Ninjas, Highschool and Magic (and Candles)

[Lop]

[X] Try pairing a spirit with Beatrix
[X] Pick a Plant spirit for the pairing

Click to shrink...

[X] Try pairing a spirit with Beatrix
[X] Pick a Plant spirit for the pairing

Click to shrink...

[X] Try pairing a spirit with Beatrix
[X] Pick a Plant spirit for the pairing

Well, she chose gardening. But I personally wanted to give her Wind, because she seem like the typical air head.

Click to shrink...

[X] Try pairing a spirit with Beatrix
[X] Pick a Plant spirit for the pairing

Click to shrink...

[X] Try pairing a spirit with Beatrix
[X] Pick a Plant spirit for the pairing

Yana was unsure of the cat. "I don't know...this doesn't feel right," The cat took a few idle steps, then sprung up onto the windowsill. Yana turned in surprise. The cat waited by the glass, its tail swishing above the candles. "What are you..." she began.

The cat nodded towards the window. Yana slowly approached. She gazed through it, down onto the front campus of Madison Prep. Standing on the lawn, looking back up at her, was a man in a trenchcoat.

"shit!" Yana said, taking a startled step back. She leaned towards the window, gazing down at him. "Who is that?"

The cat seemed nonplussed. It licked a paw, pausing to inspect the fur. "Oh, who knows. Maybe he's a mage. Maybe he's a Chi-Master. The point is, he's been visiting the last two evenings, waiting,"

"Waiting? For what? And how have the guards not seen him yet!"

The cat lowered its paw and turned to Yana. "You should know better than most that magic allows for many things. This world is not ready for it,"

"Why..." Yana said, squinting at the man. "Why hasn't he come up?"

"You're a Chi-master, are you not? He probably assumes you will go out and face him,"

Yana let out an incredulous laugh. "You're kidding. That's so....7th Earth. Nobody does that here. They just kill you and move on,"

"He's probably also aware of the candles," The cat said, extending a paw towards one. It clearly wanted to knock the candle over, but resisted.

"They'll mess him up if he tries anything," Yana said, proudly. She regarded the cat. "They'll hurt you too if you're lying to me,"

The cat seemed to smile. "Oh trust me, I'm aware,"

"So what, he's just going to keep coming back until I go down and fight him?"

"Or another mage or master comes," The cat said, loosing interest. "And then they'll fight, and the winner will wait for you,"

Yana stepped away from the window, groaning. "I do not need this right now. I'm not going to spend my evenings fighting people on my highschool lawn..."

"You couldn't even if you wanted to," The cat said, jumping down from the windowsill. "You'd lose, and he'd take you away. That's why you need to pair someone with a spirit,"

"Says you," Yana said, narrowing her eyes. "I can use Chi-Power now, I'm practically unstoppable,"

The cat laughed. "Come now Yana, even you know that's not true,"

"Well, you said yourself he's not coming up. Why do I need to even bother with him? He can wait out there every night for all I care,"

The cat seemed to consider this as it did a slow circle of the room. "Well, that's certainly one strategy. Do you think it's the kind of strategy your Uncle uses?"

Yana glanced at her feet. "no,"

The cat nodded. "I know you look up to Calebus. Why shouldn't you? He's one of the greats. But his prime may be coming to an end. Is it fair for him to protect you forever?"

Yana shook her head. "I've always been expected to protect myself...especially by my parents..."

"Then it's time to start doing so," The cat said, sitting on its haunches. "Choose one of your schoolmates, and prepare this world for what is coming,"

Yana gave the cat a cautious look. "And...what's coming?"

"All manner of things Yana. Spirits, magic, chi-power, and plenty of dangerous people. By giving spirits to your classmates, you're not only helping yourself, but protecting them,"

"protecting them," Yana repeated, almost to herself. She slowly approached the bed where Beatrix slept. Her roommate continued to mumble in her sleep, gripping her sheet tightly with one hand. Yana gazed down at her. "Beatrix...could have really been hurt when the Marquis's mages attacked,"

"Oh, you have no idea girl," The cat said, a curiously intense expression on its face. "Your parents, the Viper School, your uncle. All of them have been protecting you your entire life. There are people on your world that are more powerful than you can possibly imagine. And they'll all come here, eventually,"

Yana took a deep breath. Beatrix didn't deserve any of that. Nobody on this Earth did. It wasn't fair. "You..." Yana began. "You said this is all my fault...and my uncle's..." She turned to the cat. "How."

The intense expression remained on the cat's face for a moment, then faded into disinterest. It gave a half-shrug, glancing at the wall. "I may be curious, but I don't pretend to understand the laws of creation. The creator certainly doesn't understand me,"

"Fine."

The cat looked up at her. "You'll do it?"

"Yes,"

"Have you chosen?"

Yana gestured at Beatrix's sleeping form. "Her. Beatrix...or, Bee,"

"Good. Now touch her forehead, and call out to a spirit,"

She hesitated. It still didn't feel right. Yana glanced at the window. Though she couldn't see him, she just knew that man was still standing out there. And he wouldn't be the last. She knew that too.

Yana gently pressed her thumb to Beatrix's forehead. "How do I call a spirit?" She said, turning to the cat.

"The same way you call to anything else. By its name,"

"She likes gardening," Yana said, glancing back down at Beatrix. "Though, she's kind of...airy...A plant spirit though, that seems best,"

Beatrix opened her eyes, blinking. She looked up at the thumb pressed to her forehead. "Y-Yana?"

"Say the name 'Gorum'" The cat said. "Now!"

"Gorum," Yana repeated.

A green light emitted from her thumb, splaying the room in dancing color. Sparkles trailed out from Beatrix's head, then a flash blinded both girls. Yana jerked back her thumb in surprise, falling backwards off the bed.

"aaahhhhhh," Beatrix said, her voice oddly quiet. She sat upright on her bed, frozen.

Yana scrambled to her feet, glancing around the floor. The cat was nowhere to be seen. Yana zeroed in on Beatrix and rushed to her. "Beatrix! Are you alright?"

"there's...a thing...in my lap," Beatrix whispered.

