CHAPTER 11

King Trode observed the new and improved Pickham. "Well, this place is prettier, I'll give you that. But there are still the issue of beggars and kidnappers."

Yangus frowned. "Yeah, well, we're gettin' there. One problem at a time, Grandad."

They trudged up the steps to Brains' alcove. Red knocked. "Brains? It's Red 'nd Yangus!"

The door opened. "Oh hello. It's good to see you all again."

Jessica pressed, "Do you have any books that detail an ancient demon that twists truth?"

Brains rattled, "Why no. What an unusual concept. If you find such a volume, please bring it here."

Medea's shoulders sagged. "Oh. Okay. Thank you anyway."

They exited just as a monster dropped down from the sky and grew into a terrible macabre being. King Trode wrinkled its nose. "What is that thing?! What a disgusting specimen!"

The group already approached the monster. Yangus roared, "A'right, who're you and what're you doin' in my town?"

The monster hissed, "The Granni knows everything! All seven of you will suffer at my hand!"

Yangus counted the party. "There are six of us, mate."

Jessica sent fireballs into Granni while Brandon and Yangus hit him hard with weapons. King Trode cheered from the sidelines while Granni lashed at Medea. She healed herself while Red tried to Dazzle him.

Jessica created a flash of explosions right in Granni's eyes as Brandon struck with his sword. Yangus flailed his weapon about and watched the spikes rip into Granni's body. Granni went after Medea again and bit into her stomach. Again, she healed herself while Red finally Dazzled him.

As Granni was blinded, everyone ditched defense and hacked at him. At the final singe from Jessica, Granni recoiled. "The invasion is at hand! All will be made clear!" He turned to ashes that blew away in the breeze.

King Trode doted on Medea. "Are you okay? That mammoth only wanted you."

Medea shrugged. "I'm the least experienced member. It would make sense to go after me first since I'm the weakest link."

Brandon slung an arm around her. "You're right. You are my soft spot. But don't worry. We won't let anything happen to you."

Red put her hands on her hips. "What was the invasion he talked about? It must be why the monsters are angry again."

Jessica contemplated that. "Do you think this demon is related to Rhapthorne? He had other servants like Juggerwroth who were sealed away. Maybe this one is different."

The Blue Lady appeared before them. "You have done well so far. Go to the Dragovian Sanctuary and speak with the elders. They will know more of the monster you seek."

Yagnus jumped up in the air. "It's the Blue Lady! I see her!"

The Blue Lady laughed. "Yes, Yangus. Brandon, your mother searched for this being until she met your father. Go to Lemkil in Minnie's Castle. He has a few clues for you."

She vanished, leaving them all speechless. Red finally spoke. "Isn't Minnie the girl Angelo was trying to woo?"