One cold November morning, Nebula Dawson was walking in her mother’s garden. Her mother, Jeanine, had died a year ago in a war that tore apart the peaceful world of the Underworld. The war was between the Master of all Things, Jack Dawson, and Morgead, a man who had grown too powerful using the powers he was given by her grandmother, Rakel Vance Dawson. Jack had not been defeated, but neither was Morgead. Now, the Underworld had been divided in half between the two. Along the borders of their territories, there were constant battles, which were fought between the men of Meekitonia and the undead monsters of Morgead. Morgead said he would stop the raids and battles if Jack would give him the woman he loved. That woman was Nebula. Nebula was heiress to the kingdom, and because of her mother’s death, the only child of this generation to be born. All of her father’s brothers and sisters were killed in the war. Her father, Brian Kasey Dawson, refused to let his daughter be given to Morgead. Meanwhile, while her ancestor and father argued, Nebula had fallen in love with a poor farm boy who worked on her father’s estate. This boy was named Chris Doungeon. Chris’s father had betrothed him to a milkmaid named Kelly Torshan.
After waiting ten minutes, Nebula headed towards the stables, where she knew Chris would be waiting. When she arrived, she saw Chris grooming her favorite chocobo, Viper. Viper was the fastest sprinter in the stable. As she walked up behind Chris, she realized that he wasn’t grooming Viper, he was putting its harness on.
Nebula : Hey Chris.
Chris : Hmmm…? Oh, hi.
Nebula : What are you doing with my chocobo?
Chris : I was getting it ready for your trip to Morgead’s stronghold.
Nebula : What!?
Chris : You didn’t know?
Nebula : No!!
Chris : Oops. You didn’t see your father yet today, did you?
Nebula : No, we didn’t have breakfast yet.
Chris : Then you should go. Your father’s probably waiting for you.
Nebula : You’re right see you later.
Chris : Bye.
Nebula walked back to the castle.
Meanwhile…
Meanwhile, in the dining hall Lord Brian was just sitting down to breakfast with his new girlfriend Emily Michkalabloogaloopynoomooplooasolopy. Emily was the daughter of one of the richest merchants in Meekitonia. They had met at a high school concert, back when Nebula was a freshman, 2 years ago. Also there, was Jennifer Talon, Chris’s older sister, who was married to Jonathon H. Talon a rich computer game designer. The fact that Jennifer was married to Jonathon, was the only reason Jennifer was there. Then the dining room doors opened and in came…the servant with their breakfast. Right behind her came Nebula.
Brian : Nebula, honey, there you are!
Nebula : Why didn’t you tell me they were sending me to that place?!
Brian : What are you talking about? Anyway, we have guests. You probably know them already. Jennifer Talon and Emily.
Nebula : Hello, Jennifer. Hi Emily.
Jennifer : Don’t you recognize me?
Nebula : Excuse me?
Jennifer : I said don’t you recognize me?
Nebula : No…
Jennifer : It’s me, Jenn…
Nebula : Jenn! It’s so nice to see you! How’ve you been?
Jennifer : Great. I trust you guys are taking good care of my brother?
Nebula : Yes. If you don’t mind, I need to talk with my father about something. Privately.
Brian : What is it Nebula?
Nebula : Why are you sending me to live with Morgead? I despise him!
Brian : It just has to be.
Nebula : Why?! I want to stay here!
Brian : Look, I don’t want to send you, but it’s the only way to keep peace down here. So, go pack your things. You’re leaving tonight. Oh, and that farmhand is going with you, what’s his name. . .oh well, he’s escorting you there and then coming back here. . .
Nebula : Which farmhand?
Brian : I don’t know his name, but it’s Jennifer’s brother.
Nebula took the elevator up to her room. When she reached it, she went inside and locked the door. After locking the door, Nebula went to her closet and opened it. Then, she pushed the button hidden in the left corner of the wardrobe. Almost immediately, the back of the wardrobe slid open to reveal a secret passage. Nebula went through and closed the closet behind her. Since, this was the first time she used this passage in 9 years, since she was six, she pulled out the blueprints to the castle. These blueprints were the only copy in the whole kingdom. Only Nebula knew of the secret passages, because these blueprints were thought to have been destroyed. Nebula had found them one day when she was playing hide-and-seek with her two best friends, Amanda Thorenson and Stacy Strazeluskie. Nebula had thought of telling Amanda and Stacy about the passages, but had decided not to.
After an hour, Nebula had worked her way to the tower to visit the lone prisoner. This prisoner was a wizard named Eric Grafalo. Eric was in his twenties and was captured for being a spy of Morgead’s. They had become friends during his 4 years of imprisonment. Now, Nebula had come to ask him a favor…
Nebula : Eric?
Eric : Yes?
Nebula : I was wondering if you would like to accompany me to Morgead’s stronghold.
Eric : And how would I get out of here?
Nebula : I would bargain with my father.
Eric : I will come if you can get me out.
A few hours later…
A few hours later, Nebula had persuaded her father to let Eric go with them, but only if Chris would stay with her while Eric was with them. Chris agreed and now they were heading off, towards Morgead’s stronghold.
The trip went well until they reached the city of Illyria, the famous walled city of Meekitonia. There they met an old warlock named Derwin Jadon. He turned Nebula’s cat, Antares, the stowaway, to stone. Luckily, Eric could counter the effects of the spell. They also hired two soldiers to accompany them to Morgead’s stronghold. Their names were Elriq Erskine and Kalei Kali Kalani. Kalei had wavy red hair and green eyes, Nebula suspected that she had some Elven blood. Elriq had blond hair with dark roots, and Chris suspected he had dyed his hair blond and put on violet contacts, because he had a somewhat too dark complexion for violet eyes. Later though, he found out that Elriq had recently gone to a tanning salon in western Esteria. Upon leaving Illyria, they were arrested because Eric had stolen some bread from a boy named Aladdin. After returning the bread to Aladdin and his buddies, Herschel and McArthur, they moved on. Next they headed to Gardenia, the garden city…
At Gardenia…
At Gardenia, Elriq murdered a little sheep herder. And was arrested for that, so they hired a new soldier, Chad Cedro. Meanwhile, Chris had been going out with Kalei, and found out her great great grandfather’s brother’s nephew’s father’s uncle’s wife’s niece’s mother’s father’s cousin’s sister’s husband’s niece’s nephew’s cousin twice removed’s uncle’s aunt’s wife’s mother’s grandfather’s mother’s sister was elven. Nebula was right! Well, Kalei broke up with Chris and started going out with Chad and that made Chris mad, so they were both replaced by Rachana Rae Quinn and Griffin Greg Grayson. After that, they had no problems with the soldiers. Chris and Nebula started to spend more time with each other and became closer friends, while Eric was trying to charm Rachana into going out with him.
One night…
One night, Nebula and Chris went for a walk next to a lake called Rainbow Lake. This lake had a waterfall that made soft splashing sounds as it cascaded down the steep ledge of rock. They sat by the water and looked up at the stars in the sky. The moon was almost full, and was reflecting off the lake’s waters. They sat there in silence for a while until they heard a rustling in the bushes and a twig break…
Meanwhile…
Meanwhile, at Morgead’s stronghold, Morgead is pacing around his dining room table.
Morgead : Where is she?! Jack said she would be here within the week! But she isn’t here!
Justin : Master, I will send the dogs out to find her, if you wish.
Morgead : You idiot! I want to marry her, not kill her!
Justin : Yes, Master. You are wise and I am stupid. Master. We won’t send the dogs out, because that is a stupid idea.
Just then, a puff of smoke appears, and there is a figure standing there…
Meek Servant :
Morgead : Then why use it?
Meek Servant : Cause it’s the only way to make an entrance.
Morgead : Not really. You could use a blinding flash of light.
Meek Servant : But then they’d be blinded and miss my entrance.
Morgead : I see…
Meek Servant : Well, anyway, down to business. I have come to liberate Justin!
Morgead : Why?
Meek Servant : Because I feel like it.
Justin : Liberate? What’s that?
Meek Servant : Free you.
Justin : Free me? From what?
Meek Servant : From Morgead’s tyranny.
Justin : What’s. . .tearanny?
Meek Servant : Tyranny is the oppression of people like you.
Justin : Oh.
Morgead : I object.
Meek Servant : It’s not your choice, it’s his. What do you choose, Justin?
Justin : Ummmm. . .
Morgead : If you leave, I will send the dogs after you.
Justin looks at both of them, and says…
Justin : I’m staying with my Master, because I don’t want to be eaten by the dogs.
Morgead : Good choice. Now…as for you…
A menacing look comes over Morgead’s face as he calls his guards.
Morgead : Take him to the dungeon. I will deal with him later.
The Meek Servant is taken out of the room by the guards…
Meanwhile…
Meanwhile, in a little town in Meekitonia called Meekville, there was a little thief named Greg Galati. Greg lived in the slum near the train station. This slum was home to all the cutthroats, thieves, mercenaries, and the teachers that no one likes. This slum was called Tonberry before it was taken over by the outcasts of society, but now it was known as Gilgamesh.
