Hey, readers! This is my first JL fic (though I’ve used characters in other stories). Hope you like it, and if you do, I may do more with it in the future…
JuniperKim Lee awoke one morning, wishing she hadn’t.
Themild, annoying nausea from last night was now severe and cripplingillness. Sweat beaded on the young te Xuan ze‘sforehead as her nose felt like Buicks were crammed inside. Hermuscles moaned in agony, and her body felt at once cold and burning.Put simply, she was really, really sick.
Oh,man, she groaned, her voice a pained rasp. Her throat scratched ather as if to punish her decision to talk, and she fell quiet again.
June,honey! Time for school! a voice called out.
Mom,I’m sick, June wheezed. Of course, her mother couldn’t hear her.
June!
I’msick! she tried again. Her attempt was rewarded by a wave ofrevulsion, and only a last minute lunge to her trash can preventedthe contents of her stomach from being deposited all over her bed.There was a beat, then the sound of footsteps rushing up the stairs.Nice to know she can hear puking,the small Asian girl thought to herself. A form poked her head in,frowning.
Oh, my poor baby’s sick! This is not good. This isnot good at all, Ruth Lee cooed, pulling June up from her trashcan. Basil! she cried.
Yes, dear?
June is sick, Ruth replied.
Oh, dear… Basil replied as he came in to seefor himself. She certainly can’t go to school like this!
No, she can’t, Basil… Ruth frowned again. Ican’t watch her, can you?No dear, I can’t, I have that bigmeeting with the Germans about the hotel, remember? Can’t we getsomeone? Say, maybe that nice man from Barcelona…
No, he won’t do, Ruth said with a head shake. Idoubt he’s had this sort of thing on his hands before…
Well, there’s always M Mom… Basil offered as hetightened his tie.
Jasmine? I don’t know, Basil, she’s sixty-eight…
She can handle herself very well, thank you…Basil replied.
Well, I suppose… Ruth sighed. She looked backat her ailing daughter. June, would you mind if you went over toAh Mah’s for a while?
Sounds like a plan to me… June managed as shesmiled weakly.
Good. I’ll get the car ready, and Basil, you getRay-Ray and Dennis to the bus stop for school.
Oh, yes, I’m doing that then, am I dear? the manmurmured as he walked off.
Now, is there anything you need to bring with you,sweetie? Ruth cooed again as she swept her child’s sweaty hairback.
Last rites would be nice, she wheezed. Ruthsighed with a small smile, placed June gently back on the bed, andwalked for the car.
This is not good. This is not good at all.
JasmineLee, the former keeper of the magical peace, frowned uneasily as shestudied the old, yellowed parchment before her. It was something thathad been passed down through the ages, from te Xuan zeto te Xuan ze, eversince the position of a bridge between humanity and magic had beenestablished. The paper was a list of prophecies, rules, warnings, andall that other stuff the supernatural loves to hate or hates to love.The particular passage under the current te Xuan ze,her own granddaughter no less, was less than encouraging:
Sickness comes before the Awakening,
But hope will come answering a ring.
Where there was one, there must be three,
Or humanity’s end is Fate’s decree.
The old woman sighed and rubbed her forehead. She’dbeen thinking about this for hours now, and she had no idea what todo or what it meant. If only she had a clue… some sort of idea or–
Ding,dong!
Jasmine jerked her head up, shocked out of her train ofthought. She frowned, then got to her feet and began to waddle forthe door. I’m coming, I’m coming! she called. Opening the doorrevealed her daughter-in-law and her family’s dog, Monroe, the formercarrying some sort of odd bundle.
Ah Mah? I’m really sorry about this, but June isREALLY sick…
…sick? the old woman blinked.
Hi, Ah Mah, a weak, stuffed-up voice came fromthe bundle, accompanied by the very slight wave of a hand.
Yes, she’s sick. Basil and I have things we can’tget out of, so we were wondering if you could watch her while we’regone?
What? Oh, of course, of course… Jasmine saidwith an abrupt series of nods. She opened her arms for the smallgirl, and Ruth handed her over.
I don’t know what she has, the younger womansighed. She’s just really, really ill. I’m hoping some of yoursoup and rest could help…
Oh, I’m sure dear. Now, you go and get some workdone, okay? Oh, and leave Monroe here with me, please?
Sure, Ruth smiled. He seemed to insist oncoming anyway. I’ll pick her up as soon as I can when I’m out ofwork. See you then, sweetie, she added as she gave June a peck onthe forehead. A gurgle passed as the girl’s response as her motherwaved goodbye and shut the door. A moment passed, then Ah Mah carriedher ill granddaughter to a nearby couch.
Aye, this is it, lass, Monroe nodded in his Scottishbrogue.
I was afraid of that, Ah Mah said with a frown asshe made the girl comfortable.
What’s it, Ah Mah? June rasped.
TheSan She, the womansaid as she fluffed pillows. Every te Xuan zegets it with a year of their first manifesting abilities. You don’twant to know how mine was…
If you’re saying that compared to how I feel now…June grumbled.
It will pass in time, a few days probably, Ah Mahshrugged.
A few d– Ah Mah! June whined. Can’t you,like, cast a spell or something? I’m dying here!
I’m sorry, dear, but this is your body trying toadapt to what’s happening, Ah Mah said with a sympathetic smile.I’m afraid nothing can be done about this except waiting for it torun its course.
Oh, great, June mumbled, flopping her head back.How can I kick butt when I can barely get off mine?
That’s the thing. You’re not going to be kicking anybutt, young lady, Ah Mah admonished. I’m taking over.
What? You? June rasped.
Of course! Ah Mah sniffed. I’m perfectlyfine! As if to demonstrate, she jumped upright, causing her backto crack. You didn’t hear that.
Ah Mah…
No, June, it’s for the best. Trust me, Ah Mahurged. Now, you stay put while I make you some soup, then take atrip beyond the Veil. I need to do some brushing up. With that,the silver haired maiden turned and waddled towards the kitchen. Junegroaned.
Ah, man…
Ye heard ‘er, lass, Monroe clucked. Until yecan stand up without pukin’ your guts up, you’re in dry dock.
I know, I know…
Well, good. Now, I’ll see if I can get you somereading material. Don’t go anywhere, lass.
Oh, ha ha.
This…is reading material. I have this darn thing memorized!
Junesighed as she sipped at the immense pot of steaming egg drop soup AhMah had left her. The woman had promised she and Monroe would be backsoon enough, that her trip shouldn’t take much longer than a fewhours. In the meantime, the pug had suggested, June should use herdowntime more effectively and review the Code of the TeXuan Ze again. All eightbazillion parts of it.
This bites, June mumbled. She was just reachingfor her soup again when her cell phone rang. She picked it up andanswered.
Yeah? she wheezed.
June!
Monroe? What is it?
We’vegot a wee problem. Ah Mah’s… well…
She’swhat, Monroe…
She’skinda, well, unconscious. Nothing ta worry ’bout, though.
WHAT!the small Asian spat, sitting up. My grandmother’s been conkedout, and you’re telling me it’s no big deal!
Lass,calm down! She said she was rusty… she just blocked when sheshould’ve dodged is all!
…ohis that all…
June,what ya need ta do is when your mom drops by, tell her that Ah Mah’sin the back, and that you want to stay here to not cause any trouble.I’ll be there as soon as I can, lass. See you soon.With that, the connection closed. June grumbled.
Great. I’m deathly ill, Ah Mah’s out of it… who’sgonna keep the world from exploding or whatever NOW? the girlmoaned. As she lolled her head to the side, her eyes fell again onthe Code. She frowned in confusion.
