are you sure about this Kat?” Talia asked, walking down the rugged path with Kat, the witch of Beacon Hills, emissary to the Hale Pack and one of her dearest friends.

Kat nodded, a grave expression nestled on her usually relaxed face. “Positive, I’ve been monitoring the lunar patterns, I believe the Doctors are looking for a new host before the next month or two. Not to mention the supermoon is approaching and I don’t believe they plan to waste it. You should tell your pack to keep an ear out.” she added, shivering slightly as a cold gust of wind blew past.

“I will. What about are you? Are you safe?” Talia asked worriedly. “I’d rather not have another emissary dead, especially one with your unique abilities.”

Kat nodded, her eyes glancing up at the crows, seeming mildly distracted by there presence. “Self-preservation is not a luxury I can afford, not when I’m this close.” she said, glancing at Talia, with a light smile. “Relax, Talia. I will be careful. Self-preservation maybe a luxury, but I will not be careless with my life-oh!” she said, a small bundle of something falling off the Nematon.

The little girl that tumbled off the Nematon, a mess of dark waves and grass-stained clothes, dusting herself off gazing up at them. “Whoa,” she mumbled, her blinking her large brown eyes growing wider when they landed on her. “You’re so pretty….” she giggled shyly, ducking her head slightly.

Kat knew that face, knew that giggle…knew this story.

Talia lowered herself down, her motherly air already drifted though. “Hello, there sweetie,what are you doing out here by yourself?” she asked, slowly picking out the stray twigs in the little girls hair.

“It’s you…” Kat whispered, bending down to the little girl’s height, her white dress mingling with the sand and twigs. “My successor…” she said, softly enough to be unheard by the child, but not by Talia. Kat smiled at the little girl. “Sara, isn't it?”

Little Sara nodded. “How did you know?” she whispered. Kat bit her lower lip slightly, a sly grin on her face. “Magic.”

Little Sara’s eyes grew the size of plates. “Really?”

“Really.” Kat said, tucking some of her hair behind her ear. The little girl shrugged, yawning, suddenly looking quite tired. She fell gently into Talia’s outstretched arms. Kat withdrew hand, embers of green light dissipating from her fingertips. Talia picked little Sara up, wrapped her arms around. “Does that mean…”

Kat swallowed, slowly getting up. “Yes…I maybe taking my leave sooner than expected,” she said smiling tightly. Talia smiled, too, by she could see a few  stray tears fall down her face. They were not for herself, nor her.

The Nematon had chosen it’s knew guardian, a new protector.  It was a precaution at at best, an omen of death at worst. The Nematon did not chose unless harsh times, harsh threats were to descend upon its territory. Threats that could possibly threaten the supernatural existence.

“Come on,” Talia said, starting to move forward. “Her family is looking for her.”

It hadn't taken them long to find them. The child, Sara McCall, had awoken a little while back and eagerly waved to two older boys and the sheriff. Kat bent down, holding her hand to shake. When their eyes met, Sara was sure her eyes glowed for a split second. Kat took a deep breath“Good luck, Sara. I wish you only the best for your future.”

Sara nodded. “Thank you, bye bye!” she said cheerfully, waving them goodbye as she trotted along to the boy she called Stiles.

“Purple.” Kat breathed out. “Interesting.”

 Talia’s head snapped to hers. “Purple?”

“Her eyes? An unusual colour.” Kat mused. “Sometimes when I look into anothers eyes, I can see glimpses of their future. They’re brief, but…impactful. Her path. They always used to say, the eyes are important. A window to the soul,” she explained. “I always heard that it would represent an element of nature. A piece of the supernatural world, she would need to connect with to balance.”

“So what does purple mean?”

Kat shrugged. “I’m not sure…purple isn't common. It could one of many things, power for certain. She seems to be a light-hearted soul, with much sadness and pain in her future.” Kat said, watching Sara hug the boys tightly, the taller one, giving her a piggyback ride. “Death.”

“Death?”

Kat nodded. “Death. The last time I’d heard of a witch with purple eyes, the harbingers of death had awakened. One thing that’s certain is, death hangs over Sara McCall.”

Talia sighed, her eyes drifting to the little girl, who was now laughing with the boys in the distance. “She’s so young.”

“Aren’t they all?” Kat whispered.

~

The water was running. She glanced up, slowly reaching out to the screeching  faucet, trying to turn it off. The water kept gushing, out, making the bath-tub she was in overflow. Water flooded the floor, moving under the door. A hand covered her own, Sara slowly looking up at Parrish. He was in his deputy’s uniform, but something wasn’t quite right…

“Jordan…where am I?”

He turned his head, looking at the door. It was a large, black door, heavy looking that cast a shadow over the tiled floor. He gazed down at her, tucking some of her hair behind her ear. “You're a harbinger of death, Sara.” Parrish said softly. “Can’t you tell somebody is dying?”

Dying? Someone was dying?

 “Who?”

“You.” he whispered, gripping her shoulders, and drowning her in the bath-tube.

2004

“What are you doing out here?” he asked her, picking up the ball. Sara scratched her head, walking away from the entrance of the park that lead into the woods. “What are you doing out here?” she repeated.

Theo rolled his eyes, putting the ball back in his baseball glove. Theo Raeken, was one of Scott’s classmates. She only really knew about him, from Scott and Stiles in passing as ‘the other boy with asthma’. Though he was easy to pick out, Theo and Scott both looked tiny and slightly sickly compared to Stiles and Danny and even Liam. Though he seemed nice enough.

Sara bit her lip, running up next to him, not wanting to get left behind. “I saw a coyote yesterday.” she said, poking her head near the baseball glove playfully.

Theo paused, rolling the ball around in his baseball glove. ““They’re pretty common.” he said nonchalantly. Sara scowled slightly at his disinterest in the subject, if Liam weren’t grounded, she was sure he’d love to hear all about the coyote. “Coyotes are cool,” she mumbled. “I’d want pet coyote.”

“That’s stupid.”

“You’re stupid.”

“What-”

“What?” Sara said innocently.

Theo narrowed his eyes. “My dad says coyotes are bad,” he said, lowering to a near whisper, bending down to whisper in her ear. “He said, they’ll kill you in your sleep, and eat all your insides.”

Sara paused. “Really?” she said wide-eyed. Theo drew back nodded knowingly. “Yeah.”

Sara scratched her head, watching Theo walk with a slight smirk on his lips. She scoffed. “You’re lying, aren't you?”

“I’m not.”

“Yes you are,” Sara whined, pouting. “Whatever, my coyote won’t do that. It’ll be nice. You’ll see, I’ll show you!” she said, making a big deal to stomp her feet, as she marched down the path.

Theo sighed. “You have no self preservation skill don’t you?!” he called.

“I’m sure you have enough for both of us!” Sara shouted from the front. Jokes on him. She didn’t even know what preservation meant.

~

That was the last real conversation she ever had with Theo Raeken…it hadn't even been a month later, when Tara Raeken, Theo Raeken's sister, fell of a bridge into the creek, breaking her leg and dying of hypothermia. It was the town’s first real shock. In a place where everyone knew everything, when it felt like you knew exactly what the next day would bring. It was the town’s first real shock.

One of many.

Wading in the creek…why was she here? Icy water soaking though her clothes and turning her fingers blue. Her feet bumped against the heavy rocks and strangled bushes of hydrophytes and algae. Every step she took, she slipped and slided, half expecting to slide under the depths

Wind blew harshly over her back, her eyes slowly drifting up at the bridge. He was young here. Still around nine…with an ugly brown hat on. Cold puffs of air blew out of his mouth, as the turned around facing the Dread Doctors.

“Theo?” she mumbled, knocking into something, she looked down. Tara. Tara…they killed Tara…her corpse floated, slightly bloated and bruised. The Dread Doctor’s surrounded her, raising their hands, their gloves glowing white.

There was no escape. No. Theo. “Theo!” she called, trying to wade towards him. “Theo!” Run. Run away. Please. The nine-year old Theo melted into the air, leaving  the Theo she knew in its place. He blinked, his eyes not meeting her own, as he gazed down. He looked…sad.

“Theo.”  she said, holding out her hand to him. “It’s okay. Theo-” A hand grasped her leg from below, dragging her under the water, where nothing could hear her scream.

~

2005

It didn’t take long for tragedy to hit again. A few months later, after Theo’s family had moved away, Stiles mom, Claudia died too…

It had been soon after she turned eight, when she heard about the Hale fire, which killed  Talia Hale and eleven members of her family. She didn’t really remember Talia Hale nor Kat…but in her own way she too found herself grieving for them.  

It had been of suspicious circumstances, despite the tragedy Stiles seemed far more energetic in months since his mother passed. Eager to solve the mystery of who caused the Hale fire. She did her best to help him, following him around, her mom fondly giving them the nicknames of Sherlock and Watson. Scott of course, was Mrs Hudson. She didn’t really care about solving the mystery, it was just nice to see Stiles smile again.

“Sara, Sara! Sara! Wake up! Come on, wake up! SARA!”

She never knew her powers could actually kill someone else. She never really though much about them in San Francisco. The entire event was an out of body experience that still didn’t completely feel real.

Just like this.

Her eyes snapped open. She was in the hospital, sitting on the waiting room chair. The sound of hooves and horses neighing far off in the distance making her stand. She padded on the clean floors, the flickering lights and empty room, every sound making her flinch.

Above her, a loud train whistle rang out, thundering of the train against railway tracks, sending her tumbling to the floor, covering her ears, half expecting the train to run her over.

When she felt sure it had passed, she awkwardly got up moving towards the doors. Pushing them open, the harsh wind, sending leaves into her face. Like the hospital, the streets were empty too. It looked like Beacon Hills, but…it wasn’t. Something about it didn’t feel right.

“Sara?”

She whipped around, not believing what she was seeing. But he was here, in his striped gray and black zip-up hoodie. “Stiles.” she breathed out, closing the short distance between them, hugging him tightly. “You’re okay,” she said, drawing back Stiles’s hand still over her shoulder, holding onto her tightly.

Now that she was closer, he looked a little odd. Skin like ice and pale, like all the colour had been drained out of him. “Are you okay?” Sara asked. Stiles smiled. “Happy to see you, Sara.”

There was a strange way he that too, it put her on edge. “Why?” she said, feeling his hand move up, his cold fingers on the back of her neck. This wasn’t normal…

“You have no idea, who long I’ve been waiting to see you.”

His fingers tightened on the back of her neck, pain shooting though her body, like electricity shocking her from within. She tried to run, her feet stuck fast into the sand. A loud crack of a whip rang out. Stiles had vanished from her sight.

She stumbled backwards, turning into the barrel of the gun, pressed against the forehead.

Bang.

~

She gasped, shooting up, pain stabbing though her chest into her abdomen. She covered her mouth, a few tears slipping out. She took a few deep breathes, trying to control herself.

PRESENT

The Dread Doctors. That was the last thing she remembered. That…and the pain. She slowly rolled up the gray shirt, revealing bloodied bandages over her abdomen. What did they do to her? She didn’t feel like there was anything missing? But how was she supposed to know?

Where was she even? It looked like a room inside one of the tunnels. It was small, a bed in the corner against the wall that she was on, a metal cabinet, and a long metal slab attached to the wall with a small table in the middle a three chairs. To her left, was the doorway, that presumably led to another room.

Gathering whatever will she had left, she threw of the covers, stepping onto the cold floor. Pain rocked though her system, almost as harsh as the electricity that the Doctor’s had shot her with until she blacked out. She forced herself forward every step she took making her wince in agony.

She felt like something tore inside, before she stumbled catching herself on the small table, dropping somethings onto the floor. “Shoot.” she cursed. Did they hear her? Where they coming for round two? She forced herself to her feet, her blood dripping onto the floor, making a pattern. Whatever, whatever happened, she could do it, she could fight-

“You’re awake.” Theo said, walking though the doorway, instantly wrapping his arms around her, holding onto her trying to keep her upright. That motherf---Sara swatting his hands away. “I don’t want your help.” she snapped, awkwardly stumbling to the wall, sitting herself down on the floor.  

Theo dropped his hands. “Fine.” he said calmly, opening the metal cabinet, pulling out a large first aid kit setting it down onto the floor, before sitting down across from her.

“What are you doing?” Sara asked, scooting away from him. Theo leaned his head back against the wall. “Waiting for you to bleed out.” he said calmly. Sara scoffed. Typical. “You’re going to watch me die?”

“I’m going to wait, until you pass out from blood loss,” Theo said, opening the first aid kit. “Since I’m sure you tore one of your stitches.” he said. “You already have a pretty high fever, and you can’t see to catch your breath, your heart is racing. Tachycardia. But maybe it’s because of me.” he said lightly, giving her a smile.

She didn’t return it. Theo’s grin dropped. “You’re feeling dizzy right? Chest pain, I’m sure. I’d rather us not get to the stage of you vomiting out blood,” he said. “Doesn’t matter if I do it before or after you pass out…but one option is definitely going to be more painful. Besides, death by blood loss or tore stitches doesn’t seem like the best way to go.  Right?” he said lightly.

She hated that he made a point. Theo seemed to see the crack in her armor of stubbornness, easily picking her up off the floor, setting her on the small bed, before turning his attention back to the first aid kit. Setting some things out on the table, bandages, disinfectant, and some other things she couldn’t quite name.

Theo bent down, his hand touching her forehead, he then held out something that against the side of her head, that made a small beep sound. “103.8.” he mumbled. Her head felt heavier, her eyes beginning to droop. “Sara. Sara,” he said, gently lifting up her chin. “You can sleep later, but now I need you to stay awake for a little bit.”

His face came into focus, the rest of the room, becoming blurry. “Want to yell at me some more? Come on, I’m sure they’re lots of complaints, questions-”

“What do you want from me, really? hm?” Sara whispered, his face was starting to get blurry too. She felt Theo’s fingers gently cup her cheek. “I told you already.” Theo said softly, his thumb stroking her cheek gently. “I want you.”

“What is that?”

“A symbol. The symbol of an Alpha and his pack.”

“Whose pack?”
 “Scott's.”

“You…killed Scott?” Sara mumbled unsurely pulling on the warm bedcovers over her shoulders, wrapping them around herself like a cocoon. Theo nodded, adjusting the dim lights near the table. ““Technically, Liam did most of the work, but I did kill Scott..for a little while anyway.” he said, glancing at her. “Don’t worry, he’s alive. “Stiles, the Sheriff, your mom, Malia, everyone’s fine.” he paused, watching her shoulder’s un-tense. “Well, everyone’s alive. For now at least.”

“So, all that planning and you got nothing. Everything seemed to work in our favour then.” Sara said coyly. Theo smirked, picking up one of the tablet bottles and a bottle of water. “Who said, I’m done?” he said, sitting on the edge of the bed handing her the bottle and two of the small pills.

Sara scoffed. “You’re really full of yourself, aren't you.” she said, taking them. Theo shrugged.  “I prefer self-confident.”

“Overconfidence seems more apt.” she said, taking a few sips, wincing at the taste. “This is disgusting.”

“Sorry,” Theo said, in the sort of way that made her wonder if he really meant it. If he actually cared.  Then again, she’d fallen for kind eyes and gentle words before…she didn’t know…she didn’t know how to talk to him, how to act around him….how to hate him…

~

“You think he'll even talk to me?”
”You're his Beta. Doesn't he have to?”

“I don’t think so, even Sara’s not answering my calls.”
”Mine neither.”

“Where would I even start? Sorry for trying to kill you? Sorry for leaving you for dead so that Theo could kill you?”

“If you start off with sorry, the rest probably won't even matter.”

Liam sighed. “Sorry not going to work on her-”

“Yeah, she might kill you…”

The body slumped on the floor, the cut slashing clean though the concrete, making it sink in. Sara dropping her hand, the glow purple glow dissipating from her fingers. “Is that a zombie? Or am I hallucinating?”

“You could have taken my head off!” Corey yelled, moving away from the weird corpse on the floor. It was one crazy way to wake up. Not even a second ago, she’d been asleep in her little room, when she heard the familiar shrieks of both Hayden and Corey. She moved like lightning, to see a strangely peeling, monstrous sort of creature that looked mildly reanimated, before she…well, un-animated it. Again.

“Probably.” Sara said, staggering towards the chair. She felt dizzy, the burst of energy she had to walk, vanishing with the spell.  She slumped down on the rickety chair, taking in the ragtag group of Chimeras.

Hayden the only competent one, Corey, the vanishing act, Josh, the electric eel, and Tracy, the manic. It was like the Chimera Breakfast Club, dupe version.

No offense to any of them, but Theo really scraped the bottom of the barrel here, besides Hayden she didn’t really see any of this going well.  “You guys are a bunch of cowards, aren't you?” she said, pulling the fuzzy pink gown properly over her shoulder. Three of them had claws and fangs, and they made the half-dead girl, kill the zombie. Typical.

Tracy scoffed. “Nice outfit.”

“Thanks” Sara said , not catching the sarcasm. “It’s really warm and fuzzy, and I like the pockets. I could put like three test tube vials in here. See, look,” she said, picking up some junk on the table, putting into her pocket. “It all fits.”

“How did you do that?” Hayden said, wide-eyed, her eyes flickering between the briefly animated corpse on the floor and her. Oh that right, Hayden didn’t know about her, huh…how could she have forgotten about that?

“Oh…I’m a witch?” Sara mumbled, as if reminding herself. “Yeah, I’m a witch.”

Hayden blinked. “What?”

“Yeah…It…its sucks.” Sara said, resting her head in her hands. “You guys don’t happen to have like a mint or something, these meds taste like vomit and that smell-” she said, gesturing to the corpse on the floor. “Really isn't helping my nausea.”

“You killed it…” Hayden mumbled.

“I did.” Sara said, her eyes drifting to the corpse on the floor. It smelled really bad.

“That was awesome.” Josh said, a wide grin on his face. The kind of grin that one had when you were given a gift you really liked. She detested that look on his face. Even more, when she remembered how nonchalant she’d been about his own death. Thinking upon it now…were they really that different?

Tracy scoffed. “Wow.” she drawled. “You really think you’re that much better than us, don’t you?”

No.

“I think we both the answer to that.” Sara said shortly, not in the mood to get into it with Tracy, the homicidal lizard. Tracy chuckled, whipping out her claws, Sara could practically see the venom hidden in them. Oh, she hated that power, she hated that feeling. Being trapped in your own body, feeling nothing but the sound of you’re pounding heartbeat.

“What’s the plan, Tracy? You’re going to kill me?” Sara said, smuggling her fear away, putting on a face of bravado, waving her mug around. “Bring it you overgrow lizard-!”

Tracy chuckled, baring her teeth, well fangs. Fangs seemed more accurate.

“What?! No! Tracy!” Hayden shouted, making a move towards Tracy. Tracy pounced, and for a second, Sara wondered if she’d regret decided to not dodge and risk  pulling her stitches again. Another was wondering how funny it would be, to hurdle a large metal table right at Tracy’s stupid head.

Neither of these things occurred. Theo (seeming to materialising out of thin air) was in front of Sara, grabbing Tracy’s arms,. “No. Fighting.” he said calmly, releasing Tracy’s arms, lightly pushing her backwards, standing in front of Sara.

Sara rolled her eyes. What a show-off.

“Sara’s our guest. Be nice.” Theo said, giving his chimera pack a smile.  Sara made a face. Guest? Didn’t he kidnap her?

Theo spoke to his pack for a few minutes, the usual. Don’t be suspicious (all of them) avoid Scott’s pack for now (Hayden and Corey), look out of Beast (Tracy and Josh) don’t draw any unwanted attention (all of them) and don’t forget to come back for their training (all of them, once again).  Boring, standard stuff. He could have just sent them a text, explaining all this. Then again, he seemed to have a flair for drama. Being it and causing it.

When Theo dismissed him tiny pack, his sharp eyes locked on hers, sliding into the chair next to her. Sara took a sip of her tea. “Come to bless me with your wisdom?”

“I like the sound of that,” Theo said with a smirk, setting down a bottle of tablets. Sara pouted, picking it up. “What’s that, my suicide pills? Like in the movies, you mess up and you are bound by oath to take it, rather than be captured?”

“You watch too many movies. Medicine. This should help you heal faster,” Theo said, Sara’s face falling. “What you don’t want to get better?”

Sara bit her lower lip. “I’m not sure. I don’t know if I should. Not if it helps you.”

Theo sighed. “You have no survival instincts, don’t you.”

“I’m sure you have enough for both of us.” Sara chirped, taking a sip of her tea, eyeing the bottle with distaste. Theo sighed, taking the mug out of her hand, opening the bottled water. “You’re right, I do.”

“What? Are you going to watch me?”

“You need to take this. I can’t have your wounds reopening again. You remember that? A few days ago, when you were bleeding on my floor?”

She snatched the tablet out of his hand, quickly taking it as fast as possible, gagging on the awful taste it left in her mouth. “Happy?”

“Very,” Theo said, taking the bottle replacing it with a small packet in her hand. “Get some rest, okay?” he said, holding onto her hand, rubbing it with his thumb, walking out of the room. Sara sighed, glancing down at the packet in her hands.

M&Ms.

~

“I found some new friends. I don't take rejection well.”

“Hey, Theo!”

“Stiles. You're going to leave here thinking that you need to worry about me.But you're wrong. We're actually back on the same side. Because that thing...That's what we need to worry about. Your pack and mine. We're gonna go back to school and pretend like we're normal teenagers, but at night, we're going to be fighting for our lives.

“What is it?”

“It's not a Chimera.”

“But it's just a kid underneath. Someone like us.”

“Not anymore.”