Placing a hand carefully to the bed, Yana leaned over it, peering into Beatrix's lap. A green and brown turtle rested there. Leaves sprouted from its shell, and its skin seemed to be made of mossy bark. "Oh," Yana said. "That must be Gorum,"

"W-what?" Beatrix said, her hands raised up as if it might bite. "What's that!"

"A spirit," Yana said, straightening up. "Uh...Beatrix, there's something we need to talk about,"

"p-please get it out of my lap,"

Yana glanced down at the turtle, then reached and grabbed it. It reared back and bite her hard on the hand. "OW!" Yana yelled. "Little devil!" The turtle glared at her, then settled back down into Beatrix's lap. "Sorry, looks like you're going to have to move it yourself,"

Beatrix winced, squealing as she slowly reached for it. "eeeeeehhhhhhhh, don't bite don't bite don't bite," The turtle didn't move as Beatrix slowly curled her fingers around it. "weirdweirdweird," She said, moving it from her lap to the sheets in front of her. She quickly let go, throwing her hands up. "Is it...going to stay there?"

"Yeah, I think so," Yana said, giving the turtle a glance. She sat down on the edge of the bed. "But Beatrix, there really is something we need to talk about,"

"Are you growing turtles??" Beatrix said, worried. "I'm not sure I like that!"

"no...." Yana said, shaking her head. "Beatr-I mean, Bee, remember all that stuff I said about being from another world? And spirits and magic?"

"R-right, though, I d-don't know if I believe all that..."

Yana's expression was pained. "Well, I need you to start believing. Because you're a part of it now,"

"Me??" Beatrix said, her voice rising. "B-but I didn't do anything!"

"Right, and...it's because you didn't do anything, that you really, really need to be able to protect yourself. Because being innocent will get you killed quicker than anything,"

"K-killed??" Beatrix yelled. A few moments later, a door slammed, and footsteps came to their door.

"HEY!" Claudette yelled through it. "Shut UP already!"

"Sorry Claudette," Yana called back through the door. "We'll be quiet,"

They could hear Claudette swear all the way back to her own room, then the door slam. Beatrix turned back to Yana. "Why would people kill me?"

"There's....a lot of bad people coming here. And, it's my fault, but that's not going to stop them from hurting other people. They might even take over this world, if they get the chance...It's happened before."

"So..." Beatrix began. She pointed at the turtle. "Is that a monster? Do I need to get a hammer?"

"No!" Yana yelled, then winced. She waited a beat to see if Claudette heard, then quieted her voice. "no, don't do that. That turtle thing is...yours. It's a spirit. Your spirit,"

"But..." Beatrix said, leaning over the turtle. "It's kind of gross. I think it's getting dirt on my sheets,"

"Well that gross spirit is going to allow you to do magic,"

Beatrix's head snapped up. "No way....you're lying,"

Yana shook her head. "I wish I was. I wish you didn't need magic. But," She glanced at the window, where the man waited. "Things are going to get complicated soon,"

Beatrix glanced at her hands, turning them over. "I can use magic now...?"

"Yeah," Yana said, itching at her head. "I've never really tried it, but I think you just call or think your spirit's name and then try and will something to happen,"

"Huh," Beatrix said. "What's my spirit's name?"

"Gorum. I should mention he's a plant spirit, so, you can do plant magic,"

"What's plant magic?"

Yana shrugged. "I have no idea. I'm a Chi-fighter, we have our own rules. Probably growing stuff though. I've seen a few Plant Mages who could do that,"

Beatrix looked around her room, then spotted a potted plant. She gingerly reached towards the turtle, then lightly tapped it on the shell. "Hey, Gorum. Make my plant big....please,"

The turtle turned its head, looking up at Beatrix. It glanced at the plant, then cooed. The pot shattered as roots burst out of it. The plant sprung up, blossoming leaves and unfurling to the ceiling. When it was done growing, the plant was as large as a bent street-lamp.

"oh...wow," Yana said, staring up at the plant.

"holy heck," Beatrix said, her eyes wide. "I...I must be dreaming!"

"You're not," Yana said, going to the window. "Now, there's just one more thing I need to show you,"

Beatrix quickly scooted off the bed. "More magic??"

"Not exactly," Yana said, standing by the glass. Beatrix joined her, peering down onto the quad.

"Oh!" She said, her eyes wide. "Who's that??"

"Trouble," Yana said. "He could be a mage, or he could be a chi-master, or just a soldier of some kind. But he's going to wait down there until we fight him,"

Beatrix looked very worried. "Now?"

"I mean, we could wait until tomorrow night to fight him, or the night after. But we should do it soon,"

"oh dear," Beatrix said, quietly. She glanced over her shoulder at the large plant pressing against the ceiling. Her gaze went to the turtle on her bed. "I don't want to fight..."

"I'm sorry," Yana said, and she meant it. "I...wish it didn't have to be like this,"

Beatrix was silent for a moment. "It's okay," She said, quietly. "I guess it's...kind of cool. I mean, I can use magic now, like in books and stuff..."

"I'd advise you definitely practice some more,"

"Okay," Beatrix said, nodding. "But, wait, tomorrow's Friday! We'll be gone for the weekend!"

Yana furrowed her brow. "Oh yeah, that's right. We leave the school over the weekend, don't we...well, you still need to practice...my uncle could help..."

Beatrix seemed deep in thought, then her face lit up. "Wait, why don't I just come over to your house for the weekend! Like a sleepover!"

"Uhhhh," Yana said, unsure. "Well, that might be a good idea,"

"Of course it is!" Beatrix said, clasping Yana's hands in hers. "We're going to become good friends! Especially because I can use magic now....wait, why can I use magic again?"

Yana cleared her throat, embarrassed. She didn't know whether to tell Beatrix the truth. For some reason, she felt guilty. "I guess it just...happened?" Yana said, sheepishly.

"Right," Beatrix said, putting a thumb to her chin. "I always knew I might be special. Do you think your uncle can really help?"

"Yeah, he could," Yana said. "I'd just have to...explain things first,"

Beatrix clapped, excited. "Yesss! Sleepover!"