Huh… I don’t recall that part at all, the girlmumbled as she picked up the piece of paper. She read it:
Item 4747:Should the te Xuan zeat any time be unable to carry out his or her own duties, atrustworthy substitute of their choice may be allowed to serve intheir capacities until they are fit to retake them.
Huh…June said to herself. I didn’t know we could do that. But, whocould I possibly hope to– Her musing was cut off by her phoneonce again. Sighing, she reached over and answered the ring.
Yeah?
June!a painfully cheerful voicesqueaked. June’s face calmed for a moment.
Oh, Jody! Hi…
Areyou okay? You sound terrible…
Beenbetter, June rasped before launching into a coughing fit. What’sup?
Well,I have today’s classwork for you…
Oh?That’s good. I guess you can bring it over when you… Junetrailed off as her eyes fell again on the Code. An odd idea formed inher head, clashing with the guilt gnawing at her ever since the mallfiasco when, for a brief time, her day job had been exposed toher friends. She smiled and nodded slightly.
…June?You were saying something?Jody urged.
Yeah. Uh, you know where Ah Mah lives, right? Bringthe stuff over, ASAP. And make sure you bring Ophelia with you.
Uh,sure thing. See ya soon! Jodytrilled before hanging up. For her part, June turned her phone offand laid back with a contented smile for a brief moment, thenproceeded to cough up a lung.
Dingdong!
Coming,June moaned as she hobbled off of the sofa and to the door. She wasso full of egg drops, ginger ale and cold syrup, the almost agonizingfeeling of San She waseffectively numbed. Staggering the last few feet, she opened the doorto find her friends waiting on the step.
Hey, Ophelia Ramirez nodded.
Hello, June! Jody Irwin chimed, a stack of papersunder the crook of her arm, and a germ mask over her face.
Hey, June snuffled. She frowned. Uh, Jody?What’s with the…
Well, you sounded really sick… the blondereplied.
It’s not smallpox or something, the ailing Asianspat.
I know, but, if I miss one day of classes… it’sall over! Harvard is gone! Jody yelped, hugging her cargo to herbosom. I’d be stuck with something second rate! Bennington!UMaine!… Susquehanna!
Okay, seriously, take it off… Ophelia croaked,pawing for Jody’s mask. The blonde batted her hand away.
No!
Yes, Ophelia nodded as an evil smile crept overher face. In fact, after that… give June, a nice big hug.
But she’s sick! Jody whined.
Exactly! Ophelia grinned as she ripped Jody’smask off and began pushing her towards June. Get your handsdirty! Jody cried out in utter horror and began to run around theroom, squeaking in terror, flailing her arms as her distinct pigtailsbounced against her head.
…good one, Ophelia… June sniffed, rubbingunder her nose.
Did I say ‘hug?’ I meant grabbing her tight andbreathing all over her…
You’re so mean sometimes, Ophelia! Jody yelped,cowering behind a chair.
And… I love it, Ophelia beamed.
Are you two done yet? June sighed. Ophelia,leave Jody alone. Jody, you can’t get what I have. NO one else getsthe joy of having this. In fact, it’s… kinda why I asked you tocome over here.
You mean, it’s not to do schoolwork! Jody askedin horror. June! You must
be going into shock!
No, Jody… well, come on and sit down… theAsian wheezed, nodding towards two chairs near the couch she had beencrashed out on. Hesitantly, Jody tip-toed out from behind the chairas Ophelia strode over and plopped down in a seat.
So, what’s up? the Goth asked before her eyesfell on a bucket June had been using for throwing up. Okay, ew.
I’m gonna be sick… Jody whined, her cheekspuffing as her face took on a distinctive shade of green.
Okay, guys, we’re talking about why I’m puking myguts up, not the puke, June groaned. Now, listen… this isgonna be a little… odd.
What is it, June? Jody asked, her bilestabilized.
Okay. Well, how should I put this… You know how…uh… ever notice that… um… Okay, well, do you think there’sanything… odd about me?
Besides being insane, not really… Opheliashrugged.
…insane.
Well, Ophelia’s kinda got a point, Jody noddedwith an ashamed blush. You keep talking to yourself and runningoff and stuff…
Well, I’m getting to that, June promised. Okay,I’ll be blunt. There’s a lot more to me than you’d think. In short,you could kinda think of me as, well… a super hero.
…okay, like, back-up here, Ophelia demanded,holding up her hand. You? A super hero? Seriously, June, I thinkthat illness has damaged your brain.
No.I am, in a way. I’m what’s known as, well… the te Xuanze.
The ‘Tur Shaw Zat?’
…sure, Jody, June shrugged, turning her head togive into a coughing fit. She cleared her throat. Anyway, you knowall those creatures you grew up hearing about? Dragons, unicorns,Tooth Fairy, leprechauns, all that jazz? They’re all real, and thensome.
Uh, leprechauns? Ophelia asked, eyebrow arched inconfusion and skepticism.
Yeah, there’s one right there, actually… Juneshrugged as she pointed. Jody and Ophelia glanced, then looked ateach other, worried.
Um, June… Jody begged, finger raised in urging.
And, that right there can open a portal where trollscan come out… June added, pointing to a red gem.
Okay, June, we’re gonna, like, go to the hospitalnow… Ophelia said as she rose from her chair, concern on herface.
Oh,right, right… sorry, guys, this thing is really messing up myhead… June rasped. Anyway, all those things exist… and Ifight them. I try to keep magic and humanity apart and the wholething running smoothly. I can run fast, jump high, beat the crapoutta huge monsters, and do some magic. So… that’s the role of thete Xuan ze.
So, is that why you’ve been acting like a loony binpatient all this time? Jody asked with a shrug.
…um, sure, June sighed. Ophelia frowned.
Okay, seriously, do you think we’re dumb orsomething, June? the Hispanic scoffed. If all that’s true…why haven’t we noticed it, or picked up on it?
Uh, funny story, you actually did… once, Junemumbled.
Once? Jody asked.
Yeah, a witch tried to eat you…
Okay, like, I think I’d know if that happened…Ophelia sniffed.
It did, June nodded. Also, you were enslavedby the Sandman and nearly possessed for all time by Viking ghosts.Jody sounded like the governor.
…are you SURE you’re feeling okay, Jody askedagain, eye twitching slightly.
Yes, stop asking! June groaned, punching the seatcushion with both fists. She cleared her throat once more. Look,point is, you found out because of the witch, and, well… I had toblank you… I made you forget, she finished softly, hanging herhead.
You… didn’t trust us? Ophelia blinked, a toneof hurt in her voice.
June, I… I… Jody sputtered, equally offended.
Guys, please! I’ve wanted to tell you so much, b–
June! What in the name a Loch Ness are ye doin’,lass! a Scottish voice cried. June whirled to see an aghast andangry Monroe glaring at her.
Oh, uh, hey Monroe… she gulped.
Did ye just tell ’em everything! her furryadviser growled. Ye know that’s not allowed, and what ye have tado…
Not this time, Monroe, June spat. Not only amI not wiping their minds again, but I’m evoking Item 4747 of theCode.
‘4747?’ June, I don’t even know what that one is,lass! Monroe whined.
Well, too bad, it’s right here! the small Asianreplied, tossing her ‘pet’ the Code. Curious and annoyed, Monroeread.
…why is June arguing with her dog? Jody asked.Ophelia shrugged. Monroe scowled, looking up.
I see what ye’re up to here, lass, but it’s daft!They have no idea what they’re doing! There must be someone else!
…like Ray-Ray? June asked with a slight smirk.
…okay, ye got me. But, I really don’t likethis… Monroe sighed.