“La Bete.The Beast of Gevaudan. That’s what it is, isn't it?” Sara said quietly, her eyes flickering to the door, not wanting Tracy to hear them. Hayden nodded. “That’s what Theo called it, it’s a werewolf, and from what Theo and Tracy said, it’s huge, fast…deadly.”

“Sounds fun.” Sara mumbled, pain shooting up her side, when she shifted to make more room for Hayden to sit. Hayden’s eyes softened, her eyes moving towards the bandages. The bleeding had stopped mostly, but they still bled if she moved too harshly, or exerted herself too much.

“Must hurt a lot,” Hayden mumbled, her eyes locked onto the bandages. Sara smiled gently. “It’s alright. I’ll manage.”

Hayden sighed, suddenly taking Sara’s hand into hers. Sara quickly drew back. “I’m sorry,” she said instantly. “I’m scare I’ll hurt you.”

“I’m not,” Hayden said firmly, gently taking her hand into hers, squeezing it tightly.

The pain slowly began to disappear. Sara watching the veins in Hayden’s hands slowly turn dark.

She…she was taking her pain…but more importantly, the block, the feeling of wrong that had urged her to kill…she didn’t feel it, not like before at least. Maybe because her body was so focused on healing, maybe it was the relief from the pain that she’d grown accustom too the past few days.

Maybe…it wasn’t because Hayden was a Chimera. Maybe…maybe it was her?

~

“We need help. If Theo's got his own pack now then we need ours. We have to get the others back.”

“ The others? You mean Kira who's currently battling a homicidal fox spirit inside of her, Malia who isn't even speaking to either one of us, Lydia who's stuck in Eichen House, Sara who Theo kidnapped, and have no idea where he’s keeping her and Liam who almost killed you?

“Also known as our sister and our best friends.”

“Okay, how?”
”One by one.”

“You can’t do it.” Sara mumbled, setting down the bottle of water, after she’d taken her tablets.

“Can’t do what?” Theo said flipping though the pages in his book. As usual, he’d taken to watching her in his free time, giving her food, making sure she was taking her medication, like a jerk.

“Take pain, you can't do it, right?” Sara said. Theo didn’t look at her, but she saw him stiffen slightly from behind. Sara scooted closer to him. “You’ve been trying since that day haven't you?”

She been wondering why he’d been so touchy. Holding her cheek, holding her hand, his hands staying slightly longer than normal when he checked her bandages. “You’ll never be able to do it, you know.”

Theo’s eyes snapped to hers. “Because I’m not a real werewolf?” he hissed, the same dark look, the same nerve she’d hit the day she told him he was a coward. It seemed being a chimera was something that bothered him, despite all the perks that seemed to come along with it.

“Because to take pain from someone else, to carry their burden for them, you need to care-” Sara said softly. “And you care only care about yourself.”

Theo slammed the book shut. “You really believe that? I’m the only one trying to keep you alive-!”

“To use me, for your own selfish gain!” Sara cried. “Not because you care. If you cared about me, about any of us-” she said quickly. “You wouldn’t have done this.”

You wouldn’t have done this to me. If you cared, you wouldn’t have done this to me.

“Scott, he wanted you in the pack.” Sara snapped.. “You messed that up, just because you wanted power? And for what?”

“Believe it or not, I’m not the bad guy here! I did this keep you alive, because you weren't!” Theo yelled suddenly. “You think the Doctors are going to stop now? Like it or not, I’m the only chance you’ve got!”

I did this to keep you alive, because you weren't? Did she…actually…die? For real?

Theo took a deep breath. “ Just think about that.” he said quietly, picking up his book, pausing in the doorway. “I’m sorry for…shouting.” he mumbled, leaving the room quietly.

She sighed, putting her head in her hands. Why…why was this so difficult for her? He betrayed them, killed Scott, manipulated everybody, fractured the entire pack…So why, why could she not hate him? Sure she wasn’t exactly fond of the guy, but….

Why, whenever she looked into his eyes, she just felt…sad? Why…even now, why did she feel like the person who needed saving the most, was Theo Raeken?

Thoughts??

Out of curiosity, who's the person you ship Sara with? Or what's your fav relationship that Sara has?? Since I kinda already know what direction the story is going, I'm kinda interesting to know. Food for thought, I suppose...Thank you for all the amazing comments, favs and follows!! 

Till next time....

Chapter Text

He been watching them from afar since he’d gotten there, but that night had been the first time he’d seen her in years.  

“I'd run.” Stiles said. He watched Belasko  staggered off, running into the night, injured arm in hand. His eyes flickered to the group that had arrived. Stiles, the other werecoyote, Malia, the beta, Liam and Sara…

“You don't remember me, do you?” he said calmly, as he approached them. It had to be her, like the rest of them, she looked a little different then he remembered. Her hair still the same rich brown and shaggy, that just kissed her shoulders. Raindrops dotted her hair and clothes, the strong scent of petrichor mingling with her own. Sara McCall had come a long way from her youth.

“I guess I look a little different since the fourth grade.”

Scott stared at him. “Theo?”  He nodded, smiling wider. Sara’s eyes flickered towards him. A flicker of recognition passing over her eyes. She did remember him…Good.

He didn’t have to wait long before he saw them again. He’d come with a plan. Getting close to Scott wouldn’t be so easy with a pack as protective as them. Especially Stiles, who seemed suspicious of him since he laid eyes on him, but he had a work around for that.

Sara, was as much of baby sister to Stiles as she was to Scott. He’d sensed the other werecoyote was rather territorial around Sara too, from the way she hovered around her when Belasko showed up. Getting close to Sara McCall, seemed to be his one way ticket.

He felt her eyes on him, when he’d gotten out of the car. Unconsciously slowing his movements, as he gathered this things. He’d caught sight of her, Stiles and Malia, quickly. They were talking amongest themselves, but it was too crowded and loud for him to correctly hear what they were saying.

Sara was still shorter than Stiles, and even Malia. She almost looked tiny next to them. Strangely enough, she caught his attention first, like some sort of  beacon. Something that you couldn’t exactly pull your eyes away from without force. Strange.

“I don’t see what the big deal is,” Sara’s voice drifting to his ears, meeting his gaze. He held his hand up, giving her a wave and a smile. Sara smiled softly, waving back. She had a nice smile.  It was the sort of smile that went all they way up to her eyes, that seemed to make them smile too, when she looked at you.

Stiles suddenly whacked her on the arm, glaring at her. “Ow! What the hell?” Sara cried, rubbing her arm. She still made the same face of annoyance as she did when she was younger, when she used to curse out bad players during a soccer match. Cute.

He didn’t expect for Sara to find Tracy first. He’d made it just seconds before the girls had appeared, watching Sara hazily move around the bodies, before crying into Lydia’s arms. He needed to know everything he could about her--Sara McCall clearly had a larger connection to the supernatural.

He’d been lucky, that he’d overheard Mrs Finch. Insisting on being her tutor hadn’t been too difficult, but he needed to get closer. He needed her to trust him.

Sara McCall sulked a lot.

Sara pouted, sinking back into her chair. He laughed at her, unable to keep a straight face when she sulked.  She pouted the same way she did when they were kids. Her whole face looked annoyed, her lower lip protruded slightly, her eyebrows furrowed that made a slight crinkle on her glabella.

“Come on, it’s just Biology. Would you rather me be tutoring you in Math?” he said. The sulky expression instantly dropped, a cheeky smile curving onto her lips.  “I should be tutoring you in Math. Considering that’s wrong.” Sara replied. He instantly turned his attention to the Math’s sum he had been doing.  “Wh-”

She leaning forward slightly, moving her pencil across the equations he’d been halfheartedly paying attention too.“There’s meant to be a seven there, and a one there and…two more zeros.” Sara said, pointing with her pencil in each place. “Oh! And that one’s 563.” she said pointing to the undone sum below it, leaning back in her chair.

“Wow,” Theo said, gazing up at her, watching Sara aimlessly spin her pencil in her fingers. “Maybe you should be tutoring me in Math.”

Sara smirked, turning her attention back to her notes. He watched her spin the pencil, watching it loop between her fingers. Sara McCall…seemed to be more than what met the eyes, in more ways than he’d thought.

Sara McCall could be naive. There was a air of innocence, or maybe cluelessness that hung over her to situations she didn’t have experience towards. He could use that.

“Oh, not there.” he said, grabbing her arm, sliding his hand along her waist, guiding her to one next to him. “Probably won’t, but it might fall on you.”

He’d been given a golden opportunity, when Malia had stormed off, leaving Sara  behind. She practically radiated embarrassment, seeming desperate for an escape.

“Ah,” Sara said, looking up, sliding her bag off her shoulder. “Death by weights seems kinda unappealing.” she said, letting out a breath.

It was funny, how she seemed to look at everything and anything, but at him. He couldn’t tell if it was out of her own self-consciousness or him. Then again, if she got attached to him...He could use that.

Sara’s skin felt cold, when his shoulder brushed against hers as he wrote. It was strange for her to be cold, during such warm weather.

“Probably not the best way to go.”

“Better than being burned alive though.” Sara mused. “If I had to choose. I think it would be longer. Messy. But getting rid of the evidence shouldn’t be too bad, since there wouldn’t be much of a body and identification would be difficult too--”she said, so deep in thought about the topic, the previous awkwardness dissipated.

She paused, seeming to take his interest the wrong way. “Nevermind. So what’s new with you?” she said quickly, as if trying to salvage the conversation.

“Nothing much. How was the test?” he asked, a smile still playing on his lips. It was entertaining to observe her, to study her like the Doctor’s would their experiments. Watching and noting every minor movement, every change.

“Not to bad.” Sara said, holding out the paper. She seemed more at ease now, talking about something as trivial as that. He took it, chucking to himself, patting her on the back, handing the paper back to her.

Sara McCall was clever. She’d caught on so fast and improved even faster. It actually surprised him that she’d need a tutor at all, considering she had good grades according to her teachers.

“Good job, keep going, you might not need me anymore,” he said holding the pen out.  “Well I had a good teacher,” Sara said, taking her pen from him. “And you of course,” she added, a twinkling mischievous glint in her eye. He smiled.

She smiled back softly, the same twinkle in her eyes, like someone sprinkled stardust over her head. He supposed that is what Sara was. A presence that someone missed when they weren't around, someone who made others feel happy when they were around. Maybe that was why people seemed to gravitate towards her whether consciously or not. Sara was a lighthouse. A firefly.

“What?” Theo asked, unable to resist the spark of joy that he caught her staring at him.

“Nothing,” Sara said quickly. “So, did you get any of them yet? Resurfaced memories, I mean.” Sara asked, quickly changing the subject. He got up moving back to machine he’d been at with Malia. “Nope, nothing yet. You?”

Was she staring again?

Sara shook her head. “Nothing. I don’t get it. I mean, Malia got her resurfaced memories a few hours after she finished the book, but it’s been nearly been a day since I read it and, nothing.” Sara said, crossing her legs, cupping her face with both hands. “And I’m the one who lost hours at a time, even before they showed up.”

No. In fact, even when she looked up at him, she seemed disinterested in what he was doing.  

“Maybe your focusing on it too much. Don’t put too much pressure on it.” he said, feeling a odd spike of agitation, that made the machine creak loudly.

“Little hard not too.” Sara said. “Speaking off, I think I may know who the next chimera is.”

They heard her scream just minutes after he killed Josh. It was the kind of scream, you’d hear in a horror movie, overcome with desperation, fear--

“SARA!” Stiles yelled, when the lift doors opened. The Geneticist has lifted her clean off the floor, against the wall stuck in a chokehold. Before he could even think, she was flying though the air. He barely had time to steady her or himself when she slammed into him. “Hey, hey, Sara you ok?”

He didn’t expect them to hurt her badly. Sara was still human, despite her witch abilities. She wouldn’t heal like them. Any longer she might have died right there in front of him. He pulled her behind him.

To his surprise; she shot up, like a newborn deer. “Yeah, I’m great. I just love being thrown across a giant room into a rock solid werewolf. Love it. Thanks.” Sara wheezed. “Let’s go, round two.” standing shakily in front of them.

Despite not needed too or being able to, she wanted to protect them, even when she couldn’t protect herself.

Sara McCall was intriguing.

She hadn’t spotted Josh. “Oh, I got a fright, I though he was alive for a sec.” she gasped, leaning against the wall, shutting her eyes, running a hand though her hair. She was…calm? He quietly sniffed the air again. Yes, he was right. She was calm.

“The Doctor’s got to him?” she said, her mind already seeming to be analyzing something. Stiles licked his lips, nodding. “Yeah, yeah, we were too late.”

Sara nodded. “You guys alright?” she asked, glancing between them, before back at Josh. Her eyes drifted towards him, and in an instant he knew, she knew. She knew what happened. She knew he killed Josh. For a split second, panic sat in his stomach. If Sara said anything--

Stiles stood up. “Yeah, fine.” Stiles said, his eyes flying between the body and herself. Did Stiles realize too?”

“You knew him?” Theo asked. Sara bending down, closing Josh’s eyes. “Classmates, first year with him. That’s about it really.” she said shortly.

“Sorry,” he said gently. Sara shook her head. “Better him than us.”

She wasn’t afraid to make a decision when it came to kill or be killed. However, she was jaded nor unfeeling. If anything, her kind heart seemed to get her into more trouble than anything else. It’s what made her choose to ignore when her instincts seemed to catch him.

Still, it was clear that Sara more often than not knew more than she let in on. Unlike him, she was silent due to her trust in her friends. She trusted they would come to her, or tell her when they were ready. It was a rare type of loyalty.

Despite her reservations, she didn’t treat him any differently.

“What the hell did this?” she mumbled to herself , running her finger gently over the bruised skin.

She was just inches away from him, her eyes sharp and focused, clearly unaware of how close she was. His body seemed to move on its own accord, his arm curving around her, slowly pulling her closer to his chest. Even with her distracted by her own thoughts, her eyes held warmth. Her lips pursed deep in concentration, so much so-she was just close enough-close enough to

“What are you thinking about?” he whispered into her ear , quietly letting out a breath. That was…close.  She glanced up at him, her cheek bumping against his. “Hmm?” he mumbled, leaning closer to her . Pulling on a smirk , doing his best to distract her from what he almost did.

“Huh?” Sara sq uealed, her cheeks going slightly red. “Oh, sorry,” she said, letting go of his cheek turning around, not looking at him. He let out a breath.

By favoring her heart, she ignored her head.

The power radiated from her like waves, he could almost see the dim purple glow in her clenched fist.

“Man, I have to say what surprised me most after coming back here, is finding that little Sara McCall is bloodthirsty.”

She clenching the inhaler in her fist.  “I’m not so little anymore, Theo.”

He nodded, looking her up and down . Sara McCall was definitely not little, and now standing there; shaggy hair, clenched fists, eyes fixated on him. He could see it, clear as day, who she was.

Sara McCall, the Witch of Beacon Hills, the killer with a heart of gold, who’d destroy anything in her path if she had too.

“ You ’re  right, you r  not.”

~

He’d made that mistake too.

“Sara?”  

A heavy metallic copper like smell burning his senses. Blood. He pushed the doors open, following the bloodied silver like footsteps all around the lab floor. “Sara?” he called, his eyes landing on the operating table the Doctor’s were hovering around.

“Sara!”

She was strapped down to one of the operating tables, blood pooling from her abdomen, dripping onto the floor. The Surgeon standing over her, a long thin needle deep in her neck.

“What the hell did you do to her?!”  he yelled. making a move towards her, the Geneticist and the Pathologist blocking his path.

“This wasn’t part of the deal--!”

“That is irrelevant.” the Surgeon said, sliding out a thin needle with Sara’s blood from her neck. He couldn’t hear her breathing, if it weren't for the heart rate monitor, he’d have thought she was dead. She looked dead.

“No. Not to me.” he snapped. “Let her go. She’s not--”

“She is what is required.”

“Required for what?” Theo asked, watching the The Geneticist and the Pathologist moved around her, pulling out the bloodied cotton swabs from her abdomen throwing them on the floor. It was deep, did they cut into her? Add something? Remove something? What did they take from her?

He edged closer towards Sara. She almost looked like she was sleeping. The Surgeon still blocking her from him. Her heart rate wasn’t right. It was unstable, moving to fast. “What did you do to her?”

“That is none of your concern.” the Surgeon said.

“Like hell is isn't--”

The Surgeon froze, turning his head staring at him. “The witch is none of your concern.”

“I need her!” he shouted. The Surgeon set down the vial of blood. “No. You don’t.”

The heart monitor screeched, her heart rate had flow even higher, before rapidly dropping. She was flat-lining. Instinctively he looked to them to do something, but

the Doctors didn’t make a move. All of them simply stood watching the monitor. Sara was dying.

“What are you waiting for?!” he said desperately. “Do something!”

None of them moved. He did.

He hadn’t even touched her hand to remove the shackles, when he felt it. The cane went though his leg, sliding though into the floor. He’d yelled in pain. None of the Doctor’s paying him any attention, all their eyes still gazing at the monitor. The machine becoming erratic. She was dying.

“Do something! Do something--”

The monitor whistled out, the line going straight.

No…No…They killed her. They…they killed her. They just-killed her…

He felt the cane slide out of his leg. The Doctors heavy footsteps, walked out of the theatre, moving to the other room. He slowly pulled himself up, undoing the chains, picking her up of the table.

“Sara,” he said, shaking her lightly. He needed to do…he needed to do something. Her heart wasn’t beating. He needed to--he didn’t know. His mind was blank. All he could think about was, how pale and cold…dead…Sara McCall was dead.

No.

“Sara! Wake up! Come on, wake up! SARA!”

Heartbeat.

It was faint, but it was there. She was breathing. He let out a shaky breath, shutting his eyes, his forehead against hers, listening to her heartbeat. It was slow, but it was beating. She was alive.  Relief wasn’t even the start. He did breath, until she did.

Is that what they wanted? No. If it was, why would they let her die in the  first place?

He quickly looked around checking, they were still in the other room.

He didn’t know what they wanted with Sara, but if she was alive, and they were close--He picked her up, staggering out of the theatre.

“Success.”

~

PRESENT

“Here,” Theo said, handing her some hot chicken soup. Sara looking suspiciously at the soup, awkwardly moving the spoon around. Theo sighed. “What you think I poisoned it-”

“I didn’t say that,” Sara said quickly. “I just--there’s no stove or microwave here so--I was just wondering…” she mumbled.

“Oh.” Theo said dejectedly.

Sara bit her lower lip. “Thank you, for the soup.” she said, wondering if the strange awkwardness between them had been her fault. She had sort of purposely antagonized him, then again he did kill her brother, then again…he did save her life…then again--

“What is it?”

“Huh?” she said, looking up from the soup, mildly surprised he was still there. He’d made some effort to avoid her, which she wasn’t so sure how to feel about.

She didn’t trust him.

She doubted she might ever, yet at the same time, she knew he wasn’t a clean cut bad guy. Unfortunately for them, if this Beast, was as big a threat as it seemed, they might need a not-so-bad-bad-guy. Which meant, she’d have to suck it up and deal with it. They had bigger problems than her feeling regarding Theo Raeken.

“What’s bothering you?”

She blinked. “What do you mean-”

“You’re doing that thing when something’s bothering you.” Theo said, scrunching up his face, clearly attempting to mimicking her face.

“There’s no thing,” she said, trying to stop the ‘thing.’

“There’s a thing.”

“There’s no, forget it,” Sara said quickly, scowling to herself. Damn it, she didn’t even know she did that thing. “You heading out?” she said in hopes of changing the topic. It seemed she wasn’t as good as hiding her emotions than she’d thought. Sometimes it felt like Theo seemed to be able to tell her more about herself than she knew.

Theo nodded. “Tracy and I are going to try and track the Beast, I think it might be headed to the school.”

“Because of the message? What was it again?” Sara asked.  

“Damnatio Memoriae,” Theo quoted. “The Doctor’s are trying to get to Beast to remember-”

“Remember how to be the killer it once was…or how to just be a better killer…” Sara said. “Why the hell did the Doctor’s even want to resurrect the Beast? I mean, what’s the purpose?”

“Does there have to be one?” Theo said. Sara shrugged. She supposed that was true. “Chaos, strife and pain, just for kicks. Sounds fun.”

Theo chuckled. “Eat, I’ll see you later.” he said. Tracy poking out from the doorway, gesturing with her head for him. Sara nodded, waving him goodbye. “Good luck!”

She was probably being paranoid, but it would be stupid of her to believe the Doctor’s didn’t do anything to her, especially since Theo seemed quite determined about her ‘safety’.

Her main concern, more so, relief, had been the lack of homicidal thoughts towards the chimeras. The unnatural frequency between them and her, felt more balanced. Less homicidal.

From what she read, during her time with Mason. Witches had power of their own, and could also siphon off power from other supernatural creatures. Essentially, she could draw power from them if she needed too. Like in La Iglasia, during the full moon. The death of the Berserkers, the full moon and shifted were-creatures all contributed to her own power. Namely allowing her to heal rapidly. (Mostly due to her, killing the Berserkers and siphoning their power for herself)

 Obviously she couldn’t  take a lot, that would kill them.

She also knew that each being vibrated at their own frequency. Whether they were supernatural or not. Chimera’s included. Hayden, having just being turned, let of alarm bells for her abilities. Theo having being the turned the longest, had frequency like a werewolf, unless you really paid attention to detect the change.

The Doctor’s frequency was completely different from the supernatural one, chimera and the human one. Meaning that unless she learned to vibrate on their frequency, she’d still be powerless against them.

The strangely occurrence was that, she could feel them now. The  shifts in the frequencies that had previous felt out of reach before. The alarm bell from her abilities wasn’t gone per say, but it wasn’t reacting as bad. She didn’t feel disconnected from the supernatural world either, if anything, she felt…stronger.

