Chapter 3
Some days had passed since the Sumono ball, and it was now the following Saturday; the Saturday Chikorai would, technically speaking, go on his second date with Dixie.
It was about five in the evening, and Chikorai stood before a tall mirror, examining his hair, and straightening out his suit.
I absolutely cannot screw this up!, he thought, licking his hand to smooth out his hair. I've already made a good impression on Dixie. Now, her father on the other hand. I've engaged in light conversation with him, but nothing so personal as eating dinner with the man. I've got to look my spiffiest!
He smiled winningly into the mirror. "Well, at least I look refined."
Suddenly Benji came bounding into the room, nearly knocking him over.
Chikorai regained his balance, a slight look of annoyance playing his face. "What are you in such a hurry for?"
Benji beamed gleefully, "I'm going with you to Dixie Collins house! You might embarrass yourself in front of her, and I just can't miss something like that!"
Chikorai's jaw dropped. "You must be crazy if you think I'm taking you with me! I wouldn't embarrass me, you would! And besides that, look at you you're absolutely filthy!"
"Oh, I was going to change that! No worries Ol' Pal. And I won't embarrass you in front of them, you can do that just fine all by yourself.", he grinned.
Chikorai's temper simmered, "Aw, alright, you can come, but you have to promise me you'll act like a normal human being."
He appeared puzzled, "Since when I have not acted like a human being?"
"Well, gee, for starters, you practice meditating in our chicken house."
A sweat drop formed on the side of Benji's head, "Oh, yeah. that."
"So, you promise to act, or at least try to act normal?"
"Of course! You have my word! I'd never betray my best friend."
Chikorai smiled with relief, "Thanks Benji, that means a lot to me."
Benji waved disgustingly, "Ah, C'mon! Don't get all mushy on me! Save a little of that for Dixie."
He laughed lightly, "Alright, alright, now, lets get going! We wouldn't want to be late for dinner. Oh, yes, and you go get changed!"
Benji saluted, "Yes sir, Mr. Chikorai sir!"
Chikorai headed down the stairs quickly, Benji skipping along behind him singing, " Food! Food! Wonderful food! Can't ever get enough foooooood!!!"
"Benji! I said for you to act normal!"
He recoiled sheepishly, "Oh, yes, yes, sorry."
***************************************
After finally getting Benji to look nice, Chikorai and he headed to Dixie's in a horse drawn carriage. The fine young gentlemen arrived and used the door knocker.
Chikorai waited anxiously. No doubt her father would answer the door. He just had to make a good impression. He muttered under his breath. "What am I gonna do? What am I gonna do? First impression, first impression!"
Benji saw the worry in his friend's eyes. "Aw, don't sweat it, just be yourself. From what I hear Mr. Stone's a real laidback guy, so I'm sure there's nothing to worry about."
Suddenly the door swung open and hit the wall with a bang, as a short middle-aged man stood there laughing heartily. He held his arms wide open and hugged Chikorai tightly.
"Ah! I'm so glad you came!"
Mr. Stone released him and called to Dixie ( a little too loudly), "Dixie! Your future husband is here!"
Benji died laughing.
Chikorai's face turned red and he nearly hit the floor. Future WHAT??? Apparently Benji was right. Dixie's father was laid back.a little too laid back.
Dixie descended down the stairs, anger and embarrassment filling her face. "Father! You promised not to embarrass me! I swear next time you do that I'm going to hang you by your toes and beat you with a stick!"
She spotted Chikorai and covered her mouth embarrassingly.
Her father laughed merrily, and pushed her towards Chikorai. "Well, at least tell the good fellow hi!"
"Um.Hi.", she said weakly, regretting not to have told him about her maniac dad beforehand.
"Hi.", he retorted with the same tone.
A moment or two passed by in silence. Mr. Stone decided to speak. "Well, come on then! What, are you going to sit and stare at each other all day, or are we gonna eat?"
"Oh, yes, yes, the food! Sorry.", replied Chikorai and Dixie in unison.
Benji snickered as he followed them into the house. This dinner was going to be hilarious.
Dixie and her father sat at the ends of the elaborate table, Chikorai took a seat next to Dixie, and Benji next to Chikorai. The food being served tonight was lemon berjap, a chicken like bird the size of a turkey, with an exquisite taste; numerous vegetables were served as well.
