Shifting Tides

Story by deltroon1986 on SoFurry

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Here's Chapter 19 everybody, Enjoy.


Deciding it was best to sleep on everything I've gone through over the last few days. Proved to be a wise idea since when I woke up the next day things were clearer. As I exited the room Kyuri, Renka and Nubai have been using during their stay. Having awoken to an empty room I got dressed and wandered down the hall. Where everyone was getting the large dining table ready to serve everybody breakfast.

Arreincia, her mother and my mother were hard at work inside the kitchen. I soon heard the sounds of sparring going just outside so I went to see who it was. Jecht and Jaxal were having a mock fight while the rest of the Guardians watched. Doing the same from the stairs studying their movements paying close attention. From a distance they're evenly matched so this session came down to endurance.

Until Opal jumped into the fray casting both males aside like a pair of rag dolls. Sift and Exel rushed into the fray hoping to gain the upper hand on the mature vixen. Unfortunately they happened to be a couple of seconds to slow as she jumped up. While in the air she thrusted her hand down and with shout, fired an air blast. Kicking up a huge wave of snow causing the others to shield their eyes momentarily.

She then used the temporary cover to knock her fellow guardians to the ground. The sparring match came to an end at the point when they noticed me watching. Wishing me good morning then asked me if I'd like to join in their morning training. Figuring why not asking them to take it easy on me since breakfast was almost done. Sparring with the rest of the guardians proved to be one hell of a workout.

After about twenty minutes Renka and Kyuri summoned everyone inside. Washing up first before entering the dining room and sitting down at the table. I sat between Nubai and Kyuri, while my mother sat across from us next to Jaxal. According to Renka they've been growing closer together and it's got me wondering. Normally I would've preferred to do this in a less public setting but, what the hell.

"You know if you two keep seeing each other I expect someone to pop the question." I said. Two forks clattered followed by an entire room falling silent a split second later. My mother's face instantly turned bright red while Jaxal's lower jaw dropped open. Nubai, Kyuri and Renka looked at me wondering what in the world got into me. Soon the room burst into a huge fit of laugher finally realizing I wasn't serious.

However Jaxal and my mother didn't find it funny being the butt of the joke. Regardless of how good my comedic timing happened to be about their relationship. Though my little joke did start the possibility of such a thing becoming a reality. Considering they enjoyed spending time together and were comfortable together. Of course it wasn't long before Jaxal decided to even by kicking me right in the shin.

Grunting while trying not to choke on what I had been chewing on in my mouth. As I looked across the table at him I saw that he wasn't finished with me just yet. Something tells me I'm going to be in for a rough training session after breakfast. Naturally that wasn't anything new to me when you consider what lies ahead. First things first I need to figure out what to do about that strange metal I found.

"Mickale mind if I have a word with you in private after we finished eating?" I asked. He looked up from his plate and gave me a soft nod then went back to his meal. Not long after that one by one everyone finished and brought their plates into the kitchen. The last people at the table were left responsible for cleaning all of the dishes. Mickale and I were among the first few that finished eating then went outside.

Where we walked to his shop so we could talk without anyone listening. Also he could give me his take on the metal I found in the Valley of Flaming Ice. "I'll be perfectly honest Orion this ore was thought to have been completely used up. For you to find it and in such a large amount in the most violent of locations. It was either dumb luck or providence that you and the twins stumbled across it." He stated.

"Oddly enough they said the same thing when I found it buried out there. For such an extremely rare metal it was surprisingly light to carry and transport here." I replied. Mickale went onto say that metal doesn't weight much but, it's amazingly durable. Now the question of what did I want him to forge it into either a weapon or armor. I decided against a weapon since it might break under pressure while armor won't.

"Why don't we go with some armor nothing overly fancy some arm and leg bracers. As for what ever left perhaps a chain mail shirt that shouldn't slow me down." I stated. Mickale smiled as he grabbed his tool belt of the shelf then got the forge running. He told me the bracers won't take long to craft but, the shirt will take a while. Sadly our chat came to an end when Jaxal appeared then grabbed my shoulder.

"Orion, some of the neighboring clan leaders are here and want to talk with you." Jaxal stated. Not liking the sound of that I followed the golden wolf to where they were waiting. Lilith and Vadel were among the clan leaders that requested an audience with. I could just about fathom what they wanted from but, I was going to find out now. "Hello, Orion it's been awhile we're hoping you could spare a few minutes?" Vadel asked.

