Chapter 1:
“One Year Later”
Jacob stared at the clock and kept his eyelids from shutting. Is class ever
going to end? I hate math so much. It's so boring.
A blot of black ink appeared on Jacob's notebook paper and rearranged itself into words.
“Jacob. Meet me at Headquarters after class.
Cassandra finished making her new wand.”
- Rainee
Jacob turned around and glanced at Rainee. She flashed a quick smile and then continued scribbling down notes.
Man, there's still an hour left of class. Jacob yawned. I already know this stupid math stuff.
“Jacob. Could you answer question number six?” Mr. Douglas asked.
Chimeras! Why me? Jacob's mind quickly shifted into math mode.
“Young man. Did you hear me?” Mr. Douglas asked again. Jacob stood up. “Yes sir. I'll solve it.”
Jacob's eyes glowed orange as he whispered an incantation. “Evig Em Eht Rewsna.”1
The answer to the math problem appeared in Jacob's mind. He wrote it on
the board and the teacher's eyes widened.
“Wow Jacob. For a deep sleeper in my class, you always seem to know the answers.” Mr. Douglas laughed. “It's almost like you're using magic.”
Jacob laughed. “I guess so, sir. Maybe I'm just a natural at math.”
“Jacob you're such an idiot.” Rainee whispered and giggled as Jacob went back to his seat.
A tall woman with bright purple hair suddenly entered the classroom, eating a submarine sandwich.
“Ah. Principal Slindeth.” Mr. Douglas said. “What do you need?”
“I need to talk to Jacob Constantine and Rainee Rivera.” Ms. Slindeth said. “You guys are in a lot of trouble. Hurry up and come with me.”
Rainee and Jacob exchanged glances while holding back their smiles. They grabbed all their stuff and put them in their backpacks.
“Come on guys. We don't have all day.” Ms. Slindeth said. The two students went out the door with Ms. Slindeth.
They walked down the school hallways until they reached the library. Ms. Slindeth unlocked the door and went inside.
“So Ms. Deathslinger, why'd you call us out?” Jacob asked.
“Jacob. The headmaster installed a Spiral Door in here.” Ms. Deathslinger said. “See those old books that no one ever checks out?”
toward it. “It's another door to travel to Ravenwood.”
The principal handed Rainee and Jacob a small silver key. “Here's the Spiral Door to use it.”
As Ms. Deathslinger got closer to the door, it materialized more and more. “I don't understand.” Rainee asked. “Why didn't you wait till class was over to show us this?”
“It's no problem really.” Jacob grinned.
Ms. Deathslinger frowned. “Ah yes. About that...”
Ms. Deathslinger pulled out a purple key from her pocket and inserted it into the keyhole. “We need to get to Headquarters and discuss this.”
The door opened. Bright light and warmth emanated from it.
“Hurry. Let's get in.” Ms. Deathslinger said as all three of them walked inside the door.
The three were transported to a building with tall bookshelves and large monitor screens. A silver haired girl was sitting on the chairs, and typing up a paper.
“Cassandra!” Ms. Deathslinger exclaimed. “We're here!”
“Oh good!” Cassandra said. She tapped her juice bottle three times and it instantly refilled itself. “I've received a strange message from an unknown location.”
message. She clicked on it with worry.
The message played was garbled and unclear, but Cassandra had a program that deciphered its message.
"Mayday! Mayday! We are under attack! This is Sir Thurston Plunket,
leader of the Spiral Geographic Society! Our survey has landed on Celestia and the Shadow Weavers have found us! Send help immediately! The Umbra Queen
has returned! It is the work of Mor..."
“But that's impossible.” Ms. Deathslinger said. “Celestia was lost ages ago.” “How can we help them if we can't get there?” Jacob said.
“Well. I've asked Professor Balestrom to try reconstructing the key.” Cassandra said. “He's probably working on it as we speak.”
The monitors suddenly crackled with electricity. A strange bug looking ghost appeared on the screen. It hissed like a snake.
“Whoever interferes will suffer the consequences.” It said with a
threatening tone. “The mirror will break, the horn will call, from the shadows she strikes and the skies will fall.”
The bug's face disappeared from the screen, leaving everyone silent.
“I'm gonna go help the Professor rebuild the key.” Ms. Deathslinger said. “Cassandra. Contact the WIC president and the headmaster to get here as soon as possible.”
“WATCH OUT!” Jacob shouted and drew out his wand.
Three giant cloaked insects with large eyes crawled out of a portal from the computer monitors.
“The Shadow Weavers cannot leave meddlers alive.” They said in their high pitched voices. “We live to serve the Umbra Queen.”
Rainee summoned her flaming harp. Cassandra slowly backed away from the creatures.
“Now which one should I eat first?” A shadow weaver laughed as it looked around the room. “Ah. I guess you will do.”
A shadow weaver lunged at one of them, with its arms full of blue daggers. “DIE WIZARD!” It screamed.
Chapter 2:
“False Security”
“Scarlet. Wake up.” A soft voice said.I can't feel my arms. Ms. Deathslinger thought. Where am I?
Ms. Deathslinger's eyes slowly opened up and looked around. The room was surrounded with glowing plants and potion bottles. A blonde haired woman was wrapping Ms. Deathslinger's arm with a cast.
“Diana. Is that you, sister?” Ms. Deathslinger asked.
“Yes Scarlet. It is me. You were found unconscious after the attack.” Diana said. “Cassandra helped send you to the hospital.”
“Where. Where is Rainee and Jacob?” Ms. Deathslinger asked.
“I'm afraid they disappeared.” Diana frowned. “Cassandra barely escaped with you.”
Ms. Deathslinger tried to stand up, but pain pierced her back.
“You must rest, sister.” Diana said. “The fairies are coming by later to deliver the medicine to heal you.”
“But...” Ms. Deathslinger started.
Diana sprinkled sleep powder on Ms. Deathslinger. “Kevin is holding an emergency WIC meeting. They are going to Celestia.”
“I must go with them.” Ms. Deathslinger said.
haven't failed in anything yet.”
“What about my job on Earth.” Ms. Deathslinger whispered. She was getting drowsy from the sleep powder.
“Don't worry about it.” Diana smiled. “Ms. Hexthorn is handling it very well. Sleep soundly sister. You need to recover quickly.”
______________________________________________ Kevin thought deeply while he looked at the broken desks and monitors. “Man. How is this possible?” He said.
“I suggest you take a look at this.” A boy said. He picked up pieces of a broken harp.
“Stephen. That's Rainee's harp.” Kevin said. “We already saw that.”
“No. Take a closer look.” Stephen held up the harp and examined it closer. “There's a message engraved in it.”
“Let me see it.” Kevin said.
Stephen handed Kevin the harp. “I can't understand it, but it appears to be written in the Celestian alphabet.”
Kevin went through some wooden cabinets and found an old wooden wand.
“Etalsnart.1” Kevin whispered as he tapped the message with the wand.
The wand glowed and the engraved message on the wand was deciphered. “Stay out of our way. Those who resist, will perish.
Enemies of the Umbra Queen beware.” “Sir. What should we do?” Stephen asked. “Go to Celestia?” Kevin stayed silent in deep thought and sat down on a chair.
“Sir.” Stephen said. “Professor Balestrom says that he has reconstructed the Celestia spiral key.”
A door slowly opened. Cassandra and an old bearded man walked inside. “I heard the news, young wizards.” The man said. “Rainee and Jacob disappeared.”
Cassandra looked exhausted. “I hope that they are doing okay.”
“Cassandra was with Rainee and Jacob during the attack right?” Kevin asked. “What did they look like?”
“They had huge eyes and looked like insects in cloaks.” Cassandra said. “Their screams were terrible. They pierced through my soul.”
