Wawindaji

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4

Chapter 1

The evening wind swept through Zecora’s monochromatic mohawk and kissed the three black lines on her gray face. They ran vertically from the bottom of her right eye to the corner of her cheekbone.

The marks of a warrior. One who had claimed the lives of her prey.

Zecora shuddered, shoving the memories down and resuming her watch. She brought her Wawindaji mask down over her face again. The cool air had been a welcome respite from the stuffy heat her mask could build up. Through the green tinted lenses of her angry hunting mask, she gazed out across Canterlot’s suburbs. Her perch on one of the taller apartment buildings gave her an excellent view of everything in a ten block radius, including the outskirts of the forest to the west.

All seemed calm, just as it did every time Zecora took watch. Months here in this new city had yet to reveal anything suspicious, supernatural or otherwise. The closest lead she had was that something had happened at the Battle of the Bands at her new school. Still, none of her new friends, or even her girlfriend, wanted to talk about it.

Suspicious to be sure, but it didn't strike Zecora as supernatural. She loved her grandmother, but was starting to think her juju detectors might be losing their potency.

Zecora didn't complain though, and it wasn't just because complaints were frowned upon in her household. She had gotten to travel to a foreign land, learn more about other cultures, and meet new friends that eased the loneliness from being so far out of place.

And if the, as phrase went, ‘cherry on top’ was that she did not have to hunt, Zecora was perfectly happy.

She stood up from her kneeling position against the roof’s parapet and took a moment to stretch, pulling the mask up again. Her black cloak ruffled in the wind, though it made no noise. Neither did the gold bangles around her arm when she lifted her hands to the sky to bid the sun farewell.

“How is the watch, Zecora?” a deep voice said in her ear.

She brought a hand down and pressed against the comlink. “Fine, Baba. It’s quiet tonight. All is right.” She inwardly cringed. She had rhymed again.

“Good,” her father said. “Five minutes, then switch to section six.”

“Yes, Baba.” Zecora picked up her silver spear, its twisting twin prongs catching the last glint of sunlight. She gave it a twirl as she moved to the other side of the roof and squatted next to the heating vent. She lowered her mask and scanned the suburbs again.

A family heirloom and important tool in hunting, her mask’s lenses acted as short range juju spectacles, invaluable for picking up on any anomalies in the area. Zecora could see calming blue lines trailing through the air, mixing and weaving all around Canterlot.

There was an abundance of good juju here, certainly more than what was considered normal, and certainly worthy of investigation. But neither Zecora nor her parents could detect the bad juju her grandmother had picked up on a few months ago.

Thinking of juju brought Zecora thoughts of her girlfriend, who practically radiated good vibes. Zecora couldn't quite figure out why; she was pretty normal in every other aspect. And there was no chance she’d ask her parents to investigate now.

The sun gave the world one last wink before vanishing beyond the horizon. While the moon hadn't made its appearance yet, the lights from downtown reached the sleepy suburbs and bathed it in a gentle, manufactured glow.

Zecora took a knee and gave the area one last sweep before moving on as instructed. She saw parents herding children inside, and cars pulling into driveways, their occupants finally getting home from work. Everything was normal.

Except…

Something moved at a hurried pace, flickering out of Zecora’s line of sight just as she was about to stand. She moved her eyes back and forth along the road until she found the moving figure again.

Zecora stifled a gasp as she increased the focus of her magical lenses with a thought, not that she needed to. She could spot that blazing cascade of hair from a mile away.

“Sunset?” she breathed.

Sunset ran down the sidewalk, occasionally casting nervous glances over her shoulder. She was dressed in a large overcoat that didn’t fit the ‘rocker style’ Zecora had grown fond of. Oddest of all, her aura was not the radiant gold Zecora knew so well. It was fading and flecked with red: bad juju. The road Sunset was traveling would take her into the forest.

“Zecora, have you moved yet?”

Her father’s stern voice made Zecora jump, a feat only he and her grandmother could manage. “Ah, I am on the move right now.” Such a flimsy lie. She was glad her father was not here in person.

There was truth in it, she supposed. She intended to move, but not toward the city as instructed. Zecora picked up her spear and leapt to her feet. Keeping her eyes on Sunset’s shadowed form, she vaulted from the roof, landing on a lower one close by.

Silent and quick as the wind, Zecora chased after her girlfriend.

******

The door closed behind Zecora as her parents left her alone in the principal’s office, their business in enrolling her complete. Zecora continued to sit straight, keeping her head pointed toward the desk in front of her, while her eyes roved around the room.

It looked how the office of an education administrator ought to look. Shelves full of books, filing cabinets full of documents, and a few personal objects. A small plant sat on the desk next to the nameplate. Zecora identified it as an Euphorbia Pulcherrima, or rather, a poinsettia. It was normally seen around the holidays. Fitting, as school had just returned from their winter break.

Zecora held in a sigh. It had been her first winter holiday away from her old friends. As exciting as traveling to a new land was, the knowledge that at the end of the day, the house she would return to was not her old one was… uncomfortable.

Principal Celestia walked back around her desk and took a seat. She pressed a button and spoke into a small microphone, “Sunset Shimmer to the principal’s office, please.” She removed her finger and smiled warmly at Zecora. “Sunset is part of our school’s welcoming committee. She’ll be delighted to show you around school and help you get acclimated.”

Zecora gave a sharp nod. It seemed rude that the principal was delegating such a task to someone else rather than doing it herself. But, perhaps she had more pressing matters to attend to. Or, that was just something that was done in this country.

A minute passed before someone knocked on the door, then entered without waiting for a response. “You wanted to see me, Principal Celestia?”

Zecora turned her head halfway toward the door, so she could look at both the newcomer and Celestia with a shift of her gaze. This new girl, Sunset Shimmer, was quite pretty by Western standards of beauty. Overall thin, with slight curves to her hips, tall, an ample bosom, and flowing hair colored crimson and gold. Her face was pretty as well, save for the rather large bags under her eyes.

Principal Celestia took notice as well. “Sunset, are you all right? You look exhausted.”

Sunset smiled, her dimples drawing attention from the bags. “I’m fine. Just adjusting my sleep schedule after break.”

Shifting her eyes, Zecora saw Principal Celestia give a nod of understanding. Zecora was not so easily convinced. She looked back to Sunset. While she gave no tell, Zecora couldn’t help but feel Sunset was lying. Or at least, omitting some of the truth.

And yet, despite the deception, Zecora felt an overwhelming amount of positive juju flowing from her. In fact, it was almost visible; a subtle golden glow around her frame.

“Well, I would like you to meet Miss Zecora,” Celestia said with a soft gesture. “She’s our newest transfer student starting this semester.”

Zecora stood, making sure not to turn her back fully to Celestia, and stuck her hand out. “Hujambo, that is to say, hello.” It was the first time her rather deep and accented voice had graced the room since her arrival.

