Written by: Jumper Prime
For Disclaimers see Chapter 1.
Last time on Guardians of Good: Matthew Sorenson is Mordecai Devilslayer, the man who helped Miguel rescue Charity from Hell and the Soldier of the Almighty mentioned in the prophecy. While Matthew was familiarizing himself with Harmony, Tabitha, Hecuba, and Diana set to work modifying the spell web Tabitha used to get at Grace two decades before so that it could be used to similarly breach the defenses around Charity. As soon as they had finished, Hecuba summoned a Shadow Demon and sent it to a pocket dimension to await Charity. Jessica had a vision of Charity in danger and Kay immediately raced to the location, but the warning came too late as Kay arrived just in time to be sucked into the pocket dimension along with Charity and Miguel. There they faced the Shadow Demon and quickly found that it was impossible for Kay to fight it, as all her blows simply passed through it while the Shadow Demon's blows were very effective, as Kay and Miguel tried desperately to fight it but failed. All seems lost for Charity.
Chapter 8: Strength from Within
Oh no! Jessica cried out as the events in the pocket dimension were playing out before her psychic senses They can't hurt it! They can't even touch it, but it can hurt them!
I feel so useless. Sheridan grumbled My magic could probably take that thing out, or at least slow it down, but I can't get in there, nor can I get them out!
I've got an idea. Luis said as he took out his cellular phone and dialed It's Luis. Put Reese on... Reese, it's Luis. We've got a problem. Charity, Kay, and Miguel have been sucked into some... pocket dimension or something. At least, that's what Jessica says. You're the one who found the info that got Charity and Miguel outta Hell, right? Well, I need you to get on the Net and find a spell for me, if you can.
A spell? Reese's surprised voice came over the phone What kinda spell? And who's gonna cast it?
Sheridan is. We need a spell that'll either get the kids out of that pocket dimension or get Sheridan in so she can then get them out from that end, and if you can, try to find a Druid spell that'll do that.
Why a Druid spell?
Because that's the sort of magic Sheridan knows and it'll probably be easier for her if it's like what she's used to.
I'll try, but the ancient Druids didn't write much down at all since they liked to depend on their near perfect memories. Wish me luck.
Well, she didn't learn from an ancient Druid but a modern one, so maybe along the way some of them started putting stuff on the Net.
Here goes nothing. Reese muttered as he logged onto the Internet via his Palm Pilot in the Youth Center. After about a minute, he came back on the line. Luis, we've got a problem.
What's wrong?
It's not gonna work. I did a search cross-referencing Druid magic and dimensional travel and I found a webpage saying that Druid magic is centered on nature and the Earth itself. It also says that because of that, Druid magic doesn't include traveling to other planes of existence. A Druid's powers will still work on other planes, but in order to get from here to there and back again, they need someone else to give them a ride.
OK, what about a spell from some other sort of magic. Maybe Sheridan can manage that. Magic is magic, right?
I thought of that, but I found another webpage that says it's not a good idea to mix magics. A Native-American shaman can't use gypsy spells, a Voodoo priest can't use spells from a Wizard's spellbook, and so on. It's like putting the wrong kind of fuel in your car, either it won't work at all or it could blow out the engine, in this case, Sheridan. I'm sorry, Luis. We're stuck.
Dammit! OK, new plan: Run down to the church and get Father Lonnigan. He was able to help when Charity was trapped in Hell, maybe he can help again. We're down on the docks. Luis gave Reese the address
Right! He was the one who told me where to find the info I used to make the Ladder of Lucifer. We'll be there as soon as we can.
Make it faster, Reese. From the sound of what Jessica's saying, Charity, Kay, and Miguel are in big trouble.
I'm on my way! Reese and Luis both hung up
My plan's a bust. Luis sighed Reese is going to get Father Lonnigan.
They won't get here in time. Jessica said in a flat tone as she continued to watch the events in the pocket dimension Their only hope is Charity, but her powers are still asleep so she can't do anything.
In the dark pocket dimension, things were not looking good for the teens. Nothing Kay or Miguel did had the slightest effect on the Shadow Demon while they were getting beaten up as they tried to keep it from hurting Charity.
Stupid insects! the Shadow Demon howled as Kay charged through its ethereal form with an attempted tackle Obviously it'll be easier to kill the golden-haired one if I neutralize these two first.
