Disclaimer: I own nothing. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, as well as any previous fictional works is purely coincidental.

Please review, would love to hear your thoughts. Please keep in mind this is my first time writing, I can only get better with your help. I will not tolerate any downright cruel words and any hurtful or hate-filled comments will be deleted on sight.

Two Worlds One Family

By: vampgal12

Chapter One: Monsters are Real

On a dark and stormy night a young girl with ocean blue eyes and dark brown hair woke up to strange noises. She called for her parents, but when they entered the room the sounds stopped. Her mom and dad thought she had just had a nightmare, so they plugged in a night light. They told her that monsters are afraid of bright lights. Yet what they didn't know was not all monsters are the same. The girl was just about to fall asleep when the noise started again. This time it sounded like voices. She slowly got out of bed and carefully made her way to the closet.

"Get you knee out of my back," said one voice.

"I will when you get your hand out of my face," argued another.

The girl pulled open the door and two boys came out. As the light bathed over them, they cover their eyes and began to scream.

"I can't see!" yelled the light skinned boy.

"Turn it off! Turn it off!" wailed the tan skinned boy.

The girl turned off the light and stared at the two of them. The light skinned boy had straight shoulder length purplish black hair and indigo eyes. He also had what appeared to be two navy blue wings on his back. The tan skinned boy had short spiky mahogany hair and cinnamon brown eyes. He also had two horizontal red lines on each cheek. The indigo eyed boy then turned on the other.

"Great idea you said, come Topside you said, it's safe you said. Last time I listen to you!" he shouted slapping the brown eyed boy's head.

"Ow! Hey, you didn't have to follow me you know," he said.

"Excuse me, but who are you and where did you come from?" asked the girl.

"I'm Kenny, and the fool over there is my brother Dai," said the evening eyed boy.

"We're monsters," said Dai rubbing his head.

"You idiot!" shouted Kenny as he began to strangle Dai.

"St-stop i-it w-will y-you!" cried Dai.

"Monsters, yeah right. By the way I'm Suela." said the girl.

"Well how do you explain my wings or Dai's lines?" Kenny asked knowing their secret had been blown.

"They could be fake and the lines could be painted on," said Suela.

"We'll prove it to you. Dai if you please?" asked Kenny.

Dai nodded as he rubbed his neck. The three made their way to the closet and Dai pushed some clothes aside to revile a door in the back.

"Suela, welcome to our world," said Dai as he opened it.

Suela was in shock, there in front of her was a whole new world. Sidewalks seemed to twist and turn every where. Houses in every size and shape could be seen. Stairs that seemed to go on forever and yet lead nowhere. As they made their way down the street another boy came racing towards them. He had long silver white hair and golden eyes.

"Hey Inu!" called Kenny.

"Dai, Kenny. How's it hanging?" he asked.

"Same old, same old. By the way this is Suela," said Dai.

Inu then turned to look at Suela. Ocean met amber and for a moment neither could look away. Inu then blinked and the spell seemed to break.

"I, I have to go. My brother is waiting. See you guys around," he said then took off running. Suela kept looking at him as the young teen got farther and farther away.

"Inu, did he. I mean, did I see," she stuttered.

"Yep, he had dog ears. The thing you got to learn is everyone here may look human at first glance, but we all have some sort of marking," said Dai.

"And with those marks comes certain powers," added Kenny as he gently flapped his wings.

As the three made their way down the road Suela could see what the boys were talking about. Everywhere she looked she could see kids with strange markings. Claws, fangs, spots, stripes, animal like ears, or wings. She even saw two young teens throwing what looked like a ball of water. The moment they made eye contact with Suela the water splashed to the ground and the kids took off.

"Ah, yeah," said Dai as he scratched his neck. "We're going to have to do something about your look. As you can see, you kind of stand out."

That was when Suela noticed their clothes. Dai was dressed in a baggy t-shirt that matched his hair, blue jeans, orange boot like shoes, a flame printed blue jacket and round goggles that hung around his neck. Kenny had on grey sneakers, blue jeans that a yellow lightning bolt on each leg from thigh to knee, and a purple t-shirt with pinkish symbol that looked a little like a rose bud.

"What is that?" asked Suela pointing to Kenny's shirt.

"It's the symbol for kindness," he said. "And Dai is right you do kind of stand out."

She looked down at herself and realized her moon and star sleep top and mint green pajama bottoms did look a little odd. Suela ducked behind an old dead tree and quickly turned her top inside out so that only the dark blue color showed.

"How's that?" she asked.

"Better," said Dai. He then took her right arm and pushed the sleeve up to the elbow. Then rolled the left leg up to the knee. Using some mud he then painted two vertical lines on her checks. "There, now you look like a Bottom Dweller."

"A Bottom Dweller?" she questioned.

"That's what it's called when you're born here. People like you are called Top-Siders. Now we should get going before we run into-ouch!" Kenny exclaimed.

The three look up to see a man dressed all in black. He had long white hair and gold eyes. Suela felt a chill run down her spine. While they were the same color as Inu's they were not a warm amber. Instead they were cold and hateful.

"Who is this?" he growled.

"This is ah-" stuttered Kenny.

"Smasher!" shouted Suela.

"Smasher?" wondered Dai.

"It was all I could come up with," she whispered.

"I've never seen her around before," the man said in a rough voice.

"That's cause she's new. She's-" Kenny said once again not knowing how to finish.

"She's from Top Side!" Dai blurted out.

"Top Side?! You brought a human here?!" the man roared. Kenny slapped his forehead as Dai's eyes widened.

"No! I meant she was born Top-Side, but she's really one of us," Dai stated trying to backpedal.

"I suppose that could be true. Yet you are coming with me until I see for real," he said as he grabbed for them. Yet he only managed to get Kenny and Suela.

"Traitor!" Kenny screamed as his brother raced down the road. Before long the two were thrown in to a holding area.

"You'll stay there until I figure out what to do with you," he said shutting the iron gate, then leaves. Kenny curled into a ball and tried to hide the fact he was close to tears.

"Hey, it's alright. You can cry if you want to," said Suela.

"I can't. No, I can't it's one of his rules. No one of monster blood can show weakness. If The Boss saw me crying he would kill me," wailed Kenny.

"The Boss?" Suela asked.

"The one that put us here. Everyone calls him The Boss, because he runs this place. Though it's only out of fear that we let him. See we all hate him, but no one is strong enough to beat him. So, we follow his rules, well some of them," Kenny said giving a sad laugh.

"What kind of rules?" asked Suela.

"No showing of weakness. No human is permitted to enter Monster World unless by birth. No possession of Human World objects unless pre-approved by The Boss. Then, there's the biggest rule of all," Kenny states before being cut off by another voice.

"No one is permitted to enter Human World unless they themselves are human and in doing so can never return, except if they give birth to a half or more monster child. Hey bro, miss me?" asked Dai.

"You came back!" shouted Kenny.

"Of course I came back. You didn't think I was just going to bail on you? I went to get help," Dai said then pointed behind him.

Out came Inu and a slightly older boy. He had the same hair and eyes but lacked the dog ears. Instead on the middle of his forehead was a blue with just a hint of purple crescent moon.

"This is my older brother, Sess," said Inu. Sess then started to pick at the lock.

"So, who put you here?" he asked.

"The Boss," Kenny answered.

Sess and Inu seem to freeze. The older then stood up slowly and slammed his fist on the gate. After a moment the door fell clean off.

"We need to get going, it's almost sunrise," said Sess as he took off.

"What happens at sunrise?" asked Suela as the group follows.

"The door that connects our worlds closes. If you don't make it through in time then you're stuck here until it sets again," said Dai as he ran past her.

The five ran through streets, leaping over fences and cutting past yards. Finally they make it to the door that lead to Suela's room. She then turns to the four boys.

"I'm going to miss you guys," she said.

"We'll miss you too," said Kenny.

"Yeah, you're not bad. For a human," joked Inu punching her shoulder.

"Out of all the people that could have caught me, I'm glad it was you," said Dai as he hugged her.

"Ok, ok enough with the good-byes. You got to go," Sess said.

"Hey, maybe you guys could spend sometime in my world one day," Suela said as she enters the door.

"We'd like that," said Kenny with a smile.

"Don't forget about us!" called Dai.

"Couldn't if I wanted to," she said and raised a hand to wave.

The four waved back as the door begins to close on it's own. Suela climbed into bed and smiled. She had learned a lot about monsters and the beauty of the dark in just that one night. She hoped it wouldn't be too long before she could return the favor, and show her new friends the beauty of the Human World during the day.

A/N: This is my first time posting so please let me know what you think. Once again I can only get better with your help. But remember, no hurtful or hate-filled comments.

2: Chapter Two: The New Kids

(The song "They Don't Understand" is the sole property of Dream Street.

The version I used can be found on youtube watch?v=4g64aKwPMKg. Just remove the spaces.)

Chapter Two: The New Kids

It had been about a year since the girl from the human world and the boys from the monster world had seen each other. Everyone was sleep when the closet door creaked open.

"You sure this is the place?" asked Inu.

"Positive, we took the green stairs that had the pizza stain that leads to the door with the red marks," said Dai.

"Quite big mouth. You want to wake up the whole house?" asked Sess as he made his way in. "OW! Knew there was reason I hated math," he cried softly kicking the text book.

"Now, who's the loud one?" giggled Dai.

"Will you both button it?" asked Kenny.

"Ah, she's probably not even here. I mean it's been practically a year since we saw her. I bet she forgot all about u-ussssss!" Dai screamed as he managed to step on a discarded roller-skate. He went spinning around the room before smashing face first into a wall. "Ouch," he murmured.

"Smooth move air-head," stated Inu trying not to laugh. With out any warning a light flipped on.

"My eyes!" screamed Inu.

"Too bright," cried Sess.

"Not again," wailed Kenny.

"Suela, turn it off already!" yelled Dai taking a chance.

"Oh man, I'm sorry guys," she said turning it off. "What are you doing here?"

"We missed you," Kenny said.

"Yeah, you haven't come to see us in forever," stated Sess as he rubbed his eyes.

"Three hundred seventy-two days, sixteen hours and twenty-two minutes; but hey who's counting?" asked Inu folding his arms.

"Where have you been?" questioned Dai.

"School," Suela answered.

"School? As in Human school?" asked Kenny. Suela nodded and is shocked when the four surround her.

"Can we go?" they all asked.

"Wait, you want to go to school?" she gasped. They nod and showed huge smiles.

"Alright, but you're going to have to change and we need to hide your markings. Wings and dog ears are not really human," she said.

The boys then dug through her closet in hopes to find something that passed for human. Dai pulled out a tan t-shirt and brown jeans. Kenny found a sky blue shirt and plain blue pants, as well as a indigo jacket. Sess was able to find a white shirt and faded blue jeans. Inu was the last to pull out. He had a light cool grey shirt and blue baggy pants.

"You'll need these too," said Suela as she gave Inu a red bandana and a pair of golden yellow sneakers. Inu looked down at his bare feet and frowned.

"Do I have to?" he whined.

"You want to go to school with me?" she asked. Inu nodded his ears drooping.

"Then you need shoes. Oh and I know how you all are to bright light so I got these," Suela said holding out several sunglasses. As the boys took them Suela made her way to the bathroom with her own change of clothes.

"I'm going to get dress, I suggest you guys do the same," she said then shuts the door.

As she changed into a forest green long sleeve shirt and blue jeans, Suela couldn't help but wonder if this was a good idea. She came out to see Dai and Sess were dressed but Kenny and Inu seemed to be having problems.

"You guys alright?" she asked.

"It doesn't fit," mumbled Kenny holding both shirts.

"These things are impossible," Inu said as he flops backwards on the bed.

"Let me see," Suela said taking the shirts. She then noticed that Kenny's monster world shirt had two slits in the back. "These holes are for your wings I'm guessing," she said.

"Yeah, I normally just slide them through. Yet with the other one they just get bunched up and make the shirt feel tight," he explained.

Suela nodded and then took a pair of scissors and made two cuts in the back. She handed it back to him and watched as the two wings that grew from his shoulders slipped through. He then laid them flat against his back and put on the jacket, hiding them.

She then turned to Inu and nearly burst out laughing. It was obvious to see that the boy had never worn shoes in his whole life. Not only were they on the wrong feet but the laces had been tied into a knot. Suela pulled them off and then put them on the right way this time. She then carefully tied the laces into a bow and double knotted them. She then took the bandana and tied it around his head, making sure the ears were tucked out of sight. She then picked up a jar of cover up.