Sunset gave her a firm grasp and shook. “Hi, I’m Sunset Shimmer. It’s nice to meet a new face. I’m guessing you’d like a tour of your new school?”

Zecora nodded, still shaking Sunset’s hand and keeping eye contact. “Tafadhali, if you would be so kind. A tour might give me a little peace of mind.”

With a kind giggle, Sunset said, “Sure thing. I know coming to a new place can be hard.” She gave her hand a gentle tug, and Zecora let go. “We’re off, Miss Celestia.”

“I’ll let Miss Cheerilee know where you are,” she said, shuffling some papers. “And if you need anything, Miss Zecora, my door is always open.”

Zecora gave the principal one last look. “Your hospitality is most welcome. Though, hopefully, my visits will be seldom.” Once Sunset turned toward the door, Zecora finally gave her back to Celestia as she walked out into the hall.

“Never give your back to a stranger,” her baba always said, “especially if there’s two.”

While Zecora doubted either of these two strangers meant her harm, it never hurt to be careful. She let Sunset lead her back into the rotunda at the front of the school. The halls were much quieter than when she had first arrived with her parents. Without the crowd, she found it rather spacious.

“So, this is the main hall,” Sunset said, spreading her arms to emphasize the space. “We keep the trophies we’ve won this year over here.” Sunset pointed to a large display case at the back. There were golden trophies next to pictures of the teams they belonged to.

Zecora’s eyes roved and landed on a picture that had Sunset in it. She was surrounded by a group of smiling girls, most of them holding an instrument.

“Oh, that was taken for the Battle of the Bands we had just before break. My friends and I took first place.” Sunset’s voice sounded heavy with nostalgia despite it being a recent event.

Zecora looked up at her, but Sunset was already walking down the hall again. Her golden aura had dimmed.

Making mental notes of questions and observations, Zecora hurried after. Sunset showed off the science lab, the music room, the gym, the cafeteria, and the football field outside. Zecora smiled and nodded when appropriate, memorizing the layout of the school. Another thing she thought unnecessary, but, better safe than sorry.

As they returned inside, Sunset said, “By the way, I love your outfit.”

Zecora looked down at what she was wearing. Her flowing leaf green dress decorated with bright, abstract patterns in other earthy colors that trailed down to her ankles.

“Ah, your words are most kind. This is actually a favorite of mine.” She had wanted to look her best for her first day of school.

“It’s really nice,” Sunset said, not a trace of falsehood in her voice. Perhaps Zecora had been wrong in sensing an earlier lie. This Sunset Shimmer seemed to be a sincere young woman.

She showed Zecora the upper floors before leading her back to the rotunda where students were beginning to congregate. Zecora guessed it was almost time for break. As she and Sunset came to a stop near the back wall, Zecora could feel the students’ eyes following her.

“So, that’s the tour. Any questions?”

Zecora shook her head.

For some reason, Sunset smiled at the gesture. “Hey, I know how hard it is to be the new kid. Especially when you come from someplace far away. You’ll find a place here, trust me.”

“Your hospitality is sincere, Sunset. I trust I will enjoy my time here.”

Sunset raised an empowered fist. “That’s the spirit. So, tell me a little about yourself, Zecora.”

Zecora locked eyes with Sunset again. Beyond the tired bags, her teal eyes held a friendly warmth. But beyond even that, Zecora could see something else… sadness? Isolation? She was tempted to ask what was wrong, but Sunset had inquired first.

“I’m afraid there is not much to my story. My parents and I came here not seeking money or glory. Simply, a change of scenery from our old lives. A chance to start anew under a different part of the skies.” Zecora couldn’t help but giggle. “Traveling is something I always desired. People who can go where they please, I’ve always admired. But, I will admit, being this far from home, I can’t help but feel a little alone.”

Hushed laughter from across the hall prevented Sunset from saying what was on her mind. Glancing over, Zecora saw a group of students pointing at her and whispering behind their hands, before snickering again.

Sunset turned her head, her easy-going smile collapsing into an angry frown. She whirled around to face them and said with an almost feral growl, “Hey! If you’ve got something to say, either spit it out for everyone to hear, or keep your mouth shut!”

The students jumped, and one of them stammered, “S-sorry, Sunset. We’ll stop.” They hurried along, none of them daring to cast a look back.

Sunset faced Zecora again, easing back to her welcoming smile and tone. “Sorry about that. I swear, most of the students here are really nice. It’ll just take a little while.”

Zecora felt a heat rise to her cheeks. She had suspected some might make fun of her. What she had not expected was anyone to defend her on the first day. “Your commanding tone is to be respected. Though, truth be told, this is…” Zecora inhaled sharply through her nose, then let out a slow sigh.

“I apologize. I know why they point and laugh. It has happened to me in the past—” She flinched at her own words. “I know I rhyme when I talk. It….” She chose her words slowly. “It is ingrained into my family’s blood. I try to talk normally, but, it’s a bit of a struggle, as you can see.”

Sunset raised a hand like she was about to pat Zecora’s shoulder, but instead gestured down the hall. “Don’t worry. Spend enough time around here, and you’ll be speaking our slang in no time. In fact, why don’t you come and spend lunch with me and my friends?”

Zecora opened her mouth, closed it and cleared her throat, then said, “That sounds nice.”

“Awesome! Come on, I’m dying to get a burger. I wish they made some of them rare, but I guess beggars can’t be choosers.”

******

Zecora kept at a modest distance, blending into the shadows whenever Sunset looked back.

My shimmering sun, what troubles you so? You’re more frightened than a lone doe…. Curses. The Sunset she knew and had fallen in love with never showed any fear. Uncertainty at times, but never open terror. Yet, Zecora could see the sweat on her brow and her trembling eyes every time Sunset looked back.

Zecora checked over her own shoulder, but saw no one else. They had reached the edge of the forest now, and the moon was beginning to crest over the mountains on Canterlot’s other side.

“No…. Dammit, not yet.” Sunset’s frantic whispers reached Zecora's trained ears. Pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place, enough for her to see the picture.

But, no, that was impossible. She would have seen it before. And if not her, surely her parents would have detected it.

Zecora pushed the picture away, refusing to look at it head on. There had to be another explanation. Because, if Sunset was… then that meant Zecora would have to…

The concrete turned to gravel, then to dirt as both girls entered the forest, the eaves of the trees drowning them in shadow. The sky was barely visible through the thick foliage. If it weren’t for the glow of the rising moon, the path would be nigh impossible to see.

Then, Sunset veered off the main path, diving between a close set of trees. Zecora stopped short of them, listening to Sunset stumble through the underbrush, seemingly uncaring about the amount of noise she made. Zecora followed suit, Sunset’s racket masking the crunch of her own boots against the twigs and dead leaves, and her cloak hiding the rest of her.

