Family Affairs
"Chaotic Maelstrom? Are you sure that is what they used?" the raptor said.
"I'm positive. I felt their power. It is unbelievable" the lady said.
Everybody in the room started talking at once. The raptor called for silence as they quieted down.
"These 2 must not be allowed to run wild in this town" the raptor said.
"I agree. But if they are anything like their mother, they wont listen to reason" a badger said.
"Then how do we go about containing them?" a bat asked.
The raptor put his hands together and rested his chin on them as everybody looked at him.
"Has the White Council or the Red Courts made contact yet?" he asked.
"Both have made contact but were refused. I got word that 2 emissaries from the White Council are staying with them" a dolphin added.
"Dammit, that damn Merlin is a pain in my side" the raptor said angrily.
"Should we try charming or seducing them?" a bear asked.
"They probably are resistant to charm. And if we did seduce them, the after effects would get us killed when they come to their senses" the bat said.
"Nevertheless, we must get them under control. Send our negotiator to talk to them, but not with the 2 emissaries present. We don't want to start another war like the Red Courts did with their mother" the raptor said.
"It shall be done" they all said and left the room.
The raptor got up as he put his hands behind his back and looked out the window of the 22nd floor building.
"So Sheryl, even in death, you still haunt me. Well I won't let you have your way. Your sons will be contained one way or another. Even if it means I have to kill them myself."
********
"Chaotic Maelstrom huh? Those 2 really are her sons to be able to cast something like that" the human said petting the heads of the Cerberus as it murred in content.
"What do you want me to do?" the man in black said.
The human stood up and looked at him briefly.
"Why didn't you retrieve them when they fainted?"
"Both the White Council and the Faction was there. It would've been a very bad scene if I tried anything."
"Humph, those 2 don't know anything" the human said with a grunt.
All 3 heads of the Cerberus perked up as they let out a growl. A lamia slithered in as she bowed.
"Well?" the human said looking at her.
"Two of the White Council is staying with them. I don't think they brought them before the Merlin yet, but they will very soon." she replied.
"That old man pulled a fast one the rat."
The human put his hands behind him and paced back and forth as they watched him.
"Ginyu?" he said with his back turned.
"I await your order" Ginyu said.
"How about we divide and conquer. Maybe if we can convince one, the other will follow."
"I understand" Ginyu said with a bow. "It shall be done."
A black hole appeared under him as he sunk into it.
"Naga, keep yours eyes and ears open on what the other wannabes wizards are doing."
"As you wish" Naga said and slithered out.
The human turned his back again as he closed his eyes, taking a deep breath.
"Well Sheryl, it seems you still have feelings for me. How nice of you to show me your sons."
He gave a smile showing his vampire teeth.
"I'll make sure to take real good care of them. Once I have them under my control, nothing will stop what will happen."
He let out a sinister laugh that echoed through the halls making people cringe.
********
"Who the fuck used up all my shampoo?" Daniel yelled from the bathroom.
"It was me, I'm sorry" Emily said. "Your shampoo helps keeps my fur shiny."
"You know you 2 are something else" Dan said walking downstairs bare back. "You barge in, almost get us killed, eat up all the food....."
"Daniel relax" Russ said drinking some coffee next to Angel. "This is our last day of vacation and you've done nothing but argue the whole week."
"Well excuse me. Unlike you, all MY stuff has disappeared. MY food gone, MY favorite drink, gone, and now MY shampoo."
Emily went red as Angel and Russ chuckled.
"I'm deeply sorry, but you have better tastes in certain stuff."
Daniel mumbled something under his breath as he walked past them to a cabinet in the kitchen. Emily caught herself staring at Daniel again. She was doing this lately the past week as she watched the muscles in his back stretch to reach something. Angel caught her making her ears go red again as Angel chuckled.
"Even my stash of mudslide is gone" Dan cursed.
"You can blame me for that" Russ said. "I was thirsty."
"Why is everybody against me?"
He walked over and grabbed the shirt he placed on the couch along with a pair of sunglasses and headed for the door.
"Where are you going?" Emily asked.
"None of your fucking business."
"Would it kill you to be nice for once?"
"Yes it would."
"Grab me some Tylenol and mouthwash" Russ said.
"Fuck you" Daniel said opening the door and walking out.
They listened as the car started up and sped off down the street.
"Now then" Russ said with a sigh looking at both the girls. "Let's get down to business."
********
"All right kids, recess" a raccoon said as all the kids let out a joyfully yell and rushed out the room.
The raccoon let out a sigh as she sat down on the desk and started to grade papers. A knock came on the door as she looked at it.
"Come in."
In walked a beaver with a bundle of roses.
"Congratulations" he said.
"Oh Greg, you shouldn't have" she said in shock getting up.
"Only the best for the greatest magic teacher in this school" Greg said with a smile.
"You flirt" she said giving him a hug and a kiss on the check.
She said a couple of words as a vase filled with water appeared on the desk. She placed them in there neatly.
"Listen Amber, there's been something I've been meaning to ask you" Greg said nervously.
"I'm listening."
"Have you....ever thought.....about you and me again?"
Amber placed her hands on the desk.
"Greg......."
"I know you don't think we had anything special. But all I'm asking for is one more chance. Please?"
Greg walked over slowly and placed his hand on her shoulder making her tense.
"I know I'm asking a lot, but I don't want to lose what little memories we had."
"I don't know Greg."
"You don't have to answer right away. All I'm asking if another chance to make it work between us."
She went to open her mouth when the children let out a scream. They rushed to the window to see 2 strange creatures closing in on children.
"What in the hell are those?" Greg said.
"I don't care, it's after the children" Amber said rushing out.
The 2 creature inched their way closer as the children huddled in fear. The one on the left looked like a giant caterpillar with a huge mouth filled with sharp teeth. Underneath its mouth were several tentacles, each dripping an unknown substance on the floor. The one on the right was a giant worm with green skin and a yellow belly. 4 tentacles surrounded a beak like mouth in the middle. At the end of each tentacle was a sharp sickle like claw about 4 inches long.
"Get away from them" Amber shouted standing between them.
Both creatures stood there until a hooded figure walked between them.
"I'm looking for Amber Rose. Are you her?" the figure said in a rough voice.
"Who wants to know?" Amber said.
"I need to absorb your magical energy in order to achieve my goal. Please come with me."
"Don't make me laugh" Amber said as fire formed in her hands. "Get off this property or I'll make you."
The hooded figure raised his hand in a come here gesture.
"I won't ask nicely again Ms. Rose. Please come with me quietly. I do not wish to squander your magic meaninglessly."
"I said get off this property" she growled as the fire turned into a ball which she hurled at him.
It roared through the air with great velocity. The figure stood there, unmoving as it exploded engulfing all 3 of them. Amber looked on with everybody else.
"Did you get him?" Greg asked.
The flame cleared as the hooded figure stood there unscathed. To her surprise, he was the only one there as there were holes in the ground.
"Very well" the figure said dropping his hand. "You will come with me one way or another. Subdue her" he said snapping his fingers.
The ground started to shake around her. Suddenly, a tentacle broke through the ground under her feet. She jumped out the way as more tentacles broke through the ground. She jumped again but lost her footing and tripped as a tentacle wrapped around her immediately. She opened her mouth to scream but nothing came out as she dropped to the ground, twitching a little. The figure walked over and picked her up.
"Paralyzing saliva. You'll be up and around in a couple of hours" he said as she looked at him with horror in her eyes.
"Let her go" Greg yelled running towards him.
He didn't get fair as a tentacle ripped through the ground and cut a deep gash in his leg. He fell to the ground as the wormlike creatures came from the ground and advanced towards him.
"Enough" the figure said. "He's not worth it."
They crawled over to him as he jumped on top of one.
"Have a good day. I know I will" he said with a laugh before they disappeared into the hole.
********
"Arthur, you son of a bitch, what's happening?" Dan said walking into the store.
Arthur turned to look at Daniel as he smiled.
"Well look who decided to show his face in my store?"
Arthur walked over and gave him a swift punch to the stomach making Dan double over. For a rat, he had one hell of a right.
"Damn Arthur" Dan said catching his breath. "What was that for?"
"For holding me up last week."
"Oh shit, I forgot about that" Dan said rubbing the back of his head.
"Whatever" Arthur said slipping back behind the counter. "So what the hell do you want?"
"The usual" Dan said with a smile.
"Humph" Arthur said before disappearing in the back.
Arthur owned the best import liquor store around. He was in good terms with merchants all over the world as they shipped him only the best. Dan was a regular who liked the Barbadian rum, 151 proof. The TV that was on in the back turned to news.
"We interrupt to bring you a special report. The rash of disappearing people continues today as Amber Rose, a magic teacher who teaches low level magic, has been abducted 20 minutes ago from Kimberly-Clark school."
Daniel looked on with interest.
"The assailant, who has yet to be identified, has now increased his number to 7. Police, along with other local departments are trying their hardest to locate and put a stop to this madman. As of now they have no leads, only that the assailant is always surrounded by wormlike creatures. We will continue this story later tonight."
Dan's train of thought was broken by a bag being placed on the counter besides him.
"You're lucky. This is the last one so drink it slowly" Arthur said.
"That sucks. When are you getting more?" he asked handing him the money.
"Don't know. Probably not until next week."
"Okay. I'm going to grab some mudslide to substitute.