Too bad, June sniffed before turning back to herfriends. I suppose you wanna know what 4747 of the Code is…
It’d be nice, yeah, Ophelia scoffed.
It’sa part of the ‘Code of the te Xuan ze,’tells me what I can and can’t do. Anyway, 4747 gives me the right toappoint substitutes that I trust to take my place until I’m back onmy feet.
Okay, so? Jody asked, cocking her head.
Well… I’m looking at them, June said with asmile. A beat passed.
Oh. Oh, seriously, no, Ophelia replied.
June, we can’t do that! Jody yelped.
Why not? June asked.
We can’t even see this stuff, let alone fight it…Ophelia said defensively.
That’s where Ah Mah’s cabinet comes in, Junesmiled again. Follow me. Confused and some what curious, Jodyand Ophelia shrugged to each other and followed.
…June, lass, I don’t like this,
Well, what else can I do Monroe? June grumbled asshe eased open the massive oak doors of the cabinet. Within were rowsupon rows of all manners of trinkets, bottles, stones, and otherobject.
She likes her collector’s stuff, huh, Opheliaobserved wryly.
You could say that, June shrugged as she opened asmaller drawer and reached inside. She held her prizes aloft: twosilver-chained amulets with green gems. She grabbed a ring before shenudged the drawer shut with her thigh. C’mere, guys, she addedas she nodded towards a large window that offered an impressive vistaof Orchid Bay City. She handed the ring to Jody. Put this on.
Uh, what is it? the pigtailed blonde asked,cocking her head.
Just put it on, you’ll find out in a sec, Juneurged. Shrugging, Jody complied. Noting she had, June held aloft theamulets. Okay, now put these on.
Okay, like, no way, Ophelia scoffed.
Ophelia, c’mon, please? June begged.
I don’t do ‘bling,’ June. It’s capitalism at its’finest,’ the young Hispanic rasped, sticking her tongue out indisgust.
Look, do you wanna help me, or not? the Asiansighed. If you do… you’re just gonna have to put up with thisfor a while.
Well… fine, Ophelia barked, grabbing an amulet.So, I just put the stupid thing on, is that it?
Yeah, pretty much, June shrugged. Okay, youboth got one now? Now, what I want you to do is put them on, veryslowly, as you’re looking out the window. I’ll warn you now… whatyou’re about to see is going to surprise you. Big time.
Oh, what? Ophelia scoffed as she did so. Arewe gonna see in 3D or some– woah. The Goth could hardly believeher eyes. The streets were almost crowded with… things. Things ofall sizes, shapes, colors, and types, from furry midgets to scalygiants. And, indeed, there were leprechauns down there. And aunicorn. …and was that a dragon that just flew by? No. And way,she finally said. A quick glance to her right showed Jody also gapingat what she was seeing.
Toldja, June smiled slyly.
So, uh, why didn’t Jody explode or something?Ophelia drawled. She should have jumped out of her skin overthis.
Stop being mean! Jody huffed, crossing her smallarms.
The ring, June asked, leaning against the wallnow. Reinforces courage in whoever wears it.
Uh, are you okay, June? Jody asked, steading herfriend.
Yeah,Jody, I’m fine, but I’ve been better… June sniffled. The ‘SanShe‘ isacting up again… that’s why I’ve been puking up my guts everywhere.So, we better continue, she added as she again turned to thecabinet. Now, basically the amulet is letting you see behind theVeil.
…the Veil? Ophelia asked skeptically.
Yeah, that’s what we call the thing that preventshumans from seeing monsters.
Why is that, June? Jody asked.
I’m tellin’ ya, I don’t like this, Monroegrowled. Jody and Ophelia’s eyes bulged before they slowly turned andlooked back at their friend.
And… hear Monroe talk. Long story, June assuredthem as she rummaged again. She turned once more with amulets,locking eyes with a scowling Ophelia She’d already started to shakethe shock off. Considering what they’d already SEEN…
Seriously! she spat. No more bling!
Please, Ophelia? June begged. For me? You’renot going to be able to help me if you don’t do this…
C’mon, Ophelia, be nice… Jody singsonged,hugging and shaking her friend back and forth slightly. The Goth’seye twitched.
If you value your pigtails, she rasped, youwill let me go right now.
Grump, Jody huffed as withdrew from her friend.
Uh, anyway… these amulets will let you do almostall the stuff I can do. You know, fighting, jumping really high,endurance, stuff like that.
Oooh, that sounds fun… Jody grinned as she puthers on.
Eh, Ophelia shrugged as she put hers onreluctantly.
Now, the only thing you can’t do is magic. You’ll beable to use banishment items, stuff like that, but your blood doesn’thave the make-up mine does, so it’s not conductive to magic casting.
Aw, Jody pouted.
So, June continued, we’ll give you somethingelse…
I swear, June, if it’s another amulet… Opheliarasped with an accusing finger.
How about a belt? June called over her shoulder.
Belt? Uh, I guess… the Goth mumbled.
Good, the ailing girl replied as she sufferedanother coughing fit. She came back holding aloft a strange belt.The Belt of Achilles. Grants immunity from virtually allmagic-related injuries and some human injuries.
Seriously? Ophelia asked, eyes brightening.
Seriously, June nodded as she handed it over.
Okay, like, now you’re talking, the girl grinnedas she put it on. Say, June, if it’s called the ‘Belt ofAchilles’…
Yep. Watch your heels, her sick friend warned.Ophelia nodded.
What about me, June? Jody begged.
Gotjust the thing, the te Xuan zereplied as she rummaged once more and pulled out a set of sandals.Sandals of Hermes. Grants the wearer super speed. Like, cartoonishtype of super speed.
Neato! Jody giggled as she slipped them on overher boots.
You guys should be all set… June mused with anod. Now just let the stuff take effect as it adapts to yourbodies… The girl had no sooner said this when Jody and Opheliafelt an odd buzzing sensation. The magic items vanished.
Ack! Jody boggled. What happened!
It’s okay, June insisted. I guess Ah Mahwanted some of this stuff to blend in if I ever needed it. Oh. Almostforgot. You’ll need this, she continued as she held aloft two goldbracelets with large purple runes.
Ooh, it’s so pretty! Jody smiled as she clippedhers on.
I hate bling so much, Ophelia mumbled as she puton her own.
Sorry, Ophelia, June grinned, weaker now as herendurance was starting to fade. Let’s give you two some testtrials before I pass out.
You want us to do what, June?
You heard me, I want you two to jump.
Uh, what kind of jump, Ophelia asked with acocked eyebrow. Jumping jacks, jump kick, skipping…?
Ew, we’re gonna get sweaty, aren’t we… Jodyshivered.
Sorry, Jody, June shrugged. Anyway, just jumpas high as you can.
Okay, here goes… Ophelia shrugged as she benther knees in preparation to jump. The Goth did so, and soon foundherself rocketing much higher than she expected. She let out anuncharacteristic, strangled shock of surprise as she did. June couldhelp but giggle as Jody’s jaw dropped. Ophelia landed on her feet,dazed.
…woah, she finally said, blinking.
Okay, Jody… your turn! June asked, turning toher blonde friend.
Um, is it safe?
No, it’s horrifying and I thought I was gonna die!Ophelia suddenly cried, an evil grin on her face. Jody gulped.
Ophelia! June scolded.
Hey, at least she isn’t running around in circleslike an utter idiot anymore, her friend sniffed defensively.
Um, okay, here we go… Jody replied as shelaunched herself upwards and forwards. The girl landed on the roof ofAh Mah’s house. She grunted briefly in stunned pain, but scrambled toher feet and steadied herself.
Gee, that was… actually kind of fun! Jodysmiled with a slight note of unease.
