Hey There,
Welcome back Quogan fans! To this crazy bizarre Halloween fic, and all of it's hopefully entertaining twists and turns. I know I say this nearly every time, but thank you so much for giving this story a chance. I know it's kinda unusual and nutty. But I wanted to write something a little different, and I'm having an absolute blast with this. I hope you all are too. I think I promised at the bottom of the last chapter that we would be getting back to Logan's black-and-white perspective in this chapter too. But... technically that's true and technically… it's also not true. Things took a bit of a different turn this post… an unexpected turn... So we will get back to Logan's perspective in the next post. But I'm EXCITED to spill that this one will be from a completely NEW viewpoint. I hope you guys like this direction and stick around for Logan's return next post. But enough of my yakky-yak! Let's get back to this Spooktacular Story! (I do love that word, it's just so all-encompassing for things so Halloweeny we had to make up a new word to describe them).
Special thanks to the few of you who have placed this story on your favorite story list, or story alert page. Special thanks to the few of you who placed me as an authoress on your author's alert list or your favorite author's page.
Special thanks to my reviewers: Rose-Aki (Thank you girl, that last post was a weighty one. It was one of those posts we talk about so much. That just demanded to be written and lived out in my head. And I really had a blast with sneaking those lighter moments. Showcasing Lydia's, James' and Quinn's friendship moments in there. And Logan's grandparents, getting Quinn to smile. Even for a minute or two, and I hope this chapter is worth the wait. We will get to see what Logan's up to in his dream. But it is a bit differently then I originally planned it. Hope it still fun! Maybe even gush-worthy in a place or two (you know me winkwink). You're the best! Take Care and Much Love!), Guest AwkwardGurl05 (My goodness, it's been a minute. You were right about Wednesday, Love it! Thank you for that recommendation, again. Those actresses do have MAD chemistry together, it is AWESOME. That's so cool that you go to cons... I always want to but can't... [they happen too far away from me] AND that's so cool that you got the meet the principal! I bet she was sweet in real life, LoL! Sorry about your grandpa and that you know about losing loved ones too. It's the worst, but I do still have my Mom and sis. And we're super close, it was that little sis of mine who got me to binge the Zoey series and then strongly suggested [she demanded] that I write fanfiction for it... I just think I may have taken it even further than she thought I would with this story. LoL! Even if she's to blame for this too really. We'd been comparing notes on some of the greatest Halloween specials of all time. And Curse of PCA was in there. But I think even she was like 'say what?' when I told her I was doing this. LoL! Along with me posting in February! LoL! Never a dull moment! Love that you call it Valloween! So much! I'm totally calling it that! LoL! Thank you so much for your kindness about my personal stories in that last post. They're not the easiest to share, but they happened and kindness or understanding aren't always the reactions I've gotten. So thank you for that, it means more than you know. And sharing some of your personal stuff too, Bless you! I know that wasn't easy. I was thrilled with the series of Zoey too and the way it ended was nice. But I know there was supposed to be another season and that possibility has always got the wheels in my head cranking away on the 'what if's. But this Halloween one is just ALL me having a BALL! Combining too many things I love and making it a rollercoaster ride {hopefully, winkwink} Yes, it is a shame that so many stories are incomplete on this site for Zoey. I'm trying my utmost BEST to not be one of them too... I'm glad I'm not the only grown person who LOVES collecting those scholastic books too from the old Bookfair days. Like you finding a fandom one like you described is a real PRIZE. Hang on to that! I still have books from back then too and a few I've picked up since so you're preaching to the choir. Of course, I always take the time to answer reviews before each post. Thank you for taking such time to write one. Especially full of such positivity. You're a joy! Hope your Valloween was AWESOME. Hope you're having a GREAT day! Take Care and Much Love!)
Standard Disclaimers Apply! - I do not own Zoey 101, Zoey 102, Nickelodeon, MTV or any of the other trademarked things mentioned. I am merely borrowing all of these things for my own twisted stories. Most will be returned unharmed.
Dedicated to Bailey-Bee. Even if he reads this, I'll freak out. (Because he's a cat… but I bet he'll try)
Enjoy!
"Monster Movie Mayhem"
Chapter 4 - Kellyscythe Crux
{AN: We are back to Logan's dream in this one... but not Logan's viewpoint}
((Back to Logan's Dreams - But Dream Quinn's Perspective [Inside His Dream]))
CURSES! UNACCEPTABLE! And WHAT the HECK!
This just had to occur on the day my refills on my anxiety meds HAD to be running LATE TOO! When I'm in a personal crisis! Good thing I have backups made up for myself, even if they have some extra side effects sometimes. I could have been a druggist, I could have been a reputable pharmacist… of ANY village. But No! I'd chosen the sciences that the humans wish was long forgotten, creating of humanlike patchworks.
I like to call them patchworks, since nearly ALL of them resent the name Frankenstein for obvious reasons… and nothing usually made me regret the choice of adding new creations in this particular field… NOTHING!
But days like today make me wonder if my heart can take all the ramifications of this beautiful science. Because the devastation I'm currently dealing with feels like it could possibly kill me. Even if I'm immortal and not by any means easy to kill.
Both Frankenstein's First and ONLY still surviving creation [as far as we know] and MINE were hurt, by those Lola-vira trusted. She'd let them be a part of this party, this celebration for a new Queen. Even though they weren't invited, weren't ever kind to ANYONE {least of all me}, AND Now they've disappeared as quickly as they appeared.
Hurting my creation and James would have been enough to send me over the falls. But these killers of patience didn't stop there. Oh no, these supposed lovers of science who know sooooooo much more than me, are also THIEVES! Because they have TAKEN my CREATION from ME!
They endangered her progress, her chances of survival, and her LIFE! If they really knew the science, then they would have seen that! But no, they took poor Lydia while she was most vulnerable and they'd taken her with them. Back to their Godless and Moralless Master. Not knowing their true aspirations or where their true loyalties lie Lola-vira had allowed them to infiltrate our festivities. But it's her castle and I get that she's trying to make it feel welcoming to all monsterkind. She's been doing a great job at it and even though I'm not blaming her... I really wish there had been a better screening process beforehand... or ANY screening process at all!
As it turns out, they have another higher power they are listening to that answers to the name Dr. Miles Brody. The self-proclaimed smartest person in the world… just ask him.
(AN: That's right Zoey Fans, Miles was the overly smart boy who lived in the library, that built the bot for Zoey and the gang. When Quinn was too mad to help them, {Because of what she heard Logan SAY!} And Miles did it all for a date with Nicole… just in case your memory's running a little thin on that name like mine has been lately too. I like to use ALL the characters I can.)
I've heard the name before, but I don't recall ever meeting the man himself. But his ego and gall seem to match all I've heard. He has been creating all sorts of hybrids and half-robot creations through a differing scientific understanding then mine for MANY years. Some may even slate us rivals, even if I don't. But according to the FIVE PAGE letter left for me (fronts and backs too)… Inside of a bizarre puzzle box I had to solve to open. Or I was supposed to solve it before I smashed the infernal thing. To find out where my creation had been taken. I had quickly deciphered the notes left by my self-proclaimed enemies (the Sci-Club). Even though they'd been written in ancient ruins. They were all claiming their master wanted Lydia and had more of a right to her than I did.