“Further… have to… get further…”

Sunset’s breathing was labored, and her voice bordered on manic. Zecora kept pace with her with minimal ease, yet her heart hammered against her chest. She wanted to stop Sunset here, ask her what was wrong, hold her and tell her it would be fine. But Zecora mastered the patience drilled into her. She would let Sunset reach her destination first.

After ten minutes of traversing through the dense forest, Sunset came to a stop in a small clearing. The stars overhead were bright and clear, and the light of the full moon crept in, chasing the shadows away.

Zecora slowed her pace as she drew near, pressing herself against an old tree. As her fingers moved across the bark, she felt a rough and jagged groove in it. Moving her hand down, she discovered three more identical gashes. She looked about, seeing more trees around her scarred with deep gouges; thick shrapnel of bark were littered across the ground.

“Oh no,” Zecora breathed, her cyan eyes wide. “Please don’t let it be so.” She looked back at Sunset, who stood in the middle of the clearing, her large overcoat slipping off her shoulders.

With a deep breath, Zecora pushed herself off the tree and stepped into the moonlight.

Chapter 2

The fresh emerald leaves waved in front of the sun, leaving spots in Zecora’s eyes as she stared up at the sky, watching the clouds fluff up and make different shapes.

“That one kinda looks like a fancy stapler,” Sunset said, her head resting on Zecora’s shoulder. The two of them sat in the middle of Canterlot Park. A large Ulmus Americana, or white elm tree, stood over them, showing off its new spring leaves.

“Hmm. But if you turn your head…” Zecora turned her head until she was resting on top of Sunset. “It almost looks like a sled.”

Sunset squinted her eyes as she stared. “You know, if that wasn’t true, I would have thought you did that on purpose.”

Zecora held a hand to her heart. “How rude, you know I would not. And I thought you promised not to make fun of how I talk.”

“Okay, that was on purpose!”

“Perhaps,” Zecora said with a smirk. “But I am getting better. See? No rhymes this time…. Progress is slow.”

Sunset laughed, her warm juju flowing down Zecora’s arm and into the rest of her body. If Zecora had to choose her favorite thing about Sunset, it would be her warmth. The positive aura of her juju manifested as a loving glow like one experienced at holidays spent with family. And that warmth was easily triggered by Sunset’s laugh and smile, two close runner-ups for Zecora’s favorite thing.

Only a month together, and Zecora knew several ways to get Sunset to laugh. While she was never good at jokes, her use of faux melodrama always got a chuckle out of Sunset. When they were in chemistry class together, Zecora would sometimes over-emphasize the pronunciation of elements and chemicals. Combined with her accent, Sunset was left face first against the table, clutching her sides.

Likewise, Sunset could get Zecora to snort in a very undignified fashion whenever she recounted a misadventure with her friends. Most of them involved Pinkie Pie doing something seemingly impossible. Zecora couldn’t help but wonder if she was actually a supernatural being...

The two girls shared a quiet moment before Zecora’s eyes caught sight of her book bag lying a foot away. “Shall we continue studying chemistry? Though by now, you have the chapter committed to… you have most of it memorized.”

“Nice save,” Sunset said with a snicker. “And I think we’ve got plenty of chemistry already, don’t you?”

A bubble of laughter rose in Zecora’s throat and escaped as a snort. Bad puns were another weakness of hers. “Sunset, you are most certainly a… ‘goofball’ is it?”

“Goofball is one word you could use.” Sunset pressed herself closer to Zecora, her long hair brushing against Zecora’s nose. It smelled like strawberries.

After another moment of silence, Sunset said, “Hey, Z, tell me more about where you’re from.”

Zecora plucked a blade of grass and brought it level to her eyes, rolling it between her fingers. “Why are you so curious about my past?”

“Well…” Sunset rested a hand on Zecora’s leg. “I guess it helps me learn more about you.”

Ah, but there are some things you can’t know about me. Not for a long time, at least. Zecora opened her hand and let the wind carry the grass away. “Well, contrary to what some believe, I grew up near the cities.” She gave an irritated cough. “I mean, I didn’t grow up in some village.”

“It’s okay, Z. Just talk.”

“Yes. My apologies. Anyway, I grew up just outside the city, in a suburb almost like this one. The houses were wider apart, and yes, the road was dirt instead of stone, but we lived in a nice, middle-class home. I had friends to play and study with. We traveled everyday by bus to go to school in the city. In the evenings, when we finished our studying, and when I did not have… chores, we played football. That’s soccer, for you.”

“Sounds nice.”

“It was. We had trees to climb, fields to run. There was never a shortage of… entertainment.”

Sunset laughed quietly. “So, why did your parents decide to move?”

Zecora was silent for a while, watching a cloud take on the shape of large talons. “Education still only goes so far where I come from. My parents wanted their only daughter to have as many opportunities as possible.” She shuddered. Lying was an easy way to earn bad juju.

“Do you miss home?”

“I do. I had friends and family there. But, I keep them close in my heart. Bonds like that are not broken by petty things like distance.”

Sunset’s aura and warmth flickered. “Yeah…”

“What about you, Sunset? You have hardly told me about your homeland. I am curious to know you, too.” Zecora bent forward and kissed the top of Sunset’s head.

Sunset was silent for so long, Zecora was worried she might have dozed off. Then, “I grew up in a beautiful city. Rich with history and culture, and just well, rich. I got to go to the best school, study under… well, she was infinitely wise and kind. She became a second mother to me.”

Fondness mixed with regret. Sunset’s aura faded out, leaving her cold. Zecora wrapped an arm around her and pulled her tight. “What happened?”

“I… I made some bad choices. I wasn’t always a good person. I thought she wasn’t giving me what I deserved, so I ran away to here.”

“Did you find it?”

Sunset nodded. “Yeah. And I found out I didn’t want it. I hadn’t earned it, and it… well… you can’t force destiny.”

Zecora nuzzled her face into Sunset’s hair until she found her ear. “It sounds like you’ve learned a lot since you left your teacher. Perhaps you should show her the new you.”

Sunset stiffened for a second, then relaxed again. “I can’t. It’s… complicated. Maybe someday.”

“I understand.” Zecora kissed her ear and said softly, “But you are a girl with such a radiant light. Seeing you again, I’m sure would be a welcoming sight. I mean, I think she would be very glad to see you.”

Sunset rotated and turned her face up to Zecora. Their eyes met, and both of them leaned forward into a loving kiss.

******

Sunset whipped around as Zecora stepped into the clearing. There was no golden aura flowing off her. Her teal eyes did not sparkle with kindness. Instead, there was a faint red glow surrounding her, and her eyes were frantic, filled with both fear… and anger.

“Who’s there?” Her voice was deeper than usual, and far more gravely. “You can’t be here!”

Zecora remained silent. Her staff trembled in her hand, and her heavy breathing made her mask very warm. Ancestors, please let this be a dream. Tell me it is not true.

But she knew it was real. Real as the anguish on Sunset’s pale and clammy face. Moonlight had almost completely engulfed the clearing.

