Haunted Woods - An Unusual Crossover - ☆ The Records of the Eternal Sailor Chaos and his Creations ☆

Penguin

I sighed as I sat down on the Neovian inn's bar stools, tired from the long trip I was taking. The red Kyrii behind the counter glanced at me once and smiled at me sweetly, and shouted, Noah! Penguin's here! She then turned to me and asked, The same. my dear? I nodded.

A skeleton-patterned Eyrie came down from the stairs to the inn rooms, and I waved at him, while the Kyrii served me a small pie and a bowl of soup. Thank you, I said, handing her the Neopoints, and the Halloween Eyrie sat next to me and asked me.

You're finally back here! So, what's the news? What happened to you these past months? Anywhere interesting you have gone? Any new adventures?

Noah, manners! You don't even let your poor friend eat before you start asking about everything! The innkeeper Kyrii chastised the Eyrie while I dug into my pie, and then turned to me and asked. How was your trip? How's Jasmine? Is she alright on that new job of hers? I chuckled at the irony, and drank from my soup.

A loud yell came from the ground, as a spotted Kyrii with his face painted like a skull jumped out of a trap door, and a couple of Kookiths flew out with him. Mother! His name's Nohbdy! He asked to be called like that! Also, we've got Kookiths in the cellar again. May I have the broom to whack them out of there?

Again??? And I will not, why, that's the awful name the townspets gave him! She turned to Noah. Why on Fyora's name would you want to be called that? You hate it, you used to cry when you were younger and was called that! I had finished my pie, and now had my attention fully turned to the soup in my bowl.

Because he wants to own that name! So they can't use it against him! The spotted Kyrii said proudly and loudly.

I think it's rather stupid, I heard from right behind me, and I looked over my shoulder to find a third, young and pink Kyrii holding a clown puppet, her red eyes glaring. It's pretentious and stupid, but that's the two doofuses for you, they had the idea together.

The Kyrii mother now chastised the young Kyrii. Mariah! Language, young lady! And then turned to the Eyrie, leaning over the counter, with a worried and yet severe look on her face. I kept on minding my own business, and finished my soup while they argued. But I do agree, that's a rather- Er- Bad idea for a name, sincerely speaking, it's an awful name for you to bear, considering all you have gone through over the years. You cannot be serious about calling yourself that? No, I won't allow it. The Halloween Eyrie looked over at his spotted friend and hesitated, but then sighed.

Fine, Mrs. Jones. The red Kyrii smiled sweetly, and then finally turned back to me.

I am sorry for the interruptions, Penguin. I shook my head.

No worries. At least I got to finish my food first, before I am pressed to tell everything about my life. And to answer your question, Jazzy is fine, working under her father on her father's company is pushing some buttons, they don't really get along, but as long as it works in the business setting, as she says. I smiled at her, and she chuckled back.

Oh, I'm so sorry, we are all a bit too eager to live vicariously through your experiences, you know? We have quite some different visitors with unique stories for us every time, but yours are usually the most intriguing! You travel everywhere, you know so many 'pets, there must never be a boring day in your life! I laughed.

Thank you, Martha, I guess there are perks to my type of work. Although I have been spending quite a large amount of time as of lately in Tyrannia and Terror Mountain, because of the latest group I've been hired for. The spotted Kyrii and the Halloween Eyrie were already awestruck just by the mention of those lands. You know how there was this strange obelisk that was unearthed there, and multiple factions had gone to there, trying to claim its possession, and a war broke out?

The red Kyrii nodded. So I've heard from other travelers. Dreadful, awful, all that fighting... I nodded, and continued.

Well, I was hired by one of the factions to work on field for the duration of the war, full time. She frowned, while Lucas, Noah and Mariah glimmered with excitement.

The Halloween Eyrie spurted out quickly. You were hired to fight? Are you a mercenary now, then??

Amazing! You were fighting?? Did you use a sword or a mallet or what?? OH maybe you could use my favorite weapons, daggers!! The spotted Kyrii made swinging motions on the air, as if stabbing something invisible.

Did you get hurt? Do you have a scar? Is it ugly? The pink Kyrii approached more, with a mischievous look. Can we see it??

You can't be serious you too were fighting in that awful war?? The red Kyrii looked both disappointed and very worried.

No, I didn't fight, I don't have any interest in that. I was hired to make weapons, by the Thieves' Guild- The Kyriis and the Eyrie all interrupted me at the same time, but their expression varied from awe to shock.

THE THIEVES' GUILD??? Okay, maybe this was beginning to get really annoying at this point, and it didn't help other Neopets at the inn had looked over to see what was going on. I gritted my teeth together, inhaled, and responded as calm as I could be.

Yes... But I'm doing honest work. Yes, I know, for thieves, but they had the better offer. The teenagers and the kid exclaimed in excited approval of what I was doing, but the mother didn't look so fond of what I had said. They are the most trustworthy of the factions, at least they're no monsters or cultish associations or even those scholars who seem so eager to do anything to acquire 'knowledge.' Besides, the Guild has been there for me since I was a young Neopet, way back to even my first memories, some of their members in Moltara cared for me, since no one wanted me. And I have been helping them in exchange with what I know best. Martha wasn't convinced.

I care for you, as much as I care for my children, and Noah, and you make me concerned. Why can't you do honest work outside of that? I don't know, find a job somewhere, I could open a spot in the inn so you can work as well, Noah will be working at the Fairgrounds soon, I will be needing a new assistant. I shook my head.

Thank you, Martha, but I'll have to pass. But don't worry, eventually I'll get myself out of this messy business, I hope. She looked at me, sad and worried.

I hope sooner than later... She looked into the kitchen, and noticing something that needed her attention, she excused herself and rushed in.

Mother, can you get the broom? Lucas remembered, and his mother responded, asking for him to wait. I remembered then one particular story I was saving up for the three to listen to.

Hey, I have a very strange story this time to tell you, it happened to me when I got lost in the wild parts of Terror Mountain, and that was the closest call I've had in a long time, but yet was when I met some really peculiar folks. I didn't even need to finish the sentence to have Noah, Lucas and Mariah all sitting around me. I glanced over at the kitchen door, before continuing. Don't tell your mother, she may not take it well, mainly the close call part.

She won't hear a thing from us! The older Kyrii exclaimed.

We promise. The Eyrie said.

Alright. So I had business to take care of in Terror Mountain some months back, and out of my own recklessness, decided to take the walking path up the plateaus from Tyrannia to there, heading into the wintery northern borders that way. I thought I had everything under my control, and for the first days heading up north, I had, but I didn't foresee I'd catch such bad weather on the wild plains of Terror Mountain.

While wandering, I ended up lost in a forest there, and worse, I lost my compass when I fell in a hidden hole under the snow, and had to rely on trying to figure out which way is north from the little I could make of the sun through the storm clouds. Now, when I say the weather was bad, I meant it, as in, it was so cold when I finally made it out of the woods and to what I presumed to be another frozen plains, I was quickly losing body heat to the point I could see myself solidifying, my magma was cooling into rock. I kept on fighting through the weather, hoping to find some cave or something to hide from the storm, but the storm was so strong there, I could barely see a palm ahead of me.

The three of them were the most quiet I've ever seen, completely engulfed by my story. And yet, that's when I saw something in the distance, where I presumed to be the eye of the storm.

Next Part Back Home

Nohbdy

With a large pair of metal scissors, I struggled to cut through the flour sack I had already fixed up. Stupid, dull scissors. I glanced over into the door to the back of the inn, fearing get caught by Mrs. Jones, and at that moment I jumped at the words hissed from right behind me, and the hand at my shoulder.

Noah! Are you ready or what?? I held back a surprised squeak, and turned around quickly to face a giant jack-o-lantern an inch away from my face. This time I couldn't hold back my scream, and fell back, into one of the empty wooden boxes that Mr. Jones had left for the produce delivery to pick up the next day. I could hear him laughing at my situation, while I got out of the box.

Ha ha, yes, hilarious, you scared the living ghost out of my feathered body. I finally got up and shoved him off. Jerk!

The Kyrii stumbled backwards, but continued laughing. Hey, hey, hey, easy there, big fluff, I was just messing with you. You're such a scaredy Kad, how can I not mess with you? Ladies and gentlepets, Lucas, summed up. I gave him a scowl while I searched for the scissors in the boxes, but he quickly charged in, tickling me at my waist, and I squealed once again. Don't be maaaaad~ He taunted, and continued to tickle me, and I couldn't help myself to but contort with laughter.

Stop! Stop! I have scissors with me! Do you want to get us hurt?? I squawked in between my laughter, trying to point to the blades on my hand, but I could barely hang onto them or the bag I was previously cutting. Also I couldn't fight him back either, since my hands were busy! Stooooop! It's not fair I can't fight you back!! This is cowardice!! And then I remembered I still had two limbs not busy, and flapped my wings to push him off. Okay, enough! Enough! Or we'll get caught! Also, you're not letting me finish making my mask, Lucas! He chuckled at the bag on my hand.

Pffft, THAT's your mask? At least I got myself a real pumpkin! He placed his hands on his giant mask, and I squinted, offended by his remark.

Hey, it's a decent mask! I just need to get the other eye cut open. Also, how in Neopia are you carrying that on your head? How did you fit through, your head's so huge! He exclaimed back offended, and I chuckled. See, two can play this game. But... Either way, isn't that really heavy? And won't that rot eventually?

Too many questions, Noah, I haven't figured out THAT far! He then proceeded to take one side of his black cape, and half cover his pumpkin head. But I do look amazing, don't I? It's totally worth it.

Translation, Lucas is stupid and just did a stupid because he can't think two steps ahead. We heard from a familiar younger voice, and we both turned to look at Mariah, who was sporting a tiara with two large horns, and her glaring red eyes were accentuated by dark paint, which, together with her mostly black outfit, gave her a devilish look. Oh, Fyora, was I the only one who didn't finish my outfit yet? I hurried up on cutting up the eye, and tearing a mouth, and quickly slid the mask over my face.

Hey, that's just how I roll. The spotted Kyrii shrugged, and then glanced over at me. Nice, although it's a bit generic, isn't it? I mean, you're just like, a masked Neopet?

That's the point! I'm nobody. I grinned.

Mariah shook her head. That's like, the worst disguise ever. Everyone will know who you are!

As if your eye paint actually hides a thing. Also, is it supposed to look spooky? Because it just looks like you've played under the stove for too long!

Hey! It's supposed to make my eyes look scarier! Also, it matches my horn and dress!

Lucas intruded in, breaking up our discussion. Guys, guys! Quit it! Remember what Billy said, he will help us disguise ourselves better. He has the means, remember? So quit your squabbling, and let's go meet him! Also, we need to leave before Mum catches us. Can you take us there pleeease?? Lucas asked his half-sister.

Mariah rolled her eyes at us, and glared at me. Fiiiine. But I'm still counting that against this dimwit here, and then proceeded to extend her hands to us. Grab on, don't let go, etcetera, unless you wanna land somewhere in the middle of Neovia, you know the drill. Lucas and I held on, and in a wink of an eye, we were at the forest clearing on the other side of Neovia, where we had told the meet up was going to happen.

It's always handy to have a half-demon half-sister! Lucas exclaimed jokingly, but it was a fact that couldn't be denied, at least the part about her being a half-demon. Everyone in town gossiped about Mariah's origins, about how Mrs. Jones's inn, being in the outskirts of town, was a passing point for many a strange creature from the depths of Haunted Woods, and how she once did involve herself with a creature who appeared as a Kyrii but wasn't exactly a Neopet. Most kids were told to stay away from Mariah, mainly after she learned she could do all sorts of dark magic some years back, and if it wasn't for the group of friends we were going to meet she'd only have us. Honestly, none of us were truly welcome in town, Mrs. Jones was not particularly seen in a positive light due to the nature of her clientele so even poor Lucas did not escape the unspoken reprehension from the mob, despite him just being a bit of an oddball.

Mariah replied, deadpan. Yeah, yeah, you only owe me like, half of your week's wage this time, and all of your Halloween candy, and ownership of that sweet cricket hammer you found last week by the riverbank. Lucas scoffed.

Take my soul already, curses, at least it's cheaper!

It's. Too. Cheap.

I know, but I can at least try to bargain, you're robbing me broke!

I watched the two banter with a tinge of jealousy, but didn't say anything. I was part of the family, Mrs. Jones insisted over and over with me over all these years, but yet, one could not help but feel left out- Change of topic, we were here! But where were the others? I looked around, and spotted a few incoming kids, some I recognized.

Heeeyyy!! A small brown Shoyru with a Faerie mask, cloth wings and antlers ran up to us, and hugged the three of us. Lucy was younger, about Mariah's age, and from a rather wealthy family. She was a bottomless pit of enthusiasm and excitement, with a more childish personality and correspondingly childish dressing style; she had taken a liking to Lucas's sister, and thus suffered some retaliation from other kids on top of their usual bullying. How are you?? Oh my Fyora, I am so, SO happy you guys came! Aren't you excited? I am excited! Mariah frowned in annoyance at her saccharine hyper classmate from school.

Oh, hey Lucy, glad to see you too. She said unenthusiastically, but the Shoyru's excitement wasn't so easily lessened.

So, are you excited? Because I surely am! When I got invited by Billy to join his gang, I couldn't help but beam with happiness, I mean, I love friends, I love my friends! It was too bad that Billy hasn't spoken much with anyone as of lately, because I missed him! It has been weeks since he's interacted with anyone! Which is weird, but you know, that's Billy for you, am I right? Also, now that's over, right? Now he's called everyone over! The gang's all here! And, oh, I am so happy you guys are here along, that you're here, Mariah! I can barely contain myself! Just imagine all the things we will do together! She let out a squeal from the top of her lungs, and a Neopet dressed up as a giant Moach jumped in surprise, and took off his costume head to talk to our group, revealing a pink Krawk's head I knew went by the name of Archie. Him and a few other Neopets were from the orphanage, they were all meant to show up if they could.

So... What is exactly Billy planning with his gang shindig? I hope it's nothing too crazy, the Head Sister will murder me if we get caught by the Neovian police again. I mean, isn't it weird already we have to come in full on costumes? It sounds so shady. A couple more started showing up in costumes from in between the trees: a bulky and tall speckled Chomby looking like a witch, who was from a migrant family from the outskirts of town; a Halloween Elephante dressed as a fire faerie who I recognized as Archie's friend; a Pirate Ruki with a horrendous mask resembling the Esophagor, and whose parents were gardeners to a questionable local politician; Leonie, a camouflage Mynci who I knew from school, and who was heavily harassed for his theatrical personality; a Desert Usul in an even uglier mask who was also from the orphanage; and Slimy, also from the orphanage, the Scamander-looking yellow Techo who was sporting a draconian helmet, much to my surprise, I wonder who she had to steal to get that.

That was it, that was the entire group, we were always out and about to do whatever we felt like doing, which mostly boiled down to hanging around town and doing whatever we pleased after school was out and our house chores were all done. We had gotten into all sorts of trouble already, from having the police chase us to even once ticking off a circus troupe when we let loose their petpets and took their star acrobat's jewelry for fun. Mrs. Jones was particularly furious at us three in that last occasion, mainly after she discovered we had buried the fake gold earrings in the ashes of the oven to hide from the policepets, who easily guessed we were involved somehow in the chaos that had ensued at the town centre because of all the petpets. The group was not that big after all, and in that particular moment, everyone seemed as clueless about what was going on as we were.

Whatever it is, I am wondering why he told everyone to come in costume, I mean, it's way past Halloween either ways, but yet, here we are, looking like fools, in the middle of the forest in a cold eve, Slimy commented with a sarcastic tone.

Nay, not like fools! A familiar voice spoke at a distance, from a foggy area in the woods. You look like perfect subjects to hear about my proposal, a proposal that will change everything, a proposal that will change your entire lives! Everyone turned their heads towards where the voice was coming from, and a shadow in the woods taller than life and with glaring eyes that were embers ablaze approached our group, and everyone looked uncertain and afraid. I looked over at Lucas, who looked pale behind his pumpkin eye cutout, and then at Mariah, who usually was very blasé, but at that moment looked tense. The creature appeared before us, a monster with a coconut husk for a face, flaming eyes, two giant tusks and elongated ears, and ragged burlap and old cotton that covered his body, and wooden clogs. Everyone paled at its appearance, speechless for a short while until the Shoyru in a Faerie outfit broke the silence upon recognizing it.

B-Billy? Asked a shrunken and shaken Lucy.

The monster replied. Keen eye, young Lucy. Despite the grotesque form I've decided to take, you've realized that, indeed, I am after all just your usual Billy. Within a blink of an eye, what was the creature became a Moehog in his Halloween costume, and everyone breathed out in relief collectively at once, with exception of Lucy herself, who switched quickly to her usual verborrheic self.

I knew it was you the moment I saw your matching coconut mask and clogs back in Halloween, silly, you're the only one who would commit such fashion disaster proudly. Mariah and some others snorted at the Shoyru's no-filter comment, but the Moehog was unfazed to it. But yeah, how did you do that? How did you become a giant monster thing? Is it magic? Oh, I bet it is, like Mariah, she's magic too, you know, they say she's got demonic magic, and you seem to be magic, maybe it is demonic too? Oh, wait, but you didn't have it before, did you? Did you just-

Lucy, for Fyora's sake, let him speak! The Usul from our group finally yelled, and the Shoyru realized her inconvenience, and shut up immediately. Billy waved his hand towards her, signaling.

Allow me to demonstrate on you, since you're so eager to participate, then. Her eyes widened behind her winged mask, prompting her to answer immediately.

Alright! In a blink of the eye once again, Lucy the masked Shoyru became Lucy the masked Faerie, and multiple expressions of awe were heard around the circle. She looked down at her hands and her legs, then over her shoulder, and then finally exclaimed, Oh my sweet Fyora I look amazing! I'M A CUTE FAERIE!

Indeed you are, Lucy. He turned to speak to the others while Lucy continued her enthusiastic observation of her altered physique. You see, an incredible thing I've learned I can do as of these recent weeks, and the direct reason for my quietness-

'Quietness' is understating it, commented the Ruki, we were worried sick you had caught the pox or something, and Billy nodded vehemently.

And I do apologize for leaving you all in the dark, Richie. The truth is, I was training this wonderful ability I have learned I can use, so I would have interesting results to show the group. You see, this ability took me very long to get accustomed to, but it was worth it. I have learned the most wondrous of abilities, one that twists the very reality of those who I can inflict this very status effect upon, and I can manage to make it seem as real as one's nightmares, or the games your imagination plays late at night when you feel the sudden urge to raise yourself off from slumber and stare into the dark crevasse on the corner of the room before rushing to fulfill your necessities. We were all very interested at this point, still trying to decrypt Billy's enigmatic speech, a pattern of speech we were way too used to. At this point we had all gotten used to his weird speech pattern, which made him sound like he was a narrator of some grand play. It was a byproduct of him spending so much of his time in his "researches" and in the library, and everyone else teased him heavily for it, but doing the same would be hypocritical from our group, after all each of us had multiple reasons to be frowned upon by everyone else. I, unfortunately, had to use it on those subjects I had available, as in, my poor Ma, the maid who aides her in the kitchen and chores, and my poor petpets.

You see, my first experience with this ability was one bad morning I had wished it was good so I could leave my quarters and skedaddle to the town, but I knew my mother would never allow me to leave when it was pouring hard enough that it seemed like the floodgates of the river of Neovia would burst-

Oh, you mean like, two months ago? The gates did burst out, do you remember? It was a crazy week to get them back working, the whole town square was ruined by the mud! Lucy chimed in.

Yes, they did unfortunately give way to the mud waters from the Woods, sadly enough, the Moehog regained the spotlight briefly stolen once again by the Shoyru who could not contain herself. But yet- This is what surprised me the most- And revealed me to the nature of my abilities beforehand unknown to me- I wished so hard within my heart and mind that it was a good day, that the skies were clear enough so she would allow me to leave my family's property to do my usual activities in this town, that somehow, when I went to request permission to leave the house as usual, the maid who cares for me while my mother was busy was more than willing to grant such permission. She even announced loudly, 'William, this day could not be nicer, you better get some of that fresh air before the sun sets and gets too cold. Off with you, go be bricky with your friends, but not too much so that the peelers will be at our doorsteps again. Do come back before dinnertime this time or Mrs. Blake will have my hide this time!' much to my later-understood confusion, as I had stared multiple times out of the window in this conversation to make sure I was not going insane, but since I was allowed such permission, I did not hesitate twice before rushing off, despite the downpour.

And for those who doubt this was not just a temporary lapse of judgment from Miss Lania, whose eyes do seem to fail her at times, I did confirm something was indeed strange later on, when we were all in our daily task of opinionating on our schooling systems-

Do you mean when we tossed rocks at Alanna's school because she was sobbing over her teacher ragging her over her rotten pencils? The Mynci in a dark robe chimed in.

Yes, indeed then, when we did indeed draw the attention of the adults, and eventually had the blue-bellies right on our tails while trying to hightail to the forest, I had to witness what I could only describe as a miracle, as I somehow wished them to not see anything to me and Lucy cornered without any escape plan, and indeed they did bid to my wishes, alike to the housemaid who allowed me out disregarding the real weather, they saw literally nothing where we both were crouching over, out of corners to hide from them.

Oh, I thought we had just struck some luck? You used magic on them? The Shoyru in the mask interrupted.

Or whatever is the source of my ability I have full control of now. Billy confirmed.

Oh, my Fyora in the throne of Faerieland, that's so amazing! You saved our hides! At least metaphorically. She squealed. He nodded in response, smiling confidently.

Indeed, it was more than miraculous, and I knew then and there, something strange was going on. After that misadventure of ours, and our miraculous escape, I knew something peculiar was going on, and thus started testing out what could be causing these continuous lapses in the adults' judgments. After a few more attempts in attempting to change what I wanted to happen, I realized I had the very ability not to change the very thing I was worried about, which was my first question I had, but instead I changed how others perceived it. I did later on delve into some readings, heavy medical topics and the like, and I do seem to conclude I am not changing my reality, but instead how one perceives it. After all, we all have to perceive such reality through our eyes and ears and tact, don't we? Such perception seems to be a filter in reality, and I seem to have the very ability to control such filter of reality. I can make one find Faerieland before them, but I can also make one see the creatures of what one could only assume the most corrupting darkness creates.

The reactions around the circle of friends were slow to surface, but were very mixed, some were very amazed by the explanation Billy was giving us, but some, specifically Mariah, Jane and Slimy, were less amazed and more concerned. I felt wavering concern and curiosity myself, this was very different from anything I had ever heard of, but it did scare me a bit to learn that one could potentially mess with how I perceived reality itself.

How... Do we know we're not being toyed with, given the type of powers you have, Billy? You do realize you're saying you're able to do many things, even induce us to do things without even being personally here, just by believing you're here because we... Perceive it as such. Jane the Chomby spoke up, voicing what many seemed to have as a very valid concern. Billy frowned, responding defensively.

I swear on Fyora's gilded throne of Faerieland, I do not wish to fool you on any way. I have no ill intents, not towards any of you, and would never wish to toy with my friends in such cruel ways! He exclaimed. I may have acquired some mysterious powers which I have yet to discover the origin, but that does not change my nature. He looked at everyone, turning almost a full circle to encompass everyone's eyesight. Have you ever questioned my friendship with you beforehand? Have you ever thought I could have had ill intents toward you, or that I could have been less than truthful with any of you? Everyone, Lucas, Mariah and me included, basically agreed on how Billy was far from ever being someone untruthful, and all contented in agreeing to ourselves that there was no way he would be thinking anything nefarious towards us.

Nah, you're too sweet and soft to be plotting anything bad to us! Lucy exclaimed, assured of her words. You couldn't harm a fly! He smiled warmly at her, and then friendly at us, and then proceeded on speaking for longer.

I know that this is a strange and concerning revelation to you guys, trust me when I say, it was the same for me. But that's also why I felt it was important to seek solace, to train myself to this newfound supernatural ability, so I can have a good grasp of what it can achieve, so I can not harm others accidently. Thus I withdrew, and tried seeking into the books my parents own the answers I sought about what I could only speculate was some manifestation of faerie magic. Which leads me to my next point, my proposition to all of you, a wondrous idea that I came up myself and wished to share with you, in hopes you'd aid to, if you're not too afraid of it! Was he challenging us, or teasing us? We could never really be sure with Billy.

One of the books I ran into in my research about my abilities had mentions I cross-referenced with the library's books about this legendary group called the Children of Nyx, a group of Neopets who were disciples of Nyx, the mother of darkness herself, a fearsome dark Faerie who existed in the times of folklore and myths, and whose influence created what was the very first league of villains, who terrorized the lands and created such legacy that made many first associate darkness with evil itself. Alright, where was he going with this? I looked over at the other two, who seemed puzzled as well, and upon frowning at Lucas, he shrugged off carefree as always.

These are just tales, since there are no factual proofs, but- Imagine just for a second- This legendary group had somehow resurfaced once again, only to terrorize this town. Mysterious evil Neopets were causing all sort of ruckus, and it wasn't related to us? I could- I could use this magical ability I have to turn our appearances so hideous and disfigured, it would be unfeasible for them to ever tie anything we ever did back to us- His enthusiasm led him to gesticulate more and more wildly as his speech quickened on the tempo, and we all could feel this enthusiasm reach us. Get anything we want, do anything we want, we could run this town however we want- For example- He pointed at the Mynci, who was surprised to be singled out, Teach a lesson to the bullies who have been hurting Leonie, and even tied him up that one time, and then moved on to the Shoyru, who was hesitant yet willing to agree with him, And give the girls who dumped red paint on Lucy a while back a piece of our mind- Well, we could actually give anyone a piece of our mind- Even those stuck up townies from the council who were trying to shut down the orphanage and drive away the travelling caravans on the fringes of town because they damaged this stupid town's image! Archie, Slimy and the Usul both nodded and agreed, commenting on how angry they were about it, and even Jane was nodding along despite her hesitance. But I wondered what made me still hesitant, as this was a really good proposal. We finally had some power in our hands! We could do whatever we wanted, and get away scat-free, wasn't that the best? I was not alone either, none of the other two were feeling too good on the proposal, and neither was Richie or the Elephante girl.

I don't know, Billy. Started Mariah, This seems off. Like, for example, take that we do all those things, and get all our satisfactions. First of all, what would we be doing? How far would we go in giving them our piece of mind? Is there a limit you would not cross?

Billy started to respond, No, we would be getting back at those who have taunted or harmed us- But Mariah interrupted before he finished the sentence.

Yeah, duh, but I mean, would you be willing to do something serious? Because that's wrong-

Mariah, we perform petty thievery and vandalization by the definition of the law. The Moehog interrupted her back.

But this is farther than pickpocketing for some 'points and maybe a cute handkerchief, Billy. We could get away with some serious things, really cruel, bad things, isn't it a good idea to establish a ground of what's allowed and not, so we don't only impersonate evil beings, but become truly evil? A dark thought flashed in my mind, and I realized what Mariah was trying to mean, and I think that was also in some of the others' minds. Billy was taken aback by Mariah's question for a split second, but then responded defensively.

Of course I am not suggesting that we do anything irreparable! No, Mariah, we would restrain ourselves, I mean, none of us have such intentions, right? He looked at the rest of us, and in one way or another we all expressed our agreement on such a line to draw and that was a relief to most, but Mariah then moved onto her next point.

Also, second- Isn't it wrong to use your powers for something... Like this? Billy scoffed.

You literally use your magic to do whatever you so please, Kyrii. What's wrong with following along with such directive?

Well- I'm not out there using my magic to attack others or anything of the sort- I mean, at most I use my teleportation to get away on a pinch, and-

Don't you use your powers to help you along on your daily tasks, and to tease and mess with your brother and with Noah? Billy grew frustrated with Mariah's questioning.

Yeah, but not-

Then there is no difference! Honestly, Mariah, I am not so sure of what is your issue with my proposal! Mariah huffed in irritation at a lack of words, probably not being able to put into words the discomfort Lucas and I also felt.

Fine, although I disagree- But either ways, what about the possibility of someone figuring us out? I mean, we can be as well disguised as possible, but wouldn't it just take a little brainpower from the police or someone else of figuring that we're doing all sorts of things that tie back to our lives, as these... Monsters? Like, literally everything proposed in here is so personal it would take anyone with some time to investigate the occasions and draw up a link from it to us. The third point did make the entire group, even Billy, to stop and think.

That is- A good point, in fact- He mentioned, and I had the answer right away.

Uh- We could do some random things in between our plans- I mentioned. Mariah squinted at me, irritated at me answering her supposedly undermining question that was meant to stop everyone from proceeding on just a bit too late.

Yeah, if we do like, random crazy things in between, I think that will cause enough confusion to throw them off our trail, Richie completed my inconveniently loud thought, and the damage was done.

Like an Alabriss kicking up dust before running off, The Usul nodded along.

Then that is it! Very good, Noah, I approve of this idea, do the rest of you agree as well

Yeah! Lucy enthusiastically started off.

Yes! Said Richie.

Mh-hm, the Usul agreed.

Alright, followed up Slimy.

Yea-, Leonie said with a slight hesitation.

Jane nodded, convinced. Mm-

I'm in if Archie is in, Said the Elephante.

I guess- I'm in, Lisa, Archie replied.

The crowd now awaited our approval, which Lucas started off. Alright, you guys stringed me in well. I wanna get at the town council too, they've been tormenting Mother to see if they can shut her inn down for a long while now. Billy nodded and then said.

We'll add to the list of reasons to plan something with the town council.

I guess I'm supposedly in, since I had the idea on how to keep them off our tracks, I blurted out, leaving only Mariah for last. She sighed, defeated, and resuming her nonchalant attitude, then responded.

Alright, have it your way. I'm tagging along to keep these two idiots in check, though. She pointed at Lucas and me, and the others chuckled while I shrugged off. The Moehog smiled once again, happy to have convinced everyone of this wild venture.

Excellent, I am very pleased you have all agreed along. Now, following up with Mariah's concern about being discovered, and something that I had not thought about until now, so bear with me if it is an idea a tad clunky, but we would be needing, along with disguises that I will be augmenting so to pass as monstrous creations, some sort of codename, so to not link us back to our identities.

Right, like nicknames or something? The Usul mentioned.

Yes, but not for your real name, Alanna. It would have to be something... Completely different- For example, something that could relate to your disguise.

I already had the idea in my mind of what codename would I take.

Next Part Back Home

Kunbao

And- And their leader, 't h'd flamin' eyes lik' 'n angry evil coconut- D' y' think Leeroy's stand's finally caught sum' sights a sum' evil lil' spookster lik' ya? I was writing down the old purple Yurble's description of the vandals that had razed the market stalls the day prior, but that last bit made me do such a double take, I completely lost track of what was I writing down.

E-excuse me? I said in an incredulous but quiet voice, it was hard for me to express how shocked I felt, and yet, from the corner of my eye, I noticed that Alice, the black-clad pastel Aisha with gold locks who was chatting with a passerby witness to the scene, stopped for a second to look over her shoulder from under her translucent parasol. Marcos, the zombie Tonu with an arrow traversing his head, had not yet noticed what was happening, and occupied himself with investigating the broken stalls and smashed pumpkins and pottery on the floor. The Yurble continued to pack the things that were left intact from his stall, after the incident, onto his cart, nonchalant as if he was commenting on the gloomy weather hanging overhead.

What's wrong wi' wha' I said, hm? Ev'ryon' 'ere knows y'se a ghos' Koi jus' doin' time fo' hauntin' us- Now, don't get me wrong- I do believe in redeemin' 'n' stuff, ev'ryon' shoul' get a secon' chance- But a monster lik' ya-

I'm not- I was already exasperated, I glanced over to Alice and Marcos, in hopes of seeking help before I did or said something wrong. The Aisha walked away from her witness and dragged the Tonu by his shoulders. I inhaled, and tried answering in the calmest and firmest way possible, like Alice had taught me. Look, sir, I am not going to discuss this topic, I am here to investigate this incident in the name of the-

'm Defenders o' Neopia, we all know, spook. Up 'n th' big city, 'em freaks wi' powers decided t' at least do som'thin' useful outta 'emselves, 'n' help keep th' world saf' from 'ther, evil freaks, 'n' monsters too, right? So tha' don't change a thin', ya kno', y' still a monster, through 'n' through, y' just deluding 'em and y'self 'bout it. Th' hauntin' of the Moonlight Swamp up north, wantin' t' play hero now, won'tcha know it? Gritting my teeth, I panickily tried to figure out how I got into this situation, and how to exit it as soon as possible. I shouldn't have spoken up, I just needed some information about the crime, not yet another tirade about me and my past.

And what is exceptionally wrong with that, Mr. Edwyn? Alice, who was by far the most imposing and vocal of our trio, despite being the most normal looking, had come to my rescue yet again. I stepped back for her, and joined Marcos almost involuntarily, she was much better at this sort of confrontation, I just wanted to phase out of existence at this point.

Miss Rosenfields, right? Y' th' on' who's been tryin' so hard t' socialize 'em two devils, so I heard. She nodded with a smile that had a lot of anger contained within. Why d' y' waste y'r time wi' 'em? Can't y' be a philanthropis' by helpin' maintain th' Neovian park gardens or som'thin' else?

Hm, such flavorless favors to the town are more self-serving than actually selfless, helping further gentrify the already cared for rich and orderly neighborhoods is a far easier and quickly rewarding job than reaching out to those in the peripheries of this town. The Aisha glanced at me, and then added. Physically and metaphorically speaking, so to add. Not only I am willing to befriend these two, who have proven to have greater character than many others, but I also do come to brag about how I have helped fund the orphanage and the construction of the new school down the Neovia River, so I am indeed a philanthropist alongside being a decent Neopet. The Yurble clucked and shook his head.

Have it y'r way, missy, y've got th' coin 'n' time t' waste it however y' feel. I've given my testimony so I will be goin' now, don' see no point stayin' 'round this spook fo' any longer, ya givin' me th' creeps. I liked it be'er when ya stayed in ya swamp 'nyways, not that I've ever liked ya! Edwyn walked away with his cart, laughing away at his unfunny anti-joke. I looked at Alice, and she looked at me, still holding the fake smile, her eyes holding what seemed like legit murderous intent.

Well, at least one thing he's gotten correct, there's no point dillydallying any longer here. Shall we head back to my mansion? But I already felt the glumness and demotivation set in, and just the thought of going over the investigation of this incident with the other two, much more actually continuing it, made me feel desperate.

I- Actually wanted to just- Head back to my- Well, swamp. This was a lot of work, and um, I'm tired, I said half-heartedly, my voice breaking with barely any vocalization. This was so much work, and I didn't feel like it was worth it, so I decided that with the last of my energy, I would just start heading down to the Neovian River to follow it home, and thus I floated away from the market plaza, down an alley I knew. I heard Alice's heels clack on the cobblestone until she caught up with me.

Absolutely not, Kunbao. I know that look, I know exactly what you're thinking, you're not giving this case up like you did with the others. I groaned, to which she responded with one loud tut. This is for your own good! How are you ever going to reform your reputation if you run from every opportunity to get yourself some fame that is not derived from your past of attacking Neopets who got lost in the lowlands?

I mostly just splashed around to make them leave... I mumbled, irritated with the fact my reputation was mostly fictitious, and yet everyone believed it that I was treated as what had just happened because of it. I only actually attacked Neopets four times, counting the time you brought the Ghoul Catchers to capture me... Looking at Alice, I said that last part with a bit of resentment.

That was also for your own good, you were so entrenched up in your swamp, you didn't even recognize Marcos and me when we tried to just talk to you!

Yeah but the Ghoul Catchers!? I retorted with all of my anger, but she didn't even blink in response. Curse my eternally soft voice. Was that really necessary? I got sucked into that weird contraption of theirs, like jam in a jar, that was humiliating!

You were having a meltdown for two entire months over the fact you attacked that Cybunny by accident! She hissed at me in response, gritting her fangs. Was I supposed to just let you thrash around for Fyora knows how long while everyone, even other supernatural beings of this region, were freaking out about it? Marcos finally caught up to us, chipper as usual, and completely unaware of the situation.

Oh hey guys, that's where you were! I didn't realize we were leaving already, I was still studying the whole place around the marketplace plaza- The Tonu looked at the two of us, realization slowly dawning that he had interrupted perhaps on a bad moment, and the two of us let him work the situation by himself, giving us a pause to recompose ourselves. Oh, I'm sorry, did I interrupt something?

No, no, it's fine, Marcos. Alice answered first. We were- Well, it doesn't matter what we were talking about, now does it? She gave me a stern look, as if I was the one who had started this discussion. Now, what had you so focused over there? I noticed you were very interested in the damage on the stalls.

Not just the damage of the stalls, although they were very peculiar because once again, there was barely anything that could have looked like magic, it was all very much physical damage, but... He stopped to scratch his mane, probably trying to remember what else he had noticed. Oh yes, there was yet again something funny about the footsteps of those vandalizers- Uh, there was no faerie footsteps, yet again.

Yeah, but that doesn't mean much, some faeries do like to flutter about, they have wings after all. I mentioned. True, sounds like a lot of work, in my opinion, but you do float constantly, don't you? I'd guess if I had magic, I'd just like to hover around like you do.