I didn't put much stock in their word. But Dr. Brody's pages only further confirmed these ideals. He seemed to think his background in creating android made him more capable than me of adapting Lydia to the world. And he had a Frankenstein creation ALSO interested in having Lydia as a mate… Like she can just be passed off to ANY creature like herself. Like her thoughts and feelings were side effects he could fix…
The letterhead is labeled FROM the desk of this FIEND very professionally. He expressed, (I'll save you the trouble of reading it) how he has had no success creating female human-like creatures at all. Besides Lisa, who's birth was more of a mistake or accident. She is far too flawed to even claim as a success. Being only somewhat human and more of a possessed voodoo doll full of fall leaves. Miles in his letter confessed (among too many other things) that he had originally intended Lisa to be a mate for him, but since she hadn't turned out exactly as he'd hoped. [Like she had her own wants and needs. He couldn't shut off her free will], so she's lucky she harbors no feelings for him because he wants nothing to do with her and she's HORRIFIED to hear this all ties back to her creator.
The moment his name was mentioned, Lisa looked as if she'd turned to stone for a whole three minutes. But Rebecca (a Medusa-like snake-haired monsteress) assured all surrounding beasts including me, "I didn't do it," she didn't turn to her or accidentally lock eyes with her. To actually turn her to stone. So she was just shocked to hear his name again after escaping his prison-like home some years ago. But that explains how hardly any other monsters knew of her. And only those hometown residents seemed to know her story.
She could instruct me on how to get me there, but she could only tell me about getting there in theory. She couldn't take me herself… smart girl. In his letter he also called 'Lisa' his 'Biggest Letdown!' And that he 'didn't care where or what she was now.' But I bet if he could trap her again; if he could keep her there like he had at the beginning of her life… he would. And he would probably operate on her again to try to change her entire outcome. Not all scientists share the same beliefs I do when creating others sadly. About letting these things live, to just have lives, quirks and wills of their own. Some creators lose it the moment they're not in control of every little thing.
Not even being there and seeing his work for myself. I BET I can still tell you what his problem is, and why his female trials refuse to live… It's the same reason all of these high and mighty MALE scientists can't usually build female creations… They're all men and he isn't having any success because he's building these 'women.' To suit his whims and not nature's. In short, They're all pervs and this Miles person sounds no different.
Lydia… my lovely venerable girl creation… I built her to scale. I built her as honest and within reason as I could… I didn't give her a HUGE chest that would make her walk on all fours. Her waistline was made wide enough to accommodate that regular-sized bust. She didn't have long legs that made her taller than a giraffe or ENORMOUS lips filled with synthetics. I made her petite and as perfectly imperfect as all real women are. And I didn't try to focus too much on trying to create every facet about her or trying to control her. I left plenty of room for her to decide for herself who she is, how she feels, and wants from her life. That's why her chances of living are SO great.
Even Lisa admits herself that she was sown far too thin in the beginning and had to restuff herself several times before she appeared healthy. And a lot of that restuffed stuffing had come outta her chest area...YEAH! This is the kinda swine that I am forced to compete with! He calls himself a creator? When he refuses to listen to the things he's creating or the laws of NATURE? Disgraceful!
All of my research concluded the same thing in the end. By even moving Lydia before she's ready… could kill her. That's why she'd been belted to the platform she'd laid on. In the same place, she'd met with lightning! She could even be done for as we speak… And I have no way of knowing that.
But we didn't get this far with that kind of thinking. I have to believe in my work, my soundness of research, how wonderfully she'd been stabilizing the last I'd seen her printed stats… And the last my instruments had picked up on. I had to believe that she was okay.
Wherever she'd been taken and whatever they were planning for her. That she still lives and breathes and I can still help her. All the ways I've been planning to teach her, to care for her, and to guide her.
I had to hope that I could still fix this, that I could find her. That I could bring her back to dear James. Before he dies of a broken heart just from having his dreams ripped away from him like they were tonight. I have been studying his heart for some time now. While it's strong on paper, resilient to all sickness, wear, tear, and even time (he's immortal)… He's such a soft touch emotionally speaking that I KNOW. His sentimental heart was in real danger, I didn't have much time to waste. I had to fix this as fast as I could, for both creations' sakes. To finish what I had started, and go get my creation back. Before she died from their carelessness, ignorance, or altercations.
So after I did all the puzzles and translated all of the ruins he'd left as clues. In the spaces and margins of his letter, and I talked in depth with Lisa for as long as we could both stand the subject. I finally found out where I needed to go was Lisa's birthplace 'Halloweentown.' The place said to celebrate that blessed holiday every single day. Where monsters are mostly safe from the rest of the cruel world…
Unless the residential Doctor wants a peek inside of you. To find out what makes you tick, then good luck leaving. He had the whole place rigged to his beck and call. He even boasted such in the practical BOOK he'd penned to me about himself. This was where Doctor Brody was currently keeping up his private practice. And I got a few more tipoffs to his real plans in his scribbles and word puzzles he'd left in the spaces and margins. But I didn't talk about any of my findings in the proximity of James even though he appears to be unconscious. I knew he could still be too prone to listen for ANYTHING regarding Lydia. Like I knew he was in no place to handle such info right now. I had been careful about who even sat with him, while I was still in Lola-vira's castle. And taught everyone who would listen how to care for him in my absence. While I hoped this wouldn't take long and I could return to care for him soon. I had to prepare for EVERY whim or possibility realistically.
James had to be my top priority when I'd heard the news…
Which had been brought to my attention while I had been visiting… a friend. Who is staying in the underbelly of the castle, in the dungeon catacombs because all of Lolavira's other rooms had too many windows. Making them dangerous to this specfic being.
The newest Count Dracula, only a mere one hundred years into his reign. He's the first to admit he's still a rookie.
That's where I had been before my world was flipped completely upside down. Why had I gone there? Why do I keep going there, even though we no longer need to share quarters due to overcrowding in Lola-vira's Castle? That was a factor for a while that has been resolved… I have my own room away from the labs now. And he has one with no killer windows…
Why do I keep going to him?
And why?! Oh WHY!? On EARTH!? Did I think it had been okay? To practically makeout with him in his coffin? What kept making any time spent with the reigning King of Vampires? So much more enjoyable than time spent in nearly ANY place else? EVEN my precious LAB?
On a more personal note, WHY do I never learn? I know I wasn't made for such personal pastimes like that. Necking or making smooshy-face with ANYONE! Even if especially a KING form the more seductive clan of monsters on the planet! I'm not an average existence meant to meet their other half somewhere in life to become whole. I am meant to be whole all on my own, solitary and alone… I know this any other time without fail or confusion. I'm not the kind person to be easily misled or tempted in ANY thing rash... Not anymore. My lesson was learned the hard way and unforgettable brutally so... It was!
I have no problem recalling this any other time…
But even now… This very moment, when I have so many things on my mind… Pulling me in all different directions.
I felt a strong tug to that monster in particular.
Something… That felt familiar and new all at once. That would not turn off since I met him…
As I'm planning on going… to reclaim my creation, who is only to remain rightfully mine till she's ready to speak for herself.