A static buzz in her ear drew Zecora’s attention away for just a moment.

“...ora...there? Lost… hear…”

Zecora raised a hand and switched her comlink off, then slowly moved her mask up her face, revealing herself to Sunset.

Her pupils dilated. “Zecora? Why are you here? You… you were never supposed to see this!”

Zecora pushed her hand forward. “Please, Sunset, be at peace—”

“Peace? You want me to be at peace?” Distraught fear morphed to anger, and with it, her voice fell to a guttural growl. “At peace is the last thing I can be right now! You weren’t supposed to know. Nobody was supposed to know! You have to leave!”

Sunset hunched over, pressing both her hands to her heart. Her hair, already frizzed and wild from her run into the forest, grew longer and more matted. Her breathing came in ragged pants now, intermixed with growling and snapping.

Zecora’s knuckles turned white as she clenched her silver spear tighter. She knew what to do in a situation like this. She had been trained specifically for this reason.

Kill the beasts of the supernatural. That was what Wawindaji did—what her family did.

But the pain in Sunset’s eyes… the anguish… the memories of their time together… the warm aura she always had…. Sunset was not some monster, she was a girl in trouble. But what could Zecora do?

Sunset threw off her large coat, revealing a simple white shirt and board shorts, both of them stretching taut over her growing form. “Zecora,” she said, struggling to keep her words intelligible, “run!”

She fell to her hands and knees, bones audibly cracking as her body shifted. Her ears elongated, poking through her mane of hair, while her mouth stretched to accommodate her rapidly growing teeth, drool slipping between her razor sharp canines.

Both halves of Zecora’s fight or flight response were screaming in her brain to make a move. The fight half reminded her of how much training she had, the weapon in her hand, and the vulnerability of the prey before her. The flight half told her she had a good sixty second head start if she ran right now, maybe even more if she used her surroundings right.

But the the third half, the one rarely talked about, had complete control. Zecora was frozen where she stood, forced to watch as her girlfriend slowly morphed into a monster.

Sunset arched her back, eliciting loud pops from her spine. She let out a cry of pain and dug her new jagged claws into the dirt. Her clothes tore to pieces she grew additional muscle and bulk. Crimson fur grew across her, quickly covering up her naked form.

She pushed herself up onto her hind legs, standing over seven feet tall. A long, bushy tail curled behind her, giving an excited swish as Sunset’s eyes stared down Zecora, their teal light dimmed.

Zecora began to slip out of her trance, easing a foot back. “Sunset…”

Sunset raised her head to the full moon above her and howled, raising the hair on Zecora’s neck. The howl turned into a snarl as Sunset fell back onto all fours and charged at Zecora.

******

“Your mother is taking a late shift at the hospital, so you are on night watch tonight.”

Zecora gripped her phone tighter, an angry retort on her lips. She caught herself in time and said, “Yes, Baba.”

“Good. I will see you after school.”

“Okay.” She swiped her phone closed and stowed it in the lone pocket on her dress.

“That looks like the face of disappointment,” Sunset said with playful air.

Zecora sighed. “I’m afraid we’ll have to reschedule this evening’s date. I have additional chores now that my mother is working… she took a night shift at the hospital.”

Sunset’s playful smirk fell. “Oh. Well, that’s okay.”

“Perhaps this weekend?”

“Uhhh, no, that wouldn't work. I kinda already made plans.”

Zecora cocked her head. There it was again; one of Sunset’s half truths. Zecora was tempted to press for more information, but Sunset spoke first.

“Hey, maybe I could, I dunno, come with you? Help you with your chores? Maybe meet your family?”

Zecora kept a calm face despite the pounding of her heart. “No, I could not ask you to do that, though I appreciate the offer. Asking a guest to help with work is considered quite rude in my culture.” With her own half truth out in the air, Zecora supposed she had no room to question Sunset now.

“Oh. That’s okay, then.” Sunset’s shoulders sagged, however. Combined with the bags under her eyes, she looked quite miserable.

Zecora laced her fingers in between Sunset’s. “I’m sorry.”

Sunset tried to put on a reassuring smile, but it only looked pained. “No, really, it’s fine. There’ll be other times. Great, you’ve got me rhyming now.”

Zecora didn’t laugh. She was too busy examining the tired lines on Sunset’s face. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yeah, I’ll be fine. It’s just, you know, that time of the month.”

Another half truth.

******

Zecora threw herself to the side, narrowly avoiding Sunset’s lunge. Her training kicked in, and Zecora jabbed the butt of her spear into Sunset’s side, knocking her off balance.

Sunset recovered and swiped at Zecora with her black claws. Zecora raised her staff, letting it take the brunt of the blow, but the force behind it knocked her off her feet and sent her to the ground.

Swinging her staff as she fell, Zecora managed to slap Sunset across the cheek, leaving a shallow cut on her muzzle. Zecora heard the silver sizzle against skin and Sunset howl in pain. It was enough to stop her from immediately pouncing on Zecora, giving the warrior enough time to roll onto her feet and sprint into the trees.

Sunset stayed right on her heels, crashing through the undergrowth and forcing herself in between the narrow trees. Zecora ducked and weaved, staying a hair’s breadth out of Sunset’s claw range.

With the moon nearing its zenith, the forest was bright and easy to navigate, even in Zecora’s haste. She spotted a low and flexible looking branch ahead of her and sped toward it. She reached a hand out, grabbing it as she passed and bending it back.

When she released it, it swung forward, and a loud, stinging slap echoed through the trees, followed by a grizzly whine.

Forgive me, Sunset. Zecora had opened the gap between them, but Sunset remained in hot pursuit. If she could get far enough away from Sunset, her cloak would mask her scent.

Zecora picked the narrowest trees to squeeze through and made sharp turns to shake Sunset off. But her feral girlfriend proved determined to pin Zecora.

How did I not see? The signs were right in front of me. Maybe she hadn’t wanted to see. The idea that her new love could be any sort of monster never crossed her mind.

But the bags under her eyes every month. They aligned perfectly with the full moon, not that Zecora had thought on it. And Sunset liked her meat rare, an oddity according to her friends who claimed she had been a vegetarian until recently.

And just yesterday, Zecora had been given the biggest hint of all…

******

The more Zecora thought, the harder her teeth pressed down into her lower lip. It seemed so materialistic now that she looked at it. But, didn’t Western girls like pretty jewelry? She looked at her arm, four gold bangles practically glowing against her dark gray skin. Jewelry was more ritualistic than fashionable where she came from, but Zecora still found it pretty to look at.

And the way the silver necklace sitting in her palm glittered under the florescent hall lights was equally enticing. Zecora could almost see her reflection in the center ruby.

She would like it, yes? Or am I about to make a big mess? She gave a rough shake of her head.

Perhaps such a gift was improper at this point in their relationship? They had only been dating a few months. Maybe a silver necklace was too much?

