Becoming: Tristan Trudaux Series, #1

Chapter 1

SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD TYLER DUBOIS woke with a start. A growl stuck in his throat, sweat trickling down his face and neck, his breath coming in rapid gulps. The dreams kept coming for weeks now, every night the same one, but every time it grew more vivid, more true to life. It was ridiculous and he couldn’t get away from it. Everybody already glanced at him as if he was a freak, no need to prove them right. But maybe they were right to look at him that way. No! He chastised himself loudly. They looked at him because he was the bastard that was pushed on this poor innocent holier than thou family, as if! He shook his head. They treated him like he either didn’t exist or was some kind of second class dirty member of the family, the bastard. He learned to live with it; he was only biding his time to be old enough and then he would leave this wretched place and people behind and be his own person.

He shook his head once more to get rid of the thoughts; he had to figure out these dreams. He studied his hands and then touched his face to make sure he was not the animal he was in all of his dreams. Finding everything normal and in order he gave a long sigh thinking back on the damnable dream that was tormenting him.

In his dream he was himself but also not, he was some sort of wild animal, wolf. He felt confident and would run through the forest that surrounds the town, feeling free and exhilarated. Every sound he could hear, the earth between his paws, he could feel. The wind between his ears as he was running, stretching and straining his muscles to the limits-it felt great. His enhanced eyesight as well as his sense of smell, everything was so clear, so real. This is where the dream turned deadly. He happens upon a creature, something he had never seen before. It was a foul human looking thing with grey pale flesh and pointed yellow teeth. It had claws for hands and a stench came off it that would make anyone gag. The thing caught a young girl as prey and he could taste the blood and fear flowing off of her. Hatred filled him as the monster grabbed the girl and dragged her closer to feed. Instinct took over, a primal action as his animal form as hunter took over and he launches at the creature that turns around to face him and let’s out a wail that was as appalling as it was eerie. He makes impact with the thing and a fight ensues; he feels his jaws slam shut over its throat and how his muscles clench closed for the kill. He shakes his head like a dog on a tug toy and the creature makes gurgling wailing sounds, scratching and clawing at him to get away. He feels the life leaving the body and feels immensely satisfied at that. The creature gives a final attempt at freedom and he knows he killed him, then he wakes up, sweating, out of breath and blankets in tangles as if he was physically acting out his dream.

He shuffled over to his small bathroom; he lived in a little flatlet attached to the house. His father didn’t want him in the house, he was not part of the family, but this place suited him fine, actually a sweet deal for a teenager. He only had a bedroom and a tiny bathroom slash shower and a modest kitchenette. There was a door leading outside and with another doorway to the house coming into the far side of the lounge of the house. He looked at himself in the mirror.

Get a grip, man! he scolded at his reflection. Glancing at his watch he saw it was about two hours before he would have had to get up any way. No use trying to get back to sleep, he might as well go for a jog to clear his mind and then get ready for school.

He silently moved across the yard, and out the fence as he started jogging, the air was refreshing and crisp, especially so early in the morning. No people to spoil the scenery and no cars to make noise, just him and nature, well as far as nature goes in a suburb.

Getting back to the house he felt physically better, he always enjoyed exercise. Mentally he was still uncertain though. Through the kitchen window he could see his father and uncle were already awake, dodging them he slipped past to his flat. He didn’t know what the deal was with his uncle’s visit. He has figured that there is something unusual about his family, exactly what precisely he does not know since he is not in on any family secrets. His uncle’s visit was also strange it was not a normal visit; something was up, something to do with his brother, no wait, half-brother. Raymond is turning eighteen this month and there has been a lot of fuss around his coming of age. He gave an amused snort heading for the shower. Raymond is an immature bully, but the closer it came to his birthday the more activity, secret meetings and hushed the tones grew, especially if he wondered into the vicinity. A couple of times he was actually chased away. Since his uncle arrived two days ago, they were very hushed and his uncle ignored him as if he never existed. This was fine with him as he preferred doing his own thing.

School was the same as usual. The same bullies the same derogative remarks by the teachers towards him. The joys of living in a small community where everyone knew of the disgrace he brought to his gracious family. At least it kept his mind off his dreams for a while, the only difference being the onset of a headache, as the day progressed so did the intensity of his headache. By the end of the day he was feeling nauseous and weak, too weak to even carry his case but there was no one to phone his father and step-mother hardly had time for him. Tyler doubted if they would fetch him even if he was bleeding and half dead, his mother and her boyfriend were away on holiday. Squinting and with careful movements he started his way home.