One morning, Greg was walking through town selecting what he was going to have for breakfast: an apple, bread, a plum, an orange (for juice), a cup from a run-down restaurant, and a yard of blue cloth to put everything on. As he headed home, he pick pocketed ten people that he passed, got chased by one of those ten people, and ended up with $91.72.
Greg : Not bad. Today might be a good day. Maybe I can even afford to leave this place for good.
Greg then went to his hiding place a buried the $91.72 with the money he had saved, $141,739.22. He had been stealing and pick pocketing for 11 years. He was now 15 years old. He had learned to steal from his uncle, Shawn Chewbacca. For the first 5 years since he learned, he lived with his uncle. When he was 9, his uncle died of a heart attack and was cremated by Greg, so he wouldn’t come back to life. From that time on, Greg had lived alone, fending for himself.
By the end of the week, Greg had over $200,000. So, he decided it was time to leave Gilgamesh.
Meanwhile…
Meanwhile, back at the lake with Nebula and Chris…
The mysterious noises were coming from their left. Then out of the shadows, stopped a strange woman dressed in warrior’s leathers and a thick traveling cloak. She introduced herself as Mel Ingnarlzaplatz, Master Warrior of Meekitonia. She accompanied them as far as the train station. Upon arriving at the train station, the party decided to continue on to Gilgamesh.
Mel : Why do you want to go to that slum?
Chris : So it would take longer to reach Morgead’s stronghold of course.
Eric : Please take a very long time. Rachana just isn’t coming around…yet. Plus, I don’t want to go back to jail.
Mel : I can point you in the general direction, but I won’t come. There are certain people there that I’m really not interested in seeing. So, headed southeast towards the abandoned buildings. Well, see ya around.
Mel heads towards the north and walks away. Nebula and her party head towards the southeast, in the direction Mel had pointed too. When they arrived at Gilgamesh, they headed towards what looked like an inn.
Nebula : Are you positive it’s safe here?
Chris : Positive.
Just then, from behind a bush, a tall dark figure jumps at Chris.
Chris : Ahhhhh! What the--?!
Figure’s Voice : Hey Chris. It’s been awhile…
Chris : (Struggling to get away) Who are you--? (A hand chokes him)
Figure’s Voice : You don’t remember me? Figures. I guess you never remember your best friends from long ago.
Chris : Wait. Is that you? Gabriel? (Turns around to face figure)
Gabriel : How’d you guess? So how’s Christie?
Chris : Christie?
Gabriel : Christie Gonas. From… (Looks around at the group) before.
Chris : Oh, Christie. She’s fine I guess. We broke up a long time ago.
Gabriel : Where’s she now? Did you kill her?
Chris : No. Why would I…? Oh. That. What was her name?
Gabriel : I believe it was…Jamie…um…Adorneta.
Chris : Yeah, that was it.
Nebula : Wait, who’s Christie and who’s Jamie?
Chris : They were—
Gabriel : Nobody important. So, who are you? (He studies her)
Nebula : I’m--
Chris : This is Narcissa.
Gabriel : Narcissa. What a beautiful name. I’m Gabriel. Gabriel Wolf. Nice to meet you.
Just then, another figure steps out of the bushes.
Voice : Narcissa? Ha! That’s a lie.
They all turn around to face…
Nebula : Stacy? Why are you here? It’s been a long time since I last saw you. Everyone thought you were dead, when you disappeared and never returned.
Stacy : Well, I’m not dead. Life’s just been hard that’s all. I had to leave home because my parents didn’t want me anymore. They said that they were tired of my screw-ups. So I came here to Gilgamesh. I was near death from starvation, when Gabriel found me. He taught me how to survive in the city. Now I’m one of the best thieves in all of Meekitonia. Anything you need I can get.
Gabriel : That’s the only reason she’s still with me.
Nebula : It must have been a really long time.
Gabriel : Wait, what did you mean?
Stacy : Hmmm?
Gabriel : About a lie…?
Stacy : Oh, that… (She looks at Nebula) It was nothing.
Gabriel : Nothing, huh?
Stacy : Yeah, nothing.
Chris : Stacy? Hey, how’ve you been?
Stacy : Chris… It’s been a very long time.
Chris : Seven years…
Nebula : You two know each other?
Stacy : Yup. We met in school.
Nebula : Do you know who this Jamie is?
Stacy : Yeah, she was in school with us.
Nebula : Oh, I see… (She looks at Chris, then at Stacy, and then back at Chris)
Chris : Yeah.
Eric : Shouldn’t we get going?
Nebula looks around at the group. Chris looked guilty, Stacy had on a brave smile on, but her eyes looked sad, Eric looked anxious, Gabriel had on a beautiful, yet disturbing smile, his cold steely eyes were watching her, Rachana stared at the ground, looking uncomfortable, Griffin’s amber eyes sparkled with anticipation, his golden hair glistening in the evening sun. They all awaited her orders.
Griffin : Lady Nebula, we should decide where we are staying for the night. It is getting late.
Chris : Yes, very late. Do you want to camp here, or try to find an inn in Gilgamesh?
Nebula : Let’s go to Gilgamesh.
Within 5 minutes, they had located a suitable inn. They stayed the night there. Chris and Nebula shared a room, Gabriel, Griffin, and Eric shared another room, and Stacy and Rachana shared the other room. At daybreak, the party moved through the town, searching for something suitable to eat. They stopped a boy on the street, who couldn’t have been older than 15 years. The boy had reddish-blond hair that glowed in the morning sunlight. His eyes were a deep blue that shimmered like sapphires. They asked him to guide them through the town. And he asked…
Boy : And what do I get out of it?
Gabriel : (Whispered to Nebula) Well, isn’t he a greedy little-
Nebula : (Cutting Gabriel off) What do you want?
Boy : Take me with you. I want to leave this slum. I can pay for myself, I have money… (He looks at them)
Nebula : (Looks at the others, then at the boy) What’s your name, boy?
Boy : Gregory Galati. You can call me Greg. And what would you like for breakfast?
Chris : How about something filling?
Nebula : And hurry. We have to get moving.
Eric : Why hurry?
Gabriel : Are you that anxious to meet you death?
Stacy : Shut up, Gabriel. You, know you don’t have to ask questions like that.
Gabriel : (To Stacy, whispering) Do you want to give us away?
Stacy : No. Sorry, honey.
Gabriel : (Still whispering) Honey? What the hell, Stacy? Why the sudden interest?
Stacy : (Whispering to Gabriel) Jealousy. Why? Do you see something you like? Or want?
Gabriel : (Yelling) None of your business! (He storms off, then comes back) Where are we going anyway?!
Stacy tries to suppress a laugh. Nebula stares at Gabriel curiously. Later that day, Stacy pulls Gabriel away from the rest of the group to talk privately.
Stacy : You aren’t helping me with Chris.
Gabriel : You aren’t telling me the plan.
Stacy : I want Nebula away from Chris. You know, have her like someone else.
Gabriel : Tell me, why do you want her away from Chris?
Stacy : I don’t want her getting hurt by you two. You’re both irresponsible psycho psychics.
Gabriel : Shh. Do you want someone to hear you?
Stacy : No.
Gabriel : (Grinning evilly) There’s another reason, isn’t there? Something to do with a certain guy you never got over?
Stacy : No. I don’t think so.
Gabriel : (Sneering, now) Tell me whom you want her to be stuck on. I’ll influence her and be on my way.
Stacy : Actually, I was thinking you could seduce her. After all, I think it’s time for you to get a new girlfriend.
Gabriel : What?! Never! Never again, Stacy!
Stacy : (Shrugging) Fine. Have it your way. Then you can’t leave me here.
Gabriel : Ugh! (Gabriel storms off, towards the rest of the group)
Stacy : (To no one in particular) I knew you would see it my way.
Nebula notices Gabriel join the group. She moves away from Chris, and walks over to Gabriel. He looked angry. And even a little sad.
Nebula : Hey, Gabriel. (Gabriel makes a snorting noise) So… What’s wrong?
Gabriel : None of your business.
Nebula : Don’t you want to tell me?
She looks deep into Gabriel’s eyes, trying to call up the ancient powers of her family. She feels the power surge through her body. Then, when she tries to probe his mind, she hits a wall of ice surrounding his thoughts. Oh my God, she thought, her eyes widening, he’s a psychic. Gabriel’s a telepath.
Gabriel felt someone try to probe his thoughts. Luckily, he had his thoughts shielded with his trusty wall of ice. Following the tendril, that tried to probe his thoughts, with his mind, he found that it was coming from the girl standing in front of him. The girl they called Nebula. The girl he was supposed to steal from Chris. It’s only fair he thought. He stole Jamie from me, so I’ll steal Nebula from him. A slow smile came across his face. One of his most devastating smiles, the kind that disarmed some of the most stubborn and cold hearted women in the world. Now he unleashed it on Nebula, sensing surprise, fear, and something like pity and admiration all mixed together, in her unshielded mind.
