Owl House: Mystic Rebirth (Old Version)

by AT-Joker125

(Canceled Next update will announce the newest version)

3. Chapter 2 The Lying Witch and a Warden

A/N: Hello! And welcome back. This took a LOT longer to write than I thought. That's the whole reason why I wasn't able to update it before the end of the year. Well, either way, first update of the year! Finally, we're getting into the first canon chapter. There's some things I added, and some things I kept. And of course, there's a sh*t load of references. Bet ya can't find them all!

Anyway, the moment you've all been waiting for, POLL RESULTS! Winner for Ash's VA choice, Zach Aguilar AKA Tanjiro Kamado from Demon Slayer. Congrats. And also, the VA for the voice Ash uses when he's MagiRed? Mark Whitten AKA The Flame Hashira, Kyojuro Rengoku! He has both a comedic AND heroic tone. Plus, it fits in with the fire motiff that Ash has going on as a flame wizard. If you like the choices I went with, good, I'm glad. If you don't, well like that even matters.

Anyway, let's get to it! IKUZO!

I don't own Owl House or Super Sentai

Text Legend:

"Attacks/Moves"

Sound Effects

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Chapter Two: The Lying Witch and a Warden

Early the next morning, Ash woke up, rather refreshed. Due to all the jobs he had had over the years that involved early shifts, he was used to waking up early. Even though there were occasions where he would sleep in, he was, more often than not, considered the only early bird at the Owl House. Eda and King wouldn't be up for another half hour or so, which left him ample time for him to start the day.

After completing his morning training, he took a quick shower, after which he fixed his hair and brushed his teeth. Then, he got dressed in his usual outfit, consisting of a white tank top beneath a red turtleneck sweater, khaki pants, and a pair of dark red ankle boots. A pair of goggles hung around his neck as well. Making his way into the kitchen, he began preparing his, and everyone else's, breakfast for the day. He had just placed a frying pan on the stove top when he was greeted by his usual morning visitor.

"Morning, Ash"! Hooty shouted, stretching his head in through the kitchen window.

"Mornin', Hooty", Ash said, cracking an egg and poured the contents into the pan.

"Need my help with breakfast"? Hooty asked eager to lend his help.

"Always", Ash said, holding up the now empty eggshell.

He then tossed the shell into Hooty's mouth, who gobbled it up with a smile on his face. The purpose was actually two-fold; to get rid of the scraps and to let Hooty feel included in something. Fact is, as annoying as he was, Ash liked Hooty, and held a lot more patience for the sentient being than Eda or King. As minutes turned into hours, the process continued; Ash would crack open some eggs and then fed the shells to Hooty. The same thing was repeated as he prepared some bacon, chopped up some onions and mushrooms and peeled some potatoes. The birdlike guardian of the Owl House gobbled up the pork fat, onion layers, mushroom stems, and potato skins that the young wizard discarded. Until at last, Ash had finished his dish, consisting of a Griffon egg omelet with bits of wild boar meat, cheese, onions and mushrooms in it, four strips of wild boar bacon and some fried potatoes, or hashbrowns as they were more commonly known as. There were exactly three plates which contained one serving of each food.

After thanking Hooty for his help, Ash took one of the plates, went over to the table and, after sitting down, he began to eat. This was normal for him, eating breakfast by himself. Even before moving in with Eda, he'd always find himself eating by himself. With his mother and siblings being active socialites or busy with work or school, Ash had gotten used to solitude at a very young age. It wasn't their intention to make him feel left out or alone, but their responsibilities were held in higher regard. The only difference between then and now is that the people he lived with now actually tried to make him a priority. Even though Eda was always busy with one thing or another, she made it a point to try and spend time with him. Whether it was with teaching him magic, having him help her run the stand, or just kicking back and having a little chat, Ash was grateful for whatever attention he got from the Owl Lady.

Later, after finishing his food, Eda and King walked into the kitchen. Eda was now dressed in her sleepwear, which consisted of a plum sweater with amber cuffs, a long, violet nightgown that was stained, and yellow bunny slippers. Once he helped King into his highchair, Ash gave each of them their own plate of breakfast.

"Awww, this again"? King whined, rather annoyed at the food in front of him.

"It's the only breakfast dish I know how to make King", Ash reminded, going over to the fridge, "Unless you WANT a repeat of last weeks' attempt"?

"Ugh, fine! Nevermind", King said, half-apologizing as he dug into his omelet, "Which reminds me, how the heck did you manage to burn juice"?!

"Like I told ya before, you don't wanna know", Ash deadpanned taking a bottle out from the fridge along with a clean mug.

"Meh, I don't see the problem", Eda said stifling a yawn, "As long as it's edible, I'll take it".

"You flatter me so, Miss Eda", Ash said jokingly, pouring the contents of the bottle into the mug in his hand before presenting it to her, "Your morning Apple Blood"?

"Thank you", she said gratefully before taking a long sip, "Ahhh.

The young wizard then went to the sink and started washing the dishes.

"Sorry about skipping out on the dishes last night", Ash said, not taking his eyes off his work.

"Eh, don't worry about it. Besides, you're at that age when you're supposed to want to shirk your chores", Eda said, taking a bite from her food, "So uhh, you still bummed about what happened yesterday"?

"Well, honestly, I still feel bad about it, but I'm through the worst of it now", Ash reassured looking over at Eda.

"You sure"? Eda asked.

"Positive", Ash said with a nod, "Thanks for asking though".

Eda simply nodded in reply.

"So, you gonna go back out and beg for a new job today"? King asked.

"Nah, I think I'll take it easy for now", Ash said as he moved on to drying the dishes, "Besides I promised I'd help out with the stand".

"You could always leave early", King suggested, "It's not like Eda gets that many customers anyway".

"Watch it", Eda warned, pointing her fork towards the diminutive demon.

"There'll still be plenty of jobs after I'm done", Ash said, stacking the last of the clean cookware on the counter, "And speaking of done, now that I'm all finished with the dishes, I'm gonna head out now".

"Where you going"? Eda asked.

"I wanna get a head start on getting more stuff for the stand", Ash replied, "By the way, I'll need Owlbert. He usually manages to find better stuff than I do more often than not".

"Alright then", Eda said with a shrug.

Holding up her hand, she beckoned her magic staff to her side. Everyone waited for her staff to arrive. There was a loud ruckus in the other room, as if things were breaking.

"Not again", Ash sighed, this being only one many other times this happened.

Within seconds, Eda's staff flew in and was caught by the Owl Lady instantly. She then twisted the top off, resulting in Owlbert waking up. He looked up to see his owner, whom he greeted with a light hoot.

"You'll be going with Ash on an inventory run", Eda instructed, "You know the drill".

The little owl nodded as he took off and flew over to Ash and landed on his shoulder.

"Alright then, I'm off", Ash said, waving goodbye as he headed out of the kitchen.

"Portal key's next to the coat rack"! Eda called out.

"Thanks"! Ash called out from the other room.

"And don't forget to cover your face! You know how the locals over there can be", Eda advised.

"Got it"! Ash replied.

"And take your cloak with you too"! Eda added.

"E-da"! Ash whined.

"What? I'm just saying, it gets chilly over there", Eda defended as she heard the front door close.

"Heh, it's funny how you fuss over him sometimes", King said with a chuckle.

"Oh shut it", Eda huffed.

---

Later, in the human world, a young girl stood in front of her house which stood in front of a large forest. Her name was Luz Noceda, a 14-year-old Dominican American. She had with tan skin, brownish-purple short hair that was styled in a pixie cut, and brown eyes. She wore a short-sleeved white and indigo hoodie with cat ears attached to the hood, jean shorts, dark grey capris leggings, and a pair of white slip-on shoes. Hanging on her shoulder was a yellow satchel with various patches and pins

She was rather apprehensive and depressed at the moment. The reason was because earlier that day, her book report ended up with a bunch of the snakes she brought to school getting released. Accidentally, of course, but still released. Which resulted in her being sent to the principal's office for what was only one of many other times. As bad as that was, it was because of her weird and imaginative behavior that led her mother to have her attend a place called "Reality Check Summer Camp". So now not only was she going to have to spend her summer away from home, but also in a place she knew she wasn't going to like a single bit.

Suddenly, the front door to her house opened to reveal her mother, Camilla Noceda, who had her hair held back in a bun and wore glasses and nurses' scrubs. She walked over to her sullen daughter.

"Oh! Oh, my baby"! She said, pulling Luz into a hug, "Now, don't worry. Summer camp is only going to be for three months. You'll be so busy balancing checkbooks and learning to... appreciate public radio, the time will fly by"!

"But I don't like any of that stuff. I like editing anime clips to music and reading fantasy books with convoluted backstories", Luz said, pulling out her favorite book, The Good Witch Azura.

"Mija, your fantasy world is holding you back", Camilla reminded her gently, "Do you have any friends? Real ones, not imagined or drawn or reptilian"?

Luz's sullen expression remained as she looked down at her book and slowly walked towards a trash can.

"Summer camp is a chance to make some friends, but you have to try" Camilla said before asking, "Can you do that"?

With a heavy and reluctant heart, the young girl placed her favorite book in the trash can. Just then, Camilla's phone buzzed in her purse.

"Oh. I gotta go to work", Camilla said before going over to her daughter kissing her forehead, "Your bus is coming soon. Text me when you get there. Cuídate mucho, mija. ¡Qué te vaya bien"!

With that, she left to go to work, leaving Luz by herself.

"Bye mom", she muttered.

Taking a quick glance to see that her mother was gone, Luz turned her attention to the garbage can and began looking through the various items of trash, determined to retrieve her discarded book.

"Where is it? Where is it"? She muttered to herself.

"Hoot"!

Her train of thought was diverted to a sudden hooting sound. She looked up to see a small brown owl with a bag in its' beak, and in that bag was her book. The little avian creature then hopped away into the forest behind the house.

"Tiny trash thief"! She exclaimed, running after the owl.

The young Dominican American teen ran into the woods after the little thieving bird who, to her surprise, was much faster than she expected. She paused as she saw the little owl approach a decrepit old, abandoned house. As a figure wearing a hooded cloak with a white-yellow gradient pattern and red flame-like motifs on the edges exited the house, Luz quickly ducked behind a tree as she watched the little hop up to the hooded stranger.

"Hey buddy, did ya find anything good"? He asked.

The little brown owl hooted in reply.

"Well, don't worry, I didn't have time to look through my haul either", the hooded boy said reassuringly, "We can sort it all out when we get back".

Luz then watched as the two of them entered the house through the front door. Exiting from the bushes, she looked at the house, feeling a sense of uneasy nervousness began to grow. But, she wasn't about to back down from this. Letting out a growl of determination, she steeled her nerves and ran inside, the door to the old house closing behind her. As that happened, a bright flash of yellow light shone through the windows.

What was supposed to be the inside of an old, abandoned house now looked like the inside of a tent, where a door unfolded in three parts before opening. Both Ash and Owlbert walked through, neither of them aware that Luz had followed them.

"Come back here with-huh"?

Luz's concentration shifted as she looked around at the old odds and ends, which varied from mildly weird to straight up bizarre.

"Whoa. I thought I had a lot of weird stuff", She said picking up a creepy-looking doll that hung from a clothes hanger and was slowly reaching towards her, "But this? This is impressive".

"Finally, you're back"! said a voice.