Hey you don’t look so well a concerned voice surprised him. Tyler Looked into Julienne’s hazel eyes, she looked very concerned, he smiled she was about the only friend he had.

Headache He tried to sound jovial, but it came out more pained.

It must be terrible, you to look so pale,

Yeah, I’m nauseous as well,

Perhaps you should go visit a doctor,

I’ll be fine, just need some rest Tyler smiled seeing Julienne's friends in the parking area waving at her to come over.

I think your friends are calling he smiled again pointing his eyes towards the still frantically waving friends, glad for the intervention, speaking was draining energy he needed to walk home.

Okay, but take care of yourself Julienne smiled sweetly and ran off with a wave.

It was a long trip home. Tyler could not believe how joyful he was when he finally saw the house, never imagined he would be so happy to see the idiotic place but his headache intensified with each step and he actually had tears in his eyes.

He grabbed some Tylenol he had gotten for a previous headache, gulped it down and slipped his shoes off as he slid into bed. He occasionally got headaches, migraines, but this was so much worse. It felt like his brain had expanded, struck by an axe and got his head in a clamp with someone sticking knives into his eyes all at the same time. The room was darkened as he waited for the Tylenol to kick in, lying with his eyes closed and silently sobbing from the pain. This was undoubtedly the worst headache he has ever had.

Tyler woke up with a start, glad that at least he had a short escape from the suffering, his body felt painful now as well. He opened his eyes to check the time but he couldn’t seem to focus. He tried bringing his arm closer but he nearly screamed from the pain, it felt like he ripped all his muscles and had broken all his bones. Really sobbing now from the pain he thought he was dying from some disease. He couldn’t think straight his thoughts couldn’t formulate a complete, coherent order, he gave up trying, closing his eyes again hoping to fall asleep soon. His bones felt like it was twisting and grinding. If he thought it would have helped he would have cried for his mother. He opted to curl into a ball and cry instead. Somewhere he gratefully fell asleep again

Again he dreamed, but this time the dream was even more vivid than the previous ones. He could feel the power in his muscles and he wasn’t afraid of himself. He felt like he was in charge this time, he could go anywhere he wanted. He had nothing to tie him down.  Everything felt clearer and this time he actively searched out the creature, when he found him some primal satisfaction surged through him and he killed the creature. Not waking as usual but remaining there to the end, the last breath, when he felt the creature go completely limp he felt satisfied, the hunt was successful; he was victorious! Tyler gasped awake, sitting up straight sweat soaked. He was panting heavily. Tyler realized his headache was gone now, his body felt back to normal, he tested all his limbs to make sure they were all healed from the strange affliction. Tyler looked at the time and saw it was two o’clock in the afternoon he had slept through the day and missed school. That was not good. He jumped from the bed but he went higher and further than what he expected and fell against the wall. Getting up quickly he was a little confused but shrugged it off. He went to the bathroom and stopped short as he heard whispered voices; it sounded like it was just outside the door and he listened. It was his father and uncle speaking.

TRISTAN TRUDAUX wandered through the small town. Watching the people going about their normal business, only here and there people would give him a weary glance but he ignored it. He was drawn to this town when he patrolled the parameter of his property, picking up the unmistakable scent of a young Lycan about to be transformed. It doesn’t concern him but he has not survived this long by being ignorant about his surroundings. He knew there were a clan here and two latent witches. Better be safe than sorry.

Tristan’s senses prickled, and he gave a crooked self satisfied smile, the young Lycan was walking towards him. Studying the teenager who was not aware of his surroundings or the person studying him intensely, Tristan frowned slightly, the boy was not of age; he guessed sixteen or just seventeen but positively not eighteen. Where were his guardians Tristan wondered, during the change he should not be left alone, it is an extremely critical period but it was possible to do it alone, he should know.

The dark-haired young man walked passed Tristan and he could see the worry lines the burden of what was happening evident in his blue eyes and the anxious expression on his face. He could detect the Du Bois clan on him so decided they must know of him as they were the only clan around here so they presumably felt secure enough to leave him alone for short periods. Getting another sense Tristan’s eyes strayed to a mother and daughter across the street, smirking once more, the latent witches. The mother was prim and proper with delicate features and her dyed blonde hair in a bob cut. The daughter was also about sixteen, similar delicate features as her mother but she had an innate beauty as well, she must be popular with the boys Tristan thought. The witches also caught site of the boy, the mother’s face twisted to dislike but the daughter smiled when she caught sight of the boy. Just as the daughter wanted to get the boy’s attention the mother clutched her sharply by her arm pulling her into the nearest shop while chiding her. The boy appeared not to have seen anything at all as he hurried along.