Gabriel’s smile. It was amazing to watch. When she had found out about his secret, she had felt surprise. This must have shown on her face, because almost immediately after, he smiled at her, his dazzling, extravagant smile. It wasn’t like his sneering smiles that she had seen, this smile seemed like it made him look even more handsome than had been before. Faint tendrils of his mind could be felt on hers, probing, feeling her emotions and hearing her thoughts. Quickly, she raised her strongest shields and walls, to surround her thoughts. Locking him out, helped her tear her gaze away from his elegant, aristocratic face, which was still lit up with his smile. When she looked at him again, he ceased to be looking at her. The smile had faded, and now his jaw was clenched. She followed his gaze to Stacy, who was talking, laughing, and flirting with Chris.
Gabriel : (Muttering) How could you, Stacy? That quick?
He said this more to himself, than to Nebula. Nebula looked at him questioningly. He only looked at her blankly. Then turned away.
Nebula : Gabriel?
Gabriel : (Turning back around) Yeah?
Nebula : Why are you and Stacy here?
Gabriel : I’m not so sure anymore.
Nebula : Oh. Well…good night.
Gabriel had failed to notice night had come. While Nebula said her good nights, he had watched her. Her brown hair had a reddish glow in the fire light, making her look like a witch princess. Her eyes added to the effect. She had strange eyes, they never seemed to stop changing color. Right that second, her eyes were almost silver, a lighter color than his, and then they changed to a chocolaty brown. Ever-changing, he thought, never in a specific pattern, never ending in its ever-changing color. He hadn’t ever really thought about what she looked like. Until then. She was beautiful. Then, when she finally went to sleep, he went to sleep, and had an interesting dream…
In a dense forest, there was a little cottage. The cottage, was occupied by a family. Nebula’s family. He didn’t see a father to the many children running around, yet he knew all their names. The oldest, a boy named Vincent, followed by twin girls, Sabrina (Bri) and Savannah (Anna), another daughter named Cleo, and the youngest two were twin boys, Damon and Steffan. He knew Bri, Damon, Steffan, and Cleo had inherited their parents’ unique powers. Not only the Dawson family powers, but also their father’s powers. The family was very happy. Unconcerned by the troubles of the outside world, the family grew up and prospered. The four talented children developed their powers fully, for a final test. Then he saw a great battle. It was between the children and their father. He still couldn’t tell who the father was, only that he was very powerful. The battle was coming to an end. There was a great explosion, and then…
He awoke. It was dawn. The sun was just peeking over the mountain tops, causing everything to glow. He glanced around. No one else was awake. He was going to wake Stacy, but decided not to tell her about his dream. He got up, and went in search of what he needed…
Nebula woke up to the sound of heavy footsteps passing her. She opened her eyes to see Gabriel walking away. Silently, she got up and followed him. He moved towards a campsite to the west of where they were camped. About half way there, he turned around and looked at her. He looked surprised, but very calm. He seemed like he knew she was there the whole time. His face was pale, paler than usual, making his hair and eyes seem very dusky. The sun was now half way above the mountains, and was giving off an orange glow. Everything around them looked enchanted. They stared at each other for a few minutes. Then…
Gabriel : Why are you following me?
Nebula : I was wondering where you were going.
Gabriel : Oh. I would suggest turning back now. This is something I really don’t think you want to see.
Nebula : Why? And how are you so sure?
Gabriel : Because, even Stacy can’t deal with this.
Nebula : But, I’m nothing like Stacy.
Gabriel : I can see that.
Nebula : So why are you still telling me to go back?
Gabriel : Because… This is something you really don’t want to see.
Nebula : Why won’t you tell me? It’s not like you’re going to kill anyone.
Gabriel : (Sneering at her) How would you know?
Nebula : Because you would have killed me by now.
Gabriel : I… (Annoyed) Leave me alone!
Gabriel walks off, leaving Nebula staring after him. She starts to head back to camp, deciding to leave Gabriel alone…for now. When she arrived back at the camp, she found Stacy just waking up.
Stacy : (Yawning) Where’s Gabriel?
Nebula : You don’t know?
Stacy : No.
Nebula : Oh, well, he went towards that camp. (She points over at the camp to their west) (Then, she studies Stacy’s reaction)
Stacy : Really? (Surprised, worried) I think I’m going to go see what he’s doing. (Starts to get up)
Nebula : He said he wants to be left alone.
Stacy : You followed him?
Nebula : Yeah.
Stacy : So, then you know about him?
Nebula : (Slyly) Yeah.
Stacy :
Nebula : What exactly do you call…what he does?
Stacy : Psychic vampire. He didn’t tell you the exact term for it? He must be getting forgetful.
Nebula : Um…no. He explained everything though.
Stacy : So you completely understand everything?
Nebula : No. What I don’t understand, is exactly how he does it. I didn’t really tell him that though, because I didn’t want him to demonstrate on me.
Stacy : Well, there are different ways. What he usually does to girls, is he puts his lips here.
Stacy indicates the location on her neck, by her spine.
Stacy : Then he draws energy out of the person, for his own use. He can also do this by putting his fingers there. And then there’s also third eye to third eye.
Nebula : Third eye?
Stacy : In the middle of your forehead. The psychic eye.
Nebula : Did he ever do that to you?
Stacy : Twice. Don’t worry. It doesn’t hurt unless you fight. It gets you really close to him. No barriers. You can see all his thoughts and he can see all yours.
Nebula : Thanks for explaining to me.
Stacy : No problem.
Nebula : Oh, what exactly is his psychic power?
Stacy : Telepathic. He can influence people. And he can kill you with his mind, if yours is too much weaker than his.
Nebula walked away to digest this information. Gabriel is a psychic vampire. He can take your life and your soul. Nebula unconsciously started walking towards where she had talked to Gabriel earlier. She happened to look up, and saw Gabriel walking towards her.
Nebula : Hey.
Gabriel : What do you want?!
Nebula : A girl can’t say ‘hi’ anymore?
Gabriel : Sorry.
Nebula : It’s ok.
Gabriel : You know don’t you?
Nebula : Yeah, I tricked Stacy into telling me.
Gabriel : I knew I shouldn’t have told her anything.
Nebula : It’s not her fault. I told her you already told me, and asked her to explain certain things.
Gabriel : I see… I still shouldn’t have told her anything.
Then, Gabriel sees Chris walk up behind Nebula.
Chris : (Suspiciously) So, what are you guys talking about?
Gabriel : Don’t worry, Chris. I’m not doing anything you wouldn’t approve of.
Chris : That’s…good. Now shouldn’t you be moving along?
Gabriel : Yeah, I guess I should. (Turns to Nebula) ‘Bye.
Nebula : Bye. (Gabriel leaves) Chris, you didn’t have to be so rude.
Chris : I wasn’t being rude. I was protecting you from HIM. He has killed many people.
Nebula : But…
Chris : No buts, Nebula. Stay away from him. He’s dangerous.
Nebula : What has he done?
Chris : You wouldn’t want to know.
Nebula : Why won’t anyone tell me anything?! (Eyes filling with tears) I’m not a little kid, I can deal with pain, suffering, and death. (Crying now)
Chris : Don’t cry… (He hugs her) I’m sorry, so sorry… I didn’t mean to hurt you. Please forgive me.
They stood that way for several minutes. By the time ten minutes passed, Griffin came to get them…
Griffin : I hate to break up this special moment, but we’re ready to leave. There’s some left over breakfast if you’re hungry.
Chris : Breakfast? Where’d you get food?
Griffin : Greg got it.
Chris : From where? (Shrugs) Never mind.
Griffin : So, where are we going?
Nebula : I don’t know. I was thinking we head to Meekville. I have a feeling there’s something there we’re supposed to get…
Good, Gabriel thought, when their next destination was revealed to them. He had influenced Nebula into going to Meekville. Now the only problem, was meeting up with his…friends.
The party made slow progress north. By the time they reached Meekville, it was almost completely dark out. Then, it started to rain.
Rachana : We need to find cover.
Griffin : How about over there?
He points toward a brightly lit inn to their left. The building was giving off a warm orange glow, from a fire that was burning inside. The companions walked in, and were greeted by the delicious scents of roasting meat, freshly baked bread, and the pungent smell of spices. The little room was crowded with people. Only one little table in the corner wasn’t occupied. The group moved to this table. When they were seated, a pretty blond waitress came up to their table.
Eric : Well, helloo.
Waitress : Hi! Can I take your order?
Chris : We’ll take a room, and some food for all of us.
Waitress : How many rooms?
Chris : Five.
Waitress : Ok! You have rooms 65A, 64B, 65B, 64A and 63C.
Eric : Thank you.
Chris and Stacy start talking to each other, in hushed tones.