I should not have been enticed by that jewelry stand. She would have preferred something made by my hand. Zecora shook her head again. “Stop that,” she muttered aloud. She would have liked to think she was getting better at not speaking in rhyme. Her inner thought proved otherwise.

“Hey, Z!”

Zecora closed her palm and moved her hand behind her back. “Habari za asubuhi, Sunset!” she said cheerfully. Her joviality drained upon seeing the deep lines under Sunset’s eyes. “Under the weather again, my dear?”

Sunset grinned and shrugged. “Just that time of the month, you know? I’ll be fine, really.” She leaned in and gave Zecora a kiss on her warrior tattoos.

Zecora made a throaty giggle. “If you say so. But perhaps a little gift will aid in raising your spirits?”

“You got me something?”

Bringing her hand around and opening her palm, Zecora showed off the silver necklace. “I was at the mall, and I saw it, and the ruby reminded me of you, because it’s beautiful, and you are beautiful, and...” she trailed off, her eyes focused on the ground. She felt like a young child talking to their first crush.

“Wow… Zecora, I don’t know what to say—ow!” Sunset snatched her hand away like the necklace had reared up and bit her.

Zecora looked from it to Sunset. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah.” Sunset shook her hand out. “Yeah. Must have nicked myself on the chain.” She reached for it again, fingers trembling as she took hold of it by the jewel and held it closer to her face.

“It’s beautiful, Zecora,” she said breathlessly. “Really, I don’t know what to say.”

Zecora didn’t know what to say either. Sunset was desperately fighting to keep the emotions on her face under control. Her aura was dimmer. Had she lied about something? Did she really not like the gift? When she smiled, it was honest, yet muddled with pain.

“You shouldn't have. And I don’t have anything to give you.”

“I don’t need anything in return,” Zecora said, drawing her eyes away from Sunset’s face. “You were kind to me from the moment I first arrived. I just wanted to show I appreciate you and everything you do.”

A pair of arms wrapped themselves around her neck as Sunset pulled her into an embrace. “Even with all the friends I have,” she said quietly, “sometimes, I feel alone and isolated. But around you, that feeling washes away. I feel like I belong. I appreciate everything you do, too.”

Zecora wrapped her arms around Sunset’s middle and melted into the warmth of her light, forgetting all about the necklace.

******

How could she have been so blind? Her baba would be disappointed in her hunting skills. Of course Sunset had acted odd when Zecora had given her a necklace made of silver. Yet, she had taken it anyway; bore the pain for Zecora’s sake.

Zecora cursed in her native tongue, both for not realizing Sunset was a werewolf, and for causing her so much pain.

“A monster is a monster,” her father’s stern voice said in her ear. “It is our job to put them down. It’s for their own good, and for the good of the world.”

No! Zecora eyes stung as tears gathered at the corners. She could not kill Sunset. She would not allow her girlfriend’s death to be tattooed on her face.

Her tears got the best of her, obscuring the forest behind a liquidy veil. Her foot caught against an exposed root, and she tumbled head first into the dirt. She rolled over onto her back and threw her spear out in front of her.

Sunset ground to a halt before Zecora’s silver weapon, her hungry eyes roving between Zecora and the staff’s bladed edges.

“S-Sunset, stay back. I do not wish to attack.” Keeping her spear forward, Zecora managed to pick herself up into a defensive crouch.

Growling in anticipation, Sunset began to prowl around Zecora. The huntress circled with her. Two feet of staff and blade were the only thing keeping them from one another.

“Please, Sunset. It’s me. It’s Zecora. And I know you are still you somewhere in there.” Zecora kept her voice steady, but her tears fell freely now.

Sunset’s ears twitched and she raised her muzzle upward an inch. Her pacing didn’t cease, but her glowing eyes were focused more on Zecora than her weapon.

“Yes.” Zecora cracked a smile. “I know you can hear me. I know it is hard, but please, Sunset, try to gain some of your senses. You are not a monster. You are a being of light. Please, for me, try to fight.”

They continued to circle each other, Sunset crouched on her back legs while flexing her front claws. Zecora didn’t lower her guard, but she thought she saw something flicker in Sunset’s eyes. Something human.

Sunset put in a burst of speed, swinging around Zecora before making a lunge. Zecora jumped to the side and swung the back end of her staff, crashing it into Sunset’s jaw. She staggered a few steps, then made another swing at Zecora, her claws clanging against the silver shaft. Howling in pain, Sunset gripped the staff with both hands and tried with all her might to rip it from Zecora’s grasp.

The acrid scent of burning fur filled the air. Zecora’s stomach churned at the stench. She grit her teeth to block it out, focusing on the strain her muscles were under to keep the spear in her hands. Sunset’s brute strength rivaled Zecora’s training. She knew she couldn’t keep the struggle up for very long.

Instead, Zecora swept her leg out, hooking her ankle behind Sunset’s arched foot and pulled forward. Sunset fell onto her back, and Zecora pinned her down with a boot on her crimson-furred chest, aiming the spear at Sunset’s face.

“Don’t make me do it!” Zecora cried. “Please, my love! I could not bear it!”

Sunset stared up at her, panting hard, her throat convulsing and chest heaving underneath Zecora’s boot. She blinked hard, like she was trying to get something out of her eyes. Then, she worked her jaw, flexing her mouth in odd contortions. An odd sound escaped her lips.

Zecora leaned an inch forward, bringing the spear tip lower.

Sunset’s mouth moved again. “Ze… co... ra…”

It was guttural and rough, but Zecora heard it. She saw her Sunset struggling somewhere inside the monster pinned to the ground.

Zecora jumped back, landing several feet away from Sunset. Spear still raised in defense, she watched as Sunset climbed onto her hind legs and glare at Zecora, her lips pulled back into a snarl.

For a moment, Zecora thought Sunset was going to strike again. Sunset flexed her claws, and Zecora lowered her stance.

Sunset dropped onto all fours, turned around, and raced deeper into the forest, leaving behind a trail of broken branches.

Zecora’s entire body went limp as all the tension left at once. She slammed her staff against the ground and leaned against it, breathing deep.

I knew you were still there, Sunset.

Weighted with exhaustion, Zecora limped out of the forest. She couldn't imagine what she would say to her baba.

She couldn't imagine what she would say to Sunset.

Chapter 3

‘Zecora, we can't be together anymore. I loved the time we had together, but I should have known better. I know what happened last night, and I feel sick and terrible about it. Please, just forget all about it and about us.

‘Sunset.

‘P.S. I probably don’t have to ask, but don’t tell anyone. Not even my friends.’

Zecora looked over the message again as she marched down the street. Over the course of the day, she had ridden an emotional roller coaster of fear, sadness, anger, and finally, determination. Sunset could break up with her if she liked, but not before Zecora had her say. Sunset hadn't been the only one in this relationship to hide a secret.

Sunset had not shown up to class today. Logical, given the circumstances. Her absence had given Zecora plenty of time to think about her response. As soon as the last bell had rung, Zecora took off with impassioned haste.