Upon hearing the unknown voice, Luz gasped and quickly ducked down. Inching her way forward, she peaked through the flap of the tent to see Eda, who now wore a green polka dot scarf wrapped around her head, facing Ash.

"Sorry I took so long", Ash said, rubbing the back of his head holding up a large brown bag, "After I got done, I stopped to grab some lunch. I hadn't eaten since breakfast, after all".

"Well, I won't hold it against ya this time", Eda said, waving it off.

Owlbert then landed on top of Eda's staff, who then twisted him around until he became part of the staff once more. Luz gasped upon seeing this.

"Now let's see what we've got here", Eda said, opening the bag.

Ash walked up next to her to help inspect the items. The first of which was a smartphone.

"Broken", Ash said upon inspecting it.

"Garbage", Eda said, tossing it aside before pulling out a diamond ring.

"Fake", Ash said.

"Garbage", Eda deemed as she then pulled out a golden shining chalice.

Ash looked closer and saw the words "Made In Taiwan" printed on the bottom of it.

"It's just a toy", Ash sighed.

"Garbage...".

Eda then gasped as she pulled out a pair of joke glasses with eyes on springs and put them on.

"Now this...THIS will make us rich", Eda said as the fake eyes dangled from the plastic lenses.

"Heh, yeah okay", Ash chuckled, going over to his own bag.

Before opening it, he opened the greasy food bag and took out a cheeseburger wrapped in plastic. He unwrapped it a little before taking a bite out of it. Then, he turned his attention towards his own gotten "loot". The first item that he took out was an action figure missing an arm and a leg.

"Too broken", he said sadly dropping it.

He then pulled out a Seinfeld DVD box set.

"Too boring", he said plainly, chucking it behind him.

Next was a broken Furby doll with its' face ripped off.

"Too creepy", he said, cringing as he tossed it away, "Hey! Manga"!

The young wild wizard quickly began going through all the various volumes he found.

"Got it, got it, got it, need it, need it, got it, got it...hmm, I needed a replacement for this one", Ash listed off.

The next volume he pulled out was titled Tokyo Revengers.

"Oh! A new series", Ash said excitedly as he placed it with the others he was keeping, "Got it, need it, need it, got it, need it, got it, got it, got it, need it".

After reaching the last of the manga, he looked through the trash bag for anything else of interest or value. It was then he saw something that made his eyes almost bulge out of his sockets. A loud gasp escaped his lips.

"Oh. My. TITAN", he said in shock.

"What is it"? Eda said, looking back.

Ash reached down into the bag and pulled out a DVD case from it. Wiping off the grime that had built up on it, the words Enter The Dragon shone clearly in the bright afternoon sun.

"I found it", he said with a gasp, "I finally found it! The movie that launched Bruce Lee into International Stardom"!

He held it up in the air as if it were a sacred treasure that had been lost for centuries. Despite the fact that it was covered in dirt and goo, Ash couldn't help but smile.

"At long last...MY COLLECTION IS COMPLETE"! He shouted.

He then started jumping for joy. Luz, who was watching all this, couldn't help but be amused by the display of emotions, and had to cover her mouth to keep the laughter from escaping. Eda couldn't help but roll her eyes.

"Seriously, why is it you worship that guy"? Eda asked incredulously, digging around in her own trash bag, "He doesn't even know magic".

"He was the best martial artist of his time AND a great actor to boot", Ash said, placing the dvd case along with all the manga he was keeping in another bag, "If he were still around, I'd bet everything I have that he could give even you a run for your money".

"Heh, I'll believe it when I see it", Eda replied.

The Owl Lady then proceeded to pull the Good Witch Azura book out from the bag.

"Well, what about this? Ya want it or what"? Eda asked.

"No thanks", Ash said, wiping his hands off with a towel before taking another bite out of his burger, "Those books aren't really my style".

"Well, I guess it'll make good kindling", Eda said, sticking it over a candle.

Luz gasped as she saw her beloved book about to go up in flames. She then ran out of the tent and grabbed her book back, surprising the older witch.

"Excuse me, sorry, that's mine, thank you", She said quickly before quickly running back into the tent.

"Huh"? Ash said, glancing away from his lunch when he heard Luz.

Back in the tent, Luz headed for the door, only for it to fold up before she could walk through it. It then took the shape of a suitcase and disappeared from sight. Behind her, Eda was holding a key with an eye on it, the same eye that was on the door. On her right side was Ash, who had a confused look as he ate his burger.

"You're not going anywhere", Eda said, taking off the glasses.

Without wasting another second, Luz shoved her Azura book into her satchel bag, pulled up the flap of the tent, and ran.

"Hey, wait! That leads to the edge of a cliff"! Ash warned, scarfing down the rest of his cheeseburger.

Luz hadn't gone that far and, after skidding to a halt once she reached the edge of the cliff, she gasped in shock as she saw what lay before her. Looking out at the edge, she saw a large and unusual town that was too unusual for anything on Earth. This was because it had a lot of giant mouths and arms. A giant dragonlike creature flew by and was caught and pulled down by one of said arms. The many citizens of the town were going about their usual business. A cloaked ice cream vendor held an ice cream cone which ate a customer, a giant chicken and a walking head on two feet passed by a centipede-like monster that opened its' mouth to let a winged creature fly out, who then kissed the monster before they parted ways.

"Oh, no, no, no, no! What's going on"? Luz said backing away from the cliff.

She shrieked as a fairy approached her.

"Oh, hello, little fairy", She said, "Are you going to tell me this is all a fantastical dream"?

The fairy opened its' mouth to reveal a set of sharp teeth.

"GIVE ME YOUR SKIN"! It cried.

Luz then let out a startled yelp as she promptly swatted the fairy to the ground.

"Where am I? Did I die? Am I in the bad place"? She said worriedly.

Luz suddenly felt a hand on her shoulder. Look up, she saw Eda standing next to her with a rather sinister grin.

"You wish", she said.

"Hi! I'm here too"! Ash said, popping up next to Eda.

Luz was then dragged back to Eda's stand and placed down on a stool. Ash stood behind her, silently eating some french fries.

"I'm so sorry! I just wanted my book! If you're gonna eat my skin", Luz said frantically before holding out her arm and closing her eyes, "Just make it quick! Just do it now"!

"Wait what"? Ash said confused, eating some fries, "Hang on, just calm down a sec".

"Yeah, eat you? Why would we eat... a potential customer"?

Luz opened her eyes to see Eda presenting all the items from the human she was selling.

"I should've known", Ash sighed.

"Can I offer you a human foot filled with holes? A bar of green human candy"? Eda said, holding up a green Croc shoe and then a stick of men's deodorant, "Oh, oh! How about this black shadow box that reflects only sadness"?

She then held out a a portable TV up to Luz, who couldn't help but laugh at Eda's sales pitch.

"Eda, I'm pretty sure that's a TV", Ash said as he finished off the last of his fries, "Besides, you really can't sell that thing. I've fiddled with it, like, a dozen times and it won't work".

"Actually, if you don't mind, I think I could help with that", Luz said, "Here, let me see it".

Luz then took the TV and grabbed two batteries from a dish labelled "Human candy! (?)" She puts the batteries in and pressed the power button. The TV then turned on, playing a jazzercise video.

"Voilà"! Luz said, holding up the TV.

"Whoa! You made it work"! Ash said in astonishment, "Not bad".

Several customers and vendors stopped upon hearing the music from the TV.

"Huh"?

"What's that"?

"The sound...it's so alluring".

Almost instantly, several customers were drawn to Eda's stand where the TV was playing and were instantly vying for the chance to buy it.

"I'll pay 40 snails for the screaming box"! One monster said, holding up a stack of bills

"I'll give you a hundred"! Another monster offered.

"Can I eat the tiny person inside"? A third monster asked.

The stand was suddenly overrun with potential buyers, all offering up different prices for the TV.

"Well, looks like we got ourselves an auction", Ash observed, "Guess it's time for me to do my thing".

Cracking his knuckles, he got up on the stand table and held up the TV.

"Alright, folks! Today's hottest item up for sale; this priceless, one-of-a-kind treasure straight from the human world"! Ash exclaimed, quickly sounding like an auctioneer, "Our top bid so far is 175 snails! Do I hear 200?! 200?! Anybody"!?

"250"! One monster said, shooting their hand up.

"250! Do I hear 275?! 275"?! Ash inquired.

"300"! Another monster said, holding up a stack of bills.

"300 from the lovely lady in the middle row! Do I hear 325?! 325, anybody"?!

"380"!

"500"!

"595"!

"1080 Snails"! Proclaimed one monster holding up a large coin bag.

Ash looked over at Eda, who cued him with an "A-OK" sign.

"1080 going once..! 1080 going TWICE"! Ash said forebodingly.

"2000"! Shouted another monster with a larger coin bag.

"2000 going once...going TWICE! SOLD"! Ash said, pointing to the man with the larger bag of cash.

As Eda watched the auction conclude, she suddenly found herself rather impressed.

"What did you say your name was"? Eda asked, looking over at her with an amused smirk.

"I'm Luz. Luz Noceda", Luz said, introducing herself.

"Well, Luz, that was pretty clever... for a human", Eda said as Ash handed her the large sack of coins.

"That's kind of a weird thing for another human to say", Luz noted.

"Oh, dear child", Eda said as she took off the bandana to reveal her pointed ears, "I'm not like you".

"Me neither".

Luz looked over to see Ash walking up to her and saw as he pulled back the hair on the side of his head that he had his own pointed ears.

The older woman then climbed onto the table.

"I'm Eda the Owl Lady, the most powerful witch on the Boiling Isles"! Eda said, striking a pose.

"A witch"? Luz said in astonishment while Ash shook his head with an amused smirk.

"I am a respected, feared-"!

"Busted"!

Crash!

Before Eda could finish her introduction, a tall buff creature wearing a black and white robe with a long cone shaped mask walked up to the table and busted the TV with only his fist. Seeing this all the onlookers fled. Luz was taken off-guard by this and found herself on the ground. Eda had promptly hopped off the table, and Ash looked on in horror as the TV was now reduced to a pile of scrap.

"Run! It's a guard"! Said one of the customers as they ran.

"Awww, man! And we just got it working"! Ash whined, running his hands through his hair.

"Eda the Owl Lady, you are wanted for misuse of magic and demonic misdemeanors", The guard said, holding up a wanted poster with Eda's picture.

"Whoa! Witch criminal"! Luz said as she peeked over the edge of the table.

"You are hereby ordered to come with me to the Conformatorium", the guard continued, grabbing her arm.

"Would you guys quit following me around? I haven't done squat", Eda said, freeing herself from the guards' grasp before crossing her arms.

"What about last week, when we went and-"? Ash began to ask.

"I said, I haven't done squat", Eda insisted, glaring at Ash.

"Oh right, I'm supposed to have an alibi", Ash muttered before clearing his throat and throwing on a nervous smile, "Yeah we're totally...on the level? Heheheh".

"Ugh", Eda moaned as she facepalmed herself.

"And you're coming too..."! The guard said, picking Luz up by her hood causing her to yelp, "For fraternizing with a criminal"!

"Wh-What? That's not cool"! Luz said nervously.

"Hey, now! Leave her alone, she hasn't done anything"! Ash said, going up to the guard.

"Back off runt! This doesn't concern you"! The guard said looking down at him.

"Well I say it does"! Ash insisted, "This is a blatant abuse of authority, and you need to let her go".

"Run along, runt", The guard said, ignoring him as he shoved him away.

