Camila looked over her wardrobe. She couldn't decide between something casual or something more formal. "Por qué me preocupo siquiera por esto?" She said to herself. "It's just dinner with John, and it's not like he cares what I wear. I'm making this a bigger deal than it needs to be."
Camila and John planned dinner at a new restaurant after their casual coffee date at Robin's Roast Cafe last week. Camila looked forward to it with a mix of nervous excitement and anticipation. She had decided to treat Gravesfield's friendly new police officer for his service, and she was determined to approach the evening with gratitude and a relaxed attitude.
With a sigh, she finally settled on a comfortable yet simple black dress. Before changing, she looked over at her nightstand, where the framed photo of her younger self, a six-year-old Luz, and her late husband Manny stood. It had been years since Manny passed away, but the pain still lingered.
She knows Manny would've wanted her to move on, but… John has been kind to her, but… the thought of them together… She couldn't shake the guilt, as if she were betraying Manny's memory by moving on. Manny's passing had been especially hard for Luz, and she didn't want her to think she was replacing him with someone else. This internal conflict, a storm of emotions, weighed heavily on her, making her feel torn and unsure, her heart a battlefield of conflicting emotions.
Camila then noticed the letter Luz had written her after her first week at the summer camp.
'Hi, Mom!
I am having a great time at camp. Today, we learned what mortgages are! I can't wait to get home and see you. Let's do lots of fun mother-daughter activities forever and ever.
Love, your daughter,
Luis
Luz'
She did find it strange that her daughter misspelled her name at the end of the letter. When she discovered the error, she was most likely preoccupied with how much fun she had at camp. Camila smiled. She had worried that she had made a mistake, but now she felt reassured that Luz was enjoying herself and looking forward to spending time with her.
Camila couldn't help but wonder if Luz would come to like John. She knew only time would tell. The thought of Luz accepting John brought hope to Camila's heart. She held onto this hope tightly, her anticipation palpable.
Camila opened the nightstand's drawer, where a rosary rested. She hadn't prayed since losing Manny but felt compelled to do so now. She clasped the rosary and closed her eyes, whispering a silent prayer: "Querido Dios, please watch over Mija and keep her safe during her camp. Help her make friends and enjoy herself. And please give me the strength to let go of my worries and to trust in your plan for our family. En nombre del Padre, del Hijo, y del Espíritu Santo. Amen."
As Camila placed the rosary back in the drawer, a profound sense of peace washed over her. A heavy burden was lifted from her shoulders, and she felt lighter and more at ease. The weight of her worries had significantly reduced, and she was ready to face the evening with a renewed sense of calm.
"Hey Dell, check this out," Luz said, pointing over at a newsstand where a paper was plastered with the headline 'Superboy Exposes Cheating Coven Head' by Loisse Laine. Plus, she thought Dell would be up for a good gossip session about Superboy.
"It looks like Loisse's story about yesterday is making waves throughout Bonesborough," Dell observed, taking a closer look at the article. "I wonder how the Coven Head will react to this scandal."
"Hey, open up, Morton!" Eda banged on the shutter of a potion shop called Mr. Elixir, growing impatient by the second as more feathers grew from her arms. Her curse was flaring up, and they were out of her elixir. So, Luz joined the Whispers family on a trip to the market.
The market was bustling with activity, with vendors calling out their wares and customers haggling for the best prices. Sitting on a bench near her was Raine, who had a sleeping King in a pink baby carrier strapped to their chest to prevent him from stealing everything that wasn't nailed down. According to Eda, his little body conks out when he's weightless. He looked so cute and dangly.
"I'm Surprised the Coven Scouts haven't confiscated those articles yet," Loisse said as she approached Luz and Dell. "They are known for strictly enforcing what the Emperor's Coven wants people to know."
"Oh, hey Loisse," Luz greeted her newly made friend from yesterday. "What's this about confiscating articles?"
"The article I wrote about Lilith did sell like crazy, but the Emperor's Coven was unhappy about their leadership being shown in a bad light. They've been cracking down on any negative press lately."
"They haven't tried anything on you, have they?" Dell asked with a concerned expression.
"Not yet, but I wouldn't put it past them," Loisse replied. "Though I did get suspended from writing for a week as a warning."
"That's ridiculous," Luz exclaimed, feeling angry on her friend's behalf.
"It's getting harder to report the truth without facing consequences, but I guess that's the price we pay for freedom of the press. But it could be worse. I could be out of a job entirely. But Mr. Porter and the Oracle Coven are fighting to keep the Illusion Coven from taking over the media industry," Loisse added with a determined look. "The last thing anyone needs is Graye controlling what we read."
"WUN FOW YOUW WIVES!" The little white creature with a large nose shouted as she ran in a panic.
"What's got Tinella Nosa spooked?" Loisse asked.
"She's had a name this whole time?" Both Dell and Luz asked in surprise.
"I thought she was just a random creature that showed up whenever," Luz added, scratching her head.
"Well, apparently, she has a name, and something has spooked her," Dell said, exchanging concerned glances with the others.
"And I think I know what it was." Loisse pointed behind them to a cart with a giant, deceased demon on it, guided by a group of men garbed in pelts and carrying weapons.
"That would do it," Dell muttered.
"That is one ominous parade," Luz said.
"That's no parade," Loisse said with disdain in her tone. "Those are poachers. They must have killed the demon and are now parading it as a trophy." Her eyes narrowed.
"Poachers?" Luz asked Loisse and Dell. "I thought poaching was illegal anywhere."
"It is," Loisse answered. "But some guilds have convinced the Emperor's Coven that their poaching is for the protection of citizens against dangerous beasts."
"And they would rather not deal with the paperwork and politics of shutting them down," Dell added.
"Do you see the big guy leading them?" Loisse pointed to the leader of the poachers, a large green-skinned man with tusks covered in savage tattoos and a bandana wrapped around his head. He sneered at all the onlookers, making them cower into their homes and stands. "He's one of the most notorious poachers on the Isles, responsible for decimating entire populations of magical creatures for profit. No one knows his name, just his alias, Bloodsport."