Mr. Stone laid his napkin in his lap and said grace, then proceeded to ask his guests a few questions. "Well, Chikorai I know a little about you, but your friend on the other hand.May I ask your name sir?"
His face lit up for having a chance in the spotlight. "It's Benji Sakka."
"And who/what are you in relation to Chikorai?"
"I am his best friend, and farm aid for his father. I reside in their house, and am 'like one of the family'" ,he grinned.
"And what of your parents Benji?"
The question seemed touchy to him. " I was orphaned during battle with the Crawgons, in which my parents were murdered. I was then discovered by Chikorai's family. They raised me, and for that I owe them my eternal gratitude.", he smiled.
Mr. Stone nodded understandingly, "Yes, the Sakka's are a very kind family." "And now some questions for you young man."
Chikorai suddenly felt hot in the room. He had to choose his words carefully.
Dixie braced herself, there was no telling what her father might say!
Mr. Stone took a deep breath. This was the moment of truth. "Would you pass the salt, these greens are awfully bland?"
Chikorai and Dixie fell out of their chairs, and quickly brought themselves back to their seats.
He cocked an eyebrow at them. "No need to be so alarmed about salt, my word!"
Chikorai passed the salt shakily. "Sorry sir. You just surprised me is all."
Benji and Mr. Stone laughed loudly, "Surprised?", said Dixie's father, "You acted as if I had just pulled a gun out on you!" They laughed even harder.
"Father! You're embarrassing me!"
The two were silent. "Oh, yes, sorry dear."
She sighed ruefully, maybe next time her and Chikorai should take a walk in the park instead.
Stone cleared his throat a tad, "Ahem, um, on to more serious matters. Chikorai, have you any knowledge of politics?"
" A little.", he replied, his voice echoing with uncertainty. Politics wasn't something he paid much attention to, unless it directly involved him, but Mr. Stone, being in the higher position of power that he was, had to learn of such things.
"Ah, very good my boy!", he clasped his hands pleasingly, "As you probably know, the Crawgons have been buzzing about perhaps making a peace treaty with the Doggons, any views on that?"
Chikorai gripped his seat anxiously. Was Dixie's father trying to start a debate with him? No, no, he wasn't ready for this! Not now! He wondered what would be Mr. Stone's take on things, when suddenly he had an idea!
"Um, well, ", Chikorai started, " I would suppose a peace treaty would indeed be nice.however, the Crawgons in their deceitful ways would loose their temper, or disagree with us on something along the way, and we'd simply be back to square one. So, in short, I believe a treaty won't solve anything, only complete victory over their empire would ever grant something permanent. And even then, there would be those who would rebel." He added quickly, "But that is only my opinion sir, and it doesn't count for much."
Mr. Stone applauded Chikorai's statement. "I'm impressed! You're very witty, just as a farm boy should be.", he beamed.
Dixie smiled at her love, also impressed by his words, though he thought them to be nothing more than a small, and insignificant idea.
The night carried on as they made jokes, and told stories to one another throughout the rest of the meal. Each finishing with bright smiles of satisfaction upon their faces. Mr. Stone stood from the table and bid Chikorai, and Benji goodnight, and told them that he hoped to see them back soon. Marianna had begun to clear the plates from the table, as the remaining three walked merrily to the door.
On the way, Benji wondered whether he should step aside, or stand with Chikorai and Dixie. After all, he wouldn't want to be preventing a good night kiss, so he decided to go ahead and get inside the carriage awaiting them outside. "Don't get too wild now you two!", said Benji, before getting into the carriage. Chikorai and Dixie glanced at each other blushingly.
Dixie closed the mansion door, and looked into the dark-brown eyes she held so dear with a smile. Chikorai returned the gesture affectionately and pondered how long it should be before he kissed her, and had decided tonight, when the stars shone so brightly, and the moon glowed above, would be the perfect settings. In sudden nervousness he glanced toward the carriage to make sure his meddlesome friend wasn't watching, but by the time he turned back to look at Dixie, he felt the warm tenderness of her lips pressed against his. (AHA! Now who's in control ey?). Er, um, sorry.I get worked up about these things. Ahem, um, back to our story. An envelope of warmth and infatuation shot through him like a lightning bolt, just as the gentle touch of her kiss, and the security of her embrace left him oh, too soon, and he found himself staring back into her beautiful blue eyes. Chikorai was speechless, and at a loss of words. This was everything he had ever dreamed of and more.