Without warning, Ash grabbed the guard by his in an ironclad grip.

"I said...Let. Her. GO"! He shouted twisting the guard's wrist.

"Augh"!

The guard cried out in pain as he lost his grip on Luz and dropped her. As the young human girl fell, Ash ran and caught her before she had a chance to hit the ground. After he set her down on her feet, the young wizard leapt up into the air straight towards the guard and flew towards him in a flying kick with a loud, "HWATAHHH"!

His foot landed with a thud against the guards chest, who was promptly knocked down onto his back.

"Whoa", Luz said in amazement, "Was that...was that martial arts? Do you know Martial Arts"?!

"Well, uhh, I'm self taught, but yeah", Ash said meekly.

"Oh my gosh, that is SO COOL"! Luz squeled, "Oh wait, I'm sorry. What'd you say your name was"?

Ash's eyes widened as it had suddenly dawned on him that he had failed to introduce himself. With a small smile, he took a small bow.

"Ashton Rugrid", he said, before looking up at the human and winked, "Call me Ash, please".

Luz scoffed at the playful tone in his introduction.

"Okay, if you two are done getting to know each other, we should probably go before-".

Before Eda could complete her sentence, the guard slowly began to get back on his feet.

"He gets back up", Eda finished, narrowing her eyes.

"Alright, that's it! You're ALL coming with me"! The guard said, holding a hand to his chest.

"Oh, all right, all right, you win. Just let me get my stuff", Eda said, holding up her hands in defeat.

Eda and Ash both exchanged a look before nodding at one another. The Owl Lady then reached under the table, grabbed her staff, and swung it at the guard, who fell to the ground with a grunt. Eda spun her staff and tapped the bottom of it on the table, making all her stuff float in midair. As Luz picked her book up off the ground, she was amazed at the sight of all the floating objects. While that happened, Ash took out his wand and, after using it to form a bright red circle, he pointed it at the tent and made the structure start glowing red. Clapping both his hands together, the tent folded itself into a neatly made pile.

"Guess we're closing up shop early, huh"? Ash said, hefting up the tent along with his sack of gotten gains, "Thought we'd be here longer".

"Normally we would, buut seeing as how that guys' friends should be here any minute, we should probably call it a day", Eda replied, "Whoops! Can't forget this"!

Eda reached into her hair and pulled out the key. She pressed the eye to summon the portal door. Closing her hand into a fist, she used her magic to make the tablecloth wrap itself around all of her stuff. She then stuck her staff through the bundle and started running.

"Follow us, human"! Eda said as she ran.

"Sorry in advance"! Ash said as he helped Luz to her feet and followed after Eda.

"This is crazy", Luz said, running alongside Eda and Ash, "If I die here, my mom's gonna kill me"!

"Ha! we won't let 'em hurt you. A human like you is much more valuable to us alive than dead", Eda said confidently.

"You really know how to lift someone's spirits, Eda", Ash said with a deadpan look

"Wait. What's that supposed to-"

"Whoo-hoo"!

Before Luz could finish, Eda pulled them both up into the air with her staff raised above her head. As the owl talisman on her staff opened its' wings, she pulled them both onto her staff . Ash, who was right behind them had managed to grab the end of the staff but was left with the misfortune of hanging on the end of staff by his hands as they took off into the air.

"Aww man! My timing was WAY off"! Ash said as he dangled over the ground which became more and more distant.

"Good thing you've got your own ride", Eda said, glancing down at Ash.

"Oh! Right! Aw crap! I think I left it back at the market"! Ash said his tone shifting from relief to despair.

"Just call for it! Don't you usually do that"? Eda reminded.

"Oh uhh, heh heh, right", Ash said sheepishly.

Ash slowly released the grip with one hand, leaving the other to hold onto the staff. Placing two fingers in his mouth, he let out a loud..

PHWEET!

Within seconds, his broom came flying towards him. As soon as it was beneath him, he released his grip on the staff and landed feet first on the wooden shaft. The young wizard then slowly sat down to where the broom was now between his legs. Luz watched in amazement as he then slowly floated up towards Eda.

"A flying broom! An actual flying broom"! She gasped.

"That's right! And I think you'll find it's much more fast than a magic staff at times", Ash said, casting a smug look towards Eda.

"Ohoho, is that a challenge"? Eda asked.

"Darn right it is"! Ash said daringly, "Last one home is a moldy toadstool! WHOOHOO"!

With that, Ash sped off ahead of them.

"Ohohoho, don't think you're gonna beat me just because you got a headstart"! Eda called out to him, "Alright kid, hang on tight"!

"Whoa, wait a minute, I'm not so sure about THIIIIIIIIIIS"!

Luz's objection was cut off as Eda took off after Ash, determined to catch up. Meanwhile, back on the ground the guard had finally managed to catch up, only to find that the people he was pursuing had been long gone already.

"You won't get away with this, Owl Lady"! He said before taking a pause",….Yeah, all right. You did. You got away with it. She got away with it, everybody! Typical.

---

Now seemingly miles away, Luz had shut her eyes as she sat in front of Eda on the flying staff, tears leaking out of them as she felt the wind rushing past her.

"You can open your eyes now, human", Eda said from behind her.

As Luz slowly opened them, she let out a scream as she saw how high up they were before nearly falling off the staff. She now hung upside down, clinging onto the staff for dear life.

"Flying staffs and brooms, crazy monsters, you're a witch"! She said, listing off the things that had just transpired.

"And wizard", Ash said, floating up next to her on his broom.

"Right, sorry, and you're a wizard"! Luz said correcting herself as Eda reached down and straightened her up on the staff, "What is this place"?

Eda and Ash exchanged a smile, rather amused at the girls' mixed feelings of shock and amazement.

"This is the Boiling Isles", Eda replied as they observed the forest like landscape with a large set of ribs protruding on one side in the distance, "Every myth you humans have is caused by a little of our world leaking into yours".

As Eda spoke, various winged creatures fly behind them. One creature, in particular, was a creature that Luz knew personally.

"A griffin"! She said in awe.

Said griffin promptly barfed out a large amount of spiders.

"I knew it"! Luz said, pointing at the display.

"Yep. Griffins, vampires, giraffes...", Eda said, listing them off.

"Giraffes"? Luz said surprised.

"Oh, yeah, we banished those guys. Bunch of freaks", Eda said.

"Yeah, I was never really fond of them myself", Ash said, glancing away, "And it's not just those either. We've got things you've probably never even heard of"!

"Really"? Luz said rather intrigued.

"Really really", Ash replied with a smile, "Oh hey, Luz, check this out"!

Feeling that their new human friend could use a little entertainment after the harrowing experience from earlier, Ash ascended above them. Luz and Eda both watched as he floated above them.

"What's he doing now"? Luz asked curiously.

"Tch, showing off", Eda said with a knowing grin.

The young wizard did a loop in the air, setting his feet on the broom as he did so. Once the loop was complete and he was straightened out, Ash was now standing upright, balancing himself on the brooms' shaft, moving from side to side as if he were a skateboarder that was gliding across the pavement.

"He's broom surfing"! Luz said in amazement, "I can't believe I never thought of that"!

"There's a good reason why you didn't", Eda replied.

"What do you mean"? Luz asked.

Luz got her answer as Ash suddenly started to wobble, until finally he lost his balance and fell off the broom. He yelled out in fright as he fell, only to be caught by Eda as he was just about to fall past them. He managed to catch his broom as it dropped down near him.

"Guess that needs a little more work", Ash said as he once again found himself dangling above the ground.

"Aw don't worry about it kid, you'll get the hang of it, eventually", Eda said, glancing down at him as she held him by the back of his collar.

"I thought you looked pretty cool up there", Luz reassured.

"You meant it"? Ash said, looking up at her, "Heh, thanks".

After what seemed like a lifetime in the air, they finally landed on the ground. As she took a look at her surroundings, Luz suddenly heard the sound of bones cracking. Looking down next to her, she was shocked to find Eda's detached hand still on the staff. The young human girl shrieked as she jumped off the broom.

"What?! What's wrong"?! Ash said, looking around before spotting Eda's hand, "Oh. Eda"!

"Huh"? Eda said before noticing her detached appendage and placing it back on her wrist, "Oh, oops. That happens sometimes".

"Well, I've had enough adventure for today", Luz said as she got to her feet, "This is clearly not the PG fantasy world I always dreamed about, so, can you help me get back home"?

"We'd be happy to", Ash said.

"But only if you help us first", Eda said, chuckling as she lifted her staff and walked ahead with her bag floating next to her, "Ah, now, come along, human".

Luz was once again left in awe as she saw what lay ahead; the Owl House.

"Whoa".

While Luz trailed closely behind, Ash ran to catch up with Eda.

"Eda, we really oughta get her back home", Ash said in a concerned tone.

"And we will", Eda assured, "After we're finished".

"Finished with what"? Ash asked rather hesitantly.

"Remember that certain item I told you about the day before"? Eda reminded him.

"Yeah? What about..."?

Ash's eyes widened as he suddenly realized what she was implying.

"No", Ash said firmly.

"Oh come on", Eda said.

"Eda, it's a bad idea", Ash insisted.

"Relax, we're both strong enough to keep anything from happening to her", Eda said nonchalantly, "Besides, I recall you having a stake to claim in this job too. Unless you changed your mind"?

"You know I wouldn't change my mind about something so serious", Ash replied firmly, "I'm just saying we really shouldn't get her involved in this".

"Involved in what"? Luz said, popping up behind them.

"Ack"! Ash yelped, "Uhh, well...".

"We'll fill you in momentarily", Eda said, finishing his sentence for him as they reached the front door.

"O-kay", Luz said nervously before switching to another topic, "Aren't you worried about those guards finding us"?

"Nope, my house has a state-of-the-art defense system", Eda replied.

"Hoot-hoot! Password, please"! Hooty said from his place on the door.

POKE!

"Aah"! Hooty cried as Eda poked both his eyes.

"We got no time for this, Hooty, let us in", Eda said flatly.

"All right, all right! Geez! You never want to have any fun! Ow! Hoot"! Hooty huffed.

Hooty then opened his mouth wide enough to completely cover the door, allowing them to see the inside.

"I'll meet you inside", Ash said, going over to the side of the house, "I wanna give my broom the once over. Think it lost a few bristles during take off".

"I keep telling ya to trade that old thing in, you've had it for years"! Eda said.

"Pfft! Come on, Eda! I could never part with my baby", Ash said, holding the broom close to him before departing.

Luz and Eda couldn't help but smile, rather amused at Ash's dedication to his ride. They then stepped through the front door, leaving Eda's bag outside. Hooty then closed his mouth before letting out a loud burp. While inside, Eda decided to give Luz the introduction to her humble abode.

"Welcome to...The Owl House", Eda said snapping her fingers.

Upon snapping her fingers, a group of candles lit up. Following that, a fire in the fireplace started as a cauldron started stirring itself while a broom started sweeping the floor. Overhead, a depiction of an owl beast began to glow with a great screeching noise. Luz looked at all of this in awe.

"Where I hide away from the pressures of modern life. Also the cops. Mm, also ex-boyfriends", Eda said witch a chuckle.

"This place is beautiful"! Luz said as she set her book onto a coffee table, "Do you live here all alone"?

"Well, Ash lives here too", Eda said, "He's kinda my ward/apprentice/assistant. Not necessarily in that order, mind you".

"So then, it's just you guys"? Luz asked.

Suddenly, thudding footsteps began to shake the house.