Luz felt a chill run down her spine as she watched Bloodsport and his crew move through the marketplace, their cruel intentions clear in their eyes. "We need to do something," Luz said, her voice determined. "We can't let them continue to destroy these creatures for their gain."
"Unless they're caught poaching for an organization other than the Emperor's Coven, the authorities can't intervene."
The poachers continued. Luz did not want to look at the sight any longer and turned away. Fortunately, her gaze fell on Willow and Gus. "There's Willow and Gus!" Luz quickly ran over to them, with Dell and Loisse behind her, hoping they would brighten all their moods. "Heya, friends!"
"Hey, Luz," Gus said, sounding dejected. And Willow's body language said the same thing.
"Wait, what's wrong? Who hurt my babies?"
"Them." Willow pointed towards a group of Hexside students at a food stand. A group of bullies that Willow, Gus, and Dell have told her about. And Amity was among them. "Amity's having a moonlight conjuring, and she keeps posting about it on her Penstagram account."
"Take a look," Gus summons his scroll, opening Amity's post of her and her friends posing with the caption, 'It's conjuring night! No dorks allowed!'
"What a jerk!" Luz said. "What's a moonlight conjuring?"
"You spend the night at someone's house, telling stories, playing games, etc," Gus explained.
"Like a slumber party! We have those!" Luz said excitedly.
"Then you bring something to life with moon magic," Willow added.
"Like a weird slumber party!"
"Gus and I have never been to one," Willow said.
"Really?" Luz blinks in surprise. "I thought you, Gus, and Dell would've done one."
"We've talked about it but never actually planned one," Dell admitted.
Boscha laughed as she and her friends walked past them. "Sorry you couldn't get an invite to the conjuring, Willow." She taunted. "Only real witches are allowed."
"Leave her alone," Amity sighed. "It's not her fault that she was born without talent."
As they left, Loisse coughed into her hand something that sounded along the lines of "bitch."
Willow felt her face flush with embarrassment and growled, causing several vines to grow from the ground.
"Uh, Willow," Dell stated, a hint of concern in his voice.
"Hey!" Luz slapped the tallest vine away, then hugged her friend. "Don't waste your time getting thorny over them. 'Cause we'll have our moonlight conjuring at the Owl House!"
"I'm sorry, what?" Dell asked, confused.
"Are you serious?" Gus exclaimed. "This was on my bucket list." He then traced a spell circle, and a sheet of paper appeared in his hand. He pulled out a pen and checked something off. "After owning a real human bucket!"
"That's a weird thing to want, but I appreciate your enthusiasm," Luz said with a small laugh.
"Hold on," Dell interrupted. "Shouldn't you, I don't know, ask Mom and Baba permission before planning something like this?"
"All right, kiddos, I got some good news and some bad news," Eda said as she and Raine walked up to the group of friends. She looked at Willow, Gus, and Loisse. "This is a family matter, so could three shoo away for a bit?"
"Right," Loisse said, taking Willow and Gus by their hands. "Come on, guys."
"Don't forget to ask," Willow reminded Luz.
"What is it, Mom?" Dell asked.
"Bad news is that Morton's all out of elixirs 'til next week," Eda explained. "But the good news is I could try my luck later this evening. In the Night Market?"
AROO! A wolf howled in the distance, causing everyone to jump.
"The Night Market?" Dell's eyes widened.
AROO! A wolf howled in the distance once more.
"What's the Night Market?" Luz asked.
AROO!
"It's a place where you can find all sorts of magical items and ingredients of the not-so-legal variety," Eda replied with a mischievous grin. "There's a guy there with a stand who goes by Grimm Hammer; if anyone has what I'll need, it's him."
"Well, Eda, if you and Raine are gonna be out for the evening, can Dell, Gus, Willow, Loisse, and I do a moonlight conjuring at the Owl House and stick it to Amity?"
Eda held up her hand. "Kid, as much as I love sticking it to rich folks, the answer's no. Raine and I need you and Dell to watch over the place; we have many precious objects there."
"Like me!" King said proudly from his baby carrier.
"Besides, conjurings are dumb, sitting in a circle and holding hands. Pft. It's like magic for babies."
"Isn't that a little harsh?" Raine interjected, giving Eda a disapproving look. They then looked back to Luz and said gently, "A conjuring can be a powerful bonding experience if done right." Luz smiled. "But Eda's right, we need you two to watch things here tonight."
"But…"
"I'm sorry. Our decision is final, Luz."
Luz looked down as she and Dell returned to Willow and Gus, but she noticed Loisse wasn't with them. "Where's Loisse?" Dell asked.
"She said she had to head back home," Willow answered. Then she turned to Luz. "So, Luz! What did Eda say?"
"So... Guys... Uhm..." Luz began to find the right words to explain the situation with Eda and Raine. But her friends looked at her with anticipation. "YES!"
"What?" Dell responded.
"She said yes! We can do it at the Owl House. As long as we don't make a mess or touch anything and never mention that we did it!"
"Yes!" Gus cheered.
"Oh, you're the best!" Willow hugged Luz. She took Gus' hands, and they danced in a circle, singing, "We're going to do a conjuring! We're going to do a conjuring! Conjuring! Conjuring!"
Luz noticed Dell giving her a disappointed look, saying that she had lied about Eda and Raine's permission. "I'm sorry, Dell. But I couldn't just say no to them. I promise we'll be careful and respectful at the Owl House."
Dell sighed, realizing Luz was determined to continue their plan despite the risks. "Fine. I'm going to be out patrolling tonight. If something goes wrong, don't be afraid to call for Superboy."
Luz smiled appreciatively. "Don't worry, everything will be fine… I think."
Loisse trudged through the dense forest, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts. She felt frustrated. The sight of Bloodsport and his gang and what they did to that demon left her unsettled. Their eyes were filled with apathy and cruelty. The glint of their weapons made her blood boil. It was all too vivid.