“It is as I feared.” The old man said. “Those things are shadow weavers. They bring grief and depression wherever they go. They are the Umbra Queen's henchmen.”
“Headmaster Ambrose.” Kevin said. “I've decided I'm going to Celestia with Stephen and Cassandra.”
“That world has not been seen for years.” The Headmaster said. “Who knows what lives there now.”
The headmaster was silent for a moment and closed his eyes. “Perhaps I do.”
“Tell us about her.” Kevin said. “I need to know what we're up against.” The headmaster was silent again, for an unusually long time.
“Well. I did knew her, long ago. The old her. The real her. Not what she has become.” The headmaster said.
“What do you mean, sir?” Stephen asked.
“Be careful. She is no longer the woman I once knew. Her thirst for power has changed her.” The headmaster sat down on a chair. “She will do anything to get what she wants. I wish I could bring back her old self.”
The headmaster stood up and walked toward the exit. “I need some time to myself. Kevin, please investigate the matter and report back to me.”
Cassandra packed several kinds of wands in her backpack. “When are we leaving Kevin?”
“We're leaving immediately.” Kevin said. “Pack everything you need. I'm going to pick up the key from Balestrom.”
“What do you think is wrong with the Headmaster?” Stephen asked. “He behaved strangely when he talked about the Umbra Queen.”
“I noticed that too.” Cassandra said. “I hope it's nothing serious.” “Oh it's serious all right.” A voice whispered.
“I didn't say anything.” Cassandra said. “Neither did I.” Stephen replied.
A cloaked figure jumped down from the ceiling. Its face was covered with a hood.
“It was me you fools.” It stated.
Kevin drew out his wand. “Who the heck are you?”
“I am known as Iceblade to my colleagues.” The figure said. “I was a servant to the Umbra Queen.”
Stephen and Cassandra gripped their wands tightly and pointed at the figure.
“I mean you no harm.” Iceblade whispered. “I have abandoned working for the Umbra Queen. I intend to bring her down.”
“Indeed.” Said another voice. A woman's voice.
Another person, cloaked in red stepped out of the shadows.
“We wish to defeat the Umbra Queen.” she said. “I am Silvershield, her former servant.”
“That's a believable story.” Kevin said. He tightened his grip on his wand. “Oh but you must believe it.” Silvershield said. “We are sick of serving the Umbra Queen.”
“That's griffin turd.” Stephen said. “I don't want to believe it.”
his wand.
Cassandra suddenly turned around and blasted the computer monitors with sharp leaves.
“No you fool.” Silvershield cried. “ You destroyed the portal!”
“That's how the Shadow Weavers got in, so I figured that's how you got in also.” Cassandra smiled.
Iceblade's eyes suddenly flashed with blue light and he began waving his wand to draw the ice symbol in the air. “You ain't getting away.”
“Run!” Kevin yelled.
Iceblade fired a water laser from his wand and hit Kevin.
“You idiot! I'm used to that magic.” Kevin yelled. “Stephen. Get him!” Stephen's eyes glowed with white light as he waved his wand to draw the death symbol in the air.
“Nosiop Iceblade1!” Stephen yelled. A stream of green gunk was fired and
hit Iceblade.
Iceblade gagged and fell to the floor. His skin was turning green. “Silvershield! Help me!”
Silvershield pulled out a purple potion from her robes and threw the bottle at Iceblade. Iceblade grabbed the potion and drunk it. The effects of Stephen's poison was nullified.
“We're outnumbered here.” Silvershield said.
“You're right. Two against three is not good.” Iceblade said.
“What if they tell the Umbra Queen about our plans?” Silvershield said. Iceblade took out a silver potion and smashed it on the floor.
“Who cares about it now?” Iceblade yelled. “We have to survive.”
The room became filled with thick fog . Iceblade and Silvershield fled and disappeared.
Stephen scratched his head. “Wait. I think they are really against the Umbra Queen.”
“I doubt it.” Kevin said. “I believe that it was a bluff. Seal the building with magic. We're going to Celestia and deal with this threat.”
“I hope everyone's still alive.” Cassandra said as she turned on the emergency seal.
Chapter 3:
“Servants of Two Masters”
Silvershield frantically shoved a black key into the spiral door. Iceblade checked behind them to make sure no one followed.
“Come on get in!” Silvershield shoved Iceblade into the door. “Hurry they're sealing the door!”
The spiral door's frame began to turn black. Other parts of the door quickly followed. Iceblade pulled Silvershield and got her inside just in time.
The two were transported to a dark alley. They hid behind a telephone booth.
“Hurry. Switch back.” Silvershield snapped.
Iceblade's eyes flashed with blue light. “Htrae Sehtoc1. Me and
Silvershield.”
Both their robes were engulfed in blue light. They were transformed into regular shirts and jeans. Silvershield's long blonde hair was flowing in the air.
“I hope that she is still there.” Iceblade said quietly. “I'm sure she is.” Silvershield replied. “Follow me.”
Silvershield walked down the busy street, staring at cars and people that passed by.
Look at these mortals living their pointless lives. Silvershield thought.
Silvershield took out a bottle of a blue potion from her bag and looked at a bottle of ketchup on a hotdog stand.
Iceblade grabbed the bottle from her hand.
“What the heck are you trying to do?” Iceblade scolded. “We have to focus.”
“I'm just trying to have a little fun. For a thaumaturge you get angry so easily.”
“You're going to use magic in front of mortals? What kind?” “Just a little bit of sorcery won't hurt. Besides, I've practiced.” “Everyone knows you fail at balance magic.”
“Shut it. I know what I'm doing.” “Remember the last time you fizzled?” “Oh please. That was nothing. Watch this.”
Silvershield's eyes flashed with orange light. “Ecalper Elttob Gnillif1.” She
whispered fiercely.
The potion bottle flew from Iceblade's hand hit the man who was selling hotdogs.
“Oops.” Silvershield whispered. “I fizzled.”
“We better get out of here now.” Iceblade stammered.
The man glared at them and yelled. “Hey you two! Come back here!” The man's forehead veins looked like they were about to burst.
The man shouted to two cops heading back to their car. “Hey police! Get those kids. They vandalized my stand!”
“Dangit.” Silvershield said while running through the crowded street. “I used an agitation potion instead of sleep potion.”
“Smooth.” Iceblade grinned. “Oh shut up.” Silvershield said.
Iceblade looked back and saw the two cops chasing them. “Hey you two! Come with us! You got some explaining to do!” Silvershield gasped. “Do something Iceblade!”
“I always have to do everything.” Iceblade replied. “Just do it.”
“Yreppils Eci.” Iceblade angrily whispered.
The ground that the policemen were running on became slippery as ice. “AH!” they yelled as they fell hard to the ground. A crowd of people started surrounding them.
Silvershield took out a red potion. “I'll throw in a hallucination potion to seal the deal.”
Silvershield threw the bottle and it shattered into a million pieces. A pungent stink invaded the air.
“Don't smell the potion and run!” Silvershield said.
“Finally we're here.” Iceblade said. “We should have been here earlier.” Silvershield whispered. “Well, at least that was fun wasn't it?”
“True.” Iceblade agreed. “Let's go see if she's in there.”
They both went through the huge metal doors. It was covered in rust and spider webs.
“So.” A voice said. “Did you succeed in your orders?”
Oh my gosh. Silvershield thought. What should we tell her.
“Your highness.” Iceblade said. “We failed to destroy the target.” “Oh.” The voice said. “But did you find him?”
“Yes we did.” Silvershield stammered. “The old man was there.”
Is she reading our minds? Iceblade said. No. I'm just imagining it. Necromancers cannot read minds.
“Turn on the lights Nightstone.” The voice said.
Sparks of electricity was heard and the lights turned on. “It has been done, your Highness.” A cloaked wizard said.