I keep thinking 'I can't leave until I see him again'… Til I tell him what I learned and what happened. I knew I should leave it up to Lola-vira, she's his best friend and the keeper of this whole party. She's known him a lot longer and he was here as her friend as well as representation of his kind…But STILL, I couldn't leave him in the complete dark. Someone always fills in the blanks everywhere else I work and leave. Why is this time so different?
Even though I know that I have no right even think such things about any monster. Least of all him. I feel a connection to him, a draw and pull I don't understand. He's called me his friend, and I've admitted to friendship being felt on my part as well... but, it feels like it's more than that... somehow... even if I myself can't say exactly how?
I'm not ignorant of his reach, his power, or origins. Those were all common knowledge things, but so was the fact that his kind are hoping he'll find a Queen soon. Maybe even while he's here observing this creation of a new patchwork Queen. The former Dracula is hoping more than anyone else. And I can tell you, from the short amount of time that I have gotten to be around the new Dracula. He really is something special, whoever he chooses is gonna be one lucky Monsteress. Or most likely a lucky Vampiress.
I'm saying this as a friend, of course. And objectively as a third party perspective that is in no way related… But I can also tell you with certainty that every minute he's with me, is a wasted one. Where he could be (SHOULD be) finding that Queen… And in all honesty… he deserves a Queen.
I had to keep making my brain NOT think of Drac right now. EVEN with the murderous RAGE pumping through my insane membranes. Even caring for dear James! James is the one who needed me now. He'd needed my help before I did anything else. So I did some quick equations on a board nearby him. Before doing everything I could to help James regulate the electricity that had gone haywire in his body when he was attacked.
From what I can tell, he had been tased. And the moment this foreign electricity mixed with his own natural stores with in his body. He was very lucky he hadn't died (again) immediately. I had to get his personal body's electricity back in hand. Poor James slipped into a coma, as the sleep came on… his last words to me were. "You have to save her, Doc. You gotta… she's too helpless. I co-couldn't save her. She can't fight for herself. Save her… save her."
And I'd promised him that "I would." I intended on keeping that promise too.
I hoped he would be well again soon… I suspect that only bringing Lydia back to him will bring him out of it. It was just a hunch, but I'd been monitoring the connection between them as closely as everything else… For some time now… Even though Lydia hadn't been fully alive yet… It had always been James' stories that best delighted her brain functions. James' voice that made her heart skip beats or speed up. She'd even been smiling under her wrappings whenever he was close to her or touching her…And I'm sure that kinship was more than mutual… I simply had to get them back to one another. And FAST! I knew she needed him as much as he needed her.
I ran to my room, packed the few things I'd probably need. It was all a guessing game I had no patience for. So I grabbed a ton more than I should have. Before shrinking it all down to fit in my crossbody bag. Science can be magic too, ya know?
Then I went over Lisa's instructions three more times of how to get to Halloweentown. Now that they were memorized I made certain I knew where I was going one last time, before I did a final checkup on James-stein one more time… even if he's still suffering health problems… I hoped I could do everything I'd needed to in time to fix all of this.
When the time came to depart. I knew I needed to leave quickly and quietly. I knew none of the other monsters could risk their lives by coming to help me even if they wanted to. I had lived in this realm long enough to understand them and I knew what was at stake. This was my problem and we didn't need to endanger anyone else solving it. So when I finished packing and I said farewell to the gathered beasts and titans… The last place I went before leaving… was back to Dracula's room.
I knew he couldn't leave it till sundown, and I just couldn't leave without telling him what happened. Usually vampires sleep during this time. But I knew he would be too disturbed, possibly too uneasy to rest today. Especially in the uproar I'd left in… I've probably ruined his whole sleep cycle for the day.
Even through I ahd been expecting him to still be awake. It was still lovely somehow to find that he was. That he'd been pacing the floor a complete wreck, and I was so glad I'd stopped him before I left. He'd hugged me immediately. We'd both pulled the other into a kiss too while we were close. But this wasn't like the kisses we'd been sharing earlier. This had been so gentle and reassuring.
He'd first said, "Thanks for coming back, no one's been by to clue me in. But I heard your reaction in the lab from here." Before he'd asked. "What happened?"
So I gave him a quick run down of what exactly had happened. A paraphrased version, of course, and tried to remain hopeful, even upbeat in my descriptions. But he somehow saw right through my guise of optimism. And I really had to try not to cry as my fears all tried to grip me anew. Even if especially this other Frankenstein creation interested in my Lydia as a mate. That news had been the most lude and ominous. The very idea that my creation could be given a gift to ANY creature of the like. Like she had no say or effect on this result… It's PREPOSTURIOUS! DISGUSTING! DISTRUBING!
Drac took my hand and told me, "You don't have to be so brave and fearless here, with me, you know? You're allowed to be as pissed, upset, or scared as you wanna be with me. It's that wack job you gotta be more careful around. When you're dealing with him and this other Stein-monster who's trying to keep your creation. Which I don't entirely buy."
And somehow, just in him saying those words… it released something that had been clinched so tightly inside of me for a minute… All of my anger, betrayal, and fear could be felt. And all he did was let me let it out and hold my hand… if he wasn't holding me more entirely.
Fear for my creation, for James and for what I was about to embark on. What I was about to face good or bad. It just all hit me at once. But what had staggered me more than anything, in that room and long after I'd left it was. I was also TERRIFIED of never seeing this new friend again as well.
Even if I didn't understand all of my reactions to him. I knew he was my friend somehow…
This Vampire King who's been so kind and understanding… even letting me sound off about more than just today's blunders.
I feared never making it back to him, even if that made no logical sense. I know, I'm insane! I factored that in, but how could I feel such strong ties to a person I met just more than a week prior? How could I feel such a bloodcurdling terror to never be in his presence again too? None of the other vampires I've been around provoked such feelings. And none of them had been this caring or intoxicating to be around. Why did that feeling choke me up even long after I'd gone?
I still don't know.
I told him I was leaving and I told him not to follow me. I needed to handle this myself. Because even a new Dracula like him is sure to know what the 'Monster Code' is for moments like these. We never help each other in hoards and draw too much attention to ourselves, our relationships, families, or numbers as a community… or the humans might notice. Even across different realms. We could only gather for parties, or happy occasions… we had to ALWAYS fight alone.
I can't endanger the new Vampire King with something this trivial. It was my mess, I needed to clean it up, and I needed him to stay safe here with the other monsters. I realized as I said it, that this was nearly as important to me. As James and Lydia's safety, he needed to be okay too.
I thought that he would understand and just wish me luck. Like all of the other monsters had been doing.
I didn't expect him to say, "To HELL with THAT! I'm COMING with YOU!"
But that had been his initial reaction… I'm still shocked.
He amended, shortly afterwards, "Well, not right now, but as soon as the sun goes down! I'll follow you. I even already know how to get there. Screw the CODE! Halloweentown is part of my kingdom. I'm King of those vampires that live there too. Check your map, it's part of mine on the wall over there."
And he was right, even my stained and battered maps matched up to the pictures of his domain on his wall. He was listed as one of the highest rulers there too. Even if Micheal's 'Pumpkin King' crown technically outranked him on Halloweentown soil. I tried to argue with him, tried to make him see reason. But he wouldn't hear of it. He was too set on helping me… which I didn't deserve or understand. So I found myself asking this vampire, "Why? Why are you so insistent on endangering yourself like that? Just to help me? A barely established mad scientist you just met?"