What- No, wings are not the same as-

Oh yeah! That's what I actually wanted to say, uh- The footsteps, they were once again funnily small, like, child-sized footsteps. That was something I had noticed on the attack to the Town Hall the other day, the footsteps on the muck outside the building were all small as well. Well, that is weird, although Marcos was not exactly small himself, comparing anything to his Tonu build would be like comparing a Cybunny to an Eizzil.

Uh- Marcos, you're not exactly small yourself, are you sure you're not yet again misconstruing the footsteps as undersized because of your feet?

No, no, no, no- See, this time I know with certainty that it is not my perception, I took my time to measure the size of the footsteps in comparison to the footsteps that loud Yurble you were talking to, using my hand as a ruler. They were definitely smaller. That is strange, the description of this band of demons was definitely that they were big, somewhat larger than life, in fact? I knew that witness accounts could be biased, mainly when it comes to stressful situations, but the descriptions were consistent when it came to the looks of these vandals, and yet, the physical evidence contradicted the accounts.

I looked at Alice, wondering if she had any idea of what was going on, but she only replied with Now do you want to come over to my mansion to discuss the case?

While following up the river with the two towards the westernmost region, I felt more and more uncomfortable with the glances and looks from the Neovians. I was used to the fear and apprehension, those looks were as old to me as my undead life, but now I got stranger looks and judgement... And it was because of the stupid mask and gear I was wearing. Alright, it was not the outfit that was necessarily stupid, the Defenders were a serious organization from Neopia Central who were all respected for dealing with villains, crimes, and problems all around the planet, despite what the vendor was ranting about earlier, the general consensus about the Defenders was far more to the favorable side of the opinions. Also, the outfits were very much standard, with the suits and masks similar to what I wore, an outfit fit for the superhero work they all do... No, the problem was far more personal than a grudge with the organization that had taken me in for months after the whole Ghoul Catchers incident.

I looked stupid in all of this. No, worse than that, I looked fake, like an infiltrator trying to pass for a good guy. I had already noticed back in training, all of my peers were there out of their volition, because of their ideals, meanwhile I was forced to go as a lesser sentence than being permanently sealed away like some ancient curse. Sure, I went through the classes and followed along with their teachings and had graduated training just like the rest of them, not top of the class but high enough to be satisfactory. Of course, I was never some morally distorted big-time villain or something of the sort, where the very notion of fighting evil and protecting the innocent sounded outlandish and offensive to me. Nevertheless, I wasn't exactly an exemplary Neopet of any sort, and I did not even truly redeem myself or anything; I just accepted my fate and went along with it, passively as usual.

Kunbao? Are you more than just physically here? Alice was suddenly in front of me, making me flinch in reaction as I stopped moving. We were still ways away from the neighborhood where her mansion was located, but we were already on a more residential area, with smaller buildings and more well-kept cobblestone paving, a consequence of the region having less traffic. I looked at her and Marcos, who was next to me, both of them were looking at me like they were waiting for me to say something.

Ah, sorry, I was... Distracted. I said, avoiding looking at either of them directly on the eyes.

Quite clearly, as we tried to stop you to call your attention thrice, and all you did was pass through us! Alice retorted. But do not worry, we were not talking about things that required your attentive answers for quite a while there, although I make no promises that we have not taken any jabs at you or your gloomy personality. I squinted, and she grinned, her fangs gleaming, not as a threat but as a legit taunt. I cannot believe I just let her become so comfortable around me. We were just starting on the topic of the motive behind these attacks, I mean, don't you think it's quite peculiar, the types of places these self-denominated 'Children of Nyx' have been targeting? She looked at me and I knew she was patiently waiting for me to answer her, or else we were not moving from here.

Well... I started, then I had to stop, and remember my thought process earlier, on my way through the forest, when I kept on ruminating over what we already knew. This was one of the first cases I actually was going to go through with investigation, true, but that didn't mean I hadn't studied cases on my time at Defender training school and learning to profile the offenders was crucial in the process of investigation. This group has attacked the town hall, the marketplace plaza, a political rally, and a factory as far as we knew so far... Those were ambitious targets, high attention, probably done with intent to send a message to the town... I trailed off, not sure of how to follow up with that, but that was acceptable enough for her that she moved to my side once again, and we resumed our walk.

Exactly, high attention, there's absolutely some motive behind their attacks, they don't seem to do anything but vandalize and terrorize wherever they go, Alice continued, but Marcos cut her off.

Yeah, besides your casual petty thievery, like some candy, apples and cakes from the market stalls, or the mayor's ink bottle from his desk, or the factory's floor chief of production's lunch, nothing of high value got taken by them! Which is strange, why wouldn't you just take whatever you want in those situations?

Well... They did, in fact. I chimed in. They stole those things, after all.

But like, if you can, why wouldn't you steal something big in those cases? Marcos asked. I would take the coolest, most expensive thing my eyes would lie upon if I had a chance like that. I scoffed.

Well, I guess I'm glad you are not involved in these happenings, then, and then it was my turn to continue on thinking out loud, or well, quietly. But for as strange as it is that these hooligans didn't steal anything bigger or committed other crimes... I guess that reinforces the hypothesis that those attacks are for a reason, as to send a message or messages of some sort.

Also... Alice spoke this time, Apples, candy, cakes... And someone's lunch the other day? I guess that for evil spirits, these Neopets are very much physical, living beings, huh? That is true, there are not really many undead who can enjoy normal food like that. In fact, I had heard vampires could technically eat, but it was as useless as chewing on wood or rocks, but I never confirmed with Alice about such rumors. That rules out shadows, ghosts and hauntings like the townspets have been saying, because of your mostly intangible bodies, right? I mean, I could possibly ingest something, if I could manage to become more tangible, but the most interaction I had with the physical world was through my water manipulation powers. I had heard that more powerful, vengeful ghosts and ancient spirits could interact with the physical world in a way that made them indiscernible from the living... On the other hand, I had also heard the instances of ghosts possessing hosts to do their biddings... But I had no idea how either worked.

And zombies, vampires, werelupes, and others like us don't eat normal food, right? Thank Fyora for spooky food cuisine on that note, makes my existence way easier to deal with nowadays than a hundred or so years ago. Marcos continued.

Yes, and on that note, thank Fyora also for the existence of hospitals and their needs for blood supplies. Makes my life way easier than a couple hundred years ago. Alice added, but maintaining a low volume as to not give her true identity away to any passersby. A random tangential thought crossed my mind, about the possibility of me perhaps one day being able to eat something once more, like a toffee, I used to like them back when I was alive. But, now going back to the discussion, Kunbao, what do you think? What sorts could be behind these crimes?

I miss toffees, if I could I would eat them once m- I glowed quite literally red, realizing my mistake, while Alice and Marcos both snickered at me. Uhhhh- I think that then we're not dealing with a band of undead, no... Unless it's a lich, right? Maybe a lich may be able to eat food, but don't they usually feed on souls?

Yes, indeed, but there are no lichs in these parts of the Haunted Woods... That's a more... Medieval thing. Alice answered, sounding quite snubbish at the last part. Anyways, so, non-undead supernatural...

Which there are a lot of types to pick from... Devils, witches, ghouls, imps, nature spirits, other types of elemental spirits, cursed beings... I would have preferred if they were undead, or most of them. I am still not sure about the faerie, and how does she fit in. I was going to continue with my thought process, but I noticed someone was ahead of us, in front of Alice's mansion gates, waving at us. Hm? Who's that?

The young stealthy Moehog in front of the gates was in a dark brown playsuit and a red bowler hat and held a couple of books on his left hand. He called out to Alice specifically. Miss Rosenfields! I was wondering when you would be showing up! It has been eons standing on these feet at your front gates, bearing the weight of the knowledge you have oh so kindly borrowed to me, happy to return it now that I have thoroughly enjoyed it! I gave a look to Alice, who was this weirdly eloquent child? Alice chuckled, shaking her head.

That's Jamie Blake's boy, Billy, he's a bit of an oddball because he doesn't go out much, he gets sick easily, but he's a sweet child. She mentioned quietly to the two of us, He just doesn't know how to be... Succinct. Then, she called out to the Moehog. Billy! How long have you been standing in the fog without your coat? Do you want to get a bad case of the Neoflu?

Alas, 'tis true, I do fear I have been become physically gelid from my excursion to here, and my long time of loitering, but I wanted to bring these back as soon as possible, and request if I could borrow some more readings from your vast library to entertain myself... Also, I was wondering if you had any more of that delicious devilish cake you served me two days ago, it was so sweet and with such vivid and snarling red icing! I looked at Alice once again, concerned at what she was feeding this kid.

Oh, do relax, Kunbao, that's just my family's recipe, the secret to the icing is boiled beets and a dash of dark magic. Nothing that will do much, at most the cake will nip at you.

Ooh, that sounds fun! I sort of want to try that cake too! Announced Marcos, and the young Moehog approached quickly the Tonu, eyes large with awe.

Can a zombie like you relish from normal, non-spooky food cake? Can you digest it? Is it of any use for you as for a normal, living being? Marcos stepped back, taken aback by the kid's enthusiasm and questioning.

Ah, I mean, yes, no, I don't think so? I was just gonna chew on it and spit it out afterwards. Alice scoffed at Marcos's confession.

Absolutely not, there will be no waste of food in my house!

Aw, but it's not like you even eat stuff like that either! At least I wanna taste it, or well, bite it back! Alice's eyes widened at Marcos's carelessness, and he only realized what he had said from her reaction. Oh- I mean-

Oh, Miss Rosenfields, for what reason is that? Billy asked.

Gastritis, my dear, sugar attacks the stomach and hurts the bones. Alice improvised. In fact, it is not good for anyone to be eating such unhealthy things all of the time, it weakens the immune system and causes all sorts of bad things in the body.

Ah, how interesting, I had read up a book from my late father's medical books about the ailments of eating an unbalanced diet, and how it can upset the spirit. But sugar is such good, or at least tastes so good, I wonder why is it that? Also, why is it that such ailments only inflict on adults? Because you see children all of the time eating sugary treats before dinner, against their mothers' wishes, and they never have issues like those gastritis and other sicknesses. Well, for most part, I seem to be an exception, but I do obey the rules of what is to be eaten when and how, for most part, also to not burden my mother any more than necessary.

That is very considerate, Billy. Now, let's go in before you get unnecessarily sick, shall we? Alice opened her mansion's garden gates and led us all down to her residence. Walking through the shadowy atrium littered with old artefacts from the ages she refused to give away, covering most of the walls of that place, we followed her down to her study room, where she promptly lit the fireplace for the kid, and then went out towards her kitchen.

Billy hopped onto a sofa chair without hesitation, and Marcos copied him, which only invited Billy to drill Marcos on more questions about his condition and lifestyle as a zombie. Meanwhile, I was left standing next to the doorframe, stumped and mildly uncomfortable, wondering what in Neopia was happening. I knew that Alice was a soft hearted Neovian who reached out and helped a lot of townspets, mainly "the destitute and the disenfranchised" as she sold herself to the politicians of the town hall and the socialites in high society parties. Yet, I wondered if she were going far enough by now in her roleplay of normality and forgetting the part where she was still an undead, a vampire, who would be abhorred and shunned as much as I or Marcos were if she was to be discovered. Instead, here she was, a five-century old vampire, baking cakes and babysitting neighborhood kids. This felt very much wrong.

Ah, and you, masked mister, correct me if I am wrong, are one of the newest Defenders of Neopia, former Haunting of the Moonlight Swamp, correct? I realized the Moehog was now in front of me, observing me wide-eyed like an exotic zoo specimen. I also realized that moment I could not handle this conversation a second time that day, so I just sighed deeply and remained quiet. Why, I have heard all sorts of stories about your former life, the rumors of how dangerous and terrifying it is to roam in the forest up north of Neovia, on the dreary wetlands. If one disturbs the spirit that guards those lands, and mainly if they trespass into where the water reaches their ankles and above, they are sure be chased out by a tidal wave of swamp water and attacking vines that spook the very soul out of the wanderer's body, driving them into a mad dash back to the safety of civilization, and wishing they had never fronted such a creature! As a matter of fact, to learn those were the cases you were going easy on such wanderers, because in other times, you really caused some real damage, psychological included, to those who anger you, that is truly fascinating to hear! And to learn the Ghoul Catchers had to deal with you eventually, it is only a hallmark of how big of a story you had become! Ha ha ha ha haha! The more weirdly enthusiastic the kid got about my story, the more his verboseness came out as one jumbled, loud, quickly spoken mess; adding to it, his laughter at the end sold it to me the idea this kid could grow up to be a villain. I looked at Marcos with concern, to which he just looked back with a matched level of discomfort, and then I turned back to Billy, and asked quietly.

How... Old are you?

I am thirteen years, five months, two days, and about fourteen hours old. Fyora help me.

Do you know how to speak normally?

Kunbao! Be nice! Alice stood behind me, on the hallway, with a tray filled with different foods, cookies, sandwiches, a slice of her cake, even some freshly washed fruit and vegetable slices and some tea and milk. I gave one glance at her tray, and then back at the kid, and then commented in frustration as I unnecessarily moved out of the way to let her into the study room and set down what she was carrying.

I am just asking, I mean, you have to have heard part of his monologue right now.

If I were in your place, mister, I don't think I would have just turned for the side of good, no... As a matter of fact, I would have taken the time to hone in my abilities in that Defender school, and hatch a scheme like no other, a plot of vengeance against everyone and everything that has ever erred against me, and preyed upon all of Neovia! I felt like I should have been writing this down on some sort of file record or noting it somewhere to take it back to his school or to his parents. Or, well, his mother. I had no idea what to say in any of this, so I deferred to the Aisha to handle this with an exasperated glare, requiring her to deal with this already. After all, she was the one playing aunt to him.

Billy, do remember what your mother said to you right in front of me. You are spooking my friend here with your talk. Also, Kunbao would never think of doing such things, he has no need for revenge or anything like that, he just wants to be a good citizen and help. As a matter of fact, did I? I had no energy nor wish for revenge, that was way too much effort for the little satisfaction I would have, but I felt like the latter help was just projected onto me. I was reminded once again of the possibility of just giving it all up and heading back to my swamp. A part of me wished I could just go dormant and maybe only resurface a decade later. The kid looked at me with disappointment, My Faerieland, how ironic, I am spooking a ghost! But you do have to admit it, that is so dull! If I had powers like you, I would-

Billy, sit down and eat already, your tea and milk will go cold! Alice interrupted, and Billy went to sit down and eat, defeated by the rules of hospitality and age majority. I was hesitant to join in the area with the sofas and chairs and the coffee table Billy's food was set upon, in case the kid decided to do round two of weird talking, so I just hovered to nearby the fireplace, and tried to distract myself with Alice's white and blue china knickknacks that sat upon the fireplace, collections she had previously bragged about being from Shenkuu. I quickly decided this was not, in fact, the most interesting set of objects to observe for longer than a couple seconds. Was I irritated at how the day had gone so far? The kid was definitely part of it, but I knew better than to blame what was ultimately just a strange kid with his strange interests for my frustrations, which in good part laid with Alice. She could be a good friend, for the most part, and a good Neopet, but I always thought she was overbearing. I think it was due time I gave her a piece of my mind, but yet, I found myself inconvenienced by the presence of the Moehog, so I found myself yet again pushing it off to another day, at a better opportunity.

So, are we talking about the case already, or is there anything else you need to do? Sunset is going to be soon, I don't feel particularly inclined to staying overnight here either ways. Not tonight. That came out with a bit too much venom, but at this point, I couldn't care less. I was tired, and this was dragging out for too long, besides this whole ridiculous scene that had just happened. Alice did not even give me a fake smile, and just scowled at me. Why, yes, why don't we discuss details of the case then, since you are in such a hurry.

I left Alice's mansion way past sunset, exhausted from talking for too long over the case, and entertaining that kid. Heading towards the woods instead of crossing the town, I wasn't up to dealing with anyone else reminding me of my past, or any other type of social interaction either ways. I wasn't in a hurry to go back to my swamp, and I wasn't particularly afraid of anything nearby the urban area, after all, I was already a ghost, what else could happen to me? The night was peaceful, with the fog having heavily set in already, and the moon was barely a sliver, but the darkness didn't bother me, I thought of it as comforting instead, and my ethereal form already gave out enough light to guide me through the trees.

I could hear all sorts of critters echo their sounds through the topiaries, an entire cacophony of night creatures making their familiar sounds that usually started at dusk and went on until dawn. I was more than used to their sounds, living, or well, existing in the depths of the forest for over 5 decades, and that's why the sudden silence came to me as a surprise.

No, more than a surprise... I stopped, looking around nervously. This was bad, I could feel it somehow, this was really bad, I felt very much exposed and in sudden danger. From what? I was not sure, but I would rather not test my luck. Making myself fade as much as possible in visibility, I also hid by the base of a bigger tree in the surroundings and resorted to listening as much as I could. The soft rustling of the wind through the trees was the loudest sound at the moment, and I could hear some other rustlings, typical of small creatures that were scurrying through the shadows, also seeking a place to hide. I could hear very faintly the sounds of the town of Neovia, indicating that I was still not too far away from civilization, but yet, that was not the reason for the silence in the forest, after all, that was all usual.

There was another faint sound I picked up on, a very faint rustling, also localized above, but it sounded different from just wind, I wasn't sure why. The sound kept on growing louder as I assumed the source of it approached the area I was in, and I could hear that noise louder and louder, a rustling that was unnatural and fearsome, and I could almost figure out what was, I knew that noise, but from where? I was too afraid to look.

A faint warm glow started spreading on the topiaries of the trees, coming from the direction I was facing away, behind the tree I was hiding on, and the answer dawned on me. Fire? On the treetops? I slowly peeked over to the other side, still invisible to the common eye, confused and afraid of what was going on, but what I saw did little to answer my questions. I saw what I assumed to be a Hissi made out of bright, fiery light, and with glowing red eyes and horns, flying through the forest, seemingly looking for something. I hid back behind the tree, hoping whatever that was, they could not notice my presence there, and just moved on. As the glow grew brighter, I could tell they were close, and I reactively sucked in my breath and held it, even though I never breathed normally. The rustling was more of a low frequency roaring now, caused by whatever sorts of flames were those that constituted their body. I watched for the movement on the light reflected off the trees, hoping and praying they could not sense me; whatever they were doing, they seemed to be hovering around where I was for an exceedingly long time. The bright, flickering light they cast was causing all sorts of dancing shadows, created by the filter of the tree branches, which only added to my dread.

Finally, it seemed like that creature started moving away, continuing along their path, the light slowly fading away as the shadows danced. I waited until the forest was dark yet again to make myself visible once again, but I still felt uneasy, as the nightly critters were still quiet. What was that? Who was that? What did they want? Everything indicated to me that they were a threat, I could feel it on the depths of my being, and as curious as I was about their existence and goals, I wasn't willing to find out tonight. I darted off, not minding trees or anything, in hopes to reach my swamp as soon as possible, and find myself at home there.

Next Part Back Home

Colorful

To my relentless pursuer who has chased me for what feels like half of Neopia: if I were to say I have nothing but contempt for you, I would be lying to myself. As a matter of the fact, I can respect your insistence, pushing yourself to the limits of your mortal body, crossing lands and landscapes without a moment of pause, as you attempt to execute your sworn revenge upon me. I have heard of your reasons, from secondhand accounts, about the kingdom I raided, and I remember the Elephante queen with her prescient gift, who awaited me with determination to hopelessly defend her kingdom and family, and yet she was my target, and had fallen right onto my hands. You have relentless determination, and that does impress me, but it does not scare me, because I know that, at the end of the day, you're nothing but a scared and fragile mortal, and can't equal me in power. The day you actually catch up to me, and I am finally fed up with your antics, will be unfortunately, and inevitably, as you do not heed my warnings in our close encounters, your last one.

But this is not a time like that, and in my peregrination I have too much time to my own, to my own thoughts and devices, and as much as I wish I had someone to conversate, I am fated to be a loner, for I am a monster, a creature of shadows and eternal hunger. The only conversation I have left is that of the imagination, with my own idealized version of the only constant Neopian in my existence as of lately, for other faces I've met either faded away from memory, insignificant on the greater scale of things, or have been the unfortunate victims of my own two hands. Thus, I imagine asking of you to listen to my stories, and I imagine you agreeing to listen to them, out of mutual respect, and thus I shall proceed, first telling a tale hailing from Altador, my homeland.

Once upon a time there was an evil wizard Peophin named Adrastos, who dabbled with necromancy, shadow magic, and other dark faerie magics, and was rumored of being a descendant of a follower of the ancient world's scariest and most powerful dark faerie, Nyx, the mother of darkness and ancient evils that plagued the Neopian lands. He was proud of his heritage, boasting it to everyone, and quickly accepted working for the Darkest Faerie when she came to him to ask for his allegiance, thus becoming one of her generals and personal supporters in her pursuit for power in Altador, and even later on, when the Darkest Faerie subjugated the Meridellian kingdom and planned to take over Neopia.

This Peophin, one time, was off in a personal travel on the Altadorian countryside and heard rumors of the existence of a creature who lived in imposed isolation on an island, a Hissi whose name was Chloria, and who was notorious for having cursed eyes that petrified anyone she locked eyes with. She had been banished to that island after turning the local ruler of a shoring city, as well as most of his court and guards, to stone, and, enthralled by the possibility of meeting, and fighting, a real-life monster, Adrastos set off on a boat to that island.

When he arrived on that island, he sought her by looking only and solely at the reflection of his shield so to not fall to her trap. But, once upon finding her, among the multitudes of other Neopets who had been previously petrified, he could not bring himself to raise his sword at her, nor could she bring herself to force him to look into her eyes. The two took off on his boat after she agreed to wear a veil over her eyes at all times, with exception when she meant to use her curse to attack or defend, and thus the two became an inseparable pair and terror.

Eventually, a child was brought forth to life, a young Kougra whose inherited eye curse was lesser than her mother's, not petrifying anyone physically, only psychologically, tormenting the unfortunate one to look into her eyes with horrible, vivid nightmares; and whose inherited magical affinity, like her father's, was also in the dark arts, although that was also lesser back then. This child was meant to be the epitome of their lives' work, the perfect minion to the present mistress of darkness, meant to carry the family's legacy, and she did.

The end.

Or is it? In my imagination, you ask me what the point of this entire story was, and I respond that it was to set up a background, an origin story, but yet, this is not a complete origin story, it was only the family story. You ask then is that your origin story, to which I reiterate, no, were you not listening? It is only the family story, a family story is not a full story, unless you still live with your family, which in your case that was the case until we met, I guess, but even you don't only have a family story anymore, removed from your land in your pursuit of yours truly.

I then ask to tell you another story, from another place, somewhere in that nebulous patch of woods where Faerieland and the Haunted Woods are nowadays situated, but before then, it was just a less dark and arduous, but vaster expanse of green topiaries that went on for endless miles until Neopia Central was reached. That is where the next tale takes place.

Once upon a time, way before the fall of the faeries' homeland to the ground, back when faeries pent themselves up in the clouds and avoided anyone nonmagical for most part, or any Neopets for the most part, there lived a dark faerie who was too strange and awkward to fit with any of the faeries. She was too kind and soft hearted to accept the mean behaviors and cruel intents many of her sisters carried, and yet she was too scary and strange to be accepted by other non-dark faeries, and thus she was shunned socially from Faerieland. She was also awkward physically, her wings too large and burdensome for her, so that she barely flew because it exhausted her quickly, and also her wings dragged on the ground, and so they were never in good condition to begin with, and thus she was also shunned physically from Faerieland.

She figured it was easier to just remain on ground and became a hermit in those dubious woods that take most of the Eastern side of the continent, near the Lake of Wishes, save for her visits to small nearby villages, mostly for supplies she couldn't get from the forest itself. Every time she came in contact with civilization, she was unwelcome, as the fear of her specific kind of faerie was prevalent back then, so she truly lived in isolation for the most part. Years passed, and she was accustomed to living like that, until the day she went up to the lake and found a young Kougra passed out, caught by the bushes on the edge of the water.

Now, her rescue of this child was difficult, but it was doable, and thus in time she took the Kougra to her cottage in the woods and took care of the sick Neopet, who remained unawake for five weeks, running a high and worrying fever, but finally got better to wake up and stand up. The Faerie was glad that her care had helped the Kougra recover, but she worried the Neopet was still too weak to leave. She offered a way to call herself, Boria, and the Kougra gave a name for herself as well, Colorful.

Boria asked how in Neopia had she ended up in the Lake of Wishes, but Colorful didn't remember much, only that she was lost in the mountains and fell into water and was unable to escape the currents for the longest time before she lost consciousness. Boria asked how she ended up in the mountains, but Colorful didn't want to answer that, and said she was lost. Boria lastly asked if she had anyone who would be worried about her disappearance, and the Kougra lied, saying that she had no one. Then Boria advised for her to stay in bed until supper was prepared, and for the first time in a while, Colorful complied to someone's request willingly. The next weeks, Colorful got better, and started helping around the cottage, and also showed, much to the surprise of her peer, her impressive abilities with dark magic at her young age, and her problems with her cursed nightmare eyes. She asked if Colorful had any place to go, and she reiterated lyingly that no, she didn't, so Boria offered for her stay with her and be her apprentice, in exchange for her to be her errand Neopet, but she had to wear a veil unless it was for attack or defense, so to not cause unwanted effects on others, to which Colorful agreed, hesitant but also willingly.

So, the years passed, and the two lived that agreement in harmoniously, with Colorful learning more of her magic, now in the hands a better tutor, and Boria finally had someone to help her with both things around her property and with dealing with Neopets and their tendencies for prejudices, and it was all good and great for all parts involved. But nothing that is good remains that way, and rumors of a veiled Kougra running errands for a dark faerie spread, eventually crossing the mountain range that splits the continent in half, and reaching the shimmering shores of Altador. A monster from the Kougra's past heard that rumor and went on a trip to check out the veracity of that story. That monster then showed up at Boria's doorstep and unveiled her eyes and petrified Colorful's mentor and took the Kougra away.

The end.

The end? That's it? You build all this story up to end it up abruptly like that? You are revolted now because of the nihilism of the story, and I do agree, it is pretty much pointless as a traditional story, I mean what is the moral of it? Don't go to the local market if you're on the run? Don't take in strange children? But that is a story nevertheless, another background story. You reiterate, what is the point of all of this? Why are you telling me these stories? I just tell you that I have one last story to tell, and to hold on to your questions until afterwards.

Once upon a time, there was a Kougra who was the child of an affluent, powerful, and villainous family, who only cared about one thing in regard to her: raising the Kougra to carry out their legacy of villainy. She didn't matter to them in any other way, all that she was to them was her being the perfect minion to help the Darkest Faerie to return once again and take over the world. So this Kougra was raised and trained to be perfect in every way, a perfect witch, a perfect monster, a perfect daughter, and nothing less than that. But the family was less than perfect, because, you see, as much as it was said the two were an inseparable duo, that did not mean they were in the best of terms. Both were cruel to each other and the others, taking it out on the servants and the Kougra their frustrations regarding their own lives and each other.

One day, in yet another fight, the Hissi took it too far, and used her petrifying curse against the Peophin as the Kougra watched, which prompted her to run far, far away from home, going north and, mistakenly, into the mountains. See, the Kougra was not used nor prepared for the cold climate, and despite managing to live for a while from whatever she could forage from the wild, and whatever she could steal from villages of strange inhabitants in those mountains, horned monsters and avian creatures and whatnots, she was still barely surviving, and became very sick because of the harsh weather. She knew she had to find civilization, and decided to head further north, in hopes of reaching eventually a mountainous kingdom she had heard stories about. But the path up north only became more and more perilous and narrow as she navigated the landscape, the mountains becoming more of cliffs that stood leagues above massive bodies of snowmelt waterbodies, and, in her weak shape, the Kougra ended up making a mistake while crossing a particularly dangerous part of the path, and slipped, falling to what she thought was her oblivion.

She woke up to being dragged by massive currents of water, which she had no power to fight against, and thus all she could do was survive until the water brought her somewhere. Eventually, the water did take her somewhere, a massive lake, where she was found unconscious by a dark faerie, who took care of the Kougra until she was better, and eventually offered a place to stay. The Faerie also became her magical mentor, something the Kougra was hesitant about, given her previous experience, but she was pleased to discover that learning magic could be in fact less pressuring than her parents had made it be. Life was like a dream for her, for the first time she felt free from her destiny imposed by her parents, and was genuinely cared for, but the problem with dreams is that they go by fast and almost always end abruptly.

It had been a couple of years since she had been living in the middle of the woods with her dark faerie mentor, but the gossip about this strange new Kougra who always wore a veil over her eyes and could do powerful dark magic had spread first to the nearby villages, then to nearby lands, and eventually reached back to Altador, which prompted the Kougra's Hissi mother to go find her. The Hissi, angered by the daughter's abandonment of the family for a hermit in the forest, arrived at the dark faerie's door and petrified the Faerie as her first punishment for the daughter, and dragged the daughter all the way back to Altador for the other punishments. The Hissi expected the Kougra to somehow undo her petrification of the Kougra's father with necromancy, else she'd be imprisoned forever in her family's oikos, forever doomed to not even see the sun, but the Kougra did not know the magic, and grew desperate with time. She acted out a desperate plan she devised, where she broke the Peophin's statue, and then took out the Hissi permanently, and burned the property down, running away once again.

The Kougra knew she had no place in Altador anymore and decided to return all the way to the forest where she lived for some years with her mentor, now a stone statue. Rumors had already spread of the strange Kougra disappearing one day, leaving the dark faerie's petrified figure at the cottage in the forest, and so she was less than welcome back there. Reminded of her mother's cruel act against her kind mentor, the Kougra decided to attempt to figure out the magic her father's family had passed down, in hopes that there was, after all, a way to undo the Faerie's imprisonment. Neopets spoke rumors of strange shadows and other spooky phenomenon happening in that forest, all fruits of whatever magic she was attempting; they also had noticed the Kougra's demeanor had already changed upon her return, but it kept on getting worser and worser as the months passed by, and she had become far crueler and cruder than her shy past self; lastly, news arrived of an occurrence in Altador, where the daughter of a patrician family had turned against her mother and destroyed their home. All of this made the villagers very uneasy, and thus they hatched out a plan to deal with the Kougra witch.

A party of Neopets went into the forest one night, torches and weapons in hand, and found the dark faerie's cottage, where the witch was doing yet again more dark magic experiments. Without hesitation, they raided the place, destroying everything related to her magical experiments, even the dark faerie's statue, and attacked the Kougra, leaving her lingering for her life as the cottage was set ablaze, and, satisfied with themselves, the Neopets returned to their village. The Kougra, as she slipped away from consciousness, called out to anyone, or anything, that would save her, and from the depths of darkness, something answered, granting her life-saving magic, and great boosts in her dark magic powers, but at a high cost. Her blood and flesh would run dark as shadows, and her existence would linger in between the afterlife and the living, and mainly, to sustain herself in her state, she had to seek and consume magic from others, else she would languish, but not be released from her condition. These were the conditions given to her subconsciously, and she agreed upon them, thus sealing the deal, and restoring her vitality.

Thanking who she presumed was the mother of darkness herself, the Kougra arose to execute her revenge upon those Neopets who dared ravage her mentor's cottage. With an army of shadows of her own creation, she went on to terrorize the villages, until there was no one left. Once satisfied with her revenge, she went on to go hunt for magical beings to maintain her existence, following rumors and stories along the lands.

That is how she eventually heard of the story of the queen of a small Shenkuuvian kingdom who could see the future and guided her husband in his ruling, and decided to go pay a visit to this snow-ridden place we first met.

The End of all stories for now.

I can tell you are angry, and you shout at me about how this is ridiculous, and how I'm trying to make you sympathetic to my condition and my doings, how you can't forgive me, regardless, because what I do, what I did, what I've done, it's all unforgivable, and there's no excuse for any of my deeds. I understand that, I say, I don't say any of this to repent myself, I don't make light of anything I've done, and my decisions are mine to suffer the consequences, and you ask then what is the point of listening to all of this? Because, I say, sometimes it's good to say things instead of just mulling over them in your mind. Which is an ironic thing for me to say, given the fact you're not there anymore, and this is more of a memory being mulled over. But also, sometimes it's good to at least leave your story with someone, have someone know who you are, who you were, where did you come from, you know? I never said that last part, though, just leaving you hanging as I fade away into shadows once more, escaping you.

Until next time, and hope that I am not in a bad mood then, so I can entertain your wishes of revenge once again, and not do anything too brash.

Actually, I am not that faerie, but you know what? I like that title, I'll accept it.

Next Part Back Home

Lucas

This better be a great idea indeed, I am escaping detention cleaning for this! Slimy, the yellow Techo, hissed at us as we snuck through the brick back alleys to not get caught in our grey, white and navy blue shirt and frocks or blazers and knickers uniforms, as that would give away to the Neovian police our truancy. The six of us were all carrying pails and buckets with exception of Slimy, who carried a saucepan with her.

I had to hop out through the window in the historical fiction section of the library during reading time! The librarian almost caught me! Archie, the pink Krawk, declared.

What, you think that was hard? I slipped through the cafeteria window on the second floor during recess, my younger pink Kyrii sister replied.

Why, couldn't you have just teleported your way out with your demon magic? Alanna, a Desert Usul, asked Mariah.

Because. The Kyrii shrugged.

Well, if I had magic like you, I would literally never lift a finger ever again. Want to go somewhere? Poof. Want something? Poof. Life would be so easy! I don't get why you're always like 'I can't use it willy-nilly' what is the big deal? Demonic, faerie, whatever, it's still magic! Noah rambled loudly with enthusiasm, echoing up the brick walls, which was less than appreciated by Mariah, but I cut in right as she was about to reply.

Hey, hey, don't forget I am still here, and that we're still talking about my cool idea, and also, I concocted this very complicated plan to escape detention cleaning with Slimy! The attention was diverted to us once again, for the better, and the Techo rolled her eyes.

As if crawling through the kitchen's trash chute is considered a complicated plan.

Oh, so that explains why you're reeking more than usual, Mariah directed that at me, smirking.

It worked! And then I remembered something. Oh, speaking of stink, Eddie said the secret to its flavor is to find wild onions that are just sprouting right now, because they're the most flavorful now, and to slow cooking it over a firepit.

This honestly sounds like a terrible idea, and it's all gonna come out gross, and no one will want to even bring themselves to take a bite, Alanna commented, and then added, are you sure Eddie wasn't just pulling your leg as usual? That Xweetok loves making things up for a laugh. But she could not dampen my mood with her reasoning, I would cook and try that stuffed frog, for better or for worse.

Nonsense, this is legit, I've heard of Neopets eating frogs before. Mariah and Noah both turned towards me at the same time, their faces smiling in disbelief. It's true! I swear!

On what? The Pant Devil's moustache? Mariah retorted.

That's actually his evil twin... Who has the moustache... Archie mumbled under his breath, and, finally exiting the maze of back alleys of the downtown area, we found ourselves in the residential area near the Graveyard, where the cobblestone quickly gave away to beaten dirt, and the short brick houses got sparser as the trees encroached in these borders of the town.

A lot of our school mates were from this neighborhood, and not too far from here the roof of our mother's inn could be seen, and on the other direction just past the crossroads with the road we were on, the orphanage where Archie, Alanna and Slimy lived. We had to be extra careful in this area, so we hid behind a mausoleum bordering the Graveyard, searching around to see if anyone who could recognize us was around.

You know, this whole thing would be way easier if only one of us had teleportation powers to get us to the forest... Noah started as we rushed down the shortest path towards the woods, which was just running down the road before someone noticed, to which Mariah retorted.

I can't possibly carry all of you across all of this, not so easily, you wooden spoon, that'd exhaust me too much! She halted in front of Noah to start yelling at him. Also, why are you especially on my case today about my powers? You're being a real pain in the-

Wait, isn't that the ghost Defender who was chasing us the other day?? Alanna hissed lowly, grabbing Mariah's and Noah's arms to stop them from talking. Everyone quickly quietened up and turned towards where she was looking, a little further down and across the street.

A ghost Koi in a weird outfit that layered some forest and aquatic themes over a tight bodysuit, completed with a green mask like them Neopia Central superheroes, was talking to an overtowering speckled Grarrl in a long floral dress and matching apron, and green eyes so vibrant we could see all the way from where we were, the latter being way louder and much more discernable to understand. There was also a zombie Tonu in rotting old clothes, with what looked like an arrow across the head, who was standing next to the floating Koi. We all rushed behind a cart and a tree on our side of the street, and watched as we overheard the discussion, or at least the Grarrl's side of it.

YOU SEE, GIVEN THAT WE'RE NOT EXACTLY TOWN FOLKS, AND WE DO STICK OUT VERY MUCH LIKE A TREE STUMP ON A MARSH, WE FEEL WE AREN'T WELCOME DOWNTOWN. THAT'S WHY I ASKED YOUR ZOMBIE FRIEND ABOUT TALKING TO YOU, IF YOU COULD HELP US WITH THIS MATTER-

The Defender seemed to have been the one to respond to the loud matron, using hand signs instead of words, which I didn't know anything about. I thought I recognized her, I didn't remember from where, but Mariah answered that question.

Why does Benjamin Woodsfolk-At'water's mum need help of a superhero? Mariah asked.