So, what did they do to her? She doubted they wanted to enhance her abilities. They couldn’t have turned her into a chimera. She was already supernatural.

Besides wouldn’t she have known by now if she was part werewolf or part lizard by now?

Still…it was strange that she could be around Hayden and Theo and feel completely normal--A supernatural chimera? Access to both worlds, one of science and of magic, could such a thing actually exist? It felt a little doubtful.

“Ok. What is it?” Sara asked, pausing her dooming thoughts, giving Josh, wouldn’t been staring at her for over five minutes a jump. Josh looked down, clearly not expecting to have been caught. “Nothing.”

“Really? Feels like something.” Sara said. She’d previously chalked it up to Theo have put him up to watching her, now that he was gone-but Josh hadn't blinked in a while. It was a little creepy.

“Sorry,” Josh said shyly. “It’s just…it’s really cool, how you…glow.” he said, waving his hand around her.

“Glow?” Sara repeated. “I don’t glow, Josh.”

“Yeah you do.” Josh said like it was obvious.

“I’m pretty sure I’d know-” She paused. How would she even know? With the possibility of the Dread Doctor’s messing around with her? Sara sat up, patting the side of the small cot, gesturing for Josh to sit. “Like…how?”

Josh accepted the invite, waddling over. “I don’t know…it’s just like…glow…” he said, waving his hand around her face. Sara sighed. “I feel like more description would be nice--”

“It’s like a purple glow…aura. I don’t know…I haven't really seen it before,” Josh said quickly. “I asked Tracy about it, but she didn’t seem too interested. Is it a witch thing?”

“I didn’t know. Scott, Liam and Malia never told me I had any glow….Thanks for telling me.” she said, giving him a small smile. Josh waved it off, awkwardly rubbing his hands up and down his jeans. “How are you feeling?

“I’m alright,” Sara said, unable to ignore the twinge of guilt when she looked at Josh. She’d moved on from his death so quickly, that she’d forgotten that he’d been a person. He was someone’s friend. Someone’s son.

“Hey, Josh…” Sara started.

“Yeah?” Josh said looking up from his shoes.

“I’m sorry-” Sara said softly. “The first time you died, and I saw your body--I didn’t reall--”

“You didn’t know me,” Josh said calmly. Sara shook her head. “It doesn’t matter. I  judged you too harshly. My judgement clearly seems to be off these days…The point is I didn’t see you --I’ll do my best not to make that mistake again.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Josh said waving it off again, smiling to himself. It then occurred to her, that she and Josh never really talked or interacted before. Besides when he and his friends decided to fart the alphabet or try to throw paper airplanes at her head. Until this, he had a whole life before being dragged in to die.

Sara poked Josh on the arm. “Wanna play a game?”

“What kind of game?”

Sara pulled out one of Theo’s many Biology books, moving to the appendix, tearing out some pages. “You like making paper airplanes, right?” she said, already trying to fold her paper into a triangle shape. “First one to get it into that beaker, wins?”

Josh smiled, ripping out a couple pages. “You’re on.”

She and Josh played and talked for almost an hour. She learned that Josh liked loud places, living on edge. He’d been heavily sheltered due to being a sickly child. When he finally got better, his parents had increased their protectiveness to a point where he felt suffocated.

His powers not only gave him freedom, but also the ability to chase a high.  Since his powers were electrically based, he also had a deeper sense of frequency and electromagnetic forces, which is what Sara guessed was her ‘glow’--he was sensing her vibrations, her frequency--

“Yes!”

“No!” Sara yelped. Tracy snatched the paper airplane mid-flight, crushing it in her fist. Josh’s paper plane sailing into the almost full beaker. Sara plonked back down on the bed. “I was…so close.” she said, swatting Josh on the shoulder, who’d been cackling next to her. “Shut up. I want a rematch!”

“Is this honestly how you spent your time?” Tracy said, throwing her paper airplane into the bin. Sara shrugged. “Depends, this is my first time being kidnapped.” she said, leaning to the side, catching Theo’s eye. “What happened? Did you see it?”

Tracy and Theo shared a look. “We did.” Tracy said stiffly. Sara glanced between the two of them, finding it strange by their uncharacteristic lack of bravado. “And?” Sara probed.

“Lives up to the expectation.” Theo mumbled. He looked a little…shaken? Scared?

She got up, surveying him closely. Yes. It was difficult to catch, but his breath was coming in uneven, faster than normal. He was forcing himself to steady it, like someone who’d had to be reminded to take in ‘slow deep breathes’.

He was scared.

“Dude,” Sara blurted out, smacking Josh on the shoulder. “This things flipping massive.” she said, looking back at Theo, who seemed to still be trying to regain control of his fear. “I’m right, aren't I? This thing is like---huge. You picked a fight with a massive, evil--”

“Facinorous?” Josh offered. Sara snapped her fingers. “Facinorous--what-?”

“It means extremely wicked, in Latin.” Josh said, making another airplane. Sara paused. “Really?”

Josh nodded.

“Huh,” Sara mumbled. “I didn’t know that, it’s really cool. Good job.” she said, giving Josh a high-five.

~

Sara…made friends fast. He knew that. She was possibly the most extroverted introvert ever-but---How close could she and Josh have gotten in the past hour? Josh seemed more responsive to Sara in a hour, than he had to the rest of them in a week.

Hayden and Sara had always been friends, naturally that didn’t change. Corey was a bit  scared of her, then again, Corey was a bit scared of everyone. Tracy loved to hate her, and seemed fine with doing that. Why was Josh even around her? He specifically told him to give her space.

“Facinorous monstrous…werewolf thing…and we are all official screwed, right? That’s what happened, isn't it?” Sara said, fluttering around the room. Josh was still making his paper airplane, but nodding along with her words.

“No, you really have that little faith in me?” Theo said, relaxing his breathing.

Sara snorted. “Okay, one I have no faith in you, what so ever--” she said smugly. “And call me old fashioned, but I like, having my head attached to my body. So unnecessarily picking a fight with a shadow monster-not my idea of having faith--” she said. Josh handing her one of the paper airplanes he’d made.

Where did they even get paper?

“How do you know it looks like a shadow?” Tracy said sharply, from the corner of the room. He’d forgotten she was still there.

“What?” Sara said, tossing her paper airplane. She and Josh sharing grin’s when it landed in the beaker. Theo’s eyes fell on the book.

“You said, shadow monster-” Tracy repeated. “How do you know what it looks like?”

Sara blinked. “I don’t know. It just…I-it looks that way in my head. Large…dark creature, made out of smoke. Glowing blue eyes, like the werewolf consumed the human…what is my description close?” she asked, her eyes flickering towards him.

His patience reached breaking point, snatching the book from Josh, doing his best to ignore Sara’s smirk at Josh, mouthing, ‘Spoiled sport’ behind him.

“It’s exactly what it looks like.” Tracy said. Sara paused, before sighing. “Great, my worst nightmare…came to life…that’s great.” she said calmly.

~

“In human blood, what is a good example of co-dominance?”

“Type AB.” Corey said. Mrs Finch nodded. “Very good. So today you're going to solve a little mystery. Two couples had babies on the same day in the same hospital. Were the babies switched? Open your packets and read the instructions.” Mrs Finch instructed.

“Gonna talk to me?” Hayden said quietly.

“I'm reading the instructions.” Liam replied. Hayden turned to him. “ You know what I mean.”

“You mean how you're hanging out with a total psycho that tried to get me to kill Scott and then did it himself? And kidnapped Sara?” Liam said. “Yeah, okay, let's...Let's talk about that.”

“That total psycho brought me back to life. Remember that?” Hayden said, turning her attention back to the notes. “I'm not dying again. And Sara’s okay, no thanks to you, or Scott.”

“What?”

“You really think Scott's gonna save us?” Hayden hissed. “He doesn't even know what's coming.”

Liam set down his pen. “What do you mean? What's coming?”

“Seems to be a lot of discussion over here.” Mrs Finch said, coming over to their table. Can't imagine you've already solved the mystery, have you?” she asked. Liam sighed. “No.”

Mrs Finch smiled stiffly. “Get to it.” she said, walking down the aisle of desk. Liam unsurely glanced behind him, before whispering under his breath. “What do you mean, about Sara?”

Hayden stopped writing. “The Dread Doctor’s got to her, during the supermoon” she said, watching the colour from Liam’s face drain out.

Hayden licked her lips. “Theo saved her, barely…” Hayden sighed, deciding it better to not drop her theory that Sara had also died that night on Liam. “The Doctors want Sara for some reason. Since he knows the most about them, he can protect her, at least better than you can or Scott, right?”

Liam pursed his lips. “Right…”

~

“Here, put this on,” Theo said tossing her a gray sweatshirt, when she walked in. She was finally healed, at least enough to be able to go back to school. Sara caught the top, opening it out. It was nice, but too big for her to wear. “This is yours.”

She’d been surviving with Theo and Hayden’s clothes over the past few days. The only thing of her own, being the pair of jeans and sneakers, she’d had when the Doctor’s had taken her (now so clean, they looked new). She’d long since figured her own sweater must have been ruined by her blood and burned for safety. Still, it was too bad. She did like that top.

 She was already wearing one of Theo’s many long sleeves. She’d attempted to reduce the bagginess, by tucking it in to her jeans, before giving up and leaving it be. At least it was warm.

“So?”

“I think it’s a tad too big.” she said, handing it back to him. He took it, rummaged around in the cupboard, before pulling out an orange coloured sweater. “This one?

“Really that one? It doesn’t match.”

“Is this one better-?” Theo asked, holding out his black zip-up hoodie. She took it, opening it out. “Yeah, it’s okay,” she said, pulling it on. It was still a bit big on her, particularly by the sleeves, but it would be fine. “What are you trying to do, mask my scent or something?” she joked.

“Yeah,” Theo said, packing his clothes back into the cupboard.

“Really? Why?” Sara asked, busying herself to adjusting the sleeves.

“Better safe than sorry.” Theo said, grabbing their school bags.  Sara rolled her eyes. “You’re unbelievable, you might as well pee all over me.” she said sarcastically, running a hand though her hair.

Theo paused. “I mean, it’d be stronger than the clothes.” he said, faking a musing look. Sara sighed, but he could tell she wanted to smile. “You’re really weird, you know that right?”

~

“I feel like I haven't been outside in years. Do you smell that? That’s air. Air that didn’t come out of your mouth, or Hayden’s or Josh’s--or those musty pipes.” Sara said, bouncing in her step as they made their way up the steps.

She wasn’t wrong, the sun was shining. The breeze was warm and gentle, in comparison to the colder temperatures over the past few days. Despite the heavy deputy presence and death in the air…it was a nice day.

“This is real air. Ah,” Sara said, holding out a hand, stopping him mid-walk. “Hold it. Take it in. Breathe in the air.” she said, dramatically shutting her eyes, taking a deep breath.

The sun’s light gently touched her face, her dark hair catching the light, making the stray strands shift between deep brown and gold, that made her whole face light up. She looked peaceful.

“You breathing it in?” Sara asked, her eyes still closed. He blinked, poking her lightly on the side. “Come on, we’re going to be late.”

Theo silently followed behind her all the way to her locker. Hovering behind her like a overly-interested dog, when she spoke to the few deputies that greeted her, her casual classmates and two of her teachers when they wished her on her health.

Leaning against the locker next to hers, waiting patiently for…something she supposed, while she unlocked her locker. Hayden had been sweet enough to be giving her homework and notes, and as annoying as he could be, Theo still did his ‘duty as a tutor’ recounting lessons that he’d done and the ones Liam and Hayden were doing in class. So, thankfully, she wasn’t behind.

While Sara busied herself with her schoolwork. Theo had taken to scanning the hallways, quickly catching sight of Liam and Mason down the hall. “That’s interesting,” Theo said quickly, throwing an arm over her shoulder, pulling her closer towards him.

“What are you doing?” Sara asked suspiciously.

“Reading.” he said, feeling Liam and Mason’s eyes on them. Moving his head, making sure to block Liam and Mason’s head from Sara’s view. Sara glanced down at the closed book in her hand. “Reading, what?” she mumbled.

“Shh, I’m getting to the good part-” he said, leaning closer, moving some of her hair out of the way, the edge of his chin on her cheek.

“The title?” Sara said, holding up the book for him to see. He nodded. “Very interesting.” he said, slowly letting go of her shoulder. They were gone. Sara looked at him strangely, but tucked the book with the rest of her things.

“Stick close with Hayden and Corey in class. “ Theo said, leaning against the locker next to hers. “I’ll come get you after.”

Sara smiled, closing her locker.“You do realize I now have freedom,” she said, with jazz hands. “Free to wander, go home--” she said, leaning against her locker. Theo smirked. “You won’t.”

Sara raised an eyebrow. “Won’t I?”

“If you wanted to escape, you and I both know you would done it a long time ago.” Theo said smoothly. “Like it or not, you know your safer with me than with Scott.” he said, leaning over,  whispering into her ear. “Maybe your survival instincts aren't half bad.”

Sara made a move to swat him, when the bell rang. Theo instantly blending into the crowd of students.

Sara made a noise of irritation, making a move to throw her book at his head. “Cocky bast-oh, he’s so annoying. Give you, just you wait,” she hissed, making a point to open her locker, just to slam it as hard as she could.

~

Thoughts??

A bit of Theo POV, hope it was good. My biggest worry is always trying to keep characters in character, so I hope I managed to do that....
As always, I love to hear your thoughts! 

Thank you for all the amazing comments, kudos, follows and for reading! 

Till next time....

Chapter Text

She’d barely entered the History classroom before she’d been tackled by the blur that was Kira, who came at her faster than lightning, half-crushing Sara with a hug.

“I’m so glad you’re okay,” Kira breathed out. Sara quickly wrapped her arms around her squeezing her tightly. “Me too.” she said, drawing back quickly. “Glad that you’re okay, not me-”

“I know.” Kira said, drawing back, still holding tightly onto her shoulders. Sara let out a breath. “Okay, good. When did you get back? Corey told me you and Scott and Stiles were in New Mexico.”

“We were--” Kira said, waving it off. “What about you, Liam told us about the Dread Doctors--” she said. Sara made a face, darn it, she’d hoped that wouldn’t come up. She didn’t want to add another worry to the growing list of problems.

“Yeah...” she said, quickly filling Kira on the last few days.  Dread Doctors. Theo being irritating. Some pain. The basics.

“Is it still--” Kira asked, when she finished her update. Kira’s fingers gently touching the soft fabric of her sweatshirt. Sara pulled up the sweatshirt up slightly, leaning a bit back on the desk, so Kira could see. The bandages were still there, more of a safety than anything else, but the wound wasn’t completely healed.

She was still human after all.  Sort of.

“Still healing, but it doesn’t hurt as much.” Sara said, pulling the sweatshirt back down. “I’m okay, really,” she added, seeing Kira’s eyes still drifting to the wound beneath the sweatshirt. “So, what happened in Mexico?”

Kira sighed. “Well--” she started, recounting her last few days. Kira’s mother taking her to the desert to fight Skinwalkers, Scott and Stiles having a much needed conversation. Malia being suspicious, probably trying to kill her mother, Liam feeling guilt and Mason dating Corey. That was cute. Oh, and this Beast being unleashed to try and kill everyone.

“Sounds…terrifying.” Sara said. “Was you’re mom really going to leave you in the desert with the Skinwalkers?”

“She might have.” Kira said, plonking head in her hands. “The fox is getting too dangerous. I could barely control my powers before, but now…” she sighed. “It’s like I’m also on the edge of causing an explosion, or worse.”

Sara nodded. “I can understand that.” Her powers felt like that too. Someone both in and out of your control, something that you wanted yet were terrified to release. It ended up hurting regardless, the only difference is that one just hurt others less.

“From what I learned, the Dread Doctor’s used a lighting rod to boost your powers. Making the fox stronger, since you’re an Lightning Kitsune. For what I gathered, the balance when in contact with high concentration of telluric currents caused a disruption.” Sara explained.

Kira blinked. “What?

“You’re frequency--aura--thing--” Sara said waving her hand around Kira. “Fox. Fox becomes unstable. The fox got stronger faster than you did. Maybe they- sped up it’s growth or something. That growth made the balance inside you, between the fox and yourself unstable. You’re disconnected from each other.”

“Great.” Kira said dully. “How do I do fix that?”

Sara sighed. “I have no idea.”

The two lapsed into silence, the weight of the question hovering over them. How to control the monster inside you? Could you? Or was it just a clock, ticking to when it consumes you and everyone else around you?

“How do you control it?” Kira asked quietly. “The power inside you?”

Sara played with her fingers. “I don’t know…before, I just did my best to bottle it in, you know. I’m so scared of what I might do…so I try not to think about it.” she said, Theo’s word drifting though her mind.

“You and I, Sara, we’re survivors. The only difference is, you’re afraid. Because you know what you’re capable off.”

“Then I tried to understand it, learn from it…”  

“You’ve got blood on your hands, more than anyone else.” he said softly. “You and I both know you’re not afraid to get more.”

 “I dunno,” Sara said, trying to shake his image from her head. “Lately I’ve been wondering if being afraid of it, is what makes it worse.”

You and I both know you’re not afraid to get more.

He was right. She knew he was right the first time she’d heard him. She wasn’t afraid to kill if she had too. Sure, she didn’t think she took joy in it, but- she’d do it. She’d go into the darkness if she had too. She’d become the monster under the bed if she had too.  

She didn’t know what felt worse, the fact that Theo knew her so well, and she didn’t know him at all. Or that fact that, one person who seemed to understand her, was the guy she wanted to run over with a truck.  

“Maybe,” Sara said unsurely. “Embracing it instead of fighting it, might work and give us balance?”

“Or might cause us to lose control and kill everyone.” Kira pointed out. Sara let out a breath. “Yeah. That’s a pretty big possibility.”

Kira smiled slightly. “Ever wish for normal problems?”

Sara chuckled. “Still problems.”

“True.”

~

“Long time, no see.” Sara said, sliding into her seat next to Liam. He was looking at her strangely, the sort of way when someone wasn’t entirely sure how to act around. “What?” she asked, pulling out her notebook. Even though the two weeks of separation had occurred, she didn’t think things would change so much between them.

“You smell different--” Liam said Sara twirled the pen in her hand thoughtfully. “Different good or-”

“Theo different.”

“Ah,” she breathed out. Right, she forgot about that. “Yeah well, it’s not like I could grab any clothes from home.”

Liam nodded, returning his gaze to his work. Sara let out a breath, pulling out her books. Maybe she was wrong. She’d thought he’d be happy to see her again. Maybe she was being childish, but she had missed him. So much for her ‘best friend’ missing her…Corey had been more welcoming, and they practically just met.

“The smell is Jasmine Chamomile Soap,” Sara said, remembering Liam trying to catch Theo’s scent not too long ago. “It feels as good as it smells.”

“What?”

“Nevermind,” she said quickly. Their teacher, Ms. Ramsey coming in. English class started, Ms. Ramsey reading a extract from the book for them to answer questions about, but she wasn’t even paying attention.

So what that Liam was being a ass? She was mad at him anyway. He’d gone and tried to kill Scott. He picked a fight with her before the supermoon. He’d attacked the deep seeded fear of being to afraid to be helpful. To be nothing but a burden, a hindrance. He hurt her first…couldn’t he have missed her a little?

Couldn’t he have worried about her a little? Couldn’t he have actually cared whether she lived or died?  No. She wasn’t going that road. If Liam wanted to be a jerk, then fine. Whatever. It’s not like it bothered her that much anyway. Liam cleared his throat.

“What?” Sara hissed. Still torn between wanting to tear his head off, and sulk quietly by herself. Liam pointed to the corner of the table, where Ms Ramsey had left their worksheet. “Can you pass me the-”

Sara grabbed the worksheet smacking it as hard as she could on his end of the table. Returning to her own worksheet, half stabbing her pencil as she wrote. She was glad she read this book already, since she had no idea what on earth Ms. Ramsey had being saying.

“You seen Scott yet?” Liam mumbled, after a few minutes of silence.

“No,” Sara said, eyes still locking on her work. “He’s been in classes all morning, besides…I’ve got to be a bit discreet,” she said, her eyes flickering to Corey, and Mason were chatting a few desks away from them. Liam glanced behind at them, nodding as he wrote. “He was worried about you…”

“I worried about him too.” Sara said softly. Liam’s eyes flickering around, she could tell he was listening out to see if Corey was playing attention to them. Thankfully, it seemed Mason was more than enough to distract Corey from her and Liam; since Liam leaned over slightly. “He and Stiles went to get Kira-

“I know.” Sara said, catching Ms Ramsey looking up, quickly writing in her answers on her question paper.

“Oh.” Liam said, turning back to his own question paper. Usually they would divide the questions between the two of them to get it done faster or they’d check each others work (well, she’d check Liam’s in the case of Math class).

“I’m, uh, I’m…glad you’re okay.”  

Sara nodded. “Thanks…I’m glad you’re alright too. I’m happy you’re didn’t get hurt.” she said, turning over the page. Maybe the strange awkwardness was all in her head. Maybe they were actually ok?

Liam bit his lip. “You got hurt.”

She stopped writing, her mind seemed to blank. “I did. It happens. I’m fine.” she said. Liam set his pen down. “I’m not.”

“Why not?” Sara asked. Did something happen? Was he okay? Was Hayden alright?

“I didn’t save you.”

Sara blinked, confusion entering in. “What are you taking about? It was something out of our control. There’s no need to feel guilty over it. Besides, Theo--”

Liam scoffed.