"yeah..." Yana said, her voice reluctant. "Should be fun,"

The next morning, a windy day hid the sun from the sky. Dark clouds rolled over New York City in waves. Calebus could see them through the window in the shared kitchen of the apartment. He sat at the table as Ilan and her daughter cooked eggs on the stove. Calebus had a cup of tea in one hand, and several envelopes in the other.

The envelopes had arrived in the mail. They were bills from Madison Prep Academy. Calebus knew the school would be expensive, but seeing the paper in front of him, he now knew had badly he couldn't afford it.

Calebus took a sip from his tea, studying the break-down of expenses. In fact, Calebus so couldn't afford it, that if he didn't do anything, Yana would be kicked out next month. He set down the bill and closed his eyes, rubbing the bridge of his nose. A knock sounded at the door.

"Oh!" Ilan said. "Who could that be?" She walked to the door and peered through the hole. "Oh, it is the nice man Mr. Flinder!"

Calebus turned in his chair. "Flinder?"

Ilan opened the door as her kids gathered around her. Flinder, wearing a sports jacket and aviators, grinned and waved. "Hey there pretty lady! Is the Candleman around?"

"I'm in here Flinder," Calebus called from the table. Flinder entered, opening his arms wide. "There he is! I'm been hearing good things about you and Arty!"

"It was just two spirits," Calebus said, yawning. "And I haven't been getting much sleep lately,"

Flinder walked to the table, spinning a chair around and sitting in it backwards. "Well, we never really escape our past now, do we? As they say here, 'no rest for the weary'"

"Tell me about it," Calebus said, sipping from his tea.

Flinder nodded at the bills. "I recognize that crest. Madison Prep?"

Calebus gestured at the bills, nodding. "The dishwashing job hasn't paid enough. If I don't find some more money soon, Yana's gonna be kicked out. And even though this sounds crazy, I still believe that school is the safest place for her,"

"Oh I agree," Flinder said, holding up his palms. "Trust me, I told you when you first got here. You wouldn't be the only guy who's kid got kicked out because of money. Ma Mel certainly tries, but the community just doesn't have enough funds,"

"I get it," Calebus said. "I just gotta find more work I guess,"

Flinder considered the man's word, eyeing him. "You know," He said, lowering his voice. "You don't have to dishwash everyday. Ma Mel allows you to take days off if you find extra work. It's all about lending a helping hand to each other, after all,"

"It's a good job, and where else would I work? I only do the spirit stuff at night,"

"Well, for one, I already told you about Judge Jerkins. He's the other side to the whole refugee coin. The darker, more dangerous work. But it pays well. Work for him on occasion, and that might take care of your problem,"

Calebus rubbed his chin. "I don't know Flinder, I've always liked to remain on the law's good side,"

Flinder laughed. "Buddy, you're a refugee, that's already three strikes on this Earth. What could you possibly lose? And if you don't like that, well, your nightly spirit work could provide more cash,"

Calebus narrowed his eyes. "What do you mean?"

"Well, think about it. Sure the spirits are plaguing our people now. That's just because our people are familiar to them. But pretty soon enough spirits will arrive to bother the locals of this Earth," Flinder leaned across the table, giving Calebus a knowing nod. "And I've heard rumors that it's already happening. Offer your service to a rich person in this city? My friend, you'd be up to your eyeballs in money,"

"But," Ilan said, standing by the stove. Both Calebus and Flinder turned to her. "If you are helping the rich city people, you will not have time to help us, yes?"

"Oh sure sure," Flinder said. "I'm all about community trust me. So you don't do work for locals every night, maybe just the weekends. It's a lot of money Calebus. They'll be scared shitless when the spirits start arriving in droves,"

Calebus looked down at the teacup in front of him, pondering his choices.

[] Contact Judge Jerkins, see if you can do some work for him
[] Hire yourself out to the rich locals for spirit-work
[] Continue doing honest work for the community, trust something will come up

 

[Lop]

[X] Hire yourself out to the rich locals for spirit-work
We need cash and I'd prefer to avoid crime

Click to shrink...

[X] Hire yourself out to the rich locals for spirit-work

Well, we need the cash. And rich locals are people too.

We can just hire Ma Mel's people to do stuff when we have enough money to be settled in.

Click to shrink...

[x] Contact Judge Jerkins, see if you can do some work for him

Click to shrink...

[X] Continue doing honest work for the community, trust something will come up
Build a connection with the community, increasing integration into the place.

Click to shrink...

[X] Hire yourself out to the rich locals for spirit-work

Click to shrink...

[X] Hire yourself out to the rich locals for spirit-work

Calebus took a deep breath, sliding a bill in front of him with a finger. The numbers stared up at him. He had very few choices. "I suppose," He began. "That working on the weekends for rich locals might work,"

Flinder grinned. "There you go, I can probably get you a job tonight, if you want,"

"Yes, please do," Calebus said, then paused. "Ah wait, I think today is the day Yana comes home for the weekend. I haven't seen her much and figured she might want to spend some time with family,"

"So spend some time with family," Flinder said, gesturing vaguely in the air. "But at nights, go exorcise spirits,"

Calebus considered this, tapping a finger on the bill. He nodded. "Very well, if you wouldn't mind then Flinder, let me know when you've got the job,"

Flinder clapped, standing up from his chair. "Alright Candleman, I'll swing by," He headed for the door, then turned back. "You should get a phone. I know they weren't that important on your old earth, but here they're everything,"

"A phone?" Calebus said, furrowing his brow. "Well, I guess that makes sense. There's no magic around here,"

"They got cheap ones," Flinder said, nodding in thanks to Ilan as she opened the door. "I know you're tight on cash, but maybe after tonight you'll have some spending money,"

Calebus nodded. "Thanks Flinder, I'll look into it,"

Ilan closed the door as Calebus turned back to his bills. She stood by the frame, staring at him. Calebus could feel her gaze. "Yes Ms. Ilan?" He said, nothing bothering to turn.