Grabbing everything he came for, including Russ's stuff, he headed back towards the car. Placing the bags on the roof of his car, he was about to open the door when he felt that same chill he felt in the diner. He let out a sigh and shook his head.
"You back again?" Dan said without turning around.
"I've come to give you the offer again" Ginyu said.
"I'll just tell you the same thing" Dan said turning around leaning on the car, arms crossed.
"I know. That's why I brought a negotiator."
As he said that, a hole appeared as fire shot out. Stepping out of the hole came a huge minotaur. It stood about 7'1 with midnight black fur, grey horns and crimson red eyes. It looked at Dan who stood there unconcerned.
"And who are you?" Dan said looking up at him.
"My name is of no concern. My job is to make you see the light" the minotaur said in a deep voice.
Dan rubbed his eyes and sighed.
"Whatever you have to offer, my answer is no."
"Very well, I'll change that."
Daniel didn't get a chance to react as the minotaur was right on him, grabbing him by the throat and lifting him with ease. Dan struck his arms but it didn't faze the bull as it chuckled before tossing him in the air like a rag doll into a nearby brick wall.
"Just say yes, and this will all be over" Ginyu said as Dan stood up groggily.
"Fuck you" Dan yelled and pulled out his gun and started firing.
The bullets went into the minotaur who kept walking towards him. He ran out of bullets and let out a curse.
"Are you done tickling me?" the minotaur asked.
"Tickle this" Dan growled and charged him.
The minotaur laughed and charged himself, head down. They met with a sickening crunch as Daniel flew back into the brick wall.
"Ouch" Ginyu said.
The bull walked over and lifted him up with ease and held him to the wall. A small trail of blood came down the side of Dan's face.
"Will you join my master or do you need more "convincing"?"
Dan didn't answer him.
"Very well."
It reared back with his giant hand and struck Dan in the stomach. Dan let out a grunt as his air was taken away completely.
"Come now, this cant be that hard of a decision. Think of the possibilities. You have the potential to do great things" Ginyu said.
Dan was still unresponsive as Ginyu nodded his head. The minotaur reared back and struck him again causing blood to come out his mouth.
"You humans are stubborn creatures. So blind to the aspect of having absolute power" the minotaur said.
"If you want it so bad, you can have it" Dan said angrily and spit blood in his face. "I said it once and I'll say it again, fuck you."
The minotaur let out a snort of anger and struck him again which an audible crack could be heard as Dan let out a yell before coughing up more blood. The minotaur tossed him in the air again as he hit the car causing the bags to fall to the ground, breaking everything inside. This pissed Dan off as he stood up weakly.
"Now you've done it. That was the last Barbadian rum Arthur had. I don't care what you do to me, but when you fuck with my drinks, you will suffer."
Dan's eyes showed streaks of lighting that flashed through him as Ginyu felt his magic rise greatly.
"Incredible" Ginyu said holding his hat as the winds picked up.
Dan held his hand sideways away from his body, causing a tear in the air as a crackling ebony sword appeared. It was pitch black with a face of a demon on the handle.
"Black blade of disaster" Ginyu said shocked. "Very impressive."
The minotaur stood there but Daniel saw that glint of fear in his eyes. Dan took off towards him as the minotaur threw a punch. Dan slide under and between his legs. With quick speed, he gave a swift quick kick to the minotaur's crotch causing it to double over. With its body hunched over, Dan ran up its back, grabbed a hold of its horn and used it to propel himself in the air before coming down with a powerful swing taking off its head. Blood flew everywhere as Ginyu looked on wide eye before raising his cape to block the spray of blood.
"Such power" Ginyu said.
He lowered his cape to find Daniel in his face. Ginyu went to put his defense up but Dan was one step ahead and cut off his left hand making him yell in pain.
"Look what you did" Ginyu yelled holding his stub which was bleeding.
Dan brought the sword to Ginyu's neck as he started to shake.
"Come near me again, and you'll lose more then your hand."
"You'll regret this" Ginyu said angrily before sinking into the hole under him.
Daniel let out a sigh as the sword disappeared and went to one knee holding his chest.
"Dammit, everybody's against me today. Fuck."
********
Russ, Angel, and Emily sat at the table drinking some soda and munching on some chips and popcorn. Russell shook his head and sighed out.
"All right, let's start over" Russ said. "First, why are you here?"
"We are here to bring you and your brother to Merlin" Angel answered.
"And why do we need to go there?"
"Because you're magical powers are very sought after. You are both level 5's" Emily said.
"That's twice I heard people say that. What is this level 5 crap?"
The girls looked at each other.
"Well it's kind of hard to explain in depth. In short, there are 5 levels of magic and both you and your brother are 5's" Angel said. "And as you will find out sooner or later, it means that you and your brother's magical powers have effectively no limit to them."
Russ rubbed him chin and looked at them.
"So why does this Merlin want to see us?"
"To train you properly so you don't wreck havoc like you did at the harbor" Emily said.
Russ took another drink and put the cup down.
"All right next question, what do you know about our mother?"
The girls looked at each other again.
"We don't know much about her. All we know is that she was very powerful but very friendly. She helped a lot of people in her time before her....." Angel paused to get the right word out. "Execution."
"She was put to death? By who?" Russ said swallowing.
"We can't say" Emily said shaking her head.
"What do you mean you can't say?" he asked slightly annoyed.
"We're not even suppose to tell you anything about her, until Merlin did. If you want to know, you have to see him."
Russ let out a growl as the glass cup in his paw shattered in his grasp.
"We're sorry if we can't be of anymore help" Angel said.
"Fine" Russ said picking the glass out his hand. "I'll talk my brother into going. Since I'm the more level-headed one, I'll be doing most of the talking. But I will try to be open minded and will side with both of you. I will stay on my brother's side so he won't do anything rash. Chances are he will refuse any thing Merlin might want to say or offer and I will have to take his side more or less. If Merlin wants to train us that badly, he'll need to have faith in my ability to convince my brother it's for the best, no matter how long it takes. Also, no tricks, charms, or anything of the sort. If I find out he's manipulated me or my brother in anyway with mind altering enchantments, I won't trust him enough to train under those he trusts. And no matter what happens with Daniel, he's to let me alone deal with my brother understand?"
"We will tell him, and thank you Russ" they both said with a bow.
Russell gave a grunt when they heard a car pull up.
"Took him long enough" Russ said.
The door opened slowly as Dan hobbled inside.
"Daniel, what happened?" Emily said running up to him only to be pushed away.
"Get the hell away from me" Dan growled and held his side again.
"Who done tore off and whipped your ass this time?" Russ said shaking his head as he came up to help Dan into the living room and get him on the couch.
"That asshat from the diner came back with a buddy" Dan said wiping his mouth.
"The man in all black huh?" Russ said as Emily and Angel knew who it was.
"Yeah. His friend tried to make me see the light as he said" Dan said as he grimaced in pain.
"Here let me help you" Emily said sitting next to him.
She placed her hand on his chest before Dan grabbed it roughly.
"Don't.......touch me."
"I'm only trying to help."
Dan's eyes grew heavy, the aftermath of the spell started to kick in as his head went back and passed out.
"He's mentally drained. Must've used something heavy" Emily said placing her hand back on his chest as it glowed yellow. "Its going to take me a while to heal him so we'll go to the Council tomorrow if that's okay with you Russ?"
"I don't care. As long we get some answers about our mother." Russell growled walking upstairs and before closing his door he called out "When Dan hears about our mother's fate, you better tell Merlin the shit is gonna hit the fan."
"I'll contact the Council and let them know we're coming tomorrow" Angel said leaving through the front door.
Emily looked Dan over again. He was rather cute besides his poor attitude. She knew she was pushing her limits but she raised her hand carefully and stroke his cheek softly making him sigh.
"Mo......ther" Dan said softly before passing out again.
Emily let out a sigh as she continued to heal him.
********
"He said no I take it?" the human said looking at Ginyu.
"Yes sir" Ginyu said standing over a pot of green slime that was bubbling.
"I see" he said putting his hands behind his back.
Ginyu took a deep breath before placing his hand-less arm into the pot. He let out a yell as the slime covered the stump. He felt the bone, tendons, nerve endings, vessels and everything that made his hand come back together. Pulling out his newly regrown hand, he wiggled his fingers as the slime dripped off leaving smoke in the air.
"If I may be blunt Alucard?" Ginyu said.
"Go ahead Ginyu."
"Why not just kidnap them and make them submit?"
"I could" Alucard said. "But the more they resist me, the more I want them."
He made a tight fist as black wings sprouted from his back and expanded.
"And when I finally do have them in my possession, the Red Courts will be one step closer to supreme rule over this pathetic world."
********
Daniel woke up with a jump on the couch. His had started to spin as he remembered what transpired. He went to get up but felt a weight on his lap. Looking down, he saw Emily fast asleep. He was about to push her off when he realized his injuries were gone.
"I guess she healed me" Dan said looking at the clock on the wall which read 2:30 in the morning.
He swallowed hard, it took great skill and power to use one's magic to heal injuries. Normally magic wasn't effective at healing injured and curing illnesses, science was more effective at healing the aliments of the body and magic at best just closing and patching. Something about the natural energies of the body interfered with the process of magical healing.
Emily let out a moan of discomfort as she tried to move from her position. Dan rubbed his eyes and regretted what he was going to do. Moving carefully, he lifted her prone body and placed her in his lap, her head resting under her chin.