The Shadow Demon turned away from Charity and backhanded a charging Miguel to the ground before turning to knock Kay away as well. It stalked towards Kay and kicked her hard as she was getting back to her feet.
Hecuba cheered as she watched through the mirror in Tabitha's living room Beat her up good! Show her you don't cross Hecuba and not regret it! the vindictive witch smiled broadly as the Shadow Demon started to pummel Kay and Miguel Hey Tabitha, you got any popcorn around here? I got a serious case of munchies, like when I'm watching a good movie.
I don't know if that would be fair to Diana. Tabitha replied She can't put any popcorn in her mouth, or chew for that matter, without breaking her concentration and releasing the anti-shield spell, which would ruin the whole shebang.
I... do not... mind. Diana grunted out, still focused on the light construct that represented the spell she was responsible for maintaining
Well, alright then. Timmy! Some popcorn please. Tabitha called to her diminutive creation, who had been peeking from the doorway at the image in the mirror
Yes, Princess. Timmy responded glumly and started walking towards the kitchen
Hey, shorty. Hecuba greeted Timmy as he passed I thought you didn't want to watch Charity getting killed.
Timmy figured that if Tabby, Hecuba, and Diana were really gonna kill his sweet Charity this time, he shouldn't miss out on his last chance to see her when she's alive and beautiful. Timmy said sadly and continued on to the kitchen to get the popcorn
Charity's voice screamed from the mirror Leave them alone!
And why should I? the Shadow Demon asked You'll blithely let me kill you? Sorry, I'm going to kill you regardless of any attempted interference and these two are an unexpected bonus.
You monster! Miguel snarled angrily as he ran up and tried to grab the Shadow Demon in a bearhug.
The demon took no notice of the attempt as Miguel's arms passed through its body, and delivered a punch to the gut that bent Miguel over and then brought its solid-yet-not-solid knee up into his face, sending the valiant young man to the ground in pain
This girl's blood has the same general scent as yours, and she is stronger than a human should be. the demon said to Charity in a conversational tone Your whole family must have the power my mistress fears. After I am done with you, your beloved, and your... cousin, I believe she is, I will go forth and destroy the remainder of your bloodline.
Charity gasped in horror
I will take them one by one. Their deaths shall be so delicious.
Jessica... Aunt Grace...
In this day and age they will not know the power they have deep within, and so they will be easy prey, as you are.
In her living room, Tabitha's face took on a look of concern.
What is that idiot doing gloating? she frowned We told him to finish her quickly!
We've got bigger problems than that. Hecuba groaned as Timmy walked back into the living room carrying a bowl of popcorn The image in the mirror showed that, as the Shadow Demon continued to gloat, Charity was illuminated by a dim white glow, which was slowly growing in intensity.
Oh no! It looks like she's about to manifest!
Timmy said as his face took on a hopeful look
It means her powers are about to get switched on. Hecuba, tell the demon to kill her now!
I'm on it! No way I'm letting that brat get away again. Hecuba responded as a small crystal ball appeared in her hand Yo, demon! she shouted into it Stop wasting time and kill that brat now! She's about to manifest and when she does, she'll roast you like a prize goose! The demon showed no sign of having heard Hecuba's command, continuing to gloat and kicking the downed Kay and Miguel.
Diana grunted as the light construct started to vibrate, representing stress on the spell that was the linchpin of the whole plan
This isn't my fault, something's stopping him from hearing me. As Hecuba spoke, the mirror momentarily showed another image superimposed over the events of the pocket dimension: A young girl in a white dress, surrounded by a bright aura.
Oh no! Tabitha grimaced It's that blasted angel!
Not again! She must buy her monkey wrenches wholesale with all the ones she keeps throwing into our plans!
In the pocket dimension, the Shadow Demon hadn't noticed Charity's growing glow and continued to gloat.
First the girl, then the boy, and then it will be your turn. The Shadow Demon chortled as it raised its foot in the air and poised it above Kay's head, the teenage girl reeling in pain and unable to defend herself. Say goodbye.
Charity screamed and the dark dimension was lit by bright light
The demon turned towards Charity as its beautiful dark dimension was filled with light
I won't let you hurt them anymore!
Charity's hair was behaving as though a strong wind was blowing, although there was none, only the white light that was coming from her body. Her hands were enveloped by light as though she were holding two miniature suns. In Tabitha's living room, the witches were shielding their eyes from the light now pouring from the magic mirror.