Then get down, stupid, Ophelia rasped. Jodylanded next to her, face a mixture of annoyance and disappointment.
You really should lighten up, Ophelia…
I can do that when I’m dead, the Goth replied.
…uh, anyway, June urged, let’s keep going.Jody, get me a New York style bagel, please. Plain with creamcheese.
Er, June, is your stomach gonna be able to handlethat? Jody asked.
Probably not, but it’s part of your tryout, Junereplied. So, like I said, New York style bagel, if you will.
Um, okay, June… be right back! Jody promised.She then broke into a run that gradually got faster and faster untilshe suddenly turned into a blur of gold, purple and pink beforedisappearing over the hill.
Huh, Ophelia blinked.
Well, we know that works, June shrugged as shecollapsed into a chair. I’m glad we’re almost done, because I’mabout ready to pass out. Now, we wait for Jody. After about tenminutes, Jody returned, a bag in hand, slightly panting.
Here you are, June, she said as she handed it toher friend.
Thanks, June nodded. Was it busy? Seemed totake a while…
No, I was just kinda looking… Central Park isreally pretty.
Uh, beg pardon? Ophelia blinked.
Central Park is pretty, Jody repeated.
Okay, like, no way. You got all the way to New YorkCity, on foot, and back, in less than ten minutes? the Gothinsisted.
Gee, I guess so… Jody shrugged. That wasneato!
I bet… Ophelia nodded. So, like, June… howdo we test if my thing’s working?
Well, gee, I dunno, June confessed. Opheliaopened her mouth to reply when a dull pain suddenly shot through herheel. Ow! she yelped.
Oops, sorry, Jody said with a slight note ofsarcasm.
What the heck was THAT for! Ophelia spat.
Well, does it hurt? Jody urged.
Uh, yeah! A lot!
More than it should? June said with a dawningrealization.
Actually, yeah, kinda… Ophelia replied,trailing off. I, uh, guess it works then?
Sure seems it to me, June smiled weakly, facestarting to pale again.
Are you okay, June? Jody urged.
Just queasy is all… June said groggily.
Well, okay… the blonde shrugged. She frownedsuddenly. What’s that sound? It sounds like ‘ah, ah, ah’ orsomething…
That sound… means you’re on, June replied,pointing to their bracelets. Her friends looked at them to see theembedded jewels glowing.
Midget trolls in the park? Ophelia asked withsome skepticism.
Oh, good, June rasped. You should be able todeal with that by talking…
Um, should? Jody asked with a note of worrying.
Yeah, so you should be o… The small Asian girltrailed off as her face started to turn green. Oh, great, herecomes Ah Mah’s soup… she mumbled as she staggered for thebathroom.
But, June, like, what if we have to fight?Ophelia called.
Remember cardio from gym? Just do that! Junecried as she ran inside. After a moment, unpleasant sounds beganleaking through the walls.
Um, ew, Jody frowned.
Seriously, Ophelia nodded. Well, uh, let’s getto the park…
You did not!
I did too, Sal. Me and the boys reserved the parkfor today.
Sal the troll glared his opponent down, wagging a pieceof paper in front of him. A few feet away, a human family wasblissfully enjoying a picnic, unaware of what was going on.
Face it, Mitch, Sal continued. We reserved thepark fair and square. Get over it and get lost.
No way, pal, Mitch spat. My family and I…all two hundred and fifty-two of us… want to play glergsballtoday.
Yeah? Well, you can go ahead and–
What seems to be the problem, gentlemen? athroaty voice asked behind them. The assembled mass turned to see twolittle girls standing there.
The heck? someone on Mitch’s side said.
Yeah, how come they see us? Only June can!
June is a bit busying puking up her spleen amongother things, the girl who had just spoken replied. So, we’refilling in. I’m Ophelia. This is Jody.
Hi! Jody chirped.
…yeah… Mitch responded. Anyway, why areyou girls here?
Well, we heard you were gonna get into a fight…Jody shrugged.
Yeah, so what? Sal sniffed defensively.
So… don’t? Ophelia said as if they were missingsomething obvious.
But, we reserved the park… Sal whined.
They did not, Mitch spat.
Yeah, well, we wanted to come here first! Salcountered.
We wanted to before you were born! Mitch barked.
Okay! Like, seriously! Ophelia cried, holding herhands out as if to stop the growing fight. Now, what exactly areyou guys trying to do?
We wanted to play glergsball, Mitch answered.
Yeah, well, we want to play hikstaz, Sal whined.
Okay. So… how do we solve this like grown, uh,trolls and not like violent idiots? Ophelia asked rhetorically.
Uh… Sal and Mitch said, confused and a touchoffended.
Ooh, I know! Jody chirped.
Dare I ask? a friend of Sal asked.
You could both play! Instead of between yourselves,you could do both games against each other! the blonde saidproudly.
You know… that ain’t such a bad idea, Mitchsmiled.
Yeah, sure, why not… Sal nodded. And, tellya what… we can play glergsball first. Whattya say?
I say it’s on, Mitch smiled. Thanks, girls!he called over his shoulders as the two groups set up their game.
Not too shabby if I do say so myself, Opheliasaid proudly, wiping her hands together. Not too shabby.
Yeah, we did really well, Jody beamed.
…are you girls okay? a voice asked. The twoturned to see the family staring at them in a mixture of shock andhumor.
Oh, uh, we’re fine, thanks… Jody blushed.
Yeah, bye now, Ophelia nodded. The two wavednervously, then ran away.
Deep beneath the streets of Orchid Bay, a form stirred.A form dormant since its imprisonment… how long ago was it? Inhuman years, probably somewhere close to a thousand. At least.
But, he was awake now. Fully alert. The binding spellhad worn off, and his strength was slowly returning. All he neededwas time. He could already feel the magic beings around him beingaffected by his resurrection. With a human day, he would have enoughenergy to break free of his prison and return to the surface.
Of course, after that, there would be no more days.Because, by the time he would done, there would be no more humans.
So? How’d your first mission go?
It was… interesting, Ophelia said musingly.
Well, that’s good, June nodded. What exactlywas wrong, if I may ask?
Oh, just some really short trolls getting reallyangry with each other about not being able to play a game, Jodyreplied. She cocked her head, seeing June frown. What’s wrong,June?
Did you say they were really angry?
Yeah, like, okay, they were about to attack eachother, Ophelia nodded.
That’s odd, June muttered to herself. Midgettrolls are usually so peaceful. She cleared her throat. Did oneof them have, say, a really weird green mullet and the other a bowlerhat and cigar?
Yeah, they were the leaders, Jody nodded.
Something’s not right… Mitch and Sal are reallygood, easy going guys… June said with a head shake. She lookedup. Did you do anything to aggravate them?
Ophelia called them ‘violent idiots,’ Jodytattled.
…and you did that WHY, Ophelia… June sighed.
I did not, I warned them not to be, Opheliasniffed.
All right, all right, fine, June rasped. Whoknows what happened. We’ll sort it out later, okay?
Okay, the two nodded.
Good. Well, it sounds like you did pretty well, butthis was more a diplomacy mission, and not everything I do is…She trailed off again as their bracelets went off. Weakly, Junebrought hers up and frowned.
Oh,jeez. Fire demon in the forest… you’re gonna have to use force onthis one for sure, the laid up te Xuan zesighed.
I don’t wanna beat someone up… Jody huffed.
Well, this guy will. Remember, go in fast, and hard.Keep him off guard and you should be able to knock some sense intohim. Good luck, guys…
What is THIS?
You’relooking at the substitute tie Swan sets!Jody beamed.
…teXuan ze, Ophelia croaked incorrection.
Oh, the blonde mumbled distantly.