"I hope this is the right color," she thought to herself. "Dai, come over here," she said. The boy sat down next to her and she proceeded to cover the lines on his face then noticed there were the same marks on the back of each hand and covered them as well. "There, now you look like a human. You all do except Sees, could you?" she asked pointing to the crescent moon mark. Sess nodded and brushed at his bangs until the mark no longer showed.

"Are we ready yet? I want to go," Dai said as he prepared to exit the room.

"Hold on, you guys still need a few more things. Like book bags, lunch, not to mention all the odds and ends you'll need," Suela said as she pulled out four backpacks and began to fill them with what the boys would need. She was extremely thankful that her mom had bought extra. "Alright, everyone grab a bag, now the only question is how-" Suela was cut off by a knock at her door.

"Suela, are you awake?" asked a female voice.

"Yeah mom," she answered hoping she wouldn't come in.

"Your father and I have to go in early, we'll be back after you get home alright?" her mom asked.

"Ok, see you later," Suela called then listened to hear her parents leave. Once the car was out of sight Suela breathed a sigh of relief. She then led the boys downstairs so everyone could get something to eat. Soon the small group was making their way to school.

"Hey Suela, what's with all the pumpkins?" asked Dai as he finished his pop tart.

"Yeah, and how come some of the houses look really spooky?" questioned Kenny.

"Oh, everyone is getting ready for Halloween," she said.

"Hallow-what?" asked Sess.

"Halloween," she repeated. The boys merely looked at her, confused. "You know, All Hallows Eve, Day of the Dead. Come on it's the one night of the year people dress up and go around town getting free candy," she explained.

"Free candy?" Dai asked his eyes getting big.

"Hold up, you're saying you have a day were people just give you sugary sweet things?" asked Inu remembering how Dai had introduced him to chocolate.

"Well, you have to wear a costume and remember to say Trick or Treat but, yeah pretty much. Yet it's still a long ways off. If you can get through today I'll tell you more. By the way I need to know how old each of you are so you can get in the right grade," she said as they enter the building.

It was reviled that Sess was sixteen, Inu was the same as Suela at two years younger. Kenny was thirteen, and Dai was the youngest at twelve. It wasn't long before the boys were attending the classes. Except for some near misses here and there everything seemed to be going fine, at least until lunch. Each boy was sitting at a table and talking with a group of kids. Suela smiled as she watched them. Everything was perfect until a frighten yelp came from Dai's table.

"Dude, your sandwich is on fire!" cried a boy.

"Oh man, not now," whimpered Dai as he tried to put the flame out.

Suela's head whipped around as another terror filled yell came from Inu's table. The red bandana had fallen off and the two fuzzy ears came into view. For a moment Suela couldn't help but think they were cute and felt sadden that he had to hide them. Then she remembered why when the children that had been talking with him pulled back in fear. She could only look on in horror as Kenny pulled off his jacket only to realize too late that his wings were now in plain view. Sess ran his hand through his hair causing his mark to be reviled. In his panic to hide it he bared his fangs and caused claw marks in the table. The room was in an uproar. Suela let loose a shrill whistle and everyone froze. She then quickly led the boys outside. Once they were out the boys lost it.

"I knew this was a bad idea!" shouted Sess as he flops down under a table. Inu then kicked off his shoes and used his claws to climb to the top of a tree.

"Guys, come on," begged Suela.

"It's doesn't matter where we go, people are always going to be afraid of us," grumbled Inu.

"That's not true," she said.

"You saw how they all looked at us. Face it, to them we're nothing but freaks," said Dai as he sat down on the table.

"It would have been better if we had never come here," stated Kenny as he starts to climb the tree.

"You're wrong!" shouted a voice.

Kenny's eyes went wide as he lost his grip. As he fell Kenny seemed to do a backwards flip then a barrel roll. He stopped just inches above the ground, his wings moving gently. Allowing him to hover on his back.

"Wow, you guys are cool," the voice said.

They turn around to see a girl with brown hair that came to mid-neck and brown eyes. Once more two pairs of eyes met, this time cinnamon and hazelnut. Dai couldn't take his eyes off her, it wasn't until he felt not only his face but his hands as well heat up that he averted his gaze.

Dai then began to move his hand in the air, doodling. He didn't seem to know that a small stream of fire was copying his movements. At the same time Sess started to lightly press on the underside of the table, causing it to move up and down with Dai riding it. Neither boy showed acknowledgment of this.

"Who are you?" asked Inu as he used his claws to hang from a branch.

"I'm Kari, and I don't think you're freaks. You're just different, I mean so you don't look like normal humans. Big deal, normal is over rated," she said.

"Maybe to you. You didn't have people looking at you like you're some sort of monster," Sess grumbled.

"But you guys are monsters," joked Suela.

"It's not the same!" roars Inu, leaping from his perch and landing without a sound.

"Well, why don't you show them who you really are?" asked Kari.

"How?" questioned Kenny as he placed his feet on the ground.

"With this," she said pulling out CD and a portable player. Later after school, the gang of six made it into the gym. Suela had made the announcement for all the kids that had been frightened at lunch to come and see a special show. Kari gave them a thumbs up and opened the curtain. The lights came on as she hit play and the song started.

"Oh, they don't understand. No oh, mmm mmm uh oh. They say, we're just playing games. That it isn't real but it's what we feel, oh yeah. And they say, it doesn't make sense. That we're just wasting time. And they wonder why, yeah," Dai sang as he made a stream of fire dance around him.

"You know we got, our own special language. That only we can speak, ooh oh yeah. And no one else knows what it means, oh no," Kenny sang as he glides in and does a back flip in midair before landing next to his brother.

"They don't understand, how we communicate. Oh so many things, that we do and say. They don't really get, what it's all about. No they never can understand. Oh, oh oh, oh oh oh," the two brothers sang in harmony. Inu then races in and jumped onto the top bleacher and hung there.

"I can't explain, if they don't know why. This is serious, we're delirious. Why can't they see, that all of it's true? It just goes to prove, they don't have a clue, no no," he sang then dropped off only to be swung around by Sess.

"Ya know we got our own world to live in, yeah. And we're so far apart, oh yes we are. To make it clear I don't know where to start, oh no," Sess sang as he lets his brother down.

"They don't understand, how we communicate. Oh so many things, that we do and say. They don't really get, what it's all about. No they never can understand. No, understand, oh, ooh ooh, yeah yeah yeah," the four sang as they all moved as one. They then part to show Suela walking through the gap.

"Ya know we got, our own special language. That only we can speak. Oh yes, yeah yeah yeah. And only we know what it means. What it means!" She sang as the boys seem to echo her.

"They don't understand, how we communicate. Oh so many things, that we do and say. They don't really get, what it's all about. No they never can understand. They don't understand, how we communicate. Oh so many things, that we do and say. They don't really get, what it's all about. No they never can understand," they all sang in perfect sync ending with a Grand Finale of Sess having both Suela and Dai stand on his hands and lifting them over his head. Dai was making fire balls explode in the air above them like fireworks. Kenny hovered above them to their right, looking like a fallen angel. To their left Inu clung to the bleacher and held out a hand to the audience. Almost as if he was inviting the others to join them.

For a moment it was dead silent, and Suela bit her lip. Then all at once the kids burst into applause. The gang had big grins on their faces. It had been a day to remember. The boys from the monster world's first day had been shaky at best. Yet everything now seemed to be fine. And maybe, just maybe there would come a day when they could all live in the sun without fear. But that was still a long ways off, after all there was still The Boss. And no one regardless of their blood, would truly be safe or free until he was dealt with.

3: Chapter Three: The Light Dies

Chapter Three: The Light Dies

After their performance Suela led the boys back to her house. She noticed that while Dai and Sess were showing their marks. Inu and Kenny had theirs covered. It seemed that the two were still somewhat nervous about showing body parts that didn't look human.

"So, you were going to tell us more about this Halloween thing?" asked Sess.

"Alright, it happens every year on October 31st. Kids normally dress up in costumes, then they either throw a party or go trick or treating. That's what it's called when you go door to door. You just knock or ring a bell, then say the words and you get candy. All this happens at night and there is a curfew or cut off time. Younger kids like four to about ten go out sooner and have to go home early. Kids like us start later and can stay out more," she said.

"These costumes, what are they?" asked Dai.

"They're outfits that you put on to look like someone or something you're pretending to be. Girls usually go for cute with fairies or princesses. Boys like to go for scary and dress up as pirates or demons. Hey what's wrong with you?" she asked seeing that Inu and Sess had gone stiff.

"Nothing," said Sess.

"Come on, you both froze up when I said demon. So what's the deal?" she questioned.

"Let's just say we have some bad history with that word," said Inu as his ears laid flat on his head. Suela shrugged and the group continued on.

No one noticed that the two golden eyed boys took up the rear of their little group. Inu looked to Sess then glanced longingly to the back of Suela. He then looked back to Sess with sorrow and fear. Sess shook his head, silently telling his brother that now was not the time. The monster world children held many secrets, and Suela had unknowingly come close to reviling one.

When Suela had first met them, Dai had told her that some in their world only had half monster blood. Yet what he didn't tell her was that some had no monster blood at all, but at the same time were far from being fully human as well. It wasn't long before the group was at Suela's.

"Mom, dad? You guys home?" she asked. When she received no answer boys relaxed a little bit. "Alright, they're not here so we have some time. You guys want something to eat or drink? I know your lunch was cut short," Suela said.

The boys nod and she makes her way to the kitchen. She had just finished making some sandwiches when she heard a panic filled shriek, then a scrambling noise followed by a ripping sound then a loud crash. Suela tore into the living room to see her parents staring at the boys in terror.

Kenny was pressed up in to the corner of the ceiling, his whole body trembling. Dai was below him, his eyes shut tight and smoke curled off his fingertips. Sess was flipped over backwards, half on half off the couch. In front of him was a gaping hole, stuffing was everywhere and several springs were popping through. Perched on the back like some frightened cat was Inu, the claws of his hands and feet clung to the edge. It would have been hilarious if not for the pure horror in everyone's eyes.

"Mom, dad. I'd like you to meet my friends. Ah, the boy with the wings is Kenny. The one below him is his brother Dai. Sess is the one hanging backwards off the couch arm, and his brother Inu is the one clinging to the back," she said. Slowly the boys make their way to Suela.

"Suela, how? When?" her mother asked.

"I know they look strange, but they're good kids. I met them last year, you remember the sound I heard that night? Turns out it was Dai and Kenny. See, monsters are real. These boys are proof of that. They came through my closest and-" she started to say.

"Suela, honey. I don't know what is going on but I don't think you should hang around these boys anymore," her mother interrupted, her face bone white.

"But mom," she protested.

"But nothing. The boys are going home. And if they really came through your closet then I am going to put a stop to it tonight," her father said.

"You can't do that! They're my friends, we were going to spend Halloween together. Please, they didn't do anything wrong. I know they're different but that doesn't mean they're bad," she said as her eyes filled with tears.

"But that's what it does mean when you're different. Nobody trusts you. You're always the first to be blame. And it is always, always your fault!" sobbed Inu as he ran up the stairs. Everyone flinched as Suela's bedroom door was slammed shut.

"Now see what you did?" asked Sess in a soft voice. He then walked up the stairs, with his head down. Kenny looked at them, opened his mouth as if to say something. Then closed it with a sigh, shaking his head and followed Sess.

"Low blow man. Low blow," said Dai as he made his way to the stairs. Just as he touched the first one, Dai turned slightly to the family of three. "All we wanted was to be kids. To have some fun. Our world is dark and cold. Suela brought light and warmth to our lives and now you want to take it away. So, I'm sorry if we seem a bit irritated. We get that you're afraid of us, what with how we look. Yet you have no idea what we've been through, us four have it hard being what we are. But Inu had it extra hard. At least his brother could past as a full blood," he said then slowly makes his way up.

"Wait, do you mean Inu is a half monster?" asked Suela. Dai stopped half way.

"Inu is a half breed. But he's not a half monster. That's all I can say, after all its Inu's secret not mine," he said then continued on his way.

They heard the door open then softly close. Suela stood there, feeling as if her heart was being slowly shredded to pieces. Her parents could only look at where the boys had been moments before. They felt as if something irreplaceable had been broken, yet had no idea how to fix it.

4: Chapter Four: Love is Like a Phoenix

(I own nothing

In this chapter I use the tune of "Sally's Song" which is sung by and belongs to Amy Lee and can be found at youtube watch?v=i9rl6XEub1A just remove the spaces.