Hugging him softly, Dixie quickly made her exit, and smiled at him lingeringly. "Goodniiiight.", she cooed, slowly pulling her door shut. The effect of her speedy exit had gone as planned. Chikorai was absolutely.bewildered.
The horses suddenly whinnied, and snapped Chikorai away from his confusion.
He gasped aloud, as sounds of shouting voices, that did not belong to Benji, nor, the driver, were heard next to the carriage.
Chikorai dashed towards the commotion. What's going on here?!
He saw Benji slowly backing away from the carriage, fear played clearly across his face, when suddenly the shape of a large black paw punched him straight in the face. Fear struck him as well, Crawgons??? But they aren't allowed on Doggon territory.unless someone of authority lead them across!, A horrifying thought struck him, "NO! He wouldn't!" Chikorai watched in horror as the robust creature picked up Benji and the driver, and hurled them headlong into the carriage.
The frightened youth ran towards them with great speed; but just before he could grab the carriage, one of two Crawgons clawed the horse's hind quarters. The terrified animal whinnied in pain and sent himself into an aimless gallop far beyond Chikorai's reach.
"Benji!!!", he yelped in desperation, tears beginning to trickle down his face.
Chikorai turned, and stared coldly at his country's sworn enemies. "Why did you do that?! I demand to know!"
The larger Crawgon, dressed in black clad armor, picked him up by his shirt collar. "Orders.", he hissed, "Orders from Jigoku!", he threw him to the dirt.
Chikorai quivered, as he tried to stand up. "J-Jigoku?! Nonsense! You only wanted to torment innocent people for your own sick pleasure!"
"Yes, tormenting the innocent is pleasureful.however, today we were sent here by orders."
"And what were your orders? Injure anyone you come in contact with?", he retorted angrily.
The smaller Crawgon laughed maliciously, "He really doesn't know does he?"
"Apparently not."
"What don't I know?", Chikorai snapped, finding the strength to stand to his full height.
"We didn't come to destroy whomever we wish.", said one.
"Oh, no.we came her for you.", said the other.
"Me?! But why would you want me? What have I done to receive the wrath of the Crawgons?"
They both laughed at uproariously, "Again this human doesn't know what he's done!"
"What an idiot!"
"Tell me!", Chikorai demanded.
"Well,", said the larger Crawgon, " Jigoku. and a friend. say that you are in the way. " "So, we are here to capture you."
Without further explanation they seized him by the arms and carried him to a Crawgon prison carriage not far from Dixie's house. Chikorai struggled and kicked the whole way. "HELP! Why are you doing this?! HELP! What have I done for my friends to be hurt as well? HELP!", he repeated. The Crawgons ignored his cries.
The smaller Crawgon released his grip, and unlocked the entrance to the prison box , while the other smashed Chikorai in the head, which knocked him unconscious, then threw him into the box, and locked it.
***************************************
By now the horses had traveled some distance from Dixie's house, and were just now beginning to slow down. The horse's scratched hind quarter caused him to limp painfully. The driver, and Benji both laid unconscious on the floor of the carriage, unaware of the events surrounding them.
"Ah. there they are, just I predicted.", said Jigoku, hiding in the nearby forest. He turned to look at the man who stood by his side. "Raiford!", he hissed.
"Yes?"
"Is everything prepared as I asked?"
"Yes, sir."
"Good.", he smiled hideously.
They were fixing to cross paths, when Jigoku abruptly leapt out in front of the beasts, his cloak whipping behind him.
The horses reared and whinnied at the sight, and surprise of such a monster. Must admit I would too if I saw something that ugly. (ick.)
Jigoku brought back his paw, and chanted, " Hi nemori.Kirikizu!" His paw began to waver as a burning red light formed in it, and was released as he thrust his arm towards them. An energy formed around the two creatures, and burst into a slow rain of red, fiery sparks.
Jigoku smiled pleasingly. "They should hold still for now.", he said, referring to their present state of sleep.