“Don’t do that.” Sara said instantly. “He may not be trustworthy, but at the very least saved my life and Hayden’s.”

Liam leaned over. “He also killed Scott.”

“And what were you doing?” Sara hissed, her eyes flashing purple, before she forced them back to brown. “Last I heard, you were doing a pretty good job of killing Scott all on your own. Yeah,” she said, before he could get a word in. “I know about that. I expected bloodlust from Theo since he arrived, but I have to admit I didn’t think you had it in you.”

“I can’t believe you’re taking his side just because he saved your life. Are you really forgetting what he did?”

“Of course not.” 

“Really, cause from where I’m standing, you’re protecting him. The Beast scare you that much to run to him--” Liam growled.

“I knew it,” Sara whispered. “I’m still the coward, aren't I? No matter what I do, or try to do I’ll always be the coward to you. The coward that you can’t trust.”  

She didn’t need him to reply to know that’s what he thought. It hurt. Worse than when the Dread Doctor shocked her till death. She didn’t know what she had been thinking… Did she really believe things would just go back to normal just like that? Logically, no, but…it was Liam.

Liam was her best friend, her Stiles. Liam was always there. Once again, she felt the distance between them, like that day she and Theo went to save him and Hayden. Like that day in the locker room. They weren't the people they used to be. Somehow the unspoken trust between them to depend on each other had eroded.

Maybe that was a good thing…

Maybe they need some space.

Maybe she needed some space.

His face fell, regret steeping in, but the damage was done. “I didn’t mean it like that--”

“What other way do could you possibly mean it in? You’re not wrong.” she said quietly, finishing the last two questions on her worksheet. She needed to get out of here. She needed to go.

“I--Sara--”

“You’re right, I am a coward.” Sara said, slamming her book shut, handing in her worksheet to Mrs Ramsey, grabbing her bag. “But at least I’m taking responsibility over the problems I caused, rather than hiding behind them.”

~

It hadn’t been more that five minutes, after nearly blasting the doors off her English classroom, when something grabbing her arm, pulling her into the boy’s locker.

“What the--oh! Hey,” Sara said jumping into Malia’s arms. “Oh, I missed you so much,” Sara mumbled. Malia hugging her back tightly. “Are you okay?”

“I’m okay--” Sara started. Malia turning her over, lightly poking and prodding her slightly. “He didn’t hurt you.” Malia said, in the kind of way that made Sara feel like she already knew the answer to her own question.

“The opposite actually--whatcha doing doing--?” Sara asked. Malia lifting her shirt, examining the bandages, leaning over her shoulder, sniffing her up and down. “You smell like him. ” she said, after a solid thirty seconds of sniffing,.

“Oh, yeah,” Sara said. “It’s a whole thing--”

“Did you sleep with him?”

“What?! No! Not that kind of thing!” Sara cried, pulling her shirt back down, glancing uneasily around the room. If Theo or anyone overheard this, she might die on the spot of embarrassment. Malia folded her arms. Are you sure?”

“Yes.” Sara said desperately. Malia raised an eyebrow. “But you wanted to?”

“I’m begging you, please stop.” Sara said, already feeling the flush creep onto her face. Malia gave her a look that told Sara she definitely wanted to keep talking about this, but decided to drop it for the time. Sara sighed. “I heard about the Desert Wolf.”

“I heard about the Dread Doctors.”

Sara nodded. “So we both know what’s going on. Good.” she said, her eyes flickering around the locker room. “You really want ask him for help?”

“Ouch,” Theo said in her ear. Sara nearly jumped out of her skin when she bumping right into Theo, who was directly behind her. “God, where did you come from?” Sara said. She hadn't even hear him behind her, how quiet was he? More importantly, how long had be been there? Oh, she really hoped he didn’t hear Malia’s craziness.

“She’s right, besides you kidnapped her.” Malia snapped. Clearly, there was no lost love between them. If anything, Malia looked like she wanted to slash his throat.

“Where did you come from? I can see the door from here-”  Sara mumbled to herself, turning to him. “She’s right, you did kidnap me.”

“Who’s side are you on here?” Theo asked, as usual having no concept of personal space, still hovering close to her like a bea to a flower.

“The winning one.” Sara said instantly. Theo smirked, nodding thoughtfully. “So mine.”

Sara scoffed. “We’ll see about that-”

“Look,” Theo said, his eyes pulling from hers to Malia. “I promised I'd help and I will.” he said, holding out a large needle.

“With that?” Sara said, eyeing the needle. “Do you want to help her or kill her?”

“You…You're kidding, right? That's supposed to help me find Deaton?” Malia said dubiously. Theo shook his head. “No. Something in the Dread Doctors' Operating Theater is going to do that. I can take you there, but I can't let you see where it is.”

“Ever hear of a blindfold?” Malia said dryly. Theo smiled lightly. “Not one that works on a werecoyote.”

“What's in it?” Malia asked.

“Wolfsbane.” Theo said. “The same kind they used on Liam. It won't last and there's no permanent side effects.”

Sara  hadn't noticed it much before, but know that she knew both Malia and Theo were werecoyotes, she could see the similarities. he way they looked at you right in the eye, completely focused. The odd stillness at times, that if they had ears you might see them prick. Sara was almost certain if they weren't at school, they might have starts snarling at each other.

Not to mention, they both had a strange presence in a room, a sort of tension filled territorial air that hung over them. Sara was almost certain if they weren't at school, they might have starts snarling at each other. She wondered what that was all about.

“Why should I trust you?”

“You shouldn't. But you will.”

“That’s a great selling point.” Sara said, eyeing both Theo and the needle distastefully.

Theo sighed. “Because the Desert Wolf could be here and Scott's boss could already be dead. You want to give Scott the bad news? You want to tell him it's your fault Deaton's dead? Because you pretty much dared the Desert Wolf to come after you.”

“Okay, that’s a bit over-dramatic,” Sara cut in. “Besides Scott won’t blame you if Deaton dies. If the Desert Wolf wanted him dead, I’m sure he already is.” she said, instantly regretting her words.

Malia’s face fell. Sara wanting nothing more than to dive into an abyss, or the earth to simply swallow her whole. Her and her big mouth. “Which…” Sara stuttered. “That came out wrong.”

“I don’t think it did,” Theo said.

“Nobody asked you.” Sara snapped. Theo smirked, holding up the needle. Sara scowled. Smug, son of a--- Malia sighed, taking a step closer towards them.

“You're gonna have to come closer than that.” Theo said, his gaze still on her own. Sara piratically cursing him with her eyes.

Malia’s glanced at Sara; should I do it? Sara despite, feeling a bit against it, nodding reassuringly, letting out a slow breath; It’s okay, trust me.

Malia let out a breath, taking another step.

“Closer.”

Sara swallowed anxiously. Oh, that needle was really really big. She slowly touched her own neck, the faint memory of Theo sliding the needle into it. It didn’t hurt. Surely this won’t either--

“Do it.” Malia said softly. Theo slid the needle in. Malia shifting instantly, blue eyes and fangs, the roar echoed around the locker. Sara shutting her eyes, covering her hears unable to stomach the sound and sight of Malia in pain. Luckily, it didn’t last even a second, before Malia’s eyes rolled to the back of her head. Theo sliding the needle out, setting Malia down upright on the floor, leaning her against the lockers.

“What are you up too?” Sara asked, the second she was sure Malia was fine. Unconscious, but fine.

“What do you mean,” Theo said, setting the needle down on the bench. Sara picked up the needle, a drop of the light purple wolfsbane dripping onto her finger.

“You’re always up to something…” Sara said, looking him up and down, squinting her eyes. “But, you’re being more mysterious and suspicious than usual.”

Theo smiled “Oh really?” he said lightly, edging closer to her, gently taking the needle from her hands.

“Mh hm.” Sara hummed, holding tightly onto both the needle and his hand. “What do you get out of the Desert Wolf, huh?”

“Don’t you think I’m just helping out?”

Sara snorted. “Yeah right, you never do anything that doesn't have an ulterior motive.”

Theo shrugged innocently. Sara sighed, letting go of the needle, glancing down at the knocked out Malia. “Just promise me, you’re not going to kill her or something. Please.”

Theo chuckled. “You think I’m going to kill her?”

Sara raised an eyebrow. “You want a honest answer?”  

“I’m not going to kill her, I promise.” Theo said. Sara’s face made a ‘really? You expect me to believe that?’ look, playful doubt shining in her eyes.

Theo smirked. “You really think I’m that bad?”

“Again, you want a honest answer, Raeken?” Sara said lightly. “I’m serious,” she said, her light tone dropping. “If you’re lying to me.  I mean it, I’ll kill you myself.”

He smiled, tucking a few stray strands behind her ear. “Looking forward to it.” he said, his hand sliding down to her neck before back into his pocket.

Sara licked her lips, grabbing her bag, deciding it was far to enticing to stay a second longer. She would not prove Malia right. She was not going down that road. McCall women have self-control. Yes. They do.

She paused half-way down the hall, quickly turning back, poking her head though the door. “You need any help?” she asked, inclining her head towards Malia. What the hell Sara, go away.

“You gonna carry her?” Theo said, tucking the needle in his schoolbag, throwing it over his shoulders, before picking up Malia.

“I-I mean, I could carry her school bag--” Sara said, glancing around the room. “That she does not have…how does she not have her school bag? She’s at school, where is her stuff?”

“I got her,” Theo said, easy picking Malia up. Sara hovered, awkwardly, still not entirely wanting to leave Malia with him, just yet. “Just…be careful, she a person, not a sack of potatoes,” she mumbled. “I’ll head out first, so--”

“So do you want to?” Theo asked. Sara turned around. “Want what?”

“Sleep with me?”

Her jaw dropped, and for a second, she could just stare at him.

“We can if you want---Sara?”

~

“He’s gone?” Scott asked, sitting next to her on the steps, handing her a juice box. Sara nodded, taking it with a small smile. “He’s with Malia, they’re looking for the Desert Wolf.”

“You think she’ll be okay with him?” he asked, poking the straw in. Sara doing the same.  “Well, he promised not to kill her--” Sara said. “Malia’s tough, she can take him, no contest.”

Scott nodded in agreement. “You okay?”

Sara nodded. “I’m…I…I don’t know…” she said softly. “He used me Scott.” she whispered. “I trusted him, and he used me…and the worst part is, I knew. I knew, he was lying, but I didn’t say anything.”

“You wanted to believe him.” Scott said gently. She shut her eyes. The guilt that she’d been forcing down bubbling to the surface. “And look what happened. He killed you, Scott. You were dea--” her voice breaking. She covered her mouth, a few tears falling down her cheeks. Scott being dead had been a nightmare situation that she hadn’t really believed until she saw him.

The sort of far away look in his eyes. The bloodied bandages that they shared, his far thicker and darker than her own. His still not quite healed. He died. For a while, Scott had left this world, and there was no guarantee he would have come back.

Sara took a deep breath, wiping her eyes. “You were dead. Dead. I wasn’t even there--I couldn’t even--”

Scott pulled her into his chest, wrapping his arms around her, hugged her tightly. “It’s okay.” he whispered. Sara having to physically fight back the burn behind her eyes, determined not to cry into him.  “No its not.” Sara mumbled, squeezing him tightly. “What would we do if we lost you? I messed up, and it got you killed. I-”

Scott drew back, holding onto her shoulders tightly. “We all trusted him. We did…and you don’t have to worry about losing me, I’m always going to be here. I’m not going to leave you alone.” he said, pulling her into another hug. “Never.”

Hugging Scott, was like hugging your childhood stuffed animal, safety bloomed in your chest and worries left your body, and for just a little while, you believed things were going to be okay. Even though she believed it was going to be okay, she wasn’t going to ignore the potential of it not being.

The stakes were high. The monster was out there. They needed to be ready to face it. All of them. She refused to be one letting them down again. She wouldn’t be. She would strong. No matter what. She would protect him. All of them.  

Scott took a deep breath, sipping on the juice. For a little while, it felt like they were kids again, when every problem could be solved by Mom. Sara smiled softly. Things were simpler then…or maybe it wasn’t, maybe they just never noticed the problems.

“What?”

She shrugged, holding up the juice. “Brings back memories huh?”

Scott smiled. “Yeah.”

As children, they used to wait for their Dad to come home. They saw him come home, drunk and disorderly, more often than not. When that happened, their mom or Sheriff Stilinski would often tell them to sit outside, on the porch steps with a juice box while they handled their father. It developed into a habit, when they needed to talk, needed to sit, needed a quiet moment to just…exist.

“You know, I never thought I’d need this for anyone other than Dad…” Sara mused, turning the juice box over in her hand. Scott nodded. “Me too.”

“Who was you’re other juice person?”

“Allison.” he said said softly. “It was always Allison. The first time we broke up, I sat on the porch, drank this, wished you were here.”

Sara sighed. “At least Allison was deserving of your woes.” she said, taking a sip. “Do you miss her?”

“Everyday.” Scott said. Sara smiled. “She’d probably know a lot more about this ‘Beast’ than we do. Supernatural hunter and all.”

“You’re right. It’s why I called Argent.” Scott said, finishing the juice box, crushing it in his hand. Sara set down the juice box. “Chris?”

Scott nodded. “I’ve got a plan…but I need you to do something.” he said, shifting closer to her. Sara took sip. “Sure.”

“You’re not going to like it.” he added quickly.

“Okay…” Sara said slowly. “What is it?”

Scott let out a breath. “I need you stick close to Theo-”

“No way. What else you got?” she said instantly.

“He trusts you.”

“No he doesn’t.”

“Yes, he does.” Scott said. “There’s a lot you can fake, but you can’t fake everything. I don’t know much about what he’s planning yet. But he trusts you. I don’t want you to sink to his level, but-”

“I will. I’ll sink, I’ll drown him.” Sara snapped, crushing the juice box, tossing it in the bin. She sighed. “I won’t actually drown him. Why do you need me anyway--”

“He seems to know the most about this thing, besides I’d feel better with someone I trust watching over the chimeras.” Scott said calmly. Damn him, with his stupid voice of reason. Sara nodded. “Okay, that makes sense…but I don’t wanna do it…” she whined.

Scott paused, sitting up straighter, suddenly looking at her like she’d grown a extra head. “You like him, don’t you?”

Sara’s eyes widened. “No. No…I… I don’t…” she spluttered. Scott looked at her skeptically. “You sure?”

“Yes.” Sara said firmly. “What’s your plan?”

“You’re lying.”

“Scott!” Sara said sharply. Scott smiling slightly. “You like him.”

 Sara sighed. “Ok. Maybe a little…I don’t know.” she said firmly. “It’s…It’s easy to talk to him. And…I--I just--I don’t feel guilty. I don’t have to pretend like I’m the good guy. When he talks, I get it Scott. I get it because I lived it.”

“I’m not saying he’s great,” she added. “And I’m not justifying anything, but I understand. I did a lot of bad things to survive. I’d do it again. I dunno, its just…We’re not so different, Scott.”

“We’re not so different,” Sara mumbled. “And I hate that. I hate the fact that he’s not going to be the bad guy to me. Because…god, he’s the worst.” Sara chuckled.

Scott laughing at that.  Sara smiled. “Typical, Sara huh, I end up liking the guy who murdered you.”

Scott grinned. “If it makes you feel any better, all my girlfriends have tried to kill me at least once.”

Sara laughed. “It does make me feel better…and don’t worry, I’m not going to do anything…and just for the record, I do think he’s a asshole. Just saying.”

Scott  smiled. “Thanks.” he said, taking her hand. “Sara, I never want you feel like you can’t talk to me. Ever.”

“I know, it’s just…sometimes it’s hard to talk about it. But I promise…I’ll try.” Sara said, leaning against his shoulder. “So, what’s your plan?”

~

“Really? You getting jealous I get go outside now?” Sara said lightly. Tracy tipped the last of the mountain ash in the circle around her, closing the lid tightly. “We need to keep him here. I need to see if this works.”

“Ah,” Sara said, closing her book. “Guess I’m stuck here.” she said, leaning back in the mountain ash circle.

“If only it could work on your mouth.” Tracy said. Sara scrunched her eyebrows. “That’s a little weird, but I’ll allow it, in the spirit of us getting along.”

“Hey jailbird,” Theo greeted. “If you need any help escaping, I’ve got my shoe and a rock solid alibi for you.”

“Would you look at that, you do have a sense of humor.” Sara said. “I assumed you sold it for your genetics science kit, or was that your morality?”

Theo snorted, bending down around the edge of the mountain ash circle. Sara raised an eyebrow. “What no comeback? I know I’m wittier than you, but at least you could try-”

Theo stepped inside the barrier, the small space shrinking even more, now that he was inside. “Well this is cosy,” Sara said, having to stand, the two of them pushed together, to not disrupt the ash barrier around them. “Little tight though.”

“I could help you out with that, if you want.”

“You really think I’m trapped?”

“Well you are surrounded by the ashes of a magical dead tree-”

“You wanna bet on that?”

“Bet what?”

“That I’m trapped.”

“What do I get if I win?”

“Do you just assume you always win?”

“I don’t usually lose.”

“Going to eat your words.”

“Will I?”

Sara smirked. They were inches away from each other, goading the other with their eyes, as if daring: do it, make your move first. Push or pull, kill or kiss. I dare you to go first. To the point of no return, I dare you.

She blinked first.

She easily jumped out of the circle, ignoring the uncomfortably zappy feeling, like a bucket of ice water had been thrown over her skin. She let out the breath she didn’t know she’d been holding, glad that the book had been right.

“Mountain ash,” Sara said. “Is known as the witch tree. Witches gave it the power to work against supernatural creatures. It won’t work on me, or Lydia or Parrish.” Sara said, smacking the book against his chest. “It was a footnote.”

“See children,” Sara announced. “This is why normal reading is important. My powers won’t work so well, but I can still move around,” she said directing her attention to the rest of the room, leaving Theo behind in the circle. “I hope you have a better plan than mountain ash, because you’re gonna need lot more to hold a werewolf like Decaulion.”

“I thought you weren't getting involved.” Theo said.

“I’m not, but since, you did save my life. I’ll help you out with your alpha problem. Just this once.” Sara said quickly. “Because I like Hayden and I’d rather not have her eyes grouched out. So you better have a good plan when I get back with Decaulion.”

Tracy scoffed. “You really think your going to just take out an alpha werewolf?”

“Sure, it’s gonna be fun.” Sara smirked. “I’m going to go get him, you can come if you want, it’ll be a lot easier to grab him, if he kills you first.”

“That’s cute,” Tracy snapped. “You and I both know, he’ll take you out first.”

~

“This feels wrong,” Sara said, holding up the car boot lid, carefully tucking Tracy’s tail in, before slamming it shut. “Like elder abuse.” she said. Decaulion stuffing a knocked out Josh in the backseat. “Whatever you do, rest assured I will heal.” he said, slamming the car door shut. Holding out his hands in a ‘I’m ready, come at me, kind of way. “Go ahead.”

Sara let a out a breath. “Alrightly,” she said, holding out her hand, the ripple of energy flowing into her fingertips. “Wait, a second,” she said, dropping her hand. “I can’t drive yet, and I don’t even have my license, so, how are we going to get there? If you’re not conscious…I mean?”

“Ah, yes…” Decaulion mused. “Do you have a friend who can drive?”

“Tons, but it’ll be a little suspicious, if I call Stiles and ask him to drive me to Theo’s secret underground lair--” Sara said. “I suppose I could Mason…” she snapped her fingers. “Who’s with Corey,” she said, pulling out her phone quickly sending an ‘emergency’ message.

“Okay,” she said, tucking her phone in her back-pocket, cracking her knuckles. “You ready for me to hurt you in various painful manners?”

“Do you’re worst.”

Sara smiled, raising her hand.

10 MINUTES LATER:

“Sara! I got you’re message, you--okay?” Mason called, slamming his car door shut.

“Great,” Sara said, poking her head out. “Can you guys help me lift him up?” she said, gesturing to the knocked out Decaulion, accidentally dropping his head down, when Mason and Corey came. “Oh, sorry.” she mumbled.

“What happened?” Corey asked. Mason sighed. “You know, I always expected you to call me to hide a dead body, but I didn’t think you’d actually do it.”

“He’s just knocked out. Help, please. Thank you.” Sara said, when Corey grabbed him, easily picking him up and transporting him to his car. “Oh, here,” Sara said, pulling out a bottle from her jacket pocket, tossing it to Corey. “Sprinkle it around, it’s wolfsbane, won’t kill him, but it will make sure he doesn’t kill us if he wakes up.”

“Sara, who is this guy?” Mason said softly. Sara dusted her hands. “That is Decaulion, the alpha Theo’s been looking for, thought I do him a favour.”

Mason grabbed her arm, pulling her aside out of Corey’s ears. “Favour for Theo? Have you lost your mind?” he stepped back. “Is this a Stockholm syndrome situation because--”

“I don’t have Stockholm syndrome.”

“Are you sure? You’re helping him, they say having affection for a---”

“I only emotion I feel for him, is irritation.” Sara said lightly smacking his hands away. “Besides it’s best if someone kept an eye on them.” she said, watching Corey struggle to close the door; Josh’s sneakers sticking out the end, making Corey have to practically shove him inside.

Both Sara and Mason making an ‘ouch’ face when they heard Josh’s head, smack against the inside of the car door. “Just to be safe.”

“Probably for the best.” Mason agreed. “You be okay?”

Sara smiled. “When am I not okay? This is going to be great.”

~

Josh was thrown into the cabinet, the glass smashing to pieces. Sara peered down from the magazine. “You okay?”