Probably for something they can't go to the police for, Alanna commented.

WELL, THERE HAS BEEN AT LEAST THREE SO FAR, ONE OF THEM WAS MY DISTANT COUSIN SYLVESTER WHO WAS TRAVELLING FROM UP NORTH, ABOUT TWO MONTHS AGO, COMING TO VISIT US AS WELL... HE WAS THE FIRST ONE, I DO THINK SO-

That doesn't help, there's a lot of things they can't go to the police for, Archie commented.

It sounds serious, should we be worried about it...? Slimy commented.

AND THEN THERE WAS HELENA'S SISTER, POOR HELENA WAS SOBBING ONCE AGAIN THE OTHER DAY, SHE IS DEFINITELY INCONSOLABLE. The ghost Koi once again responded to her nonaudibly, but I guess it was meant to be consoling or something.

My condolences to Helena, that sounds awful. Added the zombie Tonu, audibly.

Oh this IS serious, Alanna responded to Slimy, and then added. I think we shouldn't be listening to this conversation, it sounds private.

If you call THAT private, Noah snarked. The entire block can hear that. We both chuckled, prompting Alanna to elbow both of us.

Be more proper, you two, this is a serious matter, also it isn't nice making fun of Neopets' issues. I stuck out my tongue at her, to which she scoffed.

Let's get moving, we don't need to be snooping around on others' affairs. She also pushed us to get moving, but Mariah didn't budge, pushing Alanna back. We stood around for just long enough to understand everything.

BUT THE WORSE IS THAT THE LAST ONE WAS SO MUCH WORSE, BECAUSE YOU SEE, IT WAS MY SISTER-IN-LAW'S YOUNG ONE WHO WENT MISSING. She looked horrified and shaken now, which only added to the impact of the revelation, given how big and imposing she was, and I felt chills running down my spine, leaving me sort of sick. THAT ENTIRE SIDE OF THE FAMILY IS IN DISARRAY NOW, AND I MEAN, WHO WOULDN'T BE HORRIFIED UPON RECEIVING THOSE NEWS? IF IT WERE TO HAPPEN TO MY LITTLE BENJY, I'D NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO. The ghost Koi seemed to attempt to console the much taller Grarrl but couldn't do much and only phased through her, and then the zombie Tonu joined in with a hug, but even I was feeling like we had overstayed our welcome here.

Uh- This is a mood dampener... Can we go now? I meekly asked Mariah, who looked worried and concentrated, and she just looked at me and nodded, so we all continued our sneaking down the road until it ended, and we rushed down into the tree line before we were called out by anyone.

Now that we were under the cover of trees, we kept on heading towards the we all felt a sort of relief from the whole ordeal of being caught by some adult who could potentially report us for truancy... But it surely didn't feel safe in here either. Not after what we had just heard. At first, we maintained an overwhelming silence as we made our way down the trail that led us to the marshlands, our buckets still in hand, and I didn't have anything to say, and I didn't think any of the others knew what to say either. But, also, this heavy air was surely making me feel antsy, as every noise we and everything around us made was too loud, and I kept on looking over my shoulder because of this sensation of being watched. I would have suggested to turn back, but I felt opposed to it, we had come this far, hadn't we?

Slimy coughed loudly and then commented the ululating question we all were pondering, Is it really safe for us to be out here, considering what we just overheard?

Don't be silly, that's a Woodsfolk issue, that's it. I answered without much thought.

Yeah sure but what if we get caught up in the middle? Slimy insisted.

We won't, I bet. I mean, even if we did, we could escape whatever it is, I mean, we have been escaping that Defender Koi every time haven't we? Also didn't Benjy's mom say this was happening up north? We're in the southernmost parts of town, it's like, a hundred and eighty degrees of latitude away from us!

That's not how cartography works... Archie commented.

That is so how it works, right guys? I tossed the question to the others, but despite Archie's annoyance, the others seemed unimpressed and unconvinced. I too was unconvinced, but it was too late now for us to turn back, but, also, I was getting annoyed at all the gloom. Come on, guys, don't be morbid, it'll be fine, besides, what was all that our mothers said about safety in numbers? Archie, Alanna and Slimy all looked at me at the same time with the same looks of irritation and offense, but that didn't last more than a second before we were called out.

Hey! What are you guys doing out here? Isn't it school time? Stopping on the trail, we looked towards a clearance to the side, and a young green Grarrl with glaring blue eyes looked back, bearing his trademark newsboy hat, green bandana and oversized peacoat, and carrying a large basket filled with things. Oh, great, the good-two-shoes found us.

Benjy! Mariah spoke up, and the Grarrl looked away, blushing, but I was beginning to get in a bad mood over everything getting in my way today, so I didn't do my usual teasing.

Oh, hello there, Benjamin, what are YOU doing here? Mariah scowled at me, but I didn't care.
I'm- I'm just doing my fall harvest chores, what about you? Benjy answered, trying to maintain some composure, but he was such a pushover, it was too easy to get him nervous.

Oh, you know, also doing- Um- Well, harvesting chores, doing stuff, you know. Benjy looked hesitant, but he was too nice to confront. A young shadow Meerca with similar blue eyes and scraggly black hair popped out of one of the bushes, and approached the Grarrl, and an older camouflage Pteri with piercing green eyes instead flew down from a tree to join the two, and we could tell others further down the clearance and beyond its other side were also watching the interaction.

Oh, wow, who'd have thought, them Jones kids, and Nohbdy, are at it, again. Even dragged some of them orphanage friends over. The Meerca started. Come to think then, they all had some sort of common theme on their clothes, in between the green-blue colors, the borderline unnatural blue or green eyes, and their clothes had nature-related motifs. Others knew the Woodsfolks and the other related families were not just your average Neopet, but no one knew exactly what were they, besides strange and creepy.

If it makes it any better, we came along because we knew they would be getting into trouble. Alanna chimed in, and the others nodded with her, including my very own sister. Besides, Lucas got a stupid idea on his head and since we can't convince him of otherwise, might as well supervise him.

Oh? Do entertain us. The Meerca requested.

Lucas can say it himself. Alanna turned towards me, and so I announced my idea once more.

I'm gonna cook Stuffed Frog from the recipe Eddie at school told me! The Meerca scoffed, and the Pteri shook their head, but Benjy looked upset and thus wanted to confront me.

You shouldn't eat frogs! That's awful! The Pteri laid their wing on the Grarrl's side.

No, no, don't waste your energy, Benjamin, he's just messing with you. Which quickly prompted me to get more annoyed.

No, I am not! This is for real! The Woodsfolks looked at me with confusion.

Uh... The Pteri said.

No way. The Meerca followed.

Uh-huh, yes way. We were just on our way to the marshlands!

Well, I always thought you guys were dumb, but wow, this just makes me sorry. The Meerca snickered. That's a prank, you know? Whoever is this Eddie, he's messing with you. Now I was peeved, how dare call us dumb.

We're not dumb! It's not a prank! I've heard Stuffed Frog is a delicacy in the far lands of Neopia! The Meerca turned to Alanna.

Are you guys really letting him do this? Isn't that a bit cruel, to just set up your friend like that?

Oh, trust me, I've already tried to tell him your exact argument, confronting him only ends poorly, he only gets more entrenched in all of it, and gets all fight-y and feisty. Alanna said.

It's because I AM doing it, no matter what you guys say. Why doesn't anyone take me seriously?? At this point I was very much irritated, and only didn't want to just go off on my own because of the lingering fear from what we overheard earlier.

But- But you're then actually going to catch and cook a frog? That's horrible! No, no, I won't let you! Benjy, being the whiny do-gooder he was, started up once again, and Mariah rushed towards him and pulled him aside to talk quite quietly. The other Woodsfolks overheard their talk and then turned towards me.

Look, kid, we won't stop you from your... Frankly dumb plan. The Pteri started. But we do have to warn you guys, you shouldn't be wandering around the woods by yourselves to begin with. There has been-

Some disappearances, so we heard. Archie spoke up for once, prompting once more the heavy air I wanted to disperse to come back. The Woodsfolks all looked deeply uncomfortable, even those in the distance.

Y-yeah... Lots of folks going missing as of lately... Probably some new threat in the bigger Haunted Woods area is hunting astray Neopets... Our families told us to stick close together since wild harvest is part of our chores, so we can't not go.

We'll be fine, we're not like, special like you guys, with whatever is going with your families and how weird you guys act. It's a Woodsfolk thing after all, ain't it? Something is track you guys down because of whatever secret you keep. I retorted, which was met with general discomfort from the Woodsfolks, but the Pteri responded.

No...? There were others, not related to our families, who also went missing. Haven't you heard about the missing Neopets from the Wanderers' Camp? Also, some went missing nearby the Carnival you work. The Pteri addressed that last part to Noah, before returning to the rest of us. And I'm guessing there has to have been more, but since it's been happening all over the Haunted Woods and besides law enforcement in this small town, and now that Defender, there are not many who are looking into these issues. Then the Meerca chimed in.

Either way Neovian police is useless outside of catering to the pompous rich of this town, and getting all huffy and puffy with anyone they deem rabble... That was fair, the number of times we had been chased off by them for something as simple as standing for too long on the riverbank near a rich neighborhood was ridiculous, and crimes weren't really getting solved or anything, save for the times when it's newspaper-worthy because the victim is some socialite who bore her pearls too extravagantly on a shady part of town. And that Ghost Koi is definitely biting more than he can chew in between the band of spooky vandals that have been wrecking downtown stuff every so often, and now this case of the disappearances, all on top of going around chasing off dark faeries and ghouls and whatever else terrorizes Neopets. The part of the spooky vandals made me a bit happy, we were being recognized for our doings, as spooky, by the Woodsfolks nevertheless! I should definitely bring this up next meeting with Billy.

Bottom line, we all should be sticking close to each other, mainly you guys, who aren't as 'special' as you make us to be. The Pteri air-quoted my word in irony. Some of us are watching out for anything that may approach us, like lookouts. We are going down to the marshlands later, for some cattail harvesting, but for now, you all can stick with us here. But I didn't want to wait for later, I wanted to go now, so I started replying.

No tha-

Yeah sure that's fine by us. Alanna responded, louder than me, and her orphanage mates agreed. How dare she?

No! I don't want to be with them! I protested.

Look I don't care what's your issue with them Woodsfolks, or with accepting help, or with being reasonable in general, I am not risking my hide because of some frogs.

Or your stubbornness, Added Archie.

Or your unspecified personal issues with the Woodsfolks, Slimy completed. I looked at my sister and my best friend for any support in this discussion, but even they didn't help.

I- I'm gonna have to go with the majority vote in here, said Noah.

I honestly don't see the issue of us all sticking together, you're just acting out like you usually do when 'pets disagree with you. Mariah commented. Thoroughly defeated, I sighed out, despondent and offended, everyone had sided against me, that was so not fair.

FINE, have it YOUR way. I don't care. I walked away from the group, feeling singled out, and went to sit under a tree further down to fume for a while.

The others seemed to integrate with the stupid Woodsfolks just fine, Alanna and Archie were talking to the Pteri about something, Slimy and Noah were following the Meerca down the clearance towards some specific bushes the Meerca pointed out, and my sister Mariah, as expected, was talking to Benjy. Also, other Woodsfolks seemed to move around as they climbed trees and shouted about fruit and nuts that they could find on said trees edging the clearance, and even my own friends were involved in harvesting what I think were persimmons and apples, but everyone seemed to avoid me. In fact, they avoided me so much, the other Woodsfolks all took roundabout ways into the forest when they were coming in my direction, keeping several feet away from me, like they were afraid to deal with me.

After a while, my anger was subduing, and in between this mellow feeling of guilt and shame I felt for acting out, and my anxiousness to get back to my plans, I got up, ready to go talk to someone, either to apologize or to tell them to hurry up. I was going to decide that on my way to go talk to my target, following down to the edge of the clearance across from where I was seated, where I saw the pair enter the forest. I approached, watching from behind some brush the two picking acorns from the ground at the foot of an oak tree, and I listened to them for a while. The Grarrl was ranting about how he was treated back when he attended school with us.

That's what always happens, you remember how it was back when I was in school, the others wouldn't leave me alone. And the teachers and other staff never did anything, even after Ma went to press on the headmaster, and you know how Ma is, she can be very imposing and scary if she wants, and yet they didn't do anything. It only got solved by me leaving the school. Yeah, I remembered how mean the other Neopets were constantly on Benjy's case at school, calling him all sorts of names and causing him all sorts of trouble, you could almost feel sorry for him back then.

The Kyrii scrunched up her face in discomfort. But I don't wanna leave school, I just want the girls from my grade to stop bothering me because they saw me using my magic. I'm so stupid, I thought I was alone in the janitor's closet and did the stupid mistake of trying to levitate some stuff. Half-demon freak is the nicest thing I've heard since then. Wait, what? Since when has this been happening, and why hadn't it reached me? Her brother? If I had known this was happening, I'd have gone dump trash on those jerks.

You're not stupid, you were just exploring your powers, that's just normal... They're being awful, that's not right at all, what they're doing to you.

Yeah, obviously that's not right at all, I wish I could just, you know, magically punt them every time they come after me. But that's wrong, I know, and also, I'm gonna get into trouble like Lucas and Noah do all the time at school, and at home. I'd never hear the end of it from Mum. That was exaggerated, I wasn't getting into trouble all of the time, I only got detention twice this month... Well, I would get a third time after today, and a harsher one since I did escape detention, but that was inevitable.

I mean, that would make them stay away from you, but yeah, that would not follow up well with the school adults. They also act like we're too strange for their own good, that's why they don't care if the other kids bother us. We're too strange for them to feel comfortable around, and that's the reality of how everyone in town see us. Mariah was quiet for a while, and Benjy stuttered, trying to follow up by easing up the mood. That is- I mean- It's most of the town that sees us like that. There are exceptions, like your Mum, and your brother, and your friends-

No, I get that... It's just that I just never stopped to think about it like that. And she resumed being silent and pensive. Benjy looked at her with apprehension.

I'm sorry for making it heavy like that- I was just- Trying to help-

Benjy, for the love of Fyora and her throne, stop apologizing, you're making this way more awkward than it needs to be. The Grarrl mumbled something, probably another apology since my sister scowled at him. The two resumed picking acorns, and thinking it was as good of a time as ever for me to introduce myself to their conversation, I got up from my spot in the brush, but stopped when I heard his next subject introduction.

You- You should come to- Um- Come to live with us. Benjy said this while turning tomato red, and Mariah looked up at him, confused, while I was overcome with shock.

Wh- What?

Well, I was just thinking- And- And, I mean, in between your school problems, and the fact you've got no mentor or tutor or anyone who can help you with your magic- And- Uh- My family is full of Neopets who can help you with that, I mean, we do all sorts of magic- You should- Uh- You should come to live with us. Mariah sat there, flabbergasted, while I stood behind the brush, welling up in anger as I heard his argument. I was hearing Ma discuss with some of the other adults from the others' families in this year's family reunion, and she was speculating your dad probably was someone of our sort, you know? Not particularly anyone from our families, no one knows of anyone who looks like your dad was described by townies, but like- It's possible that he was probably like us, but instead with a purer affiliation to dark magic instead of our forest magics, which would make you similar to um- Not me but like, some of my cousins, you know?

The only thing she's similar to is me, and Mother! I had chosen finally to speak up, walking out of the brush. None of this nonsense about similarities to your family or how everyone else sees her. Also, she belongs with our family, how dare you try to convince her otherwise?

Lucas! Benjy exclaimed, red with shame.

Ugh, since when have you been listening to our conversation? Mariah growled.

I don't know, I was just coming over to chummy up with you both, but caught wind of this Grarrl here trying to sweet-talk you out of our family home! I turned to him, boiling with anger, and started approaching him. How dare you!!

No- I- Just- I was just suggesting- It was just hypothetical- I don't mean to- And in that moment, a flash of magenta hit me, and I stumbled back, falling on my bottom on the mossy forest ground. I looked up to see my sister's glowering red eyes staring through me.

That's enough! How dare YOU, to be spying on me! Can't I have one private talk without you nosing around? I was about to answer her, but she continued on. Also, I wasn't being 'sweet-talked' or anything, just because I stop to listen to 'pets' points before speaking up, instead of being the hardheaded idiot you are! I can think and act on my own, you know?

Hey, what's all the mafficking about? A familiar voice was heard from where I had come from, and Slimy showed up first, followed by Noah and some of the Woodsfolks.

Ugh, it's nothing, just- Lucas being a pain, like always! The pink Kyrii yelled at me, and then turned to Benjy and said, Look, Benjamin, I appreciate the sentiment and all, but that was weird to just bring it up out of the blue, and either way, that's probably something my Mum and your Ma should probably be talking about, IF it needs to be talked about. That last part was emphasized as she glanced back at me, as I guess a warning that I should not run to our mother with the topic. She walked out back towards the clearance, past the group that had come over.

Hooo-kayyyy... So are we meant to understand what went down from context? Asked Slimy, while I got back on my feet. Benjy looked at all of us, still glowing red with shame, before mumbling something and also heading back towards the clearance, and his cousins all followed along, buzzing with questions. Slimy and Noah looked at me for a last hope for explaining what in Faerieland had just happened, and I reluctantly obliged, still sore from my sister's blast.

That sly Grarrl was trying to convince my sister to go live with their family since apparently they understand her and we don't! The two didn't seem very convinced, to my offense.

Huh, Benjamin Woodsfolk-At'water, saying something like that? Slimy questioned. I know you're not too fond of him on account of him hovering around your sister all the time but-

I heard what I heard, I don't need no one questioning me! I snapped back.

And I believe you, but maybe it wasn't the case he was being as malicious as you think he was, maybe he was just trying to be nice and it came out wrong or something.

I mean, I'm just surprised he is doing that, he can barely stand up for himself without breaking into tears, and yet he's got the nerve to try to do something like that? Noah chimed in.

Either way, your sister's response makes more sense now... At least she's not all that interested in it? Slimy tried to spin it positively, but my irritation was not budging.

Grahh! I let out a growl of frustration. I STILL hate his guts for this attempt!

Yeah! Noah echoed.

Can we at least try not to pick a fight in the woods with him while whatever is out there spiriting 'pets is at large? Slimy commented.

Yeah, yeah, I get that, I have been hearing this all day now... Slimy rolled her eyes.

Let's get going back before we're left for the dark faeries and werelupes. She said, before leading the way back to the clearance, and Noah and I followed close for good measure.

Meeting up with the Woodsfolks and the rest of our group, the atmosphere felt tense once again, but no fight was happening, there was only low voices and shifty looks.

And that's where exactly that you saw that? I heard the Pteri leader whisper to a Nimmo and a Quiggle who had similar-colored eyes to theirs.

Down by the other trail that follows the little creek by the north end of the clearance. The Quiggle responded in the same volume.

We didn't get to see what or who was that, but they were really big, and seemed to be searching for something. The Nimmo commented.

Or someone. The Quiggle added.

Then we wrap it up around here and get moving towards the marshlands to get bogberries and cattail.

And frogs! I added, perhaps a bit too loudly as everyone looked at me in surprise.

And frogs, I guess. Said Pteri, resuming the lower volume. Now, is everyone here? Let's do a headcount. The group scrambled to account for everyone, while I took one quick glance around to note that everyone that came with me were there, even Mariah, who scowled at me when our eyes met. I guess she was still mad.

Everyone is here, said the Woodsfolk Meerca after a few minutes.

Great, let's get going. The Pteri announced, but a Wocky with blue eyes spoke up before the group started shuffling, raising a question loud enough for everyone to hear.

Are you sure we should go further into the forest when something is literally lurking around nearby? Don't you think it's smarter to just call it a day? I quickly took issue with that, how dare they break their promise with me?

You guys promised you'd take us to the marshlands to hunt frogs! How dare you back out of it now!! I heard a lot of shushes from others for being too loud, and the Pteri looked back and forth in between me and the Wocky, and then responded.

He's right, we did promise his group to take them there. Also, as long as we stick close to each other and be ready to defend ourselves, we should be fine.

They can't even defend themselves! With exception of the younger Jones, the others are as good as fodder! The Wocky said, which prompted an agreement from other Woodsfolks, like the Quiggle and the Nimmo, and even Benjy.

We can fight and we can run, also I have come with a pan, that's a weapon in some cases. Slimy responded.

Yeah, don't underestimate us, also, we've gotten out of situations with our smartness and cunningness and- And conniving-ness, and such! Noah added.

No offense to you guys, but running away from them blue-bellies is not exactly on the same level as confronting a possible monster from the woods. The Woodsfolk Meerca commented.

Look, strength does lie in numbers, whatever this thing is skulking nearby, it will probably get scared off if it sees our group, we've got like, what, thirteen in between us, and six more with the Jones and friends, we may be young, but we'd still be a lot for it to handle or keep track of. The Pteri said. Also, if it does attempt to attack us, all we need is to stall it and run, not fight it. They emphasized the last part while looking at the Meerca. Now, let's quit discussing before we stay out past sunset debating our opinions on every minute thing. And with that, the group started heading back to the trail I had earlier arrived from, finally making our ways towards the marshlands.

The path was surprisingly more difficult to follow than I remembered, or I was having a really bad streak of bad luck, as I kept on tripping on roots, slipping on wet patches or inconveniently placed moss, and getting hit by low hanging branches that kept on entangling on my hair. I looked around after getting up from a particularly bad slip that landed me sitting on the forest ground, and thought it was weird, nobody else seemed to struggle as much as I was struggling, everyone was doing just fine.

Then I got hit by a tree branch on the face once again, and I heard a couple of giggles coming from behind me, but when I looked over my shoulder the giggles stopped as I met my eyes with some of the Woodsfolks, specifically the Wocky, the Nimmo, and a Shoyru with green eyes. Quickly I connected the dots and realized what was going on, and scowled at them to let them know I was onto them, and given they shut up really quick, I thought to myself I had managed to get the message through.

With my school shoes resisting my feet's pull, and the sloshing sounds made by everyone being louder and clearer, I knew we had finally arrived at the promised marshlands, where I was finally meant to find those frogs I had meant to find the entire day. I rushed off towards the area where the trees were sparser and deader, where the water was more prominent and the cattails were tall with conviction, ignoring calls from others regarding my safety or whatever else they were worried about. Right then was me and the frogs, and the immense amounts of dense and tall cattail, finally, and solely.

As I sunk my hands into the muddy waters in a particular spot where I had seen a particularly large toad, I felt roots tangle around my hands, and my entire weight shifted forward as I was literally pulled down by roots, splashing my face on the oily film covered water. Standing up in a fury, I overheard now full-on laughter coming from somewhere nearby in the midst of the cattails, and caught a glimpse of those green and blue eyes once again. That must have been their doing!

With a grunt of anger, I attempted to chase after them, but just managed to get into deeper waters, now wetting my socks and shoes and the hems of my shorts, but the cattails were even more densely packed here. I heard a distant mumbling, or maybe it was a really distant conversation, and I attempted to chase after that, hoping to catch those bunch of no-good Woodsfolks who obviously were using whatever magic they had to mess with me. But, after a few minutes of trying and failing to find anyone, I ended up giving up on this endeavor.

What are you doing?? With a flash of light, Mariah appeared next to me, looking angry. Did your airhead brain already forget the part you're supposed to stick together with the group so you don't end up gone??

I'm sticking close to the group! I was just heading over to the three Woodsfolks that think they're so funny for pulling pranks on me to give them a piece of my mind.

Everyone's that way? She pointed in the opposite direction from where we were facing.

No I was just hearing talking from down that way? I pointed forward.

... Well that's not coming from our group then. Mariah said.

Then there's more reason for us to go check it out! I announced, which Mariah responded firmly.

No! And grabbed me by my arm, teleporting us with a flash back to a shallower patch where everyone was gathered.

What in Edna's shadow were you doing out there so deep in the water?? Benjy asked, while the Pteri flew down from a nearby tree.

You're extremely reckless, you know? If I hadn't spotted you from above, we'd have lost you in the marsh! The Pteri chided me. Are you actively trying to endanger yourself or are you just idiotic??

I was fine! All I got is my shoes completely soaked, besides, I was trying to find the three tricksters who have been pulling pranks on me since we went down the trail, I wanted to give them a piece of my mind. I responded, and tried to spit as a way to show my irritation, but I could barely propel the spit forward and it landed on my already dirty shoes. The Pteri promptly asked.

Who?

The three Woodsfolks here who think they're so funny, I looked around and pointed at the Shoyru, the Meerca and the Wocky. That one, that one and that one as well.

My last name is At'water, you birdbrain. The Meerca responded, but he quickly shut up the moment he met his eyes with the Pteri. They walked over to the three perpetrators with indignation, while I grinned in satisfaction at what was about to happen.

What is this that I hear? You three were picking on the Jones boy?

He deserves it, he has been a jerk pretty much since the moment we first noticed his group. The apparently At'water, not Woodsfolk, Meerca justified.

Yeah even before then, didn't him and his friends get Benjamin into trouble some weeks back because of their latest kad burglary? The most likely Woodsfolk Shoyru added.

That doesn't warrant your behaviors! We're trying to stick together in here, the more friction happens here, the more risk we run of getting split up! He got lost in the marsh because he was trying to chase after you three stooges, what would you do if I hadn't spotted him? Would you have the courage to go back to town and tell his mother that? The Pteri scolded the three, and the Meerca attempted to say something, but the Pteri just doubled down. Do you think your father would be proud of you if he was still around, that you caused some random kid from town to go missing because you took your pranks too far? Then the Pteri came over to me.

And you! We've been very tolerant all day of your tomfoolering and bickering, but even patience runs out eventually, Kyrii. I don't frankly care what's your issue with us, at least your friends have more brain cells and courtesy than you have shown, but at this point I am this close to just escorting you all home right now. We have stated multiple times to stick close to the group, and yet, you seem to test even reason itself-

How was I supposed to know the voices I heard were not from you guys? I interrupted, ready to fight back, but the Pteri responded with confusion.

Wh- what?

Yeah, I heard what I thought were these guys' voices in the distance, and so I tried to go after them, but go figure Mariah told me you guys were in the opposite direction from where I heard those voices. How would I have known those weren't you guys? I responded, still expecting to have to fight my way out of this, but the Pteri looked worried, which deflated the mood instantly. They looked around, which prompted me to also look around, and everyone seemed worried once again.

It could just be passersby, like travelers? The Meerca chimed in.

No, we're too south to be near commonly used travel paths, and with exception of that swamp witch further down south, there's nothing nearby that would interest 'pets to enter this forest. The Pteri replied.

Then maybe is it robbers? Alanna spoke up.

Possibly, or whatever else group of 'pets with unknown intentions. The Pteri said, and then announced. Okay, we better then start heading back. They started leading the group back up towards the trail that led us to the marsh in the first place, but I remembered that I had not yet gotten what I had come all the way here for.

But I never got a single frog! I yelled out, prompting a lot of sighs of irritation and eyerolls, even from my friends.

Tough luck, Jones boy. The Meerca announced, and others agreed, but I had planted my feet firmly on those muddy grounds and wasn't going to move, but that was quickly resolved.

I've caught a frog. Mariah announced to me, showing her bucket that looked particularly weightier than before, with a large bullfrog sitting on the inside, croaking quietly. Archie, Slimy, Alanna and then Noah approached us, and upon seeing the frog, they were all in awe of the creature. We had landed us a big one!

Wait! I thought you told me you guys weren't actually gonna catch that frog after all? Benjy wailed with affliction, heading toward Mariah.

No, no, Benjy, it's fine! We won't eat it, all we'll do is parade it around a bit! She hid her bucket behind her, and walked towards me.

What?? No, that's not- YOWCH! Mariah had pinched me on my arm through my shirt and that hurt! Mariah glared at me to shut up, and I guess I did, realizing what was going on.

Is it really fine? Do you promise you won't hurt it? Benjy insisted.

Yeah, totally, it'll be fine! I promise. She responded.

Yeah, no, we won't do anything to it! I don't even want to eat it anymore! I bet it tastes awful and bad! Mariah and the others rolled their eyes at me, and I thought I was being convincing, but Benjy's side-eyeing me and the rest of the group told me he was actually smarter than I assumed him to be.

Hey, Benjy, Querquo is such a responsible group leader, isn't it? Alanna intersected, talking about someone I had no idea about, but that was enough to draw Benjy's attention, and get Mariah a head start back towards the trail, and me and the others followed along, even Benjy and Alanna just subconsciously followed along. I'm surprised at how well they've handled so far this whole development. We were all a bit behind the other group, and we hurried our pace to attempt to pick up, but also, the way back was uphill, so there was some physical effort we had to put into our pacing, and our breathings quickly were getting labored.

Querquo is very levelheaded, not much takes them off their center. Also, they're the oldest in our generation of our families, nineteen years old, while Jeremy is a bit younger, he's sixteen even though he's short, and the rest of us who came along cap at around twelve, so Querquo is really acting like a big sibling to all of us, and is more like chaperoning us than anything else. Who cared...

I see, and I'm guessing they also are the better fighter in here, as to have enough confidence that they can defend you and us all from whatever dangers lurk around. Alanna continued.

Well, yeah, they've got the upper hand in... Training as well, since they're older and really good at what they do. Everyone has their own abilities, or at least most of us do, but we're not so well versed, I know for sure I am far from any good in defending myself, since I should really be singing to-

You can sing? Interrupted Slimy.

Well- Yes- But no- I- Don't like- I just would rather play my fiddle-

Shush! Mariah said out loud, halted on the trail, and we all stopped on our tracks, catching wind of what sounded like a fully blown discussion in between two parties with completely disparate volumes, one being much harder to listen to than the other one. These mystery beings seemed to be coming our way, so I headed into the brush to hide, and the others followed suit.

Honestly, Kunbao, you get pressed for the lousiest of reasons! Are you going to tell me next I am not allowed to have my afternoon walks by the river because that's too much exposure to the sun, even with my parasol? You do realize I am perfectly capable of carrying my affairs knowing the risks I am running? A pastel Aisha with golden locks and a dark gown walked up the trail, one hand tugging on her skirt to not dirty it, the other holding a parasol. I knew her to be from one of those notorious families in town that were really rich, but I didn't remember the name. Accompanying and squabbling with her was the ghost Koi Defender from earlier, who really seemed to have an issue raising his voice beyond a certain volume, despite all his indignation.

No I don't mean- You are taking my words too far! I am just trying to warn you that you're- The Aisha stopped in the trail and blocked the way of the Koi, furious with him.

What, that I am somehow forgetting myself who, or what, am I? That I am being improper in your stuffy views of how one must behave? That I am too friendly or too egregious for your personal comfort? I don't want to hear it from a fifty years-old ghost who spent most of his time brooding in his own gravesite and splashing intruders! Wow, it seemed like the Koi Defender really upset this town socialite, she was giving him the earful of a lifetime. I am not obligated by anything or anyone to sulk and wallow like you do, always acting like you're unwanted and unwelcome, always acting like you've got the weight of the sky on your back because fifty years ago you became undead because of unfortunate and horrible reasons, yes, I agree, but yet you use that to justify your sour and dour attitude, your past misdeeds, and your active unwillingness to do anything to help your situation! I have to drag you around town for you to do your sworn duty as a Defender, for Fyora's sake!

I have already said it before, and I'll say it again, I didn't want to be a Defender, this was all your idea! The ghost Koi quite literally glowed red with anger.

Don't you dare try to change the subject! The Aisha easily rose her voice above his. Besides, we've discussed this before, yes it was my idea, and I don't regret it a bit, because at least that brought you some semblance of change from completely irrational and unapproachable swamp haunting! The Koi Defender wanted to speak, but she just kept on going. Either way, my point was, I have no intention of following your example of a living. I have already spent my time of self-imposed penitence for my own untimely vampirism, and have eventually grown tired of it centuries ago! I let out an audible gasp, which prompted not only the attention of both at the trail, but also the others with me in the brush, who pushed and shushed me a bit too late.

Who's there? The Koi announced in his weirdly low voice.

Oh dear... The Acara said, closing her parasol as she headed into the forest in our direction, and I was uncertain of what was going on, frozen in place, but I kept on feeling tugs on my shoulder from the others, and I heard some of the others rushing away, pushing through the thicket.

What are you doing? The ghost asked, and the vampire answered.

I have to deal with this, don't I? Someone was listening in to us, I have to deal with them before it ends up badly for me. Oh no! With another tug, from who I turned around and saw was Slimy, I found myself running away, fighting the branches that clawed my face and body and tugged on my clothes.

I couldn't see very well where the others were, but I knew the snapping noises and loud footsteps ahead of me were theirs, and so I just mindlessly ran through the thick of the forest until eventually I found myself on a smaller trail, where I saw my friends, my sister and Benjy all rushing up, and so I followed them on the tail end, looking back every so often to see if either of the two had followed us, and luckily I couldn't see anything, but that didn't mean any of us slowed down for a while.

The forest started to thin as I presumed we were approaching town, and then we heard familiar calls coming from somewhere else in the forest. The smaller trail we took connected to the main trail, and there was the others, still making their way back, and we met up with them.

Hey! Weren't you guys all the way behind us? Asked the At'water Meerca as we tried to catch our breaths.

There were 'pets on the trail behind us- Benjy started, his breath being the fastest to recover. And then we took to hiding because we didn't know who were them- And it was the Ghost Defender and his Aisha friend-

We're so dead!! I shouted, my lungs still burning from the workout.

What? the Pteri leader asked with a newfound urgency.

No- Uh- We overheard them discussing, and go figure- Benjy tried to resume, but I cut him off once again to try to get to the point quickly.

She's a vampire! We need to run! I shouted, my breath almost fully recovered but not quite there.

What?? the Pteri asked, confused and rattled.

We ended up giving away our existence while they were debating each other-

She said she'd deal with us for listening to her! I cut Benjy once more, at this point earning a scowl from him.

They couldn't have seen us! Alanna said in between breaths. We were in the brush- It was super dense in there- We could barely see who they were.

It was Lucas's fault either way! He gasped so loudly the entire forest could hear! Mariah accused me.

Alright, let me get this straight, you guys were hiding in the trail because you thought you were being followed, then go figure it was that ghost Koi who Benjy's Ma was talking to earlier, and that rich socialite Aisha from the west part of town, and you discovered she's a vampire, and now you say she's coming after you guys? The Pteri summarized.

Yes! I said with full lung capacity now.

I mean, we're not sure what she's planning to do- Benjy started.

Do you want to sit around and find out? I questioned him, and he failed to respond to that.

Now, Lucas, I think you're overblowing this. Said Slimy.

No! I mean, she said she'd deal with us! We're so DEAD! I responded panickedly.

What about the Koi? Wouldn't he try to stop her from doing anything drastic? The Woodsfolk Wocky asked.

Do you want to sit around and find out?? I reiterated, and the Pteri rose their wing and spoke up.

Now, I don't think she'd be malicious unless the ghost Koi has quite some explaining to do to his organization. But, before anyone gets into any more trouble, let's get out of this forest as fast and as quietly as possible, to not draw any more attention. The others agreed, and even I complied to it.

We all rushed at forced pace the rest of the trail, and despite my once more burning lungs and now leg muscles as well, within a few minutes, we all found ourselves once more at the forest's edge in the same road we had entered from. I felt safer now stepping on the beaten dirt road that led into town as we made our way to the Woodsfolk residence.

At their front yard, everyone was saying their goodbyes while I waited impatiently. There wasn't any time for being chummy, I was watching around for the chance the vampire Aisha found us, but I overheard some of the conversations.

Now, it wouldn't be right from us to just get going without at least getting to know each other, after all, you've helped us and kept us safe in the forest. Alanna was talking with the Woodsfolk Pteri. Now, I know you're Querquo, and we all know Benjy, but what are the rest of your names?

I'm Jeremy, said the Meerca.

And I'm Alyscine, the Wocky followed.

I'm short Bob, the Quiggle announced, and then pointed to the Nimmo. And that's my sister Lee Ayn. The Nimmo bowed.

I'm Marian!

Brandon!

Ivy!

Lilian!

Hazel...

Raymund.

And that's little Deyscine over there, Aly's younger sibling. Querquo completed the roster.

It's a pleasure- Boring! I decided to focus on something else, and walked up to Mariah and Benjy once more, where he was once more bothering her about my culinary plans.

Please, please, Mariah, promise me that frog won't get hurt! My sister sighed with irritation.

I already told you and the others, Benjamin, we're just taking it around on a stroll in town, no harm intended. She said lyingly.

O-okay, then keep it with some water, so it doesn't dry up... Benjy scrambled through the stuff he had carried along to the forest and back.

You know, I still don't see the point of you being so worried about a simple frog, that's all it is, nothing much. I said, and Benjy looked at me with offense.

It is still a living creature, and I don't see the point of being cruel to it, like some 'pets. Finding his water flask, he showed it to Mariah. There, can I see your frog?

Fine, and she obliged, raising her bucket forward, the bullfrog's head was visible, and Benjy poured the contents of his flask onto the bucket, wetting the critter.

There, that should buy it some hours of more comfort. Benjy said, looking more gleeful then. Please do return it to the forest by the end of the day, though, as it needs to return to its natural habitat-

Yeah, yeah, I get that. Mariah replied, and Alanna, Noah, Slimy and Archie all came over with their buckets and pails and pan, which I had just noticed were filled with other stuff that were not frogs but were still edible, fruits, berries, and nuts, and some leaves I didn't recognize. Did anyone actually get those spring onions that we were meant to get for the recipe as well?