"Well, we do have a roommate", Eda replied, crossing her arms with a pointed look.

"Who dares intrude upon I", said shadowed figure with a deep voice before switching to a normal, somewhat squeeky voice, "The king of demons"?

Appearing before them was King, having seemingly just stepped out of the bathtub with one towel wrapped around his waist and another around his head, and a rubber ducky in his little paw, which he promptly squeaked. Luz was immediately taken aback at the little creature and soon found herself running forward and scooping King up in a hug

"¡Ay, que lindo! Eda, he's so cute! Who's a widdle guy? Who's a widdle guy? Is it you? Is it you"? She cooed, looking at Kind before pressing him against the side of her face.

"No! I don't know who your little guy is"! King said, struggling to get free, "Eda, who is this monster"?

"Heh, I see she's already gotten acquainted with King", Ash said, chuckling as he walked through the front door, "Should've known that'd be her reaction".

"Heh, I know right", Eda replied as she went over to Luz and dragged her away from King, the human desperately trying to get back to the little demon and give him some more affection before setting her down, "Anyway, King, this is Luz, the human. She's here to help us with our little... situation".

"Oh, hurray"! King said, his mood quickly changing.

"Wait, wait, wait. I don't like the sound of this "situation", Luz said hesitantly.

Ash nervously inhaled sharply through his teeth before looking at Eda.

"Just... let me explain", Eda said, drawing a spell circle that turned pitch black.

Within the circle, several different images began to play out. Eda narrated as this happened

"King was once a mighty king of demons, until his Crown of Power was stolen, and he became...", Eda paused before gesturing to King, "this".

"You mean this little bundle of joy"? Luz cooed as she held him close in a hug.

Upon seeing this, Ash sighed as he rubbed his temples.

"Just...keep going Eda", Ash said, waving to the Owl Lady.

"Right, anyway", Eda said, drawing their attention back to the pictures in the spell circle, "The crown is being held by the evil Warden Wrath and locked away behind a magical force field that only a human can break through".

The spell circle vanished, concluding the story telling portion. Eda then turned to Luz, who was hugging King close to her.

"A human like you. If you help us retrieve his crown, we'll send you back to your realm. So whaddya say"? Eda said before picking up King, "Plus, who could say no to this cute face"?

"No! Please don't encourage her"! King pleaded before being dropped.

"Seriously, don't", Ash deadpanned.

"Also, I mean, we're kinda you're only way home", Eda then pointed out.

"So I don't really have a choice, do I"? Luz asked hesitantly.

"Not...really", Ash said, scratching the back of his head, "But we're not gonna force you to do it or anything. But, just so you know, in case you do decide to help us, I promise we'll keep you safe".

Luz then cupped her chin, giving what he had said some thought.

"Well, that was a pretty cool flying kick you did back there", Luz said thoughtfully.

"Aww really?! Come on, I don't believe you", Ash said bashfully.

"No seriously, that was really good! Like, movie quality good"! Luz insisted.

"There now, see"? Eda said, getting between the two teens, "Ash here can definitely guarantee your safety, even if things go horribly wrong"!

"Now, hold on! I never said-"! Ash began before being cut off by Eda.

"Alright, enough chit chat, we've got no time to lose", Eda said, heading to the door as she picked Luz up over her and grabbing Ash by the back of his sweater.

"Eda, wait a second"! Ash protested, flailing his arms as his caretaker dragged him from behind.

As this happened, King picked up his rubber ducky.

"Soon, Mr. Ducky, we shall drink the fear of those who mocked us", he said as he followed after Eda.

"Where are we going"? Luz asked.

"Somewhere super fun", Eda assured.

"I wouldn't bet too much on that being true", Ash said crossing his arms.

"What makes ya say that"? Luz asked.

"Experience", Ash sighed.

---

Later, they arrived at a massive prison with an ominous tower protruding overhead. Dark clouds blanketed the sky, letting off claps of thunder and brief flashes of lightning. The four of them stood in a corner that prevented them from being seen. King was now top of Luz's head.

"What'd I tell ya"? Ash deadpanned.

"What is this place"? Luz said, rather frightened as she kept close to the side of a wall.

"The Conformatorium, a place for those considered "unsuitable" for society", Eda explained, rather annoyed.

The young human girl then saw a poster of Eda on the wall in front of her.

"Whoa. These guys really have the hots for you", she said, taking the poster in her hands.

"Yep. But we were never caught because we're too slippery", Eda boasted with a wink.

"Try to catch me when I'm covered in grease. I'm a squirmy little fella", King said, looking down at Luz before falling off her head, "Aah"!

"That, AND I've been responsible for bailing them out", Ash said pointedly, "At least, for the last four years give or take".

"Oh come on, that hardly ever happens", Eda said, waving him off.

"Oh yeah? Well what about that time with the caravan"? Ash asked, folding his arms.

"Puh-lease, I was only pretending to be caught so I could take what was on the inside too", Eda said with a shrug.

"Or that time in that back alley"? Ash inquired raising a brow.

"I wanted all those guards to get in a single line for one shot", Eda said.

"And that time at the graveyard"? Ash brought up.

"Setting off traps intentionally is a good strategy", Eda rebutted, "Also, I already knew that crypt was guarded by bloodthirsty ghouls".

"What about the time-"? Ash began.

"Alright, already! You've made your point! If I say that it's good to have ya around for backup, would you just drop it"?! Eda said annoyed as she crossed her arms.

"Yes", Ash said with a satisfied look on his face.

"Anyway", King said, getting back on topic as he turned to Luz, "Me, you, and Ash will sneak up to the top of the tower, where they're holding my crown".

"And I'm gonna make sure the warden's distracted", Eda said.

"Will I need a disguise"? Luz said, suddenly becoming interested.

"Uh...", Eda said rather pensively.

"I mean we probably should've prepared for that, but I don't think you need to-", Ash started to say, but Luz cut him off.

"I've been waiting to use this", Luz said, pulling her hood over her head and flicking up the attached cat ears, "Meow, meow".

Ash couldn't help but smile at Luz while Eda and King looked at her with neutral expressions, unsure of what to say.

"It's hideous! Umph"! King said before getting a scolding nudge from Ash's foot.

"I suppose it'll do", Ash said with a shrug.

"Yeah, you'll fit right in", Eda added.

Eda tapped the end of her staff against the ground and created a round glowing platform. She then stepped away from it.

"Hang on tight", she advised.

"What she said", Ash said, cracking his knuckles.

The platform the started to ascend, floating all the way up to a window in the tower. As soon as it was close enough to the window, it disappeared, forcing both Ash and Luz to grab the edge of the window sill, with King having to cling to Luz's foot. Eda, meanwhile, tossed her staff and casually sats down on it as it rises.

"Meet you guys at the top of the tower", Eda said as she flew off.

"Typical", Ash muttered, "Alright then, ladies first".

Ash then reached over with his foot until it was beneath Luz's, allowing her a somewhat sturdy ledge to step on. With the extra hold added, Ash then grabbed the back of Luz's hoodie.

"Now then, on the count of three, I'm gonna help push you up and you're gonna climb through the window", Ash instructed.

"Okay", Luz said, rather apprehensive since they were high up off the ground.

"Okay on three", Ash said, wrapping his free arm around Luz's waist, "One...Two...THREE"!

With a loud grunt, Ash stiffened his leg as Luz pushed off his foot and he began to heave her over the ledge into the tower.

"King, go", Ash instructed.

Without needing a moment to reply, King scurried up Luz's leg, using her as a ladder as he climbed up through the window and landed on the other side. With Ash's help, Luz followed suite, falling on her face as she landed on the floor inside.

"Ha-ha! Cat's don't do that", King joked.

"Okay, now for me", Ash said.

Pulling himself up onto the ledge, Ash then front flipped through the window and landed with a slight shake. He then stood up with his arms held high as if he were an olympic gymnast.

"Very impressive", Luz said, lightly clapping her hands.

"Meh, I think he could've could've stuck the landing a bit better", King said frankly as he crawled up on Luz's back.

"Pfft, everybody's a critic", Ash scoffed, "Alright, come on, let's go".

Luz turned her attention away from Ash as she slowly began to take in the inside of the Conformatorium. There were several different levels of prison cells are far as the eye could see. Luz could only imagine the different types of people within those cells. Ash walked up next to Luz with a rapt expression on his face. In the years he'd spent sending criminals here, he'd never once set foot inside. Nervous as he was, the thought of running into one of those criminals was even more taxing on his state of mind.

"Hey, you with the cat lady", said a voice.

Ash and Luz both turned to see a girl in a cell. She had pointed ears, dark skin, upturned hazel eyes, and black hair held back in a ponytail. She wore a dark purple dress which revealed her shoulders and covered most of her arms, a gold band around her neck and a pair of black high-heeled boots that came up to the ends of her knees.

"How'd you get out of your cells"? She asked.

"Oh, no, no, no. I'm not a cat", Luz said pulling down her hood, "Also, we're not criminals".

"Not yet you're not", King said.

"Neither are we", said the witch girl, "The stupid warden likes to lock people up who don't fit in".

"Really? So, what'd you do to get in here"? Ash asked.

"Well, like, I write fanfics of food falling in love", the girl replied, pulling out a book of said fanfiction, "I like food, I like love... Just let me write about it"!

"That's...actually pretty interesting", Ash admitted, "I'd be interested in reading your work sometime when you get out".

"Really"? The girl said surprised.

"Absolutely", Ash said, smiling as he walked over to her cell, "I'm Ash, by the way".

"Katya", said the girl with a rather coy smile, "But uhh...you can call me Kat".

She then finished her sentence by winking at him. Seeing this made Ash's cheeks begin to match that of his sweater. He then cleared his throat as he attempted to regain his train of thought.

"What about the rest of you guys"? Ash asked, turning towards the cells down the way.

"I'm here because I like eating my own eyes" Said a pale skinned prisoner in a pair of ripped shorts with multiple eye sockets with missing eyes.

He then proceeded to pluck an eye out of his head and swallowed it. The eye then floated back into place.

"Kinda gross, but not something that should warrant an arrest", Ash thought to himself.

"We are agents of fwee expwession! They will never siwence us"! Exclaimed a tiny prisoner with orange hair and a large nose.

"And she's here because..."? Ash asked, turning to Katya.

"She's just really big into conspiracy theories", Katya answered, rolling her eyes.

"The world is a simulation! We are but playthings for a higher being"! The little nose girl continued.

"Wait. These aren't crimes", Luz said, slowly beginning to understand as she walked across the floor, "None of you actually did anything wrong".

The young human then pulled out Eda's wanted poster.

"You're all just a bunch of weirdos. Like me", Luz said in realization.

Ash shook his head as he let out a long sigh.

"I can't believe this is what passes for justice nowadays", Ash said in bitter disappointment, "If Magitopia were still around, they wouldn't tolerate any of this crap".

"Tell me about it", Kat said in agreement.

"Wait, what's Magitopia"? Luz asked.

"It was just a coven", King answered.

"Pfft, just a coven"? Kat snorted, "They were the coven! They were the greatest on the isles"!

"What was so great about them"? Luz asked suddenly intrigued.

"They were heroes", Eyeball guy said, "They protected us from monsters and evil sorcerers".

"They stood up for the wittle guys and expwessionists like us"! Nose girl added proudly.

"That is until their coven got dissolved, and every member who didn't join the other covens was branded a criminal", Ash recalled in a low tone.