Gabriel : Do you see what’s happening?
Nebula : What do you mean?
Gabriel : With these two. (Nods his head in their direction)
Nebula : I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Gabriel : Then you must be blind. Let me put it this way. You and him won’t be sharing a room for much longer. (Then smiles slyly) But, of course, you can always share one with me.
Nebula : Never, you--
Chris : (Interrupting) How ‘bout we go to our rooms?
Gabriel : (Still smiling) Who’s where?
Chris : Nebula and I, and then you guys can figure out what you’re doing.
Chris and Nebula leave.
Gabriel : (Smiling, to Rachana) Hey, want to room with me?
Rachana : Um…
Gabriel : Come on. I don’t bite.
Rachana : Sure.
Stacy : I don’t think that’s such a good idea.
Gabriel : (His arm around Rachana’s shoulders) We’ll be fine. (Glares at Stacy)
Rachana : Don’t worry, Stacy. Nothing will happen.
Stacy : But… (Gabriel and Rachana walk off)
Eric : (To Griffin, amazed) How does he do it?
Griffin : (Shrugs) Who knows?
Greg : I’m taking a room and going. (Greg leaves)
Eric looks at Stacy.
Eric : So… Stacy… What about you?
Stacy : I’ll take my own room, thank you. (She takes keys and leaves)
Griffin : Guess that leaves us again.
Eric : Yeah. They need more girls in this story.
Griffin : Yeah. We’ll never get any dates at this rate.
Eric : (Yelling up at the sky) Hey! Writer person! We want some girls down here! We’re lonely!
Just then, the blond waitress from before, walks up to Griffin.
Waitress : Hey! Wanna go somewhere more private?
Griffin : Sure. ‘Bye, Eric. (They leave)
Eric : (Still yelling at the sky) What about me?!
The next day, a mysterious group of five people enters the inn. Eric, who spent the night drinking, looks up.
Eric : (Weaving over to one of the girls in the group) Hi! Wanna sssleep with me?
Woman 1 : Hell no! I don’t do wizards.
Woman 2 : Hey, you. Drunk wizard. You know a Gabriel Wolf?
Eric : Why?! Why?! Why do all the girlsss want him?!
The two women look at each other, then back at Eric.
Woman 2 : Give him this message. Two beautiful—
Woman 1 : And sexy—
Woman 2 : Women want to see him, over a private matter.
Eric : (Walking off to deliver the message) Why? (Muttering) Why? Why him? Why not me? Why?
Eric knocks on Gabriel’s door.
Gabriel : (Through the door, angry) What?!
Eric : It’sss me. Eric. Two beautiful and sssexy women want to sssee you, over a private matter. They are really hot.
Gabriel : (Opening the door) Well why didn’t you say so?
Gabriel hits him on the back, and Eric falls flat on his face into the room, asleep. Gabriel then heads downstairs. When he’s there, he scans the room.
Just as I thought, Gabriel thought. He moves toward the group of five.
Gabriel : Scorch! Jinx! It’s been awhile.
Man : What about us? Are we nothing to you?
Gabriel : Of course not, Angel. You’re less than nothing.
Smiles everywhere in the group.
Gabriel : I see you got here in one piece. (Looks at them) More or less.
Jinx was wearing a black leather dress that clung tightly to her body. Her dark red hair was wind blown and hanging down past her shoulders. Her black boots were dusty from the travel to the inn, but they had been shined recently. Scorch was wearing a black dress that was almost sheer. Around her waist was a gold chain, which glistened in the light from the morning sun. Her wavy white-blond hair was damp and curling around her face, obscuring most of her face. She shook her head, making her waist length hair fall over her shoulder. Her amber eyes sparkled mischievously. She sat down on a nearby stool and crossed her legs. Her high heel, ankle length boots were the same ones he had last seen her in. A huge figure moved to her left. It was Angel. Angel always wore a leather jacket and black jeans. He was as mysterious as the dark side of the moon. Under the leather jacket, he wore a tight black T-shirt. His jet black hair was combed back and glistened, because it was still wet. His forest green eyes watched Gabriel warily. James Slade was dressed the most normal of all of them. He had a gray jacket on, over a light blue shirt. He had on dark blue pants. His brown hair was disheveled and his hazel eyes were shining. On his left ear was a gold earring. He seemed as tranquil as a forest, but there was a fire within him that made him seem stronger and bigger than Angel. The last of the group, was Blade Drakon. Blade had icy blue eyes, and highlighted brown hair. Blade wore a dark blue T-shirt and loose jeans. On his arm, you could see an outline of a knife holder, similar to Gabriel’s. They stood out in the room, because of the way they were dressed. Then, from behind Gabriel, came a voice.
Nebula : Gabriel? Who are they? (Gabriel spins around)
Jinx : Well, well. Who do we have here?
Scorch : Is this your newest…acquisition?
Gabriel : (Smoldering) No.
James : Oh. Does that mean we have a chance with her?
Gabriel : (Looks sadly at Nebula, then hard, locking everyone out) Go ahead. (Smiling menacingly)
Nebula : (Alarmed) Gabriel--
James : Well, now what’s your name, my dear?
Chris : None of your business. (He pulls Nebula from James) She’s my girl. (Glares at Gabriel)
Gabriel : Not for long. (He smiles, amused, yet detached)
Nebula : (Annoyed) I’m not anyone’s possession! (She storms off)
Blade : Feisty.
Angel : Just like I like ‘em.
Gabriel : (Amused) Well, she does have a mind of her own.
Chris : (Accusingly) This is your fault.
Gabriel : Really? I think it's yours.
Chris : What do you mean?
Gabriel : Think of how you’ve ignored her lately. You’re completely taken by Stacy.
Chris : How would you know what I think? (Then realizing what he just said) Oh. You haven’t…have you?
Gabriel : Don’t worry. I don’t want to know what you think.
Chris stalks off.
Angel : Hey, Gabe, do you want me to check him out?
Gabriel : (Maliciously) Go for it, Angel.
Angel : (Probing Chris, distant) He loves. . .Nebula? Is that that girl’s name? Well, he also likes Stacy. She was a cold one. And he definitely hates you now. (Gabriel smiles happily) Wait. . . there’s. . . something else. (Eyes widen) He. . .he. . .he pities you, Gabe.
Gabriel : What?! That can’t be right!
Angel : Nope. He’s definitely right. He thinks you’re incapable of loving anyone truly.
Gabriel : Why that little snake.
Blade : Let’s get him, Gabe. He can’t hurt us. He’s a healer.
James : I can lock him in his car and suffocate him.
Gabriel : No. I could never… (He trails off)
Jinx : Why not?
Scorch : You haven’t changed on us have you, Gabey?
Gabriel : No. No, I haven’t changed.
Jinx : Yay!
Scorch : Hey, Gabriel, wanna go celebrate our reunion?
Gabriel : Not now, ladies. There’s something I have to take care of.
They all laugh and grin. Gabriel leaves them, but to find Nebula, not Chris. When he finds her, she’s sitting alone by a lake, under a willow tree.
Gabriel : Hey.
Nebula : Hey.
Gabriel : Look, I’m sorry about back there. They were just—
Nebula stands up and silences him with her hand.
Nebula : Gabriel, there’s…there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you.
Gabriel : Well…?
Nebula : What do you think of me?
Gabriel : Um…
Right at that second, his barriers fell. Nebula had gotten into his mind! The only thing was, she was afraid of what she saw there. There was love, hate, and anger. Sadness, and a fierce protectiveness for her. She saw in his mind, what she looked like to him. His picture of her was from one night of camping outside. Her reddish-brown hair and ever-changing eyes glowing in the firelight. She was shocked. This wasn’t what she expected. While she was looking in his mind, she failed to notice that Gabriel had gathered her into his arms and was kissing her. Then, she heard a strangled cry. They both turned their heads toward the sound. It was Chris. He looked very upset. Behind him was Stacy. She was smiling at Gabriel with an I-told-you-so expression. Chris turned and ran.
Nebula : (Screaming) No! (She runs after Chris)
Gabriel : (Barely above a whisper) What have I done?
Stacy : I told you, Gabriel. You two are perfect for each other.
Gabriel : No! Nooo. Noooo!
His voice echoed throughout the Underworld, the cry of anguish bounced off every corner of the world and bounced back and forth.
Gabriel : (Accusing) This…this is your fault!
Stacy : I suppose so. After all, it’s part of my master plan. Separate you, Nebula, and Chris forever.
Gabriel : You little psychotic—
Nebula : (Distressed, on the verge of tears) Gabriel—
Gabriel looks up at Nebula and walks up to her.
Gabriel : (Hugging Nebula gently) What’s wrong?
Nebula : It’s Chris. He’s in trouble.
Gabriel : Already?
Nebula : It’s your friends. They’re trying to kill him.
Gabriel : What? I told them— Come on.
They run to the place where the fight is going on.
Angel : Well, if it isn’t Romeo and Juliet.