The light revealed a boy wearing purple and black robes next to a tall woman. Her face was pale white and she wore a long black dress. Two little white spiders sat on her lap.
“Excellent.” The woman said. “So the old man still lives. Even after all this time we haven't seen each other.”
“Queen Morganthe.” Silvershield said. “When will we depart to Celestia?” “Yes.” Iceblade said. “We've been longing to travel their for a while now.” Morganthe whispered. “Yes. It has been a while since I've been there. I will take the secrets of their magic for myself. I've waited a long time for this. The storm titan merely delayed the inevitable.”
Morganthe stood up and summoned her staff to her hand. “My army of shadow weavers who were left in that place should have kept it nice and vulnerable for my return.”
“I can't wait to come with you, your highness.” Nightstone said.
And take my revenge for my parents' deaths. Nightstone put on his hood.
“Excellent, Nightstone, my strongest apprentice.” Morganthe said. “You two fools are coming with me also.” She pointed at Iceblade and Silvershield.
“Yes, your highness.” Iceblade and Silvershield said.
It's about time you find out how pain feels like. Silvershield thought.
Iceblade remained silent. I can't stand working for her any longer.
“I can almost feel myself using astral magic.” Morganthe said softly while petting one of her pet spiders.
Morganthe's hands began to glow in a dark purple light. She slashed into the thin air and ripped open a swirling black portal.
Chapter 4:
“To the Bottom of the Sea”
Professor Greyrose handed Kevin a huge key engraved with astronomical symbols. The professor looked worried. She took another sip of hot chocolate.
“Take care, Kevin.” Professor Greyrose smiled.
“I will Professor.” Kevin said. “But, there's one more thing I'd like to ask.” Professor Greyrose nodded. “Go ahead dear.”
“The headmaster said that he personally knew the Umbra Queen.” Kevin started. “Do you know of what happened between them?”
The professor grew silent for a long time. She hovered over to a chair and sat down.
“I'm afraid it's a long story.” Greyrose said. “Even I don't know the full details. But yes, the headmaster knew the Umbra Queen very well.”
The days of old have long been gone. Greyrose thought.
“The headmaster was in deep thought when we discussed the Umbra Queen.” Kevin said. “Was there something in the past that happened between them?”
“Forget it dear.” Greyrose said. “Now's not the right time. I'm sorry.” “Alright Professor.” Kevin replied. “I'll see you later.”
Kevin stored the key in a silver bag and went out the classroom.
Cassandra was waiting outside, drinking dragonfruit punch. “Did she give you the key?” Cassandra asked.
Kevin opened the silver bag and showed her the key.
“How beautiful.” Cassandra said, staring at the key. “Let's pick up Stephen and get moving.”
Cassandra looked puzzled. “You look worried. What's wrong?” Kevin nodded. “Nothing. Let's go.”
They both summoned their brooms and mounted them. The air was calm and it made steering a bit easier. They flew through the air until they reached Triton Avenue and spotted the Icedreamer Bakery.
Stephen was buying some energy bread that kept a person full for a whole day.
Cassandra and Kevin flew down and greeted Stephen.
“Hey guys.” Stephen said. “I'm just making some final preparations here.” A tall woman with silver hair brought out a fresh tray of cookies from the back of the store.
“Hi Christina.” Cassandra smiled. “How are you doing?”
“Great. I've been busy creating new recipes.” Christina said. “What are you guys up to?”
“Just the usual WIC business.” Kevin replied. “We really have to get going. It's an emergency.”
Christina handed Kevin a spray bottle labeled Favorite Food Spray –
Maximum Strength and a couple bottles of purple healing potion.
“Thanks but, what's with the spray?” Kevin asked while grinning.
“You never know when you'll need it.” Christina smiled. “Well. I wish you guys good luck.”
“Thanks Christina.” Kevin said.
Christina nodded. “No problem. If you guys ever need backup, I'm here for you. Don't forget that I was once a WIC agent too.”
Cassandra, Kevin, and Stephen mounted on their brooms and flew to Ravenwood. When they got there, they walked over to Bartleby.
“How's it going Bartleby?” Cassandra asked.
“Ah. Young wizards.” Bartleby yawned. “I'm doing fine, but there is a disturbance in the magic force.”
“Tell us more please.” Kevin said.
“My eye has given me visions of fire, storm, and ice. I saw anger and
revenge, but I also see cleansing.” Bartleby whispered. “The Umbra Queen. She's roaming in the depths of Celestia as we speak. You must try to free her, as
Ambrose did years ago.”
“Ambrose did what?” Kevin asked.
Bartleby's eyes closed and he went into a deep sleep.
Queen.”
“Let's just go to Celestia now.” Kevin interrupted. “We'll discuss this later.” “Alright, you're the boss.” Stephen nodded.
The three wizards went inside Bartleby and approached the spiral door. Kevin took out the key from the silver bag and stuck it into the keyhole. He turned and the doorknob glowed white.
Chapter 5:
“My Unfair Lady”
Morganthe took another sip of a red potion and looked into the mirror. She saw her wounds slowly heal up.
“How dare those ghosts attack me.” Morganthe exclaimed. “They will pay for this blasphemy.”
Morganthe peered into her crystal ball and looked at a blurred image of Kevin, Cassandra, and Stephen entering the spiral door. “Ah. I see that
Ambrose's students have found a way into Celestia as well.”
“Those fools are more brainless than I thought.” Morganthe laughed. “Well. I'll soon have them out of my web.”
Morganthe snapped her fingers. “Iceblade, Nightstone, Silvershield. Come here at once. I have a job for you to do.”
Flashes of light appeared and the three henchmen appeared. Their faces were all covered with hoods and they dressed in black robes.
“Yes. Your highness?” Iceblade said.
“I want you to go the base camp and eliminate those pesky brats.” Morganthe said. “I can count on you this time... right?”
“Absolutely your highness. We won't let you down.” Iceblade replied and looked at the crystal ball. It's those wizards from before. This is a perfect
“Excellent.” Morganthe smiled. “Go forth and destroy them.”
Morganthe snapped her fingers and three onyx wands materialized in the three wizards hands. “It is a gift to make your jobs easier. I think you three are ready for them.”
“What fine gifts.” Nightstone said. “Thank you, your highness.”
The three wizards teleported out of site, leaving Morganthe by herself. “I knew Ambrose would be afraid to face me himself. Let's see if destroying his students will bring him to me.”
“No. You won't succeed in your insane plan.” Jacob yelled. Loud metal chain banging was heard.
“I'm afraid you're wrong, young wizard. Very wrong.” Morganthe laughed as she threw a bottle of sleeping potion at the cage that held Jacob. “Now shut up and be a good quiet prisoner.”
Chapter 6:
“Heavily Fortified”
Kevin and the others found themselves inside a huge glass dome.
Cassandra looked through the glass and saw various colored fish swimming by. “Wow. It's beautiful.” Cassandra said.
Kevin shut the spiral door and locked it with a key. “Look ahead. There's a woman approaching us.”
A Marleybonian woman was walking toward them. The Marleybonians looked like humanoid dogs from Earth, and they dressed in human clothes.
“The name's Edith Benchley.” The woman said. “I'm so relieved so see you all here.”
“We got the distress call from the Spiral Geographic Society.” Stephen said. “Oh thank goodness!” Edith said. “Our leader, Sir Thurston Plunkett
disappeared. Then the crustaceans attacked us. My mind is about to explode from worry. We were about to finish deciphering the writing on the portals.”
“Crustaceans?” Stephen asked. “You mean crabs?”
Edith nodded. “Yes Yes. Unfortunately, they are extremely aggressive so we had to shut the entrance to the Promenade.”
“So a bunch of seafood scared you guys off?” Stephen joked.