Living with a family of beast keepers made her empathize with creatures, and she couldn't stand seeing them treated like that. But her talents lie in Oracle magic; she didn't have the physical strength to confront them directly like her uncle as much as she would have. Her power also came from the press, but that was stripped away from her. She felt useless.
She wanted to get home and forget what she had witnessed but couldn't ignore the injustice. Then she heard faint sounds—hushed voices. Her curiosity piqued, and she followed the sounds to a hidden camp, where she found the poacher gang. The camp was nestled in a clearing, the trees forming a protective barrier against prying eyes. From the way they moved about, they were planning their next hunt.
She stayed and listened.
"Boss," one of the cronies addressed Bloodsport, leaning against a tree. "Are you certain that this is worth the risk?"
"Our sources say the den's deep in the forest," Bloodsport replied in a deep voice. "And we're being paid well to bring him those hatchlings."
Loisse felt a surge of anger. They were going after hatchlings! Babies!
"Yeah, but I thought basilisks were extinct, you know?"
Bloodsport chuckled. "Then it seems like many people thought wrong. And we'll be rich once we deliver those little monsters."
Basilisks? Are basilisks still alive?
"But if there are hatchlings, doesn't that mean adult basilisks are nearby?" The poacher asked.
Bloodsport shrugged. "We'll deal with that if the time comes. We were given new weapons for this job, after all. And remember, basilisks can absorb magic. But if we have the element of surprise on our side, they won't stand a chance."
"What does he even want with hatchlings?"
"How should I know?" Bloodsport replied, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "All I know is that we're getting paid a hefty sum per hatchling. And as long as we deliver, we'll be rolling in snails. We move out at night."
With that, Loisse quickly left the scene, her mind racing. Not only were basilisks alive and with hatchlings, but someone outside of the Emperor's Coven wanted them. If Loisse could prove to Coven Scouts that poachers were working for another party, they would finally have to step in and take them down. Loisse knew she had stumbled upon a dangerous game where the stakes were high, and the players were ruthless. But the potential reward was too great to ignore. She needed to act fast and gather evidence before the poachers disappeared into the night with the hatchlings.
Camila arrived at the restaurant and found John seated at their reserved table. He wore a suit and tie and looked more handsome than she had ever seen him. "Camila, you look beautiful tonight," he said, causing her heart to flutter excitedly as she sat across from him.
But that didn't stop her from playfully raising an eyebrow and teasing, "Are you saying I didn't look beautiful before?"
"Of course not. I didn't mean to imply that at all," John quickly clarified.
"Relax, John," Camila said with a laugh, reaching across the table to squeeze his hand. "I'm just teasing." John smiled in relief. Camila quickly caught on that he had difficulty telling the difference between when someone was joking and when someone was not. Humor was her way of releasing tension and showing affection. "And you look nice, too."
"Thank you," John replied with a chuckle, grateful for Camila's understanding nature. "Muchas gracias."
Camila smiled warmly, appreciating John's attempt to speak her language. His pronunciation and tone were perfect. "Has estado practicando?"
"Soy un aprendiz rápido." John smiled, feeling proud of his progress.
Camila nodded approvingly. "Eres muy talentoso," she said sincerely.
Dinner went smoothly as they continued to chat and laugh. However, John had already paid; he and Camila stayed seated and enjoyed each other's company. Camila's generosity and John's efforts made for a delightful evening filled with connection and warmth. Still, John noticed something felt off about Camila despite her best efforts to hide her troubles. John couldn't shake the feeling that Camila was carrying a heavy burden.
"Is everything all right, Camila?" He asked.
Camila stopped drinking her wine, hesitating momentarily before forcing a smile and nodding. "I'm fine, just a little tired," she replied, trying to brush off John's concern.
"Camila, I can tell something is bothering you," John said, reaching out to hold her hand in a gesture of comfort and support.
"Are you a mind reader?" Camila chuckled nervously, avoiding John's gaze.
"Just an officer's intuition. Camila, you can talk to me about anything," John reassured her, his eyes filled with genuine concern.
Camila felt relief wash over her, but she still hesitated. She let out a sigh and finally decided to open up. "Am I making the right choice?"
"About what?"
"About… the choices I've made. The choices I'm making now." Camila's voice was barely above a whisper.
"Is this about your daughter?" John's voice was gentle as he probed.
Camila nodded slowly. "I feel like I'm failing her. I feel like I'm not doing enough like I'm not enough for her," she admitted, tears welling up in her eyes. The wine started taking effect, loosening her inhibitions and allowing her to express her deepest fears.
"Camila, you're doing the best you can. Being a parent is hard, but your daughter knows how much you love her. That's what matters most." John squeezed her hand gently, offering a reassuring smile. "Sometimes we are our own worst critics."
Camila let out a shaky breath. "I think I had too much to drink tonight. I should probably go home now."
John nodded understandingly. "I'll drive you home, and we can continue this conversation another time when you're feeling more like yourself." He helped Camila out of the restaurant.
Crickets chirped loudly outside the Owl House. Dell, Luz, and King sat on the couch watching Mom and Baba gather their things before heading to the Night Market.
"Dell, you're in charge while we're out," Baba instructed as they fastened their cloak. "Make sure that Luz, King, and Hooty don't get into trouble."
"Hoot hoot! I don't need a babysitter. I'm a big boy house!" Hooty protested.
Baba continued, "Remember to lock up before you go to bed, even if we're not home."
"Got it, Baba. We'll be good," Dell assured them with a smile. "Have fun at the Night Market!"
AROO!
"Okay, someone has to be doing that on purpose," King muttered, looking around suspiciously.
"You can count on us," Luz added confidently. "We'll keep everything under control while you're gone. And we'd never betray your hard-earned trust." She nervously laughs.
"You're acting suspicious," Mom said, raising an eyebrow. "You're doing that thing where you hide in your hoodie."
Luz pulled her hood over her head and pulled the strings tight while trying to play it cool. "No, I'm not."
