Unnoticed: Rise Chapter 14, a miraculous: tales of ladybug & cat noir fanfic

UNNOTICED

RISE

Chapter 14: How (Not) To Use a Spell Book 101

Now occupying the living room, the two teenagers seated quietly in order to contemplate properly on what they had just seen. They remained under the same position whilst the antique clock ticked and tocked until a tea tray came in, pushed by a man in a dark suit who soon transformed into his original form.

Monsieur. Tea?

The small man gestured to the cup at the left side of him.

Nathanael shook his head.

No thanks.

After then, the tiny lutin placed both of its hands behind his back, his face steel as ever.

Juleka stared at him, wishing for some tea herself, but since she didn't want to come up as rude, she decided to await when the lutin asks of her the same way as he done with Nathanael - but he never did.

He broke my wand., he covered his face with his hands., My moms just gave me that., he said in a muffled voice.

Can't your moms just, you know? Fix it?, quipped the girl with violet streaks on her hair., They are magic after all.

It's not that simple., Nathanael explained as he now leaned his head back against the chair's head rest, his head forcing to look up upon the ceiling due to being shorter than him, his tone still worried and anxious., At least, that is how they've put it.

It is true., suddenly, the tiny man broke his silence to speak., Wands possess a rather basic form of magic, one that allows it to get in sync with the beings who uses them, though as a consequence, the enchantments imbued upon them prevents it from being restored again by a mages power. Perhaps a god, or a fae, but certainly not through a mage.

Nathanael slumped down again from misery after hearing Morge's brief elucidation. But then, an idea popped up, and he peeked one of his blue orbs to the lutin from his concealed-up face.

Can you fix it?

Still with his professional look, Morge answered:

Forgive me Monsieur. I wish I could. But restoring wands is beyond my capabilities.

Nathanael dreaded., So, you can't fix it.

The small lutin shook his head.

No monsieur. Not unless I have a wand of my own and a spell book, then perhaps I could try. But, I don't. Again, please forgive me for my lack of skills to aid.

Nathanael sighed before hiding up his face again.

That's fine, Morge. I'm sorry I couldn't get rid of your problem.

Just as he was worried of his moms scolding at him, the boy had also felt rather ashamed for taking up on Mr. Songbird's assignment, which he termed as "pest control". Inside, he didn't know why he accepted it, he told himself to elude and distance from all manner and issues relating to their new-and-strange underground world, but every time he came to recall that very moment when he traced his fingers on that accursed wardrobe, the "colors" he sensed and felt, that feeling of "evil" (for a lack of a better term) radiating from a single closet, it was shivering. He remembered that chill that went up his spine, that sensation that nearly had him frozen like ice. Mr. Songbird, the siren, it was no wonder why he had such a grumpy personality, along with those huge dark marks under his eyes. If he had to endure this kind of suffering for who knows how long, perhaps even he would behave in the same way.

He felt empathy towards the man.

Why couldn't he just get rid of it?, Juleka asked the pocket sized man, but not a response came from him.

She then let out air from her mouth, the feeling of being ignored once again was something she grown used to, however, still not something she was fond of.

I think she means the wardrobe., Nathanael tried to clarify for her, probably thinking that the only reason on why he didn't reply was because he was mistaken that her line was still not done., Why can't your master just throw that thing away and get a new one.

The creature looked at him, indicating that he was responding. He didn't speak immediately though, appearing to be considering whether he should answer or not. Just then, he shapeshifted into a yellow feathered canary, glowing green, spreading his wings, and flying towards the chimney, landing next to a photo.

It was a picture of a small boy, appearing to be a younger version of Mr. Songbird himself (white hair and cloths and all that), and alongside him was the image of an elderly woman, sporting the same exact style as he. Both were shown playing the piano, merrily laughing whilst having fun.

Morge then shined green again, and like an evolving Pokemon, he changed his shape once the light had ceased to be. As he returned to his original form, he gestured for them to pay attention to the very picture he was standing close to.

His grandma., he said, pointing to the older woman in the frame.

Juleka and Nathanael nodded, as to show that they were listening.

Once he confirmed they were, the small butler proceeded.

I never met her, so I can't really say much., he seemed to have dropped the professional persona., But from what I know, Songbird seems to have high admiration towards her. In fact, she was actually the one who thought him how to sing.

Now, their ears were truly listening.

Sirens are rather "stuck-up" creatures.

He could say that again.

They like to act like elites wherever they go. To them acting all high and level headed, formal and professional, is not simply a matter of life style choice, it's the way of life itself., he explained for them.

They value things such as fashion, speech, mannerism, a straight posture, formalities… but for them as well, there is nothing more valued upon in this world than singing.

He paused for a minute, checking to see if the two teens were still keeping their focuses on his story.

To sing is regarded as a gift from a Higher power amongst sirens. To them, it is a sign of honor, of pride. In fact, the word for "sing" and "pride" are exactly the same in Sirenese.

Then, he looked down.

I can only imagine on what it was like for him growing up. Being, as the only siren in his school who – as he put it – "can't even hit a good enough note."

He craned his neck and turned to the woman's image.

But she never gave up on him. She pursued teaching him that one good note until gradually he became better, and then better, and then better, until-

He pointed his finger at a particular direction. The two turned and saw another picture hanging to the wall. This time it showed him looking probably around his adolescent years, holding a plank that reads "1st Place Singer" along with a rather large coin.

The classmate's eyes grew in astonishment.

He changed back to his canary form and flew into a certain cabinet. He changed his shape once again into a formal butler, to open the cabinet, revealing to them a number of planks, awards, trophies, and medals.

Morge turned back as a lutin.

It was because of her that he achieved and accomplished so much, that he had pride. And, it was also because of her that he now makes a career in teaching all those who aspire to sing. Whether they may be other sirens, trolls, or even humans, so long as they wished to sing, he will teach them. I myself have been given some tips. In fact…

He smirked, giggled, then lifted up his hand, showing that in one of his fingers, was a ring.

-that was how I managed to have got the wife to say yes.

Morge looked to the photo of the woman from the distance he was standing.

I guess, you could say…that, he owes her a lot. To him, she was a hero. She was his hero.

What can they say? The two were simultaneously touched by the warming tale. Perhaps, they could say, that Mr. Songbird wasn't much of a jerk after all.

Perhaps., Juleka whispered to herself mentally., she should have been more patient with the bird-man.

However, Juleka wondered, as there was still one thing that hasn't been cleared up yet.

The girl placed two of her fingers under her chin and asked:

But what does that have to do with the wardrobe?

For the first time, the tiny man responded and noticed the girl's presence.

His…grandmother…died. Just a month ago.

She and Nathanael winced after hearing that.

Losing a loved one is never a good thing.

Sorry., said the girl, but the lutin simply nodded to her with a smile.

Ever heard of Ghamarackedthe Nahiyogafumuria?

That was a strange set of words, but the two still managed to have shaken their heads, slowly.

Well…not much either. But I hear that she was a rather famous furniture designer during her days.

The man continued.

According to the master himself, his grandmother was a huge fan of her works. But since they didn't have much of the money and good trading options back then, she – usually had to settle instead in buying counterfeit products that at least resembled her works.

When she died, master had to search every flee market, every furniture store and antique store, every sale and garage sales, every nook and every cranny within the internet and within the streets. In a way, you could say, he became obsessed. He scoured night and day. He felt as if this was the last good will he could do for her. And it took the form of that wardrobe.

A bone chilling wind suddenly came through and entered the living room. Somehow, the boy and the girl could already predict that the lutin's story was about to go for the worst.

Songbird bought it with a hefty price, but at the same time, he didn't have to spend any of his money either.

That statement, kind of made them puzzled, and for fair reasons.

Once more, the lutin carried his arm and pointed again to the recent picture he showed by the wall.

See that golden coin over there?, he indicated to a teenaged Songbird's coin., He traded it, in exchange for that closet.

Again, both of their eyes grew in both surprise and bewilderment. Was he trying to say that Songbird sold the first ever prize he earned from singing…just so he could buy that accursed thing?!

…for his grandma.

The reason why it was so cheap though was because – one – the guy who previously owned it was a leprechaun. And – two – he just seemed to have been excited to get rid of it – for…obvious reasons, as you know.

Yeah, the mare., muttered the boy sarcastically.

Morge gazed his eyes down, seemingly out of both guilt and shame.

I was there when monsieur bought it. I knew that that leprechaun seemed, rather shady. And yet I did nothing to stop monsieur from buying from him. And now, he suffers from constant nightmares. Losing sleep and rest, if this keeps up then his career as a singing teacher might get ruined, and I, I might have to be forced to move yet to another household so I could support for my family. I…don't desire for that to happen. Songbird may not be a saint, but his the best one I've ever worked for, and…, he looked to his ring., I owe him a lot.

Did you ever tried talking to him though?, inquired Nathanael.

Morge quickly nodded.

I did, actually. But the thing about having constant nightmares is that it slowly consumes your soul, your will. Once, he even nearly lashed out at me, almost threatening to change into his other form.

We've, even tried to call for any pest control services we could find, but unfortunately their all currently busy right now working with the warlocks.

Everyone paused themselves from speaking, the two taking in the true gravity of the situation.

A man's entire career and livelihood could very well be at stake, along with his declining mental and physical health.

So, started the girl., when, Songbird came to us. Was it an act of-

Desperation?, the small lutin had already finished her sentence for her. Then nodding., Yes. It was.

He huffed before beginning to talk once more.

Calling you was the last resort we've got. In truth, I was the one who suggested for him to come to you for aid when he got back from his walk through the public Trocadero gardens, and told me about the sprites gossiping about, a new mage aspiring to become as the Sorcerer.

Nathanael's breath slightly hitched, knowing well that it was him being mentioned there.

He was skeptical, and reluctant, and if I were being honest, he might just still be., the lutin continued., "Oh, there just still kids", he said., "Oh, but they attend that school next to that bakery", he said, "Oh, but they might just be amateurs", he said. But I convinced him. I, was worried for monsieur's condition. So, amateurs or not, I persuaded him to at least try and seek you out. And here you two are now., he gestured his hand to them, as if presenting them, not in grandeur, but in simplicity.

The artistic teen slumped his shoulders out of guilt. He glanced down before himself while saying:

But I didn't do what you want?

This had only caused for the tiny lutin fellow to creased one of his brows.

What do you mean? Aren't you not going to come and resume?

Neither of the teens replied.

A-aren't you reaching to become Sorcerer?

Still, not a reply.

Sorcerer. What was a Sorcerer anyway?, he mentally wondered.

We…don't even know much about mares., murmured the girl in a low volumed voice, regret sounding in her tone.

Then I'll tell you what I know.

This surprised the two.

You know about mares?

Well, I am certainly not a professional under that department. But I will gladly tell you everything that I know of.

Nathanael narrowed his eyes, now entirely engrossed into the subject once more, written in his expression, was a face of determination.

What are its goals?

What?

Its goals? Why is it, doing this? Why is it giving out nightmares?

Isn't it obvious?, asked Morge., It feeds on fear. It's a phobiavore. It seeps its victim's fright response through slowly draining their lifeforce whilst they sleep.

Upon hearing that word -lifeforce- Juleka was immediately reminded of the hag.

So, its fear that they want?, Nathanael placed his index finger and thumb to his lips, in a manner as if he was trying to formulate something inside his skull.

Correct., Morge nodded, clarifying.

By now, Juleka knew that look Nathanael was making with his eyes, it was the look he made before he would start doing something insane.

You're planning something, aren't you?

He didn't reply, but his silence already told the girl what she needed to know.

What other things can it do? Aside from sending nightmares that is?

Float?, answered the lutin, albeit a bit uncertain where the youth was going with this.

Is it really somehow – you know? Tied to that wardrobe?

Well, not necessarily. It possibly just finds it comfortable there and thought to itself "Hey! I should live here.", once more answered the lutin.

Nathanael appeared to be considering that information deeply.

Any weaknesses?

Weaknesses?, the small house keeper inquired back.

You know, like vampires and sunlight, or fairies with iron. Anything that should cause it to run off.

Now she was getting a picture of what the gears of her fellow classmate was trying to manufacture.

Anything that would cause the mare so much discomfort that it should have no other choice than to leave and search for a new place to stay (hopefully, some place where it won't easily cause slow agony to a person).

The creature with the red cap on top of his head pondered for a while, thinking, meditating, contemplating.

Well, if its anything like its closest kin -the boggarts- then, I would say that its quite vulnerable to spells.

Spells?, the boy widened his orbs in surprise.

Yes., he nodded, his lines now more certain in sounding., There is a reason why those whom handle mares on a daily scale tend to be beings who could cast spells. Because mares are vulnerable to them, just like any other being. But since mare-related situations have been happening since possibly even way back before the Demon Wars, many spells have been developed specifically, just in order to handle in mares.

A spell., the boy thought to himself.

Then that means that we'll need a spell then.

Again, the lutin nodded, very much liking Nathanael's idea.

There's just one problem with that though., Juleka pointed out, still at her position., How are we supposed to grab hold of one?

Morge smiled innocently., Simple., he turned to the redhead.

In reaction, Nathanael glanced to his left, then to his right, until he realized that Morge was describing-

Me?, Nathanael directed his index finger to his own person.

Indeed., beamed the house keeper.

But, I don't-

You're a mage., said Morge., And as a mage, you are technically the only one of us capable of casting spells.

Rendered without a word to say or utter, Nathanael quickly remembered in regards to all that has happened this morning. His mind drifted to his mothers, recalling to the moment when they used their own wands to fix his mess – such as when his breakfast smashed right into his head, and Wendy cleaning him up, he recalled of how she seemed to have been whispering something down her breath before he found that not a single stain stayed around to loiter upon his nose, cheeks, mouth, or any part or area that was his face.