"What the hell am I doing?" he said to himself before looking at her again.
She was rather good looking as her twin tails moved lazily in her sleep. He felt a stirring down below as he grunted.
"Just great" he mumbled before Emily let out a sigh and hugged Dan in her sleep.
He shook his head before leaning back in the couch and falling asleep.
********
"Dammit, why isn't it working" the hooded figure said angrily.
He walked over to the cocoons which held the missing people, including Amber. A web like structure held them over a pool of water which was giving off a pale green glow.
"I've done everything right. How come I haven't achieved the highest possible level? Do I still need more magical energy?"
He let out a yell and hit the pedestal knocking it over.
"What more do I need? What am I missing father?" he yelled in frustration.
One of the worms crawled over and nudged him gently with its body trying to comfort him. The figure let out a sigh and patted the worm's body.
"Thanks for trying to cheer me up. You guys are the only family I have left."
The figure walked over and picked up the pedestal along with the book.
"All right, let's go get some more magic."
********
Daniel was wide awake, still holding Emily in his arms.
"Well it isn't everyday I can say I slept with a beautiful girl in my arms" he chuckled.
Emily started to stir as she opened her eyes slowly. She was a little confused about her position until she looked up and saw Dan staring at her. They locked gazes, neither of them saying a word. Both their faces inches from each other.
"Ummm....." Dan said breaking the silence. "Thanks for healing me."
"Wow, I never thought you're the kind of person to thank anybody" Emily said with a smile.
"Don't get too comfortable. Last night was a mistake. It'll never happen again."
"Well well look at this picture" Russ said walking downstairs. "You sure do move fast."
"Go fuck yourself Russ" Dan grunted and pushed Emily off him.
"Hey what you 2 did last night is no......"
"Say another word and you'll be eating your food through a straw" Dan said pointing his gun right at his own brother.
Angel walked in the front door and let out a gasp at what she saw.
"Did I miss something?" she said confused.
"Shut up" Dan said looking to Angel, not seeing that Russell had come up. Dan only turned back to look at Russell when he felt a strong jerk and clank coming from his gun. He stood there as Russell held the slide from his gun having used his magic to yank it off preventing the gun from firing.
"You pull a gun on me again, you better pull the trigger you understand Daniel?" he said with a snarl "Strike one Daniel, strike one" he said glaring his eyes with his contained anger.
Daniel swallowed hearing those words as fear hit him. The last time Russell had used that was over 5 years ago. If he hit strike three he knew there would be hell to pay to Russell.
"Everything is all set. We can head to the Council whenever you're ready" Angel said.
"Then lets get this over with" Dan said.
They hopped into the car and headed towards the council. Both Russ and Dan having high hopes that they will get some questions answered.
"So where is this council?" Dan said stopping at a red light.
"The old Brookman building in downtown" Emily said.
"Isn't that building abandoned?" Russ said.
"Yes."
"Then how can the Council be there?"
"You'll see."
Russ looked at Dan who shrugged his shoulders and headed for the building. It took about 5 minutes as he pulled in the driveway.
"Head for the garage" Emily said.
Dan headed for the garage as he saw a guard in the security booth. Pulling up, the guard, who was a middle age looking goat, looked at him.
"What's you're business here?" he asked.
"To see the Merlin" Dan said.
"The Merlin? Never heard of him. Now get the hell out of here."
"What was that?" Dan said reaching for his gun before Emily stopped him.
"Henry, it's us. We've come back."
"Ah Emily, why didn't you say so" Henry said lifting the gate. "Go right ahead."
Dan gave him an evil look as he pulled inside the garage. Lots of cars were parked inside as they found a spot.
"This way" Angel said leading to an elevator.
Getting inside, the doors closed as there were only 2 buttons, open and close door on the wall. "Please choose destination" a voice said.
"Sanctuary" Emily said.
"Password please."
"Paradise."
"Password accepted."
The elevator hummed to life as it descended down. After a few minutes it stopped and opened up on the opposite side.
"Welcome back to the Wizard Council Emily Summerstone. Have a good day."
They walked out the elevator into a lobby that was white all around. The marble on the floor shined so bright and looked so clean that you could eat off it. Dan and Russ looked around curiously.
"Impressive" Dan said.
"Thanks. We keep it tidy. This way" Angel said.
They passed several furs and humans in classrooms that stopped and looked at them as they passed by.
"What is this place, some kind of school?" Russ asked.
"Something like that. The people you see here have hidden potential. But none as great as you two." Emily said.
They turned the corner and walked down the long hallway where the lone rhino was standing guard. He tensed up as he felt great power and locked his sights on Dan and Russ.
"Good afternoon Warden. We have brought Daniel and Russell Miller to see the Merlin" Angel said with a bow along with Emily.
He didn't respond as he let out a growl and tighten his fists angrily.
"You got a problem or something?" Dan said.
The warden opened his mouth to respond but stopped as his eyes went to the door for about a minute before returning his gaze to them.
"You may proceed" he said stepping aside. "But I'll be watching you 2."
"I'm shaking" Dan said walking past him.
They walked down the carpet where Merlin was standing with his back turned. Angel and Emily went to one knee in a bow.
"Welcome Miller brothers. I've been expecting you" he said turning around.
********
"Say that again?" the chief said looking at Paul.
"The president's daughter is coming and you're going to be in charge of guarding her." Paul said.
The chief hit the brakes hard at a stop light he was about to run jerking them both in their seats.
"Dammit George, pay attention" Paul said rubbing his chest.
"Sorry."
Paul let out a cough and rubbed his chest as they continued to their destination.
"I want only your best men on the job of body guarding her."
"Well Paul, our hands are a little full right now with all the kidnapping going on."
"Don't you have any rookies? Let them do the job."
"They are too jumpy and would cause more harm then good."
Paul rubbed his chin and looked out the window at a plane taking off in the distance.
"There are only 2 people left I can count. Trouble makers, but to be honest, dispite their attitudes they are the best damn agents I've ever had" George said pulling into the airport parking lot.
"NO, out of the question. I don't want those 2 anywhere her" Paul said angrily.
"You hate them that much?" George said parking the car.
"Hate isn't the word" Paul said getting out.
They walked to the entrance where about 10 people in black suits and glasses were standing around a small husky. She had on baggy blue jeans and a long sleeve shirt with the words "Don't be a Hater" on the front.
"Ms Pearl, please forgive us for being late" Paul said.
"It's okay. We just landed about 10 minutes ago anyway" she said in a cheerful voice, her blonde hair sliding down the right side of her face slowly.
A tall wolf walked up beside her.
"My name is Dylan, head security for Pearl."
"Nice to meet you. I'm Paul, mayor of Capricorn and this is George, chief of the SNDU."
"SNDU? I've heard of you guys. So are you going to be looking after her?"
"Yes we will. We promise to take good care of her" George said.
"Glad to hear that. But just to make sure, I'll be accompanying whoever has guard duty."
"But of course" George said with a nod.
"Well then, shall we go?" Dylan said with a smile.
"After you" Paul said.
"All right people report back to the White House and meet back here at 1800 hours in 2 days."
"Yes sir" they all said nodding.
They huddled in the car and took off.
"Are my bodyguards going to be cute?" Pearl asked.
"I'm not gay or anything but I suppose you could say that" George said with a chuckle.
"Good. I'm sick of being guarded by trolls."
"I'm a troll?" Dylan said sadly.
"Of course not Dylan. But I want a fresh man every now and then."
"Well these bodyguards aren't exactly the ones I want guarding you, but there's no choice at the moment" Paul said.
Pearl's silver eyes lit up with excitement.
"Rebels huh? Now you're talking. When do I meet them?"
"I'll give them a call when we get to the office."
********
"Daniel and Russell Miller, how I waited for this moment to finally meet you" Merlin said with a smile.
He snapped his fingers as 4 chairs appeared.
"Please, have a seat."
They all had a seat as Merlin smiled.
"Would you care......"
"Cut the chatter and tell us about our mother" Dan said.
"What's the hurry? You just got here. Let me know about you before we discuss business."
"We're out of here" Dan said getting up.
"You must be the hot head Daniel Emily's been talking about?"
Dan froze and looked at him.
"What was that?"
"Emily's been telling me about you for the past couple of days. So far everything she told me is true."
"And what kind of things would those be?"
"You have a poor attitude, get mad very quick and ready to fight somebody at the drop of a hat."
Dan looked at Emily with daggers in his eyes as she folded her ears back.
"Really now? Then how about we do this my way?"
He walked over, grabbed Emily roughly by the hair and tossed her on the floor. Placing his foot on her back, he pulled out his gun.
"You got 3 seconds to tell us about our mother, or you're going to be short one employee."
"Daniel, what are you doing?" Angel said shocked.
"Shut up. 1."
"Threaten me is not going to solve the problem" Merlin said sternly.
Dan fired a shot inches from her face making her yelp and whine.
"2."
"If you kill her, you won't live here alive" Merlin said.
"I'll take my chances old man."
"DANIEL THAT'S ENOUGH" Russ growled out in anger. "Strike two!" he yelled out and hit Daniel with a spell of pure force that blew him across the room and into a wall, nearly cracking the marble from the force of the impact.
This shocked everybody, even Dan who never heard his brother yell like that before, much less be attacked with a spell of that level where he felt a number of his insides do flip flops.
"Sit.......down.......now" he growled.