Timmy breathed in awe
If that's not a full-on manifestation, I don't know what is. Tabitha said
Guess I'm not gonna be getting back my deposit on that Shadow Demon. Hecuba groused
Diana said nothing, too focused on maintaining the anti-shield spell, which was now being strained to its limit, signified by the light construct in front of her vibrating like crazy and emitting a sound much like ringing crystal. Beads of sweat were visible on the younger witch's forehead but she refused to simply submit to defeat. In the pocket dimension, Charity raised her glowing hands towards the Shadow Demon.
No more. the pure-hearted girl said coldly My mother's death. The times that pendant took control of me and tried to force me to kill those I loved. When Hecuba threw me into Hell. And now this. Every time, I've been a doormat, letting evil walk all over me. If being a doormat for evil means the ones I love get hurt, then I say NO MORE!
A blast of white light shot from Charity's hands and lanced through the Shadow Demon, causing it to howl in pain. Charity immediately fired another burst of power, driving it back and away from Kay and Miguel. A third blast of light and the demon was literally falling apart, pieces of its ethereal body breaking off and blowing away. A large globe of light gathered around Charity's outstretched hands and, with a yell, she unleashed a massive beam of holy energy that completely enveloped what was left of the Shadow Demon. Its silhouette was visible in the beam for a few seconds as it let out an inhuman scream, and then the creature of darkness disintegrated, the beam cutting off right after that.
Charity, that was amazing! Miguel said as he got to his feet, favoring his left side
So tired... Charity whispered, her bright aura growing dim but not quite going out, and suddenly swooned.
Miguel managed to catch her before she fell
Watch it, Miguel. Kay cautioned as she gingerly got to her feet I don't think the demon's dead.
Are you kidding? You saw Charity blast it, there was nothing left!
Then why're we still here? Shouldn't we have snapped back to the real world when the demon got dusted?
Meanwhile, in Tabitha's living room, the light construct emitted a high pitched shriek and exploded in Diana's hands at the moment the Shadow Demon was destroyed. The younger witch was thrown backwards and landed hard on the floor.
Yay Charity! Timmy cheered, not yet noticing what had happened to Diana
Diana, are you alright? Tabitha asked as she bent over the teenager Speak to me.
Timmy stopped his cheering when he heard Tabitha ask Diana if she was alright What happened?
Ugh... Backlash... Diana groaned, putting a hand to her head
How're you feeling, dearie? Tabitha asked as she and Timmy helped the younger witch sit up
Uhh. Glad that I handled the modification of the energy-modulation aspect of the spell web and not Hecuba. Otherwise, I'd be a babbling ninny now.
And what's THAT supposed to mean? Hecuba frowned at Diana
Only that I've seen your work and it's very sloppy.
Now wait just a second there, brat!
Tabby, why would Diana be a babbling ninny if Hecuba had done that part of the spell? Timmy asked as Diana and Hecuba argued
Well Tim-Tim, that's actually the worst case-scenario. Tabitha answered Diana doesn't think too highly of Hecuba's skills, for obvious reasons. She doesn't think Hecuba would have made that part of the spell robust enough to handle the backlash.
Think of it as a power surge that happened when the spell was shattered by Charity. Any decent witch builds safeties into their more complex spells so if something goes wrong, the safeties will act like a surge protector works on a computer and give them a measure of protection against the backlash. That way, their grey matter won't get cooked.
I'm getting real tired of a rookie trying to tell me I don't know how to do my job! Hecuba snarled
Young I may be, but I am no rookie! Diana countered And an incompetent like you has no basis on which to make any such determination!
Ladies! Ladies! Enough! Tabitha finally intervened, her explanation to Timmy finished If you would direct your attention to the mirror, you might notice that the brats seem to still be trapped in the pocket dimension.
Inside the pocket dimension, Kay was looking around for any sign of the Shadow Demon's survival while Miguel gingerly lowered Charity's still glowing body to the ground.
Kay, if that thing had survived Charity's blast, why hasn't it come after us again? Miguel argued
I got it. Charity whispered, her eyes fluttering open I know I did. Most of the evil I felt is gone now. With Miguel's support, Charity managed to get back to her feet, her fatigue now starting to lift. But Kay's right. Most evil spells are broken when their caster dies.
Now, which of you was stupid enough to think I was dead? Hecuba's voice cackled from nowhere You think that idiot demon could cook up this nice little pocket dimension and suck you all into it?