He initially didn't mind much about that scene at first, however, now that he did-

Truly, there was so much more he needed to learn about the things in which eludes both of his eyes, and his attention.

He turned to his broken wand, which was now set on the coffee table in front of him. He gazed at it – once at one piece, now divided into two. Snapped, with just one single swipe from the mare.

The mare, the boy nervously strayed right into his first encounter with it. Claws as sharp as that of a wild beast, speed so fast that it could hardly even be measured, an appearance so bone chilling that it might force many of the movie monsters he knew to cower into fear.

And it's "colors"! Oh, how he recalled when he first made contact with that wardrobe, the negativity in which it emitted had easily overwhelmed him the moment he simply just touched it.

Although he had little knowledge about mares, he already knew much based on this particular one to know, that there was more into it than simply just feeding.

Despite behaving almost like a typical animal, Nathanael somehow knew that the creature was sentient enough to be well aware of what it was doing. It knew about Songbirds' condition, it knew about his depleting health, and yet it relished on that, it relished watching the man possibly slowly drifting into insanity, it relished and enjoyed in tormenting him every night, it relished and delighted in ruining him. Like a sadistic warden, the mare knew it had the vocal coach onto its own clutches - and it liked it.

He will admit that he did not know much about Mr. Songbird, and he wasn't at all fond of the man when he first initially met him, but he knew well – that he didn't deserve this type of torture.

His hands, which were resting on his thighs, had suddenly rolled into fists, clutching them tighter and tighter.

Nathanael's face lifted to look towards Songbird's help.

I'll do what I can.

And the lutin smiled widely.

Unbeknownst to him though, his associate, carried upon her an opposite reaction.

But, I'm gonna need more time though., said the boy.

Please., replied Morge., Take all the time you need.

The two had just exited the building, saying their farewells to the lutin and with Nathanael informing him that he would come by later.

They stepped out of the shop, the bell ringing once they opened and closed, and from tiled floors, their shoes now touched the stoned cement of the Parisian sidewalk.

Just as Nathanael was about embark unto his way, he abruptly felt annoyance -out of nowhere- and he quickly picked just of why.

He spun his front around and was immediately met with Juleka, crossing her arms whilst glaring daggers at him.

You did it again., said she.

Did what again?, the boy inquired.

There., the girl vaguely gestured to the shop., Making false promises, telling people you could "handle" things when you know you can't. Biting more than what you can chew. How much "lucky breaks" must it take until you finally learn?

The red-haired adolescent had simply rolled his blue orbs.

You know that you don't have to come?, was all he simply replied.

Juleka went speechless, jerking backwards, widening her eyes. With just one mocking question, the boy had already got to her.

She hitched in her breath.

They went like that for about a few seconds before Juleka turned around.

I'll see you soon., she told him prior to walking off.

Nathanael watched her as she left.

That's-

I left my bike!

Then he went quiet, frozen, mouth agape. And gradually, before he even knew it himself, his lips twisted upwards and he began to start chuckling.

One moment she was shy and timid, and in the next she was furiously shouting (to which he admittedly still had to get used to).

Truly, the female sex was as much as a mystery to him as that of the world of magic.

No wonder he doesn't have a girlfriend.

So, you come to me again, I see.

A cocky Shadow told him as Nathanael and the house cat sat at the living room sofa (Shadow's regular sleeping spot).

Y-yeah…, the red-haired boy sheepishly admitted.

When he came home around a few minutes ago, Nathanael was cautious, for with the state of where his brand-new gift was in, it wasn't totally hard to see why.

Once he reached the front door, he warily opened it. He took a small peek, mentally embracing himself for his moms greeting him, knowing well that he would have to explain things to them and how he even got it snapped into two in the first place.

Granted of course, there were plenty of different scenarios he could easily think of in order to avoid explaining the actual truth (it was still just a stick after all) Yet, that still wouldn't probably save him from being nagged at.

Nathanael gently swinged the door open, expecting his moms stopping whatever it was they were doing just in order to ask him about his day (which was terrible by the way), but when he came to view the apartment, he found that there was no cooking, no tv, no music coming from the speakers, no bickering, and no talking, just a quiet little living space minding its own business.

That made him sigh in relief.

The young boy then set and entered. He closed the door behind him and then walked further inside. As he was making his steps, Nathanael was beginning to have double thoughts in regards into what he was about to do. However, once he reached the couch, he knew that there was no backing out now.

Situated on the large furniture-chair, the teen spotted the very particular person he was looking for.

From the feline's point of view, it perked its triangular shaped ears up, and grumpily opened its green slitted eyes to the young mage gazing at him.

The look on the boy's face already told Shadow everything that he needed to know.

With his interest now sparked, the black cat yawned and stretched before setting himself into a sitting position. Using his face, the domestical pet pointed its nose and indicated for the youth to sit down, which he did.

When he was finally comfortable, the house cat yawned, for one more time prior to commencing "business" talks.

So, you come to me again, I see.

By the river Seine, on deck from a colorful boat, a girl was shown, resting by the railings, deep in thought as she stared faraway.

Where exactly she was staring? That part didn't mind, as even Juleka herself didn't care much of what she was facing.

Within her head - was a mess. A clutter so great that even a thousand maids couldn't possibly clean them up in a single year. A baggage so massive that it could very well rival the depths of the Mariana Trench itself.

Air was released through her nostrils. She couldn't believe that all of this was happening again. That, once more she had brought herself into such a dangerous predicament.

For the third time? How could he possibly have not learned his lesson for the very-third-time?!

Just how many life-or-death situations must it take? Why would he so choose to risk so much just for a certain stranger?

She then flinched after that, and shook her head afterwards.

And yet, even after all that, that part was actually the least of her reasons which made her all anxious.

She recalled it, every moment of it, from the clouds roaring in anger, to the twisted grins of both Reflecta and Eris, to… her friends and family chanting that all so accursed word.

Freak.

Her teeth clenched when she remembered that, her hold on the railings gripping tighter.

Then, just as the universe itself had once more played a cruel prank at her, she suddenly heard his familiar voice.

Hey Jules.

Juleka straightened up and instantly spun herself around.

She calmed quite immediately once she saw that it was only her brother, while in turn, he was giving her a concerned look on his face.

The girl quickly turned back, away from him. Usually, she was quite nonchalant whenever her older sibling pops in, and in some other cases, she would actually be even glad. However, this-wasn't like any of those moments.

A flash appeared before her eyes, a haste image of him staring down at her with those cold and empty orbs of his.

Juleka was aware of how unfair she was being, yet despite that, she couldn't just get rid of those memories from flooding her brain. Even no matter how desperately she tried in suppressing them.

Something's bugging you, is there?, his question suddenly reached her ears, causing her to twist her neck to him, while he in turn joined her in lounging along their home's taffrail. Himself leaning his elbows and arms whilst having to crouch his back down for a bit.

How did you know?, Juleka asked him, her expression remaining astounded.

Your chords are a little too off., he plainly answered back., It definitely sounds as if you're a guitar that's off tune.

Her frown transformed into a creeping smile. Of course, leave it to Luka to be able to read her "melodies."

So?, the band leader started again., What's bugging you?

One glance at him and Juleka immediately averted away, her brief sense of being uplifted quickly falling.

She didn't respond to him straight away, but she did eventually.

Have you… ever gotten nightmares before?

Hearing it now in a vocalized sense – she realized on just how plain stupid she might have sounded.

In turn though, the aesthetically blue haired teen simply went baffled, just a little, with his mouth immobilized, gaping, as his was still at a state of puzzlement.

After a haste second, Luka returned after being quite surprised.

His small smile returning along as well.

O-of course., the bassist replied with a nod., Though I don't keep count.

Just as thought -stupid- of course he had his fair shares of horrifying -spinetingling dreams. After all, who hasn't. However, to be fair though, she doubted whether any of his nightmares were ever fueled by some weird stalking monster living inside his closet-but, then again, it wasn't like he was aware of that either.

Is that what's been bugging you?, Luka asked with a concerned tone.

The girl returned after being spaced for a minute, her eyes growing as she vigorously shook her head.

Y-yes., she answered.

In a way-it was kind of true. Of course, not in a way that her brother might have expected it to – but also certainly not a total lie either. Besides, when it came to dealing with Luka, twisting the truth could prove as her greatest asset at times.

Yet, it also didn't bring her any peace of mind.

As the girl's mind was thinking of that, the bluenette boy subtly started smirking. He then begun in chortling, to which his sister reacted by tilting her head whilst raising one of her eyebrows.

Eventually, Luka gradually took control of himself again, though his giggling never stopped to cease.

S-sorry., said the guitarist as he attempted to stifle his laugh.

Juleka felt embarrassed, red now tainting her pale cheeks.

After a while, the boy finally steadied himself, cleared his throat, calmed, and faced back to his sister.

Sorry., he repeated., Guess I just didn't expect that from you. Considering as you were always into all that gruesome stuff.

The girl once more looked away from him, and he -in turn- widened his peripheral orbs after hearing her "discord."

It wasn't…that kind of nightmare, wasn't it?, the boy concluded, but the girl didn't made a reply. And yet, even if she didn't, he already knew that his conclusion was accurate.

Some more seconds came to pass, the songs of the Seine being as the only physical sounds which had entered their literal ears. The silence halted once his sibling started using her voice again-

Have you… ever… had a nightmare before… that… seemed so vivid… and… real… that-that-that you could actually picture of it really happening?

He didn't respond for a while, taking his second to think of something to say.

Well… I guess?, he told, unsure of himself.

This, resulted for Juleka to feel even more bad. That was until her brother smiled once more.

You'd never guess what happened during band practice today., said Luka, with his smile resurging. An obvious attempt to steer their conversation and change topic.

In response, she smirked. She might just as well play along.

She placed her left hand onto her chin, a mock-way to pretend that she was actually thinking.

Let me guess, Rex?

Yup., answered her brother, quite instantly. His grin grew even wider., How he managed to have broken the sounds of Adrien's keyboard is something beyond me. Both of them had to take like-an entire hour just to get that thing sounding right again.

The girl with violet hair chuckled and had to cover her own mouth just to stifle herself.

Then, fader and fader, the sounds of hilarity came to be, with the two Couffaine's calming down.

Juleka., Luka shut his eyes once more, a frown forming on his lips., Usually you sound like the rain. All noisy and loud, full of difficult voices. You don't like that, so usually you try to tune it out, trying your best not to hear, trying your hardest to find a different melody to listen to. But what you don't know is that the rain would always eventually grow louder and louder, until its simply just impossible to ignore its howls.

Juleka, in turn, glanced her pupils below the boat's deck.

However, smiled Luka again, once you actually do listen to the rain, you'll learn that even discord can turn into music. That the tears of clouds, and the cries of wind can be liberating just to hear. And once you do listen to it, you'll also find out what the rain's songs' are trying to convey.

And what's that?

He gave her a smirk.

Release.

For a moment, Juleka went speechless. Of course, leave it to her brother to make music a metaphor.

But, what if I really don't like the songs of rain?

Well then…, answered Luka., I guess you'll just have to stay inside from now on.

She blinked at him.

And besides., spoke Luka once more as he looked through the railing., Whether you decide to stay inside or go out, the rain doesn't play its songs forever. Eventually it would have to leave to let the sun to show up. Though in this case, he said the last parts while observing above., it's kind of setting.

Wait? Setting?

Once Juleka realized that, she too looked to the sky and spotted the sun now setting.

I have to go., she announced, walking out.

What?

Tell mom I won't be having dinner here tonight.

Why?, now it was her brother's turn to stare at her in confusion.

Juleka stopped for a moment, searching for a way for her to "twist the truth".

I… have to go help someone on something.

A friend of yours?

She then froze upon that word, "friend", the girl suddenly recalled of all his brashness, all his puzzling behavior, all the parts of him that she just couldn't get her mind over. And along the part that he was one of the main reasons of why she's even heading back to the siren's shop in the first place.

The girl released a huff.

No., she replied, quite coldly.

On that, Luka didn't even try to speak back, "hearing" her drum beats go faster and harder. Like that of roaring thunder.

And it was then that she continued on her path.

The skies have now completely darkened. The stars, along with the moon, taking over their shifts in replacing the heavens. The street lamps, that spent their day slumbering, are now presently guiding all those who wander during the evening hours.

Within the road, a girl travelled along with her bicycle, an anxious expression printed upon her face.

The last time., she pepped talked with herself mentally., This will be the last time. I'm sure of it.

As she passed by a couple of vehicles and other passerby, Juleka got sight of her destination.

Songbird Academy.

Let's just get this over with.

She arrived, placed a foot onto the street, before then standing up entirely and carrying her bike unto an empty alley space in between the siren's shop, and that of another building.

There wasn't much in the alley though, mainly what she could spot were some trash bins, a pigeon grabbing for a snack, a few posters of some missing dog, and – Nathanael's bike.

She was slightly quite surprised when she saw his pair of wheels, even though she had technically saw it once, she already could recognize from memory that it was definitely his.

It meant that Nathanael was already there, plausibly inside the shop right now. Whether he was handling the mare without her, she didn't care. It was his problem after all, she was simply there just to make sure her conscience was clear.

So, when she was finished in locking up her bike, the girl stood up straightly again, felt the need to dust off her thighs, and came to head towards the front door entrance.

The bell rang as soon as she stepped inside, and there to meet her was the boy with the "daredevil" complex, and the lutin.

They both were by the piano, with Nathanael sat at the long chair, and Morge standing -formally- at the top.

Strangely (or more like, not so strangely) enough, only her schoolmate greeted her, moving aside and patting the space which he provided for her.