Ten minutes later, she stood in front of Sunset’s apartment. She rapped her knuckles against the door.

No response.

“Sunset, please, it’s me. I just want to talk.”

She thought she heard something move inside, but still, no one answered.

Zecora bared her teeth. She had not lied to her baba’s face just to be shunned by her girlfriend. “Sunset Shimmer, if you do not open this door, drastic measures I will explore! ...Yes, that one was on purpose!”

Something shuffled again, and this time, the door opened just a crack. Messy crimson and gold hair, and a bleary red eye appeared in the narrow space.

“Go away, Zecora,” Sunset croaked.

“I will not. Not until you’ve heard my thoughts.” She thought she saw a ghost of a smile somewhere beyond the door.

Sunset sighed and retreated into her apartment, but left the door open. Zecora followed behind, closing the door as she gave Sunset’s home a quick scan. Everything was as tidy and organized as the last time Zecora had visited. The only thing out of place was the overcoat from last night lying in a heap in the middle of the hall.

Now draped in her blanket, Sunset led Zecora to her bedroom and dropped down onto her mattress, pulling the blanket tighter over her shoulders. There were still pieces of leaves in her hair and dirt smeared on her arms. Zecora also spotted the cut she had given Sunset across her cheek, along with a roll of bandages wrapped around her hands.

Looking tired and forlorn, Sunset kept her eyes on the floor. “Well?” she asked stiffly.

Zecora sat down next to her. Sunset flinched but didn’t move away. No warmth exuded from her. Her golden aura was naught but a pitiful flicker. The feeling washed over Zecora: misery, sadness, isolation.

She at least knew what the isolation felt like.

“It seems we’ve both been keeping secrets from each other,” she said. It was not an accusation, just a simple fact.

“Guess so. I didn’t know you could wield a spear.”

Zecora smiled ruefully. “Yes, there are a few things I did not tell you about myself. But I promise to tell you everything now, if you respond in kind.”

Sunset turned her head up to look at her. “What’s there to tell? You saw it. I’m… I’m a werewolf.” Sunset’s hand jumped to her mouth and she squeezed her eyes shut, tears streaming down her face.

“I’m a monster! Every month, I lose control and become some feral animal! I hide in the forest and hope the wildlife will keep me busy so I don’t wander back into the city!”

Zecora wrapped an arm around Sunset’s shoulder, and to her surprise, Sunset threw herself into the embrace, crying into Zecora’s chest.

“I hate it, Z! I hate it so much!”

“How long have you been like this?” Zecora asked softly.

Sunset took a minute to get her erratic breathing under control. “Since winter break. My friends and I had been fighting, so I went for a walk to clear my head. Something big knocked me down and bit me, and then the next month…” She broke into a fresh wave of sobs.

“I just got everyone to trust me again! I got them to stop thinking I was a monster! I thought my life was turning around! It’s not fair, Zecora!”

She was right. It wasn’t fair. Zecora held her as tight as she could, running her fingers through Sunset’s matted hair. The brightest lights cast the deepest shadows.

Sunset hiccuped. “I’m tired of being a monster. I’m tired of being alone.”

Zecora moved a hand under Sunset’s chin and lifted her up to eye level. “You are not alone. You have me. I am not going to leave you, Sunset.”

“Why?”

Zecora gave her a soft kiss on the lips. “Because, you are the answer I have been looking for.”

Sunset sat up and wiped her tears away. “What do you mean?”

Moving her hand to Sunset and interlocking their fingers, Zecora said, “Wawindaji wa Laana. It means ‘Hunters of the Cursed.’ That is what my family is: hunters of the monsters that lurk in the shadows of humanity. I have been trained my whole life to fight ghouls and vampires and… werewolves.”

She gripped Sunset’s hand tighter before she could pull away. “But that is not what I have wanted to do. My father says monsters are savage through and through, but I think he is wrong. I believe that the supernatural and humans can coexist. You, sweet Sunset, are proof of this.”

Sunset shook her head. “How? I tried to attack you. I would have hurt you or worse—”

“But you didn’t. And not just because I am good with a spear—”

Sunset gave a weak smile.

“—but because for a moment, your senses cleared. You saw me. You gained control long enough to remember who I was. Our bond, our…” Zecora’s heart fluttered. “Our love was stronger than your affliction. You are not a monster, Sunset. You are one of the most wonderful human beings I have ever met.”

“Zecora, I…” Sunset gave a gentle squeeze in return. “I want to believe you, but… I’m scared. Scared of hurting you or my friends. The only reason I’m still here is because I’m terrified of what will happen if I go home. I’m lost… I’m trapped.”

“I understand. I am Wawindaji who does not wish to be a hunter. Ever since I was little, I wondered if there was another way. I didn’t want to kill.” Zecora lifted her free hand to trace the black tattoos marking the right side of her face. “For each prey hunted, we are given a mark. A proof of victory. But all I see is a reminder that I took the life of a creature that could have been a friend. What else could I do though?

“When I came here, I was a hunter who did not wish to be one, in a land that was not my own. I never felt so out of place. But you, Sunset, your juju was so overwhelming and warm, that I forgot my worries. I feel safe around you. I feel like I have a place.”

Zecora moved her hand to Sunset’s face. “It’s my turn, now. Let me repay the kindness you showed me. Let my light guide you through this. You don’t have to be alone. Neither of us do.”

As she had talked, Sunset’s light returned bit by bit. It hadn’t reached its normal brilliance, but when she leaned into Zecora for a hug, Zecora felt the loving warmth she treasured.

“Thank you, Zecora,” Sunset said, struggling to keep herself from crying again. “Thank you. I really needed that. I… I really needed you.”

“We needed each other. That’s why fate brought us together.”

Sunset pulled away, looking closer to the fiery-haired young woman Zecora had fallen in love with. “So, this is what we are now. A monster hunter and her werewolf girlfriend.”

“I can’t imagine what will happen if Baba finds out,” Zecora said with a grim smile.

“Should we be worried?”

“Perhaps. But, let’s take one thing at a time. I just want to savor a moment with you.” She rested her head on Sunset’s shoulder, and Sunset laid her chin atop of her, messing up Zecora’s mohawk. “It was nice to clear the air. We can start anew now that our secrets are shared.”

Sunset let out a nervous chuckle. “Right. About that…”

Chapter 4

Zecora had never appreciated the extended daylight summer brought until recently. It was already past seven o’clock, and the sun had only just touched the horizon. She enjoyed the extra sunlight, as it meant more time with Sunset. Even though the full moon only came once a month, Sunset preferred going inside after sundown.

The two of them walked down the road toward the forest, a backpack slung over Zecora’s shoulder, and her spear hidden beneath her black cloak. She glanced over at Sunset, whose own eyes remained resolutely forward. Her mouth was set in a grim line, and her shoulders were tense.