Show yourself Hecuba! Kay shouted angrily
Why? So Miguel's glow-in-the-dark girlfriend can try to roast me? Sorry to disappoint you, but there's no point to me porting in there right now. I hope you're not afraid of the dark, because even though Charity managed to kill the Shadow Demon I sent after you, you're still stuck there. You should last a few days before you die of hunger and thirst. Actually, that should read before Charity and Miguel die of thirst. Kay, you'll probably last longer than those two, and when they're dead and you're too weak to move, on the edge of death, I'll pop in and rip out your soul! Then I'll take your body back to my lair, get it healthy again, and you'll be my obedient little enforcer to keep all my mortal subjects in line. How do you like the sound of that?
It'll never happen! I'll never obey you! And we WILL get out of here!
And how do you plan to do that? Miguel hasn't got any powers, you're just a Buffy wannabe, and even if Charity's powers did include teleporting, which I seriously doubt, she's too tired and inexperienced to even try.
In Tabitha's living room, Hecuba plopped down on the couch and grabbed a handful of popcorn while Tabitha, Timmy, and Diana watched the mirror closely.
Poor Charity and Kay and Miguel. Timmy sighed Timmy thinks Tabby and Diana should let them out.
Why should we do that, little one? Diana asked
Well, with the spell zapped, you can't really hurt Charity anyway, so why make them suffer like that?
Precisely the reason NOT to let them out, dollface. Tabitha said Another Shadow Demon would be useless, but if they just die of thirst in there, we win. There's no food or water there, anyway. Right Hecuba?
Hecuba mumbled around a mouthful of popcorn
It would be a total waste to just let them out when, with a little patience, we can watch them die in suffering. However, there's one possible glitch.
What kind of glitch, Aunt Tabitha? Diana asked with a look of concern on her face
In addition to being a seer, Jessica is also a portalsmith. She may be able to lock onto them and get them out. Her seer abilities are already active, a few days might be all the time she needs to figure out how to access her other power.
Hecuba, can you vary the geometry of the pocket dimension?
Hecuba swallowed her popcorn and answered You mean to crush them?
I suppose I could.
Then I suggest you do so.
No no no. Kay would die too quick that way. I wouldn't be able to save her to keep as my soulless slave, even grabbing her soul in time would be iffy. All the negative energy in the pocket dimension might encourage it to detach and scoot up to heaven as soon as she dies.
I can tell why Aunt Tabitha locked you in that cave for three centuries. First your Shadow Demon fouls up, and now you don't want to use the most expedient method of eliminating Charity because it will prevent you from taking a trophy from Kay. You seem slightly obsessed with the girl.
Hey! I didn't pick the specific Shadow Demon myself, all I did was send a request to the boss Shadow Demon in the shadow realm. It's not my fault he sent his idiot nephew! And as for Kay, why shouldn't I take a trophy or two from her? She ruined two of my plans!
That doesn't sound very hard, considering the average quality of your plans.
Why you little-!
Time out! Tabitha got between the two arguing witches, yet again You know, I am getting rather tired of acting as referee between you two. Hecuba, collapse the pocket dimension around those brats. We can't risk giving Jessica time to figure out how to use her planar abilities in order to save those brats from a slow death. If Charity survives, we're back to square one, yet again. I doubt our friends' in the basement will be too happy with us if we goof off and Charity survives as a result.
Alright, alright. Geez, seems like I'm not allowed to have any fun anymore.
Oh, you're still allowed to have fun, you just have to make sure it doesn't interfere with achieving our goals.
Well, I suppose making holy pancakes is fun. Hecuba shrugged and started to cast a spell Place of darkness now open wide, let your walls begin to slide. Close in around that holy brat, squeeze together and crush her flat!
In the pocket dimension, Charity, Kay, and Miguel looked up as they heard a grinding sound from all around them and the space around them seemed to somehow be getting smaller.
Is it my imagination, or is this place getting smaller? Miguel asked nervously
I don't think it's your imagination. Kay answered
I'm sensing more evil. Charity said I think Hecuba's decided to take the direct approach, after all.
Terrific. We're in a garbage masher, but I doubt there's an R2-D2 to shut this one down. Charity, how about using those powers of yours to blast us a way out of here?
I don't think that'll work. It's not like blowing a hole in a wall. It's like we're in a tiny universe. There's nothing on the other side of the walls. But, maybe I can slow them down a little.