Edith laughed. “I wouldn't underestimate them if I were you. They weren't the kind of seafood you'd find in a restaurant.”
“We'll go in there and see what we can do.” Cassandra smiled.
“But first, I'll need to show you guys something amazing.” Edith said. “Follow me.”
Cassandra looked around and saw huge worker golems were lifting boxes of materials and drillers were drilling holes into the wall. Other Marleybonians were unpacking tools and writing in their notebooks.
The wizards followed Edith to a complex of large pillars. They appeared to be teleporters.
“These are what we discovered to be the entrances to the Celestian Temples dedicated to the magic schools of stars, moon, and sun.” Edith said. “There are pieces that are missing from them.”
Kevin's eyes widened. “Schools of magic?” “Exactly.” Edith smiled. “Magic.”
“Kevin.” Cassandra said. “You think we if we helped repair the portals, we would be able to learn the spells?”
“I was getting to that.” Edith said. “We have excavated three pillars that we believe to be a learning device for magic, but we don't understand magic. We believe that there may be more inside the temples.”
Edith led the wizards to a metal storage building. “Let's go inside.”
Inside the building was a glowing pillar that contained a rotating cube and circles at the top.
“This is fascinating!” Kevin exclaimed. He walked over to the device and touched it. It felt cool and smooth.
Kevin's mind was bombarded with visions of stars and magical incantations. He was in a trance for a couple minutes.
Kevin snapped out of his trance. “Guys. You won't believe what I just learned!”
“I'm afraid you might have to die with that knowledge, wizard.” A voice said. “If you don't agree to our terms.”
“What the heck?” Stephen turned around.
Three cloaked figures surrounded the entrance of the storage building. “Show yourselves.” Kevin shouted and drew out his wand.
Cassandra and Stephen drew out their wands and pointed at the figures. The figures removed their hoods and drew out their onyx wands.
Cassandra recognized two of the three wizards.
“You guys again!” Cassandra tightened her grip on her wand. “You're not getting away this time!”
“Again, we mean you no harm.” Iceblade said.
“Please let us join you.” Silvershield said. “We want to destroy the Umbra Queen.”
“What are you guys doing!?” Nightstone yelled. “That's the enemy!”
hard way?”
“But I don't think we should join those fools!” Nightstone shouted.
Kevin waved his wand and pointed at Silvershield. “Ezeerf Silvershield!1”
A blast of cold energy hit Silvershield and covered her in a thick rope of ice. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING YOU IDIOT!” Iceblade shouted. “WE WANT TO JOIN!”
“Not me.” Nightstone laughed. He raised his hands and blasted Kevin with electricity.
“Rewot Dleihs!1” Cassandra uttered as she pointed her wand at Kevin. A
metal shield materialized and blocked the electricity from hitting Kevin. “Oh my stars and garters!” Edith screamed as she got away from the wizards. “You guys handle this!”
“Ugh!” Nightstone yelled. “You little annoying theurgist!” Stephen blasted Nightstone with dark energy from his wand.
“AH!” Nightstone yelled. He was hit on his leg and he fell on his knees. “You guys help me!”
“Silvershield.” Iceblade said. “Forget this whole idea of joining them.” “What?” Silvershield said as she struggled to get out of the ice. “You can't be serious!”
Silvershield's eyes flashed with red light and the ice on her body melted
1 Ez-Earf Silvershield 1 Ray-Wot Del-lees
away. “Fine. You're the boss.”
“Now let's kill them before they tell the queen.” Iceblade yelled. The two Morgantine wizards raised their wands.
“Hold on a minute!” Kevin yelled.
“Arcane Harmony!” Iceblade and Silvershield yelled. “Erif y Eci!1”
“Ugh” Nightstone said. “Don't forget me! Mrots!1”
A stream of fire, ice, and storm energy erupted from their wands and combined. It aimed straight for Cassandra.
“NOOOO!” Kevin yelled. A symbol of a red star flashed in his eyes.
Kevin's body was covered in blue light. He jumped in front of Cassandra. All the magic energy bounced off him and reflected back at the casters.
“Ah!!!” yelled Iceblade, Nightstone, and Silvershield. They all fell to the floor and couldn't move. They were hit by their own attack.
“That was astral magic!” Nightstone groaned. “We must steal it all its power!”
“Forget the magic for now!” Iceblade shouted. “Let's ditch this place! There will be other opportunities!”
Silvershield nodded and used her last ounce of mana to teleport themselves out.
“Morganthe!” Stephen said. “She knows we're here!”
1 Air-Reef y Ehs-see 1 More-rots
Edith came running back and panting. “Oh my goodness! Are you guys okay?”
“We're fine.” Kevin said. “It appears we have more to worry about than just killer seafood. As I feared.”
“We must hurry then.” Stephen said.
Kevin looked stumped. “That spell that I used... was insanely powerful.” “No doubt that was astral magic.” Stephen said.
“The Umbra Queen is after the magic for herself.” Cassandra. “We have to get access to the temples before she does! She can't have the magic.”
“After seeing you guys use magic, I'm certain that those crabs will be no match for you.” Edith said. “Go speak with Dalton Prescott in the Promenade. His team had pieces of the stones.”
Edith showed them to the tunnel leading to the Promenade. “I wish you guys good luck!”
“Don't worry. We'll come back alive.” Kevin said. “I promise.”
The three wizards entered the dark tunnel and headed for the Promenade.
We're gonna find you guys, Rainee and Jacob. And we're gonna stop the Umbra Queen. Kevin thought deeply. But still, those Morgantine wizards still confuse me.
Chapter 7:
“Ye Old Apprentice”
Jacob's eyes opened and he found himself staring at a dark blue wall. He shook off the final effects of the sleeping potion.
Jacob's arms and legs were chained to the wall.
Morganthe you little witch. He thought angrily while he attempted to
break free. It was no use, the metal was too strong. “Rainee.” Jacob whispered. “Are you here?”
Jacob looked around and spotted Rainee in another cage, also chained to the wall.
“Jacob!” Rainee cried. “You're finally awake!” “Where's Morganthe?” Jacob asked.
“She left earlier. She said she was going to punish some people.”
“Kevin and the others... that means they survived Morganthe's henchmen.” “We have to get out of here and rejoin the others.”
Jacob looked around and saw a table that had both their wands on top of it.
“I tried melting the cage's bars, but I couldn't. My mana feels drained.” Jacob closed his eyes and whispered a spell. “Dneb Eht Srab.1”
Jacob's spell did not have any effect on the metal bars. “It's no use. I'm
drained also.” Jacob said.
Suddenly, a black portal ripped open before their eyes. A black haired boy wearing tattered dark robes jumped out of it. He carried a black leather book.
“NANOR!?” Jacob exclaimed. “What are you doing here?”
“Rescuing you of course.” Nanor said. “I feel that it is my duty, I owe you guys for freeing me from Malistaire's grasp.”
“How did you get in?” Rainee asked.
Nanor pointed to his book. “A book of dark magic. I found it in Malistaire's belongings.”
“Nanor.” Jacob started. “Have you considered my offer to join the WIC?” “Now's not the time.” Nanor said. “I must find a way to regain my
memories and find out who I really am. I don't believe that I'm Nanor Dusk.” Nanor gave Jacob and Rainee each a bottle of healing potion. They felt refreshed instantly after drinking it.
“Now. Try to bust out.” Nanor said.
Rainee and Jacob's eyes flashed with light. Rainee's cage was melted into molten metal and Jacob's magic bended the bars with ease.
“Thank you Nanor.” Jacob said. He and Nanor shaked hands. Rainee retrieved her wand from the table. Jacob also did too.
“There are legends.” Nanor said. “That tell of astral magic restoring memories. I hope you guys can find it.”
“We will find it.” Jacob said. “I promise.”