Dan, too shocked to say or do anything, put his gun away and sat down. Emily got up and sat down as well, still shaking from the experience. Russ's eyes looked straight into Merlin's.
"Now then old man, we've come for answers, and expect them. I may be the level headed one, but even I have my limits."
"And you must be Russell, the calm one. Angel's quite taken with you" Merlin said as Angel blushed as Russell inhaled and exhaled calming down best he could, his anger wasn't directed at Merlin but his brother as he glared at Dan with his own daggers as he repeated "Strike two."
"As I was saying, we got no time for bullshit. Now I can only contain my brother and myself for so long. Either tell us what we want to know or we walk out of here."
"And if I won't let you?"
"Then we won't hesitate to kill anybody in our way, starting with these 2." Dan said getting his nerve and temper back.
Merlin looked into his eyes, trying to find even the slightest sign of a bluff but failed. He closed his eyes and laughed.
"Very well, I will tell. But on one condition?"
"What is that?" Russ asked.
"You 2 will allow yourself to be trained here, under my supervision."
Dan and Russ looked at each other as Dan shook his head no.
"I will not hold you here under lock and key. You will be free to do whatever you want. I only want to help you contain and control your magic before it gets out of control."
Russ looked at Dan who still shook his head no.
"Agreed" Russ said.
"Russ what the hell?" Dan said.
"But on few conditions?"
"Okay, and they are?"
"We came when we feel able to deal with the stress of being here. It's gonna take me a while get my brother's temper under control as is, once I find out what's eating at him, that and we have jobs. We joined the SNDU, to help people. Sitting in a classroom here twenty four hours a day seven days a week isn't possible for me or my brother. You are not to treat us like little kids at school. We've been using our magic since before we hit our teens. We may be hot headed, but we have common sense. We are not children, treating us as such is only gonna piss us off."
Angel and Emily looked shocked this time.
"Russ that is not wise. If you want to control your magic, you have to be here everyday" Emily said.
"That's our deal. Take it or leave it."
Merlin closed his eyes. He didn't like the idea of them coming whenever they felt like because they may not show up at all. He opened them back up and looked at Russ.
"Agreed."
"Good. Now that that's settled, we'd like to know about our mother."
Merlin folded his hands and sat back in his chair.
"Your mother was a kind, powerful person. I met her when she was still young. Even young, she had great magic inside her. I offered to bring her here and train her to control her magic, but she refused saying she didn't need it to be controlled."
He let out a sigh before closing his eyes.
"Then she met your father, who belonged to the Red Courts."
"Red Courts?" Dan said confused.
"Oh Fuck!" Russell said.
"You know about them Russell?" Dan asked
"Yes, Dan I'm a bit more up to date on things of magical affairs and such. From what I've heard of the Red Courts, when they get involved in the lives of people, things get very, very nasty. This isn't going end well, Daniel. Please for my sake remain calm no matter what you hear please."
Daniel looked at Russell and heard his voice before turning his attention to Merlin as his temper slowly started to grow.
"Emily and Angel will tell you about them later. Your father tried to get her to join the Courts but she refused to. Even Evan from the Faction wanted her magic power, but he wanted it sealed so it wouldn't harm anybody. After a while, your father honestly fell in love with Sheryl, and she convinced him to leave the Red courts and turn his back on them forever. The 2 of them got married then took off where they had the both of you."
He rubbed his beard a couple of times before continuing.
"Alucard didn't like that one bit, so he sent an assassin after them. We found out about it and thus a war broke out between us and the Red Courts. The Faction didn't like that so they tried to break up the war by eliminating the problem at the source. When they tried to attack her, both Sheryl and your father fought them off with little problem. But when they held both of you hostage, that's when she lost control."
Merlin stared off in the distance, remembering the event very clearly.
"Your mother started destroying everything and everyone. Friend or foe didn't matter in her eyes. Lots of blood was shed and all of us decided to band together to try and control her before she destroyed the very world. It was a long, hard fought battle with hundreds of deaths. We finally managed to subdue, but she was killed in the process."
"Who killed her?" Dan asked.
Merlin went silent and closed his eyes as they both looked at him.
"Well?"
"I did" Merlin say. "I know you think it was wrong, but it had to be done, for your sakes as well."
This sent Daniel in a rage as he grinded his teeth and gripped the arms of the chair hard. His magic started to rise rapidly and to Merlin's surprise, past his. The door opened as several people rushed in.
"Merlin, are you ok?" the rhino asked.
Dan stood up and held his hand out as a wall of ice blocked the people from coming any closer. He turned to Merlin and pointed his gun at him which started to glow.
"You killed our mother and have the balls to say it had to be done? Give me one good reason why I shouldn't blow your fucking head off right now?"
"I didn't want to do it. It was either that, or you would've died in her onslaught."
"Bullshit, you had a choice" Dan yelled angrily causing the floor to shake.
The people behind the ice stated yelling but couldn't get through to help.
"Daniel stop this. You are losing control" Emily said.
"You shut up" Dan said snapping his fingers causing vines to break through the ground and wrap them up.
"This is why I had to stop your mother. This is what I didn't want to happen to her" Merlin said calmly.
"Then why don't you join her and apologize."
He was about to pull the trigger when Russ got up, and extended his arm as everyone in the room gasped feeling the magic spell Russell just cast on his own brother. Daniel let go of his gun as his hands when to his throat and he choked as his wind pipe was compressed. Daniel's focus on his magic was cut and his spells faded freeing those he had trapped.
Daniel turned around to face Russell as his large eyes filled with pain and fear as he tried to gasp for air pleading with his brother's cold heartless stare as Russell said, "Strike three" he said making Daniel drop to his knees as his need for air got greater. The guards stepped back and just as they were about to attack Russell and Daniel Merlin lifted his hands to tell them to hold their ground.
"Daniel we are police, guardians of the law and those around us. If we encountered a mage who had raged out of control and couldn't stop them as they killed every one around them we would have no choice but to bring them down any way possible, even if it meant killing them. If you some how when out of control, like your doing now" Russell spoke as Daniel rolled onto his side struggling as Angel, Emily, and Merlin watch Russell use a death grip spell, A necromantic spell of this level or type was hard to get a hold of and it's use was barely tolerated at best.
Daniel on the other hand could very well hear Russell's words as he could not believe his brother was using this on him. He could feel his lungs starting to burn from lack of air, and fear set in at how pissed he'd made his brother, as he couldn't believe what he heard next as he looks at his angry brother say, "I would do everything with in my power to put you down, even if it meant killing you, IF I went into a rage, I'd expect NO LESS FROM YOU DAMN IT!" he ended his statement with a shout as he finally let his brother breath as he coughed out and gasped even choking out some blood from how tightly Russell held him. Russell came over to Daniel and dropped to his knees as he started to cry. Whatever Daniel had felt, Russell felt even worse, at having been forced to do that to his own brother. Tears streamed down his cheeks as they both managed to slowly collect themselves.
"Mother is dead, yes. But killing him will not bring her back nor will it make her happy."
Dan sat up as Russ held him. Dan held his head down as tears dropped.
"It's not fair. IT'S NOT FAIR!" Daniel said hitting the floor.
Russ hugged his brother who hugged him back and cried softly, calming down as well.
"You little whelps" the rhino who was unimpressed had waited for their guard to drop and the ice wall so he could deal with them as he rushed forward to attack
"Sanzo stop" Merlin said
Sanzo stopped and looked at Merlin.
"But Merlin....."
"They are fine."
"I think we overstayed our welcome" Russ said helping his brother up. "We'll take our leave."
They walked past everybody who stared at them.
"We still have an agreement correct?" Merlin said as they got to the door.
"Yes, just give us time please Merlin. That is all I ask please" Russell said with his back turned before they continued down the hall.
They watched them leave before Sanzo turned to Merlin.
"Why are you letting them leave?"
"Because they are still young."
"Even still Merlin, those 2 are dangerous. Especially the one called Daniel. He's a loose cannon with the fuse lit." Sanzo said.
Merlin gave a smile while stroking his long white beard.
"He may be loose cannon. But deep down, he's a lost child. Russell is his guiding light. He will not lead him a stray. Emily and Angel, continue your watch over them."
"Of course" they both said with a bow.
Everybody left as the Merlin closed his eyes.
"I promised I would watch over your kids Sheryl, and I will keep my promise, no matter the situation that arises."
They hurried down the hall and up the elevator to see them getting into the car. Getting in the back seat, everybody was quiet. Emily opened her mouth to say something but Russell shook his head, telling now was not a good time. After another minute, he phone went off.
"This is Russell. Yes chief we're all here. Who's there?" he said shocked. "Okay, we'll be right there."
Russ put the key in the ignition as the car started. He gave a quick glance at Dan who had a far away look in his eyes that were full of hate and sorrow. He let out a sigh as he put the car in gear and drove off.
********
"Where are my bodyguards?" Pearl said tapping her foot.
"I called them and they should be here shortly" George said.
"Good, I hate to be kept waiting."
"Daniel and Russell have just arrived" Susan said over the intercom.
"Thank you Susan" George said.
The door opened as they walked in. Pearl looked at them but froze when she saw Daniel.
"Boys and girls, meet Pearl, the president's daughter. She'll be here for the next couple of days."
"How do you do Ms Pearl" Russ, Angel, and Emily said.
Not Dan, he sat down, eyes staring at nothing as he sunk into the chair. This behavior was new to George and Paul as they looked confused.