Charity spread her arms out to either side, palms facing the walls' and a beam of white light shot from each, abruptly halting several yards away, the air around the terminus of each beam shimmering a little, betraying the locations of the walls as the beams slowly shortened, signifying the approach of the walls.
In Tabitha's living room, effort was visible on Hecuba's face as she worked to overcome the force of Charity's beams. At that same time, Jessica's face took on a look of horror as she saw what was happening.
Oh no... she moaned
What's wrong? Sheridan asked I thought you said Charity destroyed the demon? Were you wrong?
No, the demon is well and truly dead. But now the walls are closing in on them. Charity's trying to slow them down with her powers, but eventually they'll be crushed!
What could be taking Reese and Father Lonnigan so long to get here? Luis growled in frustration at not being able to do anything
Never fear, the God Squad's here! Reese called out as he and Father Lonnigan came into sight, followed close behind by Matthew
It's about time... Who's that guy?
Father Lonnigan insisted that we bring him along. Said he might be able to help.
The name's Matthew, Matthew quickly introduced himself We can do proper introductions later. Now, let's see here... Matthew pulled out the same circular piece of crystal he had used to look at the church doors earlier and looked through it. Whoa! That is one gnarly spell. Looks like a planar shift interwoven with some sort of customized spell I've never seen before.
The second spell neutralized a shield that was protecting Charity. Jessica said Can you reverse the other one? The walls are closing in on them.
Gimmie half an hour or so, not counting the time I need to get some gear from my place, and I can open a gate to the pocket dimension.
You've got five minutes. Maybe less if Charity's strength gives out, which it looks like is pretty possible.
My powers are primarily combat-oriented. If I'm to open any sort of dimensional gate, I need time. Even if I had everything I needed right here, even if I rushed through the spell and cut every dangerous corner, it'd take me at least fifteen minutes and even then, the gate would be very unstable, liable to slam shut and cut someone coming through in half.
You can't see what I'm seeing. In less than five minutes, they'll be squashed flat!
I can't change the laws of magic! Fifteen minutes is the absolute minimum time I need to cast a portal like that, it would be too dangerous to use for a rescue, and I don't even have the needed components here!
Father, is there anything you can do in the time we have? Sheridan asked the blind priest
I'm sorry child, Father Lonnigan said in an apologetic tone Closing portals to Hell is one thing, but opening portals to pocket dimensions wasn't even touched upon in the seminary. I wouldn't know where to start.
There's gotta be a way to save them! Jessica said with anguish, able to only watch helplessly as the boundaries of the pocket dimension quickly shrank If I could open a portal, I would!
As Jessica said those words, the faint white glow in her eyes changed to a bright blue glow. Her hands were also surrounded by a glow of the same shade of blue. Without knowing why, Jessica moved her hands so they seemed to almost be in contact with the knot of fading energy that, in her sight, represented the spell that had whisked Charity, Kay, and Miguel away. Blue energy poured from her hands into the spell remnant and a small blue whirlpool began to form in front of her, slowly growing in size.
What's that? Reese asked nervously as he saw the whirlpool forming
Jessica! Watch out! Luis cried out as he started to rush forward to pull Jessica away from it
Matthew grabbed Luis to stop him from interrupting Jessica She's creating a portal. If you interrupt her, it could be the difference between getting those guys out and them getting squished!
As the whirlpool grew, the witches became aware something was wrong when the image in Tabitha's mirror took on a bluish tinge.
Hey kid, Hecuba mumbled around a mouthful of popcorn and then swallowed What's with the reception? The picture's getting messed up and my favorite part is coming up.
There's some sort of interference. Diana answered, focusing her mind on the spell that transmitted the image Another energy thread crossing the one carrying the image... Dammit! It's a portal! Someone's opening a portal to the pocket dimension!
Blast it! Tabitha cursed Just when we think we've got those goody-goods beat, they pull another rabbit out of their hat!
Bugs isn't out of the bonnet yet. Hecuba said The portal hasn't punched through into the dimension yet. There's still a chance those brats'll get crushed.
From your mouth to the Devil's ears.
In the pocket dimension, Charity was sweating from the effort of trying to hold back the walls of the dimension with her newly awakened powers. The beams coming from each of her palms flickered and went out as she sank to her knees.
No good... she whispered I'm too weak.
You tried, Charity. Miguel said as he tenderly placed his arms around his girlfriend
We're going to get crushed because I wasn't strong enough. Charity shed a tear
We don't know how powerful Hecuba really is. And we don't know how much of your power you used up killing the demon.