Please review, would love to hear your thoughts.)

Chapter Four: Love is Like a Phoenix

For a while Suela stood there, frozen. Her eyes firmly set on the stairs yet seeing nothing.

"Suela?" her mother asked. The young girl didn't seem to hear her. She then slowly began to make her way to the stairs. Almost as if in a trance she began to sing. A low heart wrenching tune that appeared to have a ghostly feel to it. She started out soft, yet with each line her voice got stronger.

I sense there's something in the wind. That feels like tragedy's at hand. And though I'd like to stand by them. Can't shake this feeling that I have.

She then turns her glazed eyes to her parents, her head tilted to one side. For a moment she looked almost doll-like. Her face a waxy pale white, and her once clear blue eyes now glassy.

The worst is just around the bend. And do you notice my feelings for him? And do you see how much they mean to me? I think we're not to be.

She then makes her way upstairs, coming to a stop outside her door. As she raised her hand to knock she could hear low voices from inside. It seemed that the boys were singing to the same tune. A slow haunting melody that was filled with sorrow and longing.

What will become of us right now? How can we go back to our town? Although we'd like to join her world back to the dark we are hurled. Try as we may, it doesn't last. And can we ever end up together? Oh no.

Suela placed her head to the door, she could almost feel the sadness bleeding through the wood. The boy's voices then faded and broke away, leaving a grief filled Inu to finish the song.

And will we ever live happy after? No, we think not, it's never to become. For we are not welcomed.

Suela stood outside the door for a long time. She then felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning around she found her father.

"Are they still here?" he asked her.

Suela nodded, her eyes still clouded over. "They can't leave until nightfall. The door that connects our worlds only opens at dark. So long as the sun is in the sky, the path remains closed. I've seen their world dad, there is no sun, and what light they do have is little to none. There are flowers and other plants, but they are dull and almost dead looking. They live in a world of everlasting night. That is why the children continuously make their way here. Our world is one big mysterious playground to them. Please, all they want is some time to be themselves," she begged.

"Suela, I just don't know if this is a good idea," her father said.

"I understand where you are coming from. But you didn't see what I saw that night. There is this horrible man, known only as The Boss. He has all these rules and runs the place like an evil king. I am begging you, let them continue coming here?" she pleaded. Her father drew breath as if to speak, yet was cut off by a female voice.

"I think you should let them," her mom said as she came up the stairs. Suela turned to see she held a plate with the sandwiches she had made earlier. As well as four cans of soda.

She merely shrugged at the looks, "I know they scared me at first but then I realized they were just kids. Just four young boys hanging out with their friend."

"But they, they're not from our world," her father said.

"I seem to remember not to long ago another young boy who didn't seem to be of my world either," her mom said.

Suela gave a small smile as she remembers the story of her parents past. Her mother had been the typical valley girl. Popular, head cheerleader, top of her class. Her father had been the very definition of skater boy. Dark clothes, punk, always in trouble.

Total opposites, from two very different worlds. No one would have ever thought these two would get along. But then one day everything had changed. Her mom had been cornered by some bullies, it looked like all hope had been lost. Then her father swooped in like a black knight, rescuing her. And the rest as they say was history.

Suela took the tray and nodded her thanks. She then quietly opened the door only to pause at the sight before her. The four were sound asleep. And for the first time her parents got the see the real them. Dai was spread out on the floor, a mess of limbs and snoring loudly.

His brother was curled up next to him, one navy blue wing draped protectively over his younger sibling like a blanket.

Inu sat in the corner, both his arms and legs crossed and his head tucked into his chest.

On the opposite side of the room dozed Sess. One leg laid out straight, the other pulled tight to his body. His left arm hung by his side. The other draped over his tucked up knee. His face nestled into the crook of the elbow.

Suela placed the tray down and slowly back out then softy closed the door.

As the small family made their way downstairs Suela could see the warm smiles her parents wore. It was decided that evening that the boys, or any other from their realm, would be greeted with open arms. They didn't know it then, but Suela's home was soon to be the normal go between of all non human children as they explored the wonder that was the human world.

5: Chapter Five: Coco Eggs and Shopping Malls

Chapter Five: Coco Eggs and Shopping Malls

The next morning Suela woke up and felt a lump form in her throat. The boys were nowhere in sight.

"Ok, don't panic," she whispered to herself.

She turned to her closet and stopped dead. Suela's heart dropped and a chunk of ice formed in her stomach. The Monster World clothes were gone. Not even bothering to change she took off out of the room.

It was well past dawn so the connection between worlds was severed for now. Hoping beyond hope Suela made her way down stairs. She was half way down when she heard voices.

"Not again! Stupid controller!" shouted one voice.

"That's right, blame the controller. HA! The pizza fell on his head!" laughed another.

Suela raced down and was surprised at what she saw. Dai sat crossed legged in front of the T.V, the controller to a PS2 gripped tightly in his hands. Some feet away from him was Inu, the dog-eared boy was spread out on the floor with a laptop that was currently playing a DVD that Suela recognized as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

She also saw that the reason their clothes were missing was because they were wearing them. Dai had his t-shirt and jeans on. The goggles hung around his neck and his shoes and jacket laid next to him. Inu was dressed in a red top with sleeves that fell below his wrists and flared out. The pants were the same color and were extremely baggy until they pulled in tight at the waist and ankles.

To her right she heard footsteps and turned to see Sess. In his right hand was a half eaten sandwich, in his left was a portable CD player. A pair of dark blue headphones were placed over his ears as he bobbed his head to the music. Sess was dressed similarly to his brother, only his outfit was white with red on the cuffs of the arm's sleeves.

"Will you all shut up! I am trying to read!" shouted a voice from the next room. Suela poked her head in to find Kenny. He, like the others were dressed in his Monster World clothes. He was curled up with a pillow half over his head and his nose buried in a book.

"You're still here," Suela said.

"Of course we're still here. You think one little mishap with someone's parents is going to stop us? Please, Dai has been sneaking out since he was six and dragging me along with him since he was eight," Kenny said as he marked his place and closed the book.

"Besides you really think we would give up coming to this world? No way, not when you have things like videogames, movies, music, and not to mention junk food. By the way your mom explained everything to us, and seeing as today is Saturday that means no school. In fact she's making breakfast for all of us right now. So if we can tear my brother away from his new favorite game and convince Inu to pause the movie, we can go eat." Kenny then stood up and shook out his wings.

As if by magic, at the mere mention of food, the three boys turned off the electronics they were using and made a bee line to the table. As Suela sat down she didn't know if she should be amazed or disgusted as the boys filled their plates.

Dai appeared to be making a sandwich-like creation, composed of a pancake then three strips bacon, followed by another pancake. The whole thing was then topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar.

Kenny's looked normal at first with a waffle topped with butter and honey. Then he placed a scoop if scrambled eggs next it and pulled out a bottle of chocolate syrup.

"Hold up, you're not going to put that on top of your waffle are you?" Suela asked as she grabs some bacon.

"Of course not, I'm going to put it on my eggs," he said as if it was no big deal and proceeded to do just that.

Inu shook his head then snagged four pieces of French toast, then placed banana slices, whipped cream and chocolate chips on top.

"What's with all the weird looks? It's like you never saw someone enjoying breakfast before," said Sess as he covered a pancake with maple syrup. Then stacked two waffles on top and poured honey over that, then finished with a squirt of whipped cream. After the boys had finished their strange breakfast, Suela's mother suggested that they all go out shopping. After all if the four were going to be regulars in their world, they would have to have more than one change of clothes. It was a tight squeeze, but somehow they all managed to fit in the car.

The plan was to get in, buy the clothes; maybe get lunch, and leave. Simple right? Easier said than done.

First of all, the boys were wearing their monster outfits. So they received some strange looks as soon as they walked through the door. Second, everyone knows that when it comes to clothes shopping boys are not all that happy about it.

"This is a mall? Wish we had these back home," Dai stated with a whistle. They were passing by a few stores when the boys all began to talk about what they were seeing. Unfortunately, the voices were overlapping so no one could tell who said what. Before another word could be said the four broke off and went their own way.

"Guys wait, we've got too-" Suela started to yell but they were gone. "Stay together," she ends with barely a whisper.

"Honey, why don't you track down the boys and met us at the store. Hopefully we'll find something to their liking, so they will at least stay long enough to get what they like. Also remind them that if they are good, we'll let them grab whatever they want for lunch," her mom said.

"Sure that's a good idea?" questioned Suela reminding her of the last meal the boys had joined them for. Her mother just shook her head and waved her off. Suela nodded and started her task of finding the crazed kids. She was just passing what had been at one time an arcade, now dedicated to demo-games for the store next door when she heard a familiar voice.

"No. No, no, no. Every time!" it shouted.

"You lose," said a electronic voice.

"I know I lose, you piece of junk. Don't have to rub it in," he said. Suela walked in and sure enough, Dai was pounding away at a controller. Above him the T.V showed some sort of fighting game.

"You're going down you stupid lizard!" he shouts and mashes the buttons for all they were worth. Somehow his character was able to pull off a super combo and defeated the green skinned opponent.

"You win," the game stated in that same monotone voice.

"Yeah! That's right. Not so high and mighty now are you? Who's the man, I am! Maybe now, you'll think twice about tangling with Dais-" Dai froze in the middle of his gloating when he saw Suela's reflection in the T.V. The young boy whipped around to see her tapping her foot and had her arms crossed.

"If you are done yelling at the screen now? We need to track down the other three. Mom wanted me to tell you; if you're good, we'll let you pick whatever you want for lunch," she said before turning around and leaving the store, Dai was quick to follow her.

"Please don't tell Kenny that I almost-" Dai started to say then stopped his face beat red.

"Almost what? What were you about to say? Something about not messing with Dais-" she questions mimicking his cut off.

"It's my real name. The one I was born with. The names we gave you are all nicknames. Remember when I told you that Inu's blood line is something only he can tell you? Well our true names are like that. From the moment we are four years old, we choose a nickname. See, our birth names are very special. We only give them to those we trust with the highest degree. And our parents only use them when we are in big trouble. It's the same as someone calling you by your full name. We have that too, but that means you're in huge trouble. Like "You could have died" trouble. Our true first name is just regular trouble, for example: broke a lamp or got beaten up. Or even went somewhere you weren't suppose to," he said.

"Bet that happened a lot with you," she laughed.

"Oh yeah, more that you know. I've only had my full name spoken once, and that's because I was responsible for Kenny coming home with a broken wing. Poor guy was grounded; literally for a month. No games, no friends and no flying," Dai said as he placed his hands into the pockets of his jacket.

Suela could see that the memory of injuring his brother still caused him pain. The sorrow in his eyes turned them a dull mud color. Dai shook himself free of the memory and his eyes returned to their true color. The two then continue on their way. Suela was stopped short of a book store when she heard arguing.

"Hey I was reading that!" shouted a boy's voice.

"This is a store, not a library. Either buy something or get out," the employee stated.

"Well, why would I buy it if I don't know if it's any good?" agued the boy. Suela poked her head in and saw Kenny reaching for a book that was currently being held by a young woman.

"That's what the summery on the back is for. It tells you what the book is about," she said holding it higher.

"That tells me nothing. Come on just give it back," Kenny said as he jumped, trying to reach it.

"Listen you little punk," she started to say.

"What did you call me?" Kenny asked his eyes wide.

"I called you a punk. You gonna do something about it," she teased.

"I. Am. Not. A. Punk!" he screamed.

"Oh boy. Shouldn't have done that," Dai murmured. Suela turns to Dai, her eyes curious. "My brother hates being called a punk," he explained.

Kenny and the woman then began to yell at each other, their voices seemed to blend creating nothing but noise. Suela could tell Kenny was beyond angry. He started jumping up and down, and she could tell this would not end well. Sure enough Kenny's jacket began to slip off his shoulders. It wasn't long before the jerky motions caused the jacket to fall off, and the two dark blue wings burst forth. The young woman's eyes grew big as she saw them.

"You're a freak!" she screamed. Kenny froze as he realized his wings were showing. "Freak, monster! Get out! Get out now!" she screamed. Kenny seemed frozen, it was school all over again.

"Leave my brother alone!" shouted Dai as he stood in front of him.

"Your brother? He has wings," she said still staring at the boy.