"Right…" Mom and Baba exchanged looks. "Anyway, we need to get going." Mom and Baba headed out the door. "Oh, and if anything happens to our house while we're gone, we will never trust either of you again." Luz and Dell both gulped. "No pressure! Byeeeeee!" Owlbert hooted, and Fiddlesticks barked as Mom and Baba flew away.
Dell could hear Baba ask Mom, "Was that necessary?"
And he could hear Mom say in return, "Hey, a little fear can be a good motivator."
"Good luck with your conjuring, Luz," Dell told her. "I'm going out on patrol."
"Wait, what if Willow and Gus ask where you are?" Luz asked.
Dell shrugged. "Tell them I'm sleeping and not to disturb me." It was not the most creative excuse, but it was the best he could come up with to avoid them discovering his identity. And he did hope they all enjoyed their conjuring. "If something goes wrong, holler."
Dell changed into Superboy and flew off into the night. Once he was high in the air, he closed his eyes and listened for any sign of trouble—if he needed to act. The Isles were quiet. He heard nothing but the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind and the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore. Dell couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over him, knowing that, for now, all was well on the Isles.
"I gotta thank Viney for teaching me this tracking spell." Dell's super-hearing picked up Loisse's voice from a distance. He also picked up her footsteps and the sounds of rustling leaves. "I hope I get there before the poachers do."
Poachers? Why was Loisse going after poachers? Upon hearing that, Dell flew in her direction with urgency. Now, he did not doubt Loisse's magic skill, but unlike him, she was not invulnerable to physical harm. He used his X-ray vision to see past all the trees and spotted a group of poachers setting traps for magical creatures. And Loisse was about to walk right into them!
Loisse followed the path her tracking spell had led her on, combining the Beast Keeping spell with her Oracle magic to ensure she was on the right track. Like Viney, she saw the appeal in mixing magics.
Her Oracle spirit helped her see the past and determine that a basilisk was indeed here. It was smaller than she thought and didn't look as fearsome as she was taught. But she knew better than to underestimate any magical creature, especially an infamous and dangerous one.
She heard rustling behind her. Whipping around, she saw a duo of poachers emerging from the shadows behind her. She was careless.
"Look what we have here?" One of the poachers, a red-skinned demon with horns protruding from his forehead, sneered. "A little witchlet playing where she shouldn't be."
The other poacher, a burly man with a scar across his cheek, cracked his knuckles menacingly. "Bad time to be out of bed, girly."
Loisse clenched her Focus, and her Oracle Spirit materialized to her defense. "I'm not afraid of you!" Loisse declared, her voice steady despite the fear coursing through her veins.
The poachers hesitated, clearly not expecting such resistance from a young witch. She then laughed. "She thinks she can take us on," the demon poacher chuckled, raising his bow.
"Let's show her what happens to those who meddle in our business." The burly man lunged forward. There was a gust of wind, and the man was knocked onto his rear, clenching his nose as blood trickled down his face. "What the—"
Standing between Loisse and the poachers, with his arms folded, was Superboy! "How about you pick on somebody your size."
The other demonic poacher came at Superboy and smashed his club against his face.
CRACK!
Superboy looked at the poacher as the weapon shattered upon impact and asked, "Why did you think that would work?"
"Please don't hurt us!" The poachers, now cowering in fear, dropped their weapons and fell to their knees.
Superboy disappeared with the poachers in a blur of red and blue, then reappeared in front of Loisse. "What did you do with them?" She asked.
Superboy replied, "I just dropped them off at the nearest Coven Scout precinct. They won't be bothering anyone else anytime soon. Now, what are you doing out here, Ms. Laine?"
"If I tell you, will you promise not to judge me?" Loisse asked, looking down at the ground nervously.
Superboy put a reassuring hand on her shoulder and said, "You can trust me." Loisse took a deep breath and explained her reasons for being in the forest at night. "Basilisk hatchlings?"
"Yes. Bloodsport and his poachers are after them, and I was hoping to find them before it's too late," Loisse admitted.
"And what were you planning to do after you found them?" Superboy's expression softened as he listened to Loisse's explanation.
"I was planning to relocate them to a safer place, away from the poachers," she said. "But I… haven't thought about how I would do that," Loisse confessed.
Superboy nodded thoughtfully, then offered, "I can help you with that."
"Wait, you are?"
Superboy smiled. "Yes. If poachers are after them, it's not for good reasons."
Loisse added, "I also have reason to believe that someone else is their benefactor, not the Emperor's Coven. If I can find proof, they'd have no choice but to shut Bloodsport and his crew down."
"Then let's do it," Superboy replied with determination. Loisse felt a surge of hope, knowing she had a potent partner on this mission.
Loisse and Superboy followed the Oracle Spirit to the basilisk den. Superboy walked next to her with a sense of determination. She stared at the "S" symbol on his muscled chest. Loisse felt her face heat up.
"Something wrong, Ms. Laine?" Superboy asked, noticing her blush.
"No!" She replied quickly, trying to hide her embarrassment. "Nothing at all." Loisse chuckled to herself, grateful that Superboy couldn't read her mind. Wait, could he read minds? Loisse quickly dismissed the thought. "I was just looking at your 'S' symbol."
Superboy smiled. "Thank you. But it's not an 'S.' On my homeworld, it means hope."
Loisse looked up at Superboy. "Hope, huh? I like that. It suits you."
Superboy nodded. "It's what I strive to represent. When people see me, I want them to feel like they can believe in a better tomorrow."
Loisse felt a warmth in her chest at his words. "So… what's your homeworld like?" She asked, genuinely curious.
Superboy's smile faltered slightly before he replied, "Krypton… I don't…" He paused. "I don't know much about it. But I think it was beautiful."
"Was?"
"It's gone now. Destroyed. I carry its memory as its last survivor."
"I'm sorry," Loisse said softly.
"Thank you. But I'm grateful for the life I have here on the Isles. The people here have given me a new purpose and family."
"Did your people have abilities like you do?" Loisse inquired. The journalist wanted to learn more about his history and powers.