Well, we know one thing. Kay declared nervously In about a minute, we're all gonna be a lot thinner.
As the shimmering walls closed in on the three teens, all seemed lost, but suddenly a point of blue light blossomed into being and quickly expanded into a swirling vortex. All three looked up and stared as it continued to grow.
What is that? Miguel wondered
Charity said with a glimmer of hope in her eyes The energy in it is so pure, it can't be anything but.
As the vortex grew big enough for a human to pass through, the center began to widen, revealing daylight on the other side. In mere seconds, the blue swirling light had been pushed to the outermost edge, framing a view of the Harmony docks as Jessica stepped away from the entrance
Jessica called through the portal Jump through! This isn't as easy as it looks!
The teens needed no further encouragement. Miguel pulled Charity to her feet and they jumped through the portal hand in hand, with Kay right on their heels. A few moments after the three teens were clear of the portal, it collapsed into a point of blue light and vanished.
Wow! I did... it... Jessica said as the blue glow faded from her eyes and hands and then she suddenly drooped as if suffering from extreme fatigue and started to collapse
I gotcha Jess! Reese exclaimed as he caught her
Y'know, I think I'm seeing a pattern here. Luis remarked After Sheridan saved us from falling off the cliff with her magic, she collapsed like Jessica just did.
And Charity did too, right after she killed the demon. Miguel added
Only to be expected, Matthew commented The first time a person uses magic, it puts a strain on their body that's different from any other thing they've ever done before. It's like exercising. The first time you do it, you're totally wiped out, but it becomes easier the more you do it.
You sound like you know a lot about this stuff. Miguel observed Who are you? Your voice sounds familiar.
My name's Matthew Sorenson, but you've met me previously as Mordecai Devilslayer, a soldier of the Almighty.
Reese, Jessica, Kay, Charity, and Miguel were dumbfounded at this statement. Luis and Sheridan were simply puzzled. Father Lonnigan, of course, already knew from their earlier conversation and so was not surprised. The reactions of the witches, watching the scene on the mirror, was quite different.
Not another one! Tabitha grumbled as the room was filled with unearthly roaring from the basement It's like they're being fired out of a machine gun! Not 24 hours after those brats learn about the prophecy, seven of the eight Guardians of Good are together! We probably don't have much time before the prophecy is completed.
All that remains is the one who combines alchemy with the magic of machines.' Diana noted
Y'know what that sounds like? Hecuba said A Neo-Alchemist. Maybe we've still got a chance after all. Neo-Alchemy's a pipedream, it just can't be done.
For once, I believe I am in agreement with Hecuba. I myself have made several attempts at combining magic and science, and all my attempts have been failures. No, that's not quite true. I had one success, but I was unable to duplicate it later, no matter how hard I tried.
What was your one success? Tabitha asked in an interested tone
The Y2K bug, and I suppose it was only technically a success. No air disasters, no massive blackouts, no erased bank accounts, no violent riots. Just a few handheld GPS receivers and a few other sundry novelties knocked out of whack, plus some mild hysteria.
Let Timmy get this straight, Neo-Alchemy is what you get when you put magic and technology together? Timmy asked
That's right, little one.
Then Timmy thinks we might have a problem, cuz Timmy thinks he's seen something like that before, and so have Tabby and Hecuba.
What're you talking about, rag face? Hecuba was puzzled
A couple of days ago. The night Hecuba threw Timmy's sweet Charity into Hell. Reese had some sorta gizmo that woulda sucked Hecuba up like a vacuum cleaner if Kay hadn't dumped soda on it.
Oh my Devil... The little rugrat's right. That geek had some sorta contraption that looked like it was straight outta Ghostbusters and almost sucked me in while I was in energy form, a little before I tossed Charity through the portal I cooked up in her closet. If I hadn't gotten Kay to sabotage it with a little soda, I mighta ended up in some sorta containment unit.
This Reese cannot be the one in the prophecy. Diana declared If he was, we would have already felt the pulse of holy energy that will surely occur when all the Guardians of Good come together.
Unless they have to be aware he's one of the Guardians of Good for the prophecy to truly be completed. Tabitha mused
Then let's get rid of him and those brats before they figure it out. Hecuba suggested
Diana spat We're both low on energy and we have little practical knowledge of Charity's and Sheridan's powers. We have no knowledge at all of this Matthew Sorenson. We should wait until we are both back to full power before taking direct action against them.