He explained, "Three reasons, One, I've always HATED that law. I think it's cowardly and selfish! If heroes can always combine forces to win in their biggest fights, why can't we? Because we're always expected to lose? Because we're not what people think of when they think of 'good guys?' Why is helping each other such a tabooed thing in this world? Two, I know I can help you if I go. I don't know how, but I just know I can help you somehow, in some way. And you shouldn't be alone there. I'm not saying it because you're a girl either. No one should go there alone. And Three… in case you haven't noticed… I care about you, about James and Lydia too. I want to do everything I can to make sure their back together. They should be together… but I also need to know that you get to come back out there too."
Even though this had been a concern of mine as well. I needed more info, so I asked Drac, "What makes you think I'll jave trouble getting out of there?"
Drac validated, "I've dealt with this doctor for years, he's not gonna just let you come in, take Lydee, and leave. No, not without you having to make some kind of deal with Brody, that will have you building countless mates for him, his creations, and his flunkes. I know how he operates, if he isn't planning on changing 'Lydia' for his own bullshit plastic surgery fantasies and keeping her as his own. Because I know as well as you do most Frankenstein Monsters were Killed off. He's gonna be plotting on how he can keep you, to do all of his hard work for him. Since your creations actually live… Or worst of all… He'll try to keep you, and quit trying to create the perfect mate."
"But wouldn't that be-Oh NO! You mean, he'll quit because he wants me to BE that perfect match?" I asked. And he nodded.
"Me?" I asked, laughing because I couldn't help myself. Even if that was one of the fears I didn't even WANT to think about, he didn't need to know that. And I didn't want him any more worried than he already was. He looked positively wrecked and he should be resting.
He maintained, "You don't know the impact you have on peop-Monsters around you. If you even spend a minute with him, he's gonna be interested enough to try to trick you into being his. It's all part of his game. It's probably how the Sci-club got stuck with him too. He collects fellow monsters like action figu - dolls, or something. He'll want you like a thing, not a person or peer. You can't get stuck with him."
"Count Dracula," I tried to get my laughter in control but it was far too nervous sounding at the end though. "I appreciate your concern and worries. But the last thing on planet EARTH that Dr. Brody will ever want is some strange woman who understands anything better than him hanging around. That's how he'll see me, I'm sure. Just like he's the last person on the planet that I could ever be attracted to. Even if such things were viable options for me, and I was considering being part of a pair again… Which as you know, I'm not."
He still looked panicked. "He doesn't care about attraction, he's at the point where he just wants a female to call his own, who isn't a total witch."
"What's wrong with witches?" I felt like I needed to ask. All of these male monsters complained how nearly all of my female peers were witches in one way or another.
"You've seen one you've seen 'em all, I hear? And why are so many women here witches anyways? Why?" He said like he was complaining.
"I don't know. It's a very versatile platform, I suppose. There are so many different types of magic and witchcraft… but this is beside the point. The point is…I'll be just fine, really." I tried to insist.
"How do you know?" He really is too adorable, no wonder all the girls go crazy for these vampires… You know the ones not running away screaming all the time. If any of the others are as sweet and caring as he is. He was so concerned, so worked up. Drac warned, "He's heavy into all of the sciences like you. He may not be as good at them, because he has too many other things crammed into his head too. But he understands it better than most. He'll see you as a prize, not a person…don't fall for his tricks. Him or this other Stein-thing of his."
"I swear to you I won't, I am just getting Lydia back and coming straight back here. Lydia has to be my top priority and she comes first. Where she doesn't James does, no matter who else is involved. She is my creation, my responsibility and if he wants a fight I will bring him so much more than he's counting on. No matter what this other Frankenstein beast thinks, they can't just steal her. I will return with Lydee and help James before you even have a chance to miss me."
"I already miss you and you haven't even left yet." He frowned.
"Stay here and stay safe in my absence, if you can. Please look out for James, your basic understanding of his mechanics could help him more than anyone else can. I've taught a few others the best I could… but he's really gonna need you… I'm counting on you too."
He promised, "I'll do my very best to help him." Before he accepted my goodbye hug, but he only agreed to 'let me go it alone' under one condition. Which was, "You have to take Kellyscythe with you."
I asked him, "Who, now?"
Then he insisted on me waiting another minute. Then he went to a drawer in his personal closet and pulled out amulet that he held up and said. "This is Kellyscythe and it carries some extra protective magic for anyone who wears it. While you're gone, never take this off not even for a minute while you're away. No matter what anyone says or does. Keep it on you at all times and it will keep you safe." He told me as he fastened it around my neck.
"Is this something you give to all of the girls who do favors for you?" I teased. Which had made him smile for a minute. Before he got real with me.
He told me, "It once belonged to one of my favorite stepmothers, but she was killed when she was caught by an angry mob not wearing it. She left it to me in her will."
"Oh," I said ashamed I'd tried to tease him about something so precious. I felt like a heel, but he was so good-natured even after that.
He smirked, "If you're ever in any distress or any kind of danger. This will let me know, either the protective magic surrounding it will keep you safe or I will come wherever you are. Day or night, cause in Halloweentown, we vampires don't burn in the sun. And this can even teleport me to you in a hurry, so just keep it on, till you're back here."
"It's pretty," I had to say. I'd never seen or worn anything like it before.
It was a thin gold chain with little obsidian and amethyst bat charms all along it. It glittered with protective magics I've never seen before. With teeny little ruby eyes and pearl vangs. I promised to keep it safe while I had it. And to keep it on till I was back, and that I would return it to him the moment I was back. But I wasn't used to anyone entrusting me with anything so precious. I was the mad scientist, not a princess or pretty little fairy (like Nicole).
I could tell this amulet was linking me directly to his personal magic too. I wasn't accustomed to anyone being so concerned about me… I don't think either set of my own parents had even been that worried about me like that. My biological set or my team of creators who claim me. I was so touched, I had kissed him as I had in his coffin before we'd been so rudely interrupted…
He'd kissed me back in a way that made my mind still go fuzzy. Then he'd said, "Stay safe and please be careful."
When I thought back on it in retrospect, the look he'd given me still made me feel all funny inside. I've NEVER experienced affection with side effects that lasted THAT long before. Even when I thought I was in love… What is wrong with me? Am I falling ill? Is it the trauma matched with the stress of this situation? What logical explanation explains all of this?
As I left Lola-vira's castle, I couldn't help but remind myself. Entangling myself in relationships of any even possible romantic way, is not for me. There's nothing rational or vital about it. So I've decided to live without it, since I've made it this far without it… But if that Vampire King were to ask me… Not that he ever will, of course. I'm probably just a good friend to him too. But if he did… I might consider trying it out again… If it was with him. Even just for one date, just the once… I might be more inclined to say 'yes' to him. Then any other monster under our sun, I haven't been this tempted in more than a hundred years.
Though I doubt that would happen… we're friends who share some similar interests. Like Science, engineering, technology, he can dance, he likes some of the same games and activities I do, he's easy to talk to, he's less arrogant in person, more handsome too, and he's a great kisser… Where did that come from! How is that relevant to all these other attributes?