"I was just thinking," She said, approaching the table. "I'm worried, I think. About all the spirits coming,"

Calebus was about to dismiss her worry, but hesitated. Ilan and her family were not like him. Spirits were a problem to him. For her, they might be a death-sentence. "I uh, never actually asked why you came here," Calebus said, turning in his seat towards her.

Ilan looked down at her feet. "It is...a long story. And a sad one,"

Calebus glanced at the kids who were wrestling near her. Hokan stood to the side. He didn't seem interested in playing with his siblings, instead watching his mother intently. "Of course," Calebus said. "Are you perhaps...afraid whatever you're running from will find you here?"

"It already has," Ilan said, quietly.

"The spirits,"

Ilan shook her head. "No. We were running from war. Now it seems it is coming here. I see people walking our neighborhood. They are like patrols. Everyone here is preparing to be attacked,"

Calebus didn't respond for a few moments. Hokan still stood nearby, flinching as his siblings wrestled into him. He pushed them away. The Candle-mage exhaled. "I'm sorry Ilan, it does seem that way, doesn't it. Those candles by the door though, they'll go a long way in protecting you,"

"Thank you Mr. Candle," Ilan said. She bit her lip, unsure of what she wanted to say. "Do we...know why this is happening? I still cannot get much from anyone,"

Calebus shook his head. "The spirits haven't been exactly forthcoming. It's like they're obsessed right now, blinded by frenzy. I never seen anything like it," Calebus saw his words distressed Ilan, and waved his hand. "Sorry, that doesn't help, does it. It's nothing me and Arty can't handle. I've been at this for years after all,"

Ilan tried to smile. "That's good to hear Mr. Candle. I will put my trust in you then,"

Calebus cleared his throat. "Yes well, sure." He tried to reassure Ilan and Hokan with a nod. The boy had an unreadable expression on his face. "I really must be going now, the restaurant opens soon,"

"Of course Mr. Candle, there will be leftovers tonight for you and Yana,"

"Thank you Ilan," Calebus said, draining his teacup as he rose. "I'll make it up to you,"

Farther uptown, in the heart of Manhattan island, morning came and went at Madison Prep Academy. Yana was beginning to get the hang of her routine. Another week, and she might even have her schedule memorized.

She stood in line for lunch, waiting her turn to grab a tray. She heard her name, and turned to see Beatrix and her friend Cloe. Yana waved, then waited for them at the end of the line to get their food. "Hi Yana!" Cloe said, smiling. Beatrix came up beside her, but did not look happy. On her shoulder was the plant-spirit, Gorum. The turtle perched there, chewing lazily on one of the leaves growing from its shell.

"Hi Cloe," Yana said, hesitantly. She looked at Beatrix. "Hey...Bee,"

Beatrix glanced at the turtle on her shoulder. "Hey Yana, wouldn't it be crazy if there was a turtle that no-one seemed to see but me? And it kept appearing on my shoulder?"

"Yeah....that would be crazy,"

Beatrix narrowed her eyes at the turtle. "You're lucky you don't weigh anything buddy,"

"Who are you talking to?" Cloe said, confused. She laughed. "Oh, are you doing the "turtle" thing again?"

Beatrix seemed to get more huffy. "Yeah, the "turtle" thing..."

"Let's go sit down," Yana said, gesturing with her head towards the table. The three of them walked over, finding a place. Cloe set down her tray and then straightened up. "I'm going to go talk to my friend Taylor real quick, I'll be back!"

Beatrix watched her go, then leaned across the table towards Yana. "This. Turtle." Beatrix said through clenched teeth. "Is starting to hecking annoy me,"

Yana tried to hide a smile behind her hand. "Sorry, it just looks so funny on your shoulder,"

"I know!" Beatrix said, gesturing wildly. "And NO ONE else can see it!"

"Have you..." Yana poked at her food. "Tried to use magic again?"

"I'm not stupid," Beatrix said, shaking her head. "Everybody already thinks I'm a weirdo," She fixed her hair. "A cute weirdo, but that only gets me so far,"

Yana conceded the point with a smile, then took a bite of her food. "Oh! What is this!"

Beatrix stared at her, amazed. "You're joking...right?" Yana shook her head and stabbed another piece with her fork. Beatrix laughed. "It's pizza Yana! It was invented in Italy! Do they really not have that back on your world? And you don't use a fork, you can just pick it up with your hands,"

Yana leaned down and inspected the pizza, then picked it up and tore a bite away with her teeth. "Oh, yeah!" She said, chewing. "You can just eat it with your hands!" She lowered the slice. "We had stuff life this, but I don't think it tasted this good,"

"I'm starting to think you guys spent so much time playing "Harry Potter" that you didn't bother to invent food,"

Yana tilted her head. "What's Harry Potter?"

"Just, nevermind," Beatrix said, glaring at the spirit on her shoulder. She poked at it with a finger. "Shoo. Go away. I don't want to do magic right now," The turtle blinked one eye, then the other. It yawned, getting comfortable on its perch. "I swear to gosh if being the chosen one means I have to lug you around all the time..."

Cloe returned to the table, sitting with a smile. "You'll never guess what I just heard about Sam Brady,"

Beatrix perked up, forgetting the plant spirit. "Oh, really? I mean I don't care or anything,"

Yana busied herself with enjoying her pizza slices as Beatrix and Cloe talked about things and people she didn't know. When the bell rang, Yana wiped her mouth with a napkin and stood, grabbing her tray.

"Go on ahead Cloe," Beatrix said. "I want to talk to Yana about our roommate situation real quick,"

"Oh, Claudette and Jessica," Cloe said, rolling her eyes. "I mean, I don't mind if you talk about them,"

Beatrix tilted her head pleadingly. "Pleasee Cloe, I'll be right there,"

"Fine fine, I'll be by the door,"

When Cloe had left, Beatrix turned to Yana. "Can you maybe, take this turtle for a while?"

"Me?" Yana said, surprised.

"I know I know!" Beatrix said, burying her face in her hands. "It's just so annoying!"