"Hey Russell, what's up with Daniel?" George asked.
"We heard some rather disturbing news and he's taking it the hardest." He said emotionally drained as well. His ears laid back, and tail slightly between his legs, and he closed his eyes to focus his thoughts.
Pearl walked over and sat next to him.
"What's wrong?" she asked softly.
"Don't worry about it" Dan replied.
She reached over and turned his head looking straight in his eyes. There was a slight presence of magic felt as her eyes glowed softly.
"She's using Thought Reading" Emily said. "That's pretty advanced."
Her eyes stopped glowing as a single tear came down. Without warning she jumped into his arms shocking everybody, even Dan.
"You poor thing. You're so alone. Don't worry, I'm here by your side now" Pearl said cuddling him.
"Come again?" Dan said.
"You need someone to love. I will be that one" Pearl said happily making Emily growl quietly.
"Um miss, I hardly know you."
"But I know everything about you Daniel Miller. You're 21 years old, single and living with your brother Russell. You pretend to be a cold bastard in order to......."
"That's enough" Daniel said angrily. "Did I give you permission to read my mind?"
Pearl just smiled before getting up.
"I need to know everything about my bodyguards."
"Bodyguards?" Dan said confused looking at George.
"You 4 are going to be her bodyguard for the next couple of days" George said.
"What's the occasion?" Russ asked.
"I'm going to the Magic Convention which my friend is holding. I'm also here to visit my old school and offer some advice to the children."
"God help them" Dan said quietly.
"I heard that" Pearl said.
Dan got up and went to the water cooler taking 4 quick drinks before splashing the other one on his face.
"Are we getting paid extra for this?"
"You'll get a bonus included in your check from the government" Dylan said.
"All right" Dan said. "So when do we start?"
"Ok Pearl, as your guards there is a rule you need to know about. If there is trouble, you will do what we say without hesitation. Cause it's for your protection, as well as ours. You disobey and depending on the out come of the trouble, you may find yourself over my knee spanking your ass black and blue understand Miss Pearl?" Russ asked.
"He'll do it to I assure you of that" Irons added.
Pearl swallowed at Russell and a bit fearfully she said "Yes sir, I'm not stupid dispite how I like to act."
Before Paul could say anything answer, the intercom went off.
"Chief, 2 more people have been abducted."
"Where?" George asked.
"Great Eastern Magic Academy."
Pearl's eyes went wide.
"That's where I went. We have to check it out" Pearl said and rushed out the door.
"Hey wait" Russ said but was too late.
"Man, she's always jumping the gun so fast" Dylan said. "This is why I lose so much weight."
"Reminds me of somebody" Angel said.
"Shut up" Dan snarled.
"Anyway, she's now in your hands. If something happens to her, I have full authority to do what I want with the 2 of you. And believe me, when I get through with you, you won't know what hit you." Paul said with an evil smile.
"Yeah whatever." Russ said walking out the door.
********
"It's still not enough" the figure said watching the water glow a little brighter.
He walked over and examined them all.
"I've drained them of all their magic and yet I don't feel the power I should have."
He crossed his arms and walked back and forth. One of the worms crawled over as he looked at it. In one of its claws was a piece of paper.
"What is this?" he asked grabbing it. "Come one, come all to the 3rd annual Magic Convention being held tonight at 8. Refreshments and entertainment will be provided. Proper attire required."
A smile grew on his face as the paper burned in his hands.
"Perfect" the figure said. "Gather everyone else. We have a party to crash."
********
"Pearl!!"
Pearl turned around to see a collie in an ambulance.
"Fred, what happened?" Pearl asked running over.
"Some freak came here talking about stealing magic to gain his goal, ouch" he grimaced as the medic tended his wounds.
"Did he say what he wanted?"
"No."
Dan and Russ walked over and looked at the hole in the ground left by the worms. They felt a presence of magic deep inside somewhere.
"Wonder what's down there?" Dan said.
"No clue" Russ added. "But whatever it is has all those people hostage."
They looked over to see Billy and Sam talking to a medium size black dragon.
"Are you sure that's what they look like?" Billy said.
"Positive. I know biological creatures when I see them" he stated pushing his thin glasses up his nose.
"But those are subterranean creatures. Why would they attack humans?" Sam asked.
"I think that person in all black was controlling them."
"What did he look like?"
They all turned to see Dan and Russ walking up.
"Nobody got a look. The assailant was wearing a robe covering his face" Billy said. "What brings you 2 up here?"
"Guard duty" Dan said.
"Guarding who?"
Russ pointed his thumb behind him to Pearl as they opened their mouths.
"You knuckleheads are guarding HER!?" Billy said shocked.
"Yeah" Russ said.
"So what kind of creatures are we dealing with?" Dan asked.
"There were 2 of them, a carrion crawler and a grilick" the dragon said.
"What's the difference?" Russ asked.
"A carrion crawler uses paralyzing saliva to paralyze their prey before devouring it whole. Grilicks use their sickle like claws on the end of their tentacles to rip their prey apart while squeezing it to death. Normally they don't attack humans or morphs but will defend their territory if threaten."
"So why did they attack then?" Russ asked.
"I'll say it again, I think they were being controlled."
Dan looked back at the hole and stared down into it. God knows how deep or how far it went. Suddenly, he got these funny vibes coming from the hole. It seemed the more he looked down, the more it seemed to pull him inside the darkness. Pearl walked over and tapped him on the shoulder as the vibes stopped. His instincts kicked in as he pulled his gun out making her yelp.
"Fuck. Don't do that" Dan said angrily.
"Sorry. We have to get ready."
"Ready for what?"
"The Magic Convention. It's formal attire so you need to get your penguin suit."
"Hell no. I refuse to wear a suit. Out of the question."
********
The Magic Convention, a place where people all over the city meet to discuss magical politics, spells and other bullshit topics. It's sponsored by Moe Howard. Supposedly he and the Merlin are the best of friends and is at the same level, but no one knows for sure. He holds the convention in the Chateau D'Otelle, an assembly hall he made for special events. It can hold up to 500 people.
"Tell me again why I'm wearing this?" Dan said.
He had on a white suit with matching shoes and a black tie while Russell had on a black suit with matching shoes and a white tie.
"Because you're guarding me. And wherever I go, you have to follow. Besides, you look handsome in a suit" she said holding his arm.
She had on a silver dress with matching gloves, black dress shoes and jade earrings.
"Stop complaining. It's not everyday we get to do something like this" Russ said.
"The less I have to, the more I like it."
Dan looked around and found 3 people missing.
"Where are Dylan and the 2 headaches?"
"They went ahead of us. Besides" she said resting her head on his shoulder. "You're my date for tonight."
They reached the door as the attendant opened the doors for them. Inside was a mass of people all talking, laughing, and moving about. Waiters were moving quickly about with trays of refreshments.
"Pearl, so good to see you again."
They turned to their right to see an owl walked over to them.
"Mr. Howard, how are you?" Pearl said with a smile.
"Always good now that I get to see your beautiful figure" he said bending down to kiss her hand as Dan rolled his eyes.
"You flirt" she said blushing.
"Who are your friends?"
"This is Daniel and Russell Miller."
He tried not to show it, but both of them saw that slight hint of fear that creep into his eyes.
"The offspring's of the great Sheryl Airi Miller. A pleasure to meet you."
"Likewise" they both said.
"Ms. Pearl, there a few people I would like you to meet. Care to join me?" he asked offering his arm.
"Of course" she said taking his arm. "You boys behave yourself."
"If you need refreshment they are over by the wall on the left. Help yourself" Howard said before disappearing with Pearl.
Dan adjusted his tie with a sigh.
"I'm going to find something to drink."
He turned to leave before Russ grabbed his shoulder.
"Behave yourself."
"Yeah I know" he said turning again but Russ gripped his shoulder harder.
"I mean it. We don't want to give our mother a bad name if everybody in here knows her. And if you lose your temper this time, I swear I'll put you in the hospital tonight understand?" he growled with a snarl.
He felt Dan tense as his hands turned into fists.
"Whatever" Dan said with a hiss jerking his shoulder away and disappearing into the crowd.
********
"So many candidates, all ripe with magic."
He walked in wearing a white shirt and pants with a black vest. Brown hair covered the left side of his face as his blue eyes surveyed everything.
"I need to place these scent markers on the people with high magic so my family can do their job."
He mingled in with the crowd and proceeded to mark people.
********
"Shit, I hate wearing suits" Dan said grabbing another cup of wine.
He was about to take a sip when a person passed him making him tense. Time seemed to stop as the only 2 people able to move was him and this guy. The person stopped a couple of feet away before turning his head a little. Dan couldn't see his face as his hair covered it as the person turned his head back and walked away.
"I didn't know you go for guys."
"Shut up" Dan said turning back around as his eyes went wide.
Emily, Angel, Russ, and Dylan stood there. Dylan had on his usually suit while Angel was wearing a sparkling white dress, gloves, and pearl earrings. Emily had on a midnight black dress with the back exposed, gold earrings and a necklace. Dan shook his head and took the rest of the wine straight to the head.
"I thought I told you to take it easy?" Russ said with a growl.
"It's only my 3rd one" Dan snapped back.
"You look good in a suit" Angel said.
"Bah."
Everybody chuckled when a tapping sound from the speakers grabbed everybody's attention.