The lutin on the other hand -well- he did glimpse his pupils at her, but he quickly averted them back-almost as if he wasn't supposed to have done that.

Juleka could tell, that based on his posture, the house keeper went back into returning to his professional persona.

Where's Mr. Songbird?, she asked whilst approaching her seat.

He isn't here yet., answered Nathanael.

I wasn't talking to you., the volume of her voice was low, but Nathanael could still pick up the anger in her tone.

You're not still mad, are you?

She simply shrugged, turning towards the lutin before sitting down beside him.

Unfortunately, Morge didn't answer her question, to which kind of resulted in making her situation just a tiny bit awkward.

*Caugh* *Caugh* Nathanael pretended to clear his throat., She was asking you a question?

Only then did the small house keeper reacted.

Monsieur Songbird won't be home until later tonight., he informed., I and your master were merely just discussing about his plans before you arrived.

She nodded her head, indicating that her inquiry was satisfied., Wait?, until she twisted her neck to face the boy positioned next to her., You already got a plan?

The redhead smiled at her prior to showing her the item he had in hand.

Does this answer that?

And in there, she glanced at a book, gray in color in terms of its cover, and with a strange circle with cryptic-like designs decorating its front.

Her neurons fired, and in her brain, she could already guess on what the text was supposed to be.

Is that a…

A spell book., he finished before she could.

Her eyes glistened in awestruck amazement, mesmerized at the hand-held text like a child in an amusement park. Just as if like what had happened that morning, before Nathanael could even process it, his classmate snatched his book, reminiscent to what she did earlier with his wand.

Speaking of his wand, the youth was instantly reminded of the "negotiations" he had to make prior to getting there.

So, you come to me again, I see., the cat's tone sounded mocking.

Yeah…, Nathanael responded, nervously, his blue pupils wandering off and avoiding his companion's green slitted ones., Hi by the way.

But the feline didn't seem all that amuse by his howdy. No. The house pet had other interests in mind.

4 cans of salmon, plus 3 hams. And no bargaining. Its either you do as-

Fine., Nathanael declared plainly.

That had caused Shadow to be taken quite aback, his ears jerking upwards.

…just, not under this month of course., the boy added., But I promise, once I receive my allowance, your price would be the very first thing that comes into mind. Just…please, answer my question. Please.

His acquaintance did not answer right away, he kept silent, remaining in a state of minor shock. Before he started in teasing him.

Oh my. And where did you get this determination all of a sudden?

Just help me.

Nathanael complained while as the feline chortled.

And what service shall I do to satisfy my lord today?

I need spells.

If Shadow was baffled before, he was completely stunned now. Nathanael even felt the other's mischievousness dissolve, instantly.

What?

Spells., the boy parroted himself., I need some spells. C-could you please teach me some, I'm sure you at least know of a few. You have known of my moms for a long time now after all.

He saw him got frozen, and he would have said that a cat might have bitten his tongue, if not for the mere obvious fact that he already was one.

(Would that be considered insulting?)

As he nearly believed that he might have broken his cat, he saw Shadow, hopping off, stretched his back, prior to heading towards somewhere.

And that somewhere happened to be-

-his mothers' room.

Umm? Hello? Earth to Nate?

Nathanael snapped back upon hearing his friend's call.

I'll still need your opposable thumbs to open this?

With widened eyes, the boy obliged, standing up from the sofa and walking to where Shadow was.

Once he reached to position in front of the door, his hand-nervously unsure and shaking, ventured to hold the knob, before slowly and cautiously twisting it to open.

The sounds of creaking was made till it halted.

Warily as Nathanael stepped inside, his memories of yesterday night came and flooded his thoughts.

The Wishing Star, the charm necklace he utilized in order to help Zelena and her community. If not for Zelena's friend's magazine, he was certain that he would have been a goner-or, best case scenario, a failure overridden by guilt and shame.

As he remembered those, he hadn't even noticed that he was drifting off, looking at the very drawer table where the magical item that had aided him had once inhabited, until he heard Shadow acting like he were coughing.

*Cough* *Cough*

He turned immediately, craned his neck to face Shadow, only to find him with his regular mood-whilst sitting atop a table.

Shadow stared at him for a couple of seconds before turning his head around, facing the other way from where he was occupying. The small dark-furred beast pointed to somewhere with his nose, his head slightly above towards a certain part of the wall.

Nathanael followed to where he was indicating, and soon enough he saw it. A shelf hanging by the wall, with various books of all ranges, colors, and sizes.

Grab that small one over there., instructed the animal., The book with the gray covers.

He approached closer to where Shadow and the shelf was located, then once he did, he stretched his hand forward-slightly upwards and reached the certain text. He pulled it from its shelf and brought it towards eye-level.

He assessed that the said book was-somewhat heavy, which he suspected was obvious given the leaves it contained. Like its side, the entire cover of the text was gray, and on its front was a strong-circular marking with cryptic-like designs accompanying it.

His mind came to wonder, his jaws falling for his mouth to form into an "O" shape. He stared at it, his cerulean-blue pupils studying-analyzing its aesthetics and physical features, while as his hands were tracing through its surface, evaluating the text's texture.

His fingers ceased once they reached the very edge of it.

It's a spell book., sensing his curiosity, Shadow answered the puzzled boy with a voice that was plain, stoic, and emotionless.

In response, Nathanael jerked when he heard him say that.

What?

A spell book., repeated the domesticated beast., All the spells you'll ever need could be found right there, or, at least hopefully.

The aforementioned book then became to vibrate, mainly due to its current holder's nervous shaking hands.

I-I-I…I can't take this., spoke the nervous teen, giving the book back to Shadow., I'm not supposed to even be holding this. I'm sure they would notice something going missing this time.

Then just say that it's for your training.

Huh?

The cat licked the fur on the side of his body., If ever they would notice that book going missing-which I'm certain they won't-then just go ahead and tell them that I gave it to you for exercise.

Y-you would take the blame?, Nathanael questioned, baffled.

Well…, the feline seemed to think., Not necessarily "take the blame", once they inquire me of why I decided to lend it to you. I would simply just tell them that, you came in, and started poltergeising everywhere. They would surely understand with a story like that.

The red-haired youth was rendered motionless, again.

Of course, it would cost you though., the cat leapt down, the sound of his latest line ringing like the sounds of a warrior who has bested his opponent at a dual – or, more specifically, a shady business tycoon who had managed to place his client into a corner, leading them no other options but to sign an official agreement.

Nathanael couldn't help but creep a smile-knowing that he won against him this time.

Just before Shadow was about to head to the exit though, he stopped, his ears perking when the boy used his vocal cords and stretched his hand (the empty one) as an instinctual gesture to catch Shadow's attention., Actually…I could also use you're help for one other thing?

He could feel the cat beam, probably thinking that he could still get more out of him, when suddenly, once he turned around, his eyes grew, almost like they were about to pop out of his sockets.

*Gasp* What happened?

He saw the sight of the boy, who, using his other hand, took out two things off his pocket, the pieces of his broken wand.

I umm…sat, on it?, he cheekily grinned.

His friend's triangular shaped ears slumped down, along with his entire posture, looking as if he was disappointed.

You know wands aren't easy to fix, right?

Yeah…, Nathanael replied.

This earned him a baffled face from Shadow, to which Nathanael quickly reacted upon.

So, could you-

I don't even have hands Nate, let alone a trunk.

His hope dropped, not that it was ever lifted in the first place.

Shadow sighed.

I'm sorry Nate, but I can't help you on that one. That's something you'll just have to confess with.

The artistically creative teenager clenched his fist, his entire body slightly tensing. The thought of how they might react, was something he didn't desire to ponder around as of now.

He still had other things to focus on.

So, he made a smile, a plastered one, and nodded to his feline friend, and in turn, his feline friend nodded at him back.

Wait?, came one last call from Nathanael as Shadow once more halted from going on his way., Aren't you really not going to ask why I need this…thing., he emphasized his gesture to the book he was holding.

The cat merely grumbled in return, and Nathanael could sense his irritation., Do I have to?

Nathanael made a chuckle, a slight and brief one, a more authentic-genuine smile emerging from his face.

He shook his head jokingly.

It was from then that Shadow shrugged him off and disappeared.

Remember our deal by the way., said Shadow.

As the flashback fades away from his mental system, the boy blinked his eyes, tightly, jerked his posture before then shaking his head vigorously.

He then craned his head to the direction of Juleka, whom in turn, was still reading his book with fascination.

Without a single word nor phrase, the redheaded teen stretched out his arm to her, all with an open palm.

At first, his schoolfellow seemed startled upon spotting his hand, but quickly caught his gesture as she gave the book back.

Now, with the volume returned into his possessions, Nathanael glanced at its cover for one last time until he opened it.

He flipped through the book's many pages, trying in finding a certain page in which he had found before.

In his bedroom, whilst as he still had at least half an hour to spare, the redheaded teen sat at his study table, his eyes keen on the pages of the book he was currently holding. Nathanael was attempting to gather some information about the text and just how it should properly be read.

And yet, alas *sigh*. It apparently appears that he couldn't even pick up even a single word from the said text, for, as it was, showed that it was entirely written with strange symbols instead of letters.

Problem?

He was surprised when he heard that voice, so he jumped -instantly- and quickly craned his neck to the aforementioned voice's direction.

From his door, that was now slightly open, Shadow's head emerged prior to his whole person coming in and welcoming himself.

Upon viewing that it was simply just the house cat, Nathanael huffed prior to returning back to the volume he was studying, his eyebrows narrowing into focus.

As his eyes fixed again on the printed pages, the youth eventually decided to ask;

Do you know how to read this?

Nathanael lowered the book out to Shadow's level and when his slitted green eyes glanced onto the contents of the book, he immediately understood the youth's dilemma.

Ah. I see., said the feline., Its still written in Eldritch., then he looked up to face the young settling mage., Try telling it to change into French mode.

Baffled, and with one of his brows creased, the boy chose to give it a shot anyway afterwards.

With the spell book's pages resuming to his personal point of sight, the adolescent artist stared, unsure, thinking of how exactly he should talk to a book, until eventually he spoke.

Umm…French? Please?

Suddenly a flash of blue appeared from the book, and Nathanael had to close his eyes for cover due to the abrupt brightness. Squinting, he attempted to open one eye-cautiously-till both of them unshut and concentrated to look from where the sudden shine originated.

Bewildered he became when he watched the glowing cease, and saw as all the symbols had fortuitously transformed into a more recognizable lettering.

There were "A's", there were "D's", there were even "H's", and "O's". He could even spot some "P's" and "S's", here and there.

He was amazed and stunned.

I assume you should get by now that that thing is basically voice command, right?

Voice command?

The cat nodded.

His mind was blown, learning that something he would expect from a phone or a computer could be replicated by a simple book with hard copied pages.

He then resurged into studying.

From there, the youth could now read each of the sentences and phrases more effectively.

You're welcome., said the cat., And I would be expecting some extras now.

The boy in turn simply had just rolled his pupils yet obliged with him regardless.

Now, as his back leaned out from the rails of his chair, the teen returned in keening his visions onto the printed words of the book.

His face was steadily focused, his left hand holding onto the volume, while his right one was scratching Shadow from behind the ear as the animal moved itself into the shape akin to a loaf of bread (he felt weird, but it was still Shadow after all).

Nathanael remained like that for a couple of minutes, studying the book's style and how each paragraph formed.

Based on what the boy could intel, it appeared that they were made under the style not all too dissimilar in the ways of how a cook book was supposed to be read, and yet it also had these weird verses, styled like a poem, found just below each of every sentence.

What stuck to him the most was that they read obscurely, even when the entire book had been ordered to turn to a language that he was fluent in.

For example, one of those verses were located just right below a paragraph which possesses the tittle:

Calusian Flame Thrower Spell.

Me ha hu -Ka

Tefawu-wuk-i?

Tenz af-ul-ult?

Like as said, obscure, so he wasn't completely certain with himself if he was even reading those verses correctly.

However, now that he took the time to actually infer, he could now, without a doubt deduce-

-that those were the spells.

He traced his fingers to at least one of them.

These are spells, right?, he murmured, mostly.

Well, what do you think, Sherlock?, sarcastically replied the feline.

His eyes grew as his theory became confirmed, and instantly as his nose stuck to the pages once more.

Searching for an easy one to test out, he grabbed his focus to one that seemed to be safe enough for experimental purposes.

So, his finger pointed on the name of the spell that he was planning to initiate. The "Tahuvka Breeze Spell", a spell that was said to have been developed by a circle of mages known as the Tahuvka, who were widely famous for their contributions in the wind-based arts, and that they would quite frequently use that one aforementioned spell in order to invoke a cool breeze out of nowhere, plainly because they once lived at a desert.

If I were to…, he wasn't certain if how his question would sound to a listener., just, say these words, wind would just suddenly generate? Just like that?

You're the mage here Nathan., reminded Shadow., I'm just your common everyday house cat who you just happen to be able to hear due to settling., he glanced at him prior to sighing., But, if I do have to answer on that, I suppose that it would simply depend in how you speak it.

Speak it?

Yes., quipped the four-legged beast., I've met and lived under the same roofs as those of many other mages throughout the decade before I got here. So, I got the chance to watch many settling teens like you, who too had to train and learn the mystical arts so to possess better control over their inherent magic. And I've seen and listened on how they were thought whenever it came to spellcasting.

Wait?, the boy suddenly interrupted him in the middle of his speech., Decades? But I thought you said you were just a common house cat.

That I am., he told with a stoic face., But, the thing you need to know about us cats, is that we always come back and reincarnate for at least 7 or 9 times before we get to go to the Spirit World.

Uncertain on whether he should be amazed or creeped out, Nathanael just decided to nod, an indication for his friend to continue.