Yana regarded the turtle, who seemed to be napping. She slowly reached out for it. Its eyes snapped open, and the turtle bit at her. "Ah!" Yana said, jerking her hand back. "Sorry Beatrix, seems he still doesn't like me,"

"Ugh I swear he better not bother me at our sleepover. Oh! When do you want me to come over?"

"Uhh," Yana said, itching her arm. "I've never really done a...sleepover? Yeah, I've never done one before. When do they usually start?"

Beatrix laughed. "I'll come by between six and seven, what's your address?"

"My...address?"

"Oh don't worry, I'll get it from Mrs. Mackey in the office. She loves me and can't say no, especially when I explain why,"

Yana nodded. "Okay, sure,"

After saying goodbye to Beatrix and Cloe, Yana made her way to chemistry. She suffered through it, none of it making sense to her. Luckily, the class soon ended, and Yana went on to theater next.

She walked down the aisle towards her seat. Someone waved at her, and she looked up to see Lawrence Mott. He gestured at an empty seat next to him. Yana froze, unsure what to do. Her feet carried her forward. She walked quickly towards him, slipping into the seat. "Smooth," Lawrence said, grinning. "What's up?"

"Hello," Yana said, quietly.

Lawrence gestured towards the boy sitting next to him. "Yana, this is my friend Peter Macklan,"

"Hello," Yana said, nodding politely towards Peter. The boy sat with perfect poise, returning an equally polite nod.

"I liked your reading," Peter said, his words carefully enunciated.

"Thank you," Yana said, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I liked yours too,"

"Yeah," Lawrence said, clearly proud of himself. "I'd say we all crushed it yesterday. Of course, today we talk about the play,"

Yana furrowed her brow. "Play?"

Lawerence grinned. "Yeah, we're starting auditions for our play on Monday. We'll talk about it today,"

"Oh," Yana said, her mind spinning. "So...we'll put on a play ourselves?"

"You understand," Peter said, watching the curtains on the stage.

"It'll be fun, trust me," Lawrence said. "Maybe you'll even get a lead role!"

"lead role," Yana said, sinking down into her seat. "that sounds...fun,"

The rest of school passed in a blur. Yana walked back to her room after the last bell rang, finding both bedroom doors open. Beatrix was in their room, packing up stuff. Claudette and Jessica were in their room, also packing for the weekend.

"I'm so excited!" Beatrix said, clapping when she saw Yana. "Sleepover!" She paused, noticing the turtle on her shoulder. "ugh, you're back again..."

Claudette came to the door of her and Jessica's bedroom, leaning against the frame. "Really?" She said, crossing her arms. "A sleepover? At your age?"

"Well yeah," Beatrix said, coming to her own door. She looked hurt. "I mean, how's it different than here?"

"Because I can't understand why either one of you would want to spend time with each other outside of school,"

Beatrix hung her head, and Yana cleared her throat. "Because me and Bee are friends," She said, coming over and giving Beatrix a side-hug. "And...she's fun. So that's why,"

Beatrix looked up at Yana, a beaming smile on her face. She hugged Yana back tightly. "Yayy, roommates and friends!"

"Oh my god," Claudette said, rolling her eyes. "You guys deserve each other, nobody else would be friends with you," Claudette turned back to her room and disappeared.

Beatrix stuck her tongue out. "I should do magic on her,"

"No," Yana said, holding Beatrix at arms length. "Lesson one of magic that even I can tell you. Just because you can do what you want, doesn't mean others will let you. Or that you should. That type of...magic use, only leads to trouble. Always."

"Right right, use my power for good," Beatrix said, crossing her arms. She sighed. "Well, whatever, I'm still excited to learn more this weekend. I'll be over at 7, since you don't seem to have a phone,"

"Not yet," Yana said, smiling sheepishly.

"Well, get one. They're important."

Yana put up her palms. "Got it, I'll ask my Uncle,"

Beatrix left with her luggage. A few minutes later, both Claudette and Jessica left as well. Yana didn't really have anything to pack, except for a few changes of clothes. She gathered them together and walked down to the school's reception foyer. As she passed the office, one of the desk-attendants leaned her head through the doorway. "Yana Candle?"

Yana paused, turning. "Yes?"

"Your Uncle called, there's a Lyft outside waiting for you,"

"A what?" Yana said, confused.

"A Lyft," The woman said. "A car? To take you home?"

"Oh, right. Thank you,"

Yana pressed her head against the window of the car as it drove her home. The tall buildings and people of NYC passed by. They seemed so gray, and self-contained. It was certainly a colorless world. The lack of Spirit Lights in the sky, among other things, was beginning to get to her. The feeling of an empty world returned to her, just as it had when she'd first arrived.

The car slowed in front of her apartment building. Yana thanked the driver, then hurried up the steps into the building with her things. Several flights of steps later, she knocked on her apartment door. It opened, revealing Ilan. "Oh!" The woman said. "Yana! Welcome home! How was your first week at the school?"

"Thank you Miss Ilan," Yana said, walking in with her box. "And it was fine. Is my Uncle here?"

"He is on his way," Ilan said. "And told me to tell you he is bringing home some food,"

Yana went to their sub-apartment, letting herself in. It was dark, and sparse. Yana went over to the windows and drew back the blinds, letting in the cloudy day's light. She was careful not to knock over any of the candles on the sill. She glanced around the apartment, wondering what she should do.

The door opened, and her Uncle entered. "Ah," He said, giving her a tired smile. "Yana, I'm glad you're home,"

"Hello Uncle Calebus," Yana said, smiling. She went over and hugged them, then stood back, avoiding his gaze. She didn't know how to say what she wanted to say.

"Everything alright?" Calebus said, tilting his head slightly.

"Um," Yana said, hugging herself. "I...something happened at school last night,"

Calebus's tired expression was immediately replaced by a focused gaze. "Again? What happened. Tell me everything. Are you alright? Do you need more candles?"

Yana held up her palms. "Yes I'm fine, it was...I was visited by a spirit, or maybe just a talking cat,"

"A talking cat," Calebus repeated.

"Named...Misty. She uh....well," Yana felt foolish, unable to confess what she had done. Suddenly, she blurted it out. "I gave my roommate a spirit and now she can do magic!"