"No. Kryptonians didn't have powers. It's something unique to me. It has to do with the sun. It gives me strength, speed, and the ability to fly. Heat vision, x-ray vision—"
"X-ray vision?"
"Yes, I can see through objects with it."
"So, could you see through walls? Or even clothes?" Loisse asked playfully, a mischievous glint in her eye.
Superboy's face reddened—the reaction for which she was hoping. "I... uh... well, yes, technically I could," he stammered, a sheepish smile forming. "But it's a responsibility I don't take lightly."
Loisse giggled, realizing she had caught the Boy of Steel off guard. "I won't ask you to demonstrate," she teased.
Superboy chuckled. "I appreciate that," he replied. Then he stopped. "Wait. I hear something."
"What is it?" she asked, watching Superboy focus intently.
Superboy stood before her as something leaped from the shadows and landed face-first into the superhero's outstretched hand, bouncing off it and recoiling. The creature was a pale orange serpent about the size of Loisse, with arms that ended in sharp claws, blue eyes that glowed in the darkness, and fin-like membranes for ears. Loisse couldn't believe her eyes—an actual basilisk.
"Intruders!" The basilisk hissed, its forked tongue flicking out menacingly.
Superboy quickly stepped in front of Loisse. "We mean you no harm," he assured the basilisk, trying to calm the creature down.
The basilisk's eyes narrowed suspiciously, but it seemed to be considering Superboy's words. "I know you. I've seen you on the crystal balls. You're the Superboy."
Superboy nodded. "Yes, that's right."
The basilisk's expression softened slightly, but it kept its claws up. "What brings you here?" It asked, its voice less hostile but not entirely friendly.
"We're here because of the hatchlings," Loisse explained.
"You come for the hatchlings, like the poachers!" The basilisk snarled, its eyes flashing with anger.
Superboy held up his hands in a calming gesture. "No, we're here to protect them, not harm them," he said firmly. "And the poachers were here?"
The basilisk's gaze shifted between Superboy and Loisse, its suspicion evident. "Yes, they were," it confirmed. "Ivy and I managed to drain most of their magic; others were scared off."
"Ivy?" Superboy inquired, raising an eyebrow.
"Ivy is my sister," the basilisk replied, its tone softening slightly. "I'm her brother, Three. But we're worried they might return—for the hatchlings and revenge."
"Was there a demon who goes by the name Bloodsport involved in the attack?" Loisse asked. "He's their leader."
"No. But he was probably watching from a distance." Three answered, his eyes narrowing. "Observing us. He was letting his men be sacrifices to test our defenses."
"How long ago was that?"
"About a half-hour ago."
"Then we need to be prepared for his next move," Superboy stated firmly. "I doubt Bloodsport will stop until he gets what he wants."
"Follow me; I will take you to the den." Three led Loisse and Superboy through the forest.
Loisse and Superboy followed Three further into the forest until they encountered a hidden cave entrance. "Stay close," Superboy assured her as they cautiously entered the shallow cave.
"Ivy? You here?" Three called out, his voice echoing through the damp cavern. Loisse gripped Superboy's hand tighter, feeling a chill creep over her.
"Three, you're back." Another basilisk, Ivy, slithered out from the shadows to hug her brother. Ivy was a red basilisk with green eyes and hair-like membranes for ears.
She then noticed Loisse. "A witch?" Ivy hissed, her eyes narrowing in suspicion.
"She's with me," Superboy interjected, stepping in front of Loisse protectively.
"They're here to help, sister," Three pleaded, desperation evident as he explained their situation.
Ivy's expression softened slightly as she saw Superboy. "It's you. The Superboy."
Ivy's recognition surprised Superboy, who asked, "You also know who I am?"
Ivy nodded, a flicker of respect in her eyes. "You may not recognize me like this, but you saved me from a fire in Bonesborough. I was disguised, and you were known as the Mysterious Blur."
"I remember that," Loisse said. "That fire was all over the news. You were a hero that day."
Superboy smiled. "I was just doing what I could to help."
"Superboy is here because of the poachers," Three explained. "He's trying to stop them from hurting the hatchlings."
Ivy smiled. "Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for being here. Raising babies is no easy task, especially when they're an endangered species like us."
Superboy nodded. "I'll do everything I can to protect them."
Suddenly, Superboy, Loisse, and the basilisks looked down and saw three tiny snake-like creatures with little arms and big heads with innocent eyes. The green one was nibbling on the toe of Superboy's boot, the pink one was climbing up his leg, and the yellow one was determined to grab his cape.
"What are you doing away from your siblings, little ones?" Ivy asked with a chuckle. The baby basilisks looked up at her with a playful glint in their eyes before Ivy picked up the hatchlings, trying to juggle them in her arms while they squirmed and wriggled excitedly.
"A bunch of little hellions they are," Three laughed.
"I'd never thought I'd see basilisks up close, much less hatchlings," Loisse said with wonder. "Though I have to ask," She looked at Ivy and Three. "Where have you been hiding? Basilisks have been extinct for a long time."
"We… we're not natural," Three explained, looking down at the baby basilisk in Ivy's arms. "We were created in a lab, along with the hatchlings, under the orders of Emperor Belos."
"What?" Superboy exclaimed, his eyes widening in shock. "Emperor Belos had basilisks created in a lab? That's... unsettling. And how?"
"We don't know. All we know is that the emperor wanted to know how we could absorb magic and replicate it."
"For what end, we can't say," Ivy continued. "But there were five of us. Three, Vee and I were able to escape. Vee is off to parts unknown. One and Two… they were… they were killed."
"I'm sorry," Superboy said softly, placing comforting hands on Three and Ivy's shoulders.
"How did you escape?" Loisse asked.
"We had help from a Coven Scout named Raymond Jensen," Three explained. "Vee unintentionally took the form of his deceased daughter, and he felt a connection to her. He helped us escape the emperor's clutches at the cost of his own life."
"Raymond was a hero," Ivy added, her voice filled with gratitude. "We owe him everything. Come on, let's get them back with the others. We found rocks in these caves that we use to keep the hatchlings warm." The basilisks slither further inside, where a curtain that blends in with the cave wall reveals a hidden chamber where three other basilisk hatchlings sleep on a pile of glowing green rocks.