"Thank you all for coming to the 3rd annual Magic Convention. I'm sure everybody has plenty of things to discuss but first let me introduce my favorite jazz band who will favor us with a couple of songs. I give you now, The Mimics."
People started clapping as the band started to play an up tempo beat. Pearl ran over with a twinkle in her eye.
"Dance with me cutey" she said pulling his arm.
"No thank you" Dan said shaking his head. "I don't dance."
"Spoil sport" she said sticking her tongue out and grabbing Dylan's arm. "Come on Dylan, you dance with me then."
They watched them disappear into the crowd as Dan grabbed another cup of wine.
"Um.....Russ would......would you care.....to dance with me?" Angel said blushing.
Russ gave a smile before kissing her hand.
"Sure why not. Quick question, Is pretty much every one save me and my brother aware of who are mother was and what she did?" The look on Angel's face told him the answer. "How the hell did we get left out of the loop then?" he said taking her to follow Pearl and keep an eye on their charge.
"Have fun" Dan said drinking down.
Emily stood there blushing as Russ and Angel walked past her. Russ gave an evil grin and gave a light push to Emily. She let out a gasp as she lost her footing and fell. She closed her eyes waiting for the impact. When it didn't happen, she opened her eyes to find herself in Dan's arms.
"Nice reflexes bro. Now that you have a dance partner, start dancing."
"You bastard" Dan growled.
He helped her up as she looked down at the ground.
"All right, I surrender. I'll dance with you" he said with a sigh rubbing his eyes.
Emily looked up and gave a smile and nodded her head. Dan offered his arm as they mixed into the crowd.
********
He looked down at all the people dancing as he smiled.
"Like lambs waiting to be slaughtered."
He closed his eyes as he felt his family underneath the building, waiting the word to strike.
"Patience my friends. The time to strike will be soon."
********
Dan and Emily mixed into the already big crowd on the floor. He put one hand around her and the other held her hand. She shivered a little as he held her close.
"I just want to say I'm sorry for the things I told Merlin. My brother is at times the only one who can keep me in check. I'd be in jail or worse by now if it wasn't for him."
Emily didn't response as she let out a sigh.
"I know you think I'm a burden, but all I really want is to be your friend. Everything I tried failed. I wish you would think about other people's feeling before you lash out at them. All you care about is yourself without giving a damn about the other person you hurt."
She lowered her head and let out a sniff. Something inside Dan finally melted as he let out a sigh. He moved his hand from behind her and lifted her face looking her in the eyes. He leaned down and kissed her softly, shocking her but she went with before they broke off.
"If that's your way of apologizing, I accept" she said with a smile.
Dan for the first time, smiled at her.
"Thanks" he said.
"See, is being nice so hard?"
"Don't push it" Dan said with a smile.
She chuckled as they continued with their dance before Dan tensed up and stopped to look around.
"What's wrong?" she asked confused.
The sound of glass shattering above them grabbed everybody attention as they looked up to see a lone figure standing on the railing looking down.
"Now that I have your attention, please listen."
Dan looked over at Russ who nodded his head.
"I am in need of magical energy. And what better place then here. So do I have any volunteers or do I have to choose?"
"What the hell are you talking about and how did you get in here boy?" Howard chirped.
"I am finishing my father's legacy. That's all you need to know" the figure said giving a smile.
"Where's security at? Get him out of here" Howard yelled.
The figure let out a laugh and shook his head. Reaching behind him, he lifted up a bag and tossed it towards him. Howard caught the bag as it was pretty light, but when he opened the bag, he closed it immediately after gagging and throwing up.
"If you meant that security, let's just say they are "headed" up in the world. Now then, do I have and volunteers to help me?"
Nobody said anything as they looked at each other in confusion.
"Very well then. We'll do it the fun way. Seek and contain them" he said snapping his fingers.
As he did that, the building started to shake as the crawlers and grilicks came through the floor and walls. People started running left and right screaming in fright. The people that were marked were quickly paralyzed and taking underground.
"No, stay away from me" Pearl yelled as she got cornered by 2 grilicks.
"Pearl" Dylan yelled and ran over to her.
He didn't get halfway as a tentacle paralyzed him as he dropped to the ground. They got a little closer before an image of a ram's head appeared and smashed them into the wall letting out a high pitch squeal.
"Are you okay?" Dan asked as he ran up to her.
She was about to response when Dan felt his body get restricted as the grilicks body wrapped around him.
"How dare you hurt my family?" the man said walking up to him.
"Family?" Dan said before letting a grunt as his body got squeezed harder.
"That's right. They are the only family I need. So don't interfere with my business."
He walked passed Dan and went to Pearl who stood there shaking. He was about to reach for her when the grilick let out a yell. He turned to see thorns coming out of Dan's body as yellow blood covered his body. The grilick let go and dropped to the ground. This sent the man into a rage as he pulled out a small rapier he had.
"You killed one of my family" he yelled lunging at him.
Dan got his breath before ducking a swing that was inches from taking off his head. The man recovered quicker then Dan and take other swing grazing Dan's shoulder. Dan reached down and pulled to his gun, ducking another swing. He rolled on the ground, spun around took aim and fired, breaking the sword in half. He got up quick and pointed the gun at the back of his head.
"Call them off" Dan said.
"I'm afraid I can't do that."
"Call them off or I'll blow your head off right here" Dan said pulling back the hammer.
"I intend to finish my father's legacy, and nothing is going to stop me. Not even you......Daniel Miller."
This shocked Dan for a second which was just enough time as a tentacle struck him in the leg, paralyzing him as he went to one knee. The man looked down at him as he smiled.
"You will not be the one to stop me" he said before climbing on the back of a grilick and going out one of the many holes in the building.
Dan let out a growl as his body started to glow lightly, curing him of the paralyzation.
"Dan, you okay?" Russ asked.
"Yeah" Dan said putting his gun away and looking at the hole he left in. "Who the hell is that guy and how does he know my name."
********
"Dammit" the man said tossing the broken rapier on the ground. "I got careless."
The people he abducted hung from the webbing as the water went from a pale green to a faint yellow. He walked into the knee high water and knelt down as the water went to his neck.
"Yes, I can feel it" he said closing his eyes. "I'm close father, very close."
He cupped his hands and gathered some of the water. Lifting his hands, he brought it to his lips before drinking it. He let out a sigh as he started to glow a faint yellow along with the water.
"Just a couple more and I'll complete what you wanted."
He got up out the water as it clung to his clothes and look at his worm family.
"Let's go get the final 2."
********
"Why is it that whenever something happens in my town, you 2 are always involved somehow?" Paul said angrily.
"He had blue eyes also" Dan said to a dalmatian that was making the sketch.
"Do you know that the damage alone is over 500 thousand? And that's not counting the hospital bill."
"Is that it?" the dalmatian asked.
"Yeah, that's it. Thanks Jason" Dan said taking the paper and walking out towards the chief's office.
"Are you even listening to me?" Paul said walking behind him.
Dan didn't answer as he walked in and went to the computer placing the picture on the scanner. "Scanning in progress" a voice said.
"Don't forget those people pay your salary" Paul said angrily.
Dan walked over calmly and hit the speakerphone button and dialed a number as everybody looked curiously.
"Honda News" a voice said.
"Jason, what's going on guy?" Dan said.
"Hey Dan, how's it going?"
"Great. Did you get that package I sent you?"
"Yeah I got it. But I'm confused by why it says do not open until I got your phone call."
"It's okay. Can you open the package now and hand the contents to the lead anchor?"
"Don't you dare open that package" Paul shouted.
"I recognize that voice. Is the mayor there with you?" Jason asked.
"Yes that's him" Dan said.
"I thought you said you wouldn't give that to anybody?" Paul said angrily. "We had a deal."
"If you keep bothering me, I'll tell him to give them the contents. Sorry to bother you Jason."
"No problem bro, take care."
Dan hung up the phone as Paul stood there fuming. "Scanning complete" the voice said as a picture appeared on the screen.
"Let's see, Ryudo Wolfsbane, age 24, weight 199, height 5'11. Parents deceased. Known addresses are 124 Lakeview St. and 589 Chesterbrook Lane" Russ said reading the screen.
"Okay, Russ, you and Angel take the first address. Dan, you and Emily take the second" George said.
"Will do chief" Russ said.
Everybody headed for the door when Pearl ran in front of them.
"I want to go. I want to have some fun."
"We can't have you getting hurt" Angel said.
"You're my bodyguard's right? How can I get hurt?"
"This is not a game Pearl. You can get hurt" Emily said.
Pearl gave her an evil look before walking over and wrapping her arms around Dan who looked at her.
"You'll protect me, right cutey?" she said rubbing noses.
Emily's fur bristled as she balled her fists angrily.
"Will you stay out of trouble?" Dan asked.
"Of course."
"Then let's go."
********
Dan pulled into the driveway of the condos and found a parking spot. Getting out, they walked up to the door of a one floor condo.
"Damn, he was a rich guy" Pearl said looking at the neighborhood.
Dan tried the door as it was locked. Using his fingertip, he shot a small spell at the doorknob causing it to unlock. Pulling out his gun, he walked in first. Seeing the place empty, he called the girls in.
"Look for anything that will tell us what he plans on doing with all those people he kidnapped" Dan said looking through the draws.
Emily took the rear bedroom while Pearl took the kitchen. Pearl got bored quick and walked over to Dan and wrapped her arms around him again murring happily.
"What are you doing?" Dan asked looking through a book.