(He'll just have to leave the reincarnation bit for around another time)

Anyway., Shadow shook his head and moved his ears whilst proceeding., As I elucidated a minute ago, I've hanged around with mages like you for indeed quite a while now. So, trust me when I say that whenever it comes to casting spells, verbalization and emphasis of utterances are always subjects that which they place at central stage. It is by simplicity's sake the art of speaking wants and desires and putting them into the open for the universe to listen to. The skill of making dreams into reality via through magical means. You're getting me?

Somehow, he did, for as strange and bizarre as his explanation was, he somehow grabbled the fundamentals of Shadow's message.

(Words, matter)

Now, with returning his eyes, both his exposed and curtained one, back onto the pages for another moment, he searched for the previous spell until he saw it.

The Breeze Spell.

Taking in a deep breath in order to calm himself and relax, he then released all of the air he captured simply through one single huff.

Here goes nothing.

But just as he was about to begin, two voices coming from two females abruptly popped, ultimately disrupting his focus.

We're home!, called the first voice, followed quickly by another., And we've bought dinner!

Surprised as he was due to the unexpectedness, he instantly had his nerves simmer down once his mind registered that it was only his moms coming home from the jewelry shop.

He sighed in relief, while meanwhile, as he took to take a glimpse at the black house cat, he noticed it, sniffing.

Oooh…do I smell sushi?

Like a bullet train, Shadow hopped off his desk and hurriedly made his way out of his bedroom, within a speed Nathanael knew he would make during any time, so long as they involved food.

He blinked for a couple of moments, processing on what had just happened, until, slowly his lips began to develop a smile. Laughing at the gluttonous nature of his four-legged companion.

Now, with everything set back in the present, Nathanael showcased his idea with both of his current associates being as his de facto audiences.

Basic… Banishing… Spell?, Juleka spoke each word as if she found them to be a strange set of a combination. Her head was also now tilting, emphasizing her bafflement.

On the other hand though, the tiny house-keeping creature was all fixed in simply gazing at the paper, his mind basically intrigued at what he was reading.

Basic Banishing Spell, one of the most earliest banishing type spells ever developed based on the Akashic records, and one of the most popularly still in use due to its simplicity. Although may apply the assistance of a drawn-out circle, in terms of speech utterance, the Basic Banishing Spell proves to be as easy to speak as its effective. In addition, the spell does not necessarily inflict any forms of long-term harm towards the desired subject, but instead simply causes them a sense of irritation, compelling them to migrate elsewhere. Thus, making it highly favorable amongst those who value humanitarian treatments.

The spell is used to banish any entity which emanates a large amount of negative aura, such as, though not strictly limited to, demons, archons, vengeful ghosts, fallen gods, shadow people, and angry mares. To perform, the caster must draw a circle into the ground/floor (does not matter in how, all prove very potent). After that, charge said circle through sheer concentration. Once all seem set, prepare to recite the spell given-

This could actually work., commented the lutin, but then he turned from facing the pages to facing the boy., But umm… it says that you are to charge the circle. How are you to charge it without the mare attacking you in the meantime?

For that, Nathanael made for the most nervous of smirks.

Well…

You What?!

Within the dining area was where Nathanael and his entire family sat, eating the dinner which his mothers bought from a Japanese restaurant on their route home.

All were somewhat under stress at that time, with Shadow being as the only exception as he gorged on some sushi.

Both of his moms gazed in horror, staring at the stick-like object that was now snapped in half.

I… can explain?, he warily stated, his blue pupils avoiding to meet them.

What happened?, Wendy was the first to inquire, eyes never leaving his wands' unfortunate predicament.

Not knowing what to answer, Nathanael forced for all the gears inside his head to begin spinning, and turning, and all the things that gears were supposed to. Unluckily for him though, it might as well seem that he needed to oil them, considering as he couldn't conjure a single scenario, plausibly due to panic.

He sat on them.

Suddenly, from beside where he was seated, the voice of his feline companion came up, so he turned to look at his direction, and spotted with his usual nonchalant picture again. But when the house pet spun his head to face him, Nathanael flinched.

It took a while for Nathanael to realize that his words were the same words he had used in order to make an excuse to Shadow earlier ago. Inside his mental scape, he sighed in relief, fully thankful to his cat that still managed to remember that part, when he himself had already entirely forgotten.

Ye-yes., he nodded in advance, sweat dripping through his veins., That's right. I kinda' accidentally sat on it whilst back in class., he slightly hanged his head low., I'm sorry.

Naomi and Wendy observed the actions of the young teen, casting their pupils to his broken unfortunate magical gift for only a couple of times here and there. They watched him as he now appeared sagging, possibly remorseful because of what he had done to the present they had given him.

That was then when the short-stout woman with red hair released out a small moment of breath through her nostrils while giving him a sincere smile on her face.

It's alright Tomate., she told to the boy, comfortingly., Accidents happen after all.

Yeah., assured the woman who was sporting a white dress., Although, it shouldn't hurt to be a little bit more carefu-ah!

Her sentence was cut when she received an elbow to her abdomen.

The shorter of the two shot the taller one a glare, as to say "shut up" or "not now", to which the latter appeared to have understood, since she silenced afterwards.

Nathanael chortled at his mothers' display, but kept himself composed so to avoid testing his new found luck. Inside his mind, he was glad. Relieved at the fact that at least one of his dilemmas had been resolved in a quick and less worrisome way.

He let out pressure from his chest because of that, yet, he also kind of wished that he could say the exact same thing to his other stressor.

The redhead then peeked at the nearest wall clock, discerning (and dreading) at the numbers that both its hands were now pointing at.

Once more, his shoulders flopped, yet he forced his current mood to scram as he fixed his posture.

Well, as much as I would like to stay and chat with you all, I just suddenly recalled that I have a lot of homework to attend to., he placed emphasis on the "lot"., And I mean, a lot.

The pair again threw their attentions to him, looking quite a bit baffled. Both of their pupils simultaneously glanced at each other prior to attending back to him.

On the third day?, Wendy raised a brow, addressing her confusion on how a school would give so much home tasks so early on in the year.

He winced a tiny bit, but swallowed the sudden anxiety from getting caught in his lie. So, he forced himself to at least appear outwardly calm and steady.

Nathanael willed for the smile on his lips to stay strong and remain despite all the pressure he was now currently experiencing.

Y-yeah., he stuttered as he answered., Most of them are penalties though. Ms. Bustier for example told me to write her an apology letter for causing so much panic.

That wasn't a complete deception. He actually did needed to write a formal letter of apology to his advisor for breaking school rules, so he wouldn't necessarily consider that one as a total act of dishonesty, even if he tried using it for his advantage.

Guilt shot him in the lungs as if like an arrow.

He winced, but tried to remain a façade of steadiness.

After a few seconds, Wendy became the one whom first replied.

Well, if that's the case, then…

Swiftly he stood on his feet from the chair he was just sitting on, nearly spilling the water inside his glass due to the fortuitous shake he caused when he shot up.

I'll get right on it., he said before swirling around. However, as he was about to initiate his first step, the boy turned back to face them.

Also, I might take a while, so um… don't come disrupting me?

The pair fell silent, but nevertheless nodded.

Just, remember to take your dinner with you., Naomi advised.

His pupils faltered to look at the plate which he barely touched. Without much of a ponder, or a word, he took the dish in one hand and the cup of water with his other. He then afterwards made his way heading to his bedroom. Once he was there, he twisted the knob, entered, and before he almost closed his door, he first peeked his head to the dining area one last time.

Goodnight., then he gently kicked them shut.

Now fully alone, Nathanael leaned his forehead onto the wooden plank which separated him from the rest of his family.

And sorry., he said in a whisper, but instantly forced himself to snap right out, balling his right hand whilst doing so. For it was, right as of now, not the time to dwell on it.

He reluctantly walked his way to his chair, the one by the study desk. He set his meal onto the table, then begrudgingly reached for the book he had left there earlier ago. Nathanael picked it up before opening its cover, flipping through its various pages.

A spell, that was what he was after, a spell that he could use to accomplish his mission. One that might perhaps supposedly instruct in how to get rid of a certain literal monster hiding inside a closet. He scoured and peered right through every single leaf he would come across. Some seem to talk about verses one could use in order to find the nearest convenient store, another meanwhile spoke on how to summon cupids. Unfortunately, however, none that which he tracked appeared to teach what he wanted.

He tried re-starting from the very beginning once more, hoping that maybe he just missed one, then he flipped the papers backwards, yet no progress manifested unto fruition even still.

None of the titles which he had already fast-read through showed any promise. And with the growing stress building inside of him, he eventually gave.

He threw the book back onto his desk, exhaustedly. A sigh coming out of his orals. Nathanael flopped on his seat, his shoulders slumming, his face now staring tiredly upon the ceiling above.

Why am I even doing these, again?

Nathanael then moped whilst still sitting, his palms concealing his face.

Why did I have to agree?

He groaned, irritably, then subconsciously allowed for his two hands to wander to his hair. His fingers then started clutching on his ginger locks.

The boy took in for another large amounts of breath, and then releasing them after one single huff.

The feeling of regret invaded both his heart and mind, seeping their way to infiltrate his very soul.

Why did I said yes?, he mostly parroted his earlier question., Why did I have to say yes? Why couldn't I have just said no?!

At that point, his internal space was now beginning to wonder. Why? Why exactly did he give the older man his word when in reality, deep down, somewhere within the dark-cold bowels of his knowledge, he knew well and clearly that he couldn't. He couldn't! For who was he to say that he could. A young fifteen- year-old who was still struggling with stuff such as hormones and socializing. Yeah, definitely sounds like the qualities of true-real superhero.

He was an idiot. All that he could actually predict that would happen once he gets there was disappointment on Songbird and Morge's part, and injuries on his (or likely worst).

Nathanael then released another sigh frustration,

Juleka was right., the boy muttered to himself., I am frustrating.

His voice was mostly shaky on that last line of his.

With both of his elbows laid on the surface of the table in front of him, Nathanael clenched his teeth while clutching on his hair ever tighter.

Why did I say that? Why did I say that?

Anxiousness spread, his breathing became increasingly more dangerous, and from his ceiling, at a certain lightbulb, suddenly began flickering on and off frequently over and over nonstop unbeknownst.

As he remained trapped in mental the prison of doubts and remorse, within a corner, his alarm clock flew from the top of the drawer it had been situated. It launched itself all the way to a random wall, producing a loud knocking sound, thus startling the redhead. He turned his eyes to the direction where he heard the abrupt noise, and his lids went wider at the sight of the tiny time measuring device on the floor.

He was sure that that clock wasn't supposed to be there.

Then another noise kicked in, now coming from the shelves that were hanging by the same wall where his alarm clock had just apparently made an impact with. His blue cerulean orbs journeyed upwards, and there, he saw his collection of action figures moving and animating, almost like they were coming to life (it was creepy).

One of them yawned, one of them growled, another stretched. One was struggling to break from the box it was contained in, and another rolled its wheels right to the edge of the platform and fell.

A new strange sound entered his ears next, and he immediately spun his head to behind in order to check.

His mirror was acting crazy, cracking and fixing itself as repeatedly as his lights were flickering. Then afterwards the reflection it gathered became distorted, as if he were looking right through a kaleidoscope. Later, he couldn't even tell what was supposed to be showed anymore, as all the shapes inside the reflective glass melted like liquid and displaying only colors. Fortuitously the reflective surface of it (for a lack of better phrase) changed "channels", like a T.V. set, and exhibited the Eiffel Tower, his school, then the Notre Dame.

Confused he became, before changing into puzzlement when he descried what the mirror had in store after. Pitch black, it was either showcasing a dark void of nothingness or a creepy room that was devoid of all sources of lights. Whatever the reason, he keened his peripheral visions, and he leaned his head slightly a bit closer.

All of a sudden, the boy jolted and fell, yelping after seeing a glimpse of a woman in red appearing and disappearing into thin air.

Now positioned below after falling and landing on his back, Nathanael grappled to try and sit up as he lifted the upper parts of his body, using his arms in order to elevate. The ache behind his head felt fairly excruciating to some degree, and so he rubbed it, hoping that he hadn't received a late bump there.

He hissed at the pain.

Just then, as if he was to have expected already, his whole entire bedroom began in once more acting haywire, with every possession of his commencing a rebellion against gravity. They hovered from their previous positions before hurling themselves into various directions, some flying left, some flying right, and as they continued, they circled around, creating thus another spiral.

He dragged his feet and hurriedly utilized his hands to grab every object he could reach. He managed to have caught at least a couple of them, such as his math book, one of his pastels, his notebook, an action figure, a paint brush, his comb, and yet, dropped them all in an instant heartbeat at the second when his eyes took glance at a particular comic book spinning in midair.

It didn't take him one tick from a clock for him to dash forth, ignoring all the other things, with some hitting him within certain areas of his body, via his forehead, arms, chest, et cetera. It did not matter to him that some might cause him a few future bruises later on.

As he ran, he eventually achieved in catching his intended target, and with it now safely upon his palms, the boy quickly analyzed the comic book, checking to see if there were damages.

He thanked the Heavens that there weren't.

Relief flowed through him, as he had now subconsciously set his fingers to tracing against the exterior of the volume's cover. His eyes gleaned straight at the picture which the comic's front presented.

A young figure with red flaming hair, posing in a heroic-like strike pose whilst standing above a pile of beaten-up ninjas. Above this same figure was the title of the comic, "Phoenix Boy", in a style as if like fire taking the shape of capital letters. And from the upper right corner of the text, was a mark which read "Issue # 1".

Soon enough, the boy released a light huff through his mouth, his shoulders slugging down akin to before. A frown fell on his lips, and his pupils-the windows to his soul-suddenly expressed misery.