“Yeah,” Josh grunted, struggling to his feet. Sara nodded. “Cool,” she said, returning to her magazine. Tracy crashed into a nearby table. “Use a little help, witch!” she snarled, her teeth on full display.

“I told you I’d get him in here,” Sara called, flipping though the magazine. “Help expired after that.”

“What is--” Hayden started walking in, a jar narrowly missing her head. “Should I –”

No they got it,” Sara glanced up from her magazine. Currently, Tracy, Josh and Decaulion were locked in battle, after she and Corey had successful brought him back. Tracy smashed into a wall, dented the concrete. Tracy got back up, letting out a roar, launching herself at Decaulion again.

“Looking good, Tracy!” Sara called. “You almost got em, oh nevermind-” she said. Tracy flying over the metal tables, all the test tubes and glasses smashing onto the floor. Josh got up, barring his teeth, yanking out the electrical wires.

“Careful,” Sara said, lightly pulling Hayden away from the sparks. “There goes the Wifi down here,” Sara sighed.

Josh tackled Decaulion, covering the two of them in sparks. “Careful, he bites,” Sara sang. Josh sailing above them, crashing into the opposite wall. Sara made a ouch face. “Told ya.”

“Sara,” Hayden said, taking the magazine from her, gesturing to the scene. Sara glancing up at her. “Hayden.”

Hayden sighed, setting the magazine down. Sara glanced distastefully at the scene. “Do I have to?”

“Come on.” Hayden said, her eyes glowing. Sara sighed, getting up. “Relax, I got it.” she said, raising her hand, lifting the shards of broken glass around them. “Hey!” Sara yelled over the growls. “Sit, or be impaled. Now.”

Decaulion snarled, baring his long claws and teeth. If this were any other situation, she probably would have impaled him already. “Now.” Sara repeated. Decaulion had growled again, but Tracy had already cut him with her venom, making him crash onto the floor.

Sara dropped her hand, the pieces of glass falling back on the floor. “See, told you I got it.” Hayden smiled. “Nice teamwork.”

Tracy growled under her breath at Hayden. Sara patted Hayden’s shoulder. “It’s cool, we’re still the MPVs of this squad.”

“All this to take down one blind werewolf.” Theo mused, walking down the steps, to Decaulion. Tracy had strapped the alpha to the floor, attached to a large ugly tube of poison that was flowing though his body and the barrier of mountain ash Josh laid out.

“All this,” Sara said waving to Tracy and Josh. “All them.” she said, “We brought him here, fair and square.”

“You mean you got behind him, when he was taking us out,” Tracy snapped. Sara shrugged. “Collateral damage, I did warn you.”

“That’s really clever, coming from you,” Tracy said. “I mean weren't you failing?”

”Weren't you dead?” Sara replied. Tracy’s face morphed into from shock to fury. “You bitc-”

“Next time don’t comment, unless you want me too.”

“Okay, guys-” Hayden called, the three squabbling loudly.  

“Recently re-blinded.” Decaulion said conversationally, the room going quiet.  “Unfortunately, the healing of my eyes by a Dark Druid proved only temporary. A parting gift from my time with Scott McCall. Friend of yours?” he asked.

Theo smiled. “We're working through some issues.”

Sara scoffed. Understatement if she heard one. Tracy glared at her, before fixating her gaze on the old alpha. “He knows why he's here. He knows about the Beast.”

“Hmm. The Beast of Gevaudan.” Decaulion said thoughtfully. “History's most vicious, most famous werewolf. And you think I'm going to show you how to steal its power.”

“Wait, that’s why he’s here?” Sara said, grabbing Theo’s arm, pulling his eyes to hers.

“You want that screwed up science experiment’s reanimated werewolf’s powers?”

“It’s a little more complex than that,” Theo started. Sara scoffed. “Really, sounds pretty simple to me. Pretty simple and pretty dumb.”

“She catch's on fast.” Decaulion interjected. Sara snapped her fingers. “See he agrees with me.”

“Shut up.” Tracy hissed.

“Or what?” Sara dared, taking Theo’s arm, pulling him aside. “Theo, this is insane.” she mumbled. Theo glanced over at Decaulion. “I think you're open to negotiation.” he said to Decaulion. “All you have to do is tell me what you want.”

Decaulion whipped out his claws. “I want his eyes. On the tips of my claws. I want the eyes of Scott McCall.”

Sara bit her lower. “Would you open to like…one eye? Possibly?”

~

“Okay,” Sara said, following Theo into her room. “You want to play, ‘alpha werewolf’, fine.” she snapped. “Alpha werewolf Theo, as an unwilling member of your little chimera pack.” Sara said, ducking her head as she followed him around the room, into a new tunnel. “You’re being stupid, like really stupid. The kind of stupid, I didn’t think possible--”

“Can you grab that?” Theo asked, pointing to a smaller box. Sara picked it up. Theo grabbed the other larger one, moving it into another room.

“Theo, this thing…you can’t even call it a werewolf, okay?” Sara said. Theo moving around the room, taking the box from her hands.

 “You call it The Beast.” Sara said, poking her head around the cupboard door. “Don’t you think, you’re head will be off your body before you even have a chance to sink your magic claws in it?”

“Tracy---”

“Tracy’s Kanima venom works exceptionally well.” Sara said following him into the next room, where he was busying himself with some work. “On me, or someone that has, actually skin. That the Beast doesn’t seem to have.”

“Theoretically, even if she gets close enough---” Sara said, leaning over the table, pulling the book down, meeting his eyes softly. “These guys--they are not fighters. You don’t want to hear it, but they’re not. They’re not going to make it. And neither are you, if you don’t play your cards right.” she said slowly.

Theo slowly set the book on the table. “You’re really worried about this aren't you?”

Yes. Sara pursed her lips. “Talk to Scott-”

“Scott?”

She grabbed his hand. “It’s not too late, for us to join forces to take the Beast and Doctors out-”

“I’m not afraid of them,” Theo said. Sara shook her head. “Its not about fear--this is about survival, you know, the thing you’ve been preaching--”

“Sara-”

“Theo, this thing, is a monster…you can’t seriously be considering taking it out, on your own. You are going to die. Don’t you get that?”

“You really are worried about me dying.” Theo said, in the kind of way that made her want to punch him.

“How is that what you’re taking out of this conversation,” Sara said, pinching the bridge of her nose. “God, I can’t believe I have a friend as stupid as you. It’s like some awful nightmare-”

“I’m a friend?”

“Yeah, you’re friendly enough to me, that I can call you an piece of shit to your face.” Sara snapped, running her hands though her hair. “How’s Malia-is she okay?”

“She’s fine. Here,” Theo said, pulling of his jacket, tossing her a jar. She caught the jar, turning the glowing claws around the jar. “Lot of risk for these things.” she said, the dull glow of the claws in the jar, illuminating the dull lit room.

“Better keep’em safe,” Theo said, glancing down at the claws.

“What? You’re giving them to me?” Sara said unsurely, her grip unconsciously tightening on the claws.

“You’re giving them to her?!” Tracy echoed, bursting into the room. “Are you crazy she’s obviously going to betray us.”

“Yeah, I’m not seeing the angle here,” Sara said, the jar suddenly feeling like it weight far heavier than it had been a few seconds ago. Theo’s hand rested on her shoulder. “No angle. Keep them safe.”

She nodded. Tracy shooting her a withering look, storming after him. Hayden sighed.  “That’s not going to end well.”

“Yeah,” Sara mumbled, turning the claws around in the jar. What was she going to do now?

~

Thoughts??

Would love to hear what you all think :)

Kinda of filler, but I hope you all like it all the same :) 

Thanks for all the comments, kudos, follows and for reading!!!

Till next time....

Chapter Text

“Really?” Theo said. Sara leaned over the gearshift, slurping the last ends of her soda, progressively making it even louder than necessary. Theo slowly lowered his binoculars, glaring at her for a few seconds, before snatching the empty cup, tossing it in the backseat.

Sara pouted. “I wasn’t finished.”

“Yes. You were.” Theo said, placing the binocular back over his eyes, peering out into the forest. Sara sighed. “You know, I finally get why Stiles didn’t want me to come that day. This is so boring. How do you even know if the Beast is going to show?”

They been waiting for the last two hours, in Theo’s stuffy truck for a sign of the Beast to come tearing down the road. The two of them parked in the dark, with the police scanner that Josh had managed to snag a few days earlier; that was currently churning out reports. So far…nothing…supernatural. Or interesting…yet

It wasn’t as fun as you’d imagine, waiting for some raging monster to come tearing down the road.

“He’ll show.” Theo said, finally putting down his binoculars. Sara snatched them from him, setting them on the dash. “How do you even know if ‘he’s’ a he, anyways?”

“We don’t.”

“Wonderful. Our suspect pool is even wider, now including, everything with a pulse.” Sara said, leaning back in her seat. “Didn’t you think to, I dunno question the creep's who’s fantastic idea it was to awaken a deadly monster from the 1700’s?”

“Believe it or not, The Dread Doctors weren't really fans of explanation-- ” Theo said, taking his binoculars back. Sara rolled her eyes.

“What?” he asked.

“Nothing,” Sara said, biting the inside of her cheek. “It sort of sickens me how you defend them sometimes. I still feel violated by the thought of them poking around my organs. Taking or…replace…something…”

The car felt suffocating in more than one suddenly, Sara feeling like she probably said too much. Theo slowly placed the binoculars over his eyes. “I…I really didn’t know, Sara.”

“I know.” Sara said calmly, resisting he urge to tell him, how stupid he looked. She shook her head. “It’s just…a bit frustrating...Having no idea what they did to me. Silly as it sounds,” she mumbled, playing with the end of her sleeve. “I…feels like I changed somehow. I don’t even know if that’s true--”

Besides Hayden, all the other chimera’s changed. Tracy from quiet and gentle to violent. Josh from confident class-clown, that secretly popped pills to electricity addict, that lost some of the swagger and carelessness that he carried. She didn’t know much about Corey before, but even she could tell he gained some confidence since joining. While changed wasn’t necessarily a bad thing, it felt too fast, too soon.

It didn’t help that, there was some…unease. Like, she knew something wasn’t quite right. She missing something, and she just couldn’t put her finger on it. Then again…could this all been in her head? Inflating her own importance? Maybe…maybe--

“You’re Sara,” Theo said, cutting though her thoughts. “An extra set of DNA, or claws isn't going to change that.”

“You think?” Sara said. Theo set the binoculars down, his eyes surprisingly soft. “I know.”

She smiled lightly. “What about like…thousands of teeth…or a lizard tail?”

Theo smirked. “I’ll still like you.”

Sara’s smile fell, the teasing glint, and warmth that had been on the car, seeming to vanish. “Don’t do that.” she said, instantly withdrawing from him.

“Do what?” Theo said, clearly distracted by the scanner. Sara watching him fiddle with it. “I don’t like it when you lie to me, Theo.” Sara said softly. “You’ve lied to me enough.”

He paused. “I’m not lying to you, Sara.” he said quietly.

Sara smiled “I think we both know, that’s not true.” she said, fixing the scanner, turning up the police scanner radio.

“Unit Six to Dispatch. We have a situation downtown. Multiple fatalities.”

“Copy, medics on the way. Do you have a perp in sight, Unit Six?”

“Negative. Looks like a 10-91E. Animal attack.”

“10-4, can you say what kind of animal?”
“All units stay back. Do not engage. I repeat, do not engage.”

“That’s Stiles.” Sara said, sitting up, increasing the volume. “It has to be the Beast.”

“Stiles, get off the radio. All unit alert. Wait for back-up. Repeat, no one goes near this thing.”

“Unit Five reporting a sighting on Hill Road southbound…”

“Unit Nine, I've got it turning off Oakridge, southbound on Beachwood…”

“Sounds like it.” Theo said. Sara leaning over, adjusting the scanner. “Wait, did you hear that? Sounthbound on Beachwood, that’s not far from here.”

“All units, this is Dispatch. We've got a 911 call with additional sighting on Mitchell.”

“Dad…”
”Stiles, get off this channel.”

 “Dad, just listen to me, okay? It's headed for the hospital, all right. He's headed for Beacon Memorial. You hear me? It's headed for the hospital.”

“It’s coming right towards us.” Sara mumbled. Theo yanking her seat-belt off, pulling her into the backseat.

“What are you-?” Sara hissed. Theo pulling her head down, covering her mouth with his hand. Sara shifted uncomfortably on the car floor,  she and Theo pressed against each other. Theo’s eyes were flickering above them holding onto her tightly.

Branches snapped, a growl echoing out, something tearing though the trees, the sound of pounding against the road echoing out. The Beast.

She slowly tried to poke her head up to see it. Theo quickly pulling her back down into his chest. He put a finger to his lips. Be quiet.

She swallowed her words. Another growl ripped though, the sound of claws scrapping against metal.

Theo’s grip tightening around her pulling her even closer into his chest. It was getting closer. She could feel Theo’s heart-beat, slower and far more controlled than her own, which was racing. She shut her eyes, doing her best to calm her heart-rate, trying to match Theo’s. Maybe...maybe it might ignore them?

The truck tilting slightly. The plastic cup and straw sliding to the end of the seat. Sara praying it didn’t make a sound. It was against the truck…like a bear rubbing against a tree.

So close.

Its breath coated the window, she watched it fog the glass. A shadowy movement. It growled lowly like a car-engine. The truck tilted further. Another snarl tearing though the silence.

She bit her lower lip, squeezing her closed eyes even tighter, curling her head against his shoulder. Be quiet. Relax. Relax.

It roared. A deafening, ugly, and raw sound that made the hair at the back of her neck stand on end. She opened her eyes, instinctively covered Theo’s exposed ear. If it hurt her ears, she couldn’t imagine what it must be doing to his.

The windows rattled. Sara more astounded by the fact that they didn’t shatter to pieces. The window was  completely fogged over now, but she could still make out the shape of a clawed arm.

It raised it’s arm--another roar echoed in the distance. It wasn’t the Beast. This was familiar to her ears. Parrish.

The Beast retracted his claws, the car tilting back onto the ground. Sara and Theo landing with a light thud. The sound of thundering claws against the road echoing into the distance.

Sara let out the breath she’d been holding, moving her hand off Theo’s ear, slowly climbing over into the driver seat looking out the window. “Why didn’t it…”

“Something else was more interesting.” Theo mumbled. A horde of police cars rushing past them, Stiles’s jeep flying past. Stiles and Scott.

Sara licked her lips. “You heard them. We have to get to the hospital.”

“No point now.” Theo said, poking his head over the seat. “If Parrish caught up to, it’ll probably transformed back into hiding by now. ”

“It’s still not ready to fight him head on.” Sara said worriedly. “That won’t last long.”

~

“So, let me get this straight.” Sara said, sliding her backpack on her shoulder. “Four steps. Eichen, the Closed Unit, Lydia, out. Eichen has  electric door locks. You have a keycard. Only way to use keycard, is if, a brownout is caused. Thus rebooting the security system, as all key-cards have the same default code. The system takes five minutes to reboot. In that time you’ll be grabbing Lydia and getting out. Whist Scott and Liam stall the guards from outside,” Sara repeated. “That it?”

“Exactly,” Stiles breathed out. “Finally someone understands when I speak.”

Sara smiled lightly, opening up her locker. “Not a bad plan. I’m guessing my part is Chimera sitting?”

“Honestly,” Stiles said, leaning on the locker door next to her. “I think you should be the one causing the power outage.”

“Me? I’m not a lightening kitsune.” Sara said. “Feel like the electric fox for an power outage is better than a witch.”

Stiles shrugged. “I still think you’re our best chance.”

“You know I love B&E’s,” Sara said, taking her books. “But I think Theo might be interested in Lydia too.”

Stiles cursed under his breath. Sara nodded. “Yeah I know. They have the advantage of passing though the mountain ash. I can too, but I don’t know if I’ll have my powers. But, Stiles,” Sara said, closing her locker. “If you need me there, I’m there, ok? I’m sort of tired of babysitting them.”

That wasn’t totally true. She wasn’t tired of looking out for the chimeras. She actually got along quite well with most of them, minus Tracy who seemed determined to hate her guts. As it had turned out, Stiles was right all along. She wasn’t build for lying and hiding, like she’d thought she’d had been.

The guilt of having Theo’s trust, whether real or not was eating her up inside. The guilt of having Josh and Corey’s friendship knowing they were on Theo’s side bothered her too. Not to mention, putting in Decaulion in as a mole. The whole situation made her feel uncomfortable. It didn’t feel like them against us…especially since she was part of the the ‘them’ and the ‘us.’

“Something tells me you’ll be there anyway.” Stiles mumbled, glancing around for prying ears and eyes, bending down closer to her ear. “He’s not…bothering you is he?”

“More than usual?” Sara deadpanned. Stiles sighed irritably. “You know what I mean.”

Sara waved him off. “Nothing I can’t handle. Don’t worry.”

Stiles scoffed. “You’re my Princess. I’m going to worry. Especially since it’s…him. Malia told me about what happened in the locker room, you know.”

“That he shoved a needle into her neck.” Sara said dryly.

Stiles glared at her, clearly seeing she was deflecting him. “Look, all I’m saying is, he’s not the good guy, okay? I, just…don’t want you to get hurt.”

She paused. He knew. Of course Stiles must have known, if Scott knew, it would only have been a matter of time, until he figured it out too. Still, don’t want you to get hurt? It felt too late later for that.

She shoved the thought back, throwing her hair back. “Can you please relax, I can see you’re vein’s popping out.”

“I’m not kidding, Sara.” Stiles said, uncharacteristically serious in a way he wasn’t with her normally. Sara shrugged. “There’s nothing to worry about. There’s nothing going on.”

Stiles looked at her for a few seconds, like he knew she was lying. But to her surprise, he nodded, taking her shoulder gently. “You’re coming home tonight too.”

She smiled. “I won’t be late.”

~

“What did you get for number seven?” Corey asked. Sara looked up from her Chem homework, pulling out her math notebook. “32. Why? What did you get?”

“78.” Corey mumbled. Sara ahhed, leaning over helping Corey with his equation. Hayden was out, presumably with Liam. Theo was still gone too, presumable causing some kind of chaos. He did little else. Josh was still sleeping in the next room. Whist Tracy prowled around Decaulion, the two of them falling into discussion about the Dead-Pool.

“Huh,” Tracy drawled, gesturing to get Sara’s attention. “Wonder how much we’d get if we sell you?”

“10 million, last time I checked.” Sara said, focusing on her work, scribbling down the sum, checking her work, before checking Corey’s again. “Yeah, 32 should be correct.”

“What?” Corey blurted out, still hung on Tracy’s words. Tracy scoffing in disbelief. “Yeah, right.” she grumbled.

Sara turned over the page in her math book. “It was last time,” she said, glancing down at Corey’s equation. “I think I know where you went wrong…”

“It’s 28, now actually.” Decaulion said conversationally from his spot in the corner.

“What?!”

“Oh, they put them up” Sara said nonchalantly, redoing Corey’s equation. “Whats Scott’s?”  

Decaulion hummed. “Last I heard, he’s sitting at about 45.”

“Nice.” Sara said, Theo catching her eyes, when he walked in.  “Wow, you’re an idiot!” she announced, snapping her fingers. “You should have killed Scott and gotten money out of it. Instead of shiny blue claws. I mean…the more I think about it. You definitely got the lower end of the deal.” she said, tapping Corey’s notebook with her pen. “You are meant to divide here, and you counted wrong here. Try it again.”

“Thanks.” Corey mumbled.

Theo chuckled. “You think that?”

Sara shrugged. “Of course, you know when the DeadPool came out. Scott ‘killed’ himself to catch the guy, I mean it kinda work…slightly…not that much. But it was a good plan.” Sara said, turning spinning her pen lazily. “Maybe I should kill Scott…” she mused to herself, glancing back at Theo.“By the way, fearless leader, what exactly is your plan to save us all from damnation?”

“Fearless leader,” Theo echoed. “I like the sound of that.”

“I hope you like the sound of bones breaking, since that’s all you’ve really accomplished on this crusade of yours.” Sara said brightly. “Unless you have a plan.”

“I have a plan.”

Sara leaned back in her chair. “You sure about that?”

“Doubting me?”

“Always.”

Theo smiled “See for yourself.” he said, rolling blueprints onto the table over her chem homework. Eichen house blueprints. Of course.

“Lydia.” Sara hummed. “You’re so predictable sometimes it’s sad.”

“Could say the same about you.” Theo replied. Sara narrowed her eyes. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Did he figure it out? That she wasn’t totally on his side, did he know all along and was just along for the ride? Maybe…yes?

“Are you crazy?” Tracy hissed, pushing herself between them, rounding on Theo.

Sara twirled her pen around, her eyes unconsciously flickering to Theo, biting the inside of her cheek to keep herself from giggling, as she watched Tracy snap: “You can’t show her these. How do we know she’d not going to stab us in the back?”

“Oh, I’m definitely going to stab you guys in the back, first chance I get,” Sara said lightly, leaning over the plans.

Whether or not Theo caught on, it didn’t matter. After today…she’d be back home in her bed with her family trying to kill an monster from the 1700’s. You know, as one does.

Theo smirked, manoeuvring around Tracy, leaning over her shoulder. “You know, typically people who do that, don’t tell them, they’re doing that.”

Sara smiled sweetly. “Think of it, as me putting in my two weeks notice.”

Tracy made a noise of irritation, glancing between them, storming off into the tunnel, the sound of things crashing in the distance echoing out.

“Call me crazy, but I don’t think she likes me.” Sara said. Corey snorting into his math homework, covering his mouth to suppress a laugh.