Focus Doc! Your creation was stolen from you. Vendettas have been sealed! Lives on the line! More than just Lydia's and my OWN. James' too. Possibly all the other monsters at this gathering now.
Drac was right in warning you to have your wits about you. And when I arrived at Halloweentown. I landed there at the same time as a Grim Reaper. who loomed over my shoulder stealthy. I said, "Excuse me, sir… um, reaper. Beg your pardon." Then I tried to stay out of his way. Wouldn't you?
At first I really thought that he had merely arrived there, to Halloweentown at the same time as me. But as it turns out, no. When I asked him, "Why was he following me?"
He bowed saying in a booming baritone, "Greeting Mad Dr. Quinn, my name is Kelly. I am the reaper personally assigned to Count Dracula and a life long friend of his. By wearing that amulet the Count hasn't just gifted you some of his protective magic. He is also employing me to oversee these proceedings. I am invisible to everyone else until you're threatened. And just here to observe till you're safely back to Lola-vira's party. I would have made myself visible sooner but the Count was briefing me till now. I'm nothing to fear… well, I should say you have nothing to fear from me. The only one who does, is the shortsighted ghoul to give me the wrong vibe."
So not only am I wearing an amulet on loan from my new friend. That carries highly protective magics I've never encountered before. But he's loaned out his personal grim reaper? For protection detail? Who does that? I've never heard of ANY one loaning out reapers before. Was he really this concerned about me going to this place all alone? Did he really think this place was that dangerous? Or I was that oddly normal-looking in a monster-filled place? Or did he really think I couldn't protect myself?
The feminist in me wanted to be insulted, while literally the rest of me wanted to liquify and melt into a puddle. So I first asked this reaper, "Is it okay that I talk to you throughout this trip? I mean I'm already insane so people won't think nothing of me speaking with someone who's not there." Especially in Halloweentown where crazy is in good company.
"Kelly" the reaper, shrouded in mystery as well as burgundy and red cloths. And a real Scythe dripping deadly black magics. A male "Kelly" I gather from the voice I heard. In the basement of barritone if not bass. I saw no face only a non-faced cloaked figure in a bright red tattered mixed and matched with burgandy cloths. He said, "As long as your wearing the amulet I'm at your service, my lady."
"Doc or Doctor please, this isn't a tea party, Kel." I wasn't gonna get through five minutes with this guy. If he kept up all of that 'my lady' stuff.
He bowed and said, "Yes Doctor, speak freely as you like. And Kel is a favorite nickname of mine."
"If you're a friend of Drac's, can you decipher why he lent you out to me? And does he do this often?" Good questions, I thought.
He said, "I'll answer your first question first. From what I can tell, doctor. After more than a thousand years of friendship and working together. Even knowing him before he was vampire at all. Dracula is that concerned for your well being in this setting. And he's not wrongly so, we've both seen too many horrors here to doubt the dangers. Especially for someone who's appearance is more close to human normalcy than most monsters. And this is coming from a being who deals in nearly nothing besides death for a living."
Which made my nervous energy rise, which he somehow sensed. And quickly assured me. "Nothing can hurt you while I'm here with you. Just never take off the amulet and you'll retain even more than just the upper hand of any haggling or deal."
"I'm not nervous," I lied. I had to see how he could decipher my feelings.
And he explained that he was able to keep track of my heart rate through the necklace's location on my neck… Why hadn't I thought of that. He continued regardless. "Answering your second question doctor. My services were exclusively to his favorite step mother 'Datum' before she was mobbed and staked. Her dying wish was that I would keep him safe forever after that. The only person I've protected besides those two people. Is you, now."
I couldn't believe my ears. I appeared to be unchanged by my outward appearence. But on the inside, I was offically a puddle. And I couldn't wait for this to be over. Just so I could see Dracula again to thank him.
I tried to straighten up look more confident as I walked the rest of the way to the doctor's lab. I tried to walk like their wasn't and extra large shadow following my every step. Like I didn't feel his coldness against my shoulder. And like I didn't see the jagged and over used scythe it carried. But no one bothered us even though some monsters thought about it.
I tried to mentally prepare for whatever meeting Dr. Brody would be like. He could be as desperate as Drac warned, he could be as terrifying as Lisa warned. Or he could be the scared little girl banging to be let out of the closet door that I was expecting. These could go in a number of directions.
He might really just want my scientific input on some of his creations while I'm there. Or it could be that he's really going to try to steal Lydia from me. For himself of a freind, either way now that Lydia is hopefully still alive. I think it should be up to her, who she gets to be and be with. I had to be ready to fight for her, while she has no capabilities to do that for herself right now.
Or maybe this Dr Brody wanted to commission me, to build a few women for him. Or a patient of his, maybe even a friend. Now that he's looked at Lydia. But Lydia is my top priority and if he want's my intel, he'll have to play by my rules and not vice versa."
I found his office and tried to storm in demanding to see mt STOLEN creation. But his bookkeeping gremlin was to used to handling monsters her master has stolen from. And she made it clear that the ONLY way I would be speaking with Brody was if I made an appointment with him. She also made it clear nothing and no thing would make it possible to see him before or after this time I claimed… So I did the only thing I could do besides burning the place down and secured an appointment, Dr. Brody had already placed me on the books himself. But HOURS from now, his associate explained, "The doctor wanted to give you time to solve all of his puzzles and clues. He thought you'd need more time."
But I didn't get to be nearly as bored as I expected to be. Because of some tournament gone terribly wrong, where several monsters were hurt, maimed, or worse... Instead of standing around an doing nothing for ages. I started to pick up charts and treat as many monsters as I could myself. I am a doctor after all too, more than equipt to handle a few boo-boos.
I did also hope that doctor Brody might see me sooner. But even with all of the help I was able to give this monster physician. He insisted on not speaking with me at all till my appointment window. Even when all of his other patients were gone and ONLY I remained.
I tried to demand to be seen, but I was locked outta the building. And ended up sitting around town square waiting for my appointment time.
Grim Reaper Kelly asked me, "Would you like me to intervene now? On your behalf? You've been more than patient and helpful and he clearly doesn't see your worth… I could knock in the door or kill them all if you like?"
"No, that kook's got my creation! I can't take the chance of pissing him off till I speak with him, Kelly. He might hurt Lydia if I'm not very carful." I let Drac's reaper know.
When my time slot FINALLY arrived, another Frankenstein creation. Who wasn't James came and got me from my waiting place. He barely spoke a word and manhandled me to where the doctor wished to meet with me. He tossed me at his keeper's feet when we arrived. Kelly asked me repeatedly throughout that time. If he needed to retaliate but I wouldn't let him. Lydia's life could hang in the balance if he did. Even if I appreciated his attention, and protection.
The doctor was in a recliner on wheels and reading a book cross-legged. And wasn't bothered to be interrupted till he'd finished the book in his hand cover to cover. But I had been as patient as I could be, for as long as I could be and I was getting my answers NOW.
So I stole the torch off of his workbench, beside me, lit it and torched the book in two. When the flames ate away the spine of the book and parted to reveal Brody's steamed face. I waved at him comically, "I've waited long enough, Brody. Your Romance novels can wait."