Tristan smiled, everything seemed to be normal.  Happy that it was not his problem he returned to his car. He would keep an eye to make sure they don’t threaten his own but that was all. 

Chapter 2

He is about to change I can smell it, the house reeks of a youngling about to be transformed and he is the only one coming of age it was his uncle Spencer speaking about what he presumed was Raymond. This was the weirdest statement and why speak outside his door if he was not supposed to know. Maybe they thought he was still at school.

You keep saying that but he has presented none of the signs his father answered sounding distressed, he could literally sense the anxiety from his father.

I can smell it!  Spencer hissed sharply I can smell a fellow Lycan especially one about to change, their scent is strong and unique Spencer continued.

I’m sorry brother I’m just anxious, especially after... his father spoke but broke off abruptly mid sentence

I Know brother, it would bring dishonour to our family if your son also does not turn. Hopefully Raymond does not carry your weak gene, Spencer answered with no compassion in his voice and he could sense his father shrink away with embarrassment.

We must get ready for the rite that will initiate him into our pack, when he turns I will have to be with him Spencer continued in a matter-of-fact tone.

Tyler heard them move off and was relieved they continued moving away from him. The conversation was really strange, strange being an understatement here actually. He just shook his head to clear the confusion and decided to shower and then find out what he missed at school. He would wonder about this weird behaviour later. Walking to Julienne’s house Tyler couldn’t help to speculate about the conversation between his father and uncle. He would love to know what was going on but he would have to figure out another way to gain that information. He would for sure not get any information from his family. They had been more tight lipped these last couple of weeks than usual.

His attention was quickly diverted by the surrounding sounds, he felt like every sound was much louder than usual driving into his skull as laughter, cars hooting, breaking, lawn mowers were piercing his ears and he walked faster. The sun seemed brighter, and it felt like he could see everything much clearer. It must be a side effect from the headache, he thought. Relief and a faint sheen of sweat covered him when he finally made it to Julienne’s front door.

Ringing the door bell he almost cursed from the noise that reverberated in his skull. The door opened and Julienne’s mother stood there with a scowl on her face staring down at him. He smiled as pleasantly as what he was capable of and asked respectfully for Julienne. She looked like she would shut the door in his face but he hastily added he only needed the homework for the day. She gave him an even dirtier look and reluctantly called Julienne.

Julienne came thundering down the stairs, it sounded like thundering to him but truthfully he knew that she was too graceful to thunder anywhere. Suddenly she stood in front of him with her smile turning into a concerned look. Her mother hovering over her shoulder to make sure she does nothing except give homework.

How are you feeling, you still seem a bit... off Julienne frowned before she finished with off.

Better thanks, must have been something I ate He gave a sheepish smile

When was the last time you ate something Julienne asked concerned still etching her face.

Uhm I... I don’t really remember this time it was his turn to frown as he tried to think back.

They were both brought back to the task at hand with Julienne’s mother’s harsh throat clearing and venomous glare towards him.

Julienne quickly gave him the homework they received the day and ended with a reassuring smile before her mother ushered her back inside slamming the door in his face.

That boy is no good, how many times have I told you to stay clear of him Tyler heard Julienne’s mother admonish behind closed doors as if they were still standing in front of him.

Mother he is not as bad as what people make him out to be, Julienne shot back

Listen to me child, he is a bad seed, nothing useful will come off him, look what burden he placed on that poor family her mother spat out sharply. Although he knew everyone felt like that and some do not feel bad about telling him to his face, it still hurt. Realizing he was standing in front of a closed door he turned away and left. Tyler wandered back to his flat via the forest, it was a much longer route but he didn’t feel like people and the forest made him feel relaxed and refreshed. 

The sounds of birds and a breeze through the leaves calmed his thoughts he could almost hear whispers in the air current. It sounded like someone gossiping in the distance. He paused and glanced around but he couldn’t see anyone else. He could hear bees buzz and bird wings beating. Stopping he realized he shouldn’t be hearing bird’s wings surely he is hallucinating now. He better get home, He must still be ill Tyler thought again. He began to run but his muscles felt like they suddenly woke up and were eager to stretch and he ran faster and faster relishing in the physical taxing of his muscles; he had never run so fast and for so long rushing past shrubs and bounding over obstacles like rocks and fallen trees like it was nothing. Tyler was still in full sprint mode when he recognized where he had to turn back into the suburb area, he came to a stop. Feeling refreshed and surprisingly not tired at all. It felt like he could keep that pace all day. Tyler swiftly made his way back to his flat. He could see his family, all in the lounge area, before he slipped around the house, they looked strangely somber but he didn’t dare linger to watch them. Back in his room, he flopped down on his bed smiling feeling strangely exhilarated, everything was strange lately and his uncle’s words popped into his mind:

Lycan, change, he can smell a Lycan about to be transformed. A rite to enter into their pack. Raymond hasn’t shown signs of changing, but the smell was there.