The demon walked to the carriage, his footsteps leaving behind charred grass. "Raiford, come."
He ran to him almost immediately, holding in his hands two bottles.
Jigoku opened the carriage door and stared happily at its two components. "Hand me the potions."
Raiford did as he was told, and he took the first potion and poured it into the mouth of Benji. When the last drop was gone, Raiford smiled evilly. "There, now he will be against that sniveling farm boy.correct?"
"Yes, this reversing potion shall cause him to think Chikorai is the cause of all this.the feeling of the man's betrayal makes me glad.", he paused, "But. if this man were to see Chikorai."
"Then what?", Raiford asked impatiently.
"Then it shall all come back to him. he shall remember what really happened."
He smiled conclusively, "Which is why we captured the brat. not only can we do as we wish with him, but we can also hide our secret."
"Ha, ha, you're getting smarter.I like that." "Now, on to the driver."
Jigoku pulled the cork from the second bottle, and poured it into the driver's pudgy mouth. He laughed deviously as the bottle emptied. "Now, not only will Chikorai be blamed for this accident.but also for the driver's murder!", he cackled. "This man should die as soon as the potion reaches his brain."
The two villains closed the carriage door, and shook hands, satisfied by their work.
Raiford cocked an eyebrow at the demon. "I am pleased by this half of our deal.now.about that special position of power you offered."
Jigoku tried not to snarl at the man's greediness. Had he no self-control he would have obliterated him then and there. However, he needed him now for higher, better purposes down the road. He would dispose of him soon enough, but for now he would decide to keep him.
"Yes.the position.", he paused to think, "I will send some of my servants to get you in the morning. Chikorai should already be imprisoned there, so when you meet you can do what you like with him. Mean while, I will kill- .oh dear, I mean, de-throne King Ganko. And you shall have your position."
Feeling the power of greed descend upon him, Raiford ventured to question the demon further. "And what of Dixie Collins?"
Jigoku grit his teeth. Was there no end to his avaricious babblings? "We will take care of that later!", he snapped.
The lord of the underworld, and the soon to be king of the Crawgons, abandoned the carriage and traveled elsewhere to Raiford's house.
Some days had passed since the Sumono ball, and it was now the following Saturday; the Saturday Chikorai would, technically speaking, go on his second date with Dixie.
It was about five in the evening, and Chikorai stood before a tall mirror, examining his hair, and straightening out his suit.
I absolutely cannot screw this up!, he thought, licking his hand to smooth out his hair. I've already made a good impression on Dixie. Now, her father on the other hand. I've engaged in light conversation with him, but nothing so personal as eating dinner with the man. I've got to look my spiffiest!
He smiled winningly into the mirror. "Well, at least I look refined."
Suddenly Benji came bounding into the room, nearly knocking him over.
Chikorai regained his balance, a slight look of annoyance playing his face. "What are you in such a hurry for?"
Benji beamed gleefully, "I'm going with you to Dixie Collins house! You might embarrass yourself in front of her, and I just can't miss something like that!"
Chikorai's jaw dropped. "You must be crazy if you think I'm taking you with me! I wouldn't embarrass me, you would! And besides that, look at you you're absolutely filthy!"
"Oh, I was going to change that! No worries Ol' Pal. And I won't embarrass you in front of them, you can do that just fine all by yourself.", he grinned.
Chikorai's temper simmered, "Aw, alright, you can come, but you have to promise me you'll act like a normal human being."
He appeared puzzled, "Since when I have not acted like a human being?"
"Well, gee, for starters, you practice meditating in our chicken house."
A sweat drop formed on the side of Benji's head, "Oh, yeah. that."
"So, you promise to act, or at least try to act normal?"
"Of course! You have my word! I'd never betray my best friend."
Chikorai smiled with relief, "Thanks Benji, that means a lot to me."
Benji waved disgustingly, "Ah, C'mon! Don't get all mushy on me! Save a little of that for Dixie."
He laughed lightly, "Alright, alright, now, lets get going! We wouldn't want to be late for dinner. Oh, yes, and you go get changed!"
Benji saluted, "Yes sir, Mr. Chikorai sir!"
Chikorai headed down the stairs quickly, Benji skipping along behind him singing, " Food! Food! Wonderful food! Can't ever get enough foooooood!!!"