“You’re an acquired taste,” Theo said lightly. Sara gasped, feinting offence dramatically.“For your information, everybody loves me. Except, maybe Nolan from Little League,” she mumbled.

“You were in Little L--” Corey’s eyes widened. “Were you the one that made some kids cry?”

“How do you know about that?!” Sara cried. Theo grinned. “You’re notorious.”

“Shut up,” Sara said, still smiling, her eyes lining with curiosity. “Besides, what’s your plan, uh? You just gonna waltz in, beat up the guy at the front desk and grab Lydia from the closed unit.” Sara said doubtfully. “Like it’s that easy?”

~

“Alright, maybe it is that easy,” Sara stiffly. Theo getting up, leaving the knocked out orderly on the floor. She didn’t expect him to be so literal. Theo, Josh, Tracy, Corey and herself had managed to walk in and somehow, easily beat up the guards.

“But…very uncivilized of you.” Sara said determined to have the last say. She moved past them, waving her hand over the two guards that were running towards them.

They’re eyes drooped, before they slumped back, falling asleep. “You could have just knocked them out gently.” she said, rubbing fingers together, slowly moving it around the gate.

It unlocked with a light click, Sara pushing it open. “You’re not animals.”

“Hilarious.” Tracy said, pushing past Sara, already pouncing on one of the orderly’s. Sara sighed, watching Tracy tackle them. “This is going cause so much paperwork.”

Tracy, Josh and Theo easily cleared the path to the closed unit. Mowing down any straggling guards or orderly, or anyone really, with Sara and Corey following behind. A steadily pounding headache growling the further she traveled into the asylum. Mountain ash did seem to have some effect. A killer headache. Not to mention, no more witchy powers.

It made her slightly uneasy.. While she doubted the chimera’s would kill her, watching Tracy pounce and slash the guards, reminded her that in that moment, she was human.

After walking down a few corridors, they finally reached the Closed Unit. Josh easily frying the gate, allowing Theo to push it open. The second between closing her eyes and opening them, Tracy had already pinned Valak to the wall. The door open, with Josh, Corey and Theo surrounding Lydia’s bed.

“I can't believe this is actually a medical establishment.” Theo said, gazing down at Lydia.

She agreed. Lydia, looked sicker than she had been, when her mother admitted her. Pale, hair dulled, her eyes glassy. It was almost marring. Lydia had always been in near constantly states of life, but now, she looked more closer to death than ever.

Sara bent down, gently touching Lydia’s hair. Feeling sweat, grease and light tinges of dried blood. Stiles told her Valak had been using trepanation on her, but seeing it was far more horrifying than hearing about it.

“Lydia?” Sara said softly. “Lydia, can you hear me?”

Lydia’s eyes flickered to hers, before drifting elsewhere. Sara following her gaze  a familiar plaid top flashing past. She slowly got up from Lydia’s bed-side stepping in front of the gate, behind Theo and Corey, effectively blocking Stiles from the chimera’s view. Sara hoping that by some miracle there were too many heartbeats and too many problems for Theo to notice.

“Now what would a pack of Chimeras want with a Banshee?” Valak said. Tracy half-pushing his face into the wall. Good, she didn’t care for that manic, if Tracy killed him, the world, and the inmates would be far safer.

“I don't want a Banshee.” Theo said calmly. Sara looking up in surprise. Wait, what? All that Lydia talk he’d been spewing over the past two days…a ruse? All this time…she almost wanted to laugh. He played her again. It seemed every-time she seemed to think she got him…he flipped the table. It was impressive, annoying, but impressive.

Theo smirked, that annoying ‘I’m so much smarter than you’ smirk. “I'm looking for a Hellhound.”

A deep growling echoed out. The hairs of the back of Sara’s neck going stiff. She knew what coming before she looked. And it was furious.

“You wanted a Hellhound…” Valak said, glancing at the gate. “I think you found one.”

She watched the gate melt off. Parrish, alight and burning, skin covered in soot and grime, that made those sharp white teeth. Parrish snarled.

“Oh…no...” Sara whispered. All thoughts of Theo actually being smart, falling out of her head. Someone that clever, could not have done something so incredibly stupid.

Another roar echoing out cutting though the noise in her head. Scott. She instinctively glanced in the corner where Stiles hid, the Hellhound, Valak, Theo’s chimera pack, their pack…Lydia.

Eichen House just became a battle-field.

~

“There's four steps. We get into Eichen, we get into the Closed Unit, get Lydia, get out.” Stiles’s voice echoed out in her head. She was one hundred percent sure, making the super angry hellhound mad and then endanger everyone was not a step.

“Great plan Theo,” Sara sang. “Anger the hellhound, anger the orderly, just going around, making everybody hate your guts.” she said clapping sarcastically. “Fantastic.”

“Really?” Theo said, his confidence seeming to falter. “Now?”

“Can’t do it when you’re dead.” Sara replied. Theo grabbed Lydia, putting his claws to her neck. “Back off.”

Parrish growled, a low guttural noise like a car engine. But Sara got to him first. “Are you crazy!?” Sara snapped, yanking his clawed hand, before it pierced Lydia’s neck.

“You got a better plan?” Theo snapped.

“It’s a hell of a lot better than whatever you’re thinking!” Sara retorted. Parrish’s low growling steadily getting louder, and agitated.

Theo gripped Lydia’s neck, but didn’t pierce it. “I said back off. Take him.” Theo said to Corey, his eyes still on Parrish.

“No. Do not take him.” Sara said firmly. Corey, Josh and Tracy hesitating at her words. Parrish’s eyes locked onto hers, the hellhound’s blazing eyes, making her feel strange. He was trying to tell her something…

The Hellhound growled, stepping closer towards them. The closer he came, the pounding in her head began to lessen. The Hellhound was actually burning the mountain ash straight out of the walls itself.

Clever. It was evening the playing field. It wouldn’t have matter if Theo’s Chimera pack was here. With Parrish on their side, with Scott, Liam, Malia, Kira, Stiles and herself? They’d be walking out with Lydia.

“Take him now.” Theo ordered.

“The guy's on fire.” Corey protested.

“You'll heal. Do it.” Theo said urgently.

For a second, no one moved. Tracy growled, leaping  past Sara, shoving her claws into Parrish’s chest. Parrish whacked her across the face. Tracy slamming into the glass onto the floor. Josh flew into action next, yanking one of the piles from the wall, electricity flowing though him, holding Parrish’s shoulder. Parrish glanced down, the electricity fizzing out not even flowing though him.

“Theo, this isn't working!” Josh yelled. Parrish knocking Josh back against the wall. Parrish knocked Tracy out with his foot, picking up Josh up like he was ragdoll, throwing him to the ground.

This wasn’t Parrish….this was Hellhound, and his actions weren’t predictable.

“Parrish? Jordan?” Sara called, slowly walking towards him. “Hey, hi…”

The Hellhound stopped dead. Sara slowly coming closer. The heat coming off him felt like she was stepping into fire itself, like flames were actually licking her skin, burning her blood. It wasn’t painful. It wasn’t comforting. It was just…present.

“Theo’s sorry, about hurting Lydia…he’ll give her to you. Okay?” Sara started, stopping in front of him. “I know you’ll fix her. Help her.”

 The Hellhound’s eyes eased, but the orange blaze still burning into hers. Sara tilted her head slightly. “What are you trying to tell me?” she whispered.

He came out of nowhere. Then again, that was Corey’s thing. He grabbed onto Parrish. The Hellhound eyes still locked on hers. Sara shook her head. “Don’t.”

The Hellhound pushed her against the wall, engulfing Corey in flames. Sara watching in horror. Corey screamed, Parrish throwing him across the room at Stiles, Valak and Lydia. Theo on the floor, his hand over his leg.

Stiles caught Corey, the two crashing onto the floor. Leaving Valak and Lydia, the former making his escape, dragging Lydia with him.

“Valak!” Sara screamed, trying to get up to follow them. Parrish wrapping his hand around her throat.

‘What are you trying to show me?’

She fell into the snow, the ice replacing the fire that burned her veins. ‘What the…Parrish?!’ she shouted, staggering to her feet.

“No one will remember.” came a voice.

Sara glanced down, thick blood, straining the white snow. A man in the distance coming into focus. “What-”

“LYDIA!”

The scream shocked her awake. The snow covered ground turning back into cold concrete, the blurred face, morphing into Theo, who was shaking her lightly. “Sara?”

“Yeah?” she mumbled, massaging her forehead. Ow.

“You alright?” Theo said, pulling her to her feet. Sara nodded, shaking her head like she was trying to get water out of her ears. “Fine. Where’s--Parrish!”

Parrish was leaning against the wall, on the floor, a dazed look on his face, with a  long metal pole in his chest. His skin still burning, but less like fire, more like the dull glow of a flame.

Sara reached out for the pole in his chest, quickly withdrawing; the heat burning her hands.“You killed him?”

“He’s fine. We have to go. Now.” Theo said, yanking her up again. Sara shook him off, touching Parrish’s neck, reassurance flooding though her, when she felt his pulse. The metal pole started to melt.

“Sara.” Theo said, taking her arm. “We have to go, now. Valak’s got Lydia.”

Sara swallowed. “Okay.”

They ran to the end of the corridor, Stiles slamming his body against the locked door.

“Let me try.” Theo said, pushing past Stiles, easily kicking in the door. The doorframe flying off too. Stiles glanced back at them, running though the door, not even sparing them a second glance.

“Stiles!” Sara called.

“You're not gonna find her without me.” Theo said. “Come on,” he said to Sara, going down the steps. Down, the dark, creepy corridors…great.

Sara sighed. “For the record, you’re plans are terrible.” she snapped, following him down. They reached the next floor, Stiles already running ahead in front to the next gate.

“Stiles.” Theo called, catching up to him, before Stiles could reach the gate. “I want her out of here, too. I've got her scent.”

“What do you want?” Stiles asked. Sara jogging towards them, from the blueprint plan’s this was the last floor. Considering Theo wasn’t rushing to beat Stiles to Lydia…she wasn’t here. So where was she?

“What's the difference?” Theo said. “Huh? I can find her. You can't.”

“What’s that noise?” Sara interjected. The sound of steam blowing in the distance, coming out from one of the small open windows. Sara narrowed her eyes, glancing at the door, further down. “Little late for a shower isn't it?”

Theo swung the door open, over a dozen showering, half-naked male inmates cowering next to their showers. “Oh,” Sara said, blocking her eyes with her hand, doing her best to avert her eyes, mumbling out quiet ‘sorry’s’ as they passed.

Awkwardly following Theo and Stiles, peeking through her fingers to avoid bumping into them, the two stopping in front of a grate in the showers. “It leads to the tunnels, doesn't it?” Sara guessed.

Stiles nodded. “There's miles of them. They could be anywhere by now.”

~

“You okay?” Theo said under his breath. Sara glanced at him, feeling Stiles’s eyes on them, particularly at her. “Fine.” she mumbled.

This was weird. It didn’t help that the mountain ash was still dully present in these tunnels, making her headache. Her eyes flickered towards Stiles, who was trudging behind them. Theo taking the lead, with her next to him. They’d been tracking Lydia and Valak  for over a hour now. She knew what they were all thinking; they were running out of time…

Theo glanced back at her from the corner of his eyes. “Are you mad at me?”

“Yes.” Sara said instantly. “In fact, I’m always in a state of annoyance when it comes to you. So, just slightly more than usual.”

Theo opened his mouth to retort, suddenly looking slightly confused.“It’s gone.” he mumbled. Sara stopped. “What’s gone?”

Theo leaning over walking towards one of the pipes, leaning his ear against the it. Sara paused next to him, watching him curiously.

“Her scent.” Stiles said darkly, rounding on Theo. “I thought you had her scent.”

“I lost it.”

“So find it again.”

“What do you smell down here, Stiles?” Theo said, pressing his ear closer to the pipes.

“Chemicals and fecal matter.” Stiles replied. “Although, I'm pretty sure the fecal matter is you.”

“I smell it, too. It's all that I can smell.” Theo said, leaning against the pipe, tracing it hand over it. “Which is why I'm trying something else. So can you shut up and let me concentrate?”

“Theo’s right,” Sara interjected. “Just stop complaining just let him…do his thing-”

Stiles blinked, going ridged. “Are you seriously taking his side?!”

“I’m taking the I-don’t-want-Lydia-dead side, Stiles.” Sara said irritably. Stiles shook his head. “I'm gonna find her.” Stiles said, marching off blindly. Sara sighed.

“You know you won't, Stiles.” Theo called out.

“Two for two. He’s right.” Sara said tiredly. “Wandering off isn't going to help.”

“You're going to have to trust me.” Theo added. Stiles stopped dead, whipping around, fixating on Theo. “Trust you? The guy who murdered his own sister when he was nine?”

“Yeah, I was nine years old. I also believed a guy in a red suit came down the chimney to deliver presents.” Theo said. “So when three people in leather masks showed up and said that my sister wanted me to have her heart, I believed them, too.

“So then together you gutted and killed her. That's a beautiful story.” Stiles said.

“I watched her fall into the water and freeze to death in minutes.” Theo said. “Do you think I had any idea what was going on?”

“I think you pushed her.” Stiles said softly. “And I think you liked it.”

“Okay,” Sara said, pushing in between them. “Arguing isn't going to help Lydia.” she said. “You can’t find her on your own,” she said to Stiles, glancing back at Theo. “And you’re well, you. So for the time-being can’t we just get along-!”

The scream tore though her head. Feeling ten times louder than it was. She shut her eyes, a distorted blurred version of the tunnel poking into her head. This…this wasn’t her thoughts…this wasn’t even…Lydia.  

“What direction was that?” Stiles said instantly. “Where is it coming from?”

Theo blinked, glancing around. “Everywhere.”

Sara opened her eyes, strange pull from the scream, guiding her forwards. “This way.” she mumbled, dragging herself to her feet, stumbling blindly.

“Sara?” Theo said unsurely.

“This way.”

~

The brief directional sense that came with Lydia’s scream, vanished the second the screaming in her head died down, leaving behind the pounding, burning feeling, far worse than it had been.

“Woah, easy,” Theo said, steadying her from behind, holding onto her tightly. Good thing too, she felt close to collapsing.

“I'm fine.” Sara said, taking a breath. “I just…need to…um…” she shut her eyes, trying to think of the excuse. Theo took a breath, his sharp eyes flickering around the tunnel. She was sure, she could see his eyes prick and his nose quiver while it hunted for a scent.

“Anything?” Stiles asked, sliding his arm over, supporting her from the right. Theo shook his head. “Nothing.” he said, Sara feeling his grip tighter on her.

“Great. You're just as useless as I am.” Stiles said, reaching over gently touching her forehead. “I think you have a fever.” Stiles mumbled.

Sara shook her head, her head lobbing onto his shoulder. “I’m fine…” she whispered, sliding herself out of their grip. She couldn’t be this useless. Lydia needed her…no matter what, she couldn’t be the weak here…she couldn’t be the reason they failed…she couldn’t be the reason Lydia died.

“I'm trying to help save her life.” Theo said, turning to Sara. “You do have a fever. It down. Catch your breath, you should feel a bit better.”

“I’m fine.” Sara said.

“Would you just drop the altruistic crap?” Stiles snapped. “You want Lydia because she gets you to Parrish, you want Parrish 'cause he gets you to the Beast.”

“So what? I want it dead, too.” Theo grumbled.

Sara groaned, massaging her head. “You guys really going to do this now?”

“After you take its power, right?” Stiles said, the two of them ignoring her. “We know why you got the talons and we know you're looking for Decaulion.”

“I found Decaulion. You're right. I'm going to help Parrish stop the Beast. I'm going to take its power. And then, I'm going to break its neck.” Theo said coldly. “So maybe I'm not the good guy in your eyes, but I might end up being the guy that saves all your asses.”

Stiles glared at him. “Break it.” he said.

“What?” Theo asked.

“The sound travels through the pipe.” Stiles explained. “You'll hear better, dumb-ass. Break it.”

“Worth a shot.” Sara said.

Theo raised his hand, punching though the pipe. Steam hissed out, Theo leaning over, listening closely. Sara moved towards the pipe. “Valak.” Sara said. “Valak, I can hear him…talking…”

“You can hear him?” Theo said, pressing his ear closer to the pile. Sara nodded dully. “Yeah…he’s…he’s talking to Lydia.”

“If I try the mask now it will kill you. You have to calm your mind. You understand what they've created.”

“The Beast.”

“The Beast of Gevaudan. An engineered version of it. But it's not yet fully grown. It's still bound to its host, the teenage Chimera inside. And it still requires the Dread Doctors' protection.”

“He’s talking about the Beast…and the doctors.” Sara said, shutting her eyes, allowing the room to slowly come back into focus. “He’s…he’s in a room…with a mask, like the Doctor’s. He’s going to put in on Lydia. To amplify her power.”

“What else is he saying?” Stiles asked.

“The Dread Doctors are trying to get it to remember itself. To remember the man. When that happens, the teenager is gone. I want your help against the Dread Doctors.They ruined me. Destroyed me. They drove me to obsession, consigned me to professional ridicule. People thought I was a monster when I was simply trying to open their eyes.”

“Now you want me to be your eyes.”

“You'll see things, Lydia. Things no one else can see. You may not survive, but you might save the lives of your friends.”

Sara opened her eyes, the fatigue vanishing, adrenaline taking its place. Like a puzzle the pieces began to slot together. “When the Beast remembers it’ll full grow into its power. Remembering who it was, the man he was when the Beast remembers the chimera, the kid underneath they go. They vanish.”  she mumbled, pinching her brow. “Oh, god. He screwed up.”

“What do you mean?” Stiles asked.

“He messed it up. He made a mistake. He got the wrong person.” Sara said quickly. “Banshee’s predict death. But nobody is dying. It’s Schrodinger’s Cat. He’s going to kill her for nothing.”

“You lost me.”

Sara took a breath. “Dead and alive. That’s what the Beast is. He’s trying to get Lydia to predict this kids death…but he’s missed the point. The kid doesn’t die, he vanishes. Like the Beast, it would be like he never even existed in the first place.”

“You can’t predict the death of something that doesn’t exist.” Theo said.

“Exactly.” Sara breathed out.

“Can you still hear him?” Stiles asked. Sara shook her head, turning to Theo. “Can you?”

Theo nodded.

“Lead the way.”

~

They ran down the tunnel, double doors coming into focus. Theo got to it first, ramming his shoulder into the door.

“Lydia!” Stiles yelled, slamming his hands against the door. “ Lydia!” Stiles yelled. “What the hell are you doing? Get the door open!”

“ I'm trying.” Theo yelled back.

“He must have barricaded it.” Sara said quickly. “We’-”

Lydia’s scream echoed out, Theo, Stiles and Sara covering their eyes. The scream rang out, making the doors rattle and shudder. Sara’s feeling like her ears might explode from the pain, before it dulled. Theo pulled the door-knob. Stiles slamming into the door, running into the room, gently cradling Lydia’s head.

Sara ran in, almost tripping over Valak’s body on the floor. He was missing half his head. The things he’d barricaded the door with, thrown across the room. Lydia’s scream had been his downfall.  

Stiles was gently stroking Lydia’s hair. Lydia gazing up at him, like he was a star in the sky. Sara stepped back, to give them a moment, lightly bumping into Theo. His eyes met hers. She wanted to tell him something…

“Lydia, please shut up and let me save your life.” Stiles said, gently picking her up, carrying her to her feet. Sara moved past Theo, reaching out helping Lydia on her other-side.

“Sara?” Lydia whispered.

“Hey, you okay?” Sara said gently. Lydia touched her head towards hers. Sara giving her a tight hug. Stiles supported Lydia, Sara’s arm sliding out of hers. She didn’t move to follow…Stiles saved Lydia. It was his moment to be her hero.

Her eyes flickered to Theo who was staring at Valak’s body, his eyes drifting across the lab. She gently touched his shoulder, pulling his gaze. For a few seconds, they just…stared at each other, words that wanted to be said, withheld. Whether by choice or fear…she didn’t know which.

“Thank you, Theo.” she said gently, touching his shoulder, giving it small squeeze. She wanted to say…come with me. She wanted to say, it’s not too late…She wanted to say…let please…me save your life too…

She didn’t say anything like that. Instead, she let go first, leaving him behind in the darkness. Like a coward, all over again.

~

“Got to try and stay on your feet. The plan didn't work out too well. So I'm gonna need your help, okay?” Stiles said gently.

“You had a plan?” Lydia croaked out.

“It was a pretty bad plan.” Sara said, taking Lydia’s left. Stiles nodded. “Yeah. It was good on paper. Not too much in reality.”

Lydia stumbled forwards, pulling herself out of their arms, covering her ears. “I can't hold it.” she whimpered. Sara’s blood ran cold. If Lydia screamed again, there was no telling how strong this next one would be.

Sara grabbed Stiles arm. “Get behind me.”

“Lydia…” Stiles said, trying to get to her, fighting Sara’s grip on him.

“Stiles, run!” Lydia cried.

Out of no-where, Parrish ran forward, tossing Stiles and Sara back, headlong into Scott and Liam. Instinct took over, Sara  pulling her hands out in front of her,  shutting her eyes. Lydia’s scream rebounding in her head.

“Woah…” Liam mumbled. Sara opening her eyes, a dulled purple dome surrounding them. The rubble and bricks crashing to the floor, when she dropped her hands. “Everyone okay?” Sara asked.

“We’re okay.” Scott said, patting her shoulder. “Are you?”

She nodded, leaning back, resting her head against his for a second. “I wanna go home now.”

Out of the smoke and rubble, Parrish and Lydia emerged, Lydia still gasping and choking in his arms. “Where to?” Parrish asked.