But what was the cause of such aforementioned misery?

Every item and belonging of his then came crashing down all at the exact time.

He winced at the noise, but winced harder when he heard knocking coming from his door.

Alertness triggered unto Nathanael once more as he spun his face to direct at the door. He panicked, for although he knew that his mothers wouldn't be shocked at why his room was all messed up, he still didn't want them popping in and sojourning, thinking on helping him with his supposed "homework" and thus staying for longer than they should. The hands of the clock were ticking, and he had a place to arrive at later on (despite just debating whether he should even go).

He couldn't be bothered with another of their overreacting antics, especially not at the moment.

Boy was about to ready himself for a mountain full of gasps and interviews. He shut tightly his eyelids, yet unsealed them in an instant once the sound of a twisting doorknob remained continuing.

That was when he recalled of locking said doorknob earlier.

Another wave of gratitude washed before him.

*Sigh*

Nathanael?!

I'm fine!, he called back., Just had a few problems with my umm…my Math! But everything is okay now!

Are you sure?!

Yes!

Silence trailed afterwards, and Nathanael became rather anxious. However, he did ease when he heard the sounds of their footsteps shrinking fainter and fainter.

Whether if it was because they bought into yet another of his fibs, or if they were actually too tired after a longs day's work in selling accessories, he didn't know the answer. Either way though, he still remained glad that they never entered.

The tension that was inside him lowered, just a little, and he exhaled through his nose out of relief. When his face returned to facing the sight in front of him instead of sideways, he spotted his closet with the door slightly open (probably due to the poltergeising - was that they referred to it?).

A single look at his aforementioned storage space reminded of what he had witnessed during that afternoon. A vision of that terrible creature appeared within his mind. The saucer like head, the thin limbs, the sharp claws, all he could remember quite vividly. However, even from that frightening description, what striked fear in him the most wasn't its physiological appearance. Oh no.

He glanced down and took focus on his digits, and fortuitously he could feel it once again, the sensation he had received when he had initially made contact with that accursed wardrobe.

The pure feeling of malevolence, the indescribable yet ugly "colors". Still, they caused a strong chill down his spine.

Nathanael would be kidding with his own self if he said that he wished to reexperience all of those from the top. Truly, no person who wasn't insane would even think that such a moment was worth trying for a second time. And yet, there he was, being that insane crazy person.

If he was offered the opportunity, would he back down now? Obviously, the short reply for that was an absolute "yes".

So why doesn't he?

Once again, he turned to face the closet before his right hand and his fingers. He paused there for a while prior to turning to his left one, where he was still grasping the "Phoenix Boy" comic.

The boy inhaled and took a breather.

Was he going to regret this? Definitely.

He walked towards near the small wooden table close to his bed, pulled one of the drawers, as he safely placed the comic inside. Nathanael kept an almost longing eye on it before pushing the drawer and letting it shut.

Afterwards, the amateur artist headed to return to his last seat by his desk as his hands again grabbed for the spell book.

Once more, he scoured, attempting even more harder than previously, but with time not by his side (and with his alarm clock not helping), it was proven to be a difficult task to concentrate.

He huffed, not knowing what to do.

That was, until an idea sprang into mind.

Inspired by putting extra notice on the pages' alphabet, the redhead recalled one intsy-bitsy trick that a certain feline had taught him.

He shut the book, only to raise it and position it near where his mouth was.

He considered his words thoughtfully, and hoped for the best that his idea would work.

Then he leaned in closer to the text as he whispered to it:

What rids… a mare?

At first it did almost nothing, leading to him in thinking that what he conjured in his brain was a failure, but then it happened. The book opened on its own accords and started flipping on its own leaves – in a fast pace manner no less.

The papers turned continuously until it managed to have stopped.

One certain title illuminated in blue, so he read that.

Sehikian Blowing Incanta-

He ceased instantly.

Umm… maybe something…less…"explody?"

Again, the book repeated onto fulfilling what it was commanded, turning from one page to another prior to pausing as like before.

Nathanael leaned in as he-again-read the one title which shone in blue.

Basic…Banishing Spell…

He glossed through both the description and the instructions and thought that it was perfect. Optimism manifested within him a little-and only a little. There was still one small challenge he needed to solve if he really was to use the spell he would like to work with.

He pondered, commencing brain storming. He tapped his index finger below his chin, thinking-thinking-thinki- what was that sticky stuff?

The young teenager shifted his head down, hoping to see on what was the cause of that sticky-like sensation he felt under his left shoe, and when he looked, he saw it.

His dinner. Likely to have landed there the moment when all the other possessions of his came falling down. Miraculously his plate still appeared to be intact, though he couldn't say the same for the meal that was supposed to be served on it.

Nathanael stuck his tongue out in disgust considering since he would have to wash the rice off of his footwear, but that was until another imaginary lightbulb shone above his crown.

A new idea came to mind as he received a flashback of another incident which had occurred today this morning. A rather silly one, but useful at least for the very moment.

With that, his plan was ready to be set into motion. All he had to do first was grab his bag, bring every item he might potentially require-such as his phone, his inhaler, and probably his wallet since his initial dinner was currently now spoiled-and another plan that would make sure that no one would notice he was gone.

Things were suddenly turning for the better, and admittedly, he was slightly a bit excited compared to his previous response on the predicament (just a bit). However, before he could do all that, he would first have to grab for another pair of shoes.

Breakfast.

His statement was abrupt, perplexing his two companions in the process.

But its night?, Juleka pointed out.

As a result, he flinched before spinning his gaze to face her. An awkward smile he'd printed on his lip.

N-no., he stuttered., W-what I meant to say was-breakfast.

She arched one of her brows whilst tilting her head, still confused at what her classmate was trying to convey.

He noticed this and attempted to think of a different strategy for her to understand a what he was sharing.

Breakfast., he repeated his earlier statement., What is breakfast?

Juleka then tried to contemplate.

Ah…cold pizza, I guess? And some garlic covered croissants, a nice cup of tea-

No! No., he halted her.

What-what I'm trying to ask is…what is breakfast, specifically?

Oh., her cheeks burned red as she maneuvered her coppers onto the nearest wall.

A meal?

Yes!, Nathanael grinned., And what is a meal supposed to be?

Juleka pondered once again.

Umm…a time…when you eat?

Exactly! And what do we eat?

…food?

Yes!, the young redhead cheered., Food! We eat food, right?!, he emphasized by gesturing his index finger to the both of them., But mares?! Mares don't. at least, not to my knowledge.

He shifted to look at Morgue for confirmation, which he kind of did through nodding.

They…they feed on something, entirely different.

Now she comprehended the meaning of his message. She slowly bobbed her head, admitting that it wasn't a bad scheme. That was until she realized something.

Wait! You're not planning on-

He seemed to have hitherto known on how her line was going to finish as his expression became shameful.

He avoided making contact.

I… it's the only way., he told, though it was barely audible.

Still stiffed, the purplish haired youth tried to make a counter-

But it-

I have to do this!, his volume went higher, not necessarily a complete shout, but it did expressed on what he was actually feeling inside right now. Anxiety, stress, uncertainty-

He calmed himself, begging for another breath of air as he proceeded.

I gave Songbird my word that I would help him in getting rid of this monster. I already made the decision to fulfill my promise to rescue his, and his grandmother's wardrobe.

Nathanael gripped his fingers inward towards his palm.

This is my final conclusion. I'm going to go along with this, and see what happens through.

She went quiet afterwards, not knowing what to respond.

Please., he sounded almost like he was pleading., I've already gone through a debate with myself about this. Don't make me do it again.

Awkward tension then arrived within the atmosphere of the space where they were currently staying at. Once more, speechless with no words to say. The silence that had befallen them only broke when the tiny humanoid settled his throat.

*Ahem* *Ahem*

He caught the pair's attentions.

Well, if I may be allowed to offer my own opinion regarding monsieur's ploy. I would say that I am fully impressed by it.

His tone was professional, as like always.

However., he then followed up., If the issue is simply on monsieur's safety, then I shall like to volunteer myself as the "bait", you would call it.

There was the nervous air yet again.

N-no. That's alright., Nathanael spoke., I've already made up my mind that I would make myself bait.

But if you are to be the bait, said Morge., Then who should be the one to perform the spell?

He quickly stiffened.

Did you honestly think that you could play both roles monsieur? Because if that is what you have been intending, then your entire operation had hitherto been doomed for failure right from the very start itself.

From awkwardness, the air became replaced with that of deep dread.

I apologize for sounding rather cynical monsieur, but that is the simple truth of the matter. Neither I nor your familiar right here are capable of performing spell works like you do. For, that is the capability of a mage. Only you can cast a spell amongst the three of us. Which is why you are the last one fitted to distract the mare. I, on the other hand, possess nothing better to do. Please monsieur, allow me to assist you in sending that creature away. Allow me to be bait.

His tongue was held back, he didn't know on what to reply after hearing such a speech. Perhaps he should have evaluated his ploy more thoroughly before sneaking out his bedroom's window. He really did believe that he had everything by the palm of his hands, but it turns out, he was far from that. Oh, why did he love to leap before looking? Guess that was just yet another valid reason to say that Juleka was right about him all along after all.

He was reckless.

And stupid.

And crazy.

And it was due to all those traits of his that his "brilliant" scheme might have easily backfired on him if Morge hadn't pointed that out. Nathanael was embarrassed after envisioning on how smug he might have seemed to his two present associates (cringing), and he was even way more embarrassed that the tiny lutin who was depending on him shifted into the one he would depend on. The entire reason on why he was even here was so that he could fulfill his promise to them, not being the other way around.

On the other hand, meanwhile, the girl sporting black clothing wasn't doing so well either. She cast her eyes below the floor, thinking, reminding herself once more of a recent memory.

Luka, her mother, Rose…

-all her friends and family gathering up together just to sneer and throw her away. The very image itself still haunted the very depths of her subconscious.

Her posture instantly became uncomfortable after remembering that one scene.

She truly had experienced it for herself first hand on just how horrifying that mare could be. It was terrible. If offered the choice, she wouldn't ever wish to go through that entire ordeal for as long as lived. She would even rid of all the drawers and closets she had at home just to take some extra precautions to prevent such a demon from influencing her dreams again.

Yes. She knew that perhaps she was being extremely over dramatic, yet still…those visions that was shown to her, they simply felt so…

I'll do it., she soon abruptly announced.

This caused a wave of shock to her current company.

Both gasped their mouths for a while until the lutin began in making protest. But, before Morge could, Juleka hitherto proceeded with where she left off.

The said girl drew her face closer to where the help stood, allowing for her to create an intense presence on the creature's part.

You know this place extremely well, correct?

She sounded like she was interrogating him, so he tensed before returning to his composure.

Well…y-yes., he answered whilst sweat was dropping from his forehead. His gaze avoiding hers., Like the back of my hand, actually.

It was then that she smirked.

Then, that's why you should stay back.

Bafflement resurged. Morge raising a brow out of puzzlement.

From behind her, Nathanael spoke up and inquired:

Juleka I-

However, before he could finish with that sentence, the young Couffaine immediately gave him her answer.

I've watched a lot of horror movies, she casually stated, though her eyes contradicted her casual tone., This isn't going to end well as you two would like. The monster always finds a way to get what it wants.

She shifted back to Morge again.

Which is why it's important for you to not be bait. For if anything is to happen, and mark my words, something will happen-

She glared at Nathanael during when she emphasized on the "will" part. Said boy meanwhile twitched.

-we would like you, to be at standby. So… to guide us on the nearest hiding spot.

Morge stared at her with widened green eyes, his mind loading with what Juleka had just asked from him. Pretty soon, he gave her a serious-yet warm-smile.

Morge placed a hand on his heart as he bowed.

You can count on me madam.

And with that, all three were now set to ready for Nathanael's grand scheme, to prepare in banishing the mare from the premises.

Both the teens struggled with the weight of the wardrobe. The pair were tired in moving it further from the wall it had previously stood ahead of. They simultaneously groaned and grumbled until Nathanael announced enough.

Juleka huffed in her breath, her back leaning against the wooden surface of the containment used for storing people's attires. After a few seconds, the girl took one huge amount of oxygen through her mouth before then embarking her way to flop onto the bedroom's king-sized bed, creating a bouncing effect from the mattress in the process.

As she done, the boy observed her. He then walked directly to the chest by the bed's footboard slat, where his bag was, unsealed it, and then scavenging through its contents. Once he found what he was intending, the boy took it within his fingers, revealing a small package filled with chalks of various multiple colors.

He opened said package, choosing a white one, and then placing the box back atop the chest again.

Nathanael returned to where he had initially stood, then walked slightly backwards.

He analyzed the space surrounding the wooden craft, raising his chalk upon view level and using it as if he were measuring the distance of the area around it.

Later on, once he was finished, he made his way forward once more. Kneeling down on one knee and placed the tip of his hand-held object unto the floor.

With one deep intake of air, the red-haired boy began going.

From her spot, Juleka had watched amazed at how her schoolfellow managed to have conjured a perfect circle within one single try. Her reaction was that of pure astonishment.

After a second though, she quickly snapped her head right out of it, plastering a serious mood on her as she dropped herself and landing on the mattress.

It was honestly quite comfortable, more comfortable even compared to the one she had at her deck. Yet, as comfortable as it was, she still found it difficult to slumber.

So, she sat back up once more, reluctantly.

She sighed a heavy one, her mindscape already too drained for her to dwell much regarding such a minor scale dilemma. But not necessarily too much for her not to as well.

It was simply one of those confusing situations where an individual observes themselves to be utterly exhausted, yet wouldn't sleep due to a number of reasons.

In her case, it was…complicated to say the least.