“I will be on my way then.” Nanor said. “Follow me into the portal to return to Wizard City.”
Chapter 8:
“A tulip by any other name”
Kevin and the others walked through the dark corridors. The blue floors had small traces of water. A small group of Marleybonians were huddled together in a hidden corner, quietly debating about something.
“Dalton.” A woman said. “The structures cannot hold on much longer. We need to repair it.”
“I know.” Dalton frowned and took a deep breath. “We need to get our sealant back if we want to survive.”
Kevin approached Dalton. “We're from the Ravenwood WIC. Edith sent us to you.”
Dalton's frown disappeared slowly. “Edith sent you eh?” Stephen shaked Dalton's hand. “Yes she did.”
“She said you were attacked by... crabs?” Cassandra said while trying not to laugh.
“Yes.” Dalton said. “Crabs.”
“There is one other thing I need to ask.” Kevin said. “Edith told us that you guys have stone fragments of the teleporters at the base camp.”
Dalton looked at his colleagues and signaled for the stones.
the attack.”
Dalton frowned. “Ugh. Those stones weren't the only things stolen. Our supplies were taken and some of our people were kidnapped...” Dalton faced Kevin. “...included our leader, Sir Thurston Plunkett.”
“We'll be happy to get your supplies back.” Kevin said brightly.
“Uh.” Dalton looked at them from head to toe. “You sure you kids can handle it?”
Kevin drew out his wand. “Don't worry. We're wizards.” “Oh. Alright.” Dalton laughed. “Be careful out there.” “What kind of supplies were stolen?” Cassandra asked.
“They were bottles with sealant.” Dalton said. “This is an important matter. We need those to repair the cracks in the walls. If not, then this whole place will sink.”
“We'll be back.” Stephen said.
The three wizards immediately left for the Promenade.
_______________________________________________
As the wizards crept past the area, they noticed a trail of oil on the ground. It lead to a large tunnel.
“Look.” Stephen whispered. “Those trails look fresh.” Cassandra nodded. “How could you tell?”
“Fine. Lead the way Mr. Compass.”
Kevin stepped in front of Cassandra and Stephen, blocking their path. “No. Don't go on. I hear voices coming this way.”
Kevin pushed Stephen and Cassandra behind a tall wooden crate then jumped behind another crate. “Now stay quiet.”
Kevin saw a human sized crab wearing blue robes talking to another crab that was holding a huge spear.
“...Ah yes. Those air breathers were so stupid weren't they?” “I assigned Optio Agenor to deal with the dog that he found.” “Where is he now?”
“At the top of the ruins nearby.” “Oh. Good. Hope he dies there.”
“Aha. Indeed. I'm going to retreat to my chambers.”
“Hold on Governor Nereus. We found this interesting stone from those dogs we attacked.”
“Hmm. Thank you. I'll be keeping this with my other treasures.”
It's those crabs. Kevin thought. They look bigger than I thought.
“Kev. Should we attack?” Stephen whispered.
“No. Stay low for now. I wanna hear more.” Kevin replied.
“...Yes. Yes. Governor. I'll keep patrolling this area for more loot.” “HEY NOT SO FAST!” A voice shouted.
Sparks of dark energy flew into the air. A hooded figure jumped from above the ceiling.
“Please. Make this easier on yourselves and just surrender the stone.” The figure said blankly.
“Ugh.” Cassandra groaned. “Another Morgantine wizard.” “Be a good little crab and give it to me.” The figure said.
The figure removed her hood and revealed her face. She had long black hair and green eyes.
“I don't plan on waiting to get that stupid stone!” She scolded. “Bloodtulip does not show mercy.”
“Governor! Run!” Shouted the crab with the spear. “I'll hold her off!” The governor ran away, crying like a baby.
“Ugh!” Bloodtulip said. “The stone is MINE!”
Bloodtulip drew out an onyx wand and pointed at the crab holding the spear. “Esruc Eht Nopaew!1”
The crab's spear suddenly flew out of his hand and levitated in the air. It pierced through the crab's shell.
“Urgh..” The crab uttered before he fell to the ground.
“Now to get the coward crab. This time, Iceblade and the others will get no credit for this mission.”
Kevin, Stephen, and Cassandra stepped out from behind the crates.
“You're under arrest.” Kevin shouted, drawing out his wand. Bloodtulip turned around and gasped. “Oh my. I have guests.” “You work for the Umbra Queen?!” Cassandra shouted.
“Why yes I do.” Bloodtulip laughed. “Morgantine Special Forces.”
“You're with those three others huh? Nightstone and whatever the heck the other two are called.”
“Oh.” Bloodtulip said. “I'm alone. I want to take the full credit for this mission. Nightstone's team have been acting weird lately, so I decided I'd take this opportunity to get on Morganthe's good side.”
“What good side?” Stephen said. “I don't think there's such thing.”
“Enough about me.” Bloodtulip said. “I think it's time to discipline some naughty children.”
“Oh we're ready for whatever you throw out.” Kevin grinned. “I'll freeze you to death.”
“Hmm. That's an excellent idea.” Bloodtulip laughed. “But I have a better one.”
Bloodtulip pointed her wand to the ceiling and shouted. “Kcarc Eht Gniliec!1” Her eyes flashed with orange light and the ceiling above started to
crack.
“Farewell fools.” Bloodtulip laughed. “Hope you guys know how to breathe underwater.”
Bloodtulip ran toward Nereus' direction.
Kevin's blood rushed as he looked at the ceiling. “We're done for!” The cracks in the dark ceiling burst open with a big CRACKING noise. Water began leak and pour down.
Chapter 9:
“Super Ice Me”
“Kevin do something!” Cassandra yelled.Drops of water from the ceiling began pouring down like bullets.
Here goes. Kevin thought as he frantically drew the ice symbol in the air. This better work.
“EZEERF EHT RETAW!1” Kevin shouted. His eyes flashed with blue light.
Blue energy shot of his wand and headed for the cracking ceiling. “Cassandra!” Kevin shouted. “Run! I think I fizzled!”
The water above began to freeze, but Kevin's magic was not enough. The ice was melting quickly.
“GUYS WHAT ARE YOU DOING!” Kevin shouted again. “SAVE YOURSELVES AND RUN!”
“I'm sorry.” Stephen said. “We're not leaving without you.” Stephen pointed his wand to himself. “I guess I have no choice.” “What are you doing Stephen!?” Cassandra shouted.
“KRAD TCAP KEVIN!1” Stephen blasted himself with dark energy and fell
to the floor.
Swirls of light escaped from Stephen's wand and surrounded Kevin. He began to feel new energy.
1 Ez-Earf Et Ret-Ow 1 Krad teh-Cap Kevin
Kevin's spell instantly grew stronger and all the water above froze into a makeshift ice ceiling. None of it was melting.
The spell drained Kevin of his mana. He fell on his knees to the floor. “Thank you Stephen.” Kevin whispered.
“I'll heal him.” Cassandra said. She was still shaking from the whole experience.
Cassandra pointed her wand at Stephen and healed him with a healing spell. Stephen's eyes slowly opened.
“Kevin.” Stephen whispered. “Good job.”
“I couldn't have done that without your help.” Kevin replied. Broken pieces of the old ceiling began to float into the air.
“Huh?” Kevin said as he turned around. He saw Rainee and Jacob walking toward them.
“We heard the cracking and followed it.” Rainee said.
“Thank goodness you both are safe!” Cassandra said. “What happened to you guys!?”
“It's a long story.” Rainee said. “We'll tell you later.”
Jacob stood there with his eyes glowing with orange light. He levitated all the broken pieces of the ceiling. He used a sticking spell to stick back all the pieces.
Astral Magic. They also plan to kill us.”