Okay, it's probably like, two on the afternoon now, and if it weren't for all the persimmons I ate like crazy back in there, I'd be starving. Slimy announced. Can we get going? School's gonna be done in an hour and then we'll be expected at the orphanage for our afternoon chores.

This week we get waxing the halls, Said Archie. I'm not looking forward to that.

Alright, well, then, goodbye, Benjy, see you next time. Mariah said, and then announced more loudly to the rest of the Woodsfolks. Also, goodbye, you guys! Thank you for everything! And with that, we left, heading back towards downtown.

Heading back up the road, we weren't being as sneaky now as we were earlier, when we headed down towards the forest. But then, it was later on the day, and some schools were already releasing their students, so we'd not run such a risk as earlier of being caught for our truancy. Also, that meant we could go faster, and reached once more the fenced edge of the Graveyard in less time than earlier.

Let's cut through the Graveyard instead of going around it, Said Slimy, and that gave me an idea.

Why don't we cook the frog in there then? I looked at the others in hopes of approval of my ingenious idea, but they were less than enthused with it. What? We can find some more shaded area in there, hidden away so we don't get caught, and it doesn't make us have to shove ourselves in some back alley!

Yeah, I get that, if we are committing to this, it's best to stay away from anyone who can get to us, but... The Graveyard? Slimy started, looking hesitant.

It feels disrespectful to go in there and just start cooking, Archie added.

Indeed, it feels wrong to go and perform your culinary atrocity in there right next to the graves. Alanna said.

What if we end up angering a ghost? Noah asked, as if we haven't angered already one ghost.

Psh, nonsense, I don't think the dead would care, in fact, I think they'd be honored to have us there, cooking right next to them! Alanna and Archie rolled their eyes at me, but I still headed towards the gate, beckoning the others to come. As I pulled the big, heavy metal latch of the gate, I heard a familiar low sounding voice speak out in indignation.

Just what in Neopia do you think you brats are doing? I turned around to see the ghost Koi Defender from earlier, floating with his fins crossed, angrily staring us down. I have been looking all day for you! Oh no, we were caught! He'd surely bring us to the vampire Aisha now, I had to do something!

Aw nuts! Slimy exclaimed.

Now, Mister Defender, this is not what it looks like- Alanna started, but I yelled out.

It's nothing that matters to you, villain! You won't catch me! He looked unimpressed, perhaps only more irritated, while others looked at me in shock.

What are you doing? Mariah hissed.

Getting us out of trouble! I picked up some dirt, and tossed at the ghost Koi, who flinched at my attack. Skedaddle!!! I pushed the others to get them running as he yelled something, and everyone dispersed in different directions, and I even saw Noah take off in flight, while Mariah teleported out.

I rushed down along the sidewalk that lined the Graveyard's edge, but something wrapped around my waist and feet in the blink of the eye, and I yelped as I got swept back. I saw my friends also be dragged back, struggling with the vines that caught us all, but I had not seen my sister. The one controlling the vines was the ghost Koi in the mask, who brought us over to him with his powers.

Very funny, you little terrors, but playtime is over. I am taking you- Two blasts of magenta came from behind the Koi, one hitting him, and the other flying just past us, but that gave us just enough wiggle room in the vines from him distracted that we could try to work our way out.

Let my friends go! Mariah yelled, and proceeded to attack him more times with her dark magic, but he easily deflected them with his vine powers. I had just made my way out of his vines, and Slimy was already on the run again, but he quickly subdued Mariah, and she dropped her bucket as she was pulled in, and he also took Slimy and me back to the tangle.

Will you quit giving me trouble?? I already spent way too long trying to locate you bunch of dunces since you went into the forest, don't you know it's dangerous out there?? The ghost Koi kept on yelling at us, but I wasn't listening as I tried biting the vine in my desperate attempts to escape. Ugh- Don't bite that, you'll get a stomachache! He yelled, and so I stopped and promptly looked at him, and with the most of my courage, I spit the vine pieces I had caught in my mouth at him and yelled.

I know what you're planning! I heard you guys back there! You'll be dragging us to your vampire friend so she can deal with us for good!

What!? Since when- The Defender exclaimed in confusion, and then furrowed his eyebrows. Oh, you were the ones listening in to our discussion back at the forest- Great-

It's too late, I've already told the Woodsfolks about h- Vines wrapped around my mouth, muffling my voice.

Shut up! You're giving me a headache! He yelled, and then sighed and mumbled to himself. Well, that's another mess we'll have to deal with, but at least that family is far more reasonable than you lot have been so far. Now, regarding you all knowing this, I'd request for you to not spread it further, alright? His spooky red eyes sent us all a chill down our spine.

Yessir! Slimy and Noah exclaimed at the same time.

Alright. Mariah answered.

Okay. Alanna said meekly.

It's not like I care about this topic to go around talking about it... Archie mumbled.

The ghost Koi then turned to me, and I hesitantly nodded in agreement; then, he looked at the six of us with annoyance. Anyways, you were all very stupid for risking your life, don't go back to the forest for now, I mean you had to have heard the conversation I had with uh- Whatshernameagain...? He looked away, furrowing his eyebrows as he mumbled to himself. Mary? Marble? Mary Ann? Alanna took that moment to ask the Koi something.

Mister Defender, what are you going to do with us?

Marlowe! Oh- Um, I am taking you home now since class time is probably over.

Then can you let us go? My foot's falling asleep. Mariah said, and the Defender responded.

Fine, but if any of you try to run off again, I'll be dragging you with my vines to your homes. He let go of everyone, me being the last one. Alright, let's get going, where am I supposed to lead you to?

Uhh, can we go to Lucas's and Mariah's mom's inn? Slimy asked.

No, I'm taking you to your respective homes, now, where do you live?

The orphanage a couple blocks from here. Alanna responded, and the zombie Tonu from earlier saw us from a distance, and rushed up to meet with the ghost Koi, but not before stumbling onto something and picking up Mariah's bucket.

Hey, anyone knows who's this bucket is- Oh my, that's a big bullfrog! The zombie approached the group. Hey, there's a big bullfrog right there, on the side of the road! Those are rare! Also, you found the kids! And there are one, two, hm, mh-hm, six, nice, all of them!

Yes, I caught them trying to break into the Graveyard, for whatever reason, the ghost Koi glared at us.

That was all Lucas's stupid idea anyways, all of it. Archie spoke up, pointing at me. He got in his head he wanted to eat a Stuffed Frog and dragged us around all day.

Now, now, no need to be blame-assigning, Archie, you did agree to come along, after all. Alanna said.

Yeahh, you did agree to come along! Now you're backing out of this and acting like this was all my idea!? I started yelling.

Well, it WAS your all your idea, Slimy said.

That's enough! The ghost Koi yelled quietly once again. I honestly don't care whose fault is what, I'm not your parents, you go talk to them about this.

Hm, I thought that was some sort of insult or prank schoolkids told others, sort of like go wash some dirt, said the zombie Tonu. Busy day, huh? We saw you went into the forest earlier, right as we were talking with that Grarrl earlier, in fact it was her who pointed you kids trying to sneak out, and so we went after you to try to find you. Didn't you know, there's a monster out there in the forest, it could have taken one or more of you-

Yes, Marcos, they know that, they definitely heard the conversation earlier with Marlowe. The Koi interrupted the Tonu. And I just lectured them about it, although I really shouldn't have to. He side-eyed us at that last part. Anyways, I was just about to lead them home.

Do you want me to follow along or should I go tell Alice we've found them? the Tonu asked.

Please do find and tell Alice they've been found. The ghost Koi said. Also, do tell her we need to talk about what happened earlier.

Okieee! I'll be going! The zombie Tonu walked away with Mariah's bucket in hand.

Hey! He's taking my bucket! My sister protested.

That's too bad. Now, let's get going, I am already tired of this whole unnecessary commotion from today.

The Ghost Defender then proceeded to get us to the orphanage, where Slimy, Archie and Alanna were expected by the director herself, who apparently had gotten news of our escapade from school, and spent a good time scolding the three before the Koi even got to speak up. Then, after he explained his involvement in our story, prompting even more anger from the director, but we didn't stay to hear the continuation of the whole situation, as the ghost was very impatient to be done with the whole ordeal.

We then headed down towards Mother's inn, who was outside conversating with someone we recognized right away.

Penguin! The three of us ran off to greet the magma Bruce, leaving the ghost Koi behind, who protested but didn't actually do anything. Mother and Penguin both turned to look, and the two had very different reactions, Penguin greeting us cheerfully while Mother looked angry.

Oh hello, you three, how are you doing? I just arrived in town, and Martha and I were catching up on life. We were cheerfully celebrating his arrival, but that was stopped by Mother's scolding.

What have you three done this time? First, I get someone from your school telling me that you three have been gone from your school for hours, and now this Defender brought you home? She exclaimed, gesturing at the ghost Koi behind us, and even Penguin joined in, furrowing his brows in disapproval. Mother then looked at the ghost Koi and asked, still in her furious tone. Tell me, Mister Defender, what have they done to end up being brought home by you? The ghost Koi looked a bit disconcerted, but still responded to her.

Well, ma'am, on top of, well, their truant behavior, they uh- My friends and I had to go after them because they had snuck into the surrounding woods when they have been particularly dangerous as of lately, I have no idea if you have heard of the recent disappearances of travelers in the region?

I have heard of it, yes, a merchant went missing the other day, she replied.

Ye- yeah... Well, then, after searching for them in there, I returned to town to see them attempting to break into the Graveyard-

Ugh! Mother glared at us. We were in trouble. Anything else they have done?

No- I mean, they did try to attack me and escape me, but that didn't do much... The ghost Koi ended his phrase by mumbling. Penguin shook his head vehemently, while Mother looked at the ghost Koi, but spoke in a controlled softer voice. We were in big trouble.

Well, I am so, so sorry for all the inconvenience they have caused you, and for their deplorable behavior, if there's anything I can do to help you feel better or-

No, no, it's fine, I just wanted to see them home... The three of them, are they all yours? Or do I have to take the Eyrie somewhere else? The Koi looked hesitant.

Oh, no, he is part of our family, indeed. Thank you very much for your time and help, sir. She said with a courteous smile, and then dropped it when she looked back at the three of us. Inside, now. Mother hissed. We were in BIG trouble. And I didn't even get to eat that Stuffed Frog after all!

Next Part Back Home

Alice

And so, with this latest disappearance of Ruth Carnier in the deep woods, that makes eight total disappearances in town in these past three months, which is far more than we usually get. The heavily mustachioed old Lupe officer in dark blue uniform laid the file folder on the cases on his table, finishing up his debriefing to me.

Plus twelve other disappearances from those that live at the edge of Neovia or further out... I added. That's already twenty missing Neopets, that we know of!

Ah yes, those we do not account for, it is not in our jurisdiction. My cold blood boiled at that dismissive remark. By the way, any progress on tracking down those demons who have been causing havoc in town? It has been five attacks so far, the townies are becoming worried... But I wasn't going to allow that remark to slide so easily.

Deputy Chief, how can you say that? There are no other police jurisdictions in this region, therefore it is all Neovia's jurisdiction! Besides, all of those Neopets have lives tied down to Neovia, many of them work in town, and even those who don't are still part of the greater-

Look, the officer raised his voice above mine, we don't have the 'pets nor the budget to also patrol the outskirters on top of those living properly in town... That could easily be changed, were I to be insistent enough at the Town Hall, but that was not the point, I knew this was not something that I could just easily solve like that. Besides, they're all of a questionable nature, they are all low brow riff-raffs and strange creatures that can barely be called Neopets. And there was the truth. I do not understand why a distinguished lady like you would waste your time or your stress your pretty head with those who are almost indistinguishable from the monsters that lurk out beyond. Let them all sort themselves out, it's the better, cheaper solution.

I was tired of biting my own tongue, so I let it all out, and by Fyora's throne I did. I dressed him down in every single manner possible, criticizing his views, his laziness and complacency, his cruel mentality, and the utter disrespect to the very oath he had taken to protect and serve. I tried making a point about how callous he was being, endangering all the families that lived in the outskirts of Neovia, I talked about the Travelers' Camp, even about the orphanages and shelters, all in the attempts to try to get him to care about any of it. Yet, that was of no use, as he maintained a detached look, and didn't even acknowledge it all, or care answering to any of that.

Well, Miss Rosenfields, my free time is past done here, if your curiosity about these disappearances cases is quenched, then I shall be taking my leave. The Lupe started walking away from the front desk of the station, where I had been attended to this entire time.

Deputy Chief Lowen! How dare you just walk away from me when I wasn't done talking! I shouted with indignation as onlookers_ both from the forces and civilians alike, stared at me causing this ruckus.

Good day, Miss Rosenfields! I have to deal with some delinquent kids now! I sighed, exasperated, but not defeated.

Guess I'll be taking this to Town Hall after all. I mumbled before leaving the station, opening my trusty parasol as I stepped out. But today wasn't going to be the day I went to petition the mayor, as I quickly found out when I saw Marcos rushing towards me. Busy day, I guess, I commented as I approached the zombie Tonu who was carrying a bucket for whatever reason. Did you two find the kids?

Kunbao did, they were trying something at the Graveyard, from what he told me. He then said he'd take them home... Marcos trailed off, probably trying to remember what else had happened, so I gave him a moment. Well, that was good news to hear, much better than our fruitless walk through the muddy trails of the marsh, the only thing I got out of that was a dirty skirt hem. Oh, yeah, he needs to talk to you too, about earlier. Ugh, I can't believe it, that stuffy ghost hadn't yet given up on fussing about my own life and choices? Unbelievable.

I ought to find a spell to make a ghost be corporeal or something, because my urge to hit him is growing immensely in these past few days, I grumbled.

Who? Kunbao? Marcos asked.

Yes, that very same stuffy Koi. He makes me almost regret having met him in the first place, my life was far more peaceful before. And I do not mean uneventful! I just didn't have someone tailing me constantly, nagging me like an old grandmother about what is proper and what I should or should not do.

The Tonu avoided eye contact with me, looking down instead. He's worried about you... He mumbled with some guilt, almost like a child confessing to a mischief they've committed. He was ranting the other day to me about how it would be terrifying if something happened and you were revealed... How everyone could turn on you, hurt you and chase you out of town... He even mentioned how worse would it be if there were some sort of accident and then you got caught red-handed, then the townies could really justify hurting you... I inhaled and then sighed for a long while, recomposing myself.

I understand that... Grr, I just wish he had a little more tact, and was less overbearing. Also, he should know, not everything ends up as a repeat of his story, I am a far different Neopet from him. The Tonu glanced up at me, still looking guilty. He yelled at you about it too, right?

He was mad I have been wandering into town more often now... He says I'm risking myself... Letting another long sigh, I could barely contain my anger towards Kunbao, but I needed to maintain composure.

I held my free hand to Marcos's hands, parasol over the shoulder and bucket in between our fingers, and said, Never mind his ramblings, don't let them get to you, alright? He's just reacting badly to the pressure of handling the two cases... I paused for a second, and added, with a sterner tone, Unfortunately.

I wish you guys wouldn't fight so often, it makes me worried. The large Tonu said with a certain vulnerability in his voice.

It's fine, Marcos, Kunbao's just being hardheaded, and a tad too overprotective. I said softly, trying to combat my irritation internally. I just can't stand him trying to boss me around like that, or even boss you around, it gets on my nerves. You send a Koi for six months to Defender school and then he comes back thinking he rules everything! I chuckled at my own joke, but the zombie just smiled meekly.

Right...

Drawing my hand away, I readjusted my parasol, holding it once more with two hands. Well, I guess if the ghost Defender wants to chat with me, I guess it is my duty then to report to him. I said mockingly. Where is he now?

Ah- Right, he said he would be taking the kids home... But some of them kids were not from homes, I saw them before at the orphanage past the river. The Tonu answered.

Then we shall start from there, perhaps ask the locals if they have seen Kunbao wandering around. I said, and then decided to ask something else more that was bugging me. Also, why are you carrying a bucket around? Is that relevant to our case?

Oh, this?" Marcos raised the bucket to eye level. I stumbled onto it on the road, found it right next to a large bullfrog too, it was very strange.

Why are you carrying it?

Uh- I guess... Force of habit? The bucket was tossed aside, in front of the police station, before we both started our walk to the south region of Neovia.

The travel took a while, but I didn't mind it, as Marcos and I took onto discuss the upcoming Halloween festivities and whatever the town had in mind, and how I planned to participate in it, and then, somehow, I ended up ranting for a while about the callousness of the Neovian government. Reaching the orphanage, we were informed that the Koi Defender had already passed by there and dropped off a couple of the kids. I assumed they were the three watching Marcos and me from a second-store window, a yellow Techo, a pink Krawk and a desert Usul, and just waved at them, smiling, before we both left in the direction of the inn we were told Kunbao had gone drop off the rest of the children at.

Finally, we reached this log cabin three-story inn in the sparser part of southern Neovia that had no fence nor yard and instead edged the side of the road. It seemed to have seen better days but at least was well kept for its apparent age, which I'd evaluate to be around two hundred years by its building style and deterioration. A dried out wooden sign sat near its entrance, reading "South Woods Country Inn" in chipped dark green paint and brass engravings, and despite its dull exterior that barely stood out from the now darkening surroundings, the warmth and light and the chatting that came out of its front door gave it a better welcome to us two.

Marcos, noticing from the doorway that Kunbao was already at the counter listening to who I assumed to be the innkeeper, walked in without much trouble. The forty-something year old red Kyrii with a greasy apron hiding her tan dress and greasier kerchief hiding back her long hair waved at me as she noticed I was still at the door, and then said.

Come in! Welcome! And I did welcome myself in now that I was allowed. We're preparing for dinner right now, well, anyways we're always open, tonight I'll be serving mutton stew with some hearty rye loaves I got from the baker earlier. Perhaps it is not the fanciest dish you have tasted, but my regulars all vouch for it. Some other Neopets and even non-Neopets on the tables all agreed in different volumes, which made me pleasantly surprised. At least it was more welcoming than most places in Neovia.

Oh- That sounds wonderful, but I will have to pass on account I am still full from the meal I had earlier. That was a blatant lie, I was beginning to get hungry, which meant I had to be far more self-controlled in here. We came here to pick up a certain someone. I said with a smile, glancing at the Koi Defender as I walked up to join him.

The Kyrii chuckled. Ah, yes, we were just discussing about some sightings some of my costumers had seen deep in the woods that could be of any help to his investigation. She then looked at Marcos, who had already come up to the counter and situated next to the ghost.

As for you, my undead friend, I do serve your kind here. I have prepared some brain stew for tonight, which I tried my best to season without tasting, but I must apologize in advance it may be quite bland. I just don't have the stomach anymore for such hearty foods.

I could go for some stew! Marcos replied in his turn. Right-o, give me just a moment... The red Kyrii walked over to the kitchen behind the counter, and came back after a few minutes with a steaming bowl of brain stew for Marcos. Here you go, anything to accompany it?

Actually, this is more than enough. Marcos started to dig into his food, which reminded me of my own hunger, but I could still hold it, it wasn't so bad yet.

Wait, you used to eat spooky foods, Mrs. Jones? Kunbao asked with some concern.

Not only that, I used to compete at the Spooky Food Eating Competition back on the day, when it was less of a news sensation! In my best competition, I placed second place when I was only seventeen, beaten only by the most gluttonous Moehog I had ever met in my life! If it weren't for his no-chew technique, I would have cleared my plate first! She said that last part with a raised voice, which prompted an old, heavily bearded Moehog far in the back of the inn to respond in the same volume.

Ha! Are you talking about your Spooky Food Competition days once again, Martha? I can't believe you're still sour over that, it has been decades!

I'm never letting it go, Wilbur, and you know that, you bottomless pit!

The Moehog cackled loudly and said At least you get paid for me to eat now, before resuming his own meal.

Now I'm old and out of shape, and get all sorts of cholics if I don't watch my eating.

Is that alright? Shouldn't you see a doctor about those issues? Kunbao asked, but the Kyrii just laughed.

Oh, don't waste your afterlife worrying about my life, I can take care of myself. You fret too much about everything, earlier it was about the kids and how I yelled at them to get to cleaning as punishment, now it's my health... Is he always like that? She directed that question at me, to which I nodded in response, with a malicious smirk that was met by his shooting glance, making him red.

That's because you haven't seen him mad at you for doing something he thinks it's unsafe. Marcos added, and Martha cackled once again.

Oh, so he is always like that. Go figure, what a worrywart. Kunbao who was quite literally glowing in shame, spoke up.

Um- So about those sightings, why do you say there must be two different things happening at the same time? The red Kyrii grinned and doubled down.

Ooooh, I see, trying to change the subject to avoid getting further embarrassed, huh? She cackled even more, and even Marcos and I were chuckling, which only made the ghost become so red even his aura had changed color. Lowering his head, and his voice even further, he repeated himself.

Ma'am, please, I do need this information for my investigation, if there are two different culprits out there, I need to know what is going to be my next step.

Alright, alright, I'll quit teasing you... For now. She chuckled maliciously, and then continued. Well, you see, I heard two different tales of close encounters, one from a warlock that was passing by Neovia in their trek to the Lost Desert- Quite the foot journey in my opinion, I get that personal preferences and all, but I think I would have gone by something more efficient like carriage or boat... Anyways, they told me about how they were ambushed in the trails in the depths of the Haunted Woods by a troupe of shadow creatures led by a shadow Kougra with glowing eyes, and narrowly escaped them by running non stop until they reached Neovia... They were completely exhausted when they arrived at my doors, and an absolute mess too, feverish and delirious with dehydration... I let them stay in here for days until they recovered, but I don't think they'll be making their way through the Haunted Woods any time soon.

Then, there's the tales of the other creature, which I heard both from a skeleton who was wandering past Neovia and stopped by my inn for directions, and a local from this side of town... They both told me of this very strange creature made of light and fire who resembles a Hissi but not like any they have seen, illuminating the entire woods in the middle of the night like it's broad daylight in the desert... Kunbao raised his head so suddenly at that description, one would have thought he knew exactly what she was talking about. They said they were travelling with companions who were attacked, but in both cases, they could run off without being persecuted, but they knew their companions weren't so lucky. Honestly, with these stories, I am beginning to get very worried about the safety of some of my patrons, like Penguin. I know the Woods have always been dangerous, but this is in a whole new level.

Indeed... Perhaps it would not be a good idea to be wandering through them until this is resolved, be one alive or not. The ghost answered, going quiet after that for a moment, and I was going to chime in, but then Marcos interrupted, setting his bowl down and getting up.

Alright, I am done here! How much was that for, by the way? Sorry, I forgot to pay beforehand.

Oh, I'll handle that, I said, while reaching for the pouch I carried at hip-length. Also, I do need to get going, I apologize for the short stay, but- Um, I am not feeling quite well and need to rest back in my residence. I said, looking at Marcos, hoping he got the hint, as I was beginning to notice the heartbeats of everyone in that inn were getting a bit too loud. Thankfully, he did get the hint.

Okey-dokey- Kunbao? The ghost looked at the zombie with distant eyes before comprehending what was going on.

Right, um- Looking at the Kyrii, he hesitated before nodding. Thank you for your time, and- uh- Have a good evening... The last part he barely enunciated it before leaving the inn in front of Marcos, who followed along.

While counting the Neopoints, I didn't realize the red Kyrii's grin until she chuckled. Well, aren't you on a special kind of predicament, huh? One's very serious and smart, and cares a lot about everything, and the other is a really nice and sweet fellow who listens to you promptly. I'm kind of jealous... Staring at her, my growing hunger made a bit slow to comprehend what she meant.

Oh, no, that's not... They're just my friends.

I mean, that is a good start, isn't it? She sighed longingly while counting my coins. Ah, this reminds me of my days back in school, I had Lucas's father and this other cute little Techo who would spend all their time with me, it was a really difficult decision, to choose one only... Meeting her eyes with mine, she then grinned even more. It is even more interesting on your case, I mean, a ghost, and a zombie? What a saucy predicament indeed to be in.

I chuckled half-heartedly, not really following and not feeling like doing so.

Seeing that, she just patted a few times on my arm over the counter, and said, Ah, never mind me, I am just an old hag who daydreams a bit too much... Do come back any time you want, miss, same goes for your undead friends, I don't discriminate. Also, I do hope you feel better soon. I nodded and thanked, and left that inn a bit too quickly, also because I was beginning to get in a mood.

Meeting with the two outside, Marcos and Kunbao looked at me with worry, and perhaps I was a bit too snappy with the Koi, because he looked at me offended when I cut him off as he went to speak to me.

Don't even start it! I had hissed, and so no conversation was to be had.

As we left the inn, I noticed a young spotted Kyrii with skull-like face painting who was being watched over by a strange Bruce who glowed like hot embers, sweeping the side of the inn. The two glanced at us when I hissed, and the Kyrii did it once again when we passed by them, and I forced a grin in response, but strangely enough, he barely answered, freezing up and turning pale.

The moon was beginning to rise above the treetops, and dusk had all but gone already, save for the last of the twilight. The fog was rolling in quickly from the woods as the temperatures cooled down, but the streets were still quite populated, as different Neopets made their way through the town to do the last of their daily chores or to head down to their domiciles.

In a normal evening this would have been a lovely moment to walk nonchalantly and watch the hubbub, but tonight I couldn't afford that. Hurrying ahead of the two, I knew I didn't need any word to know I had been too sloppy today. I had spent too long out, was around too many Neopets, now I was suffering the consequences of those choices, but by Fyora's throne, I wasn't about to let him have his satisfaction.

We arrived rather quickly to my mansion, and, after a desperate and quick feast on the stocks I had in my cold storage, I felt once more myself. After a quick cleaning and change in my private chambers so to deal with the mess I had made of myself, I finally headed back to my study room, where I was once more met with the two's concerned eyes. Marcos was sitting on one of my couches, some of my center table's knickknacks still in his hands, while Kunbao was pacing around the room as usual.

Well, I do feel much better after freshening up! I said, clapping my hands together in an attempt to clear the air.

Hooray! Marcos said enthusiastically.

That's... Good. Kunbao hesitated gloomily.

Oh, do liven up, won't you? All's fine, problem averted, can we move on? I said, annoyed. Besides, we have more matters to deal with than something that I literally could solve in what, half an hour? A little more than that?

The ghost Koi just huffed, and then mumbled, Fine.

Right, now, shall we chat about your cases so far? You do have that meeting with the Defenders of Neopia tonight.

Oh... Right. Great. He grumbled, irritated, but he really should have been thankful at least someone was reminding him of his own duties, like I had to do so often.

So, the kids were found, from what Marcos told me, that's good... Marcos nodded, eagerly watching. And the missing victims count is up to twenty with the latest one, it is quite unfortunate, though, that the Neovian police only cares about eight of them.

Not surprising though. the Koi added.

Besides that, there is nothing else new to report from my part, save for the deputy chief asking yet again about the vandals. Apparently, they're spooking the townies... I said the last part with a mocking tone, but the ghost's response was still negative.

Grr! I am trying, okay? It's not like- It's not like they are not doing anything either-

Kunbao! I know that! I cut him off. We both know that! You don't need to get all miffed at us about it! He looked at me and at Marcos, who had flinched at his outburst, and then sighed.

Alright... Anyways, that case is about vandalism, it is far less troublesome than those disappearances...

Yes, exactly, so let's not waste time tantruming around things that don't matter right now, right?

I am not tantruming! I didn't need to answer that, nor did Marcos, and so Kunbao just huffed, defeated. Well... Anyways, with the two stories that the innkeeper gave me, that explains the quantity of cases...

You went really quiet back there, what was with that? The zombie questioned, shifting on his seat.

Oh... Well, I mean, I am not sure really sure, in fact I think I will never be sure, since I didn't get to see properly, I was hiding... But I think I had a close encounter with one of these creatures... The ghost Koi spoke, his eyes distant as he recounted the event. It was not that long ago, perhaps a couple of weeks back, in one of the times after returning from your mansion, I decided to take a shortcut through the woods instead of crossing town, and... Well, there was this overwhelmingly terrifying presence, and the woods were very loud, and then I saw what seemed like a Hissi made out of really bright flames, and they hung around the area I was for a while... Then they finally moved on, but that took a long while to happen.

Why didn't you tell me about this? I started, speaking with panicked concern from having just learned about this endangerment.

That sounds scary, yeah why didn't you ever mention that? Marcos joined in, frowning.

I di- Well- I mean, I didn't think much of that back then, I thought it was an odd thing to happen, but, I mean, I didn't know anything that it could have been. Kunbao tried explaining, but that only made me more concerned. Also, since I managed to escape it I just- I don't know- Put that aside...? Mentally, I mean? I didn't think more about it until today.

I was already mulling what to do, but it was very obvious what had to be done. Alright, that's it, from now onwards you are moving to here, to my mansion, understood? I don't want you wandering around in the woods-

Ooooh, so when I am telling you two that it's not safe that you two just wander around all willy-nilly without being careful, because who knows what may happen and how the townspets may react, then I get the 'mind your own business' argument, but now- But I didn't let him finish his argument.

But now that there are two evil beings out there that are hunting Neopets alive and not alike, and you just told me that you had a close encounter with one of them, and had to hide to stay alive, yes I want you to stay safe and out of harm's way unnecessarily and not just isolate on the dead middle of the forest like you always do. The situations are not even remotely similar, one thing is me with my urges, I can control them, even today I managed to do that, another thing is just risking yourself unnecessarily because you literally prefer the gloomy, humid bog over my home!

I mean, I hang out here at Alice's mansion all of the time... Marcos added in. I practically moved to here already...

The ghost sputtered before saying something comprehensible. You know I can't just leave the swamp like that! That's not- That's not fair! I need to-

Kunbao, please! It is just until we capture those two attackers, it's not like anyone would try to even adventure into your swamp and mess around like that! I didn't like to beg, him making me have to beg for his own safety was really making me uncomfortable and irritated.

Yes, Kunbao, please! What if you get caught in the middle of the woods and no one ever hears of you ever again?? Marcos added, desperate, and I thought perhaps our shared concern was going to be enough to reach through his translucent thick skull.

He hesitated for a while, and then responded, mumbling. I guess... I'll... Think about it.

Ugh, you are so stubborn! I exclaimed.

It's just- It's hard, alright? It's easy for you to tell Marcos to stay here, he's on his own body- I just- I don't know what would happen-

Nothing will happen, nobody knows anything about you besides your presence as a haunting, besides, who would go to the middle of the forest to do such a thing, mainly in times like these? All of the town is becoming more and more fearful of the woods.

I guess... I guess you're right... That last part was almost inaudible, and he averted his eyes from both of us, as he stood without any defense left. I guess there was no point on pressing on further for tonight.

Well, anyways, you were there for a while before I arrived, what were you doing there? That is, besides apparently trying to nag the innkeeper about her parenting abilities...

I had just commented that I thought yelling at her three children in front of the whole crowd in there wasn't the most productive way to solve it... Kunbao responded, and added in a mumble, Also, she is very, very terrifying when she's angry...

Scoffing, I joked. Sounds like she surely is if she can scare you. Let's hope then we never cross her. Marcos giggled as well, making the ghost redden once more.

Anyways, well, I also asked about the history of her inn, and if she knew the previous owners, but apparently it belonged to her late husband's family, and she'd have to find the property papers... Because she doesn't remember anymore the story properly since the town curse messed with her memories... But she doesn't even remember anymore where she left the papers... He looked particularly bothered by this, which made me understand there was relevance to this topic, but yet, I couldn't figure out why.

But why were you asking about it- I had started asking, but I was promptly interrupted by a loud beeping sound. Ah- Your... Communicator device, right? That must be the Defenders.

Right.

The Defender looked around the things in my study room, and found said device, a metallic disk of technology that had the purpose to create these pale projections of one's image and send one's voice, from what he had previously explained to me. I didn't quite understand the mechanism, or how was he able to manipulate it, but regardless of it found quite fascinating, so I sat down on my sofa couch to watch him along with Marcos. Within seconds, the disk that was placed on the floor projected a luminous monochrome image of a tall Lenny with lightning bolt themed costume appeared, glowing not that unsimilar to the ghost.

Oh! Hello, Ghoulish Water, and bless Fyora, you're back from the dead! We have been calling, you know? I knew that, those daily beeping noises had been haunting me for a while now, and were driving me insane. The ghost Defender left his communicator and all of his Defender gadgets in my mansion, and yet insisted on roaming that miserably damp wetland whenever he wasn't doing investigation or patrolling.

Hello Lightning Lenny... He trailed off, mumbling something almost indiscernible.

You know, rumors were beginning to roam around that something had happened to you, it has been a couple of weeks since your last report, or even any sign of yours, after all. You do have a duty to the organization and to Neopia now that you're officially part of it, you know? That mask is not just for embellishing your face, after all. The Lenny spoke sternly and harshly, crossing his wings in disapproval. Had we not heard from you any longer, we would have to wastefully send someone over to check on you. We would have to send a Defender, who could possibly be essential to deal with a crisis elsewhere instead, all because you can't keep a channel of communication. Can't you see how your disregard for others could cause a major problem?

Kunbao looked very uncomfortable as he was scolded by his superior, and I relished on that sight, as he had it coming fully. He apologized very quietly, as usual, averting his eyes to the ground like a kid caught misbehaving, and the Lenny, satisfied for now despite still being visibly irritated, moved on to the next topic.

Well, since you are present for once, do please update us on your cases in your jurisdiction... The Lenny reached out and picked up a clipboard from just beyond the projection and started reading on it. Last time you spoke to Headquarters, you mentioned two cases you were working on, one of a band of vandals of mysterious nature that were terrorizing the townpets of Neovia, and the second... Oh, the multiple recent unexplained disappearances on the Haunted Woods. Judge Hog was in fact mentioning this case recently, as a family in Neopia Central reached out to us after not hearing from their adult child in weeks, apparently that Neopet was headed to the Haunted Woods and never sent any notice of their arrival, and no one the family contacted in your region saw them recently. I zoned out as a frustrated Kunbao explained the stagnation on the first case, as I had heard many times at this point everything that was being discussed there.

The Haunted Woods had never been notorious for being safe, even before it was heavy with dark magic, and before it got its current name. Tales went on and on of how sometimes if you wander too deep into it, mainly in the less inhabited parts, you could never be seen ever again. There were also tales of all the sorts you should avoid crossing at any cost when wandering through them, from werelupes to dark faeries, the forest hid them in its dark corners, so you had to be wary of the paths you took and your surroundings. That was just the nature of living within a forest, and a cursed one at that.

But this... I wasn't sure what was so unsettling about these recent disappearances, perhaps it was the speed they were occurring? Or the fact they were indiscriminate, and so no one was safe? Or perhaps it was just the nerves getting to me... I looked at the two with a tightness to my chest from just thinking about whatever could happen to them, and although I knew that Kunbao had his powers, and Marcos was very physically capable, I still couldn't brush the growing anxiety that had been eating at me in these recent weeks away. It also felt almost ironic that one would have to worry about the safety and permanence of the undead in this realm...

And that's the description she gave you? The shadow Kougra with glowing eyes and shadow powers? The Lenny Defender asked.

Nodding, Kunbao said, Precisely. The Lenny became pensive. Why? Is that someone you guys have on record? Some sort of repeat offender?

No, well, yes, we do have... Her record. She's a missing Neopet case of a completely different nature... From another land, in fact, originated from Altador, but she had gone missing after her family and house was destroyed. The last we had heard was a report from Shenkuu, she had caused havoc and destruction in one of the minor kingdoms in their domain, but that had been... I am not sure, a couple of years ago at this point. International affairs, and of this sort, in these parts of the Woods? I felt almost territorial upon learning this, why would an Altadorian come cause this level of trouble in our land?

... I assume I would have to capture and restrain her, so you can come and bring her to her land? The Koi Defender asked.

Yes, the Altadorian Council is still seeking her out, they will handle her once we deliver her to them. Kunbao nodded, but the Lenny Defender continued. But, Ghoulish Water, beware, this Kougra is not only sly enough to have evaded capture until now, she is also ruthless and cruel, and possibly won't be an easy contender. If she's behind all those twenty Neopets you've mentioned-

Uh- Actually, there is another creature who's behind them too, they're not all her victims. The ghost cut the hero off.

Oh?

Well, there is a second creature, the innkeeper mentioned two other of her clients who escaped this- And- Uh- I saw it too- A Hissi, made of light and fire, who is on the prowl in the Woods as well, and closer to Neovia too...

Are they working together?

N- No, I mean, I can't affirm anything, but they seem to be unrelated- Uh- As far as I know. The Lenny filled in the clipboard with that information.

Well, do you know anything about this enemy? You say you saw them, what happened?

Oh, I have nothing to go from besides what I saw and these two other witnesses... On my case, I was- I was wandering in the forest near town a tad too late, and then suddenly I felt this overwhelming presence, and I knew I had to hide, and the Hissi appeared, and seemed to be looking for something for a while, and then left... I was lucky that I wasn't found, but the witnesses say their companions weren't so lucky as they were... The Lenny wrote for a while on the clipboard, and then, when done, looked at the Koi solemnly.