"Yeah, so? He gets them from our mom. If fact he looks like a male copy of her. Just like everyone says I look just like our dad. I also got his temper too. Plus side it means I protect those close to me. Down side is little to no control when I'm angry," Dai said as he held up his right hand. A small flame seems to dance between his fingertips.

"You're both monsters," she said taking a step back.

"I am so sick of people using that word as an insult. Yes, we're monsters. Well half monster, after all there is human in our background. But you should know that there are worst things than us out there. Just be glad you only insulted a boy who could fly and his little brother who can make fire but only in small bursts," Dai said.

He then grabbed the jacket and his brother's arm and stormed out of the store. As the group of three made their way closer to their original destination Suela could see Kenny pulling the jacket on, and kept his head down. Dai on the other was murmuring to himself as smoke poured from his tightly chenched fists. They were just passing a movie store when a young boy dressed in red holding a dark blue and black cap came running out.

"For your information I'm only half. And they're dog ears, thank you very much!" he shouted before ducking as the owner threw something at him. "Well fine. I didn't want your stupid DVD anyway, crazy!" Inu yelled then turned around to see the other three.

"Three down one to go. You have any idea where your brother is?" asked Suela.

"Knowing him; he's probably either someplace where's there is music, or where you can make music," Inu said as he put the cap back on. Suela nodded and knowing that this mall didn't have an instruments store led them to one that offered CDs.

Sure enough, there was he was. Yet it was strange. Unlike the others, Sess wasn't causing trouble or even trying to listen to music. Instead he had a pair of demo headphones around his neck and a CD in his hands. His golden held a faraway look and there was a soft almost serene smile on his face.

Suela looked to where he was staring and saw a girl about his age. She had long straight black hair that was pulled into a ponytail, and eyes that were a light honey brown. She seemed to listening to a CD demo, swaying back and forth to the music. Unaware that she was being watched. Suela gave a small laugh, she knew that look. It was the same one Inu had given her and that Dai had given Kari.

"That's Rin. She's your age, loves animals, and is a really nice girl. But not too many people know it. You see a couple of years ago, something happened to Rin. She won't talk about it, but it makes people think she's strange. Now we really need to get going," Suela said as she dragged Sess away.

He nodded and put the CD back and removed the headphones. It wasn't long before the group reached the clothing store and met up with Suela's parents. They could see her parents already had pick out some for the boys to try on. Going a few sizes bigger for Kenny's shirts. The idea was for him to try the larger size so his wings wouldn't bunch. Then if he liked them they would buy the correct size and add the holes at home. Suela could tell her parents thought it would be quick and easy, but the young girl knew their adventures in the mall were just beginning.

6: Chapter Six: More Shopping and Halloween Plans

Chapter Six: More Shopping and Halloween Plans

It took the group nearly three hours to get the boys the clothes they needed. The pants were the easy part, just blue or black jeans. Kenny had gotten a couple of jackets and Inu had grabbed a few bandanas and caps.

The hard part was the shirts. Each boy seemed to have a certain preference. Dai insisted that his had to be bright and allow him free movement. They also had to stand up to wear and tear, he tended to be very active. Kenny had stated his needed to hold a symbol pertaining to him. Nothing could be plain or too solid in color. Sess needed clothes that could take a beating but also allowed him to be graceful.

"These claws are not just for show, but I am not a beast," he had said when Suela had asked him to try on a blood red shirt that looked almost too baggy for him.

"I'll take that," Inu said yanking the shirt from his brother. Inu on the other hand wanted clothes that fit him like his monster world outfit. They needed to be loose and not too nice looking.

After all, the boy tended to go around bare-footed and spend most of his time up in the highest points he could reach. Inu also demanded that each shirt had to have some red in them, it was his favorite color after all.

Finally the gang had what they needed and made their way to the food court. Suela's mother told the boys they could get anything they wanted. This turned out to be a bad idea. Their choices were more normal, yet the orders still got some strange looks.

Dai always seemed to have the biggest appetite. He ordered a Big Mac without pickles or onions. Five chicken strips with BBQ sauce. A medium order of fries, a large Dr. Pepper, a strawberry sundae, and a large chocolate shake. Kenny got a chicken sandwich with no tomato, medium fries, medium coke, an apple pie and a large strawberry shake. Inu had chosen two double cheeseburgers, large fries, a medium Sprite, a hot fudge sundae and a medium chocolate shake. Sess got a fish sandwich, a yogurt parfait, a medium orange soda, four chocolate chip cookies, and a medium strawberry shake.

Suela couldn't help but watch them with wide eyes. She had heard that teenage boys knew how to really pack it away, but this was unbelievable.

"Do you guys ever eat small meals?" she asked. All four boys looked at her like she was the strange one.

"When you live like we have, you know you need a lot of energy," said Dai.

"And that means eating a lot of food," added Inu. Once they were done Suela's father suggested that she should take the boys to find costumes for Halloween. Even with it being a few weeks off, Suela could see getting them now was the best plan. She had seen that kids tended to get crazy as the day got closer. The stores would be packed and most costumes would be picked clean. What they didn't count on was that with this being the boys' first Halloween, they themselves would go crazy. Once in the store the four ran off, Suela couldn't help but smile as they grabbed at bagged costumes, make-up, masks and wigs.

"Hey, aren't you going to get one?" asked Kenny as he secretly compared some fake wings to his own.

"Oh, I already have one. Well I don't have it now. I ordered it about a month ago. It will be here next week," she said. At that moment Dai ran by, his arms loaded with clothes, a wig and make-up.

"Hey bro, got a plan?" asked Kenny.

"Oh yeah, a poster I saw on the way here got me thinking. This is the one night of the year we can be something we're not. So I'm going all out and being my opposite," he said.

"What did he mean by that?" asked Suela.

"I'm thinking something to do with ice or snow. After all Dai is all about fire and heat," stated Inu as he threw a pair of strange looking gloves over his shoulder.

"Hey watch it," Sess yelled as he held up a fake shield. After about an hour the boys had all they needed to make their costumes. Yet when asked what they were going as they all answered that it was a surprise and would have to wait and see.

Of course that wasn't the only thing the boys got. Dai somehow managed to talk his way into getting a skateboard. As well as a DS 3D, a couple of games to go with it and a jumbo bag of mixed candy; which he was currently snacking on.

Kenny had gotten a pair of rollerblades, the complete collection of a series of books and an orange smoothie.

Inu was cycling through a couple of DVDs, wondering which one he should watch first. He also couldn't wait to try out the racing bike that was now in the back of the car. Next to him, Sess was holding a bag that was full of CDs in one hand and in the other a large cherry slushy.

"Man, when you guys go shopping, you really go shopping," Suela said as they loaded the car. The entire trunk was packed full.

"Yeah, but all this stuff will have to stay at your place," Dai said as he bit into another candy bar.

"He's right. If The Boss catches us with any of this, we're dead," said Inu longingly, knowing he couldn't ride the bike at home.

"It's alright, though the bike, rollerblades and skateboard are only good for now and after the snow won't be able to be used until spring. In the winter we'll have to get sleds and ice skates. Not to mentions there's Christmas, which you guys have got to come for," Suela said.

"Christmas? What's Christmas?" asked Kenny as he lowers the book he was reading.

"Whoa, I knew you didn't know about Halloween. But to have no idea about Christmas? Wait, these aren't the only holidays you don't know of are they?" Suela asked with a sad look.

"We've heard of them. But never been around to see what they're about," Inu said his ears drooping.

"Well, there's a whole bunch of them. But I'll just give you a crash course in the big ones. As you know October is Halloween, the next one is Thanksgiving. That one is November 22, and it's pretty much a day when family gets together and eat a really big meal; if you guys come it would be the one year we have no leftovers," she joked.

"Then there's December 25, Christmas Day. That's when friends and family gather together and exchange presents." The boys' eyes seem to light up at the mention of that. "Ah, let me see. There's New Year's Eve where we throw a big party and stay up late it watch a ball drop on T.V. It's basically saying goodbye to the old year and hello to the next one. Next up is February 14, Valentine's Day, which is a day we celebrate being with someone very special. Then there's Easter that happens in April, that's when kids will go on a kind of treasure hunt, looking for colorfully painted eggs. There's Mother's day in May, and Father's day in June. Then there's Fourth of July; that's when we watch fireworks. Um, there's more but like I said, those are the big one," she concluded.

"Wow, we are so gonna be here for those," said Dai. The other three nodded, with wide smiles.

"Yeah, but in the mean time, mom was thinking tonight we could introduce you to smores and star gazing," said Suela as they pull into the driveway.

"What are those?" asked Kenny as he started in on one of the books.

"You guys are going to love them. They are like a candy sandwich. You take a gram cracker, a piece of chocolate, a heated marshmallow, then another gram cracker," she said. All four boys had faraway looks as they make their way in.

"And tonight is the perfect night for star gazing, the stars should be extra bright. Especially with it being a new moon," she continued. At that the boys froze.

Kenny stared at his book but didn't seem to be reading it at all. Inu's hand hovered over a DVD case but showed not even the slightest movement to open it. Dai's hands clenched around his portable game and didn't even flinch when his character died. Sess had just popped a CD in to a player but didn't hit play as the headphones hung around his neck.

"Alright something is up with you guys," said Suela, her arms crossed.

"No it's not," Inu said, a little too quickly.

"Oh come on. I say demon and you turn to stone. I mention a new moon and you look like you're about to have a heart attack. Does this have something to do with you being a hybrid?" she asked.

"Who told you that?" Inu asked his golden eyes wide with fear.

"Dai," she said shrugging her shoulders. The dog-eared youth then turned on the fire-starter.

"You told her?!" he screeched.

"We were talking about how we had it rough growing up. I said you had it extra hard because Sess here can pass as a full blood. She made the connection and asked if you were half monster. I said you are half but it's not monster. She has no clue what you really are, blood wise. I let her know that this is your secret and it's up to you to tell it!" Dai yelled.

"Oh, and I suppose it's up to you to tell Kari about your blood line or your time of weakness!" Inu said as he paced back and forth. The poor boy looked hysterical.

"Would both of you calm down. If you're not careful you're going to let something slip," Kenny said.

"Will someone tell me what's going on?" Suela said having enough of the back and forth.

(Author Note: At this point I recommend listing to "Ai no Uta" from the Inuyasha soundtrack. It gives a deeper feel to the reading)

"For those of us that are half human there are…moments of weakness. Times that we lose our powers and become human ourselves. No one knows why this happens but it does. During these times we tend to keep our distance from others. Only showing the new appearance to those we truly trust. We ourselves become protective of these times, almost fearful of them when they are near," said Sess having decided that it was time Suela knew some of the truth.

"And your time is the new moon, isn't it?" she asked.

"Yeah, Suela I'm sorry. I really am but I can't let you see me like that. Others have seen me at my time of weakness and they always treat me different. To have someone look at you like you're a mistake it, I can't have you look at me like that. I just can't," Inu said.

"Inu, it won't matter," she said. The boy just shook his head and looked to the window. He could see the sun was beginning to set.

"I can't risk it. We'll be back just before dawn. Come on Sess," he said and raced to Suela's room his brother following yet somewhat hesitant.

"Inu, why can't you see? There's nothing wrong with being as you are. To be honest I like you just the way you are," she said to herself then slowly walked away.

As she left she saw Kenny and Dai look at each other and nod. She had no idea what they had agreed to, she only hoped that Inu would trust her one day with all of him. Although she had not said it out loud, the truth was Suela was falling in love with the boy from another world.

She could only pray that one night when the moon was dark she would see that other side. And perhaps show him that no matter what his blood was, she would treasure his heart forever.

7: Chapter Seven: New Moons and Mysteries

Chapter Seven: New Moons and Mysteries

That night Suela and the two boys headed out to the backyard. Her dad had set up a small campfire and a table containing everything they needed for s'mores. A short distance away were three sleeping bags spread out.

Dai and Kenny seemed to be having a blast. The younger brother alternated between tossing marshmallows to the elder and making s'mores, which were promptly shoved into his mouth. The older brother on the other hand only toasted half the marshmallows Dai gave him. The rest were put back into the back as he laughed at his brother. Dai's hands were covered in sticky white marshmallow goo. And his mouth was ringed with chocolate.

Suela was the odd one out. She only made one and seemed to have her mind somewhere else. Her eyes stared into the fire as she watched it dance.

"I just don't understand. I thought we were friends," she said.

"Thinking about Inu?" asked Kenny.