He scowled, what was it that Raymond was supposed to change into? Surely it was not like a monster, an image of Jekyll and Hyde popped into Tyler's mind. Tyler shook his head. No way! He does not even know what it is exactly they are going on about. It couldn’t be physical but he will have to find out more, but where? He can’t exactly go into the library and ask for the aisles on people turning into Lycans. Maybe he should start by trying to figure out what a Lycan is exactly. A soft knock on his door had him sitting bolt upright. He could smell food and a scent that reminded him of a springtime breeze carrying the essence of wild flowers. He grinned and just knew it was Julienne how he didn’t know he just knew?

He opened the door and sure enough Julienne was standing there with a bag in her hands smiling concernedly. He moved over so she could enter and she stepped in quietly sitting on his bed.

I brought you something to eat Julienne lifted the bag in show smiling.

You shouldn’t have, you know nothing positive can come off me Tyler answered wincing at the harshness in his voice and he felt bad immediately. Julienne does not deserve to get the bitterness caused by other people.

I apologize, that was not fair He smiled contritely and took the packet looking inside to find his favourite burger and fries, his smile grew as his stomach growled.

Thank you I appreciate this Tyler gave her a wild smile showing a twinkle in his blue eyes, the smile that makes him look so gorgeous Julienne thought.

I am worried about you Julienne touched his arm her eyes full of concern.

I just need a good burger and then I’ll be right as rain he placated still smiling. How can he tell her something he is not sure of himself and is so far fetched it is just plain unbelievable.

If something is the problem you can tell me I can help you. I know it’s difficult with everyone treating you badly but you must just ignore them she gently squeezed his arm. Tyler had the urge to just kiss her but he knew she didn’t think of him in that way.

I’m fine really, I had a headache and overslept, no big deal Tyler sighed thinking she had no idea

Please don’t, I can see there is something seriously wrong, is it... Julienne suddenly withdrew her hand and struggled to form her sentence

Is it drugs? she finished softly. Tyler’s world suddenly tilted.

What! No! he abruptly stood up growling at her, the burger packet falling on the floor

Is that what you think of me? Tyler spat out. Julienne’s eyes brimmed with unshed tears and she hid her face picking up the dropped packet. Once again he felt ashamed of himself. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly considering his options.

Look Julienne, I don’t know what is wrong with me; I have these nightmares and wake up out of breath. Then yesterday I had this headache and slept until two o’clock today. I feel weird now, better but just different Tyler explained while he sat back down. Julienne looked at him again with a frown on her face but he ducked his head quickly looking at the ground. 

I know it sounds strange but I think I just had some weird bug or something Tyler still stared down

You mean like the flu? she sounded confused

No I don’t think so, maybe I’m just having some weird migraine Tyler continued. Julienne put the packet on his lap

I better go now, my mother believes I went to Sandy’s for something Julienne rose and headed for the door. She smiled one more time You can always talk to me, I’ll try my best to help She added tenderly and left quietly again. Tyler opened his bag and wolfed down his meal, finished his homework and prepared for bed. Trying to stay busy, but finally he was laying in bed his mind still lingering on everything until he fell asleep.

Chapter 3

Tyler felt like he was floating between awake and sleep. He could make out voices around him, whispers of things he was told all his life, he is a bastard no good will come of him he is a bad seed a burden he heard his mother’s voice telling him to be good and quiet when she had guests. His father yelling at him. His stepmother glaring with hateful eyes.

He felt himself being carried on a thick mist, it controlled his direction. He tried to get away from the awful memories and whispers but he had no control. Suddenly he fell on hard ground with oomph but got his composure back quickly and stood up. Around him was still the same mist that carried him here. He carefully pushed forward not knowing where he was going. He heard more whispers but he couldn’t hear what they said, it sounded like a group of people discussing something quietly. He slowly made his way towards the sound, the mist was still around him but he moved on instinct his other enhanced senses guiding him. Suddenly a voice resounded through the room and he stood still.

Finally, you are here newborn, I was thinking I will grow old waiting for you to walk that small distance, it sounded serious but with a hint of amusement.

Come on only a few more steps the voice sounded once more.

Tyler swallowed and peered backward over his shoulder, but it was only mist, thicker mist now. He faced forward again, and the mist was