"NO!" Superboy recoiled and fell to his knees, looking incredibly pale and shaken.
"Superboy!" Loisse and Three kneeled next to him; concern etched on their faces. "What's wrong?"
"The… rocks…" Superboy muttered, pointing a shaky finger at the glowing green rocks. "They're..."
Three picked up what Superboy was trying to tell them. "Ivy, close the curtains!" Ivy quickly obeyed, closing the curtain to block the glowing green rocks.
Superboy took a deep breath, visibly relieved as the chamber darkened and the rocks' glow faded. "Those rocks." He began. "I've encountered them before. Being near them weakens me and drains my powers."
"I'm sorry, I didn't know." Ivy apologized, feeling guilty for unknowingly putting Superboy in danger.
"It's okay," Superboy reassured her, then looked at the curtain. Whatever it was made of, it blocked the rocks from affecting him. Suddenly, Superboy turned around. "Oh no. The poachers. I can hear them outside."
Dell quickly left the cave to see a group of witches and demons armed with hunting weapons—spears, crossbows, and swords—ready to attack. And leading them all was the man himself, Bloodsport. After putting the hatchlings with their siblings, Ivy followed Loisse and Three, joining him outside the cave.
"Superboy?" Bloodsport called out, surprised to see the young hero there. "I didn't expect you to show up. Not that it matters; we're getting what we came for anyway."
Dell responds calmly, "You won't be taking anything, Bloodsport. The basilisks have been through enough. I'm here to protect them."
Bloodsport smirked, "We'll see about that. I always hoped for a chance to test my skills on the likes of you." With a wave of his hand, the witches and demons charged forward.
Loisse summoned her Oracle Spirit and sent it forward to engage the enemies with Ivy and Three. Dell joined them but stayed on the defensive, holding back the attackers.
Dell only used a fraction of his strength, not wanting to hurt anyone unnecessarily, even if they were enemies. With their swift, twisting movements, and accuracy, Ivy and Three took out several poachers with their sharp claws and absorbed their magic. Loisse's Oracle Spirit weaved through the battle, striking down the attackers.
Bloodsport snarled, then turned to his remaining men. "Bring out the heavy artillery," he commanded. One of the poachers pulled out an orb and tossed it at one of the basilisks.
"Look out!" Dell flew in and used his body to shield the basilisk.
BOOM!
The orb exploded in a fiery burst, strong enough to knock him back. He and the basilisks were unharmed, but the blast left the superhero momentarily disoriented.
Another poacher pulled out a sword with a red aura surrounding it and slashed Loisse's Oracle Spirit, causing it to disperse into thin air. Superboy quickly regained focus and launched himself at the poacher as he was about to strike Loisse with his weapon. He grabbed the blade and twisted it out of the poacher's grip, sending it flying across the clearing.
With a quick tap, Dell knocked the poacher unconscious. "Are you okay?" he asked Loisse, who nodded gratefully as she summoned her Oracle Spirit back into existence.
"Poachers shouldn't have gear like this," Loisse remarked. "The Emperor's Coven would give it to their scouts instead."
"Which means they're not working for the Emperor's Coven," Dell concluded. "We have proof. We need to find out who they're working for."
"Get the hatchlings; I'll deal with Superboy myself!" Bloodsport ordered, stepping out into the battlefield with gauntlets and boots with designs unlike anything ever seen. "SUPERBOY! YOU WILL BE MY GREATEST TROPHY YET!" Bloodsport's boots hummed, and he suddenly leaped at Dell with speed and agility that caught him off guard, and he was punched in the face with enough force to send him flying backward.
Dell quickly recovered and felt the sting of the blow. He hadn't been hit that hard since his encounter with Lobo. Bloodsport leaped at Dell again but blocked the punch this time, standing his ground. The poacher continued his relentless assault, each blow more potent than the last. Wherever Bloodsport got his gear, it gave him the strength and speed he needed to take Dell in a fight.
"FIGHT BACK! FIGHT BACK, YOU COWARD!" Bloodsport bellowed, his voice filled with rage and frustration. Dell flung his arms out, making Bloodsport stumble back, then gently pushing him away. But Dell's strength was enough to create some distance between them. As Bloodsport regained his balance, Dell took a deep breath, preparing himself for the next move.
"Where did you get that gear?" Dell demanded, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins.
Bloodsport sneered, a cruel smile playing on his lips. "From my benefactor, who is working with Emperor Belos to make more powerful weapons for our cause," he taunted.
"And what would that be?"
"To kill you, Superboy. You and other aliens like you who threaten the safety of the Isles," Bloodsport replied.
Dell was taken aback by the hatred in Bloodsport's words, realizing that weapons were being made specifically to kill him. "I don't understand. Why would Belos go to such lengths to eliminate me? What have I done to deserve this?"
"You exist, Superboy. And that's reason enough for him to want you dead!" Bloodsport tossed three explosive orbs at Dell, who quickly destroyed them with his heat vision.
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
Bloodsport jumped through the smoke, winding up for another attack. Dell used his speed to avoid Bloodsport's strikes, dodging each one in slow motion. While Dell fought Bloodsport, Loisse, Three, and Ivy continued to fight back against the remaining poachers. Loisse's Oracle Spirit knocked a poacher down, causing the explosive orbs on his belt to fly off and land in the basilisk den.
"The hatchlings!" Ivy screamed.
Dell turned to see the basilisk hatchlings in danger. Acting fast, he pushed Bloodsport away and flew into the den to gather the babies. He did not care if the rocks that weakened him were inside; he knew what his priority was. As soon as he flew inside, the orbs detonated.
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
"NO!" Ivy cried in horror as the den collapsed in fire and smoke. Three consoled his sister as he and Loisse watched in disbelief.