“This way. Come on.” Scott said, gently pulling Sara’s arm. Liam quickly took lead, Scott, Sara, Stiles in the middle, Parrish and Lydia pulling up the rear, as they ran to the surface.

“There's a gate up ahead.” Liam said from the front.

“Isn't it locked?” Sara asked.

“What about Mason?” Scott asked.

“He's on it. Trust me.” Liam said. Sara nodded. She trusted Liam and Mason with her life, even if she was a bit mad at him.

“Liam, slow down.” Scott called from behind. Liam rushing towards the electrified gate, grabbing it.

“Liam, wait!”

“Liam!” Sara cried, expecting him to fly backwards or be singed. To her surprise, Liam grunted, pushing open the gate. “I told you.” Liam panted, rushing forwards, the rest of them running behind him. They climbed up the ladder; Liam first, Sara next, Lydia and Parrish, then finally Stiles and Scott.

Scott closed the grate. Sara turning behind. They managed to make it right outside, Eichen. Not even a second later, Stiles jeep driving up next to them. Sara snapped her fingers. “Now, this…this was a plan.”

“Can you stand?” Parrish asked, gently setting Lydia onto her feet. Sara instantly supporting Lydia from her other side.

“ Is she okay?” Malia said, she and Kira getting out of the jeep.

“No, we need to go. Give me the keys.” Scott said. “We gotta get her to the clinic.”

 Parrish yelped, slamming against the jeep, deep slashes across his back. Something cut her from behind, deep across her neck. Numbness spreading though her body instantly, making her crash onto the ground. “Tracy.” Sara hissed.

“Sorry, but she's coming with me.” Tracy said, presumably grabbing Lydia. Not that she knew, she was still on the pavement.

“Okay. Tracy, just wait. You don't know what's about to happen.” Scott said. Liam picking Sara, holding her like a teddy bear.

“I'm taking her.” Tracy said. “That's what's happening. And none of are you going to do a thing…” Tracy gasped, falling to the ground,electricity zapping though her body. Lydia falling safely back into Stiles’s arms.

“Mrs Martin?” Sara blurted out. Mrs Martin holding up the baton-tazer. “Could somebody please get my daughter out of this hellhole?”

“Go.” Sara said, glancing at Scott and Stiles. “Go now. We’ll find another way back. Get her out of here.”

They moved fast, Stiles placing Lydia in the back with him. Scott sliding into the drivers seat, they drove off, tearing down the road.

“Malia?” Sara cried. Kira and Liam, holding her up, her body numbing moving around like some-sort of messed up paperdoll.

“Yeah?” Malia said.

“Could you do me a favour please?” Sara said. “Could you please, kick Tracy for me. Real hard….in the face. She knows how much I hate this feeling…”

“Umm…could somebody help me up?” Parrish mumbled from the ground.

~

Thoughts??

I can't believe we are almost done with season 5!
Lots more exciting things to come! I hope you liked this one! Can't wait to hear what you all think. :)

Ps. If Sara weren't a witch, what other supernatural creature would you imagine her as? In my original drafts I wanted Sara to be human, turned hunter and actually be a villain in the beginning... (I had her as a one of the DeadPool hunters, but I changed it, since i didn't like the vibes)...anyways :)

Thanks for all the comments, favs, kudos and follows and for reading!!!

Don't forget to comment, fav and follow :) 

Best wishes for the holiday season :) 

Till next time....

Chapter Text

“Hey, Mom, yeah I got the milk, bread and cereal. Was there anything else? Ok.” Sara said, walking out of the grocery store, down the road. “What time you coming home? Okay. See you later, drive safe. Bye.” Sara said, tucking her phone in the jeans pocket.

She paused, mid-step, glancing around the empty street. She had the strangest feeling something was following her…She took a few steps further, the strangest urge to look over her shoulder, entering. Sara glancing over, her eyes tracing the road. The small grocery store down the street was near the forest. Nothing would hurt her there, unless some-other supernatural creature wanted their pound of flesh.

She moved down the street, turning a corner on the left. Spotting some dark flash from the corner of her eye.

“Ah, ha,” Sara said, catching the wolf, holding it lightly between her legs. “I knew something was following me,” she said, bending her head over, peering at the wolf curiously. “Didn’t think it would be you.”

The wolf seemed just as surprised as she did, sniffing as if guilty, avoiding her eyes. Recognition flashed into her mind. “Ahh.” Sara said, ruffling it’s fur. “I see, are you feeling bad about chasing me that day?”

“That's a wolf.” Liam repeated, staring at it. The wolf growled lowly its sharp eyes locked onto them. Sara bent down, smiling at it. “Oh, hi you cutie.” she purred, earning ‘WTF” looks for Liam and Mason. The wolf growled louder, baring his pearly teeth.

Sara’s smile dropped. “Oh, okay. Maybe if we’re still.”

The wolf snapped its jaw.

“Nevermind. Go, go!” she cried, as they ran into the school. “Move, move!” The wolf chasing them. 

“Troublemaker,” she teased, stroking it’s soft hair. “You’re lucky, you’re cute, otherwise I’d be very upset with you.” she said. Now that she got a better look, the wolf was actually quite beautiful. Lush, thick, dark fur, slightly pointed ears, and rather deep, strangely familiar green eyes.

“You know, from afar, you looked much…smaller.” Sara mumbled. When she thought of wolf, the thought of German Shepard, but bigger sort of filtered into her brain. In real life, it wasn’t like that, this wolf was at least 5 feet long, from it’s snout to it’s tail, and from the way it moved, strong and powerful too.

To a person who barely hit 5’2, the realization that she was actually petting a wild animal came pretty quick. Strangely enough, she didn’t feel scared or…worried…it felt familiar. Safe.

She stroked the wolf’s head, gently cupping it’s face in her hands. “Why are you by yourself? Huh?” she asked. According to Brett and Satomi, the Beast had scared of most of the wolves and coyotes, deeper into the forest. One so close had to either be lost or an omega.

“It’s okay…you can stay with me for a little while, if you want.” Sara said, ruffling the wolf’s fur. It took in her scent, trotting proudly down the pavement, turning his head, as if waiting for her to follow him. “You know the way?” Sara asked. The wolf whined slightly, coming back, lightly nudging her leg moving down the road.

“Alright, I’m coming.” Sara said. The wolf followed her all the way home, like a well-trained puppy. Playfully sitting at her feet as if to make her wait at all the intersections, moving first before letting her follow. It was adorable.

When they got home, the wolf sat on their poach, lapping water from Roxy’s old bowl until sunset, when it decided to rush back into the forest just five minutes before her mother’s car pulled in the drive.

~

“Show-off.” Melissa said, when Sara levitated the mug into her hands. “Me? Never.” Sara said, sipping her own tea. Melissa took a long sip, watching Sara’s fingers lightly tap against the counter. “We gonna talk about it?”

“About what?”

“Theo.”

Sara paused her tapping. “Not much to talk about.”

Melissa shrugged. “You’ve been… quieter. Since Eichen. Since getting basically kidnapped.”

Sara sighed. “I mean, it was damp, smelly and creepy, sums up all that happened.”

Melissa raised an eyebrow. Sara bit her lower lip, setting down her mug. “I don’t know what to do, Mom.”

“You can’t save someone who doesn’t want saving.” Melissa said softly.

Sara leaned back in her chair. “That’s the thing…I-I don’t think I can leave him. And…the rational part of my brain is saying to let go. Cut my losse, and then there’s this other part that’s telling me. No. Hold on….for….I don’t even know what…because what if letting go is what kills him?”

 Her mom glanced at the counter, awkwardly fiddling with her mug. “Honestly, I don’t know. Unfortunately, you have to decide whether to holding on or let go.

“It feels like I let go too often.” Sara whispered.

“Sara, you have such a good heart. I know it will never steer you wrong. I also know, that holding everything up here, to make sure you don’t get hurt again, isn't good for you.” Melissa said, gently touching Sara’s forehead. “Just promise me, don’t hide from me…and if you can’t…just don’t hide from youself. About what you want…what you need…who you are. Just promise me you won’t disappear into this. However it ends—you come home. In one piece.”

“I’ll try.”

~

“It happens every night. I don't know when and I don't know what triggers it, but at some point every night, I leave. When I come back, I find burned clothes and blood. If I didn't know certain things, I'd call it sleepwalking. But I'm not just wandering out the door. I'm heading out with purpose. I'm searching for something.
That's why I need you to follow me. I need to know where I'm going and what I'm doing. If people are getting hurt because of me...If I'm adding to the body count…I have to know. When I wake up at night, when it takes over, I want you to follow me. And if you have to...I want you to stop me.”

“So…” Liam said quietly.

“So,” Sara echoed, her eyes fixed ahead.

“Are you still mad at me?”

“Are you?” she asked back, voice calm but unreadable.

They didn’t look at each other. Just stared out at the empty road, the weight of everything unspoken sitting between them.

“You’re the bravest person I know,” Liam said softly.

Sara didn’t answer. She didn’t move.

Liam sighed, pushing his hands into his jacket pockets. “You were always the smallest. You got scared easy. But you still did the thing that scared you. That’s what made you brave… I didn’t realize how far apart we’d gotten until—”

“Yeah,” Sara interrupted gently. “Me neither.”

Another silence. This one quieter, softer.

“I forgave you for killing Scott,” she said, almost too quietly. “A while ago. I know you were manipulated. I know that wasn’t really you.” Liam looked over, surprised. Sara swallowed. “But… I think what hurt more was that you weren’t wrong. About Theo. And me. About me trusting him.”

She let out a shaky breath. “I think I messed it up. For everyone.”

“That’s not on you,” Liam said, immediately.

“It is. A little,” she mumbled. “I wasn’t there that day—because the Dread Doctors got to me.”

Liam’s brows furrowed. “What?”

“The supermoon. I figured out what Theo was doing. He knocked me out and stashed me somewhere. He didn’t think the Doctors would come for me, but… they did.”

Her hands twisted in her lap. “I think they killed me.”

Liam stared at her, stunned.

“I don’t know why,” she went on. “Or how. I don’t think I’m… different. Not really. No claws, no tail, no glowing eyes. No chimera stuff. But…”

She hesitated. “I think…there’s something inside me. Like a void.”

Liam blinked. “A void?”

“Yeah. I don’t know how to explain it. Just… something hollow. Like something was taken, and it didn’t come back with the rest of me.” she whispered, laughing lightly. “Maybe just weird witchiness or trauma brain or whatever.”

Liam was still staring at her, quiet.

“Does Scott know?” he asked. “Stiles?”

“A little,” Sara said. “It’s not important.”

“It is,” Liam said. “Sara—”

“No, I shouldn’t have said anything,” she said quickly, brushing her hair behind her ear. “Forget it.”

“I won’t,” Liam said. Sara finally turned to look at him. Her eyes searched his face, waiting for the catch — but there wasn’t one.

“I’ll forget a lot of things,” Liam added, “but not when someone I care about says something’s wrong.”

“There’s nothing wrong,” Sara said quickly. “I just… I dunno. It’s probably nothing.” She shifted, picking at the edge of her sleeve, avoiding his eyes again.

“Sara.”

“It’s just weirdness. Maybe leftover from what the Doctors did. Or I’m overthinking it. Or—” she trailed off, pressing her lips together.

“Sara.”

“…It’s not like I’m hallucinating or blacking out or anything. There’s just… something off. A pressure, like there’s a door that…opened. Like it shouldn’t be. Like this door is not meant to be open, I mean its not open, open its like…ajar…and its just there. I sound nuts I know it do-”

“Last year, I got turned into a werewolf, found out you’re a witch, your brother’s an alpha, we got attacked by magical mask wearing warriors, and had a battle in an aceient temple in Mexico.” Liam said. “That’s excluding the assassins that wanted to kill us all. You feeling weird, its important. But…I won’t tell Scott or Stiles, yet. Until you want me to, just…tell me. We tell each other everything, Sara. We used to, and I don’t want that to change. No matter what happens.”

“Niether do I.” Sara said, giving him a hug. Liam squeezed back just a tightly. “I missed you. Dummy.”

“I missed you too…Idoit.”

“Hello?” Stiles said loudly. “If you two are done having your heart to heart. Argent called, Parrish is one the move.”

“Move? Where?”

~

“He's headed to the school.” Scott said, the three of them in Stiles’s jeep. Sara shivered. “I got a bad feeling about this.”

 Liam poked his head though the space between the seats. “Why's Parrish headed to the school?”  

“It's not Parrish. At least not right now.” Scott said.

“Okay, why's a Hellhound going to the school?” Liam rephrased.

“Cause he's got a yearning for higher education.” Stiles said. Sara snorted. “Maybe we’ll get lucky, and he’ll total the lab. I did not have time to study for my chemistry test.”

“Liam, Hellhound's at the school, so, we're going to the school. Okay?” Stiles said changing gears. They

Liam sighed, sitting back down next to Sara. Wordlessly checking in on her, lightly nudging her shoulder. Sara patting his, before they turned into the school driveway. Scott and Stiles climbing out, Liam next then Sara, Liam slamming the door shut loudly, making them glare at him.

“Sorry.” Liam mumbled.

“Where's Parrish?” Scott called to Argent.

“I lost him. He's moving too fast.” Argent started.

“Scott.” Liam said. “That guy's not moving at all.” he said staring down the long outside walkway, slowly moving towards the body. Sara covering her mouth, holding onto Scott’s shoulder. “It’s here.”

Sara looked up, another body on the ground. They slowly walked over, Sara’s stomach twisting the closer they got. The next body if possible worse than the last.

“Look…” Liam said, gesturing to a open school bus.  Sara moved almost involuntarily closer. A man looking up, at them, holding out his hand. “Help me.” he rasped

“ It's a trap.” the Hellhound said, grabbing Sara’s arm, practically pushing her back into Liam.

“Please…”

“You can't help him.” the Hellhound said, fixating his fiery eyes on Sara. Scott took another small step. Sara sudden grabbing his shirt holding him in place. “Don’t.”

A snarl ripped though the air, from the school bus. The Beast. It’s claws swiping though the man’s body cutting it clean in half. Sara gasped. Liam holding her firmly on her arm. The Beast’s shadowy blue eyes locking onto them.

“That's big. No one said it was that big.” Stiles mumbled, eyes locked onto the Beast.

“I did.” Liam mumbled back.

“Me too.” Sara added, keeping her eyes firmly on the black shadow. The Beast roared. The Hellhound roared back, the Beast moving down the bus, crashing though the window glass shattering. The Beast tearing off, the Hellhound chasing after it, leaving them behind with the bus filled with dead bodies.

“What the hell's happening?” Scott mumbled.

“It's getting smarter.” Argent said. Sara sighed, glancing at the bloodied bus. “Great. Are we burning or burying these?”

~

“I'm headed in for my shift. You guys think you'll be okay for the night?” Melissa called. Sara jogging down the steps, meeting Malia and Braeden in the kitchen. “I’m sure we’ll be fine.” she said. Braeden cocking her gun in agreement.

“Do we really need to do this?” Malia said. “Deaton said the Desert Wolf can't get her power back unless she comes for me on a full moon.”

“Just because there are rules to taking power doesn't mean she plans to follow them.” Braeden said firmly.

“Yeah, well, I've come up with a rule of my own…”  Melissa said, pulling out a jar of mountain ash from her purse. “Never be too careful.”

“In short, Girl’s Night!” Sara grinned.

After setting out a few blankets and pillows in the living room.

 Sara gently poked Malia who was staring out the window. “You know, she’s not your real mom---I mean, yeah she’s your biological mom, but that doesn’t mean she’s your real mom.”

“You mean the mother I mauled to death?” Malia said.

Sara paused. “Well, I wasn’t going to put it like that.” she said, gently pulling Malia away from the window to the blanket pile she made. “Look, if you want to kill the Desert Wolf. I support your decision. If you don’t. I support your descion too. Whatever you want, but, what I’m saying is, don’t let her--twisted head and thoughts twist your own. And don’t, not for one second think, you’ll turn out like her, because you share blood. Because you won’t. You decide. Not her. And whatever decision you make doesn’t make you a monster, not to me.”

“As for you mauling your mom…Malia, that’s not on you. That was the Desert Wolf. She did that. Not you. You were a kid, scared, alone, whatever happened that night wasn’t your fault. You couldn’t control it. Forgiving yourself…I know its easier said than done, and its not perfect….Its not much, but…” Sara said gently taking Malia’s hand int hers.  “You got me.”

“I know.” Malia said quietly, squeezing Sara’s hand in return. They sat in silence for a bit, when Malia smirked. “Since when do you say stuff that actually helps?”

Sara gave her a mock-offended look. “Excuse me, I’ve always been full of deep, emotionally profound wisdom. Besides,” Sara said, handing Malia a bowl of popcorn. “One to many episodes of reality TV helps wisdom, not much to do in an underground tunnel. Weirdly enough.”

~

The week of the charity game match between Beacon Hills and Devenford Prep preparation were already underway, with Sara nearly knocking into a TV crew. That were doing team captain interviews with the lacrosse teams.

Brett chuckled, from the question the news reporter asked them. “Devenford always plays to win, but especially when it's for charity.”

“And especially when 100% of the proceeds go to the winning team, isn't that right?” the reporter said eagerly. Brett nodded, leaning down slightly to reach her microphone. “Which is why we'll be 100% kicking Beacon Hills ass.”

The reporter grinned, turning back to the camera. “Tickets still available for purchase. This is Kathleen Cassidy for KQNB.” the reporter walked off, with the camera man, taking shots of the Devenford players.

Sara sneaking behind Brett, leaning against the bench, taking her pen dramatically speaking into it like a microphone. “This is Sara McCall for Beacon Hills Hype, any thoughts for how you’ll repay me after Beacon Hill’s kicks your smug, prep school ass?”

Brett  chuckled, leaning over her speaking into her pen. “Well, Sara McCall, since, your so sure about Beacon Hills winning, I’m sure your not against, making a bet?”

“A bet?” Sara said with interest. “Ok. Terms?”

“If I win, you give me a kiss?”

Sara laughed. “How about,” she said, playful pulling him down to her height. “If you lose, I give you a kiss?”

“Are you asking me, to tank my game for your school to win?”

Sara smirked. “Maybe.”

Brett grinned. “Sara McCall, that’s such a dirty play.”

“So…you’ll do it…” Sara teased, turning the pen towards him. Brett easily playing along with her tilting his head down to talk into the pen again. “Can;t say I’m not tempted.”

Sara  smiled. “You’re such a sleaze, you’re the team captian…would you say, its betray at it’s height?”

“You’re height or mine?”

Sara scoffed, lightly hitting his shoulder. “Jerk.”

~

“Mason said it's not just to transmit frequency. It's high powered. Like it has to be over a really strong signal.” Liam explained, to the Sara, Scott, Stiles and Lydia. All gathered around the library table, sharing the information they managed to gather.

“And that's causing it to shift?” Lydia guessed.

“No. I don't think it's just that. Last night Argent said that it's getting smarter. What if the Dread Doctors are trying to make the Beast grow faster?” Scott said. Stiles paused. “With frequencies?”

“No, by shifting. The frequency is just the trigger. The important part is when it shifts into the werewolf.” Scott explained. Lydia nodding as Scott spoke. “Like Peter.”

“Peter?” Sara asked.

“Right. Yeah, when Peter was an Alpha, he got stronger every full moon. Eventually, the burns healed and he was back to normal.” Scott said.

“So the Dread Doctors don't want to wait for the full moon.” Liam said.

“They want the Beast to be as strong as possible, as fast as possible.” Scott said.

“Because of Parrish.” Liam said. Sara sighed. “Parrish hasn’t reached his full form yet either, according to that premonition painting in the Dread Doctor’s lab, Theo showed me. If the Beast gets stronger faster than Parrish does, we’ll be losing our first and probably strongest line of defence.”

“So if this is happening tonight, what are we going to do?” Lydia asked.

“Uh, we've got one clue to go on.” Stiles said, slapping a crime scene photo of a bloodied shoe print. “ This came from the hospital. Whoever's lurking inside the Beast is wearing a size 10 of indeterminate make.”

“Indeterminate?” Lydia said, glancing up at Stiles.

“Means, it's a partial print.” Stiles said. “Basically, it was all we were able to get considering all the fire, blood and carnage.”

 “How many size 10s are out there?” Scott asked.

 “Only one with Parrish's blood on the sole.” Stiles said.

“Working on the assumption the shoes weren't tossed, or wiped clean, or destroyed.” Sara added.

“So are we going to try to get the game canceled?” Liam asked, glancing between them.

“No, no, we're going to play, but we're just going to hope really hard that it doesn't turn into a blood-soaked massacre.” Stiles said dryly.

“Optimistic.” Sara said dryly.

“Okay, but, um...Aren't we kind of missing out on a chance to catch this thing?” Liam asked. “ We don't have the "who," but we have the "where" and the "when."

“Not to mention, the school has a convergence of telluric currents -” Sara mumbled.

Scott paused, thinking on it, before he shook his head. “There's too many people.”

“Yeah, your right. High causality risk isn't worth it.” Sara said, cutting off her idea at the root.

“And we still don't actually know if it's going to happen. It just might end up being a regular lacrosse game. It's possible, right?” Lydia said hopefully.

“That's absolutely possible.” Stiles said.

“In this town? With our luck?” Sara said.

There was a collective paused.

“So we're still getting the game canceled?” Liam asked.

“We're getting the game canceled.” Scott said, he Stiles and Liam already rushing out of the library, Sara about to follow, pausing a weird feeling entering, she turned her head. Lydia already walking to the hidden corner of the library.