He growled, "I hate to leave a story UNFINISHED."
"And I hate that my monster was taken from me, at her most vulnerable moment. Let's not measure our pain." I said as he finally tossed aside the remnants of his book and looked me in the eye. I said, "Hope I'm INTRUDING! Like you had those flunkies intrude upon me. Or like I've been waiting around ALL DAY to ask you. WHERE'S my CREATURE?"
"Dr. Quinn Pensky." He growled. "You always were a reckless woman. Even before your accident made you immortal. Haven't you outgrown that at all in your extended lifetime?"
"Dr. Miles Brody, you were always a jerk! But I didn't know you were also a thief, a pig AND a HACK! Stealing from other mad doctors and harboring credit that isn't yours. I gave you more credit than that till today. Now that we know each other's names, quirks, and opinions. WHERE is the GIRL?"
"She's fine, don't worry." He said.
"Don't tell me what to do, you stole her from me, you had no right in taking her. Now, give her back or I will tear this place APART. And if I still don't find her, or I find a single hair out of place on her head when she is found. So HELP me, I 'll tear you apart limb from limb! Now WHERE?! IS?! SHE?!"
He told me, "I can't answer you when you're all emotional and shouting."
"Then you shouldn't have taken what wasn't yours!" I let him know.
"That wasn't my original plan either, believe me. But it was the only way, my associates assured me-" He tried to say.
But I cut him off, "The party was free to ALL Monsters interested. And was being hosted by Lola-vira, not me. She's far more trusting than I am, there's an entire mob of monsters that can back that story where I came from. You had no right taking her, give her back!"
"She's quite a fascinating little discovery, really." He tried to complement, like that would help. "How did you manage to come up with such a vibrant and resilient specimen? It doesn't match your methods at all?"
Brody had said nonchalantly tossing a few orbs near me. Kelly explained, "Those Orbs are testing the protective magic surrounding you. He's looking for a weak spot that he won't find, with me here."
I nodded to Kelly but went on telling Brody the truth, "I built Lydia like a real girl, and not an anime-fueled racy fever dream from a twelve-year-old boy on Nite-Quil."
He looked perturbed, but I couldn't tell if it was about how protected I was. Or if he was really hurt about what he was confessing to me next. "Not all of my females have been half as successful as this one. "Lydia" is that the name you picked-"
"She had a hand in it, we read her names from a book of baby names. Her heart responded to 'Lydia' one the best."
Brody nodded, "She's stunning and far more vibrant than any of my creations… Mine haven't been nearly as fine, Nor healthy, quick healing, and believe it or not, some of them weren't all that different looking from your little girl-"
"Yeah right! Like you could ever build a female who wasn't ridiculously well endowed in someway to benefit you. You're always too busy hoping to finally nail down a mate." I called him out, and his face was all the confirmation I needed.
He said with a warning undertoning his voice, "Not all of us can be celibate nuns without the religion like you. The world would never be able to keep progressing if we were." He threw off on my unwillingness to date. Even going on to grumble something about "Mark warning him about me."
"If you chose to willingly listen to Mark, you get what you deserve. I should know, he led me on for YEARS before I wisened up. If you continue to surround yourself in such morons. Nothing will ever get better for you. Give me back what is mine and I will GLADLY leave this place. Then you won't need to deal with me anymore."
Something about what I'd just said had struck a cord in the physician though. And he said, "Why did things have to escalate so quickly? I didn't want to anger you and I didn't intend to steal your girl from you, I was only interested in your process. I figured this was the only way to get a peek at your work. You won't even fully disclose your origin story to the monster public. You really are far too private for your MAD title."
"Is this supposed to provoke me to be more open?" I asked him honestly. "Stealing her away when she's at her most vulnerable and fragile state. Wasn't the right move."
"Would you have ever let me see your work otherwise?" He asked me back. "Especially while it's in progress."
"YES!" I let him know. "If you had come to Lola-vira's castle, which is currently open to ALL monster-kind. I would have gladly shown you anything you wanted to know." I made myself very clear. While he cast a look back in the direction where the KIDNAPPERS were all hiding behind a curtain.
He asked me loudly, "Is that so, my minions told me you wouldn't let anyone near you labs."
"Then they lied to you." I let him know outright. "If you'd simply made the trip I could have shown you more in depth my work as well. But can you understand my reluctance now when your underlings could have KILLED my creation before she's even LIVED!"
He considered this for a second before he apologized, seeming to genuinely have no clue. That I was being that frank about my work on Lydia. He even admitted, "I agree that I had hoped my cohorts would gain your trust and intel less dramatically than taking her. But really, all I wanted was a peek at your success. A conversation with you that was a little less insulting and more academic. Then I hoped you might take a look at my current works in progress, before- what is the name you selected? Lyla? Layla?"
"Lydia." I corrected with an eye roll.
"That's the one, Lydia," He snapped his fingers. "She seems to be a most successful venture I've seen. I merely wanted to meet with you, hopefully before your time is eaten up with her upkeep, and education. If you had the time and energy to do so. That perhaps you might help me figure out where I've gone wrong? With my own creations in any shape or form. Just a trading of ideas, if you will."
I said, "I could do that, since she has yet to awaken from her incubation time." Which made both the fellow scientist and other Frankenstien creation smile hopefully.
I backpaddled, "That is if Lydia could be transported in the safest quickest means. Immediately! Back to Lola-vira's castle and put back with James-stein for the remainder of her incubation period. Then I would gladly take a look at your works in progress. But absolutely not until this wrong is righted. For not only my creation's life hangs in the balance anymore. Her possible match is devastated and needs her as much as she needs him."
His first answer was "She's in an incubation phase? I've never heard of that in any of Doctor Frankestein's printed texts."
I explained, "I was able to get a hold of the private journals of several generations of Frankensteins beyond the first one. Even the one who successfully created a female creature some time ago. Even though no one knows for certain if she still lives or not now."
Dr. Brody said "Fascinating and you're placing her with your Frankenstein connecti-"
"James, he prefers the name James… His creator was not as thoughtful or kind as I am." I explained. "He prefers to be called James and not Frankenstein… and who can blame him? He was brilliant but heartless once any of the monsters were sustaining lives for themselves."
Brody agreed, "Who indeed?" While he eyed his Frankenstein connection worriedly. Dumb me was so preoccupied with Lydia's care. I didn't even think that they could already know James, even though he's lived so much longer than I have. And the monster beside Brody is James' brother in a way. They had the same creator, so the same father, in theory. So I didn't even expect it when more popped up about this later.
Brody was astute and even quicker than I anticipated in making things right. In the press of a button, he teleported himself, the other Frankenstein creation that he was helping, Lydia and me back to Lola-vira's laboratories. Where Wolfman Vince and Ghost Bride Stacey were still sitting with James-stein. Both newcomers were unaware of what had happened to James entirely. So I let them know, as Vince helped me get Lydia settled in next to James again. How James had been doing while I was away…
He'd platituded… noticeably. He should have been at least a little better by now. But the absolutely no change whatsoever I was witnessing told me he didn't want to get better… He's depression and broken heart were hindering his healing.