Well, I am going to write about both the two culprits on the case of the missing victims. At least one of them is easily identifiable, and if you capture her, that would close an international case that has been going on for over half a decade at this point... About the other one, I would recommend you investigate further, but exercise caution. An unknown enemy is the worst type to confront, as you have no idea what to expect from it.

Kunbao nodded, remaining quiet.

Is there anything else you need to report? No new issues, nothing, right?

No, nothing else, sir.

Alright, good... Well, it was good to hear from you, Defender. Do try to keep in touch more frequently, understood? Kunbao nodded once more. Great, transmission over. And with that, the projection blinked out of existence.

The ghost stared for a moment at the projector disk before picking it up and putting it back on one of my shelves, his movements were slowly and weighted. I knew exactly what he was going to say next, and in a whim, I stood up and could cut him off before he even opened his mouth, as he turned back to the two of us.

No, you're definitely staying here from now onwards_

Scowling at me, he answered, Why do you do this to me?

You heard from the Defender as well now, why do you insist in recklessly endangering yourself by going back to the forest? Do you want to get ambushed??

His physical image flickered like a weakened candle, and, with an exhausted tone, he only mumbled, Fine, and floated out of my study room, presumably to some dark and damp corner of my mansion.

I sighed with relief from winning this debate for once, but relief was but temporary in this already prolonged day, as I heard someone knock frantically on my front doors. Marcos and I rushed down the hallway and into the dimly lit atrium of my mansion, and I opened the doors to an Ixi police officer, who panickily exclaimed.

The demons are attacking again! They've come to the police station, and started breaking glass and attacking officers, but no matter what, we can't seem to catch them or stop them!! The ghost Defender suddenly appeared right behind us two, making the officer jump, and proclaimed.

Alright, what are we waiting for?

Upon arrival on the plaza downtown the police station faced, I noticed the atmosphere felt different, distorted and heavy with magic. The building itself was all defaced, with broken windows and things that were previously inside of it trailed from inside to the sidewalk, all tossed and destroyed. The brick walls were painted haphazardly with black paint, with splashes and swipes and other hurried spots. The Neovian officers, most who were not even in uniform since they had been called from their domiciles in this late hour of the night, were all scattered about, searching the place, but yet, there was no sign of the culprits there, which was irritating but not surprising.

We approached the freshly vandalized building, and I accidentally tripped over a wooden bucket on the side of the road that felt familiar. The heavily mustachioed Lupe I had talked to earlier approached us in patterned pajamas, yelling and making the three of us flinch at that first moment.

Where were you?? These dang demons barely escaped us this time, if you had come here earlier, we would have captured them in a whim!!

Well then call us earlier! Kunbao snapped in a hissing tone. I don't have prescience to know when those attacks happen!

Why aren't you on patrol, then? You would have caught them then!! The Lupe insisted.

I had other things to handle! The Defender said, red with anger.

Deputy Chief, why are you yelling at him? I started, irritated at this utter show of nonsense that was happening right in front of me. He's not even part of your ranks, you have no power over him, and yet you expect him to make up for your officers' incompetence in handling a bunch of vandals? The Lupe was going to retort, but I wasn't done yet. Besides, why aren't your officers on patrol either? Is this how you handle Neovia at night, pushing off your institution's duties to third parties and acting entitled to a Defender's time? Is this how you use our tax Neopoints of this town, slacking off on your own duty and mooching off from others? How shameful, I should talk to the mayor about it!

The old officer only replied, in a lower voice then, It just makes more sense that the ghost with powers would be better at handling these devils than we would.

And what would you have done had you not had this option? Keeled over and laid down on the ground belly up in defeat, and allowed the vandals to do as they please, so it seems! I mocked, and all the Lupe could do is grumble about how they would have done something, but without any retort and deflated of his anger, he couldn't do much besides accept defeat and grumble away.

This is going to be a long night... the ghost Koi commented, before going in to investigate, and Marcos followed afterwards. I stayed out to do some investigation outside and try to get some witness testimonies, as usual, and an odd detail I noticed stood out to me, as a certain thing I had just tripped over earlier was nowhere to be seen anymore.

Next Part Back Home

??????

I sobbed quietly once more under the bed, trying to stifle my own hiccups, out of guilt and shame, so to not get heard by the wrong person, and get even more yelled at. My heart almost beat out of my chest, and I cried so hard I could almost retch, but yet this was the least worst position for me to be in right now, and I felt like such a baby and a loser for reacting so strongly. All I could hear from beyond the door of our room was muffled shouting and commotion, and I wanted literally nothing with it, I hated it, I wish it could stop, I wish I could stop it, at any means possible...

Trying my best to focus on something else, I stared at one of the many papers that laid under the bed with me, a dumb drawing I had made weeks prior. It was just a dumb forest full of trees and plants I did with colored pencils, which I thought looked stupid and bad and thought I had tossed out back then, but apparently it had escaped the bin. I scowled at the drawing, which had taken a weird creepy aspect being next to me, as if something was watching me from behind the scraggly drawn trunks shaded with streaks of black, what weird time and place to find something like that. I should burn that stupid thing, I thought to myself, along with everything else in this room.

And yet, the sensation I had of being watched persisted, making me uncomfortable in continuing to cry. I looked around once more from under the bed frame, and upon noting that no one else was with me in here, I quietly spoke out loud.

Anjo?

Despite the noises still happening beyond the boundaries of my door, it felt like everything in my room had become absolutely silent and still, as even I held my breath instinctively, hoping to hear something back. The stillness felt like an eternity and beyond, until a disembodied voice finally broke the silence.

Yes?

I looked once more at my drawing, a silhouette was barely visible behind the trees, and I could have missed it in the darkness of under my bed, if it weren't for the two glimmering yellow eyes that peeked from between the trees.

I knew you were here. I said. But why are you here?

The figure, which was still indistinguishable, moved forward in my drawing, searching for a place to sit, and finally seating on a rock. I just wanted to talk. Is this a bad time?

It's as good as any time. I commented sarcastically.

Is your sister and mom fighting once again?

... Mh-hm.

Did you get involved yet again?

... Yeah...

I'm guessing it didn't work out at all.

I sighed, regretting everything and my stupid impulses, and I feared the later consequences of what I had done to such a degree, my bones were anchored to the floor, and I could almost vomit. There was a crashing sound of some sort beyond the door of my room made me flinch badly, and a subsequent scuffle made me even more nervous. A sigh preceded more talking from the barely seen one.

Your sister is something else, isn't she? I kind of admire how confrontative she is, I could never act the same way with my mother... I knew that was a hook, there was always a reason for contact, it was just how it always happened.

Did something happen? I said, worried.

I got humiliated by my mother in court today! It was awful, she didn't even let me explain myself or anything, and everyone was watching, and then afterwards my dad has the gall to come to my room to talk about harsh lessons everyone must learn!! The figure gesticulated angrily.

That's... That's awful... But what happened to cause that? I said weakly.

Some stupid kids from some of the high rankings of the court got scared of me because I showed some of my magic to them, and I guess they went to their parents who went to my mother. I wasn't even doing anything special, all I did was some lightworks and stuff, they are all stupid babies who can't handle some little fire! The figure's yellow eyes scintillated with fury, which made me a bit uneasy, so I answered carefully.

That's not fair... That's so stupid, your magic is awesome, how can they think you're scary?

Because they're dumb and weak and annoying and I hate hanging out with them! I only do it because I'm expected to, because I'm a princess and they expect me to deal with them since they're my subjects... It's so annoying! And then- And then literally if anything goes wrong, I get yelled at by my mom, or my dad, or the others, and then my sister gets to laugh at me for that, because you know how she is, cruel and mean...

Yeah... You've told me plenty about her... I knew what I was told, about how they were constantly competing with each other because of a prophecy that besides the two of them, only my sister and I, and another pair of siblings we had only heard of knew about it. I knew how often that sister was brought up, and how she would say the worst things to my friend to try to prove that she was the superior one worthy of said prophecy. I knew it all through our guardian angel who spoke to me like this, through drawings, and painting, and cards and games and other mediums from the few we were allowed.

But the worst part was still being called to court, and having to endure getting yelled at full volume by my mother in front of everyone! For something as stupid as that!! She told me I should feel ashamed for terrifying the others, and that I should know better on how to use my powers, as if it was my fault!! And then she kept on saying stuff, and basically making me look like I was the worst and an awful daughter! It was thoroughly and fully humiliating, I can't even think how I am going to leave my room after today!!

I mean, same... I don't know if I can leave my room after today... I mumbled, and at that moment, the door slammed open, and my sister stomped in, before slamming the door shut. I held my breath, apprehensive, before she started yelling.

What nightmare of a place, I hate everyone here!! Also, what a number you did, huh, why do you even try to help and play mediator if you're just going to blow up, just stay out of the way next time!! I was overcome with nauseous anxiety and started crying once again.

Is that Brigid? Hello Brigid! The one in the picture said loudly, which prompted my sister to lower to the ground, instead of sitting on her bed across from mine, and find me and the drawing under my bed, and I noticed additional bruising on her arms.

Oh, hi, you're here too. My sister said flatly, and then looked directly at me. Oh my god, stop crying for everything, you look like a tomato and sound like a whiny baby. With my back against the wall, I couldn't turn away, so I looked down.

I wanna get out of here... I mumbled.

Then just start packing and get walking then. She said sharply, which prompted a chuckle from the drawing.

You know it's impossible. I said. It was just physically impossible, it's not like I could go anywhere, and our mother would catch me easily if she just saw me in the distance with a bag on my bag trying to run away. Also, where else would I go? I knew nothing and nowhere else.

The angel in the drawing was now in the foreground, the human silhouette with very long curly hair and glowing yellow eyes that illuminated the bed frame above the drawing looked back and forth in between the two of us, before saying. One day, I'll get you two out of there.

Yeah, yeah, you say that. My sister snidely replied, sitting on the floor in front of my bed, and my mind slipping back to the marks, which made me sick to my stomach. But 'one day' says nothing in regard to when. I am so sick and tired of this.

Well, I mean, I still mean it, I am not ready, my powers are not strong enough, but when I am, you'll be the first ones to know. It will be sooner than later, too, as my sister grows impatient.

We both know what she wants to do with you, you've told us enough times. My sister commented.

So yes, it will happen, you just need to... Hold on tight a little longer. We just have to endure a little longer, then we'll all be free...

I woke up dazed and confused, staring in the dark, thinking that I was still under that bed, but instead I found myself in yet another cave system, one covered in strange alien vines, belonging to yet another alien planet, from yet another alien dimension. Remembering how I had ended up there, and remembering what I had been doing for a while in here, I finally found myself ready to get out, hungry like a beast and determined to find what I had first come here to find.

Next Part Back Home

Mariah

Well, he does have a point, though, you did risk blowing our covers back there.

Whatever, Billy can throw his tantrum for as long as he wants, I needed to get that bucket back otherwise mum would have my hide and hair. I said firmly, as I knew better than to anger my mother any more than we had already done. I didn't fear that pampered Moehog whose head was hot and big because of his new powers, illusions or not I could still punch him out until next week if he tried to press me.

The Halloween Eyrie who was fussing over this while we mopped the floor of the school shook his head. This has been the worst fight yet. I don't know if Billy is going to invite us anymore! Can you even imagine that?

Good! I always thought this whole thing was stupid and risky! We literally have a- But I was quickly shushed by the Eyrie and the other Neopet, a camouflage Mynci, who was also stuck in detention with us two, although not for skipping prior detention like we did. We literally have a Defender of Neopia on our tails, I hissed quietly, trying to not draw any unwanted attention to the three of us on the hallway. Do you even understand what does that mean? Penguin just told us the other day that they are the sort who fight big threats like giant monsters and invaders from outer space, now put two and two together, if we get caught- No, when we get caught, we'll more done for than you can ever imagine with that featherbrain of yours!

Yeah, but this one is sort of not really that good at his job, isn't he? He was struggling to catch us the other day for trying to break into the cemetery, that's not very 'super' hero of him. The Eyrie spoke with sass.

I wouldn't underestimate him either way, Nohbdy, haven't you heard the rumors? The camouflage Mynci leaned on his mop. He was originally the sole cause that no one went directly up north of town for the longest time, and had to take the roundabout way out of Neovia going through the east trails. Extending his arm, he continued on with a spooky voice. The Haunting o' the Moonlight Swamp, do you know? I had heard of that story, and Noah should have, but he shook his head instead.

I don't recall, no.

The Mynci, who was almost falling over with the mop at this point, had a caricaturized shocked face, almost like a mask. You have not?? Aren't you Neovian from birth as well?? The Halloween Eyrie looked visibly uncomfortable, and so I had to step in.

Let him be, Leonie, you know how Noah is with remembering stuff. I said sharply.

Well, then I must tell you the tale! Leonie jumped for joy, letting the mop fall to the ground, making us both flinch, and me scowl back. So, it is told that waaay back, before these recent times after we were all woken up from the great slumber, before even the town was cursed to slumber as a way to deal with the shady Krawk salesman's scheme, a mysterious Neopet of evil powers terrified townies with his magic on a daily basis for years, attacking others and destroying things. One day, the townies having gotten fed up with his terror, took up torches and pitchforks and decided to chase the devil out of town for good, and chasing they did, following him up towards north and into the woods, and finally into the swamp, where they lost sight of him... Leonie waved his hand from side to side slowly and dramatically, with a serious and somber face, before dropping his arm and going quiet for a second.

Well, this story already was a banger with me. I glanced at Noah, who looked at me, frowning with confusion and concern.

The Mynci suddenly spoke up once again. All was good for a while, and town life went back to normal, until 'pets started hearing about the weird occurrences that were happening to those who ventured into the very same murky waters he was last seen... Travelers and strayers told tales of vines and other plants coming alive and dragging them through the mud and water, or even whipping them, and also, waves washing over them, water spouts and sprays attacking them, and, deep within the darkest groves of the swamp, whispers in your ears telling you of your impending doom, and a haunting pair of glowing red eyes staring from the deepest darkness! He exclaimed that last part, trying to scare us, and I was just mildly annoyed at him, but the Eyrie was even more concerned, and even more confused.

Wa- Wait, if that's the story of that 'pet, then why the Meepits is he wandering around town all fine and dandy, as if nothing had ever happened? Noah asked, but he was wrong in part, because we all knew that the town's opinion of that Defender wasn't all that great prior to this.

Well, you see, you know that Aisha who's always around that ghost and the zombie Tonu? Noah nodded, which prompted Leonie to continue. That's Miss Rosenfields, who's notorious for doing all sorts of helping projects around town with her heiress money... She took him and that Tonu as her proteges, kind of like in this rehabilitation scheme of some sorts, you know?

Can you even be a mentor when you're obviously so much younger than either of the two? I thought you had to be older than whoever you take under? Noah commented.

Picking up his mop, Leonie pondered comically. I have no idea, but it does sound weird, doesn't it? Sloshing his very much dried up mop in the grey soap water bucket to try to remoisten it, he splashed water all around, before splatting his mop on the ground, and leaning on it once again. Also, there is some story in between there involving a group called the Ghoul Catchers? I assume they do what their title means, right? Not having much to add, I just watched the gossip, ignoring my also very dried up mop. And somehow that's how the ghost of that Koi got dragged out of that swamp and joined the Defenders? I need to ask some more detail about that whole part from someone who knows better, but, well, nobody was there to witness it, save for Miss Rosenfields, that Tonu, these Ghoul Catchers, and the Koi himself.

I mean, last instance, we could always try to hear it from the Alabriss's mouth, right? Noah said, and then looked at me. He seemed to have some sort of interest in the inn's story, didn't he? We overheard him asking Mrs. Jones about the inn's papers the other day, when we got caught, probably he'll be back to ask about it once again. That was true, that Koi did have an interest in the inn... And we weren't really sure what to make of that, also because we weren't close enough to understand all of the conversation, having been just put to sweeping and mopping the inn inside and out as punishment, but mum looked kind of concerned back then, and that stuck in my mind.

Yeah, right, because coming up to a vengeful ghost with magic powers and asking him directly how he was made to stop haunting his swamp and possible grave-site, and put to patrol the very town who hates him, sounds like an intelligent and well-thought-out idea... I'd rather go swat at a Veespa nest, thank you very much. I responded.

Tsk, I wasn't asking for your help, I can do it myself! Noah exclaimed.

Good luck with that, better pray to Fyora beforehand though! I snapped back, irritated at this conversation continuing on and on, didn't we have anything better to talk about?

Mariah does have a point, though, it's not likely that Koi would just talk about that, it's probably shameful for him... Leonie commented.

Or probably he only did it for his friends!? Anyways, why are we even talking about this, it's so stupid! Let the ghost be, the less we involve with him the better for all of us! I said, annoyed. Like I've said, the last thing we want is more trouble with him! I picked up my mop and dunked it in my bucket, and hissed in a low voice at the Eyrie, but the Mynci also listened in. Also, don't you think that one dunce being obsessed with that Koi is more than enough for me to handle? I am sick and tired of Lucas mumbling about how he thinks that we're in danger because we've discovered that secret, and also how we're drawing that Koi's attention because of Billy's stupid little group activities, and now you're gonna go poke and prod that Koi as well? Just for morbid curiosity?? Don't you have a single brain cell in that bird skull of yours?

Yeah but- Noah started, but I took my mop and splatted it on the floor in between the two of them, to get them away from each other, as they both hopped back from the splash. Hey! He exclaimed.

Watch the pants! Leonie screeched.

What in Neopia, Mariah!? Noah complained.

We've got to finish mopping this stupid hallway before we can even leave school, right? Then hurry up, I'm beginning to get hungry, and you two are here chit-chatting like two grannies! Or else I'm just going to leave you two and go home by myself!!

Alright, alright, sheesh! Exclaimed Noah, picking up his mop and heading to his bucket.

Aye, aye, I guess. Leonie sassed, pushing his mop that was once more half-dried from him waiting for too long to use it. I am already hungry as a matter of fact, I didn't get any lunch.

I was so done with it all, with Lucas and Noah, and with Billy and the others, and after that dumb fight the other day over the dumb bucket and Billy's dumb need to boss everyone around, I was even willing to go to that Defender myself and ratting all of them out if I were pushed any further. That would get them all into some lot of trouble, for sure, but yet, that would mean I would be in some lot of trouble as well, having helped trash the police station and the school and the fruit market... Dang it, Billy, you surely had me now, I should have never ever agreed on anything! Also, you had everyone singing along to your tune as well, I didn't want to cause a fight back then, which was pointless, after all! I was so frustrated with myself and with how much of an idiot I had been these past weeks, no, in fact I could even go further back, with how easily I just folded to the others' dumb and quite often trouble-stirring whims! I should know better by now!! I scrubbed the floor with such force and intensity, I almost ripped off a layer of wood with the mophead. I could hear the other two chit-chatting incessantly, but at this point I was so engrossed in my internal rage that I couldn't even hear them...

But hey, Mariah, you can do your little ventriloquism thing right? I stared blankly at Noah, who had asked that question.

Huh?? I asked, confused.

That thing you do with your little Ixi dummy that looks creepy where you make it walk and talk on its own with your magic, you know? Why was Noah just telling others all willy-nilly what I do at home in my spare time??

So what of it? I asked, defensively.

Well, didn't you hear what Leonie just said? He has been trying building this this giant pumpkin head doll and-

Uh I'm stopping you right there! I snapped once more, irritated that this was what I was brought into the conversation for. Firstly, you know I don't just use my magic left and right, mainly outside of home, you know that? Also, why are you offering for me to do magic for him?

What- No, I didn't offer it yet!? Noah raised his voice.

You were going to! Obviously!! I raised mine. Why else would you even bring it up??

Wait, wait, Mariah, it's for a good cause, I swear! Leonie interjected.

Is it illegal? I asked.

No! Leonie yelled.

Is it immoral?? I followed up.

Noo!! Leonie answered in a strained, high-pitched voice. I just wanted to see if there was any way to move this project I have out of the way of my mother's backyard, she was yelling at me about it yesterday!

I inhaled, trying to think of my next question. Why can't you do it on your own? I asked, still sounding very irritated, despite my efforts to try to contain my feelings.

Well... I kind of made it too big. Leonie commented. I was doing this scarecrow... Jack-o-lantern... Doll, or well, puppet... Hybrid... I don't know, it is very freestyle. But, because I used a pumpkin that was massive, I tried to match the body and now it's like, ten feet tall?

What...? You know what, I am not even going to ask questions. It was better not to, Leonie was into doing random projects like those, they all ended up looking like crossovers of garden decorations and horror props, it didn't help that he used anything, even bones if it fit his whims. No, I don't think... I don't know if I can make something that big move, that's a lot of effort! I've never done anything like that!

Pleaaseee?? If this doesn't work, I'll have to break it down and trash it! Leonie whined.

You are his only hope! Noah joined in, also whining.

I rolled my eyes, groaning for a while as I pondered the likeliness of this being a successful plan against my wish that everyone stopped dragging me into dumb plots. The two continued to plead meanwhile, which I finally responded with Fiiiiiiiine! Just shut up already, you're both giving me a headache! We'll go after dinner, though, and IF mum lets us! I pointed at Noah. Understood? No skipping on chores once again, I am tired of only having more and more punishment!

Alright. Noah said.

Thank you! I'll forever be grateful to you, Mariah! Leonie exclaimed dramatically, making me roll my eyes even harder.

Don't count your eggs before they hatch! I don't know if I will be able to make your giant doll move, I will just try my best! I exclaimed back.

Well, what would you have known, we both were allowed to go out, Noah and I. Mum had nothing for us to do since we three had been keeping the inn pristine for days as our punishment. Also, she had Lucas on dish cleaning duty for tonight's dinner run, with her closely watching over him, a result of him attempting to sneak out of detention cleaning with Richie yet again.

As the sun hid behind the trees and the sky darkened, the gas lamps on the roads were being lit one by one by Neopets on stairs, and we zig-zagged along the sidewalk to avoid them as we made our way towards where Leonie lived, yet another house fringing the woods itself, down a couple of streets. Leonie, who had stayed with us for dinner, hopped along as I vented.

And, well, I think that we're going way too far this time, I mean, where will this stop? Billy did mention something about town hall, way back when we first ended up agreeing to this craziness, and, considering how big-headed he's become ever since this whole 'Children of Nyx' junk has been going on, I would not be surprised if he did plan to attack there as well! I just can't do this anymore, this all has been the dumbest mistake we've done in recent times!

Right, right, I mean, I agree with you, I already thought it was dumb and dangerous when you guys would be out there pickpocketing and causing havoc just for the kicks, I mean, how many times have you three have gotten chased by the police, or even brought home by them? Leonie replied.

Ugh, it's Lucas's fault, he literally will do whatever he feels like it whenever, and nothing can stop him. I commented, irritated. At least I come along to make sure he doesn't do something too stupid and cause even more trouble.

Don't sell yourself as such an angel, Mariah, you also get some kicks AND some gifts from our fun times! Noah interjected, to my annoyance.

Yeah, sure, whatever, sometimes I take a token or two from your spoils, as a fee for dragging me along... Also, you have no ground to accuse me from, you literally go along with Lucas, and even cheer on his actions, just for the sheer thrill of it! I responded.

Well, you're not the only one who gets worried about him! Noah snapped back.

You don't need to be his supporter, though! I retorted.

Please, guys, I don't want to make this yet another discussion, I was just mentioning how there has been so many wrong things being done for such a long while at this point, but, well, they are escalating dangerously now! Leonie cut us off. Also, this is causing all sorts of friction with the others, even before Billy scolded you, Mariah... I myself witnessed Slimy break off with Archie and Lisa the other day, for example, and those three have been orphanage mates ever since they first started babbling.

This is bad... Noah commented, worried.

You don't say! I snapped right before halting in shock from what we had been brought before, which made me very much speechless.

Leonie surely had told us his creation was some sort of giant pumpkin scarecrow puppet thing, and sure, I knew that his projects ran on the creepier side... But the reality was far more horrifying than what I could have imagined, as we tried to make sense of the monstrosity leaning against the nearest tree in Mrs. Allaniel's backyard, sitting on the creeping fog of the nearby forest. The thing had multiple arms made of different scrap materials, like metals and woods and even, unsurprisingly, bones, and each hand was shaped horrendously differently. Its legs ended on just more hands, one in a half-rotten enormous shoe that I could not even begin to imagine what sort of creature had previously worn it, and the other was just bare bones. It wore patchwork clothes, a suit and breeches, like a tree wore parasitic plants and moss, weighted down by the mass that dangled with decay. Finally, its head was the single largest pumpkin I had ever seen, and I questioned how it actually sat on the thin, rusted mechanical neck without it falling over. I could see into the darkness of its hollowed out inside through its empty sockets for eyes and its gaping, crooked mouth, and it felt uncomfortably dark.

W-wow Leonie, I mean, that is... Um... How to say it... Quite an intense creature you created there. Noah croaked.

Right? I think it's my best work ever, you could even call it my masterpiece!! Leonie exclaimed, skipping over to the thing's side. Mother kept on nagging me for these past weeks I've been working on this, that it's too intense and too much to deal with, and that the neighbors were complaining that it is too scary and has been giving Neopets that pass nearby the heebie-jeebies, and sure, it is very imposing, but I can't see why they would be so upset about it, it's just a doll! Sure, if you wanted to call it that.

Yeah... I don't think I can move that... It looks extremely heavy, also it is already rotting in so many parts, I mean, look at that pumpkin, it's got spots and wilting! I told Leonie, which made him quickly sadden, which made me feel bad. I think you should just- Um- Try to remake it elsewhere? With fresh new parts?

But- But I already named it Marion Wallace! I cannot just destroy him now that he's got a name! Also, you've promised to help me! Leonie exclaimed, and, rolling my eyes, I approached the monstrosity with caution.

Staring directly up at the empty eyes, I inhaled sharply, trying to stop thinking about its eerie nature as I attempted to concentrate and focus on my magic. Calling it from deep within myself, I envisioned taking a hold and moving the pumpkin head doll like it had strings, and tried to project through my magic the movement I wanted to see onto the thing. But yet, nothing was budging, despite a purple aura clearly surrounding it, result of my projection, I tried, and tried, and tried, to no avail. Pushing myself to the limit, I forced the most of my energy out as I could, and perhaps I saw the arms and legs shake a bit, giving sign that at least I was successful to some degree, but perhaps it was just my vision shaking before I gave up, having exhausted myself quickly. I looked at Leonie, frowning, having failed him, and then glanced at Noah, who approached the gigantic doll carefully and poked and prodded it, messing with its limbs.

No... It's WAY too heavy, Leonie, this must weight something close to half a ton from all the stuff you have used on it. I justified.

Aww... Can you try at least once more? Leonie asked, and I huffed, annoyed at his insistence. I turned once more to the thing, and begrudgingly attempted to move it with my magic, pouring as much effort as previously, but with the added irritation this time.

Nothing happened once more, besides me getting out of breath and dizzy from it, and, from stumbling I fell back on my hind, now fully irritated with this dumb idea and his dumb doll thing. Noah approached me, trying to help me get back up, but I pushed him back, I didn't want to get up! Scowling at the camouflage Mynci, I yelled. It's no use, Leonie, this doll of yours is ridiculously heavy! What did you even use this time, lead??

It's mostly just bones! He yelled back. And stuff that was tossed into the forest from construction as well. I didn't think it would have become so heavy!

Well, you freaking built it against the tree, of course you'd not be able to tell! I retorted.

What was that?? The Halloween Eyrie exclaimed, which made us both turn to him.

What?

That what??

The Eyrie was staring directly at the freakish puppet doll, eyes filled with concern. There was a flash of light for a second, from behind the pumpkin head doll!

Probably a will-o-the-wisp. I commented. I mean, we did live surrounded by a giant dark forest, it just made sense.

... We're too far away from the marshy areas of the Woods to get will-o-the-wisps. Leonie said. I've never seen one here. Are you sure you're not just seeing things, Nohbdy?

No- I mean, I don't think so, it was pretty bright, I don't know how you guys didn't see that? Noah responded, and something caught my attention in that moment.

Was it moving? Did it move? I stared at its limbs for so long that it seemed like it was moving, but perhaps it was just my eyes playing tricks on me. But something was off, I wasn't sure why, until I looked upwards, past its distorted rotten permanent grin, and went gelid. The pumpkin's eye sockets were no longer empty, instead being illuminated by a pair of glowing white irises that were staring directly at the three of us.

What is it?? Noah exclaimed loudly, but I shushed him immediately as this time I surely witnessed some twitching. Noah looked back and forth between me and the puppet until he understood, gasping loudly, while Leonie turned slowly, preemptively shaking.

A bigger twitch made us all flinch, and, finally, the doll started leaning forwards, an arm reaching forward, and I just screamed, BAIL!

Getting up on my feet as quickly as possible, I scrambled towards the front of the house, and as I turned to look, I was glad to see that the other two ran into different directions before the giant pumpkin head got on all of its limbs and started its crawl-walking. After a few minutes of trotting past Leonie's house and back towards the roads, I thought of gaining more distance, but something told me to turn around and look, just in case.

I quickly became less than glad the moment I noticed it was chasing someone who was running along the edge of the foggy woods in the dark, their wings flapping, and screeching for help in the distance- NOAH!!

I started running towards the monster and the Eyrie, flinging some blasts of dark magic at the giant body of the doll come alive, but I couldn't make it even notice me and I was afraid of tossing anything stronger and hitting the wrong target. Focusing on Noah, I thought myself appearing next to him, and successfully did so.

Mariah! He exclaimed, stopping next to me, and, gathering all of my magic I could summon, I sent out the biggest attack I could do, which did make the pumpkin head monster stumble a bit. Before it could quickly recover, I turned to him.

What in Neopia are you doing, get going, dang it!

Right! And he just ran into the dark forest, to my dismay.

Not that way!! I ran after him, the giant puppet already on my tail once more. I could see Noah as a shadow a few feet ahead of the brambles, down a forest trail, but I couldn't reach him, as every branch and thorn was getting caught on my skirt and hair in that initial thicket. Once again I tried teleporting, although this time I was much more exhausted due to using all of my magic for naught just earlier. Way to go, numbskull, why are you running INTO the forest when we were literally told to stay out of it the other day!

I thought we needed some cover! That thing is enormous, it can't possibly be following us into here! He yelled back. We both looked behind us, the giant shadow of the monster pumpkin head doll could be seen still back at the bramble patch, but because of its size it just stomped its way through. The thin trees seemed to be giving it some trouble, though, as their closeness to each other made it so the monster had to snake its way through, which was some good news at least.

Yes, yes it is! We need to get out of the trail! I yelled.

Right! Noah answered.

Both of us rushed through the edging bushes, but, in a quick moment, I tripped over a protruding root, and before I could even yelp, I went rolling down a hidden slope. I tumbled through more thicket and brambles so dense with leaves I had no idea where I was even going until I reached a flat region of the ground where the fog amassed. Groaning with pain and now covered in cuts and bruises and mud and rot, I needed to take a rest to let my head stop spinning, but the moment I heard a recognizable scream I tried getting up.

Stumbling, I fought the low-hanging branches of the bushes that I had fallen into, and when I finally made it out, I could see the dark shape of the monster up the slope I had fallen from. It loomed over something, and my stomach sunk thinking of the worst, and I yelled out as I tried rush back up the slope, fighting the vegetation that stood in my way. My feet slipped n-blocked- because of the humid topsoil, and I could barely get anywhere upwards, not being able to see properly in the darkness where was solid footing and where was just shadows, but the commotion and screaming I heard up there was enough to make me continue on stubbornly.

I managed to grasp some hanging roots, and was getting some footing, but something caught onto my trunk and dragged me upwards with such a surprise I screamed, but when I was dropped at the top of the slope by the vines, I was relieved despite the scare. The Koi Defender was there, in his green-themed outfit and mask, illuminating everything around with his supernatural glow, and Noah was next to him, scuffed and also covered in mud but unharmed. Looking around, the giant pumpkin puppet monster was nowhere to be found, which at least for the moment it was a good thing, although who knew if that would somehow make a return.

Why is it that I recognize you two? Also, why is it that you can't stay out of the forest?? Even more at night?? The ghost Koi hissed at us, angrier than usual.

That thing chased us into here!! Noah exclaimed.

But I thought it was being controlled by this girl here. The Koi said, which made me instantly mad.

ME?? I said, exasperated. But I can't do that! That thing started moving on its own!

Yeah, I mean, we were all there when it started moving, also I saw some sort of flashing light right before, I think it got possessed or something? Noah responded.

Frowning, the Koi replied with Well, that's not what I heard from your Mynci friend... Leonie, you fiend! How dare he blame me for his stupid creation come to life? Well, let's get going, you two, before something ambushes us in here. The ghost Defender grumbled something in an almost inaudible tone as he led us back up the trail, all I could make out was this was definitely having to go to the next report, unfortunately.

Following along, the way back out was silent but quick, which was good because I literally had nothing to say, and even when Noah mumbled something to me about whether we'd be in trouble I had nothing to answer. A rush of sickening tiredness had overcome me, and walking was quickly becoming a ton of effort, but then the ghost Koi made us cross the brambles once more on the way out, which made us both get caught on them, which made me finally yell.

Heeyyy!! You're leaving us behind!!

The ghost Koi, who was just passing through the vegetation just fine, turned around to find us two absolutely entangled and fighting to move at all. Mumbling something in annoyance, he made the vegetation retreat, letting us go, before just resuming going out of the forest without even checking on us. At last, Noah and I stumbled out of the forest, a few feet behind our rescuer, and found ourselves surrounded by spectators of all sorts and ages, creating a commotion. Leonie stood next to his mother, a somber green Mynci, who firmly embraced him with one arm, and there were some neighbors I recognized from Leonie's street and nearby ones; also, there was the zombie Tonu who accompanied the Defender and that rich Aisha, waving happily, but not at us; further back I spotted two recognizable Neopets, a Pirate Ruki and a Desert Usul who were a little older than me, and were talking to each other while looking back to us in a way that made me concerned; and lastly, a red Kyrii who was desperately running towards us and zoomed past the Defender, holding her skirt and apron as high as possible.

Mariah! Noah!! Oh my Fyora! Mum quickly reached us and plunged in to hug the two of us. Thank Faerieland you're both safe! Oh my... At that moment, I didn't even register that I had already wrapped my arms onto her, seeking some comfort, and accidentally competing for space with Noah. And yet, in the next moment, I became uncomfortably aware of that, because of what I overheard.

Of course, it was the demon child of the innkeeper... Why am I not even surprised?

Oh, so she was the one who sent the monster after the Eyrie? Isn't that her adoptive brother as well?

Next Part Back Home

Marcos

I had noticed that he was very bothered already, that ghost Koi made it very, very obvious when he was upset. But, to add insult to injury, the phrases we heard, which I could tell upset the little Kyrii, were too loud for him as well. I had never seen him look like he did at the crowd- No, actually I had previously seen him glare like that, way back when we first met in the marshy swamp. And I wasn't the only one who sensed that hostility, as some of those who were surrounding the mother and her two children went quieter, and others half-stepped back. The pale Aisha intervened quickly, stepping into his view, and announcing loudly.

Leave those who idly and cruelly gossip about the young and helpless to their own misery, it is not worth your or anyone's stress. That didn't make Kunbao any less angry, but at least nothing more was going to happen. Then, Alice spoke in a quieter tone to the family. Let us go back to your inn, so we can have a more private talk, right?

Right, right, I've closed down for the night early, so there's only the roomers now.

I wasn't watching them anymore, as I was watching the crowd that was dispersing now. The Mynci kid who reluctantly told us about the creature that was chasing the two others was being scolded by his mother as the two walked away; the children who watched from further back were also quickly gone; there were some others who lingered for a little longer, a red Kougra, a spotted Lenny, a grey Wocky, a yellow Hissi, onlookers who were still curious. I smiled politely at some of them when they noticed me watching, although their response was for the most part, unfortunately not positive, earning me three scowls back. I heard Alice call out for me, to which I quickly obliged to, rushing over to join the leaving party.

So we were just trying to figure out how to get his garbage monstrosity moved out of his mother's backyard because she yelled at him about it spooking the neighbors, and Leonie wanted me to try to move it with my magic, and I tried, and tried, and tried, but that thing was way too heavy to budge! The little pink Kyrii was frantically trying to describe the situation to her mom as well as Kunbao and Alice while the group headed down the road. And I had given up on it, also because I got too dizzy and exhausted my magic, but there was no way I could move it! But then, we were discussing because Leonie refused to accept that he would have to break it down, I mean it was very ugly and rotten either way, I don't know why he was so attached to it, and then the thing just- Just came to life and started chasing us!

Yeah, it was really sudden as well, all of a sudden Mariah told us to hush because she noticed something, and then I was looking around and noticed that pumpkin head thing was watching us with some freaky glowing eyes, and then it lunged towards us! The Halloween Eyrie joined in, equally as frantic. I ran and ran and then one moment I looked behind and it was right there, catching up to me! And then Mariah teleported to me, and tried stopping it, but couldn't, so we had to run to the forest!

No we hadn't, you did that, I told you it was a dumb idea! The little Kyrii snapped, but their mother shushed her.

No fighting or name calling, for Fyora's sake! Finish telling the story!