Calebus was silent, a shocked expression on his face. "What."

"I'm sorry!" Yana said, turning away and putting both her fists to her forehead. "I didn't know what to do! There's mages and chi-masters trying to duel me at night, and spirits and magic are here! Everything's crazy, and the cat told me i could help my friends defend themselves!"

"You...gave your roommate magic. The short one with the high voice?"

Yana nodded, though she didn't turn to him.. "Beatrix, yes. She's got a plant spirit named Gorum, and can do plant magic now.."

Calebus blinked. "Yana..." He began. "That's literally...impossible. No-one can give someone a spirit. How would that even work?"

Yana continued to press her fists against her forehead. "I don't know Uncle! I just put my finger on her and called out its name!"

"And she can do magic now?" Calebus said, incredulous. "How? I can't believe it,"

"Well," Yana said, lowering her fists and looking at him over her shoulder. "She's coming over to spend the night. I told her you could teach her magic,"

Calebus stood there. He was beyond a loss for words. "I...she....here?"

Yana turned to him. "Yes, I hope that's alright...I just...I didn't know what to do! I'm worried I did something bad!"

Her eyes welled up with tears. Calebus wasn't good with crying, and patted her on the shoulder. "There there, it's fine..." He exhaled, putting a hand to his chin. "I uh...have a job tonight, in the city,"

"You do?" Yana said, looking up at him.

"Yeah, spirit-work, shouldn't take too long...what time is she coming over?"

"Seven," Yana said, sniffing.

"Alright, I'll go talk to Flinder then and take care of this job. I should get back in time to help your friend,"

Yana's shoulders sagged with relief. "Thank you Uncle,"

"There's food on the table, it reminded my of heliosph food back home, figured you might like it,"

"Are you going to eat?"

Calebus shed his jacket and put on his wool coat. "I've got to get a jump-start on making candles in the community kitchen, then get to this job. I'll see you and your friend later tonight, and we can talk about magic. I shouldn't be too late,"

"Okay Uncle," Yana said. She watched him go, unsure of what to do. Her stomach growled, prompting her to enter the shared kitchen. She ate alone, Ilan and her family remaining in their sub-apartment. When Yana finished and cleaned up her plate, she shed her school uniform and got into her training clothes. She spent the next couple hours practicing Viper-Style ninjujitsu in the kitchen. Several of Ilan's children emerged, watching her from behind the corner.

As Yana lowered into a quick-strike stance, a knock sounded at the door. Ilan emerged from her apartment and went to answer it. "Are you expecting someone Yana?"

Yana glanced at the candles by the door, noting they weren't lit. "I think that's Beatrix, it must be seven,"

Ilan opened the door, greeting the people there. "Oh," An older woman's voice said. "I'm sorry, do I have the wrong apartment? I'm looking for the Candles,"

"Yes," Ilan said, smiling and presenting the apartment. "She is right here,"

Beatrix peered in, spotting Yana. She waved with a smile. "Hi Yana!"

"Hello Beatrix," Yana said, straightening up and approaching. "Glad you found my address,"

"I told you Ms. Mackey liked me," Beatrix said, bobbing her hair side to side. A well-dressed woman stepped in behind her, presumably her mother. She looked around at the apartment.

"You must be Yana...." She glanced at Ilan. "And this is?"

"Ilan, the other family who lives in the apartment," Yana said.

"I see," The woman said. She didn't seem impressed. "And, Yana, is your Uncle around?"

Yana shook her head. "He's at work, but he'll be home later tonight,"

"Well..." The woman said. She put a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Beatrix, may I speak with you out in the hall,"

Yana and Ilan waited as Beatrix and her mother spoke. It was a heated discussion, rising into an argument. Finally Beatrix shouted. "I'll be fine mom, stop being so judgey!"

"It's not judgey if I'm worried for your safety! This is some sort of section-8 nightmare!"

"I have a phone, you've seen the address, you met Yana! It's going to be FINE mom! Just let me have a sleepover with my friend, please!" Her mother was silent, then finally murmured something. "Yes," Beatrix said. "I'll check in with you, I promise,"

A few moments later, Beatrix entered, closing the door behind her. She held a sleeping back under one arm, and wore a bookbag. "I'm here!" She announced.

"Welcome," Yana said, smiling.

Beatrix looked around. "Where should I set my stuff?"

Yana showed her to the sub-apartment. Beatrix looked around, gingerly setting her stuff on Yana's bed. "You guy's seriously need a T.V in here. What do you do for fun?"

"I've only been on this world a week," Yana said, shrugging.

Beatrix walked to the window, looking down at the candles. "Well," She said, turning. "What should we do? I want to start trying out my magic!"

"Well..." Yana said. "My uncle doesn't get back until later, I don't know..."

[] Take Beatrix to the Community Garden, maybe practice magic there
[] Take Beatrix to the apartment roof, try out some magic there
[] Go to Ma Mel, see if she knows anyone who can help
[] Distract Beatrix until Calebus gets home with a tour of the neighborhood

 

[Lop]

Well, should we involve Ma Mel? Dont really wanna damage their gardens without permision after all.

Click to shrink...

[X] Go to Ma Mel, see if she knows anyone who can help

Remember what happened the last time we went outside 'for a bit'?

Click to shrink...

[X] Go to Ma Mel, see if she knows anyone who can help

Click to shrink...

[X] Go to Ma Mel, see if she knows anyone who can help

Click to shrink...

[X] Go to Ma Mel, see if she knows anyone who can help

"But," Yana said, gesturing with a finger. "I think I might know someone who could help,"

Beatrix grinned. "I'm excited! And that turtle hasn't shown up-" Her hair moved, and the plant-spirit poked its head out. Beatrix ceased talking, slowly scowling at it. "ooohhhh goody, you're back,"

Yana covered her mouth, trying to not smile. She immediately felt ashamed. It was here fault Beatrix had Gorum after all. Yana cleared her throat. "It's Ma Mel we're going to, she works at the community center,"

"Is she a witch?"