Whatever, the huge fire-breathing beast rasped.With a quick flip of his huge tail, he slammed Jody and Opheliaagainst a cliff face. This’ll be even more of a pushover than theother one. The girls managed to shake it off, albeit numbed.
Okay, like, baptism of fire time, Ophelia said,cricking fingers before she formed them into a fist.
Fire? You wish to be baptized in fire? I’ll be morethan happy to oblige, small one, the fire demon grinned. He hockedback, then let loose a searing blast of blue colored magic flameagainst the Hispanic. His sneer disintegrated when he saw his preywas not only still standing, but completely uninjured. There wasn’teven so much as grain of soot on her. But, you, I, it…
Okay, like, are we done here? Ophelia yawned.’Cause, I either wanna kick your butt or just go home.
Impudent… the demon growled. I shall teachyou what happens when you are arrogant to your superior. Withthat, he grasped his massive hands together and prepared to bringthem down, full force, upon the small girl. He froze in mid-swing.Hey… where’s the other o–
Surprise, you meanie! Jody cried as she flew infrom behind, delivering a devastating uppercut to the monster’s jaw.The beast roared in pain, recoiling from the surprise blow.
No fair, no fair! he cried.
Okay, like, you tried to deep fry me, Opheliaaccused with a jabbing finger. THAT, my friend, is not fair.
You asked to be baptized with fire! the demonsniffed defensively.
Not literally, you dope! It’s a saying! Opheliarasped.
Ergh, is she always like this! the demon moanedto Jody.
She’s usually worse, the pigtailed girl said witha nod.
I pity you, he said. He paused. However, youdid just punch me in the jaw, and I’m rather annoyed about that.With that, he smashed Jody over the head with his fist.
No! Ophelia roared, murder in her eyes.
Oh, I rather thought you’d be okay with this,girl… the demon replied. You didn’t exactly seem happy withher, now, did you?
She was still my best friend! You’re going to payfor this! the Goth shot back winding her fist back. It trailed offin mid-swing as, to both fighters’ surprise, the fist smashed againstthe ground trembled. To their further shock, Jody emerged fromunderneath, clothes in tatters and dirty, but seemingly otherwiseunharmed.
No. Way, Ophelia breathed.
This is impossible! the demon cried.
…little help, Ophelia! Jody grunted, strainingagainst the weight and strength of the massive fist.
Pleasure, Ophelia croaked. She leaped up anddrove her fist into his jaw. The demon rolled over and moaned infrustrated pain.
This is humiliating…
Get up and say that, Ophelia replied, panting,motioning with a hand.
Yeah, you jerk! Jody added, rubbing a bruise onher arm.
Oh, I’ll gladly get up, he replied. I’ll mostcertainly get… The demon trailed off, eyes darting back andforth as if he were realizing something. His eyes widened in terror….he’s coming, he muttered.
Uh, what? Ophelia asked.
He’s coming! the demon said, at normal volume.
Who? Who is coming? Jody asked, a touch annoyedand curious.
He’s coming, he’s coming! the demon wailed beforesuddenly getting up. He took wing and flew away. Silence finally cameto the forest.
Um, okay, weird, Ophelia blinked.
Yeah. We should talk to June about this…hopefully, she’ll know what the heck is going on…
I don’t know what the heck is going on, Jody.
Lovely, Ophelia grumbled.
Now, you’re saying he just… suddenly took off?June asked.
Yeah, like a rocket, June… he kept saying the samething over and over, too…
What did he say? June urged.
‘He’s coming,’ Ophelia answered. At leastthree times. What’s even creepier? You know how, like, the streetsare usually choked with monsters and stuff? Deserted. Just… empty.We only saw a few, and they looked really nervous.
Man, something’s up… I just wish I knew what,June sighed.
Well, yeah, me too, Jody shrugged. Anyone elsethat might know?
Yeah, but one’s out cold, and the other one’strotting off to visit her.
Ah Mah? Ophelia asked.
Ah Mah. Monroe’s kinda like… my adviser, to put itone way.
That still must be kinda odd, even if he is utterlyadorable… Jody cooed.
Yeah, well, you should see him when he’s hungry…the Asian mumbled. He ain’t very adorable then. At least he’s notRay Ray. But, really, sometimes, he is so annoying, I could just…
Aye, lass? a voice asked from the edge of theroom. The trio turned to see Monroe, sitting with a knowing eyebrowraised. June blushed.
Oh, uh, hi, Monroe! she sputtered.
June, the pug nodded.
Um, what’s up?
Well, ta tell ya the truth, it seems someone is awee bit tougher than the lads at the magics hospital thought.Before any of the girls could open their mouths, the door opened toreveal Ah Mah, bandages on her face.
And a frown as a well.
June… is it true? she rasped.
Is, uh, was true? June asked, coughing. Whetheror not she was coughing or just covering, even she didn’t know.
Don’tplay dumb with me young lady, Ah Mah replied with an icy edge.You’ve breached the secret of the te Xuan ze,haven’t you? Not only that, but that you have given your friendsitems from my cabinet, and they have gone into battle with onlyvague clues of how to conduct themselves!
Well, uh, yeah… she blushed. Ah Mah closed hereyes and took a deep breath.
I told you this was a bad idea, lass, Monroescolded in singsong.
Why, June… WHY.
Because I’m really ill, and I could. They rang up,and I answered, and I thought that was our best hope…
What do you mean, you could, June.
Part 4747 of the Code, June sniffled, pointing tothe paper. Ah Mah grabbed and read it, mumbling to herself. Shenodded slightly.
Yes, okay, I can see that now, and I know Jody andOphelia can be trusted.
Good, June smiled.
That’s why I’ll wait until your better to scrubtheir memories, Ah Mah added.
WHAT! the three girls cried.
But, Mrs. Ah Mah… Jody stammered.
Jody,Ah Mah interrupted, the te Xuan zeis a very, very important secret. We simply cannot risk–
Oh, we? We? June spat. I don’t recall givingmy approval of this!
June,you’re young, and have only been te Xuan zefor a few months. In time, you will understand.
Understand? Understand what? That I’m a sellout tomy friends? That you’re deciding for me that I can’t trust them?Because you can’t figure out it’s the freakin’ twenty-first century,and that things need to adapt? Is that it!
Itis just the way it is, June, Ah Mah replied. She looked to Jodyand Ophelia. It’s a slow day, girls. Your services are probably nolonger required. June should be over the San Sheby the morning, it’s a twenty-four bug. Come here around nine toreturn those items and so I can scrub your minds. Understood?
You have to be kidding us, Jody blinked. Comingback to wipe our brains? No thanks, Mrs. Ah Mah.
Seriously, Ophelia muttered. Ah Mah sighed.
Girls, do not make this any harder than it has tobe, please, she begged. Or make me come to you. Thank you.Jody and Ophelia opened their mouths, but just slumped theirshoulders and plodded for the door.
See ya, June, Jody said, misty eyed.
Yeah, Ophelia added softly before shutting thedoor behind her. June looked at the door sadly for a moment, thenclenched her eyes and fists in rage.
Darnit, Ah Mah!
June, please listen to me…
NO. YOU listen to ME, the small Asian girl spat.Jody and Ophelia deserve to know. Why can’t you see?
Perhaps, but it is quite dangerous.
Dangerous? For what, our little club?
No, your friends, Ah Mah said softly.
Huh? June boggled.
Yes… your enemies now know a way to get to you.They’ll be in danger. We must redo what has been done for theirsake.
Ah Mah, I can’t… I know they’d be willing to takethe risk…
Perhaps. But, how could they defend themselves?