The rubble moved away, and Dell flew out, panting heavily, covered in soot, and his suit tattered. His red cape was his arms; inside it, he held the hatchlings—all safe and accounted for. "Oh, thank the Titan," Ivy whispered, relief streaming down her face. She rushed over with her brother to take the hatchlings off Dell's hands.
Three looked over Dell's shoulder, and his eyes widened. "Look out!"
Bloodsport leaped at Dell, delivering another punch to his already battered body. Dell staggered back and took another hit but managed to stay on his feet. Bloodsport sneered, "You just made it easier for me to get my prizes. And I will enjoy every moment of it." With a defiant glare, Dell braced himself and caught the gauntlets with both hands. Bloodsport tried to pull himself free, but Dell's grip was unyielding. "Why can't I move?"
"You think you know how strong I am?" Dell said through gritted teeth. "You have no idea how much I hold back!"
Bloodsport's eyes widened in realization as Dell's strength proved to be more than he anticipated. With a surge of power, Dell twisted the gauntlets out of Bloodsport's hands, crushing them in his grip. The poacher leader tried to leap away, but Dell was faster, grabbing his boots and pulling them off as Bloodsport fell to the ground. Dell crushed them, too. He also caught a glimpse of a logo—a hint of the manufacturer of the gauntlets and boots: Luthor Corp.
Now realizing how outmatched he was, Bloodsport scrambled to his feet and tried to make a run for it, but Dell was already in front of him, grabbing him by the collar and lifting him off the ground with ease.
"You're not going anywhere," Dell growled. "You're going to prison for a long time for what you've done."
"It doesn't matter; I know where the den is, and so does my client," Bloodsport said, revealing a communication stone around his neck. "Even if you arrest me, my client will continue the operation. Until they get what they want." Dell crushed the communication stone from Bloodsport's neck before tapping his forehead and knocking him out.
Dell looked to Three and Ivy and said, "We have to leave now. This place isn't safe anymore."
"But where could we go?" Ivy asked, her voice filled with uncertainty.
Dell glanced around, and an idea came to mind. "I know someone who can help."
"Thank you, again, for doing this, Salty," Dell said with a grateful smile to the captain. He, Loisse, Ivy, and Three stood on the docks just outside the pirate ship.
"Ay, I'm happy to help however I can, Superboy." Salty nodded and added, "And look at 'em." The basilisk hatchlings were adorablely cuddled, and the rest of Salty's crew was cooing at them. "I can't say no to those little faces with those big ol' eyes."
Dell laughed and agreed, "They are pretty cute."
"This place you're taking us to, is it truly safe?" Ivy asked, looking around warily at the unfamiliar surroundings.
"Aye, lass, you have nothing to worry about. It's a hidden cove known only to me and the crew," Salty reassured her, patting the hilt of his saber for emphasis. "Not even the Emperor's Coven knows about this place. And we'd never tell them, even if they asked. We'll keep you and your family safe."
Ivy nodded, relieved by Salty's words. "I trust you, Captain," she said with a grateful smile.
"Good luck to you all," Loisse wished them. "I'm glad that Superboy was able to save the day."
"Actually, Loisse," Dell began. "I wouldn't have known about this if it weren't for you. If anything, the credit should go to you."
Loisse blushed at the unexpected praise. "Thank you, Superboy. You're too humble."
"Captain! The babies are raiding the pantry!" A crew member shouted from the deck above.
"Come on, sis." Three gestured to Ivy. "Let's go take care of those little troublemakers before they eat all our supplies. We don't want to starve before we get there."
The basilisks boarded the ship, and it set sail. Loisse and Dell waved goodbye, and the basilisks waved back, ready for the next step in their lives: a safer future.
"Well, I better get back home," Loisse said. "My uncle is going to wonder where I've been all day. And probably kill me for being out so late."
Dell chuckled. "Don't worry; he'll understand once you tell him. Maybe. And I'll fly you there."
"You don't have to," Loisse protested.
But Dell insisted, "It's the least I can do after everything."
With a grateful smile, Loisse let Dell scoop her up in his arms and take flight toward her home. "OhmyTitan!" Loisse exclaimed as they lifted, wrapping her arms around Dell's neck tightly. Dell could hear how fast her heart was beating, but he knew she knew she was safe in his arms. They soared through the night sky, feeling the rush of wind against her face. Loisse's eyes sparkled with excitement as they flew over Bonesborough. "This is amazing!"
Dell flew until he reached the Potts family's farm and gently landed in the backyard. Loisse jumped out of his arms, still exhilarated from the flight, and turned to Dell with a beaming smile. "That was… something," she said.
Dell chuckled at Loisse's reaction, glad he had given her such a thrilling experience. "I'm glad you enjoyed it," he said.
"I overheard what Bloodsport said about you." Loisse leaned in closer to Dell. "I think the Isles is better off having a hero like you around."
Dell acknowledged Loisse with a smile after hearing her words. "Thank you, Loisse. I'll do my best to protect this place." Then, both their faces turned red upon realizing how close they were, quickly pulling away and laughing nervously at the sudden awkwardness that had enveloped them. "Well… I should… probably get going. Up, up, and away, and all."
"Uh… yeah," Loisse chuckled nervously. "Take care… Superboy."
Dell flew off into the night sky, feeling flustered. The Superboy felt flustered. Suddenly, Dell heard something in the distance and turned to see something marching through the woods, towering over the trees. "Wait… IS THAT MY HOUSE?!" He flew after it. "Luz, what did you do?"
Luz, Willow, Gus, and King bounced in the air as the Owl House sat back down into the crater it left. Luz sits up and opens one eye, looking at the mess made in the living room. "Is everybody alright?" She asked. Willow, Gus, and King all groan in unison.
"What happened?" Dell asked as he came down the stairs in pajamas, keeping up the charade that he had been asleep the whole time.
"Dude, how did you sleep through all that?" Gus asked incredulously.
Dell shrugged, rubbing his eyes. "I'm a heavy sleeper; what can I say?"
"It looks like we've got a lot of cleaning up," Willow sighed.
"And maybe invest in some stronger furniture," added King.
The door suddenly opened, and Hooty slinked inside. "Is the room spinning, or is it just me? HOOT!"