Gabriel : What are you doing?
Blade : Just having a little fun.
James : Well, look who else it is. it’s the ice queen, Stacy.
Scorch : Get her! She’s more important than him.
They head towards Stacy.
Blade : I’ve got a better idea!
He throws a knife at Stacy.
Chris : No! (He jumps in front of Stacy)
Stacy : Chris!
Nebula : Oh…my…God…
Blade : (Scared) We didn’t mean to. . .
Gabriel : Why you spineless, pathetic excuses for human beings.
Jinx : Scorch will help. Right, Scorch?
Scorch : Yeah.
Gabriel : (Very angry) Well, Dawn, go for it. If he dies—
Meanwhile, Chris was floating around in a bright light. Then out of no where appears Jamie…
Jamie : Chris…It’s time to go…
Chris : I’m not ready…
Jamie : No, stupid…you can’t die from a blade cut…
Chris : That reminds me…how did you die?
Jamie : Stacy hired a guy to kill me…
Chris : Are you serious…?
Jamie : I’m an angelic being…Would I lie?
Chris : Don’t know…It was nice seeing you…
All of a sudden, Chris’s eyes open.
Nebula : Chris! (Then she frowns)
Chris : (Looking at Stacy) You…you did it…
Stacy : (Frowning) What?
Chris : You killed Jamie…
Stacy : So what if I did?
Gabriel : You what?
Stacy :
Gabriel : And all those years…I’m sorry Chris.
Chris : So am I.
Gabriel : Why?
Chris turns to Nebula.
Chris : Nebula…
Nebula : Yes?
Chris : I hope you’re happy with Gabriel.
Nebula : What?
Chris : You and Gabriel…you’re…
Nebula : I…You’re giving me to him? What about…?
Chris : I think Stacy wouldn’t mind taking your place.
Gabriel : But…Chris…she…and you and Nebula…I…
Chris : It’s ok. I’m giving her a second chance. You too. Believe me, you definitely deserve it. And I know it’s hard for you, so you don’t have to thank me.
Nebula : Chris, I love you, but not the way I love Gabriel, and besides, I would have eventually broken up with you. It just wasn’t right.
Stacy : I don’t know what to say to you guys. I…
Nebula : Don’t worry about it. We all think you need a second chance.
Stacy : Thanks guys.
Jinx : Ok, ok. That’s enough mushy stuff.
James : Yeah, we need to get to this Morgead guy’s house by tomorrow.
Chris : Why?
James : Jinx says that something horrible will happen to us if we don’t.
Scorch : Not to mention that Morgead might have the cure to Gabriel’s “problem”.
Gabriel glares at Scorch.
Gabriel : What’s wrong with you? Not everyone knows about that.
James : Calm, Gabriel, calm.
Gabriel : (Relaxing) Don’t ever do that again.
Scorch : (Smiling) I won’t, don’t worry.
Eric : (Joined the party a while back) I thought we were going now.
Nebula : Yes, let’s go.
Jinx : What about us?
Gabriel : What about you?
Blade : We can’t just stay here. There’s nothing we can do.
Chris :
Jinx : Yay!
Gabriel : (Whispering to Chris) You don’t know what you’re getting yourself into.
Chris : Don’t worry about me.
Gabriel : Well, I warned you.
The party traveled in silence that day. Even Jinx and Scorch weren’t up to their usual pranks.
When they stopped to rest in a glade, Gabriel sank down by a nearby tree. The day had been full of surprises, most of them good, but now he had to sort out his thoughts. He sat for a few minutes trying to figure out why Chris had done what he did. While he was thinking, Nebula came over and sat down next to him.
Nebula leaned against Gabriel’s shoulder and closed her eyes. She was very tired, and now, all she wanted to do was take a nice hot shower and go to sleep in her bed, not an inn’s bed. As she sat there, Nebula slowly drifted of to sleep…
Gabriel felt Nebula’s body go limp. He turned his head towards her, and saw she was sleeping peacefully. Not a bad idea, thought Gabriel. He leaned his head against the tree. Just as he closed his eyes, he felt Nebula’s body stiffen. He opened his eyes and looked at her…
Chris breathed in the fresh air of the glade. It was refreshing, after traveling through the murky swamp most of the day. Then as he disappeared behind a tree, he heard a scream. Nebula’s scream. He spun around and started heading in the direction of the scream. As he started walking, a picture of a rose appeared in his mind. The rose was dripping with blood. His mind moved closer to the rose, and then…
Gabriel : (In Chris’s mind) Chris! Hurry! There’s something wrong here!
Chris : (To the rose picture) How are we talking like this?
Gabriel : I’ve connected all the psychics in the group. It shouldn’t stay for long, so hurry!
Chris broke out into a run. When he got to the camp, he saw…
Gabriel immediately became worried when he saw Nebula. She was pale, as if the blood had been drained out of her face. She was hardly breathing and her skin felt very cold. He panicked. Call for help, he thought. Then he decided the fastest way would be telepathy. He hadn’t done this much, because it wasn’t ever really needed. The last time he had used it was as a teenager, and that hadn’t turned out very well. Well, he thought, there’s no time to think about that right now. He sent an image to every psychic in the group. It was a rose dripping in blood. It would be the picture that connected them all, but they had to use the rose first. The first one to respond was Chris. Gabriel told him to hurry back. Then the others, one by one responded. By the time he had finished, Chris had arrived, and was looking at Nebula with a worried expression…
Nebula had a strange and frightening dream. It showed, first a peaceful cottage in the woods, then the house was on fire. There were figures outside the burning house. They all looked vaguely familiar, but she couldn’t see their faces. Next, there was a peaceful valley, that was soon filled with a war that was at its peak. There was blood everywhere. She looked down at herself and saw she was covered in it too. At her feet, there was a limp body. It was Gabriel. A few feet away, Chris’s body lay. Chris had an arrow through his heart. His face was contorted into pain and agony, his lifeless eyes stared blankly at the sky. Gabriel had been run through with a sword, but his face seemed peaceful. His eyes were closed, and he was smiling. When Nebula looked up, she saw an arrow come flying toward her. She screamed. Then suddenly, she was transported into an empty hallway. The hallway seemed to stretch on forever. Then, out of nowhere, all her friends appeared. All of them were horrible apparitions. Gabriel and Chris were as she had seen them, but they were walking towards her like zombies. Stacy had a broken arm, and she had been stabbed through the heart with a dagger, Blade’s dagger. Blade had been beheaded, and was carrying his head under his arm. Jinx’s throat had been cut, and dried blood was on her clothing and down her neck. Scorch seemed to be alive, but upon closer observation, Nebula noticed there was a kitchen knife sticking out of her back. Angel had a battleaxe sticking out of his chest. Greg’s skin was a sickening bluish-white color, he had been drowned. Griffin’s skin, on the left side of his body, was blackened and peeling. He had been burned. Rachana was limping. One on her legs had been broken, and the other had a deep gash running down it. One hand, her sword hand, had been burned and was useless. On her head, there was a huge spot sticky with blood. Eric, had a noose around his neck, had been hung, and you could see that his neck was broken in a couple of places. James’s body had been so battered, that Nebula could hardly recognize him. As Nebula looked at them, they seemed to not notice her. Gabriel and Chris walked right past her. As she spun around to watch them, she felt someone shaking her. She turned her head, there was Stacy. The dagger and wound had disappeared. Her arm was still broken though. Something about the way Stacy was looking at her seemed familiar. Then, Nebula realized that Stacy’s face mirrored what it had looked like when Chris had saved her and lived through it. Nebula gasped…
Gabriel watched the firelight dance on Nebula’s fevered face. He and Chris had watched her, taking turns, for a few hours at a time. This was because, to Chris’s disappointment, he and Scorch had both failed to help her. Gabriel wiped her forehead with a cool, damp cloth. With that done, Gabriel looked around. Everyone was asleep, even Chris. Only Gabriel couldn’t sleep. He had just gotten Nebula as a girlfriend, and he wasn’t going to sleep until she was better. Eventually, Gabriel did drift off to sleep. When he awoke, it was dawn. Alarmed, he looked down at where Nebula was. To his surprise, she was gone. He looked around frantically. He noticed Chris was stirring.
Gabriel : Chris! Wake up! Nebula’s gone!
Chris : (Sleepily) What?
Gabriel : I said she’s gone! She disappeared!
Chris : Why don’t you talk out loud? You’re giving me a headache. Get rid of this telepathy thing.
Gabriel : (Worried) But it should be gone. It should have been gone when we went to sleep.
Gabriel was alarmed. He couldn’t live with everyone here knowing his thoughts.
Chris : Neither can I.
Gabriel : Huh?
Chris : I can’t live like that either.
Gabriel : I didn’t say that out loud.
Chris : Oh no!
Scorch : (Sleepily) Can you guys keep it down? We’re trying to sleep here!
Chris : Sorry.
Gabriel : Great! Just great! Now I have to listen to you guys too!