I don’t want to zap them again… I still feelmorbid about the first time… and, I swear, keeping it locked upfrom everyone that I’m some kinda… super hero is driving mebananas! June cried.
I know, June, I know, Ah Mah urged.
No you don’t, her granddaughter growled.
I didn’t tell you of all the friends I had to hidemy identity from? Oh, many, many people, June. And it bothered megreatly. But, I accepted that it was the way it had to be. In time,you will too.
Idoubt it, June mumbled. I mean, you honestly mean to tell methat no one, NO ONE, outside of the te Xuan zeand their predecessor, knows about it in its entire existence? Imean, everyone has the San She,you said, and there HAD to be sick days…
Yes,but usually they made due or had the previous te Xuan zedo it until they recovered, Ah Mah replied. Also, again, it wasusually erased from their minds if it was someone outside of thefamily.
Ah Mah, please don’t make me do this… Junewhispered.
Again, June, Ah Mah replied, I am sorry.She rested a hand on her ailing replacement. She smacked it away.
Don’t touch me.
June…
I said don’t touch me! June snapped before sherolled over and put her face to the couch. Ah Mah frowned helplessly,then nodded.
Very well, June. I will be in the next room if youneed me going over some old prophecies.
I won’t need you, June replied, voice muffledslightly.
You should be well again in a few hours…
Yippee-Skippy.
Verywell, Ah Mah sighed as she went to the next room and began to pouronce more over the prophecy she had been tackling earlier, beforeJune contracted San She.She sat down and read over it again:
Sickness comes before the Awakening,
But hope will come answering a ring.
Where there was one, there must be three,
Or humanity’s end is Fate’s decree.
What the devil can this mean, Ah Mah said toherself. Sickness? What ‘Awakening?’ And what hope, what ring? Andthree what? Ah Mah struggled to think.
Okay,Jasmine, let’s start with the sickness… I’ll go with it being theSan She. Now, whatkind of hope could be rung… a phone call? Yes, June said somethingabout her little friends calling her, and that she answered it… andthat there’s three of them. That’s it… where there was just June,now there’s the three of them. So, what great Awakening could behappening? she continued to herself, picking up a nearby book andstarting to leaf through it. What could be awakening at this dayand… She trailed off as her eyes fell upon the entry.
Oh, no. It’s… him.
The next day came, the sun rising over Orchid Bay andcasting its somewhat oppressive heat upon the city. June squirmed inher sleep as something began to shake her out of it. She grumbled.
June, wake up.
Don’t wanna, the little girl whined, pawing.
June, WAKE UP!
All right, all right! June rasped, sitting up.Her eyes locked with those of her grandmother, causing her to frown.
Oh. It’s you, Ah Mah.
June, please, there is no time… the old womanbegged.
Oh, yeah. You’re just itchin’ to screw up my bestfriends’ minds a– She trailed off, taking a few breaths. I’mactually better now?
Yes, and none too soon, Ah Mah nodded. A shyknock came at the door. Come in, quickly! she barked. On cue, amoping Jody and Ophelia walked in.
Hi, Mrs. Ah Mah… Jody sighed.
Yeah, Ophelia mumbled.
Girls, please, there is no time. You must go to theintersection of Black and Lewis Streets, immediately.
Uh, why? June asked. They out of sugar foryour brain drain stuff?
There’s no time! You must go, now! HURRY! Ah Mahpleaded, yanking June off the couch.
Ah Mah, what the heck is wrong with you! Juneblurted.
Please, June, Jody, Ophelia… we can talk later!Ah Mah cried, pushing them out the door. Now!
Not until you tell us what’s wrong! Jody snapped.
Seriously! added Ophelia.
Very well… you need to fight a creature that isabout to emerge at that location. A creature of such power and evil, he has no name. And, what ever you do, you. Must.Win!
Why, why is it so important? June asked.
If he is not stopped… the world of humans isdoomed. It was only by a miracle he was stopped the first time.The three gaped.
…okay, like, no pressure, Ophelia mumbledgrimly.
Quite, Ah Mah nodded. She paused, then swept allthree girls into a tight hug. Be safe, girls. Please. And goodluck.
Um, okay Ah Mah, we promise… June promised asthe three stumbled, then bolted for Black and Lewis. Behind them, AhMah closed her door, sat on the couch, clasped her hands, and prayedfor the best.
I don’t see anything… Jody called as herfriends caught up with her.
Okay, like, June, did your grandmother screw up orsomething? Ophelia asked.
I… I don’t think so, she stammered. Ah Mah’spretty good about these kinds of things… maybe we just got here alittle– She was stopped as their bracelets went off.
I guess you were right, June, Jody nodded.Whatever it is, it’s coming. As the girls readied themselvesfor battle, they couldn’t help but notice something odd going on withthe bracelets, something even June hadn’t seen before. The blinkingbegan to come faster and faster, the sound louder every time.
What in the…? June managed just as the gemsreached something like a crescendo. Without any warning, the gemsexploded, showering the young girls with chunks of rock and dust.
What’d it do that for! Ophelia coughed.
I dunno! June answered. There must besomething big co– June was cut off once more as the groundbeneath them began to shake.
What, an earthquake now! Jody groaned, trying tostabilize herself.
Well, this is California! Ophelia cried over thetumult.
No… June replied grimly. This is noearthquake. This is something else… No sooner had she said thatthen the very intersection began to writhe, the center of it crackingand shattering. Before the three could react, it lunged up, thencollapsed in on itself, sucking anything unlucky enough to be at thespot into a sinkhole. The girls barely managed to escape.
Yeah, like, no earthquake, Ophelia noddeduneasily. As she spoke, two massive objects erupted out of the hole,taking position on either side of the crater. The girls gaped.
What the heck are those things…? Jody gulped.
They look like… hands, June stammered. Before asecond opinion could be reached, the hands bent upwards, and animmense form began to pull free of the ground.
It was… monstrous to say the least. Skin blood red,twisting horns the height of a two story building, and three searingyellow eyes stared down at them. Massive bat wings flapped debrisaway as a long, spike-tipped tail pulled out of the ground. Clawsunsheathed as the monster, looking like a hybrid of a minotaur, abat, and a dragon unfurled to its full height; nearly twenty storiestall.
…snackerdoodles, Ophelia managed, head cranedto see the entire beast. As if acknowledging he had heard, the demonlooked down.
Hello, inferiors, he sneered.
And, uh, you are? June finally stammered.
Your judgement, the beast replied simply beforeunleashing sheets of fire upon them below. The girls yelped interror.
Scatter! Ophelia cried as she took the blast forher friends. The monster frowned as the smoke cleared from theuninjured Hispanic.
Hmmm. So, you are tougher than you appear, tinyhuman, he nodded. I can sense it on you, some sort ofinvulnerability to magic attack. Of course, there’s a reason thatbelt is named that. Before Ophelia could respond, the demoncracked his tail against her heels. The girl collapsed, howling inpain.
No! Jody squeaked, rushing out to grab her friendbefore he could strike again.
Are you all right? June asked, helping Ophelia toher feet.
Not… really, no, the wounded Ophelia hissed,shifting her weight back and forth. That jerk seriously creamedme.
I should teach him for being so mean, Jody huffedas she cricked her knuckles. June held her back.
No, what you should do is help us come up with aplan… the Asian replied.
Okay, okay, Jody sighed.
So… we got one? Ophelia asked, her face slowlystarting to relax.
Not yet, June confessed. The three foundthemselves in sudden darkness. They cast worried eyes skyward.
Peek-a-boo, the monster smirked as he flickedthem with his mighty talons. The three girls were sent sprawlingseveral blocks into a reinforced brick wall.
Ow… he can hit… Jody managed.