"You seem to know an awful lot about them", Kat pointed out.

"Oh well, I'm just a big supporter, is all", Ash said nervously.

"Wait a minute", Nose girl said, getting a closer look at Ash, "I remember seeing you in a newspaper...I know who you are"!

"No you don't", Ash said quickly.

"You're a Rugrid"! Nose girl said in realization.

"No I'm not"! Ash said quickly.

"What"? Eyeball guy said, leaning closer to the front of his cell.

"Well I'll be damned", Kat said, crossing her arms with a smile, "I thought there was something about you that I liked".

"Oh boy", King said nervously as he saw Ash tense up.

"Ash, they know your last name already"? Luz said in surprise, "Wait, is your family...famous"?

"Famous?! That's an understatement"! Kat scoffed, "They're practically LEGENDS"!

"The Rugrids are the most talented and powerful family of wizards and witches on the Isles", Nose girl said with a smile, "They're the descendants of Magitopia's founders"!

"Wow", Luz said, taken aback by Ash's family background.

"And the greatest member of their family was the witch they called Riza Rugrid", Eyeball guy added.

Ash's eyes widened as he heard that name. He subconsciously casted his focus down to the floor. Luz and King both noticed this.

"Ash? You okay"? King said, trying to get his attention.

"Umm, who's Riza Rugrid"? Luz asked.

Ash remained quiet for a minute before Luz attempted to reach him again.

"Ash"? She said gently.

"She's my mother", Ash said in a melancholic tone.

As surprised as Luz was, any questions she had were put on hold as the sound of approaching footsteps began to fill the air. The impact they made was making the room shake. Ash and Luz both looked towards the door where the footsteps were coming from.

"It's Warden Wrath"! Katya warned, "Hide"!

Ash looked around before spotting an open cell.

"In here"! Ash said, grabbing Luz by the hand.

Luz shouted in surprise as she was pulled inside the cell. Ash then proceeded to pull the door down and led Luz and King to the farthest end of the cell. Thinking fast, Ash pulled out his wand and aimed it at the floor.

"Jiruma Magiiro"!

Ash then used his magic to make some of the bricks on the floor rise into a curved formation so that they could not be seen.

Just then, the doors slammed open, and in walked Warden Wrath. He was a large humanoid with a muscular build and arms that showed his purple skin. He wore a plague doctor mask with yellow button-like lenses. He also wore a white sleeveless tunic with brass buttons, a triangular brass badge and a black hood, a brown leather belt with a brass buckle, black trousers, and dark purple shoes.

"I can hear you", he said in a low growl.

Luz let out a whimper before Ash covered her mouth. He slowly peeked out from the corner to see what was happening.

"Just what are you fools whispering about"? Wrath asked, stomping forwards.

He then looked down to see Eda's wanted poster, the one that Luz had dropped earlier.

"Ah. The Owl Lady", he said, picking up the poster before crumpling it up, "I'll get my hands on her soon enough".

As he said this, he morphed his fist into a hammer and then slammed it into the door of cell where the three infiltrators were hiding. Ash shut his eyes and covered his ears as the sound echoed through the cell. As he saw Wrath start to look into the cell, he quickly ducked back behind the newly formed curve before he could be seen.

"Fight against the oppwessor"! Shouted Nose girl, getting Wrath's attention, "We will wesist! We will conquer! We will never be afwaid of you, you old cweep"!

The three friends all peaked behind the corner to see what was happening and watched as Warden Wrath walked over to Nose girls' cell. Then, without warning, he lifted up the release bar to her cell and opened it. Nose girl stared at the opening door for a moment.

"Hooway! I'm fwee"! Nose girl cheered before letting out a squeek as Wrath grabbed her in his fist.

Ash watched on in shock as this happened. His blood boiled as he saw the helpless girl in Wrath's vice grip. He clenched his teeth as his hands shifted into a shaking pair of fists.

"Let this be a lesson to all of you. There's no place in society for you if you can't fit in", Wrath warned as he tightened his grip, making Nose girl squeak again.

"No"! Ash hissed under his breath.

The young wizard suddenly felt his body moving forward, only to be stopped by Luz and King. The human girl held him back by his sweater while King ran up his back and pulled on his head from behind.

"No, don't"! Luz whispered, pulling him back.

"Are you crazy?! You're gonna get us caught", King quietly admonished.

Warden Wrath then stomped away, with Nose girl still in his grip, crushing the crumpled up wanted poster as he made his way out of the cell block. As the door slammed behind him, and Luz opened the cell door. Ash fumed as he marched out and stopped as he looked at the door that Wrath had left through.

"Ash"? Luz said rather worried.

"Why"? He said under his breath.

The wizard then grunted as he hit the wall with both his fists.

"Whoa, calm down"! King said going over to him.

"How can I after what just happened"?! Ash shouted at King, "I should've helped! I-I should've DONE SOMETHING"!

"There was nothing you could've done", King said gently, "Besides, right now we gotta do what we came here to do".

"But that doesn't mean we still can't help", Luz said, going over to Kat's cell, "Don't worry, I can get you out".

She then started to pull on the lever but to no avail.

"No! My weak nerd arms"! She cried out in anguish.

"Here, let me", Ash said, walking over to the lever.

"Don't", Kat said, stopping him, "There's no point in it really. Even if we're released from our cells, there's no way to escape this place".

"But...but this isn't right"! Ash insisted, "This...this system...this place! All of it stands for EVERYTHING my mother told me to fight against! I won't let any of you suffer in here a minute longer"!

"He's right! You can't just give up"! Luz said in agreement.

"I appreciate what you're trying to do", Kat said warmly, "But I think you're a little out of your depth on this one. Just take your friends and get out of here while you still can. Enjoy freedom for us".

With that, Kat walked further away into her cell. Despite their intentions and shared desire to help, they both realized there really wasn't much they could do. With their heads hung in defeat, Luz and Ash slowly took their leave and left the tower. Later, after making their way to a long hallway, they were met by Eda, who flew up next to them on her staff and landed in front of them.

"Hey, I just checked, the warden is distracted, tormenting some tiny creature. He won't be coming around here anytime soon", Eda reported.

Neither Luz nor Ash said a word as the former continued walking without saying a word. Eda watched her, confused as the human girl kept moving forward. They then reached a towering door reading "CONTRABAND".

"My crown! It's close! I can sense its power"! King said eagerly.

The little demon then ran up to the door and fiddled with the large doorknob.

"Aw, he gets so cute when he's thirsty for power", Eda gushed as she watched him.

"It's not fair that they're all in here", Luz finally said, turning to Eda, "They just want to be themselves. Why does everyone think that being a weirdo is so bad"?

Ash's frown softened as he turned to Luz and placed his hand on her shoulder. Before either he or Eda could answer, they heard a loud clanking sound and saw the doorknob that was once attached to the large door roll up to them. The three of them then looked to see King pushing open the door, cackling as he ran inside.

"Come on, before he hurts himself", Eda said as they walked towards the door.

ZAP!

"Ow"!

"Too late", Ash deadpanned.

The inside of the room was completely empty, save for a giant glowing pillar in the center. King rubbed his skull before charging at the pillar headfirst, which resulted in him getting launched backwards. Eda then kneeled down next to King.

"We have a human, remember"? Eda reminded.

"Oh yeah", King said.

"Hey Luz, while you're in there, there's something I'd like you to find if you can", Ash said hesitantly.

"What is it"? Luz asked.

"A wooden chest", Ash said, holding out his hands until they were a foot apart from each other, "It's about this wide and it should come up to the bottoms of your knees".

"Okay, I'll keep an eye out for it", Luz said with a nod, "But just in case there's more than one wooden chest..."?

"Oh, right", Ash said, quickly catching on, "There's a symbol on it. It's gold and it looks like the letter M".

"Wooden chest, gold letter M, got it", Luz said, going over the details.

She then turned towards the pillar and took a deep breath. Placing her hand against the pillar, she walked through. On the other side were piles upon piles of what could only be described as junk. From books to skulls to a dead fish in a tank. Near the base of the pile, Luz spotted something shining amidst a few pieces of garbage. Going over to it, she brushed the garbage aside to find a shining emblem shaped like the letter M that lay on a wooden surface. Upon remembering what Ash told her earlier, Luz moved the debris that surrounded the emblem and pulled out a familiar item.

"The chest"! Luz said with a smile, "Alright, one down, one to go".

Looking around, Luz saw at the top of the tallest junk pile was a glowing crown.

"Wait a second. Is that a..."? She said in realization.

---

Later, she had exited the forcefield, bringing with her the chest and what appeared to be a paper crown with the word Burger Queen written on it. The young Dominican girl looked rather frustrated.

"My crown"! King said, jumping up and downe before taking the crown from Luz and placing it on his head, "Yes, Yes! I can feel my powers returning! You, there! Nightmare critter"!

King then pointed to a stuffed rabbit with one button eye falling out of a box.

"I shall call you Francois, and you shall be a minion in my army of darkness. Ha-ha"! He said as he picked up the rabbit.

"That crown doesn't give him any powers, does it"? Luz asked.

"Uh, no", Eda replied, with a smirk.

Her playful smile disappeared as Luz glared at her and crossed her arms. Eda then sighed.

"Oh, look at us, Luz", Eda said, "We don't have much in this world. We only have each other. So if that dumb crown is important to him, it's important to us".

Luz's expression softened upon hearing this. She then looked over to see Ash who was kneeling in front of the chest, fiddling with the various locks and chains that were wrapped around it.

"And what about the chest"? She asked.

"That's actually a little more complicated to explain", Eda replied, "You could say it's part of his own "self-imposed endeavor" or whatever".

"Endeavor"? Luz repeated, "Does it have something to do with Magitopia"?

"So you heard about them, huh"? Eda said, raising an eyebrow, "You're right on the money, kid. I don't know too much about it but, that chest contains some kinda sacred item belonging to the Magitopia coven. And as one of the last few members still standing, Ash has pretty much made it his life's mission to continue carrying out their work".

"So that's why he was so upset earlier", Luz thought.

Another thought had suddenly dawned on her.

"Eda, what was his mother like"? Luz asked.

Eda's eyes widened upon hearing that question.

"Why would you ask that"? The Owl Lady inquired, her tone becoming somewhat defensive.

"Well, some of the other prisoners were talking and they mentioned the name Riza Rugrid", Luz explained, "I just wanted to know what she was like".

Eda's expression softened as she let out a long sigh.

"Y'know Luz, I've been around the block more times than I can count, but I don't think I'll ever meet someone like Riza Rugrid ever again", Eda said.

"She must've been really special then"? Luz asked.

"Special doesn't even cut it, kid", Eda said with a smile, "She was the best witch to ever serve the Magitopia Coven. And a hell of a fighter, too".

"Wow, that's high praise from someone who says they're the "the most powerful witch on the Boiling Isles" ", Luz said, recalling what Eda said earlier.

"Well even I'll give credit where credit's due", Eda said with a shrug.

A nostalgic smile soon formed on her face.

"And she was a true friend", Eda said softly, "and a real hero".

Luz smiled as she heard Eda say that. Her expression then turned into a frown.

"What happened"? Luz asked.

"It's not really my place to say", Eda said, "All I can tell you is that, well...she died".

"What"? Luz said in surprise.

"Four years ago", Eda replied sadly, "And his dad died right around the time Ash started walking. Ash's been living with me ever since".

"You mean he's...he's a..", Luz began to say.