Fine, it was either way Noah's idea we went to the forest, but the thing came after us, and then I fell down the hill-

That thing came right up to me! The Eyrie interrupted the Kyrii, who scowled in response. And I fell over and it walked over to me and hung over me and it looked like it was going to eat me! I swear, it even sniffed me, like I was food, and then, it- It sounded almost like it chuckled, and then it was going to bite me- And then that's when the Koi Defender dragged it away with his vines!

The ghost Koi then started grumbling about his part of the story, but at that moment, while we were turning on the road that went to the mother Kyrii's inn, something caught my attention in the distance, both visually and in scent. There were passersby near the group, Neopets from the neighborhood, who were still finishing up their daily routines way past sunset, and they did populate the lamplight-illuminated roads we were wandering, which was usual. Some were even curious with the sight of my Defender friend, while others were estranged by our appearances, but that was something usual as well.

And yet, I had noticed a while back someone across the street, which was noticeably darker than this side and thus emptier, going on the same direction as us the entire trajectory, or at least for a good part of it. I think that was the same yellow Hissi, from what I could tell, that I had noticed earlier in the crowd, or so my intuition told me. They seemed to be glancing at us from time to time, clearly interested in our conversation. If it wasn't for the heavy cast shadows of the night, I would also have been under the impression that they were perhaps holding back a grin from the way their face distorted. Our eyes met, and I once again defaulted to my polite smile to let them know I wasn't trying to threaten them, and I was met back with a nod, and a chill-giving wide grin.

Marcos, were you even listening?? Kunbao's hissing low voice was right to my ear, making me jump in my skin. I glanced at the fuming, scowling ghost, but looked back immediately at the other side of the road, and the Hissi was gone. Marcos??

Kunbao, do back off from him or I will find a way to do so right now! Alice chided the Defender once more, but I had to speak at that moment.

They are gone, the one who was following us. I said quietly, but that was enough to make everyone stop.

Huh? Kunbao asked, confused.

What? Alice also asked, concerned.

There was a Hissi tailing us for a while, I think I saw them earlier on that crowd back at the edge of the forest, and I noticed they were tailing us, but I looked away and now they're gone. I explained more, maintaining my low voice because of my worry.

That's probably some nosy neighbor. The Koi said, but I had to insist on my suspicions.

I don't know, they were not only interested in overhearing us, but seemed to be very much enjoying overhearing the kids retell the story. The Kyrii mother gave me a concerned look, and then started looking around.

How awful, the nerve of some Neopets to behave like that! The Aisha commented.

Well, that is definitely unsettling... Kunbao answered, trailing off for a second. Such comely neighbors, huh? I guess we could do a check around just to see if this Neopet is gone.

If I could get my hands on this weirdo, I would knock some sense onto them! The Kyrii mother exclaimed, leading the two children towards the tall structure of the inn, which we were close enough to see from where we had stopped. Alice, Kunbao and I traded looks before we resumed following her. I just need to drop these two at the Inn with their brother and I will join the search.

That Neopet is probably gone by now... The Defender said.

Don't need to fret about it either way, Mrs. Jones, your children are safe, which is all that matters. Alice added.

They better be if they know better! The Kyrii insisted, looking around in anger. Ugh, now I'm all riled up.

Now, now, no need to get stressed over this, let's just get into your home and out of the streets. The pastel Aisha responded, and then we arrived at the older-looking log building owned by the family. The front door was opened by the young spotted Kyrii I recognized as the other child of Mrs. Jones, who seemed to pale when he noticed us.

Well, that's that, then. Kunbao turned away from the three, and then talked to us. Let's go search around for that creep to ease some suspicions, before I have to go do- He broke off with a dramatic sigh. Before I have to go do patrol duty...

Won't you stay any longer? I can make some dinner, and- And- Oh, I did go up to the attic the other day, and found the property's deed the other day, the one that my late husband's father signed- That was the first time that night that the Koi's face lit up as he heard that. Um- You were asking about this the other time, right? Neither Alice nor I knew what was this about as confirmed by our traded glances, we'd have to ask later.

Yes, of course. I guess it wouldn't hurt to stay for a little while. He said with a little too much enthusiasm.

Well, then, we can do the scouring around while you two chat over this curious topic. Alice responded with a certain irony.

Why don't you two stay as well? Wandering around in this cold night will do you no good to your health in particular, miss. The red Kyrii offered us, hopeful, and Alice grinned shaking her head. We had to decline.

No, no, we will be fine, things are busy tonight after all, and someone has to ensure that creep is indeed gone. Alice said, and I nodded along, and we both looked at Kunbao, who looked a bit embarrassed for being called out.

Too bad I can't make you... Just, stay safe out there. Things have been strange as of lately. She said to us so wholeheartedly, I nodded in response.

Rest your heart, we will, madam. Alice said with an assuring smile.

The Kyrii mumbled something to herself before leading her two children in to join with the third one, and the Defender followed her, and then the door was closed. Meanwhile, Alice and I walked back.

She seems really nice, I like her. I commented, and the Aisha chuckled in response.

I know, she's sweet, too bad she thinks I'm some hopeless little girl who knows nothing and needs to be protected, it does bother me a little. Alice responded, and I laughed in response.

Well, you do look young, and she is very motherly, she really must think you're the young and lonely heiress to the estate who has only two undead ghouls as friends. I said. Or so goes the rumors, right?

Right... Alice answered, sounding a little irritated, but she switched tones quickly. Oh, also, do you know anything about whatever is about Kunbao and that Kyrii? He requested to see her property's deed, after all, what does that have to do with anything with this investigation?

I shrugged. I really don't know, if he hasn't talked to you then that makes two of us.

Remind me later to press that Koi for answers about this. She said, pondering.

Alright!

I don't like secretiveness, it just makes me morbidly curious about said topics that are being hidden. I will go insane if I don't have my answers and it will be all his fault. I chuckled at her.

Also, was it just me, or was he exceptionally aggravated earlier? I grasped the moment to ask that question.

When they all came out of the forest? Alice asked, and nodded. I thought so too. There was even that moment where he seemed-

Like he was going to lash out at the crowd? I interrupted, completing her thought. So it wasn't just me who had thought that?

Yes, exactly, like he was about to snap over those awful comments that they were saying about the little girl. She frowned. Which, to be honest, I thought the same reaction, but it is not like it is going to be of any help to act on those thoughts.

Something is definitely bothering him... More than the usual. I said, and she nodded. Then, we had reached the spot where I had last spotted the strange Hissi, and pointed at the darker sidewalk. That was where they were, the strange yellow Hissi who was following us.

Well, it has been a couple of minutes, so they probably have had time to go further away to hide... I will be hoping over to the rooftops then, it'll give me a better field of vision, while you search down on the ground and keep an ear out for anything I call out, alright?

Uh-huh, sure thing. I nodded.

Great. Alice then looked around, and noticing we had a moment where no one was passing by this street close enough to spot us, she jumped upwards, propelled by her supernatural strength past the houses, and then she landed on them. She swiftly took off, hopping from ceiling to ceiling with her vampiric levity and grace, seeking intently. I just moved at my normal zombie pace, slow but steady, stopping to discreetly smell from time to time the region, in hopes of catching winds of that one specific Neopet.

With her bird's-eye-view and my ground view, we moved forward with our search, in hopes something would turn up... But everywhere I looked, from the few who were still wandering these lesser streets of Neovia, none were the one I saw earlier. There were a couple of Techo chimneysweeps who were coming from downtown, darkened with ash from head to toe; a Lenny who hoisted a large basket filled with what seemed like groceries with effort; a couple of Meerca maids who cackled about something they were whispering; and I even past a couple of kids, a pirate Ruki, a desert Usul and a little yellow Techo, who all tried to hide the fact they were spying me. But there was no Hissi, much less a yellow one. Sometimes I thought to look over my shoulder, as I had the odd sensation I was being watched by someone, but there was particularly no one behind me either times, nor there was any scent to corroborate that sensation. Perhaps I was growing paranoid from the nature of the earlier happenings, or was just tired, but it definitely felt odd, and I couldn't shake off the feeling whenever it happened.

After doing some fruitless searching and covering most of the neighborhood near the Inn, I met with Alice, who came down from a shorter house's rooftop in one light hop, hoisting her umbrella as if to somehow help break her fall. Looking at each other, we knew instantly that there was nothing that turned up from either of our searches, and Alice just sighed, frustrated.

Well it is decided then, whoever was that weirdo, they made away already with their sorry selves, before we could catch them. She said, disheartened. One can only hope they do not come back to torment Mrs. Jones or her children.

Yeah... I said, admitting defeat.

I don't know about them, but have you checked back with that woman?

Huh? I asked, looking around but finding no one but Alice. She gave an equally confused look back, after doing the exact same.

What? She asked.

Did you say something? I asked.

I thought you said something. Alice responded.

No?? I answered, even more confused.

Neither did I? She replied, matching my heightened confusion. Worry came over her face, and I knew what she would say next.

We should check back at the Inn, right? I asked.

Yes, immediately! Alice replied, with newfound fear.

And with that strange warning, or perhaps it was a taunt, we rushed back towards the Inn. From far away I could already tell something was wrong, as I first caught the faint smell of ash in the air. There was a crowd in the street it was situated despite it being late enough that the waxing moon was beginning to rise above the distant topiaries that lined the town. This crowd was agitated, and there was commotion beyond it, and when we pushed through the onlookers_ we saw the reason why. There was smoke coming out of the tall old building, and Neopets were rushing out of it, and from the group that had exited I could note the red Kyrii and her spotted Kyrii son, and some others who, by the types of apparel they were wearing, were probably patrons who were deep in slumber or around sleep time before this incident. Alice rushed over to the group, and I followed right after.

Is everyone alright? Did everyone get evacuated already? She asked promptly to the Kyrii mother, who turned from talking to some of the group who looked very terrified.

Fortunately, we are all alright, the fire was noticed early enough that we only have some 'pets with some smoke breathing problems from exiting. She seemed to maintain an admirable level of coolheadedness despite the situation. Also, I think that is all of us, your ghost friend is doing a last check in the rooms upstairs before he promised to deal with the fire.

Where are the children, were they out? I asked upon noticing their lack of presence.

Y- yes, I escorted all of them out myself-" The red Kyrii answered, her composure dropping like a mask as she looked around. "Oh my Fyora, WHERE ARE THEY?? NOAH?? MARIAH?? She screamed, quickly becoming frantic, and I could overhear the chatter from the crowd of onlookers that had gotten riled up with her reaction. Alice attempted to calm her down, holding onto the Kyrii's shoulders to focus her attention.

Shh, shh, if they are out, they are out, I do not think they would return into there, right? They would know better. The Kyrii mother thought for a second and nodded, still looking terrified. Kunbao exited the building at that time, and came over to the group promptly.

I just double-checked, everyone is out, is everything alright out here?? The Defender glared at the crowd, which seemed to quieten for a second from its furious gossiping with his gaze, and then looked back at us. I am going to be quelling the fire now, alright? I do apologize for any damage I cause to the structure.

Just- Just save my inn, please! The red Kyrii pleaded.

Right...

Kunbao went back into the building, which was producing a lot of smoke at this point, and you could even see some lights showing through, to work his water magic. Some minutes later, the smoke subdued, and the smell changed to that of wetness and washed up ash, which was a good sign, as it meant that our friend had dealt with the fire. I didn't even realize that the two Kyriis, mother and son, hadn't been around for a while, until Alice asked.

Did you see where they went?? To which I shook my head.

No, but they're probably looking for the two missing children, right?

Then we should look for them. And the two of us left the crowds and went around the neighborhood.

After a few minutes, we had almost given up hope in finding the family, but a familiar pair of smells directed me towards a nearby set of bushes in the edge of an empty lot. Alice followed me up to there, and upon poking around, I noticed how strange the shadows casted, and tried guessing my answer.

Are you two hiding because of something you did, or because of something else? The shadows went away, and Halloween Eyrie and the pink Kyrii were unveiled, their faces bearing nothing but terror.

The Halloween Eyrie started. We weren't trying to cause trouble, Mister Zombie, it's just-

Something was definitely stalking us! I don't know where or who, but we couldn't shake off this feeling something was skulking around that crowd and eyeing us. The pink Kyrii continued.

So we ran away and tried to hide! The Halloween Eyrie exclaimed.

But did you see anything? Alice asked. Do you know who was stalking you?

No! The two answered, and in between the fear in their faces and in their voices, I couldn't help but believe their story. I looked at Alice, who seemed to agree on that, and she said then, after mulling for a second.

Let us take you back to your mother, we will keep an eye out for whatever is threatening you.

Next Part Back Home

Roxanna

As I walked through the dark forest, stumbling from my exhaustion and clouded by eternal irritation from the hunger within me, yet again I found myself of the many things that I could have done differently to not have ended up like I was at the moment. My first and foremost regret, I should have never decided that running away from my pursuer, that estranged Elephante prince whose heart was tainted by my deeds like everything else I touched, into the depths of a forest so potent with dark magic, just because I too identified with said magic. I had once heard that the curse of said territory lied at the very heart of its ecosystem, a family or something of some sort, who drew in so much dark magic, that it darkened the trees and sky and spread like a blight, making it all become the Haunted Woods that it came to be. I had heard many had attempted to control this magic, which was at its most powerful underground of the town in the heart of these Woods, but I had not heard any tale of success, so it was definitely baseless arrogance of mine to think that perhaps I could possibly be the one meant for said task. Firstly because I could not find myself anymore lost than I currently was at the moment, and could not find a single living being for about a day or two I would guess, I had no way to be precise as the tainted skies made it hard to discern night from day. Sighing in frustration, I sat down at a particularly gnarly and large tree root to sulk and rest.

Granted, I was not one that many would like to approach, neither appearance-wise, as I had given up attempting to look approachable what seemed eons ago, and I also had poor control of my recently acquired shadow powers, overcasting a further darkness to my surroundings and producing all matter of strange phenomena including part of my outfit; nor personality-wise, and, in my defense, the few who I had come across in my way into this forest were found also to satiate my need for magic at least temporarily, although at their ultimate cost. But yet, at this point I was not only running deficient in magic to sustain me, I was too hungry in the most mundane way, having run out of all stolen food I had on me, and was beginning to get tempted to dig for Petpetpets, a rather shameful and grim outlook for who once could brag about being the heir of a patrician family. Oh, Mother of Darkness, you who have saved me once from the brink of death despite being long gone, could you not reach out once more and help me or guide me or do anything for me at all? What was the purpose of you bringing me back in this state after all? I pleaded in my mind, searching around in hopes of any sign, as minuscule as it could be, but yet, everything was dead still, and nothing could have given me any hint that I had received any message. I sighed once more, holding back my tears, I guessed it was only and solely me who could get myself out of this predicament.

My second regret, one that was slowly creeping within me and ate away at my very core of my being, was of assuming that this state I had come to be, this way I had been returned to life, was meant to be a good thing. I had first thought that my return to life was a gift from who I assumed could only have been Nyx, the very mother of darkness herself, given the powers I had been granted were of a dark nature. I thought perhaps that was meant as a second chance, and even took it as my permission to take revenge, not only on those who had led me to that mournful fate I was rescued from, but also upon all who had erred against me and brought me agony along my life. After all, what is the point of being brought back as a monster, if I were not to exact monstrously upon others of my choosing? Otherwise that would mean this was somehow penance, a fate worse than my previously sole alternative, a fear I was slowly becoming acquainted with, not to regard it as any lesser.

Perhaps, and this could be an even worse alternative, this was not penance nor a gift, but a joke, and, somehow, I was to be its acting clown, but that would be a very grim and awful alternative to think of. Nay, that could not be the nature of the One who had rescued me, right? The Mother of Darkness was not someone I knew of much besides my family's blood lineage to her disciples, but one would think said powerful, mythical being would have been kind or at least attentive to her followers.

Perish this thought! This had to be a gift, but she was not expecting me to earn it so easily, that could only be it. Also, necromancy was bizarre as magical arts even to those who were more aligned with dark magic, perhaps this could only have been a consequence of said inherent forbiddenness, where even the most powerful being who was best equipped to delve into such arts could not properly bring one back from the afterlife, not in the same state as prior, at least. Even I had previously attempted it, although not on a normal body but on the statue of my beloved faerie mentor whose end was met so suddenly because of my mother's sudden visit, but I had no success and only distress from attempting all spells I could come across to revive her. I had heard of the undead before, that would be a case of natural necromancy, correct? Although they were very rare in Altador, I knew to expect that here, in these Haunted Woods, they would be more common, although I had not seen any so far, along with the missing living. I hoped that was not the case for me, I was not living on some sort of borrowed time or odd exception to the rule of eventuality, although some details of the tales I had heard of said creatures aligned very strongly with my own, to my horror.

Another hunger pang struck, and I found myself doubling over, reconsidering the idea of the Petpetpets as my hand reached over to the damp, discolored soil nearby the root I was sitting on, but something made me stop. At first, it was a strange sensation, a feeling of offness that I could not figure out what it meant or how it came to be, but it grew deep within my spirit. I grew still as I felt the strangeness within develop into its true identity, dread, which grew so entrenched and so intense within me, I felt as if my very being was in danger at that very moment. I looked around, hoping to pinpoint something that could have been the source of my affliction, but at first nothing distinguished itself from the shadows of my own creation and of the light's casting of the topiaries onto everything beneath them, and the only change I could note was that the dampness of the air was condensing into thick fog as the temperature cooled with the lowering of the darkened-out sun. And yet, this fearful sensation I had was so real, I could only doubt my perception of reality, as there had to have something instilling these sudden, alien feelings.

Something caught my attention from the edges of my vision, a movement not of the physical but of the same shadows of the forest, but not caused by the wind, which had coincidentally come to a still at that very moment, but by a distant source of light. I watched intently as the shadows moved away from said source in a way that gave away its approaching direction, before realizing the very consequences of said perception. Quickly, I drew in all of my shadows, and cast them over me as if they were a sheet, hoping this was enough to hide me from said horrific thing that was coming in my direction. Because of my spell, I had reduced vision as I cowered beneath the shadows, but that was going to be of little help regardless, as, in my last attempt to safeguard myself, I closed my eyes and held my breath like a child in bed who was scared of the monster that possibly hid just beyond their perception. I had little other agency either way, as I felt so overtaken by terror, I could not even think of anything else that could have been done in that moment, so I just waited and hoped it was all going to be over soon.

The silence that ensued was an eternity played out in slow pace, and although I did refuse to look or move, I did eventually have to attempt to breathe, as my lungs ached for new air, so I attempted the quietest, slowest breaths possible, so to not make any noise. In my mind, all assortments of ideas flew past, as I could only tell from the very sensation of fear that installed itself within me that whatever that was that came to here, it certainly was not gone. I attempted to figure out by listening to any cues that could give hint as to what was, in fact, happening, but not only the forest was otherworldly silent, but whatever was around did not in fact make any noise for all of this time. That is, until I heard a soft chuckle, and, finally, a voice.

Awww, I thought there was someone around here... Well, that is too bad, I had hoped we could have fun together, but, oh well, it is what it is, I guess I should just move on from here.

I feared the concept of fun whoever this was had, and foolishly hoped they were being sincere with their announcement of their leave.

Instead, I was swept up from the ground as if I was pulled by something like a large sling, and all I could do is scream helplessly. I felt my body be wrapped by the same sling, that coiled around me and constricted me so I could not move limb or part, and was uncomfortably hot, in fact I felt like I was being burnt wherever I was touched. I attempted to fight, yelling and putting all of my strength on thrashing around, but I was immobilized, and all my efforts were punished with even more tightening, which was already leaving me without much air.

Well, well, look at you, what a cute little kitten... You really thought you were doing something by hiding with your magic, but, honestly, even if I was an absolutely powerless idiot, I could have been able to tell there was something fishy going on with a random patch of misplaced darkness against a tree, you know?

I refused to look, I could not look, it was irrational and idiotic but at that moment, all I had was irrationality and idiocy stemming from my fear. And yet, just like I could feel the creature coiled around me too tightly, and burned me too strongly causing me to gasp for air and for coolness. I could feel their face close to mine, I could feel their heated breath like that of a skulking predator, I could not help myself but imagine their open jaw with sharp teeth protruding next to my face, and every word gave me shivers from the danger I felt was in.

I just wonder, what are you, exactly, and why do you smell different? I could track you for over a mile, you have some serious issue keeping your magic under control... Almost like it doesn't belong to you... Almost like... It's too chaotic for your own good.

I had no idea what they were talking about, but I also had no time to think about it. I attempted once again to fight, but this was proving to be useless, and I had no idea what I was fighting against, which made it much more difficult for me to ascertain an alternate plan. My captor continued to ramble, and I could feel them moving around, inspecting me for something, as I was bent in different directions by the coils of whatever was tightening around me.

And now that I am up close, I can tell something is really up, because you smell... Familiar, but not in a way I expected. I mean, I am probably right, also I had seen this happen before, I mean, not in the same way, but I've hunted down creatures that came to be from the magic manifesting itself into life, I mean, but uh- You are not the entire thing?? Which is weird, I think this is the first time I've seen this happen, for whatever reason, you are a fragment, which sucks because that means I have to hunt down the rest of you, but also, could this be the reason why you have so much trouble with your magic? That is really interesting, now I am curious.

Gathering up a vestige of courage from the depths of my being, I squinted my eyes open, and was immediately met with glowing white irises within burning eyes, set on a gargoylian face of a Hissi made of burning brimstone that shone so bright, I was nearly blinded from the proximity. I closed my eyes once more, not only out of fear but for my own sight's protection, as my eyes teared up from the terrible brightness.

OH- Oh-ho, wait a minute, I saw that! Yellow eyes, yellow eyes, are you one of Her little dolls?? Lemme see again!! Show me! Show me!!

I was squeezed once more by their body, letting out a squeak of weakness and desperation. Once more, I had no idea what was going on, and, on top of that, my eyes were pried open with their wing claws, flooding my sight with insurmountable brightness, and, this time, my crying was not only reactive to it, but also to the helplessness of my situation.

A-yup, I knew it! Then maybe I was mistaken, perhaps you were not what I was looking for, you just smell similar enough because of Her influence. What are you doing here, lost deep within this random forest? I thought your sort always stuck together to get Her biddings done, or at least you had things to do... Unless... Ah- Hahaha! Are you one from of Her failed attempts at invading? Did little you manage to rebel and stop Her plans? I always wanted to find one of those, I mean, She always ranted and rambled about them for your ultimate betrayal, it really made Her angry, which, I mean, it is always funny, so I guess, kudos for entertaining me by proxy. Too bad it is dumb and useless to do such a thing, but tell me, why did you do it? I want to hear it from the horse's mouth, just out of curiosity. Their grip loosened just enough that I could breathe once more, and my eyes were freed from their forced opening, but I was still ensnared by their serpentine body, and burned by their heat.

I do not know what you are talking about! I am an Altadorian Kougra by birth, and nothing else! I exclaimed, exasperated and still very much terrified.

Noooo... Absolutely no freaking way! You have all the telltale signs that you are some sort of freak of nature of the sorts that She makes as Her little servants, including your eyes, I mean, yellow and glowing like that, that's literally Her signature look, she gives it to them all on purpose!

My eyes...? I had noted previously that my appearance had changed once I had been reborn, but had not put too much thought into it, as I had higher priorities in mind and was not about to complain about this when I had been just regifted my life. If Nyx, who I thought had saved me, did in fact cause this physical change, then who was I to complain about it either way, and under what pretense as well? Also, this horrifying Hissi knew of Nyx, or at least had some level of familiarity, perhaps then talking about it would be beneficial to my very current cause.

The Mother of Darkness made me this way when I was reborn, saved by her grace. She also granted the magic that I control now. A loud scoff came from the monster.

Is that what She decided to call Herself within here? What a pretentious name! And also, way to steal my gimmick, I am the one with many names, that's my whole thing!

Perhaps that was a misjudged position, as this answer certainly irritated my captor.

Grr, I can't wait until I show Her, She's so petty and mean and a jerk, I hate Her so much!

Perhaps I was too weak, I was very certain my fate was sealed there and then, mainly when I heard their next words. I shuddered in their grip, my heart almost leaping out of my chest, abhorring my situation and condemning my every step that had led me here.

Well, so go figure, you're not one of Her automatons, but some rando who She decided to make Her personal favorite? The monster let out an ominous chuckle. Then this will be extra fun...

I wailed in fear, praying within with all of my might that anyone, anything, could save me, and tears rolled as I felt their approaching maw. Oh Mother of Darkness, Nyx, you had saved me previously, was it to end like this? Please do not be so! Please reach out and rescue your most fateful follower, please, I beg of you!

Oh, for goodness's sake, just leave her alone, you pest.

Aha! And so She reveals Herself! I knew it, You were watching after all!

Yes, big deal, you figured out the obvious, but do not get your hopes up, I wasn't even minding you until you intruded into the scene.

Aw, you hurt me this way... Just kidding, although I do not believe you, I did notice you a while back, gazing at me.

I really have far greater things to deal with than flies like you, buzzing around, attempting to steal my attention from the things that matter.

What... Was happening? Who was my captor speaking to? I once more squinted my eyes open, and tried glancing around, but no one was there, confirming what I had already noted with my other senses, we were the only ones there, and yet, the Hissi was speaking to thin air as if there was someone there.

Oooh, you've made me interested! I want to know, what is it? A new sort of invasion? I had noticed you didn't send anyone here, I was hoping to greet either old friends, or at least I thought I'd find them here, since I could tell this reality has already been tampered with-

Do not attempt to get chummy with me, traitor! Or do you think I'd forget your and your sister's attack on me so quickly? Also, do you think I'd not catch wind of you coming in and doing your own scavenging? You may somehow cheated yourself into untrackability, but I can tell from the mess you leave behind in the universes you visit that you were there and what you have done.

Whoopsie, busted! Haha, I mean, who cares? Only you right? Because it makes things more difficult for you? So yes, I'll take full accountability! Die mad about it!

You insolent, arrogant idiot! You are literally sabotaging everything we all have worked for, and you are happy about it? Are you happy that our city will be destroyed by her? Are you happy that we'll lose to her because you and your sister decided that you wanted to throw a communal tantrum? Are you that obtuse and narrow-minded??

Blah blah blah blah you said you personally would hunt down my sister and deal with her, and told us you couldn't care less if we were gone. Now you're acting like we're personally responsible for your failure or success. Pick a story and stick to it, jeez!

I tried wriggling once more while the Hissi was still distracted speaking to the unseen and unheard party, and, in an instance of desperation, attempted a crazy passing thought, and sunk my teeth onto their body with all of my effort.

You want me to pick a side? How about this: I hope you both d-

YOWCH!! I was dropped from the few feet up in the air that my captor was hovering on, to the forest ground once more, knocking my wind out and hurting my body from the tumble. AARGH! WHAT THE HECK??

I got up on a struggling stumble, opening my eyes once more to survey my surroundings and attempt to figure out the best escape route. I scurried off onto a certain direction, but I had little balance and kept on falling from the twisted roots that projected above the soil.

Hah! Pathetic!

Oooh, now you've done it! I did not need to look behind to know they were after me, but I did not realize until almost too late that they sent a blast of burning magic towards me, which I had to dodge quickly, leading me to fall in the crevasse in between two particularly large trees.

Didn't I tell you to leave her alone?? Cease at once or I will personally deal with you!

What?? The Hissi exclaimed to the nothing, as I attempted to get back up to run, but found myself struggling as I realized I had twisted my ankle on the fall. Why?? That's so annoying, look at the bite I got!! I hope this doesn't get infected, or I get some sort of gross alien planet rabies or something!

You got bitten by your own fault, this was the second time I told you to leave her alone. Do not make me repeat myself a third time, Virgil, I do not have much patience left wih you, and I have only not dealt with you until now because you are insignificant to me on the grander scale of things. Do not force me to deal with you, permanently this time!

How edgy... Okay, whatever, it'd have been boring either way! Bye!

And with that, I could tell they were going away, as the casted shadows caused by their presence shifted and grew longer, and the terror they had brought along was slowly fading from within me.

I could not comprehend what had just happened, and why was I spared, or even how, but yet, I sat on the forest ground as alive as previously, thanks to some unknown savior who sent off my captor. No, I should know who was the one responsible for once more rescuing me, who could be, if anyone else but Nyx, the Mother of Darkness herself, who granted me my powers and new life, and now had scared the monster who was after me. In my thoughts I was ever so thankful for her thorough kindness and help, and even reprimanded myself for my earlier doubts.

I got up once more, and limped onwards, resuming once more my search for said heart of the Haunted Woods, and also search for anyone who wandered through this forest, with renewed hope and perseverance. I may have been lost in here, but I knew I was not alone, and that was enough to keep me going.

What a sappy thought, what a nuisance... Well, as long as you're useful, I guess I am stuck listening to you.

Next Part Back Home

William Blake Jr.

Do you know? Do you know? Have you heard the news? Hyde started from behind her grotesque mask.

What? That Halloween is around the corner and the Children of Nyx plan on something big and elaborate for that special occasion when spirits are high, and the festivities are running? Berga asked with his borrowed Esophagor likeness.

No, we knew that already. Hyde responded.

Then what? Is it the fact that mayoral elections are going to happen soon and Neovia will be up in chaos as they try to vote in someone who isn't a crude jerk? Berga asked once more.

... No. Actually, why do you follow that? Aren't we way too young to be involved in this sort of adult stuff? You're fifteen. Hyde asked in response.

I mean, it's not like we can escape it... Berga responded.

Is it that there are rumors of Neopets going missing in the depths of the horrifyingly spooky forest that surrounds us from all locations, more than usual, and now townspets are growing afraid of getting in and out, and even the mayor put an advisory against traveling through the Haunted Woods? Dracus asked from behind her horned helmet.

I actually hadn't heard of that, no, that is legit concerning. No, it's not that either. Hyde responded once more, with growing annoyance in her voice.

Ooh- Ooh- Is it about how the ghost Koi seems to be failing to keep up with all the things that keep on happening around town and that the police keeps on passing onto him, and that is making his already faint reputation spiral down the drain as he keeps on losing and just barely missing out on no-gooders and evil-doers and other troublemakers? Titania asked loudly with excitement, her face obscured by her large butterfly mask.

No, although that is sort of funny- And we are contributing to that, aren't we? Hyde responded.

I guess it's very funny to see how that wannabe hero gets mad every time he barely misses us! Titania exclaimed. Yes... But I meant other news- Hyde tried to continue on, but was quickly cut off.

Then is it the story of the south town inn that caught fire, and apparently it was not accidental, because they found a suspicious oil lighter out back where the trash pile sits next to the inn? Berga asked, interrupting Hyde.

No! Hyde finally snapped, but then immediately second-guessed herself. Actually- It is related. It's about Ma-

Shh- You can't speak real names here, you know that! Berga interrupted.

Ugh- Fine. It's about Apollyon! Le- Hyde caught herself this time, and with an irritated sigh, corrected herself. Ezra says that she possessed a giant monster doll he had made, and took off to chase after Noh- Nemo for whatever reason.

Wow! Dracus commented.

That's awful! Exclaimed Titania.

The demon child of the innkeeper is finally showing her bad side. Berga affirmed with a serious tone.

Apollyon never did anything like that before! Is that right? Titania asked.

It's what Ezra told the Ghost Defender and his mother. Hyde responded.

Then maybe it was a mistake? Titania squealed.

What sort of mistake is that where one turns against their own family like that? Also, come on, don't be naive, she has already turned against her friends, us! Berga confronted Titania.

W- what-

Now, you cannot just conclude that from her attitude, Apollyon is brash and quite stubborn- Dracus started, but Berga promptly interrupted her.

And she had been since the beginning against our leader's plans, our plans, as well as our group!

She is just worried that we're doing bad things and we're going to get caught! Titania cried out.

She also turned the others against us, or do you think it's just so coincidental that they all said the exact same things that Apollyon accused us of? Or do you forget how the fight on our last meeting went? Berga snapped at Titania, who stepped back, away from the rugged faced one.

Now, she may not have actually said anything to them, Apollyon only speaks her mind freely. Hyde interjected.

Just by doing that she managed to pull our group apart. What are we going to do with our plans for crashing the Halloween festivities in town, when we are only five now! Berga responded, irate.

Six, Jack is still on our side, and from what I've talked to him he will try to find a way to escape his punishment to join us. And seven, if Nemo is also coming. Dracus commented.

Still, that is not enough, we were almost caught the last time by the Ghost Defender. Our strength is in numbers, and that includes in our escape strategy! Berga exclaimed.

That is true. Dracus agreed.

Apollyon's constant criticisms and then straight up disobedience on our last mission, almost derailing of our plans and causing us to almost get caught motivated Ezra and Endor to dare speak up against Scarecrow! They accused our leader of going too far, and then, when they wouldn't listen to the logic behind his rage, they just decided to ditch us! Then, Xenos and Brigid just stopped appearing altogether right after, and have been too angered at us! Berga exclaimed.

That is true, I got scowled at by Xenos the other day for just attempting to approach him. Hyde commented.

Her influence is bad, and we should have seen it from the start. It was a mistake to ever let her in our group, or even befriend her, look what she did to us. Look what she did to her adoptive brother, now! Berga continued his rationale. We should be thankful she has never turned her powers against us like that.

I always thought she did come off as kind of creepy... Dracus commented.

And extremely self-serving. She never does anything without having something in it for her. Hyde added.

And she has always been so selfish, I mean, she never really cared to help us out with her powers, unlike our leader! Berga commented, turning to face yours truly, the young Moehog in a husk mask who had only been watching the group. The other masks followed suit, with Titania being the last, and most hesitant of the group.

I guess she is kind of all of that... She commented quietly, clearly seeking for my opinion, whether be antagonistic or sympathetic, and a second of silence made its way in the conversation before I decided on what to say.

Apollyon has always been a difficult character, perhaps more than she realizes within her own idea of self. She is brash, impulsive, antipathetic, sardonic and overall unpleasant to deal with, mainly when she decides herself against you... And that can be quite troublesome even to herself, but also to others.

Most of the masked faces looking at me nodded as well as verbally cued in agreement.

I do not regret my confrontation of her foolishness that night we raided the police station, and I do not regret her eventual departure from our group. I guess one can only say it was fated to happen, considering even at a personal level, the two of us never got along together. I looked directly at the masked Shoyru. I am sorry, Titania, despite my best attempts I failed to befriend your dear friend.

Titania looked down in shame while Berga yelled. Who cares?? We're better off without her! The issue is with the others also being gone!

Now, I do understand your heightened concerns, Berga, and I hear you, but there is no need to raise your voice like that. I continued. We must rejoin our numbers if we are to succeed on our Halloween night plans, and for that, the best approach is to quite literally approach and reason with them.

Not to be negative, but uh- The others left on a bad note, B- Uh, Scarecrow. Dracus interjected. I don't think it's as easy as to just 'reason with them' to bring them back. She reinforced "reason with them" with quotation marks done with her fingers.

We can, if we can derive a strategy, which can be thought out from context clues, Dracus. Now, it was Ezra who witnessed the events that unfolded regarding the possessed doll that Apollyon chased after Nemo with, correct? I asked.

Right. Hyde responded.

That is one link we can easily reforge, then, is it not? One only needs to reason properly with him, appeal to one's common sense, that one would not side with a villain mainly after witnessing their vile doings. I explained.

Hyde hesitated. Do... Do you mean to...

I went on further explaining. Only use the truth and solely the truth! The truth of the matter is, if Apollyon did indeed turn against her own adoptive brother, whatever may be the reason, then what moral standing does she have to inspire others?

Yeah! You're right! That is such a hypocritical thing for her to do! Berga commented, enthusiastically angered.

And what sort of Neopet would willingly join in one's moral when their actions are so corrupt? I asked.

I guess it makes sense. Hyde commented.

Ezra will have to confront himself about this, and come to the only conclusion that we were correct to begin with, and Apollyon was wrong. I continued on arguing.

Perhaps he can even convince Endor, since the two are closest together. Dracus added.

The others can also be approached similarly, although it is best to wait until these two are back with us. Then, they will see how this was all a gross misunderstanding, and their detachment was unneeded. I concluded. And, with that, we isolate and quickly repair the damage that Apollyon has done to our group.

What... What about Nemo and Jack? Dracus asked with concern.

What about them? I asked back, matching her tone.

Don't you think that- Well- Dracus glanced at the others apprehensively. Saying those things to the others, won't they get protective of her? I mean, they're her brothers, or well, half-brother and step-brother.

Hm. I thought to myself for a second, but a second was more than enough to have the necessary answer. Well, we approach them as well. I mean, what sort of family lets one pick on the other, right? It sounds extremely unfair and utterly horrendous, and I think Jack would be inclined to agree.

I guess it makes sense. Dracus said with hesitation.

And so there you have it, our solution to the conundrum of the impending failure of our Halloween parade raid plan! I said, smugly satisfied with myself.

Hooray! Our leader is great and very intelligent! Berga cheered.

Nothing in this town can stop us! Hyde followed up.

Not even the spiteful Apollyon! Dracus continued the trend.

Not even the Ghost Defender! Titania squealed as well.

And we won't stop for anything nor anyone, until this town is ours for the taking! I exclaimed, to everyone's differing degrees of surprise, but the masks all came to agree with me.

Yes!

Hooray!

We'll show them!