Paging Captain Obvious… Ophelia replied as shepicked herself free. She cricked her back with a wince.
I’m tired of being knocked around, June spat, herdistinctive shirt slightly torn. I say we give him an uppercut hewon’t forget.
Worth a shot… Ophelia shrugged. Jody, one ofher pigtails undone, nodded.
Hey! Big and Ugly! June yelled up at the massivebeast looming above.
Hello. And goodbye, he replied as he raised hismassive foot above them. The trio of fighters hefted themselves upwith a mighty leap and delivered a triple punch to the jaw. There wasa sickening crack… unfortunately, the wrong one.
Ow, ow, ow, ow! Jody cried, clutching her hand,hopping up and down.
Seriously… I feel like I just punched a cinderblock wall, Ophelia groaned, sucking on her fist. June cursed inChinese for a moment as she shook her own appendage to dull the pain.
This…is the great threat to me? Pathetic, the beast chuckled. The teXuan ze is hardly the threat itwas when I was imprisoned.
Just you wait, buster… June warned.
Oh, I’m sure, I’m sure, the creature scoffed.Now, could we hurry along and destroy you? I have a planet toannihilate here.
We’ll stop you, Jody panted.
Yes, well, I’ll STOMP you, the monster smiled.With that, he brought his massive foot down upon them. He lifted itto find the three girls, clothes in bloodied tatters, embedded atleast a foot in the street. I can see we’re done here. Nice try,ladies. If it’s any consolation… no one will be around to curseyour names for your defeat. He sneered once more, and turnedaround. He was about to bring his brute strength to bear against anoffice block when the sound of rock being moved aside reached hisears. He turned to see June, Jody and Ophelia staggering to theirfeet. Oh, COME ON… he rasped, annoyed.
You’re really a jerk… Jody panted, clutchingher arm.
Oh, I’m so hurt… he retorted. You are, Isee…
Like, I’ve been better, Ophelia replied, wipingblood from her lips.
Quite. Tell you what, I’m a good sport… I’ll letyou little ones have a freebie shot. Then, I will make SURE yoursuffering ends. Fair?
Fair, June rasped before turning back to herfriends. Guys, I got an idea… but, it all depends on how much wegot left… you think you can run, Jody?
I can try… she rasped. I just wanna liedown.
Seriously… Ophelia choked.
I know, but you gotta stay with me… and, Ophelia,you think you can take a magic
shot still?
I guess… the Hispanic shrugged.
Okay… June nodded weakly as she reached intoher pocket. I’m gonna shoot this at Ophelia, she continued asshe pulled out an odd trinket. When it bounces off of her, Jody, Iwant you to run around it, then direct it towards Puff here as fastas you can. Okay, you got that?
I… guess, Jody said.
Sure, why not… Ophelia replied, leaning on abadly hurt leg.
I’m waiting! the monster scoffed. The girlsglared.
Ready? June whispered.
Ready, her friends nodded.
Good, June said as she turned the item on thebattered Goth. Jody proceeded to run in a circle rapidly. The monsterroared with laughter.
Running in circles? Shooting each other? You’reclearly mad! he cried.
See ya, Godzilla, June rasped, firing as shekeeled over. Ophelia’s chest reflected the shot as she toppled over,and a tornado formed by Jody’s running concentrated and focused theblast, flinging it directly into the beast’s chest as the blondecollapsed. The monster’s eyes widened as the blast consumed his bodyfrom the center out, enveloping his entire body. A strangled roar wasmuffled by the attack.
Defeatedby little girls… I waited an eternity to be destroyed by littlegirls… he managed to thinkbefore he finally exploded. The girls smiled weakly as the flashfaded.
Hey… we did it, Ophelia croaked as she wentlimp.
We sure did, Jody coughed, eyes fluttering
Yeah… we saved the world, June smiled as shefaded out. We sure…
June… JUNE! Can you hear me!
June opened her eyes wearily, blinking them to focus.The blur above her focused and solidified into something familiar.
…Ah Mah?
No, of course not, the old woman mocked as shesmiled. How you feeling?
Like a rocket landed on my head… she sighed.Her eyes widened. Oh jeez… Jody! Ophelia!
Right beside you, she replied. One whopper ofa healing spell later. It’s a good thing I reached you when I did. IfI was later than that… well, it gets kind of messy.
How’d you know?
Wasn’t too hard. I knew where the fight was…
Aye, Monroe nodded. And we’ve dealt with thepossibility that anyone might have seen a giant lizard burstin’ outof the ground like some kinda sci-fi movie.
Well, almost everyone, Ah Mah corrected as twogroans came from either side of the younger Asian.
What happened? Jody asked.
Seriously… I’m not in excruciating pain anymore,Ophelia croaked.
I think Ah Mah’s to thank, June said. Although,I don’t like where this is going right now…
June, please, you have to understand…
No, YOU have to understand! June spat as shejumped out of bed. They just saved the world! If it was for him,Rodan Jr. would be starting to tear apart San Francisco about now!
Yes,but, we can’t allow those who are not te Xuan zeto see behind the Veil and remember it…
RayRay isn’t the te Xuan ze,June said with a bitterness that turned the air to an icy frost.
True, but he’s family… Ah Mah insisted.
Too bad. Jody and Ophelia have earned the right toremember. You can take back the special stuff, but they deserve toknow the truth!
I kinda liked running that fast… Jody mumbledshyly.
Yeah, being all Superman was fun… Opheliaadded.
Yes, I would imagine, but… it has to be done,Ah Mah replied.
She’s right, lass, you know that… Monroechided. June hemmed.
I, I guess… June stammered. Her eyes darted asif something had come to mind. A tiny smile flickered unseen on herface before she sighed. Fine. I’ll do it.
June, no! Jody and Ophelia cried as one.
She’s right, guys, June sighed. I really can’tlet it happen…
June, I thought we were friends… Jody sniffled.
Yeah, Ophelia glared.
You are… I mean, you won’t remember this evenhappened soon…
Exactly, Ah Mah nodded as she handed her a set ofbottles. Just have them drink this, and they’ll be wiped. Then youjust have to pick the stuff up when it falls off.
Okay, June mumbled as she turned towards them.
No way! Jody spat, arms crossed.
Seriously! Ophelia added.
You’re right guys… June nodded. She paused.You always were. Ah Mah was opening her mouth in confusion whenit turned to horror: June was bringing the bottles to her own lips.
June! What are you doing! the old woman cried.
What does it look like? June replied. I’mwiping a mind.
Are ya daft, woman! Monroe yelped. That muchpotion…
Yep,June nodded. Negates all magic in my body. So… either the teXuan ze gets confidants… orit’s all over.
June, put those bottles down, please! Ah Mahpleaded.
No! June shot back.
Ifyou do… the line of te Xuan zewill be gone forever!
Exactly.
How could ya be so selfish, lass? Monroe scolded.
Because things needs to change. Ah Mah, it’s beenwhat, thousands of years?
Yes, the old woman nodded. That is why–
Things gotta change! Cripes, we’re not still usingabacuses and sitting in caves!
Butthis is different, June! The te Xuan zeis a lone responsibility.
Exactly, June said, her voice wavering. AndI’m so sick of it…
Are you okay, June? Jody urged, placing a hand inher friend’s shoulder.
No, I’m not. I’m not okay. How can I be okay when Ihave to lie to my friends everyday, eschew a normal life, and getbeaten up when I had no choice in the matter. See this? shecontinued, holding up the bottles. This is my way back. This how Ican have a life again.
Okay, like, June, Ophelia urged as she took theAsian’s other side. Seriously, it sounds like you’re kinda…needed.