And in the meantime, Charity gets to rest, recuperate, and figure out what her powers can and can't do! We should take her out now!
You both have valid points, Tabitha admitted I don't think either of you has enough power left to go head-to-head with Charity, Sheridan, AND this Matthew Sorenson. We know little to nothing about their powers. We don't know how much of Charity's potential has been unlocked by her manifestation, we have no idea whatsoever as to the nature or limits of Sheridan's powers, and all we know about Matthew Sorenson is that he's a soldier of the Almighty. Probably one of those Army of the Lord bozos. He could be anything from a common foot soldier to an Ultima Paladin or anywhere in between.
On the other hand, we don't want pasty face and the others getting too much time to relax. I think I have an idea that should run the Guardians of Good a bit ragged and at the same time give us some idea of their capabilities. Now where did I put that thing? Tabitha crossed the room to the bookcase and started rummaging around, looking for something.
What are you looking for, Aunt Tabitha? Diana asked in an interested tone
The key element for this little plan. Aha! Tabitha withdrew a small box from behind a few books. Once those brats get home, you, Diana, will go over to the Bennett house. Last night, I asked Grace if she could get her girls to spend some time with my poor orphan niece who doesn't know a soul in Harmony. You'll take advantage of that little fabrication and ask to be shown around town. They'll invariably take you to the Youth Center and when you get there, you'll plant this somewhere in there. Tabitha opened the box and took out a gold triangle with mystic symbols on it and a square depression in the center. She handed the talisman to Diana and then withdrew a silver square that looked like it would fit perfectly into the depression. The Youth Center is located right smack on top of a ley line nexus. When you get there, fit this into place on that talisman, Tabitha handed the silver square to Diana And hide it somewhere in there. It'll start charging itself up from the ley line energy and when it hits full charge, it'll go active.
What exactly is that thing? Hecuba asked
A spirit summoning talisman. When it turns itself on, it'll start summoning malicious spirits to wreak havoc. Those goody-goods will go in to make like the Ghostbusters and we will watch their every action, learning the parameters of their powers, looking for weaknesses, everything we need to plan our attack.
Very clever, Aunt Tabitha. Diana smiled The talisman runs off the power from the ley lines, allowing us make our enemies expend energy without wasting any of our own.
Yes, I have my moments.
You should probably whip up a double-thick masking spell for yourself kid. Hecuba said to Diana It'll cost extra, but you sure don't want Charity, Jessica, or anyone else seeing the witch within.
Why Hecuba, you surprise me. Tabitha declared And here I thought you hated her.
I do. Problem is, with Charity, Kay, and Jessica all fully awake, plus the unknowns of Sheridan and this Matthew guy, I'm probably gonna need backup to take them all down. You and her are able to get in close, even weasel info out of them that the best scrying wouldn't be able to get, plus this Plant a lit powder keg under their chairs' bit we're about to kick off. If she gets exposed, you get exposed too and neither of you would be able to do the Jane Bond thing anymore. Then it'd be down to a straight fight between the two sides and I don't wanna find out right now if me and the kid alone can beat the gathered Guardians of Good.
Well, whatever the reason, you've got the right idea. Maintaining our covers is important at this stage of the game. Diana, perhaps I should loan you my cloaking ring until you're back to full charge? Then you wouldn't need to spend precious power on a masking spell.
No thank you, Aunt Tabitha. Diana declined politely Since you are still without your powers, that ring is your only method of keeping your evil nature secret from those who know how to see it. Even were you to stay in the house, there would still be the chance of Jessica or Charity coming over for some reason. While my energy reserves are rather low right now, I still have enough to cast a masking spell to hide my own nature. I cannot endanger you for no reason.
If you say so, dearie, it's your power reserves you're tapping.
At the same time that the witches were discussing their plans, the Guardians of Good were getting acquainted with their newest member.
You're really Mordecai Devilslayer? Miguel asked
Indeed, I am. Matthew answered
I never got a chance to thank you for helping Miguel save me from Hell. Charity said Thank you.
All part of the job. I'm just glad I was there to help. And since we're all teammates now, I'll likely be helping you more in the near future, and you me as well, no doubt.
If you are who you say you are, it'll be good to have you on the team. Kay stated in a suspicious tone
I think I know how to prove who I am. Miguel, I hope you haven't lost my dagger.