“It will be fine, my love,” Zecora said, taking Sunset’s hand.

“You don’t know that,” Sunset said, a sharp edge in her voice. “We’ve gotten lucky so far, but what if—”

“Luck has nothing to do with it. We’ve gotten this far on skill and love. You just have to believe in yourself more.”

Sunset made a noncommittal grunt. For two months now, they had ventured into the forest on the night of the full moon. Sunset would transform, and Zecora would keep herself close by. Then, Zecora would try to break through to Sunset while she was in her werewolf state, to mixed results. Sunset would growl and snap, sometimes attack. But, Zecora’s skills as a Wawindaji kept Sunset at bay until she ran off deeper into the forest. Zecora would then patrol the forest border until sunrise, making sure Sunset never entered the city.

Tonight would be attempt number three, not counting their initial encounter. Zecora had told her parents she would be sleeping over at a friend’s house, even going so far as to have Rarity vouch for her. Rarity in turn thought Zecora and Sunset were going to be up to more… intimate things tonight. Zecora thought to change her mind, but decided, it was probably for the best. Sunset had still not told her other friends about her condition, and Zecora had not even come close to telling her parents she was dating Sunset.

Sunset, her magical, pony, werewolf girlfriend from another dimension.

Zecora allowed herself a goofy smile. Not even the greatest Seer could have predicted this.

They arrived at the edge of the forest, and Sunset wrapped her overcoat tighter around herself. Zecora knew she must be melting underneath it. Summer nights in Canterlot proved to be little better than the day. The air was warm and muggy, with hardly a breeze to be found. Even Zecora found herself gathering sweat underneath her enchanted cloak.

The shade from the evergreen trees provided only marginal relief. Zecora used her free hand to wipe her brow, then stuck her tongue out. “Perhaps this heat will make you too lethargic to hunt.”

Sunset didn’t smile. “Zecora, call it a freaky werewolf sense, but I really think you shouldn’t come this time.”

Zecora stopped, tugging Sunset’s hand to get her attention. Sunset faced her, finding Zecora’s soft smile, yet hard eyes. “I am not leaving you. I promised I would help, so that’s what I’ll do.”

“I know! I just…” Sunset took a deep breath. “Fine, I can’t stop you. Just, be extra careful tonight, okay?”

“Okay.”

Sunset ran a finger across Zecora’s tattoos, then kissed her on the lips. Standing there, under the eaves of the trees, tasting salt and strawberries, Zecora almost forgot why they had come out here in the first place. It felt so natural now, Sunset’s touch and kiss. Zecora could almost block out the supernatural aspects of their lives and just pretend they were two teenagers kissing in the forest.

The kiss broke, and the couple resumed their trek, Sunset taking the lead. Soon, they reached the familiar clearing, distinguished by the clawed trees and scraps of bark laying about. The sky had become dark blue tinged with pink on its edges. The sun’s orange rays didn’t penetrate the forest this far in.

Zecora took off her backpack and threw it onto a high branch. Extra clothes for the morning. Sunset discarded her coat and laid it against the tree’s trunk. Dressed only in her discardable clothes, she moved to the center of the clearing and sat down.

“This is always the worst part.” Sunset’s soft voice carried over to Zecora. “The waiting. Knowing what’s about to happen. Knowing I can’t stop it.”

Zecora walked to Sunset’s side and took a knee. “We will get through this. You will get through this. Just focus on me.”

“As always, easier said than done.” Sunset let out a grateful sigh as Zecora ran her fingers through her hair. When the tinges of pink left the sky, Zecora stepped back and withdrew her spear.

Stars filled the black canvas above them. A white glow just beyond the rim of the trees drove away some of the darkness. Not too long ago, Zecora always welcomed the moon’s light, as it provided guidance and answers. Now, its full face only brought pain. She didn’t want to resent it, but looking at Sunset as she grew tense drew up some feeling of disdain.

Sunset’s face became pale. She got to her feet, eyes fixated on the sky. Her whole body went rigid, and Zecora could hear a growl building in her throat.

The first ray of the moon broke through the trees, and Sunset let out a pained whimper. If her least favorite part was waiting for the transformation to begin, Zecora’s was watching it happen. Sunset’s face contorted in pain as her body shifted. She cried and groaned while her jaw and spine and legs popped and snapped.

Zecora gripped her silver weapon until her knuckles turned white. “Sunset, look at me. Focus on me,” she said, keeping her voice level.

Sunset turned her watery eyes down to Zecora. Her elongating snout twisted in pain as she grunted, “I’m trying. Zecora, I—”

“Shh, don’t speak. Just look at me.”

Their gazes held, even as Sunset dropped onto all fours. Zecora wanted to turn her head, wanted to look away from her girlfriend convulsing in pain, if only because there was nothing she could do to stop it. But if Sunset could bear the physical pain, Zecora could handle the emotional.

Sunset finished her transformation as the moon rose over them. She stood back onto her hind legs let out a long howl before dropping her head to Zecora. Her wild hair fell over her face, but Zecora could still see her teal eyes. Sanity flickered in them like a dying candle.

Zecora held a hand up. “Be at ease Sunset. You know me. Come now, look into my eyes. You know me.”

Sunset stepped closer, eyeing Zecora’s weapon. She bared her fangs and hunched forward, prompting Zecora to take up a defensive stance.

“You’re not a monster, Sunset,” Zecora said patiently, “You are a wonderful human being. I know who you are. Do you?”

A snarl rose from Sunset’s throat. Her red coat bristled, and she took another threatening step forward. From the hungry glint in her eye, Zecora had a strong feeling she was going to have to fend Sunset off again.

A chill went down Zecora’s spine, unrelated to the situation before her. The hairs on her neck stood up, and goosebumps ran up her arms. It was too foreboding to be anything else.

Bad juju. And a lot of it.

So much of it, in fact, that even Sunset jerked her head away. She sniffed the air, gave a loud howl, then sprinted off into the trees.

“Sunset, wait!” Zecora tore after her. For a creature of her size, Sunset moved with incredible speed. With her smashing through the forest, Zecora was given a relatively unobstructed path to follow.

She kept her focus on Sunset’s crimson tail, easy to spot, even when the moon hid behind a roving cloud. Zecora had been so hyper focused on keeping up with Sunset, she failed to see the branch whipping back toward her face.

It slapped her across the nose with enough force to send her to the ground. Bright spots danced in front of her eyes.

She scrambled to her feet and rubbed her nose. “A reminder to be aware of all my surroundings in the dark.” She continued her sprint through the forest. Though she could barely hear Sunset, the paw prints and trampled bushes gave Zecora a good sense of direction.

At least, they did until Zecora came to a small crossing, where beast tracks covered the entire ground, and branched out into multiple paths.

Zecora closed her eyes and tried to listen for Sunset, but her girlfriend’s snarls and howls sounded like they were coming from everywhere at once. Then… they fell quiet.