Yeah, well… too bad. Not anymore. I’m done.Straightening, June brought the first bottle to her lips…
You win.
What was that? June asked, bringing the bottlesdown slightly.
You heard me, June, Ah Mah croaked. You win. Iwon’t wipe Jody and Ophelia’s minds. June beamed and almosttackled her grandmother in a bear hug.
Thanks, Ah Mah… she whispered.
Are ye daft, woman! Monroe barked. What ifthey tell!
Hey, my lips are sealed, Ophelia smiled.
What’sa te Xuan ze? Neverheard of it, Jody beamed.
Oh, fine… Monroe huffed. He suddenly yelped asthe blonde scooped him up.
You’re so cute when you’re annoyed! Jodysquealed, snuggling the small pug.
Put me down, ye nut job! Monroe whined, flailinghis small limbs.
Jody, put down the hundreds of years old Scottishadvising dog down, Ophelia scolded. Jody didn’t answer, so theGoth smacked her in the back of the head. Jody dropped Monroe inreflex.
Ow, Jody complained.
Oh, yes, this is much better now, Monroe sniffed,lying on his back. Besides, how are ye going to explain this tothe Elders?
Well,it’ll take some doing, Ah Mah shrugged, but, I think they’dunderstand in time. A morbidly depressed te Xuan zeis a bad te Xuan ze.
Pretty much, yeah, June nodded.
But, they’ll be sitting ducks! Monroe criedflailing his legs in an attempt to get up. Uh, could someonekinda… he asked before Ophelia nudged him with her boot. Herolled over and stood up. Uh, thanks, he nodded. But still,after that fight, and the fire demon, everyone will know it’s June’sweakness! They’ll be defenseless!
Yes… after those fights, Ah Mah nodded as anidea formed in her head. I shall be right back… she added asshe walked out of the room.
So… we’re not gonna be erased? Jody squeaked.
No, doesn’t look like, June replied. But, justin case… she added, putting the bottles in her pocket.
Okay, so like, June, you were gonna seriously recanteverything for us? Ophelia asked. I mean, seriously?
Yes, June nodded. Because I’m sick of thelies. You guys are my best friends. I shouldn’t have to hide from youI’m in mortal danger every week. And, I’m sorry about the mall. Ireally am. I’m so sorry…
It’s okay, Jody smiled as she glomped June tight.
Yeah, Ophelia added. She hesitated, then slowlyhugged her friends.
You guys are the best, June whispered.
Ach, I’m gonna be sick… Monroe moaned.
Stop it, Jody muttered.
No, really, I had some of the soup, I’m gonna besick… Monroe managed before running out of the house.
You’re life is really screwed up, June, Opheliaobserved.
Heh. Tell me about, the Asian shrugged as thegirls separated. After a few more moments, Ah Mah returned with twomugs, causing June to glare.
Allow me to explain, June, the old woman said,cutting her granddaughter off. I was just talking to theElders…
Oh, great, June groaned.
Again, June, allow me to explain. The Elders arevery impressed with you. Not only have you shown competence in battleand diplomacy but you saved the world and all in a mere twenty-fourhours. They have given us their blessing to not erase them, andwell… they’d like them to stay on.
Stay… on? Ophelia asked.
Yes, Ah Mah nodded before clearing her throat.Jody Irwin. Ophelia Ramirez. I give you a choice. You may, if youwish, relinquish the items on your persons and return to your normallife. Or, you may continue by drinking this.
Uh… what is it? Jody asked, eying the odd pinkmixture.
By drinking this, you will acquire the abilities ofthe objects you wear. Permanently. Which is why you need to weighthis very, very carefully, girls. If you say yes… there will be nogoing back for you.
Okay, like, that’s heavy… Ophelia mumbled.But, okay, I’m in.
Me too, Jody nodded.
Are you SURE, guys? June pleaded. I mean, I’dlove the help, but… this is gonna be pretty dangerous…
June… seriously… we’re with you, Opheliareplied.
BFF! Jody squeaked.
Very well, Ah Mah nodded as she extended herhands. Drink up.
Uh, cheers, Jody replied as she tapped her mugwith Ophelia’s, then drank. The Goth also gulped hers down, finishingat roughly the same time.
Okay, so, like, when do we feel it? Opheliaasked.
Right about… now, Ah Mah replied. As she said’now,’ a tingle ran through the small girls. It started at theircenter, then started to spread outwards, flowing along their veinsand nerves until it reached their skin. A slight glow shimmered likethe Northern Lights just under their clothes and exposed skin.
It’s kinda pretty, Jody said in awe.
And, uh, seriously freaky… Ophelia croaked.Feels like my… everything is falling asleep.
Then it’s working, Ah Mah replied. The tinglingbegan to abate and to fade away in the same direction, from theircenter outwards. A moment more passed, then all of the trinkets Junehad given the day before appeared and fell off.
Uh, huh, Ophelia observed, eyebrow raised.
Aw, I thought you said we’d be able to help June…Jody huffed.
Oh, give it a rest, Blondie, Monroe sighed.
I can understand him! Yay! Jody squeaked,embracing the dog once more. And, once again, a dull smack to theback of her head came, forcing her to drop him.
No, Ophelia said with a wagging finger to herfriend. No.
I’ve about had it with this, Monroe growled,having landed on his head. His body plopped down, and he lolled ontohis side.
Okay then, kids, welcome to the team, Ah Mahsmiled as she scooped up the goods. I have great faith in you,considering what you did today…
Thanks,the two new te Xuan zesreplied shyly.
You’re welcome, the old woman nodded. She paused.So, I’ll see you at six in the morning Saturday.
Yeah, o– wait, what! Jody yelped.
Well, I can’t have you two running off into battleall willy nilly without an idea of what you’re doing! Ah Mahscoffed. By the time I’m done with you, you three will only haveto glare at someone! she added before waddling away. The threeslumped slightly.
…wouldthis be a bad time to mention you’re probably going to get the SanShe now? June asked.
A very, very, VERY bad time, June, Jody said asshe closed her eyes. A very bad time.
Several Days Later
Hurry up with that stuff, Marty! the bizarrehorse-lizard hybrid hissed to his partner. C’mon!
Oh, relax, the cat-turtle replied. We gotsplenty of muscle in case we run into trouble, Sean. They’re calledBill and Larry, he added, pointing to the minotaurs flanking thetwo magical creatures.
Yeah, well… I guess.
We’re gonna be rollin’ in fungus with this stuff,Marty smirked, running his hand through the fine sand. We canretire.
With a broken jaw, if you ask me, a familiarvoice called out. The beasts whirled towards the entrance of thealley.
Ack!The te Xuan ze!Sean cried.
Oh, relax, Marty scoffed. There’s only one of’em?
Oh, you haven’t heard the news? the small Asiangirl replied with mock shock. I’m really surprised!
And, uh, what news could THAT be, squirt? Martysniffed.
Please don’t make her mad… Sean whimpered.
Shut up. Now, as I was saying… what news did Imiss?
Oh, nothing special… the girl smirked. BeforeMarty could retort, a form landed in a crouch on the fighter’s righthand side.
There’s more than one now, the bizarrely dressedfigure grinned in a dry, throaty voice as she got up.
Try three, added a blur that slowed to form ablonde girl in a painfully sweet voice with a cheesy grin. The mobbecame uneasy.
Um, Marty, you didn’t say anything about THREE ofthem! Bill gulped.
Yeah, you said there was only one! A squirt!Larry cried.
…squirt? the Asian said. She turned to herfriends. Jody? Ophelia? Shall we?
Absolutely, the blonde grinned, cricking herknuckles.
Seriously, the other girl added.
Then let’s.
With that, the three young warriors charged headlong intobattle.