What dagger? Luis asked
Right before we attacked the demons holding Charity, Mordecai, or Matthew, or whatever he calls himself, he handed me a dagger so I could be more effective against the demons. Miguel explained After all the demons were dead, I just tucked it into my belt and forgot about it, I was in such a rush to make sure Charity was alright. Sorry man.
It was as much my fault as yours. Matthew said I should've asked for it back when the Ladder of Lucifer dropped down in front of us but I forgot you never gave it back, too. It wasn't until Jacob mentioned my missing dagger that I remembered.
Who's Jacob? Kay asked
Alfred to my Batman. He takes care of the basic care and maintenance on my weapons and armor, plus other sundry tasks that make my life much easier. We've got a lot more to talk about, but not here. No shielding to keep us from being spied upon with magic. Here, Matthew took out a sheaf of cards and handed out one to each of those present, except Father Lonnigan. When you're all feeling rested, come on over and I'll explain about the nature of good and evil, and our role in keeping evil under control. See you guys again soon.
Matthew walked off, leaving the everyone except Father Lonnigan standing dumbfounded. Since Jessica and Charity were both quite tired from using their powers, everyone decided to go home, planning to go see Matthew the next day. Miguel and Reese, walked Charity, Kay, and Jessica to their front door and, Miguel giving Charity a kiss goodbye and Kay deftly avoiding one from Reese. Next door, Tabitha and Diana were watching and saw that the time was right to start their plan.
Alright, the brats are home. Tabitha announced as she picked up Timmy Enact your masking spell and let's get started. You have the two halves of the talisman, right?
Yes, Aunt Tabitha. Diana said as she got up off the couch where she had been resting and made a magical gesture with her hands It's in my pants pockets. I am ready.
Yes, sooner we get this going, the sooner it'll end and the sooner you'll be able to cancel your spell. C'mon.
Tabitha and Diana exited Tabitha's house and walked to the Bennett house and knocked on the front door, which was quickly answered by Kay.
Hi Tabitha. Kay greeted her neighbor Who's this?
Oh, hello dearie. Tabitha answered jovially Your mother didn't tell you? This is my niece, Diana.
Oh yeah, Mom mentioned her last night. Kay turned to Diana I'm sorry about your folks.
Thank you, Diana replied I'm trying to get through it by remembering the good times I shared with my parents.
I was thinking that Diana could use a tour of her new home town, Tabitha said If it's not too much trouble...
Well, Charity and Jess are pretty wiped, Kay answered But I think I could handle giving a tour.
Are they alright? It's rather early in the day for them to be so tired.
Uhh, they're not sick or anything. Miguel took Charity for a walk in the woods and I guess he wore her out. Jessica was helping out at the Youth Center today and you know how tiring taking care of little kids can be.
Well, not from personal experience, but I understand.
C'mon Diana, I'll give you the whirlwind tour of Harmony.
Kay closed the door behind her as she led Diana away from the house while Tabitha snickered unnoticed and walked back to her own house. Kay took Diana on a tour of Harmony, pointing out landmarks and hangouts. When they went inside the Youth Center, Kay did not notice when Diana took out the two pieces of the talisman, fitted them together, and then slipped it between some books on a shelf. As the tour continued out of the Youth Center, Diana smiled, not in enjoyment of her new hometown, but in glee over the havoc soon to be wrought when the talisman became active and drew all manner of evil spirits to the Youth Center.
End of Chapter 8
Whew! This one took quite a while but I think it's worth it. Sorry the cliffhanger wasn't up to my usual standards of peril, but I figured our heroes deserved a break for once. Another break I wouldn't mind seeing would be the breaking of the bones of the mastermind of the tragedy which occurred this past week. Diana, Hecuba, and Tabitha would probably want to shake the guy's hand, but I would rather just shake the guy around until his brains turned into guacamole. Some may say the madmen who participated in turning several crowded airliners into kamikaze planes were religious zealots or something like that, but an expert on TV the other day said the religion of Islam would never condone what these murderers did. Possibly the only reason the fourth plane did not crash into a populated area was because some passengers on that one were apparently talking on their cellphones, heard about the 3 other crashes, and bravely chose to wrest control of the plane from the hijackers rather than simply die like sheep. I salute those brave souls and am sorry they only partially succeeded, saving however many people were at the terrorists' intended target, but unable to save themselves. Have a good time up in Heaven, you guys.