"Of course ma'am how can I be of assistance to you and the other clan leaders." I replied. Patting me on the cheek then introduced me to everybody while Lilith stood nearby. I could sense something was bothering the nine tailed vixen but, what was it. Though I was certain she was going to tell me after Vadel finished with introductions. The other leaders were real friendly and wanted to know how they could assist me.

It ranged anywhere from magic scrolls all the way to specialized weapons. Appreciating their generosity but, I wasn't sure if any of that stuff would work. Considering that Stark's power seems to keep growing at a rather scary rate. Granted he's close to the other side of this land mass but, to feel it this far away. Told me that the final battle will be more difficult than everyone first believed.

Even though I was getting stronger as time progressed by not at the rate he was. Hopefully between now and that fateful day my hidden power will be accessible. Without it I doubt I'll last very long in a fight should he attack this place now. There's one problem it's the other they might try to jump in when he does attack. I won't be able to fight to my fullest if I'm worried about the safety of the others.

Knowing them they're not going to permit me to fight Stark all by myself either. "Is everything alright Orion you got awful quiet and quite frankly I'm a little worried." Lilith said. Apologizing to the vixen then told her that I was thinking about something. Upon hearing that she eyed me briefly but, let the subject drop for the time being. Even the other kitsune could tell my answer wasn't fully forth coming with her.

Whatever happened to be on my mind at the time must have been personal. There was one female kitsune among the group that was looking at me strangely. For a vixen she stood a head above the others and her fur coloration was unique. Her eyes seemed to always flicker with some rare power even when she spoke. "Orion, I'm High Priestess Esuntei also the leader of the Knights of Iakkedin." She began.

"You'll have to forgive me but, I can't stand someone that hides the truth. Granted the burden you have to bear is indeed great but, you needn't bare it alone. All clan leaders from far and wide are gathering here to help you prepare for war. Even though you desire to fight Stark alone and keep everyone safe from harm." Esuntei stated. The white and gold vixen spoke the cold hard truth and I couldn't deny it either.

Lowering my head in shame until she walked over and placed a hand under my chin. "There's no need Orion you're a kind soul you don't want anyone else to get hurt. Protecting others is a great strength I've come here to help you unlock your potential. The other clan leaders have various skills that will most certainly benefit you also." She smiled. With time against us how could I learn everything in a very short period of time.

"For now Orion I want you to spend time with Kyuri, Renka and Nubai. First thing tomorrow morning when the sun rises your training will begin understand." Vadel informed. With that the clan leaders bid me farewell while I tracked down my ladies. Upon returning to Mickale's house they were waiting for me on the front porch. They met me at the stairs of the porch then we went inside for some alone time.

Lying in bed Renka on my right, Nubai on my left, and I'm resting on Kyuri's lap. All of us had stripped down to our panties and boxers in the average size room. They had made it clear that none of them will be totally naked until we're married. I was perfectly fine with that considering I had a perfect view of Kyuri's breasts. Granted they were perky for their ample size even Renka and Nubai were endowed.

While not overly busty all three vixens had what amounted to double D-cups. Sadly I'm no expert when it comes to figuring out a woman's actual breast size. Of course they could be as big as trees or flat chested I'd love them all the same. "Orion do I want to know what's going on inside that human mind of yours?" Kyuri asked. Scratching my chin briskly and tried to find a way out of this little situation intact.

Deciding to be honest thus saving myself from having all them angry with me. Next I closed my eyes and waited for one them to either hit me or leave the room. "Oh, relax you though my love you might want to deal with a certain part of yours." She added. Sitting up from her lap only to see my erection pressing proudly against the fabric. Apologizing but, as I went to fix it Nubai gently slapped my hand and murred.

What she did next caused Renka and Kyuri faces to turn a bright shade of red. As the metallic colored vixen reached over, grabbed my waist band and lifted up. Purring with delight as my erection bobbed slightly upon being freed from its prison. Despite every warning bell going off Kyuri and Renka could not look away either. I decided that was far enough I gave Nubai's ear a pinch making her release.

Flinching when the elastic waistband suddenly snapped back against my body. She leaned up licked my cheek affectionately and as a mean of saying she's sorry. "With all the clan leaders coming together to help will our odds winning improve?" Renka asked. It was a valid question but, it was also one I didn't have any answer to right now. Turning my head to look at her then kissed her nose then told her I wasn't certain.