Once Lydia was secured alongside him. I checked all of my instruments on BOTH creatures to make certain they were okay. Going for complete transparency now, knowing Brody wouldn't believe a word I say. He needed to see it all for himself. So I showed Bordy a lot, instead of telling him. I made it clear to him how dangerous this had all been to both monsters. How James had been tased and made very unstably ill by the lackeys Brody had sent. Now James had slipped into a coma, and he had been helping regulate Lydia's body temp as she slept before any of this happened. Now that she was back, she was the one regulating James now.
Brody had realized, "And that simplifies everything in balancing their recovery time out. She had a source just like her there to help her. Now she's able to aid him, the same way with his shock. Ingenious, Maybe you are more deserving of the MAD title more than I realized."
Miles and the other Frankenstein both apologized repeatedly. Assuring me, that tasing James, "That was never a part of their plan."
That did make me feel a little better. That this doctor hadn't intended for anyone to get hurt. If what he said really was true. Forgive me, but I still don't entirely trust them yet. Whether they intended it or not, it was still Brody's orders that had endangered and kidnapped Lydia. As understandable ANGRY as I'd been, looking at the other Frankenstein creation was the thing that pulled at my heartstrings the most. I've grown fond of James in our time together. I even count him as a dear friend now. Seeing a brother of sorts, so similar to him… even if he was misguided and possibly following the wrong crowd… I felt the need to help him.
So for his sake more than ANYTHING else… I tried to believe that Brody just wanted to converse and see if I might be able to help him help his patchwork person somehow too.
But something else I hadn't realized was that while I had been gone and returned… more than twenty four hours had passed at Lola-vira's castle. I'd left in the early daylight hours and the sun was going down a second time when I first arrived. So by the time I secured both James and Lydia together again with all of their separate life support tech pulling them in different directions…the sun had set. So by the time they were FINALLY righted, home, and safe…
Night had fallen anew… And my newest friend was no longer confined to his chambers.
And because of the amulet around my neck. Drac had known I was here before anyone could tell him. So the moment he could be out again, because another day was done… he raced for the labs. Beating out Lola-vira in her own palace as a greeter.
The moment Vince left to tell Lola-vira and the rest of the gathered ghouls of our return. That Lydia and I were back safe and sound. A bat came fluttering in through one of the open windows high in the ceilings. The moment I spotted him I called to him, "We're back and everything's okay, Drac."
But he still flew straight for me, appeared right next to me, and hugged me tightly. Before any of the smoke from his transformation could clear. When he spoke, he said, "I was watching you on my maps. Why were you everywhere? And all over the place? In Halloweentown?" He looked great as always, but he clearly hadn't slept at all.
"You could keep track of my progress using the map on your wall?" I asked him, and he'd nodded his head up and down. "Ya know? You could have warned me that borrowing Kellyscythe also meant borrowing more than just protective magic."
He answered knowingly, "Yeah, but you wouldn't have taken it, and I was too worried to let you go alone." But before he could say anything else to me. Dr. Brody cleared his throat loudly and greeted Dracula clinically.
The other doctor shook his hand and said, "I didn't realize these proceedings would interest the new Dracula. It's good to see you again, your majesty."
"Doc." He greeted simply. Before he shrugged, "Nearly all of the current monster royalty showed up for this. You'll see when Lola-vira brings the rest of the party here."
Brody made some snide comment about 'crowd control' to his friend. But Drac took my hand and tugged me to face him. When I was facing him he asked softly. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah." I said quietly.
He even asked, "Really? You're fine? Lydia, too?"
"Lydia too," I assured him softly, finding it very hard to look away from his eyes. But I somehow managed to express, "But I'm really concerned for James-stein. He's not recovering nearly as well as I'd hoped, and he should be in a much better place by now." But as Drac and I were checking his vitals.
The other patchwork-skinned monster asked me in a LOW tone of voice, "Have you rebalanced out his iron levels in his blood?" Then he explained, "When I have been tased for experimentation. I didn't wake up for days till the iron in my body was balanced or completely replenished sometimes. I slept and slept till someone figured that out."
This little tip had me scribbling away on the nearest chalkboard. Figuring out the proper IV feed that could quickly accomplish this feat. Brody racing me to see who would figure it out quicker. He beat me but his dosage hadn't properly accommodated James' personal needs. It would have accommodated his bigger and burlier stitched-up comrade perfectly though.
Thanks to this creature's help, James finally awakened two hours later. And I nearly keeled over from the relief that swept over me. I was still of course concerned for Lydia's awakening too. But I had been just as concerned for James.
I told him, "Welcome back, my friend."
And James took my hand to say, "Thank you, Doc… You saved me and Lydia."
"Well, you would have done the same for me," I waved off. But I explained to him who Dr. Bordy and his Frankenstein friend - I didn't realize it till now, but I'd never asked this patchwork for his name. So I introduced James to Brody and finally asked him, "What name have you selected for yourself fellow Frankenstein creation?"
But James somehow already knew him and said, "Raph? Raphael? Is that you?"
And the brother creations shocked us all when they hugged. Both hadn't known the other still lived and had overcome insurmountable feats to remain living. Both were even wiping away tears when the creation named 'Raph' stepped back from our James. Raph-stein had been captured by a cruel group of human scientists who had tested his immortality in every way possible for a few decades. He only escaped when the place burned to the ground.
Brody's origins with immortality happened in that same place or lab. That was how he'd met his patchwork friend, they had both been test subjects. But everyone knew the stories of how Brody had become a mad scientist. Even humans told that old story, but no one knew mine and Brody wanted the deets.
But I was gonna remain a mystery for as long as I could get away with. It's just the way I prefer things, especially with a person I don't even know I can trust yet.
Lola-vira was hospitable to Brody and Raph-stein. But I understood perfectly why they weren't given rooms or encouraged so much to stay. Zoey had let me know Lisa was hiding herself till Brody was gone again. And Michael had volunteered to keep her company during this horrifying time. I knew with James awake and Drac here to help. I could afford to step away and fulfill my promise to Brody. So that all of the gut-wrenching parts of today could finally be over. But as I was preparing to go back with Brody and Raph-stein. I asked Lola-vira to show our guests to the party for a few minutes before we left again.
Drac barely waited for the rest of the party to leave. Before he pulled me closer and asked, "Leaving AGAIN? Why? You're needed here?"
"I told Brody if he got Lydia back to James quickly. I would take a look at his creations, in his lab and see if I can help. But I won't be long." I explained and promised all in one go.
He said, "Do you really need to be doing that? After what he put you through? What he put us ALL through?"
"I'm a doctor who keeps her promises and besides… did you see Raph-stein's face when James was getting cute with Lydia… He needs someone just as much as James. I need to see if I can help." I said aloud and lowered my voice for only Drac to hear as I said. "And if Brody isn't his answer. Maybe I'll offer him my help after Lydia's more self-reliant. In the future. She won't always need me around."
He took this deep breath and said, "You're always helping others, and trying to make the world a little better than you found it."
"Yes, I am." I agreed, wondering had I already said these things around him too? That was the same phrasing and tone I used when I said it that he'd just matched. I've only known him for such a small time span, yet I feel like we've known each other for years rather than days. And their's a level of comfort and trust I already feel between us that I've never had any place else. With another living soul, not even any of my blood kin or lifelong friends…
I leaned my head on his shoulder and asked him. "Can you please help James and Lydee? Just for a little bit longer? While I go with them and help for a little bit?"