"Benji! I said for you to act normal!"
He recoiled sheepishly, "Oh, yes, yes, sorry."
***************************************
After finally getting Benji to look nice, Chikorai and he headed to Dixie's in a horse drawn carriage. The fine young gentlemen arrived and used the door knocker.
Chikorai waited anxiously. No doubt her father would answer the door. He just had to make a good impression. He muttered under his breath. "What am I gonna do? What am I gonna do? First impression, first impression!"
Benji saw the worry in his friend's eyes. "Aw, don't sweat it, just be yourself. From what I hear Mr. Stone's a real laidback guy, so I'm sure there's nothing to worry about."
Suddenly the door swung open and hit the wall with a bang, as a short middle-aged man stood there laughing heartily. He held his arms wide open and hugged Chikorai tightly.
"Ah! I'm so glad you came!"
Mr. Stone released him and called to Dixie ( a little too loudly), "Dixie! Your future husband is here!"
Benji died laughing.
Chikorai's face turned red and he nearly hit the floor. Future WHAT??? Apparently Benji was right. Dixie's father was laid back.a little too laid back.
Dixie descended down the stairs, anger and embarrassment filling her face. "Father! You promised not to embarrass me! I swear next time you do that I'm going to hang you by your toes and beat you with a stick!"
She spotted Chikorai and covered her mouth embarrassingly.
Her father laughed merrily, and pushed her towards Chikorai. "Well, at least tell the good fellow hi!"
"Um.Hi.", she said weakly, regretting not to have told him about her maniac dad beforehand.
"Hi.", he retorted with the same tone.
A moment or two passed by in silence. Mr. Stone decided to speak. "Well, come on then! What, are you going to sit and stare at each other all day, or are we gonna eat?"
"Oh, yes, yes, the food! Sorry.", replied Chikorai and Dixie in unison.
Benji snickered as he followed them into the house. This dinner was going to be hilarious.
Dixie and her father sat at the ends of the elaborate table, Chikorai took a seat next to Dixie, and Benji next to Chikorai. The food being served tonight was lemon berjap, a chicken like bird the size of a turkey, with an exquisite taste; numerous vegetables were served as well.
Mr. Stone laid his napkin in his lap and said grace, then proceeded to ask his guests a few questions. "Well, Chikorai I know a little about you, but your friend on the other hand.May I ask your name sir?"
His face lit up for having a chance in the spotlight. "It's Benji Sakka."
"And who/what are you in relation to Chikorai?"
"I am his best friend, and farm aid for his father. I reside in their house, and am 'like one of the family'" ,he grinned.
"And what of your parents Benji?"
The question seemed touchy to him. " I was orphaned during battle with the Crawgons, in which my parents were murdered. I was then discovered by Chikorai's family. They raised me, and for that I owe them my eternal gratitude.", he smiled.
Mr. Stone nodded understandingly, "Yes, the Sakka's are a very kind family." "And now some questions for you young man."
Chikorai suddenly felt hot in the room. He had to choose his words carefully.
Dixie braced herself, there was no telling what her father might say!
Mr. Stone took a deep breath. This was the moment of truth. "Would you pass the salt, these greens are awfully bland?"
Chikorai and Dixie fell out of their chairs, and quickly brought themselves back to their seats.
He cocked an eyebrow at them. "No need to be so alarmed about salt, my word!"
Chikorai passed the salt shakily. "Sorry sir. You just surprised me is all."
Benji and Mr. Stone laughed loudly, "Surprised?", said Dixie's father, "You acted as if I had just pulled a gun out on you!" They laughed even harder.
"Father! You're embarrassing me!"
The two were silent. "Oh, yes, sorry dear."
She sighed ruefully, maybe next time her and Chikorai should take a walk in the park instead.
Stone cleared his throat a tad, "Ahem, um, on to more serious matters. Chikorai, have you any knowledge of politics?"
" A little.", he replied, his voice echoing with uncertainty. Politics wasn't something he paid much attention to, unless it directly involved him, but Mr. Stone, being in the higher position of power that he was, had to learn of such things.
"Ah, very good my boy!", he clasped his hands pleasingly, "As you probably know, the Crawgons have been buzzing about perhaps making a peace treaty with the Doggons, any views on that?"