"An orphan"? Eda finished for her, "That's right".

Luz's chest felt heavy upon hearing this. She just couldn't believe it. To think Ash had lost so much at such a young age. At that moment, the young human girl's heart went out to the boy, feeling a sense of kinship that she never knew before.

---

Meanwhile, the young wizard in question had finally managed to take down the last of the locks and chains. He then took out his wand and held it to where the red jewel was facing upwards. Placing it in front of the chest, the jewel glowed bright red as the chests' emblem began to follow suit. The sound of a door unlocking was then heard as the chest popped open. Ash slowly raised the lid to reveal more than a dozen medals that reminded Luz of the kind that athletes won at the Olympics. There were three different types each with its own unique design. The first type were bronze with octagram stars tied to a piece of purple ribbon. The second were silver with heptagram stars with a blue ribbon. And the final type were gold with hexagram stars attached to a red ribbon.

Ash looked down at the medals with reverent silence, as if he were staring at a body in a casket. With her curiosity peeked, Luz walked over to Ash.

"What are they"? She asked.

"Medals", Ash replied, "Each of them belonged to a member of Magitopia".

He picked up a gold medal and held it in a gentle grasp.

"They're all that remains of their owners", Ash continued in a somber tone.

Luz's eyes widened as she realized what that implied .

"Oh", she said softly, "So...you came here, to make sure they were returned".

"Yes", Ash replied, placing the medal back into the chest, "These aren't treasures, Luz. They're precious mementos left behind by the great people who wore them while giving everything they had to protecting the Isles. And I'm gonna make sure they get a proper burial".

Ash closed the lid as he stood up, picking up the chest as he got to his feet.

"That's pretty noble of you", Luz praised.

"Yeah", Ash said before turning to Luz, "Look, Luz, I'm sorry I got you involved in this".

"It's okay", Luz reassured, "You were doing it for a worthy cause. I totally understand".

"And besides, us weirdos have to stick together, you know"? Eda added walking up to them.

Ash and Luz both exchanged a glance before looking at Eda with a smile.

"Well, we owe you one. Now, let's get out of here before the warden finds us and loses his head", Eda said as a shadowed figure slowly trudged up behind her. To the kids' terror, it was the Warden himself.

"Too late", he said, turning his hand into a blade.

SLICE!

With one quick swing, Warden Wrath decapitated Eda. Luz caught her now detached head and screamed. Eda's eyes went sideways and her mouth hung open. Then, much to the human girls surprise, it spoke.

"Ow"! Eda's head exclaimed.

"You okay"? Ash said, oddly calm about all this.

"Yeah, I just HATE it when that happens", Eda's head replied irately with a frown.

Seeing Eda's decapitated head talking made Luz scream even more. After a minute and a half of screaming, Luz finally managed to calm down.

"Eda! Are you okay"? Luz asked, holding the severed head close.

"Yeah. This just happens when you get older", Eda's head replied drolly.

"Does it"? Luz said curiously.

"Well, around here it does", Ash replied.

"So that's why you were so calm", Luz realized.

"Well duh! Do you really think I'd be able to keep my cool after seeing someone get their head chopped off for REAL"?! Ash asked incredously.

"Good point", Luz said.

"Finally", Wrath said as he transformed his hand back to normal, "I have you cornered, Eda the Owl Lady".

He then snatched King's crown from off his head.

"Weh"? King said in surprise.

As Wrath walked up to them, King tried desperately to reclaim his precious crown.

"My guards could never get you, but I knew if I took your pet's toy, you'd come running", Wrath said as he crumpled the crown in his hand.

"No! My power"! King wailed sinking to his knees.

"And it looks like I got a bonus", Wrath said, looking over at Ash.

Before Ash knew it, a chain had wrapped around his wrists and he was pulled to the side towards a pair of guards, leaving the chest of medals behind.

"Never thought that hunka junk would bring the Rugrid Runt here, but I can't say I'm not pleased", Wrath said, as one of the guards brought the chest over to him and placed it at his feet.

"It's NOT junk! It's a memorial for the people who gave their lives for the isles'! Something you'd never understand"! Ash protested as he sat on his knees.

Ash grunted as he was pulled back and landed on his rear. The guards behind him laughed at his misfortune.

"Shut it, runt! Wait your turn, I'll get to ya in second, right after I deal with the Owl Lady", Wrath said turning back to Eda's still detached head which lay in Luz's hands.

"What do you want with me? I've never actually broken any of your stupid laws... in front of you", Eda said, looking up at Wrath.

"I want you...", Wrath began.

Then to everyone else's shock, except for the guards, Wrath pulled out a bouquet of flowers and presented them to Eda.

"To go out with me", he finished.

"Wha..."? Eda said confused.

"What"? Luz said, rather disgusted.

"WHAT"?! Ash exclaimed, completely flabbergasted.

"Go, boss"! Cheered one of the guards.

Warden Wrath flashed a thumbs up sign at his supporting minions before turning back to Eda's head and continued.

"You've always eluded our capture. You've always been the one who got away. I found that alluring".

"I hate everything you're saying right now", Luz said with a frown.

"Ditto", Ash said from his position, "Seriously dude just...just stop".

"Both of you stay out of this"! Wrath fumed

The warden then tossed the bouquet over his shoulder and turned his now free hand into a pair of tentacles to grab Luz and held her above the ground.

"Luz"! Ash said getting up only to be yanked back by the guards holding the chains that bound his hands together, "Aww, man".

"So how about it, Owl Lady"? Wrath said, picking up Eda's head by the hair, "The most powerful witch of the Boiling Isles and the feared Warden Wrath. We'd be the strongest power couple ever. I mean, it's-it's not like you can say no right now".

Eda looked up at Luz, who struggled to free herself from the warden's grasp. She then looked to King, who was picked up by one of the guards and was also struggling. She finally looked over at Ash, who'd gotten to his feet and was flanked by two guards on both sides. From the looks of things, it didn't really seem like there was any other option.

"All right, Warden. You win", she said with a sigh, "I'd just like to say something first. Come closer".

Wrath then brought Eda's head up closer.

"No. Just come a little bit closer. Just... Yeah, that's good", Eda said, instructing him.

Once he was close enough, she blew a raspberry right in Wrath's face. Wrath yelled out in surprise, and ended up dropping Luz, who fell to the ground with a yelp. As he wiped Eda's spit off his mask, both Ash and the Owl Lady laughed.

"Impudent wench! Don't you know how many germs are in your mouth? Blegh"! Wrath grunted.

"Get over it"! Eda retorted, "You had your guards stalk me, harassed my ward, and then you cut off my head. I am not going out with you"!

"If you don't accept, then I have no choice but to des-Oh"!

Before Wrath could finish his little threat, Luz had snuck up behind him and hit him in the head with Eda's staff. He fell to the ground with a loud crash, losing his grip on Eda's head.

"Nice", Eda chuckled.

Two of the other guards stepped up next to Eda's head. Neither of them noticed as her body walked up behind them and pulled their hoods down over their eyes. Ash smiled, seeing that now was their chance to escape. As he saw one of the guards at his side begin to walk over to aid his fallen comrades, Ash sweeped his leg, causing the guard to fall over. Before the other guard could react, the young wizard flew at him with a loud "WATAHH!" and knocked him out with a kick to the face. With the grip on the chain loosened, Ash unraveled the bind on his wrists until he was free. Taking the chain, he then made his way over to the chest and fashioned the chains into a makeshift sling, making the task of carrying the wooden box of medals much easier.

"I'm good now, guys"! Ash said running over to them.

"Okay then, we're going now", Luz said grabbing Eda's head.

Eda's body then freed King of the guard's grasp, and Luz grabs it by the waist pulling it along as Ash finally came up to them. Once they were all together, they all mounted the staff with Luz at the front, Eda's head and King behind her, and Ash and Eda's body at the very back. Owlbert unfurled his wings and hoots.

"Expecto... flying? Magicus... escapicus"! Luz said in desparation trying to make the Magic Staff fly.

"I don't think those are even words", Ash said.

"I don't know how to make it go, okay"?! Luz said frantically.

Behind them, Warden Wrath was slowly coming to and growled as he slowly got back on his feet.

"Guys! He's getting up"! Ash said worriedly.

"Gun it, magic stick"! Eda's head said at last.

With that, the staff took off, but Warden Wrath was now back on his feet and ready to give chase.

"Owl Lady, I won't let you get away again"! He exclaimed as he transformed his arms into bundles of tentacles, which he uses to chase after the staff. Meanwhile, the group was now back on the cellblock, flying past prison cells. Ash turned to see Warden Wrath in hot pursuit.

"Luz! Keep 'er steady"! Ash said, positioning himself to where he was now facing the back.

"Gotcha"! Luz replied.

Taking out his wand, Ash began shooting fireballs at Warden Wrath, who promptly swatted each of them away.

"I can't keep this up forever, guys"! Ash shouted as he continued blasting fireballs.

Luz then looked to see the lever to Katya's cell.

"Eda, lend me a hand"! Luz requested holding up her hand.

Eda did so, placing her own hand behind Luz's. With Eda's added strength, they opened the cells of the three prisoners from earlier, who each bore a look of excitement. They then busted through the tower's outer door, ascending a bit before taking a nosedive downward. Still on their tail, Wrath jumped down after them as they plummeted to the ground below. Warden Wrath then extended one of his tentacle arms, aiming for the very back of the staff. Before Ash could counter, the tentacle bundle hit him in the chest, the force causing the balance on the staff to shift and launch him, along with Eda, Luz, and King off of it. They fell into a roll as they hit the ground. As they lay sprawled on the ground, Warden Wrath walked up to them, his hand shifting into a blade again.

"Ow, my bones"! King squeaked.

"Well, as they say, any perfect landing", Ash muttered, rubbing his head.

Eda's body reached down grabbing her detached head and placed it back on with a loud crack.

"Ash", Eda said, reaching into her hair and pulling out the key to the portal door, "Get Luz home"!

"What"? Ash in surprise as the Owl Lady started running towards Warden Wrath, "No, Eda, I can't!

"What about you guys"? Luz asked worriedly.

"If you think this guy is bad, you shoulda seen her last boyfriend"! King joked before running over to join Eda.

"Not my boyfriend", Eda said, before grabbing King and jumped back to avoid Wrath's blade-hands.

Eda then ran towards the two teens and placed the magic staff in Ash's hands.

"But...Eda", Ash said worriedly.

"I'll be fine! Just take Luz and get her home"! Eda reassured.

Ash looked at the Owl Lady for a moment. Concerned as he was though, he knew deep down that the faith he had in his caretaker was greater than any fear he had right now.

"I'll come back for you", Ash said, getting on the staff.

"I know you will, kid", Eda said with a smile, "Now go! Go"!

She then placed Luz on the staff.

"But-But I-"!

Before Luz could even protest, Eda slapped the end of the staff, sending it and its' passengers into the air. Warden Wrath then took off his mask to reveal his face, which turned out to mostly be a mouth, which opened up to breathe fire. Without wasting a beat, Eda drew two spell circles, one that caught the fire and one that launched it right back at Wrath which slammed him into the wall of the Conformatorium. Wrath then stood up, brandishing his blade-hands and running at Eda again. Meanwhile, up in the air, Luz clung to Ash's back as they began to distance themself from the Conformatorium.

"You're really just going to leave them there"?! Luz asked in disbelief.

"It's not ideal, I know, but you gotta have faith in them"! Ash replied.