Gabriel puts barriers up in his mind. Then, he searches for a sign of Nebula’s life force. She was faint, but he could feel her. He doubted anyone else could, maybe except for Angel. He headed in the direction of the flicker of life…
Nebula was following Stacy through the forest. Stacy’s arm bounced back and forth, as they ran through the forest. They came upon a river. They both plunged in. Nebula saw Stacy moving ahead of her, but she couldn’t keep up. She felt like she was falling…
When Gabriel finally caught up to Nebula, she was going to walk off a cliff. He ran up to her and picked her up…
Nebula was getting farther and farther away from Stacy, but she couldn’t understand why…
Gabriel carried her back to the camp. When he arrived, he noticed everyone else was up. Everyone, except for Eric, Stacy, Greg, Griffin, Blade, and Rachana, looked worried. I guess they found out, he thought behind his barriers. He carried her over to Chris and the others…
Nebula fought to get to Stacy, but it didn’t seem to work. She cried out, but Stacy didn’t hear…
As Chris watched Gabriel approach, he saw Nebula start to struggle. When she stopped, she yelled out Stacy’s name. Chris watched as Stacy looked up. She seemed to be stunned by the sight. Chris got up and went over to help Gabriel…
Gabriel put her down on the ground after she had yelled. As he did this, a single tear slid down his cheek. He, the cold, indifferent Gabriel, had fallen in love, and now he was crying. What was next? She relaxed, and he kissed her forehead. The fever had receded, and now she seemed calm, in a peaceful sleep…
Off in the distance, Nebula heard crying. When she recognized the sound as Gabriel’s voice, she got up and looked around. Suddenly, everything looked distorted. The forest scenery disappeared, and was replaced by darkness. Then Nebula remembered everything. She had fallen asleep at Gabriel’s side. That had to have been a while ago now. It was time to awaken…
Gabriel saw Nebula stir that night. Their fire was burning brightly, and everyone else was asleep. The scene was similar to the night before, except Nebula was waking up. She opened her eyes, sleepily, looked at him…
Nebula : What happened?
Gabriel : (Relieved) You’re ok! You were asleep for two days, and were sick, and…
Nebula : What?! How did that happen?
Gabriel : (Gently) Um…Nebula? Try talking out loud. You don’t want to wake the others.
Nebula : Out loud? But aren’t I…? Then how can you…?(Scared) Gabriel…!
Gabriel : I’ll try to explain.
Gabriel tells Nebula what happened in the past two days. Then Nebula tells Gabriel about her dream.
Nebula : What do you think it means?
Gabriel : Don’t know.
Nebula : Oh. Well, why are we all connected like this?
Gabriel : Don’t know that either. I’ve heard about groups being connected till one of the people in the group dies, but I wasn’t expecting it to ever happen to me. It’s supposed to any number over five that’s odd.
Nebula : Great. Now I’ve got to listen to their thoughts too?
Jinx : Shut up! You’re too loud!
Angel : Jinx! We’re trying to sleep!
Jinx : (Wincing) Sorry.
Nebula : Great. I’m going to love this.
After a while, Gabriel falls asleep, with his arms around Nebula. Nebula lays there next to him all night, thinking of how she’s going to deal with being connected to Scorch, Jinx, Angel, and James. When dawn arrives. She feels Chris stirring at the other side of camp. She frees herself from Gabriel, without waking him, and walks over to where Chris is sleeping.
Nebula : Hey, Chris.
Chris : (Overjoyed) Nebula! You’re ok!
Nebula : (Laughing) That’s exactly what Gabriel said to me.
Chris : (Grinning) Well, that’s because we’re both happy you’re better. (He gives her a quick hug)
Nebula : So… How does this telepathy thing work out?
Chris : You know about that already?
Nebula : Well, I did wake up talking to Gabriel in my head.
Chris : Oh. Well, it’s ok, if you can block out the others and hide your thoughts. You don’t want them to know what you’re thinking.
Nebula : I know, really. I wish this was just me, you, and Gabriel. Oh, and Stacy too, if only she could…
Chris : That’s ok. But I’d rather not be linked up with Gabriel, Nebula. Sorry.
Nebula : I understand. (Grinning) Well… How far are we?
Chris : I hate to tell this to you, but we’ve only gotten two miles.
Nebula : Oh. It’s better than nothing, though.
Chris : (Relieved, smiling) Yup.
Nebula : So… How are you and Stacy working out?
Chris : (Smile broadening) Great.
Nebula : It’s nice to hear that. I’m glad for you two.
Chris : That reminds me. What happens to all of us after you leave?
Nebula : I don’t know. I guess you guys would go your own ways.
Chris : But what about Gabriel?
Nebula : What about him?
Chris : What’s he going to do?
Nebula : I don’t know. Why don’t you ask him?
Chris : Because…I think he’d rather not think about it.
Nebula : That’s true.
Chris : Um… Look on the bright side. Um…At least you two…Um…
Nebula : (Wailing) There is no bright side!
Chris : Calm down.
Nebula : But…!
Chris : (Stern voice) Nebula…
Nebula : (Giving in) Ok.
Chris : That’s better.
While the two of them were talking, Stacy woke up. She listened to their conversation for a few minutes. And then, she heard them walking off.
Nebula : Let’s go for a walk, I feel Jinx waking up.
Chris : Sure. But…won’t they wonder where we are?
Nebula : No. Besides if we get in trouble, we can call them.
Chris : Oh, yeah, I forgot about that.
When the sound of their footsteps fades, Stacy gets up and goes to where Gabriel is sleeping.
Stacy : (Whispering) Gabriel! Wake up!
Gabriel : (Sleepily) What?!
Stacy : (Still whispering) Shut up! Do you want to wake the others?
Gabriel : (Sleepily, whispering) Why is everyone so worried about waking the others?
Stacy : I don’t know. I guess we don’t want to wake them.
Gabriel : Humph. GOOD NIGHT!
Stacy : Gabriel!
Gabriel :
Stacy : Argggghhh!
Gabriel :
In the next few days, they reach Morgead’s stronghold.
Eric : (To Rachana) Parting is such sweet sorrow…
Rachana : (Annoyed) Hey, genius. We’re not parting.
Eric : Oh, yeah. Then forget I said that.
Rachana : Don’t worry. I will.
Nebula : (To Gabriel, Chris, and Stacy) ‘Bye guys. It was great knowing you.
Chris : (On the verge of tears) Bye, Nebula. I’ll miss you.
Nebula : (Sadly, shaky, bravely) Yeah.
Gabriel : Nebula… (He hugs her) (Whispering) Don’t forget me.
Nebula : Don’t worry, I won’t. I promise.
Griffin : (Cheery) Bye, everybody! I’ll be on my way now. (Turns to leave) (Then turns back around) Oh, and…I’ll be back. (Turns again, and falls backward) Don’t worry, everyone! I’m just a little itsy, bitsy dizzy.
Nebula turns to leave.
Gabriel : Nebula…
Nebula : (She turns around) Yeah?
Gabriel : Keep in touch. (Smiles sadly) You know what I mean, right?
Nebula : (Looking a little happier) Yeah. I’ll do that.
Nebula turns again, and when she faces the door, it mysteriously starts to open.
Eric : Eeek! He’s coming for me!
Justin : Welcome, Lady Nebula! My Master has been. . .um. . . expectiling you. Now, if you come this way. . .
Nebula : (Over her shoulder) ‘Bye everyone.
The doors close behind her.
Scorch : Hey, Gabriel. Now that you’re single…
Gabriel : Leave me be! (He stalks off angrily)
Jinx : Well, isn’t he incensed.
Scorch : And irate.
Jinx : And enraged.
Scorch : And don’t forget, mad.
Jinx : Also acrimonious.
Scorch : And irritated.
Jinx : And upset.
Scorch :And furious.
Jinx : And wrathful.
Scorch : And miffed.
Morgead : (From the castle) Shut up out there! We’re trying to have stimulating conversation.
Meanwhile, in the castle…
Morgead : (Menacingly) So, my pretty… What has taken you so long…
Nebula : Um… Nothin’
Morgead : Nothing! How dare you! Go to your room!
Nebula : But…
Morgead : No buts!
Nebula : Um… Morgead, honey… I don’t know where my room is.
Morgead : Honey? Well, that’s better.
Nebula : (Seductively) So… Do I still have to go to my room?
Morgead : Of course not. You are to be my wife.
Nebula : (Turns her head to the side and makes a gagging gesture)
Morgead : Are you sick, my dear?
Nebula : (Startled) Huh? Oh, no.
Morgead : That is well. Justin!
Justin : (Hurrying to Morgead’s side) Yes, Master.
Morgead : Show Nebula to her room.
Justin : Yes, Master.
Morgead : And find some servants for her. Preferably volunteers.
Justin : Yes, Master.
Morgead : Better yet, just grab the first people you see off the street.
Justin : Yes, Master.