The girl trailed her coppers all round, hoping to search for something intriguing. She glanced round and round, until her eyes fixated onto a particular book sitting on top of a chest by the footboard.

Immediately, she snagged it within her hands, opening it so to reveal its contents. She was mesmerized by every line she read through. Her visions completely glued onto its leaves.

A huge smile crept on her lips as she began to sense child-like wonder growing inside, to which hadn't gone unnoticed by the other person in the room, who jolted from the sudden wave of emotions that gradually invaded his attention.

He too fortuitously began to feel giddy, becoming somewhat amused at something he couldn't find, touch, or even see (puzzling indeed).

He was – smiling? But couldn't know on what he should be smiling at.

Good thing though, he instantly concluded on where such an abrupt sensation originated from.

Quickly, he shot a glare at his associate.

Whilst emersed, she caught of something strange from the side of her eye, and when glanced, her eyelids shot upwards at how he was annoyedly looking at her.

She became uncomfortable afterwards.

Is he…judging me?

Juleka hastily shut the book before surrendering it to its proper owner. Motioning for Nathanael to take said collection of papers that was sandwiched by two leather covers.

He creased a brow up at her random gesture, but grabbed it anyway.

The Kurtzberg then started scouring through the pages.

You've seen something you like?, Nathanael asked whilst still flipping on each leaf, unaware that he was instigating a conversation.

The teen with long dark hair widened her eyes, prior to turning sheepish.

She used her curtain of hair to conceal her bashful face.

Y-yeah…, she stuttered., It's umm… it's a really interesting book.

Nathanael shrugged., I guess?

A few seconds ticked by with no one uttering a word, making the scene rather awkward.

What'd you liked most?

Oh plenty., she suddenly became lost.

Nathanael was perplexed at how swift her attitude changed.

She began counting on her digits as she recalled most of the spells she skimmed at in that short span of her time.

There were spells about summoning other creatures, spells about capturing and detaining specters inside small containers, and even some relatively dull ones like that one that's supposed to invoke a soft breeze. I swear there's more but I just couldn't remember. But… still though-

Her coppers shifted to look at the spell book again.

The fact that it's a real actual grimoire? That's just…awesome.

She finds my book awesome…, was his line of thought.

He sighed.

He really wished that he could see the small text in the same way. Perhaps, probably through a different circumstance-he would. However, right as of now, all he could view of it was that it was simply yet another mere addition to his new strange and somewhat alienated life. A reminder that he was nothing like everyone else.

Nathanael threw that idea out the window. For now, that wasn't what mattered.

The redhead turned again, keening his visions straight at the infamous accursed wardrobe.

He'll have to start now if he truly did wished to get rid of the mare whilst all was still peaceful and safe (relatively).

The artist thoroughly searched for the page he was seeking.

Meanwhile, Juleka was simply watching him in silence from her position.

Her moment of ecstasy and fondness had faltered already minutes ago. Leading for her to resurge back to moping miserably.

She gazed down at the lower portion of her own line of sight whilst lying down on the side of her head. Still having troubles on finding sleep, Juleka attempted to shut her eyes. And yet, the moment that she did, the silhouette of all her friends and family suddenly came into play. They were approaching her, like they were some kind of an angry mob hunting for a witch or monster-

Or a freak.

The girl twinged.

The mental imagery of that had been bothering her since she had first initially experienced it. She was aware that they weren't real, however…

She let out a huff. Unaware that her current uneasiness was also simultaneously causing for another soul to feel uneasy as well. Nathanael jerked too. Feeling his mind trying to suppress something, but did not know on what it should even be suppressing.

It was a confusing situation. With his brain locking a memory that wasn't even present.

He held his forehead and attempted to massage it, hoping the subtle pain would go away. Eventually though, he caved in, and spun his head to face Juleka.

Something bothering you?

She unsealed her eyelids, sitting up once more, then faced him. She wondered in how exactly did he know.

For a moment, she was baffled, then she hesitated. She questioned on whether it was a good idea to share on what she had undergone. She failed to talk regarding it with her very own brother, how exactly was a mere acquaintance any different?

She exhaled before detailing.

Did…you ever had any nightmares before? She was embarrassed to even inquire, yet inquired she just did. Juleka kept her pupils away, averting to prevent in engaging eye contact. She felt sheepish, it was as if she were sharing her insecurities to a total stranger.

Nathanael was stooped at first, until his mind came into pondering inside.

It was certainly clear to him what nightmare she was mentioning. The one where he had witnessed her shivering and mumbling. The one given to her by the mare. The one where he had to wake her up from.

He immediately felt guilty.

Nathanael was aware that the only reason she even received whatever visions the mare stroked at her was because he decided to stay.

Despite knowing that he never asked for Juleka's company, the girl still lingered around, and as painful as it was to admit, he knew exactly well why.

Gambling with fate was a dangerous thing, one that only heroes and fools would dare (the latter in his case). Juleka was aware of that, as she constantly tried to make him see reason again and again. He never heeded though, instead ignoring all of her advices.

Why? He still didn't know.

She stuck to him, simply because she believed him to be stupid (which he was).

If it weren't for his brash choices, then she wouldn't be traumatized as of now.

*Sigh*

So, with that, Nathanael imagined himself swallowing a large pill.

Yes., the illustrator answered., But that doesn't matter.

I know that., the girl replied back., But, this…this…it felt so…it felt so real. I'm…I'm aware that it was all simply an illusion, that I shouldn't dwell on them too much. But…there's just this part of me that just feels that maybe…maybe it could. That it can happen. That…maybe-

You know Juleka., he started, lowering his book as he kneeled down., There's really nothing wrong in being shaken by a nightmare. That's-that's literally why they're nightmares.

He froze for a moment, inside his head he argued with himself if whether he should pursue with what he was thinking of sharing. Then he pushed through.

Let me tell you something. Back when I was a kid… I used to have a lot of bad dreams. Like, frequently I would come into my moms' room and tuck in with them because I was afraid of sleeping alone., his face was heavily reddened, but he carried on., It used to have bothered me. To the point where I was even afraid of shutting my eyes at night. Cause, I thought that what I would see would disturb me deeply.

He fell quiet afterwards, seemingly as if he was remembering something.

And then, well I guess at some point, I'd realized that dreams are just simply that-dreams. They can't come true. They're not real. All they are, are just images made by my head. Nothing more. Trying to focus on them would just be plain silly.

Yeah, but…still… what if there's still some part of you that just feels that these things could happen and come true?

Does it matter?, Nathanael asked her sarcastically., Juleka. Nightmares are nightmares. They can't become real. You know why?

Why?

Because... nightmares can't hurt you. No matter what, they can't hurt you. So, don't dwell on it too much, okay?

She began to feel somewhat better.

Okay. I'll try.

Good., he nodded. Perhaps sharing the more private side of his childhood could one day return back in order to bite at him. Perhaps she would even use the information to blackmail him at some point in the future. But, at least for now, that didn't matter. He did owe her after all.

From there, the girl felt slightly more secured. And with that, she closed her eyes, and finally drifted to the unconscious.

She widened her peripheral orbs once she observed of her current location.

She didn't know why, but now she was standing before a great field of grass. Up a hill with nothing but grass and wind in sight.

From a distance, she spotted a number of multiple lifeforms running in a group. When Juleka scrutinized her vision, she suddenly discovered that those were actually horses, an entire herd of them.

A slight grin crossed her lips as she sighed in relief.

She then decided to sit around for a while, watching the animals graze. Since she lived in the city, horses were commonly a rare encounter. So, the Couffaine thought that she might as well enjoy the moment.

As she sat atop the elevated land formation, she began to notice something appearing off with how the equestrian beasts were behaving.

She leaned and keened closer. And she quickly became stunned.

The horses, they weren't trying to feed. They were fleeing.

But, fleeing from what?

Then a looming shadow covered her area, quickly making her dread. Juleka cautiously turned around, sweat dripping down her forehead.

Once she came face to face with whatever had casted that large silhouette, her whole body had instantly became like ice.

Standing in front of her was a huge horse, bigger than anything she had seen in person, photos, or movies. Its fur was dark, its mane was shaggy and unkept, its sclera was blood-red, and its pupils were peering down at her.

However, even from such horror, the beast compared nothing to its rider.

There, on the horses back, rode a dark hooded figure, radiating an aura of mystery and malice.

The girl retreated a step, but when she did, she found her left foot sinking. She bobbed her head, and fear struck her like lightning when she saw the quicksand that had fortuitously popped. Her skin paled as the earth itself slowly tried consuming her.

Back at the bedroom, Nathanael spotted her trembling. He quickly felt bad, knowing his part in her suffering.

Nathanael then brushed that to focus, for if he truly did wish to free his classmate from her burden, he would have to fulfill the promise he had given Songbird earlier ago.

His eyes straightened at the wardrobe, as if he were taunting it. Or, more precisely taunting on what inhabited inside.

He then skimmed through the pages of his book until he found the right one.

With his index finger placed upon the title, he used it to guide him as he read.

Sit around and meditate. Charge the circle to allow the energies of the Divine world to seep through. Focus only on the circle you have drawn…

Then he kneeled on his knees, his palms resting on his thighs whilst the book remained in front of him.

Luckily for him, he hitherto had some ideas regarding the art of meditation. With credits to his class advisor after hosting classes about meditating.

Think of your emotions like the surface of a quiet lake…

Nathanael breathed deeply, his mind's attention engrossed only in manifesting a mental image of the chalked circle.

By now the entire portion of her lower half had now been swallowed by the ground. Juleka struggled. Shifting to break free. She tried wiggling herself out, but failed. All her efforts proved in vain.

She faced her head down, shutting her eyes. She didn't want to end up this way.

Not now. Please…, she prayed.

As tears were about to stream her eyes, a presence abruptly made itself known.

At first, she hesitated. Afraid that she would meet the cloaked figure from before. She wanted to ignore the strong urge to look, but curiosity got the best of her.

Juleka shot her eyes up, expecting for the entity to appear, but was surprised when what she saw was-

Mom! Luka!

She called out to her family, one hand waving above her head to gain they're attentions. But for some odd reason, they couldn't seem to hear her voice. They simply continued walking further away from her. Never did they seem to have noticed her calling to them.

She stiffened, her pupils dilating, stuck only to them. She watched as they continued to shrink before her eyes.

Mom! Mom! Luka! Help!

She tried once again, but failed in every attempt. Her voice just couldn't seem to reach them.

Now, the quicksand had reached above her chest, and was now about to start in consuming her neck.

She began to hyperventilate.

Form the side of her, she noticed another person walking, back turned as well.

Rose?

Then she spun to her left and spotted two others of her friends.

Mari! Alya!

Later, she looked behind her. With brief struggle, the picture of Mylene and Alya doing the same thing as the others.

Guys! Please!

None heard her. None listened. She screamed. She shouted. She begged. But none heard her voice, none heard her pleas and cries.

Once they had all vanished, the figure with its horse appeared. Manifesting out of nowhere.

Juleka squinted her eyes, not wanting to see the entity again. She could hear its spinetingling laughter. She could feel its laughter crawling through her flesh. Even if her ears couldn't physically hear them, she could sense the ecstasy it received from her panics.

Her mouth was now engulfed, and so was her nose. Her eyes and her ears were the only remaining parts of her face that were visible.

The creature continued to stare at her, watching with amusement. Meanwhile as its victim was nearly about to disappear from the very face of the planet.

This can't be happening. This can't-this can't be happening., the same words repeated over and over.

This can't-

This can't be real…

I don't want to, yet. I don't want to-

-nightmares can't hurt you.

Her eyes widened once she recalled of that advice.

Nightmares…can't hurt me…, she mostly parroted that sentence.

Am I…in a nightmare?

She took a glimpse at the being before reverting her eyes back.

Even if she was in a dream, how was she certain that that mysterious entity wouldn't try anything to harm her. However, after a quick assessment of her current predicament, the girl simply had no other choice but to sigh (mentally).

Fine then… I'll take your word for it.

She swallowed hard prior to doing something she could (will) regret.

She stared back.

Charge the circle. Charge the circle.

It had been for a about half an hour since he chanted that phrase over and over. With no progress occurring during those seconds.

He could feel the pins and needles tingling on his legs. His mind, on the other hand, was beginning to exhaust in picturing the same thing without break.

Nathanael proceeded, discarding other things entering his headspace. No distractions, that was the policy for now. Just the circle and nothing else or more.

It was boring.

He opened his eyes to take a brief pause, and the first his visions laid upon was -of course- the wardrobe.

The Kurtzberg gazed tiredly at it. Stoic. No emotion. Then his mind gathered to sense the "colors" it was emitting.

Malice. Sadism. Fear?

He was baffled, the boy was sure he didn't pick that one up before.

Then he turned to the side of him as his schoolfellow wasn't shivering as frequently.

He looked again to the closet, and then at her, and then the closet.

Just what are you guys doing in there?, he inwardly wondered.

He shut his eyes once more. Resurging to his mission. He sealed away his field of visions from the outside world and pictured the same circle.

However, the fear factor continued to flow his course.

Charge circle. Charge circle. Charge circle. What does that even mean?

Nathanael's eyebrows began narrowing.

As according to what he'd read, it meant to focus one's entire attention onto the circle. But now he was starting to question if what he was doing right now was right.

Maybe he should be looking at the circle? Maybe there should be at a more proper position to meditate? What did Ladybug think of his latest drawing of her?

Dizziness fell on him as he laid his head on one palm of his hands. He didn't know what was happening, but he was suddenly feeling hysterical. Like, all his insecurities were suddenly screaming at him. Taunting him. It was as if all his fears, from the minor ones to the bigger ones, were starting to slowly take control over his sanity.