"What?" Yana said, confused. "No, she's a...old lady who runs the community center,"

"Hmm, okay, yeah let's go!" Beatrix looked around the apartment, noticing something on the couch. "Oh, what's this?" She approached, bending over the back to inspect the cushions. "It's a weird old-timey music box!"

Yana frowned, glancing to the side. "Yeah,"

"Can I hear it?" Beatrix said, looking over her shoulder.

"It plays a song from my childhood, I think it was sent to mess with me,"

Beatrix tilted her head. "That's super messed up Yana. Who the heck would send you that?"

"Dr. Paggilio," Yana said, approaching the door. "Just another person who hates me and my family,"

Beatrix left the couch to catch up to Yana. The two of them left the sub-apartment, passing Ilan in the kitchen on the way out. "Bye Yana and Yana's friend!" Ilan said, waving with a wooden spoon.

"Bye Ilan," Yana said. "We'll be back soon,"

"Bye beautiful woman who's not Yana's mom!" Beatrix said, waving. Hokan stood by his mom, seemingly staring at the turtle on her shoulder. Beatrix seemed to grow self-conscious, trying to hide the plant-spirit behind her hair.

Once outside, the two girls walked through the side-street behind the brick apartment buildings. The brick walls seemed like a canyon, save the iron fire-escapes and dumpsters. Several groups of people walked in two's and threes along the side-street. "Huh," Beatrix said, cautiously watching two men pass. "Why is this alley so crowded?"

"They're probably part of the neighborhood patrol," Yana said, leading her friend. "They're watching to keep us safe,"

"So, what's with all this community stuff? You're like, all from other planets?"

Yana couldn't help but smile. "No, other Earth's. Dimensions, I guess,"

Beatrix appeared to digest this information. "Well that's cool I guess. Can they do magic to?"

"Some of them can. Especially now that spirits are appearing here,"

"whoaaa," Beatrix said. "This all sounds so cool!" She glanced at the plant-spirit on her shoulder. "Well, actually, are they all like this pest?"

Yana was silent, reaching the short side-street leading to the community center. "No," She said. "Each one is...different,"

Beatrix stopped asking questions, gazing at the community garden. "Yana..." She said, clearly in awe.

"What," Yana said, leading the way.

Beatrix tried to keep up, but stopped at a large red tulip. "Your apartments need some work, but your neighborhood is soooo cool. You aliens have a garden!"

"Oh hush Bee," Yana said, laughing. "You know that's not what we are,"

"Says you,"

The two girls entered through the front door. The community center was mostly empty, save for three elderly men sitting at a table drinking coffee. There was also a tall, dark man wearing a stylish blazer and smooth pants. He sat at a table looking at an electronic tablet. He nodded at the girls as they passed. Yana went up to the reception desk. "Um, hello," She said. "Is Ma Mel here?"

The older woman at the desk shook her head. "I'm afraid she's out at the moment. Nakush is here handling things,"

The man with the stylish blazer stood, flashing the girls a perfectly-white smile. "Hello," He said, his voice eloquent. "Nakush would be me. Is there something I can help you with?"

"Oh," Yana said. "Um, well, do you know anything about magic?"

The man tilted his head back and let out a laugh. "Magic?" He said, looking back down at the girls. "Yes, yes I have studied my fair share. What do you wish to know?"

Yana presented Beatrix. Her roommate seemed unsure of the tall man, and hugged herself. "This is my friend," Yana said. "Beatrix. She's a local here, and now has a spirit that's letting her use magic,"

"Oh?" Nakush said, raising an eyebrow. "That's rather unusual here, I believe,"

"Yeah we don't know how it happened," Yana said, quickly. "Complete mystery,"

"I'm the chosen one," Beatrix said quietly, refusing to meet Nakush's gaze.

Nakush nodded. "Congratulations. Is there something wrong with the spirit?"

"No," Yana said. "I just want Beatrix to learn some basics. Since, I don't really know much,"

"Well, I'm not a mage exactly," Nakush said, winking. "But as I said, I know a thing or two. Beatrix, was it?" The girl nodded, finally meeting his gaze. The man pointed at the plant spirit on her shoulder. "And who's this?"

Beatrix looked surprised. "Oh, you can see him?"

"He looks like a strong fellow," Nakush said, nodding approvingly.

"He's a nuisance is what he is," Beatrix said sourly.

Nakush laughed, clearly amused. "Well that nuisance is also going to make you unbelievably powerful. If you let him,"

Beatrix met his gaze, her expression guarded. "I'm listening,"

"What's his name?"

"Gorum,"

Nakush nodded. "Well, having never called on a spirit, I can understand how you might not know what you're doing. It will be very difficult to cast any spells at first, but with much practice and time, you will soon be quite capable,"

"Oh no, I'm already capable," Beatrix said, beaming. "I made my plant in my room grow tall and everything!"

Nakush looked perplexed. "Oh? That is....very, very unusual. What exactly is the nature of this spirit's relationship to you?"

Beatrix glanced at the turtle. It remained on her shoulder, bobbing its head slowly to some unheard beat. "Um, well, you know. It just follows me around and annoys me,"

The man didn't respond for a few moments. "I see," He said, finally. Yana's face burned. She didn't like the sound of his tone. Nakush shifted, presenting his hands. "It seems you do not need my help then. If the spirit is that...agreeable to you, then your magic is only limited by your mind, and its power. Practice trying to do what you wish, and you will come to understand how the magic manifests,"

Beatrix tilted her head. "That's it? Just believe hard enough?"

"Well," Nakush said, his face curiously solemn. "It's not supposed to be that easy. But it would seem you have quite the beneficial arrangement with Gorum here,"

"Right, chosen one. I keep telling everybody,"

Yana brushed her hair away from her face, trying to steady her voice. "Um, Mr. Nakush, just out of curiosity, if Beatrix ever wanted to get rid of the spirit..."

"What!" Beatrix said. "My magic turtle may be uggo, but he still let's me have awesome powers!"