Morgead : And I want three of them.
Justin : Yes, Master.
Morgead : Two men and a woman.
Justin : Yes, Master.
Morgead : Better make that two men and two women.
Justin : Yes, Master.
Morgead : Well, why are you still here?! Go!
Justin : Yes, Master. I’m going, Master. (He leaves with Nebula following him)
Morgead : What idiots I have working for me!
In the hall…
Nebula : Why do you take that from him?
Justin : He’s my Master.
Nebula : That doesn’t make it right.
Justin : He’s my Master, and I obey him. That is my curse.
Nebula : You mean…?
Justin : Yes. I was ruler of this land and he cursed me and stole my throne.
Nebula : Why do you act so stupid around him?
Justin : So he doesn’t suspect my plotting against him.
Nebula : Oh. I have some friends that can help. Their names are Stacy, Chris, and Gabriel. If you get them as my servants…
Justin : I understand. But, are you sure they’ll help?
Nebula : Positive.
Justin : Then I will search them out.
Nebula : Thank you.
Justin : Don’t thank me yet. I don’t know if I’ll find them.
Nebula : Well, they shouldn’t be far from the castle. Yet.
Justin : This is your room. I hope you like it. (He turns to leave)
Nebula : Wait. Justin, I can get them the head back toward the castle if you want.
Justin : That would be good.
Nebula : Just give me a few minutes.
Justin : I will take my leave of you now, if you don’t mind.
Nebula : Sure. Bye, Justin.
Justin : I have some errands to run. When I return in a few hours, they should be here.
Nebula : Ok.
Justin leaves, and Nebula works on contacting Gabriel and Chris.
Nebula : Gabriel! Chris! Can you hear me?!
Chris : Nebula?! Is that you?
Nebula : Chris! Thank God! Can you get yourself, Stacy and Gabriel to the front of the castle in an hour or two?
Chris : Yes. I can get myself and Stacy there, but Gabriel is going to be a problem.
Nebula : Why?
Chris : He left. He stalked off right after you left.
Nebula : Can you try to find him? Please?
Chris : Sure. He couldn’t have gone far, right?
Nebula : Thanks.
Chris : No problem.
The connection is disconnected, and Nebula looks around for the first time. The room she was in was very spacious. She was sitting on a king size bed, that was covered in a crimson comforter. The sheets were also crimson, but were made of satin. Over the bed, was a canopy that had curtains hanging down to the floor. The curtains and canopy were a deep scarlet. The room had a carpet that was a shade of red, slightly lighter than the sheets. There was a full-length mirror on one wall, next to door that, she found, lead to another room. The other room was a little smaller, and had four twin sized beds. This room, was a complete contrast to her room. It had bright floral printed wallpaper and a soft light pink carpet. The beds had frilly, lacy sheets and pale pink comforters. Nebula laughed when she thought about Gabriel staying here. When she returned to her room, she noticed a vase of red and white roses had been placed on her mahogany dresser. By the bed, there was a maid, she looked remarkably like Mrs. Potts, except she was human. When the woman turned towards her, she saw she was mistaken. The woman wasn’t human, she was a cross between an elf and a dwarf. By her side was a cute little boy, who was obviously her son.
Maid : (To her son) Toby, run along and play now.
Toby : Yes, Mother. (He runs off to play)
Maid : Welcome, my dear. I’m Mrs. Bucket (pronounced boo-kay), and I’ll be taking care of all your needs, besides the ones your personal servants will take care of. Is there anything you need right now?
Nebula : No, thank you.
Mrs. Bucket : Are you sure?
Nebula : Well, actually, can you get some less…feminine sheets for my two male servants?
Mrs. Bucket : Why of course, dear. I’ll be back with the sheets in a little while.
When she left, Nebula sat down on her be waiting for something to happen. After about five minutes, there’s a knock on her door.
Nebula : Who is it?
Justin : It’s me. I have one of your servants.
Nebula opens the door to reveal Justin and a girl. The girl was plain with brown hair and brown eyes. She was thin and about average height. She wore a ragged dress of pale blue with an apron over it.
Justin : This is Michaela Quade. She is to be the fourth of your servants.
Nebula : Hello, Michaela.
Michaela : (Softly) Hello ma’am. (She curtsies)
Nebula : No need to be formal. Call me Nebula, everyone else does.
Michaela : And you can call me, Mich.
Nebula : Welcome, Mich. Your room is through those doors. (She gestures towards the door next to the mirror.
Justin : Mich is a friend of mine. One of the people helping me.
Nebula : I see. She’ll be safe here. Don’t worry.
Nebula leads Michaela in, and Justin leaves. A few hours later, Chris, Stacy, and Gabriel arrive.
Nebula : (To Gabriel) You came! (She throws her arms around Gabriel)
Gabriel : Of course I did. Do you think I’d pass this up?
Chris :
Stacy : So… Where are we staying?
Nebula : In here. (She leads them into the room)
Gabriel : You expect me and Chris to stay here?
Nebula : I guess. Unless you’d rather sleep in the servants’ rooms.
Chris : No that’s ok. (He fingers the lace sheets) But could we get different sheets?
Nebula : Already taken care of.
Stacy : Hey, Nebula. Who’s that? (She nods at Michaela)
Nebula : That’s Michaela. Michaela, this is Gabriel, Chris, and Stacy. (She points at them as she says their name)
Stacy : Nice to meet you. Why are you here?
Michaela : (Suspiciously) Why do you want to know?
Nebula : Don’t worry, Michaela. You can trust them. I’ve known them…long enough.
Michaela : Are you sure? I mean, if they. . .
Gabriel : It’s not nice to talk about us when we’re standing right here.
Nebula : (Scolding) Gabriel…
Gabriel : (Innocently, smiling) What?
Michaela : (Studying them) I guess I can trust them.
Chris : Well, that’s a relief. ‘Specially since we’re going to be livin’ together for a while.
Michaela : (Smiling) I like you.
Chris : Sorry, but I’m taken. (He smiles at Stacy)
Stacy : (Smiling) And I’m definitely happy about that. (She moves closer to Chris, and he puts an arm around her)
Michaela : Great. I have live with two lovebirds now.
Chris : Don’t forget about Nebula and Gabriel.
Nebula : She didn’t need to know that.
Chris : So?
Michaela : That’s even worse.
Chris : You know, I know someone who’d be perfect for you.
Michaela : Don’t even go there.
Chris : Same type of sense of humor. Except, he’s slightly stranger.
Stacy : (Changing the subject) Anyway, what’s your last name and where are you from?
Michaela : Quade. And I’m from. . .here and there. It depends on where my dad is working.
Gabriel : Quade? Where have I heard that before?
Stacy : Isn’t that the last name of Luther? I didn’t know he had a daughter.
Nebula : Luther? The Angel of Death?
Michaela : Yeah. That’s my dad.
Nebula : I didn’t even make that connection before.
They talk for a while longer, and then Mrs. Bucket comes to give Nebula a message.
Mrs. Bucket : Nebula, dear, Morgead requests that you join him for dinner. The dining hall is located in the western section of the house. (She turns to leave, then turns back around) Oh, ad he requests that you wear one of the dress in the closet. (She nods at the two doors on the other side of the room)
Nebula : Tell Morgead that I’ll be down in a few minutes. (Mrs. Bucket nods and leaves)
Gabriel : (Wounded look) You aren’t seriously thinking of going are you?
Nebula : And why shouldn’t I?
Michaela : (Cutting off what Gabriel was going to say) Wow! Have you seen these dresses?!
Nebula : Not yet. Why? (She walks over to the open closet)
Gabriel : You aren’t actually going to wear these around him. Are you?
Nebula : I’m not sure. Hey, Stacy. Which one should I wear for tonight?
Stacy : I think this one. (She pulls out a plain blue-green shift) With this. (She pulls out a black leather belt)
Nebula : Are you sure?
Stacy : Yeah. And you could wear some kind of black shoes with it. Besides, it’s one of the least revealing dresses in the closet.
Nebula : Ok. (She goes and changes in the bathroom)
When she comes back, she tells them she’ll see them later. She heads down towards where Mrs. Bucket had said the dining room was located. Inside, she found Morgead sitting across the table, waiting for her. He was dressed slightly different from when she first came. When she had arrived, he had been wearing a black T-shirt over black jeans, and a leather jacket. Now, he had on a black T-shirt and jeans, but the jacket was gone, and there was a snake earring, on his left ear. He stood when she walked in. He looked her up and down and smiled appreciatively. She noticed around his waist there was a black leather belt with a sheath attached to it. In the sheath, there was an ornate dagger. The hilt was made of gold and glistened in the candlelight. There were also emeralds attached to the gold. He gestured for her to sit.
Morgead : I hope you are enjoying yourself. After all, I haven’t had real company in years. Ever since Trusilla left.
Nebula : Trusilla?