What if I fail this? What if I did get pulverized by that ogre? Juleka was right about me. Ugh! Why do you keep agreeing to these things?!

From anxiety to guilt, the boy abruptly paused and breathed. His eyes appearing as if they were about to bulge out of their sockets. His hands were tightly gripping his ginger locks.

Why did I kept agreeing?, he repeated, but this time asking himself out loud albeit a hushed tone.

Songbird had nothing to do with him. He could have easily just turned him down back when he still had the chance. He could have easily obliged to his instinctual urge to get away the second his fingers sensed the "evil" coming from the piece of wooden furniture.

One of his hands then trailed to reach his jacket's pocket and grabbed for his inhaler. He placed it upon his mouth as he began to push its single button.

He didn't even know who this siren was until today, and now he was risking his own safety and health for a person who couldn't even remember his name.

Now, because of his undoing that he was here, that Juleka was suffering, that his moms might get worried once they find him missing again.

It was his own fault. No one else's but his.

No…one else…

No. He needed to resist thinking about that. He needed to focus on the circle.

Nathanael gulped, driving all unnecessary thoughts to his imaginary bin.

He later fixed his posture, and put away the small inhaler device.

After one more heavy breathing, the artist started once more.

Charge circle. Charge circle. Charge circle. Charge circle…

The boy then heard sparking noises. He observed around his environment but finding nothing. Till it emerged again.

He turned back, sensing that it seemed to be coming from in front of him.

And he was correct. It was originating from before him. As he concluded that once he saw the chalked circle he'd drawn glow blue. From faint light, it later grew more immense, to the point where he had to cover his eyes due to how bright it was.

Accompanying the glowing blue light, were some electrical sparks zapping from out of the drawing.

At first, he thought that he had finally accomplished the first phase of the book's instruction, but that dried down quick when he spotted one of the bulbs flickered.

Oh no…

She stared at it, and in turn she noticed on how it flinched for a fraction of a second. It was there that she knew on what she just had to do.

The creature was shocked at how the girl got her moment of courage, but immediately got over it as it shook its head and began to stare back.

It was as if the two were playing a game, with the one who blinks or averts eye contact being the loser.

The entity was stunned that Juleka wasn't backing down, so it did what it could to make itself seem more intimidating.

It thought that it almost got the upper hand, but never did it predict on what were to happen next.

From copper eyes, turned into fiery purple.

It was expected for familiars to possess such traits, but when she allowed herself to submerge into the dirt was when it started metaphorically scratching its head.

Lightning struck, making its horse panic. The figure tried restraining it until abruptly, it started floating.

It acted in alarm, becoming frantic in its behavior. It looked around to find what was causing it to do something beyond its control. However, when it looked ahead of itself, it instantly squirmed as if it were a worm.

The sounds of her chilling-sadistic laughs made the creature pray for mercy, but the hovering girl whose hair was dancing with the wind merely either paid no attention, or simply ignored it.

When both monsters came face to face, she glared at it one final time with her electrical violet pupils. A smirk crept onto her lips.

She carried her left hand and pointed her index finger directly on the cloaked creature's forehead (or what she assumed was its forehead) as if she were about to bestow judgement upon it.

Electricity surged through her finger tip, and pretty soon enough, everything went purple.

Her eyes swinged open as she jolted up into a sitting posture, heaving, sweating profusely. She held a hand to her heart, testing the rate of each beat. Gradually she calmed down.

After a brief second of steadying her mind, Juleka then came to analyze her new surroundings.

Her orbs went bigger.

Looking around at her current setting, the young teen was bewildered at what precisely was happening.

All round, multiple ornaments and pillows were floating all over. Some crashing into walls and some spinning like a twister. Most of the furniture weren't doing as good either, as nearly every one of them were animated to act like bunch of wild beasts. Even the bed she was on wasn't safe. As it later started vibrating before jumping around, reminding her of those rogue bulls she once seen in a documentary.

She eventually fell from the said bed, landing with a moderately loud *thud* on the floor.

Juleka tried to observe more, but the lights were confusing her as they repeatedly went on and off, making the whole scene similar to a ghost flick, where the vengeful spirit approaches.

In fact, the only thing that didn't act all haywire was the wardrobe standing within what appeared to be a glowing circle on the floor, that was now sparking with blue colored electricity.

She trailed her eyes and spotted the boy who was frantically skimming his book.

What's happening?

The male with red hair paused. He was about to spin his head to face her before hearing creaking sounds.

He gasped in a breath whilst cautiously turning to the aforementioned sound's direction.

Through the closet, the pair witnessed a set of dark, pointy, elongated fingers emerged from behind the closet's door.

It held the wooden plank as it slowly came to reveal itself in an ominous manner.

The two wheezed.

Once the closet door had been fully unshut, the picture of the entity that lived inside became clear for every soul to spectate.

Nathanael and Juleka hitched, eyes glued to the same being which had nearly killed them only hours ago.

Its presence proved horrifying, its sharp rows of teeth proved to be just as sharp as they had last seen of it, its pointed tongue which had now stuck out to them made the both simultaneously shiver.

It hissed at the two, like that of a feline or a serpent. A common sign that it was exhibiting its aggression. It snarled. It growled. Its saucer-like head swayed side to side as if it were taunting.

Cautiously, the pair stepped back.

Finnish it already., Juleka murmured, her eyeballs not daring to leave the mare's position. Her tone sounding hasty, indicating alarm.

He cast his ceruleans at her for a quick glance prior to agreeing.

With his hands shivering, he elevated the text to his sphere of vision.

Nathanael skimmed through the book for a little bit, before stopping at where the Banishing spell was printed.

Cas…a-Cas-ah.

He stuttered due to fear.

Casss…Cs…Ah? Cas…A-Cas…Cas-

The creature then launched.

As it gone approaching them, neither the two youths had the time to process. Fear caused them to stay steel and in place. But one of the towels suddenly floated in front of Nathanael and wrapped itself around the mare.

Confused, the beast grappled to break free.

Nathanael was stunned for a moment. Before managing to snap out of his trance and continued in reading the spell.

Cas-a? Cas-aCas-ah-

The sounds of tearing fabric made his heart drop.

Not knowing what to do, he instinctively complied on what the back of his skull told him to do.

He shut the book up, and utilized it to slam the mare in the head. Causing it to tumble down.

Both teens instantly were rendered shock.

I…don't think that's how you should use a spell book., the girl commented., Or any book…

Nathanael noticed how her eyes were now purple.

But then, the sounds that which it made came unto fruition once more. Both of them shook, slowly panning to the monster's spot. They watched as it gradually rose up again, apparently more furious than ever. To which, to be fair, was understandable.

It made its eerie swaying as like before, successfully intimidating the two. It hovered, hissing, until it attacked them once more.

This time, the two managed to have responded hastily, dodging the creature's advances.

The room became like that of a wild storm. The flickering of light to darkness greatly confusing everyone. This did not hinder the strange lifeform from enacting its vengeance at the duo though, as it saw them nuisances.

Stuff floated here and there, furniture moved at their own pacing, kids avoiding the lashes of a being they had only today learned existed. Cries were heard, yelps, and along with the occasional hisses and snarls.

From then, as Juleka tripped, she craned to the left side of her and spotted the door.

She turned to her companion's direction.

Nathanael!

Mildly missing its swipes, the said boy looked at his caller. He saw her gesturing to their salvation.

He nodded and willed his legs to bolt quick. The creature attempted to follow, but was stopped when the closet spun and pushed it to collide with a wall.

The two teens managed to escape, exiting the bedroom and shutting the door frame.

Both panted form the ordeal, but panicked again once the door started shaking.

Nathanael gripped the doorknob whilst he held the wooden door back. Juleka came following as she placed her two palms on its surface as if she were impelling it.

The violent knocks from the creature's side continued. Unlike before, it seemed that this time, it possessed no intention in giving up. The pushes grew stronger and stronger until the two had no other choice but to make haste.

The schoolmates made a silent agreement, and with that they both dashed away.

They heard the door breaking, but neither decided to look back, both their minds right now solely had one single objective, and that was to flee.

Soon the pair made it to the kitchen/dining room, where a delightful Morge, standing on a tea tray, grinned and greeted them.

Ah, done already? I have just finished preparing you some-

However, he didn't accomplish in completing his line, as he too became startled once his eyes laid upon the being chasing them.

They rushed towards the other exit (passing by Morge), to which the creature pursued, knocking the tea tray along with the lutin in the process.

They jogged at the living room, prior to hastening down the stairs. Nathanael almost tripped a few times but never truly fell.

Once they made it to the first floor, both fled toward the exit.

Just then, unexpectedly, the infamous eccentric man came in and entered.

Oh, Raguel. Jinnah.

The two didn't notice him however, as they unknowingly pushed him aside and came to egress.

Songbird was baffled for a moment, before hearing of the hissing sounds himself. He went astound whilst the mare ignored him.

When the two were now outside, both proceeded to run with no plans on stopping. When they reached to the alley next to the building they had just sojourned, Juleka ran in, and pulled Nathanael by the arm to follow.

Once the creature left the building too, it looked around, observing not a person in sight. However, it did sense the delicious sensation of its favorite meal, fear.

Knowing that it was most probably them, it tracked where the trail of fear was leading, and winded up toward the empty corner beside two constructions.

The mare hovered around, in search for the two.

The whilst, both were actually concealing themselves behind some bins. They both peeked, observing their pursuer. They watched as it spotted their bikes, and shoved the two down in anger.

Both hid their heads for cover once again.

They breathed exhaustedly, with Nathanael grabbing his inhaler from his pocket. As they remained at their current location, the boy then dragged his head down.

You were right., he stated whilst panting for air. Taking the device off his mouth.

One of Juleka's eyebrows creased.

What are you-

This is all my fault., Nathanael covered his face under his arms and knees. Wallowing in his own guilt.

He could no longer carry the baggage of regret, and since all had now came as Juleka had predicted, he thought it best to at least allow her to have something to gloat about. At least then, he might have paid penance for his sins.

But instead though, the girl had only looked at him quite baffled. Failing to comprehend his message. She stared at him, wide eyed, mouth slightly hanging low, silent as she permitted him to continue. Silent whilst she listened.

You were right about me earlier., he mostly parroted his previous statement., I am annoying. Really-really annoying. And, because I'm so annoying we're both probably are going to get seriously hurt-or worst. I'm sorry.

Nathanael?

I was too reckless on my decisions. I allowed my luck to get over my head, thinking without even considering the most likely of consequences.

One of his eyes took a peek at her.

I allowed us to wind up on yet another dangerous situation with the supernatural. And I allowed you to get involved into something that I chose., he highlighted on the I part.

He afterwards then huffed.

I'm sorry. I'm sorry if we can't make it out alive this time. I'm sorry if you had to bother yourself for my sake. I'm sorry if you had-you had to endure seeing images you didn't want to.

Juleka was just stunned. She didn't expect him to break like that. She glanced her coppers below.

The girl would be lying if she told that she didn't initially wanted for him to say those exact words. For him to apologize in regards for his perceived arrogance and irrationality.

And yet, now that she finally did, all she felt was empathy for the poor boy.

She needed to comfort him, she needed to lighten his spirit. But without Luka or Rose around, she didn't know what to do.

Juleka felt rather terrible as she watched him giving himself to shame. After all, she recognized that feeling all too well.

She glimpsed toward both her sides, as if unconsciously hoping that someone would turn around. However, that wasn't how the universe functioned.

The Couffaine eventually yielded. Granting for sympathy to won over embarrassment.

Reluctantly, she spoke with her voice.

Hey.

The boy peeked one eye at her.

Hesitant, she pushed through her anxiety.

There-there just…nightmares, right.

She then offered in a smile, to which he returned by smiling back. Feeling, at the minimum, a bit better.

Just then, clanging and crashing sounds made their way into their ear canals as they peeped and saw the mare knocking down most of the trash cans in a fit of fury. They dashed and resurged to hiding once more.

We need to do something., Juleka muttered.

Nathanael tried to scan his surroundings to see if they could find anything that could be of use. He glanced through all directions till he saw the book he dropped lying across his feet. Quickly, he grabbed it and skimmed through its pages.

Alright., said Nathanael., So, it may seem that my original plan was a total bust. But that doesn't mean that its over just yet. We just need to find a proper spell, hopefully one easier and less elaborate, and…have our fingers cross that this time it would work out.

You don't sound that confident.

I'm not., he replied., The spell I've already done only resulted in getting us in where we are. But, I'm absolutely terrified half to death right now, that I'm actually willing to do what it takes to get us out of this predicament.

He continued to flip on the papers, speed reading every title. He stopped when Juleka pointed a finger at a particular one.

What?

Try this one.

What?

I've read this one before. Back when we were still preparing for that-banishing thing., explained Juleka., I think this one should work.

He stared at her, skeptically, prior to returning to the book.

Sekhassa' Capturing Spell

A spell which allows the caster to capture and detain specters inside small handheld containers.

He turned to her again.

Well?, she said in a low volume.

Nathanael thought on how he should address his opinion.

This is nuts., he remarked, stressfully., It doesn't even mention mares in any of its lines. What if this doesn't work.

Well, it says specters…, Juleka pointed out., And, that guy kinda' reminds me of what a ghost or a spirit would look.

She elucidated whilst taking a glance at the mare, which was currently proceeding in wrecking garbage bins.

Yeah., he agreed with her on that., But, what if it isn't. what if specters means something else. What if this doesn't apply to mares. We can't just gamble with fate here.

Aren't we already?

It was those words that made him go stunned. His eyes widened due to realization. Because of all the panics, he forgotten that that was basically what he has basically been doing until now.

Gambling with fate.