“We know.” Kevin replied. “And we are also trying to find a way into the temples. All the portals are broken and we need stones to repair them.”
Cassandra turned to Jacob. “One of the stones was taken by a crab.” Jacob grinned. “Seriously?”
“We have other problems too.” Kevin said. “Those Morgantine wizards are also after the stones.”
“We mustn't waste time.” Jacob. “Are they nearby?”
“There is one.” Kevin said. “She calls herself Bloodtulip. She's after the stone.”
“If I'm not mistaken.” Stephen said. “She went that way.” Stephen pointed to a long tunnel.
Chapter 10:
“The Crusty Crabs”
Cassandra pulled out her wand from her pocket. She whispered an incantation and the tip of the wand glowed with green light. It brightened the dark tunnel that they walked through.
“That girl you saw.” Jacob asked Kevin. “Are you sure that she's a Morgantine wizard?”
“Yeah.” Kevin said. “I'm positive.”
“If she held off all three of you guys, then her magic must be powerful.” “Are you kidding me? She used the cheapest trick in the book.”
“This time she won't be having the chance to use her dirty tricks.” Rainee suddenly stopped moving.
“What's wrong?” Jacob asked.
“Listen.” Rainee said. “I hear something ahead.”
Everyone stood still. Noises of clashing and cracking could be heard at the end of the tunnel.
“Proceed.” Kevin ordered. “It must be her!”
When the got out of the tunnel, Kevin saw a crab carrying a knocked out Marleybonian to the top of some ruins.
was talking about!”
“We follow him.” Kevin said. “That Bloodtulip girl might also be where he's headed.”
Cassandra whispered a spell and blue fairy wings sprouted from her back. “Hurry guys. We have to get that dog back.”
All the others mounted their brooms and flew the top of the structure, while staying away from the crab's sight.
“This land walker might provide us with useful information.” The crab muttered to himself. He opened a door, went inside, and slammed it.
Kevin signaled for all them to land.
“Alright.” Kevin said. “Cassandra, Jacob, and I are going in first. If you don't here from us in five minutes, barge in the door.”
“Got it.” Rainee said. “Jacob be careful ok?”
“Don't worry.” Jacob replied. “Nothing will happen.” Cassandra and Jacob drew out their wands.
“Okay I'm ready.” Cassandra smiled.
Kevin kicked open the door and pointed his wand straight. “ARGH!” The crab said. “Who are you?”
The crab threw the Marleybonian to the floor and pulled out a spear. He waved it around, as if to intimidate Kevin.
claws.”
The girl is not here. I miscalculated her location. Kevin thought.
Cassandra flew inside with her fairy wings and stuck out her tongue at the crab. “Hi down there!”
“Why ye little pest!” Agenor said. “Come down here!”
Jacob moved in and pointed his hand at a couple broken boulders. He encanted words of power as his eyes flashed with orange light. “Yortsed Crab Htiw Kcor!1”
The boulder quickly flew off the ground and hit Agenor's back. He fell down on his knees but quickly got back up.
“Boy, you cannot crack my shell that easily!” Agenor laughed. Agenor angrily threw his spear at Jacob.
Jacob put his hand forward. He redirected the spear back at Agenor, who ducked and dodged it.
Cassandra flew around the room, sprinkling Jacob and Kevin with her agility dust.
“That's the last of my supply.” Cassandra called.
Jacob and Kevin repeated blasted Agenor with magic, shooting like a machine gun.
“URGH!” Agenor cried. “AHHH!”
The agility dust wore off and Kevin gave Jacob a high-five.
“That pathetic excuse for a seafood didn't stand a chance.” Kevin grinned. The door slammed open. Rainee and Stephen came rushing in.
“GUYS!” Stephen said. “There's a mob of crabs coming up the structure!” “What!?” Cassandra said. She flew out of the door and spotted a large group of crabs marching up the wooden planks.
“Oh my goodness!” Cassandra cried. “He's right!” “Do we run or fight them off?” Stephen asked.
“What about the Marleybonian?” Rainee pointed to the knocked out dog on the floor.
“Cassandra.” Kevin said. “Here. Catch!”
Kevin threw Cassandra a bottle of Dark Minotaur Energy Drink: Gives
You Horns.
“Drink it and lift the Marleybonian to safety.” Kevin said. “We'll handle the crabs.”
“Okay.” Cassandra drank the potion. It tasted like a liquid version of cheeseburgers. Cassandra began to feel as strong as a minotaur.
Cassandra flew down and lifted the dog out of the room. She headed straight for where the other Marleybonians were hanging. “I'll meet you guys later!” she yelled.
“Alright!” Kevin said.
“Oh no.” Kevin said. “There must be at least fifteen of them!”
Kevin reached into his pocket and searched through his pile of spell cards. “There must be something in here that could help.”
One of the crabs pointed rudely at Kevin. “Exterminate the land walkers!” The other crabs cheered in response and began moving toward the wizards.
Snowman. Wyvern. Colossus. These won't do any good. Kevin looked at
his Frost Giant summoning card. Aw man. I don't have enough magic to
summon him. If I do summon him, he spirit won't last long.
“Well. Well.” A crab said. “Look at the earthling playing with his little cards.”
Rainee held Jacob's hand tightly. They both stepped back.
“What's the matter land walkers?” A crab teased. “Not used to seeing real warriors?”
Stephen looked around. There's gotta be a spell powerful enough to stop
all of them.
“We can try to attempt Arcane Harmony.” Jacob suggested.
Kevin put his cards back in his pocket. “What if we fizzle? The side effects are dangerous.”
“What choice do we have?” Stephen said.
“Cassandra's not here to heal us.” Kevin said. “ugh.... fine!”
imperial troops.”
Slowly, but surely, the crabs surrounded the wizards in a circle.
A crab picked looked at Agenor's corpse and picked it up. “You killed Optio Agenor?” The crab laughed. “Now let's see how do against a lot of us.”
Kevin interrupted the crab's speech. “NOW GO!” “Huh?” The crab's said blankly.
Rainee, Jacob, Kevin, and Stephen fired magic blasts. It cleared some crabs out of the way and made a path. The wizards quickly ran through it and spread out across the room.
“ALRIGHT GO FOR IT!” Kevin screamed.
Stephen pulled out a Scarecrow card from his deck and threw it to the floor.
Simultaneously, Kevin and Stephen spoke an incantation.
“Ice and Death Close yet far.
The Scarecrow needs help. Give enemies an Icy scar. With this spell we should be free
I summon Death So mote it be!”
exploded with light and transformed into a menacing scarecrow. However, this scarecrow's eyes burned with blue ice and its garments were blue.
“NUH!” The crabs yelled. “What is that!?”
The air became freezing cold as the Scarecrow maneuvered around. “RUN!” The crabs said. “RUN!”
Kevin's eyes burned with blue light while Stephen's burned with white. The two wizards waved their wands and directed the Scarecrow to attack.
The scarecrow inhaled the cold air around it and blasted it right back at the escaping crabs.
All the crabs became frozen in a mass of ice that shattered into a million pieces.
The Scarecrow's job was done. It transformed back into a card and flew back into Stephen's hand. Stephen put the card back into his spell deck.
“YES!” Rainee said.
“Good work guys!” Jacob said.
Kevin turned around and laughed. “What ya know. It worked!” “Told you!” Stephen said. “Haha!”
“We've gotta head down and search the nearby grounds.” Kevin said. “Bloodtulip must be nearby.”
“I nearly forgot about her.” Stephen laughed. “Well. First thing's first.” The wizards went back down the structure and walked along the soft blue
ground.
“Look there ahead!” Kevin yelled. “It's her!”
Bloodtulip turned around. “Oh my shadow weavers. It's you fools again. Amazingly you guys survived my trap.”