Morgead : Yes, my last wife. You should have heard of her. She was part of your family. She used to hang around at family gatherings when you were a little girl. Later she retired, without me. I watched you grow up. You were beautiful as a child, and now as a young woman. Will you join me forever?
Nebula : Are you asking me to marry you?
Morgead : I guess you could say that.
Nebula : But…
Morgead : Think about it at least.
Nebula :
Morgead : (Smiling) Ok. Then shall we get on with dinner?
Nebula : I suppose so.
Morgead : (Calling) Bring in the food!
Servants brought in all sorts of steaming dishes and laid them on the table. When they left, Nebula and Morgead ate. The dinner went by quickly, and they said their good nights. He had invited her to dinner again the next night too. When she arrived back at her room, it was almost 9 o’clock. She found Gabriel sitting on her bed when she walked in.
Gabriel : That took you long enough. Everyone’s asleep already.
Nebula : Well, it’s been a long day. I can’t blame them.
Gabriel : So… What do you want to do?
Nebula : What do you have in mind?
Gabriel : (Slyly) Oh, I don’t know… How about a walk in the moonlight?
Nebula : (Frowning) I don’t think Morgead would like to find me walking around outside at night.
Gabriel : How about sitting out on the balcony then?
Nebula : (Smiling) That sounds great.
Gabriel : This way please. (He leads her to the French doors in the wall by her bed) (They step out and Gabriel closes the doors behind him) Nice view.
Nebula : Isn’t it? (She looks out at the moonlit world surrounding the castle)
Gabriel : That’s not what I was talking about (She turns around to see him looking at her)
Nebula : (Smiling) You know, you’re very sweet for a big tough guy.
Gabriel : (Grinning mischievously) You think so?
Gabriel moves towards her. She turns back around, and he wraps his arms around her. It was a warm spring night, and the sky was filled with stars. The moon was crescent shaped, and shone brightly in the darkness. Gabriel lead her over to an elaborate chair made of wood with soft cushions. They snuggled up together on the velvet seats, under a blanket Gabriel had taken out with him. Eventually, they fell asleep.
The next morning, Nebula awoke to the sound of a soft shuffling noise. She opened her eyes and almost screamed. Standing above her was Morgead. He was watching them sadly. A few seconds after she had opened her eyes, he had stepped back and faded into nothing. She sat up and looked around. A silver rose was lying on the floor. She untangled herself, and picked up the rose. Around the rose’s stem was a simple golden ring. On the inside of the simple band the words ‘All I refuse & thee I chuse.’ were engraved. Nebula stared at the ring, wondering what she was supposed to do with it. From the inside of her room, she heard a rustling. She turned and walked into her room. There, she found Stacy searching something. Her back was to Nebula. Nebula noiselessly walked up behind her…
Stacy was looking for something. She wasn’t quite sure what, but she knew she would know she found it, when she saw it. She turned to make sure no one was around and screamed…
Nebula was right behind Stacy when she screamed. The sound was deafening…
Stacy realized that it was Nebula a little too late.
Nebula : What are you looking for?
Stacy : (Unsurely) Um… I was wondering whether you had any shirts that I could borrow. Yeah, that’s it.
Nebula : (Suspiciously) Really? Are you sure that’s why?
Stacy : Yes. Would I lie?
Nebula : Depends who you ask.
Stacy : (Laughing) Yeah, that’s true.
Gabriel : Is everything all right?
Nebula : Yes. Just talking to Stacy.
Gabriel : Oh, I see. I’ll be getting up now. So any indecent women should leave.
Nebula : (Laughing, out loud) (Grinning) Luckily, there are none.
Stacy : What are you laughing at?
Nebula : Hmmm…? Oh, nothing.
Stacy : (Suspiciously) Nothing?
Nebula : I was just thinking about something.
Stacy : Uh-huh. Sure you are.
Stacy looks up when Gabriel walks through the French doors. His hair was disheveled and his clothes were rumpled. He looked and, then, smiled at the two of them and then walked into his shared room. The door closed behind him. Stacy noticed that Nebula hadn’t looked up when Gabriel came in, and now she started to wonder why he was out there in the first place…
Nebula hadn’t looked up when Gabriel came in. She was to intent on trying to figure out what Stacy was looking for. Gabriel had been the perfect distraction for Nebula to slip in Stacy’s mind, and then quickly out. The information she got told her nothing. Stacy had no idea what she was looking for either. She had just comprehended this thought, when a voice cut through her thoughts…
Gabriel : Hey, why are you ignoring me?
Nebula : You can’t tell what I’m thinking?
Gabriel : No. Your walls are too high. I don’t feel like climbing them, so I’m asking.
Nebula : Nothing important.
Gabriel : (Mocking) That’s it, I’m not asking you anymore. I’ll just do it the hard way.
Nebula : (Challenging) You wouldn’t.
Gabriel : Wouldn’t I? (Laughing evilly)
Nebula : You better not! That’s an invasion of privacy.
Gabriel : Hee hee hee.
Nebula : You wouldn’t dare…
Gabriel : Maybe later. Not that interested anymore. Besides, we’ve woken Chris up.
Nebula : His loss.
Gabriel : (Laughing) Sorry, Chris.
Chris : (Sleepily) You’re in a good mood today. What happened? (Pause) Never mind. I don’t want to know.
Nebula : (Cheerily) Morning, Chris!
Chris : There’s really something wrong here!
Gabriel : Anyone want some tea?
Chris : What?!
Nebula : He asked if you wanted tea.
Chris : I know but… That’s a little strange to me.
Gabriel : I was kidding. You know, you’re supposed to laugh. Ha ha. Remember?
Nebula : Leave him be, Gabriel.
Gabriel : But…!
Nebula : And both of you get out here! Oh! And drag Michaela out of bed.
Gabriel : Do you really want us to drag her?
Nebula : (Laughing) No. Just…just get out here!
Gabriel : Yes, ma’am. (Sends a picture of him saluting)
Nebula : (Laughing) Hurry up!
Gabriel : We’re coming, we’re coming. She’s not that easy to wake up you know!
Nebula : So… Stacy… Whatcha ya doing?
A few minutes later, Gabriel, Chris, and Michaela join Nebula and Stacy in her bedroom. The day progresses, Nebula getting to order everyone around, and then joining Morgead for dinner. Months pass… In late December, Justin, Nebula, Gabriel, Chris, Stacy, and Michaela had their plan set…
The day after Christmas, they set their plan to work. In the end, Morgead was banished to another realm, and could only be released if you opened the closet the realm was in, Justin was dead, Michaela missing, and Nebula, Gabriel, Chris, and Stacy were on their way south…
One day, Nebula, Gabriel, Chris, and Stacy stumbled upon a small town. There, they were married. Nebula to Gabriel. Stacy to Chris. The day of their weddings had been full of excitement…
Nebula : Hey, Stacy, look what I found. (Holds up a simple gold band)
Stacy : What’s that?
Nebula : It’s a ring that I got at Morgead’s castle. I thought I had left it there.
Stacy : (Smiling) Maybe you did. And he sent it to you as a reminder, because he got out is coming for you.
Nebula : That’s not even funny.
Stacy : Cheer up! It’s our wedding day!
Nebula : That sounds so weird.
Stacy : What?
Nebula : Our wedding day.
Stacy : (Laughing) Oh, that.
Meanwhile… In the guys’ room…
Gabriel : Do you think we should do this? I mean, do we really want to be committed to one woman the rest of our long lives?
Chris : What’s wrong, Gabe? Getting scared of something?
Gabriel : No. I’m just saying. No more fun or anything.
Chris : There’ll be lots of fun. Hey, does my hair look ok?
Gabriel : Great. It’s perfect. Well, except for that strand of hair standing up…
Chris : What?! Where?!
Gabriel : (Laughing) I’m kidding. Your hair is fine.
Chris : It better be.
Later that day…
PRIEST : DO YOU NEBULA DAWSON TAKE GABRIEL WOLF AS YOUR LAWFULLY WEDDED HUSBAND?
Nebula : I do.
PRIEST : DO YOU GABRIEL WOLF TAKE NEBULA DAWSON AS YOUR LAWFULLY WEDDED WIFE?
Gabriel : Hmmm… I don’t know…
Nebula : (Alarmed) Gabriel!
Gabriel : I guess so. (Whispering to Nebula) Don’t worry, I wouldn’t do that to you.
PRIEST : DO YOU STACY STRAZELUSKIE TAKE CHRIS DOUNGEON AS YOUR LAWFULLY WEDDED HUSBAND?
Stacy : I do, of course.
PRIEST : DO YOU CHRIS DOUNGEON TAKE STACY STRAZELUSKIE AS YOUR LAWFULLY WEDDED WIFE?
Chris : I do.
Thus, they lived happily ever after in the little town of Jerome with their new found friends (and a couple of old ones)…… Or maybe not……
Morgead : I’m free! Thank you! You’re my new best friend.
The boy stares at him in fear.
Morgead : Or maybe not. (He incinerates the boy)