"I meant what I said in the station. I want to be yours."
"This is not the time or place for this" Dan said placing the book back.
Pearl turned him around and kissed him, just as Emily walked in making her gasp. Dan pushed her back before looking at Emily.
"Did you find anything?"
"Um......n...no. Nothing" she said before walking back.
"Now then, where were we?" Pearl said licking her lips.
She went for another kiss but Dan stopped her.
"What's wrong? Don't you like me?"
"I think you're lovely but this can't and won't work between us."
Pearl gave a smile before chuckling.
"We can make it work" she said kissing him again, pushing her tongue as it mingled with Dan's.
Dan pushed her off again catching his breath as his mouth tingled a little.
"Please stop this."
"Why? You're body's telling me otherwise" she said looking at the small tent in his pants.
"I said it before, this is not the place for..........."
Before he could finish, he tensed up and looked around. The ground started to shake a little as Pearl grabbed a hold of him to keep from falling.
"What's going on?" she asked.
"Emily, we're leaving" he shouted.
Emily ran out the house followed by Pearl. When Dan got to the door, he let out a yell as something wrapped around his body and pulled him up in the air. The girls let out a yell as they got surrounded on all sides.
"Once my family gets the scent, they don't let the prey go" Ryudo said walking from behind the building.
"Ryudo" Dan said angrily.
Ryudo smiled at him before walking to the girls.
"These are the last 2 people I need before I can finish what my father started."
"What are you talking about?" Dan said.
"I will become a level 5, just like in my father's research."
Emily's eyes went wide as she looked at him.
"You can't become a level 5. It's only through heritage."
"Wrong my dear" Ryudo said turning to her. "My father has found a way to do it without it being heritage. Perhaps you heard of it, since you're from the Wizard's Council."
"Wait, you don't mean....?" she said shocked.
"I do. Magic Absorption."
"That's a violation of the 3rd rule of magic. If you do that, you not only drain them of their magic, but you'll kill them as well."
"I care little for your rules. Take them" he said.
The worms converged on them quickly as they subdued them before taking them underground.
"EMILY" Dan yelled as lighting surged through his body electrocuting the grilick holding him.
He dropped to the ground and ran towards Ryudo. Ryudo just laughed as an enraged Daniel ran towards him. Dan got inches from him before a sickle claws got imbedded into his leg making him yell. Another one got stuck into his other leg and both his arms pinning him to the ground. Ryudo walked over and knelt down.
"Don't you see Daniel? You can't win."
"If anything happens to either of them, I'll kill you."
A sickle claw edged its way under Dan's neck and pressed hard making him wince.
"They want revenge for the death of their family. The only thing keeping you alive is me. If you try to stop me, I won't stop them next time."
Ryudo grabbed Dan's gun and used the handle to knock him out.
"Pleasant dreams."
********
"Where's Dan at? He's late?" Russ said tapping his foot.
"Pearl probably has him in a shopping mall or something" Angel said drinking some water.
"Chief" Susan said over the intercom.
"What is it Susan?"
"You better come see this."
Everybody walked outside to see Dan wrapping his wounds.
"Daniel, what happened? Where's Emily and Pearl?" Russ asked.
"He took them" Dan said. "And I'm going to get them back."
"Are you nuts? There has to be at least 100 of those worms creatures with him" Angel said.
"That doesn't matter to me. What matters is killing the son of bitch" he said tighten a wrap.
"You can't do this by yourself. I'm calling in back up" George said picking up the phone.
Dan grabbed the knife he was using and tossed it at the phone breaking it.
"I'm going alone. He belongs to me."
Russ looked at him as he never saw his brother act like this. Then he asked the question he knew the answer to and the reason for his behavior.
"You're in love with her aren't you?"
Daniel paused and looked at Russ for a second before continuing his treatment.
"Sam, you got something for immunity against paralyzation?" Dan asked.
"Yeah, but it won't work if you get hit with that saliva numerous times" Sam said handing him a vile.
"He's fallen in love with Emily?" Angel asked.
"You're wrong" Dan said getting up testing his legs. "I owe him, that's all."
Dan started for the door with the extra ammo in his bag.
"Daniel" Russ yelled.
Dan turned around and caught the gun Russ gave him. He looked at Russ with a confused looked.
"If you get your self killed, I swear I'll strangle you."
Dan smiled and nodded his head before getting into the car and speeding off.
"Think he'll do it?" Angel asked.
"If I know my brother, he'll succeed, or die trying."
********
"You're mad Ryudo. If the Council finds out about this, you will be punished" Emily said.
"It doesn't matter to me" Ryudo said kneeling in the water which glowed a bright yellow. "My father's legacy will bear fruit, once I drink this, I will achieve level 5."
He cupped his hands and dipped it in the water. Bringing the water up, he swallowed it down as he laughed. Emily felt the magic around him build greatly making her whine before she passed out as her life-force got drained. A grilick crawled over as he looked at it before smiling.
"So you're coming for me huh? Then come then, Daniel Miller."
********
Dan stopped the car at the house and got out. Lighting a flare, he tossed it down the hole as it fell for about 30 feet. Grabbing the rope, he tied it to the back of the car and went down the hole. Hitting the bottom, he grabbed his flashlight and his gun as he traveled the tunnels. He tensed as he felt a very strong magical force sweep by him making him shiver a bit.
"I'm coming for you, you bastard. Just you wait for me."
He walked down the dark, damp tunnel slowly placing one foot over the other. He heard a rock drop behind him as he turned quickly only to see nothing but darkness. Turning around, he heard strange hissing noises from all around as the tunnel spilt into 4, one above and 3 going to the left, right and straight ahead.
"Shit, which one?"
Closing his eyes, he concentrated on the magic he felt. A pulling sensation came from the right side as he went with it. He walked further down as the tunnel started to get smaller up to the point he had to crawl. Light at the other end got his attention as he crawled over to it. Looking inside, he saw the cocoons lined over the pool of water. He broke through the tunnel wall and dropped into the room and spotted Emily in the far corner.
"Emily" Dan said running over. "Emily, can you hear me?"
Emily let out a small whine before opening her eyes.
"Da...Daniel" she said weakly.
"You're okay, thank god" he said giving her soft kiss. "Hang on."
He brought his knife and cut her free as she fell into his arms.
"Ry....Ryudo.....he...."
"Shush, save your strength. Where's Pearl?" He asked looking around till he found her further in.
He walked over and cut her down as she opened her eyes.
"You came for me" she said with a smile.
"I'm still your bodyguard till you return. Can you walk?"
"I think so" she said taking careful steps with him as leverage.
Emily walked over weakly shaking her head.
"These other people had their life force taken from them. They're all dead."
"Dammit. Fine, let's get out of here."
They walked out the only door as it twisted and turn and opened up to a huge cave. Huge stalagmites hung from the ceilings and the ground as dozens of holes and tunnels were all around them. Patches of glowing moss gave the cave some light, enough to see around.
"I see you made it."
Dan brought his gun out and looked around, eyes darting this way and that.
"I finally did it. I finished my father's work. I am now a level 5" Ryudo said appearing from behind a stalagmite.
Dan fired off 5 shots which bounced off a shield as Ryudo smiled.
"You see, I can't be hurt. But you can."
He raised his hand towards Dan as an invisible wave of power knocked Daniel into the air and into a nearby stalagmite. The girls rushed over as Dan shook the stars dancing in his head. Movement caught their eye as several crawlers and grilicks emerged from the tunnels.
"My family wants revenge from the murder you committed. You will die a slow painful death as they consume the flesh off your body."
Dan stood up and felt the back of his head and felt a small wet spot. He let out a growl of anger and locked his eyes on Ryudo.
"Emily, can you teleport?"
"I think so, but it'll take some time since I got some of my life-force drained."
"I'll cover for you. Just get out of here."
"But what about you?"
"I'll be fine. Somebody has to stop him."
"But......."
"I'll come back to all of you. I promise. Plus if I don't, my brother will kill me."
Emily hesitated but nodded her head and closed her eyes. The wind picked up as her tails and hair went into the air. A white pentagram appeared under her. The worms let out a shrill whine and charged. Dan pulled out Russ's gun and started firing away. His shot were dead on as they hit their mark with accuracy.
"Hurry up Emily" Dan said reloading.
"Almost there, but I don't have enough in me" she said breathing hard.
Dan ran over and hugged her, giving her some of his power as the pentagram turned red as Emily and Pearl started to disappear. She looked him in the eye as a single tear went down her muzzle before she vanished. Dan let out a yell as a sickle cut right down his back, ripping his shirt as the wound filled up with blood.
"Fucker" Dan yelled and jumped at it firing away at its beak like mouth dropping it to the ground.
********
"Russ are you sure it was okay to let Daniel go alone?" Angel asked looking at Russell who had his arms crossed.
"I couldn't stop him even if I tried. Besides there are some things I can't help him with."
Russ's tail went rigid as he looked around. Angel felt it too as she looked also. The red pentagram appeared as Emily and Pearl dropped to the ground.
"Emily!? What happened?" Angel said running over to her.
"D.....Daniel" she said weakly before passing out.
Russ balled his fists tight and looked out the window.
"You better come back alive, you hear me you jerk."
********
Dan let out a grunt as he slid on the ground. He held his arm as blood came down from the gash he had. His left leg was become numb as the vial Sam gave him was wearing off.
"Don't you see Daniel? You can't win against family" Ryudo said floating in the air.