Returning my gesture and understood that the future hasn't been written yet. That right now I wanted to enjoy what we're doing and worry about it tomorrow. Well until a knock ebbed from our bedroom door followed by a male voice. Not really wanting to get up from where I was but, I got up to answer the door. As I opened it this massive gust of air blew the door clear off and sent me flying.

Crashing upon the nightstand as all three vixens jumped out of the way in time. In stepped a male kitsune unlike any I've encountered before as he looked around. Not wanting to waste time with words I vanished from sight and struck first. Seeing as Kyuri and the others had his attention for the moment I closed in. Attacking him with a kick to the neck that caused the house to shake upon contact.

"You pack quite a punch for a human but, I expected nothing less of Ashandria's son. So Nubai this is the male you lost to and will be marrying in the near future?" He said. After landing back on the floor I studied the male kitsune intently as Nubai spoke. "Yes, baby brother that's my mate Orion, I see you've gotten stronger. I'm guessing by your rude entrance that means mother and father are here." She replied.

Nodding yes then he turned his attention back towards me and gave me a smile. "Sorry about barging in Orion didn't mean to but, our parents want to see you." He stated. With that he exited the room leaving me alone with my wives still nearly naked. Luckily with a flick of their wrists their clothes materialized upon their bodies. Cursing their ability to use magic, leaving me to get dressed the traditional way.

Once my shoes were tied I made my way to the living room where everyone was. When I looked upon Nubai's mother and father it was a shock to the system for sure. She came up to her mother's bust as for her dad he was actually taller than Jaxal. The towering male approached me slowly while my defenses stood at the ready. Sensing this he made a gesture Ashandria showed me that said I'm a friend.

Presenting myself more at ease but, not completely relaxed around this kitsune. "Dear, that's enough it's clear to everyone Orion isn't afraid of you or your stature. If you don't want to kiss the floor, give our future son in-law some space, please." His wife said. Looking over his left shoulder at his life mate then stood back besides the vixen. Leaning up to nuzzle his neck before she walked proudly towards my location.

Something about her reminded me so much of Ashandria it was actually scary. Next she leaned down giving me a rather unhindered view of her large cleavage. "Hmm, a good strong heart, filled with love along with the strength to protect others. Kyuri you were smart to bind yourself to this one he's quite the male. With such qualities I can certainly take his skills to the next level with no trouble." She added.

Looking at with skeptically in response to what she said about my abilities. "Forgive me for saying this but, you'll have to prove to me what you say is true. As of lately I've been finding it hard to believe people by mere words alone." I informed. Nubai's mother arched an eyebrow at me then smiled as she moved closer to me. Where she placed a hand upon my chest and like a surge my power sky rocketed.

She didn't keep it there long just enough to prove what she told me was true. When her hand pulled away my power level returned safely to its original level. "It's hard to believe that such a great power dwells within you and that's saying a lot. Whatever is sleeping inside of you it's waiting for a specific set of events to unfold. Though when those conditions are met let's just say I don't want to be your enemy." She stated.

"Mother, how much of his hidden power will you be able to unlock then?" Nubai asked. The mature vixen took a moment to process what she was able to sense from me. Before telling her daughter that she would be able to release about thirty percent. "Trust me this sleeping power of his seems to have a mind of its own." Razeil replied. It's permitting me to unlock a small but, heavy portion of Orion's potential.

"Alright, Madam Razeil I'd like to know exactly what you plan on doing?" I wondered. She was more than happy to tell me the awakening process from start to finish. It all sounded pretty straight forward to me but, anything like this would be simple. "Seeing as my day to relax has been ruined we might as well get to work." I said. From there I walked outside where we could train and avoid breaking anything.

Leaving a suitable location up to Nubai's mother proved rather daunting. Granted I couldn't blame for wanting plenty of space to prevent outburst of power. According to her could cause a large amount of damage and hurt my loved ones. By taking this to the base of the mountain such event can and will be avoided. Nubai was the only person that was adamant that she come just to keep me safe.

Keeping to a safe distance as her mother moved me into the ideal position. Next she drew strange symbols into the dirt then she began to recite a spell. As it reached maturity these strange markings began to appear on Razeil's forearms. When she spoke the final series of words this huge intangible hands came forth. Reaching gently into my body using the gates of chi within my body and turned.