“Get back here you cheap witch!” Rainee yelled.
“Haha.” Bloodtulip smirked. “Surrendering is so boring. Goodbye wizards. I have portal stones to collect.”
Bloodtulip ran over to a small water hole and dived in. “What!?” Kevin said. “She can breathe underwater?” “How!” Jacob said.
“We can't follow her. We'll die under all that water.” Stephen said. “We've got to get back to Cassandra and find out more information.”
“I agree.” Kevin said.
Kevin and the others turned around and headed back to the Promenade.
Somehow we must find a way to breathe underwater also, if we want a chance of getting that portal stone. Kevin put his wand back in his pocket. That girl better be ready.
Chapter 11:
“Reinforcements”
“Professor. Wake up.” A voice said. “It's really important.” Merle Ambrose slowly lifted his eyelids. Ugh. Who's there?
The professor saw a tall woman with purple hair. Ms. Deathslinger. “Professor. The WIC agents have been gone for long time now.” Ms. Deathslinger said.
“The communication spells aren't working for some reason.” Ambrose said. “Someone put an enchantment on their wands somehow.”
“You think we should send another agent.” Ms. Deathslinger asked. “Perhaps Lucius and Alexander?”
The headmaster was silent then spoke. “Put more students in danger?” “What's troubling you sir?” Ms. Deathslinger asked. “You have been acting worried lately.”
“Morganthe...” Ambrose said. “I feel like those students are going to their deaths.”
“The students will be fine; They've been through a lot. Didn't you and the other members of the Council of Light defeat her years ago?”
“Morganthe is more dangerous than you could possible imagine.”
“She went to school here didn't she? I heard that she was the top student.” The headmaster stood up. “Fine. I'm afraid I'm gonna have to send more
students to Celestia.”
“Morganthe is really that dangerous?” Ms. Deathslinger asked. “Plus, I don't think we have another spiral key to that place.”
The headmaster pulled out a large key from his pocket. “I had the foresight to make a copy.”
Ms. Deathslinger gasped. “I'll call for Lucius and Alexander to go to Celestia.”
_____________________________________________ “Alex.” Lucius said. “Where are you going man. We have basketball practice.”
“Uh. I just got a message from Ms. Deathslinger.” Alexander said. “She sent it in code.”
“Lemme see it.” Lucius said.
“I was getting to that.” Alexander said. “It involves you too.” “Really?!”
“We'll have to go to the old classroom upstairs to see it.” “Okay.”
Alexander and Lucius climbed the stairs until they reached the third floor of the school building. They walked into an old abandoned classroom. Cobwebs and dusty desks were scattered everywhere.
Alexander drew out his wand and pointed it a blank space in the wall. A light came out of it and acted as a projector.
Ms. Deathslinger's face came into view. “Hello Alex. I have an important mission to assign to you and Lucius. Kevin, Cassandra, and Stephen have ventured into Celestia to find Jacob and Rainee. There are dark forces at work. The Umbra Queen, or Morganthe, has been plotting something. Ambrose and I are worried that something has happened to the other agents and we want you guys to travel to Celestia and try to find them.”
Alexander turned around and heard loud footsteps behind them. “Hide somewhere.” Lucius whispered.
Alexander jumped behind a desk and Lucius used a spell to transform himself to electricity and hide in his cell phone.
“Alex?” A voice called out. “It's me.”
Alexander came out of his hiding spot. “Oh. Ms. Deathslinger you scared us.”
Lucius transformed back into himself and laughed. “Haha. For a second I thought you were a mortal.”
“Did I really?” Ms. Deathslinger laughed.
Ms. Deathslinger took out a large key from her purse. “Here is the key.” Alex held the key in his hand. It felt ice cold and heavy.
Deathslinger said. “I don't know what it is yet, but I will keep asking.” “I see.” Alexander said. “Is she powerful?”
“According to Ambrose, she is.” Ms. Deathslinger. “But I think that all seven of you stand a chance of defeating her.”
Lucius nodded his head. “How come you can't contact the others?” “I'm afraid someone has used an enchantment on their wands.” Ms. Deathslinger said. “But I'm not sure how.”
“Alright we're ready to go.” Alexander said.
“But what about basketball practice?” Lucius said.
Ms. Deathslinger smiled. “A little memory charm will cover up your problems. I'll take it from here. Good luck guys.”
“Thanks.” Alexander said. “We'll be on our way.”
Alexander and Lucius headed down the stairs and walked toward the hidden spiral door in the library.
“I hope we didn't make a mistake sending more kids.” Ms. Deathslinger frowned. “But they're all capable of powerful magic. I'll think of the best for them.”
Ms. Deathslinger snapped her fingers and summoned a pack of cookies. “I guess these will ease up the worry a bit.”
Chapter 12:
“Air equals Water”
“Hurry hurry!” Cassandra said. “Pass me a bottle of water.”
Cassandra whispered an incantation and pointed at the knocked out Marleybonian on the ground. The ground around him slowly became warmer.
Cassandra listened closely for a sign of life. “His pulse is still going strong. This should wake him up.” The water bottle in Cassandra's hand glowed bright green, then turned clear again. Cassandra opened his mouth and put a few drops of water.
The Marleybonian slowly opened his eyes. “Rutherford. Welcome back.” Dalton said.
“Ack! Those stupid crabs attacked me while I was busy translating an ancient tablet.” Rutherford replied. “It was a most curious discovery. It was about a water breathing device.”
“I'm delighted hearing that.” Dalton said. “But first, I must introduce you to this young lady, she saved your life.”
Rutherford stood. “Thank you so much young lady. I'm not sure how to repay your kindness.”
“Oh.” Cassandra said. “There's no need.”
Kevin and the others spotted Cassandra and flew down on their brooms. “Back so soon?” Dalton said. “Did you find the stone?”
“No.” Kevin replied. “The situation is more dangerous than I thought.” “The crabs were powerful?”
“Actually. No. There's a much more dangerous force at work here.”
“We were following a girl that calls herself Bloodtulip.” Stephen said. “We were sidetracked by the crustaceans, but we managed to rescue your friend.”
“That girl.” Kevin said. “She is dangerous and we must follow her.”
“She escaped through a water hole.” Stephen said. “We're unable to follow her.”
“Gadzooks!” Rutherford said. “Perhaps maybe... she used that device that I was studying.”
“What device?” Kevin asked.
“A water breathing device!” Rutherford said. “You wizards should be able to read the ancient Celestian texts and use it.”
After a long discussion about the device, the group of wizards went on their way to find it.
“Thanks for your help.” Stephen said.
“You're very welcome young wizard.” Rutherford said.
_____________________________________________
“It should be right here, near the water hole like Rutherford said.” Jacob said as he looked around.
the it's center. A shiny white crystal was topped above the arch that connected them.
“This must be the water breathing device.” Kevin said.
Kevin carefully examined the device and stepped into the middle of it. After whispering an incantation, the device made Kevin feel a tingling sensation. It wore off after a few moments.
“How was it?” Cassandra asked.
“It feels weird at first, but then it wears off.” Kevin said. “You guys should try it.”
The rest of the wizards did exactly what Kevin did.
“Uh. Who's gonna be the first one to test it?” Jacob asked.
Everyone immediately pointed at Jacob and slowly backed away. “I knew I should have just stayed shut.” Jacob said.
Jacob approached the pool of water and stepped into it. Ah man this feels
cold as heck. How am I supposed to breathe down there?
Jacob went underwater until he was out of sight. Wow. I can breathe
water like it's air, but it's certainly dark in here.
Jacob went back to the surface. “Hey guys it's alright! You won't believe how powerful that magic is.”
Kevin and the others walked over to the pool.
dark. I could breathe water like it's air!”