"You have to understand, Inu is very protective of his moment of weakness. Sometime ago he met a girl during it. She was a hybrid as well. Similar to Inu yet different. Everything seemed fine until Inu changed back. After that she wanted nothing to do with him. Said they were just too different. Poor guy was crushed. I think he's hiding his human self 'cause he doesn't want that to happen again," said Dai.

"I understand, but I'm not like that. I don't care if you're human, not, or something in-between. I just hope you guys can understand that," she said.

"We do. Please know that it's not you that Inu doesn't trust, it's his heart. He's been hurt bad in the past. But maybe, if you can show there is nothing he has to hide, he'll open his heart and allow you to see his human self," said Kenny.

"What about you guys? Inu made the comment that Dai should tell Kari about his time of weakness. Did that mean you change too?" she asked them.

"Yeah, but we don't change that much, not like Inu and Sess," Dai said.

Kenny then promptly elbowed him in the side. "What was that for?" he asked.

"Maybe one of these days you will learn to think before you speak," Kenny grumbled.

"Guys, come on. No more half-truths. Just tell me," Suela pleaded.

"We're second-generation hybrids. This means one or both of our parents was a hybrid. As you can see we look mostly human, this means when we change it's not that much. But Sess and Inu are first-generation. That means one parent is full human and the other is, something else. Now Inu normally has gold eyes, silver white hair, fangs, claws, and dog-ears. But when he changes-" Kenny cut off letting the thought hang.

"He loses it all," whispered Suela.

"Yeah so imagine how it must feel, to have one night a month were you look like a totally different person. Though what Inu keeps forgetting is he isn't the only one. A good fraction of all the kids in our world have more than one bloodline," said Dai.

"It's no big deal really. The only one that has a problem with it is The Boss. Especially if one of those lines are human," Kenny said as he looked up at the stars.

"Which is kind of ironic. Seeing as his own sons are half human," Dai said before looking down at his feet.

"But I thought he didn't personally like humans? Why would he marry; let alone have kids with one?" Suela asked.

"Ah, there's the rub. He didn't know she was human when he married her. And as for the twins, well they were able to hide the transformation until they were ten. They had miscounted and ended up changing right in front of him," Kenny said.

"We're not sure what happened after that. Rumor is the elder made it to your world. The younger was trapped in ours, and currently in hiding. As for the mother, well let's just say she wasn't so lucky," Dai said before drawing a line across his throat with his finger.

Suela placed a hand to her mouth. "Did he-" she gasped unable to finish.

"Don't know. Inu would know more, he was really close to the boys when we were young. But I wouldn't ask. It's one of those deep wounds," said Kenny.

By this time the fire had died out. The three then flopped onto the sleeping bags and looked at the stars. It wasn't long before they started making shapes. Suela was just about to call one out when a streak of light made it's way across the sky.

"A shooting star! Hurry make a wish," she cried out clasping her hands together.

It was a good twenty minutes later when the three decided to call it a night. As they settled down everything looked peaceful, yet fifteen minutes before sunrise two figures came stumbling in.

"Ow, remind he why we couldn't stay? Oh that's right because you didn't want Suela to see you as a human," said Sess.

"I told you. No one, except family, is going to see me like that," said Inu.

"Yeah, yeah, but why did you have to drag me along with you? I'm not the one embarrassed about that side of us," said Sess.

"You know we both change on the new moon. If Suela saw you it would just be a hop, skip and a jump to figuring out how I look," argued Inu.

"That still doesn't explain why we had to go back to our world. We could have slept outside or in a tree. Something. Look, you can either keep hiding and end up alone for the rest of your life. Or you can accept all of who you are, show Suela and be happy. I don't know about you, but the next new moon I'm staying here. You can run away if you want but I'm done hiding who I am," Sess said.

The two probably would have carried on of a sleep filled voice hadn't stopped them. "Inu? You're back?" Suela questioned as she reached for her curtains.

She knew her lamp would be too much, plus it would wake the other two. "Suela no. You can't see me like this," Inu said as he pulled deeper into the shadows.

"Inu, will you stop being such a pup," Sess said preparing to step out of the shadows.

"Don't you move a muscle," Inu growled just seconds before a pillow slammed into his head.

"Glad to see you're back. But could you keep it down? Some of us are trying to sleep," Kenny yawned.

"Oh, hey guys," Dai said as he ruffled his hair.

Suela looked from one pair to the other. One dressed in pajamas, sitting it the pre-dawn light. The other in their monster world clothes and standing so only their silhouettes are showing. Suela was about to say something when she heard a loud thump. It sounded almost like a heartbeat. She turned to Inu and Sess to see their hair seem to lift up and their eyes flash red for a spilt second.

"The moonless night has ended," Inu said as he stepped into the low light that was peaking though the curtains. Suela sighed, she was glad that Inu was back, yet sad that he wouldn't let her see him until he was no longer human.

"Well, since everyone is awake how about we get some breakfast," she offered. Once again it was like she had said the magic word, as the four boys stampeded to the stairs. There was a bit of a pile-up when Suela caught them.

"See you guys at the bottom," Dai said as he slid down the banister.

Suela couldn't help but laugh as the boys each had their own way of going down the stairs.

Inu raced down on all fours. Kenny literally flew and Sess seemed to float to the bottom. Breakfast was a tamed event, seeing as all Suela could offer was cereal. It wasn't long before the kids were dressed and outside playing with their new things.

Suela smiled as she watched from under a tree. She had left a note so her parents wouldn't panic upon waking and enjoyed the peaceful morning as the boys played. She was surprised how quickly they took to the bike, skateboard, or roller blades.

After a few hours Suela went inside to fix them all a snack. "I hope this will hold them until lunch. Those boys sure can eat," she thought as she placed the food on four plates.

She was just about to bring the tray out when she heard a scream of agony. Even though she had only known the boys for a short time, Suela could already institutionally tell them apart by just their voices. Something horrible had happened to Kenny. And by the sound of it she could already tell it was not going to be pretty.

8: Chapter Eight: A Past Revisited

Chapter Eight: A Past Revisited

Suela raced outside and saw what looked like the opening of a horror movie.

Inu's bike laid on it's side, one wheel slowly turning. Dai's skateboard sat abandoned by the tree.

In the middle of the yard Sess, Inu, and Dai formed a circle and in the center was Kenny. Suela could see his right rollerblade was missing and the leg was bent in a weird angle.

There was also a cut above his left eye that had blood running down the side of his face.

"What happened?" Suela asked. The boys turned to her. Dai had tears running down his cheeks.

"We, we were playing. Then Kenny hit something. It all happened so fast. We heard a sn-snapping sound and then he screamed before passing out. He hit his head as he fell. Sess t-took off his skate to see the damage and, and," Dai broke down unable to continue.

"That was about the time you came. We don't know what to do. He's hurt bad," Inu said sounding scared.

"He needs a doctor," Suela said before running back into the house and telling her parents what had happened.

It wasn't long before everyone was in the car. By this time Kenny had woken up.

"You alright kid?" Suela's mom asked.

"My leg really hurts," Kenny whimpered.

"I know, but it's going to be ok," she said patting his arm.

When they got into the exam room the doctor was shocked to see four boys and a girl waiting.

"Who's the one that's hurt?" he asked.

"This is Kenny," Suela said placing a hand on the boy's shoulder, taking care not to remove the jacket that was hiding his wings.

The boys had covered their marks so as to not frighten people.

"It's his leg doc, he fell while he was roller blading," Sess explained.

"And are you all family?" the doctor asked.

"Just Dai, but Kenny refused to go in with out all of us," Inu said. The doctor nodded, he understood how new patients were.

He then examined Kenny's leg and recorded basic information incase the young boy ever came back.

"Well, you're lucky; it's just a fracture. You'll be in some pain for a while but I can give you medicine for that. I would suggest wearing a brace and keeping it still. Keep pressure to a minimum and you should be fine just in time for Halloween," he said.

"So can we go?" Inu asked.

The smell of the room was getting to him and to be honest the young hybrid was starting to get creeped out by all the objects.

"Not yet. See there's a nasty virus going around. And I'll feel better if you four were vaccinated against it," the doctor told them, then turned his back on the kids.

"Four? What about Suela?" Inu asked.

"She already got her shot," the doctor explained turning back around now with a tray containing four ready needles.

"Shot?!" Dai yelled, his face pale.

All at once the boys made a bee line to the door. Or at least tried to.

Dai bashed into a water cooler knocking the jug off and drenching him as well as Sess.

Inu tried to skid to a stop but it was too late.

He tripped over his brother and as he went down the red cap he had been wearing flew through the air.

Sess let out an animalist growl as he tried to stand up. But with the floor soaked his feet found no traction.

As he slipped Sess reached out to grab something, anything to keep him up. Unfortunately his claws yanked on Kenny's jacket.

This not only brought the already hurt boy down but allowed his wings freedom as well. For a moment no one spoke or dared to move.

Then without meaning to Suela bust out laughing. She couldn't help it, that was just too funny.

"Nice going Dai," Inu mumbled, his ears twitching in an attempt to rid them of the water that was now dripping on him.

"Oh, bite me dog-boy," Dai said as he laid on his back.

"Don't tempt me," Sess growled, his eyes had taken on a red tinged to them.

"Not to be rude but, YOU'RE CRUSHING MY WING!" Kenny yelled.

"It all makes sense now. You guys are from the other world," the doctor said.

"Other world? We don't know what you're taking about," murmured Dai.

"It's ok. You aren't the first kids to travel between worlds," the doctor explained as he showed them a photo.

In it they could see three boys. The center boy had light brown hair and green eyes. This was clearly the doctor when he was young.

To his right was a boy with ice blue eyes and messy snow-white hair. On his left was a boy with spiky black hair and eyes that looked like the sun as it hits the horizon.

"That's me at fifteen with Frost and Dusk. They were my best friends growing up, and it didn't matter one bit that they weren't human. I can understand how you feel, having to hide who you are. After all Frost couldn't stand heat and Dusk avoided direct sunlight like you wouldn't believe," he told them before patching them up.

He then helped them covered their markings and sent them off.

"Thanks, for everything Dr. Bennet," Suela said.

"No thank you. For showing me that our worlds are still connected. You can keep that photo, I've got copies. And if by chance you happen to run into either of them, tell them: Jamie says hi and that he misses them," he said.

Suela nodded and wondered if her ties to the monster world would be as strong, if not more than Dr. Jamie Bennet's had been. Only time could truly answer that.

Yet Suela, as well as the boys secretly hoped that it would be proven that when it was time to stand the test, friendship would shine above all the rest.

9: Chapter Nine: Let the Fun Begin

Chapter Nine: Let the Fun Begin

Weeks past and just as the doctor said Kenny was back to normal, rearing to go. Halloween was right around the corner and all the kids were excited.

The true night of Haunting was on a Saturday, but the school had decided to hold a party during the week. All afternoon classes were to be canceled and students would be allowed to wear costumes all day.

"Come on guys! We're going to be late," Suela called as she pulled her hair up.

She was just smoothing down her priestess outfit as Dai entered the room.

He had on brown pants that were worn and tattered looking, a blue pullover hoodie with what looked like snow over the shoulders.

He wore a wig with short messy white hair and his face was done up with make-up to make him look pale. Over his shoulder was a long stick that ended in a curve and on his feet were a pair of sandals.

"What are you supposed to be?" she asked.

Dai's huge grin vanished. "Oh come on! Dose no one know this guy? I'm Jack Frost," he said.

"Told you. Shouldn't have picked something that just came out," said Inu as walked out.

He was wearing a pair of ripped up blue jeans and a plaid shirt that was torn at the sleeve. A pair of beat-up sneakers that had his feet peeking through as well as fake fur around his wrists and ankles. His hair was fluffed up giving him a wild look.

"Aw look at the cute puppy," teased Sess as he playfully tugged on the tail Inu had glued to the pants.

"Excuse me? I'm a werewolf," he said as he tied on the fake snout.

Suela giggled as she looked at Sess's costume.

He had on black boots and was dressed in white. There was sliver armor over his chest and two swords tied to his belt. His hair was pulled back and up. She could tell he was a warrior but couldn't place where or when.

"Kenny, you ready to go?" Dai called still miffed no one recognized him.

Kenny walked in and every one was amazed. He had on a blood-red top, black jeans and grey sneakers. Around his neck was a black cape that flared around him. Kenny's wings stood out proudly behind him and his hair laid over one eye.

"Say hello to the angel of death," he said giving a shy smile.

"Man, we are going to turn heads on Halloween night. A priestess, Jack Frost, a werewolf, a warrior from long ago and the angel of death," said Suela as she grabbed her backpack.