So let us part, renewed in our hopes! Remember yourselves and the others, we are the Children of Nyx, and we follow our wills before anyone else's! Fate has given us an opportunity to get back at all those who wrong us, and we have all embraced it! I exclaimed with increasing gusto. Let nothing stand in our way!

Anything that does will meet our wrath!

They won't know what hit them!

Or who hit them!

And, with that, our meeting had concluded, each of our masked selves going off to our normal lives for now. Latter at home, on the lonely dinner table where only Miss Lyanna, the Cybunny maid who took care of me, and I were sitting, which reflected on the tablecloth being half-neatly folded in half under the plates and cups, the breadbox and the other containers of things that were customary to be consumed at this meal. I found myself ravenously devouring through dinner, as the excitement from earlier had made me very, very hungry. The maid chuckled at my hurriedness going through my meal.

Now, now, Little William, your dinner won't hop off the table before you do, slow down or you will choke.

Swallowing some food, I quipped back at her. Now, are you sure of that? Because I did see the asparagus wiggle like a jiggly little green worm for a second there, perhaps it is best I put it to rest quickly. She scoffed, shaking her head.

My, you are surely becoming far livelier in these recent months. I told your mother that good fresh air would do you wonders, you were always so sickly and sad when you were younger, and I had to insist so much with her to let you wander outside. I continued to eat, but tried to pace myself as Miss Lyanna recommended, yet I found it hard to keep a slower pace given how hungry I felt.

I mean, we still have some discussions from time to time, she isn't really fond of your little friends, she thinks they do maffick too much and that is a bad influence to you, especially those troublesome orphans and the south town innkeeper's children. I live near that inn, and I'll tell you, that place creeps me out! That innkeeper is trouble, I swear, she allows anyone to go into there, even ghouls! I mean, considering her half-demon child, you'd think it's no surprise... Finishing my food, I noticed she had stopped eating hers as she was too busy staring off at a distance and ranting, as usual. I just listened to her, but I still felt hunger, and reached for the bread box almost instinctively. She glanced at me with a concerned look, but then continued on ranting.

Also, that inn is very cursed, did you know that this is not even the first time that an evil spawn like that happens? They should burn that whole place down... Oh, my, now that reminds me, didn't someone try that the other day? Too bad I guess they didn't succeed, the building was still up when I passed by there this morning. I was somehow still hungry, and I glanced at her food, half-untouched on her plate, but then decided that it was best to distract myself, as my lack of restraint and excess appetite felt very unusual.

Where is Mother tonight? Another social event? I asked more out of resigned custom than actual curiosity. Mother was never home for me to meet with her, and the few times I ran into her purple Moehog likeness were never the sort that stuck very much, as she was always too caught up in her own schedule to speak more than formalities with me.

Tonight is a pre-election town hall meeting, you know, all the stuff sorts will be there, vouching for their favored like-minded Neopet that will do them the right favors. It practically is a requirement your mother attend to said meeting, given her generous donation to that snarling Red Yurble, I forget his name. I knew exactly who she was referring to, and snarling was the least of all worries one could have with him. Why him, Mother? What is the use of a Neopet whose main characteristic is his outbursts of anger and frustration at the smallest things? Even I could run this town better than him, and I was only fourteen.

... Any news from Father? A question I knew the answer to.

Busy working on other lands, I would guess. I don't recall your mum mentioning him recently, so probably there's no letters?

I see... I stared at her plate, still ravenous, and had to peel away my attention on purpose, and Miss Lyanna, who already had noticed my behavior, frowned and then scoffed at me.

William, if you wanted seconds, you could have just asked, boy! But you are like a bottomless pit today, aren't you? Can't help yourself, I see! She got up and took my plate to the kitchen to serve more food.

Next Part Back Home

I see you.

Kunbao, back again

With everything that kept on happening, I thought it was utterly idiotic this town was going to have a political debate right before Halloween.

... And I ended up dropping my bottles while running away from the attacks, and they all shattered! Can you if I had any- Uh- Thing, in these bottles? I would have lost all of my work then, I mean, it is already quite some work to make those bottles, and to-

Your work that constitutes in trapping Faeries to sell them to others. I stated, already cross with this Lupe that was thrice my height and twice my width, who had called me into the forest to talk, away from the edge of the town, as to obviously avoid the enforcement of any arrest warrants the Neovian Police had out for him. If I hadn't thought at first his plea for help was regarding something serious, like a sighting of whatever was that creature I saw a while back, or the Altadorian runaway, I wouldn't have given even a drop of a thought to this cowardly scoundrel who clearly had bitten more than he could chew this time.

Now, you can't say that, Defender, I am an honest Neopet, those are serious accusations you're making against me!

I was nowhere near figuring out that group of demons, and I was nowhere near figuring out how I'd deal with both creatures responsible for the disappearances... I also had a myriad of smaller strange occurrences that went unresolved like the monster thing that pursued those kids the other day and the attempted arson of the Inn... Everything was just promptly and conveniently handed off to me, as the Neovian Police could not care less to do anything beyond their protection of the richer regions of the town, which did not come as a surprise, only as an irritation. And, to top it all off, I was being swamped over with every single sort of entanglement that happened in and around town, from petty theft to whatever in the name of Queen Fyora was this now...

Besides, it doesn't matter whatever happened to lead up to our encounter, or how it started, only that those Faeries seemed very dangerous, as they attacked me and chased me off! How can you call yourself a Defender or have you not of these parts if you cannot guarantee even safe travel in the nearby region? I gritted my teeth, wishing so deeply I could just resort to brute force right then, my patience had never been thinner than dealing with this self-entitled scoundrel.

The Haunted Woods have never been safe for single travel, and, as a matter of fact, travel advisories have been issued to the residents of this town and the surrounding area, as there has been a string of attacks and disappearances in recent times nearby here. You should know better than to risk yourself like that, consider yourself lucky to be alive.

The gruff blue Lupe raised his eyebrow. Oh? That sounds excessive. You know, I am from these Woods, and-

Why are you wasting my time?? I hissed back, my patience having quickly dissipated. I have more pressing matters to deal with than- Than whatever is this! A quickly reminded fact I knew about this questionable character made for a quicker slip of the tongue. It is not like I could care less about your little sob story as to why you're scared of Faeries, you definitely deserve even more than what you are whining about! The Lupe's expressions were clear as water, disbelief, anger, even hurt, which only made me even madder with him.

How dare you... He growled back.

Tell me one good reason as to why I should not just beat you up and drag you to jail myself... I doubled down, and, despite all his height and muscle, the blue Lupe stepped away and scuttered off deeper into the trees, tail in between his legs. I pondered for a minute if I should actually do that, it would be a benefit for the world if scoundrels like him were dealt with accordingly instead of letting them go... But I decided against that campaign just on the fact that it would probably take the rest of the afternoon to find him, and I had other things to do after all, unfortunately.

As I headed back towards the edge of town, I suddenly became very aware of something that made a chill run down my spine... Was I being watched? I looked around at the dreary, dark forest, where the nearby tree trunks were just streaks of lesser darkness, dimly lit by my own noncorporeal glow, and further out was populated by unknown shadows that seemed to move off the corner of my vision. I could hear some noises, or so I thought, but yet, when I focused on my listening, attempting to discern any noise in particular, I realized it was all too eerily quiet. I knew I had to get out of there, as I had a brief reminder of what had happened some weeks prior, and I did as much, trying to ignore the trees that I was passing through instead of making my way around. As I sped through the forest, I heard some distinctive noises that indicated someone lurking ahead of me, prompting me to stop and watch carefully as I prepared myself to attack. The noises continued to grow, the cra.ckling of branches and leaves audibly approaching me, and I tensed up, a thousand thoughts and plans rushing through my mind.

The recognizable antennae of an Aisha were the first thing I noticed from the approaching shadow, and I quickly realized who was coming into the glow light that I cast. Alice?? I exclaimed, angered and yet relieved.

Kunbao?? She hurried over to me, the branches and leaves now crunching loudly as to confirm whose steps I had been hearing. What is happening? What has you so troubled? I didn't want to be rude and accuse her of startling me, so I commented something else that was half-true.

I... I think I have been living in your mansion for too long at this point... The Woods feel far spookier than I remember. Alice sighed, frowned and then shook her head.

Your complaints are the inanest at times. It's almost like you want to get hurt! She exclaimed, to which I just scoffed in response.

Let's... Let's just get out of here. I mumbled, leading my way out of the forest as I still felt a lingering unease that didn't let me be. I could tell the vampire Aisha was right behind me, and perhaps I was moving too fast, as I heard her stumble and complain under her breath, but I just could not bear to stay within the woods any longer.

At some point before I made my way past the limit of the wilderness, I felt once again that overwhelming feeling I had earlier, but our escape back into town alleviated some of the subsequent fear. I looked back, my eyes directly meeting with Alice's aggravated expression, but I wasn't caring that much about the chiding I was about to receive, there was something following us, or so I thought as I looked back and forth into the trees. And yet, there was nothing there, no movement at all, no strange shadow that I could accuse, and, when I met once again with my friend's eyes, she looked far more concerned, glancing back and forth in between me and behind her.

Do you see something?? Alice asked, and I shook my head.

No... She looked once again behind her, and then back at me.

Let's just get out of here before I get concerned as well.

Opening her parasol despite the sun already being at a lower point in the sky, Alice quickly headed out from the shade of the canopies and ahead of me, and so I followed, in silence. We moved through the streets of the town, past the gawkers that were always curious about my existence, and finally we reached the Neovian River, where we followed along its banks, away from the crowding of the road above. Alice slowed down, letting go of her dress she was grasping so tightly so the hem wouldn't get in her way, and I could tell she was less uneasy now that we were deep within civilization, echoing my sentiment.

So... She spoke up, and I looked at her, forgetting for a second my concerns. I went around the neighborhood in South Town, trying to question any Neopets nearby that inn in regards to the night of that fire... I had asked her to do that, although I feared I knew what was the result already. Nothing came up! No one apparently saw anything, despite everyone being out in the streets that night, because of the whole thing with the monster that chased the children! It was like a ghost did it! I winced at that last comment, and she turned towards me to see that. Sorry about that. The lady corrected herself.

Well... I had a feeling this would happen. No one would want to rat on something they all thought was good. I mumbled, bitter at how their torment was never ending, even after my-

How is lighting a family's inn on fire good? Alice had halted on her steps as we approached a bridge that crossed the river far above us, connecting the roads on both sides of the river, and she turned around to yell at me. What sort of cruel mentality is that? How can you say that?

I don't agree with what I said, Alice! I'm just saying what I know about this, that is how they think! I confronted her back, and she frowned, backing off.

That is quite the assumption to make... It could be this was something of more criminal nature, like a distraction for an attempted robbery, or something of the sort.

No, that's not the case. I insisted, irritated with her at this point.

How do you know that? You know, assuming the most negative possibility is not a good approa-

Because I know the rumors never stopped, alright! Because I know everyone still talks about this inn as cursed, and they all wish it would burn down! The Aisha frowned even further, confusion and concern taking her over, and the impetus that I felt a moment earlier left me, so I gave up on trying to explain. And- Well, it is what it is, but I can't let these sorts do that.

Alice looked at me for the longest time, before responding with a simple question. Are you related to the innskeeper's family?

No. I responded, which only added to her confusion. But the inn used to be my father's back when I was alive. I recognized it the very first time I saw it, the streets may have changed, but the place is still the very same, even the name is the exact as when my father ran it. I clarified. He sold it to that Kyrii's husband's family... After the things that happened... And, from what the current innskeeper told me, the story was that he left town, to Neopia Central...

Oh... Alice's face saddened, and I felt somewhat ashamed to admit that, almost like it was a bad thing, and the prolonged silence didn't help. Was that why you asked the Defenders to search some living records the other day?

Yes, yes it was. I admitted.

Kunbao, I don't... Why didn't you tell me anything about this? I could have helped-

I didn't want to involve you, or Marcos. I glowed red with shame, looking down to avoid her worried eyes. And I could do this by my own, it's not like it's anything major or relevant to the cases or anything...

Yes, but it is relevant to you! No wonder you are acting so strangely protective over that place, I mean, it is personal to you-

It's not just that! I exclaimed. I am also trying to do my job, and the police's job as well, since they couldn't care less, someone has to care about these things!

I don't disagree with you in there, and you know my personal opinion of all those blue-suited bums downtown... But I also have noted that you have been especially on edge as of recently. Even Marcos noted that to me. I was reminded of something that had happened a while back that was still irking me, but that was quickly overshadowed by my irritation with Alice's concern for me.

Well, that's rich coming from you two. I responded, to which the pastel Aisha rolled her eyes. I'm only stressed because of this job, which I had no say to begin with!

Here we go, yet again.

I haven't had a single moment of peace ever since I returned to town! I raged, and yet, because of my restrictive vocal abilities, I found myself yet again unable to fully express my frustration. I get pulled into doing the stupidest things ever because I'm a Defender, which already add onto the pile of ongoing investigations I'm doing, because no one else is doing them. And because everyone thinks I'm their communal nanny, it's frankly ridiculous! Why am I being requested to supervise the security in this stupid political debate that's happening today? I have close to nil knowledge in any of this! All that I know is that they're asking to be attacked by that group that has been terrorizing Neovia, but that's no revelation, and if they didn't think of that beforehand, the organizers of this event are either stupid or arrogant. I was at my limit with everyone and everything happening in this town, and the only reason why I didn't just give up was because I felt like I had already gotten myself deep enough in this whole mess, and was already entangled myself in all of it. And, also, there was the question of the dangers lurking in the Haunted Woods that not only were too my responsibility to deal with, somehow, but also impossibilized my return to my original location, the swamp north of town, away from everyone and everything. I felt very tired, perhaps the most tired I had felt ever in my undead years, and yet I could not find peace.

You are the one who had been on those demons' tails, it is just natural that they thought you would know best what to do. Besides, you know this is the best opportunity you have to catch whoever are the culprits behind those acts, from their growing pattern of attacking institutional locations and important parts of Neovia in an increasingly extravagant fashion, this would be exactly what they're seeking! I knew that, that was obvious, but yet, that still didn't make me any less peeved at all of this! I was about to respond, when I overheard a few rocks tumble down the bridge that overpassed us, prompting me to look at it.

Not noticing anyone, I looked back down, and my eyes met once again with Alice's, who was still looking up from under her parasol with a puzzled look. She turned to me, and then whispered, It's the Jones kids from what I can smell. Looking back up, she called them out. We saw you two! Come out from over there, you are not doing a good job hiding! Some distant onlookers stopped when they overheard my friend's call, but quickly resumed their walk away with disinterest.

A particularly guilty-faced dark Eyrie with skeletal markings, and a nervous-looking pink Kyrii, both with similar grey school uniforms, came out from hiding over the top of the bridge, and slid down, one after the other, on the bank, towards the shore of the river, to meet with us. The Eyrie approached us further than his adoptive little sister, and, tugging at the edge of his shirt that wasn't tucked into his pants properly, started fumbling some words.

I'm- I'm sorry, Miss, I was- We were just on our way back from school and- Um- We couldn't help but notice you two were over here, and kind of figured something was going on, so we just- We-

We were just taking a quick gander, that's it! The Kyrii interrupted. We can't do that now??

Well, you should not be spying on us like that, it is quite rude to intrude into our private chat. Alice attempted to lecture the two of them, and the Eyrie kid was hesitating to speak again, but he was quickly cut off by the Kyrii.

Well, then, you should have had it in private, shouldn't you? What a rude kid, even her older brother seemed shocked at her audacity. Alice took a second before scoffing, and then chuckling.

Well, I would guess so. But that doesn't mean it isn't rude to intrude yourself like that.

Can we go now? The pink Kyrii responded, glaring at Alice with her strange red eyes, while the Halloween Eyrie kept on eyeing me nervously. I didn't want to intrude myself into the argument, I knew that Alice could handle it, so I held my tongue against my wish to put this girl in her place. I looked at my friend, who sighed while shaking her head, and then responded, conceding.

Yes, do get going, and do say a 'hello' to Martha, alright? The Kyrii was already rushing off, while the Eyrie mumbled some words and nodded.

Yes, ma'am, will do so. And then he stumbled after his younger sister, who was already climbing back up the bankside. I looked at Alice once again, who commented quietly.

Strong personality, that little one.

If you mean she's a disrespectful brat, then yes, I agree. I commented back, which earned a scoff of my own from her.

Don't you ever have anything positive to say? Alice asked me in a louder tone. What happened to you thinking their mother's scolding was too much for them? I didn't have an answer to that. She looked at the two climbing up the steep slope instead of taking the nearby stairs, and commented. But I can tell that they're up to something. Should we tell their mother?

That sounds like not one of my respon- I started saying, but was interrupted by the Eyrie's croaking exclamation to the Kyrii.

But we HAVE to tell him! To which the pink Kyrii hushed him, and glanced at the two of us before whispering something at her brother. Well, if that wasn't suspicious, I didn't know what was then, and yet, I had no wish to involve myself in surrogate child-raising as well as everything else I was tasked with. But Alice was already walking towards the pair with conviction, to their dismay, and so I followed.

Wait a minute, you two. Is there anything you need to talk to us about? The pastel Aisha approached the two at the base of the slope the two were struggling to get over.

The two kids were scared stiff, as if we had caught them red-handed, but, yet again, I couldn't care less about this beyond just mild mirth from seeing kids being obviously naughty. The Eyrie started stammering, trying to explain himself.

Um- No, it was- I was- We were-

No! We were just discussing about my brother! It's none of your business! The pink Kyrii cut in ever so rudely, fronting Alice.

Hey! You watch your tone! I responded quicker than the Aisha.

I can deal with this, Kunbao. Alice imposed, glaring at me, and then turned back to the kids. Is it not? For whatever reason, you gave me the impression to be talking about us two, what does your brother have to do with this?

It's the inn! The Eyrie spurted out first, to everyone's confusion. Uhh- He just- He thought Mr. Ghost over here was trying to take it away from Mrs. Jones, because we overheard you ask about the deed and uh- Well, Lucas started thinking that you were trying to um- Take it over! What?? Yes, and so- I was just saying, we kind of ended up overhearing your story about your father, and I thought, um, we should probably clear that up with him. Dumbfounded, I stood there speechless with my mind full.

I didn't- I'm not- What- I looked at Alice for help, but the Kyrii girl interjected first.

It's just brainworms, Mister! He's not the brightest, you know. This was becoming more and more incomprehensible.

What?? Alice went worried instantly. Does your mother know that? How- Is he being treated for it?

No, I don't mean literally! The Kyrii responded.

It's- It's just a saying, it means nothing. The Eyrie followed up, the two exchanging a not so inconspicuous glance.

Can we go now? We're late for chores. The Kyrii pressed.

Yes, very late, for chore-ing, and stuff. And- Oh, I've got my job to go afterwards, too! It's past on the Carnival, so I have to get going, before sunset comes and makes the path there too dangerous. The Eyrie said.

And Mum's going to get mad at me if I don't help her with dinner rush.

Do you need an escort, um- Noah, right? I think my friend here has some time before the debate downtown if you needed him to keep you safe. I frowned at the Aisha, I definitely did not have that liberty to waste my time like this, this conversation was already taking too long!

No! The Eyrie exclaimed. That's just fine, I'm gonna have to do dinner chores before leaving, anyways, that'll take a while. I had also to hear back from Neopia Central about my request, and my communicator was in Alice's residence, I definitely could not stay with this kid. I will be fine, I have a bat if anything comes after me.

We really need to get going, Miss, I can't say it any more seriously! The Kyrii emphasized once more.

Right, right, then do get going... But do use the stairs, or you'll be spending far too long climbing this wet slope. Alice said, and then pointed to the stone steps near the bridge. And they are just over there, too, I don't see how did you two miss them.

Right... The Kyrii said.

Yes, ma'am! The Eyrie followed, and the two easily skittered off to the stairs, and then over the bridge they were previously hiding, and away.

Well, that was absolutely bizarre. I spoke up, and my friend responded first with a snort, and then a question.

What sort of insult is this, to say one has brainworms? That was certainly bizarre.

Are you only concerned about that part? I said, giving a last glance to where the kids had headed down, not sure if I was feeling mild curiosity or suspicion over what the two were up to. We too should get going, though, before it comes too close to the debate hour. I said, dreading the latter appointment as well as the sooner one.

Later, as we found our way through Alice's neighborhood of far mansions behind high gates, we found ourselves discussing yet again the recent occurrences and how they related to each case, or not. As usual, standing out so much attracted unwanted attention, and so I kept on glancing around, still nervous from earlier. Alice asked then a question about something from earlier I had already forgotten due to the strange happenings right after.

Oh, whatever happened with your meeting with Balthazar in the forest? You did not mention it at all, with your strange moment when coming back.

That... Was a waste of time. I said, still irritated at the audacity of that Lupe. I shouldn't have followed him into there, he was just nagging me about getting chased off by some Faeries, as he deserves.

Wait... I thought it was not just some Faeries, but also some other strange Neopets that were following along with those Faeries and aided them on attacking that Lupe? Was it? I honestly had already forgotten, but honestly, what difference did it make? They probably had come to rescue those Faeries anyway.

I guess so...

Also, Alice continued. As he deserves? Who are you to say that?? He wasn't doing anything at the moment, just passing by!

Do you believe that lie? I said that, irritated that I was being questioned over something that was so obvious. He's a scoundrel who's known for imprisoning Faeries, and he got run off by a couple of them in the forest, isn't it awfully convenient of him that he just so happened to be passing by?

Why are you so prompted to assume that he did something that caused their reaction? She pressed, to which I responded.

Why are you so prompted to assume that is not what happened? Again, he is a scoundrel, who ensnares, bottles and sells Faeries for a living, he doesn't even come into town because he knows he probably has twenty or so warrants in his name for his cruel business, why do you care about him?

The pale Aisha looked at me. I know who Balthazar is, Kunbao, don't take me for daft. I'm not... I am just concerned because, just like you've said, he doesn't come into town, or anywhere with Neopets in general, he doesn't ask for help for anything and carries on with his business in the depths of the Haunted Woods... So why is he crying out for help this time?

Who cares?? I exclaimed hoarsely. He probably just thought he could fool me into cleaning up after him, or something of the sort! Maybe he should have been beat up further, to not have the audacity to try to get others involved in his criminal behavior!

She halted her steps with anger just like earlier at the riverbank, although this time she delayed in her response, glancing back and forth in between the gates that we were in front of, which were her residence's, and my presence. Finally, she decided to say what was in her mind as she took her gate keys out of her bag.

You have a very peculiar idea of service and of helping others, and I can't emphasize how concerning it gets at times for me to hear you out. Alice said, indignant while she used the skeleton keys in her chain to point at me.

What do you even mean by that? I said, shrugging.

What I mean is that I do not remember you being deemed judge and jury of the court of Neovia at any time, you are a Defender, tasked with supposedly helping Neopians!

I could not figure what she was ragging me about this time. And fighting against evil, yes, but- I didn't even need to do anything? There was nothing to be done there, justice had already been served-

How do you even know that?? Once again, you did not even listen to what he had to say, or what were his grievances, and already decided upon that, imposing that this was only what was coming for him. You know, I did ask about him earlier on the police station, just to get a background check, and he doesn't even have any warrants out for him from anywhere-

That doesn't mean much, I interrupted her. He could be doing who knows what in the depths of the Haunted Woods and it'll never be found out!

Yes, he could! But this is the issue, you will never know what the truth was! You only have your assumptions of what had happened! Your unwillingness to even listen to him only shows you are not willing to help unless you think the other is 'worthy' of your help. Her continuous shaking of the key she was using to point at me kept on causing jingling noises, distracting me. Sure, he is a known scoundrel, and you may apply your little notion of justice here and have relatively zero problems, but I ask you then, in what other occasions will you withhold your duty-required aid and protection from Neopians? When they are known criminals and yet their problems have nothing to do with their crimes? When they are suspected criminals but with no resolution? When you simply dislike them for whatever personal reason you may have?

I'm not- What- No, why would you even think that! Obviously I would not just refuse to help because I dislike someone! That's silly!

Just because you say that, it doesn't mean anything, you could easily excuse it with 'they looked suspicious,' or something of the sort! Alice finally put down her keys, and lodged them into the lock of the side door next to the gate to her mansion. That is why I'm asking you, where do you draw the line, and why are you trying to play judge and jury when that's not part of what you're supposed to do?

Why are you even defending that Lupe?? I asked, annoyed and confused at what she was trying to even say. She scoffed, and then turned back at me to yell.

Kunbao, do not be a sophist with me, at what point am I defending Balthazar? I am only demanding that you do what you were instructed to do, without meddling in with your personal opinions about things!

And with that, she swung the side gate open with such anger as she entered through that it hit the cement bar on the side and rang loudly, and then its pushback shut it immediately after her, making me and other nearby Neopets passing by the street flinch twice. I looked around, evaluating whether I could just wander off instead of following her, this conversation was a headache and a half. But I saw a familiar zombie Tonu with an arrow to the head approach, and, sighing with resignation, I gave up on that already half-hearted initiative I had.

Wow, you really got her miffed, huh? What were you two even discussing about? I could not make it all out as I tailed you two from nearby the bridge.

So you were the one who was watching us this entire time?? I asked, realizing what may have been happening all along. I can't believe it, ever since that talk in the Woods with that Lupe, I've been questioning my sanity as to why I kept on feeling watched, why did you not come forth instead of that?? I added that last part with audible irritation.

N- No, that was not me... I have only spotted you two about fifteen minutes ago, and have been just following along, but at a distance, because I didn't want to intrude. Marcos responded. That was not reassuring, and, almost like clockwork, I had the chills once more, and yet the road seemed too empty for that moment, and so I just commented.

Let's just get in the mansion then.

We had been allowed in after a few minutes of calling out to the Aisha, who had managed to somehow bang the gate locked with her fit of rage from earlier, a feat of strength not strange to her vampirism, but unusual for her temperament. As a matter of fact, I could have passed the gates at any time, but in between not feeling comfortable leaving Marcos by himself, and not being particularly inclined to just inviting myself in like that, I uselessly joined in chorus with my Tonu friend at the mansion's gates, until Alice came out with her keys. There was no further talk about the discussion we had had just earlier, as a matter of fact, her demeanor was very different, back to her warm and chipper self, and as we were led and settled back in her mansion, she enthusiastically discussed details on her latest philanthropic endeavor of revitalizing the in-town hospital's main wing with Marcos, while I reserved myself out of the conversation.

Once I was at the study room, I directed myself to the communicator disk I was given by the Defenders, that sat on one of Alice's crowded shelves alongside old, moth-eaten books and rusting and fading things that had long lost their use or were just useless knickknacks and other superfluous belongings to begin with. I never understood why she kept those things that crowded the house and made it all feel overwhelmingly decayed and ancient, she told me they had come with her from her castle out of town, and she had never gotten around to dealing with them. To me it seemed like four hundred years should have been enough to deal with all of this garbage. But that was not what mattered at that moment, and that conversation had already been had in one of the first weeks I was in here, to not much result, and my annoyance with this was distracting me of what I was meaning to do.

To grasp things in my incorporeal state of being was not an easy feat, and was very unlike to how intuitive and prompt it was, back when I was still alive. I had to concentrate in what I wanted to touch, and on its intangibility and all, and try to match that so to be able to interact with it, so I would not just pass through it like I unfortunately usually did to all things. I could summon some flora to do it for me, to wrap its tendrils around something and bring it to me like an extension of my limbs beyond my body, and that was the quickest and less effortful manner to do it, and yet, I would not do that inside Alice's mansion, lest she scolded me for causing a mess. But also, I wanted to be able to touch with my own fins the material world, I wanted to be able to interact in a tactile level with objects... And perhaps someday even others, once more...

I was once more reminded of that night about a week and a half back, with that strange pumpkin puppet monster overhanging me... And how not only I had been easily pinned by it, something that was already terrifyingly strange and unusual... But, after a few moments of it studying me with its glowing white irises from within the darkness of the shell, the pumpkin head lowered towards me, a large tendril slithering out of its partially collapsed carved out mouth, and, like a monstrous tongue of a terrible predator, slithered over me like one would taste its meal. I shuddered with disgust and terror from thinking about it, my stomach sinking at the thought of how that could have easily gone even worse, and, for whatever reason, I had been spared of a final fate for my incorporeal self. I could still hear whatever was the noise it then did, which I could swear was like a gurgling chuckle coming from the monster, which then, after another moment, just decided to walk off into the depths of the Woods, leaving me and that unconscious Eyrie behind. Dread filled me, as I both wished to and not know for what purpose was any of that, and what did any of it mean...

I had not realized the device had started beeping, warning me of the incoming transmission from Neopia Central, and I tried to shake off those mental images that had cropped up yet again, this was not the time for any of it. Moreso when I was anticipating news about the query I had asked Lightning Lenny to look into, I wanted to learn what happened of my father, knowing he had moved there after selling his inn, I needed to know that. I reached out to the metallic disk, trying to grasp it physically while concentrating on it like I knew to do, and yet it did not move. For a split second I did not register that, and once it did, it came with annoyance, how did I miss that? Trying a second, a third and then more times, the fluke proved itself persistent, and with that the annoyance became frustration, I had just managed to move things with my own two fins earlier, in this mansion nevertheless!

The beeping continued on, seemingly louder than before as it put on pressure onto me, and I just needed to take it to a lower level so the projection would not be awkwardly positioned, and I could communicate properly with the headquarters. I tried a few more times, the frustration mounting to desperation, and for whatever reason I thought once more of the pumpkin head monster pinning me to the ground, which was contradictory to what was happening just now- Why was I even thinking about that?? I needed to get that communicator off the shelf, its incessant noise was like an alarm ringing within my very core and only mounting onto my frustration.

Kunbao, are you not going to respond to that call? I heard Alice call from another room as she approached. Its irritating noise is going to drive me nuts, it is your call- She continued on loudly, as she turned from the hallway into the room, but she halted just past the doorframe. Oh, so you are here! The Aisha said in a normal voice. Why are you not answering that? It has been ringing for so long at this point.

I looked back at the communicator, which still rang its loud calling tune, and then mumbled. I just- I can't seem to be able to pick it up...

Wait, do repeat please, that's too loud and you're too quiet. Alice said as she approached me.

I just can't seem to pick it up. I said, uncomfortable with repeating this admission.

Oh, you could have just asked me, I was just upstairs with Marcos doing some organizing. I could have just... She headed towards the shelf, prompting me to back up a little from the perceived closeness, and then easily picked up the device I had failed to grasp, and then put it down on the wooden-boarded floor in an area that had some space. There, is that alright with you?

I- Guess... I responded, and then mumbled, There's the button...

Right, that's true. Alice pushed the button that accepted the transmission, and then stepped back, and the hologram growing until it was life-size and shaped like the Lenny I had to report to.

Well, it was about time you picked it up! Was the first thing I heard from my superior, unfortunately. Good afternoon, Ghoulish Water, and, well, Madam Rosenfields, am I correct? It is very nice to see you, it has been a while. The hologram of a Lenny turned around as I looked at Alice, whose wide-eyed response showed her surprise and confusion.

Oh- Very nice to see you too, sir. She greeted the hologram as if he were there, and then looked at me. I am sorry, did I accidentally interfere with your um- Transmission? I will step out of the room... The Aisha said while she scuttled towards the door.

No, that is just fine, you don't need to do that, we're just going to chat about any updates on the multiple cases in Neovia- Uh, and some other topics of this Koi's interest I have some information. That last part piqued my interest instantaneously, confirming my anticipation, but yet, I wasn't fond of the idea of having Alice around while talking about that last part, so I looked at her, and she understood it.

It is fine, I was actually busy upstairs, I had just come down to help Kunbao here, I will leave the two of you be. With that, she left the room, and I braced myself.

I was not sure what I expected out of that conversation, but whatever it was, what I got was not just dissatisfactory, but it did not sit right with me. Moving out of Neovia, to just live out the rest of his days, leaving nothing or no one behind... Besides me, that was, but I was not even living... I did not know what to do with that information, that was more than a dead end, it was a finality in any further interest I had in any of that. There was that inn, it was not even my father's inn anymore, it had long gone to that innskeeper's family, or well, to her husband's father, and then her husband and her... I wasn't sure how I felt about that either. The Lenny Defender apologized to me for giving those news, and tried making some jokes, before we just moved onto the weekly report on the cases in the Haunted Woods, and I wasn't sure about any of that either. Even Alice and Marcos, who apparently had overheard the conversation despite my desire otherwise, tried to cheer me up, but I did not think that was necessary, because I just did not know how to feel at all. As I drifted towards the town square near the river, through the light drizzle that seemed cold from what I could gather from passersby's reactions, I tried to fight back the extreme exhaustion this resolution had brought upon me, the weight of learning that my past was all but gone was like an anchor to my floating.

Hopefully this will all go by quickly and easily and there won't be much to stress over. Alice commented towards me, looking over her shoulder as she walked ahead.

Annoyed at the obvious dissonance with the earlier discussion we had, I responded. Weren't you just earlier eager to catch those demons you are so sure will appear tonight? Whatever happened to that? Alice dug her heels into a stop on the side of the road we were on, which in turn prompted Marcos and I to stop.

Her telltale hunching over revealed her indignation once more, and Marcos was the only one to face me this time, bearing a worried frown. Why do you like so much to test my patience, Kunbao? The Aisha under the umbrella asked in a low voice. I am trying to be considerate of your situation-

I already said I was fine! I exclaimed quietly, realizing what was this about. Neither Alice nor Marcos responded, my lie was so flimsy I did not think anyone bought it. Let's just get this over with. I said, and then went around and past them.

Embarrassed at the big show that she was making of it all, and irritated at her hypocrisy, I had found motivation to push through this drudgery of the day in the hopes of catching those demons once and for all, and giving them a good beating like they deserved. As I approached the crowd that had gathered to watch the debate in the town square nearby the Neovian River, my stomach sank a bit, there was a lot of Neopets out here, quite a lot more than I expected, it was as if the entire town had come to watch. I noticed policepets already in their posts and mainly around the podium that had been set up for the debate. Looking down the street I had come from, I noticed that the two who had come with me had fallen behind, and yet I did not feel like chatting up with them, so I sought the Neovian Deputy Chief instead.

Approaching the gruff blue Lupe in uniform who was busy instructing some Chias in the taskforce, I did not even have time to greet him before it was my turn on getting bossed around. Oh, good, you're finally here. I have already posted a good portion of my lads in the outer edges of the crowd, and the rest are in key positions near the podium and within the crowd. Although, with the Neopets gathering as quickly as they are, I am debating myself about moving more of them outwards, to secure the perimeter.

Why don't you do that? I can barely see any of the officers with this big of a crowd. I asked.

The Lupe growled. And leave the podium unprotected in the case of ruffians pelting the candidates with rotten eggs and vegetables? That was already an issue last event, and the organizers were so horrified I never heard the end of it, even that bothersome socialite of an Aisha you haunt around town could not match their letters and petitions and hearings. I thought perhaps pelting with rotten eggs should be allowed as an expression of opinion, or even as an appropriate response at certain times. No, I want you near the podium, but not too apparent, as to not attract attention. Perhaps behind it would be good, so I didn't spook the Neovian aristocrats in the front row seats, got it. You could also ask for that big monster that lugs around your troupe to come behind the podium and stop bothering the audience members... He mentioned while looking at a certain direction, where when I followed led to Alice and Marcos pushing through the crowd, going in the direction of the actual seating chairs that had been arranged up in the front for the more pompous of the town.

That's not up to me. I responded, annoyed at this officer's unnecessary remarks. Also, hiding behind the podium is going to obstruct my vision, how am I supposed to watch out for anything or anyone who may cause trouble during the debate?

That is up to you to sort it out. The Lupe grunted, before looking over towards one of the other officers that were signing as to call him over. You have your instructions, event starts in fifteen, get in your place and do your job, while I go do mine. He moved away, pushing through the crowd without even excusing himself, and I was left behind to bite my tongue.

Sighing, I looked back towards the two I had come with once more, now finding them to have sat already and the Aisha was caught up talking with a shadow Moehog lady with a long dark purple dress and a big updo I assumed was an acquaintance of Alice's many. Fifteen minutes was enough to at least pass by there before going to my involuntarily assigned place, I could at least have a quick word with the two, and check on how they were doing, before having to spend the next two or more hours keeping post for the least interesting public event Neovia had to offer. It was not like I could vote either way, my records in this town were already finalized, and I could not draw up any memory of mine, even living ones, where I thought of all this as any more than a circus show where a gaggle of stiff charlatans paid lip service to the town's woes just to get put into place and then maintained the status quo, for the benefit of those in the front. There had to be a better way to administer a town, but who wanted that? It was all useless, thus I had long grown indifferent to town politics back in life, and agreed in the same position in death.

Glancing at the packing of the crowd, I accepted the fact, to my dismay, that I was going to have to just pass through others, and so I decided to do so. This was no less harrowing to the Neopets I passed, and I had several horrified or angered looks from doing that, but what other choice I had? I just needed to bear with this for two or so hours, I thought as I reached the section of the chairs, and finally approached the eternally propped up parasol that flagged where she would be...