Dan raised his gun weakly at him and tried to fire only to hear a click as the barrel was empty. Ryudo gave a smile as he gave another push with his hand causing another invisible force of power to crush him against a stalagmite. Using one finger, he guided his body into rock after rock laughing away until he dropped his body with a thud.
"I can see your body can't take anymore. So why don't we end this. Rip him to shreds. Leave nothing remaining."
They seem to let out a shriek of joy as they advanced on Dan who got to his knees weakly. Lighting started flashing through his eyes as Ryudo felt it.
"What is this? Where is this magical energy coming?"
That same sword spell he used on Ginyu appeared as Dan grabbed the handle.
"Impossible. How can he use such magic? Only I should be able to" Ryudo said angrily.
He held his hand to the side as the same sword appeared making Ryudo smile.
"What ever you do, I can do better. Kill him."
They charged Dan who ran towards him, swinging away. He craved his way through as yellow blood covered the area, but more still came out of the tunnels.
"You can't kill them all Daniel. Just give up."
Dan found himself surrounded as he raised his hand.
"Acid Storm" he yelled.
A yellow cloud appeared overhead as it rained down yellow rain. They let out shrieks of pain as it burned their skin. Ryudo put up a barrier as he watched his family get melted by the spell. The rain receded as Dan went to one knee out of breath.
"You killed my family. You will die!!" Ryudo said with rage in his eyes.
Dan brought his sword up as he blocked his wild attacks which pushed his back to the wall. With a strong swing, Ryudo knocked the sword out of Dan's hand and drove his sword right through his shoulder pinning him to the rock as Dan let out a yell. He held onto the blade as Ryudo pushed it further, destroying the bone completely.
"I'm going to kill you. Revenge for my family you murdered."
He raised his sword for the final blow before he covered his mouth as he coughed up blood.
"What......what's going on?"
More blood came out his mouth as he held his stomach. Dan held his shattered and busted shoulder and looked at Ryudo as his body started to glow.
"Father, it hurts. What do I do? Please help me" Ryudo cried.
Dan, for a spilt second, felt pity on him. But rage over took his senses as he grinded his teeth.
"I said I would kill you, and will keep my word."
He closed his eyes and concentrated on the spell that he had no clue he was casting.
"Mother of all life on this world. Come forth and cleanse the land with your purity and holy blessing. Tsunami."
As soon as he said that, the tunnels exploded with water filling the cave in under a minute as water rushed in and out, causing spouts of water to shoot out above ground from the various holes the worms did. Everybody ran outside to look at what was going on.
"What the hell is this?" Russ asked.
Angel's eyes went wide and remembered what it was.
"He casted the Tsunami. And with him being underground, the water's coming out of the holes."
Dan looked around as the carcasses of the worms floated to the top of the cave. He started to move when he felt 2 hands go around his throat. Ryudo was yelling causing bubbles to come out his mouth as Dan, with one good arm tried to loosen his grip. He started to lose conscious when he saw the sword float by. Grabbing it, he plunged it into Ryudo's stomach as he looked at him shocked. Blood flowed out as his grip loosened and his eyes closed as he floated lifelessly to the top.
"Shit, I can't die now. But so tired" Dan said to himself as he tried to move but was too weak.
He chuckled to himself as his air was almost up.
"You were right mother, the world can be your greatest enemy if you treat it wrong."
He closed his eyes as the last of his air left him.
********
"Why are you always like that Daniel?"
"Because I can be" Daniel said angrily sitting on the stairs looking at the moon in the sky.
Sheryl walked over and sat next to him.
"You can't be like this forever honey. Nobody has done you any wrong."
"The whole world is against me. From now out, I'm going to care only about myself and my brother. Everybody else can just drop and die."
"Where did you get this attitude from? The world is not against you just because you can't get things your way."
"Why can't I? Everybody else gets things their way."
"Because people work for it. They respect themselves and the people around them."
"Humph" Dan said turning his face away from his mother.
Sheryl gave a sigh and stood up.
"If that's the way you feel then remember this, the world can be your greatest friend, or your deadliest enemy. It's up to you to decide which one you wish for."
********
"Dammit, breathe" Russ said blowing into Daniel mouth again.
He pushed into his chest letting the air go through his body. He was about to blow again when Dan started coughing up water. Russ turned him to his side as water poured from his mouth.
"Daniel!!" Emily shouted and ran up to him, kissing him deeply even though he was still coughing up water.
"You really are a handful to take care of, you know that" Russ said breathing deep.
Dan reached over and held his brother's hand tightly.
"Thanks" he said weakly before passing out.
Evan watched from the shadows as they carried Dan into the ambulance. He gave a grunt as he turned and disappeared into the darkness.
********
"Thank you again for everything" Pearl said hugging everybody. "I'll never forget you guys."
"I probably will" Dan said quietly.
"I heard that" Pearl said as he headed for the gate followed by Dylan.
They all watched her plane leave before leaving the airport. Paul was standing there with a piece of paper in his hand.
"I finally got the authority to put your asses away for a long time. Here's a paper signed by the governor giving me full authority to arrest your asses. You caused enough damage to my town."
Dan rubbed his eyes before pulling out a piece of paper of his own and giving it to Paul.
"What this?"
"It's signed by the president himself giving us full pardon for anything we did. I had it written up before Pearl left. Looks like you lose again" Dan said with a smile.
Paul was livid as he pulled on his hair while kicking and screaming.
"Mark my words, you will pay for everything you've done. Your day will come."
They got into the car and headed for the office. Russ and Angel got out and Russ leaned on the roof looking into the driver seat at Dan.
"You really are a handful you know that?"
"I try" Dan said.
"Looks like I'm not the only one who will be looking after you" Russ said looking at Emily who blushed.
"I can take care of myself" Dan said starting the car.
Russ reached in and gave Dan a quick lick on the lips and a hug.
"I'll always be there for you bro."
"Me too" Dan said hugging him back.
"Now go on, get out of here. I'll handle your share of the paperwork. But remember, you owe me."
"You got it" Dan said with a smile.
Dan pulled into the driveway as they both got out and went inside. He headed upstairs and into his room where he closed the door. Sitting down on the bed, he took off his shirt, letting out a grunt as his shoulder wasn't completely healed but well enough to move it. A knock was heard as Emily walked in. No words were spoken as Emily walked over and kissed him deeply. She let out a moan as he ran his fingers through her fur.
"Don't ever scare me again like that" she said with a soft growl.
"I don't die that easily" he said with a smile before realizing she was naked. "And what do you think you're doing in my room naked?"
"The same thing you're thinking" she said slipping her hand down his shorts and grabbing his erection making him jump a little.
"I guess opposites do attract" Dan said tracing a hand around one of her breasts making her squirm.
"The world is funny that" Emily said kissing him again as they both fell onto the bed.
Dan roamed her body which squirmed under his hands. He reached down further to her twin tails which were twitching like crazy as he grabbed a hold of one and gently stroked her back making her howl in pleasure. He smiled as his other hand went under her other tail and gently rubbed the lips of her vagina making her arch her back and yip.
"Oh Daniel, take me now, I can't wait any longer" she whined as she grinded her hips into his crotch, soaking his shorts in her nectar.
Even Dan had his limits as he was so hard it hurt as he wiggled under her weight to take his shorts off, never letting his hand stop rubbing her as she moaned loudly. Finally getting them off, the tip of his cock touched her outer lips making him jump as he buried all of his rod into her making her howl as she came hard, her tunnel convulsing around the intruder member.
"Tight fit" Dan said breathlessly.
"Less talk, more fucking" she growled as she bounced on his lap.
Her tails seem to have a mind of their own as they wrapped around Daniel's hands and guided them to her ass which he held firmly and pushed as far as he could go into her making her yelp in pleasure as he hit her sensitive with each thrust. He rolled her over as she wrapped her legs around him tightly and kissed him feverishly as he continued to pump into her. She let out a howl which was muffled by the kiss as she came again squeezing him hard making Dan grunt and go faster into her. She broke off and held him tightly against her chest whining with bliss.
"Harder, harder" Emily moaned loving the feeling as she felt his cock twitch inside her.
"Emily.....I.....can't......."
"Cum in me. Let it go Daniel, please" she begged as her tails wrapped around his legs pushing him deeper.
Daniel couldn't take much more as he pushed his farthest cumming hard and calling her name. She let out a howl as she joined him, her muscles milking every drop from his penis. He collapsed on his side, breathing hard as Emily rested her head under his chin also recovering.
"Mmmmm, it's been a while since I had it that good" Emily sighed.
She looked at Dan who had his eyes closed.
"Did you go to sleep already? You asshole."
Dan chuckled as he put one arm around her.
"I'm not asleep yet. About to be soon though."
She cuddled under him as he tossed the blanket over both of them.
"See, you can be a gentleman, if you try."
"Don't push your luck" he said making her laugh as they both went to sleep.
Paul stormed into his home office and as he went up to his desk he slammed his fists down on it and he yelled as loud as he could. He was so wrapped up into his anger he didn't notice the other person in the shadows watching him.
"So you want to get rid of the millers do you?" the voice asked.
Paul spun around in anger as he demanded "Who are you?" he said more then willing to kill the intruder.
"My name is Ginyu. I know you want to get rid of the Millers. Perhaps I could be of assistance."
Paul recoiled and then the most evil smile curled on his lips, "Perhaps you can help me."