Unlocking all eight gates thus allowing the thirty percent to be released. I wasn't prepared for the sudden influx of power proved hard to keep controlled. Struggling to reign in this new found strength took quite a while but, I succeeded. "You're going to feel a little strange but, your new strength will settle in shortly. Though if I were you I'd spend that time to keep it from going to your head." Razeil stated.

When she looked back me and saw that I was already doing that very thing. Sitting crossed legged on the ground, palms up, fingers touching and eyes closed. Slowly channeling this new found power throughout my body until I was ready. I got up and walked towards both vixens from there we returned to Mickale's home. Jecht, Opal, and Sift couldn't believe my improvement in such a short time.

Now the hard part learning to harness this new found power of mine properly. Luckily Jaxal was more than happy to help and for the next three days straight. On what would've been the forth day of training Jaxal had other plans made. He was nice enough to leave a list of exercises for me to complete by this evening. Sure enough by the time he returned from his little venture I just growled sourly.

His response was this little satisfied smile as he walked contently into the house. Once I regathered some of strength I made my way inside and took a bath. While the hot water worked its magic I hoped that Kyuri or the others would join me. Apparently they had other things going on until a knock came from the door. Asking who it was and when I got no response I got out, dried off and got dressed.

Cautiously opened the bathroom door and saw my mother standing there. "Sorry to disturb your relaxing bath but, the Tribunal is here and want to see you." She replied. Nodding alright and asked if she could tell them I'd be along in a few minutes. With an okay she left to inform them while I decided to put better clothes on. If they've come here something has come up that they don't know how to handle.

It's either that or they've found something while reading grandfather's journals. Whatever it was worrying about it wasn't going to do me any good as I changed. Once I had some presentable attire on I exited my room and walked into Lady Ivory. "Hello, Orion I trust you've been well since the last time you and I were together." Ivory smiled. Bowing politely to the mature nine tailed vixen and asked how she's been lately.

Not being one to complain she went on to explain her reasons for coming. Apparently their spies that were sent to the human world just made their latest report. They were under direct orders from the Tribunal to watch out for anything strange. From what they learned Stark's not only getting stronger but, has gained followers. "Somehow I'm not all that surprised some humans can be easily tempted." I began.

"All Stark has to do is offer the right incentive and they'll do anything he desires. Knowing him he used some sort of mind control spell to keep them in line. Unless such magic has either been locked away or never crafted for emergencies." I informed. It was relief when Ivory confirmed that such spells are considered highly immoral. If any kitsune even attempting such a thing their punishment was severe.

"Granted I wouldn't put it past my own flesh and blood to learn such ability." A voice replied. Turning to face the source of the voice and saw a silver and black colored vixen. "Ah, so good of you to come Vexia I'm sorry if we called you away from anything." Ivory said. The mature looking vixen shook her head as she turned her attention towards me. "So you're the human I've been hearing so much about, hmm?" Vexia stated.

Being polite I introduced myself to the six tail and she bowed in return. She gave me a brief history of her eldest child's life and how he began changing. Before his odd behavior got too far out of hand his father forced his son to leave. Granted it was hard decision but, one that had to be done when he claimed Renka. Proper etiquette states that he should've asked for her permission to court her first.

Everything she told me only fueled my goals to bring that kitsune to justice. "Despite everything Stark has done to me, you, and the innocent he's still my son. I know you don't want to hear this Orion is there any way you could spare his life?" She asked. Deep down I had a feeling the parent was going to ask but, how to answer her. Luckily Lady Ivory stepped in and told the vixen that isn't up to me or her to decide.

"I'm afraid she's right Vexia, your son and Orion must fulfill their destinies. You must understand while Stark is your son but, he's violated sacred law. Stark must be brought in, put to trial and punished accordingly I'm truly sorry Vexia. We are all bound by the laws if he were to surrender then he might get leniency. Sadly the odds of him ever coming to his senses are highly remote." Ivory pointed out.

"I'll be honest I would rather not have to fight Stark at all but, I've got no choice. With your son growing stronger each passing day I need to match or surpass him. Unfortunately this is one promise I don't know if I'll be able to keep Mrs. Vexia." I replied. Seeing the disappointment on her face made me feel bad for the mature vixen. With the tides constantly shifting I need to be ready for anything that comes my way.

To be continued.