“YES! But how are we going to see our way through?” Cassandra asked. “Let's see here.” Stephen said. He searched his backpack and took out several bottles of a yellow potion labeled, Flashlight Eyes.
“I usually use these to read at night.” Stephen said. “But these should work underwater too.”
“Good.” Kevin said. “Let's all drink it.”
The potion tasted like bubble gum. In a matter of seconds, all the wizards vision brightened.
“Ok let's go down.” Kevin said. His eyes acted like a blue flashlight. The wizards all dived to the hole one by one. The cold water felt like a knives slowly piercing their skin.
“Rainee, got something to warm us up?” Jacob said.
Rainee waved her wand in the water. “Tpada Ot Dloc.1” She whispered.
Everyone's bodies began to adapt to the cold water. Pretty soon, everyone couldn't feel the cold anymore.
“Ah that's better.” Cassandra said. “Now let's go get that portal stone.” The wizards careful continued down the caverns of the undersea chamber. All sorts of fish and coral surrounded them.
“You fools aren't going anywhere.” A quiet voice said. “Don't move.” Kevin said.
A hooded figure blocked their path. “My partner warned me that some meddlesome wizards might be coming here. Now I, Emeraldpyre, will dispose of you all.”
Jacob, Rainee, and Stephen drew out their wands.
“You three fight him off. If that guy is here, then Bloodtulip shouldn't be too far ahead.” Kevin said. “Cassandra and I will go after her.”
“Those things never stop showing up!” Cassandra yelled.
Kevin and Cassandra swam quickly and disappeared out of sight.
“Three against one eh?” Emeraldpyre said. “I will lay down my life for the sake of Queen Morganthe. Your two friends are in for a big surprise.”
Chapter 13:
“Enter the Emeraldpyre”
Jacob quickly waved his wand and covered Rainee with a warding spell. Emeraldpyre's ice blast was blocked.
“Hurry before he gets away!” Jacob yelled. “Ugh. Stop resisting!” Emeraldpyre shouted.
Rainee's eyes flashed with red light. A red laser shot out of her wand and headed straight for Emeraldpyre.
“Your petty magic won't stop me.” Emeraldpyre threatened. “Morganthe has taught me well.” Emeraldpyre summoned a ward and blocked the laser.
Stephen quickly blasted Emeraldpyre with his wand. Emeraldpyre quickly disappeared out of the way. He suddenly faded into nothingness.
“Where is he?!” Stephen shouted.
“Are you looking for me?” Emeraldpyre reappeared behind Stephen. Emeraldpyre blasted Stephen with magic and froze him in a block of ice.
“Stephen!” Jacob shouted. He turned to Emeraldpyre. “Son of a grendel!” “Let's see... only two more pests to go.” Emeraldpyre grinned.
“Rainee.” Jacob said. “Go defrost Stephen while I handle this guy.”
“I'm on it.” Rainee said. She swam over to where Stephen was frozen and began whispering a spell.
sword. It glowed with powerful energy.
“You should run now unless you want to end up like a popsicle like your friend.” Emeraldpyre laughed. “But if you really want to die... so be it.”
Jacob swam forward and slashed at Emeraldpyre. The water made it hard to move the sword.
“That's all you got?” Emeraldpyre said. “Let's see how you handle this?” Jacob moved quickly and slashed at Emeraldpyre again. Emeraldpyre's wand was cracked in half. The black onyx wand exploded in the cold water.
“W-w-what?!” Emeraldpyre stammered. “No!”
“It's over.” Jacob said. “Morganthe is gonna fail in her plans.”
Emeraldpyre pulled out his spell deck from his pocket and frantically grabbed a random spell card. He throw it on the floor and yelled out an incantation. “Nommus namwons.1”
Emeraldpyre threw the card to the floor and quickly drew the ice symbol in the water with his fingers. The card disappeared and in its place was a large snowman, as big as a car, carrying a big knife in it's branches.
“Morganthe's forces never surrender!” Emeraldpyre grinned. “I will fight to the death!”
Jacob snapped his fingers and unsummoned his sword. He drew out his wand and swam away from the snowman.
“How's that spell going Rainee?” Jacob asked as he swam toward Rainee.
“It's going fine.” Rainee said. “He's nearly free.”
Stephen's body quickly became free from the ice that Emeraldpyre trapped him in. Stephen shivered as he regained his consciousness. “I hate ice magic.”
“Rainee.” Jacob said. “Melt down that snowman.”
Rainee's eyes widened as she saw the big snowman coming their way. “Oh my gosh!”
Rainee blasted the snowman with a red laser from her wand, but it had no effect. “HOW'S THAT POSSIBLE!?” Rainee screamed.
“Look!” Stephen said. “Emeraldpyre's getting away!”
Emeraldpyre was swimming away deeper into the underwater caverns.
Oh no you don't. Jacob thought. His eyes glowed with orange light. He
raised his hand forward, pointed at Emeraldpyre. Dirt began to follow and cling to Emeraldpyre's robes.
“AH!” Emeraldpyre said. “You fools are gonna pay for this! Snowman, hurry up and destroy the pests!” Emeraldpyre's whole body was stuck in a dirt pile. The slimy dirt stuck keep him from moving. “Curse you!”
Rainee tried firing another laser at the snowman. Again it had no effect. “Let me try.” Stephen said. “I've always wanted to try this spell.” He swam until he was a few feet away from the snowman.
“Eat this!” Stephen shouted. His eyes glowed with white light. “Tor dna yortsed snowman!1”
The snowman's eyes popped out and its arm fell out. “Errrrr,” It groaned. It was slowly melting back into water.
“Hurry Rainee.” Stephen said. “Finish it.”
For the third time, Rainee fired a laser and finished off the remaining parts of the snowman. It transformed back into a card and flew back to Emeraldpyre.
“Gah!” Emeraldpyre said struggling to get free from the dirt. “This is humiliating!”
“What should we do with him?” Stephen asked. “We'll keep him in a spell card.” Jacob said.
Stephen was surprised. “Since when did you learn how to do that?” “Since a long time ago.” Jacob said. “Ambrose taught me how to.”
Jacob pulled out a golden spell card from his pocket. After saying a long incantation, Emeraldpyre's body was sucked into the gold card. His portrait became the the picture of the card.
Lucky that spell didn't fizzle. Jacob thought. The side effects would be disastrous.
“Nice spell.” Stephen said. “What do we do with this.”
“I'll keep the card until we get back to Wizard City.” Jacob replied. “The headmaster will probably send him to the wizard prison.”
“Let's worry about that later.” Rainee said. “We have to help Cassandra and Kevin.”
“Right. Let's go.” Jacob put the card in his pocket.
The three wizards continued swimming down the dark caverns, following where Cassandra and Kevin went.
Chapter 14:
“Pulling the weeds”
“Argh.” Bloodtulip cried as she fell. “Stop following me!” “Kevin!” Cassandra was desperately shouting. “Answer me!”
“It's no use.” Bloodtulip laughed. “Your friend has fallen into a deep sleep thanks to my spell.” She spun around her black tulip wand.
Cassandra tried using a healing spell on Kevin, but nothing worked. He stayed on the floor with his eyes closed.
“You idiots made me lose track of that crab that had the stone.” Bloodtulip frowned.
“Why you little...!” Cassandra screamed. “Wake him up now! I don't care about the dang stone at the moment!”
“My deepest apologies.” Bloodtulip sneered. “I must be on my way.” Cassandra's eyes glowed with green light. I don't think so little miss
dreadful. Thorny rose vines came out of Cassandra's fingers and lashed forward
to Bloodtulip's face.
Bloodtulip's eyes flashed with orange light. “Leper Vines.1” She whispered.
Cassandra's vines rotted and fell off.
“Your magic is weak girl.” Bloodtulip laughed. “Here's a taste of real power.”