Chikorai gripped his seat anxiously. Was Dixie's father trying to start a debate with him? No, no, he wasn't ready for this! Not now! He wondered what would be Mr. Stone's take on things, when suddenly he had an idea!
"Um, well, ", Chikorai started, " I would suppose a peace treaty would indeed be nice.however, the Crawgons in their deceitful ways would loose their temper, or disagree with us on something along the way, and we'd simply be back to square one. So, in short, I believe a treaty won't solve anything, only complete victory over their empire would ever grant something permanent. And even then, there would be those who would rebel." He added quickly, "But that is only my opinion sir, and it doesn't count for much."
Mr. Stone applauded Chikorai's statement. "I'm impressed! You're very witty, just as a farm boy should be.", he beamed.
Dixie smiled at her love, also impressed by his words, though he thought them to be nothing more than a small, and insignificant idea.
The night carried on as they made jokes, and told stories to one another throughout the rest of the meal. Each finishing with bright smiles of satisfaction upon their faces. Mr. Stone stood from the table and bid Chikorai, and Benji goodnight, and told them that he hoped to see them back soon. Marianna had begun to clear the plates from the table, as the remaining three walked merrily to the door.
On the way, Benji wondered whether he should step aside, or stand with Chikorai and Dixie. After all, he wouldn't want to be preventing a good night kiss, so he decided to go ahead and get inside the carriage awaiting them outside. "Don't get too wild now you two!", said Benji, before getting into the carriage. Chikorai and Dixie glanced at each other blushingly.
Dixie closed the mansion door, and looked into the dark-brown eyes she held so dear with a smile. Chikorai returned the gesture affectionately and pondered how long it should be before he kissed her, and had decided tonight, when the stars shone so brightly, and the moon glowed above, would be the perfect settings. In sudden nervousness he glanced toward the carriage to make sure his meddlesome friend wasn't watching, but by the time he turned back to look at Dixie, he felt the warm tenderness of her lips pressed against his. (AHA! Now who's in control ey?). Er, um, sorry.I get worked up about these things. Ahem, um, back to our story. An envelope of warmth and infatuation shot through him like a lightning bolt, just as the gentle touch of her kiss, and the security of her embrace left him oh, too soon, and he found himself staring back into her beautiful blue eyes. Chikorai was speechless, and at a loss of words. This was everything he had ever dreamed of and more.
Hugging him softly, Dixie quickly made her exit, and smiled at him lingeringly. "Goodniiiight.", she cooed, slowly pulling her door shut. The effect of her speedy exit had gone as planned. Chikorai was absolutely.bewildered.
The horses suddenly whinnied, and snapped Chikorai away from his confusion.
He gasped aloud, as sounds of shouting voices, that did not belong to Benji, nor, the driver, were heard next to the carriage.
Chikorai dashed towards the commotion. What's going on here?!
He saw Benji slowly backing away from the carriage, fear played clearly across his face, when suddenly the shape of a large black paw punched him straight in the face. Fear struck him as well, Crawgons??? But they aren't allowed on Doggon territory.unless someone of authority lead them across!, A horrifying thought struck him, "NO! He wouldn't!" Chikorai watched in horror as the robust creature picked up Benji and the driver, and hurled them headlong into the carriage.
The frightened youth ran towards them with great speed; but just before he could grab the carriage, one of two Crawgons clawed the horse's hind quarters. The terrified animal whinnied in pain and sent himself into an aimless gallop far beyond Chikorai's reach.
"Benji!!!", he yelped in desperation, tears beginning to trickle down his face.
Chikorai turned, and stared coldly at his country's sworn enemies. "Why did you do that?! I demand to know!"
The larger Crawgon, dressed in black clad armor, picked him up by his shirt collar. "Orders.", he hissed, "Orders from Jigoku!", he threw him to the dirt.
Chikorai quivered, as he tried to stand up. "J-Jigoku?! Nonsense! You only wanted to torment innocent people for your own sick pleasure!"
"Yes, tormenting the innocent is pleasureful.however, today we were sent here by orders."
"And what were your orders? Injure anyone you come in contact with?", he retorted angrily.
The smaller Crawgon laughed maliciously, "He really doesn't know does he?"