"I want to but...huh"?

Looking back, Luz looked down to see the prisoners from earlier peek out of the hole that had been made in the wall. They all looked rather nervous, or scared. Either way, Luz couldn't help but be curious.

"Ash, take us back", Luz said.

"What? I can't do that"! Ash said.

"Just for a second"! Luz pleaded, "It's important! Please"?!

Ash looked at Luz, her face hinting desperation. With a nervous sigh, he reluctantly turned the staff around. They then landed in front of them.

"Hey what gives"? Ash said, walking up to Katya and her cellmates.

"Yeah, why are you guys just standing there? This is your chance to escape"! Luz added.

"The warden'll catch us. He always does", Eyeball guy said sadly.

"We belong here", Katya said in defeat.

"Self-doubt is a pwison you can never escape fwom", Nose girl agreed.

They all muttered in agreement. Luz couldn't believe what she was hearing. They were so keyed up about wanting to live their own lives earlier, but now they were willing to give up? She knew she had to say something. But just before she could, Ash stepped forward.

"You're wrong", he said, "You're all wrong. You can't be willing to give up so easily! You're not criminals! You're just...different. And you deserve to live your own lives the way you want"!

"He's right"! Luz said, stepping in, "So, you have a different way of doing things, a different way of seeing things. That might make you weird, but it also makes you awesome. Don't you see"?

"Why are you helping us"? Katya asked.

"Because I'm a Rugrid", Ash said proudly, "And being a hero is the family business. But more than that, though, I'm a weirdo TOO"!

"Yeah, and us weirdos have to stick together"! Luz said pulling her hood down and mounting the staff, "And nobody should be punished for who they are"!

Katya and her friends all cheered in agreement. Ash smiled upon seeing this. As a thought suddenly entered his mind, that smile grew wider. He then headed towards the hole, heading inside the Conformatorium.

"Ash! Where are you going"?! Luz called out to him.

"I just wanna put the medals in a safe place", Ash said as he continued inside, "You guys start without me, I'll catch up".

"Okay"! Luz said before turning around on the staff and leading the charge, "Alright now, let's get 'em"!

As the newly freed prisoners ran after her with renewed bravery, Ash had finally made it far enough away from prying eyes. Taking out his wand, he used his magic to make it glow until it turned into his MagiPhone.

"This is definitely a job for MagiRed", Ash said with a smile.

After converting his phone into wand move, he began pressing the right buttons to activate his transformation. Ash then crossed his arms, holding the wand close to his chest. He then waved his arms in a circular motion.

"Mahou Henshin! Maagi Magi, MAGIIRO"!

Upon uttering that final word, he then lifted his wand up into the air to where the gem was pointed at the sky. The gem glowed brighter and brighter until Ash was completely engulfed in the light.

---

Meanwhile, Eda, who had just lost control of the fight, fell back against the ground, with King following after, the little demon landing in her arms. Warden Wrath now stood over them.

"No more running away, Owl Lady. Today I capture you once and for all"! Wrath said, raising his blade hands high in the air.

King wimpered as he hid his face in Eda's chest. The Owl Lady simply looked up at the Warden with an undaunted expression, seemingly ready to accept her fate. But then...

"Go, go, go, go"!

At the very last moment, Luz and her army of fellow weirdos charged at Warden Wrath. The three former prisoners roared out in defiance as they tackled Wrath. Luz let out a loud battle cry as she flew behind them on the magic staff.

"Luz"? Eda said in surprise.

"I eat my own eyes"! Eyeball guy shouted as he pushed Wrath back.

"I think the world is a twiangle"! Nose girl said, getting behind Wrath's legs, sending him falling back on the ground.

"And I practice the ancient art of fanfiction"! Katya exclaimed as she held Wrath down.

Nose girl joined her as Eyeball guy grabbed Wraths arms and tied them together. To say Wrath was unhappy would've been an understatement at that point. Luckily for him, he had one last trick up his sleeve. He then faced down, his mouth glowing brightly as the fire inside began to grow.

"Get...OFF"! He exclaimed, letting loose a torrent of fire.

The blast managed to propel him up. Katya and her friends were immediately caught off-guard as Wrath was now up. Bad as that was, they were completely helpless as Wrath fell backwards, smooshing them against the ground. As Wrath finally freed his hands, he got back to his feet. Luz gasped in horror as Katya and her fellow weirdos lay on the ground, alive but in pain.

"Guys"! She said in concern.

As worried as she was for her friends, that was only one part of an even larger problem, which was made apparent as Wrath slowly approached her.

"Luz! Get out of there"! Eda shouted.

"Run away"! King added.

"I wouldn't even try it, kid", Wrath warned as he morphed his hands back into blades.

Luz whimpered as she slowly backed away from the large mouth-faced Warden.

"I gotta admit, kid, you turned out to be a bigger pain in the neck than I thought", Wrath said, praising Luz in his own way, "But you forget; this is MY prison! MINE! I'm top dog around here! I make the rules! And I decide when-"!

Fwoosh!

"Augh"! Wrath cried as a fireball struck him in the back, "Who did that"?!

"You will decide NOTHING, Warden Wrath"! Said a voice Luz didn't recognize.

Everyone looked around to see where the voice was coming from.

"Look"! Nose girl said pointing upwards.

They all looked to where Nosegirl was pointing and were met with the sight of a familiar looking red clad figure with a billowing cape standing on the wall. The prisoners all found themselves smiling with a newfound look of assured hope in their eyes. Wrath simply snarled, while Eda and King had a look of relief on their faces. Only Luz remained completely in the dark.

"Who is that"? Luz asked.

"Aw great, HIM"! Wrath growled.

As MagiRed stood there on the wall, he couldn't help but smile.

"Alright, time for Luz's first encounter with MagiRed to be one she'll never forget", Ash thought, "Shigeru Araki, this next line is for you".

MagiRed then struck a pose, holding out both his arms.

"The heavens, the blood within me, and the people ALL call to me"! He said before getting into a new pose, "They call to me..to fight EVIL"!

MagiRed did a quick spin before posing once more. Everyone, save for Eda, King and Wrath, was in rapt attention as MagiRed continued.

"I am the Burning Flame Elemental Wizard of Justice! The Ruby Wizard, MAGIRED"!

Upon concluding his introduction, MagiRed then used his magic to give off a bright red light. Katya and her friends all cheered upon the conclusion of his rather epic intro. Luz couldn't help but stare in awe at the new player on the scene. Without another word, MagiRed leapt off the wall, flying forward in a corkscrew spin. He kept it up until he finally landed.

"Mind if I drop in"? He quipped.

"We'll leave it to you now, MagiRed"! Eyeball guy cheered.

"We've got your back, all the way"! Katya shouted in support.

"Dewiver us from the shackles of our oppwessor"! Nose girl exclaimed, half pleading.

"What're you doin' here, MagiRed"? Wrath snarled, "This is my turf, so unless you finally decided to turn yourself in, I suggest you leave while you have the chance".

"I think not", MagiRed replied, "I've been told of your rather unsavory definition of justice from my subordinate, Ash Rugrid, and I'm here to put a stop to it".

"Go ahead and TRY IT THEN"! Wrath screamed as he ran towards MagiRed with his blade hands.

"Jii Jijiru! MagiStick Sword Mode"!

MagiRed quickly grabbed the wand at his side and converted it into Sword Mode. Just as Wrath brought down his blades at MagiRed, the ruby wizard struck at them with his own sword. The two opponents continued to trade blows. Wrath swung at the Ruby Wizard with his blade hands, while MagiRed calmly and quickly blocked and parried each strike. Then, with a determined yell, Wrath clashed his blades against MagiRed's Sword. Though it didn't break, the force that was being applied was more than a little heavy. Wrath growled as he pressed his bladed hands down harder against MagiRed's.

"You think you're some kinda hero"?! Wrath snarled, "With Magitopia gone, there's no such thing as heroes anymore"!

"It might...be true...that there aren't that many here now", MagiRed strained to say.

Unbeknownst to Wrath, the red clad wizard was now using his magic to emit flames from his feet. Slowly, to the Warden's shock, he began to push up against Wrath. As the flames on his feet shot him upward like a rocket, MagiRed had finally succeeding in knocking his opponent back. He now floated in the air, the flames keeping his aloft.

"But that's all the more reason for me to BE one"! MagiRed exclaimed, shifting his sword back into wand mode, "Magi Magika"!

He then crossed his arms and, as the red bird shaped jewel began to glow, the flames on his feet began to spread up and around the rest of his body. Not only that, but the flames were also beginning to change shape. Until finally, he was completely covered in bird shaped aura of flame. Luz gasped upon seeing this.

"It's a phoenix"! Luz said in total astonishment.

"Oh wow", Eyeball guy said in awe.

"Here it comes! His signature move"! Katya cheered.

"Wight the fire of Fweedom, Wuby Wizard"! Nose girl cheered.

"Red Fire Phoenix"! MagiRed exclaimed, divebombing down towards Wrath.

Wrath suddenly found himself on the receiving end of several burning hits. Though he tried to dodge or counter, MagiRed was just too fast. He just kept hitting Wrath and then passing by him, like a dolphin attacking a shark. This continued on until the ruby wizard came at him from behind and picked him up into the air. Once they were high enough off the ground, MagiRed flew back down towards the ground, careening towardst the surface like a meteor, all the while Warden Wrath, who was being held in front, shrieked in terror as the ground grew closer and closer. Until finally...

BOOM!

In a bright red flash of light and fire, both MagiRed and Wrath hit the ground. The force of the impact made the wind pick up around them. Everyone who was watching covered their faces as the hot wind blew at them. Once it had settled, they all uncovered their eyes, and to their surprise and delight, there was MagiRed standing victorious atop Warden Wrath who lay face first on the ground. Everyone was beyond elated by this, but before they could start cheering, MagiRed held up a hand.

"Before you all start celebrating, I believe this fight is far from finished", MagiRed announced as Wrath slowly began to come to.

Though injured, Wrath was still conscious. And as he slowly started pushing himself off the ground, he also showed to still be eager to fight. Though still in awe at MagiRed, Luz quickly regained her senses and ran towards the fallen Warden.

"I'll take it from here, MagiRed"! Luz said with a determined look on her face.

"Very well, then! He's all yours", MagiRed said, leaping off Wrath's back.

"You! Who do you think you are"?! Wrath bellowed, turning towards Luz.

"Do not underestimate me, Warden Wrath, for I am Luz, the human, warrior of peace"! Luz proclaimed as her hair began to blow in the wind blows her hair, "Now eat this, sucka"!

She then pulled out a large bundle of fireworks out of her messenger bag, tossed it into the air and then hit it with Eda's staff, sending it right towards Wrath. They landed in Wrath's mouth and, thanks to the still lit flames inside his toothy maw, they went off, sending fireworks off into the air. Now thoroughly defeated, Wrath rans away, with fireworks still going off in his mouth, as the newly freed prisoners cheered. As Luz smiled, she noticed out of the corner of her eye that MagiRed was walking towards her.

"You did well, young human", he said, "I may have had him on the ropes, but it was you who delivered the final blow".

"Awww heh, it was nothing really", Luz said sheepishly, "Wasn't as cool as all that stuff you did though".

"Well, thank you", MagiRed replied, "Tell me, just what is your name"?

"Oh! Uhh, I-I'm Luz. Luz Noceda", Luz replied.