But when I spoke up loudly enough to be heard, the one who turned around wasn't Alice, it was a dark-haired grey Draik, although I noted she too had a similar fashion to the Aisha I knew. She grimaced at me, and I apologized before moving away quickly, reddened up with embarrassment, and then I recognized the two who had been waving at me from the corner of my vision as the destination I was meant to go, all the way on the other side of the row. As I approached them, I noticed the Moehog lady I had seen earlier had accompanied them, and sat next to Alice, in opposition to Marcos, who she seemed to attempt to not even glance towards. As a matter of fact, she barely seemed to acknowledge me, as she continued to seemingly lecture the blonde Aisha.

You have a nurturing spirit, I see it in how willing you are to tutor my son, and how you apply yourself to... She not so indiscreetly glanced over at Marcos and me. Other matters. Don't you think it would be better applied towards having a family of your own? While the shadow Moehog talked, Alice gave me a quick look that conveyed so much dread that it felt almost comical. I know you have not completely mingled in with this town, having come from so far away all by your own, without a single living Neopet to help you along... And I can help you with that. There's a very good-looking young Aisha, I think he's around your age, from a notorious family in town, I know the both of you would absolutely get along right away.

Alice, after discreetly glancing once more at me in the same desperate manner, turned to the Moehog and chuckled fakely as to entertain her. Jamie, I am sorry, I think you overestimate me, I am no nurturing type, I am just trying to help however I can. Also, you do not have to worry about me needing help, I've known Marcos for years now and he's always been there for me, and even Kun- Uh, Ghoulish Water right here can be of use at times. I took note of that comment. You do not have to worry about that.

Marcos? Who is that? The middle-aged Moehog asked, and Alice turned to next to her, and put a hand on the Tonu's shoulder, who looked over shyly at the now obviously horrified lady.

Him, of course. Alice said with a smile.

Well, I do not- I did not mean- What about anyone else, dear? The Moehog asked, poorly trying to maintain a façade of politeness. You cannot only be around... Well, such macabre types. She said that last part more quietly.

Why not? Alice asked.

It is simply not proper, that is why! The lady responded, sounding exasperated. I understand that you are from deep within the Haunted Woods, so you had little choice on who you could find around, but you do not need to do that here, we are far more normal in this town. Well, that was my cue to get going, but I needed to cut in.

Excuse me, but I only need to say some quick words, I said towards Alice. I was told by the Deputy Chief to stand post behind the podium, so I'll be going there now before all of this starts.

Did he call for us as well? He did, did he not? Alice suddenly said, standing up from her chair with impetus. Marcos followed along, standing up as well, prompting the shadow Moehog to react.

No... I- I started, but was interrupted right away as the Aisha gave me a desperate glance once more, hiding it from the Moehog lady.

He probably forgot to mention again, but he did ask for me earlier. Alice said that towards the Moehog, something that was clearly a lie. I am so sorry, Jamie, I too forgot about this, being so caught up in our conversation.

Well, if it is so pressing for you to go at this moment... The shadow Moehog responded.

I am truly sorry, I will have to leave the chat for another time, could it be at your residence next week?

But the Aisha did not even hear the answer properly, dragging away Marcos by his arm while prompting me to move down the row towards exiting it with an urgency I had barely seen from her before.

You do not need to be behind the podium, that Lupe only complained about Marcos, that he should be with me there, but I wasn't even going to bring that up... I finally said, as we went down the rest of the rows towards the podium.

I know, that was one of the less tactful exits I have ever made in an uncomfortable conversation. Alice responded, glancing back towards the Moehog, who was talking with some couple in fancy outfits.

I hate how this is not even the first time Mrs. Blake has attempted these sorts of conversations. Last time she was convinced that I would be interested in a Sway agent, of the sorts that proudly wear that ring.

A what? I had heard of a Sway while staying at Neopia Central, but that's all I knew.

Alice looked at me with a frown as we went around the podium. The Sway, the one group of wannabe manipulators of Neopia that are headquartered in this town? I had never heard of them. They were more secretive up until the war in Tyrannia a few months back, when they decided to send an entire faction representing them to fight for that strange obelisk.

The what now?? I asked, even more confused.

Did you not hear of the war in Tyrannia? Marcos asked, and I felt silly not knowing anything they were talking about.

I was even requested to come to there for another faction involved it, the Awakened.

Well, I am sorry I was in the Academy at the time... I responded, reddened. To be honest, I vaguely recall mentions of it with the Defenders, but I did not bother asking anything this said, because it simply did not draw in my interest. I did not realize it was such a big event to have happened in Neopia. As we stationed behind the podium, nearby the group that consisted of the candidates in their suits preparing their speeches and their aides and the event's staff running back and forth, I got to hear yet another criticism.

Seriously, Kunbao, how do you exist so detached from reality? Alice commented, and then switched the topic before I could have a chance to answer. But never mind that for now, I need to return to the conversation at hand. Can you believe the nerve that Moehog has to try to tell me who I should or not be around with? Also, the nerve in her assuming I could not help myself to even being by myself, I hate how everyone thinks I'm this helpless... She lowered her voice as we watched the first candidate, a green Blumaroo in a well-tailored green suit, walk up to the podium, and then she spoke the next part. As if I haven't been around all on my own for centuries. She's so infuriatingly condescending, so smug and self-assured in her ideas, if it weren't for the fact she does help me with a few favors socially, I would not be so gentle with her. I barely breathed in to speak up before I was quickly cut off by the Aisha.

And save it for yourself if you were about to chastise me yet again for attempting to integrate into Neovian society instead of living like a recluse like you do! Well, I was not going to say that, but the old Moehog was more correct than she could imagine, but not in the way she thought. But, not seeking a fight at the moment, I just replied.

Alright, then.

Well, I don't think you can blame her completely for-

I did not finish listening in for the argument, I knew what Marcos was going to say next, but also because I had that dreadful feeling once more. Obviously there were going to be eyes on me, the whole place was full, we were right next to the podium, and as I swiveled my head back and forth, searching for whoever was responsible, there were just too many angles to cover, and I could not figure out what was going on. This just made no sense, what was going on? Finally meeting up once more my gaze with the two I had come with to this place, I saw concern on both of their eyes.

Kunbao, what is going on now with you, why are you swiveling around like a spin top? Alice asked, and I hesitated for a second before answering.

I've... Been having this strange feeling all day, as if I have been stalked by something... Or someone. I said.

You did mention this earlier when you thought it was me following you. Marcos chimed in, and I was embarrassingly reminded of the earlier failed confrontation.

Ye-s, if I were to pinpoint a time, this sensation started when I was leaving the Woods, and it has been resurfacing me ever since. I know how this sounds, we are in a crowd, obviously there are eyes everywhere- I responded, which only prompted more visible concern from mainly the Aisha. I swear, I am not- This sounds as crazy to me as it sounds to you, we are in a crowd, for Fyora's sake-

We do believe you, Kunbao, there is no need to overexplain yourself. Alice responded and Marcos agreed nonverbally, to which I let out a sigh of relief, I thought this was going to go much worse. The two looked around for a second before looking back at me. Perhaps it was for the better that we have accompanied you to the back here, since you do suspect there is something stalking you, with more eyes we could potentially catch whatever is it.

There are a lot of strange folks in this town after all, it could be that you have some nose Neovian tailing you out of morbid curiosity. Marcos added.

It could be... I replied while glancing past the podium, the crowd non-enthusiastically clapped and barely responded to the first candidate, a milquetoast response to his equally bland speech I had been registering on the back of my mind. The only mildly relevant part that stuck was that this Blumaroo had promised more funds for expanding the police.

Next up was this red Yurble in an expensive suit whose demeanor already seemed concerning to me, as he shoved some of the event aides out of his way on the stairs. The crowd seemed more interested though, with cheering and clapping filling the air before the Yurble took his place, which made the group and mainly the other candidates behind the podium anxious. Glancing back at the two accompanying me, Alice seemed less than enthusiastic about this character, curling her lip in a grimace at the Yurble's bold starting remarks, while Marcos just had his usual clueless look.

I had noticed, though, that the sensation had once more subdued, which was some relief, but it did not make me feel any better. If only I could figure out what and why of it, or who was this, I glanced around once more, but yet again, I had no idea what to look for. There was way too much already happening today, but yet, nothing had prepared me for what would happen next.

It was at first just a random shout coming from the crowd, that for whatever reason had caught my attention, despite the fact that the Yurble's rally had already riled up Neopets, getting them yelling about their angers and in support of the candidate. But the shout was different in tone, fearful, shrill, chilling, and when I looked over, it was like the atmosphere of the event had darkened greatly in an indescribable matter. The crowd was quiet for a second, the tension was palpable as I saw many looking around nervously while I scanned the place once more. The red Yurble candidate hesitated for a second in continuing his angry tirade, but when he breathed in to resume speaking, another scream was heard from far back on the other side from where we were.

This was what I feared would happen, and with a quick glance in between the two, Alice, Marcos and I were about to run after whatever was happening, but what happened next wasn't something I thought would happen. Like a terrible chain of dominoes falling into chaos, Neopets started pushing and running towards the podium, starting at the very far end and repercussing towards the front rows, where the aristocrats and alike found themselves leaping out of their chairs seated on the stone ground of the square this was happening, and the groups around the podium, where politicians and the event aides dispersed in fear, abandoning any pretense of dignity, and the policepets that had been placed near the podium were being pushed off by the crowd, while the rest of them were not even visible anymore. At some point I even saw that Moehog from earlier rushing past, struggling to carry her dress and parasol and other personal belongings, but she did stop nor acknowledge us.

Alice tugged onto Marcos's arm and yelled at me to follow her, and we attempted to leave the front of the stampede as the situation escalated out of control. When we gained some dozen feet of distance, I looked back and spotted the reason for the chaos, as some strange shapes on the very back revealed to be monstrous beings of some sort, and I knew then exactly who I was dealing with. Distorted creatures, some looking like Neopets, others were Faeries, and others I could not even tell, scurried towards the podium, following their leader, who was some sort of scarecrow-like demon with flaming eyes. Neopets scattered out of the way, but I headed directly towards that malevolent group, almost not minding those who were phasing through me.

Next Part Back Home

Haute, but where?

Warmer! Her voice called out to me in the middle of the forest of sweets and trinkets, as I walked around a bedazzled path of gold and gummies, several critters like Meepits and Kadoaties and Weewoos trailing after me as I wandered around. Waaarmerrrr!! She shouted as I glanced under tall mushrooms and short little houses off the ground. We had been playing hide and seek for a while now, I forgot how long that was, and I was not so enthusiastic anymore.

Where are you? I'm so tired! I want to sit down already! I called out while looking past the glitter-covered trees and pushing orbs of light and Lightmites out of my field of vision. And this stupid game is taking way too long! I said I was hungry a while back!

Then just eat! The voice came from right behind me, and I spun around to lock eyes with her golden eyes. There's plenty of food around here. There was something so familiar about them, but I couldn't figure out what was about it. I think I will take a little break as well.

We really need to find a house to sleep in before sunset. I commented as I sat down on a chocolate cake rock, and took a piece of it, although eating it did not leave me satisfied despite how yummy it looked. It's going to get cold.

The light purple Ixi with wings, a big princess hat and poofy dress sat down right next to me with a grunt, and then asked, How do you know that? Do you know where are we? No, I did not, nor did I know how long have we been wandering, nor what led us to here, or what was going on before then. I had even forgotten her name, or perhaps I did not remember asking before. All of the little petpets and petpetpets that had been following us along also settled around us in a circle and watched us while chittering and chattering in between their own.

No... But it is a forest, isn't it? The wilderness gets cold at night. I philosophized, and then added, Also, who knows what can be lurking around here, only bad things come out at night.

Have you ever seen a 'bad thing' come at night? Have I ever seen...? I feel like I had, I feel like I knew of something bad that once had come from the forest at night and done something terrifying, but I could not recall it. I stared at the Ixi, who plucked from the low hanging branches some fruit and ate, but eventually I gave up on it.

I have no idea... I said, and felt something wet roll down my cheek. She looked at me, her eyes saddened, and then she said.

You're sad! Why are you sad? She asked.

I have no idea! I screamed this time, angry and terrified at something I did not know. The petpets all jumped and scrambled around, but the Ixi remained as serene as always. I tried to wipe my nonstop tears away with my hands, noticing they were hard and shiny, and so was my face. I looked down at my hands as the tears dripped down my face, my hands were a pale blue color, and kind of translucent, like a crystal of some sort, like those on the ground, but moving. My arms and legs were also the same underneath my clothes, and I wondered what I was, but I had no idea, once again.

Then don't. She said as she bit down a fish Negg, and then scrunched up her face at the flavor, and discarded it. Let's just play around here. We don't need to find a house, this forest can be a house. We don't need to worry about anything here!

This forest can be a house? I asked, dumbfounded. How could a forest be a house?

Yes! Imagine... Imagine the treetops are the roof, for example. She pointed upwards, and I followed her hand up and stared at the glimmering trees, their leaves shifting in the breeze, and allowing mottled bits of sunlight in. That Ixi did have a point, the forest top did sort of look like a roof to a house, and the tree trunks were like pillars sustaining the ceiling. And the ground is... Well, the floor, right? She said, now pointing downwards.

The floor is very uneven... I commented, feeling dazed.

But it is beneath us isn't it? So that works. And... Well, that's it, isn't it? You don't need walls here. So, basically a house, right? She argued, and I could not tell if she was correct or not, I did not know anymore what was a house, actually. I guessed it could have been a house if she argued it so.

I guess... I said, looking back at her golden eyes, and she grinned.

So we found it! Our house! We are safe for the night, aren't we? What was... Safe? She pointed all around at the different things I had been noticing. And look, there's even food all around, we're all good!

We are...? I asked, and a flash of a worry made me ask a question. But what about our mothers? If we are living here now, won't they worry about us being not home? The Ixi had a strange face for a quick moment, and then she just asked.

What is a 'mother?'

I had no idea, but I felt for a second like it was a very, very important thing, before I forgot completely. My eyes started tearing up once again, a very scary feeling of being so lost and losing something so important made me do so, but she was not even watching at this point, her back turned towards me as she worked on something. I glanced at the petpets and petpetpets, and they all seemed to be watching her with faces that ranged from awe to fear.

I tried wiping my face and snorted as I stopped crying for a second to ask another question. What are you doing? She looked over her shoulder and past her faerie wings, her eyes seemingly brighter than moments before.

Hm? She asked, before turning back towards me. Oh, I was making this for you. She showed me a white petpet that I quickly identified as a Mallard, but with matching golden eyes to hers. This ought to cheer you up, right?

You... Made this? I asked, confused. Neopets didn't make petpets, petpets happened like everything else in the world. What was a world, though?

Yes, are you taking it?

The Mallard quacked quietly, and I reached out to it, embracing with my strange arms, it almost felt warm like a Mallard should, but something felt off. I felt off, I longed for something but could not really figure out what was it. I wanna go home. I blurted out, not sure what I even meant by those words, tightening my grasp around the petpet.

What's a home? The faerie Ixi asked, her expression almost doll-like, although what was a doll? I could not answer that, I could not answer any of it, only cry once again. Stop crying, it's annoying, she chided. You're such a crybaby.

I'm sorry. I wiped my tears and nose on the Mallard, who also seemed annoyed. I'm just tired.

Then sleep. And later, we'll play once again. And do whatever we want. Forever. She said, and I obliged without much of a second thought, curling up on the chocolate cake rock and hugging the Mallard to sleep. The Ixi curled up next to me and watched me as I fell asleep.

Next Part Back Home

Nemo

Billy stood behind the podium and started discoursing to our group and whoever was watching. Well, what do you know, despite the majority having indeed fled the scene, perhaps I do have an audience beyond our own group after all. It is with great pleasure that I see that, despite the majority of the Neovians originally in this plaza having already left in their mindless escape, because I am, after all, seeing an audience. He gazed around the curious and the terrified both standing by, and then landed his eyes on something in particular behind us, gritting his teeth behind his mirage. Why, if that isn't the Ghost Defender and... The Moehog frowned even more. And his two accomplices.

I turned, and so did Lucas, to see the ghost Koi, the vampire Aisha and the zombie Tonu, all scowling at us, and that sight made me suddenly shudder. The Defender in particular had a much harsher look than his usual annoyed self, and his blonde companion spoke up for the trio. Villains! She pointed with her free hand not holding her parasol, as she shouted. You have gone so much farther this time than other times, and caused chaos and destruction! Have you no shame in your acts? Why are you so bent in creating problems for this town so often??

We have only dealt back what we had been dealt, fair one. Billy bowed in courtesy towards the Rosenfields miss. You cannot call us villains for doing that, can you? It is only fair for us to want retribution for the wrongs we have endured, it is just fair to give back what we have been given, is it not? And why, with so much on our ledgers, of things done erroneously towards us, we have plenty to have your townspets catch up on. Don't you think so, my fellow siblings of our dark group? The Moehog turned to our group. We shall return the undoings done onto us, many-fold if needed be, mainly when we take it all over, right?

What is he even talking about?? I mumbled as the others agreed.

I have no idea? Lucas responded quietly.

How dare you?? We won't let you do that! The blonde Aisha yelled, even angrier now, and for a second, her large canines flashed, reminding us of her secret. The other two monsters also looked scarier than how we had met them previously, and a pit in my stomach warned me this was about to get ugly.

We need to get out of here, this is going off the rails pretty quick! I squawked as the Koi Defender drew water to attack our group.

Lucas and I tried to run, but we were promptly stopped by Richie in his Esophagor mask, while the others had gone to taunt and attack the trio of adults. Come on, you two! The fight is this way! Unless you are attempting to run.

No- No way we're getting entangled with those three, Billy's off to do this! I shouted in the confusion.

Yeah, even the lady is dangerous! Lucas shouted. And it's not like we have a lot of firepower here, I can't do anything against the ghost, and neither can the rest of us! Also, no one's told us anything about taking over the town, that's completely mad!

Billy's got only illusion powers, the rest of us are wielding rakes and bats! I added. We should be running away like the other times!

Well, we could have had more firepower if your treacherous sister hadn't decided to oppose us. Richie snapped back. Are you going to betray us as well?

I gritted my teeth, wanting to snap back, and looked at Lucas, since he was the one related to the one being referred to, but he disappointed with his confusion and concession to the Ruki. Think what you want, this is still nuts! I protested, and ran off towards the riverbank.

The confusion was still loud behind me as I hopped down the steps that led to under the nearest bridge to the town hall, and I seethed in anger with what had just happened. I had told Lucas that wasn't what had happened with us at Leonie's house, Mariah wasn't the one in control of the giant creepy pumpkin doll thing! She did say as much, and both of us were made to run from it. Or so I thought.

It didn't help that everyone in town was saying it like it was her fault, I mean, it had been possessed, I remembered the flashing light so clearly! Or so I thought! And, well, when it kept on chasing me, and then stared at me after pinning me down to the ground in the forest, way after I had lost Mariah from sight, before the Ghost Defender attacked it, that couldn't have been her, right? She was at the bottom of that hill, and had to have help to get up there, so she couldn't have been fighting the Defender with that monstrosity, right? That's what I thought! But others, including Lucas, did not! Ugh!

Hearing certain noises of things that seemed to be escalating, I decided to run down the riverbank towards the south part of town. I had no idea where to go next, did I just tell Mrs. Jones about Lucas's involvement? But then she'd want to know mine, and Mariah, and get very, very angered, and we'd all get punished, and both Mariah and Lucas would hate me. Then I guessed I could only run to Mariah to tell her what was going on, and if I knew her, she'd be with the Woodsfolks after the fight Lucas and her had earlier.

Heading down the road where the Woodsfolks lived, I noticed the town was still sort of empty due to the political rally, and yet, I felt watched yet again. I hurried towards the end of the road as fast as I could, and reached the tree and plant-ridden front yard of the family, at the edge of the forest both in presence and spirit. I recognized the blue-eyed green Grarrl playing his fiddle under a young willow tree, still in his school uniform, and next to him was the red-eyed pink Kyrii I was searching for, dressed in her usual dark gown and stockings, glumly staring away while listening to her friend's music, until she noticed me approaching them.

So how did it all go? Bad? I nodded, and she looked around me. Where's Lucas?

Helping Billy fight that trio with the Ghost Defender. I responded, and Mariah frowned, bewildered, and even Benjy stopped playing and looked at me with concern. Yeah, I know, it's madness. Even more madness that Billy's got all this weird plan the others were in, about trying to take over the town? I swear, this is the first time I had ever heard of this.

The Kyrii tutted, and sighed in irritation. I knew he'd let his cool new powers get to his head. See, this is why I never just went with whatever he wanted, I didn't want to be his to be used in whatever big idea he'd get in his head, and have to use my powers for something awful.

This is pretty bad, what if your brother gets arrested for this? The Grarrl chimed in.

They won't get caught, I think. I answered. Billy's gotten really good at playing up his illusions so no one can tell where is who in reality, we've escaped successfully every time that Defender or the police tried to get to us.

I think getting arrested would be great for that dunce, maybe he'd realize how bad Billy is! Mariah huffed. To think he'd believe Billy's and Richie's talk about me over the truth, I knew at the moment that coward Leonie told the others that lie I was going to get screwed!

But we need to do something! Maybe tell the police? Benjy insisted.

Tell them what, though? Mariah responded. The son of one of the rich families in town has secret powers and disguises himself as a monster with his friends and plans on taking over town? Do you think they'd care if any of us said anything about Billy??

I responded, saying, That's true, Billy's mom is one of the big funders for that red Yurble politician guy who is running for mayor, and Billy's dad is a big-time lawyer. We'd never get them to believe us.

Then perhaps tell the Ghost Defender or his friends about it? The Grarrl suggested. They are the ones who keep on clashing with your group, after all.

I mean, I guess, although, I wonder if even they would believe us, to them, Billy's the Rosenfield miss's friend's son, she tutors him personally. My Kyrii sister said to Benjy.

It doesn't hurt to try! He responded back, and I shrugged in agreement.

I guess they do need to know anyways- But I mean, we will get into trouble with Mrs. Jones, you know that? I directed that question towards Mariah. I think she'll not let us leave the inn for the next year, or make us clean the floor and windows with tiny squares of rag every day, or- Or who knows?

The pink Kyrii hesitated for a moment, and then responded as she got up. We have to do it anyways. And if we end up grounded, well, we deserve it. All of us. I nodded heavily in agreement.

Not me, I told you three a while back that you should not get involved in this sort of activity! Benjy chimed in as he got up as well, to both of our irritations. I told you, Mariah, and you didn't listen, and look at the mess you're in!

Shut up, Benjy! We both responded in unison.

We were yet again sneaking through the town, so as not to get caught by either the rest of the group we were on our way to tattle on, or to not get caught by anyone who could think we were involved in the mess from earlier. Speaking of mess, the center of town was as such, with fearful crowds still scattered about, and the blue-bellies searching all over the place.

We passed by the town square, and it was a chaotic mess of trampled and destroyed decors and chairs and other stuff, only there was no sign of the Ghost Defender, the Rosenfield miss, or their zombie friend. Or well, no sign of them in the present, as the town square had leftover vines and water spread all around. Peeking from around the corner of a brick building, I turned the other way, into the alley that was dark as shadow, meeting with two pairs of glowing eyes, red and blue.

Nope, neither the Defender nor the others are here. I said, and heard back another sigh of irritation from Mariah. Great, where would we even go now? I guess the Rosenfield mansion? It's the one next to Billy's, that was abandoned for a long while before it got bought.

Would they be there? Or at the police station? Benjy asked. Perhaps the others got caught?

There's policepets everywhere in town, searching and stuff, I think it's kind of obvious that didn't happen, Benjy. Mariah responded.

I mean, we can pass by there on our way downriver. I said, and then we continued on our stealth mission.

A while later, and accounting for our disappointing stop by the police station that was deader than the night, we finally reached the richest part of town, where all properties were acre-wide properties with tall buildings far enough into there that walking to the front gate would be considered exercise. We knew only of this region because it was where Billy and Lucy lived, and where Richie's dad's worked and took Richie to hang out all day. This is why other Neopets were very surprised to learn that Billy and Lucy were going to our school, although we were told that it was only temporary. Lucy's mom was planning on sending her off to a conservatorium in Brightvale in the upcoming year, and Billy only got placed in our school for this past year as he recovered from his ill health, he had been homeschooled for the majority of his life, and his parents planned on sending him to a boarding school when he felt better. Richie, of course, would definitely follow him, considering that Ruki followed Billy wherever he went.

No one was really fond at all of our types here, but at least our friends were alright with meeting up with us here... Or could they even be considered friends at this point? At least so I had thought. I thought it was awful that Billy had turned against Mariah, and convinced Lucas to do the same, but also, it was not like it wasn't predictable, they had been butting heads ever since they first met. Only I thought he was going too far now, but I could not even articulate how, all I knew is that it was bothering me.

As we headed down the fenced road towards where we knew we'd find the Rosenfield mansion, we noticed the small crowd that was over there already. The pale Aisha with her dark outfit and parasol was arguing with an older blue Lupe policepet I knew from our past times we got caught doing stuff; the zombie Tonu with an arrow through his skull hid behind the Aisha as he was being chastised by Billy's purple Moehog mom and their young red Cybunny maid; and other policepets eyed around restlessly as nosy neighbors also wanted to chime in the discussion. I turned around with raised eyebrows to Mariah and Benjy.

Uh-oh...

Mariah responded, eyeing the mess. We should get out before we get- She looked over at the group and frowned, and Benjy gasped. Too late, the vampire gal is coming over to us. Don't say anything, understood?? Last thing we want is trouble with Billy's mum. She hissed at her Grarrl companion, who nodded nervously.

We all turned to face the Rosenfields miss, who came over to us completely distressed. Please tell me you kids have seen Kunbao and are here to tell us that!

And tell us where he is so we can arrest that ghoul for his wanton destruction of the town square over his little temper tantrum. The Lupe took a longer gander at Mariah and I, and frowned. Why do I feel like I've seen you kids before? He asked, and I shook my head lyingly in response.

It wasn't a tantrum! The blonde Aisha protested. Well, perhaps it was, she corrected, but it wasn't unwarranted, you pushed him into this, all of you did! You-

Bah, save your cries for something you've got better ground to stand on, Miss Rosenfields, I'm tired of giving too much leeway to your little charity case, and he went too far this time. The Lupe policepet cut her off. And somehow managed to let every single one of the devils that attacked today escape through. Now, I can't fault you for not having the constitution for this, nor your big bulking rotten friend over there for having the brains for it... But what's the point of this Defender of whatever, if he can't catch one evildoer monster or whatnot? The Aisha struggled to find a response, and so the Lupe completed his thought. Well, I mean, I guess that's expected from a monster after all, mainly one who was already notorious for causing chaos and destruction up north of town.

That's not true, you know the tales are exaggerated! Kunbao has only hurt two other Neopets in the past, and he regrets it deeply!

Um- I tentatively cut in, quietly at first, but then with a bit more volume. We don't know where the Ghost Defender is, ma'am, and sir.

We needed to talk to him, actually, and thought he was here. Mariah added in.

About what? The pale Aisha asked, and my sister and I exchanged glances.

Um, important stuff- I said.

On what scope? The policepet prodded. If you need to report a crime or something of the sort, the police station is in downtown.

No, no it's about... Mariah started, but she couldn't finish the sentence, and Benjy cut in to save us.

It's about another disappearance from my family! Mariah and I turned towards him, who was wearing a sudden sad act. I know that Defender was investigating into the disappearance of three of my relatives, but now there's a fourth one!

Oh, dear... The Aisha said sadly.

Oh, I see. The Lupe answered with disinterest. Well, you can tell an adult from your family to file a missing Neopet report at the station, and we'll look into it. Is that all?

Benjy lowered his head. Yes, sir.

Go home, son. The Lupe officer said. And the rest of you, as well. These devils are still out there, who knows what they could be planning.

We all nodded and walked away, and after a certain distance, glanced back to see the Aisha and the Lupe go back to the mess. Then, we skedaddled as fast as our legs could, back to the riverbank.

Wow, that was quite the act you put on, Benjy. I commented quietly. I'm impressed that such a goody-two-shoes can even lie this well.

I just had to think of something, you two were stuck. The Grarrl responded. I'll have to deal with this later at home, though, hopefully I can just tell Ma I must have misheard it, she has never caught me lying before.

Oh? I asked, curious, but that conversation was cut short by Mariah's sudden question.

Benjy, do you know where is the place that ghost haunts? The Grarrl turned to the Kyrii and started his protesting.

You can't! The woods are dangerous right now, you could get caught by who-knows-what that's causing the disappearances!

Then come with me, you are from the woods, right? Mariah responded. And Noah is also coming. It's like your cousin Querquo said a while back, we stick together, there's strength in numbers, right? Benjy was still not convinced.

Wait, we're going to the woods, that's got all sorts of strange things and 'pets are disappearing left and right in there, to find the Ghost Defender, who's clearly not in the mood to be found? I asked.

Do either of you have a better option? Mariah argued. Because it's not like I want to go back there and yell to that mess that Billy and the gang are behind this chaos in town, mainly when we've got our tails trapped in this. I shook my head and responded.

Fine, but I am taking my bat with me.

What's the point of using a bat against ghosts? Benjy protested.

Next Part Back Home

Ghoulish Water

After the disastrous fight at the town square, I dreaded showing my face in town, mainly considering how publicly I had lost it back then.

I should have never left this swamp, I should have never accepted the stupid terms with those stupid ghost hunters, I should have never accepted going to Neopia Central, or doing that stupid Defender camp, or going back here, and having to deal with this stupid town's ridiculous amount of issues and all the insane nonsense I have to put up with!

A Greeble, my only audience to my angry vent, seemed to respond to me with a drawn out croak. It stood on one of the few rocks peeking above the water level of the waterhole I hovered over as I went back and forth in my incessant float pacing.

Everything about this was terrible and idiotic and bound to fail from the start, and I have nothing to do with being a hero of some sort! I have been saying it from the beginning but no one listens, and no one cares for what I have to say, not even Alice or Marcos, and I've told them that we should have never been involved to begin with, we are monsters for Fyora's sake!

The Greeble croaked once more as I passed by it.

Everyone in town had been saying it, they have been expecting me to fail, because I am a monster, not some hero, and now that I blew up, if I go back there, they'll all tell me 'I told you so', or worse, they'll just run me off! I was huffing constantly, somehow being out of breath even if I didn't need air. Again! I added, painfully.

I heard another response croak when I turned my back to the Greeble, trying to hide in shame even from that random petpet, with my face in between my fins. I really didn't know what to do now, besides being convinced that the next that Aisha showed up to berate me, I'd be the one tearing a new one into her. My ragged breath barely contained, I gasped for air as tears welled up, but a voice cut right through that moment, catching me by surprise.

Oh, man, what a joke you were back there, huh? I get why you're so pissed off, what a mess! And the devils got away so easily when it should have been so easy to get them! It was like a circus routine!

I turned around quickly, and caught the yellow tail that led me to a Hissi who sat on a high branch of the tree behind me. How had I not noticed them there?

Only, you also made it all worse by throwing that little fit... The Hissi clucked and shook their head. Now you can't even show up at your pretty little vampire's place anymore despite all of your stuff being there, unless you're ready to apologize and humiliate yourself, right? Well, well, what a conundrum, all of your stuff is back there!

I shook my head, confused and irritated. What- Who are you? What do you want?? They smiled and leaned forward, causing the branch to shift loudly.

With you? Nothing. I am just commenting on what I watched, since I was there as well. It was so entertaining.

I hesitated, feeling so put off by this stranger. I- I'm not in the mood to deal with this. Somehow I could tell that even just splashing them off to get them running would not be a good idea, so I just decided to float away, deeper into the swamp.

I guess that's it for your career of play-pretending as a superhero! It's not like it seemed like it fit you anyways, you seem too angry for that type! They said out loud as I waded away, and I stopped for a second, but I did not want to give the satisfaction, and continued on my way. At least being a scary swamp monster fits your true nature way better!

I overheard them mumble something about it being easier as well. An urge to fight back stupidly had me making my way back to confront this Hissi bully. Why was I even engaging in this, they clearly were enjoying themselves by bothering me, I was just feeding into their need for attention, but I still wanted to get some satisfaction.

Who are you, and how long have you been watching me, and for what reason?? I approached the tree where the yellow Hissi was situated, who was then wrapping themselves around the branch they were previously sitting on.

If you think I'm some sort of long term fanboy of yours, get that thought out of your head, I have not arrived that long ago into your quaint little backwards town. The Hissi slithered down the tree trunk, staring at me constantly. But I am a great listener, mainly for hot goss, and hoo-boy, you're lucky you don't have ears because they'd be red hot constantly. They had reached my eye level, hanging upside down while wrapped around the tree. I heard you were some scary legend of the sort that sent your people running or worse, a real haunting! And then you deluded yourself into trying to get better because your little fake bachelorette made you do so, like a charity case but ironic, given that she must still suck blood to survive, and your bulky friend eats brains for breakfast.

How do you know she's a vampire?? No one in Neovia should know that! I asked, concerned about a possible leak of information.

Pfft, no one besides those kids from that one inn you keep on visiting, right? And possibly their friends, and friends of friends... My stomach sank, and they caught onto my concern and laughed cruelly. What, why are you worrying about that vampire getting her cover blown? You don't need to care if you never get back to her, which is easier than going back there and apologizing. I mean, I'd suggest you don't care anyways, it helps you get back at her and that big hulking zombie for putting you in the job position that led to the situation today. Isn't that fair?

Wh- What?? I said, baffled, and even more annoyed.

Oh, my, you're so dumb, perhaps you do need that bossy little... What was it that you guys call her sort... They snapped their fingers while hanging upside down from the tree branch. Ay- Aisha, right! How do you not get something sooo simple as 'an eye for an eye'? She screwed you over, you should screw her over? Simple logic.

I don't- No. What? No! I was so confused, and annoyed, and irritated, and kind of scared of this Hissi. Don't you have anything better to do with your life besides spying on us and then trying to give me terrible advice?

Hey! I don't give terrible advice!

They dropped out of the branch and onto the floor, and sprung up towards me, prompting me to float away in the scare, but, somehow, I was still caught by them, despite the fact that this should not have been possible! I was still a ghost, and yet, they were touching me? Also, they were much bigger than they seemed on the tree, wrapping around me several times and constricting me, their body suddenly glowing blindingly bright like an open flame or a lamp.

Now you listen to me, don't you insult the quality of my advice, I'm just trying to help you here. I gasped as I felt my supposedly transient body slowly get more and more crushed. The Hissi's eyes were glowing white and staring directly at mine, his face and mouth larger than life. You were the weird one rambling quietly, almost like, whispering, to the nothing, and hopelessly fuming and freaking out. I was just telling you to just give it up instead, and ditch them.

L-Leave me alone! I grunted with the little breath I had left in my lungs as I struggled against their grip on me.

As a matter of fact, better than that, I could just straight up consume you right now, and I'd be doing you a favor, and everyone involved in this mess, and putting you out of your undead misery. The giant burning Hissi said with a wide grin, and despite not being corporeal, I swear I could hear my own heart drumming within me from the sheer fear I felt.

But, instead of following through, they loosened their grip on me, and I fell into the water, but without displacing any of it. The Hissi hovered above, their incandescence illuminating the entire region of the waterhole with the color of fear. I couldn't stop shaking, I couldn't think of anything I could do, feeling like a vulnerable petpet caught in the jaws of a monster.

But that'd be too boring. You are far more entertaining to watch screwing everything up and digging your own grave, pun intended. They continued, grinning widely. Oooh, also, I forgot to introduce myself. I'm... Will, yes. Or Willy, if you want. Will... As in, Will O' The Wisp, yes. I didn't respond, which prompted an annoyed huff from the bright monster. Hmpf, alright, cat got your tongue, I guess. I know you're named Kunbao, I've heard it being spoken all over your town, and you've got another name? Like... Ghoulish Water? Kinda corny, if you ask me, both names are mid, but you know, to each their own. I am planning on staying around your neck of these creepy woods for a while, if you don't mind, I got business here, of the eating type, you've got a whole mess of undead types that are free fodder for me, like you!

You can't! I let out a surprise hiss, which made the Hissi snort.

I can do anything I want, fish. Unless you want to stop me. The Hissi said, grinning with malice. It's not like I'm doing something bad, your psychopomp is slacking in their job if there are so many of those lost souls around, I'm doing a communal favor cleaning up after that mess. Your planet is full of those oddities, but you know what? I don't look a gift horse in the mouth, I just make the best of the situation.

The Hissi looked up, towards the direction of the town while I spoke. N- No, you can't do that! You are going to destroy the vast majority of the Haunted Wood-

Tsk, hold your thoughts for later, I need to get going. But it was fun meeting you, little superhero ghost. I'll catch up with you later. And with that, the bright, flaming Hissi hovered off deep into the forest, leaving me behind in the waterhole, absolutely discombobulated.

The rustling and crinkling of leaves on the drier regions of the forest soil and approaching children's voices brought me back down to earth, and I looked towards where it was coming from, seeing a trio with recognizable faces on the edge of the water. The tall Halloween Eyrie, his pink Kyrii sister with glaring red eyes, and the Woodsfolk Grarrl kid, had stopped chatting in between each other, and the Kyrii spoke up.

Um, we need to talk, Mr. Defender.

Why is it that you kids are always messing around when dangerous things are happening? I asked them, irritated.

Th-that's the thing we need to talk about. The Eyrie said.

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