"Apparently not."
"What don't I know?", Chikorai snapped, finding the strength to stand to his full height.
"We didn't come to destroy whomever we wish.", said one.
"Oh, no.we came her for you.", said the other.
"Me?! But why would you want me? What have I done to receive the wrath of the Crawgons?"
They both laughed at uproariously, "Again this human doesn't know what he's done!"
"What an idiot!"
"Tell me!", Chikorai demanded.
"Well,", said the larger Crawgon, " Jigoku. and a friend. say that you are in the way. " "So, we are here to capture you."
Without further explanation they seized him by the arms and carried him to a Crawgon prison carriage not far from Dixie's house. Chikorai struggled and kicked the whole way. "HELP! Why are you doing this?! HELP! What have I done for my friends to be hurt as well? HELP!", he repeated. The Crawgons ignored his cries.
The smaller Crawgon released his grip, and unlocked the entrance to the prison box , while the other smashed Chikorai in the head, which knocked him unconscious, then threw him into the box, and locked it.
***************************************
By now the horses had traveled some distance from Dixie's house, and were just now beginning to slow down. The horse's scratched hind quarter caused him to limp painfully. The driver, and Benji both laid unconscious on the floor of the carriage, unaware of the events surrounding them.
"Ah. there they are, just I predicted.", said Jigoku, hiding in the nearby forest. He turned to look at the man who stood by his side. "Raiford!", he hissed.
"Yes?"
"Is everything prepared as I asked?"
"Yes, sir."
"Good.", he smiled hideously.
They were fixing to cross paths, when Jigoku abruptly leapt out in front of the beasts, his cloak whipping behind him.
The horses reared and whinnied at the sight, and surprise of such a monster. Must admit I would too if I saw something that ugly. (ick.)
Jigoku brought back his paw, and chanted, " Hi nemori.Kirikizu!" His paw began to waver as a burning red light formed in it, and was released as he thrust his arm towards them. An energy formed around the two creatures, and burst into a slow rain of red, fiery sparks.
Jigoku smiled pleasingly. "They should hold still for now.", he said, referring to their present state of sleep.
The demon walked to the carriage, his footsteps leaving behind charred grass. "Raiford, come."
He ran to him almost immediately, holding in his hands two bottles.
Jigoku opened the carriage door and stared happily at its two components. "Hand me the potions."
Raiford did as he was told, and he took the first potion and poured it into the mouth of Benji. When the last drop was gone, Raiford smiled evilly. "There, now he will be against that sniveling farm boy.correct?"
"Yes, this reversing potion shall cause him to think Chikorai is the cause of all this.the feeling of the man's betrayal makes me glad.", he paused, "But. if this man were to see Chikorai."
"Then what?", Raiford asked impatiently.
"Then it shall all come back to him. he shall remember what really happened."
He smiled conclusively, "Which is why we captured the brat. not only can we do as we wish with him, but we can also hide our secret."
"Ha, ha, you're getting smarter.I like that." "Now, on to the driver."
Jigoku pulled the cork from the second bottle, and poured it into the driver's pudgy mouth. He laughed deviously as the bottle emptied. "Now, not only will Chikorai be blamed for this accident.but also for the driver's murder!", he cackled. "This man should die as soon as the potion reaches his brain."
The two villains closed the carriage door, and shook hands, satisfied by their work.
Raiford cocked an eyebrow at the demon. "I am pleased by this half of our deal.now.about that special position of power you offered."
Jigoku tried not to snarl at the man's greediness. Had he no self-control he would have obliterated him then and there. However, he needed him now for higher, better purposes down the road. He would dispose of him soon enough, but for now he would decide to keep him.
"Yes.the position.", he paused to think, "I will send some of my servants to get you in the morning. Chikorai should already be imprisoned there, so when you meet you can do what you like with him. Mean while, I will kill- .oh dear, I mean, de-throne King Ganko. And you shall have your position."
Feeling the power of greed descend upon him, Raiford ventured to question the demon further. "And what of Dixie Collins?"
Jigoku grit his teeth. Was there no end to his avaricious babblings? "We will take care of that later!", he snapped.
The lord of the underworld, and the soon to be king of the Crawgons, abandoned the carriage and traveled elsewhere to Raiford's house.