"Don't forget Kari's coming too," Dai said.

"That's right. She's going to as a princess," she said.

"Hey can Rin join us?" asked Sess.

"Sure, we can ask her at school. Plus see what her costume is. Rin was almost as tight-lipped as you guys," Suela answered.

The group then set off to the school and had an uneventful morning. Through Dai seemed to be in a funk from no one knowing his costume.

At lunch Kari sat down with them and commented on Sess, Inu, and Kenny's costumes. She then turned to Dai.

"What the heck are you suppose to be?" she asked.

"Are you kidding me?" he moaned before smacking his head on the table.

The group then heard laughter. But it wasn't playful like someone sharing a joke.

No, this was hard and hurtful. The laugh of someone who took pleasure in tormenting others.

The kids looked over and saw two boys about Sess's age and a girl in tears.

"It's Rin," Kari whispered.

"Should have known the freak would dress as a witch," sneered one of the boys.

"I'm not dressed as a witch," Rin protested quietly. Sess's eyes narrowed as Rin continued to cry.

"It's not fair. Rin is the nicest girl I know but those two are always picking on her," Suela said.

At that the young warrior couldn't take it any more. He knew what Rin was dressed as and it made him sick to see her being tormented for being different.

Rin was dressed in what looked like a red kimono that came to just above her knees. The sleeves flared out showing armor gauntlets that started at her wrists and vanished up her arms. Long press on nails gave the impression of claws.

Under the top were white pants that looked like a female version of Sess's monster world outfit, and black boots. Her hair was down and flowed behind her. Rin's face was done up with light make-up. Under each eye was a dark magenta stripe and in the center of her forehead was a diamond that was the same color as Sess's crescent moon.

The two bullies continued to laugh not knowing that just behind them was a furious hybrid.

"I don't know why you even bothered to come. No one wants you here," said the other boy.

Sess took in the appearance of the two. One was tall, skinny and had brown hair that looked like limp straw. He also had overly large front teeth, making him look somewhat like a rat.

The other was shorter, bigger and had short spiky blonde hair. In Sess's mind the two were dubbed Rat-Face and Pig-Boy.

"Why don't you two go back to the farm where you belong?" growled Sess. The boys turned to see Sess in the process of cracking his knuckles.

"What ever," they said and walked off.

"Animals," mumbled Kenny as they passed.

Sess then led Rin to their table and introduced her to all of them.

"By the way, love the demon costume," Sess said.

"Thank you. I like your costumes too. Princess, werewolf, angel of death, priestess, warrior and-" Rin cut off when her eyes landed on Dai.

"I know, what am I suppose to be, right?" he asked defeated.

"Oh no. I was just thinking that's the best Jack Frost costume I've ever seen," she said.

"Finally! Do you have any idea how long I've been waiting for someone to recognize me?" he asked. "Oh girl, you are so coming with us on Halloween."

At that the bell rang signaling everyone to enter the gym for the party. As Suela and her group entered the boys couldn't believe their eyes.

The door was covered in orange and black streamers. Plastic bats hung in every corner. Scattered among the balloons that had jack-o-lantern grins were paper ghosts. Propped up towards the back were two gigantic speakers that were belting out the instrumental version to "This Is Halloween".

On the right wall was painted a huge green skeleton. Pushed up against the left wall was a jumbo sized table, covered in sweets. There were candy covered apples, cupcakes shaped like cauldrons, pumpkin pies, candy corn, mounds of candy bars and gallons of apple cider. In the center was a tub filled with water that had apples floating in it.

"This is so cool!" shouted Dai as he grabbed a cupcake.

"This place is awesome," Inu gasped as he took in the sights.

The music then changed to "Bump in the Night" by Allstars. Suela laughed as she watched some teens try to dance.

She then turned to the boys and saw they were acting like they were at a rave. They were jumping up and down, pumping their fists and doing head bangs every time the line, "Things go bump, bump, bump in the night" played.

Slowly other students began to join them. Those who didn't danced cheered the boys on. When the song ended the boys collapsed in a heap laughing.

Since the day she met them this was the happiest Suela had ever seen the four. She also noticed that for the first time no one was looking at them with fear or mistrust. Every one was simply a kid having fun, and the party was far from over. Plus there was still Halloween night to be held. No one knew it then, but this small band of misfits were about to turn the Human World upside-down.

10: Chapter Ten: Losers, Rebels and Parties

(AN: Do not own anything, in this chapter I used the song Loser Like Me sung by glee. But it's a slightly different version. Just go to youtube, and search for {Mashup} Loser Like Me!. or watch?v=RBvBi0MONj4 Also for Jare's voice I imagined the Goblin King from Labyrinth by Jim Henson, only younger. I tried my best to describe it, but you can only know how it is really suppose to sound if you have seen that movie)

Chapter Ten: Losers, Rebels and Parties

The party was in full swing. Everyone was surprised that Dai wasn't becoming sick over all the sugar he was eating. Sess had showed off his skill in bobbing for apples. In fact only two party goers were not smiling. It was the boys that had made fun of Rin. They looked furious that all the other kids seemed to love the Monster World boys. Just then the music cut out.

"What happened?" asked a girl.

"Don't know, CD won't play," answered a boy.

"Well do something!" shouted a student.

"We could sing something," suggested Inu. The boys then began to clap in a beat. It was quick and on every fourth and fifth count.

"Oh great, the losers are going to sing," sneered the round-faced boy. At that some one had whacked the player, turning on the radio. It started playing a song that matched the clapping perfectly.

"Losers huh? Well then this song is perfect if you think that," Inu said. The boys then began to sing, the rest of the party goers were in awe.

"Yeah, you may think that I'm a zero. But, hey, everyone you wanna be. Probably started off like me. You may say that I'm a freakshow. But, hey, give it just a little time. I bet you're gonna change your mind. All of the dirt you've been throwin' my way. It ain't so hard to take, that's right. 'Cause I know one day you'll be screamin' my name. And I'll just look away, that's right." They then turn away and started to call or pull others over to join them.

"Just go ahead and hate on me and run your mouth. So everyone can hear. Hit me with the worst you got and knock me down. Buddy, I don't care. Keep it up and soon enough you'll figure out. You wanna be. You wanna be. A loser like me. A loser like me," the four sang. Dai then got right in front of the one that had called them losers.

"Push me up against the locker. And hey, all I do is shake it off. I'll get you back when I'm your boss. I'm not thinkin' 'bout you haters. 'Cause hey, I could be a superstar. I'll see you when you wash my car," he sang as he shoved the boy with his shoulder. Dai then brushed it as if he had gotten dirt or something on him. He pointed to the boy as he laid on the floor. The young fire starter shook his finger like he was telling some one off, then turned his back on him. He raised both fists in the air to the crowd that was slowly growing. Then looked back over to the fallen bully and smirked at him. The other members of their gang joined as they sang the next part.

"All of the dirt you've been throwin' my way. It ain't so hard to take, that's right. 'Cause I know one day you'll be screamin' my name. And I'll just look away, that's right. Just go ahead and hate on me and run your mouth. So everyone can hear. Hit me with the worst you got and knock me down. Buddy, I don't care. Keep it up and soon enough you'll figure out. You wanna be. You wanna be. A loser like me. A loser like me. A loser like me."

About half of other students had joined forming rows behind the four boys The leaders would clap, then point to the two bullies then make the Loser sign above them. They repeated this then acted like they were throwing something first to the left then to the right. The kids spun in a circle. They placed their right fist to the opposite shoulder then did the same the other. As one they punched forward with their right then their left before raising the right high all while cheering, "Hey, you, over there. Keep the L up-above in the air. Hey, you, over there. Keep the L up, 'cause I don't care. You can throw your sticks, and you can throw your stones. Like a rocket, just watch me go. Yeah, L-O-S-E-R. I can only be who I are."

The boy that Dai shoved had gotten up but looked like he couldn't believe what was happening. These four boys from another world were quickly winning over the whole school. As more joined the dance that had simply been four young misfits having fun it was now turning into something that was truly a sight to behold, though the two would never admit it.

"Just go ahead and hate on me and run your mouth. So everyone can hear. Hit me with the worst you got and knock me down. Buddy, I don't care. Keep it up and soon enough you'll figure out. You wanna be. You wanna be. A loser like me," the boys sang drawing in everyone that had ever felt as if they were alone or didn't belong. At this point there wasn't a single kid that hadn't joined, except the two bullies. They looked as if they had just swallowed a lemon.

"Just go ahead and hate on me and run your mouth," the boys sang raising their hands high.

"So everyone can hear!" shouted the crowd.

"Hit me with the worst you got and knock me down," prompted Sess.

"Buddy, we don't care!" the crowd roared back.

"Keep it up and soon enough you'll figure out. You wanna be," Kenny started.

"We wanna be," echoed the crowd.

"A loser like me. A loser like me. A loser like me," everyone finished before posing as if for a Hollywood photo shoot.

Even though the dance had been unplanned and totally spur of the moment anyone looking in would have thought they had been practicing for weeks.

"So, who wants to be a loser?" asked Inu as the crowd went wild.

"Are you all crazy?" asked the blonde haired jerk.

"They're not even human. They don't belong here!" shouted his partner in crime. At that the crowd turned on them.

"If anyone doesn't belong here, it's you," said a red-haired girl dressed as a fairy.

"Yeah, all day you have done nothing but mocked our costumes and picked on those smaller then you!" shouted a blond vampire.

"They may not be human, but at least they act human. Kenny was right you two are animals!" yelled Kari just moments before a cupcake hit the tall boy in the face.

"Hey dumb and dumber. The circus called, they're short two clowns. Why don't you go see if you can join," laughed Inu. The other boy took a steep forward only to be brought down by Dai's prop.

"Do us all a favor and stay down," he said shouldering it.

It was then that the party ended and the kids began heading home. Suela decided that on Halloween they would hit Monster World after curfew. She had already cleared it with Rin and Kari's parents for them to stay over night. She just hadn't mentioned they would be in another world. Once the sun had set on the next day the group set out. The girls giggled as the boys began to chant.

"Trick or treat it's so neat," started Dai.

"Give us something good to eat," Kenny added.

"If you don't that's just fine," Inu stated with a smile.

"We'll come back another time!" finished Sess.

"Did you teach them that?" asked Rin. Suela shook her head.

"I told them the one we knew. They just put their own spin on it," she said. "If you want to see a Monster World original, boys."

They smiled as Dai led them in the cheer. "Halloween, Halloween it's a feat."

"Trick or treating up and down getting something sweet," his brother joined in.

They smiled as Inu added his voice with, "Goblins ghosts ghouls and bats, we know where the fun is at."

"Now to honor our new story, howl to the moon in glory!" the four shouted.

The whole gang then started laughing. For the next three hours the kids went from house to house. They even made a game of who would be the first to reach the door. Though it wasn't long before they began to make their way back towards Suela's, each of them dragging a pillow case full of candy.

"Looks like every one is calling it quits," said Rin as she noticed the dark houses.

"Maybe in your world. Our is just getting started, come on," shouted Dai as he led the way. When they got in Suela saw her parents we're still gone, they were attending their own party. She left a quick message stating "In Monster World. See you later." then headed to her room and showed Rin and Kari the doorway in the closet. As they entered the strange world Rin and Kari was just as amazed as Suela had been a year ago.

"Follow us," Sess said as he carried a box filled with soda cans. Even Suela was confused as the boys led them to an old crooked staircase. At the top was a old green building. The paint was faded and peeling yet the door was freshly painted in a rainbow of colors.

"What's that?" asked Rin. Inu looked to where she pointed and burst out laughing. On the left side of the door was a very crude drawing. It showed a man's face, yet he had a pig snout and over sized fangs. The hair reminded Suela of a dead plant and on top were tiny little devil horns. From the mouth was a speech bubble proclaiming, "You listen, I Boss."

"That's got to be A.K's work," Inu laughed wiping a tear from his eye. He then turned to Dai who started pounding on the door with both fist, almost like he was drumming.

"Hey Joey! Open up! We have rule breakage level three out here. Joey! Sugar rush is a go!" he screamed. The door opened to show a boy with wispy blond hair and bright blue eyes. Suela was surprise to see the pointed ears. The boy, Joey looked at them and just shook his head.

"Top-Side again? And you brought humans too? Do you know how much trouble you could be in?" he asked.

"We got candy and soda," said Sess before Joey could work himself into a rant.