"Well then, Luz Noceda, I believe this victory belongs to you this night", MagiRed said.

Katya and the other prisoners cheered in agreement. Luz couldn't help but blush from all the positive attention.

"Well, now that that's taken care of, it's time to take my leave", MagiRed said as he looked towards the heavens, "Sky Hoki"!

Within seconds, MagiReds ride appeared from the sky and floated down in front of him.

"Sweet ride", Luz said.

"Thank you", MagiRed said before hopping up and mounting it, "I hope you all enjoy the freedom that's been returned to you tonight, and that you cherish it for the rest of your lives".

"I know I will", Eyeball guy said, plopping one of his eyeballs into his mouth before swallowing it.

"We are fowever in your debt, MagiWed", Nose girl said.

"You're the man, boss", Katya said, pointing at him.

MagiRed simply nodded in reply. Then, casting his gaze to Luz, he gave a two finger salute.

"Long live courage"! He exclaimed.

Katya and her friends mimicked his salute, with Luz being the last to do so. Then, they all watched as MagiRed flew off into the night sky on his ride. As Luz stared up into the star-studded sky, she couldn't help but marvel at the man she met tonight.

"Wow", Luz said in amazement, "Wizard Hero".

"Eh, more like Wizard Hamhock", King said from Eda's shoulder as she walked up to Luz.

"So, who was he anyway"? Luz asked.

"He's a wizard who calls himself MagiRed", Eda explained, "Even though he's wanted like me he's made a name for himself as a self-proclaimed hero".

"Well after what I saw, I think he's more than earned the title", Luz said with a smile.

Luz's concentration as she heard a pair of footsteps approaching. She turned to see Ash had finally returned.

"So, how'd ya like my friend, MagiRed"? Ash asked.

"There you are"! Luz said, "I thought you just went off to put the medals in a safe place".

"I did", Ash replied, hefting the chest over his shoulder, "But then some of Wrath's guards appeared and it took me a while 'til I was able to shake 'em".

"Are you okay"? Luz asked.

"I'm just fine", Ash assured, "I see you guys certainly kept busy. I only got here at the part where you tossed those fireworks into his mouth, but I guess Wrath knows better than to mess with Eda now, huh"?

"Believe it or not, that was actually one of her better breakups", King piped up.

"Not a breakup", Eda emphasized before turning to Luz, "Anyway, let's bounce before any more monsters fall in love with me".

The four of them all got onto the staff and flew off, the fireworks still going off as they left.

---

After arriving back at the Owl House, the four of them were all in the living room. Eda had leaned her staff against the couch. Ash stood on her right, King stood on her left, and Luz stood in front of all of them.

"Well, a deal's a deal", Eda said, "Let's get you home".

With a snap of her fingers, the key flew out of Luz's bag and into Eda's hand. She then pressed the eye, and the portal door unfolded itself in front of the fireplace. Luz walked up to it, hugging herself as she turned back to look at Eda, King, and Ash. King looked down at the ground with a sad look on his face. Upon noticing this, Luz walked towards King.

"Before I go", Luz said, reaching into her bag and pulled out the head of her Azura doll, "I know it's not the same but...".

She then pulled the crown off and presented it to the little demon.

"A king shouldn't be without a crown", she said, placing it in his little paws.

Accepting the gift, King placed it on his head.

"This shall suffice", he said with a nod before turning away, "You there, plant! You are now under my command".

Luz smiled at this before turning to Ash.

"Well uhh, that was...fun", Ash said, trying to find the words, "At least, y'know, the parts where we weren't fighting for our lives".

"No doubt", Luz said with a chuckle, "Y'know, Ash, your coven may be gone, but...I think you're proof enough that what they left behind is still around. That heroes, like you and MagiRed, are still around".

Ash could help but smile, not just for the praise but also at his little secret.

"Thanks Luz", Ash said holding out his hand.

Luz smiled before taking it in her own. She was then surprised as he then shook it once before proceeding to hold it in an upward grip. Even though she was surprised, she mimicked his movements as he then pulled away and then, after making his hand into a fist with Luz following suit, he banged the underside of her fist with his own before allowing her to do the same.

"That was...the first time I've done that kind of handshake with someone", Ash revealed.

"Well, I'm honored to be the first", Luz said with a smile.

Eda couldn't help but smile. It felt good to see her ward interact with someone his own age after so long. With that in mind, she then grabbed the Azura book off the table.

"Oh, and don't forget this", she said, handing it to Luz.

Luz took it, and then saw the Reality Check Summer Camp pamphlet that lay on top of it as she walked toward the portal. She stared at the pamphlet for a minute before putting it under the Azura book. As Luz finally reached the front of the door, she paused to looki at it. Despite the all the chaos involved, she couldn't help but feel a forlorn as her wonderous and amazing adventure was now coming to a close.

She then looked back down at her book, then up at a mirror above the fireplace. Luz gasps. Holding up the book, she lowered the book to reveal the mirror showing an image very similar to the cover art. A bright smile stretched across her face before she turned around to see the trio.

"What is it, Luz"? Ash asked as he noticed she'd suddenly stopped.

"Okay, I know you got your head cut off, and we started some kind of prison riot, but this was the most fun I've ever had", Luz said in earnest.

Eda was a bit surprised by this while Ash couldn't help but nod in silent agreement.

"I don't fit in at home. You don't fit in here. If I stay, we could not fit in together", Luz said, looking at the pamphlet one last time before crumpling it, "I'm not going back to summer camp".

"What's summer camp? What are we talking about here"? Eda asked, completely confused.

"So, what are you going to do, then"? Ash asked, now fully intrigued.

"I want to stay and become a witch. Like you", Luz answered, turning to Eda as she held her book, "And Azura".

"What? All right, that's crazy", Eda chuckled as she pushed Luz's book down, "Humans can't become witches".

"Maybe that's because they haven't tried", Luz countered with a wink, "If you teach me to become a witch, I'll do anything you want".

"Let her stay"! King insisted, pulling on Eda's dress before whispering, "She can make us snacks".

Eda looked down at King, taking in what he had said. She then turned to her ward.

"And you? What do you think of this"? Eda asked.

"Well, stranger things have happened", Ash replied with a shrug, "And besides, you taught me everything I know, and I didn't turn out to bad...mostly".

Eda could help but chuckle at that.

"Well", she said, picking up King, "I could use an extra hand keeping this goofball out of the cupboards. Titan knows Ash could use a break from it once in a while. All right. I'll teach you how to be a witch. But you have to work for me before you learn any spells. Deal"?

Eda held out her hand to Luz who simply grinned and opted out in favor of a rather crushing hug that enveloped the two in a hug.

"Gah! What's going on"? Eda groaned.

"Too tight! Too tight"! King cried.

Luz then looked over at Ash and held out her arm.

"You too", she said, motioning over to join her.

Ash's eyes widened before he slowly, and somewhat awkwardly, went over and joined in on the hug.

"I...can't remember the last time I was part of a group hug", Ash admitted nervously.

"Well I'd say this was long overdue", Luz said happily.

Though he didn't say anything, as Ash relaxed in the shared embrace, he couldn't help but agree.

---

Later that night, Ash led Luz to one of the old storage rooms. The door creaked open, allowing the hall light to illuminate the inside.

"It's not much, but feel free to decorate it however you want", Ash said, holding the door open for her.

Luz nodded as she walked inside.

"Oh and uhhhh, these are for you", Ash said, handing her a pillow and sleeping bag

"Thanks Ash", Luz said, accepting them.

Later, after changing into her sleepwear, which consisted of a grey sleeveless top, purple shorts with an orange moon and star, and a pair of white and purple socks, she rolled out the sleeping bag and plopped herself down onto it. She then pulled a framed picture of her and her mom out of her messenger bag. She rubs her thumb over the glass before placing the frame right next to her pillow. Just then, her phone went off. After turning it on, she saw she received a message from mom that read: "How's summer camp?". Upon realizing her change of plans, Luz immediately frowned as she moved her phone away from her face.

"Ahem"!

She turned to see Ash standing in the doorway in his own pajamas. He motioned down with his eyes. Following his gaze, Luz saw King holding his bunny Francois, peeking out from the corner of the door.

"Your sleep cocoon looks fluffy", he said shyly.

Luz smiled as she sat up and patted the sleeping bag. King then walked over, curls up at the end below her feet and fell asleep.

"I just wanted to check to see if you needed anything before I turned in", Ash said softly stuffing his hands into his hoodie.

"I'm good", Luz assured.

"Alright then", Ash said, turning to leave.

"Hey, Ash", Luz said, gaining the young wizard's attention.

"Hm"? Ash said turning towards Luz.

"Thanks...for everything", Luz said with a grateful smile.

"You're welcome", Ash replied with a nod, "Goodnight Luz".

"Goodnight Ash", Luz said as she saw him close the door.

Looking back at her phone, Luz texted back "I think I'm gonna like it here". She then smiled as she put her phone down. After turning on her side, she closed her eyes and fell asleep soon after. Outside the Owl House, the giant stained glass eye above the door blinked

Meanwhile, inside Ash's room, the young wizard had fallen asleep as well. As he lay in his bed, lightly snoring as he held his stuffed T-Rex close to him, his wand which lay on the nightstand by his bed gave off a bright red glow. Though his secret identity remained intact, it was only a matter of time until, much like the once great coven known as Magitopia, it too became a thing of the past.

---

Spells used:

Jii Jijiru

Jiruma Magiiro: Alchemy spell

Magi Magika: Attack spell using elemental power

A/N: And whoop! There it is! Now, I know one of you guys said I should switch this story to Kamen Rider Wizard. And I can see why, but I decided against it. You're probably thinking, why keep it Super Sentai?

Three good reasons; One, Wizard's primary weapon, the WizarSwordGun, seemed a bit too conspicuous to pull off in a world that doesn't even have flintlocks.

Two, I couldn't wrap my head how most of the material could blend with TOH. I know somebody could, but I just couldn't. And I wasn't able to take to time to look at it from a dozen different angles because...well, what can I say? I'm too impatient when it comes to an idea I like and life's too short, y'know?

And three, and this is a biggie, there are some battles that we must face alone, like a Kamen Rider. Just you and your wheels against the world, supported by a team on the sidelines and only occassionally assisted in battle by another equally powerful Rider. And there are some battles that need a team, like a Super Sentai. A group of comrades, friends you trust with your life, having your back against any enemy in any fight. That's just how life is; sometimes we need to be alone, and sometimes we need friends. I went with this idea because of what Luz wanted. Something more than being a witch. She wanted friends.

And there you have it. If you can't understand my reasoning, feel free to leave. For those that wanna stay, I thank you for your support. Anyway, that took a lot more out of me than I thought. I'll be taking a siesta, working on updates in between naps and such. I'm also gonna start posting sneak peeks on my DA page. For those eager to see what's in store for this story, check out my page. My usename is lonewolf82084. As for my other stories, I'll get back to my YYH/Fairy Tail crossover as soon as I can. My Kamen Rider Fourze/She-Ra & The Princesses of Power crossover will come sometime in the spring (hopefully). And now, TEASER TIME;

It's Luz's first day as a witch's apprentice! And while Ash searches for new employment, Luz and King go on a tour of Bonesborough. Later, after facing an unscrupulous and deceiving wizard, Luz encounters a certain Ruby Wizard for the second time, and is left with not only his support, but perhaps something else?

All of this and more in the next chapter; "You Give Wizards A Bad Name!". GET EXCITED!