"right," Yana said, quietly. "I was just wondering, in case, you know...in the future,"

Nakush placed his hand casually in his pocket, his expression one of consideration. "Well, of course, that is something to worry about. But unless you know why the spirit has agreed to do this, I can't really say how to undo it,"

Yana glanced down at the ground. "Oh, yes that makes sense. We don't know....so we'll just have to keep trying to figure that out,"

"Hm,"

"Well, thank you Mr. Nakush," Yana said, tugging Beatrix towards the door.

"You dress well!" Beatrix said, waving at him. "I hope to see you again!"

"That's my line," The man said, a warm, almost polite smile on his face. "Stay safe girls,"

Once outside, Yana hastened through the garden. "Hey!" Beatrix said, jogging to catch up. "You're in a hurry, what's wrong? Was it that Nakush guy?"

"No," Yana said, quickly. She paused, then closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Sorry, I guess I was hoping it would be easy to turn on and off the spirit,"

"Oh don't worry about it," Beatrix said. "C'mon, I heard something interesting about you and Lawrence Motts and I want to ask you about itttttt,"

Yana rolled her eyes, an amused grin on her face. "Fine, let's head back. But no promises,"

Farther downtown, past glowing office-highrises and skyscrapers full of lights, a collection of luxury apartment towers rested. They too were lit up, keeping the night away from Manhattan Island. Calebus marveled at the structures as his Lyft pulled up to the side of the street. He thanked his driver, getting out and grabbing his satchel. He slung it over his shoulder, then checked the piece of paper Flinder had given him.

Calebus didn't know how Flinder had come across this person, but one thing was for sure, they could pay. He approached one of the luxury apartment towers and entered into an elegant lobby. A receptionist and doorman smiled at him as he approached. "Hello," The receptionist said. "Can I help you?"

"Yes," Calebus said, checking his paper. "I'm looking for a Julia Valentine?"

The receptionist's smile remained perfectly frozen. "Is this person expecting you?"

"Yes,"

"One moment please," Calebus turned around and admired the lobby as the receptionist made a phonecall. He could hear her murmuring some words, then hang up. "Sir, Mrs. Valentine is waiting for you if you'll proceed to one of the elevators,"

Calebus nodded and headed for the end of the lobby. "Thank you,"

Golden doors parted to reveal a dark, wooden paneled elevator. Calbus boarded it. The doors shut, the elevator rising unprompted. When they opened again, Calebus stepped out into a quiet, luxurious-looking hallway. The carpet was fine, yet soft. The walls draped in tasteful wall-hangings. Calebus walked down it, consulting his paper. When he reached one of the doors, they opened.

A woman wearing a serving-uniform appeared, her eyes bowed. "Welcome Mr. Candle, please, this way,"

Calebus entered into the apartment. His eyes went wide and he stopped short. A large, open space two-story living-room stretched out before him. Windows that stretched from floor to ceiling revealed a breath-taking view of the surrounding skyscrapers. A gleaming white kitchen connected to the living room, and a free-hanging staircase in the middle of the apartment led up to a balcony and second story.

A woman wearing an expensive, pink bathing robe, as well as a white towel wrapping up her hair, descended the staircase. "Ah, you must be Mr. Candle. I cannot tell you how grateful I am at your arrival,"

"And you must be Mrs. Valentine," Calebus said. "I'm pleased to make your acquaintance,"

"Hmmm pleasure's all mine," The woman said, smiling warmly. Her face suddenly grew serious. "Do you think you can handle my problem? I'm worried you won't be qualified to handle it,"

"What exactly..." Calebus began.

A younger girl, Yana's age, descended the staircase. She had freshly dyed blonde hair, and was dressed as if she were about to go out and impress. She froze on the staircase upon seeing Calebus. The girl narrowed her eyes. "I know you..."

"Yes," Calebus said, equally puzzled. "I know you too. Perhaps you are one of Yana's classmates?"

The girl's face grew horrified. "Why, you're that girl's uncle!" She gripped the stair railing and glared down at her mother. "Mom! What are you doing inviting this man into the house!"

"He's here to help us Claudette!" Julia Valentine said, clasping her hands together. "He'll get ride of the ghosts!"

Claudette's face grew even more horrified. "Oh. My. God! Mom! Did you seriously invite my roommate's creepy uncle to play ghost hunter in our house?? He's going to steal our valuables!"

"Darling please, we have to try something!"

Claudette turned away from the railing, letting out a loud, frustrated noise. "Mom you are so fucking embarrassing! We're not being haunted, ghosts aren't real!"

Calebus cleared his throat, drawing both Valentine's attention. "If I may," He began. "What exactly does this haunting look like?"

Julia Valentine glanced around her apartment, as if checking for ghosts. "Every night I have Juanita clean the kitchen before she leaves. And every morning, every morning! Juanita comes back to find the kitchen a mess! As if vagrants had broken in and made a thanksgiving dinner! How on earth is she supposed to cook breakfast for us like that!"

"God mom," Claudette said, crossing her arms. "You're probably taking too much ambien again and messing it up in your sleep,"

"No!" Julia said, pointing a finger at her daughter. "I called the people at the security company! They checked the cameras! Nobody moves through the house all night, and then, and then," The woman gestured, trying to remember something. "The security people said, it was like, it was like, the footage wasn't recording what was happening! They couldn't explain it besides malfunctioning cameras!"

Claudette gestured, disgusted. "Well there you have it! Malfunctioning cameras! Now get this man out!"

"But what about the voices!" Julia Valentine said. The grown woman seemed on the verge of tears. "I know you hear them Claudette! Echoing up from here!"

Calebus cleared his throat, holding up a palm. "I think I've heard enough. Mrs. Valentine, if I may, I'll start investigating the kitchen and such,"

"The hell you will!" Claudette said, pointing at him. "Get out of my house! I want to go out and I can't enjoy myself knowing Yana's fucking uncle is walking around my room!"

Calebus sighed.

[] Tell Claudette she can stay home and watch your every move if she wants to
[] Tell Claudette to go out, that you're here on her mother's behalf, and will go when Mrs. Valentine says so
[] Take out a perception candle, demonstrate it on yourself to reveal the truth