"Just get in. Don't mind the mess. The younger members were practicing," he sighed. Just then what sounded like an explosion was heard. A boy slightly younger then Joey came out coughing. His hair was a pale cornflower blond and feathered in layers giving it a "puffed" look. Suela could see he had pointed ears as well.

"Jare! How many times have I told you? No exploding crystals inside!" Joey roared.

"Not my fault! A.K shocked me," Jare said opening his eyes to revile they were miss-matched. One being warm brown, the other the brightest blue you'd ever see. "Oh, hello. I'm Jare, I see you've already met my older brother Joey. The other rebels are in the back," Jare said. His voice boarding on deep and mysterious with just a hint of an english accent.

"Rebels?" questioned Suela.

"That's what we call ourselves. In our world most kids follow their parent's example when it comes to the boss, the leader of our world," Joey said adding the last part with a sneer at Kari and Rin's looks of confusion. "Then there are people like Dai, who just refuse to listen to those dumb rules. So a couple of us got together and formed The Rebels."

"There's another group out there called The Wild Gang. They're like us and we get along great with each other. Hope you guys get to meet them," Jare said.

"Come on, let me introduce the others," Joey said leading them to the room Jare had come from. Inside were four boys and a girl. "Rebels, front and center!" called Joey.

The humans were amazed at how these kids could be so different yet the same as they are. Joey then went down the line as the group introduced themselves. The first were clearly brothers. They had messy spiked black hair and almond brown eyes. The younger had a horizontal lightning bolt on each cheek, and both were tan-skined.

"I'm Jake, and that's my younger brother A.K," the older on said.

"So you're the one that zapped Jare?" laughed Rin.

"Guilty," A.K proclaimed taking off his green and white cap and bowing.

"Knock it off," said a boy with dark brown eyes and long brown hair. He then slapped A.K in the back of the head.

"Why did you do that for Rocky?" he asked.

"You were being a jerk," Rocky said turning away. The lighter tan skinned boy was then pushed out of the way.

"Hi, I'm Speedster. Wow so you're humans. I've never seen a full-blooded human before," he said in a rush, shaking Kari's hand. He was pale skinned, most of his hair was snow white and slicked back yet two locks in the front stuck out and were an icy blue. His eyes were the same pale blue but held a friendly warmth to them. He then turned to Suela. "And you're the girl that caught Dai. In all the time he spent sneaking Top-Side no one had ever caught him until you." Speedster looked like he was going to say more when a girl with long black hair and honey brown eyes yanked him back.

"Don't mind my blabber-mouth younger brother. I'm Nightstar," she said. Once introductions were out of the way the group got down to having fun.

The three top-side girls laughed as they saw that a monster world party wasn't that different from a human world party. The group told jokes, ate and had a great time. No one knew when it would end, yet as the night went on and sugar crashes kicked in the kids fell one by one, until they were all out cold. As the group slept, surrounded by candy wrappers and empty soda cans no one heard Suela's watch go off. Announcing that the sun in the Human World would be rising in and hour. They had no idea that when they awoke they would be paying for their party in more ways then one.

11: Chapter Eleven: More Pieces to the Puzzle

Chapter Eleven: More Pieces to the Puzzle

Suela woke up, grabbing her head. "Shouldn't have let A.K talk me into mixing sodas," she groaned. The young girl rubbed her neck as the ringing in her ears persisted. "Wait a minute," she thought before looking at her watch. Suela quickly shut off the alarm before trying to wake the others.

"Five more minutes," Inu mumbled before turning over and letting out a snore.

"Wake up, wake up. Come on everybody, rise and shine," Suela called.

"Ugh, my head. Oh boy!" Jare cried before throwing up.

"Ha! Light weight," Dai laughed.

"Let's go people! Up, up, up!" Suela yelled as she yanked on Kenny.

"What's the rush?" Inu asked, still half asleep.

"The rush is that the door to my world closes in five minutes!" she wailed. The kids scrabbled up, grabbing their bags and raced down the street. The Rebels weren't far behind them.

"We're not going to make it!" shouted Joey.

"We will, we have to!" Suela yelled. The group poured on the speed but just as Suela reached the door it slammed shut in her face. "No! No, open up! Open up!" she cried pounding her fists on it.

"Suela, Suela. Suela! It's too late. Sun's up," Inu said spinning her around and grabbing her face. At that Suela broke down.

"So what now?" asked A.K.

"We go home. The girls can stay with us. Our parents won't mind," said Dai.

"Are you crazy? Take one look at my parents and you know what I am!" Inu screamed.

"Chill out, when I said our parents, I meant Kenny and me. Though we wouldn't even have this problem if you would just tell Suela that you're half-" Dai was cut off as Inu slapped his hand over his mouth. Yet that didn't stop him from trying to talk. Suela gave a small giggle at Dai's muffled speech. After a few moments he was finally able to pray Inu off him.

"Fine, be a baby about it. Kari, Rin and Suela you're going to crash with Kenny and me for a while. Everyone else be back here before sunrise if going to human world," he said then marched off. His brother just shrugged then followed with the three girls bringing up the rear.

"Will Inu ever let me know his other half?" Suela asked softly.

"He'll tell you when he's ready. You have to understand Inu's had it rough," Kenny said looking back at the sad girl.

"Oh give me a break. The poor puppy, he's had it so bad. Least he can pass as somewhat normal in both worlds. Some of us have to hide more than a marking here and there to pass as human," grumbled Dai as he kicked a stone.

Kari was shocked, the normally fun loving and full of laughter boy was gone. And in his place was a dark and moody twin.

"Dai, come on," begged Kenny.

"No! Lately it's been all about poor Inu, and his great big secret. I know there are risks with his mix but Sess and he turned out fine. Inu should count himself lucky and be proud of who he is," Dai said then pulled the hood of his shirt up, hiding his face away.

"What did he mean by, risks with his mix?" asked Rin.

"Sometimes blood doesn't mix right. Not often, like one in a hundred. But in those rare occasions you get a kid that well, just looks weird," Kenny said.

"Inu thinks being what he is, is so bad. But what about the twins Hopper and Crawler," Dai mumbled.

"Who?" asked Suela.

"They're members of the Wild Gang. If they went to your world people would think Hopper has some rare illness and Crawler." Dai sighed.

"Poor Crawler would be seen as no better than an animal if not for that thing his mom made him. It hides most of his other worldly looks," explained Kenny.

"Any way here we are. Home sweet home," Dai said as he walked though the front door.

"Mom, dad, you home?" Kenny called.

"Boys, that you?" asked a male voice.

Suela saw that Dai hadn't been exaggerating when he said he looked just like his dad. The man had bright brown eyes and spiky mahogany hair, though it was a bit shorter than his son's. Just like Dai he was tanned-skinned and had two red lines on his checks and the back of his hands. Yet they were thicker and just a hint darker.

"Dear, kids are back! And they brought guests," he said. From the next room came a woman. She was pale skinned with evening colored eyes. Her purplish black hair flowed behind her and stopped shy of mid-back. She also had two dark blue wings, that had clearly been passed on to Kenny.

"You two went Topside again, didn't you? Dai, I wish you would stop this reckless behavior," their mom said.

"You know they can't help it. That world calls to them, it's in their blood," their dad said.

"You would say that. After all Dai is just like you were at his age," she said throwing her hands up.

"You can't blame us. Topside is a part of us. Don't forget there was a time we didn't have to sneak between worlds. Then he came around. Now everyone with mixed blood and are naive enough to listen to him are either entranced by another world but too scared to go, or ashamed of a part of themselves," the elder fire maker argued.

"I know, I just worry. Any way, why don't you introduce us to your friends," their mother said.

"Sure, this is Rin Suela, and Kari," Kenny said stressing the last name and making kissing sounds to his younger brother.

"Knock it off," Dai said pushing him. The two then got into a shoving match.

"Break it up you two," their dad said yanking them apart. "I can tell you three are human. Let me guess, you were hanging with my boys and got stuck here when your sun came up." The girls nodded at him. "Well, you can stay here until night fall. I suppose you two are going with them?" The boys were let go when he asked this.

"Of course. And it's not just us. Inu and Sess are coming. Plus some of the Rebels if they want to come," said Dai.

"Inu and Sess, do they know they are?" his mom asked looking at the girls.

"No, Inu refuses to tell them. Even through Suela told him it won't matter what his other half is. She knows he's part human, just not what the other part is," Kenny said shaking his head.

The parents nodded, they knew how stubborn the young boy could be. It was something both golden eyed boys had gotten from their father. The man was proud, brave, and would never back down in a fight. Especially if he was protecting someone he cared for. Yet he could also be a hard-headed idiot, and process a stubborn streak a mile long. Once he made up his mind on something almost could change it. A trait unfortunately his youngest, and to a lesser degree eldest boy inherited.

As the day went on the girls learned more about this world's past. They were told it hadn't always been this was.

That once their world had been similar to the Human's. There had been daylight, and through not as bright as Suela's home world, the point was they had a sun. Flowers and trees of all kinds had bloomed and thrived in this world. It was full of life and laughter, people could travel between worlds as they pleased as the door never closed. But then one day an evil presence covered their land. The world was plunged into an ever lasting night. Anything that had once held beauty withered and died. The doorway then began locking it's self when the human world had daylight, only to open once more when the sun set. All that belonged to humans yet had no ties to their world were banned. And those of mixed blood were, more often than not, left wondering where they truly belonged.

By the end, Suela was in tears. She now understood why Inu hid his blood type. He was so afraid of his hybrid status being turned on him. In his normal form he could at least pass somewhat as a monster. Yet in his human form, by Dai's hints he looked so different his mixed blood would be obvious.

Over the next few hours the girls were treated to stories of the boys' past, as well as dishes that had a monster world spin to them. As the afternoon approached in the human world Kenny and Dai's mom suggested that they get some sleep. This way the kids would be awake in time to cross and not crash during the day. When it came time to go back to her world Suela was shocked to see just how many other kids were waiting by the door. Inu and Sess were there, of coarse. As well as The Rebels. Yet there were also eight more new faces, six boys and two girls.

"They must be the Wild Gang," she thought. Next to the group of children were two adults, a man with short black hair and a woman with long dark blond hair.

"Those must be one of the gang's parents. Guess this means not all of them are staying at your place," Kari said to the girl that had introduced them to this new world.

"Good thing too, we have all we can handle with the original four," Suela said, knowing at least some of the pressure would be off her.

Though she couldn't help but worry what school would be like. The other students had barely begun to accept Dai, Inu, Kenny, and Sess. Now a mob of strange kids would be joining them, it was a disaster waiting to happen.

12: Chapter Twelve: What Makes A Hero?

(A/N: My "Daisuke" is pronounced as: Die-suke, not to be confused with the Japanese pronunciation: Dá-í-s(ú)-ké. Also for any one who has seen the T.V show "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" My character Spike is based on his namesake in looks and voice, just image him as a fifteen year old. Once again I don't own anything, this is just the closest I can get to describing how the kids in this story look and sound. The song featured in this chapter is Hero (Red Pill Mix) and can be found at youtube /watch?v=6zv7xaDZoto. Thank you, and please let me now what you think; but nothing rude or hateful.)

Chapter Twelve: What Makes A Hero?

The next day proved Suela's fears true. Everyone was staring in fear or murmuring about the new students. Though their markings were hidden anyone could tell they were different due to the fact they kept close to the original four. As they made their way down the hall a girl with short red hair and dark brown eyes ran past them, her arms held out.

"Throw it here!" she yelled. A boy with long dark hair tossed a book to her as another girl raced between them.

"Guys give it back!" she cried. The red-head laughed cruelly and threw the book. Yet instead of the boy catching it, it hit the other girl in the face. The two bullies walked away but not before the boy dumped the hurt girl's backpack.

"That Sarah is such a weirdo," he said. The girl, Sarah knelt down pushing her shoulder length brown hair back, revealing forest green eyes. With out thinking Jare raced over and started to help her. When he reached the book that had hit her, he froze.

"Legends Behind Other Worldly Creatures?" he read in awe. Sarah snatched the book away.

"I suppose you'll tease me now too. Probably think I'm crazy for believing in things like demons and magic," she said.

"No, in fact you'd be crazy not to. Seeing as they're real," said Jare.

"Now you're just mocking me," Sarah sobbed. Suela watched as Jare seemed to pull a crystal ball from thin air. With a flick of his wrist it became a bright red rose.

"What are you?" asked Sarah cautiously taking it. Jare ran his hand through his wild blond hair and for a short moment his pointed ears were visible. He then lowered his sunglasses just enough to show his miss-matched eyes. "You're not human," she gasped.