Zecora snapped her eyes open and held the tip of her spear toward the darkness. Her body shivered, feeling malevolence lurking close by. She steadied her breath and slowly rotated on the spot, straining her eyes to see past the shadows.

A branch snapped behind her, and she twirled and readied her spear. “Sunset?”

But the eyes peering from the foliage were not a sparkling teal. They were a luminous yellow, angry and hungry. The beast stepped into the clearing, prowling on all fours. It was twice Sunset’s size, all black, and had blood dripping from its muzzle.

Zecora stepped back, keeping her blade pointed at the new beast. She looked into its yellow eyes. So much hunger… so much madness.

“Please, if you have any humanity left in you, listen to me. I am Zecora, and I—”

The werewolf rose onto its hind legs and roared, spittle flying into Zecora’s face. It leapt and swiped at her with jagged claws. She ducked and rolled under them, spinning her staff in hand, and jabbing the butt into the werewolf’s ribs.

It barely seemed to register the silver against its skin, growling in agitation rather than pain. It brought its other hand down, and Zecora threw herself backward, landing in a crouch.

“I know you do not really want this! Try to remember your humanity!”

Either it didn’t hear or didn’t care. It lunged again, snapping with its massive jaws. Zecora swung her staff out and caught it in the mouth, sending it back to the ground. It rolled up and slashed at her with both claws. Zecora deflected the first blow and danced to the right, but two of the monster’s claws tore through her cloak and into her shoulder.

The pain burned like fire, spreading down her entire arm. Her grip slaked, and that moment of weakness, the werewolf backhanded her, send her careening into a tree.

Zecora slid down onto her bottom, still clutching her spear in her good hand. She looked up at the werewolf stalking toward her. It’s eyes were wide with feral excitement.

It’s too far gone. Nothing I say will sway its mind.

She could hear her father’s voice, strong but cold. “Monsters have no friends. They love nothing. Killing them is a kindness in the end. It is the only way they can be human once more.”

The beast lunged, and Zecora threw her spear up, stabbing the werewolf in the gut. It didn't stop its momentum, though it did throw it off balance. It crashed head first into the tree, giving Zecora time to scramble away.

What if this happens to Sunset? What if she loses control completely?

The werewolf stood and tore the spear from itself. It roared with fury as it turned to find Zecora. Its eyes now held a hateful glare.

But, that’s why we were doing this. To help remind her she was still human. It was working, right?

It ran at her, lumbering on its two legs. Zecora flung a wad of dirt and leaves into its eyes as she threw herself out of the way again. Her projectile hit, and the beast howled in irritation, wiping the dirt from its face.

But, what if it’s not enough? What if I’m not enough to help her? Will I have to fight her like this? Possibly to the death?

A beast adorned with crimson fur burst from the trees and slammed into the black werewolf. They rolled across the ground, landing with Sunset on top, pressing a paw into her opponent’s throat.

The other werewolf knocked her off with a sweep of its arm. It got up and bore down on Sunset, and the two bit and slashed at each other, barking and snarling.

The moon came out again, and Zecora saw the light reflect off her discarded spear several feet away. Bracing herself on her good arm, she got to her feet and crept toward it.

The black wolf retained more intelligence than Zecora would have guessed, for it pushed Sunset away and charged at Zecora.

Sunset, however, threw herself on top of it, taking it to the ground just as Zecora picked up her weapon. She watched the two tussle again, ending with the larger werewolf pinning Sunset to a tree.

Ignoring the burning pain in her shoulder, Zecora gripped her spear and moved closer. Can I still reason with it? Or is it truly lost? She looked at Sunset, thrashing in its grasp. Lost or not, she wouldn't let it hurt her beloved.

Zecora aimed her blade up and stabbed it into the black wolf’s shoulder. It let out a roar of pain and released Sunset, who quickly tackled it. Zecora ripped her spear out and jumped to the side, narrowly avoiding being flattened.

Sunset took advantage of her opponent's injured arm, staying to its left and attacking until she had it pinned on its stomach again, her claws in the back of its neck.

Zecora stepped forward and pointed the blade at the black wolf’s snout. Should I do it? Put it out of its misery?

But that would prove her father right: Monster’s were savages that needed to be put down. And what kind of message would that send to Sunset?

On the other hand, letting this feral werewolf go endangered countless others. Innocent people could get bitten, just like Sunset.

The beast bucked Sunset off and got to its feet. Zecora reacted without thinking, slashing her silver blade across the werewolf’s chest.

It howled in agony and dropped to one knee, pressing a paw against the blood seeping from the gash. It looked up at Zecora, and she thought she saw something flicker in its eyes.

“Leave. Now,” she commanded. “And never come toward the city again.”

It stared long and hard at her. Zecora drew herself to full height and narrowed her eyes. She wished she had her mask; she was sure it was more intimidating than her normal face.

She continued to lock eyes with the beast, keeping her spear clutched tight in front of her. With agonizing slowness, the wolf got to its feet, snarled something that might have been words, and limped away into the darkness, leaving the forest quiet again.

Zecora dropped her spear and sat back in the dirt, pressing a hand to her bleeding shoulder. Waves of pain pulsed down her arm, and her sleeve was soaked in blood.

I know not whether what I did was right or wrong. But for now, that is one problem gone. That only left…

She raised her head, finding Sunset inching toward her on all fours. Zecora could see open wounds and bite marks all over her body, the blood barely visible against her fur.

“Sunset,” Zecora said breathlessly, “you’re not like that one. I know you can still hear me. Please.”

Sunset circled her, her teal eyes never looking away. She stopped on Zecora’s left side, next to her injured arm, and put her snout next to the wound. Sunset inhaled deeply and ran her tongue over her teeth.

Zecora knew she couldn't raise her spear to Sunset. Sunset was too close now, and Zecora did not have the will. If Sunset wanted to attack, Zecora was at her mercy. She turned away, bracing herself for the bite.

A cursed Wawindaji is sentenced to death. What would Baba say? What would I do?

Only, the bite never came. Sunset paced around her again, let out a small whine, then rested her head in Zecora’s lap.

Zecora opened her eyes and stared. Sunset gazed up at her, a bright light reflected in her eyes. She gave her tail a lazy swish.

Something bubbled up in Zecora’s core, slowly building and rising. It emerged as a throaty chuckle, then became a soft giggle, then evolved into jubilant gales of laughter. She tossed her head back and allowed the whole forest to hear her. Tears of mirth and relief ran down her cheeks.

She rested her head atop of Sunset, burying her face the wolf’s fur. “See? I knew you could see me.”

Sunset made a short, rumbling growl.

Zecora chuckled again. Here was the proof. They could coexist. Monster hunter and monster.

“How am I going to explain this to Baba?”

Sunset just flicked an ear, brushing it against Zecora’s cheek.

Zecora nodded and sighed. “You’re right. One step at a time.” For now, she would just enjoy Sunset’s warm aura.