“Lydia.” Parrish groaned, large gnashes across his chest. Lydia bent down, already assessing his injuries. “Sara, call Argent.”

~

“How’s Jordan?” Sara asked over the phone, pacing near the bench. After she and Lydia managed to get Jordan to Lydia’s car and then to Chris, she’d decided to take a walk towards Devenford Prep. Now that Parrish was injured, the Beast showing up became a larger possibility, one that she and Scott weren't ready to face without some back-up.

“He’s healing. It’s slow…but…I’m sure he’ll be fine.” Lydia said.

Sara moved phone to her to other ear, glancing over her shoulder at the lacrosse field in the school grounds. “Okay, just um, let me know if you need anything or-”

She felt something, gently rub against her leg, the familiar dark fur of the wolf that had been following her around for the past few days, appearing. The wolf rested his head on her lap. Sara stroking its fur as Lydia spoke.

“Don’t worry, Sara. I’ll keep you updated.” Lydia said.

“Thanks. Be careful.” Sara said, tucking her phone in the jeans pocket. The wolf rubbed it’s head against her hand, suddenly moving around her; it’s ear’s pricking on alert.

“Hey, sweetheart.” Brett called out, from the school gates, jogging over.

“Hey!” Sara waved. “This is Brett,” she said, cupping the wolf’s face to look at her. “He’s my friend, okay? Be nice. Nice.”

The wolf shook his head. Sara unclear if he was agreeing or disagreeing with what she asked.

“Who’s the mutt?” Brett said. The wolf’s calm shifting instantly lowly growling at Brett. “Oh, easy. Friend. He’s a friend.” Sara mumbled, holding onto the wolf, rubbing it’s torso. “I just did you to be nice.”

Brett narrowed his eyes, growled back under his breath. Sara blinked. “Are you arguing with the wolf?”

“No.” Brett grumbled. “Where’d he come from?”

“He?”

“Obviously.” Brett said, bending down next to her. The wolf growling as he did. Sara shrugged. “Found him just now.”

“Huh.”

“What?”

“He’s a bit…territorial.” Brett said.

“Maybe he lives around here?” Sara mused.

“Maybe.” Brett mumbled. “You didn’t call me for this, did you?”

“Course not,” Sara said, standing up. The wolf moving around her feet, his fur brushing against her jeans.

“I need your help.” Sara said.

A smiled curled on Brett’s lips. “Darling, you have no idea, how much I love to hear you say that.” he said, throwing an arm over her shoulder. Sara laughed. “Why? Soothing to your ears.”

“You know, I don’t help anyone but you and my sister.”

“Glad to know, I’m exclusive.”

The wolf pushed in-between them, snarling slightly at Brett. Brett snarled right back, the two hissing and spitting at each other for a few seconds.

“Really?” Sara deapanned.

“He started it.” Brett said. Sara sighed. “It’s about the game.”

“Ahh. Trying to get out of our bet?”

“Actually trying to get the game canceled.” Sara said. Brett’s grin dropped. “Didn’t think you were that serious about this bet.”

“No, no,” Sara said quickly, “It’s about the Beast. We think it might show up tomorrow night. We wanted to try and take the chance identify who the Beast is…there’s a possibility that we might even have to fight it. I hate to ask, I don’t want to put your pack in danger-

“Our pack is indebted to you,” Brett said, grabbing his bag, starting to walk. “And to Scott. I’ll help however I can, Lori too. I’m sure I ask Satomi to spare some eyes and ears. She’s got soft spot for you. She’ll help out.”

“Thanks.” Sara said. “Just tell them, we only need lookout, and if possible to help if worst comes to worst and help evacuate. We don’t need them to fight.”

“I’ll certain they won’t mind fight for you, Sara-”

The wolf suddenly sat on Sara’s feet, refusing to let her move. Brett turned back, we he realized she hadn't moved, scowling at the wolf. “Get off, mutt.”  

The wolf snarled again, making himself comfortable on Sara’s sneakers.

“I don’t think he likes you.” Sara teased.

"He's just your new buddy now, isn't he?" Brett grumbled. Sara laughed, giving the wolf a pet. "Why not? Jealous?"

"Very." Brett said. Sara rolled her eyes, pausing. “You don’t seem surprised that I showed up with a random wolf.”

Brett shrugged. “I’d be more surprised if you didn’t.”

Sara blinked, looking confused. Brett smiled. “You don’t really notice it, but…things, people, they usual come towards you, Sara. You’re like…the Beacon of Beacon Hills.”

“That’s so cheesy.” Sara said, her phone ringing. “Hey, Stiles.” Sara said. “Yeah…so he’s in…he’s had seven relapses? How’d he manage--What is he on his period? So he’s coaching? Great. Kay, see you in a bit. I should head back.” she said, tucking her phone back into her pocket.

“Want a ride? My car’s just in the student parking,” Brett said.

“Sure.”

As she took a step, the wolf making a noise of irritation, promptly laying down on her sneakers now, curling it’s tail around her legs.

Sara sighed. “You know what I’ll walk.”

“You sure?”

Sara nodded.

Brett sighed. “Text me when you get back--” he said, glancing at the wolf. “Watch out for her.”

The wolf ruffled his fur, moving off her feet the moment Brett drove off. Sara glanced at him. “Really? What do you have against him, huh? He take something of yours?”

The wolf almost nodded his head in agreement. Sara chuckled, patting his head. “Poor guy, did the mean werewolf boy, bully you?”

The wolf sniffed her neck, suddenly licking her on the cheek. Sara laughed. “Yuck, that’s so gross.”

The wolf ruffled it’s head, almost guiltily.

Sara smiled, stroking his head, it shut it’s eyes, relaxed. “It’s okay, I didn’t mind,” she said. The wolf instantly cheering up, licking her again. Sara giggled. “You just want attention don’t you?” she said ruffling it’s fur. The wolf whining in response.

Sara playful turned. “Nope, I’m not giving in. Sorry. Shop is closed.” she said, sitting back down on the bench, fiddling with her phone.

The wolf jumping up on the bench, laying down on her lap, nudging the phone out of her hand with it’s nose. Sara held it up in the air, the wolf lifting its head trying to reach it. “Relax, I’m just texting Liam, then I’ll talk to you. Deal?”

The wolf huffed, plonking back down on her lap. Sara stroked his fur. “Don’t be grumpy. There, all done, happy? Are you licking my shoes?” Sara said, the wolf poking it’s head up, stopping dead mid-lick caught in the act. “Why are you licking my shoes? Are you hungry or something?”

The wolf shook it’s head, licking her face again. Sara sighed. “Are you trying to clean me or something? For your information, I shower often, and I smell great. ”

The wolf made a small grunting sound of agreement, lying back down. Sara leaned back, the wolf now half on top of her, rubbing his head against her hand. “Rough day?” she guessed. “Yeah, me too.”  

The wolf nudging her hand. “Bitter and demanding,” Sara grumbled, stroking its fur.  “Guess I’m stuck with you now…huh? That’s fine…” she said, taking in a breath. “I don’t mind.”

It was surprisingly peaceful, the forest, the sun and the wolf that lay on her lap. Like a pause button had been pressed allowing her time to just breath for a bit.

“I saw you know…the Beast…I’m not as scared of it,” Sara said to herself. “But I’m suppose I’m scared of what’s its capable of. It’s killed so many people. Butt, I’m more afraid, that if it shows…what if I’m useless in the fight? I didn’t help against the Dread Doctors, I got played by Theo, didn’t even do much at Eichen. Funny, I’ve got all this ‘strength’ but I don’t feel like I do.” she said softly. “All I ever wanted was to help.”

The wolf shifted off her lap, sitting up, fixating her with it’s green eyes. The more she looked, the tug of familiar that she couldn’t quite place came. The wolf rested it’s head on her shoulder, as if it were attempting to hold her close, like a hug.

Sara smiled, shutting her eyes resting against it’s head. “Okay…I’ll admit, you’re very cute.”
~

Game Day. The big one. A week of planning and prepping and---

“You still need that one,” a voice whispered in her ear, making Sara jump, nearly hitting into her locker if not for his hand. “You need a bell, seriously, where do you even come from?” she grumbled.

Theo leaning on the locker next to hers, straightening up, a light smirk on his face.“You want to give me one?”

Sara rolled her eyes. “Ha ha. What do you want?”

Theo held up his Biology textbook. “You do realize, I’m still your tutor right?”

“I’ve think I’m okay.” Sara said, closing her locker, sliding her bag over her shoulder. “Besides, we’re just going to sit in silence. Because I’m not talking to you.”

Theo tilted his head, resting it against the locker. “For someone who’s not talking to me, you’re talking quite a lot.”

Sara scoffed, opening her mouth to retort, when she saw the time over his shoulder. “You know what? I can’t today.” Sara said, pulling on both backpack straps. “I promised I’d meet Brett before the game tonight.”

“Brett.” Theo echoed.

“Yeah, so I’ll see you…never then?” Sara said, walking down the hall. She hadn’t made it two steps, before something tugged her back, Theo catching her by her bag lightly pulling her backwards. “Library. Now.”

“No.” Sara said, moving to walk again. Theo tightly holding onto her bag, dragging her right back. “Yes.”

“No.” Sara said, turning around to face him. Theo fixating her with a look. She knew that look, it was the stubborn unyielding kind that she didn’t mind pushing. Even if he pushed back.

“You can meet Brett later, or never, but you’re coming with me now.” he said quietly, but even she could hear the edge in his voice. She raised her eyebrows. “Invested in my academic success?”

“What can I say, you’re my star pupil.”

”Who’s leaving. To meet Brett. Now.” Sara said, wriggling out of her backpack straps, holding out her hand for her bag. “If you don’t mind-”

“I mind.” Theo said flatly. Sara sighed. “You cannot be taking tutoring this seriously.” she said, waving her hand around for him to relinquish her bag.

He looked her up and down, sharply looking over her shoulder. “Mrs Finch!” Theo called out.

Sara clapping her hand over his mouth, stiffening his words. “I can meet Brett later.” she said quietly. Wanting nothing more than to smack him, when she felt his lips curl upwards over her hand, as she slowly let go.

Theo smiled, taking her bag with his, leading her to library. “Let’s go.”

“That was a cheap shot.” Sara grumbled behind him, making a point to walk stiffly, making him practically have to half carry, half drag her to the library.

She figured his ‘tutor’ excuse was complete bull. She didn’t expect him to go though with it like this. They hadn't been there for more than ten minutes. Her pen rhythmically knocking against his textbook, her eyes flickering to the clock, whilst Theo worked quietly on his Chemistry homework.

Sara smacked her pen down, making him look up. “What do you want? You blackmailed me here. So what is it?”

Theo set down his pen, leaning back in his chair, watching her carefully, as if studying a specimen. “I heard about your plan. Tonight.”

“So?”

“Don’t go to the game.” Theo said, picking up his pen, returning to his work. “It’s dangerous. ”

Sara scoffed. “That’s why you dragged me here?” she asked. Theo’s pen still moving along the page, making her want to smack it out of his hand. “Scott needs me, I’m going.” she said, grabbing her bag, kicking her chair back into it’s place.

She paused, mid-step. “If your so worried, why don’t you come tonight?” she said hesitatingly, trying to make it sound casual. “Extra set of eyes, and claws, wouldn’t hurt right?”

Theo’s pen paused, his eyes flickering to hers. “Don’t go to the game…Please.”

Sara pursed her lips. “Coward.” she said. Theo’s jaw clenched. Sara storming out of the library, making a point to slam the doors shut.

~

“Don’t go to the game, please.” Sara said in a overly-whiny voice, stomping down the hall. “Oh, I'm going to take its power. And then, I'm going to break its neck.” she grumbled under her breath. “What a load of crap.”

 For a second, she thought he’d chase her—argue, fight, something. But the library door slammed, and Sara was alone with the echo of her own heartbeat, suddenly wildly wanted to storm back inside and throw something at Theo. Maybe a brick.

“Other McCall!” Coach hollered down the hall. Sara stopped, letting out a breath, trying to shake off her anger. “Yes, Coach?” she said, turning around, narrowly getting beheaded by the clipboard he threw. She caught it quickly, the pen knocking against the clip harshly.

“I need you on the field with me, assistant coach.” Coach said.

Sara put the pen into it’s place. “Okay…but what about the actual assistant, whistle, paycheck, receding hairline? Coach?” Sara said, having to jog to keep up with his fast paced strides. For a guy who just got out of rehab, he was surprisingly spry.

“Who cares about him?!” Coach said, smacking the clipboard in her hand enthusiastically. “You’re up, McCall. Those boys need someone who actually knows what they’re doing, and God help me, you’re the closest thing I’ve got.”

“But--I…I play soccer…” Sara said, knowing her words fell on deaf ears. “I really only know the basic of lacrosse…”

“Perfect!” Coach hollered over his shoulder, not breaking his stride. “Neither does Greenberg, and look how far he’s come!”

“Didnt Greenberg graduate?” Sara asked, adjusting the clipboard under her arm as she jogged to catch up.

Coach slamming open the doors to the boy’s locker room. “Listen up, you degenerates!” he barked. “Other McCall, is assistant Coach for the charity game.”

Sara smiled awkwardly, catching Scott’s eye. He raised an eyebrow, Sara shrugging in response, gesturing to Coach. He understand instantly, nodding. While it wasn’t the ideal…at the very least she’d also be at the front lines in case anything went wrong.

After a little more yelling, Coach finally dismissed them. The boys dispersed, Sara moving towards Liam, Scott and Stiles.

“This seems like a bad idea.” Liam said instantly. Sara shook her head. “Could be good for us.”

Stiles folded his arms. “You really believe that?”

Sara held out the clipboard. “I have the clipboard so yeah.”

~

“Mason you know your part…” Scott said. The pack gathered around in the Biology classroom to go over the plan one last time. Mason nodded. “Corey and I break into the Devenford Bus and search their shoes.”

“I take out the TV vans.” Malia said, stepping forward.

“Right before the whistle, Coach forfeits the game.” Stiles said.

“The rest of us are looking for a size 10 with a bloody sole.” Liam said.

“While watching out for the Beast.” Sara added.

“Just out of curiosity...What if it doesn't work? What if we have to go up against this thing? I mean, I hate to bring up bad memories but Scott's still healing from what Theo did to him.” Malia said.

“No, he's not.” Kira said softly..

“She's right.” Scott said lifting his shirt, showing them a now, completely healed smooth skin, void of the gashes that had been consistently bleeding over the last few weeks, Scott pulled down his shirt. “It happened the night we got Lydia out of Eichen House. I healed. When were all together again, when we were a pack.”

“The Beast doesn't have a pack.” Liam said.  

“Not like us.” Scott said, glancing around the room. “We can do this, guys. No one dies tonight.”

“Sad that’s our pack motto,” Sara said, nudging Stiles. The sound of the bell for everyone to get onto the field ringing out. “Sara,” Scott said, just before she could leave. “If the Beast shows up-”

“I’ll not sitting on the sidelines, Scott.” Sara said.

“I know.” Scott said, taking her shoulder. “Just…be careful.”

“You too.” Sara said giving him a hug. Scott squeezing her back tightly. “Let’s go.”

~

“How’s your new buddy?” Brett said, pulling on his team jersey. Sara smirked. “Fine. I think…he’s a ball of fur that likes to lick and knock things over, so he’s not that much different than Liam.”

“He licked you?” Brett said, like Sara had told him the wolf proposed. Sara raised her eyebrows. “You do realize he’s an animal, Brett.” she said, her eyes drifting to the bleachers.

Half the town was here, students, teachers, parents from Beacon Hills and Devenford. News-crew, camaramen, reporters, sheriff deputies and security…no Theo.

So he wasn’t coming. She didn’t like how she felt her heart sink the longer her eyes trailed over the crowd. She shouldn’t be disappointed. She didn’t expect him to show up anyway. Even trying to goad him into coming was stupid…She’d called him a coward, had she pushed too hard?

Brett poked her shoulder. “Looking for someone?”

She shook her head. “No. No one. Um, I didn’t see Lori, she at home?”

“She’s right over there,” Brett said, gesturing to the stands. Sara quickly spotting a familiar knit beanie, Lori huddled up next to Hayden.

“Ah,” Sara said, Lori catching her eye waving. Sara waved back. “Found her.”

Brett lightly patted her shoulder. “Better get your head in the game, McCall. Would hate to see you win.”

Sara smiled. “We’ll see.”

“Other McCall!” Coach yelled. Sara moving back to the Beacon Hill’s end, everyone dressed in their maroon uniforms. Sara matching the team, with her own maroon t-shirt, and hat, a shiny silver whistle sitting proudly around her neck.

“Yes, Coach,” Sara said.

“Are you ready?” Coach said. Sara nodded. “Got my whistle, got my clipboard, don’t have a receding hairline, but I do have this sparky fluffy pen. So-” Sara said, glancing up at the roaring crowd on the stands. Sara cleared her throat, “So um…Coach, I thought you were,” Sara said, lowered her voice slightly. “Forefitting?”

Coach closed his book, fixating her with a look. ““McCall,” he began, his voice uncharacteristically calm. “Do I look like the kind of man who forfeits?”

“Yes?” Sara tried.

Coach laughed. Sara blinked, glancing at Stiles. Stiles chuckled. “Hey, Coach, now is the, uh, time to forfeit the game. Now's the perfect time to forfeit the game. You gotta...Coach.”

Stilinski, McCall,” Coach said throwing an arm around both of them. “I've never forfeited a game and I never will.”

“Wait, what?” Stiles and Sara cried. Coach chuckled, lightly pushing Stiles forward. “Get on the field.”

“Coach, Coach, just think about this logically--” Sara started.

Coach blew the whistle into her ear. “Get on field, McCall!”

“I’m not playing!”

“Not you!”

“Oh…right, my bad, sorry.” Sara said, over the sounds of thundering feet.

Sara didn’t know much about lacross. The basics. You ran around with sticks, with little baskets, tossed the ball to each other, had a person who scored, when they tossed the ball into the opposing teams goal post. You could body check people. That was about it. So, really all she knew was Devenford was winning, and Beacon Hills was losing rather pitifully.

“Other McCall!

“Yes Coach?” Sara called, jogging towards him. Coach took her arm, gesturing to the field. “What the hell is wrong with your brother?”

Been asking that question myself, everyday Coach.” Sara said.

“Well tell him to score!’

“I don’t have a-nevermind.”

About half-way through, Sara watching Stiles getting twacked painful.

“McCall!” Coach barked. “You know that Devenford Captain, did he give you anything, strengths weakness?”

Sara blinked. “I was actually at Devenford.”

Coach, “Fantastic McCall, what were their plays like?”

Sara blinked. “Er…Good?”

“And?” Coach said, eagerly gesturing for her elaborate. “What formation did they run? Were they stacking the crease? Slipping picks from X? Cycling through a 1-4-1 or running off the elbow?”

Sara stared. “…Yes?”

“Which one?!”

“All of them. I think. Maybe not the elbow thing?”

Coach nodded like that made perfect sense. Sara was wondering what cycling they were doing.

“Classic misdirection. Dangerous. We’ll need to counter with a reverse wheel clear and flood the zone early.” Coach said.

Sara had no idea what that meant, but nodded anyway. “Yep. Definitely flood it. With…the zone.”

Coach clapped her on the back like she’d just won a war. “That’s what I like to hear, McCall. Real coaching instincts. You tell them.”

“Got it!” Sara said, “You boys get--- flood the zone, and Cycle and Stack Crease!” Sara yelled. Stiles running past her yelling back. “What does that even mean?”

Sara shrugged, holding up her clipboard like it explained everything, before yelling in near perfect imitation of Coach of a: “GET ON THE FIELD STILINISKI!”

“I AM ON THE FIELD!”

About 45 minutes, in Beacon Hills were doing better, but Sara could tell Kira was clearly going though something considering how many people she tossed aside like ragdolls, flipping over like she was in a ninja film.

“Oh, no.” Sara mumbled.

“That girl is damn serious about charity.” Coach said.

“I don’t think it’s about charity, Coach. Shouldn’t we pull Kira back?” Sara asked.

“Are you kidding?”

“She just suplexed a sophomore,” Sara muttered.

“That’s called dominance, McCall. Classic intimidation strategy.”

“It’s a charity game.”

“Exactly. And charities love winners.”

“Right.” Sara said, looking back at the field, where Kira was now spinning her lacrosse stick like a katana.  “Nothing says community outreach like a full-on warrior priestess rage blackout.”

“We should get her in varsity next year,” Coach added proudly.

“She’s a senior, Coach.” Sara replied.

Coach gazed out onto the field, sighing in relief. “This is a good start.”

“This is the start!?” Sara cried. After what felt like both an age and five minutes, the ref yelled out : “That's overtime!” after Liam scored.

Coach running up to the field, Sara behind him. Coach grabbing Liam by the helmat gently. “Get up, idiot. We could win this thing.”

After Liam’s goal, Sara had dragged Coach back to the sidelines. A loud screech of mic feedback echoed out, Sara covering her ears.

A feeling of dread entering her, “No.” Sara whispered, grabbing Coach’s arm. “We need to evacuate-”

“Should've stayed in rehab.” Coach said

She saw it, flash past. Those glowing eyes.

“Coach! We need to evacuate everyone-” Sara cried.

“Evacuate, Other McCall, are you out of your mind, we’re--” Coach started unconscionably holding Sara back from moving. Sara watched Liam, watched him running. Running.

A loud growling echoed out. She saw it, flash past.

“RUN!” Sara screamed.

~

thoughts??? 
wonder about this wolf? weird huh? *wink, wink*
had a lot of fun with sara and coach, so i hope it was good! 

Thank you to all my amazing readers!! 
Till next time...