"Is that a problem?" asked Suela as she led the rest of the gang over. Sarah just shook her head as she stood.

"Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Jare and I'm what's known as a Fey," he said bowing. Sarah gave a shy laugh as the others introduced themselves, yet they only told their names. Things started to settle down and were calm, at least until lunch.

"Oh man, it's them," stated Rin as two boys made their way to their table.

"I thought we had seen the last of those two at the Halloween party," grumbled Dai. The blond then turned to them.

"There are more of you?" he growled.

"Of course, there's a whole world full of us. Where did you think we came from, the sky?" joked Kenny.

"You better leave us alone Alex," Suela said addressing the blond.

"Or what?" he challenged.

"We're warning you, back off," threatened a boy with sandy brown hair.

"What can you do, weakling?" asked Alex's partner, making a crack at the boy's off-colored skin.

"It's not Hopper you have to worry about Pete," Kari said.

"Oh, then who's going to stop us?" laughed Pete.

"Me!" roared a voice. Pete and Alex turn to see a boy with short honey brown hair and bright blue eyes. He was dressed in a red t-shirt, black jeans, black doc marten boots and a black leather duster. He was pale with sharp features and high cheekbones. "Name's Spike. And I don't take kindly to people messing with my friends," he said, his voice hard with a rough cocky English accent.

Spike then grabbed the boys by their collars and lifted them up. "Now I'm warning you once and only once. If I ever catch you picking my anyone who is part of this team you'll live to regret it," he said. By this time Spike's eyes had changed to a bright yellow and two sharp fangs were showing. "And don't think I won't know if you do. Now get out of my sight." He then dropped the boys and let out an animalistic roar. As the two tore off Spike's eyes returned to blue and the fangs vanished. He then sat down as the table cheered.

"No one messes with the leader of the Wild Gang!" Speedster yelled.

"Got that right," Spike said.

"You guys really look out for one another," Sarah said.

"Our group is like family," said Spike.

"And no one messes with family," said Joey as they exchange high fives.

"I just hate that people pick on others just because they're different. We all have something that is strange yet that shouldn't make them hate or fear us," said Dragon making sure his jacket was straight. Like Kenny he had two big wings, yet there were black as night. He had white-blond hair and silver-blue eyes.

"Yo, I'll be right back. Got to toss this," Hopper said shaking the paper bag his lunch had been in. As he was coming back someone tripped him. Everyone but the monster gang started laughing.

"No wonder he wears those shades. Look at his freaky eyes," one kid teased. Hopper looked up, his sunglasses dangling from one ear, showing lime-yellow eyes. The young boy's eyes filled with tears.

"Awe, is the little baby going to cry?" asked the red-head from earlier.

"Leave my brother alone!" shouted Crawler as he stood up.

"This is your brother? That means you're probably a freak too," she laughed.

"Stop it!" Crawler yelled as he made his way to her table.

"Or what?" By now the girl was standing as well and shoved Crawler.

The boy went down hard. His bluish black falls in his face and the sunglasses he wore clatter to the ground. As he sits up the watch on his right hand flashed. For a split second his image seemed to blur.

"Crawler, you ok?" Suela asked. She had thought that for a mere moment his face had looked blue and his ears seemed pointed. Yet when she blinked he was back to his light skinned self. No one else seemed to notice.

"Yeah, I'm fine," he said, looking up to revile red-orange eyes that almost glowed. The dark haired boy from earlier pointed out that it was no wonder that they were hanging with Sarah.

"You can hide all you want. It doesn't change the fact you're all abnormal. Plus that little song and dance you did on Friday did nothing but band together freaks and geeks," he said. Suela bit her lip, she knew that if this kept up someone would get hurt. She had seen new reports about how some kid had gone crazy from all the teasing. No one had thought to stop it until it was too late, and the kid had rampaged across school before taking himself out. She looked over to Kari and Rin. The former was grabbing at Dai's arm and the later was glancing nervously at Sess. Just then a banging sound was heard.

Spike's younger sister Ary was pounding on the table to a beat. Her sea-green eyes held a fire in them. On her right was Haku, following his older sister's lead as he began to stomp his feet. His green eyes were in a blaze. Jare and Sarah joined the short brown haired boy, pounding and clapping as the beat grew louder. Suela then recognized as the others integrated with clapping, banging, and stomping that it was forming the beat to a song that talked about making choices, doing what's right and saving lives. In short being a hero. Once again the team banded together and allowed music to tell their story, as Dai and Kenny walked over to the twins.

"No one sits with him, he doesn't fit it in. But we feel like we do when we make fun of him. 'Cause you want to belong, do you go along? 'Cause his pain is the price paid for you to belong," Dai sang as he walked over and pulled Hopper up, then led him back to the table. The younger twin kept his head down hiding his eyes but not the tears. Dai stared at the group that had tripped the boy. Reminding them that not so long ago they were the ones being mocked.

"It's not like you hate him or want him to die. But maybe he goes home and thinks suicide. Or he comes back to school with a gun at his side. And a kindness from you might have saved his life," Kenny sang as he helped Crawler up. Unlike his brother the older twin glared at the table then made a motion with his hand, mimicking a gun and pointing it to the kids. Kenny gently but forcefully pulled his arm away. The evening colored eyed boy led him to the table shaking his head, silently telling him they're not worth it. The four then jumped on the table.

"Heroes are made when you make a choice. You could be a hero – heroes do what's right. You could be a hero – you might save a life. You could be a hero – you could join the fight. For what's right, for what's right, for what's right," the whole group chanted as they pounded the beat.

"No one talks to her, she feels so alone. She's in too much pain to survive on her own. The hurt she can't handle over flows to a knife. She writes on her arm, wants to give up her life," Nightstar sang as she came forward. At first no one could see her face behind the curtain of black hair. Yet they could all see that she held her arms close to her. She pushed her hair back showing her dark brown eyes that were full of sadness. Nightstar then pulled up the sleeves of her shirt to reveal long white scars on her forearms. They started mid-way down from her elbow and went inward, stopping just before her wrist.

"Each day she goes on is a day that she's brave. Fighting the lie that giving up is the way. Each moment of courage, her own life she saves. When she throws the pills out, a hero is made," her brother sang as he placed a hand on her shoulder. The girl spun around and hid her face in the younger's shoulder. Speedster glared at the other table, they had no right to treat them this way. They didn't know the nightmare that was their life. As they joined the others on the table, the sound of glass shattering could be heard. On the ground was what looked like small crystal dagger, broken in two.

"Heroes are made when you make a choice. You could be a hero – heroes do what's right .You could be a hero – you might save a life. You could be a hero – you could join the fight. For what's right, for what's right, for what's right," the group sang as the six linked hands showing they stood as one. And that they shared each other's pain. At this point most of the members had reviled what made them non-human. The team were allowing the school to see them as they truly were, different yet the same. Rocky then came forward. At fist he seemed like a leader with the younger members following behind him.

"No one talks to him about how he lives. He thinks that the choices he makes are just his," sang A.K as he walked off to join Jake.

"Doesn't know he's a leader with the way he behaves. And others will follow the choices he's made," Haku sang as he too broke off and stood with Arry and Spike.

"He lives on the edge, he's old enough to decide. His brother who wants to be him is just nine," Dana sang as she left Rocky alone and stood between her older brothers Dragon and Har.

"He can do what he wants, because it's his right. The choices he makes change a nine-year-old's life," sang Rocky as he turned his back to the crowd and pulled up the back of his shirt, showing three long scars then ran diagonal from left shoulder to mid-back. While it was true Rocky was a rebel and acted out, these marks were not due to his own actions. Instead Rocky had paid the price for another's choice when he was young and now had to live forever with the reminder. He then joined the others on top of the table.

"Heroes are made when you make a choice. You could be a hero – heroes do what's right. You could be a hero – you might save a life. You could be a hero – you could join the fight. For what's right, for what's right, for what's right," the group sang as the members that had been sitting stood up, continuing out the beat with pounding their fists or clapping their hands. Nodding their heads in time. Yet they all pause when Joey and Spike jump on the table right behind Dai.

"Little Mikey D. was the one in class who everyday got brutally harassed. This went on for years until he decided that never again would he shed another tear. So he walked through the door, grabbed a 44 out of his father's dresser drawer. And said I can't take life no more. And like that life can be lost," they sang as they mimic shoving him back and forth. This goes on for a while until Dai screams then crosses his arms at the wrists and lays then on his chest. He shakes his head then falls back into Kenny's waiting arms. He is pushed back up and jumps off the table.

"But this ain't even about that. All of us just sat back and watched it happen. Thinkin' it's not our responsibility to solve a problem that isn't about me. This is our problem! This is just one of the daily scenarios which we choose to close our eyes. Instead of doing the right thing. If we make a choice and be the voice for those who won't speak up for themselves. How many lives would be saved, changed, rearranged? Now it's our time to pick a side. So don't keep walkin' by, Not wantin' to intervene, Cause you wanna exist and never be saved. So let's wake up and change the world. Our time is now!" Dai sang as he looks down a row of kids that were watching wide eyed. He then gestured to the team. Making sure everyone knew the pain they were causing his friends. The kids on the table clench their eyes shut and turn away, as if in shame. Dai punches a fist in the air then throws his arms wide. He placed a hand to his heart then reached out almost begging for someone, anyone to stand up. When no one does, he closed his hand into a fist and looks upwards with dark eyes.

"You could be a hero – heroes do what's right. You could be a hero – you might save a life. You could be a hero – you could join the fight!" shouted the members that were around the table. After each line was half spoken, the ones standing on top shouted "Our time is now!" as Hopper, Nightstar, and Rocky linked hands and raised them high. Crawler, Speedster, and Kenny laid a supportive hand on their shoulders from behind them. On either end was Joey and Spike, guarding those who stood between them.

"For what's right, for what's right!" the entire team shouted, begging for the hate to stop. On the table the remanding members banged out the beat heavily then faded off into silence when Suela and Inu came forward.

"I know they're different. But that doesn't make them wrong. We're all different in some way. Look at me, I have brown hair and blue eyes. Should I be afraid of someone just because they have eyes that are green or brown. Should I hate you just because you're hair is blond or black or red?" Suela asked taking Inu's hand. The boy looked down then stared at her, seeing that she never once even glanced at his claws. "Look at them, they're kids. They're just like us. They like movies and video games. They love junk food and having fun."

"We have friends and family just like you. Sure we may have claws, fangs or wings; we can make fire or ice. But it's like a birthmark or a skill. Can you really hate someone for being able to whistle or do a handstand?" asked Inu.

"They're right. I'm not sure what everyone is but take Jare for example. He might be a Fey but he is the sweetest boy I have ever met. And I for one am not going to let something like pointed ears or miss-matched eyes stand in the way of getting to know him better," Sarah said before kissing him on the cheek.

With that the bell rang and the team left the rest of the school stunned. As they made their way down the hall Dai got a wicked grin as he saw Jare blushing.

"Jare and Sarah sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G," he called.

"Stop it," Jare growled.

"First comes love, then comes marriage," Dai continued.

"I'm warning you, knock it off," Jare said looking angry.

"Then comes Jare with a baby carriage," Dai laughed.

"That's it!" Jare exploded. He then tackled Dai, "Take it back!"

"Never! Jare has a girlfriend. Jare has a girlfriend," Dai teased.

Jare reached back a fist preparing to punch him. "Jare let him go. I said let him go," Joey said, repeating when his younger brother didn't listen.

Jare got up and began to walk off in a huff. "Don't you turn your back on me Jareth!" Joey shouts.

"Someone's in trouble," Dai said in a sing-song voice.

"I wouldn't be talking if I were you, Daisuke," Joey said.

"Man, did you have to use my real name? Why couldn't you just call me Davis?" he asked.

"Because I'm not using that secondary nickname when you know you're in trouble. And you call yourself a Rebel in training," Joey states.

"Hey Jare, next time Dai pulls the girlfriend card just turn it around on him," said Dragon as he stood next to his elder brother.

The spiky black haired boy nodded. "He's right, you could have stop this by pointing out how he feels for Kari," Har said as his emerald green eyes shone with mischief. The other members laughed as Dai turned beat red. Over the next few days things were quite, though they did have the occasional bully it wasn't as bad as when they first showed up. What they didn't know was a much bigger problem was heading their way. One that would determine whether the gang would continue coming to the human world, or remain in theirs permanently.