His moment of thought was cut short though as the mare shoved the bins that they were hiding behind. Ultimately finding them.

The two stiffened.

It attempted to swipe them but they managed to have dodged, running unto opposite paths.

For a second, the monster became confused, not knowing which kid it should pursue first. So, it decided instead to hover overhead and spiral around in circles.

Both teens ducked whilst avoiding the creature's strikes, but it was hard considering how fast it was moving. It continued like that until the mare found an opportunity, and it launched itself straight away towards the damsel.

It tackled Juleka, the force of its impact causing her to stumble. She tried to do everything she can to evade its sharp fingers, but the creature already had her at its mercy. It only paused once random garbage started being thrown at its person. This distracted the entity enough to allow Juleka to escape as it steered its attention away. However, it later came back for another attack.

A dead end was met in Juleka's way, as a wall of bricks prevented her from fleeing any further.

Panicked, her mind wasn't thinking clearly. She tried to look for another route to get away. She looked left and right then turned behind. However, once she did the mare was hitherto there, and immediately, it swiped her face.

She was shocked at the sudden pain. Her mind as if abruptly coming into a halt. Cautiously, she travelled her fingers to reach where she received the scratch, traced it, and looked in shock when she found the red fluid which tainted her index.

For her, it was as if time had come to a complete utter stop. No longer the usual voices inside her headspace were in control, for in that very moment, only one force kicked in. It was one she didn't know. A complete alien. But, whatever it was, it compelled her to do something she never anticipated she would ever do in a lifetime.

Meanwhile, within the creature's point of view, the mare delighted after seeing her stiffened. It grinned, expecting for her to cover and offer it a "buffet". Though its smirk fell in an instant, and its entire frame trembled when those familiar glowing eyes had set in glaring at her once again.

Soon her body was engulfed in violet colored flames and once they subsided her whole form had become replaced with a horse with dark fur and purple shining eyes, still locked at the monster.

Witnessing all this unfold, Nathanael stood at a distance, frozen.

It became quiet, just the two staying in their respective positions, ready to inflict damage within any given time. The moment broke once Juleka stood her hindlegs and attacked with her front hooves. Letting out a loud neigh as her battle cry.

The creature had barely managed to have dodged her assault, and retaliated quick by swiping her, to which she avoided. Back and forth went their hisses and neighs. Loud screams of aggression erupting from the two opposing forces. It was a heated battle betwixt a creature with four legs against one that had none. Mare vs mare.

His eyes were glued whilst his mouth had gaped, he made a few steps backwards out of caution. As he did, he felt that he stepped onto something that was-rolling. He glanced down and saw a green plastic bottle situated there.

At first, he did not pay much attention to it, until an idea soon formed.

He took the disposable bottle in hand, and opened the spell book to seek the page which Juleka had recommended.

Will it fail? Probably. But the way he sees it, there was really no better option. He had to take his chance, no matter how slim his probability for success may seem. It was either go for gold or not at all!

When he came to read the certain page, he followed its instruction.

He stood up straight, uncapped the bottle, and then pointed its mouth directly towards the creature.

If only it could stay steel.

Keep it steady!

I'm trying!

He released a "tsk" sound.

After a while, he observed the monster slowing, apparently waning out from all the chasing and fighting. Perhaps, he should have expected such a case from an entity that spends much of its time stalking inside a closet.

He shook his musings as he readied his mind.

With one hand grasped to the bottle and with the other carrying the book, Nathanael set his tongue.

Gajur-Gajure-reh? Reh?...

Meanwhile as he struggled with the verses, the two mares were still remaining to after each other's throats.

Reh…

While it was true that it was gradually becoming sluggish, the twisted sly cunning mind of a creature that could forge the most harrowing of nightmares, was one that should never be underestimated.

When the horse was about to bite it, the monster heightened its level and flew right behind her field of sight. It then afterwards tired to scratch one of the girl's front legs, to which she managed to have avoided. But unbeknownst, that was exactly what it wanted. For whilst she did avoid a plausible major injury, she also didn't consider about her balance. This factor was immediately exploited as the creature slammed its body to hers, resulting in bringing her down.

Nathanael watched as it happened, so he attempted to read faster.

Gajureh-Ga-Gahjureh-

He couldn't concentrate much, his head was just filled with unwanted emotions. Anxiety, fear, worry…

He later decided to close his eyes and sighed.

Think of your emotions like the surface of a quiet lake…

Memories of earlier was brought up once more.

Nathanael recalled of how he failed in utilizing Ms. Bustier's lessons, and he doubted that it would work now.

*Hiss*

Help!

It was now or never though.

He quickly closed his eyes, and attempted to calm his mind. He breathed in and he breathed out.

…emotions…quiet lake…

His mouth opened.

Ga-Gajureh Tamor

Gistouhwanahgha

Zemanepoh!

The monster grinned as it was about to swipe Juleka's face off, but instantly became stunned once a blue colored glowing chain (appearing to be made of etherical substance) had suddenly popped from the mare's wrist. Later, another one appeared, and a third came to wrap around its tail. Then, shackles manifested from each of one of them as they reach their way to the mouth of the bottle.

Soon, the shackles began pulling it into the said container.

It started to act frantic, squirming like it were a worm that was poured table salt. Wildly it grabbled to make an escape.

As it happened, Nathanael dropped the spell book and gripped both hands on the bottle. He steadied it, focused all his inner thoughts solely into trapping the specter.

The mare pushed itself, moved, it feared for its own safety. Closer and closer the creature got. It stretched its hand, as if pleading for help, but it was too late. With one final pull, the creature was now contained.

Hastily, the boy capped the bottle again. He made sure to seal it tight.

He panted and dropped to his knees.

Boy held the bottle, and was uncertain at first if he truly did manage to have captured the mare within inside such a small container. One aggressive shake, accompanied with a loud growl, told him the answer to that one.

I…did it., his voice trailed. His tone indicating as if he couldn't believe in his own accomplishment either.

I did it., he repeated.

Juleka was now walking towards him. Appearing to be worried.

I…I did a spell!, now his voice was loud as ever as he cheered and celebrated., I successfully did a spell! Ha! Ha!

The girl tilted her head, but soon afterwards joined him in his own mini party.

To any possible onlooker, the scene was a rather-odd one to witness. However, at the moment, neither seemed to care. It was just a boy and a horse hanging around a dark alley way, together with a violently shaking bottle – laughing – and alive.

Tea and cookies were set along the living quarters of the siren's home, placed atop the coffee table since the tea tray was no longer operational for a while.

Morge had just finished preparing a cup for his master, and was now about to start with the boy's.

Spectacular indeed., remarked their host., I would be recommending you for all my friends Daniel. That should definitely increase your chances on becoming our next Sorcerer.

T-thank's, Nathanael smiled nervously. Unsure of what he should feel about that. Logically, the route was to tell him that he was never truly interested in being this – Sorcerer. But then he doubted if the man would even listen as he still couldn't remember his name properly. He supposed that was somewhat of a good thing as that would mean that if he ever does recommend him to anyone, they would just be stuck confused in searching for the right guy.

Oh no. Thank you., the eccentric man replied., I cannot express on how grateful I am. Maybe now Grandmama could rest peacefully. Knowing that I have finally fulfilled what she had always wished.

I'm sure she is monsieur., commented the small lutin.

Nathanael and Juleka (who now was back to her original form) smiled warmly at the siren's joy. It was as if suddenly-every trial, every near encounter with Death, had become worth it. To find him happy and in peace, to know that they had done well, not just for him but also for his late grandmother – was a satisfying feeling.

Oh. By the way, how's that scar of yours Jannah? It doesn't hurt, does it. I could have Morge fetch the medic kit if that bandage isn't enough?

Ignoring the fact that he had just mis-recalled her name again, Juleka simply bowed her head out of gratitude for his concern.

T-thanks for the offer. But-I'm doing fine. Thank you.

Songbird grinned and nodded.

I truly cannot express on how grateful I am., said he, as he craned his head back to Nathanael., Oh. I know, I would offer you in a 20% discount for my classes, just for you. What do you say?

Nathanael flustered, meanwhile as Juleka arched one of her brows.

20%?

Well, I can't just offer free lessons. I still have a business to run after all.

The two just stared.

Ugh. Fine. 30%. But that's all I'm getting.

The classmates then began to chuckle at the hilarity.

Nathanael snorted, then jerked when he heard of someone calling him.

Monsieur?

He glanced to the side and spotted Morge under the guise of a butler whilst offering him tea.

Nathanael carefully took it in hand. A "thanks" he gave to the house servant.

I've also taken the liberty in adding a few extra sugar cubes to your beverage. I heard how kids from your kind love their sweets.

Nathanael knew that that was merely his way on showing his gratitude for them. He decided to accept the cup-even if he would probably consume little.

He placed the drink onto the table and grabbed a biscuit in the process. As the boy took a bite off from the baked good, the girl sitting on the sofa right next to him began to anticipate for her cup to be delivered.

Though it never came.

She sighed, disappointment. Once again feeling invisible. But it was fine, she guessed. It was just tea. If she truly craved for one, then she could just prepare one for herself when she gets home.

Unbeknownst to her however, her peer had picked on her emotion.

He twinged at the somewhat familiar sensation, the all too recognizable "colors". Gradually, one of his hands had shaped into a fist as he started to grow annoyed.

All right., suddenly he glared his eyes directly to Morge, whom had just returned into being a meek lutin again., What's going on here?

Everyone now had swinged their faces to gaze at him, shocked as to why he had abruptly changed moods.

Don't think I hadn't been noticing., he angrily jeered at the tiny humanoid., Since all day, you've been absolutely ignoring her. Leaving her out whilst you were tending me.

He placed a palm to his chest.

At first, I didn't want to speak about it cause I didn't want to seem rude, so I kept quiet. But then you just kept repeatedly alienating her. What's up with that? We've met at the same time, didn't we? We both helped you. So why are you treating her differently compared to how you're treating me?

Juleka was stunned. She didn't realize that he had actually been observing that, and she certainly didn't anticipate for him to suddenly stand up for her. But, she wasn't really the only one stunned though, all were stunned. All went silent. Morge himself even had to collect his posture after losing his stand.

The lutin cleared his throat prior to attempting to reply his guest's question.

F-forgive me, monsieur. I didn't realize. To be honest, I was actually waiting for your permission.

That brought him out of his temper as he then leaned more towards puzzlement.

Permission?

Morgue nodded., Indeed. I have worked under the roofs of plenty of mages before I worked here. So, I have experienced first hand on how many of them consider it-rather insulting whenever I tried serving their familiars without their consent. Once, I've even got kicked out because of it.

The two respectively became baffled. Both their brains at a lost.

Such is the cruelty of society., mentioned Songbird whilst sipping his tea.

Both teens turned to him, so he decided to press what he knew of.

Most mages are not like you Ambriel. Some, few of them don't show as much respect to their familiars as you do.

Why?, Juleka quipped. She covered her mouth once she had discovered she had just said that.

Your ancestry., was what he replied.

He crossed his arms after placing his cup down.

It all goes down to history, as far as I am concerned. A history far more ancient than anyone of us could imagine. A narrative which led to the current exile of magic, and why we magical folk are forced to stay in the shadows.

What happened?

I am not a specialist in history, so my details are pretty inaccurate. But basically put. It led to how familiars and mages got to your current statuses. Why familiars serve mages. Why mages view familiars like some "possession". And, why your two kinds have such intertwined fates.

Somehow, those words of his had sent shivers.

Can I ask a question?, said Songbird.

Nathanael nodded., Shoot.

How come you two didn't know that?

That made the two nervous, stiffening, mouths shut and tongues held back. A miracle occurred in the form of Juleka's phone ringing.

The girl jumped from surprise at the suddenness of that, but managed to have composed herself just a second after. She fished for her phone, read the name displayed on the screen, before excusing herself.

She then headed to a nearby corner.

All sat awkwardly (or at least that was how Nathanael felt it to be).

What do you mean she's crying?, he heard from her.

Moments later and the girl marched back to them.

Sorry. But I have to go.

I have to go too.

Everyone's eyes stared at him, mostly due to his abrupt and quickened pace in speaking. None of them picked on what he had just announced, thus forcing him to repeat himself.

I have to go out now too., he clarified., Don't want to keep my moms waiting (or finding out).

With that, the siren and his help grinned.

A limousine parked at the front of a chapel. From the vehicle, one of its windows fell, as a man with brown orbs scanned the area. He closed his eyes before opening them again.

This won't do., he commented. His tone sounding quite disappointed.

The driver nodded his head., Noted sir., And with that, they headed out, disappearing into the road ahead.

Message from the Author:

Alright everyone. First of, I apologize for the really long break. I had a bit of trouble with writing this one than I had initially expected. Again, I am indeed sincerely sorry for that. But, on another note, I've been thinking for a while and I've decided that in the next chapter I would do the more proper form of writing. If you have noticed, whenever I write in dialogues, I always italicized the words instead of doing "this". See, funny story. But it was actually due to a mistake on my part. I was so excited in writing my first story that I forgot to analyze on how other writers write. I know, how insane of me. I think that I've only realized this when I was on chapter 5? So in ways I was already far ahead. I thought can pull a Tolkien and do the whole "dwarf and dwarves" thing, but now I think that would just be too arrogant of me.

Also, final thing. The part of how the mare was defeated was actually inspired from Monster Allergy. To those that don't know it, its an Italian animated TV series based on the comic of the same name. It had a pretty good English Dub which where I'm from. I really loved that show back when I still a kid. In fact, this entire story also takes a ton of inspiration from it to the point where I'm actually wondering on how its title slipped my mind back when I was writing the list of shows in the Authors Note of chapter one. Guess I'm just that dumb. Anyway, have a nice day/night to all of you.