"Sorry about all this, Hooty," Luz apologized to the house demon.
"Ah, just a little house humor!" Hooty chuckled. "I'm just glad I was included. HOOT! HOOT!"
The door is slammed shut, revealing Eda and Raine on the other side. They are very dissatisfied with the mess.
"What in the Boiling Isles happened here?" Raine demanded.
"Oh, boy," Luz whispered.
"It looks like we're in for it now," Willow muttered.
The friends all exchanged nervous glances as Eda and Raine approached. "You are so busted!" Eda exclaimed, pointing a finger at Luz.
"I can explain!" Luz stammered, trying to come up with a plausible excuse.
"You held a moonlight conjuring and animated our house. OUR house!"
Willow stepped in front of Luz.
"No. Don't punish Luz. We're the ones who pushed her to do the conjuring."
Gus stepped in front of Willow. "If you're going to eat us, just do it now. Do it now!"
"Why does everyone think I'm gonna eat them?" Eda asked disgustingly.
"Hey, you don't have to do this," Luz told her friends.
"Yes, we do," Willow replied, nodding with Gus.
"Well, you're all guilty, so you'll all be punished by cleaning the house from top to bottom," Raine declared, crossing their arms. "And that goes for you too, Dell."
"I know, I was supposed to watch after them," Dell admitted, looking sheepish. Raine smiled at Dell's willingness to take responsibility and nodded in approval.
"And another thing…" Eda began. "That was amazing. And I'm so joining you for next year's conjuring."
Raine added, "To make sure you do it responsibly next time."
"Yeah, yeah," Eda flopped onto the couch, or what remained of it? "Now get to work."
The Dell, Luz, Willow, Gus, and King ran off to clean up the mess they had made.
"I can't believe they animate a whole house," Raine admitted.
"Yeah," Eda said. "That takes some powerful magic."
"Anything interesting happens tonight?" Luz asked Dell quietly as he helped her carry the broken furniture out of the room.
"I'll tell you tomorrow," Dell replied softly. "Oh, Mom and Baba will flip when they learn my suit is tattered. Witch's Wool is very expensive."
"I guess that's the life of a superhero."
"I know we should be grateful everything worked out," Gus began. "But I still kinda wish we got to show Amity and her friends up."
"Yeah, too bad no one will know of our daring adventures," Willow added with a hint of disappointment. "But I guess that's the price we pay for keeping secrets."
"Who knows, someone might've seen you on Instagram," Dell said, trying to cheer his friends up. After he helps with cleaning, there is someone he needs to visit.
John parked Camila's car in her driveway and helped her out of it. "Thank you, John," she said with a smile. I now remember why I rarely drink anymore."
John nodded in response. "It's alright, Camila."
"Thank you," Camila said again.
"For what?"
"For telling me what I needed to hear. I appreciate your honesty."
John replied, "I did it because I care about you, Camila."
"I know," she said, her smile growing wider. "And I'm grateful for that." They reached the front door. "Would you… like to come inside for a decaf?"
John hesitated momentarily before agreeing, "Sure, I would love to." Camila unlocked the door, and they walked into her house.
"So, you found the location?" Lionel Luthor spoke into his scroll, a sly grin on his face as he awaited the response from his informant. "Good. I will send my people to collect the rocks. You'll get your payment as promised." He ended the call before leaning back in his chair, sipping a drink he was able to acquire from the Human Realm. He believed the humans called it whiskey.
Lionel suddenly felt a breeze and swirled around to see Superboy, his suit tattered, hovering outside his window with a determined look. "Superboy? What brings you to my lovely estate?"
Superboy's eyes narrowed as he tossed something at Lionel's feet. He recognized it as one of the gauntlets in Bloodsport's possession.
"You have some explaining to do," Superboy said sternly, crossing his arms. "Poachers were using your weapons to hunt endangered species. I dropped Bloodsport and his gang off at an Emperor's Coven precinct, and they will face justice for their crimes. But I need to know how they got a hold of your gauntlets."
Lionel sipped more of his whiskey. "Let me guess? You're expecting me to tell you some story that involves a mysterious theft or betrayal within my organization?" Lionel chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "No, Superboy, I gave those gauntlets to Bloodsport myself. I knew he would use them for his gain if I got something out of it first."
Superboy raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Why would you want basilisks?"
"I don't. Bloodsport wanted the basilisks; they just happened to have what I wanted. He gets his prize, and I get mine."
"I can go to the scouts and tell them what you told me," Superboy said, crossing his arms.
Lionel smirked, his gaze unwavering. "Go ahead. It won't change anything."
"And why is that?"
"I think it's time you learn how things work around here." Lionel stood and walked up to the window. "Ask anyone on the Isles where their loyalty lies, and they'll tell you it is with Emperor Belos. But that is a lie. They may pledge allegiance to him, but their true loyalty lies with the people who built their houses, grew food, and protected their families long before Belos' reign. The Luthors."
Superboy's eyes widened in realization. "So you're saying the real power lies with your family, not Belos?"
Lionel chuckled. "Exactly. The Luthors have always been the true power on the Isles," he continued, his voice low and dangerous. "And they always will be. So, tell the truth and expose me if you dare. But it won't matter because the people will always stand behind the Luthors. What do you have to say to that?"
Superboy hovered in silence, glaring at Lionel with steely determination.
"Well, say something?"
Superboy remained stoic and composed.
Lionel's grip on his glass tightened as he awaited a response. "Say something, you damn alien!" Lionel threw the glass at Superboy, who quickly caught it, his expression unwavering. He crushed it in his hands.
"I will be watching you, Luthor. And I will always be ready to protect the people from you," Superboy declared, his voice firm and unwavering. With a final look of defiance, he flew into the night sky, leaving Lionel Luthor seething with anger and frustration.
Lionel huffed in frustration, then calmed himself. Superboy was just a nuisance and a thorn, but he would soon find a way to get rid of him. After that, he can resume his plans to take the throne from Belos once and for all.
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