"As long as you still wear Kellyscythe and let him actually take a swipe at the next ones who treat you badly." He made me promise, telling me. "He isn't tagging along to help out with the fall harvest festival there in Halloweentown. He's there to take care of anyone who tries to hurt you. Let him do his job when he thinks he needs to protect you."
James helped him gang up on me (and reminded us he was still here and so was Lydia), "Be careful doc. Raph's a good guy, but Brody has a dark side as bad as Jeremiah's (AN: Jekyll/Hyde )."
"I will be," I promised them all but I told Kelly and James to look away for a minute before I kissed Dracula and promised him in a whisper. "I'll be back as soon as I possibly can."
"I won't rest till you do." He said right back, to hurry me back that much faster. I walked Drac and Vince both through all of the changes I'd made to Lydia's treatments and James' as well. Before Raph-stein promised to visit again soon and talk more with James when he was feeling better. They were basically the only thing close to family the other had right now. So this had made both creatures smile with much-needed comradery. And I was a little relieved that the doctor wouldn't be joining Raph on these trips... The other monsters all seemed as perturbed as I felt about the Brody's presence.
After I was certain BOTH patients were stable and both Wolfman Vince and Count Dracula had it all down pact. I went to Brody and Raph-stein and we teleported back to their labs. I hoped that my time there wouldn't be long.
But almost as soon as we were back in Brody's labs and scribbling away equations on blackboards. Brody asked me, "Aren't you the Mad Scientist who has no interest in dating? Or was the bio I was given on you false?"
"I am… where's this line of questioning leading?" I said, hoping my discomfort would subside when he'd further explained his question. Praying it would hypothetical and not aimed at any personal gain.
It didn't, because his next question was, "I just wondered if the newest Count Dracula knew this tidbit about you? Because he seemed quite smitten, more than interested, he even embraced you and kissed you."
I shrugged, "Have you ever dealt with their kind? They're all like that, touchy-feely and more affectionate than nearly any other people."
I heard him saying under his breath, "Sounds like I need to endeavor to deal with them more in the future." But then he'd said louder. "Besides, you're wearing the Kellyscythe. Which I know was left to him by one of the greatest vampire queens of all time."
"You know about this amulet?" I asked in shock and he quirked an eyebrow at me.
"Yes, as well as the reaper attached to it. 'Kelly,' such a loyal and trustworthy reaper." Brody tried to show off.
While Kelly whispered to me usefully confirming my suspicions, "He's baiting you, nothing more, be cool. Give nothing away to him so freely. If he really knew me he'd be dead… for good this time."
Brody went on to ask, "But what I wonder is do you know the full significance of wearing such a protectorate?"
"Significance? In him wanting to protect a friend? From you and anyone else here? A friend who appears a little too human to remain safe in this town?" I asked. "That's just being a good friend."
"Ah, but that isn't the only significance Dr. Quinn. The Count is trying to also keep away any possible love interest by claiming you as his own. Wearing such a priceless thing is no trinket of mere friendship." He said, like he knew what he was talking about.
While Kelly's breath coldly chilled my other ear assuring me. "He's just trying to get you to take it off. Don't fall prey to his tricks. I can only help while you're wearing it."
I said to Brody, "I know what you're trying to do and it won't work, doctor. I'm not interested in dating anyone, Drac is my friend and he respects that. He respects me, and unless you start taking his example, I'm walking out here and you're back to square one."
Kelly reacted where only I could hear him, "Boss Move! Well played! SUCK IT, CREEP!" While he took a practice swing for the doctor's oddly shaped head. Only missing by centimeters.
Brody said, "Forgive my impertinence, I didn't mean to be impolite either. I just wanted to be helpful to you as you're being to me. Even a friend-possibility like me, should put you on your guard about Dracula's true intent. He's more interested in you than I think you realize. I also wanted to show that he might not be the only one."
Eew! That sent an unpleasant chill down my spine, and the worst taste in my mouth. Ick! Something tells me they'll be no living with Drac after this, if he knew he was right.
I warned, "If this is you trying to flirt, I'm walking out that door."
He swore he would behave, but something about the way he kept cutting his eyes at me… it made me feel uncomfortable the entire rest of the time I was there which was the rest of that night, all the daylight hours of the next day as well. But I hoped my hints and suggestions would help Brody build Raph a successful creation like my "Lydia." And like I told Drac earlier… if Brody still couldn't do it, Raph-stein now knew I was an option.
I even got Raph to name his possibility while we worked and start talking to her like she was already here. The way James had done and encouraged Brody to do the same about his creation. Willing it to manifestation. I'd done my part, so as the sun started to set again. I asked to be returned home and Brody had teleported me as promised. But one of the things that had absolutely rattled me before I could leave. Was when I had to walk with Raph through Brody's collection room to grab a few things from his store room. The place where he keeps all of the monsters and people he's collected through the years… They were all screaming or crying out to me, begging for help, begging to be free. And it had really messed me up, it had been the stuff of nightmares and I wanted to run outta there.
But it would have taken hours to get back to Lola-vira's that way. Teleportation was more ideal, so I'd stuck it out till he sent me back. But I felt like I couldn't really breathe after that. Till I had been returned to my own laboratory. Where James and Lydia were snoozing safe and sound.
Since the sun was gone for another day by that time. Drac was there waiting for me too, and his hug was the best of all.
I know I shouldn't be this glad to see him, even if he is becoming a tremendous friend to me. I don't want to hurt him or lead him on in any way. And even though I didn't want to believe ANY thing Brody said. It wasn't lost on me that he could be right in warning me that Drac could want more than friendship… something I can't give him… And if I'm not clear about this, I could lose this new friend just as soon as I've started counting on him. I couldn't take that, I couldn't hurt him and I lack the capacity for romantic love of ANY kind…
At least… I don't think I can… No! I know I can't! Love isn't for me, how many times do I have to see that to believe it? How many times do I have to be hurt so badly? Before I take the hint?
I still don't understand this thing happening between us at all. But I do know that it had felt so nice to be back here and back with this crazy bunch of monsters STILL partying hard while they're waiting for our new Queen to awaken. And it had been LOVELY telling Lisa she had nothing to fear anymore, because Brody was gone and far too preoccupied with his own creations to darken our doors again.
She'd been so relieved, she'd hugged me as well. Then Lolavira, Zoey… Perhaps Dracula isn't the only new friend I've gained here. Looking around me, I felt like I was part of something… A something I had always been excluded from before… and it felt really good… I didn't want it to end.
That's all folks!
Well, for this post anyways! I promise I will do my best to get the next one up soon. And yes! It will be actually returning to Logan's perspective next time for sure. Already drafting it! That had been the original plan for this chapter. But Dream Quinn's perspective took over! And it was way more interesting than Logan's viewpoint of worrying himself to distraction and staring at maps till she was back. LoL! He's so gone! I love it! Hope you do too, please write in if you can, I would love to hear from you. Hope you're having a GREAT day! Take Care and Much Love!
~DarcyBeDippy85!